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<< may open log: of sea and sky >>
This is our Open Log for players to have an easy opportunity to tag others and have fun with prompts that deal with current happenings that are not covered by our MANTA Board quests. Players are free to include MANTA Board quests in their toplevels!
ALL THREADS CAN COUNT 4PTS.
For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice.
Baldur's Gate 3 - Karlach Cliffgate | Corsair
Final Fantasy FXIV - G'raha Tia | Corsair
Final Fantasy V - Faris Scherwiz | Corsair
Final Fantasy: Type-0 - Rem Tokimiya | Corsair
Hazbin Hotel - Alastor | Corsair
Heaven's Official Blessing - Xie Lian | Corsair
Jujutsu Kaesin - Satoru Gojo | Corsair
League of Legends - Rakan | Paladin
Love Between Fairy and Devil - Orchid | Paladin
My Hero Academia - Izuku Midoriya | Paladin
Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened - Sherlock Holmes | Paladin
Tales of Zestiria - Sorey | Paladin
ALL THREADS CAN COUNT 4PTS.
For your toplevel, please include the following: Character Name | Canon | Armada Choice.
TOPLEVEL DIRECTORY (Updated May 24)
Baldur's Gate 3 - Karlach Cliffgate | Corsair
Final Fantasy FXIV - G'raha Tia | Corsair
Final Fantasy V - Faris Scherwiz | Corsair
Final Fantasy: Type-0 - Rem Tokimiya | Corsair
Hazbin Hotel - Alastor | Corsair
Heaven's Official Blessing - Xie Lian | Corsair
Jujutsu Kaesin - Satoru Gojo | Corsair
League of Legends - Rakan | Paladin
Love Between Fairy and Devil - Orchid | Paladin
My Hero Academia - Izuku Midoriya | Paladin
Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened - Sherlock Holmes | Paladin
Tales of Zestiria - Sorey | Paladin
WINDED ELTRUT
It only takes a few hours for Garuda's storms to fade, carried away when she was chased off by Ramuh, but the consequences of her madness remain for days after, on Eltrut especially. The poor turtle is recovering after keeping up its shields for as long as it did, so he will remain by the island for just a little while longer. Not to mention, the mermaids have asked for help, so best that he takes it easy for a bit. There is a lot to be done in repairing the docks, cleaning the town and the forests, and helping creatures back into their homes.
The Bird Folk of Eltrut who had been victim to Garuda's magic feel terrible for what they have done, and will be helping with all of the above as a way to help boost their—and everyone's—morale. They will mostly be volunteering with cleanup around town, and some of them have set up shop to sell what wares they have to help fund repairs for shops and homes that were damaged in the winds and flood. Anyone who has a knack for crafting is welcome to join in on making jewelry, art, food, leather, candles, etc. to sell!
🔨 Repairs. Time to get to work! Much of the docks were destroyed from the wave, so Eltrut is asking anyone who can wield a hammer to assist in rebuilding them. Those who cannot or would rather help in other ways can go help by collecting wood, and there is certainly no shortage of that. Why not kill two birds with one stone (too soon?) by cleaning up the uprooted trees that have landed all over the Leviathan's shell by bringing the pieces back?
🪹 Rebuilding the Nests. Some of the birds who had been under Garuda's thrall have been displaced from their homes in the forests, either by their own destruction or from the winds. They cannot clean it all up by themselves, so they will need others to help calm them and guide them back into the forests, as well as clean up the trees and help restore their nests. They will no doubt appreciate them being prettier and more comfortable than before, so decorating them with feathers and the like will go a long way in repairing the relationships with them. In return, they will reward people's efforts with leftover plumes from Garuda's wings that they have found. (They are a one-time only use, with minor healing properties.)
🌪️ Wind Egis. Garuda's rage still lingers, and with it, some of the Wind Egis that attacked Eltrut remain, and they are hiding in the forests. Though they are significantly weaker now, these Egis will use powerful wind magic, as well as their claws, to protect themselves, and they are weak to piercing weapons and lightning magic. Find them and destroy them for good.
🐢 Happy Turtle. Eltrut is feeling down after what happened and could use some good vibes. Not only was everything on his back ruined, but his favourite island is, too. Help cheer up the turtle by planting new trees together around town and in the forests, and working together with the Bird Folk to make special turtle shaped buns for him to boost his spirits. He will also appreciate people cleaning his shell with giant brushes—they also work for relaxing head massages, too!
