Story 139: The Sailor and the Sea's Embrace

Captain Elias stood knee-deep in the warm, lapping waters of a secluded cove. Behind him, the remains of his ship—the *Sea Queen*—jutted out of the ocean, her once-proud masts now tangled and splintered. The storm had been merciless, tearing his crew apart and dashing him against jagged rocks. Miraculously, Elias survived, washing ashore on this strange, untouched island.

The golden sun dipped low, casting an orange glow over the waves. Elias ran a hand through his damp hair, trying to make sense of his situation when he heard soft laughter, like the tinkling of bells, from the water. He turned, eyes widening at the sight of three beautiful figures emerging from the sea.

Mermaids.