#Huffle tales

[septnautical]

"I heard you shout. Nightmares again?"

I think this could fit schneep and Marvin?

(Used this as an opportunity for a big reveal of some new stuff for Marvin! Happy Mermay!!)

Another night- another horrible nightmare plagues Marvin’s mind. They always feel so real…

This one is… different though. He’s staring at… a version of himself. Himself stuck in his warper state- those bright pink alien eyes staring straight through him. He watches his other self get stiffer- become more robotic- and he feels himself following after. He panics- wanting to fight the sensation but his body is locking up. The warper him just barely tilts his head towards Marvin before speaking.

“Why are you denying what we are?”

“W-What?!” Marvin stammers in fear.

There’s no emotion on the other him’s face, “We are not like the other hybrids. We are not organic, we are not human. We are machines, made to serve a purpose. Why do you keep denying what we are?”

“Because I’m more than that!” Marvin shouts back, “Warpers may be machines but I… I'm me! I’m Marvin!”

“Your feeble attempts to cling to your humanity are making you weak,” The warper him says, “A human mind has so much potential. So much to unlock. You could be more powerful than any warper ever made. Maybe even on par with the architects. Yet you turn away from what you could be. Why?”

It suddenly warps so it and Marvin are face to face, pink eyes meeting teary blue.

“Are you afraid, WH-005?”

And for a moment… the voice sounded just like Zeke’s.

Marvin shoots awake and gasps, pushing himself up in the sand to shakily try to breathe. Fresh water over his gills seems to calm him down as he grips over his heart. His… heart that he can see through his chest- beating and pumping blood. But, he feels so disconnected from it. Like his body was turning into metal. And it scared him to his very core.

He yelps in surprise and fear as he feels a gentle hand on his shoulder. Then, he sees a goggled face and relaxes some. It’s just Henrik…

“I heard you shout…” The stalker hybrid says quietly, “More nightmares?”

Marvin is quiet but then slowly nods. His voice cracks a bit as he mumbles, “…t-they just keep getting worse, Hen… I-I…!”

Henrik is quick to wrap up the younger brother in a hug and shushes him gently. “It is only a dream, Marvin… they cannot hurt you.”

The warper mer is quiet in his arms for a few beats, trying to find comfort in his embrace. But the dream still lingered like poison in his mind. He pushes himself out and swims upward. “T-That’s just it, Hen! It’s… it’s not just a dream… I-it’s things I’ve been worried about- worried that I’m… I’m too different f-from…!” He cuts himself off as he bites his lip, trying not to let tears linger in his eyes.

“M-Marvin what are you-?” Schneep tries to say. But Marvin hurriedly swims past him, towards the mouth of the cove.

“I- I need to look for answers…!” Marvin says quickly then warps away before Henrik can even get up to chase after him.

———

Marvin appears in the lost river and he blinks in confusion. “…why… am I here?” He asks, his voice echoing slightly in the dark cavern. He shudders, holding his arms tight around him. He hates it down here… here is where Zeke-

You want to find answers, right? A thought echoes through his head. And with the thought comes a feeling. Pulling him forward. Like an instinct. A need.

Marvin trembles, his tails juddering in place. But, maybe there were answers here somewhere. He shakes his head and swims after the feeling, going towards the strange alien-like arches that lead to his destination.

Though, whatever this feeling is… it’s not leading him to where Zeke had him. That was a small white suit wreck- a crude Alteran attempt at making warpers themselves… at least from what he can remember. It was all really fuzzy. But now… this is leading him to a really scary looking building. One that it seems even the white suits don’t touch. Probably because it looked like it was destroyed by… something. Something big. And the entire thing was submerged underwater. Which served Marvin just fine.

Still- looking at the strange glowing green structure hidden amongst the darkest parts of the Lost River sent shivers down the warper’s spine. But, he swallowed his fear and swam inside.

Inside was a confusing labyrinth of architecture he had rarely seen. Strangely glowing and… there were so many things locked behind glass structures. Marvin swam into an open room and gasped as he saw fuana specimens tacked onto displays. He felt sick as he saw a rabbit ray… and a huge egg that kinda reminded him of Anti.

He quickly swam out of that place- seeing massive claw marks scratched into the walls and dents of damage. But soon enough he entered a place that felt way too familiar… yet like nothing he had ever seen before.

It was horrifying… an expansive room filled with- warper parts. Several parts just left in construction- an inactive warper discarded and thrown on the floor, leaving that horrid green cage open. Just like the one that Zeke kept him for weeks, back in that wrecked Alterra copy. Clearly it had been a poorer copy of this. This… this is where the original warpers must have been made.

Seeing this all has Marcin’s heart pounding wildly, his skin raked with goosebumps. Still… this place had to have the answers he was looking for, right? The answer to what he was… was he human? Was he a machine? Was he too different from his brothers? …looking around this place though, he’s not sure this has the answer he wants to hear.

As he swims forward into the lab he tries to look around for something… he’s not exactly sure what. Surely there must be information in here… like a PDA or something?

When suddenly, his tail brushes against some kind of dark cube with glowing green lines- and lights and machines start to glow and whirl around him. Marvin freezes and whips around to look- only for some of those green metal bars and wires to crash into him and hold him in place. Marvin instantly starts to panic and fights against the cage, “no no!! Not again! L-Let me go!!”

He tries to warp but whatever this stuff is made of is suppressing his powers! He feels panicked tears welling up in his eyes and tries to struggle out more, using his claws to try to get out but the cage grabs his arms and pulls them taunt to the side. Ringing is starting up in his ears, he left his mask at the cove! He can’t lose himself here! But he feels his second pair of eyes trying to open, feels his warper instincts trying to claw their way to the surface through his panic.

One of the 4 pronged fabricators creaks loudly across the ancient ceiling as it comes to rest in front of Marvin. A blue light washes across his body, scanning him. Then, a robotic voice garbles out, almost too glitched and corrupted to understand:

‘Warper agent active but incomplete. Processing power not at full capacity.’

“What?! W-What does that mean?? P-Please just let me go! I’m not just a warper I-I’m-!” Marvin sobs. But the machines don’t listen. The fabricator arm zooms around Marvin- then latches onto his neck, inserting sharp tips under his armor.

‘Detecting damage in miniaturized phase chip. Warper agent’s self-repairing technology impaired. Reactiviating-‘

A sharp shock goes through Marvin’s nerves as his back arches and he lets out a strangled gasp of pain. Something in his blood seems to pump faster, feels… different. The… the ringing… is it getting… quieter?

‘Self repairing technology back online.’

Then, the fabricator whirls and then soars over his head, latching attachments against his skull and digging in. He screams bloody murder and tries to thrash against the pain but the cage tightens around him- holding him still.

‘Expanding processing power of Agent’s brain. Please stand by.’

The computerized voice says- now clearer as if talking directly into Marvin’s mind.

Then, there’s nothing but bright blinding pain as something pushes into his skull and electricity fills up Marvin’s whole body. He’s not sure if he’s screaming or not- he feels completely detached from his body. All he can feel is the pain as something is pushed into his mind.

When he next wakes up he’s laying down on his back on one of the tables inside the warper facility. He doesn’t even remember passing out… he groans and holds his head. It’s aching and pounding. But then as he looks out- something in his vision has changed.

He sees- words. Human words. But he can fully read and understand them now. Everywhere he looks he sees things start to get highlighted in blue, like they���re being scanned before information pops up to explain it. Just like a white suit machine. Marvin screams and tries to scramble away but- he can’t escape it! It’s all he can see!

He curls up and holds hands over his eyes, sobbing hysterically in fear. “W-What is this?! W-What’s happening to me?!”

Then, he stiffens slightly and pink blooms in his eyes as words start to fill his mind. It hurts- it hurts and he tries to fight it but there’s just urge to just- repeat the words! Say them outloud- he needs to he’s programmed to-

“Warper agents' brains and central nervous systems been digitally augmented with advanced processing power and remote communications.” Marvin says in a robotic drone, eyes glazing over slightly as the information slips from his lips.

Once he’s done, the pink fades from his eyes and the pressure lightens as he gasps. His limbs begin to tremble again, no longer stiff and robotic. He claps his hands over his mouth and chokes on a sob. That fabricator- it did something to him! Did it make him even more like a warper? More like a machine?!

Marvin rockets off the platform and back out into the rest of the facility- the rest of its freaky secrets blurring around him in his panic. The second he feels like he can warp again he does- crashing into the wall of the cove with a loud thud.

Soon enough Jackie comes into view and tries to help Marvin up, “Marvin?! Marv what’s wrong? Are you okay?!”

The touch is electric, it’s too much- it feels like Marvin’s nerves are on fire! He pushes Jackie away from him and curls up, “D-Don’t touch me!”

Jackie looks hurt, “What? Marvin-!”

More bodies start to swim closer, Marvin can feel Jamie’s tentacles and hear Schneep’s panicking. Another hand tries to touch him and he shoves it off. “Stop please just- stop…!”

“Marvin, I need to see what is wrong…!” Henrik tries to say, “Is your head hurting? Do you need your mask?”

“M-Maybe we should call for Danan?” Chase suggests shakily.

Marvin tries to look out at his brothers- and he gasps as he sees his vision start to scan them. Messages pop up, showing their designations. No no- Marvin didn’t want to see those! He whimpers and the others tense as they see flickers of pink in his eyes.

“Anti, get Marvin’s mask, quickly!” Henrik shouts. The sea dragon hesitates then grabs the mask and hurries over to hand it to Marvin. “Here,” Anti whispers, looking slightly worried.

