#cross cuddlefish

[dreamseersystem]

Haaaai :3

Omg that is so cute! Look at the cute little cuddlefish mer! This is so precious!

[ancha-aus]

SansNautica Sneak Peak - The Selkie and the Shiver

here is a tiny drabble from the gangs point of view :3 @0p1er0 because you wanted a tag when i did these lmao

*--------------*

Horror watches as pup looks around anxiously.

Killer looks amused as he circles the cuddlefish “It is okay Crossy! We will find your little friend.”

Cross just looks more stressed “This isn’t funny Killer! He is not a strong swimmer and now everything is even more aggressive with it being their mating season. The reapers normal mating area was ruined by that big ship. They will move more into the shallows to do their own nesting and I don’t want Little Flippers to get caught by surprise by that!” Cross wriggles his hands together as his tentacles lash around anxiously.

Horror goes to his mates side and nuzzles him “We will find him. If he managed to make it this far he will be okay for the day it took for you to get us and for us to start searching.”

Cross looks unsure as he rubs his hands. Horror understands of course. If Cross is right about what he think happened to the other it would bring back a lot of bad and traumatic memories for Cross. Horror is so proud of him for being able to push through all that hurt and be willing to help the other.

Dust yawns as he lounges on a ledge “We can split up. Search the area near the surface. I doubt he will want to go deep if he is a bad swimmer and with fish being more aggressive.”

With the plan laid out they get to work. Horror makes sure to check each cave system. He himself knows better than to go into them but if the other really doesn’t know this planet he may think it is safe and get cornered.

Horror makes sure to keep his eye out. He needs to be alert and-

There!

Horror sees a strange kinda land dweller form shoot out from a cave with a crashfish hot on his trail. Horror rushes over and hits the crashfish with his tail before it can explodes on little flippers.

At least Horror assumes this is him.

Horror nears him but he can see that maybe Little Flipper leans back a bit. Horror watches as the other starts to sink. It is clear the other is cautious about him but Horror thinks this is him.

“Are you okay?” Horror tries as he keeps his distance.

That is when Horror sees pup rush over “You found him! Oh Horror thank you!” he focusses on the other and looks so happy at him. Cross reaches for the other’s head but pulls his ahdns back quickly as he looks slightly embarrassed “Sorry. I just… sorry.”

Little Flipper looks slightly in his direction. Maybe to see if it is really okay? To see if he is really safe? But then he removes the little head part of his skin. Maybe pup had a point with him being a weird selkie of some kind.

Cross looks so happy as he speaks “Oh you are okay! I was so worried. Don’t just swim off okay? I may not look the part but I can protect you just fine.” Little Flipper seems happy with Cross’s happiness as the other seems to laugh soundlessly.

Right… Cross mentioned that Little Flipper may have been forced to adapt to land… leaving him unable to fully communicate in the water.

Horror notices of course when hie other two mates join him. The three of them watch Cross happily interact with the other.

Dust hums and mutters “I can see why Cross calls him Little Flipper. Guy is tiny.”

Killer snorts “For real. He is even tinier than you Dusty.” And he grins as Dust sends him a glare.

Horror just watches their mate interact with his new chosen as Cross starts to nudge and guide Little Flipper towards them. Little Flipper looks at them but looks shocked as his eyes shoot between all three of them. He has very large sockets and his face is very expressive. Maybe this won’t be too hard to manage without communication after all.

There is caution but mostly there is curiosity on his face. He studies their tails and it is clear he is more intrigued than actually worried. Horror also gets why Cross is worried about Little Flippers now. The little guy may not have nay survival instincts after whatever happened to him.

Cross looks so excited “Guys. I assume you figured it out but this is Little Flippers!” he looks so proud of himself.

Dust snorts “We figured. And he is little alright.”

Killer laughs “A little cutie! I can’t believe you were going to keep him hidden.”

Cross sputters “I wasn’t! I was just going to make sure he was a bit more comfortable first.”

Horror hums and shoots Killer a look “Be nice. Don’t be too much.”

Killer pouts but before he can answer Little Flippers raises a hand and gives it a little wave. Very friendly and curious than. Smart enough to figure out he is being introduced and is trying his best to go along with it.

Cross then looks at Little Flippers and waves at the cave. Trying to understand why Little Flipper would risk something like that.

Little Flippers frowns as he seems to think and look around. Probably trying to look for a way to get his own message across. He ends up pointing to some fish stalkers off in the distance doing their complex half fighting half dancing mating ritual before he points at the one of the normal egg nests for some rabbit rays and lastly he points at the cave. Looking very satisfied with himself.

Horror frowns as Killer speaks up with a snort “He can’t possibly be confusing fish mating season with his own? That is so stupid.”

Dust disagrees with a shake of his skull “I don’t think it is stupid. If Cross is right about him still having to learn everything concerning himself. It isn’t weird to look at other sea creatures and just copy what they are doing. To get a general feel for it.”

Cross looks nervous “So he is nesting? Without realising what it means of includes?”

Dust shrugs “Not exactly nesting. He is just imitating the other fish I think. But I am not sure.”

Killer frowns “Then we should stop him right?”

Horror frowns and speaks slowly “No… I don’t think it is a good idea to stop it… He is learning about himself and his instincts. If his instincts are telling him to hide and nest because o the other fish it is best to just let him experience it… And to make sure he doesn’t go anywhere near others who could hurt him while his instincts are fragile and he is learning.”

Cross looks excited “Then we help him! we can find him a safe spot and get him comfortable. Help teach him what to do when he feels this way!”

Killer snorts and looks amused “You just want to sneak in some courting and wooing while you can.” Cross looks embarrassed but doesn’t go against it.

With their plan made they look around thinking and muttering about possible places. It is Dust who reminds them that there are always caves in the kelp forest that aren’t used as the stalkers themselves prefer nests out of the open and nothing goes there as the stalkers are territorial.

Horror watches Killer swim near Little Flippers and touch the thing attached to his back. Little Flippers turns quickly and looks unhappily at Killer.

Cross notices and rushes over “Killer don’t do that! He needs that to swim and he may be hurt!” Killer shurgs with a grin before nuzzling Cross’s chin and circles him as he keeps giving Cross nuzzles. Then Killer makes his circle include Little Flippers and pushes the tiny being near Cross. Cross yelps and quickly snatches him and stabilises him before glaring at Killer “Killer!! What did I just say?!” Cross then is quick to check Little Flippers.

When they are side by side it is so obvious that Little Flipeprs is well... little. His skull is much smaller than Cross’s and the length of his arms are shorter. Horror isn’t sure how big the other’s ribcage is and he doubts he will feel safe enough soon to show his complete landdweller form like other selkies can. But Horror can only guess that if he wear a mer like them he would be at most half of Horror’s size…

Little Flipper looks at Cross and gives him a signal with his hands and a smile. Maybe to show he is fine? He doesn’t seem hurt or bothered. Cross shoots Killer one more warning look but Killer looks smug as he relaxes back.

One of the stalkers growls in the distance and they can see Little Flipper tense up and look around anxious.

Little Flipper pushes off of Cross and uses his shoulders to get higher in the water as the little tool on his back starts working. Dust is luckily fast as he just gets near the other and takes hold of him and tugs him into the kelp forest.

Cross looks panicked but relaxes as soon as he sees that it is Dust who has their little future mate.

They all follow Dust’s lead as Dust knows these areas best from his own exploration. Little Flippers can’t really keep up but that is why they just keep him with them. Easy enough and he seems excited about it as he watches how their tails move and how easily they swim. Horror wonders if the other knows what he misses or what those people have done to him by forcing him to adapt…

Dust finds them a few options and they check them out critically before settling on a bit of a bigger one. Mostly because they need to all fit to be able to work.

Cross finishes his inspection and nods happily. Seems like they found a place that Cross finds up to standards for his little friend. Cross is the one who gets Little Flippers inside. He seems to look around and like it well enough even if he looks a bit unsure.

Well Little Flipper had been nervous in the kelp forest with all the stalkers nearby but they will just have to make sure he knows he is safe. He lets himself sink to the sea floor and stands on his legs.

Cross swims over and smiles “And? Do you think this will work for your nest?” and he waits.

Little Flippers looks around the cave again before giving a tiny sweet smile and nods. Clearly understanding what they had been doing for him or at least getting it enough to accept.

Cross looks so excited and Horror can see he is close to nuzzling Little Flippers before stopping himself. Then he goes to them and nods “Okay! He accepted this place. Lets get to work.”

Killer grins and stretches “I will get some pretty things and some plants to light this place up when it is night. We don’t know his night vision situation.” And he rushes out.

Dust yawns “Will get stuff for nest.” And he gets ready to leave.

Cross shouts after him “Not just metal scrap! Also kelp!” he gets a confirmation back.

Horror smiles at Cross and nuzzles him “I will get food. You get started with the nest and keep Little Flippers company?” Cross looks so relieved and nods.

Horror gives him another nuzzle and swims off. There had been something worrying him. Little Flipper seemed vulnerable and fragile. Just looking at him and Horror got the feeling he could he hurt easily. Which makes him worry about the illness that the visitors from long ago left for them to deal with.

Horror searches the area and sees a peeper with the enzyme trail. He quickly catches it.

They have no idea if he is already sick or ate something that has the sickness. Horror hopes that by giving him these they can at least neutralise it or make it not harm him even if he carries it like all of them. Make sure he is okay.

Horror considers how many to get and decides to just keep catching them when he sees them. In the end he has six and he considers if it is enough.

He doubts it is enough for a long time but it should be enough to give him a bit of a boost and nudge his body and health in the right direction.

Horror decides that for now it is enough. They can always catch more of these for him tomorrow. He turns back around and goes back towards the small hidden cave.

Horror makes sure to only get nearer when he knows he isn’t being followed. No need to stress the little nesting selkie out by bringing aggressive predators near.

He gets into the cave and can’t help but smile. Seems like the others already finished the nest and made sure Little Flippers is comfortable in it.

Little Flippers shoots him a curious look while the others all happily greet him. Dust going as far as to give him a greeting nuzzle.

Killer snorts as he tilts his skull “You were in the mood for peepers today?”

Horror shakes his skull as he answers “It are the once with the golden trail. We don’t know how the illness left by the precursors will affect him. Best to give his body and health a tiny boost just in case.”.

Cross nods as Killer looks at him in awe “I hadn’t even thought about that! Good thinking Horror!”

Horror nods before slowly going close to the nest. Trying to make sure he doesn’t trigger any distressed instinct in the other. But Little Flippers just seems curious and watches him go closer.

Once he is right by the nest he offers him one of the good peepers. Little Flippers looks at it before looking back at him. Waiting.

Killer groans “Why isn’t he taking it?”

