GLOOM SWIMMER

The Gloom Swimmer is a small, elusive fish species native to the dimly lit eastern zones of Lake Arla in the Asari Region of VOI 700 D. Adapted to the underwater shadows cast by dense vegetation and overhanging terrain, this fish has evolved unique adaptations to thrive in low-light, murky environments where sunlight penetration is limited due to fog layers and dense aquatic flora.

The Gloom Swimmer serves an essential role in the lake’s ecosystem by feeding on detritus, algae, and microinvertebrates, contributing to water clarity and nutrient cycling.

• Size: 10-13 cm
• Weight: 1.2-1.5 kg
• Body Shape: Long, flexible, eel-like
• Skin: Pale gray-blue with a faint bioluminescent stripe along its sides
• Speed: 3.2 km/h

• Shadow-Hugging Movement: Moves by weaving through dense vegetation and shadows.
• Faint Bioluminescence: Emits dim light to communicate with others and navigate in darkness.
• Eyes: Enlarged, with enhanced contrast sensitivity.

• Armor Class (AC): 10
• Hit Points (HP): 4
• Speed: 30 ft. (swimming)

• Flash Dash: Darts in and out of cover, making it hard to target (imposes disadvantage on opportunity attacks)
• Nip (Swarm only): In groups, can nibble at enemies for 1d2 damage per turn

• Darkvision: 60 ft.
• Low-Light Camouflage: Gains +2 to Stealth rolls in dim light.
• Schooling Glide: Gains +5 ft. speed when moving with at least 5 other Gloom Swimmers.

• Diet: Detritivores and scavengers; feed on decaying plant material and small invertebrates
• Social Structure: Forms schools of 20-50 individuals
• Activity Pattern: Nocturnal, most active during periods of lowest visibility

• Depth Dwelling: Remain near rocky outcrops and lakebed crevices to avoid predators
• Lure Flash: Confuse predators or signal danger to the school

• Spawning Season: Peak fog seasons and just after storms
• Egg Laying: Broadcast spawning into aquatic vegetation | Eggs Laid: Hundreds at a time
• Hatching Time: 3–4 days
• Juvenile Behavior: Remain in cover for first few months

Gloom Swimmers add subtle environmental ambiance to dark underwater regions of Lake Arla. Their sudden light flashes can mislead or confuse players during tense exploration scenes.

• Ambient Detail: Used to evoke unease and mystery in shadowy lake regions
• Environmental Clues: Swimmers may signal shifts in water pressure or predator presence

• VOI 700 D
• Habitual Belt
• Equatorial Sections East and West
• Eastern Equatorial Section of the Habitual Belt (Asari)
• Lake Arla
• Wildlife of Asari

Known Predators:

• Arawi
• Twilight Perch