Dearest Mermaid

Umi's life has been filled with nothing but misery since he was born. Due to a hideous birthmark caused by a mermaid's curse, his family disowns him and he is treated like a monster. Everything changes when he meets Naosuke—a tattoo artist who covers his birthmark with a tattoo resembling the sea and raises him as his own child. After Naosuke's death, Umi inherits his trade, but due to his appearance, he lives secluded from everyone—his only company being his spirit guardians, the goldfish Kuro and carp Nishiki. Mikagi makes a living as a so-called medium. In reality, he is a swindler—although he can see small spirits, he is incapable of exorcising them. When he spies Umi walking through the streets with Kuro and Nishiki, Mikagi thinks he has found a potential customer; he approaches with the promise of exorcising the fish spirits and even compliments Umi's looks. However, the flustered Umi runs away, leaving Mikagi extremely confused. The encounter leaves the two men curious about each other, which creates an opportunity for them to overcome their pasts and find happiness together.