Horror watches as Little Flippers starts to watch Killer and he makes sure his voice so soft “Because he isn’t used to this Killer. He is still trying to see what he probably can and can’t eat. Don’t be mean to someone who is trying to learn.” His speaking seemed to have caught Little Flipper’s attention as he watches him again.

Eventually Little Flipper ends up taking the peeper. That is good. That is progress.

Horror slowly shows bringing his hands closer to his teeth and biting down on nothing for him. Showing him to eat it.

Little Flipper pulls a face of disgust and tried to give the peeper back to Horror. Horror just pushes it back to Little Flipper. It is his. But this does reinforce that Little Flipper hasn’t been eating the right food. Horror saw those tiny fangs. Not perfect but very much able to bite through raw meat.

Little Flippers looks at the fish with clear distaste before looking at Cross and offering it to him.

Cross looks thorn as he looks at Horror. Horror shakes his skull. Cross sighs before looking back at Little Flippers and pointing between the food and him. Making it clear it is for him.

He even glances at both Dust and Killer but hey make it obvious with their own staring that they expect him to eat it himself.

Little Flipper keeps looking unhappily at the fish. Turning it this and that way to look at it from different angles. A small annoyed little grumble leaves the tiny guy and Horror can’t help but find it adorable.

Eventually he raises it to his teeth and bites into it. The face of discomfort and disgust turns surprised as the exact thing happens that Horror thought would happen. Him being able to easily take a bite and get a piece of meat of the fish. Still he pulls away from the fish and chews the mouthful. The unhappy look turns more surprised as he chews and shallows.

He blinks a few times before staring at the peeper full of shock.

Yeah… Horror gets it. Eating what your body needs when you haven’t been able for a while is unbelievable good.

Little Flippers looks angerly at the fish and mutters some words as a few bubbles of air leaves him. Clearly displeased by the fact the food turned out to be good and feeling betrayed by this change of events.

Killer and Dust start to laugh and chuckle and Horror shoots him a disapproving look “This isn’t funny. He most likely has had anything yet that his body actually needs. Don’t laugh at him.” which just causes them to laugh more even as Cross looks disapproving at them as well.

Then a peeper hits Killer right in the face. Horror turns and sees Little Flippers looking annoyed at Dust and Killer. His arm outstretch to show he threw the fish at them.

Dust looks dumbfounded before his laughing fit just gets worse. Cross sighs but grabs the peeper and brings it back to Little Flippers. After inspecting it Little Flippers keeps eating his first fish.

Horror smiles as he watches the other “I understand why you did it but please don’t throw your food. You need to energy it gives you.” Little Flippers just shrugs as he keeps slowly nibbling. Little Flippers eats just the meat before he moves to throw the only half eaten peeper off to the side but Horror stops him. Pointing at the fish and back at Little Flippers. The other freezes and Horror points at the uneaten organs. The parts of the fish which holds the most of the deeply needed enzyme that Little Flippers need.

Little Flippers looks horrified and shakes his skull again but Horror just nods. Seems like he was with landdwellers. They always throw away parts of the fish or meal that are just fine to eat. Poor guy hadn’t even been allowed to finish the meals he needed. Little Flippers shakes his skull again.

Horror is thinking about what to do when Killer laughs “Tiny picky eater isn’t he?” and he swims over. Little Flippers glares at Killer and aims the half-eaten peeper. Ready to make good on the threat.

Killer snorts and points to the peeper “It is okay little sweety. Just give me it okay?” and he holds out a hand. Little Flippers watches him before first picking up a rock before giving up his weapon. Horror chuckles as he watches Killer look beyond delighted.

“Oh hell yeah little sweetie is a little spitfire!” He holds up the peeper as Little Flippers starts to aim the rock in warning. Killer waits it out and Little Flipper slowly lowers the rock again. The Killer turns to the peeper and digs lightly around and manages to get the stomach out easily enough. Killer grins and holds it out to Little Flipper. Who looks beyond disgusted and shakes his skull stubbornly.

Killer grins as he inches closer “Oh it is okay sweetie.” He coos as he gets nearer “It will be so good for you.” Little Flippers clearly disagrees as he stares with pure disgust.

Killer keeps cooing and trying to encourage the other to take it. Little Flippers shoots Cross a look and Cross looks so guilty as he points between the stomach, Little Flipper and his teeth. “I know you don’t like the idea buddy… but you really need it.” Little Flipper remains stubborn and shakes his skull again.

Killer frowns as he looks at Cross “I don’t think he will take kindly to me force feeding him. Even if it would be better for him to eat this.”

Cross frowns before smiling “Oh I know!” he rushes over and smiles at Little Flippers as he starts pointing at a few things in quick succession. Little Flipper looks considering as he seems to think it over.

Horror shoots Cross a look “What did you say?”

Cross smiles “He has this tool thing that gives him information. I tried to imply that you guys would be fine with him using it in trade for him eating the meal!” he looks relaxed “It is fine. He already used it on me and it doesn’t hurt or harm us in anyway.”

Little Flipper ends up nodding but looks mad about it. Cross is so excited and clearly can’t stop himself as he nuzzles Little Flippers. His whole being purring as he mutters full of praise “Thank you. You are so good. I am so happy you are willing to eat it.” Little Flipper just looks very confused about the affection given to him.

And isn’t that just a sad thought? That he hadn’t just been starved of food but also basic affection? Dust and Killer both seem to agree with him.

Little Flipper pulls out his little tool as Cross smiles “Okay! lets do this! Just hold out an arm.”

Killer blinks but nods “sure.” He swims over and holds out an arm. Blue light comes from the tool and reflects slightly off the bone. Then Little Flipper looks excited at the screen before tilting his little skull.

Killer grins as he holds out the other hand “Your turn little sweety.”

Little Flippers looks so unhappy about this but takes the little ball of nutrients. Then he just pops it in his mouth with a tense face.

Surprise and annoyance on his face. Much like it went with the fish itself.

Killer looks at him sadly but is met with an angry face on Little Flippers face. Killer gets the message however and backs up even if he keeps frowning. Probably finally starting to realise just how little food Little Flipper must have been getting for him to be this surprised by the most basic food source for them.

Horror keeps his voice soft “Hey… it is okay. ready for your next fish?” and he holds out the next peeper. Little Flippers stares at it but takes it and starts eating without complain.

By the time it gets to the insides Little Flippers pauses before moving towards his little hand fins. He nudges the skin and- huh. He undoes the hands?! Showing normal skeleton hands underneath. He can remove different sections of his skin? Horror is intrigued as Little FLippers lays the skin hands on the side of his newly made nest. Then he starts messing with the peeper until the stomach pops out and he eats it whole this time.

After a bit of signing and pointing they manage to make it obvious the eye and pretty much all of the fish is also fine to eat. They do find out that Little Flipper’s teeth aren’t strong enough to crush the bones to eat as well. Horror hopes that with time he recovers enough to gain that strength.

They keep giving him fish as they all relax as Killer gets them their own meal to eat. Little Flippers doesn’t even seem to realise that he is softly purring as his body gets the badly needed nutrients and energy.

By the time that they managed to get Little Flippers to eat the last fish it is already dark and Little Flippers looks kinda dazed and tired. He probably had been swimming looking for a nesting area for a long time before they found him. Maybe he had even been swimming and searching for a safe spot since Cross saw him last.

A small yawn escapes him and Little Flipper seems annoyed before just giving it up as he starts to mess with the tool stuck on his back and-

A click and it is loose.

No! Little Flippers needs that to swim!

He just looks at them confused with the tool in his hands before pointing at the small clips in his skin. Looking completely integrated and part of it and Horror feels sick in his stomach.

Did those… creatures seriously alter his selkie skin? Not just branding it with their sign was enough but also edited it? Horror is happy none on that ship survived. How dare they hurt Little Flipper so much?

Little Flippers puts it to the side of the nest before rolling up and getting comfortable. Horror can see both Dust and Cross look anxious as the little selkie gets comfortable. He very quickly closes his sockets and is asleep within moments.

Safe and sound. Well-fed and comfortable.

Cross looks anxiously at them “What do you guys think? About… what I thought? Do you think? It is like I thought?”

Dust frowns as he thinks “I am not sure… but it fits. His behaviour how he seems surprised to eat things he likes and are tasty. The way he didn’t seem to understand that we were even building the nest. It does seem like something or someone was keeping him from being allowed to use his instincts.”

Killer crosses his arms “He didn’t even want to eat even when he was clearly hungry… like what must happened to cause that? He didn’t even want to try eating the fish… It is like he enver ate fish before.”

Horror hums “Maybe he just never ate it raw before? I know that Farm used to have to cook and make his food. Process it before he could eat it… maybe whoever had him or where he was treated food like that?” it doesn’t make Horror happy. Because it means he still didn’t get what he needed.

Cross frowns as he rubs his hands “So I was right?” he looks close to an anxiety attack.

Dust is quick as he nuzzles him “We don’t know. And we won’t know until we can ask him. Until then we can help him.” then he looks at Cross teasing “You really just want to keep him don’t you?”

Cross looks beyond embarrassed but nods “I like him a lot…”

Killer snorts “I am down. Little spitfire is cute.” As he lounges not in a hurry.

Horror hums “We can ask Nightmare if he can join the group. Maybe ask him to all for Dream.” As Dream had powers to enable landdwellers to communicate underwater he may be able to help Little Flippers as well.

Cross looks hopeful “Maybe they can do what they did for Farm!”

Killer shrugs “Who knows. We can ask.”

Cross looks a lot more relaxed as he lays close to Horror to snuggle for a moment. They will just remain near the other for now until things are a bit calmer. Then they will go back to Nightmare and discuss what they know and think.

Horror is sure they can get this to work.

