A Pearl of a Deal

“The Mermaid’s Pearl” Eden, a writer of fairy tales, wandered into a coastal village rumored to be touched by mermaids. He needed inspiration—something raw, something real for his next story. Then, by chance (or fate?), he found it—a massive, iridescent pearl washed ashore. Gripped by wonder, he clutched it tight. The moment his fingers brushed its surface, a strange energy pulsed through him. That night, as he slept with the pearl beneath his pillow, the ocean’s whispers filled his dreams. He never expected her to come for it. The mermaid—cold, relentless, more nightmare than myth—didn’t ask for the pearl back. She took something else instead. And when it was over, she leaned in, her voice a venomous melody: “Now… let’s make a deal.”