🪹 Rebuilding the Nests. Some of the birds who had been under Garuda's thrall have been displaced from their homes in the forests, either by their own destruction or from the winds. They cannot clean it all up by themselves, so they will need others to help calm them and guide them back into the forests, as well as clean up the trees and help restore their nests. They will no doubt appreciate them being prettier and more comfortable than before, so decorating them with feathers and the like will go a long way in repairing the relationships with them. In return, they will reward people's efforts with leftover plumes from Garuda's wings that they have found. (They are a one-time only use, with minor healing properties.)
🌪️ Wind Egis. Garuda's rage still lingers, and with it, some of the Wind Egis that attacked Eltrut remain, and they are hiding in the forests. Though they are significantly weaker now, these Egis will use powerful wind magic, as well as their claws, to protect themselves, and they are weak to piercing weapons and lightning magic. Find them and destroy them for good.
🐢 Happy Turtle. Eltrut is feeling down after what happened and could use some good vibes. Not only was everything on his back ruined, but his favourite island is, too. Help cheer up the turtle by planting new trees together around town and in the forests, and working together with the Bird Folk to make special turtle shaped buns for him to boost his spirits. He will also appreciate people cleaning his shell with giant brushes—they also work for relaxing head massages, too!
The Bird Folk of Eltrut who had been victim to Garuda's magic feel terrible for what they have done, and will be helping with all of the above as a way to help boost their—and everyone's—morale. They will mostly be volunteering with cleanup around town, and some of them have set up shop to sell what wares they have to help fund repairs for shops and homes that were damaged in the winds and flood. Anyone who has a knack for crafting is welcome to join in on making jewelry, art, food, leather, candles, etc. to sell!
ROTAGCORC REVISITED
Although Rotagcorc was able to avoid the brunt of Gardua's attack, the island still has its own problem recovering from the last attack from the turtle hunters from Krahs a few weeks ago. There are still many turtles injured and they are working to refortifying the island as they are worried about the safety of the young tortoise leviathan, Esiotrot. However, they are also happy to welcome those who once helped protect the island, giant pots of their special gumbo stews always cooking along with other tasty food. The style is similar to the Cajun and Creole cuisines, so there is some version of jambalayas, dirty rice, various seafood dishes with fish and oysters, and some traditional desserts such as beignets, puddings, pecan pies, and more.
Those who are curious about the young leviathan will have a chance to meet and interact with it, however it cannot communicate and is heavily guarded by the locals. Still, despite being as large as a small house, it will allow anyone who manages to pass the guards' approval to reach up and pet its head or touch its shell. It especially likes shell scratches! There are other ways to help gain favor from both the young tortoise and those who guard it.
Rotagcorc is roughly 75% swamp and marsh land, with wooden shacks and cabins all lined up along the bayous. Fortunately now much damage occurred in the villages, but the surrounding swamps have some work to be done, especially in resetting certain plant traps throughout the area. Just be careful while traversing through—the snapping turtles are still quite testy and may still see anyone as a threat. Just like before, feeding them turtle peppers will make them friendlier. In addition, new giant lily pad rafts are available that those daring enough to try can sit on and use long reeds to steer and float over the swampy waters. A few young crocodilians may try to bump the pad, however, so watch out! Be mindful of the mangrove trees as well…they sometimes shift and move around, making it easy to get lost.
One sobering aspect of the attack is the number of turtles and natives that were killed. While the corpses of the giants and shark pirates were already cast out at sea (or fed into the swamps), there are still funeral rites still underway. Some were waiting for relatives to return while time was also taken so that each fallen turtle or comrade was respectfully cared for. Cremation at sea is a common method, believing that everyone came from the sea and thus will now return to the sea.
They will appreciate any assistance in building the large ceremonial pyre rafts that are used to carry off the dead. Decorations and tributes to be added to the rafts are also appreciated. These are usually flower leis made of native swamp flowers, such as hibiscus, alligator lilies, marigolds, irises, azaleas; wood carvings of turtles, gators, and crocs; weapons specially forged to reflect those who were warriors; embroidered pennants, some symbolizing the life of the individual; and other trinkets that could be sent off with the deceased. Music can also sometimes be heard, some sorrowful, but others lively and upbeat as if to send them off in celebration.
For the turtles, they pay special homage as they are considered almost sacred, particularly since they have Esiotrot.
Afterwards, a round of drinks and food is shared as many will tell stories of epic feats, including the battle against Krahs's minions, and invite others to share. They are welcome to either share their own stories, or perhaps talk about their own deceased loved one or another story they know. The gator- and crocfolk are warriors at heart, so they will enjoy it. Sharing stories may also increase their favor and participating in wrestling bouts will surely increase one's reputation and perhaps even gain some allies—or rivals.
