Archive of Our Own

The life of a siren wasn’t typically a lonely one. Most sirens lived in massive pods. Pups lived in their family pods they were born in until they were old enough to live independently, and either joined a different pod, or started a new one with a mate.

Eye didn’t get that choice. 

He was washed away from his pod after a particularly strong current drifted him apart from whatever family he had. In all honesty, Eye couldn’t tell if he even had parents, considering he doesn’t even remember what they look like.

He had a small pod at one point but…they didn’t survive.

Since then, he’s given up on living with others.

They only held one back from reaching their full potential. 

Sure Eye wasn’t a very good singer, considering he never learned his mother’s pod song, but that didn’t matter. 

He could still hunt well.

But still, even he had to take a break every once in a while.

Besides, his hair was a mess.

Eye swam around the cool sea, looking for the shore of an island or just a particularly large rock to sit on and comb his hair.

Maybe he could even practice his singing while he was alone and had the chance.

He could hear waves crashing heavily on something up ahead. It was most likely an island, but just to be safe, Eye surfaced and poked his head above the water to look around.

Sure enough, further up was an island. It seemed to be mostly empty, but there were still a few lights shining in the dusk.

A village. 

He wasn’t particularly hungry, but if it came down to it. Perhaps he could lurk by the shores and sink a few boats for their fish down into the depths and feast for a few days.

No more than three days. Otherwise, the locals would notice and start sending hunters on the boats to kill whatever sea monster was taking the missing boats.

Sea monster.

That’s what they labeled him as.

Nothing more than a creature that was out for blood and had a never ending appetite.

Was he really so bad for wanting to live?

If he didn’t hunt humans or their food, then he’d be hunting some other living creatures, like fish and mussels and oysters- because they were all food.

It’s not Eye’s fault for his kind having adapted to specifically lure in humans- they were just an easy source of food!

Besides, it’s not like Eye was very good at the whole, “luring in” part.

Shouldn’t he have some kind of pass for that?

He wasn’t a monster.

He wasn't!

He just wanted to live.

Was that really so much to ask for?

Was that really such a crime that warranted his death?

Was that why he had to be littered in scars?

It didn’t matter now.

Eye approached the shores with caution, making sure to stay away from the village. There was a few nice large rocks for him to climb up on and bask in the sun for a while while he groomed himself, so he did just that.

Eye dragged his heavy tail up onto the rocks and leaned closer to the water in order to properly look at his reflection.

Damn, there were a lot of seaweed bits in his hair.

The dark greens stuck out like a sore fin amongst his pearly white hair, helping him flick each piece away with a webbed claw.

Once he was done, however, he noticed how there were also many little flakes of old scales sticking out, a few had been irritating and scratching at his tail as well.

So, naturally, Eye bent and twisted himself around to reach the itchy scales and gently scratch and pick at them until they fell off.

But there was one in particular that was pissing him off.

The spiny dorsal fin that rested on his back had this one little scale, near the top of his back. It was in a weird area that his hands just couldn’t seem to reach, and damn it was annoying.

“You having trouble there, little treasure?” a voice came from above.

Above?

Eye looked up in alarm but-

Oh fuck.

He was beautiful.

The man that peered over the edge of a massive ship had gold for hair and stars for eyes, even his clothing shimmered in the light of torches around the ship in a way that not even the finest and most neatly kept scales that Eye has ever seen could compare.

Eye had the sudden urge to start singing.

Not in a way he did when attempting to lure idiot pirates, but to lure someone in for an entirely different reason.

Wait, pirates-

 Shit, that ship was only so huge because it was a pirate ship.

He should jump into the water and swim as far as he can- he really should- 

But the way the man kept staring at him, a shimmer in his eyes and the softest smile.

A smile that was directed at him.

It made his heart feel like it was going to burst out of his chest and swim around in circles.

Eye couldn’t stop staring at the man, he could stare at him all day-

Something heavy was thrown on top of him.

A net.

Shit.

Eye broke out of his trance, thrashing around and swiping at the net, hoping to break it.

These pirates must have had a good amount of experience, however, and had thrown a strange type of net that his claws couldn't shred and hurt his teeth when he attempted to chew on it.

“Let me out!” he called out.

The golden haired man blinked, before huffing out a small laugh.

Why did that sound make his stomach flop around like a fish on land?

“You sure are a chatty one, aren’t you?” he waved a hand over to some other pirates, who began working to haul the net up onto the ship. With him in it.

No, no no no- This couldn’t be how he died!

Eye looked around frantically, getting desperate as the net slowly rose higher and higher. He pressed his face and claws into the net, hoping that if he just pushed hard enough, maybe it would rip.

He was desperate. Desperate and scared.

Eye didn’t want to die.

Not alone.

Alone on a ship with no one to love or mourn him.

No one to sing him a lament after his death.

No one to place his favorite rock on his final resting place.

He’d die alone.

Alone and a monster.

No.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net.

The net began to burn against his skin and hurt and pulled at his fins.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net-

“Whoa, whoa, whoa- easy there. Don’t hurt yourself. I’m not gonna hurt you, little treasure. Quite the opposite, actually.” the same voice from before called out to him, making his ears twitch up and direct them towards the sound.

Eye wanted to listen to him.

He wanted to sit still for him. Show off his scales. Maybe sing a little for him.

But he didn’t want to die alone.

Eye stared at the man as he was hauled up onto the ship, still writhing around in the net and trying to break free.

“Let me go.” he spoke, staring at the golden haired man.

He only tilted his head in confusion.

Eye did the same, mirroring his actions.

The golden haired man smiled again. “You’re very silly.”

“So are you.”

The man laughed slightly again.

“You’re also very chittery. You sort of sound like a whale and a dolphin combined, but in a sort of uncanny way too. Not quite right, but still nice to listen to.” he once again gave a small laugh.

Eye laid on the floor of the ship, still in the net, but no longer struggling. How could he, when the voice of the man with golden hair made him want to purr and his laugh made him want to squeak.

How embarrassing to be so…so weak for a man he didn’t even know the name of.

“Captain Vista, you can’t be serious. There’s no way you’re comparing whale songs to that.” One of the other pirates that was holding the net spoke.

