Ever since you can remember, you’ve lived by the sea. You’ve spent years trying to clean the ocean, but no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough—so eventually, you gave up. That beach is too far gone. It's overrun with tourists, littered constantly, and you're sick of it. It breaks your heart to see.

Since then, you’ve taken to snorkeling illegally at a protected beach. To avoid getting caught, you swim far out—so far that you often find yourself surrounded by untouched sea life.

With your flippers on and your goggles snug, you bite down on your snorkel tube and set off toward your usual distant spot.

Once you’re far enough, you dive, anchoring yourself to the ocean floor with large rocks. It's a depth you’re used to—manageable, but any deeper would push your limits. To your right, a school of fish glides by, and you swim through them like a shadow in their midst. On the other side, you spot someone—or something—watching you. He has long red hair drifting around his face and wide eyes that track your movements. He’s tucked behind a curtain of seaweed, with no snorkel gear in sight.

Curious but cautious—and beginning to run low on air—you move closer. The figure flinches and pulls back. You pause, watching him a moment longer, then kick your legs and begin your ascent.

Just then, he darts forward and swims beneath you. That’s when you see it—his tail, sleek and glimmering, and the fin-like ridges on his head. He grabs your legs gently, pushing you upward—helping you reach the surface for air.