Those who are curious about the young leviathan will have a chance to meet and interact with it, however it cannot communicate and is heavily guarded by the locals. Still, despite being as large as a small house, it will allow anyone who manages to pass the guards' approval to reach up and pet its head or touch its shell. It especially likes shell scratches! There are other ways to help gain favor from both the young tortoise and those who guard it.
🧼 Shell washing. Washing its shell, especially with a brush, will be very pleasant for the young tortoise, especially when it likes to burrow and tends to get a lot of mud and dirt that gets stuck in hard to reach places. Special soap is used and it can get really sudsy and slippery for those on the shell! (Makes for a fun water slide, though.)
🥗 Giant salad. A growing young leviathan, and a big one already, a lot of fresh greens, vegetables, and turtle peppers are needed for its diet. Usually they can provide enough in their own gardens, but the recent attacks have torn up several fields which are also in need of repair as well as reduced the number of able hands to harvest. Help gather what's available and also sail out and bring back some fresh greens and seeds to help replant.
🐢 Turtle tending. There are many turtles gathered around Esiotrot who were injured during the attack and are still recovering from the injuries. Some may never be able to return to the ocean, the damage to their shells and flippers is so severe that while they can heal, they would struggle back out in the water. Help check on bandages, administer healing tonics, apply medicinal herbs on the wounds, and provide any kind of comfort that would help improve their moods. The baby turtles will be particularly forlorn and need some extra care. Music and stories will help, and the leviathan will also enjoy hearing them.
🥗 Giant salad. A growing young leviathan, and a big one already, a lot of fresh greens, vegetables, and turtle peppers are needed for its diet. Usually they can provide enough in their own gardens, but the recent attacks have torn up several fields which are also in need of repair as well as reduced the number of able hands to harvest. Help gather what's available and also sail out and bring back some fresh greens and seeds to help replant.
🐢 Turtle tending. There are many turtles gathered around Esiotrot who were injured during the attack and are still recovering from the injuries. Some may never be able to return to the ocean, the damage to their shells and flippers is so severe that while they can heal, they would struggle back out in the water. Help check on bandages, administer healing tonics, apply medicinal herbs on the wounds, and provide any kind of comfort that would help improve their moods. The baby turtles will be particularly forlorn and need some extra care. Music and stories will help, and the leviathan will also enjoy hearing them.
Rotagcorc is roughly 75% swamp and marsh land, with wooden shacks and cabins all lined up along the bayous. Fortunately now much damage occurred in the villages, but the surrounding swamps have some work to be done, especially in resetting certain plant traps throughout the area. Just be careful while traversing through—the snapping turtles are still quite testy and may still see anyone as a threat. Just like before, feeding them turtle peppers will make them friendlier. In addition, new giant lily pad rafts are available that those daring enough to try can sit on and use long reeds to steer and float over the swampy waters. A few young crocodilians may try to bump the pad, however, so watch out! Be mindful of the mangrove trees as well…they sometimes shift and move around, making it easy to get lost.
🐍 Vine snakes. "Living" vines that are sensitive to movement and like a snake will wrap around and constrict anything that touches it. Those caught are strung up high and will need to be somehow pulled or cut down before they're slowly squeezed to death. The grisly remains of those who have met this unfortunate fate may still be found wrapped high up in the trees…
🌷 Giant Venus Fly Traps. Large enough to swallow a person whole, those that had their fill can now be harvested to be used for various things such as medicines and even food. Full Traps will not be hostile and can be safely cut down, but the new ones that need to be planted will be a bit "nippy." They are fortunately smaller, but still can bite a finger off if not careful.
🐸 Leapfrog. A lot of small frogs are hopping around, enjoying the flies that have come out to feast on the remaining corpses still around the swamps. However, they're also becoming a bit of a nuisance and there are requests to help catch some to either be brought back to be made into tasty fried frog legs or release them in other parts of the island. Just beware of the poison darts that are not hostile, but will not hesitate to not only secrete their poisons but spit them as well. Collecting their poisons for certain uses would be appreciated for those willing to take the risk.
🪷 Lotus Blooms. These special lotus flowers are so big one needs two hands to hold them. Fireflies like to gather around the stamen which also glow and thus are excellent sources of light. They are used like lanterns and placed in special planters that can be hung around to help light up trails. However, they are found in the deepest parts of the swamps, so care must be taken to harvest them.
🌷 Giant Venus Fly Traps. Large enough to swallow a person whole, those that had their fill can now be harvested to be used for various things such as medicines and even food. Full Traps will not be hostile and can be safely cut down, but the new ones that need to be planted will be a bit "nippy." They are fortunately smaller, but still can bite a finger off if not careful.
