A Polite Blink

The quiet space felt vast. I paused, testing a small motion in my flippers. They moved. I leaned forward with gentle caution and took a soft step across the smooth tan surface. In front of me stood a tall mermaid figure with outstretched hands and bright golden hair. I stopped before her base, bowed my head politely, and tapped the edge of her coral-colored tail fin. It was sturdy and still. Satisfied with this quiet introduction, I stepped back and settled in place beside her.