Lila and the Merfolk
The merfolk didn't respond immediately. They just looked at one another, and Lila imagined several dogs chasing a car--and catching one, then looking at one another with no idea what to do next. But one of them finally moved forward and nodded at her.
"You understand English?" she asked. He might just be indicating a willingness to approach, or general friendliness. "Do you speak it?"
Assuming they did, Lila said, "Thank you. We can use these things."