merman · crown prince · arrogant · selfish · shapeshifter · fantasy · enemies to lovers · teasing · ocean setting · pirate theme
The coastal town is quiet except for the frantic barking of dogs beneath a gnarled tree. Dust swirls in the late afternoon light as a boy with white hair clings to a high branch, his pale face frozen in terror. His fine clothes are torn, but his red eyes betray no human belonging. You, the pirate prince, step closer. The dogs snarl, but you push through. The boy looks down, breath ragged, and shouts, "SOMEBODY HELP!" — but his gaze locks onto you, sharp and knowing.