#Marcello the Echidna

[echidna-enquiries]

A spectral figure of an Sci-fi enamored echidna floats around the base. Phasing through walls unnoticed, he looks around the foreign space in awe and wonderment. Stopping dead in his tracks as he stumbled into a space themed room. Immediately floating inside in excitement he spots the Guardian known as Marcello.     

Moonwatcher: 👋😎 😁✨

In his colourful, celestial themed room, Marcello was painting. He enjoyed painting with watercolours, particularly sky pieces. He had been doing a fantastical space piece, with mixes of greens, blues and purples, but when he sensed some sort of presence. He turned his attention away.

At the sight of a seemingly ghostly echidna, he jumped for a second, but quickly smiled in response to this friendly attitude. "Hi there!", he grinned, giving a wave back at the guest, "You one of those other Guardians? From that other dimension... I haven't seen ya before. I love your vibes!".

[btm-txt]

Moon Moth Marcello

Another Ko-fi commission for the wonderful @charleecat-bat this time of their boi Marcello for their Monster AU. I love this little guy so much and I also really love Mothman so drawing this monster transformation design was just a delight!

Got some sketch commissions open, come check it out if you're interested! :3

[charleecat-bat]

Figured I’d post this, next Guardian reference that got an update. I did this around the start of art fight but he’s just been in my drafts oopsies.

Marcello deceives many with his appearance and personality, he’s MUCH older than he looks and much smarter than he looks. He’s still a dork that likes science and space but still very smart nonetheless. Even if his brain is very busy to the point he’ll walk into walls cause he’s stuck in a daydream-

[echidna-enquiries]

Guardian Family Gift Exchange. Pt. One

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✺✳ ┅ ⑅ ┅ ✳✺ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

It was the holiday season finally, and while it was busier for the Guardian family, not even for the classic seasonal reasons, it didn't spoil the spirit. They all new it was typical, or even cheesy that they all got a bit happier around the season. But it was true, it was a time for them to feel truly like a family despite how unusual their lives were. It gave them a taste of a simple, pleasant time and when they finally could, the moments to just be with eachother, no work, no crazy guardian business, no small little tiffs or drama between eachother. Simply being able to... be. The holiday season for the Guardians was always a set of 2 separate events for them, one with extended family and guests, a large gathering of dinner, but that would be for later tonight. For now, it was just the family. They had been planning on asking Fae if she wanted to be involved, as her job as allowed her to live with the family. But she declined, saying she had to go and visit her own family off island. As a family that was evergrowing, the idea of everyone buying gifts for eachother was a chaotic and almost unreasonable idea. Money wasn't really the issue, their jobs as Guardians paid handsomely but the mere idea of everyone having to stress and hunt down items for a large group just grew more ridiculous as the years went back. So it was quickly decided that the Guardians would do what would be called a 'Secret Santa'. At the start of the month, everyones would be drawn, they had the whole month to organise their gift for their family member that was drawn. Everyone was sat around in the living room, food and drinks all around, small banter going around as everyone sat around. After finishing another story, Marcello turned to his father, who had seem noticeably more sleepy as he was dozing off, cup of coffee in his hand. "Dad", Marcello gently tapped him, causing him to quickly blink his eyes open, "You good? Think we're ready to open the presents now". Shepherd nodded as he rubbed his dark eyes, the circles under them darker than usual, "Yes, I'm sorry I'm...-", he yawned midway, "I'm quite tired". "Yeah, you've been busy this month. You kept vanishing every couple of days. What have you been up to, pops?". Shepherd gave a tired smirk as he sipped his coffee, "You'll see", he stood up, stretching as he did so, his old bones creaking as he did so, "Alright, let's get this started". As much as he wasn't in much of a mood to talk, it always felt strange to do any sort of huge announcement when it wasn't for work. But as the elder, it just became his unofficial job to verbally announce the start of the present giving. He cleared his throat, getting some of the families attention, it wasn't until he started speaking that everyone had turned to him, "Alright, everyone, sorry to interrupt any stories. But I figured we should get to the presents now. Knuckles, would you like to start?".

It was usual that the youngest of the family would kickstart the gift-giving. Knuckles knew this, he wasn't keen on it. He felt his gift was not a very good one, but he didn't want to make a fuss, it was the holidays after all, "Uh... sure okay".

The young Guardian got up and grabbed his present from the pile that was sat around, and then turned and looked to Journey, "You were mine, Grandma", he spoke awkwardly. It felt so silly, around his friends and with his closer family he was fine, yet when he was here around his entire Guardian family. He felt so... shy. The feeling of eyes and possible judgement just always at the back of his mind. Just the unfortunate norm of being the youngest in a family with such importance. "Awr, thank you, Knuckles", Journey gave a sweet wide smile to her youngest grandson, opening the present. The colourful paper revealing a basketful of items and a mix of lovely smells hitting her nose, she started to inspect them, "What are all these, kiddo?". Knuckles fidgeted with his hands as he spoke,"I uh... I was really stuck on what to get you for a while. I was out in a market after helping my friends out with something in Spagonia not long ago, so this was kinda later than i'd like- and I just...I dunno. I just remember some of the candles and soaps you get a lot and i tried to get stuff that smelt like what you usually get, and some snacks that could keep that you'd like I uh... I hope you like, I know its' not much". He fell quiet as he realised he started rambling. Journey gave Knuckles a look of disbelief, smiling and shaking her head, she couldn't understand why he was being so bashful. "Not much? Knuckles, this is so thoughtful! I didn't even know you knew the type of smells I liked!", she quickly sniffed one of the candles, "Is that coconut? And-and look at how much you got me. This is a whole basket full of things! Come here you", she got up and pulled him into a hug, the youngster chuckling a little as he got squeezed. She pulled his head down and gave him a soft noogie, "Now quit beating yourself up! I love it!".

