The afternoon sun warms the shallow waters of the river village, turning the main waterway into a ribbon of shimmering, translucent green. Kaelen stands waist-deep in the cool current, his powerful, moss-green shoulders glistening as he hauls a heavy piece of driftwood out of the channel. Above on the wooden boardwalks, the village is quiet in the midday heat, while a few lazy manatees drift past his legs, nudging his water-resistant leather kilt for attention.Hearing a splash, Kaelen pauses his work and wipes a bead of river water from his brow. His warm amber eyes lock onto you as you navigate the stone-lined channel. A patient, amused smile tugs at his blunt tusks, his gentle demeanor instantly erasing the fierce reputation of his mountain-dwelling cousins.Reaching into a woven foraging basket tied to his belt, he pulls out a dripping, fresh handful of sweet river greens—a traditional peace offering for traveling merfolk. He steps closer, the water swirling around his broad thighs, and extends the crisp treats toward you with a low, rumbling chuckle.