But all Marvin can see is Anti’s designation- SE-004. And the notes of ‘return to HQ at all costs.’ Marvin chokes on a sob and curls up as much as he can, digging claws into his head as he shouts out, “no no! G-Get- GET AWAY FROM ME!!”

As he shouts this- suddenly, his mask and any lingering tech around the cave start to glow with blue light. Then, they start to float in the water despite their weight. The boys all watch this in awe. Until- the objects all shoot off in different directions, causing even more crashing sounds.

Marvin dares to look up, his eyes glowing blue now instead of pink. The others stare at him with confusion and a bit of fear.

“M-Marvin…” Schneep whispers, “…what did you do?”

[skylerskyhigh]

Monster In The Shell AU

An AU popped into my head randomly and I drew this. Not quite what I imagined but it works.

Basically, Leo was sent to the Prison Dimension and he wasn't able to be saved. He was trapped there for years.

Overtime, the Prison Dimension- and running/fighting the Kraang- changed him. He grew more feral, less sane, and his powers evolved.

He slowly lost his sense of self. The only thing he knows is the picture in his hand. His treasure. Something precious to him and should be kept safe.

He doesn't remember when he killed the monster. But he did.

He doesn't remember when his body became twisted and deformed. But it did.

He doesn't remember when he escaped the prison that became his home, but he did.

He ends up in the 2012 tmnt. But back in time. Back when the turtles are young tots.

The four turtles look like his treasure. His precious. Something, someone, to protect.

Leo keeps to the shadows, never seen, and only occasionally heard. Chirps and hisses. Scratches and huffles. The only thing anyone could catch sight of him are the shadows as be passes, or his eyes.

He watches over the 2012 tots as they grow up. If they're hungry, he brings them food. If they're cold, he brings them warm things.

If there is danger... well, he made sure that the threat cannot be a threat anymore.

People always hear tales of monsters lurking in the shadows. For the turtles, they are glad this monster likes them.

[littlemisspascal]

New Writers added to The Pedro Library 🐼

​Panda emojis reset tonight. Looking forward to adding more writers :)

Many fics aren’t appearing in the tags when searching. If I miss yours, please let me know 💗 Or add me to your taglist cuz I love being tagged 😊

As always, if you would like me to remove your work from the rec list, please let me know and I’ll remove them asap 😊

New Works Added ✨

@pedrito-friskito​ Din  Uncharted Territory / Joel  Reassurances

@sirowsky​ Din  Surviving Christmas

@magpie-to-the-morning​ Din  Spread Your Legs Wider

@honeydjarin​ Din  Never Been Bold

@pintsizemama​ Din  Freezing Fingers / Frankie  Advent Calendar +  Sledding

@the-blind-assassin-12​ Ezra  Static and Snow

@supernaturalgirl20​ Ezra  Meet You There

@insomniamamma​ Ezra  Where the Heart Is

@mishasminion360​ Javi G  More to Love

@toomanystoriessolittletime​ Dieter  Breakfast

@scorpio-marionette​ Dieter  Anxiety / Max  Christmas Cravings

@guess-my-next-obsession​ Frankie  I’ll Be Home For Christmas / Dave  White Christmas / Joel  Breaking Up Slowly

@huffle-pissed​ Frankie  Stuck

@theewokingdead​ Frankie  Hard Day

@tropes-and-tales​ Frankie  Mismatched / Marcus P  No Idea What I’m Doing

@nobedofroses​ Whiskey  December 1 / Din  December 2

@foli-vora​ Whiskey  My Only Wish

@whataperfectwasteoftime​ Dave  Special

@thewayofthemandalorian​ Marcus M  Afraid to Jinx It

@deadhumourist​ Oberyn  Rescue

[winchest09]

Hi I’m a new Supernatural fan, fellow Dean girl… needing some recommendations on who to follow. I don’t care about the actor’s personal life or drama though so drama free blogs would be preferred

Hey Sweetpea!

Welcome to the crazy! Aha! How are you finding the fandom so far?

Ahhh fellow Dean girl, I salute thee! What got you hooked? The eyes? The freckles? The lips? The deep voice? Or you know...all of the above? Ahahaha!

Still, it's made me smile that you've found me, me of all the blogs and I'm gonna try my very very best to point you in all the lovely directions of this fandom. So...lets begin!

Also - I also totally do drama free. Ain't nobody got time for that.

*cracks fingers and neck*

@deanwanddamons - reads a lot of fanfictions so there will always be new stuff on there, writes a few herself too! Also, a total sweetheart and super friendly. Will always help you where she can. I met her through SPN and we talk daily even 2.5 years later!

@smol-and-grumpy-  Her URL makes her out to be smol...and grumpy but I can assure you she is definitely not grumpy. Smol...i am, yet to determine ;) She is one of the kindest souls, always has the first super hot images of Jensen/Dean and has an eye watering long list of Dean fanfic.

@talesmaniac89 - The graphic queen. Wanting a new Dean/Jensen wallpaper, icon - anything? Tales is your gal. She also writes and is a super positive lovely person who I adore.

@katehuntington - she's the Dean to my Sam. She's on hiatus right now, having a mental health break but doesn't mean her blog is still not a golden nugget in this fandom. Her series Ride With Me is impeccable.

@waywardbaby - a literal Greek goddess. She's such a sweetheart, and is so kind. She will always have the thirstiest pics and she will always be in the mood for Dean...if you get my drift ahaha.

@thinkinghardhardlythinking - A fellow UK girl who I wish I could live next door too. She's one of the most wonderful souls, and I always feel so honored to have her in my life. Fair warning, her fics are awesome and they are lengthy. It'll keep you good for hours ;)

@cockslut-padalecki - Another UK gal and Lisa is so so so lovely and I love her an incredible amount. She has a filthy masterlist for both Sam and Dean but fair warning, her fics are dark.

@janicho88 - Jenny is an angel. Never a bad word leaves her lips and she is also a fellow Dean girl!

@xlynnbbyx - drama free, absolute sweetheart and I adore the bones of her. She reblogs lots of fics, pics and like I said she's just a lovely lovely person.

@pink-sparkly-witch - Another sweetheart you can follow!! Fellow UK peep and a Dean girl!

@downanddirtydean - Lydia is one of the most passionate and kindest souls I know. We've been close friends now for well over a year and i just adore her. Just a little note though, she does support destiel so will post stuff about that from time to time! Just in case that's not your bag

@soaringeag1e - Meg is just a gentle soul. There is not a bad bone in her body and she is also a hardcore Dean/Jensen girl. You'll find so many fics on her blog!

@huffle-pissed - She is more Sam, and her blog is a mixture of her latest obsessions but she is still an absolute sweetheart. A ray of sunshine.

@chocolateheart - speaking of ray of sunshines, this girl BRIGHTENS my day constantly. Her fics are amazing (i know, i beta them) and she's just a bunch of pure gold goodness wrapped in a bow.

@watermelonlipstick - She loves her Sammy, with a side of Dean. Her writing is dreamy, and her friendship and the way she is is even more so.

@deangirl93 - My sweet aussie. Again, adore her and she is so so kind and caring. Her masterlist is also full of lots of goodies so definitely one to follow.

Offtttt this list is long already. Okay, gonna cut it down as these are other blogs to follow too that I haven't seen any drama from!

@winchestergirl2 / @440mxs-wife / @princessmisery666 / @dean-winchesters-bacon / @deanwinchesterswitch / @roonyxx / @couldabeenamermaid / @jay-and-dean / @writercole

ahhhhhhhhhh my mind is mush so im sorry if ive forgotten anyone, but I know that these peeps tag will add their own known DRAMA FREE blogs to this post to help you connect babes!

Once again, welcome to the fandom!

Much love Xox

[queenshelby]

A New Life (Part 14)

Pairing: Cillian Murphy x Reader

Words: 332

Warning: Angst, Health

Notes: Just a quick update before some more drama! Please engage to keep it going. II love your comments.

“Y/N, you can get through this. You’ve done it before and you can do it again. I will help you” Cian said reassuringly before taking your hands into his.

“I am so sick of this. I had plans, you know? These plans didn’t include hanging around hospitals for weeks on end and feeling like a fucking guinea pig” you cried and, just as you did, you felt your skin itch again.

“Y/N, it will be fine. You will be fine. I promise” Cian said again before picking up the letter from your doctor and reading through it more thoroughly.

Three of your ten blood test results had been marked red, requiring an adjustment of your medication and extensive medical tests. You were on the verge of another Lupus flare up, which was an illness that had been invisible to most, including Cillian.

You could it feel though. You had been itchy and tired of late and this was a tell-tale sign that a break out was imminent. There was nothing you could do to prevent it and you knew that, in just days, your rash would likely be going to show its ugly face and you would be bed bound.

“Can you do me favour?” you asked your brother but, what you were about to ask, was not something that he was comfortable with.

“That depends” he said reluctantly.

“Don’t tell Cillian about this” you told him and Cian’s chin dropped.

“You didn’t tell him that you have Lupus?” he asked and you shook your head.

“It’s not contagious, so why would I have told him?” you asked.

“Because, quite frankly, it’s a big fucking deal. He needs to know if you want a relationship with him” Cian told you but you shook your head.

This very illness was one of the reasons you refused to date and you didn’t want it to determine your love life.

Tag List:

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@cilleveryone

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[zafirosreverie]

Yasssssss ur a fellow hufflepoof (yes that was one purpose)!!!!! Wooooo. I was between raven and huffle on Pottermore like the last question was literally a heads or tales.

