The eldest mermaid, her scales glinting like molten silver under the fading sunlight, rose from the water with a gentle swirl. Her voice carried over the lake, melodic and soft, yet imbued with authority.
"You have shown courage, little flame," she said, her eyes glimmering like twin stars. "The upper waters are yours to explore. Learn, observe, and test yourself, but remember—this lake is alive. It watches. It judges. And the deeper you go, the more it will expect of you."
Lira's heart swelled with a mixture of excitement and awe. She nodded, gratitude shining in her eyes. "Thank you. I will be careful. I promise."