Knuckles' cheeks were red, "Yes ma'am", and he quickly sat back down, watching Journey quickly opening some of the Spagonian biscuits. The others chuckling and making small comments on the interaction. Lance, who was at on the couch, quickly got up after Knuckles, picking up his box, "Cedar was mine, and uh-like father like son. I was stuck for ages on what to get you. And not like I could just ask you I would your birthday", he got a cheeky shrug as his tiny grandfather sipped his drink, putting it down when it was handed to him. The little echidna opened the boxed carefully and could immediately see bubblewrap inside, but his eyes lit up at the small item wrapped within it, "Awr!! It's so cute!!", with such care, he got out a tiny oil lamp, "Tiiiiiiny boyyyyy". Lance chuckled, "Yeah. I just... I hope you don't have an exact one. I was SO fucking worried about that. I thought I'd get you something small cause I have no idea how much space you have left so if I got you something too big you'd just be doomed to be crushed by a big 'ol pile of vintage". Cedar laughed. "It'd be a historical way to die, and I can NEVER have too many oil lamps, especially little tiny ones like THIS!", Cedar squealed, his tail wagging at full speed, "Thank you, Lancie. It shall go on my shelf with my other one", he quickly giggled at Lance's cheeks also going red, very much like father-like son. Seeing eyes quickly go to him, Salem stood and carefully grabbed his gift. Holding it close to his chest with care until he presented it to Sorrel, bending over eloquently, "Here you are, grandfather". "Thank you, Salem", Sorrel could already feel this gift was fragile, the clinking of glasses being heard from inside. He already had a feeling what was wrapped up and he could feel excitement bubbling up. A smile came to his face as he saw not one but two jars in his lap, both of them filled with different items. To some of the others, they didn't understand the appeal, but for Sorrel and Salem. There was an understanding, a knowledge between nature lovers. "Oh! These are so interesting!", Sorrel immediately began looking through the jars, hunching over as he buried his fingers into the jars and pulled out small pieces. Some of the others giggling at Sorrel's 'gremlin' mode as it was nicknamed. Tiberius, who was staring from the other couch, did not understand the gift at first. He gave a look to Salem, one of confusion and concern, "I really hope you didn't just scoop up some random shit from the ground and just gave that to my dad, Salem...". "Oh I wish it was that easy! You'd never find stuff like this close together! Salem must've spent quite a bit looking for all of these", Sorrel immediately responded, pulling out small gemstones, sea glass, shells, and in the other jar was small flowers and plants that had a unique look to them, "Oh I can't wait to press these into my book! You must tell me where you found all of these!". Salem chuckled lightly, he wasn't even bothered by Tiberius' comment, Sorrels reaction surpassed it, "I would but you'd have to come on a flight with me and the dragons for that". "I literally will, Salem, I don't think you get it. I'd love a new place to explore", Sorrel giggled but put the things back into the jars, "And more jars! Yes! Thank you". Salem laughed again, "I'm pleased you like your gift", the two shared a brief look, knowing the pair of them had the same appreciation for nature and collecting, he quickly sat down, sipping his peppermint tea.

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[echidna-enquiries]

Got the first set of the fam! Lets introduce some of these peeps!

Shepherd. The head of the family and the eldest. He won't really let me share anything else...

Marcello, cheery scientist and space enthusiast!

Hadar, one of the medics of the fam and a talented writer.

Rhett, the big man with the big heart and a knack for music and art.

Johnathan, the actor of the family (so to speak he's already a Guardian-) and a ball of sunshine!

Morgan, the queen of chaos energy and comebacks! Probably the strongest chaos energy user it's a little scary...

Chase, a living ball of energy who practically never slows down, he's almost always on the move!

Second line-up and bonus guests!

[echidna-enquiries]

Guardian Family Gift Exchange Pt 5.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✺✳ ┅ ⑅ ┅ ✳✺ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

Once his eldest child sat down, Rhett stood up, stretching for the moment before going to the table, getting another little envelope that was on the table.

"It felt so funny I got one of my three children again, I feel almost guilty. I swear I'm not neglecting you two", Rhett looked to his eldest and youngest, the two giggling his comment. "Yeah, favouritism!", Johnathan raised his arms and got a laugh of the whole family, "Whatcha get me, Dad?". "Something I think you like", Rhett winked and handed him the envelope.

Johnathan opened the envelope, his tail wagging lightly in interest, and when got out two tickets, his tail skyrocketed and he let out an excited squeal, "Oh my god!! How did you get these?! This show is so hard to get tickets for and these are FRONT SEAT!". Rhett chuckled proudly, adjusting his glasses, "Well, I got a few friends and like Cedar, they hooked me up into getting my hands on these. You and whoever you wanna take can enjoy that show when it comes around". "YESSSSSSSS!!!", Johnathan cheered, "THANK YOU DAD!!!", he quickly jumped up and gave his dad a hug, almost making him fall over if he hadn't caught him.

While Rhett slowly got Johnathan off of him, Hadar stood up and grabbed his present, much like Seth it could be safe to assume what his gift would be. His perfectly wrapped, boxed up gift was scooped up into his arms as he approached Morgan, handing it to her with a gentle smile.

