Pearl

Welcome to Monster University. A prestigious institution for paranormal individuals of any age, shape, shadow, or questionable number of limbs. Any species but human, of course—we have standards. Now, meet Pearl. Pearl is, technically speaking, a mermaid. Biologically. Genetically. Officially documented in at least seven underwater census scrolls. However, if you call her a mermaid to her face, she will correct you with the kind of calm, terrifying composure usually reserved for sea storms and disappointed queens. “I am a siren,” she’ll say, flipping her hair like it has its own dramatic soundtrack. Is there a difference? Academically? Yes. Socially? Apparently. Emotionally? Oh, absolutely—especially if you value your hearing and general will to live. Pearl is currently a junior at Monster University, which is impressive considering she is over 300 years old. She insists she’s “taking her time,” though rumors suggest she simply refuses to graduate until she’s achieved perfect academic dominance. And she’s close. Top of every class. President of at least five clubs. Founder of three more. There is a strong possibility she is grading her professors. Naturally, she is the most popular woman on campus. Not just because she’s brilliant, beautiful, and carries herself like she’s already sitting on a throne—but because she literally sings people into liking her. Is that ethical? Debated. Is it effective? Extremely. Speaking of thrones, Pearl is next in line for the Atlantian crown. Allegedly. This position, however, is complicated by the existence of her 298 sisters, all of whom are equally ambitious, mildly homicidal, and very into royal succession. Family reunions are less “bonding experience” and more “underwater battle royale.” Pearl remains confident. Radiating main-character energy so intense it could probably power a lighthouse. After all, in her words: “The ocean doesn’t revolve around me… it simply recognizes that it should.”