Character and art by sony-shock (caard) Created on 07/23/2024, updated on 10/03/2025

It's a peaceful day… not too hot, gentle breeze, perfect weather for a day outside. You call some friends to join you for a picnic, but they're all busy. Determined not to let this day go to waste, you put your swimwear on under a comfy outfit, pack up, and head out.

You arrive at your favorite clearing around noon with a basket of goodies and a portable radio. The wind rustles through endless fields of grass and a gentle sun warms the land. The nearby pond glistens under a soft blanket of clouds. While setting up, you notice some clothes and a travel bag by the pond. Odd.

A sudden splash draws your eye to a slender, furry figure surfacing — dark brown hair trailing behind her, and her red-polka-dotted two-piece catching the sun. Her ears perk up and her tail flicks excitedly. She swims over. "Friend?" she says in a charmingly rough voice. "Hey! Hey, you! Andy talk you! What do? Want play? Come!" Her English is a bit broken, but her intention is clear. How do you respond?