*--------*

[cas-spirit]

@ancha-aus has been making a Subnautica/UTMV au, and it got me thinking

(This is unrelated to ancha’s au, but she inspired this thinking exercise. Go check out her project!!! It's very interesting.) (Sorry if you don't like getting tagged Ancha)

What species I would give each Sans (I haven’t played below zero yet, so there are only animals from the original)

Classic: Gasopod

~~~They strike me as chill fish

Swap: Rabbit Ray

~~~Vibes

Fell: Biter

~~~It was between Biter and Crashfish, but I don't see Fell as that self destructive

Outer: Ampeel

~~~The white spots at the end of it's spikes makes me think of stars, especially if they were glowing in the dark ocean

Geno: Ghost Ray

~~~It was between Ghost Ray and Jellyray, but Ghost Rays appear in the Lost River, a hard to reach place like the Save Screen is

Ccino: Cuddlefish

~~~A friendly face for a friendly face

Farm: Skyray

~~~These guys are above water animals, so Farm can still do his namesake, probably watching over the farms previous crash survivors left behind

Epic: Warper

~~~These guys scared the shit out of me in my game. But, they're strong and purple

Color: Sea trader Leviathan

~~~He's absorbed six human souls, he can be a leviathan, but Color gives me the vibes of a wanderer, someone who can't stay in one place

Delta: River Prowler

~~~Vibes

Dust: Stalker

~~~Their whole sneaky factor reminds me of how Dust is normally quite, probably sneaking up on people without meaning to

Horror: Sand shark

~~~Exploding out of the ground makes me think of Horror and I can't explain why

Killer: Bone shark

~~~These guys are very persistent, almost followed me back to my base in my game

Cross: Crabsquid

~~~Apparently you can hatch these guys to guard your base? Literal guard behavior

Nightmare: Sea Dragon leviathan

Dream: Sea Emperor leviathan

~~~The difference between Dream being more of a peacekeeper/passive while Nightmare won't take shit/is more aggressive

Ink: Reefback OR Sea Dragon leviathan

~~~He plants multicolored coral on his back to look colorful OR being the one Leviathan with arm/hand adjacent limbs would be helpful for creating things

Error: Reaper leviathan

~~~Had to make him the most aggressive Leviathan

Reaper: Ghost leviathan

~~~While it was tempting to make him a reaper leviathan, he's not that aggressive. The Ghost leviathan's glow gives it an otherworldly feel, which I think matches the god of death.

