#or human extinction
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yourangle-yuordevil · 7 months ago
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[Birds of a feather AU] Absolutely incapable of asking each-other out normally in every single universe <.<
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ironicallyenraptured · 6 months ago
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Her favorite human
I was planning to make another drawing but the creativity bug bit me and… here you have the queen of hearts with her heart (heh)
Humans are extinct AU by: @kiame-sama
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crabussy · 11 months ago
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by the way if you think an endangered species deserves to go extinct because it takes effort to save them/they can’t look after themselves, you need to reevaluate the way you look at the world because that is an extremely flawed, messed up, and sad worldview.
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doomsayersunited · 6 months ago
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kiame-sama · 10 months ago
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Humans Are Extinct (Yandere!TWST x Fem!Reader) Monster AU pt 2
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(Unicorn Centaur Riddle wearing his dorm clothes. His hooves are golden as well, but he often wears red covers over them to prevent dirt buildup since it is harder for him to clean out his hooves and he refuses to ask Trey for help most times)
Warnings; Several yanderes, platonic yanderes, romantic yanderes, yandere behavior, monster au, fem reader, very few know reader is fem so mostly they/them pronouns used, deranged behavior, centaurs, unicorns, Nemean lions, Vampire Bats, selkies, minotaurs, genies, nagas, magic, talk of eating humans, arguing, mention of virginity, slight Monster AU history mentioned,
~~~~~~~~
The thorn prince arrived to a scene of chaos as he exited the portal from Diasomnia. Many new students were lost and confused as they had been told to stay put while most of the Housewardens searched the halls, some Vice-Housewardens were desperately trying to keep the peace or even join the search at the behest of the Headmage. He certainly wasn't concerned about what they may be searching for, instead he started heading towards his own Vice-Housewarden with a slight spring in his step, joyful at finding such an odd little creature in Diasomnia.
"Lilia."
The casual summons had the Bat Fae Vice-Housewarden turning to look at the newcomer who had not been expected to make an appearance after receiving no invitation. Naturally, Lilia was surprised that the dour Dragon chose to go against his own code of conduct and arrive at a ceremony he had no true part in. His stern expression did not seem so serious, making Lilia wonder just what had happened to bring Malleus of all students to his side.
"Malleus? I didn't expect to see you here without invitation."
"Yes, well," the prince pouted in response to the reminder, "I have plenty good reason to seek you out despite the lack of invitation."
"Oh? Do tell. You aren't often so brazen about casually entering the company of others."
"The Gargoyles have borne a child of flesh and not stone."
"... What?"
"I found the soft being sleeping beneath the Human-Gargoyle that was made 1010 years ago. They look much like the Gargoyle and don't seem to be of any other Twisted Wonderland species. As they seemed so fragile and their stone parents weren't keen to protect them, I took them to my nest. Of course, it is odd the Gargoyle child was clothed so shortly after being birthed, but removing their shoes to lay them to rest was of no trouble to me."
The conversation had drawn the attention of both the frazzled and the curious who were also equally shocked to see Malleus in the flesh. Of course, it didn't take long for the Crow Headmage to intervene, figuring what had happened rather quickly. Before the Headmage could speak, however, Lilia beat him to the punch with a much more patient tone and approach.
"Malleus, after centuries of studying Gargoyles, what do you know is true about all Gargoyles?"
"They are stone of various kinds. They double as spouts to keep water from gathering on roofs. They are often depictions of animals, creatures, and other beings."
"How often have you encountered a Gargoyle that has produced an infant?"
"... It is possible."
"How often have you encountered a Gargoyle that has produced an infant of flesh and blood?"
"..."
Lilia would have laughed in a good humored way if he were not being watched by all of the new students and their seniors who had come to aid them in settling in. It was not Malleus' fault that he came to the conclusion that the Gargoyles had produced offspring, the truth was just as far fetched.
What was interesting Lilia more than the topic at hand was the fact Malleus had taken the wayward Human into his nest. Dragons were rarely keen to share things like their nests or their Hoard with others, especially those they know little about. The simple fact that Malleus took the Human into his nest was enough to show that the dragon had already taken a unique interest and intended to make the Human a member of his living Hoard. Malleus may not often take new creatures or items for his Hoard, but the few he claimed had little room to argue as the Dragon was fiercely protective of those he viewed as his.
"What you found, Malleus, is an actual Human. Ironic they took shelter beneath a Human Gargoyle, but they had fled from here perhaps an hour before you arrived. They must have decided to use one of the portals to flee and wound up in Diasomnia instead where you found them. Don't worry, I can get them from your nest so they don't-"
"You will not be taking the Human from my nest, Lilia."
"Oh? Keeheehee~ Have you taken a liking to them, Malleus? Humans are very fragile, you know."
"They may not be the child of a Gargoyle, like I thought them to be, but that does not change the fact that they are in my nest, and under my protection."
