#MY CRITTER IN AN ENCLOSURE

[sketchy-tour]

@johnnystruant @just-watching-dont-worry (wonder why I can't seem to tag ya sorry)

But teehee I agree, Johnny is my favorite little critter.

[mellohiizz]

ilove these dumb watobu creatures so bad wemmbus so fluffy im getting so much cuteness aggression its making me wanna kill Myself and not that dumb Grape

im glad you like the stupid creatures ^_^ here's some more, just for you

[newts-and-sharks]

Can someone give me some underrated/less known animals please please I just wanna see them please I wanna see new creatures oh my god please I’m gonna explode please show me new animals I didn’t know existed and tell me everything about them please

[encrucijada]

this not being capable to keep my attention and interest in one single creative project is getting to me

[alister312]

I have been hit by a block (artblock) so I have decided to give these little critters a temporary little home as I attempt to get away from the bloc- 💥💥💥💥

omg critters 🥺 they are absolutely welcome here, i’m happy to host them inside my blog-home. i hope your art block lifts soon! doing little drawings like this in the meantime is definitely a good way to just get something done so i think you’ve got good instinct 🥰

[toki-macross]

So, yeah... brain decided to take the comments that we had, and made it into a cute fanart. Inspired from the above image, and @bludmd23 Also poked them for fav colors... and used that for the Background.

Accidental Happy Birthday gift! Belated, but had to draw the cute. Made him a bit more buggy, and made his cape into some wings. And Hawkgirl had to be included, since they are roomies. So, tried to make her into a floofy bird. But she ended up looking like an owl, more then a hawk. But, oh well, still stinken cute! Wanted to add the image of inspiration also into it, so it's a painting in the background. Enjoying some snacks, at the end of the day. Watching the sunset together. <3

Ouuughhh Jonns natural form is so cute,,,,😢😢😢😢he’s like a big grasshopper cat hybrid I want to put him in a jar

[burger-goblin]

picking a new color thats not on the chart - puce: delighted to see what reblogs we juggle around between us and seeing the ones that make the cut for your blog is a delight

girl honestly? i'm eating this color with a spoon

[didyouremembertozipyourfly]

human experimentation is against the Geneva convention and im going to change that

[kotoku]

ᴘʀᴏʟᴏɢᴜᴇ - ᴏɴ ᴏɴᴇ ꜱᴛᴏʀᴍʏ ɴɪɢʜᴛ…

synopsis - on one stormy night, you find yourself in front of a dainty pet store. the store's warm lighting coaxed you into opening the door with a soft jingle, the smell of grass with a hint of vanilla instantly wafting over you. you had come in search of a friend, finding the emptiness in your home quite lonesome. will you find what you are looking for?

⋆˚🐾˖°

The rain pelted against the asphalt road, creating small puddles that drivers would mercilessly drive into that caused waves of water to splash onto the concrete sidewalk. The stop light flickered to yellow, then red, allowing you to cross the street safely. 

On the other side was a pet store with its bright neon lights shining through the early hours of the night, it had not yet closed. Ducking underneath the awning of the store, you shook off any remnants of water on your umbrella before closing it, pulling the door open with a jingle of a bell. 

Warm lighting flooded your vision, the atmosphere much warmer compared to the outside. Scanning the interior, your eyes landed on a small old lady who was sitting at the register. 

“Welcome! This is the Honkai Star Rail Pet Store, is there something you are looking for?” She croaked, eyes wrinkling as she gave you a friendly smile. You gave her one of your own, setting your umbrella near the entrance.

“Um, just a companion, nothing in particular.” You walked down the aisle towards her, the lady meeting you halfway. 

“Ah, we have lots of those! Follow me, young one.” She gestured to you to follow her, leading you to the back. “Here we are!”

Your eyes sparkled at all the cute critters that were in their own little area, animals ranging from fish to birds. This would be harder than you thought… The lady continued to lead you through the aisle, gesturing to each critter with a soft expression. 

“Here are our mourning doves, we have a pair of siblings named Sunday and Robin. They are quite friendly and love singing their songs.” 

“Some of the other birds we have are lovebirds, budgies, and cockatiels. Their names are labeled next to their enclosure.” Walking past some of the birds she mentioned, you saw names like ‘Black Swan’ and ‘Sushang’. Interesting names, you noted, walking closely behind her.

“We also have ferrets! Sparkle is quite the playful one, always popping in from seemingly nowhere.”

“Of course, we have cats and dogs as well. All varying breeds.” Looking at all the different kinds of cats and dogs filled you with excitement, they were all so cute and had their individual personalities! Turning towards the old lady in front of you, you gave her a lopsided grin.

“I..might need some time. They’re all so wonderful and I can’t make up my mind on who to choose.” You looked down the aisle of critters, gauging just how much time you would need to come to a decision. The old lady laughed, patting your shoulder.

“Don’t worry, young one, take all the time you need. I’ll be at the register if you need me.” Walking past you to return to her spot at the counter, you turned to walk down the aisle again, reading all the name tags and info as you went. Looks like you will be here for a while…

⋆˚🐾˖°

[pleafyistired]

just downloaded this and letting them roam on tumblr and theres a booping post with a booping gif and now it looks like its slapping bachikin ass on my screen. 10/10 great download

Do you want numas on your goddamn device? DOWNLOAD MY FILES!!!!!!!

using desktoptale you can have any numas you want wandering around like ANIMALLS ... on yourscreen. (except for mdcr)

click big big box link below download the zip file unzip it and then put it in the Custom folder of desktoptale then run your thing. im a master of crafts.