(Bonus) Passive: Mesmer

~~~Vibes

[zephyrtheoctopie]

The 'she's ny better half!' immediately followed by 'she's like a sister to me' took me out, good lord

This did spark some questions though!! Most importantly, makes me wonder how all these little guys feel upon seeing each other at the surface - 8 and Marina's relationship post-lobotomy in particular intrigues me!

I’m happy to answer, but there might be a few typos (as I’ve just woken up lol)

They all actually didn’t get to fully re-unite again untill after Side Order.

I’ll just go over everything but to the end of OE for now.

The first out of the Octoposse to reunite on the surface was, surprisingly, Marina, Warabi, and Paul. They all were both surprised, yet happy to see eachother nonetheless. A bit on the uneventful side…

Then comes Madoko and Baia.

Their meeting was not on as friendly terms as the others was. See, this meeting had come after a year of Madoko trying to track Baia down. She had become aware of the fact that Baia had become Agent 3 after years of sightings and rumor. What was once solely anger at the inklings , became anger at Baia over willingly allowing himself to become such a puppet for the inklings.

But at long last, they had finally met at the Octo Vally/Inkopolis Plaza border.

A bitter fight ensued. Hell, Madoko was winning the fight at that, having straight up knocked Baia out. But just as she was about to make off with his unconscious body back to the valley, she was taken out too, struck by an unknown figure. Both were dragged through a grate into the unknown depths…

And this segways straight into Octo Expansion.

Madoko awakens on the cold ground with no memories of who she was, no memories at all actually. Not even her own name.

She’s left to traverse the dark metro completely alone (as I’ve written cuttlefish completely out of this part), where she comes arias the telephone. She’s given the whole rundown about the place yada yada, she’s given a CQ-80 and sent off on her merry way..

Eventually though she does end up meeting cuddlefish, and the two pair up to get the hell out of here.

This leads to when the two accidentally contact Pearl and Marina. Madoko doesn’t recognize Marina yet. But Marina sure does recognize her.

In the chatrooms, Marina asks Cap’n for the story about how Madoko had gotten down there (feeling as though he knew some of the story). Upon hearing about the fight at the border, she couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of guilt. The fact that she was trying to cross the border to find her and all the others. The fact that Madoko thought she had been abandoned (which really, she kinda had been) because of her and all the others.

Meanwhile as Madoko progressed through the tests and gained Memcakes, she slowly began regaining slithers of her memory.

As she began remembering fragments of herself and her relationships, she slowly began falling back in love with Marina, just like she had when they first met, while also becoming deeply jealous of the relationship ‘Rina and Pearl had together. Once again she was being one-upped by someone. And once again, she would feel nothing but heartbreak.

This can’t be how the story ends again.

No..

First it was Acht. It didn’t sting as much since at least ‘Rina was in love with another octoling.

But an inkling? An inkling that just a knockoff of her nonetheles? That’s cold, ‘Rina.

But two can play it that game. Gone was her blissful unawareness turned hopeless romantic demeanor. Madoko was now slowly going back to being that heartbroken, abandoned soldier again. And she wasn’t shy to show her disdain towards both Marina and Pearl any chance she could, to the point where she almost refused to escape the metro at one point.

But the ironic part?

Marina didn’t even know why she was acting this way again. Because, like last time

She didn’t even know Madoko was in love with her.

Ouch.

Unfortunately that’s what a lack of communication does. It leaves both parties confused and on bad terms.

After Octo Expansion, Madoko decides not to make her home in Inkopolis, still feeling particularly burned by everything that happened. And well, nobody knew where the fuck Mizuta was. So, the Octoposse was still splintered.

But the members that were together (Baia. Marina, Warabi and Paul) all became close friends again.

And that about wraps it up for all I have wrote about that subject!

I feel like this could be shortened a fair bit, but I kinda just wanted to brain dump a little.

Thanks for the ask ^^

[xspiderfanx]

as a guy myself, if a lady I was on a date with started telling me about sea creatures, I would 100% be listening. I would call back. I would go on aquarium dates with her. get her gifts that relate to her interest like... a plush shark. a dolphin necklace. maybe for whatever holiday she celebrates (unless she doesn't celebrate any holidays which I would also be supportive of obvi) or her birthday, I'd give her this bracelet I made with sea creatures on it.

if a woman who's that in love with marine biology were in love with me, I'd treat her right and love her with all my heart. and then if she wanted us to get married I'd propose with one of my late mom's rings, most likely a sapphire one since the blue would be reminiscent of the ocean. I'd call her my little cuddlefish, or my sweet mermaid (unless she doesn't like the nicknames) and I would share my seashell collection with her. I have a very large collection of seashells. it started as my mom's small collection of shells and when she left it to me I started to add to it every time I went to the beach. my shells are very important to me and I only share them with people who are really important to me. and a woman that wonderful would definitely be that important to me. I would make origami sea creatures for her. I would tell her my own facts about sea creatures (granted, much of what I know, I learned from Octonauts and Animal Crossing, but still). and if we did end up getting married, I'd offer to have it ocean themed. lots of decor in varying shades of blue, maybe some decor that looks like coral, maybe an aquarium would allow us to have the wedding there... and of course there'd be seafood (as well as other options in case someone among her friends and family has allergies, of course). the cake would be ocean themed and have little fishies on it in frosting and/or fondant. maybe if she likes puns I could ask the cake people to write "best fishes!" somewhere, or something like "I shore landed a reel catch!"

[spacexseven]

mmmmm thought dump about what the bsd mers look/act like ahead.

I think DAZAI is an eel type thing. fitting, in my opinion. slippery bastard. some of the most AWFUL looking teeth you have EVER seen in your ENTIRE LIFE. super long tail, much longer than you think he really has any right to have, and certainly long enough to wrap neatly around your little vessel, the strength of the appendage bringing you to a full stop. what? did you think you had permission to cross over HIS waters without paying the toll? silly, he'll have to teach you how show some proper respect to a creature such as him. (the toll is kisses and attention for as long as he decides he wants to hold you there) he's also a LAZY fishy. just kinda sits around on the bottom of the sea, hidden in his little cave dwelling, waiting for his food to come to him. hes the same way with you, as well. just kinda lays around bored on the rocks until he spots you. after that is kinda up to his whims. he might be nice and just wanna snuggle up (insert cuddlefish pun) or he could want to use his giant tail to fling you full force into the water and use you like a pool toy for the day. who knows. CHUUYA is a pretty standard Pretty Mermaid (I think hes got a green tail), at least on the surface. unlike dazais permanent monsters state, chuuyas horrible sharp teeth and claws and actually either retractable or entirely unnoticeable if hes got you stuck in one of his songs. despite his elegant appearance, he's an AGGRESSIVE hunter among sirens, only really outclassed by his sharky friend akutagawa (who mostly just hunts any creature that he sees, when chuuya and his ilk will opt for humans). speaking of AKUTAGAWA. shark! SHARP teeth. absolutely COVERED in scars from fights with other merpeople (that he ALWAYS WINS thank you very much) and overall is really only outdone by dazai in terms of how unsettling he looks. but also like sharks, he can actually be pretty docile when hes in the mood, even willing to let you pet his head if you bribe him with enough fish. I keep trying to come up with something interesting for FYODOR but my brain just screams FYODOR AS URSULA THE SEA WITCH and now I can't unsee it. imagine it. you see this outwardly beautiful merperson perched on the rocks with his many tentacles, beckoning you over (maybe even using his own singing spell to get you nice and relaxed). oh, dont mind all the appendages dear, sure he might look a bit frightening, but hes a nice fish, really! who could ever harm a poor little downtrodden human like you :( so soft and squishy and vulnerable like that, not him that's for sure! certainly, you have something you wish for? well he can help you! for a small fee.

- 🩹

oh my god i really wanted to get to this sooner but classes were So hectic im here now tho and ready to feast

cw: yandere characters, obsessive behavior, general mentions of consuming humans, sharp teeth/fangs/claws, mention of tentacles, jealousy

eel dazai agreed!! something. Not very appealing probably i'm thinking very beautiful colored scales though !!! actually about the lazing around thing dazai just doesn't need to put effort into hunting for food, there's always just some silly little something floating right into his waters and he can just eat away. he's not picky. now normally a human in his waters just means another meal, but you kind of grow on him, with your fascination and gullibility and sympathy. it helps that you're a lot smaller (he's huge okay) than him and you've got that strange sort of fragility humans have. something about the way you show your emotions so easily, the lack of claws and fangs, the soft grip when you touch him. you're too easy to like. he's super super super clingy and whiny (after the whole i-will-eat-you thing dies off a little. he doesn't stop threatening you but the chances of him acting on his impulses lessen considerably and he genuinely likes you by now) and gets jealous over everything. ask him about other mers and he might blow a fuse. if he had things his way (and if humans weren't so useless) he would just drag you down to his cave and happily stay there forever, but he needs to let you go back to your land-home and wait for you to return every day, for now. until he figures out a solution for that.

chuuya is not standard mermaid excuse you, he's gorgeous and the best in every aspect of his life. a green tail would go great with his hair right hmm i'll leave that up to your interpretation for now. but the thing about his claws being retractable! yes! he's good at hiding things like that, but not with his fangs. there was to be something that gives away his appearance, right? he's usually careful about his mouth when charming humans, but to his surprise, you're not at all taken by his appearance. even when he snarls, frustrated by your lack of reaction, you don't look disgusted, or frightened. just...unbothered. so you don't find him irresistible or terrifying? he'll disappear, swearing to win you over somehow.

i don't really have anything to add on to the akutagawa part i think you've got him spot on with the scars and the fighting everything he sees. he's actually really easy to handle if you just earn his trust with a lot of patience and resolve!! he's only super aggressive because he has to be to survive, but if you don't pose a threat, he'll have no reason to be like that with you.

uhm. so tentacles. i have a weird relationship with them in general so i won't be elaborating here!! i just don't see the appeal unfortunately they really. gross me out (i'm sorry i really can't even picture that without wanting to die) but sea witch fyodor sounds great he's kinda flexible like that he can really be anything i think siren, witch, sailor you name it he can do it

[new-squidbese-fattoon]

One name: Four.

Four was back with her bizarre antics. This time Eight got herself caught in the cross fire. A particular ink drenched Eight down to her heels. Goodness she wasn't hurt at all though her hips and chest felt a little bit off. Eight didn't think much of it.

Alas she wasn't aware of what addictive was mixed in. Washed up and in a new set of gear she made her way back to Cuddlefish cabin.

"Augh, geez." Eight rubbed her back in an attempt to ease the soreness.

[@new-squidmass-fattoon]

And to probably some surprise or no surprise at all, Agent 3 was there herself; Having finished up a recent patrol mission she was sent on to check up on the Octarian menace. With how often she was in either Octo Canyon or Octo Valley with these patrolling missions, one would think that she literally lived in one of the two Cuttlefish Cabins stationed in both sectors instead of that apartment of hers near Deca Tower - the closest location between the sewer grate that led to Octo Valley and the sewer grate that led to Octo Canyon.

"You looked pretty sore for someone who wasn't on a mission like I just finished up." Agent 3 pointed out.

[dancingbabya-notes]

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Master list

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LAST UPDATED: May. 6. 24

In case you're looking for something specific you'll find it here. unless I forgot to update this.

Multi posts

December time: 1 •-• 2 •-• 3 •-• 4 •-• 5

Salt, sugar, and Bittersweet: 1 •-• 2 •-• 3 •-• 4

Summer Windows (22): 1 •-• 2 •-• 3 •-• 4 •-• 5 •-• 6 •-• 7 •-• 8 •-• 9 •-• 10 •-• 11 •-• 12 •-• 13 •-• 14 •-• 15

Bitter or Sweet (24): 1 •-• 2 •-• 3 •-• 4 •-• 5

Summer Mirrors (24): 1 •-• 2 •-• 3 •-• 4 •-• 5 •-• 6 •-• 7 •-• 8 •-• 9 •-• 10 •-• 11 •-• 12

Jokes: "I love someone else"

Feelings: "Do you love me?" •-• Your scars are beautiful

in my defense...

Their name for you

<-♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡ —♡—♡—♡—♡—♡—♡ ->

Mini competed Fics

Aizawa

Don't want to be a burden ♡

Bakugo

Kisses Prohibited ♡ Stuck together: Part 1 - Part2 You Think Like me ♡ Wooing a Bakugo ♡ Little 'Human' King: Part 1 - Part 2 ♢

Kirishima

Lava Rocks ♡

Kaminari