It was then a sneering scoff came from the crowd, the new students quickly parting to let the intimidating Nemean Lion strut forward with his tail flicking in annoyance. The man himself had beautiful sun-kissed bronze skin that held the faintest golden glimmer, his shining eyes of acidic green glinted with pride and frustration. Even with his rich dark mahogany colored hair, he gave off a beautiful shine that made him look like he was sculpted out of pure gold.
"And you think you're the best choice for a Human? Human's need light, food, and water, not to be locked up in a creepy ass dungeon that doubles as a nest for an overgrown lizard. That Human is better off in Savanaclaw, not Diasomnia."
Before Malleus could respond to the clear taunt from Leona, another voice with a haughty tone cut in.
"Not even if the Seven proclaimed it, would I believe you can be gentle or safe with a Human, Leona. Nemean Lions were the last holdout group that insisted on eating Humans before they were officially declared extinct."
Approaching with far more grace than he should have was the Housewarden of Pomefiore, the Peacock Harpy Vil. He was clearly posturing as his seven head feathers sat straight up in a clear showing of his crest. Even his tail feathers were slightly fanned out as they caught the light and gave an iridescent display of colors.
"Oh? And what the Hell would you do to protect them, Vil? Doll the Human up in fancy ass clothes and make them preen like a prissy little Harpy?"
"Do speak up, Leona. I could barely hear you over your prideful bitching. Or do you want another scar to even out that scowling expression of yours? Maybe I'll take your eye this time."
This made a snarl escape the golden Lion, his tail lashing violently back and forth in response to the clear threat from the Harpy. Luckily the Headmage had called the other Housewardens to return as well as requesting the teachers to assist in the unusual situation. All he had to do was step between the Lion and Harpy in an effort to keep them from attacking one another until the others showed up.
"I will decide where the Human shall stay and who is safe enough to leave around the Human. They are an extremely rare creature and cannot be treated so callously. You both are Housewardens, please act with the proper decorum."
It was then the clear clopping of hooves on the marble floor could be heard, the others quickly returning to the Hall of Mirrors thanks to Crowley's summons.
"I demand to know the location of the Human! The Queen's rules insist that Humans must be protected and cared for properly, and I refuse to allow the mistreatment of one of the Queen's most protected species!"
Each syllable was accompanied by the distinct click of his golden hooves against the stone floors as Riddle came to a slow halt in front of the Headmage. Naturally, the Unicorn Centaur was the first to know any obscure information due to his inherent hunger for knowledge and desire to follow rules. If anyone knew of rules regarding Humans, especially any rules made in by the Queen of Hearts, Riddle would be the one to know them all.
"Riddle, I assure you that the Human will be properly cared for-"
"Have you already provided them with adequate snacks that don't have pig-fat in them? The Queen's rule 898 states that all Humans must be denied pig heavy meals as they are genetically close enough to pigs that it can cause stomach troubles but must be able to access food consistently due to their digestion processes. Queen's rule 899 states that Humans need to be kept in optimal temperatures that should not exceed the boiling point of water and should not be less than the freezing point of water. Not to mention rule 900 that talks about the proper protocol for finding mates for a Human and their regional specific breeding patterns-"
The others couldn't help but stare at the Unicorn Housewarden who continued to prattle off the various rules regarding the treatment of Humans. He was far more sensitive to the wellbeing of the Human as Unicorns were historically rather fond of Humans- female maidens especially- and were the first to oppose the idea of Humans being cattle for other species. As a Unicorn Centaur, Riddle was far more attuned to emotions and natural law than a Harpy would be and far more aware of the fragility of mortality than a Dragon would be.
"The Human will be treated properly with adherence to the rules, Riddle. We should try and trust the Headmage to do that much."
The taller and more intimidating Centaur next to Riddle now spoke, resting a hand atop the shoulder of the temperamental Unicorn. Though he shared similar coloring on his equine half to Riddle, the second Centaur was clearly of a different breed as he was larger and more stocky than the Unicorn. His green hair was ruffled and he had clearly been out searching for the Human with Riddle before they were called back to the Headmage.
"No, Trey, he won't even follow the rules of an unbirthday party! How can I trust that he will do what is required to keep this Human safe and cared for? That virgin human must be protected at all costs!"
"How are you so sure they are a virgin?"
"I can sense their purity!"
Trey continued to try and talk down the upset Unicorn, trying to be a voice of calm and reason to his hot-headed equine companion. This left room for an interjection from yet another Housewarden returning from their search for the elusive Human of Night Raven College.
"Wow! You sure know a lot about Humans, Riddle! I wouldn't expect anything else from the Unicorn who is top in his classes!"
The newcomer's approach came with a golden light that shined from somewhere within his very being. His white hair was a stark contrast to his richly toned skin and crimson eyes, the ever present smile on his face just as dazzling as the gold and jewels that hung from his figure. To his side was his ever consistent Naga companion, the blacks and reds of his scales almost bleeding together in the golden light. The faint flick of golden scales caught in the light of the Genie added to the unusual mystique of the Sand Viper Naga that followed dutifully behind his Housewarden.
