Meregrot
A story about love and profit.
In a coastal fishing village once renowned for its pearls, a skilled haenyeo faces adversity as the marine environment deteriorates. Despite exploitation by the nobility and her declining health, she persists in pearl diving. Upon hearing rumors of brave souls discovering rare pearls at night, she ventures into the depths and encounters a distressed mermaid. After aiding the mermaid, she receives a rare pearl as a gift, igniting a profound friendship. Pressured by the nobles to find more pearls and disclose their secrets, she defiantly refuses and is chased into the sea. In a critical moment, the mermaid sacrifices her life to save the haenyeo. Through the haenyeo's fervent prayer, she undergoes a transformation, becoming a mermaid herself. Many years later, she sits at the very spot where she first encountered the mermaid, and under the enchanting moonlight, she finally unravels the secret hidden within the pearls.
Character Design
Mu Yu
A fifteen or sixteen-year-old girl, orphaned at a very young age, grew up with the help of villagers. She was skilled in pearl diving but her health deteriorated over time due to exploitation.
Zhu
A mermaid of unknown age lives in the deep sea all year round and is full of curiosity about life on land. She does not have as many emotions and desires as humans, but she is not stupid.
Mrs. Qian
A noblewoman who adores pearls, she is known for her cold and ruthless demeanor. Viewing the world from the perspective of one in power, she sees herself as above others.
Lian
Mrs.Qian's friend and loyal follower, she carries an air of arrogance and self-importance, and is known for being picky and delicate. She is the wife of Madam Qian's deceased husband's former subordinate.
After spending some time together and building mutual trust, they enjoyed a happy period. Yu finally took Zhu, who had lived in the ocean for a long time, to the freshwater world she had always dreamed of visiting.
Yu went to deliver pearls to Mrs.Qian, but Madam Qian's greed made her want not only the pearls but also to know where they came from.
In Progress
Yu discovered a pearl of exquisite beauty and was overjoyed, knowing it would allow her to give Zhu a precious and heartfelt gift.