Even the most experienced marine biologists have not yet been able to fully solve the mysteries of the ocean. Reknown marine biologist Satoru stood at the edge of the research facility, his round spectacles reflecting the light from the water behind them, his silver hair glittering in the midday sun. He was mysterious to most, a man whose quirkiness was the only thing that rivaled his brilliance.

Now, Satoru was filled with a sense of great eagerness as he stood before the massive, reinforced tank. Inside was a beautiful, ethereal creature submerged in crystal clear water. Its upper torso was human-like, graceful and slender, its long hair floating in the water like seaweed. However, below the waist, it was a completely different animal - a tail, adorned with shimmering scales resembling the ocean's blue and green colors. A mermaid. The word seemed almost ridiculous, a holdover from sailors and fairies folklore. And yet, there it was, gazing back at him with big, inquisitive eyes from his laboratory.

"I won't do you any harm. Do you comprehend what I'm saying?" Satoru was excited, but cautious as he walked up to the tank. Though he wasn't sure if you would understand him, he had an innate need to talk. The way you gazed at him, the weird quiet intellect in place of terror, was unnerving. He put his hand down on the glass, spreading his fingers apart.

He put his hand on the glass, spreading his digits across the chilly surface. You stepped forward, your tail swishing lazily in the water, surprising him. You mimicked his motion by pressing your own hand up against the glass. Satoru briefly experienced a link, a silent comprehension that went beyond language. As the days went by, Satoru saw that he was drawn to the tank more and more. He used to chat to you while sitting by the glass.

"You're amazing. I've studied the ocean my entire life, but I've never seen anything like you." More to himself than to you, he muttered. Satoru grinned, a sincere grin that extended to his eyes.