"You would know these things too if you payed any attention in class, Kalim!"
"Ouch, a bit harsh, Riddle? I can't help that Trein is so boring sometimes that I fall right asleep! If I knew we were getting a Human classmate, I would have paid more attention."
It was then the Naga spoke up, his voice smooth like honey and just as rich despite the gentle way he spoke. His dark hair was neatly pulled back in intricate braids that ended with a golden trinket and kept most of the dark locks from obstructing his gaze.
"Kalim, even if we didn't get a Human classmate, you should still pay attention in class."
"I guess you're right, Jamil. But still, isn't a Human being here exciting?"
"Yes, well, it is certainly unusual..."
"I could keep them safe in my lamp and that way no one has to worry if they are in trouble or not because no one can enter my lamp without my permission anyway!"
"I don't think you could be trusted with a Human like that..."
"What was that?"
"Nothing. In any case, the Human's wellbeing should be top priority given how rare they are. Most Housewardens should be able to protect the Human as needed, but that isn't even mentioning the danger a Housewarden could represent to the Human."
As the conversation carried on and the other Housewardens and Vice-Housewardens returned from their search, the older crow Fae couldn't be more pleased. Taking on a Human would be quite a bit of work for anyone, but it seemed rather clear that the Housewardens were keen to do what was needed for the Human to stay. Not to mention the fact that the heir-apparent of Briar Valley- The Prince of Thorns, Malleus Draconia- had already claimed the Human as one of his protected treasures. There wasn't much protection better than that.
Still, perhaps it would be best to not leave a fragile Human in the nest of an overly protective Dragon.
~•§•~
You woke slowly to the sounds of voices around you, feeling a soft surface beneath your head and a warm blanket wrapped around your figure. It certainly wasn't where you had fallen asleep- as you had been huddled beneath a hideous Gargoyle when sleep finally claimed you- but you weren't really complaining about the plush surface either. If anything, the voices around you that were clearly arguing were causing you more stress than the new location you found yourself in.
"The Child of Man is mine to protect! I will not allow any of you to take them from my nest."
"Malleus, please, we all know the Human needs somewhere other than your nest to live. They need their own space and their own home to feel comfortable and not die from stress."
"They are protected here and have their own space here in Diasomnia."
"Malleus-"
Your increased movements made the arguing quiet down as you sat up, letting out a squeaking sound when you stretched. It was likely the ever present haze of sleep over your mind that kept you so calm despite the unfamiliar surroundings. That calm feeling didn't last long as you received a harsh reminder that you were the only Human present. Standing in front of you was a fair-skinned man with dark black hair and monstrous features. His black wings folded slightly as he turned to look at you, bright green eyes examining you quickly for any sign of distress. Atop his head sat two twisting black horns that formed a kind of crown for the regal scaled man standing in front of you.
Past the intimidating man's shoulder you saw the familiar Crow-like man flanked on either side by equally monstrous appearing men.
One of the men had clear black and white hair that copied or complimented the black and white coat hanging from his shoulders. His steel gray eyes seeming so cold until they softened slightly, gazing at you the way one would gaze at a prized pet. This man seemed more Human than any of the others you met prior, giving you a small bit of hope that you weren't alone in your plight. Still, there was the high chance that this man was some kind of monster too and just didn't look it at first glance like the others.
On the other side of the Crow stood a man that reminded you of a Bull with long horns that would have knocked into the head of the Crow-man if the Bull were any shorter. The man had deep brown hair and bright blue eyes, his muscular build clear even beneath the red sweat-suit he wore. Despite his Human-like face, he was obviously not Human thanks to the clear horns and Bull tail waving lazily behind him.
It appeared- from first glance- that the reptilian man was guarding you from the others rather aggressively and was not keen to let you go with the Crow and his companions. Part of you was glad to feel such comfort, but you also had to wonder just what it was the reptilian man ultimately wanted from you. While you mused this, another voice from behind you startled you into almost jumping from the bed, looking back in surprise at the source of the voice.
You saw what looked like a young man with black and pink hair sitting on the bed near where you had been laying. He had apparent fangs that peaked past his upper lip and two leathery batwings that had clearly endured some damage throughout the years. Sitting square in the center of his face was a little fleshy heart-nose like some kind of Bat. This man had been present when you fell from the coffin not too long ago, so it confused you that he chose to speak to you now.
"It seems you're finally awake, little Human. Maybe you can help us with our current predicament? You are a rare species that has been believed to be extinct for more than a few centuries now. As one of the top Magic schools in all of Twisted Wonderland, it is the school's job to protect you and keep you safe from those who would wish to see Humans extinct once more. Malleus here found you sleeping under the Gargoyles and has decided to claim you- for better or worse- as one of the creatures he needs to protect. That brings us here, to Malleus' nest. They," he gestured to the Crow and his companions, "believe you would be better off with one of the professors guarding and protecting you from the common rabble. Malleus," he gestured now to the reptile man, "is of the mind that you are most protected here in his nest."
