One day, while Li Xue and Lanfen were exploring a particularly vibrant coral reef, they were discovered by a group of mermaid guards patrolling the area. The guards, clad in ornate armor and carrying pearl-tipped spears, approached the pair cautiously.
"Halt!" one of the guards commanded, his deep voice echoing through the water. "State your names and your business in the Mermaid Kingdom."
Li Xue glanced at Lanfen, who gave her a reassuring nod. "My name is Li Xue, and this is my friend Lanfen. We mean no harm. We're just exploring the area and learning about the mermaid world."
The guard eyed her suspiciously. "You're not from around here, are you?"
"No, I'm not," Li Xue admitted, her voice wavering slightly. "I come from a different world, and I've only recently arrived here."