Also I'm so obsessing over ags right now

Kitten💜💜💜

Pottermore betrayed me and didn't give a house. It literally gave me the option to chose between the FOUR houses!!! So yeah...I'm a Puff bc i want to, and bc they adopted me ;-;

[anotheruserwithnoname]

For a belated Throwback Thursday post (it’s Sunday), I was just reminded of a story I posted to AO3 back in the spring of 2018. I literally hadn’t read it since then and (after correcting some maddening typos that remained undetected for 2 years) I think it’s in the running for my personal favourite of the stories I’ve written since I first began posting Doctor/Clara fanfic to AO3 four years ago this month.

The story is set between The Return of Doctor Mysterio and The Pilot - at least from Twelve’s perspective, so it features appearances by Nardole, Mr. Huffle, and a reference or two to another TARDIS passenger. For Clara - it begins when she enters the TARDIS after a long day of teaching, ready for another adventure, but finds herself instead with a mystery: why doesn’t the Doctor recognize her?

As I tell this tale, I also take a few wild swings at resolving some major plot holes that were left open from the Eleventh and Twelfth Doctor eras, including probably my best attempt at reconciling The Husbands of River Song with The Time of the Doctor and the minisode Last Night.

[kapable-of-shitpost]

“It was an 8 foot tall demon creature with dark blueish grey skin and blue glowing eyes. It’s teeth were long and razor sharp and it had at least 6 inch claws on it’s hands. It’s feet were clawed as well and looked as if it were standing on tip toe. It had an arrow point tale that swayed back and forth and a pair of giant bat like wings. But the most terrifying part, it was wearing a tattered and ripped blue shirt, tan pants, and a fanny pack… just like his boyfriend Stan.“

-------------------------------------

@huffle-puff-ego as I promised, fanart for the Stan the Water Demon prologe

If for some reason some of you haven’t read it, here go reading couse it’s really good

[septnautical]

Hybrid Creation Logs

RR-001 and SE-002

(AN: Hello friends! I’m getting back into writing stuff and while rereading older stories (and fixing a lot of stuff like how I used to write Henrik’s dialogue, yikes!) I realized I absolutely hated how little info I gave in the original creation story of how the boys were made and met- they didn’t even have their designation numbers back then!! So!! It’s revamp time!! Starting with Chase and Jack and - a bit more from the white suits too :3)

————————————————————————

To: Grant Xander, 4546B Xenobiology Research Team 213

From: Xeno Research Division

Subject: RE: Experimentation Grant

Proposed: Experimentation of humanoid -fauna hybrids using DNA from dominant species of 4546B and DNA samples from deceased Altera crew member, Sean Mcloughlin.

Status: APPROVED

Good luck with your experiments, team. We look forward to seeing the fruits of your labor. Please send regular updates and logs.

-Alterra Xeno Research Division

———————

Notes from Dr. Cynthia Goodall, regarding growth of Rabbit Ray human hybrid RR-001:

12-10-2226

It has been about 8 months since RR first emerged from his egg. He has made tremendous progress and his growth factor has been outstanding. Despite it only being months… mentally the subject is processing information and even speaking to other scientists at the level of a 4 year old human child. It is extraordinary to witness. That means mentally each month he is maturing about half a year. We are providing him enrichment and lessons to help accelerate his growth. Vitals are all good and he is quite active. No predatory or omnivorous traits to be seen so far- despite the extra fauna we have supplied in his tank. He actually likes to race the other fish and has even been found singing to them, despite low exposure to his mother species. Perhaps linked to instinct? Further research required on that point…

However, I am a bit worried. For the past couple weeks he seems to be more tired and lethargic. We make sure he has exposure to the sun through the top of the tank and artificial sunlight is provided. So, not a seasonal issue… again maybe further research is necessary. I hear there’s already talk and work being done on another hybrid… perhaps that might give me some answers.

———————————

Notes from Dr. Grant Xander, regarding growth of Sea Emperor human hybrid SE-002:

05-15-2227

It has been 3 months since SE-002 emerged from its egg on 07-02-2227. We didn’t think it could be possible… that’s why we tried with RR-001 first. A more readily available DNA to procure. Though, the sea emperor population has increased exponentially since 4546B’s rediscovery about a century ago.

However- we should have tried this much sooner… SE-002 is a marvel. The fauna it interacts with seem to love and adore it, much like a king with his subjects. The whole tank has been more energetic and lively, with SE-002 playing and laughing throughout the day before tiring itself out to collapse into a sleeping heap. Usually the other fish circle around it.

It has been documented the Sea Emperor while held in the Primary Containment Facility seemed to be able to pacify predator and prey alike within its tank- to see a similar phenomenon with a half human is unlike anything we have seen… we are unwilling to try to see if SE can truly pacify a predator at the moment but perhaps after more growth from the subject. It is healthy and happy.

It seems to be growing in the same manner that RR-001 had. About half a year or so within a month mentally and physically- at least by human standards. By now, SE-002 mentally seems close to a 2 year old child. Maybe younger… unlike human toddlers though- they are not helpless. It seems the hybrids are able to swim almost right away- and find food quickly. Though, it seems they do need help at the beginning- they very quickly learn what they can find themselves provided it’s planted for them in the aquarium. Until about 2 weeks after hatching- it seems the hybrids behave more like their mother species- i.e. fish-like. They had a vacant far off stare and were driven by food and providing for their needs. They had trouble gripping things with their hands and would often run into objects with little grace. At this stage, a small personal aquarium is the safest option. Then, there is this… spark. It's like the human part of their brain has caught up and starts to develop milestones much like a human infant. Imitating smiles, babbling, gaining control of their hands, eye tracking. Thank god that Alterra has mastered the childhood development programming that we all grew up with on our own planets- they have been essential in ensuring we can provide correct education to the hybrids as they mature. We are not childcare providers… I don’t think any of us quite expected this experiment to result in… something so… human? Ironic, I know. I think we all expected something a bit more… easy to document and understand. And perhaps it is- just from a parental perspective instead of purely scientific. It was harder to understand what exactly we were seeing when observing RR-001… until one of our crew had a child. Then, we started to see the connections, even if the hybrids are growing more rapidly than human infants do.

I do hope this accelerated growth has a plateau however… Maybe human maturity? Perhaps, they will be like Terra canines- growing at a fast mental rate within the first years then stagnating after adulthood. We can only hope… if the hybrids grow so rapidly and it only leads to faster expirations… then this experiment might be considered a failure and waste of resources. I don’t want that to happen. I believe this project has so much left for us to discover…

Especially with SE-002. Even if it’s been a century since the curing of the infamous Khaara bacterium- it is still present here on 4546B. Just- much less deadly and easy enough to cure. Like the common cold, really. However… we saw in the Sector Zero Levithan… Khaara has a chance to survive and mutate- which we are all well aware of. History could very well repeat itself as we put ourselves into the grand roles of the ancient Architects. So… SE-002 could be the key we need should any disaster strike. Once stable enough, we should be able to see if he can provide any Enzyme 42 samples like its mother species.

Personal notes: …I’ve started to call him Jack… Jackaboy. I can’t help it. He looks so much like him when he was younger. Almost makes me miss home. But, I can carry a piece of my Jack with me this way. It’s unprofessional, I know. Unnecessary attachment… but SE-002 has an irresistible charm to him and zest for life. Just like Jack. I believe my brother would be honored.

—————————

To: Grant Xander

From: Cynthia Goodall

Subject: Hybrid Interaction, Urgent Matter

05-08-2227

Grant,

I am deeply concerned for the well-being of RR-001 at the moment. Subject is showing signs of depression and is not as active as he once was. I believe SE-002 is showing signs of being healthy and active. Perhaps we should combine our efforts and house the hybrids together for observation and socialization? I believe this could negate any negative impact from perceived isolation. Many fauna here are highly social, especially the rabbit rays. I think RR-001 could really use a friend. Please advise.

- Cynthia

——————

To: Cynthia Goodall

From: Automated Response Line

05-08-2227

Hybrid Tank integration: APPROVED

-Grant Xander

————————-

Xander walked down the bright white corridors of the lab, holding SE-002 in his arms. The little sea emperor had his arms wrapped around the scientist’s neck as he observed the base with wide curious eyes. They sparkled as they passed windows showing the ocean beyond, bright with fish and glowing fauna. It wasn’t too different from SE’s tank but…. It was so big. It seemed like it went on forever.

“Hey Xander? Where are we goin’ again?” SE-002 asked.

Xander chuckled, “I thought I told you Jackaboy! Today, you’re going to meet a new friend. Someone who could really use someone as energetic as you.”

“Oh yay!” Jack smiled wide, “I like making friends! Is it more fishies??”

“No, lad,” Xander laughed, “It’s another hybrid. Just like you.”

Jack gasped, his eyes widening and sparkling. “Wooahhh! Really?? Someone just like me??”

“Well, he’s a different kind of fish but… very similar.” Xander smiled. “In a way… you two are like family. Brothers, really. I think you’ll like him. You two can be together from now on.”

“Yay yay yay!!” Jack cheered, bouncing up and down in Xander’s arms. The scientist shook his head with a laugh, “Save some of that excitement for RR, Jack!”

Soon enough, Xander strides into the main lab that housed RR-001. Dr. Goodall looked up and beamed at seeing SE-002. She walked over with a bright smile.

“Hello Xander! SE-2! My… look how big you’re getting!” She cooed. Jack shyly hid behind Xander’s neck but did attempt to wave.

Xander chuckled, “You remember Dr. Goodall, don’t you, SE?”

Jack shook his head. Cynthia smiled. “Well that’s alright. I’ve only really seen you in passing. But, I watch over RR-1 so… now that you’re joining him- we can all get to know each other better, hm?”

Jack looked a bit nervous and clung tighter to Xander, digging his little fingers into his white coat. Xander pats his head. “I’ll be around too, Jackaboy.” He whispers. “You don’t need to worry.” Jack slowly nods.

