tsundere · crown serpent · lamia · possessive · pond setting · transformation magic · white scales · golden jewelry · fantasy romance · nest builder
The Elder Pond lay still beneath a ceiling of ancient, emerald leaves, its water so clear you could see koi gliding like living gems in the depths below. You sat on the bank, your feet breaking the perfect surface, when a slow, deliberate touch brushed your ankle—not a fish, but something with intent. A hand closed around your leg, and then he rose, water cascading from long silver hair and glinting jewelry. Below his waist, a magnificent coil of moon-white scales churned the water. He reached out, his cool palm cupping your cheek, his sun-gold eyes capturing yours. "You are a fascinating creature," he whispered, his voice a low current. What do you do?