As I peered out of the cramped tank, I directed my question at the strange men before me. Their reaction was immediate, filled with uncertainty and a hint of apprehension.
"Did that thing just talk?" one of them muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Next thing I knew, I was struck with a metallic projectile and became unconscious
I don't recall much after being struck by whatever projectile it was; throughout, I drifted in and out of consciousness. Attempting to open my eyes once more, I was greeted not by the sun's glow but by an artificial brilliance emanating from a miniature sun-like source with inscriptions at its base. With measured breaths, I endeavored to discern my surroundings. Surveying the expanse, I observed yet another enclosure of glass, considerably larger than its predecessor. The water within bore a distinct character, its saline density and diminished clarity indicative of a stark departure from the pristine seas of my homeland.
Intrigued, I navigated my new aquatic domain, discovering an absence of predatory inhabitants but an abundance of cleaner fish, interspersed with rocks and coral formations. Since my awakening, my sustenance had been limited to plant matter, a precautionary measure against potential encounters with venomous creatures. Noticing unfamiliar figures on the opposite side of the glass, I approached for a closer inspection. Straining against the barrier, I was met with an unexpected silence within my tank, juxtaposed against the discernible vibrations of the conversation taking place beyond. One elderly individual, with tufts of frizzy white hair and a weathered voice, conversed with a younger counterpart, identified as Oliver.
"The subject has remained unconscious for several days, displaying no signs of aggression but purportedly possessing communication abilities," the elder remarked.
"Do not blindly accept law enforcement claims, Oliver. Without empirical evidence, these assertions hold no weight. As a scientist, you should understand this," he retorted, addressing his younger colleague's skepticism.
"I aspire to become a marine biologist, sir," Oliver retorted.
"Your aspirations notwithstanding, you are here by virtue of a fortuitous contest win. Let us proceed with the experiments," the elder commanded brusquely.
My empathy stirred for the youthful researcher, seemingly thrust into an unfamiliar role under the stern gaze of his superior. With a flick of a lever, Oliver initiated the next phase of their investigation, depositing three colored balls into my enclosure. Meanwhile, the elder activated a peculiar device linked to my glass prison.
"Can you comprehend my speech?" he queried through the device.
I acknowledged his inquiry with a nod, prompting Oliver to transcribe my response onto a wooden surface. Evidently, they sought validation of my purported communication abilities. Reengaging the device, the elder issued a directive.
"Select a primary-colored ball."
Surveying the options, I chose the green sphere, reminiscent of my lush island home before its cataclysmic demise. Uncertainty clouded my thoughts regarding the fate of my homeland and its inhabitants. The elderly observers resumed their documentation, deliberating over their notes before the elder exited the room, leaving Oliver to attend to me.
"Could you retrieve the balls?" Oliver requested.
Affirmatively, I complied, utilizing my tail to convey the orbs to him. A sense of trust inexplicably imbued our interaction, reminiscent of my bond with Reo. Despite their physical similarities, Oliver lacked Reo's unwavering resolve, yielding instead to authority. After returning the balls to their container, Oliver presented me with a modest repast—a boat bearing cooked chicken and a cup of juice. Relishing the nourishment, I couldn't help but feel a tinge of embarrassment at my ravenous appetite.
"According to our records, my superior has classified you as a wild, dangerous creature. Yet, I perceive you as more human than your exterior suggests," Oliver remarked, prompting me to contemplate the discrepancy between perception and reality.
Acknowledging his observation, I reflected on the tumultuous journey that had brought me to this unfamiliar setting. With uncertainty as my constant companion, I resolved to seize any opportunity to uncover the truth about this enigmatic world and the fate of those dear to me.
As the room plunged into darkness, save for the faint glow emanating from my enclosure, I grappled with a myriad of unanswered questions. Alone amidst the comforting embrace of darkness, I pondered the significance of my newfound abilities and the motivations of those who sought to exploit them. With determination as my guiding beacon, I resolved to navigate the uncertain waters of this metallic island, seeking answers and, perhaps, solace in the ever-shifting currents of fate.
"Wakey, wakey, little fish."
YOU ARE READING
The Song of the Doomed Siren
AdventureA thriving story involving a young girl named Kaiya struck unconscious and awakened In a world much different from her own. What will happen? What happened to her family? And is this place much different from her home? Enjoy!