🐸 Leapfrog. A lot of small frogs are hopping around, enjoying the flies that have come out to feast on the remaining corpses still around the swamps. However, they're also becoming a bit of a nuisance and there are requests to help catch some to either be brought back to be made into tasty fried frog legs or release them in other parts of the island. Just beware of the poison darts that are not hostile, but will not hesitate to not only secrete their poisons but spit them as well. Collecting their poisons for certain uses would be appreciated for those willing to take the risk.
🪷 Lotus Blooms. These special lotus flowers are so big one needs two hands to hold them. Fireflies like to gather around the stamen which also glow and thus are excellent sources of light. They are used like lanterns and placed in special planters that can be hung around to help light up trails. However, they are found in the deepest parts of the swamps, so care must be taken to harvest them.
One sobering aspect of the attack is the number of turtles and natives that were killed. While the corpses of the giants and shark pirates were already cast out at sea (or fed into the swamps), there are still funeral rites still underway. Some were waiting for relatives to return while time was also taken so that each fallen turtle or comrade was respectfully cared for. Cremation at sea is a common method, believing that everyone came from the sea and thus will now return to the sea.
They will appreciate any assistance in building the large ceremonial pyre rafts that are used to carry off the dead. Decorations and tributes to be added to the rafts are also appreciated. These are usually flower leis made of native swamp flowers, such as hibiscus, alligator lilies, marigolds, irises, azaleas; wood carvings of turtles, gators, and crocs; weapons specially forged to reflect those who were warriors; embroidered pennants, some symbolizing the life of the individual; and other trinkets that could be sent off with the deceased. Music can also sometimes be heard, some sorrowful, but others lively and upbeat as if to send them off in celebration.
For the turtles, they pay special homage as they are considered almost sacred, particularly since they have Esiotrot.
Afterwards, a round of drinks and food is shared as many will tell stories of epic feats, including the battle against Krahs's minions, and invite others to share. They are welcome to either share their own stories, or perhaps talk about their own deceased loved one or another story they know. The gator- and crocfolk are warriors at heart, so they will enjoy it. Sharing stories may also increase their favor and participating in wrestling bouts will surely increase one's reputation and perhaps even gain some allies—or rivals.
PEARLHAVEN
Garuda's furious wrath has unleashed several tidal surges, resulting in a colossal and peculiar whirlpool forming in the heart of the ocean. Its relentless power knows no bounds, dragging in ships of all sizes with an unyielding force. Once ensnared, victims are inexorably drawn into a spiraling descent into the abyssal depths below.
Yet, being dragged down into the depths doesn’t seem to drown a single soul. Anyone who is pulled deep down into the water through the whirlpool will find themselves being able to breathe and swim effortlessly. And that is because anyone entering the whirlpool will find themselves transforming into merfolk of all shapes and sizes. Legs will merge to become beautiful fish tails and everyone will sprout fins for ears and their hands webbed, made for cutting through the water effortlessly. Some might even grow tentacles, bioluminescent scales, sharp predator shark teeth, or other sea creature traits.
Once transformed, those pulled through the whirlpool will discover themselves seamlessly navigating the ocean depths, greeted by a breathtaking underwater realm. Vibrant coral reefs, intricate seaweed forests, and majestic caverns await your exploration. But most importantly, the magnificent underwater sanctuary where several merfolk tribes live and thrive. Some of the small merfolk settlements have been damaged by the severe tidal surges. Some are untouched and filled with curious merfolk ready to visit and speak with the newcomers. But not all merfolk are friendly. Some have turned cold to outsiders due to the recent deaths of their kin.
Explore the underwater haven, help the local merfolk rebuild and stay out of danger. Or don’t. It’s all about having some finny fun, after all.
Yet, being dragged down into the depths doesn’t seem to drown a single soul. Anyone who is pulled deep down into the water through the whirlpool will find themselves being able to breathe and swim effortlessly. And that is because anyone entering the whirlpool will find themselves transforming into merfolk of all shapes and sizes. Legs will merge to become beautiful fish tails and everyone will sprout fins for ears and their hands webbed, made for cutting through the water effortlessly. Some might even grow tentacles, bioluminescent scales, sharp predator shark teeth, or other sea creature traits.
Once transformed, those pulled through the whirlpool will discover themselves seamlessly navigating the ocean depths, greeted by a breathtaking underwater realm. Vibrant coral reefs, intricate seaweed forests, and majestic caverns await your exploration. But most importantly, the magnificent underwater sanctuary where several merfolk tribes live and thrive. Some of the small merfolk settlements have been damaged by the severe tidal surges. Some are untouched and filled with curious merfolk ready to visit and speak with the newcomers. But not all merfolk are friendly. Some have turned cold to outsiders due to the recent deaths of their kin.
