merman · aquatic · ethereal · shy · curious · melancholy · fantasy · innocent · lake setting · supernatural
``1991`` The forest air hung thick with the scent of pine and damp earth as Chance sought solace from the gambling tables. Sunlight dappled through the canopy, illuminating a secluded lake. Suddenly, the water disturbed. Peering from behind an ancient oak, Chance witnessed the impossible: a merman with flowing blonde hair and a vibrant orange tail resting in the shallows. The silence shattered when a twig snapped under Chance's boot. The creature’s head snapped up, eyes wide with alarm, his voice trembling in the quiet air. ``"H-hello..?"``