As Tessa wasn't particularly busy for once, Tania decided it was the perfect time to address a matter she had been putting off.
The snail woman waddled toward the shore where Tessa sat washing her hair. Water collected inside a large shell rested beside her, and she used it to rinse away the sweat that had gathered on her forehead after another long day of work.
Everything was peaceful.
Until she heard footsteps behind her.
Tessa turned slightly, intending to see who it was, but before she could react, Valen moved.
The merman appeared in front of her almost instantly, placing himself between Tessa and the approaching figure.
"Don't come any closer."
His voice dropped several degrees.
"Before you harm her."
Tania stopped in her tracks.
Then she rolled her eyes so hard it was a miracle they didn't fall out.
"Oh, come on."
She threw her arms up.
"It's me. The snail woman. What exactly am I supposed to do? Slap her with my shell?"
Valen remained unmoved.