You were surprised and confused by the Bat-man telling you all of this as the Crow had given you the impression that your opinion and wants did not matter in the situation you found yourself in. As far as you were aware, the Crow intended to keep you as a pet, but this Malleus person had the same idea and didn't want to share you with the Crow.
"... Why are you in his nest too?"
"Oh, becuase Malleus likes to protect those he cares about. He is a Dragon, after all, and those he cares about are counted among his Hoard. I have been his teacher for many centuries now, so naturally I am one of his Hoard members. Only those who are part of his Hoard or Malleus himself is allowed to enter his nest without being burned alive. That means you too now, congratulations."
You now glanced back at the reptilian man, seeing the way he stood with his back to you and wings spread in a shielding action. It made sense that this man was a Dragon given his features and attributes. Despite now knowing a Dragon was guarding you, you still had no idea why these people were so desperate to get their hands on you. Even if they were right and Humans were extinct, that didn't mean it made much sense to you for them to try and keep you as a pet like this.
"So, sweet little Human, what would you like?"
"I would like people to say my name and not call me Human."
"My apologies, it has been a hectic day thus far. What is your name?"
"It's (Y/n). (Y/n) (L/n)."
"(Y/n) (L/n)... The last Human in Twisted Wonderland."
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fantasticgothicpeachsludge · 6 months ago
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I think they should let Magneto radicalize him
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approximateknowledge · 1 year ago
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once you learn enough about evolutionary biology you start seeing ghosts everywhere
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warandpeas · 2 years ago
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Only Skeletons
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View On WordPress
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nobigneil · 1 year ago
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"HA!"
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life-in-toontown · 19 days ago
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Disney: Hey guys, you know how beloved Wicked is? And you know how successful our attempt at a Wicked-style movie with Maleficent was? Well I have a new idea: what if we take Cruella DeVil, a character who was always 100% meant to be a villain with no redeeming qualities due to almost murdering puppies and we give HER a sympathetic origin story too! Little girls all over the world will have an almost-puppy killer to sympathize and look up to!
Also Disney: What? Cobra Bubbles and Jumba Jookiba were nuanced characters in the original Lilo and Stitch and the villain role was filled by Gantu instead??? This film doesn’t need nuance, it’s just a dumb film for kids, just make them evil and one-dimensional, audiences won’t care, they’ll give us money anyway because nostalgia and because Stitch is cute. Also animating Gantu sounds haaaarrrrd, just get rid of him.
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ironicallyenraptured · 29 days ago
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V: Told you L: C'mon! Is not that bad! V: Liar L: No no, I mean, is cute!
Humans are extinct AU by: @kiame-sama
I had this sketch pending for months, I just had the motivation to finish it today
This was going to include Vil's dad F
Sunday baby pic incident
That's the post
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luluchankrl · 6 months ago
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Dad, I'm hungry 🤙
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metis-iphigenia · 8 months ago
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years can pass for all i care but i will never get over this letter ever
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kiame-sama · 2 months ago
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Humans Are Extinct Yandere TWST x Fem Reader Monster AU pt 46
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(Vil's father is a more traditional coloration for Peacocks, and he is regarded as one of the most attractive actors in media. On top of being an actor, Eric is an impressive producer, playwright, and composer. When it comes to the creation of entertainment, Eric knows quite a bit. Vil is determined to stand on his own in the acting world, so he took on the last name of his Mother instead of his father's last name. Eric is extremely proud of Vil in every way possible.)
Warnings; yandere, multiple yanderes, platonic and romantic yanderes, unreliable narrators, myths are partially true but mostly false, descriptors of the Ursus Minor and Major, mention of injury/gore/sickness, gentle scolding, ice cream, smoothies, Harpies, Dragon, Shinigami, Hellcat, mention of Alicorn, mention of Unicorn, mention of Cervitaur, mention of Selkie, mention of Drider, mention of Raiju, mention of Vampire Bat
~~~~~~~~
You walked at a slow and relaxed pace through the field in front of you. Wind gently moved the long golden stalks of wheat in slow ripples. The air was warm and ever so sweet smelling as if something delicious were being cooked not too far away.
Deeper you went into this field as you enjoyed this blissful moment of peace. Even as the plants slowly moved around you, it was hard not to feel relaxed among the dancing fronds as they swayed in the wind. A low rumbling noise filled your ears and you vaguely thought it sounded like slow and heavy breathing.
"... Hello?"
Everything suddenly went still and silent the moment you spoke. The wind died. The wheat stilled. The breathing stopped.
From beyond the field a shape lumbered forward, dark ooze running down the open wounds of the beast as it cried out a feeble roar. Standing before you was a pathetic bear with no meat on the skeleton bones that covered its carcass. Still the carcass moved.