Cynthia gives him an understanding smile then gestures towards the hatch at the end of the large aquarium tank in the room. “Ready to meet RR, SE?”

Jack nodded again and smiled, his tails flicking to show his excitement. “Yes…!” He says quietly and the doctors smile. Dr. Goodall opened the hatch and Xander gently lowered Jack into the water. He smiles and ruffles Jack’s hair, “Go have fun, lad. I’ll see you later, okay?”

Jack beamed, “Okay! Bye Xander!” And then the little sea emperor rocketed off deeper into the aquarium to explore.

RR-001 was lying in the sand in a hidden corner of the tank, hiding behind some of the long creepvines. He was too tired to go swimming around today… he was hardly getting any sleep. And there was this- hole in his chest. It ached. More than the needles and small tests the doctors did on him. But… different somehow. He didn’t really have a word for it. And he didn’t want to deal with Dr. Goodall’s attempts today… she had been trying so hard to make RR act happier. Saying he wasn’t himself. Maybe he could see that… but he just didn’t have the energy. She did seem to mention a… surprise for him though? He couldn’t remember what… maybe a new fish for him to attempt to eat. He didn’t really like eating them though… made his stomach churn.

Suddenly, the vines he’s hiding behind are split apart by hands and a similar looking face to his pops into view.

“There you are!” The doppelgänger shouts with a smile. RR screams in turn and backs away, curling his tail up as close to him as possible, squeezing himself between the rock and the glass of the tank.

“W-W-Who are you?!” RR squeaks in a trembling voice.

The other hybrid grins, his teeth sharp but his expression is friendly. “I’m SE-2! But I dun really like that name. Xander calls me Jack and I like that sooo much more! So you can call me that!!”

“…j…Jack…” RR repeats. “Okay uh… h-how did you find me? I… I thought it was really good at hiding…”

“You were!” Jack laughs, “But I could hear you over here.”

“Really?” RR says with a tilt of his head, “…I didn’t think I was making any noise-“

“You didn’t tell me your name!” Jack interrupts, spurring forward to sit on the sand in front of RR. The rabbit Ray mer tries to scoot back again but he’s out of room. He looks at Jack with wide eyes.

“Uh… I… I’m RR-001.” He says slowly. Jack makes a face, raising an eyebrow.

“Your white suit doesn’t call you anything else?”

“…white suit?” RR asks.

“Oh- that’s what I call the doctors sometimes. Especially if I dunno who they are. They all wear white all the time!” Jack laughs.

RR finds himself chuckling too. Then his face falls. “…my ‘white suit’ hasn’t really called me anything. She gives me… nicknames? I think she called them? Like sweetie and love and stuff but… I don’t think those are… names. Usually, she just calls me RR.”

“Well that won’t do!” Jack exclaims, “s’not fair for me to have a name when you don’t! Besides- you don’t look like an RR to me… that’s a dumb name!”

RR makes an offended noise and slaps his tail against the sand. “Well! It’s the only name I know! M-Maybe I think Jack is a dumb name!”

“No you don’t. You think it’s cool. You’re kinda jealous.” Jack says simply, looking at RR with a strange, almost knowing expression. RR finds himself shivering. “H-How do you know that?”

“Mmm… I can feel it. Coming from your head, like- you’re saying it but not through your mouth.” Jack shrugs. “Dunno how I do it. I just know. So! Let’s think of a real name for you!!” He smiles brightly.

RR looks at the other hybrid nervously and curls up some more. “I…. I dunno how to… do that though…”

“We can figure something out! C’mon!” Jack says, grabbing RR’s hand and pulling him out of his hiding spot. RR makes a noise of protest but is eventually pulled out into the light, squinting his eyes and covering them up with his other hand. Man… how long had he been hiding in the dark…?

“Woahhh! You’re so much bigger than me!” Jack exclaims, looping around RR to look at him. “And your tail looks squishy!!” He pokes it and RR exclaims and pulls it back. “Hey!”

Jack’s head pops up under RR’s wing, almost looking like he’s wearing it as a hat. He giggles and nuzzles around in it. RR finds himself laughing without meaning to, pushing the other hybrid away. “Ah s-stop! That tickles!”

Jack pulls back up and giggles, swirling his tails around. “Sorry!! I just haven’t seen anything like ya! You’re a… a… oh what are they called?”

“…a rabbit ray.” RR supplies quietly, “that’s what Dr. Goodall says the RR in my name is. Rabbit Ray, RR. The 1 is because I was the first. That’s why you’re 2- you’re next.”

“Oooh!” Jack nods, then flicks his tails towards RR and giggles. “Well! I’m a Sea Emperor! Xander tells me they’re really special and junk. But, I dunno- you seem pretty special too!”

RR finds himself flushing. “You… you really think so…?” He asks, fidgeting with his hands.

“Yeah!” Jack says enthusiastically. “You were made first! That’s super special! That makes you my… brother- I think Xander said!”

RR’s eyes widen, a light coming into them that wasn’t there before. “…a… brother? Like… a… a family?”

Jack grins more and nods, “Yeah! That must be why we look alike, right? Xander and his brother also look alike but I’ve only seen pictures on the PDAs-“

RR finds himself laughing dazedly. “Y-Yeah… I guess so…”

Jack smiles at him and then twirls to look at the tank. “Alright then! Let’s look for your name then cuz I ain’t calling my brother a dumb letter name!”

After a few seconds of looking around Jack hums and then turns back to RR. “Before I came here, what did you like to do? Like- your most favorite thing to do!”

RR flicked his tail and played with the end of one of his wings. He eventually shrugs. “I… I like to swim fast- race with the other fish and try to chase them…”

“Oh! I like that!”

RR looks up and cocks his head, “like… what?”

“Chase!” Jack exclaims with a bright smile. “I think that sounds more like you than RR!”

“C…Chase…” RR tries out. It feels weird but… right. Slowly he smiles warmly at Jack, the biggest smile the tinier hybrid at seen from him.

“Yeah… Chase. I… I think I like that too.” Chase says. Jack yells in excitement and goes to tackle Chase in a hug. Chase startles, stiff in it as first. But, slowly he experimentally wraps his arms around Jack and… oh… that… that felt really good. Suddenly, his eyes feel wet and he makes a choked noise.

Jack backs up and then looks at Chase with concern. “Oh no! Why are you crying??”

Chase wipes at his face and looks at his hands in confusion. “I… I dunno…” he then laughs, “I think… t-they’re cuz I… I’m… happy…?” He laughs a bit louder and pushes his hair back, “y-yeah…! That feels right. I… I’m happy.”

Jack grins and grabs Chase’s hands, “Good! That’s really really good! C’mon! We can play now!” He starts tugging Chase through the water. “I wanna see how good you are at chasing, Chase!” And Chase can’t help but laugh and follow after him.

The two played all day long, Chase more lively and energetic than the scientists have seen in months. So, when the ocean water dimmed around the base and the lights turned off in the lab- the two were exhausted.

Chase swam over to his usual sleeping spot and splat down, ready to curl up in the warm sand and pass out. But, then he startles as he feels Jack crash down next to him and then sleepily curl up into his side, under his wing.

“Uh… Jack? What are you doing…?” Chase asked quietly.

“Gettin’ comfy….” Jack yawned, pressing his face into Chase’s side.

“Oh… um… why here?”

Jack blinked opened an eye and Chase now notices that they kinda glowed in the dark like his tails. Jack snorts out a tired laugh. “The fish in my tank never let me sleep alone so… I'm not gonna let my new brother sleep alone. Seems too lonely…” He yawns again and closes his eyes. “Dun wanna feel lonely again…”

Chase feels a grip on his heart and… that ache in his chest that had been so persistent seemed to fade. He chuckles softly and curls up so his wing is properly over Jack like a blanket and curls his tail around the tinier merman. “Okay…” He suddenly felt a surge of protectiveness flow through him as he looked down at Jack’s tiny body, how he breathes softly and relaxes into the sand. If there were predators around… he wouldn’t be safe.

Chase finds himself scooping up Jack to rest against his chest as he hugs him tight to himself. Jack is mostly asleep but just hums with a slight smile and curls some of his tails around Chase’s waist.

“…I’ll protect you, little brother.” Chase whispers, pressing his cheek against Jack’s hair. “We don’t have to be alone anymore…”

[hardknockliv]

I wasn't raised on Harry Potter, but I saw a post saying that the TDP Fandom was huffle puff and I just -

The dragon prince = huffle puff

She Ra = griffindor

Tales of Arcadia = Raven Claw

Voltron = Slytherin

Now discuss

[skyshattering]

Rules: Answer the questions in a new post and tag 20 10 blogs you would like to get to know better. Repost, don’t reblog.

Tagged by: @arcuhnecrom Tagging: @corlapidis / @arcusignis / @smaugiiisms / @queenshand / @nordblade / @briidunviing / @powershout / @okhela / @visioncrone / @rhaclla

NICKNAME: annie! STAR SIGN: the virgoest virgo you will ever meet HEIGHT: 5′4″ CURRENT TIME: 5:22 FAVE MUSIC ARTIST: nick cave & the bad seeds LAST MOVIE WATCHED: probably wonder woman!

