[ the sensation of drowning overwhelms his senses for a moment — but he's practiced being underwater enough. hyperaware of his surroundings and a bit too alert, he registers the crimson before he registers her...well, actual scream. ]

I'm coming!

[ he shifts his onto his heels, launching himself forward (like sharknado), motioning his arms forward and back to propel himself further. his heel settles onto the coral, and he unsheathes his sword before crouching down. ]

Stay still, alright? [ nier's voice is gentle; soft, in spite of the circumstances, look a mother trying to soothe a crying infant. ] I'm going to cut through the seaweed. If you keep stomping, the coral'll hurt you, so bear with me for a moment...