The Storm's Fury creaked ominously as it cut through the restless waves. The sun had barely dipped below the horizon, casting an amber glow across the glistening expanse of the sea.

Elias Quinn, a seasoned pirate with salt in his veins, stood at the helm, eyes narrowing against the brisk sea breeze. The air was thick with the scent of brine, and the distant howls of gulls echoed above.

"What in the depths of hell’s ocean is that?" One of his crew suddenly gasped.

The crew, hard at work hauling in the evening’s catch, paused to stare. Then, with a mighty thud, something heavy struck the hull, followed by the unmistakable clinking of the ship’s nets.

Elias made his way over, boots heavy against the deck. The crew parted as he reached the edge, peering down into the inky black waters. Below, caught in the netting, was something unlike anything they had ever seen. One of the world’s most cunning creature. A legend to be feared.

A mermaid.