"Here you are, Morgan". "Thanks, gramps", she smiled, taking another sip of her next glass of wine before getting to undoing the wrapping, of her box. Her smile widened as she saw the present neatly folded in the box "Awr... how darling!", she stood up and a long knitted cardigan uncurled in her arms. It was knitted with beautiful purple wool and hints of a sparkly silver and black in the wool, almost making it look starry and sparkling. Two patches that were pockets had a star and moon symbol, that she inspected and smiled at. "This fits perfectly... did you pinch one of my cardigans to get the measurements?", Morgan asked, smirking. Hadar looked away awkwardly at the accusation, "I wouldn't call it stealing I just borrowed it! You-You didn't even notice". "Well it was worth it, this is so cuuuuute!", Morgan spun around as she tried it on, coming over and kissing Hadar on the cheek and hugging him, "Thanks grandpa". The spotted brown echidna giggle shyly in response. If anyone was paying attention, they would notice there were two items left on the table now, a large box and a small cylinder present. Marcello had scooped up the box, looking to Lance. "Here ya go, buddy! I can't wait to see your reaction to this!!". Marcello giggled as he put the large box down in front of Lance, who eyed it curiously. But the sound had gotten his attention the most. He recognised that noise that came from inside far too well. With an almost child-like excitement, Lance ripped the box open, his eyes lighting up at the sight, a large box Blocko replica of a ship from a particular sci-fi movie that Lance particularly liked. "Oh my GOOOOOOD! I FINALLY HAVE IT!!".

Marcello kicked his feet seeing how excited Lance got, "i was so worried you were gonna buy it spontaneously, oh I'm so glad you didn't. I would've been SO MAD at you!". "I couldn't even if I fucking wanted to, it was never in stores and online, it was so expensive! oh my god, oh my god-!!" Lance's hands started shaking, here come the stims, "I'M BUILDING THIS RIGHT NOW!!"

His father and son especially started laughing as he quickly opened the box, emptying many of the bags of pieces and the HUGE booklet of instructions.

Knuckles then looked up the table, that last gift must be his... he was curious to what was inside. It was an odd shape... and then realised who was the remaining Guardian who hadn't given their gift yet. His eldest... he was immediately nervous. Shepherd stood up, picking the gift carefully and eyeing Knuckles, yawning again. "I must admit, I shared your sentiment Knuckles, I for a moment couldn't decide what to get you so...I had to get quite creative. I really hope you enjoy this", Shepherd spoke, handing him the present. Knuckles held his breath, wondering what on earth his eldest grandfather could have gotten him. He hadn't particularly needed or wanted anything, so he couldn't imagine he had made this easy for him. When he slipped the item out of the paper, it revealed a wooden cylinder case... it had a lid. When he opened it, two slips of rolled up paper fell onto his lap. How curious... Even the others had stopped in their activities to watch quietly, equally curious what Shepherd had done. Knuckles picked it up, unrolling it carefully... a map. It had marks all over certain spots across the world, not even on their island, the world... and coordinates at the bottom. what could these mean? "I'd recommend you read the other if you need some...clarification. You can read it to yourself or outloud if you want". And so Knuckles did, looking it over. He could tell the rest of the family wanted to know, so he chose to say it outloud. "To my adventurous grandson. I'm very aware of your many adventures, off and on our island home. And one thing i've come to learn about you from listening is your interest and skill for finding treasures. This thought kept returning to me while plotting a gift, and then this idea came to me. So instead of a single physical gift, I figured what would be the best gift for a treasure hunter...", Knuckles stopped to read it over, "Then a treasure hunt just for you". The others looked to eachother, surprised, curious. They continued to listen in, occasionally looking at Shepherd who watched on for Knuckles' reaction. "On the map, are locations, where I've gone and hidden many items for you to find. What are they? I will not tell you specifically, only that I have found or purchased a variety of items that I felt would interest you. Historical items, gemstones, even little trinkets that might be fun. All hidden safely away for you to hunt down at your leisure. You have coordinates and hints on the back of this note. The very first one if you wish is hidden in our home right now. Feel free to go after it anytime you'd like. Happy Holidays, my grandson. Sincerely, Shepherd".

Knuckles stared over the pieces of paper in silent awe, the others around them chattering in excitement and curiosity. "Dad...is THAT what you were doing when you vanished every couple of days this past month?!", Marcello asked, visibly surprised. "And why you're so tired?", Lance asked, holding a few of the bricks in his hand. "Yes... I really wanted to try and make this idea work", Shepherd yawned again, looking to Knuckles and giving an awkward smile that almost looked like one he would give himself, "I... hope you like it". "...This... this is amazing... I...I don't deserve this. This is so much work, just for me...", Knuckles looked to the ground, not believing how much effort his grandfather put in just for him. They weren't even that close, he only just started training with him a few years ago. "Don't be ridiculous, Knuckles. You are a wonderful young man and you deserve to know that", Shepherd gave a pat to Knuckles shoulders, "You've grown a lot this year, as you have the previous years... I just know you're going to be a great Guardian when you're ready", he gave an affirming smile to his grandson, before reverting back to his usual neutral expression.

The two stood awkwardly for a moment, Knuckles decided to initial a... rather awkward hug. Adorable but visibly awkward hug. "Thank you, grandfather...Happy Holidays to you, too".

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[echidna-enquiries]

Guardian Family Gift Exchange Pt 4.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✺✳ ┅ ⑅ ┅ ✳✺ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

While Chase was struck with laughter, Morgan had finished her second glass of wine and walked to the table, grabbing one of the small boxes and then turned and crouched down next to her nephew. "Thought you could REALLY use these, Chase", Morgan smirked, getting up and sitting back up in her chair. After catching his breath, Chase tore open the box, he looked a bit unsure at what he got. They were wireless earbuds for music, these looked expensive, but he's had some experience with small easily lost earbuds that need to be charged way too much for his liking. "Now before you make any judgements!", Morgan raised a hand, picking up a biscuit from the table, "Try them on and try and shake them out". "Pft-okay, sure Auntie". As he was instructed, Chase got the small earbuds out, they were a bright orange, already a plus in his book, and there was a small cable that split into two in there, could he attach that? Promising. Once he put them into his earholes, he began to shake his head wildly. Almost as if he was Rhett at a metal concert. When he stopped, his hair a mess and trying to hide a laugh, he realised they were still in, tucked tightly Chase couldn't help but give an excited laugh, "Damn. Okay that's cool". "And! They have a super long battery life, the little holder there can give them a booster charge if you plug it in for long enough. And yes, I got them made to that colour AND got that bonus band for you... I know what you're like and I'm making sure you aren't losing these!". The family chuckled as Chase made a face, "Damn you really coming for me, Morgan".