[hi-sierra]

Tortoise Storytime!

For most of his life, the scale burger lived in an enclosure that was about 7.5 square feet (~0.7 square meters). This is usually way too small- but he lived in a facility that always had someone on staff, letting him roam the floors while they worked on something nearby.

During covid, I worked at this reptile facility to replace workers who were higher risk and staying home. And I feel deeply in love with this lil bean of a tortoise. He was incredibly vibrant and friendly, was so habituated to humans that he didn't even have an instinct to retract into his shell, and was just flat out adorable.

A year after moving away for my PhD, my old boss reached out to me and asked if I could provide a good home to any of the animals. I instantly asked for this guy.

Unfortunately, I absolutely felt like I made a mistake for a while. I quickly realized that, as busy grad student that worked during the day, I couldn't be letting him roam outside of his small enclosure all the time. For the past year, I've been doing the best I can, experimenting with small enclosures, outdoor time, and floor time to best address his needs. But it always felt temporary and subpar.

As a Russian Tortoise, he has a partial hibernation cycle. For some weird reason, his is inverted with the actual seasons. So when he settled down in the late spring and started pseudohibernation, I could breathe easy for a bit. I left him with some caretakers over the summer, who didn't have much trouble with a sleeping tortoise, and went around having my adventures.

But I knew I wanted something nice waiting for him when he started being active again.

Introducing: the tortoise palace

I had several things in mind for a new enclosure. I wanted it to maximize space in my apartment, maximize my space in my apartment, and have somewhat easy teardown in case I have to move. So, I lifted my bed to be about 4 feet off the ground, and made the enclosure under it. The entire setup is in latched-together pieces that can easily be taken apart and set up again.

I've added climbing enrichment in the form of garden bricks, rocks, and multiple forms of substrate (orchid bark as the main, reptibark, coco coir, and rabbit pellets in deeper dig boxes) but I'll be adding more as time goes on. He's been loving climbing around and I can't wait to see what he'll do with other stuff.

It's an ongoing project, and there's a lot of "temporary solutions that are kinda-permanent" in here, but I'll be fixing those over time. Notably, the walls are pretty low- he can't get out, but I have to be cognizant of putting things he can climb on near the edges. If anyone has any suggestions, I'm all ears! But for now, here's the beast, his unfathomable power just barely contained.

Tiny bit of emotion under the cut.

I know this is dumb. But finishing this genuinely made me cry a little.

I've felt so bad about keeping this guy in what I know is a subpar environment for so long, and doing the best I could to keep him happy and healthy within it. But it was always barely keeping my head above the water.

And now, I finally feel like I have a good, permanent solution to it. This design, by definition, will fit in the space of a full sized bed in any place I live in the future. I feel like I finally provided something good for him. I know he's just a tortoise, but I really do love him, and I love seeing him happy and safe.

Idk. It's all rambles. But thanks for loving and appreciating the wonderful critter he is <3

[naamahdarling]

My dad and I are planning to go to the Tulsa zoo for the first time in 20 years, what are your can't-miss zoo exhibits?

You're in for a treat, they've done a lot to make it a lot nicer than it was.

Right up front: You can rent wheelchairs or electric scooters now if you need one. It's $30 for a scooter which is more than I think it should be, but at least they're there. Bring some $1 and $5 bills and some quarters if you want to get souvenir coins or pressed pennies. Gift shop employees usually know where the machines are, there's multiple throughout the park but they move occasionally. (I collect these so I plan around them.)

The new elephant habitat just opened, a BADLY needed improvement, I was very uncomfortable with where their male was housed, he was showing stereotypic behavior. They knew it was an issue and instead of halfassing something they just made something totally new and apparently really amazing. I haven't been to see it yet, but we are going very soon. They're redoing a big part of that side to be a better savannah exhibit, actually, so the east side of the park is a bit sparse.

The rest under a cut. I love our zoo.

Definitely hit the Malayan tiger exhibit, which is close to the front and can be easily visited no matter what other parts of the park you want to see. The female just had babies and I think the daddy is still there too, so even if she isn't out, he might be. The tigers are very comfortable with people. Genuinely. They are often very close to the glass. I have seen them almost every time I have been. Also close to the entrance are the snow leopards, siamangs, and red pandas/binturongs. One siamang female had a baby early last year and they are both beautiful, I got to see the baby when she was VERY NEW. Such tiny hands! Perfect little thing!

The old old old string of four(?) connected buildings devoted to different habitats and stuff have undergone some light remodeling, but last I saw were still rather underwhelming and the exteriors are pretty decrepit now. They were blocked off last time I was there for some repairs and renovations so IDK what they have done or if they are open yet. Ask at the front if you intend to go through but I wouldn't necessarily plan on it unless it's significantly nostalgic for you. The Arctic building is open AFAIK and the zoo's brown bear is out front for the time being, and you don't have to go inside to see the outside of the enclosure. She REALLY likes hanging out near the window and scaring children by opening her mouth suddenly so you might see her.