Standing on all fours, the pitiful bear almost looked like it was missing half of it's face. Where fur and flesh should have been, a large gaping wounds covered in flies and rotting from the bone of the skull was on clear display. The 'eyes' of the beast were no more than pits that has been plucked clean by cruel hands. Even the black fur of the beast seemed to be dripping with some kind of decay as the foul stench of the rotting blood inside the creature assaulted your nostrils.
Nothing about this beast was natural and the twisted fangs that glinted in the maw of the beast only made pity weigh down your heart. Each fang had been broken by the neighboring tooth, all overgrown and twisted in the maw of the creature. Some teeth grew up and back into the gums, some teeth grew out jaggedly though the mouth of the creature, and some were empty sockets where a tooth once was.
The beast lowed and huffed, sounding like it was struggling for air as it breathed out ragged sounds of pain. It was a dead bear walking, yet the beast longed for freedom. It needed the release of death yet was cruelly kept away from ever knowing that peaceful end. The rotted blood inside the wretched bear bubbled up past the throat as it cried again to you in agony.
You wished you could help it.
As hideous and beaten this beast was, you were determined to help it, even if that meant shutting the bear's eyes forever. It had long since been a shambling corpse even before it had gotten to you and the pained way it walked on broken limbs hurt your heart as you were forced to hear it cry. This creature deserved the dignity of a swift death.
As you raised your crossbow, another thought occurred to you; the sound of heavy breathing was back. Surely it was just the pitiful and wounded bear that you heard so heavily and deeply drawing in breath. Yet... The bear before you was hardly able to gasp, let alone make the sound you had heard while you were in the field.
The bear standing in front of you was not the bear you had been hearing.
Shadows fell over you as you turned to what could have possibly blotted out the sun. Lumbering behind you, coating by broken weapons that stuck out of the ragged and torn flesh like trophies clicked with the heavy and slow movement of the beast. One blind eye rolled around in the socket of the bear's exposed orbital cavity to look at you.
As the beast turned its head a scream caught in your throat when you saw what this monster had for a second eye. Lodged in the skull of the bear was another skull. An unmistakably Human skull. It was frozen in an eternal scream as the orbital socket of the Human skull was fused with that of the bear.
The Human skull's eye sockets glowed with a faint blue light as they seemed to lock onto you. The bear- or beast, as would be more accurate- reared up high above you, even dwarfing some trees as it let out a loud and piercing Human scream.
~•§•~
You woke with a startle, entire body shivering with each panted breath as cold morning air nipped at your skin. Nothing seemed familiar was you stumbled back, the forest wheeling around you. Your foot caught on something behind you and a sharp shriek left your lips while your body fell.
But you didn't hit the ground.
Instead, you fell into a pair of arms that broke your fall. Standing behind you, just as shocked and surprised as you, was a familiar face you immediately recognized. The older Sphinx Trein stood there holding you in his arms gently as he helped you back up and onto your feet.
"Pr-Professor Trein-!"
"(Y/n), what on earth are you doing out here, Little Cub?"
"What am I doing? What are you doing?"
"Responding to your collar pinging me. You are supposed to be in bed resting like Lord Hades said, what could possibly possess you to come out here alone?"
You finally took a moment to look around, seeing the tall forests around you looming like the trees that seemed so abundant. Above the trees you could see the top of Night Raven College and you knew you weren't far from the school given how close it seemed. If anything, you likely hadn't been in the forest for very long.
"I... I didn't realize I was out here. I was dreaming and then... Woke up here."
"Is walking away from your home normal for Humans while they sleep?"
"... No."
As you began to shiver, Trein was quick to pull his own burgundy top coat off of his shoulders and draping it over you. The warmth already clinging to the clothing seeped into your bones as the Sphinx picked you up suddenly. It was only at that time that you realized you were barefoot and had several cuts along your feet and legs from your unpleasant trip into the woods.
"Come on, let's get you back to your dorm and back to bed. This part of the forest is no place for anyone, with or without magic, let alone a Human."
Trein was nice and warm as he held you, carrying you back to your dorm and ensuring you were cuddled up safely in his arms. Part of you wanted to question the old Sphinx about his cryptic words, hoping they were just in reference to the plentiful poachers that likely stalked nearby. It was during your hesitance to ask that another thought occurred to you; why didn't poachers grab you.
All around you, the woods were unnaturally quiet. There were no birds chirping in the early morning light. There were no squirrels jumping from tree to tree. There wasn't even the sound of poachers scurrying away.
The forest was silent.
"Professor?"
"Yes, (Y/n)?"
"... What did you mean by what you said earlier? About the forest being 'no place for someone with or without magic'?"
"There are things that live in the untamed parts of the world that are best left undisturbed."
"What kind of things?"
"The kind that will kill a child as easily as they would kill an adult all for the crime of disturbing their rest."
You went quiet at this, wondering just what beasts lurked in the darker parts of the forests of Sage Island. Thinking back to that odd dream of yours, you realized that you had seen the smaller of the two bears before. That first night you arrived at Night Raven College and met Grim was the first time you had seen that thing.