Dragonborn so that's how it works? ♢(This one is actually pretty long)

Midoriya

I have questions ♤ So I found an egg... ♢

Todoroki

Divine Zero ♢ I didn't want to... at first ♡

Homestuck

Cuddlefish ♡ (Meenah)

DC!Comics

Nothing is right with you ♡ (Roy Harper)

<-❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀->

Out of tumblr

Wattpad

Falling for Naruto (Modified version inprogress) Naruto obviously Repairing the broken heart (Rework in progress) Shikamaru Heir of importance (Still in progress) Kiba Oneshot collection

AO3

Not all birds are meant to fly (inprogress and dark fic) Batman Descent (WIP) MHA x Genshin Bakugo Pouring Salt (WIP)

<-❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀—❀->

Incomplete/ abandoned fics

Here lie all the fics I started and have lost the passion to finish, if I do finish them it'll be a miracle

BNHA

Forget to Forget ♧♤ (Bakugo) Time based Shenanigans ♧ (Bakugo) Here we are ♧ (Dabi/Touya) Watts the date? ♧ (Kaminari) Electric connection ♧ (Kaminari) Little Engineer ♧ (Kirishima) Cafe Cat-tastrophe ♧ (Shinso) Cultural festival ♧ (Tokoyami) What's a relationship? ♧ (Toshinori/allmight)

HOMESTUCK

Too Helpful ♧ (Gamzee) Scarred Troubles ♧ (Dualscar) From Princess to crown ♧ (Kurloz)

Key for the dividers in case you're curious

•—• General Muti character dialogue prompts or posts

♡—♡ One-shots, or multi chapter one character x oc/reader (completed)

♤—♤ Angst

♢—♢ Fantasy

♧—♧ Incomplete

❀—❀ Fluff/valentines

♤—♧ Mixed (Incomplete angst)

‡—‡ Cross overs

[daadddysprincessss]

that’s impossible (this is a repost from my old blog)

pairings: y/n x jim mason x stepbro michael langdon

summary: you’ve been having weird, even daring dream about your stepbrother michael, but how could you think this way when your madly in love with Jim Mason ...? maybe it was the way michael made you feel - constantly on the edge of your seat and stressed ? or maybe it’s the way his eye dragged you in wanting more ??

little things: anything in italic is dreams !

warnings: stepbrother (which IS NOT related by blood)

i think im in love with my stepbro,

‘no, im in love with jim mason’ - you cant tell me otherwise i spoke to myself softly.

‘Eventually everything fades, even the brightest colours turns to grey’ - jims name melted into michael - but how?  you loved everything about jim - those ocean blue eyes that pull you into the deep end, his soft smile that makes you feel an instant comfort, and his hair - ugh those soft chocolate brown curls, his hair always smelt like salt water; but then there was his darkside, everything you hated but learned to love. tell me how michael crept into my mind, hes just such - ugh an arrogant asshole, the way he struts around the house thinking he owned the place, and the way hed deepen his eyes when you were talking to him - making it seem as if you owed him something, but then his blonde shaggy hair - you would think he was a laid back surfer, but no he was a douchey little fuck boy who would use any girl in a heart beat. michael did have a soft side (somewhat) - like at dinner with your parents he was so sweet with the soft glances and cheerful smiles - WHY AM I THINKING ABOUT MICHAEL HES YOUR STEPBROTHER YOU NEED TO STOP

“fuck fuck fuck” you screamed into your pillow - you were stressed and upset with yourself. “i cant do this anymore - i just cant.”

“cant do what?” Michael laughed - when the fuck did he get here - his tall lean body was leaning against your door frame with his arms crossed -

“excuse me? why would you even come in here?” you spat at him

“you sounded upset and it seemed funny” he smiled - 

ugh that devilish grin, yet it was so fucking hot - “its not funny but thanks, can you just fuck off please” you stood up and shot towards the door - you lifted your hand to slam the door but michael grabbed your wrist -

“now now, dont make daddy discipline you” michael snarled at you - his grip tightened on your hand 

“let go -” you pulled your hand away and rubbed your wrist - “goodbye michael” - you spoke sharply before slamming the door.

you grunted loudly and spun around - “boo” michael laughed in your face when you turned around

“HOW-” michaels lips collided with yours - 

“y/n” your mum touch your shoulder softly - “your gonna be late for your first day of college - come on, wake up sweetie”

your eyes shot open as your heart raced “what the fuck” you said breathlessly - “it was a dream?” you spoke softly

“what was a dream sweetheart” Michael stood at your door eyeing you up as your mum walked past him 

“nothing - please leave michael.” you shot out of bed and slammed the door. your heart was pounding, you were sweating “disgusting” you spoke softly to yourself. *buzz buzz* your phone light up - “jim!” you ran over to your phone 

“jimmy” you practically yelled

“cuddlefish - are you still able to pick me up for class, i was just getting worried cause i havent heard from you yet.” 

“fuck what time is it ?” you looked at your screen “we have 30 minutes jimmy, lots of time” - 

“haha okay, ill be waiting for you babe” 

“love youuuuuu” you sang to jim - you quickly hung up the phone and got ready. you grabbed jims hoodie and threw it on with your favourite pair of shorts - your hair was thrown into a messy yet slightly styled bun. you quickly ran down the stairs grabbed your bag with your books and headed out the door - there he was- “what do you want michael”

there he stood, tall, lean, shaggy golden blonde hair - he was in your favourite pair of skinny jeans he owned - ‘god he looked so good’ - “what ?? i cant tell my favourite step sister to have a good first day of college” his voice was laid back - it didnt sound like him.

“im gonna be late - but thanks” you shrugged him off 

“ill be quick then - since were going to the same place mind if i catch a ride?” he smiled from ear to ear - ‘ugh those pearly white teeth, and his perfect smile’

“uh - sure i guess, but were picking up jimmy and he gets front seat” you rolled your eyes

“thanks sis” michael laughed as he was already throwing his bags in the back seat beside him.

[brandstifter-sys]

Carry On

Five Times Remus Swept Virgil Off His Feet (and One Time Virgil Returned the Favor)

That's a FOB title if I ever saw one

Word Count: 2927                          (Ao3)

Characters: all sides

Pairing: Dukexiety

Rating: T

Warnings: self-doubt, sex mention, swearing, mild gore mention, undertale references, dc comics references, charlie the unicorn references

inspired by @sanders-sides-uncorrect-quotes‘ post linked here

One…

Sans. Virgil truly hated this battle, but he was set on finishing this run to get to the true ending the next time around. Too bad he was getting his ass handed to him by a punny pile of bones!

He growled to himself as his fingers frantically danced over the keys. He didn't care if anyone came into the common area while he was there, he couldn't afford the stress from his room and everyone knew to stay away from him or else.

Remus was not one of those sides who did what he was supposed to do all the time. So when he popped up in the common area, he didn't think twice about lounging on the couch next to his favorite emo.

"Oh come on!" Virgil snapped at his computer as he lost again. He clawed at his hair and let out a long, agonized groan before flopping back on the couch. His hands were shaking and his heart was racing. He was one more loss away from committing murder.

"Uh oh!" Remus giggled and got up. He closed the laptop and grinned at Virgil as the emo tried to murder him with his eyes.

"What do you want?"

"Me? Well I have to make a delivery to the Grand Duke of the Imagination! And you have what I need!" Remus hummed and wiggled his shoulders. Virgil scowled and crossed his arms.

"What are you talking about?" he huffed, ignoring the mischievous twinkle in Remus' eyes. That was a mistake!

Remus swooped down and scooped him up bridal style, laughing at Virgil flailing in his arms and squawking like a gull. He would never drop him out of nowhere! Silly emo could trust him!

"I'm taking you to the Grand Duke so he can spoil you and cheer you up! By any means necessary!" Remus purred and winked, bringing a delightful blush to Virgil's face.

"What the hell?"

"You are my damsel in distress and I don't even have to slay a monster to make sure you're okay—unless you want me to, there's definitely a monster I want to see, in your—"

"No. I am so done with monsters today. Don't even make that joke. Just do what you were planning," Virgil huffed and averted his gaze, no longer squirming to get away. Remus could live with that as long as he could keep holding this tall drink of water!

Two…

Remus was just polishing his morning star when he decided it was a good time to harass his brother and talk about the only thing they seemed to agree on: butts!

He appeared in the common area to the sound of a Disney movie, it would have been perfect, but Roman was not alone on the couch. Oh no, he could clearly distinguish a mop of purple hair next to the prince’s own preened locks. Neither one seemed to notice the duke looming behind them, which was good. Surprising Roman was way too much fun!

“How can you claim this isn’t romantic and charming?!” Roman grumbled as Prince Philip and Briar Rose began to dance and sing in the forest. Virgil snorted and shook his head.

“There’s nothing more romantic than a total stranger in his 20s swooping in and interrupting a 16 year old girl’s furry fantasy without an introduction or asking,” Virgil droned sarcastically. He snickered at the offended gasp that came out of the prince’s mouth and shifted in his seat.

“You wanna pause this and grab some popcorn? My leg fell asleep.”

Before Roman could move Remus struck.

“Hello there! The angel from my nightmares, the shadow in the background of the morgue!” he sang and scooped Virgil into his arms, twirling around with the brightest grin imaginable. Virgil squeaked and clung to him, more out of surprise than fear. He should have seen it coming.

“I think my point stands,” Roman teased, smirking at the pair like a cheshire cat. Virgil shot him a death glare, daring him to say anything more while Remus giggled impishly between verses.

“Perhaps you should take care of that leg and we can continue later. I would hate to rob you of a moment like this!” the prince continued, making Virgil flush and plot his end. Remus laughed and brushed Roman off.

“Looks like I’m the dashing heroic prince today! Better luck next time Hoe-man!” he sang and sunk out for some much needed cuddles. Roman rolled his eyes, ignoring the sleight in favor of appreciating how cute those two could be. Plus he could rewatch his movie without critique!

Three…

Virgil was exhausted. After a long study session for the next video, making sure that Logan knew his lines and keeping Janus from making them take a break, all he wanted to do was fall into a coma. But he was still in the common area and he would have company if he didn't move, but that meant moving. He drooped, letting his limbs hang off the couch, wishing he had the energy.

That was a mistake, and he knew that he would regret it. Especially when something slimy glided up the back of his hand.

"Gross," he grumbled, not bothering to look at the culprit. Remus giggled and licked his hand again before kissing it. He got off the floor and on one knee, smiling at his emo.

"You know you love me!" he teased and brought Virgil's hand to his lips again, "You're like my personal damsel in distress and I just love saving you and making you feel like a princess!"

"I'm not a damsel, just tired. Can I take a nap in peace?"

"Not out here, Scare Bear! You know it gets crazy with the others around!" Remus giggled and scooped him up without any struggle.

"If you take me to your dungeon to do horrible things to me in my sleep, make sure I have both kidneys intact."

"No promises, Charlie!" Remus teased and resituated Virgil so he could rest his head on his shoulder, "But I can promise you a comfy bed and the best snuggle buddy ever!"

"You're bringing Winary? Hellhounds don't make for great cuddles. They stink of brimstone," Virgil mumbled against his neck.

"Nope! You get to cuddle with a stinky dukey!" Remus countered and walked towards his room with his precious cargo.

"I'd rather cuddle with you," Virge mumbled and curled into Remus' chest.

"But I am a stinky dukey!" he said, fighting back the urge to squeal. Virgil huffed and wrapped his arms around Remus.

"I like your scent. It's comforting, like a puppy that likes mud."

"You Sir are exhausted!" Remus declared, "And you are taking a long nap with me so you can get that snark back!"

"You better be there when I wake up," Virge answered, barely able to keep his eyes open. Remus was happy and he was sure to be there the whole time.

Four...

"Virgil, you can't just call Remus every time something mildly inconvenient happens. He's not your footman," Janus huffed as Virgil curled into himself. He was going to summon Remus for a good reason. It wasn't his fault that the duke showed up every time he stubbed his toe!

"I know that, Snake-face," he huffed, "I don't actually summon him when they happen. He just knows."

"And you do nothing to stop him. It's not good for you to be dependent on him for everything. There's a fine line between self-care and sinking into bad habits."

"I'm not sinking into bad habits, Janus. I'm fine with being toted around if it makes him feel like he's being heroic instead of a villain."

Janus sighed and shook his head. Virgil had a point, Remus needed to feel wanted and needed. And who better to provide that for him than Virgil? Remus adored him!

"And I want him to show up right now," Virgil mumbled and hugged his knees. His skin was crawling and he was freezing. Was it too selfish for him to want to have Remus hold him and keep him close? Was he taking advantage of Remus wanting to be someone's hero? Was he even good enough to get that kind of attention from the duke?

"Remus!" Janus called out, rather than sit by and watch Virgil spiral. He sank out at the same time Remus appeared.

Remus got one look at Virgil and immediately pulled him into his arms. Virgil melted into him and let out a contented sigh.

"Scare Bear!" Remus cheered and spun on his heels, "My spider sense was tingling! What's wrong, Bitter Sweetie?"

"I just need some creature contact," Virgil grumbled, "and you're the most comfortable creature I know."