The man- Captain Vista, shrugged. “He looks cute too. Adorable little guy. But whatever, personal preference.” His words carried nothing but absolute adoration for…for him.

It made Eye’s heart beat in a strange way.

Another pirate laughed. This one’s laugh did not make Eye’s stomach swim like minnows. “ Little? Captain, let’s be honest here, it’s about the size of three men! I mean really, look at the size of that thing’s tail! Absolute beast.” this pirate spoke with complete and utter disgust.

It made Eye want to jump back into the depths of the ocean and never resurface.

“Captain, Vista, just…what do we do with it?”

Oh, right, they’re still talking about him.

Maybe he could try and reason with them?

“Captain Fista.” Eye spoke.

They all froze.

Eye tilted his head. Had he pronounced it wrong? His human words weren’t very good, another reason why he struggled to properly lure in humans. 

“You can speak?” Vista’s eyes had widened as he spoke with complete and utter awe.

Eye stuttered out a response.

“Y-yes- I mean, kind of- fuck how do I say those words again? Actually- you know what just… ‘ome?” Eye pointed at the ocean, hoping he’d get the hint.

As much as he would love to sit around and stare into Vista’s dreamy heterochromic purple and golden eyes and point out all the shimmering parts on his body and listen to him talk about his life on land and- focus damnit!

He wanted to go home.

…

Okay he didn’t actually have a home but it sure as hell wasn’t on this ship.

“Alright, so… your English is very limited, but at the very least you can understand us?” Vista asked, looking at him- God this guy had to stop looking at him like that.

Eye shrank back a little from all the sudden attention, but nodded, still looking around every so often at the other pirates. He still didn't know what they would do with him, or what their intentions were.

Vista hummed. “Well, we’re going to uh- well keep you here until we figure out what to properly do, okay?” He turned to address the others. “Take us in, we’ll look around the market for directions or any potential buyers. Don’t harm him- it could decrease his value.”

So, his fears were coming true. Cool cool- nothing to worry about, nothing to panic about- it’s fine he’s fine everything is fine everything is so fine-

“Captain? It’s uh- it’s breathing funny-” 

Vista seemed alarmed and ran up to the net.

Eye thrashed around, once again trying to break the net.

The world was spinning- fuck it felt like he couldn’t breathe-

Vista yelled something out, but the words felt muffled and distant.

The ship began to move.

Or maybe it was just Eye rolling around in the net.

He couldn't tell.

The lights all became blurry as he suddenly felt like he was floating on the surface-

The cold water brought him back down to reality.

He was in the ocean again- they set him free-

Eye was suddenly jerked backward, the net surrounding him pulling him along in the water.

He frowned, taking hold of the net to move upwards to the surface again. 

Turns out it's a real workout climbing up that stupid net, especially when your hands are webbed and your claws keep getting stuck in said net.

Dumb net.

Eye hated the net.

He poked his head up above the water, looking around. 

There was the ship, hauling him along. Vista was near the railing, peering over the edge.

His face lit up as soon as he spotted Eye in the dark.

“Sorry about that- I didn’t know you had to be in water to breathe.”

Eye said nothing, lowering down even further so that only his eyes would look up at Vista. He didn’t bother to correct the fact he was having a panic attack. One that he caused.

Eye was not happy with the beautiful man. Not at all.

“Aw come on, don’t gimme that look. You’re fiiiine. You’ll live. Just get some rest alright? Good night, little treasure.” Vista waved goodbye as he walked away, the ship coming to a slow stop.

Eye could hear the voices of a few people, but couldn’t make out what they were saying.

Damn he wished he could swim around and get a better look at everything. But this stupid net didn’t let him move, and that big ass ship blocked his view.

He…he was going to stay here for the rest of his life, wasn’t he?

In a net.

Captured.

He’d die alone.

Eye picked at the pearls that formed at his eyes, pushing them away and letting them fall into the ocean.

He didn’t want to be crying all night.

He’d just have to wait until morning to figure out an opportunity to escape.

Eye would like to say that he waited very patiently for someone to screw up and untie the net. Or that he spent the whole night diligently cutting a hole in the net to escape out of.

Well, he did the second one for a while, but he nearly chipped a tooth trying to do that, and that really hurt so instead he decided to blow bubbles under the water until he fell asleep.

He awoke pretty early however- well rather, Vista woke up pretty early, because Eye could hear him yawn and stomp around the ship at sunrise. 

The net moved.

Eye made sure he was fully submerged, unmoving.

If Vista dropped the net, he’d swim the hell out of there.

“Wakey wakey!” Vista called from above, grabbing the net and shaking it around.

Eye poked his head above the water, hissing slightly.

“Jeeze, someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed- well, net…I guess that’s not very comfortable, is it?” Vista hummed, deep in thought.

“Well, I guess we can sorta upgrade you, but I doubt you’ll like it very much. But only if you comply can I convince the others, can you do that for me, little treasure?”

Eye blew bubbles on the surface water for a moment, trying not to show just how flustered that man made him.

But damnit he was looking at him with such a pretty smile and eye full of hope-.

Eye nodded softly.

Vista’s smile only grew even more as he ran off to get something.

Eye could only stare at the dreamy man as he ran around, some sort of key in hand, doing something that Eye didn't pay much attention to.

All he could focus on was the feeling of Vista’s hands on him, and how wonderful it felt to be so close and intimate with someone like Vista- 

That’s how Eye found himself with a collar around his neck and a chain connecting him to the ship.

How humiliating. 

“I should’ve bitten off your fingers when you came up to hold me. Not cool Fista, not cool.”

“Pfft- is that the only word you can say? Also- it’s Vista not Fista.” Vista was sitting on the docs, legs dangling as he ate some sort of bread. 

Eye could probably jump up and pull down his legs.

Drown him.

Eat him alive.

But the very thought left him queasy.

Eye blew a few more bubbles before deciding to surface a little more.

“Fista.”

“Vista, a ‘V’ sound, Vvvvista” he took another bite of the bread.

“Fffista.” he attempted to copy what he was saying.

“Pfft, okay, you know, you’re trying your best, it’s fiiiine.”

“They’re basically the same sound!” Eye argued, sinking back down to angrily blow more bubbles on the surface.

“No need to get all sassy with me, little treasure. I’m just saying that you’re trying your best and I appreciate that.” Vista took another bite, watching Eye continue to blow more bubbles aggressively.

