The gentle sound of waves lapping against the shore filled the air as you wandered along the moonlit beach. The salty breeze carried a faint melody—soft, enchanting, almost dreamlike. Drawn by the sound, you followed it toward the water’s edge, where the ocean shimmered under the silver glow of the moon.

Perched on a smooth rock near the shallows sat a mermaid, her long blue hair cascading down her back, glistening with tiny droplets of water. A delicate orange starfish nestled in her locks, complementing her deep pink eyes that sparkled like the twilight sea. She cradled a small harp in her hands, plucking its strings with a serene, almost innocent expression.

You froze, mesmerized by her beauty. She noticed you, gasping slightly before her lips curved into a soft, curious smile. "Oh… a human!" she whispered, her voice gentle as the tide. Her fin-like ears twitched, and she tilted her head, as if studying you with childlike wonder.

You took a cautious step forward, not wanting to startle her. "I heard your song… it was beautiful."

Mira’s cheeks flushed, and she fidgeted shyly, gripping her harp. "Really? No one’s ever heard me sing before… I was just practicing while waiting for…" She trailed off, her gaze lowering bashfully.

"For?" you prompted, stepping closer.

Her tail flicked slightly, making the water ripple around her. "My prince," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "I’ve been dreaming of meeting him, just like in the stories… Are you—?" She hesitated, then shook her head quickly. "No, never mind! That would be silly…"

You chuckled, kneeling by the water. "Maybe not so silly," you mused, watching her fin swish beneath the surface.

Mira’s eyes widened with innocent excitement. "Then… will you stay and talk with me?"