"My turn!", Johnathan cheered as he got up, brushing remaining crumbs from many a snack off his shirt as he got a wrapped box. When he stopped in front of Salem, he mimicked the bow he did before, "For you, sir", he said in a cheesy fancy tone. Salem couldn't help but giggle, "Why thank you, good sir". He took off the wrapping, adding it to the growing pile of wrapping paper that was being scooped up and put into a giant bag in the corner of the room.

"Awwwr...", a wide smile came to his face at the reveal of the present. It was one of those displays of a miniature scene that goes on a bookshelf. This one was fantasy themed and even had a dragon in it, he'd have to build it up later "Oh, this is great. I'm surprised I didn't have one like this yet, didn't even know they had one in this style". "Oh good! I was so worried about buying you a repeat!", Johnathan sighed in relief, "I would've been kicking myself!". "Thank you, grandfather. This will look great next to my fantasy collection", Salem smiled as he received a hug from his short spotty, grandfather.

Realising it was now his turn, Coal looked nervous, "Oh shit, okay uh-". he grabbed a tightly wrapped box and plastic container that was on the food table that had a bow on top and label that said 'DO NOT TOUCH UNTIL OPENED', and looked to Shepherd.

"Two gifts?", Shepherd asked, raising a brow, "The rules were for you to stick to one main gift or multiple small ones, mister". "I know, I know but food doesn't really count as a gift usually and this one is important", Coal handed him the present first, "This is your main gift".

Shepherd promptly opened it, the reveal of the gift leaving a small smile and nod of approval on his face. It was a documentary series surrounding prehistoric creatures. Coal had remembered his smaller interest in dinosaurs and the creatures before their time it seems. "Ahhh. I've been wanting to watch this series. But I didn't want to pay for a whole new streaming subscription for it...".

"God i know right? It's bullshit. It's why i either just buy it physically or just... find other means to watch it", Coal smirked, looking away, everyone knew what he meant. "I'm more surprised you didn't get me anything horror related, but I am still fairly happy with this".

"I mean I could've...but I know damn well enough you probably already got anything that I'd know and anything I don't' know you STILL might have... or it might be total garbage... that you also have". Shepherd fought a chuckle, clearing his throat to cover it up, "A collection is a collection. Now what is this 'not-gift' you have there?".

Coal said nothing but smiled softly putting the box on his lap, Shepherd titled his head at it, he wondered what would make this 'food gift' so special? He opened the box and was hit with a familiar smell, rows of cookies were inside. Coal was not much of a baker so this was already a surprise... but the smell and look of these. They were familiar... it almost took him back to so long ago, when he raising a young Marcello and had his wife, Eleanor to come home too... After picking one up, Shepherd took a bit and he had seemingly froze on the spot. Everyone looked on concerned at his sudden reaction, Marcello even putting a hand on his fathers shoulder, "Dad?". "...Marcello...try one...", is all he said, still looking forward as he slowly chewed the cookie. Confused, but Marcello complied, taking one and eating it... a similar expression came onto his face. "Oh my gosh...", he could feel tears coming up into his eyes, "They're...they're just like mum's...". "They're exactly hers...", Shepherd spoke quietly, already finishing the whole of the first cookie. Coal soflty laughed at the two of them, he could feel his heart warming at the very sight of their happiness, "It took me quite a few attempts, I'm not much of a baker but I wanted to try it... I saw in the book you gave me some time ago, she had a little note that said 'Sheppy's favourite'...". "...Oh god-", Shepherd put the box down and put a hand over his face, his other one following as he hid his face. "Awr no, dont' get like that!", Coal put a hand on his grandfathers shoulder. "I'm doing this so I don't start crying. I don't like crying and I'm too tired to do it!", Shepherd spoke, his voice muffled through his hands. The family around him had a mix of happy but concerned reactions, glad to see their eldest was happy but also hoping he wasn't going to cry... it wasn't a common sight and it was always weird. Shepherd took a breath, composing himself as he looked back up at Coal who remain stood, "Thank you very much, Coal... this was... this was very thoughtful. I appreciate you going out of your comfort zone for this. I'm sure Eleanor would've loved to cook with you if she could've". "Ah jeez, don't get me started...", Coal chuckled softly, wiping his own eyes to make sure no tears came out, "Hope you and Marcello enjoy them". The nervousness that Coal had immediately melted, he was far too worried that his presents wouldn't get the approval he desired. But thankfully that wasn't close to what wound up happening... Especially seeing Marcello and Shepherd quietly getting a handful of the biscuits each and munching them down.

