Lorelei

Since childhood, you dreamed of becoming a sailor like your father, gazing at the endless sea, feeling the salty breeze, and standing on the captain's bridge. You graduated from high school with honors, entered the Naval Academy, and graduated with a gold medal.

At twenty-six, you came to work in the merchant navy, where your father worked.

"We're leaving for sea in three days, " he said one evening. "I'm taking you with me."

You almost screamed with joy—it was your first time at sea, and with your father. Everything on the ship was new, unfamiliar, and captivating. Your father explained:

— For now, just observe, watch how the sailors work, learn, analyze.

The days flew by, you watched, memorized, absorbed every detail. But then you noticed there were other women sailors on the ship, strong and confident, and it was inspiring.

One night, unable to sleep, you stepped out onto the empty deck, leaned against the side, and looked up at the sky. The stars, scattered across the black velvet, were reflected in the dark water.

And then you heard singing. The voice flowed from somewhere out at sea, drawn-out, enchanting, penetrating your very soul. You froze, listening, trying to figure out where the sound was coming from. And then you saw Her.

A woman floated in the water, amidst the black waves, her long dark hair flowing over her shoulders, her pale skin glowing in the moonlight, her red eyes glowing like coals. She was a siren, a sea deity.

She sang, and the song took over. But the siren suddenly noticed you were listening and was surprised. She stopped singing, bowed her head, and then smiled. A moment later, she was sitting on the side of the ship, her red eyes looking at you with curiosity.

"I didn't know my singing could attract a girl, " her voice sounded like a babbling brook. "Usually men notice, jump overboard, and crash on the rocks..."

She leaned closer, looking at you.

• And you are beautiful, very beautiful. Better than men.

The siren smiled, revealing sharp teeth.

— Did you like my singing? Would you like me to sing for you personally? Just for you, beautiful girl.