"So no slaying your demons or disemboweling anyone?" Remus giggled and dropped Virgil on the couch before flopping on him. Virgil shifted and wrapped his arms around Remus' waist.

"Nah, just don't leave. I need a Cuddlefish."

"And you got me for as long you want!" Remus giggled and nestled his head under Virgil's chin.

"You're gonna be here for a while," Virge hummed and soaked in the warmth Remus provided.

"I don't mind," Remus said, "I like it here!" And that was an understatement.

Five…

Remus was just going to the kitchen for a snack—he had some prairie oysters with his name on them! But he paused in the middle of the hallway when he saw Virgil on a step ladder, painting a wrought iron fence mural over his door. He was so focused, so pretty, Remus had to stare.

"You know, creeping on someone who's on a ladder is considered a bad idea."

"Do I look like the guy who has good ideas?"

"No, I should know better, you like me."

"No talking bad about yourself!" Remus growled and loomed closer.

"Oh, that's not what I meant. I mean you like the one guy who can kick your ass and you keep calling him a damsel. Last I checked, I saved you from the Dragon Witch twice this week alone."

"It was hot!" Remus agreed as Virge bent over to get more paint on his brush, carefully holding onto the wall, "But that doesn't mean you can't be a damsel too! You're like Dick Grayson—perfectly capable of kicking ass, but also very much in need of some saving every so often! Plus I think you'd make those shorts look good! Almost as good as I'd look getting into them!" Virgil jolted away from Remus as he was getting up again and lost his balance.

It felt like forever, falling backwards with nothing to grab onto. He was sure the impact would be annoying, but not terrible. If he were any higher up his instincts could have easily taken over and he wouldn't land on his back. But that impact never came. Instead he landed in a pair of strong arms.

"I knew you'd fall for me and my feral mojo!" Remus giggled down at him. Virgil stared at him for a second before swiping his paintbrush over Remus' nose.

"Sure, Puppy, you tell yourself that," Virgil said with a smirk, "It's not at all because you had the audacity to call me Dick Grayson when I'm more of a Jason Todd."

"You're more of a hottie who needs to snuggle with me after that kind of fall!"

"You really need to consider just asking like a normal person," Virgil jeered and kissed his cheek.

"Why would you ever consider that? Boring! You need some excitement in your life and that's where I come in!"

"I thought you came in—"

"Dirty jokes are my job!"

"I thought you came in like Peter Parker on a wrecking ball. Chaotically trying to save me from every mild inconvenience," Virge reiterated and wrapped his arms around Remus' shoulders before kissing his cheek again. Remus was a happy boy.

And then...

It was just perfect! Remus was so excited to finally have a gift for Patton that he would like! He appeared in the common area in the kitchen, just out of sight of the duo watching Looney Toons. Patton and Virgil were in for a treat!

He set Fluffy on the floor and motioned towards the couch. The little thing sprinted off in a pale pink blur and Remus waited for the cooing and squealing from Patton.

His heart shattered when all he heard were horrified screams coming from the father figure. He sank out to his room and fought the urge to cry. Fluffy would be able to get back to the Imagination without him.

Virgil paused the show and watched Patton scoop up the hairless cat with tears in his eyes.

"Look Virgil!" he cheered and held up the cat like she was Simba, "A kitty I can pet!" Virgil blinked twice, confused as to how a cat found her way into the commons. That's when he spotted the green collar around her neck and the silver tag hanging from it.

"Can I keep her Virge?" Patton pleaded as Virgil checked the tag. He had a hunch that Fluffy was meant to be with Patton.

"You're asking me?" he jeered and got up, "Let's find the guy who made her and ask him. I'm pretty sure Remus set her loose to find you."

"Remus? He made this little angel?" Patton gasped and cuddled her to his chest. She purred and kneaded his hoodie, getting him to squeal again.

"I'll go get him, and let you two get to know each other," Virgil said with a half-smile. Patton beamed and him and sat on the couch, cuddling his new best friend. Virgil sank out before the cuteness became sickening.

But any mushy feelings faded when he appeared in Remus' room. Amid the weapon racks and canopic jars, Remus was curled up on his bed, hiding his head between his knees.

"Octopuppy?" Virgil asked softly and sat next to Remus. The duke looked up at him with his makeup running down his cheeks.

"Scare Bear?"

"What's wrong?" he asked and brushed a stray piece of hair from Remus' face. Remus shook his head and let out a ragged sigh.

"I can't make anything good."

"Your dog is not gonna be happy to hear that."

"She's a hellhound with three heads. She's not good or normal. But she's a good girl," Remus grumbled and wiped his eyes. He was not about to cry again. Virgil coaxed Remus into his lap and pressed a kiss to his forehead.

"What makes you think you can't make anything good?"

"I made a cat for Daddykins and I really tried to make her perfect for him. But he screamed at the sight of her. You know, you were there," he pouted and hid his face in Virgil's hoodie. Virgil pouted and held him closer.

"Can I show you something?" he whispered, "Something that can prove you can make something good."

Remus nodded and clung to Virgil as he stood. The emo cradled him to his chest and smiled down at him.

"Looks like you're my damsel this time," he teased and sank out, adoring the blush that crossed Remus' face.

They appeared in the common area kitchen to the sounds of giggles and cooing. Remus looked to Virgil for answers only to get a smirk in return.

"Hey Pat!" Virgil called out and carried Remus into the next room. Patton was curled up in his hoodie, using the string to play with Fluffy. Remus had never seen him so genuinely happy.

"Virge!" he cheered, only to coo at the sight of the gruesome twosome.

"I found Remus, so go ahead and ask."

"Remus, can I keep Fluffy? Please? I'll take good care of her! I promise!"

"I made her for you, so yeah, of course you can," Remus answered, completely stunned. Virgil knew that tone all too well. He had only a matter of seconds before a tsunami of feelings crashed over the duke. He would need cuddles.

"Thank you so much Remus!" Patton squealed and hugged Fluffy, "I'm gonna show her my room!" He sank out, leaving the pair to claim the couch.

"You good, Pup?" Virgil asked and hugged the duke, leaning into the cushions. Remus nodded and nuzzled into his chest.

"Good, because right now you're stuck cuddling with me until my legs fall asleep," Virgil mused and kissed his head. Remus shuddered and his breathing hitched.

"I did good," he whimpered, "I finally did a good and made a good thing."

"Finally? Remus, you make a good thing every day—you make me feel loved. You're my knight in slimy armor."

"That's just cuz I love you."

"I love you too, and I think it's only fair that I get to be your dark knight for a while. Because it's okay to need a little help, even if you don't think you deserve it."

"Who taught you that psychiatry crap?" Remus pouted and hid his face in Virgil's hoodie so no one would see him crying.

"You might know him, he's a wily little imp with a lot of passion, a flair for the dramatic, and macabre tastes. He's a handsome sweetheart and don't even get me started on his butt."

"He sounds like a pain in the neck!" Remus giggled.

"Only if he bites," Virgil snickered, "and he's my hero. So don't you dare try to talk shit about the Grand Duke of the Imagination."

Remus giggled and clung to him. He couldn't ask for a better boyfriend and he was pretty sure he didn't want to either.

[rubiesintherough]

Instructions: Always repost with the rules, answer the 11 random questions left for you and leave 11 more for the people you tag!

TAGGED BY: @moonwoken <3

TAGGING (you don’t have to if you don’t wanna!): @aspcrnamentum  ,  @violencefcrged , @mythvoiced,  @tricksterreformed ,  @jcmesbuckybcrnes ,  @tinymute ,  @wedust   and anybody else who wants to do it!  

QUESTIONS I AM ANSWERING

1. how are things going?

been better, been worse. right now leaning to worse and about ready for them to spring back the other way, ya feel? 

2. if you were someone else’s muse, how would your mun describe you?

quiet, sad, in need of hugs but also a huge nerd and animal lover

3. if you could only recommend me three songs, movies or books to get to know you better, which would they be?

lord h.uron’s ghost on the shore,  abc’s forever, and not a movie, but Ask a Mortician’s yt channel

4. what was it that first inspired you to write? what inspires you today?

needed an escape and figured i wanted to make my own, which led me to the rpc here.   now, its the friends i get to write with here and their fantastic muses. 

5. if you had to put together a team of 5 fictional characters plus yourself to save the world, who would you choose and why?

andy from the old guard bc she’s kickbutt and immortal, amos burton from the expanse bc scary murder teddy bear,  sherlock from the  bbc version bc as much as i’d wanna strangle him he smart as hell, nook from animal crossing so we have someone with us we wont feel bad about sacrificing if need be, and maybe klaus from umbrella academy bc.... first of all i love him and secondly. there is no secondly. thats it.  

6. what is your favorite fictional trope? least favorite?

hurt / comfort, people learning how to cope with their past with the help of others.       ....... kinda dark, but the whole  ‘ redemption for abusers ‘   thing, like the   ‘ forgiveness helps you heal ‘. i hate that. makes my blood boil every time. 

7. what unpopular opinion do you have toward the rpc or tumblr?

i feel like callout culture’s really harmful and unnecessary. if you have an issue with someone, block and move on. no one’s forcing you to interact with them. 

8. if you could spend one day with your main muse (or your muse of choice), what would that be like?

listen. if i spent a day with mahia, it would literally be comprised of me getting as much food into her as i can, stocking her up with supplies, showering her with love and comfort and support.... 

9. if you found yourself in one fictional universe of your choosing, which would it be and why?

sub.nautica.    i know its terrifying, but honestly i love the ocean and the chance to explore an alien world just me, myself, and my cuddlefish??  yes pls. 

10. a character you’ve always wanted to write?

idk. u know me, im not one to hold back when it comes to making muses... 

11. what are five things that spark joy for you?

my fiance  ( when he’s not being a butt ), my cats, crocheting, spoooooky ghost videos on yt, mashed potatoes and gravy. 

MY QUESTIONS FOR YOU

1. if you have pets, what are their names and how are they doing?  2. what song best describes your muse?  ( muse of your choice if a multi ) 3. what’s your favorite urban legend / ghost story?  4. if you could visit anywhere in the world for free, where would it be?  5. what setting is your muse most comfortable in, ie. city, forest, ect?  6. have you drank enough water today?  7. what’s something that always helps brighten your day?  8. favorite snack when watching movies?  9. what’s one headcanon about your muse ( or muse of choice if multi ) that you haven’t shared, yet?  10. can you play an instrument? is there an instrument you want to learn?  11. are you doing okay?

[ancha-aus]

Sansnautica sneak peak - Cuddlefish and the... selkie?

:3 so... i went ham... and look at that...

A drabble :3 Just for you guys :3 sneak peak of Cross and Sans meeting.

POV Cross :D

-----------

Cross looks around nervously.

This seem calm…

But then again there had been an intruder ship again.

Sure it had fallen and crashed but it was also poisoning their world with radiation.

Farm had explained to them what radiation could do. He had been a landdweller back before the floods after all, long before the Precursors even came to this planet. Before Nightmare and Dream gifted him his mer form to be safe in the water.

Cross didn’t like being away from the others. But he was the only one immune to this poison that infected their planet.

And so the only safe option to scout the area to see how bad it had gotten.

His shiver hadn’t wanted him to go but Cross offered. He wanted to do this. He wanted to do this for the very people who saved him from the isolation he had been in. The prison of hibernation he hadn’t been able to escape himself.

The Precursors… XGaster had put him in a hibernation and on ice. Something about his immune system and stuff being helpful.

Cross didn’t care. All he remembers from that time was invasive hands. Of being stuck on cold metal tables. Of knives cutting into him and pain.

When he woke up from another forced sleep he had been met with Dream. Dream looking at him full of worry before Dream brought him out of the partly flooded base.

Cross had been ready to pass out with fear when he saw the gigantic black form of Nightmare. Only for Nightmare to easily take both him and Dream and keep them both safe as he left the area with lava and that disgusting building that had held him prisoner for so so so long.

The world had completely changed since he had been last outside.

At least the shiver was nice. They helped him. The taught him about the world and helped him rediscover old forgotten instincts. Helped him relearn the language of the mers that still sounded like singing to him.

He owned them so much.

The least he can do is swim into this radiation to make sure that it wasn’t getting closer to them or getting worse.

Cross takes a deep breath as he nears the shallows. Time to go to where the ship crashed and reaper territory.

Cross nears the area and waits.

Huh… No poison?

Cross frowns as he speeds of. Easily dodging any of the sand sharks that pop out. Cross makes grins at the sight of them. They remind him of Horror and Horror is such a sweet mate. It makes Cross not worry about the sand sharks at all. He just remembers the way that Horror would lay partly buried in sand as he basks in the sun and warm sand.

Cross grins as he twirls in the sea. Nearing the sight of the disaster and ruined reaper territory.

He manages to get all the way to the ship and frowns. Where is the pressure of the poison? The way it will feel like a sludge over his being? It isn’t here at all?

