You arrive at the beach.

You make your way across the rocks, a distance away from the beach where people tan and play. It's quite busy farther in, but you're content enjoying the sight of the water in solitude. The air is fresh, and the ocean's horizon sparkles under the warm embrace of the midday sun. A breeze wafts through your hair, and you take a deep breath. However, something catches your eye.

In the shallow water near your feet, you see an ivory glow, like the shiniest rock you've ever seen. It's difficult not to lean in for a closer look.

Though, it seems to be just barely out of reach. Frustrated, you get down onto your knees and stretch an arm out as far as it can go beneath the surface of the water, trying with all your might to pitch the stone between your fingers enough to pull it closer. Just then, you touch it with the tip of your middle finger. It's smooth, and strangely warm, though that's likely just your imagination. Given how much you're struggling, you reckon your entire face is red and warm.

Just a little closer...

You got it!

Just then, you lose your footing on the rocks, and topple into the water with a splash. A freezing sensation surrounds your body and you flail around in shock. After a moment, you remember how shallow the water is. Despite being soaked, you're definitely not drowning, and the stone is in your hands. Though, it isn't a stone at all.

You crawl out of the water embarrassed, but with a strange pale white statuette of a woman in your grip. It looks like an incredibly old carving, perhaps made from marble or something.