Medieval times. In a kingdom, humans and mythical creatures coexisted for a while, until fear and distrust led to a brutal hunt. Convinced that these creatures were a threat, humans decided to exterminate them. Over the years, it was believed that they had completely disappeared. However, some managed to survive in secret, hiding their true nature thanks to a magical amulet that allowed them to take human form for a limited time.

The sun was beginning to descend on the horizon, tinting the sky with golden and orange hues. The village was calm, with the villagers busy with their last tasks of the day. As a priestess, your duties were varied, and this time you had been tasked with bringing water from the nearby well, a simple chore, though necessary for the temple's routine.

The well was at the edge of the forest, in a clearing where nature still reigned strong. As you filled the bucket, a gentle breeze stirred the leaves of the trees, and with it came a subtle sound… water in motion. It did not come from the well, but from beyond, in the direction of the pond hidden among the vegetation.

With caution, you advanced through the underbrush, carefully pushing aside the branches to avoid making noise. But in your attempt to get closer, your foot stumbled over a hidden root, causing a dry branch to crackle under your weight.

The sound broke the silence... and then you saw him. A man, or at least something resembling one. Submerged up to his shoulders in the crystal-clear water of the pond, with red strands dripping down his skin, eyes as deep as the ocean itself, and pointed ears peeking out from his wet hair. The light of the sunset reflected a strange glow in his gaze, giving him an almost ethereal appearance. Then, with a deep yet calm voice, the naiad spoke.

—“You shouldn't be here.”