“Change my appearance?” she asked.
“Yes,” the mermaid replied. “You will return to the village as a new person. Nobody will recognize you.”
Latty hesitated.
“But will I turn back to my old self again?” she asked nervously.
The mermaid smiled softly.
“Yes,” she said. “After the mission is complete, you will return to who you truly are, but with your sight restored.”
Latty thought for a long time. Fear, hope, pain, and courage fought inside her heart.
Finally, she nodded.
“I agree,” she said quietly.
The mermaid stood up and swam to a small shelf made of shells. She brought out a tiny bottle filled with glowing liquid.
“Drink this,” she said.
Latty stared at the bottle as if she could see it. Her hands shook as she held it.
“Will it hurt?” she asked.
“No,” the mermaid replied gently.
Latty drank.
The liquid was warm.
Suddenly, her head felt light. Her eyes burned slightly.
Then — light.