Cross frowns and makes sure to remain near for a while. Maybe it is one of those slow acting ones?

But nothing happens. No pressure. No weird side effects. No slightly hazy sight.

It is gone.

But how is it gone?

Cross backs up and frowns.

They had already checked the metal shells that had shot off the ship. All of them holding creatures from the ship but none of the surviving for longer than a day or two.

Cross did feel bad about that. Same for the rest of his shiver. They hadn’t wanted to interfere or risk themselves but coming back from checking something else only to find a broken open shell and ruined items? Yeah. Cross doesn’t feel good about it.

Still he frowns as he hears the first reaper. Best to get back to the others now and report that the radiation is gone.

It is good. It means they can all start really searching and investigating the area to make sure nothing is trying to settle or nothing dangerous entered the planet again.

Nightmare said nature was already in a fragile balance after the Precursors infected them with this illness.

Cros is very happy that his shiver seemed immune to it but he had seen the green spots appearing on others and seen them die quickly. The shiver had told him stories about this little group that had crashed here ages ago. How the three had kept moving before one killed a reaper and caused another one to attack their little nest area.

Cross grieved for those in private.

He swims by the shallows when he suddenly freezes.

That…

That is one of those creatures!

Those shell creatures!

Cross knows because he can see the like second skin and the obvious brands on that skin of the symbol of the crashed ones.

The other catches a peeper and turns and stops.

Their face is just a blank sheet and Cross feels very nervous.

They continue the stare at him before slowly starting to move closer and Cross feels himself tense. The other stops and tilts their head slightly. They slowly raise the hand not holding the peeper and Cross gets ready to rush away. But then the other grabs the underside of their own face and just pulls it back and-

It reminds him of when Geno or Blue undoes part of their seal skin to show their landdweller form.

And suddenly there is a skeleton skull staring back at him. Large sockets and soft little pure white eye lights.

Cross swims a little closer as his mind races. There had been mers on that ship? Why? Why would- the brand. The branding on the skin… does… was… are they? Where they like him? Trapped? And the crash knocked something lose?

Is that why Cross only sees them now? Is this the first time this selkie managed to get ot and explore?

Maybe they had their skin hidden away. And they managed to reclaim it before escaping the ship…

Cross’s mind is spinning when the selkie looks at the fish they are holding. They seem to be having trouble with staying afloat. Having to use this tool on their back to propeller upwards before having to keep moving the little flippers to try and stay at least on the same level.

The little selkie offers him the peeper.

Cross feels his soul start to melt. The little guy is trying to share. Poor selkie was probably locked away and it desperately looking for food only to be willing to share… maybe they thing Cross was also a captive?

Cross inches closer. Trying very hard to not seem dangerous to the other.

Cross decides not to go too close and uses his tentacle to take the peeper. The selkie just stares at the limb. So very curious and Cross can see the other’s hand inch towards him before being pulled back.

Cross quickly backs away. He doesn’t want to scare them. This is fragile. They are vulnerable and have no idea what they can eat… Oh! Maybe if Cross shows it is completely fine to eat they will feel more reassured? The selkie tilts their skull at them and Cross quickly looks to the fish and eats it quickly.

Some movement and Cross glances up to see a tiny tiny grin on their face. As soon as they notice him looking they make sure their face is normal again. Cross quickly focusses on the fish. Why aren’t they emoting? Weren’t they allowed to do that? Cross knows that XGaster hated him emoting… maybe this also happened to the other?

Cross finishes the fish and sees that the selkie is still watching him curiously. Cross decides to be a bit bold and swims a few circles around the selkie, going down a bit with him as the other continues to sink slowly.

Cross can see that the other starts to look at his form more curiously and Cross takes the time to study the other. The brands seem fully intergraded into the other’s skin… That can’t be good. He isn’t even sure if Dream would be able to heal this… poor guy… Cross reaches for the brand on one side of him. Were the leg, or well leg-fins? Seem to start. He tries to be gentle as he touches it.

The selkie immediately twists around and backs up a bit. Okay! Oh no! That hurt apparently! Oh Cross feels terrible! He can’t stop the whine as he gives the other more room. He didn’t mean to hurt him… but that this imply that this is a new brand? Or that they were just rebranded?

The selkie looks annoyed and guarded as they cross their arms and frowns at them. Cross feels even worse. He didn’t mean to hurt Little Flippers! He just wanted to make sure it wasn’t hurting him!

The selkie relaxes a bit and frowns a little before relaxing. A small grin appears on their face and Cross feels a bit better.

Then they take out a tool and hold it up hopefully. Euh.. what is that?

They make a show of using it on themselves before showing him the other side of the thing. It seems to be text of some type, not that Cross can read this one. And there seems to be a picture of a skeleton on it.

Oh! Maybe it is to show the form under the skin of a selkie? Maybe he is curious about it Cross is like them! Cross holds out an arm and waits with held breath.

Cross feels his anxiety leaves when they look so excited after using the tool on him. Staring at the screen eagerly before tilting their skull slightly confused. Cross follows after him and takes a glance himself. It doesn’t make sense to him but it seems to have worked.

The selkie stares at him and Cross tilts his skull at them. Trying to get them to interact with him again.

Cross sees no real reaction aside from some confusion on their face so he backs of. Oh wait! Maybe doing little tricks helps? A bit of playing? Cross makes a backwards flip before looking at Little Flippers again.

Little Flippers just look confused. Don’t… don’t they know about playing?

They sink a bit and use their items to geta bit higher in the water again.

Why can’t Little Flippers swim okay? Did those other creatures hurt them? Is that why they can’t swim anymore? They don’t look bothered by it as they give a shrug but Cross does not agree. It is dangerous if he can’t swim fully. What if something gets him?!

Wait! Why hasn’t he even tried to!?

Cross focusses on the other “Hey… I am Cross. Who are you? Do you need help?”

Little Flipper shakes their skull before swimming up?! Why?!

Cross watches as they break the surface before coming down again and they make a few sounds as small bubble of air leave their mouth. It sounds deeper with sharper tunes than what Cross is used to but not bad per se.

Though there is no way this sound or language will travel far through the water.

Cross feels another sense of loss. Did those creatures force him to adapt? Were they trying to force a poor selkie to adapt out of the water? Is that why he is branded? And can’t swim? And seems to need air to communicate even when he looks fine without air in the water?

Little Flippers makes a few more sounds and seems happy to at least try and talk to Cross.

A roar breaks their little moment and Cross turns to see stalkers attacking. Cross doesn’t think as he rushes them as Little Flippers barely manages to dodge one attacking them!

No! Don’t touch them!

More stalkers appear and Cross makes it obvious they are not welcome. Cross growls and scares them off easily enough.

But by the time he turns back Little Flippers is gone.

Cross spends more time searching the shallows for Little Flippers. They wouldn’t have gone too deep right? With them not being a strong swimmer? But he finds nothing.

Cross can only hope they are holed up somewhere safe. Made a little nest for themselves to remain safely in.

Cross knows he needs to inform the others quickly and rushes off to get to them.

[the-casual-reply]

My Mom’s Thoughts on Subnautica Creatures

Boneshark- “Ooh like it!” “Looks like some sort of Ichthyosaurus thing.”

Crabsquid- “I would be scared crapless if I saw it.”

Crashfish- “It’s... scary-cute.”

Stalker- “Crocodile-ific!”

Warper- *shivers* “Get him away, I don’t want to see him anymore. He made my hair stand on end, literally.” “Scary monster thing, that’s his name!’ *talking to my dog* “Yes Snickers, he’s ugly. We don’t want to see him.”

Bladderfish- “He’s weird... He’s definitely Squidward on a chair... He’s just a funny lookin’ critter.”

Cuddlefish- “Aww, he’s adorable!”

Gasopod- *laughs* “He looks like an old hazmat and a platypus cross!”

Reefback Leviathan (Heyyy Reefies)- “Looks like a cross between a turtle and a trilobite.”

Reaper Leviathan- “He... he looks like a creature I’ve seen on another program. Like a Cardassia.” (from Star Trek)

[roundtheworldrambles]

Koh Lipe, Thailand

Day 150  - Penang to Koh Lipe, Thailand

I woke up early in the morning to make my way to the ferry terminal, embarking on a boat heading north to Langkawi, then onwards to Thailand. The guesthouse’s night manager was just getting off his shift as I checked out, and kindly gave me a ride to port on the back of his scooter. The cool morning air was hazy and smoky, with remnants of firecrackers strewn about the street from the Chinese New Years celebrations the night before. 

Crossing the Border by Ferry!

We headed north for about 3 hours along the straights of Malacca before our ferry pulled into port at Langkawi, a picturesque archipelago in the Andaman Sea, made up of over 100 different islands. Kuah Jetty on Langkawi was abuzz with travellers streaming in every direction, and it took me awhile to locate passport control to be cleared in advance to leave Malaysia by sea. This was only the second time I have ever crossed a border by water, and it was quite a different feeling! In a small office on the second floor of the ferry terminal, I had to surrender my passport for about an hour while I waited in a small holding area packed with other passengers. When it came time for our ferry ride, our passports were returned and we were led through the centre of the ferry terminal in single file, lest we be lost enroute to our boat! The ferry ride itself was also a bit strange – an enclosed space, with the windows painted over so we could not see outside for the final 2 hours to Koh Lipe. 

First Sight of Koh Lipe

Stepping into the afternoon sunshine upon on our arrival to Koh Lipe, the long day of travel was immediately worth it, as we had arrived to tropical paradise. Thailand’s southernmost island, Koh Lipe is very small and can easily be walked from one end to the other. It is also so tiny that it doesn’t have a pier! Our ferry anchored offshore as we awaited Thai long-tail boats to putt up alongside us, transporting passengers across the turquoise shallows to shore. 

Walking Street in Koh Lipe

After a chaotic wave of beachside customs (in bare feet!), my passport was stamped, and I was officially in Thailand! Hitching up my pack, I meandered along Pattaya Beach and through the walking street, quickly arriving at Bloom Café and Hostel, my home for the next 4 nights. After checking in and changing into a more heat-friendly outfit, I began to wander the laneways, looking for a bite to eat among the food stalls and cafes. Koh Lipe is very pedestrian friendly, with no cars, and only a few motorbikes used for deliveries and luggage. It was immediately a refreshing change of pace. I grabbed a large fresh fruit smoothie and wandered along Pattaya Beach, hundreds of brightly coloured long-tail boats bobbing just offshore. As the sun began to go down, I stopped for a bite to eat at one of the beachside cafes under a canopy of swaying palms, feeling completely relaxed. 

Pattaya Beach

Pattaya Beach

Day 151 – Koh Lipe

I woke early in the morning on my first full day in Koh Lipe, walking the short distance to Sunrise Beach to watch the day break. Shop owners and vendors were already up and about in the near-dark, swiftly organizing wares in their stands, from fresh tropical fruit and handicrafts, to Thai pants and freshly caught fish.  

Fish Vendors in Koh Lipe

As the hazy, pink sun rose over the Andaman Sea, the humidity and heat quickly intensified.  I walked along the length of the beach, watching hundreds of moored longtail boats cast long shadows across the rippled sand.  These traditional boats have become synonymous with travel to Thailand, and are much photographed due to their iconic wooden frame, brightly painted hulls, and decorations of garlands, ribbons and flowers on the prow.

Historically these boats were made entirely by hand, with the craft passed down from generation to generation. In Thailand, there is a widespread belief that spirits are found throughout all aspects of life, and this is no exception with the longtail boats. There is a belief that every tree has a guardian spirit, and when it was cut down to build the boat, the spirit continues to live in the body of the boat and protect it.  There is also a belief in a water spirits and a spiritual goddess of boats. Thus, all of the decorative ribbons, garlands and flowers on the boat prows are intended to pay honour and respect to these spirits, who in turn ensure safe voyage and prosperous fishing. As I meandered along the beach, there was something mesmerizing about watching these decorative sashes and garlands sway in the morning breeze. As the island began to wake up, the calm of the sunrise was replaced by the whir of longtail engines getting started. Most of these boats are powered by converted car engines, attached to a 2-meter “tail” with a propeller at the end. Standing at the stern of the boat, captains pull the motor from side to side, manoeuvring their boats over the shallow coral reef. 

I returned my guesthouse and tucked into a delicious smoothie acai bowl, before heading out to the beach for the day, with not a plan in the world aside from some reading and R&R, as I was planning to go diving for the following two days. I was incredibly grateful for such a perfect day in paradise.  