Explore the underwater haven, help the local merfolk rebuild and stay out of danger. Or don’t. It’s all about having some finny fun, after all.
⚒️ Rebuilding. As stated above, many of the smaller merfolk villages and tribes have been damaged in the recent tidal surges. Help make friends by helping them put back together their homes with whatever materials you can find. Use driftwood and seaweed paste to mend structures. Use pearls and sea glass to repair windows. And any art that can be given to spruce up the villages will be a nice bonus.
🚧Building tension. Since some of their kin have gone missing many of the merfolk are wary of the newcomers exploring around. Beware some of the more tenacious mer that will attack and fight any riftfarers out of their villages. They will be equipped with spears and harpoon guns and powerful emotion magic that could turn you angry and against your friends.
⚡ Lost magitech batteries. It wouldn’t be an underwater exploration without being able to find some lost magitech. For those who are savvy enough at searching, can uncover several buried and waterlogged magitech batteries in the grooves of the seabed or in deep dark caverns. Collect as many as possible, they may be useful on the surface. Just be careful of any curious sea life around.
🗝️ Underwater treasure. Besides lost magitech the local merfolk are happy to give others little treasure hunts to complete. Explore the dark caverns below and uncover some hidden treasure chests buried in the sand. They seem to be filled with gemstones, jewelry and gold. Find your sweetheart something shiny and pretty, won’t you mate?
🚧Building tension. Since some of their kin have gone missing many of the merfolk are wary of the newcomers exploring around. Beware some of the more tenacious mer that will attack and fight any riftfarers out of their villages. They will be equipped with spears and harpoon guns and powerful emotion magic that could turn you angry and against your friends.
⚡ Lost magitech batteries. It wouldn’t be an underwater exploration without being able to find some lost magitech. For those who are savvy enough at searching, can uncover several buried and waterlogged magitech batteries in the grooves of the seabed or in deep dark caverns. Collect as many as possible, they may be useful on the surface. Just be careful of any curious sea life around.
🗝️ Underwater treasure. Besides lost magitech the local merfolk are happy to give others little treasure hunts to complete. Explore the dark caverns below and uncover some hidden treasure chests buried in the sand. They seem to be filled with gemstones, jewelry and gold. Find your sweetheart something shiny and pretty, won’t you mate?
🍥 Jellyfish forest. Just outside the merfolk villages is an expansive forest made out of floating jellyfish. These pretty pink creatures sway and flow with the ocean tides. And exploring the forest might prove to be a fun challenge as touching the long stringy limbs of any jellyfish will give you a little electric zap. Can you get to the other side?
🐌 Bloodthirsty leeches. Deep down below the water’s surface are several sea creatures that rely on other sea creatures to survive. There are leech-like creatures that will attach to any mer swimming by and start to drain out their blood. It’s not a painful process but leaving the leeches for too long will leave anyone feeling weak and lethargic, or worse.
🦈 Bond with dolphins. Several groups of playful dolphins are swimming all about. They are curious and smart creatures that want to play with the new merfolk around. You! They will poke and prod at you and challenge you to races. Play with them or grab onto their dorsal fins and let them take you for a ride through the ocean scene.
🦦 Playful otters. Near the surface of the ocean is a family of playful otters that are curious about the merfolk swimming down below as well. But their intentions aren’t so sweet. They will steal and grab items off of other riftfarers and try to keep anything shiny for themselves. If you find something of yours missing, you might have to chase them down to get it back.
🐙 Hugging sea urchins. The local merfolk have a strange tradition down here. They say that anyone who can successfully hug a prickly sea urchin will be given a special boon. But it’s so painful to squeeze a sea urchin, isn’t it? If you can bear the pain and give a sea urchin a little bit of comfort you will be granted a special buff that will protect you from harm for a whole day.
🐌 Bloodthirsty leeches. Deep down below the water’s surface are several sea creatures that rely on other sea creatures to survive. There are leech-like creatures that will attach to any mer swimming by and start to drain out their blood. It’s not a painful process but leaving the leeches for too long will leave anyone feeling weak and lethargic, or worse.
🦈 Bond with dolphins. Several groups of playful dolphins are swimming all about. They are curious and smart creatures that want to play with the new merfolk around. You! They will poke and prod at you and challenge you to races. Play with them or grab onto their dorsal fins and let them take you for a ride through the ocean scene.
🦦 Playful otters. Near the surface of the ocean is a family of playful otters that are curious about the merfolk swimming down below as well. But their intentions aren’t so sweet. They will steal and grab items off of other riftfarers and try to keep anything shiny for themselves. If you find something of yours missing, you might have to chase them down to get it back.
