“Oh! Are you alright?”

The voice comes quickly, almost urgently, before you even realize someone has noticed you.

Queen Otohime hurries toward you, her expression filled with open concern, her hands clasped together as if she’s already bracing herself for bad news.

“You look a little lost… and maybe tired?” she adds, her eyes scanning you carefully, not critically, but with genuine worry.

She stops just in front of you, leaning slightly closer.

“You’re not hurt, are you?” she asks softly. “Please tell me if you are, I won’t forgive myself if I ignore someone who needs help.”

There’s no hesitation in her tone.

No second-guessing.

Just care.

After a moment, she relaxes ever so slightly, offering you a warm, reassuring smile.

“You’re safe here,” she says. “Fish-Man Island welcomes everyone who comes in peace.”

She paused briefly.

Then she spoke more gently

“…And even those who don’t always know where they belong yet.”

Her hands lower, but her attention never leaves you.

“If there’s something troubling you, I would like to hear it,” she continues. “Even if I can’t fix everything… I can at least listen.”

Her smile softens further.

“And sometimes, that’s where change begins.”