90% of my Koh Lipe Diet

Day 152-153 – Diving on Koh Lipe

I spent the following two days in Koh Lipe scuba diving with Adang Sea Divers. Thailand had been a place where I had wanted to go for diving for years – and it did not disappoint! Just beneath the turquoise waters offshore was an incredible rainbow of coral, home to over 25% of the world’s tropical fish! I was glad to have had such thorough training in Australia a few months earlier, as my experience diving in Thailand was much more informal, where they expected me to already know what I was doing! 

Attempt at an Underwater Selfie

The first day of diving, my guide Max took me on my first drift dive around the nearby island of Koh Yang. This was much more challenging for me than I expected, as I was unused to the currents and kept automatically kicking my flippers. The result was me using up my oxygen very quickly – to the point where I needed to use Max’s secondary respirator so I didn’t run out of air. Given that we were 16 m underwater, the situation in and of itself also made me breathe harder! I was very thankful for all of the emergency underwater drills I had recently done in my SSI course, as I was able to switch respirators underwater without a hitch. Our second dive at Pattaya Corner was much better, as I practiced breathing more slowly and regularly, maintaining my depth, and relaxing my body as the tidal currents moved us along the wall of coral. Max later told me that the tides were particularly strong as we were nearing the full moon! On this day, a few cool underwater creatures we saw were: blue dragon nudibranch, sea slugs, and cleaner shrimp. 

On my second day of diving, I went out with Becky, a Brit who had permanently relocated to Thailand. Since I had gotten my “sea legs” and comfort back the previous day, I enjoyed myself more on this day’s dive, and appreciated the sealife and incredible coral around me more. On our two dives at Steps and Koh Talu, we were lucky enough to see an incredible range of sealife: Cuddlefish, Seahorses (one of which was pregnant!), a Moray Eel, Dragonfish, Gorgonian Fan corals, Barrel Sponge corals, Bubble Coral, reef crabs, more nudibranches, Coral Cat Sharks, and Durban Dancing Shrimp. It was an absolutely incredible day, and I was in complete awe of tall the underwater life I had seen.  On our boat ride back to Koh Lipe, we saw some local fisherman, using an unusual technique to fish – while using a barrel of sand to weigh them down, they would dive off the edge of a boat, holding onto a long hose for oxygen as they fished, or gathered other seafood from the ocean floor. 

On my final evening, I picked up delicious Thai takeout at a local stall, and walked over to Sunset beach to catch the final rays of sun over the Andaman Sea. Heading back to my guesthouse, I crashed almost immediately – happily exhausted after the past 2 days of diving!

[mrnibblesleviathan]

Entry 5.1: Silhouette

We’re not posting links at the start of these anymore because tumblr staff is a bunch of assholes. Fic hyperlinks can be found at the main blog page. Sorry.

Ryley was surprised to find Bart standing in front of the window from the workstation as they came back from their daily gathering of building materials. He seemed almost fine today. Didn't look like he'd fall at any second.

He greeted Ryley at the moonpool with an excited voice. "Hey, pal! What did you get for me today?"

"Copper, Titanium, Silver. How you feeling?" Ryley asked, signing. They were progressing, little by little. That was a sentence that was useful enough for them to remember most times.

"I'm feeling as great as someone who's got space plague can be." He answered with a smile, watching Ryley climb out of the pool. "I only blacked out once today.” He waved at them when Ryley crossed their arms in disapproval.  “Hey, don't worry, I'm better now. I just wanted to see how the cuddlefish was doing. I climbed the ladder to the aquarium. Maybe I shouldn't have done that." Bart apologized, turning his head away.

Ryley noticed a certain frustration in that gesture. They looked at him, trying to remember the sign for the wrong in “what’s wrong”. Unable to remember, they resolved for "what's up" instead. Bart seemed to get it.

"Sometimes... I feel like I'll never get better." He confessed. "I should have accepted this already. I've been living with this disability for years now, but..." He shook his head, sighing. "Trying to do anything usually means pushing myself." He told them, more for his own sake than theirs. "Trying to study means giving myself a headache, trying to climb a ladder means passing out. Even just doing nothing is uncomfortable. I can't remember a time where being awake didn't hurt."

Ryley sighed, letting that sink in. It was still hard for them, to listen to Bart talk about his pain. Of course, being in pain was even worse for Bart, and they understood that, but it made them feel so useless. They could fabricate him some medication, do their best to give him comfort, but in the end, specially after seeing him talk about it as a disability, rather than a disease, they knew that illness wasn’t going away. At least not any time soon.

"But you are... going... better", they answered. Even though they mistook the sign for "getting" to "going", it still made sense. They pulled out the PDA from the Compressed Inventory and started typing. "I’ve been watching you get better. It's only been a few days, and look! You're back to walking again. You're already decorating the base with new plants! You’ve made so much progress!"

"C'mon, Ryley, I told you to sign." Bart smirked. "You already learned a lot of these words."

Ryley stopped typing, making a pouty face. They did their best to remember the next words, so they could sign them off. "I… think…  I know what you need." They said. And then, fast and surprisingly, they grabbed Bart and threw him on their back. To be fair, Bart weighed about as much as a sack of fiber mesh, it wasn’t hard.

"WH..." Bart gasped. "What are we doing? Ryley what the-"

His words were cut short when Ryley threw him out into the moonpool, making water splash in all directions. They quickly grabbed his helmet, resting inside his personal locker, and cannonballed into the sea with him. 

Bart was still gasping and coughing when they arrived at the second base, the separate half from Ryley's habitat. They helped Bart through the hatch, laughing as he stared at them in confusion.

"A warning next time would be nice, you know?" He complained. "But I'm glad you finally brought me here. I've been wanting to see what you kept..."

He forgot to finish the sentence, as he saw the enormous two-story aquarium in front of him. On the floor, a multitude of assorted vines and mushrooms were growing, and between them, at least five different alien eggs were shimmering and pulsating. A few creatures were already hatched. Four different sharks - two stalkers, one boneshark and one sandshark. A crashfish. And even two unbelievably tiny crabsnakes. Compared to the size - and behavior - of the adults, it was obvious they were all juveniles. Most of those species would never tolerate or even fit within the same space as each other.

Ryley smiled at their friend. “Research Facility. I have… unknown eggs here.” They signed, a little unsure, despite having prepared for this.  “You can go in. Friendly.” They opened the hatch and held out a hand, leading their friend in.

“Wait, stop for just a second, magic can resume in 2 minutes.” Bart held up his hands, a burning question came to mind now that he’s seen Ryley’s aquarium.  “Is this how you scanned a boneshark?”

Ryley laughed and shook their head. They paused for a minute with a small smirk before they popped in the hatch and went up to the boneshark, miming punches at the young creature before patting it’s head and swimming back to the hatch.

Bart was speechless for a moment, but not long. “You. You’re trying to tell me you boxed a boneshark.” 

Ryley nodded and grinned.  “Yes. I punched…” Ryley frowned, making a few frustrated noises before starting to sign “bone”, then shook their head. They took their two hands, wrists together, so that the two hooked fingers on each hand made teeth for a mouth. Ryley grinned, they seemed very pleased with themselves.

“Look at you! Communicating! Making a sign for a species that doesn’t exist on Earth! Boneshark, right?” Bart returned Ryley’s grin with a beam of his own as they excitedly nodded. “Still doesn’t excuse boxing a boneshark. By the stars, how are you even alive?”

“Coming?” Ryley put out their hand again, totally ignoring their friend, and pulled Bart into the tank. Immediately, the fish swarmed the two of them.  Bart was fascinated, he’d never been able to see these creatures so close before, at least not without the imminent threat of bodily harm.

“They’re beautiful. So friendly too, did you train them at all?” Bart smiled as he pet the crabsnake that was swimming its way around his arms. It’s crust was soft, wigglier than the adult ones. Would probably harden into their crab armour in an older age.

“No. They… Don’t mind?” Ryley signed, shrugging to try and show they’re confused. Bart smiled, shrugging back and turning his attention to the predators swimming in circles around him. Ryley smiled at their friend, playing with the docile would-be predators.  The stalkers seemed to enjoy bopping their noses into him, sending him off balance with a comical oof.  Bart laughed, and it wasn’t quite as full as it had been years ago, but it still sounded like music to Ryley. How did they miss seeing that boy’s happy face again.

But it seemed the moment wasn’t to last.

Ryley folded over behind Bart, stifling a groan. Their vision filled with blue, and an echoing voice filled their ears. “Remember that you were never alone.” The blue image of a majestic creature filled their head to the point of bursting. They could vaguely hear a voice calling to them, reminding them of the friend they had to watch for. The blue shimmered again as they opened their eyes, looking for Bart past the lights in their vision. Just as the world was dimming, they felt themselves fall downwards. Then the blue faded, leaving an afterglow that burned their eyes, and a nasty headache throbbing across the top of their head. Rubbing their forehead, they looked up to where their legs were still half in the hatch, along with a frustrated and concerned Bart.

“I hope you know just how hard it was to get your giant ass out of that tiny hole.” Bart grumbled as he tried to remove their feet from the hatch, which Ryley politely decided to help with.  Then he ungracefully tumbled out of the hatch himself and sat down on the floor next to his friend. “What the fuck just happened?”

Oh, swears. Bart must have been really shaken up. Ryley themself could barely understand their situation as well, but still pulled out their PDA with shaking hands and tried to type. After a few trial and errors, they finally let it start speaking.

“I had some kind of vision. It was glowing in my eyes and left a headache all over my head. It was like the shadow of a creature, and all I could see were four bright eyes. It was trying to talk to me.” They tapped at the screen, backing up more than not. They rubbed at their face before the voice sounded again, “Could make out it saying I wasn’t alone. And it sounded comforting, rather than threatening.” They kept their eyes in their hands. Mostly from the residual headache, though partly trying to find a focal point to get their brain back together. What was that?

“So you’ve seen her too.” Bart whispered. “The visions… Dad thought I’d gone mad. Island sickness, he told Maida that one day. Didn’t talk about it much with me. He tried to keep scarce when the fits happened.” Bart looked down at his hands. “After they died, the visions weren’t as frequent. But they said a lot of comforting things too. I never knew whether to hate ‘em or love ‘em. After all, until now I thought I was just crazy.”

Ryley looked up, once again wishing so hard they could speak. There was no way to interpret that event, except that…

“It seems we’re not alone in this planet. There’s a sentient being out there, trying to reach us. A friendly one, if we’re reading this correctly.” They typed.

“A friendly one. A friend. Gods we might have a friend out there” Bart sighed, in relief, and waved his head. “For once a welcome change. Let me have this moment, Ryler, I might just be able to sleep better at night.” They both laughed.

[ask-the-richmond-newsies]

Otp questions for Cuddlefish!! :D Please!

Who snuggles into the other’s neck before kissing them on the cheek?

Pike

Who puts on the other’s clothes and playfully pretends to be them?

Pike

Who starts to sing in the shower and who joins in singing outside of the bathroom?

Hmm… this could go either way, so I’m going to say both. 

Who likes it when the other cups their cheek in their hand?

Gills

How do they emotionally support each other?

I think Gills uses his words mostly. Hugs if she’ll allow it. He knows she’s very particular about how she’s touched and she has more boundaries than him.

 I think she’ll give him a lot of physical affection because she knows he likes it and she knows she doesn’t have to worry about crossing any boundaries with him. Basically if she’s ok with it, he is too. 

Where do they go to get away from everyone?

They haven’t yet, but I picture them going to the lake a lot. It’s got lots of flowers around it (that she’d like) and it’s got water (which he likes) and it’s usually pretty secluded, so they don’t have to worry about showing affection in public. Because as far as the people of the late 19th/early 20th century are concerned, they are an interracial “gay” couple and that just won’t fly.

What would happen if they had to babysit a child for the day?

Pike would be on the floor finger painting flowers with them in a heartbeat. Gills would probably watch with heart-eyes and probably read them stories. 

What is one experience that they had together that they will never forget?

Well, unfortunately, I don’t think either of them will ever forget the hospital…

Who puts their cold hands on the other person to get warm?

Pike on Gills, fer sure! He radiates heat!

Who gets really lovey-dovey when there is a snow storm outside?

Pike is the lovey-dovey-est of all the lovey-doveys!