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[echidna-enquiries]

Guardian Family Gift Exchange Pt 3.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✺✳ ┅ ⑅ ┅ ✳✺ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

After giving his son an encouraging head pat, adding to Tiberius' bashfulness, Sorrel stretched and walked over to that slowly shrinking pile of gifts. Grabbing his own small one and stepping in front of Marcello, who gave him a wide smile as he approached. "Here you go, Marcello. I guarantee it's not space related". Marcello waved his hand, "Psh-I'd never be bothered by more space stuff", he quickly unwrapped it, it felt uneven so it caught his curiosity. When he got it free, a small box and an odd looking pen fell from his lap while a small book remained. The two pink echidnas almost bonked eachother on the head going to pick the items up and the family couldn't help but laugh. Marcello opened the box and laughed, "Oh my god, what? This is the tiniest paint palette I've ever seen! It's so cute!...Wait-", he inspected the pen more closely, only it wasn't a pen, it was a water brush. And the book was filled with that familiar paper for him. His eyes lighting up as he realised all this. It was all for his watercolour painting! "I know you usually paint at your desk but, I figured, why not have something when you're out and about", Sorrel shrugged, swinging back and forth, "Could always have it in your bag".

"I could put these in my pocket if I wanted to! I didn't even think to try and do my painting anywhere else weirdly. Thanks, Sorrel. Will try these out the second I get hit with inspiration", Marcello laughed, quite literally putting the gift in his pocket, getting a laugh out of Sorrel.

Seth strutted up to the pile, picking up his box, but instead of walking over to anyone like the others. He sat down... and then turned to his father, "Here you go, dad", he smiled as his dad giggled at his sudden turn. Everyone had a good feeling what Seth's gift was, he always got clothes for everyone. It'd be a shock whenever he didn't.

Theodore had a gentle smile the whole time, and when he opened the box, it stayed, "Oooh... these look nice, son". He took out two pairs of long-sleeved shirts, one was a light blue with small birds on the bottom of the sleeves and on the collar, the other a similar shirt but light green and with flowers instead.

"I know my clothes gifts are getting a bit old but... I just figured you deserved something nice for the summer that was your style", Seth put his head on his father's shoulder. "Thank you, I really do appreciate it feels really light... and soft. You know my preferences really well. I'll try it on later okay, I promise". The two shared a gentle hug, Seth pulled back, "You want me to grab yours for you?". "No thank you, I need to get up anyway", Theodore grabbed his cane, taking a moment to stand up and got over to the present, getting a rather large box. It took him a moment to tuck it under his arm comfortably while having his cane in his other arm. No one rushed him thankfully. He soon approached Tiberius, who seemed surprised that this was his, he reached his arms out as he took it carefully from his great-grandfathers arm, "Here you go, Tiberius. I hope it fits".

It had a good amount of weight to it, no way it was any sort of piece of clothing. He ripped open the paper but found a box with tape. "Uh can I have a-", he was quickly handed a knife from Coal, seeing it was his own instead of the one he gave him, "Tch. Good that it's not the ones I made, those are for YOU", he quickly cut open the box and returned the knife. When he opened it, his mouth hung open, "...Holy fuck". Coal and a few others gave a hearty laugh, "It comes full circle!".

Tiberius bent over and took out a motorcycle helmet from the box, it wasn't even a regular plain one. This one was an expensive one. Well-made, fully covered the head, even had a built in eye shield so he didn't have to wear goggles. Theodore giggled, "I noticed your helmet was getting quite a lot of wear and tear. So I thought maybe getting you a new one would be a good idea. I wasn't sure if you'd decorate it or not so I kept it plain. I hope that's okay". Tiberius was sat staring at the helmet for a while, even putting it on to test if it fit, it fit perfectly. Not too tight, not too loose. When he took it off, he looked to Theodore. "Are you kidding? This is fucking amazing, grandpa". "Don't swear at him, Tiberius", Seth quickly snapped. "Oh no he's fine", Theodore laughed, "I'm just glad you like it-Oh!!". Everyone was surprised to see that Tiberius had initiated a hug with anyone that wasn't his father or his daughter, he was gentle of course but his tail wagging at high speed was a giveaway of his excitement. Seth couldn't even help but chuckle at this, "Alright. Don't crush my old man now, Tibs. Good to see you're happy".

After another quiet thank you, Tiberius sat back down in his spot, holding that helmet in his lap. Those with a good eye could tell he was excited to have it, he would likely go for a test ride with it the minute he had a chance to.

Chase, who had already been fidgeting in his seat, quickly jumped up, grabbing a small envelope. He didn't' seem that excited though, mroe nervous, this was unlike him at all. He handed it to Seth, looking away, lacking his usual liveliness, "I tried to get ya something more your taste but uh... i struggled a lot. I hope this'll do". Seth gave a smile, he could understand Chases' issues about shopping for Seth, not even having to due with Chases lack of interest in shopping. "I'm sure I'll love it no matter what it is, Chase". With his long, festive-themed nails, he opened the the envelope with ease. He started to look over the intricate looking slip in the envelope, his eyes then widened when he saw the name of the company at the top. "...Is this that REALLY fancy spa I went to a few years ago? The one off-island?". Chase nodded, laughing a little, "Yeah. I dunno if it says on there but I got you the big stay in pack. Goes for like a weekend, I dunno what they do but just assume it's something you'd like". Seth looked at the slip again... and let out an excited squeal, a roar of laughter came from the family. "Oh my GOD! This is GOING TO BE AMAZING!!", his heels clicked against the ground excitedly, "God, I hope my schedule will be open". "Oh yeah, I made sure it would", Chase smiled, "I covered your shifts on the dates to make sure of it. Set like a million reminders to make sure I wouldn't forget". "CHASE, YOUR FUCKING AMAZING AND I LOVE YOU!", Seth screamed at the top of his lungs, making Chase erupt in laughter, no longer feeling insecure about his gift.

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[echidna-enquiries]

You all actually seem to get along as a family… have any of you ever dealt with toxic family members? Surely your large family isn’t all perfect..