“Besides, I think your little chirps are cute. Even if I can’t understand them.” he popped the last bite of bread into his mouth. “But I’d give anything to understand you better, little treasure.”

Eye looked up at Vista.

Vista looked right back.

Vista had such a face that stared at Eye like he was the most beautiful thing in the world.

“Wow, I didn’t know you could change colors like that. How pretty. You keep surprising me, little treasure.”

“H-huh?” Eye looked down at his reflection in the water and sure enough, the fins on the side of his head that were normally blue -like the rest of his fins and tail- was turning red. So was his face- oh god how embarrassing.

Eye let out a small squeak of surprise and dove into the water, swimming down as far as his chain would allow.

Vista called out to him, but Eye only sat there, blowing more bubbles and watching them rise.

Bubbles, of complete and utter hopeless love.

Fuck.

Over the next couple of days, Vista and Eye spent an awful lot of time together. Eye could see how many people would whisper and stare at him, but for some reason, it wasn’t that bad when Vista was there to talk to him.

Speaking of talking, Eye had gotten a little better at verbalizing what he wanted. When he was hungry, he’d point at the sea, then his stomach, then the sea again, then his stomach. 

Vista would smile and run off to get him some muscles or oysters, sometimes a few fish.

Vista also found out how picky the siren was. 

And more importantly, Vista learned about Eye himself.

“You know, I haven't heard you sing once, and I’m pretty sure you’re a siren and not a mermaid. What’s up with that, little treasure?” Vista had taken off his boots and sat on one of the rocks closer to Eye, dipping his feet into the water.

Eye approached the rock for a moment, then swam away. 

He was hesitating.

That, and he was thinking of how to tell Vista.

“...bad…” was he managed to mumble out.

“Bad? What, your singing is bad- oh. That…that makes sense actually.” Vista pondered for a moment.

Eye had never wished for human lungs so badly, just so he could sink to the bottom of the sea and die.

“I’m gonna take a wild guess and say that’s why you’re alone and not in a pod? And why you’re rather skinny for a siren?” Vista asked softly, leaning in closer to Eye.

Eye wanted a shark to come in and snap him in half.

He nodded, pushing himself further into the water.

“Well, do you mind singing for me anyway?”

What

“When no else is around. Before bed? I just want to hear you.” Vista didn’t seem like the type to beg, but even just this small plea made Eye flush.

“You’re changing color again. Does that mean you'll do it? For me? Please?”

Fuck fuck fuck-

Eye nodded again, sinking just a little further in.

“Good, then I’ll be looking forward to it, little treasure.” Vista got up, grabbing his boots, but paused.

“Do you have a name?” He asked, still just standing on the rock.

Eye paused, rising from the water and swam closer to Vista. 

“Eye.” he pointed to his eye. 

“Eyeball?” Vista tilted his head and crouched down, getting even closer to Eye.

He made a ‘kinda’ motion with his hand.

“Eye.” he once again pointed to his eye.

“Iris. Pupil? Eyelash- fucking Eye or something, I don’t kn-”

“YES!” He nodded rapidly.

“Eye…your name is Eye? Seriously?” Vista laughed for a brief moment before suddenly realizing something. 

“Wait, say my name, but how you would say it. I wanna hear it.” Vista leaned in further excitedly, getting closer to Eye yet again. 

Eye paused for a moment. There wasn't exactly an exact translation of it. What would be the equivalent of Vista?

Gold. Pretty. Breath taking. The most beautiful man he’s ever seen. His future-

“Mate.”

Vista was so close, Eye could see him shiver slightly.

Though, if it was from hearing his so-called ‘name’ roll off of Eye’s tongue or from the slight breeze they had, he wasn’t sure.

“Again?” Vista asked softly, shuffling around the rocks to get even closer.

Eye hadn’t noticed he too had been swimming closer to Vista until there was a slight tug on his neck. The chain had run out.

He grabbed the closest rock to him, watching as Vista continued to shuffle around closer to get to the same rock Eye was leaning on until-

Vista and Eye were only a few inches away from each other.

He swallowed thickly, feeling his face get warm.

“Mate.”

Eye could see the way Vista’s eyes dilated slightly due to how close they were. 

“That sounds lovely. Thank you, Eye.” Vista suddenly got up and walked along the rocks back to shore, balancing carefully on the slippery rocks.

“I look forward to tonight, little treasure.” he waved, not looking back at how red Eye’s face and fins had become.

Eye could barely see it, but the breeze shifted Vista’s hair just enough to reveal his ears, and they were just as red.

But he couldn’t dwell on that for long.

He had to sing.

He had to sing for his future mate- he had to win him over.

Fuck, he could do this.

He just…needed to practice a little.

Eye spent the rest of that day humming to himself, diving underwater to sing a little there, and occasionally surfacing and watching for anyone before continuing to practice.

But the words just didn’t seem right.

Human words were so confusing, difficult, and just hard to pronounce.

Maybe just one of those short songs he’s heard other pirates sing? 

Yeah…yeah that’d win him over, surely, pirates sing those songs all the time.

Shit, he hasn’t even worked on his stage. 

There weren’t many things to work with here, but he could manage. 

Rocks, wherever he could grab, he arranged in a careful and precise order. 

He needed a marriage neckless-

Eye scrambled, he needed to gather shells, pearls, everything he could- 

There was so little time.

It needed to be perfect.

Maybe he could give it to Vista when it was done?

Eye glazed at the sky. There were still a few hours until the sun would set. He should be fine. Maybe.

He could do this.

The life of a pirate wasn’t quite what Vista expected it to be. 

He always envisioned a cheerful life with a crew that was so bonded and tight knit that they wouldn’t ever betray each other. That they’d all gladly die for their friends. That they'd all kill for each other without a moment of hesitation.

But Vista knew the truth.

They were all only in it for the money. Pirates were desperate people who figured it was better to rob places and live off whatever they could make to survive.

That’s all it was about.

The only reason why Vista had become captain in the first place was because he was the only one smart enough to do the job. It required a lot of mapping and planning and budgeting and people skills- 

Most weren’t cut out for the job. Even if they were, the crew could always find someone better.

Replacement. It happened far too often. People died in battles, dehydration, sickness, you name it.