🐙 Hugging sea urchins. The local merfolk have a strange tradition down here. They say that anyone who can successfully hug a prickly sea urchin will be given a special boon. But it’s so painful to squeeze a sea urchin, isn’t it? If you can bear the pain and give a sea urchin a little bit of comfort you will be granted a special buff that will protect you from harm for a whole day.
🧙♀️ Sea witch. The merfolk villages are sure to warn you about the evil sea witch that lives down below in the darkest parts of the water. They say that she’s a foul and bitter old woman who loves to see others suffer. But some of the children in the villages say that it’s not what it seems. They say that if you can give the sea witch something precious of yours that she’s nice and will grant you a wish. If you manage to find her she will do just that. In exchange for something you find precious, she will attempt to grant you a wish. Although, she doesn’t guarantee it will work.
🌿 Dead soul forest. There is something strange about the waters near the sea witch’s home. There is a dark and murky place filled with icky and browned seaweed and other thick overgrowth. Swimming through this area will leave you feeling like your energy is being sapped. Stay here long enough and you’ll find your soul being slowly sucked out of your body only for you to become a icky piece of brown seaweed yourself. Maybe ask the sea witch to restore your friends if they get stuck this way.
💌 Love potions. Oddly enough the sea witch is more than happy to sell anyone fabulous love potions for the easy cost of a handful of pretty seashells. These potions range from making the apple of your eye fall deeply in love with you to making your worst enemy your soulmate. The potions can even colour you pink! Or make your pupils change to heart shapes! If you are in need of turning the tides of your love life, she has a potion for you.
🐠 Blobfish. Peculiar little blobfish seem to thrive in these darker waters! They’re mostly harmless and look like cute squishy blobs that don’t do very much. It might be fine to toss one around like a ball or use one for a pillow. … Just beware because bullying the blobfish too much might summon a bigger, meaner fish to come after you. Fight it off!
🌿 Dead soul forest. There is something strange about the waters near the sea witch’s home. There is a dark and murky place filled with icky and browned seaweed and other thick overgrowth. Swimming through this area will leave you feeling like your energy is being sapped. Stay here long enough and you’ll find your soul being slowly sucked out of your body only for you to become a icky piece of brown seaweed yourself. Maybe ask the sea witch to restore your friends if they get stuck this way.
💌 Love potions. Oddly enough the sea witch is more than happy to sell anyone fabulous love potions for the easy cost of a handful of pretty seashells. These potions range from making the apple of your eye fall deeply in love with you to making your worst enemy your soulmate. The potions can even colour you pink! Or make your pupils change to heart shapes! If you are in need of turning the tides of your love life, she has a potion for you.
🐠 Blobfish. Peculiar little blobfish seem to thrive in these darker waters! They’re mostly harmless and look like cute squishy blobs that don’t do very much. It might be fine to toss one around like a ball or use one for a pillow. … Just beware because bullying the blobfish too much might summon a bigger, meaner fish to come after you. Fight it off!
c
...of course she'll follow, and when she's finally caught up to him on the fringes of this veritable forest of jellies, she's... well, not out of breath, given their current conditions, but she's definitely feeling all that dolphin-kicking burning in her muscles a bit. ]
I don't think so.
[ Here comes to fun police! ]
We're not here to play around, you know...!
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For now, however, Satoru isn't appreciating her efforts so much. No one likes a cop!!! He may have only been in this form a little while, but he's already mastered the art of the pouty tail flip, and his gives her one now. ]
We're not? [ Smiles serenely... ] You know what they say! Play hard so you can work a little, or whatever. Come oooon, race me, Minaaaa!
[ When he starts to swim excitedly around her in circles, how can she resist? ]
no subject
Despite his utter delight and glee on display as he swims in circles around her, and how charming she finds it to be... She really doesn't want to race him. We all know he's going to win no matter what and she doesn't want to get stung by jellyfish!? If he just wants to be able to show off, then...
She reaches out with a hand as he completes one of his laps to try and slow him down so she can converse with him properly, and presuming he does slow down and meet her gaze, it hits her then, how he looks in this form, how the bright blue of his eyes so perfectly match that of the ocean. He looks so ethereal... ]
Ah...
[ ......oh, right. Clearing her throat. Anyway— ]
...Why don't I cheer you on from here? [ makes a lil' cheering motion with her hand. ] And you can do all of the flashy maneuvers and tricks and whatnot I'm sure you're just waiting to try...
[ She's just not going to mention how captivated she was just now but please make her say it. ]
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Allowing himself to be temporarily distracted away from the race at hand, one of his brows arches higher and higher, a surefire sign of an approaching reckoning. She’s just gonna act like that was nothing, huh? He can’t have that, of course. ]
Momo… [ He starts, with that telltale tone in his voice that spells impending mischief. ] Do you have a thing for fish people? Be honest.
