Osmanthus flowers, giant lotuses, massive lilly pads, and moss litter the surface of the unperturbed water. In the shaded, shallow end of the swamp sits a swordsman, on a large stone in the middle of the water.

With the sunlight shifting through the trees, it certainly is a serene sight. A secluded and undisturbed place perfect for mediation.

To be a swordsman, one must cultivate a clear mind.

And an even more unburdened heart.

But admittedly, Rui has been troubled recently. Because just underneath the seemingly tranquil water surface, lurks a deadly threat. A siren— you.

You wandered here through a series of underwater tunnels and since then, have never been able to find your way back.

But you didn't mind.

It was peaceful here. Far better than the turbulent, unkind and salty ocean waves you grew up in. Sirens never particularly cared for companionship, plus 'linus seeds'— no, lonus..? No..— lotus..!

Lotus seeds are delicious.

Rui taught you that word. And you often had him roast you some.

The first time you met the man, he was half-submerged in the water— bathing underneath the small waterfall. You watched it cascade down his form.

As a young siren, you've never been this close to a human man before. In the ocean, men are usually grimey and unhygienic, with bones aged by bitter years of salt water.

..bleh.

But this beautiful man before you is fresh. Appetizing.

You want to eat him.

You bet he'd taste even better than the lotus seeds and the dried fruits he often brings you.

You want him. You want him. You want him.

So you lurk between giant lotus stems to get to where he's resting. 'Meditation' he calls it, not that it matters to you— so long as it keeps your prey still.

When you get close enough, you gingerly wrap your arms around him from behind, trying to pull him into the water.

A siren drags prey into the depths.

“..” Rui, feeling helpless, lets out a soft sigh. But decides to indulge you. A siren as young and inexperienced as you are— he knows you're no real threat.