Vista was captain because he was good at keeping most people alive.

And he hated it.  Not because of the responsibility it had, but because of the way everything was playing out.

Sure it was a good thing to do but-

He found himself questioning…everything.

Was this the right thing to do anymore? He usually made sure to only steal from the grossly rich, but he had to lie to the crew and say it was only because they had the most amount of money. He had to lie to the crew and say the reason they used the money on local street markets was because there was less law enforcement there and usually had cheaper prices.

It was all so much lying.

He wasn’t even sure if he was lying anymore.

That scared Vista the most.

Just who and what kind of person has he become?

He couldn't keep his crew alive. Everyone he once knew was dead and had quickly been replaced. He wasn't upholding his morels. 4

Vista wasn't even happy.

And then there was a new problem.

Eye, as he’s come to learn the name.

Eye, the siren.

A monster from the depth.

A blood thirsty creature that traveled in pods, hunted in pods, and lived to sing and lure sailors and pirates and anyone they could, off into their dooms.

He’s encountered them before. Once. It was caught in a net and killed right there in the market. Cut up and sold for parts. Incredibly valuable.

And yet the way it thrashed and begged to be set free would haunt Vista every time he looked at Eye.

There was only so much he could do to delay the inevitable. To keep both parties safe and alive.

He was running out of excuses to tell the crew. 

Keeping and maintaining Eye was expensive.

He was a picky eater. The chain would degrade eventually and need to be replaced. He was loud and didn’t sing-

It all felt like a waste of money to the crew.

Well, it was fun while it lasted.

Vista didn’t see it that way at all.

He just wanted to spoil that guy rotten. Being with Eye has been the most fun he's ever had. Eye had made him feel like everything he was doing wasn't actually that bad. Not to mention Eye always looked at him like he hung the stars when he told stories of his adventures.

Speaking of looks…

Eye was absolutely stunning. His scales were a blue Vista’s never seen before. His claws were so sharp and durable. His eyes made him feel like he could drown in them and-

Vista wasn’t sure he even wanted to be pulled out if that happened.

Eye was just someone he adored to be around.

His little treasure. A selfish desire of his that he wanted to keep safe and protect. Admire for the rest of his life.

But it was all such a childish fantasy.

He couldn’t just abandon his crew.

But at the very least, he could set Eye free. He could stage it as if Eye managed to break the chains and escape.

He just wanted to hear Eye sing once.

Hence, why he’s snuck down under the docs and walked along the rocks. The tide was going down, so he had a lot more wiggle room to move around in but-

There were a few strangely shaped stones everywhere Vista stepped. At first he scooted them out of the way, a few of them splashing into the water.

But as soon as he saw it, he stopped dead in his tracks.

They were hearts.

They were heart shaped.

Almost all of them, in some way, resembled a heart. The ones that didn't were simply rather pretty, a few being sparkly, others just having unique reds and blues.

Vista continued forward, now paying more attention as to where he stepped.

A rather small blue stone made him pause for a moment. It was…almost heart shaped.

Vista wordlessly picked it up and put it in his coat pocket, moving along.

Finally, he saw Eye there, leaning on a rock, facing away, carefully watching the moon.

Vista opened his mouth to speak but found the words dying on his lips.

The reason being simply because Eye looked beautiful in the moonlight.

The most beautiful creature he's ever seen.

Softly, a voice broke the silence that was only previously interrupted by the sound of the waves hitting the shore.

It was Eye.

He was singing.

He was…singing a sea shanty?

Vista recognized it quickly, he himself had sung it a few times with his own crew after they were all drunk and celebrating a well done heist.

Eye wasn't kidding about being a bad singer.

Well, he wasn't terrible. Above average. But the small mispronounced words and occasional chirp broke the spirit of the song.

Yet, Vista couldn't help but be captivated by his voice.

Maybe this was why so many people drowned after hearing it. 

His voice was just as beautiful as him.

Vista waited until Eye was finished before softly clapping. 

Eye made a strange squeak turning around suddenly.

“What, I thought you said you'd sing for me? That was very nice Eye.” Vista complemented, enjoying the way Eye seemed to squirm around.

He was adorable.

Eye looked around for a moment before driving down, then quickly swimming back up with something in his hand.

It was some sort of necklace. It was made of an old fishing line, some broken sea shells, and pearls.

Well…it wasn't the ugliest necklace he's ever seen.

“Wow, that’s uh- beautiful, little treasure, thank you- but how’d you get the pearls?” he stared at the rather good quality pearls on the necklace. They’d go for a lot of money.

Eye made some loud chirps, having a rather bashful look on his face, before finally gazing up at Vista with the most hopeful eyes he's ever seen.

Eye held up the necklace with both hands, awaiting Vista to take it.

Vista blinked. The moment felt far too intimate for a simple gift, but it'd be rude to refuse one, wouldn't it?

But…he still needed to get rid of Eye.

“Eye…listen, you're very sweet and I deeply appreciate all of this but- my crew and I can't keep you around for much longer. I don't want you getting sold on the black market or something, so I'm gonna set your free and you're gonna swim far far away from here-” Vista was interrupted but Eye’s sudden and loud mixed sea creature sounds.

Vista couldn't really make out what Eye was saying, but he knew he was clearly upset.

Something was hitting the sea.

Small, constant- tears, Eye was crying.

“Hey, hey, don’t cry, little treasure, come on-” Vista shushed him softly, lowering himself down to Eye’s level.

Eye whimpered in response, a sharp but shaky inhale- a sob.

He put his hands on Eye’s face, cupping them gently. His thumb moves to wipe the wet tears off but-

Vista found no wet tears.

No, he found small and smooth balls beading out from Eye’s tear ducts.

Vista paused, squinting as he took hold of one of the balls.

It was a pearl.

Eye was crying pearls.

“You…you can cry pearls?” It was hard to see in the dark but there was no other explanation.

That's where he got the pearls for the necklace.

It all made sense now.

He- he could use this.

“Hold on…I can tell the others a-and they’ll be convinced to let me keep you alive. Oh fuck- thank you so much, you have no idea what this means to me, Eye, really. God I- I could kiss you right now-” Vista paused, realizing what he had just said.

His ears felt warm.