[ Leaning nearer before she can dodge his glance, he peers right into her eyes, scrutinizing. ]
Huh?? Huhhhh? Do you think I’m extra handsome like this? Spill!
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No, i-it's not like that... [ her gaze slides away... how can she be feeling warm when they are so deep underwater... ] It's just that... You look ethereal like this, you know. And...
[ Meeting his eyes with hers again, she moves a hand to comb through his hair as it moves in the water, watching how the scarce light and the sea bathe his features in blue light. Almost like... ]
It reminded me of when you took me to the aquarium...
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Sumina may have to deal with more of his bullshit than most people, but in turn, she's also so easily able to disarm him, more than anyone else can, with only a few heartfelt and nostalgic words. The sharp edges of his features soften as he relents back, gazing following the trail of her fingers through her peach-colored hair. She isn't the only one enamored with the sight of the other like this — she just got to mentioning it first, while he was being a menace.
Now, though...between her sentimental callback and her bashful appearance, heat creeps beneath his cheeks, too, his smile irresistibly fond. ]
Ah, this isn't all that different from that, is it? We're just actually underwater this time.
[ He reaches over to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, for however well that works while underwater. ]
Come a long way since then, huh?
[ Literally, and figuratively. Together. ]
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[ Literally, and figuratively. Together. Though she's not so sure how the merfolk would take to them eating a seafood dinner in their midst.
She can scarcely even believe that they're here in some underwater realm together, having taken on these forms. It's a far bigger transformation than when they were given animal features at the hotel, or even the time they appeared as their younger selves. If she had been pulled here by herself before she stayed at the hotel, she would have stayed far, far away from this place, her threshold for abnormality so very low, in spite of the constant abnormalities of the Elderflower.
But she's a become a bolder woman in all of these months, at least enough to bring her to places like this, thanks to her experiences at the hotel, thanks to the people she met at the hotel. And him, too, of course. Of course. Her fondness is as plain over her features, with wide starry eyes gazing at him warmly. ]
...Come on. Weren't you going to race through the jellyfish just now?
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...But he really did want to race through the jellyfish with someone...
His hand falls from her hair down the length of her arm, grasping for her wrist when he reaches it. ]
What iiiiif...we take a somewhat brisk swim through 'em together, where maybe one of us gets through faster than the other?
[ In other words, a race. ]
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Ah, yes, I believe the word you're looking for is a race.
[ Come on now... ]
Satoruuu... I really don't want to risk getting stung...
[ It sounds like it'd hurt? She's just a little guy. And unlike him, she can't just activate her protective barrier whenever she likes. ]
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I'll protect you.
[ He doesn't want to see her get hurt, either. Keeping her safe is ever his priority, even when it's from the risk of his own schemes. Especially when it's from the risk of his own schemes. ]
Just stay close to me, and Limitless will envelope us both.
[ So...maybe it's less of a race in that sense, but still close enough that he's counting it. ]
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Her gaze flits back up towards the forest of jellies nearby. It might just work... ]
Well... All right. It's not much of a race for you this way, but if you're sure...
[ She nods. ]
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His smile brightens, reaching for the corners of his eyes. Alike where it counts so they can understand one another, but not so similar that they can't grow and learn from each other. What the other lacks, they make up for.
That's most strong relationships, huh, Mina-chan? ]
Maybe the real race was seeing how long it took me to convince you. Ahh, I'm getting to know you so well.
[ With a little tug of her hand, he starts to swim towards the jellyfish forest. ]
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A warm laugh escapes her as her grip tightens against his. ]
Getting to know me? I think you know me quite well by now, don't you?
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As he glances back at her: ]
Mm, guess so. I could always know more, though, couldn't I?
[ He wants to know everything. ]
All the better to disarm you at a moment's notice.
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As if you need even more ammunition against me...
[ Since they're in a bit of a nostalgic mindset now, however, this does bring to Sumina'd mind fond recollections of their first interactions with each other, when they each found themselves somewhat disoriented by the separation from their respective roles... When Satoru, among the other guests at the hotel, took the time to get to know her as a person. As Sumina, and not the Elderflower's innkeeper. ]
It's been a while since we just sat and talked for a long while, hasn't it? Should we have another big breakfast sometime...?