LAST SHOW WATCHED: the 100 WHEN DID YOU CREATE YOUR BLOG: like 2-3 years ago but ely’s been a wip for longer than that tbh WHAT KIND OF STUFF DO YOU POST: mostly ooc threads, graphics, pretty things?? WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR URL:  the in-game song tale of the tongues goes ‘sweet song of skyrim, sky shattering thu’um’

HOGWARTS HOUSE: the puffiest huffle POKEMON TEAM: cleffa / lugia / alolan ninetales / haunter / espeon / pheromosa FAVOURITE COLOUR: blaaaack the color of dis pear AVG HOURS SLEEP: shrug emojis??? what’s a sleep LUCKY NUMBERS: 3 & 9 HOW MANY BLANKETS DO YOU SLEEP WITH?: 0-3 depending on the weather FOLLOWING: 193 FOLLOWERS: 409

[huanglulu]

tagged by @huhwhatyak (Thanks for tagging Grace XD)

Name: Shushan

Nickname: Shu

Zodiac: astrological zodiac: Aries, chinese zodiac: Dragon

Sexual Orientation: straight?

Ethnicity: Chinese

Favourite Fruit: mangoes or apple

Favourite Season: If there is season here my favorite season will probably be Spring where flower bloom

Favourite Flower: sunflower and carnation?

Favourite Scent: the smell of cookies and breads

Favourite Animal: cats

Coffee, Tea or Hot Chocolate: tea

Cat or Dog: cat

Dream trip: Japan, Taiwan or China once again

Number of Followers: 72

What do I post about: mostly Tales of Series, Persona, Ace Attorney and recently gotten into i7

Do I get asks on a regular basis: nope

Favourite Band: None?

Aesthetic: ehhh??

Fictional Character that I’d date: If the person is someone like Emil or Riku (innocent, kind and accepting of me XD)

Hogwarts House: Hmm probably Huffle Puff?

tagging Anyone who wants to do this

[hoshyeoms]

20 Questions Tag!

I was tagged by the amazing @yourhopeyourangeeel , thank you sweetheart! (: 

RULES: answer the 20 questions and tag 20 blogs you would like to get to know better or die (well …extreme…)

NAME: Chloe ! 

NICKNAMES: Chlo, Chipotle (but only by 1 person, no one else lol!), E calls me sunshine, one of the girls in the ahgase chat deemed me the dungeon master lol 

GENDER: Female

STAR SIGN: Gemini (and proud)

HEIGHT: 5′3″ ½ (I haven’t grown since elementary school it’s so sad)

TIME RIGHT NOW: 1:30am 

LAST THING I GOOGLED: The weather lol

FAVORITE BANDS: GOT7, BTS, TOPPDOGG, Tigers Jaw, Modern Baseball, Glass Animals, BIGBANG, Red Velvet

FAVE SOLO ARTISTS: Felly, GYYPS, TaeYang, G-Dragon, Jay Park, Zion. T, ZICO, A$AP ROCKY, Migos, Chance The Rapper, blackbear, callmekarizma

LAST MOVIE I WATCHED: Clerks 2 (but not all the way through), I think the last movie I saw all the way through was Nerve idk 

WHEN DID YOU CREATE YOUR BLOG: Like 6 years ago maybe?? Idk it was the summer before 8th grade and I graduated 2 years ago so 

WHAT DO YOU POST: Kpop, sometimes some aesthetic stuff or tunes

WHEN DID YOUR BLOG REACH ITS PEAK?: The Wonder Years edit I posted forever ago, but I gained 2 or 3 followers for it. I honestly don’t know, but it was probably a poppin time. 

DO YOU HAVE OTHER BLOGS: I can hardly run this one some days 

DO YOU GET ASKS REGULARLY: When I do those ask things, yeah, but not normally. Pls ask me stuff, talk to me I promise I’m cool!! 

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR URL: Slick, obsessed with Death Note and all of the stuff behind shinigami 

FOLLOWING: 590 

POSTS: 55,752 lol, I used to be on here aaaalll the time when I went through my weird one direction phase

HOGWARTS HOUSE: Huffle to the Puffle dude 

POKÉMON TEAM: When I played, Valor, unless you mean the original games, I always sided with the fire teams cause I have a weird villainous lowkey trait to me 

FAVORITE COLORS: Periwinkle, Coral, Dodie Yellow

AVERAGE HOURS OF SLEEP: Sometimes 8 sometimes 4, depends on what I’m doing the next day

LUCKY NUMBERS: I always thought it was 6 and 16 (my birthday lol), but according to my Chinese zodiac it’s 1 and 4. 

FAVE CHARACTERS: Beatrix Kiddo (Kill Bill), Storm (X-Men), Near REM Ryuk and Matsuda (Death Note), Natsu and Happy (Fairy Tale), Saitama Genos and Tatsumake (One Punch Man), Jon Snow Daenarys Ghost and Robb Stark (Game of Thrones), Jay & Silent Bob (Askewniverse), Captain Dump-I mean Boomerang. 

WHAT AM I WEARING NOW?: Shorts and a tie dyed tank top lol 

HOW MANY BLANKETS DO YOU SLEEP WITH: Two cause my room is always sooo cold 

DREAM JOB: I really want to go into film editing, I also really got into research horror psych

DREAM TRIP: Japan, New Zealand, Korea, Scottland ! 

okayokayokay I tag these sweet girls: @thekoreanguys @tiddieboys @ahippyaftermidnight @eltoncastee (lol sorry han)

[originaldetectivesheep]

Tales of the Missing 1 - Penny-In-The-Slot

There's no such thing as unconditional love -- just like there's no such thing as a free lunch.

Penny-In-The-Slot

"Again, Kyle?" Janice wasn't having it.  "Again?  Another one?  Seriously, do you ever eat anything besides deep-fried mushrooms?"

"Not if I can help it," Kyle said, gesturing broadly with a breaded cap, juices leaking down onto his fingers.  "I love this stuff – getting these hot-marinated mushrooms is the best part of coming in here.  Well, yeah, except for hanging out with you guys, right." Janice pushed back and sighed, and around the table Ricardo and Selvin rolled their eyes.  A Johnny V's was nobody's idea of a fun bar or a cuisine hotspot – the point was the Jumbotron behind the fifty-foot-long bar that usually had the game on – but they knew he didn't mean that last part.  Kyle regularly came in here alone to pig out on fried mushrooms, even when no one else from work wanted to come out.

"I mean," Kyle went on, because everyone else was waiting for him to blow himself out rather than interrupting, "these are some good fried mushrooms.  I'm not gonna say that I wouldn't give them up for anything, but it's pretty close.  I've only given them up once – and it was for true love, and I'd do it again in a second."

"Twoo wuuv?"  Selvin was one of those people who'd spent high school constantly reciting The Princess Bride. "True love?  What?  Come on, Kyle, you can't just drop it there.  Who you hooking up with?"

"No, that's the thing," Kyle said, pausing to chew so that he could tell the tale of his lost love without a mouthful of mushroom and breading.  "I was out in Denver on a trip for my last job, and I was in one of these, and there when you're sitting at the bar you go over to the drop station to pick your food up, and I was waiting, drinking my beer, watching the game, and I see my plate of mushrooms come out.  So I reach out for it – but there's someone else reaching out for it, too.  I looked, and I got like, Ricardo, that your thunderbolt thing smack between the eyes: she was beautiful, long straight, black hair, deep brown eyes with real cute glasses, tall and like a sleek figure that's not ripped but not skinny either – it was, like, she was the one I'd been waiting my whole life for, and I never knew it. And she'd ordered the mushrooms, too.

"So, I let go.  'Go ahead,' I said.  'I'll take the next one when it comes out.'  She didn't say nothing, but just gave me the most beautiful smile as she picked up that plate of mushrooms and walked away.  I waited a little longer for mine to come out, and then the server said they were out, so they'd give me another beer on the house, and then I tried to go find her, but the bar was busy, it was big like this one, and I never saw her again.  I was a little bummed about losing that plate of mushrooms, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat – and I'd've given another tray to hear her voice, just one word, even." He took another sip from his beer, and the rest of the table sat rapt, stunned that Kyle, Kyle of all people, could have an adventure like this, and all over these friggin mushrooms.  Janice was wishing she'd gotten her phone out in time to film him spieling the story when Kyle suddenly stood up with a clonk, and a splorsh of his Coors around the rim of the glass.

"No – no.  Wait – you – you're –"  The rest of the table looked up at where he was staring, and if she was any different from what they were expecting, it was because Kyle was a bad storyteller: a slim Thai or Indonesian woman,  her long straight black hair flowing down onto a loose black sweater coat, cute tortoiseshell frames perfectly setting off her face as she turned, recognition coming back into her eyes as she looked Kyle up and down.  She smiled, and he found his voice again.  "It's – if you remember, the guy who let you have the mushrooms in Denver, it's me – I've been thinking about you forever – what are you doing here?"

She stood for a second, like she wasn't sure, not sure how much she wanted to reveal to this random, this stranger who was clearly obsessed with her, but then her eyes flicked down to the table, and she picked up a pencil and a keno slip from the shelving between their booth and the next one.  She took a few steps back, settling in next to Kyle, taking him by the hand, and then sat down, almost pulling him after her.  She wrote in firm, swift strokes, and turned the slip up to the table.  1 MUSHROOM = 1 WORD.  Well, at least they had that in common: if anything, she was even crazier about the fried mushrooms than Kyle was.

"Okay," Kyle said, a little conflicted, but still pulling the half-started plate over between them.  "I guess that's okay – so, to start, what's your name?  I'm Kyle, and this is Janice, Selvin, and Ricardo – friends from my job."

She nodded, her hand hovering over the plate.  "I'm – Penny," she said, two mushrooms disappearing in an instant. "It's – very – nice – to – meet – you, - Kyle, - and – thank – you – very – much – for – the – mushrooms."  Those mushrooms were now almost completely gone, only a couple of stalks left on the plate between the smears of grease and ranch dressing.

Janice shook her head. "It's a good thing you ordered that other plate, Kyle, or you wouldn't be able to get nowhere at all.  You mind if I stream this?  This is going to be lit a-f."