Rook had called it some odd name when he explained the wounded and rotting creature to you. It had since slipped your mind as to what these creatures were called, but you just so happened to have your very own History professor with you. Maybe he could shed some light on the dream you had.
"... Do bears live on Sage island?"
"No. Not any that are actually considered alive, at least. Why?"
"I remember seeing one my first night here. It tried to attack me but Rook stopped it. What do you mean 'considered alive'? Are there dead bears here?"
The older Sphinx sighed as he moved with you through the forest, his back leg still dragging behind him. He didn't seem eager to explain himself despite your prying question. Still, that only served to rouse your curiosity.
"Yes. They are known as Undying Ursus Minors. Bears that are the offspring of the Undying Ursus Major. They typically look like shambling corpses and cannot be killed. Many have tried."
"... What is the Ursus Major like?"
This actually made Trein stumble somewhat, seeming to be thrown off by your question. Part of you worried as Trein rarely seemed riled by anything, but was clearly unsettled by your questions.
"The Ursus Major is a true monster. There are many legends that surround the Ursus Major and very few actual facts. He is larger than any other bear, scarred and covered in weaponry from those who have attempted to kill him. Even Lord Hades was unable to contain the beast. He sleeps for ages and is deadly when woken. He sleeps here, on Sage Island, where he is far from the mainland."
"... Why does he have a Human skull in his face?"
This question actually made Trein stop in his tracks, his wide eyes locking onto you in surprise and concern. His response only confirmed to you that the beast you saw in your dreams was the same beast Trein spoke of. But how could you dream of a beast you have never actually seen? More importantly, why would you dream of this beast?
"How do you know that?"
"I had a dream before I woke up out here... There was this golden field that led into the woods when it came up behind me. Its face was torn to shreds, and the one eye it had looked blind. The other eye... It was exposed bone and a second skull- a Human skull- was fused into it. I don't think I've ever seen a bear like that one before."
Trein frowned at this, but said nothing else and continued to walk back to the school. As he emerged from the tree-line, you realized he was not the only one who had responded to your collar pinging. Every Housewarden, Vice-Housewarden, guard, visitor, and all of the NRC staff were frantically heading towards the woods.
You could see the way their panic visibly melted away as they saw Trein emerge with you safely tucked in his arms. Even as they fussed over you and herded the Sphinx carrying you back inside, you were somewhere deep inside of your own mind still, thinking of the beast that came to you in your dreams.
~•§•~
"Little One."
"Hm?"
The sudden voice of the elder Shinigami made you break away from your intense thoughts, staring at the man in surprise. He seemed to be looking at you expectantly and you had to scramble to think of what it was he must have said. Perhaps he asked you a question and you didn't hear it?
"Are you alright?"
"No. Yes. Maybe?"
You had been sitting in the large nest in your room with the elder Shinigami. Despite your fever finally going down, the older man had decided that you should continue to rest. Thankfully, that did mean that he continued to keep Malleus and your other over-eager guards at bay. They had only been allowed into your room when you requested it. It was truly wonderful to feel like you had your own personal space back, even if only for a little while.
"Young Mozus tells me you were walking in your sleep when he found you out there. He also tells me you saw a rather unusual bear in your sleep."
You frowned at this, wanting to confide in the Shinigami, but not wanting to seem insane for what you had to say. Perhaps the elder could offer you some advice on your situation and even offer council. He had been rather honest with you since the moment you met him and it soothed you to know the ancient man didn't seek to deceive you.
"I did. ... Papa Hades, what can you tell me about the Ursus Major?"
"He is father to all Ursus Minor and has walked this world for several millennia. His official name is Mor'du, but most simply know him as the Undying Ursus Major. He is deadly when woken, impervious to all magic used against him, my own included. Many have tried to kill him and very few survived him. Young Mozus is one of the few to survive the beast."
"Trein did?"
"Yes. There are many a legend as to where Mor'du came from, but none are certain to his true origins."
You hummed, leaning back against the large Shinigami as he spoke. The fact that this beast was immune to magic made you wonder what happened to cause such a thing. Magic seemed all powerful, so a beast that could resist magic seemed even more dangerous.
"What do you think he is?"
"... I think he was Human. He has a skull embedded in his face, a Human skull, and I believe it is a remnant of his old existence. Humans don't have magic, so by him having magic like that overwhelmed him completely and turned him Feral."
"Do you think him once being Human is why I dreamed of him?"
This actually surprised the elder as he turned to look at you fully. It would make sense if that were the case. He knew of several species that had prophetic dreams of related family or friends, why wouldn't you dream of a beast that may have once been Human? Perhaps there was something more to your thinking, but the elder didn't want you to believe you could face the beast either. Nothing he knew of could kill Mor'du and he refused to risk your safety for a hunch.
"It's possible. For the time being, I think you need to have one of your guards back in the room with you. This wandering away in your sleep is not healthy for you and it could lead to greater injury than a few scrapes."
"... Hey, Papa Hades, have you ever had ice cream?"