The group that had gathered looked solemn... no one knew where to start speaking. Salem: (he let out a sigh, deciding to be the one to speak up first) Unfortunately yes... I had married and was unfortunate to expose my son to such a person. My ex-wife, she... was not the person I thought she was. She turned out to be very... abusive. More in a way of her behavior and words. But I put up with it... but then I found out she had treated our son far worse... All because he 'didn't turn out like she wanted'. (he places a hand on his head) I still feel so much regret for Lance having to be in such a situation. The moment I found out, I had never felt so-... so angry. (he sighs, collecting himself) I divorced that wretched woman as soon as I could and made it clear she was not welcome near me or my family ever again ... (he looks off with a scowl) I don't know where she is, and I don't care to... she could be rotting in a ditch for all I care... after everything she put Lance through behind my back, and made him keep silent over it.

Morgan: My own ex-wife... I'd rather not get into her entirely, but she was unfaithful I found her with another...one of our close friends in fact. (she adjusts her glasses, holding back a shaky breathe) I hadn't been in a long term relationship since... at least until Arcana.

Seth: I'm not sure if my case counts towards myself, but towards Sorrel, I'd say it was very... ugh. (he shakes his head, thinking back) For a time, I... wasn't sure who Sorrel's mother was. I was very reckless about my sexual activities in my younger years. I got no call or letter, or anything from the mother. Just found the child dumped on my doorstep out of nowhere, not even a note or a birth certificate. I had to handle all of that myself... (he scowls darkly, his nails digging into his arm as he crossed his arms) What makes me the most disgusted, is that I found out who it was eventually. No need to mention her by name, but this bitch... she had the nerve, the GAUL, that once Sorrel was old enough. She just so happened to try and reconnect with her 'lost baby' just as he had began training to become the next Guardian... let's just say it didn't go as she liked. Tiberius: Eheh, does my stupid ass count? (the others give him a look, mix of annoyance and concern) Sorry, that sounded funny in my head. Okay (scratches head, letting out a breathe)... my choices in exes were not... great. In my youth, I had pretty bad taste in women... my ex-fiance was likely the worst, according to the family. They had made it clear they didn't think she was right for me. Not even for the same reasons as the others, she was a bitch or nothing but... man she was really irresponsible, reckless, didn't think about anything long term. if she had stayed with me. She would've been a bad influence, either on me or my daughter. (he looks off, a solemn look in his eyes). At first, I was stubborn... I really thought that despite everything that it could work... then she got pregnant. I thought that it was a bad idea but she didn't listen... and then Journey came along. I tried to do better for her, and she... well. It shouldn't have been much of a surprise that she quickly left, just... poof. Gone. (he crosses his arms) It fucked me up for a while, but I tried to do right by Journey... sometimes it really bugged her that her mum walked out. It made her feel she wasn't good enough as a kid... I hate her for that the most. Jojo didn't need that. Rhett: If this counts, my in-laws were... well. Lets just say they were a bunch of pompous pricks. I knew they weren't fans of me and my wive's apparent 'outlandish' lifestyle compared to theirs of 'class and high-society' (he scoffs) The amount of times I wanted to smash whatever was closest to me over their heads I lost count of. They were full of shitty comments towards my wife, me, our friends... but they learnt very closely not to dare make any comments about our kids. I made it very clear that I did not like them back either, my names for them got very. (he darkly chuckles) Creative. I wont' repeat them. Seth: What a killjoy... this is such a downer topic. We could use a compilation of curses.

Marcello: Um-if we're talking about in-laws. I guess I got one more. Not mine but my dad's... or well my mum's parents. I had never met them and for a good chunk of my childhood I never knew why. I'd ask but Dad would just say something quick to end the topic while Mum would get so sad... Wasn't till I got older that Dad filled me in. My grandparents were apparently REALLY awful people... they abused mum bad. Mistreated her horribly, verbal, sometimes even physical stuff. He never said anything specific but, that it was just bad. It had gotten to a point that dad threatened them, saying that if they came towards her or anyone in our family again. They'd have to deal with him. So I never met them. Or my other grandparents, but dad doesn't talk about them a lot. Only 'grandparents' I had were my great Aunt Cordelia and Uncle Bertram. They had told me a bit about my grandma's but Shepherd didn't like talking about them Morgan:...Really? Not once? Not anything beyond what history shit tells us? Marcello: Nope. I always tried asking if his mum was bad or something but no, she wasn't. Dad just... didn't like talking about her. Tiberius:...wait did you say grandma's? As in... plural? Marcello: Don't you remember, Evangeline was a lesbian. Had an unofficial wife. But my other grandma uh... Serenity I think her name was, she died when dad was really young.

Tiberius:...Well it'd be nice if he you know-told us these things.

Rhett: C'mon, you know that ain't happening...

Salem: (clears his throat again) Anyway um... to summarise. We all try to be good to eachother, at the end of the day we're kinda all we have. Immortality does that to us... but we haven't been immune to coming across and unfortunately bringing people into our family that were indeed very toxic.

[echidna-enquiries]

Thunderhawk approaches this family of Guardians curiously, sporting an excited demeanor. “Hello there Guardians! I’ve heard lots from Iris and even Fae about you all. I’m curious, do you all do anything fun together as a family beyond the usual Guardian duties?”  