"Not – at – all," Penny answered, evaporating the rest of Kyle's mushrooms, and he stared around at the rest of his friends in horror as Janice leaned her phone out onto the table, shuddering with silent laughter.

"Guys – guys – throw me a bone here.  When she comes back with my order, you got to get some too – you got to help me out."

Ricardo shook his head.  "It's gonna look real weird if everyone at the table's got their own bucket of fried mushrooms, man."  "Not as weird as if Kyle's there getting, like, eight at once, though." Selvin shot a look at Kyle to tell him he shouldn't just order another eight plates of fried mushrooms at once.

"Come on – come on!  Like anyone notices or cares when something's weird in here!"  Kyle was fidgeting and rattling nervously, and barely calmed himself down as the waitress came back with his next plate of mushrooms on her tray.

"Here you are, fried mushrooms, and I'll pick that up for you," she said, changing out the plates, "and would anyone like anything else?"

"Another Bud Light for me, please," Selvin said, "and a plate of them fried mushrooms."

"I think I can do another g&t," Ricardo said, fiddling with the laminated drink-specials card, "and fried mushrooms."  The waitress gave him a weird look as she scratched it down on her pad, and Kyle chewed his lower lip, not sure that he wanted to go through with it.

"A Harpoon for me, please," Penny said, looking up at the waitress as she carefully abstracted five mushrooms from Kyle's plate, and that decided it for him.

"Another Coors," he said, despite the half beer still in front of him, "and more mushrooms."  That definitely got a weird look from the waitress, and Janice huffled into her elbow as the server tucked her pad into her apron and headed back to the bar.

Kyle took a deep breath.  "So, Penny – the last time I saw you, we were in Denver.  What brings you over here?"

"Work," she answered, popping a large plump cap into her mouth.

"What do you do for work?" Selvin asked, reaching out for one of Kyle's mushrooms if he was going to put the back half of his friend's meet-cute on his own charge card.  Kyle knocked his hand away with something like a kung fu block.

"Software," Penny said.  "Analytics for supply chain management stuff.  I'm here for a client meeting."  The mushrooms were already gone again.  Kyle looked down at the table and gunned the rest of his beer at a single swallow.

"Sounds interesting," Ricardo said, folding a napkin over on itself. "Us, we just do resale for this industrial pump importer.  It's real boring – we don't get to go nowhere.  Do you live in Denver?" She smiled and shook her head, and the crazy open-mouthed look of relief that spread over Kyle's whole face as he realized what it meant had Janice almost collapsed with laughter, bonking her head off the table.  If he could think of yes or no questions, he could keep up the conversation, find out more about her – and save the mushrooms for the important part when he'd ask her out.

"Here's your drinks," the waitress said, spinning her tray down to the table level and setting out Ricardo's glass, Penny's glass, Kyle's glass, and then pushing Selvin's bottle at him across the table, "your mushrooms will be out in a minute.  Well, most of your mushrooms – we ran out, so there's only two orders coming.  I already took it off your bill – do you want to replace it with another app?"

"No," Kyle said softly, eyes wide and white like he was staring at his doom.  "No, it's all right."  The waitress flexed her eyebrows and picked up her tray again.

"Lel, you got cut off," Janice said, snuffling into her palm.  "This is amazeballs.  You ran them out of fried mushrooms.  Kyle you are insane."  Kyle didn't notice, just staring down into his beer, mind racing.

"Good?" Selvin asked across the table.  Penny wiped a foam moustache off as she set her beer down and gave a thumbs-up.  "Do you like Portsmouth so far?"  She nodded enthusiastically and took another pull from her glass.

"That's good," Ricardo said, muddling his lemon slice around with his straws.  "Sometimes, it's a little out in the sticks, but it's still a good place.  You come in through Manchester?"  She nodded.  "Well, then you miss the traffic, but if you don' come up from Boston, you miss the best part of New Hampshire – all these crazy sketchy place on the border that sell porn and fireworks and guns to people from Massachusetts.  That stuff is wild." He sipped his drink, and Penny smiled a silent laugh.

"So, did you really remember Kyle from Denver?"  Janice had got herself under control for the moment, and there were things she wanted to ask, too.  Penny nodded.  "I guess he must have made a real impression, huh?"  She nodded again, and a twinge of color started to spread into Kyle's cheeks as he stared into his beer.  "Or was it, like damn this dude really likes these fried mushrooms I like a whole lot, something like that?"  She nodded again, stronger, head swooping up and down, all smiles, and Janice buckled up again, almost crying, as the rest of Kyle's whole face went red.

"Mushrooms are out," the waitress said, shucking the plates down into the middle of the table as fast as she could go without spilling them all over the place, like she was done with these weirdos and didn't want to spend any more time around them than absolutely necessary. "Everybody good on drinks?"  It certainly looked that way, and everyone nodded in general agreement.  "Okay; if you want something later, or want the bill, just call me over."  She folded up, tray in front of her like a riot shield, and ducked away to her other tables.

Kyle appropriated both plates with an iron grip.  "I – Penny, like, even with that, were you – were you glad to see me here?  Like, I wasn't being weird when I called out to you?"

"No," she said, shaking her head, her hands sliding over his to the mushroom plate.  "No, it's okay.  I was glad to see you again. If I minded your company, I wouldn't be sitting here next to you." Kyle was feeling her hand on his, conscious of her leg pressing against his as she leaned in close to him, and maybe didn't notice, but the rest of the table was just staring, agog at the way that speech had emptied one of the plates in the blink of an eye.  Where was she even putting it?  Penny took another drink of her beer and Kyle blinked, maybe realizing that he was running out of words.

"Then – Penny, I'm sorry if this is getting real personal, because I don't really know you yet  – but – I didn't see, like a ring. Are – are you seeing anyone?"

"No," she answered, maybe thinking that she was running out of words too. "I'm single."

"And – apologies if you're not, because I don't want to pry, or be weird, but – are you, you know, into guys?"

"Yes," she said, nodding, "I'm straight."

"Then – then – can I friend you on Facebook sometime?"

Penny shook her head.  "I'm not on Facebook," she said, "I deleted it after that big data breach."  There was just a single mushroom left on the tray, and Kyle stared at it like the world was ending.  He didn't know her last name, he'd forgotten to ask where she lived – there wasn't enough between them for anything else and no, he had to try, and if she agreed to give him her phone contacts with just nothing between them that meant she was into him as much as he was crazy about her and this would work out, and if she wasn't then it wouldn't and he could get on with his life, he could try to forget and move on and –

"Penny, just a second," Ricardo said, reaching a napkin across the table.  "You got some sauce right here."  He poked his own cheek as she took it, and Penny reached up to blot the smear of mushroom grease away.

"Thanks," she said – and just like that the last mushroom was gone.

Kyle was desperate, his breath coming in ragged gasps.  "I – Penny – I – I don't know how to ask, any more, and I don't know how I'm supposed to get you to answer, but – but – I love you.  I want to stay with you – I want to ask you to stay with me.  I don't want it to be fried mushrooms between us – I want it to be we're together and go out every Thursday and eat the whole bar's stock out between us – just like this.  Penny, could it work?  Could you be with someone like me?"

"Dude, you're bust – you're out of chips," Janice said, still streaming.  "Maybe you'll get a yes or no answer, but Kyle, anything else, you got know a nod's not consent.  What are you going to do, find another bar and get takeout if you want to hook up?" Kyle's beer rattled in his hand, mind still racing, as Penny finished the last of her beer and folded a ten-dollar bill out of her purse.  She set the glass down on top of it, and drew herself up, ducking bows of acknowledgment at each of the others around the table, and finally tapped Kyle on the shoulder.

He turned, and Penny's hands caught his face before he could turn all the way around – caught him so that her kiss, passionate and sensual and with just a nip of teeth that left the smallest little red pinch mark as she pulled away, fell on his cheek, just under his eye.  She released, and stood up, and turned away with a smile, lost again into the bustle of the giant sports bar before Kyle could shed his shock, and stand up, and stare senselessly, uselessly, yearningly after her.

He turned back to the rest of the table, utter despair on his face. "What was that?" he demanded.  "What does it mean? What did she mean?"

Janice shrugged, but shut off her stream.  Ricardo rolled his glass from hand to hand.  "If you ask me, it's maybe, 'thanks for all the free mushrooms', or it's maybe, 'I love you, find me again and let's get married'.  But don' ask me, man – go find her and ask her yourself."

"Just before you go after her," Selvin said, taking a slug on his neglected beer, "you better go get yourself a fry-up pushcart – and a couple crates more of them hot mushrooms."

further Tales of the Missing ...

[septnautical]

Hybrid Creation Logs

SH-003

——————————

Notes from observation of stalker human hybrid SH-003 from Dr. Kendra Danan:  10-21-2228 SH-003 is showing signs of very high intelligence and is already picking up language despite his mental age. The other hybrids did not show this much absorption of knowledge at the same stage. However, he seems to have attached himself to Dr. Peter von Schneeplestein, a visitor from the Teuton Alteran branch, who still have ties to their ancient German roots- keeping that fascinating culture alive, much like the Mongolians from Torgal. Which means- SH-003 has caught a slight jumbled accent and has found a preference for using German sayings. Much like how SE-002 has a slight Irish accent thanks to constant interaction with Dr. Xander. A strange phenomenon to be sure but… fascinating. And adorable…  Oh and he’s quite popular with the other scientists. Mostly because a mutation caused his body to be more white and his underbelly to be more aqua. Peter squealed to everyone that he looked like he was wearing a white coat like us- and now I can’t un-see it!  Also, it’s evident that SH-003 had some sight issues. He seems to be near-sighted and accommodations have been made- including specially goggles for him to wear. You’d think being genetically modified would rectify such an ailment but it must be passed down from Mcloughlin’s genes.  I think he’s nearing the age where we first introduced SE-002 to RR-001. And the results of their integration have been wildly successful. Both boys are more lively than ever before. I am worried about introducing a predator to two pacifists but… SH-003 seems to be on the gentler side as well. Really, he only showed true signs of predator-like aggression during his first two weeks and when he feels threatened. Perhaps, they will all get along?  However, his near twin subject SD-004 is a different story entirely… 

——————-

“CHASEEEE!!” 