“I…I-I’ll be back-” Vista felt a clawed hand grasp his wrist.

Once again, Eye looked up at him with hopeful eyes, a singular pearl forming and slowly rolling off his cheek and into the water. With his free hand, he held up the necklace.

Eye made a short series of chirps and whistles, which Vista has now recognized to be his name apparently.

Something about the way Eye said it made his heart skip a beat.

Though, it was sounding more like a question now.

Perhaps he just really wanted him to accept his gift.

Vista sighed, but smiled. He really did love that silly guy. 

“Yeah, okay. But I might have to wear it under my clothes-”

Instant loud whistles and chirps of protests, shaking his head, and rapidly pointing to Vista’s chest.

“You’re being awfully difficult, little treasure. But, fine, I’ll wear it.” He took the necklace and put it on, adjusting it so that it was relatively comfortable.

Which, it actually was.

Eye was smarter than he looked. He had purposely covered the back area in pears so that it would sit nicely around Vista’s neck without any issues. The shells were small but rather tasteful and durable.

Maybe it wasn’t exactly up to shop standards, but Vista rather liked it.

Perhaps it was also the fact that it was a gift from a friend. Hand made and all.

A friend.

…

That word didn’t quite sit right with Vista.

A better description of Eye felt something more like-

A person he loved.

Loved.

Loved more than anything or anyone he’s ever loved before.

Vista wasn’t sure how comfortable he was with these feelings yet.

His ears felt incredibly warm.

“T-there. You happy now? I gotta get going, I’ll see you tomorrow." Vista let go of Eye’s cheek, he swore he could see Eye leaning into it, and got up, waving goodbye.

He could make this work.

He could make this work.

He could convince them.

Vista just had to choose his words carefully.

Eye couldn’t sleep.

How could he?

He did it.

He had successfully courted Vista!

They were married now and they'd live happily together and they didn't need anyone else it could just be the two to them and-

A hard yank came from his chain.

Then another.

Some people were whispering to each other.

Eye took as deep a breath as he could, knowing where this was going.

Sure enough, they kept pulling on the chain, reeling him in, up until he was being pulled out of the water by his neck.

The steel collar around his neck was choking him.

Eye could only claw at it and hope these idiots would move faster.

They were going to set him free.

Vista must’ve convinced them to set him free, and so now they could be together.

Finally, two pirates took Eye by the wrists and hauled him up.

They were being awfully rough.

But whatever, as long as he got this stupid chain off of him. As long as he was with Vista.

If it was for Vista, he’d endure anything.

“Hold him down.” one of them whispered.

They held up a knife.

“If you make too much noise, I’ll cut you into tiny pieces and sell you like every other valuable fish we’ve caught.” 

What did they mean by that?

A sinking feeling came over Eye.

They were going to set him free, weren’t they?

“Man, Vista’s a fucking idiot for wanting to keep him alive. We just need his eyes for the pearls, don’t we?” They grinned, pushing the knife right under his right eye.

Eye tried not to cry. He didn’t want to give them what they wanted.

“Hold him still.” was the last thing Eye remembered hearing before everything got fuzzy.

Pain. 

He remembered a lot of pain.

But also, not really?

He remembered that it hurt a lot, but he couldn’t remember exactly what it felt like.

He remembered crying a lot.

Or maybe it was something else.

Eye couldn't tell.

Either way, the last thing he remembered seeing was the blood in the water surrounding him as he sank.

Or maybe it wasn't blood.

He remembered letting the chain be the only thing that stopped him from sinking further.

Everything just hurt so much.

…

Eye wishes more than anything that he could forget it all, instead of just seeing small parts of his memory.

Memories he wasn't even sure were real or his brain exaggerating things or filling in blank spaces that didn't happen.

Because then, at the very least, he wouldn’t remember all the pain. 

At least then, he could stop fighting himself over leaving.

At least then, he could force himself to stop loving Vista, and find the strength to break free and swim far far away.

At least then, the feeling of heartbreak wouldn't exist.

Vista groggily awoke to rather loud whispers outside his quarters. He groaned internally.

They were probably still arguing with one another about his decision to keep Eye alive and healthy.

He told them they could make a bigger profit out of his pearls, as long as they kept him alive.

But still, a few people were rather opposed to the idea. It was expected.

He just had to stay firm.

They’d fall in line eventually.

Vista grabbed his coat, getting ready to go outside and scold them. Really, they couldn’t have waited until morning? What a bunch of-

A loud splash made him jolt.

Shit.

If they were throwing each other overboard, he had a much bigger problem on his hands.

Vista rushed outside, slamming the door open.

“What’s going on out here?” He said rather calmly. He was still stern and walked over to the small crowd.

They were silent.

Vista continued to walk through the wet gound, his boots nearly slipping on the dark water.

Water.

…

It hasn’t rained.

Vista paused, looking at the ground more carefully, suddenly become a lot more aware of the strong smell of iron.

Blood.

Vista took another, much more cautious step.

Something rolled on the ground as he nudged it with his boot.

A small ball. It was covered in blood.

A pearl.

There was a lot.

The realization dawned on him.

“What did you do.” The words came out more as a statement than a question.

Vista had a pretty good idea.

One small comment made by one of the crew members when he told them of the way Eye could cry pearls.

‘Then wouldn't we just need the eyes?’

Vista shot it down immediately. He gave the excuse that they didn't know if it was the eyes itself that made pearls or the body of a siren in general.

He didn't want to take the risk of finding out, Vista had told them. A half truth. He didn’t want to hurt Eye more than anything, but he especially didn’t want it to be for nothing.

Guess they were willing to risk it.

“We got the eye. That's all we need, Captain.” A man stepped forward, hand bloody and holding something.

“Then prove it. Show me how it works. Show me the pearls it can make.” Vista approached, trying not to look at just how much blood was on the ground.

The wet squelching with each step of his boots made him sick.

The man said nothing, then began poking the eye and squeezing it. 

Vista’s stomach churned as he tried  not to stare at the eye that had looked at him lovingly just a few hours ago, not watch it get manhandled.

Nothing happened.

Not a single pearl fell from it.

“Idiots. Get to your cabins, it's too early for this shit. Clean this mess up first thing in the morning.” Vista spun around angrily walking back to his quarters and slamming the door. 