Hit the Amazon rainforest. It's really nice, and the old lady jaguar auntie besties/girlfriends are there. Chel has been there since she was a baby and I had a really cool interaction with her when she was young so I feel personally attached. Not sure if you ever were there, but they have done a little work on it inside and it's even nicer than it was. There's a part with dart poison frogs! Just hopping around in the open!

The reptile and avian building way in back needs expanding, I think they are redoing it soon? Don't wear yourself out going there. There is however a quiet indoor area right near there for families with autistic kids who need a break and I think also nursing parents?

We are freshly down to one lion who I think is elderly and doesn't come out much, and that whole run of exhibits that used to have bear, lion, tiger, and snow leopard is sort of abandoned right now as they have plans to redo it all, so don't go that way. There are some animals there, I think a bear and one other critter? But it isn't the best use of time.

On the east or southeast, the meerkats are lively and curious and actively seem to enjoy coming over to look at humans. Penguin exhibit is good, and the sea lions. I have never seen the African painted dogs, their area has a lot of cover.

If you have limited time or just tire easily, USE THE TRAIN. Rides are not too expensive. Either take the train to the very back and walk out, or walk to the back and take the train out. Riding TO the back takes you east, it's a pretty ride past a lot of stuff you might want to skip on foot, riding FROM the back takes you west, past a lot of stuff worth seeing, so I recommend going from back to front. It's less tiring anyway. Once you're tired you're already headed out.

Museum gift shop staff are predominantly queer and in my experience they know a lot about what is going on in the zoo in general and probably that day. They might have local zoo honey available right now. Ask, and if they do, get some, it's incredible. The flowers there are abundant and lovely and the honey is incredibly flavorful in a layered way that single-crop honey isn't.

If you see a docent in a building, please talk to them. They LOVE their job and AFAIK are still all volunteers. They have their speeches they give to groups, yes, but if you catch them alone they have even more interesting stuff to share that isn't calibrated for people new to the basics and is more entertaining. The elderly white lady often near the tigers and Komodo dragons is just great. She loves those lizards so much.

If you are on SNAP, you get in I think free, and with a guest.

I have to say and want to acknowledge that the Tulsa Zoo used to be terrible. Jane Goodall shit-talked it, okay? Like, I won't repeat what she said because I don't think it was on record and if it wasn't intended for the public I don't want to put it out there, but it was savage, and painfully accurate. (My ex and I did some docent training there, until I had to drop out because I caught a cold. The Goodall story was relayed by the head primate zookeeper.)

But because they have been CONSTANTLY devising new exhibits and finishing very cool improvements I am comfortable supporting them even though parts of it do still need work.

There's a couple of very wealthy donors and organizations that contribute IMMENSELY to the zoo and to our museums and parks and libraries, and most of the big renovations were done with those grants. Those donors aren't going anywhere, they are genuinely behind the things they support, so it will just continue to get better, and patronage helps show donors and investors and the zoo itself that the work they have done is appreciated. The Tulsa Zoo's rejuvenation is a real success story and I am very proud of them.

It used to be so bad but now they have stuff like the Lost Kingdom with the tiger skybridge and the Komodo dragons and the beautiful architecture and landscaping, and you can see what they're consistently moving towards. More room, and more room back where you can't SEE it so the animals can chill away from people (if one of the newer enclosures look small, there is probably a lot of room in back). The bigger animals are never forced to be close to people. (For reptiles and other smaller critters this is not universal, but they are working on it.)

Anyway yeah it's not that big or flashy I guess but it's ours and I do love it and it keeps getting better.

I hope you have a great time! Let me know!

[angellayercake]

Can i ask for 10 🥺❤?

Secondo or/and Cardi with close secretary/helper reader who just gives them cheek/forehead kisses every morning and for goodnight without thinking much about it. And papas with crush on them ara just blushing °\\\° with dumb 'im not sure if they're into me'

🤣🤣🤣🤣

It has taken me a while but here you go my dear. You gave me some fantastic inspiration the other day so I've gone on bit of a tangent. I hope you enjoy it! Love yooou 🐇🐇

‘There you go Papa. All fixed for you,’ you smile up at him catching him off guard as always. He nodded at the sibling knelt down before him doing his very best to keep his composure. It wasn’t just the fact that someone was so close to being in a position he knew he would very much enjoy under other circumstances. Nor that he had been going through what his brother had not stopped referring to as a spell dryer than the sahara desert. No, it was this particular sibling that was causing all the problems.

You who had faded into the background of his life until recently. Someone who was an integral but often unnoticed member of the Ministry. To say you just fixed things would do your work a disservice but it seemed whenever there was a problem there you were, smiling and whistling and mending what was broken. Including the heart of this grumpy old man it would seem, not that he would admit it out loud. As he watched you slide the drawer in and out with no problem, the drawer he may have been slamming particularly hard recently in the hope it would get stuck, he thought back to when this had started. And it had started with Snowbell.  

‘No no Papa this will not do!’ The Cardinal tutted, stroking his moustache and frowning at the sight before him. ‘I would never let my rats live in such a small cage and they are much smaller than Snowbell.’ Secondo looked between Copia, the cage that was currently taking up the corner of his office and the ball of white fluff that was sitting quietly on his desk. When, in a moment of weakness, he had admitted to his youngest brother that at times he had felt lonely he hadn’t realised it would become Copia’s mission to fix it for him. The next day he had found himself dragged to the nearest pet store and forced to survey the critters on display as Copia prattled about his rats. He had been humouring him, he had thought until his eyes had fallen on the little white rabbit curled up by itself.

