Once a month, for a period of 3-4 days, the Lapuhe’e siphon mana from the land and sea.

It is a somber time, and many consider it unlucky to start new projects or have conflicts during the feeding.

According to statistics, few babies are born during the Mana Drain, and deaths from illness and old age double.

During this time, the sky becomes overcast, although it doesn’t rain. The winds die down, and the surf weakens. Flowers refuse to bloom, and birds and insects stop mating. Machines that are old and need of repair misbehave, and roads and buildings reveal their cracks.

While some, especially foreign settlers, continue to go about their business, most locals take holiday. This is a time to be with friends and family. Those who partake in somajama drink and dream.

A few lost or lonely souls head to places where they can watch the Lapuhe’e feed. Optimists believe it takes away their sadness, but pessimists regard them as wanting to be in the company of things that resemble the emptiness within.

Curiously, Hapahe’e never seem interested in the feeding. Contrary to the others, they become obsessed with experiencing new things—sometimes things that might be considered dangerous or questionable. Perhaps the Lapuhe’e bound to them feed on their souls, and the human side does whatever it can to replenish it.