Splish, splash.
The iron chains swing up and down, tightening and loosening, casting dense bubbles as they connect to a giant cargo box made from crab shells. The warm winter sun pierces the seawater, casting flowing golden light onto the seabed.
Five plump toes sink into the white sea sand, leaving behind footprints as the muscular salamanders pull this year's offering for the Whale Emperor, heading to the majestic Heaven Palace. Water spiders cloak in bubbles, walking on the seabed.
The East Sea mermaids with deeper skin tones move gracefully, weaving through a convoy stretching several dozen miles, exchanging treasures with the demon beasts. Each successful trade sends white bubbles fluttering from the gills behind their necks.
Suddenly.
The surrounding fish swarm scatters in panic, shadows envelop the cargo bay, expanding rapidly from a small point until it blocks out a large span of sunlight.
The mermaids look up, their gaze piercing the clear seawater.