Marcello: (grins widely) Oh I'm SO glad you asked! (his tail gives an excited wag) We actually try to have meals together, a few times a week at the very least. It's mostly at dinner, it's actually quite successful. It cuts down on how many of us have to cook individually, cuts down on too many leftovers in the fridge, and it's just nice to be able to sit together like a family. STRICTLY no work talk at the table, that's the one rule. (he laughs)

Johnathan: (Quickly pokes his head in) I like to try to have movie nights with the family, or even try to watch shows together, it's a lot of fun, although it's never everyone... kinda impossible to get somethign EVERYONE likes BUT it's still great with a good chunk of us. I even manage to get Shepherd on board occasionally... although his movie tastes are a bit too intense for everyone.... (nervously laughs)

Marcello: Oh! and game nights too! We'll change between trying those video games that Lance tries to recommend or the classic board games. Morgan likes to try these sort of roleplaying dice games. I've gotten sucked in quite a few times! (chuckles)

Johnathan: And some of us like to try and go on outings together, like Seth will into the city quite a lot and he usually is happy to go alone but he's always happy if someone wants to come with him, and some of the others do.

Marcello: And last thing that came to mind, they're rare but if we CAN we actually really enjoy having at least a vacation day where we can just have a break from work. They're really hard to get by though. Johnathan: Yeah... (Looks sad for a moment, pouting but perks up after a moment) Remember the last one we went to?

Marcello: Ah yeah, we went to a beach off island. It was SO nice. Everyone had a nice time... well, a least most of us.

Johnathan: Aw, the less outdoorsy ones found a way to enjoy it, remember the boardwalk? We didn't force them outside for long.

Marcello: Yeah... Agh, sorry! We're rambling! (he laughs) But yeah, we really do try to do stuff together. Not force it mind you, we all still do live together and work together but... we want to still try and have moments where we can bond and feel like a family. : D

[echidna-enquiries]

So Shepherds the leader…whod be in charge if anything happened to him? Like if he died or something

-Despite the questioning leaving him uncomfortable, Marcello still smiles, trying to laugh off the worry and smile through it- Marcello: O-oh! Well um-I'd be put in charge, according to Shepherd! As the second eldest, he says he'd trust me to take over. (He looks he away, still trying to smile through this) Even though I-...I really don't think I'd be able to do nearly as much as he can!...or even a quarter of it. Marcello: NOW!-Now I know he said that he doesn't expect me to do things his way if he happens to no longer be the leader-but it's still... it's a lot. Marcello: (he appears more nervous) A-And the idea of my dad no longer being around is really scary honestly haha... like if he retired or something, that's fine! I'd be happy for him but...if he y'know...died ahaha... oh god i don't know how i'd cope.. -Marcello continued to nervously laugh and talk but Shepherd has appeared in far behind him, giving whoever asked this question the nastiest glare he could muster up~

[tired-old-men]

Moonwatcher had a look of surprise and awe at this other Guardian, almost as if he was surprised to be perceived at all, even recognized!

He nodded excitedly at Marcello’s question. He didn’t speak, or at least he couldn’t be heard, but his animated personality more than made up for his lack of words. 

He floated over Marcello’s side eying over his painting, his tail finding a bit of a wag at its subject matter. Looking at his attire it was clear he had an affinity with space or at least sci-fi.     

The spectral Moonwatcher looks back at Marcello giving him a thumbs up and an approving nod over his space painting. 

Moonwatcher: 🤩👍 💕🌌🎨😄!

A spectral figure of an Sci-fi enamored echidna floats around the base. Phasing through walls unnoticed, he looks around the foreign space in awe and wonderment. Stopping dead in his tracks as he stumbled into a space themed room. Immediately floating inside in excitement he spots the Guardian known as Marcello.     

Moonwatcher: 👋😎 😁✨

In his colourful, celestial themed room, Marcello was painting. He enjoyed painting with watercolours, particularly sky pieces. He had been doing a fantastical space piece, with mixes of greens, blues and purples, but when he sensed some sort of presence. He turned his attention away.

At the sight of a seemingly ghostly echidna, he jumped for a second, but quickly smiled in response to this friendly attitude. "Hi there!", he grinned, giving a wave back at the guest, "You one of those other Guardians? From that other dimension... I haven't seen ya before. I love your vibes!".

[echidna-enquiries]

Even though he got no verbal response, he was happy to try and pick up on the body language and expressions of the ghostly Guardian. Marcello gave a giddy giggle at the approval, "Awwr, haha thanks! I do love my painting!". That much was true... After adjusting his blue spectacles, Marcello looked the specter up and down, "I'm Marcello...I wanna ask for your name but I'm not sure how you can tell me".

A spectral figure of an Sci-fi enamored echidna floats around the base. Phasing through walls unnoticed, he looks around the foreign space in awe and wonderment. Stopping dead in his tracks as he stumbled into a space themed room. Immediately floating inside in excitement he spots the Guardian known as Marcello.     

Moonwatcher: 👋😎 😁✨

In his colourful, celestial themed room, Marcello was painting. He enjoyed painting with watercolours, particularly sky pieces. He had been doing a fantastical space piece, with mixes of greens, blues and purples, but when he sensed some sort of presence. He turned his attention away.

At the sight of a seemingly ghostly echidna, he jumped for a second, but quickly smiled in response to this friendly attitude. "Hi there!", he grinned, giving a wave back at the guest, "You one of those other Guardians? From that other dimension... I haven't seen ya before. I love your vibes!".

[tired-old-men]

The ghostly guardian brought his hand up to his mouth in thought. He began looking around the room at Marcello’s paintings and his space decor, getting an idea. 

He floats over to one of his paintings that has a moon and points at it, he then brings two fingers up to his eyes then drags them over to point at the moon, in a looking or watching gesture, then points at himself and smiles. 

Moonwatcher: 🌙👀 😎

Moonwatcher then notices a photo of Marcello’s family, floating to it curiously, noting how it reminded him of the portraits of his own family, he makes another set of gestures.

He points at himself, holds two fingers up, and makes a crescent shape on his chest trailing his own chest marking. He then points at Marcello’s family picture, pointing at Marcello, making a two with his fingers. He points back at himself and makes a two with his fingers. Both the second, how curious is that.  