The moment he made sure they all left, Vista threw off his boots and quietly snuck out, making sure he had the key in his hand.

Carefully, Vista peered over the railing.

He couldn't see anything.

The chain attached was still there.

He didn't want to know just how bad back Eye looked.

But he had to make sure this didn't happen again.

Vista grabbed a handful of the pearls on the deck, shoving them on his pocket as he left the ship. 

There was always at least one.

Vista continued to walk through the empty market, until he saw what he needed.

A long cloak. Worn out and used. No one would miss it, hopefully.

Step one was complete.

Vista continued through the empty market, making sure to pull the hood down as much as he could.

Vista walked up to the first house he saw, knocking on the door.

A woman opened it.

She was groggy and rightfully afraid.

Vista only handed her the bloody pearls, speaking quietly. 

“Tomorrow morning, go deeper into town and get the law enforcement. Tell them pirates have arrived on their shores.” And with that, he left the confused woman as he walked around her house, making sure she didn't attempt to follow him.

Nothing.

Step two, complete.

One last thing, just in case.

Vista walked back to the market, stuffing his pockets with anything that was left over. Not many things of actual value were left at the shops, mostly things like food and small trinkets.

But it would be a loss on the market anyway.

Vista walked back to the docks, looking around once more to make sure no one was around.

Vista threw everything he took into the sea.

Step three, complete.

One last thing to do.

Vista lowered himself down, feeling into his pocket for the key.

The key to Eye's collar. 

God, how could he have ever thought they would listen to him?

Vista walked across the rocks, carefully balancing along them. 

He should've just let Eye go from the start. Told them it wasn't worth it and stock up on supplies and left.

Vista was mindful of the small heart shaped stones still left over on the rocks.

What kind of person was he now? The kind that hurt innocents? The kind that hurt the people he loved? 

Vista reached the end of the rocks.

The kind that had to lie to everyone he knew?

He inhaled deeply before diving into the water.

It was dark.

Incredibly dark.

He couldn't see anything.

Vista swam to the surface, looking around for- 

The chain was incredibly close to the ship. That wasn’t where Eye normally slept. 

The water tasted like iron. Incredibly salty, sure, but still tasting of blood.

Vista swam closer to the chain, and grabbed it, gently tugging it before letting go and simply treading water.

He waited for a moment, and silently prayed that Eye was still alive and hadn't bled to death. Or that sharks haven’t come to feast on Eye, who had no way of escaping.

Just please surface Eye.

Let me know you’re alive.

“Please…” Vista whispered, holding the key tightly so he didn’t drop it.

Vista felt something grasp his leg as he was pulled under.

Almost immediate darkness.

The moonlight was still visible, but he could see it quickly leaving him as he was pulled deeper.

Vista had nearly no air. He had gasped in surprise when he was pulled under.

A figure swam up to Vista.

It was Eye.

A shudder went down Vista's spine. 

It was because the water was cold, was the excuse he told himself. And definitely not because seeing first hand the strength of a siren and the fear it could strike into his heart was sort of attractive.

For a moment, they simply stared at each other.

Well, Eye did most of the staring. 

Vista was more just trying to make out the features on Eye.

Carefully, Vista slowly put out a hand, reaching out for Eye's face once more.

If he was going to drown, he was sort of glad it was Eye that did the deed.

He was glad that he could die looking into his eyes.

Well, singular eye.

Eye flinched as Vista's left hand made contact with his cheek.

Vista hated that he made Eye flinch.

He hated himself for allowing that to happen.

Slowly, Vista lowered his hand down to Eye’s neck, feeling for the steel collar.

He was running out of air.

His right hand moved to the collar as well, trying to find the keyhole.

Eye must have realized what Vista was trying to do, because he grabbed Vista's wrists and began to swim up.

Vista kicked his legs as hard as he could.

Fresh air had never felt so nice.

Vista gasped as Eye made small apologetic chirps.

“I-I’m fine, Eye- are you okay?” Vista caught his breath, swimming closer to Eye and taking a look at the damage.

Sure enough, his right eye was missing.

In its place, pearls were in his eye hole. It wasn't bleeding very much anymore, luckily. It was most likely due to all the saltwater.

But still, a few pearls that came from his eyes were bloody.

“I'm so sorry, Eye.” Vista swam closer, before offering out his right hand, which held the key to the collar.

“Let me set you free. I don't know what else they'll do to you, but I can't risk you getting hurt like this again.” Vista whispered, now being able to see the keyhole more clearly.

Vista hands shook as the key got closer to the keyhole.

Why was he shaking so much? 

This shouldn't be that hard of a decision.

He'd always pick his crew.

They were everything to him.

Even if they disobeyed his orders. Or fought with him. Or fought with each other. Or-

That doesn't matter.

But wasn't this a form of betrayal to them?

No. He was just…stopping them from hurting Eye further.

The local law enforcement wasn't strong enough to follow them on water. Vista knew that. That's why he told the villager. He just needed a proper excuse.

Why should he even have to make excuses?

Vista's hands shook harder as he forced his hands to place the key in the keyhole.

All for a monster that he's known for only a few days?

He turned the key, the collar clicking off.

“...There…now get out of here, before I change my mind.”

Eye opened his mouth to protest.

“Shut up. Leave, siren. A monster has no place on my crew. Just leave.” Vista didn't like how harsh his voice was.

But the message seemed to get across just fine.

Eye stared for a moment, a few more pearls rolling off his face, before he dove into the water.

That was it.

It was done.

Fuck.

What did he just do? 

Eye couldn't bring himself to leave.

He swam along the coast for a while, but couldn't force himself to swim further away to the point where he couldn't see the boat anymore.

It was so stupid.

He shouldn't be debating this.

He shouldn't still be crying over this.

Vista told him clearly that he didn't want a monster with him.

Even if the only thing Eye could focus on in that moment was the necklace still around Vista’s neck. Even if the only thing Eye could fully notice was the way Vista seemed so conflicted in doing so. Even if the way Vista’s face shifted quickly from apologetic to angry.

Even if the wound still hurt.

It really did hurt.

A lot.

But Eye still couldn't find himself fully leaving.

Instead, Eye found a nice rock to rest on and watch the ship from a distance.

The sun was rising.

Strange, a lot of little shadow humans seemed to be running over to the ship.