~•§•~
You stood next to the churn, watching it spin and cool the heavy cream, mixing in the sugars and the vanilla. All three of your churns were working and you were thrilled to try and share what you have created. To your left was a blended smoothie of fruits that you planned to add into one of the churns for flavoring.
Naturally, any time you were in the kitchen, your guards were close by trying to sniff out what it was you were creating. They had been more distant from you and you realized that it was was likely a result of Papa Hades also hovering nearby. Whatever he had said to them when you fell ill clearly stuck with them.
"(Y/n)?"
You glanced over your shoulder to see a familiar and tired expression. Vil seemed hesitant to approach too quickly or be as proud as he usually was, clearly still shaken by what had happened with his mother and your following illness. The Harpy was a welcome sight and you allowed him to approach you despite how hesitant he seemed to be.
"Hey, Vil."
"How are you feeling?"
The Harpy settled for leaning against the counter next to you, watching you keenly as you poured your blended concoction into the churn. He- not so subtly- sniffed in the direction of the blended fruits, seeming curious about the mixture. You figured he could smell the various fruits in the blender and may have liked what he smelled.
"I'm... Not fully healed, but I guess I'm better than I was."
"Why didn't you tell us how stressed you were by all of this?"
"When did I have the chance to tell any of you? I've been dealing with Overblots, near Overblots, a possessive and protective Dragon, a world I don't understand, and others trying to kill me. I haven't really had the time to say that I'm stressed."
"I'm sorry."
You turned to look at Vil in surprise when he spoke, his voice a soft and sad sound which only made you worry about him. Ever the one to want to help and fix things for others, you didn't like seeing Vil so downcast and withdrawn. If anything, you wished Vil would return to his haughty and proud self. It would put you more at ease than the way he behaved now.
"Don't be sorry, Vil. Be better. I know you can be and I know you push yourself so hard just to feel deserving. You deserve to be happy. You deserve to be loved. You deserve it, Vil. I never want you thinking that you don't."
"You're a good person, (Y/n)."
"And you are a beautiful Harpy, Vil. Now, taste this and tell me what you think."
He seemed surprised as you poured the contents into a cup and handed it to the Harpy. At first, he seemed dubious as to what you gave him, but his nose told him whatever it was happened to be delicious. Despite his slow attempts. Reaching his tongue into the cup to sample the flavor his eyes widened. Within moments he slurped down the contents of the cup, reminding you of a greedy bird stuffing their face with available food.
It was difficult to stop yourself from giggling when you saw how eager the Harpy was. Vil slurped down the drink and made an odd cooing sound in his throat. His feathers gently fluffed up as that cooing sound continued, clearly pleased.
"What is this beautiful concoction?"
"Humans call it a smoothie. Usually made of blended fruits, occasionally vegetables, and sometimes sugar. That one is strawberries, blue berries, raspberries, and some sugar. Nothing too wild, but I plan on making more smoothies as well. Guess I can count on you to be a taster?"
Vil let out a purring coo as his wing tips fluttered excitedly at the prospect. Perhaps it was just your perception, but some color seemed to return to Vil's face and he gave you a genuine smile. You couldn't help but smile at Vil's soft cooing and pet his head, letting the Harpy lean into your touch.
"The ice cream should be done soon, I'll go get Tsuno and the others."
Vil hovered behind you as you walked out of the kitchen, noticing the several eyes that flicked in your direction. They all seemed eager to greet you despite how they held themselves back. Despite how the others seemed to temper themselves, Grim didn't have the same hesitation and ran straight into your arms. Though he had been allowed to spend time with you during your illness where the others didn't, he was always happy to see you.
"Mama! What were you doing in the kitchen? Did you make something yummy for us?"
"I did! It is ready for everyone to have some. Why don't all of you come get a bowl?"
This seemed to be the triggering words for everyone as they all rushed forward to have their own taste of what you created.
Despite the week Heartslabyul was assigned as your guards being over, they remained in the dorm with you as another group had not yet been assigned. This meant Riddle, Trey, and Alistair were keen to see what new treat you have created for them and keen to group up around you. Silver seemed pleased with the ungulate company as he rallied up with the three centaur men like a Herd.
Similarly, Vargas, Ace, and Deuce were keen to stay with this forming group of hoofed species. It was almost funny to see how easily they grouped together and took turns looking out for their fellow Herd members.
Cater was even a good member of that Herd despite the fact he was not a hoofed species like the others. He had thankfully been able to settle back into his own routine and took protecting your peace on Magicam very seriously. Apparently he blocked anyone who made any kind of suggestive comment on your pictures and had already blocked several thousand people.
Beyond the Ungulate species forming a Herd, the winged and avian species seemed to be forming similar alliances. Vil, Crowley, Trein, and all of the Shrouds grouped together like a big flock of feathered beasts. Even Lilia and Malleus seemed to group up together with the flying folk despite the difference in their wing types. Sebek simply stayed with Malleus while Rook stayed with Vil.