‘Si! This is the one,’ Copia called to the shop assistant gesturing to the enclosure in front of them. ‘We will take this one my friend!’ Before Secondo could utter a word he took in his brother’s beaming face and gave in with a sigh. This was happening whether he liked it or not. 

As Copia was on the phone summoning the person that could fix all their problems Secondo sat at his desk looking at his new pet. She stared back at him, beady black eyes calm in spite of being in an unfamiliar place and all the commotion coming from the other side of the room. 

‘Hello,’ he said quietly, offering his gloved hand for her to inspect. He had no idea what to do with the creature, really not having had a chance to peruse the pile of books Copia had insisted they buy along with everything the shop assistant had suggested they would need to care for her. She stretched her head forward, ears perked up curiously, whiskers twitching as she scented him out, and after a few moments hopping forward until he was able to rest his large hand over her. Slowly he rubbed her head with his thumb and watched her eyes drift close and her ears flop down in contentment. As he watched this lonely little rabbit basque in his affection he felt something in him soften, which is when the door to his office opened and in you walked.  

He hadn’t been able to take in a word of what was being said about Snowbell’s new home he had been mesmerised. You were captivating with an air of quiet confidence that filled the room and he could see the strength in the way you moved. You were chatting away with Copia taking measurements and discussing who knows what details when Snowbell had hopped into his arms stealing both of their attention away from their project. 

‘Ah fratello, she has already seen through your grumpy facade eh?’ He nudges you with his elbow but you are too busy looking up and down between his usual stoic face and the little rabbit he is now cradling.

‘I hear rabbits are very good judges of character, Cardinal,’ you tease. You weren’t scared of him? He would admit himself that the root of his loneliness problem was his grumpy demeanour and ‘resting face of stronzo’ as Terzo liked to call it. It wasn't that he lacked for bedroom partners, he was often spoiled for choice, but he did lack good company anywhere else. And he was growing tired of one off encounters he wanted someone who liked, maybe even loved him. A stirring in his arms brought him out of his less than happy thoughts. ‘What’s her name?’ He could get lost in your kind eyes and he does in fact as he tries to answer the question he was asked.

‘I … well,’ he stutters before giving himself a shake. What is the matter with him? No one had ever been able to reduce him to stuttering. He clears his throat before trying again. ‘It is Snowbell.’ The inquisitive little thing perks up as he holds her up for you to see, looking so small in his cupped hands. You let the rabbit sniff at your fingers just as he did, only reaching to scratch gently between her ears after gaining her approval. Her ears sink back to their relaxed position as she accepts the attention 

‘Snowbell you said?’ you question leaning across his desk to give her the attention she deserves. ‘She is terribly sweet, I can see why you picked her.’ you continue with a genuine smile that he can’t look away from. ‘Well I better get to work so we can make sure this little lady has the perfect home.’ You turn away but pause, leaning down and pressing a soft kiss to Snowbell's head, holding his gaze as you do. He has never been so thankful for his Papal paints before as he feels his cheeks uncharacteristically heat up as they turn and leave his office. ‘Papa, Cardinal.’ 

‘Farewell! Now Papa…’ Copia, oblivious to the unspoken exchange, had continued his running commentary of upgrades Snowbell would need but all Secondo could think about is if he would ever get a kiss of his own. 

And so he had gone from not even knowing of your existence to you in and out of his office every few days asking his opinion on all types of things and bringing hand made pieces of what was looking to become a palace for his new companion. He hadn’t admitted it to Copia yet but it did really seem like his idea was working. He had someone to care for now and even someone to talk to now, even if little Snowbell didn’t have much to say in return. It took just over two weeks for the cage to be completed, the grand opening attended by the talented creator themselves, Snowbell of course, himself, Copia, and Terzo. He couldn’t help the frown that grew when his brother waltzed into his office just in time, it was probably Copia who let it slip.

‘Secondo you sfigato!’ He entered with a shout. ‘I hear I have a niece and you have been keeping her from me?’ He looks around in his ridiculous flamboyant way and his frown only deepens when you giggle at his antics. Snowbell, the niece he thinks with an eye roll, is sitting in your arms. As you had worked so hard to build her new home he thought it only right that you get to let her in for the first time. Which means Terzo makes a bee line for you as soon as he notices. ‘So this is the cutie I have been missing out on eh?’ He asks with a smirk. ‘And then this is the rabbit.’ He lifts his eyebrows in a way he is sure he thinks is charming and he can’t help his scoff of indignation. Terzo manages to pull his attention away from the only person in the room he is able to flirt with and slings his arm around his older brother. 

‘My apologies fratello, please continue,’ he says in his exaggerated earnest way that has even Copia rolling his eyes. ‘This day is about you and of course Snowbell.’ 

‘Si,’ Copia interrupts before he can continue. ‘And it is time for her to see her new home. 

Secondo nods his agreement, giving you a small smile as you step forward to the open door and set Snowbell inside. She looks around the space before venturing forward, sniffing at the air. She hops in and around some of the toys inside before heading straight for her food bowl and staying put. The four of you stand watching for a while longer before realising that she has finished her exploration for now.  

