Page 1 of The Gargoyle and the Songbird

1

ECCO

Even after a week of sold-out live appearances, it’s hard to believe I’m actually here, meeting one of my heroes.

I’m nestled on a well-worn leather couch across from the effortlessly cool Liam Blackwood, host of mega-hit podcast “Soundwaves.” I’ve been a die-hard fan of this podcast for years—to be featured on it now that my debut album dropped two weeks ago is beyond surreal.

The studio walls around me are plastered with autographed posters of legendary bands, their edges curling with age. A lava lamp glows softly in the corner, casting ethereal shapes. The huge headphones I’m wearing dull the surrounding sounds.

“So Ecco, tell me about your creative process as a siren.” Liam leans forward, eyes warm and curious. “How might it differ from a human musician’s approach?”

I chew my lip, considering.

“As a siren, I’ve often felt torn between worlds.” The words spill out in a rush. “Especially over the past year, as my music has gained fans in the human lands. It’s like—I’m straddling this line, you know? But I’ve realized my creative process is all about embracing that duality. Owning my voice and believing it deserves to be heard.”

Liam nods, jotting a note. “And the magic that’s rumored to weave into your music... Can you speak to that?”

I wince internally. This line of questioning always feels like a setup, an accusation waiting to happen.

It’s been weird to gain fame here in the human lands, away from the magical enclave where I grew up. Prejudices against magical beings and monsters run deep in this part of the world, and I know I have a lot of privilege because I can pass as almost human in appearance.

Outside the booth’s glass window, my manager Natalie watches intently. She gives an encouraging thumbs up, and I take a deep breath.

“It’s taken years of training to hone my powers to this point, to be able to infuse my songs with a vibe, a feeling, without outright enchanting people.” I gain confidence with each word. “I’ve worked hard for that control and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.”

“It’s certainly a deviation from what sirens are typically known for,” Liam muses. His tone is neutral, but anxiety still tightens in my chest.

“Yes, that’s true. Sirens have this dangerous reputation, right? Luring humans to their doom with an irresistible voice.” I laugh, hoping it doesn’t sound shaky, and meet his gaze directly. “I’ve always wanted to show the world that we’re so much more than that stereotype. If my music can make even one person feel seen, like they belong, then I know I’m on the right path.”

Liam smiles, clearly moved by my heartfelt words.

“That’s a beautiful sentiment, Ecco. And it seems to be resonating with listeners—‘Siren’s Call’ has already broken streaming records and shot to the top of the charts in multiple genres.” He leans back, studying me. “How are you handling this sudden surge of fame?”

I pause, considering the question. It’s all happened so fast that I’m not sure I even know how I feel about it yet, much less how to put it into words.

“It’s been a whirlwind, that’s for sure.” I fidget with the hem of my dress, choosing my next words carefully. “I’m so grateful for the support, but it’s also a lot of pressure. And I worry about losing touch with my roots, the people and places that shaped me.”

My hometown of Elderberry Falls rises in my mind, warming me: the cozy streets, the scent of magic on the breeze, late nights giggling with my best friend Mariah. Moving away happened so quickly that I barely processed it, and now whenever I think about home, I feel a dull ache.

Thankfully, I’ll be back there soon.

Liam glances at the clock, clearly realizing our time is running short.

“Well, Ecco, we could talk about the magic of your music all day. However, we should probably pause for a quick word from our sponsors.” He glances down at his notes. “When we return, let’s dive into the collaborations you have planned for your upcoming tour—there are some exciting guests in the mix!”

I nod enthusiastically, my blue hair bouncing, as Liam queues up the pre-recorded ad. I can hardly wait to talk about the talented musicians I’ll be sharing a stage with soon. For a blissful moment, the pressure I’ve been under lately fades away, replaced with pure excitement.

The rest of the interview flies by. As we wrap up, Liam reaches over to clasp my hand.

“Ecco, I just want to thank you again for coming on the show today. Listening to this album has been such a bright spot for me personally over these past few weeks—not to get corny, but the way your voice soars lifts my spirits. It’s pretty awesome to get to experience some magic for myself.”

I blush, overwhelmed by his praise.

“That means so much, truly,” I tell him. “Thank you for having me.”

We snap a quick selfie together for social media, both grinning ear to ear, before I gather my things and head out of the booth, still in a bit of a daze.

In the studio lobby, Natalie practically tackles me with a fierce hug, her expensive and tasteful perfume wafting over me.

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