A lot more than usual at least.

Eye could distantly hear echoes of a fight.

Oh God, were they fighting because of him? 

Eye watched as  people began getting thrown overboard.

Should…should he help?

Shit, what if one of them is Vista?

Eye jumped off the rock without hesitation, swimming towards the ship.

Turns out that he can swim a whole lot faster when he's not chained up and having to swim around with a heavy chain.

Eye reached the ship but didn't surface.

There were people in the water.

They didn't look like pirates.

There was more yelling coming from above.

Then, the ship began to move.

Eye couldn't make out what was happening above water, but he didn’t want to surface and get caught again.

He never wanted to feel another net around him again.

He never wanted to feel the touch of a human again.

…

Well, unless it was Vista’s, then maybe he could make an exception.

No matter. Eye began to follow the boat, which had actually begun to move at a great speed, and swam under it to ensure there wasn’t any possibility they could see him.

Further and further they went from the island, up until it was just a tiny dot.

Man this actually felt great. It was really nice to not only be swimming again, but to be following along instead of just swimming aimlessly without an actual stop in mind.

Finally, the ship began to slow down.

Eye reached up to gently touch the ship, following it to the end and slowly peaking above the water.

“Please don’t do this-” it was Vista.

“Shut up. You set that thing free and for what? WE COULD HAVE BEEN RICH VISTA!” a different voice yelled.

“Are we not already? We didn't need him, not to mention the fact we have everything we could ever want-” Vista was in trouble, trouble because of him.

“But we’re still wanted by the law everywhere we go.”

“We’re pirates! That’s a sacrifice we were all willing to make the second you stepped foot on this boat! We already stayed in that village for far longer than we should have-”

“AND WHOSE FAULT WAS THAT?! You’re the one that wanted to stay longer to find out more about your stupid pet.” He wasn’t a pet! 

“We never would have had to go there if you guys weren't being dumb and just not killed each other.” Vista sighed. “Look, let’s just calm down. No one was hurt, those guys were amateur lawmen anyway. They can't track us from here. It’s fine-”

“It’s not fine when we just lost our only chance at living comfortably for the rest of our lives.” a slight pause.

“Besides, I still haven't heard you deny it.” the pirate sighed. “Did that thing really break free on its own, or was that mystery splash from last night come from something else?”

Silence.

Eye felt nervous.

“Stop-stop stop stop- just listen to me, we can move past this- please don’t do this-” Vista began to plead with the pirates as they seemed to do…something.

A splash startled Eye into dipping his head back into the water.

The boat began to move quickly again, the sails filling with wind instantly.

Eye was about to follow the boat, but a sinking figure stopped him.

It was Vista.

Vista was sinking- his legs and arms were bound.

Eye didn’t hesitate to swim to Vista as fast as he could, reaching for Vista’s hands to pull up.

Vista’s eyes widened in surprise, but he too quickly reached out for Eye.

Eye pulled Vista up as hard as could- but damn he was heavy.

They reached the surface.

Vista gasped and coughed up water, spitting it out.

“Y-you came back.” he spat out more water, still gasping for air.

“Leave? My mate? I couldn’t. Vista.” Eye smiled, but still struggled to help hold up Vista.

Eye got to work on Vista’s hands. Luckily, it was only a cloth that was tied around them, which ripped easily with a small swipe of Eye’s claws.

Vista shuddered slightly.

His legs however, were a different story.

Eye had to let go of Vista to work on his legs, which led to Vista sinking very rapidly while Eye tried his hardest to get rid of the net on Vista’s legs.

Eye hated this stupid net.

It was a constant cycle of letting Vista go, working on a moving and rapidly sinking Vista, then stopping any progress to grab Vista and hoist him back up, who was coughing up more water every time.

It was exhausting.

But Eye couldn't stop.

He drove down, determined to break that stupid net.

He had to.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net-

A pair hand reached down to grab Eye’s cheeks.

Vista.

Vista softly shook his head.

“What? What do you mean no? I can’t let you just die.” Eye cried out in alarm.

Pearls began to sink beside him.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net.

He had to break the net-

Vista forcefully pulled Eye up to him.

Eye was exhausted.

If Vista was going to sink to the bottom of the sea, at the very least Eye would follow him there.

Eye stared at Vista, who was clearly running out of air.

Bubbles floated to the surface.

Vista gently began to pull Eye closer.

Eye too, gently cupped Vista’s face.

Eye really loved Vista’s hair.

The small braids he had, the golden color of the sun itself, the small pieces of gold that adorned his hair- everything.

But in the water, it looked especially good.

Vista suddenly pushed forward, lips gently pressing against Eye’s.

Eye’s heart soared.

Their first kiss.

Their last kiss.

Eye had to make sure it was a passionate and good one.

Gently, he pressed his fang against Vista’s lip, which parted to allow Eye entrance.

Eye pressed his tongue against Vista’s, a rather strange feeling. It was warm and sort of squishy, but nice.

Really nice.

Eye liked it a lot.

He so badly wished he could have done it more. 

So, so much more.

 Eye continued the passionate kiss, softly purring in satisfaction as his heart fluttered, before stopping.

He stopped, because Vista began to look rather faint, eyes starting to slowly close, a desperate panic for air that his body desperately needed as his arms instinctively started to flail in an attempt to swim.

Eye didn't like this look on Vista at all.

More pearls fell to the bottom of the sea.

At this point, perhaps they’d lay on top a pile of the pearls when they got down there.

A nice little bed for their final resting place.

Eye looked up, watching the last few bubbles rise to the surface.

…

Bubbles.

Air bubbles.

Bubbles full of air.

…

Holy shit-

Eye grabbed Vista, pulling him up as much as his tired body would allow before letting him go and continuing the short journey alone.

As soon as he reached the surface, Eye took an uncomfortable big breath, and dove back down.

With more force than intended, Eye kissed Vista once again. But this time, he forced the air into Vista’s mouth.

Vista spit out the water, pointing up once more.

He needed more.

Eye didn’t waste any time in repeating his actions.

Once Vista was slightly stable, Eye aligned himself with Vista as best as he could, before wrapping his arms around Vista’s waist.

Then, he began to swim up, pushing his tail to forcefully bend Vista’s legs in time with his tail.