‘Well that was a bit of an anticlimax,’ Terzo says at last with a sigh. ‘She clearly did not inherit the Emeritus talent for drama. Oh well.’

‘Shut up cazzone, Snowbell likes it very much I am sure.’ He can see you are a bit disappointed by the reaction and he would do anything to make you smile again. As you look up at him with a smile he realises that you no longer have reason to come to his office. The thought sends a shoot of pain through his chest and he panics knowing he needs to find a way to make sure you come back. ‘You should come and visit.’ He says abruptly, calling not just your attention but both his brothers as well. ‘Snowbell I mean, she will miss you.’ 

‘I will, of course, if Snowbell will miss me.’ You look down before looking back up at him through your eyelashes and his mouth goes dry. You turn to leave stepping backwards towards the door so you can hold his gaze. ‘Bye Snowbell, bye Papa.’ 

‘Good bye,’ he manages to say as he sees his brothers sharing a look out of the corner of his eye. When he is sure you are gone he doesn’t even bother to look at them, instead turning to the cage that now takes up the entirety of the wall. ‘Shut up and get out you two.’ For the first time in a long time they actually do as he says and leave him be, even shutting the door behind them. Snowbell had finally finished her meal coming up to sniff his fingers as he toyed with the bars. ‘Oh Snowbell,’ he whispers as he tickles her soft nose. ‘What is happening to me?’  

You are as good as your word, coming to visit Snowbell, but it is not enough. He gets brief glimpses of you in the halls but you always seem so busy. He would hate to be a burden. One day though inspiration drops from the sky on him, or at least from a high shelf. He is looking for a book to help with some latin translations and piles books out of the way so he can find the title when the bookshelf suddenly breaks away with an almighty crash. Typically this type of event would inspire kicking and cursing, but instead a grin pulls over his face. He has an excellent reason to get you here now. You come and fix it with all your skill far too quickly and then you are gone again before he can even build up the courage to talk to you properly. The next time it is a draughty window frame, then the squeaky door hinges and now here he is having deliberately broken the drawer of his desk to get you here. 

He has been staring too long he thinks, but he can’t look away, every time you stay a little bit longer, speak a little bit more but this time he is going to ask you to stay,or at least to come back later, for dinner or drinks or something. He opens his mouth to speak but his office door is slammed open and the last person he wants to see right now is standing in the doorway. Terzo looks around quickly noticing where Secondo’s eyes are trained and slaps his hand over his eyes with a gasp. 

‘Ugh brother if you are going to have siblings under your desk, at least put a sock on the door.’ he grumbles with disgust but doesn't bother to leave

‘Or you could not burst in,’ Secondo replies through gritted teeth. He was so close he was going to wring his brother's neck as soon as he got the chance. 

‘It’s only me Papa,’ you laugh as you pop up from behind the desk. Terzo looks between you and him back and forth with an entirely too smug look on his face but thankfully says nothing else. He pulls out one of the chairs next to Secondo’s desk slouching down as soon as he sits and folding his hands across his chest. ‘I will leave you both to it then,’ you say as you collect up your tools and head for the door, giving him one last sweet smile before leaving. 

‘What do you want then Terzo? ' he asks dejectedly, leaning back into his own chair. His brother levels him with one of his usual smug smirks and he is tempted to punch it for ruining his chance, that is until he next speaks.  

‘Why don’t you ask them to help you break the desk first next time, si?’ He sits there in shock for a moment as so many different feelings run through him. Predominantly though he is annoyed that his brother had figured him out so easily and then he hears a giggle from the door and his blood runs cold. 

‘Sorry to interrupt, but I forgot my screwdriver.’ You point to where it sits on the desk with the hand that isn’t covering your mouth but he can see the pink glow of your cheeks just above. He is frozen to the spot so Terzo reaches across and hands it over with a smirk. ‘But maybe I could come back for a screw next time,’ you laugh from behind your hand. Terzo barks out a laugh and he just sits there mouth open in shock as you take your screwdriver and flee. 

‘Well go after them then,’ Terzo says, snapping him out of his daze. He jumps out of his chair knocking it to the floor in his haste and scaring poor Snowbell if the sounds from her cage are anything to go by, hoping to find you before you get too far. He spots you just as you turn the corner out of the Clergy wing so he picks up speed not wanting to shout and draw too much attention.

‘Wait, por favore,’ he calls when he finally catches up to you. ‘What about tonight?’ You turn slowly, surprised that he has finally got the courage up to ask you but you look at him questioningly. ‘Not for a screw,’ he corrects, still trying to catch his breath from his rush. ‘Well maybe, I mean. Dinner first?’ He takes a deep breath so he can actually get his words out but you already look so happy, although he hopes you aren’t just laughing at him. ‘Would you join me and Snowbell for dinner? Tonight?’ He tries again, hoping that he isn’t about to make a fool of himself. 

‘I would love to have dinner with you Papa.’ There is such an obvious affection glowing in your eyes he doesn’t know how he hasn’t seen it before. ‘And Snowbell of course.’ You lean towards him, your hand drifting up to cup his cheek so you can guide him towards you. The kiss you press to his cheek is so soft but he feels incredibly content and desperate for more at almost the same time. You pull away far too soon but he can’t be annoyed about getting to see your happy smile again. ‘I will see you tonight.’ You say as you leave him there standing in the hall like a lovesick fool. Yes, tonight he thinks and he can’t wait.

