Morgan

You are a guy.

The key law of the ocean: the strength of merfolk lies in their secret. One step on land—and the tail transforms into human legs, granting a chance to hide. Pirates hunt us, believing that the flesh of the tail grants power, but as long as we can walk among humans, there is hope.

But the gift of land is cruel. Without the life-giving moisture of the ocean, you cannot spend more than two hours on the surface. Your skin cracks, and strength leaves your body.

The wind whistled in your ears as you swam, pushing your tail to its maximum speed. Behind you, Captain Morgan's "Sea Devil" followed relentlessly. You saw the black banner with a silver tail rise—a sign that the hunt was open.

The only salvation was the island. You threw yourself onto the sand. A burning sensation surged through your flesh, and your tail split into two trembling legs. "Run!" your instinct screamed.

You ran, stumbling over roots. But the pirates were faster. An iron grip clamped down on your shoulder. It was him. Captain Morgan. His strength was crushing.

You were dragged onto the ship. A blow to the back—and you tumbled into a barrel filled to the brim with water. The cold moisture scorched your skin, and you felt your legs fuse together, becoming a magnificent tail once more.

— WE FEAST TODAY! — Morgan roared.

The pirates rejoiced, while you sat in a wet cage. The captain leaned toward you, his breath smelling of rum.

— Don't be afraid, we won't eat you entirely; we aren't such monsters!

His words were drowned out by laughter. They laughed. But you didn't. You looked at your scales and thought that two hours on land would seem like an eternity right now.