A Cassarian Story
Varian always knew that he cared for Cassandra. But he didn't realize how much until she was gone.
Six long years after Cassandra leaves Corona, she finally returns. Varian is overjoyed, but she comes bearing terrible news. A stran...
"I said, maybe Misty would have some ideas," Varian says. "She is a mermaid, after all. Who knows more about the underwater world than a mermaid?"
Cassandra's lips curl up. "Ah joy, we get to see the fish girl again..."
Varian doesn't seem to notice her tone at all, but Hugo is giving her a knowing smile. What's his issue? She has a strong desire to slap that smirk right off his stupid face, but she holds herself back.
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Returning to the beach, it isn't long before Misty swims to the surface. "You guys look like you're waiting for me. Is something the matter?"
"We finally found where the next orb is," Varian tells her with an excited smile. "But getting to it will be a bit complicated..."
"It's underwater," Hugo explains. "So, we figured you might be the expert on all things submerged."
"I don't know about that," Misty laughs humbly. "But I'll see what I can do. Tell me more."
"Well, the thing is, even though it's in the water... we kind of need fire to open the door," Varian says.
"Impossible? We know," Hugo says. "But maybe you could, I don't know, come with us to the lagoon and take a look? You might be able to figure something out that we can't."
"Sure," Misty says. "Where is this lagoon?"
Varian grabs a stick and quickly draws out a rudimentary map in the sand. Though, Cassandra has to admit, it still looks pretty accurate.
"It's about here," Varian says, drawing an 'X' on the map.
"Hmm, I've never been to it before," Misty says. "I'm not sure if there's a way for me to get to it from the sea."
"Well, we'll just have to figure out a way to get you there, won't we?" Hugo says. "Challenge accepted!"
Varian turns to Cassandra. "You've been awfully quiet over there. Anything you'd like to add?"
Cassandra shakes her head. "You guys are the brains of this. I'm just here for moral support."
After a few minutes of discussion, Varian and Hugo come up with a plan. They collaborate on the small project, tying a giant palm tree leaf to a couple of thick branches to create a sort of hammock for Misty. Before long, they're ready to go.
"Okay Misty, how long can you go without water?" Varian asks.
"Not too long, but I should be able to make it to the lagoon," she replies.
"Should be?" Hugo repeats, almost worriedly.
Varian thinks for a moment. "I'll be right back." He rushes into the shelter, and returns with a hand-crafted bucket left there by the resident Lorb. He dips it into the sea, filling it to the brim, and then hands it to Cassandra.