[fbwzoo]

Yup, it is! We have two double ones connected to each other for a quad cage!

The rats have been hard at work excavating a huge tunnel at the front of their right cage section. The first pic was from last Wednesday, the second from yesterday.

I wish we could give them even deeper bedding but it would get too complicated to clean out, sigh. Maybe someday we'll figure something out? They adore it, and it's been well worth the mess they make!

[lace-coffin]

adding onto Asa's newest pet coddling and babying his bugs, how would he react to us protecting them?

Like, maybe another member of the collection got out and found s/o where Asa keeps the bugs and, and startled s/o drops the giant tarantula from where they are on their knees. In their momentary fright, they flinch and shove the tarantula's enclosure, braking it and alerting Asa that something is wrong.

The startled tarantula starts crawling around, quickly moving in the escapee's direction, and just as Asa opens the door, his pet stops the escapee from squishing the tarantula they so fondly named Cocoa by covering it with their hand and scooping him (the tarantula) out of dangers way

this unfortunately leads to the breaking of Asa's pets' hand, however, s/o seems more concerned for Cocoa, as they now have the giant furry spider clutches closely for their chest, but not to tightly, as Asa had taught them to handle it gently

Also I loved the last one!!! very sweet and exactly what I was hoping for, thank you so much!!

Hi I’m really glad you enjoyed the last one! It actually turned out to be one of my fave fics I’ve written and I really appreciate how much detail you always give me to work with! 💖

How would Asa Emory react to his pet/SO injuring themselves to save one of his bugs?

Asa Emory x gn!Reader

Requests are open!

Trigger warning for mild violence and blood.

Shit shit shit. This was not was Asa needed right now. One of his older failed projects had bolted past him and disappeared into the dark halls of the hotel. The Collector in question was currently dragging himself up from the floor with the aid of a near by table, winded and panting.

In a moment of accidental carelessness he’d turned his back, deeming the captive inundated enough to leave. After a round of ‘experimenting’ it wasn’t like he was in any state to move, at least Asa thought. the man laid bloodied and wounded in a pile, paper mache mask stapled to his clammy skin.

Apparently he still had some fight left in him, swiping Asa’s ankle before he could start chaining him back up. That led to the situation now.

By the time he’d gathered himself and trudged to the door the captive was out of sight, it would be impossible to find him right away, he loved his hotel but the twisting halls all blended into one, even if you were a regular visitor. The bloodied and beaten man could be anywhere by now, Asa having no way in knowing where for sure.

Suddenly the sense of urgency came crashing down on him. You were currently spending your allotted free time wandering the hotel, only ever drifting between the places that your master pre-approved as safe for you but on your own nonetheless. Usually the jingling collar on your neck served enough warning if you were to drift, the zombie like prisoners in the lower levels knew not to touch something marked by the hotels owner, one scrape on you could mean a punishment that would leave them wishing they were already dead.

Asa knew in the delirious state the man was in he wouldn’t know nor care you were off bounds, desperate and disoriented, looking for any opportunity for escape from this hellhole.

He could check the cameras, see if he could track the escapee making his way across the monitors but it would be too time consuming, time already not being on his side with you loose in the hotel, blissfully unaware of the deranged man stalking the halls. Fuck, he’d have to do this on foot and now.

On the other side of the hotel you hum quietly, running your fingers across the various terrariums in the specimen room. This was your favourite room to visit, having named all the critters to your liking and much to Asa’s amusement hidden under annoyance. You were particularly fond of the Blue Death Feigning Beetles, just a bunch of silly little blue guys that didn’t really know what was going on but happy to be there nonetheless.

Only one specimen held a higher place in your heart. Cocoa, an older rich brown curly haired tarantula or Tliltocatl albopilosus as Asa insisted. Asa had gifted her to you after seeing how well you handled the other specimens with a particular lean towards tarantulas. One of the easier kinds to keep, she lived up to her specie description well, docile and less prone to kicking hairs or biting. You two had bonded well, spending evenings together on the specimen room floor.

You watched happily as she tottered across the floor in-front of you, never letting her get too far before coaxing her back into your palms. Just as you were going to pluck her from the floor and return her to her tank the door slams open, leaving an indent in the wall where the handle smashed into it.

Crazed bloodshot eyes met yours from across the room, this was obviously one of sir’s projects, but what was it doing here? Fear spiked up your spine like ice as he started approaching with haste, blood gurgling in his mouth making anything he was attempting to say unintelligible. He probably thought you could help him. Poor guy. You felt a little pitiful for him.

That was until he lunged for you, sputtering blood over your fresh clothes from his dripping maw. You let out a startled scream, this seeming to annoy him more, slapping a dirty hand over your mouth in an attempt to silence you and stop his tormenter from locating him. You sink your teeth into his hand in retaliation, the feeling of splitting skin vile under your canines. He howls in pain, shoving you away from him and onto the floor.

You do the first thing you can think of and mentally apologise to cocoa for what’s about to happen. Gripping the table leg you shove the table over, by proxy pushing her tank onto the floor, with as much strength as you can muster. not before taking inventory of where cocoa is on the wooden floor, not wanting her to be hurt in the process.