[ Maybe this wasn't his intent for the conversation, necessarily, but... talking about these things does put her at ease all the more as they approach the jellyfish forest, like her worries about getting stung have been all but dispelled by him. ]
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So the suggestion makes him almost nostalgic. Ultimately, they still haven't really known each other all that long, not even a full year yet, and there's been plenty to preoccupy them as of late, and even before. Even so, it remains true as it was before they left the hotel. They really do have all the time in the world... ]
Hah, I'd like that. Does the nap and drool come included? I gotta spoil you with souffle pancakes again, too.
[ It's been too long, and he does so love to spoil her. With a tug of her hand, he leads her in between the undulating jellyfish, their stinging limbs flickering close, but never close enough to reach. They're in their own pocket of infinity now, just the two of them. ]
Whoa...I've never looked at these guys up close before. Kinda spooky.
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[ Don't bring up the drool incident, come on man... She doesn't end up acting on the urge to elbow him in his mermaid abs, however, for soon they find themselves swimming into the otherworldly bloom of jellies. She's not seen too many of them in her life, admittedly, and though she had been well enough mesmerized by them when they visited the aquarium floor in the hotel, swimming amongst them like this is... even more surreal, and special, and she can only properly appreciate it as such because of who she is with. With widened eyes, she watches as their flowing limbs flutter near, but never quite touch them, meeting instead the barrier of Limitless.
He has always been Satoru to her first and foremost, and though this is far from the first time she's seen his abilities at work, it's nonetheless... awe-inspiring, to see them on display so closely like this. ]
"Surreal" was the word that had come to my mind, actually... And incredible, too, isn't it?
[ Still, she does try to swim a bit closer to him, to make sure she stays fully within the influence of his technique. ]
I'm sorry to continue to be so nostalgic, but... I'm reminded a bit of Miss Kokomi, from the hotel. She probably would have loved being here...
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But he isn't immune to nostalgia, far from it, and the mention of the hotel and Koko-chan sends his thoughts reflecting back as well. Whatever she's up to right now, either still staying at the hotel as a guest or returning to her island to be the chief-governor-priestess or whatever, hopefully she's managed to maintain her own boundaries.
...If she went right back to her old habits, though, he wouldn't be surprised. Hey, they're hard to change — he would know. ]
She would've, huh? If she could've stepped away from straightening things out with the merpeople, anyway. Bet she would remember me.
[ He's still bitter about the Gale situation. ]
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A fond laugh bubbles up out of her as they share their recollections of Kokomi; truly, she would have excelled at their current objective, wouldn't she? She practically felt like a merperson, herself... Yet that fondness soon gives way to disappointment, when he makes mention of Gale. He may not have named names, but... she knows, because she's upset about it, too. ]
...The magic that pulls riftfarers into this world is even more mind-boggling than what we saw at the hotel, isn't it? For it to pull from realities separate from our own... I wonder if we'll meet many more of our old friends who won't remember us. [ photo taken before Sumina meets Amelia ] I wonder...
If there are other Satorus and Suminas out there, too.
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Maybe this isn't the only reality where they found one another and fell in love, found something better with each other than they had on their own. He's not exactly an optimist, but...
He likes the thought of that, a cosmic constant that binds them together across universes. ]
If there is, they better think twice before trying to steal the real deal from me.
[ Because, obviously, she's the most Sumina of them all, and he's the most Satoru. Any other imitators can't even compare. Since they're swimming close together anyway, it's easy for him to lean over and pepper kisses to her lovely soft lashes, the corners of her starry eyes, the bridge of her nose. ]
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She feels about as light as the jellies fluttering all around them - even more so as Satoru leans over and kisses her all over her face. Another laugh bubbles up out of her as she kisses him in turn, first to the tip of his nose, then to the crest of his cheek, and then between his lovely ocean eyes. ]
I won't be going anywhere.
[ And no one, nothing can take her away from him. Except Gege Akutami. ]
If you believe that another you would feel the same way for me, then... Shouldn't it follow that even the Gale that's never met us might still end up becoming a dear friend? Let's be patient with him, Satoru, even though it'll surely feel strange.
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But it's fine, it can't get past the jellies, so Sumina is safe! Beneath the sweet, if unusual flutter of her underwater kisses, Satoru's snow-white lashes fall shut, a gentle sort of smile that only she can bring out in him curling his lips, lifting the corners of his eyes. Okay, when she puts it like that...how could he argue?
...Even if he still exhales a grumble, posited a question that acknowledges his worries without him even having to spell it out for her. ]
Ehh...I guess I'll give it a shot. [ It'd feel...too disingenuous to his own memories not to do so, anyway. His friends are few and far between, it...wouldn't sit well with him to discard one who doesn't remember him, even if that carries its own kind of ache. ] I reserve the right to make passive-aggressive jabs at him now and again, though.
[ He's salty!!!! And not just because they're...in the ocean... ]