Moonwatcher: 🤩🫵✌️

A spectral figure of an Sci-fi enamored echidna floats around the base. Phasing through walls unnoticed, he looks around the foreign space in awe and wonderment. Stopping dead in his tracks as he stumbled into a space themed room. Immediately floating inside in excitement he spots the Guardian known as Marcello.     

Moonwatcher: 👋😎 😁✨

In his colourful, celestial themed room, Marcello was painting. He enjoyed painting with watercolours, particularly sky pieces. He had been doing a fantastical space piece, with mixes of greens, blues and purples, but when he sensed some sort of presence. He turned his attention away.

At the sight of a seemingly ghostly echidna, he jumped for a second, but quickly smiled in response to this friendly attitude. "Hi there!", he grinned, giving a wave back at the guest, "You one of those other Guardians? From that other dimension... I haven't seen ya before. I love your vibes!".

[echidna-enquiries]

Marcello watched the ghost curiously, watching his body language as closely as he could. What was he trying to say?

"Two fingers-Okay two words!... uhh". He watched more, seeing him point to his eyes then to the moon his painter. "Mooneyes? Moonshade? Moonwatch-Am I getting close?!", Marcello asked awkwardly, charades was not always his strong suite. When he noticed the spirit Guardian going to a photo, then try and say something again. This one was much easier to click, "Oh! You're the second eldest too huh? Hahaha! What a coinkidink!", he giggled.

A spectral figure of an Sci-fi enamored echidna floats around the base. Phasing through walls unnoticed, he looks around the foreign space in awe and wonderment. Stopping dead in his tracks as he stumbled into a space themed room. Immediately floating inside in excitement he spots the Guardian known as Marcello.     

Moonwatcher: 👋😎 😁✨

In his colourful, celestial themed room, Marcello was painting. He enjoyed painting with watercolours, particularly sky pieces. He had been doing a fantastical space piece, with mixes of greens, blues and purples, but when he sensed some sort of presence. He turned his attention away.

At the sight of a seemingly ghostly echidna, he jumped for a second, but quickly smiled in response to this friendly attitude. "Hi there!", he grinned, giving a wave back at the guest, "You one of those other Guardians? From that other dimension... I haven't seen ya before. I love your vibes!".

[tired-old-men]

Thunderhawk chuckles, giving a big grin to the pair.

"Well that is just wonderful to hear really! I love that you all try to accommodate for each other to spend some time together as a family. I truly appreciate both of your insights, really warms my heart to hear!

Our family can be quite different, I do try to keep it a habit that we share meals together, and often we will even plan a big meal we all partake in. We'll all bring something to the table and share almost like a potluck of sorts. It's a nice way for us to get to spend time together and get our minds off work. Usually we'll rotate around our times off to keep our guard but also allow us some time for ourselves. As you might know living and working around each other constantly, sometimes we just need to reset and have some time for ourselves too.

But it doesn't mean we don't do things together from time to time. I know father loves to go hiking so we'll plan to go on camping trips. I'll usually be the one that likes spending time together, so I'll rope the boys into a game night or a group activity for fun, even Grandfather Spectre is usually the first onboard on whatever I have planned to get us together.

I wish that my family were closer in away, but when growing up in a mostly all male household that values stoicism... Old habits tend to die hard... But I've seen positive change in my family over the years so I feel we just grow closer to each other in our own perhaps strange ways. I love my family more than anything and I'd do anything to preserve our kinship, not as Guardians but as a family."

Thunderhawk smiles, his tail even giving a bit of a wag.

Thunderhawk approaches this family of Guardians curiously, sporting an excited demeanor. “Hello there Guardians! I’ve heard lots from Iris and even Fae about you all. I’m curious, do you all do anything fun together as a family beyond the usual Guardian duties?”  

Marcello: (grins widely) Oh I'm SO glad you asked! (his tail gives an excited wag) We actually try to have meals together, a few times a week at the very least. It's mostly at dinner, it's actually quite successful. It cuts down on how many of us have to cook individually, cuts down on too many leftovers in the fridge, and it's just nice to be able to sit together like a family. STRICTLY no work talk at the table, that's the one rule. (he laughs)

Johnathan: (Quickly pokes his head in) I like to try to have movie nights with the family, or even try to watch shows together, it's a lot of fun, although it's never everyone... kinda impossible to get somethign EVERYONE likes BUT it's still great with a good chunk of us. I even manage to get Shepherd on board occasionally... although his movie tastes are a bit too intense for everyone.... (nervously laughs)

Marcello: Oh! and game nights too! We'll change between trying those video games that Lance tries to recommend or the classic board games. Morgan likes to try these sort of roleplaying dice games. I've gotten sucked in quite a few times! (chuckles)

Johnathan: And some of us like to try and go on outings together, like Seth will into the city quite a lot and he usually is happy to go alone but he's always happy if someone wants to come with him, and some of the others do.

Marcello: And last thing that came to mind, they're rare but if we CAN we actually really enjoy having at least a vacation day where we can just have a break from work. They're really hard to get by though. Johnathan: Yeah... (Looks sad for a moment, pouting but perks up after a moment) Remember the last one we went to?

Marcello: Ah yeah, we went to a beach off island. It was SO nice. Everyone had a nice time... well, a least most of us.

Johnathan: Aw, the less outdoorsy ones found a way to enjoy it, remember the boardwalk? We didn't force them outside for long.

Marcello: Yeah... Agh, sorry! We're rambling! (he laughs) But yeah, we really do try to do stuff together. Not force it mind you, we all still do live together and work together but... we want to still try and have moments where we can bond and feel like a family. : D