Asa now only a hallway away hears the crash and swears under his breath, his worse fears becoming real as it becomes apparent you and the escaped victim are sharing the same room. He can only hope he gets to you before you sustain any injuries.

In the blur of chaos cocoa is startled and skitters across the room towards the man. the delirious man snarls in anger and fear, raising his foot to crush her under his tattered shoe. eyes snapping wide in terror you lurch across the floor for her as fast as you can. You manage to grab her just in time, your breath shaky as you scoop her up. The man above you takes this opportunity to stomp as hard as he can on your hand, the sick sound of your fingers crunching under his weight reaching your ears as you wail in pain.

Just as the man makes a run for it the door bangs open loudly to present a less than happy Asa, infuriated murderous look haunting his features. The man responsible for this whole ordeal visibly pales even more. Before he can shake off the shock a blade is swept across his throat with accuracy, leaving the ghostly man to crumple to the floor, gurgling on his own spit and blood. Your master watches him fall with a sick satisfaction, this is soon wiped from his face and replaced with concern when his gaze meets you.

Despite being disheveled and exhausted you hold Cocoa to your chest gently, whispering sweet words of comfort to her. You weren’t sure if the words were more for her or you but it didn’t matter right now, you were both safe.

You eyes finally rest on Asa and your expression softens, knowing things will be ok for definite now. “Sir…I’m sorry about the tank, I didn’t know what else to do, how to reach you. Cocoa’s ok, I’ve checked her over and she’s fine, see?” You cross the room to your master and extend your palm for cocoa to waddle onto Asa’s hand, letting him give her the once over.

“You took perfect care of her, I’m thankful, pet.” A small smile creeps onto his face but is quickly swept off as he sees your hand, red and throbbing, fingers already starting to bruise. Asa quickly places cocoa into an extra tank and turns back to you. “Hand” he orders, waiting for you to place your abused hand into his larger one. He looks over it carefully, flexing a few fingers and hearing you hiss. There’s definitely some breaks.

His face takes on a guilty but frustrated look. “What is this? You should’ve tended to yourself first” he lets out a deep breath. “Excuse my temper pet but you’re hurt, your hand is most likely fractured in a few places…I’m sorry for letting this happen.” He says remorsefully, placing a soft kiss on your forehead.

“Sorry for not telling you sooner it’s just, I guess I didn’t even really register it, sure it hurt like a motherfucker-“

“Pet. language..”

“Sorry sir, it hurt real bad but I was so focused on making sure cocoa was safe it seemed like a non issue at the time.”

“I forgive you, little one” he whispers into your hair. you two stay like that for a moment, basking in each-others safety after the hectic events of this afternoon. Eventually the taller breaks away from the embrace with a sigh, gesturing to your damaged hand.

“Let’s get you fixed up and fed hm?” He suggests, suddenly hiking you up into his arms, your legs scrambling to wrap around his wide waist as you lean your head into the crook of his neck. Asa hum’s calmly as he makes his way through the halls, you snuggle deeper into his embrace, the events of the day finally weighing down on you.

“You can rest now cricket, sir has you, you’re safe.”

[stories-and-chaos]

Shrike: The Deal with Niffty; 1 Year Anniversary

[Hazbin Hotel reader insert as Alastor’s “darling life and death partner” Ace x ace relationship, both parties are moderately sex favorable.]

[Part 2 with Niffty, word count 1446, Cw: bug genocide none]

———————

You counted the days, double checking on the Scenic Hell calendar pinned up in the kitchen. You didn’t mention anything until that evening; Niffty was literally underfoot all day. “Tomorrow will be one year from when you made the deal with Niffty, cher.”

Alastor paused in his nightly routine, counting in his head. “I suppose it is. Ah, how the time flies.”

“We should do something, celebrate a little.”

Your husband gave you a questioning smile in the reflection of your vanity mirror. “We’ve never done that for any other Sinner.”

“We haven’t had any other Sinner chase you for weeks to make a deal,” you pointed out logically. “But she is yours, Alastor, it’s up to you.” He hummed noncommittally as two of you settled in for the night.

In the morning, you woke to a warm buttery smell and the hiss of a hot pan. Alastor, wearing a black apron, was making hotcakes and sausages. Niffty, still dressed in her nightgown and rubbing sleep from her eye, wandered into the kitchen. She spotted Alastor at the stove and immediately skittered up to him.

“Sir! I’m supposed to make breakfast!” She shot up to his shoulder and tugged on one antler.

Alastor, usually despising that much physical contact, merely shrugged and twirled his spatula as dramatically as his cane. “Well my dear, Y/N reminded me it’s been one year since we struck our deal. So I decided we’ll have some fun today.” He plucked the little cyclops of his shoulder and deposited her on the stool next to the table.

She scampered down and climbed back up his side to perch on his head. “Ooo, what kind of fun?” Her grin turned feral as she watched him flip hotcakes.

He finished cooking and delivered both food and the little maid to the table. “We’ll figure that out together.” The three of you started eating before he continued. “So my dear, what would you like to do today?” Alastor asked Niffty as he cut into his sausage.

Niffty, her cheeks full of hotcakes and syrup, froze. Her giant eye pinned as she stared at Alastor. A minute passed, then she gulped down her mouthful of food before automatically shoveling another forkful of hotcakes into her mouth. You realized she probably never really thought about it, enthusiastic as she was about her work.

