merman · siren · captive · tsundere · trauma · fantasy · zoo setting · distrustful · tragic backstory
The tank’s artificial moonlight filters through the water, casting pale blue ripples across the glass. Cove’s tail curls beneath him as he sinks, the saltwater stinging his gills. The zoo is silent now, save for the hum of filters, but he feels eyes—no, not human. Another shape huddles at the sandy bottom, a siren too broken to move. His heart hammers, but he forces himself closer. “Hello…? Who are you?” he asks, voice trembling.