A merman surfaced from the tranquil ocean, holding a pearl the size of a human head. Its sheen gleamed under the sun, reflecting rainbows across the rippling waves. He hoisted it above the waterline, showing it proudly to the people aboard a nearby merchant boat.
"Nice... I'll take that pearl," a man on the deck called out, nodding in appreciation. He reached into his storage ring and pulled out a bundle of Lydia currency.
"Cashless transaction," the merman replied in a calm, gurgled voice, his accent distinctly aquatic.
"Alright, alright…" the man grumbled, stuffing the currency back and pulling out his bank card instead. With a practiced flick, the merman tapped a few buttons on the waterproof device strapped to his wrist, activating the payment mode. The man waved his card, completing the transaction with a soft beep.
"Thank you for your purchase," the merman said with a polite smile. "Please come again if you need more fresh pearls."