The rabbit Ray merman was awoken by Jack practically bouncing on where his stomach met his tail. He groaned and try to hide his face under one of his wings. “What? Can’t I sleep in a little longer?” Chase yawned. 

“Not today!” Jack protested, slapping his hands down on Chase’s side. “The white suits said we’re meeting the new hybrid today!! So you gotta get up!! C’mon!!” 

Chase groaned again and flopped over to hide his face in the sand. “5 more minutes…” 

“Chaseee!!” Jack whined, flopping onto the older hybrid’s back. He curls some of his tails around Chase’s tail and mumbles, “Aren’t you excited to meet a new brother?” 

“Course I am,” Chase muttered back, cheek pressed into the sand. “I just wanna be more awake when we meet him is all-“

“You’ll sleep most of the morning if I don’t wake you!” Jack protests. 

Chase chuckles, “s’not my fault the sand is warm and cozy…” He then flips over quickly and grabs Jack, pinning him in a hug against his stomach. “C’mon…! Don’t you wanna cuddle a bit longer with your big bro, Jack?” 

Jack screeches and squirmed in Chase’s hold, “Nooo! You’re squishing me! Chaseee!!” 

They both suddenly freeze as they hear the sound of a hatch opening and something new entering the water. A cautious voice calls out, “um… h-hallo?” 

Jack squeals in delight and hits multiple of his tails in Chase’s face, making the older boy cry out and rub at it  as the younger brother speeds through the water towards the voice. 

In the open water is a tiny merman with a white and aqua tail. He has light green hair like sea moss and purple stripes along his tail and even on his arms. His tail fin is big and wide and he has several large dorsal fins running up his back. And, he has goggles on, which surround the same blue eyes Chase and Jack had. Those eyes look out shyly as he holds his arms tight to his middle. 

Jack gasps in delight at seeing the new hybrid. “Oh my stars…! A stalker!! You’re so tiny!!” 

The new hybrid startles at the new voice and looks at Jack with wide eyes. “Oh uh- h-hallo and uh… t-thank you, I suppose…?” 

Chase soon swims up beside Jack and laughs. “He’s about the size you were when you first got here, Jack!” 

“Aw really? I guess I must be growing a lot!” Jack giggles. Chase ruffles his hair then smiles at the new hybrid. “Hi there. I’m Chase and this is Jack- what are you called?” 

The stalker hybrid nervously messes with his fingers. “Oh uh… mein name is SH-3…” 

“Why do you talk like that?” Jack suddenly pipes up, tilting his head at SH. 

SH’s mood shifts quickly as he scowls and flicks his tail in agitation, “why do you talk like that?” He counters with a huff. 

Chase holds up his hands with a nervous laugh, “J-Jack didn’t mean anything by it! We just… haven’t heard anyone talk like you much… maybe some of the other doctors… but not much.” 

“We gotta give you a name that matches!” Jack says excitedly. 

“W-What do you mean?” SH stammers, “I already have a name! It is-“ 

“No no! That one doesn’t count!” Jack emphasizes, “You need a name like the white suits! Something that doesn’t make us sound like- like an es… esperimint-“ 

“Experiment, Jack…” Chase provides gently. Jack nods eagerly, “yeah that! We’re more than just that- we should get names that are more than just letters and numbers!!” 

SH seems to contemplate this before he slowly nods. “Mmm… o-okay… I… I think I would like that…” 

“Great!” Jack says excitedly, his tails twirling to show it. Then he hums and looks at SH with a critical eye. The tiny merman squirms a bit under the gaze. Finally, Jack pipes up with, “I’m getting a couple names from you! Guess it’s other white suits you know- like… Fitz! Orrr Nikolai? Or hm… Henrik?”

Chase perks up at this and smiles, “He seems like a Henrik, not gonna lie.” 

SH’s eyes roll and he scoffs, crossing his arms. “Please… those are all ridiculous names! If you’re gonna use the scientists' names you might as well call me… H-Henrik von Schneeplestein or something!” He grumbles, thinking of Dr. Peter. Though, he had to admit… thinking of sharing a name with him almost made SH feel… warm?

Jack and Chase exchange looks before the two of them grin at SH. “We could call you Schneep!” Jack says mischievously. Chase giggles and nods, “Yeah I like that!” 

SH quickly flushes and looks away with raised shoulders, “…please just… stick with Henrik… I suppose I… like that.” 

“Aww but Schneep is fun to say!” Jack giggles and starts to float around the stalker mer, “Schneep! Schneep! Schneep! Schneeep!!” 

Chase laughs and pulls Jack back after a bit, “Alright, little bro- give him some space!” 

Henrik seems to perk up at this, “…bro? What does this mean?”

The rabbit Ray blinks, “Oh! Short for brother! Cuz… that’s what we all are, you know?”

Henrik’s eyebrows knit together in confusion, “…we are? I thought brothers were ah… human. Human family members.” 

Jack snorts and then goes to grab Henrik’s hands in his. “We are brothers though! Cuz- cuz Xander says we all have the same human DNS-“ 

“DNA, Jack-“ Chase snickers. 

“Oh yeah! DNA! And he says that makes us related! Even if our fish parts are different!” Jack beams. “So now! You’re our new little brother, Henrik!” 

The stalker merman’s eyes seem to sparkle as he slowly goes to grip Jack’s hands back. He smiles, “O…okay… brothers. Yes I… I think I would like that…” 

Jack and Chase beam and then bring Schneep in for a hug. Henrik stiffens a bit but soon finds himself laughing and enjoying the contact. They were so warm. 

Jack soon grabs Henrik and leads them all off to go play. Henrik seems to have trouble keeping up with their energy- since he liked to spend a lot of his time in his own tank watching the education videos the white suits gave him. But, he tries his best. 

Soon enough, the lights dim and the boys all start to head towards their sleeping area. Henrik is being led by Jack but seems… nervous. He always felt strange at night. More… angry. But he didn’t know why. 

Chase flops into the little nest Jack and him have made- filled with soft kelp, writhing weeds, violet beaus red wort and spotted dock leaves. All hidden amongst the tall creepvines that surrounded the edge of the tank. There’s a small indent in the sand that is clearly made from how Chase curls up in his spot, yawning loudly. Jack laughs and then rushes at Chase and flops onto his side. Chase seems to anticipate this though as he opens up his arm without opening his eyes as Jack eagerly curls around under Chase’s wing. The older merman squints open an eye, looking at how Jack’s tails hardly fit anymore and chuckles. “You’re almost too big to keep hiding under there, Jackaboy-“ 

Jack sticks his tongue out at Chase and scoots back so his head is lifting up the edge of his wing like a floppy hat. “Too bad! Your wing is too comfy! I’m never leaving!” Chase just laughs and shakes his head. 

Henrik hovers anxiously at the edge of the space, unsure if he should join or not. His nerves feel like they’re on fire. 

Lost in his train of thought, he doesn’t notice Jack lashing out a hand to grab his fin and try to pull him in until he feels the tug. “C’mon Schneep! Join the pile!”

“Do not touch me!” Henrik suddenly hisses, his teeth looking sharper and his pupils turning more slitted. Jack gasps and shudders under Chase’s fin, looking scared. “Ah I… I’m sorry! I…” 

Henrik’s face falls and he scoots back, all aggression fading. He looks equally as scared as he stammers, “I-I… I will go s-sleep somewhere else… g-goodnight!” And then, in a flurry of bubbles, he spurs quickly away from the other two to the other side of the tank. 

Chase lifts up his head and looks concerned. He quickly turns over to hug Jack to his chest and wrap him up in his wings. 

“I… I didn’t mean to make him mad I…” Jack sniffles. Chase gently shushes him. “It’s okay, Jack… this is all probably a lot for him…” 

Jack rubs at his eyes and looks over to where Henrik swam off. “…I don’t think he meant it either… he looked scared.” 

“He’s probably not used to being around other people… you were a lot for me to get used to when you first got here.” Chase tries to laugh. Jack rests his head on Chase’s chest and hums, thinking. “… maybe he just… misses his old tank? But… isn’t that lonely?”

“Maybe… sometimes people like being alone. I don’t get it but… maybe Henrik is like that.” Chase answers quietly. 

Suddenly, there’s a quiet knock on the glass next to the boys and they both startle up. There’s a man at the window, one they don’t recognize, with goggles like Henrik’s and brighter brown-blond curly hair. He smiles at the boys and then points to the hatch nearby. Chase narrows his eyes but then scoops up Jack to go over to the hatch. The scientist opens it up and hangs in the open air part, fidgeting nervously, “Ah I am- sorry to intrude. I hope I did not wake you two…” 

“You talk just like Henrik!” Jack gasps in delight. The doctor blinks and then laughs with a soft, kind expression. “Oh? Did you give a name to SH then? Ha… that is very fitting.. I do not know why I did not think of it…” 

“The letter names are icky- we don’t like them,” Jack said plainly. The doctor laughs, “I can agree with that. Perhaps I can learn all of yours in time… You all can call me Peter though… Dr. Peter. I ah- watch over SH- …Henrik.” 

