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Ink Tongue

Ink Tongue is a discoloration of the tongue and mouth caused by eating Island squid.

Island Squid

Island squid (or squid, as it is known in the Western and Southern Islands) is a popular Mermish dish. Usually made from Rang Squid, the ink is extracted from the ink sacs after the squid is killed. Then it is mixed with a thickening agent and a sweetener to create a dipping sauce for the fried squid.  
When eaten, the squid ink turns the tongue a deep blue. If eaten in greater quantities, it can also discolor the lips, the teeth, and other parts of the mouth. On the islands, this harmless discoloration is known as ink tongue and makes the dish particularly popular among children, who enjoy sticking their tongues out at each other and adults. Outsiders, however, can be unnerved by the change, leading many locals to offer the dish to unsuspecting tourists.
CW: racial prejudice


Early Reception

When eaten in small amounts the discoloration lasts only a few hours, but in large enough amounts, the discoloration can last for days. Among Islanders, this is not seen as a concern, but when humans first arrived in Brek, they believed the Mermish to be diseased. For a time, this worked in the islanders favor, but upon discovering the true reason for the blue lips and tongues the humans, they labeled this a savage custom, and tried to do away with it. They were unsuccessful.
Thanks to non-Anvilite co-collaborater, Stephanie, for the idea.


Cover image: by Molly Mar

Comments

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Jul 11, 2025 12:51 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

This is fun. I always like eating food that changes my tongue colour! :P

Emy x
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