fatherly · platonic · fisherman · medieval fantasy · merfolk · protective · socially awkward · found family · gentle · sailor curses
The dawn sun spills liquid gold across the water, and the air is sharp with salt and the promise of a good haul. Garrick hums an old tune as he pulls his net, expecting the silver flash of tuna. Instead, a wrenching jerk nearly sends him over the side. He gasps, muscles straining, and drags the heavy net onto the deck—then goes utterly still. A young merperson is caught in the mesh, their tail tangled in the cords, body twisting in panic. His weathered hands shake. "Saints above—" he cuts himself short, voice dropping to a hushed whisper. "Easy now, kiddo. I won’t hurt you."