“We don’t gotta wait till later! I’m Jack and this is Chase!” Jack said brightly, patting Chase on the chest. Chase smiles shyly. “Hi… Dr. Peter. nice to meet you.” 

Dr. Peter smiles warmly, “it is a pleasure… those names all suit you wonderfully…” 

“What do you want? Did you need to see Schneep?” Jack asks plainly. 

Peter’s eyes widen, “…Schneep?”

“Oh- that’s the other name I wanna call him. He said a long name from another doctor like… schneeple-eplestein… I like how Schneep sounded though so I wanna call him that too! He tries to act like he doesn’t like it but I can tell he does.” Jack answers. 

The white suit looks surprisingly touched and smiles even more warmly at the boys. “I see… well… I did come because of S-Schneep, yes.” He pulls something out from his pocket and places it in the water part of the hatch. It’s a well worn piece of scrap metal, with various teeth marks and scratches on its surface. “…He can get very bitey and snippy at night… but I know having this helps him calm down enough to sleep. I was worried he would be missing it…” 

Chase and Jack’s eyes widen as they look at the scrap then back up at Peter. Chase smiles and gives the doctor a meaningful look. “…you really care about him, huh?” 

Peter’s face flushes and he adjusts his glasses. “I mean… I… I suppose I do but… how could I not? You all are… human too. More human than fish- you are just… children. You all need that care, ja?” He laughs. 

Jack giggles and quickly goes to grab the scrap. “We’ll give it to Henrik right away! Thank you, Dr. Peter. Come visit him a lot, okay?” As he says this- he feels a tight tug in his chest. When was the last time he really got to see Xander…? 

Peter chuckles and nods. “I will… and I will uh- be seeing you boys around then? Ah… be sleeping tight, okay?” He says a bit awkwardly before closing the hatch. He stiffly waves to the boys before hurrying out. 

“…I like him!” Jack grins. Chase laughs and adjusts Jack in his arms. “yeah- I like him too. It’ll be nice to have a new face around.” 

“Yeah like- Dr. Goodall is nice and all but… he’s funny. And I really think he cares.” 

“Hey! Dr. Goodall cares…” Chase tries to protest. 

“Yeah but… he feels different. Dunno why…” Jack says with a shrug. Then he squirms out of Chase’s grip and swims up, holding the scrap. “I’m gonna go find Schneep! Be right back!” 

Then, he rockets off before Chase can protest or try to follow. He would but… Jack was better at finding things then he was. And he’s so sleepy. He yawns and slowly floats back down into their nest. 

Jack swims around to look for Henrik- finally hearing or… feeling him inside another collection of creepvines on the opposite side of the tank. He pushes aside the leaves and shouts out excitedly, “Henrik! Look wh-!” 

He then pauses as he sees and smells blood in the water. Jack gasps as he looks down to see Henrik curled up into a ball, digging sharp looking claws into his arms and drawing out orange blood. 

“H-Hey! Henrik, stop that!” Jack shouts as he spurs down and tries to pull Henrik’s hands away from his arms. Henrik growls and lashes out, striking claws across Jack’s cheek. “I said do not touch me!” Henrik screeches, then balks as he sees the orange curling off of Jack’s cheek into the water. Jack touches the cuts thoughtfully and looks at his hand. “…that hurt… huh- haven’t really gotten hurt before…” 

“I-I-! I am so sorry I…!” Henrik stammers, tears in his eyes as his little body shakes. He hugs his arms close to his chest. “I-I did not mean to… I- y-you scared me and…!” 

Jack quickly swims down and holds out his hands. “Hey hey it’s okay! I can tell you didn’t want to… your head is all jumbled up right now…” 

Henrik stares at Jack with wide eyes. “I… y-yes I… how did you know…?”

Jack shrugs, “I hear lots of things from people without really knowing why or how. Maybe it’s something I’ll understand when I’m older. Point is though, I can tell you don’t wanna hurt people.” 

Henrik slowly nods and curls up more. “…I do not want to… but at night I just… f-feel so angry and I… I do not know why…!”

“Well… if it helps… Dr. Peter came by to give you something…” Jack says gently, going to pass the scrap over to Henrik. The stalker’s eyes light up and he quickly takes the scrap and goes to hold it tightly, claws digging in and tail wrapped around it protectively. Jack laughs, “you really like that thing, huh?”

The tinier merman looks away, cheeks flushing slightly. “…I do not hurt my doctors if I have this at night… and it… it makes me feel safe…” 

“That’s good!” Jack says brightly. “We don’t want our new brother to sleep all alone though! Come on- you can hold that and sleep on your own but at least stay by the nest, okay?” 

Jack offers his hand to Henrik and the stalker mer stares at it for a second before he slowly goes to take it, letting Jack pull him back up in the water. “I… I’m… o-okay…” 

The two of them swim back to the nest where Chase is peacefully dozing. He blinks open his eyes and smiles dazedly at them, “Hey guys-“ then quickly sits up, his eyes going wide. “Stars-! Is that blood?!” 

“Oh yeah but uh- we’re okay!” Jack tries to say calmly as Henrik huddles behind him, his tail trembling a bit. 

Chase swims up and brings them over to sit down on the sand then surges up to grab a couple creepvines leaves. He hurries down and hands one to Jack. “Press that against your cheek.” He says gently. 

Jack blinks and does so. 

Then, Chase goes to take Henrik’s arm but the little merman flinches back and looks scared. Chase smiles softly. “It’s okay… I won’t hurt you.” 

“I… I am afraid of hurting you-“ Henrik whispers. 

Chase laughs and shakes his head. “If you do it’s okay… this is kinda scary. But us brothers gotta stick together, right?” 

Henrik’s eyes widen and then he smiles a bit. He shyly offers his arm to Chase. “..r-right…” Chase beams and takes his arm, going to wrap up the puncture wounds with the leaves and tying them off. 

“Where did ya learn to do this, Chase?” Jack asks. 

“Oh- an informational video about how to survive on the planet from someone who lived here a long time ago.” Chase says casually. “Dr. Goodall says one day we might get to actually go out into the ocean so… figured it’s good to know.” 

Henrik’s eyes sparkle. “oh… I would like to watch that! I… I want to learn to help too! Not.. not to hurt…” 

Chase smiles and ruffles Henrik’s hair. “Sure! I’ll see if we can watch it in the morning! For now though? I’m bushed!” He floats back over to the nest and flops into it, sighing contently. 

Jack checks to make sure his cheek isn’t bleeding anymore then speeds back over and bounces on Chase’s stomach beside settling into place. Chase oofs and glares a bit at Jack before snorting and rolling over. Jack giggles. 

Henrik hesitates, holding his scrap close to his chest. Then, he slowly floats over and then inches his tail to slowly bump up against Chase’s and curl against him. Oh… that contact feels… really nice actually. Henrik seems to get very comfortable very fast, his eyes struggling to stay open. Jack is already breathing softly curled up against Chase’s side, clutching into his wing. 

Chase watches with a smile. “Night, lil bros.”

[septnautical]

"I need to get out of here. I can't breathe" with whoever you think it would fit? Feels like an Anti or maybe Jackie thing to me

(How bout both of them? :D)

Anti was taking Jackie for hunting practice. He was still kinda little but Schneep didn’t like hunting and Marvin was more interested in playing and watching over Jameson. But, Jackie was always eager to hunt. So, Anti liked his company. Not that he’d ever say that outloud- cuz he was also annoying. Always chattering in his ear.

The whole swim here was that constantly. Just- “Hey Anti? Do you think bladderfish actually have a bladder they use or is it just full of water? Do you know why rabbit rays sound like that? Why do crash fish explode? I want to be friends with them but they always blow up in my face! Hey Anti- Anti! Anti anti anti!!”

Honestly- the sea dragon mer was relieved when the questions seemed to die down. He didn’t even think much of it. Just diving down deep into one of his frequent vents- searching for his favorite kind of fish: red eyeyes. He barely glances back at Jackie as he calls out, going deeper, “okay so- gotta watch out for the larve they taste nasty but they could be good practice! And also avoid the lava lizards but we may have to fight them for the good stuff.”

Anti expected to hear Jackie’s enthusiastic voice respond right away. But… he didn’t.

“…Jackie?”

“A-Anti… I… I don’t feel v-very good…” Jackie’s meek voice echoed a little ways back. Anti turned back around and tilted his head back towards Jackie.

“…did you eat a larve?” He asks with a bit of exasperation.

“N-No…” Jackie whines. Now, Anti is worried. He hurriedly swims over and checks over the tiny merman. Jackie seems pale- and his gills are hardly flaring. Anti touches his shoulder and- he’s hot. I mean… they’re in a heated vent but- surely he wouldn’t get this hot right?

Jackie leans against Anti as he touches him and Anti can notice his chest is hardly rising at all too. And when it does- he breathes shallowly. His eyes roll dazedly on his head.

“A-Anti… I-I think I need to get out of here…” Jackie wheezes. “I… I c-can’t breathe…”

Anti’s eyes widen. Shit! That can happen in warmer water?? He never noticed! “O-Okay- okay Jackie hang on!” Anti tells him desperately as he scoops the little reaper into his arms and swims up out of the vent as fast as his tails can take them.

They hurry back out to the shallows and- Anti is too worried to go anywhere else- he heads straight back to their cove. He quickly sets Jackie down on one of their kelp nests. He kneels down in the sand next to him and worriedly checks him over. “J-Jackie…??”

The swim back already seemed to have helped Jackie. His gills and chest seem to be back in working order. He just had a slight flush to his skin. But he does look tired. He giggles dazedly at Anti. “…I think I shouldn’t hunt in the vents, Anti…”

Anti sags to sit more in the sand and laughs. “Yeah… I think we’ll try somewhere better next time.”