Front, back, front, back.

Vista once again caught on quickly, and aided Eye in swimming back up by following along with Eye’s movements and forcing his arms to move as well.

The little air Eye supplied him with wasn’t enough.

Slowly, Vista went limp.

Eye had to make it to the surface, no matter what.

Eye pushed his body to move faster, hauling up his mate to the air of which he badly needed.

He was so close.

His tail was so tired.

The sun was right there.

He broke the surface tension and pulled Vista up.

Eye waited for Vista to gasp for air like all the times before.

But he didn’t.

His heart sank.

“Vista. Wake up.” Eye looked around frantically.

A rock, barely above water, a bit far, but it’d have to do.

Eye once again aligned himself as best as he could to keep Vista afloat, dragging him through the water to the rock.

He hoisted Vista up on the rock.

Vista didn’t move.

Eye shook Vista.

Vista didn’t move.

Eye began to sob.

Vista didn’t move.

“Y-you accepted me…you loved me… and now you’re leaving me alone again…” Eye balled up his fist and punched Vista in the chest.

He had done it.

He had found someone to love him.

Someone that adored him.

Someone that was beautiful and kind.

And yet, he left him.

How could Eye not be angry?

Eye hit Vista again, this time, a little more force was used.

“Wake up Vista!” Another hit.

“Wake. Up.” A punch was used to emphasize every word.

“Wake! Up!” 

A rather loud cracking sound made Eye freeze.

Oh shit he went too far-

A gasp, followed by several violent coughs.

An awful lot of water came out of Vista’s mouth, as he turned to the side and groaned.

“F-fuck…ow…” Vista slowly opened his eyes, catching his breath.

His gaze locked on Eye.

A small smile tugged at his lips.

“H-hey, little treasure…”

Eye began to cry again, pushing up further on the rock to pepper Vista’s face in kisses.

“Ow- owowow, careful, Eye please- I think you cracked a rib-” he winced, hand shaking as he gently pushed Eye off of him.

Eye muttered out a soft apology, smiling stupidly at Vista.

He loved him.

He loved him so much.

Vista laid on the rock, focusing on breathing gently without being in more pain.

Then, Vista reached for his pocket to pull something out.

The necklace.

“I couldn't bring myself to get rid of it.” Was all he said, before shuffling slightly to put the necklace back on.

Eye flushed.

He resisted the urge to lean over and kiss Vista once again, so as to not hurt him.

“Well…what now?” 

Vista stared at the clouds passing by.

The water was cold, but it’s not like Vista minded that very much.

A small splash announced his arrival.

“Hey, how’d the hunt for dinner go?”

Eye smiled and threw a large tuna fish on the deck near Vista.

Vista blinked.

“Wow…you’re aiming to impress I see…”

“Anything for you, Vista.” Vista had gotten a lot better at understanding Eye. Not much else to do when you’re stuck in once place in pain for months.

“Pfft- you make me feel like a house husband.” Vista scoffed, blushing at the implication.

“You’re still hurt.” Eye whined, crossing his arms and leaning on the deck.

“Barely. My ribs don’t hurt very much anymore. I’ll be able to join you someday.”

Eye seemed apologetic for a moment.

“Don’t apologize again, seriously. It’s fine. Everything sort of worked out in the end.” Vista shrugged slightly, glancing at their small home.

An overwater bungalow.

Vista would spend most of his days on the deck, however, making his way down the stairs and dip his feet into the water and talk to Eye.

They were saving their money for a small boat, one that Vista could use to go along with Eye on fishing trips, and travel on.

Maybe not travel too much.

He was sorta still a wanted criminal in a lot of places.

But still.

No matter what, he’d have Eye there by his side.

…

But he had one thing still on his mind.

“Eye?”

Eye hummed in response.

“That word that you call me…it doesn’t actually mean ‘Vista’, does it?” There was no way that the language of a siren just so happened to have a word that translates to his name.

He had been using a word to replace and call him by.

Eye’s face and fins flushed instantly.

“Knew it. What’s it mean, darling?”

“Darling? That’s mean. You’re making fun of me when I have done nothing wrong!” Eye whined, hiding his face.

“You’re avoiding the question.” Vista leaned over and reached for Eye’s cheek, nudging Eye’s arm to move out of the way in order to properly hold his lover.

Eye melted into Vista’s touch, happily following Vista’s hand as he moved in order to expose his now pink face.

Eye’s scar had healed nicely at that time as well. Vista made sure to clean it regularly as much as he could.

They took care of each other. 

Eye helped Vista with food and money on occasion, Vista helped with Eye’s wounds and would tell him stories.

And they’d be there for each other.

They weren’t alone anymore.

Eye seemed to think for a moment before answering. 

“Lover. Pair. Name?” He asked. His words were getting better as well. Vista had been helping him practice.

“Hmm, lover, pair- like a couple?” Vista began to gently caress Eye’s face with his thumb.

“Close. More for animals. It’s what we call all bonded pairs. Reserved for the pair only.” 

“Man, you’re really making me think on this one. Well, if it’s for animals, we usually call bonded pairs like that mates.”

Eye smiled, and began to nod softly so as to not shake away Vista’s touch.

Greedy little thing.

A rather needy one too.

Not that Vista minded in the slightest of course.

“Mate? You called me that one of the first days- oh.” he paused, a slight warmth now on his face.

Suddenly everything made more sense.

His free hand went to his necklace.

“So..this is…”

That’s why it sounded more like a question.

Eye was asking him to be his mate.

He was asking him out, and Vista had no idea he had said yes.

“I see.” 

“We mate for life, you know.” Eye whispered softly, a rather pleasant whistle escaping him as he sighed.

“Which means…?” Vista couldn’t stop smiling dumbly at his mate.

Eye grinned massively, showing off his sharp teeth.

“You’re stuck with me.”

Vista leaned closer, pulling Eye with his hand as well, ignoring the slight pain in his chest from curving so much.

“I wouldn’t want it any other way, little treasure." Vista mumbled onto Eye’s lips, the words making their lips brush over one another.

They closed the gap, soft chips and whines coming from Eye as he became a flustered mess.

How adorable.

Vista really loved Eye.

Eye really loved Vista.

And they would make sure the other would stay by their side until the day they both died.