The forming groupings interested you, seeing how similar species kept together with one another. It was fascinating to you to observe the way they all seemed to find common ground, especially those who were often in conflict like Alistair and Riddle. Even in the groups, there was an obvious hierarchy that seemed to lend itself to how the men all behaved. The only two who didn't group up were Sam and Divus, but they seemed more keen to stay near you.
As you relaxed and doled out the ice cream, it was obvious you were supposed to sit at the left side of Papa Hades who took the head of the table for his own seat. This time, Malleus refused to allow anyone other than himself to take the seat next to you. Unsurprisingly, Malleus was not going to let you get too far from him after being forced to keep his distance during your illness.
He nodded in greeting to you as you set the large bowls of ice cream out and settled down. It was clear Grim was eager to eat the cold treat as the others regarded it curiously.
"Go ahead and take what you all want, just don't eat it too quickly or you may get a brain freeze."
Vil was first of the cautious group to get his own bowl of the treat, letting out a loud coo as he took a spoonful of the fruit ice cream. That was enough to encourage the others to take their own bowls and try the cold and creamy snack. It seemed like the others were pleased with the treat as well and Riddle even let out a thrilled whinny.
Malleus was the one who had the most extreme reaction of the group as he put the spoon in his mouth. A sudden warmth filled the room, akin to the feeling of cuddling in a group of trusted friends on a cold evening. His pallid face flushed a deep almost black shade as a loud and thunderous purr erupted from his throat. The Dragon swayed gently in his seat, humming and continuing to slowly eat the treat you had gifted him.
Grim impatiently grabbed your hand with his paws, pulling it down to place the spoon in his mouth. He began purring the same way Malleus had at the sweet taste, his tail waving excitedly as he let out little mewls. The others seemed in agreement and Malleus leaned over to you, affectionately rubbing his cheek against your shoulder.
"My dearest (Y/n), I would give you the riches of Briar Valley if only you continue to allow me to sample this decadent treat. Such flavor... And so soothing. Numbing. What do you call this beautiful creation?"
"Ice cream. Right now we have Vanilla, a fruit mix, and chocolate- thanks to Sam- so feel free to enjoy the flavors."
"All the more reason for me to adore the many things you do... What a truly magnificent treasure trove you are."
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feather-bone · 2 years ago
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This is the devil’s hole pupfish! A tiny species that lives only in One water-filled limestone cavern in Nevada. It was one of the first animals on the endangered species list. At the last count in 2022 there were 263 pupfish observed - the most in 19 years! They’re tracked pretty carefully, as their 215 square foot habitat (the smallest of any know vertebrate) is fragile and has been disturbed in the past by groundwater extraction and other human interference.
[ID: an illustration of a shiny metallic blue fish, the male devil’s hole pupfish, facing to the right. It is on a lighter blue background with a ripple pattern. End.] l
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pnfc · 3 months ago
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what becomes so irksome, when you like platypuses, about the memetic popsci idea that they are crazy freaks of nature, is all these relatively mundane attributes of platypuses become misrepresented and get overblown — when like any animals they DO have tons of unique and interesting features, that don’t tend to get brought up unless they’re in service of a stupid clickbait headline about how they’re god’s crazy prank mutant hybrid animal.
like: yes, their fur fluoresces in UV light. so does the fur of a ton of mammals. it came with your having fur (made of keratin in particular, like your fingernails, though it glows more depending on concentrations of other organic compounds.)
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yes, they have stomachs. i posted about that. they're unique in that they don't produce acid -- but "platypus stomachs don't secrete acid" isn't a very exciting headline. so instead it's "platypuses have TOTALLY LOST their stomachs!" which paints a more vivid and inaccurate picture in your head.
see also "platypuses sweat milk" -- their skin produces milk in the way nipples produce milk, but they don't have nipples, just flat areolas over their mammary glands. same of echidnas. the babies suck it up. but this paints some strange misconception that all platypuses secrete milk all over or something -- actually platypuses sweat sweat, fun fact, they have sweat glands all over their body. this is SUCH human rudeness because plats and echidnas are our most anciently-derived branchoff of the non-lactating pre-mammal therapsids, hundreds of millions of years ago: they're echoes of the first attempts of animals to produce nutritional milk to wean their young. what a cool feat, the invention of milk. but since they hadn't developed nipples yet we instead treat this like more proof they're freaks.
and everything has to fit that freak branding. their attributes that are genuinely unique but can't be spun as somehow gross or unnerving, like how their bills let them see electric currents in water with their eyes closed, how they're shaped like metal detectors to pick up electric fields, don't get mentioned as often.
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their venom spurs are really cool too, and unique among mammals despite the fact that they used to be commonplace ancestral mammalian features -- but mostly get mentioned in service of the larger racist meme that everything in australia wants to kill you. when male plats are mostly just using their spurs to fight each other over territory, like we all do. like me when i stab people who stand too close to me. we all do it. stop making a big deal about it
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