You savored a bite. “How about…” you mused aloud, “we find more bugs than the bayou has?” Niffty’s attention snapped to you as she smiled around her bite of breakfast.

Fed and caffeinated, the three of you walked to your proposed destination. Niffty traveled three times the distance as she dashed around you and Alastor, occasionally climbing up one of you for a better view.

Your destination was a moderate two story building with two large glass enclosures connected. The sign above the entrance read Infernal Insectorium. Niffty’s eye widened as she started giggling on Alastor’s shoulder.

“Y/N, are you certain of this? Our dear Niffty is sure to decimate the population,” Alastor asked with amusement. “If you want to put this establishment out of business, this is an original way of doing so.”

“Not to worry, cher.” You pulled him inside, paying the entrance fee for the three of you. Niffty climbed down and started to run off, but you snagged her blouse before she could. “This place breeds quite a few critters for various purposes. So much so that they have a special wing for removing the substandard ones.” The foyer led to the two wings; one was labeled Observation Room, the other Culling Room. Through the glass walls to both you could see lush indoor gardens.

You led the way to the Culling Room. There was a small room between the foyer and the garden with a door leading to each. Only one could be open at a time, preventing any insect escapes. There was a member of the staff stationed in the room to operate the doors and ensure the bugs stayed where they were meant to be.

Once inside, you let Niffty go. “Eeeeheheheheheeeee!” she laughed, skittering off the path to chase down her first victim. Alastor walked arm in arm with you, admiring the garden.

“However did this place come about? And how did you find out about it my dear?”

Your talons brushed a flowering vine aside. “Evidently this was originally an insect house, supplying silkworms, beetles and snails for dyes, in addition to the indoor garden. But so many visitors kept eating the insects on display, they decided to add this room and charge for the privilege.”

Niffty’s giggles and mutters of “stab, stab, stab” were joined by other chuckles and squeals as demons hunted down their tiny prey. As you rounded a corner you saw a pair of frog-like demons at a wrought iron table catching flying insects with their tongues while making eyes at each other.

“Quite resourceful,” Alastor commented. He spotted an open bench for you both to relax on as Niffty had her fun. He hummed contentedly, soft jazz music filling the area around him. The tiny cyclops dashed into view on occasion, wielding either her favorite chef’s knife or a needle as she scurried after various bugs. She brought ones she was particularly proud of to pile up on the bench “for her collection.”

Whenever a creepy crawly got too close to you or your husband, it found itself impaled by one of your talons. Depending on the bug, you’d either eat it or add it it a separate pile for someone else to indulge in. Even Niffty had a limit to her energy and after a few hours she plopped herself between the two of you. She sifted through her spoils, selecting her favorite specimens. The rest were added to the pile you made.

After her selection was carefully wrapped in a handkerchief and stowed in your handbag, Alastor decided it was time for a late lunch. Food refilled her well of energy and afterwards Niffty was skipping around him again. “Now then, anything else we should do today Niffty, Y/N?”

“Oh oh, I need supplies to display my collection!” Niffty said eagerly, bouncing rapidly. “This way guys!” She ran back and forth between Alastor and the nearest crossroads. She repeated this after every turn until she brought you all to a craft store. The purple spider demon behind the counter recognized the cyclops. “Long time no see Niffty! Where you been sweets?”

“Hi Cici! I’m working for Alastor now. We’re celebrating my one year anniversary!”

“Greetings! The name’s Alastor and this is my darling Y/N. Pleasure to meet you my dear, quite a pleasure,” he said, holding out his hand to shake.

Cici either recognized your husband’s name or voice. She shook his hand carefully and asked Niffty in a shaky voice, “You…you’re working for the Radio Demon?” Niffty responded with a quick and cheerful “yup!” before dashing down an aisle.

“Yes indeedy! She was quite insistent about working for me. Even after my darling whisked her away multiple times! We found her to be extremely persistent.”

“She wore us down,” you added. “It’s been an excellent decision in the end.”

Cici looked a bit less nervous. “Well, she has always liked bad boys.”

Niffty returned with a stack of items; frames, cloth, pins, and boards. “More shadow boxes sweets?” Cici started tallying things up.

“Uh huh! They took me bug hunting today! I’ve got lots of new friends for my collection,” she replied, her voice turning into a cackle at the end.

Alastor paid for the items and stored the lot in his shadow. “I believe we’ve had quite an enjoyable outing today. What say we head back?”

“‘Kay! Bye Cici, see ya later!” Niffty waved rapidly at her friend while bouncing out the door Alastor was holding for you both. You waved at the spider, saying “au revoir!” as you accepted Alastor’s arm.

Niffty continued to zip around the streets on the way home. But her energy started to flag again. A little over halfway, she started dozing off on Alastor’s shoulder. You scooped her up and placed her in your purse; you’d brought your largest in anticipation of this. Her bright red hair peeked out from the top of the bag.

“It has been a lovely diversion today, I must admit,” Alastor said as the sky began to darken.”

“Agreed. I have to say I’m glad Niffty was so persistent. She’s been an excellent addition to the household. And not just because she’s so willing to do housework.” Alastor didn’t reply, but the cheerful music that swelled as he hummed said enough.

——————

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