#the ferret's nest

[l0vegl0wsinthedark]

I'm literally gasping for breath this is above and beyond and way more than I could have pictured in my head THANK YOU @jungkooks1mp 😭😭😭😭😭😭🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷

POTTER! COME OUT HERE RIGHT NOW!

I absolutely had to draw Harry with tattoos after reading ‘The Ferret’s Nest’ by @l0vegl0wsinthedark , it was a NEED

I tried my best with the placement of the tattoos since some of them weren’t specifically placed in any place so I hope it looks decent wjshsjdj but yes Harry with tattoos >>>>>>>>> ( Draco would agree)

[nightly-ruse]

I treat my future self as a animal to care for. Like ah yes I need to curl and prop the pillows up properly so later the creature can burrow for sleep. Or what if I bunched blankets like rails to make it more secure for resting so less scary

[reasonsforhope]

"A tribal-led nonprofit is creating a network of native bison ranchers that are restoring ecosystems on the Great Plains, restoring native ranchers’ connections with their ancestral land, and restoring the native diet that their ancestors relied on.

Called the Tanka Fund, they coordinate donors and partners to help ranchers secure grazing land access, funds needed to install and repair fencing, increase their herd sizes, and access markets for bison meat across the country.

That’s the human part of the story. But as Dawn Sherman, executive director of the Tanka Fund, told Native Sun News, they’re “buffalo people” and these four-legged, 2,000 lbs. “cousins” are equal-part-protagonists.

The return of the bison means the return of the prairie, one of the three great grassland ecosystems on the planet, of which just 1% remains as it was when the Mayflower arrived.

“Bringing buffalo back to their ancestral homelands is essential to restoring the ecosystem. We know that the buffalo is a keystone species,” said Dawn Sherman, a member of the Lakota, Delaware, Shawnee, and Cree.

“Bringing the buffalo back to the land and to our people, helps restore the ecosystem and everything it supports from the animals to the plants to the people. It’s come full circle. That’s how we see it.”

As Sherman and the Tanka Fund help native ranchers grow their operations, everyone is well aware of the power of the bison to transform the environment: just as nations across Europe are, who are reintroducing wood bison to various ecosystems, for all the same reasons.

Sherman points out the variety of ways in which buffalo anchor the prairie ecosystem. The almost-extinct black-footed ferret, she points out, lived symbiotically with the bison, and with the latter gone, the former followed—nearly.

The long-billed curlew uses bison dung as a disguise to hide nests from predators. Deer, pronghorn antelope, and elk all rely on bison to plow through deep snows and uncover the grasses that these smaller animals can’t reach.

Everywhere the bison hurls its massive body, life springs in the beast’s wake. When bison roll about on the plains, it creates depressions known as wallows. These fill with rainwater and create enormous puddles where amphibians and insects thrive and reproduce. Certain plants evolved to grow in the wet conditions of the wallows which Native Americans harvested for food and medicine.

Native plants evolved under the trampling hooves of millions of bison, and that constant tamping down of the Earth is a key necessity in the spreading of native wildflower seed.

Indeed, Sherman says some of these native ranchers are bringing bison onto lands still visibly affected by the Dust Bowl, and already the animals are acting like a giant wooly cure-all for the land’s ills.

Since 2020, the Tanka Fund, in partnership with the Inter-Tribal Buffalo Council and the Nature Conservancy, has overseen the transfer of 2,300 bison from Nature Conservancy reserves to lands managed by ranchers within the Tanka Fund network.

“[T]he more animals that we can get the more of that prairie we can restore,” said Sherman. “We can help restore the land that has been plowed and has been leased out to cattle ranchers.”"

-Article via Good News Network, February 13, 2025. Video via Tanka Fund, July 17, 2024.

[heavyisthecrownif]

Intro

The Emperor is ill; the people of the capital whisper with varying degrees of concern or delight; he has completely fallen into the clutches of madness, as the most insidious tongues allege, the truth is, to their ignorance, considerably more urgent.

The Emperor, Airlar the Unifier, responsible for the greatest modifications to the constitution and State in the entire history of Ehyla, a living testimony to the existence of a civilization buried by the sands of time as well as oblivion, is irremediably, undeniably dying.

And so your life undergoes an absolute change overnight by nothing less than imperial decree. As the only one of your siblings of the right age, you are not only heading to a nest of conspiring vipers that you should never have dealt with, but every second, implicitly and explicitly, you are being judged and evaluated for a purpose that escapes your knowledge. Truth be told, at least it's not all bad; you have your very competent and loyal assistant at your side, and with your sister relatively close by, your experience shouldn't be so terrible...

Unless...

CW: This is a dark romance, and what this entails—things like possessiveness, stalking, manipulation, jealousy, and dependency will be seen in varying degrees in all routes. Sexism, transphobia, and homophobia will be briefly mentioned, as well as religious trauma, abuse of power, graphic violence, and optional explicit sexual scenes.

This list is subject to change as the game progresses.

HITC is only for an audience of +18.

Demo: Prologue: 10k last updated on 1/24/25

•Customize your Crown; personality, appearance, gender, pronouns, independent of the chosen gender, magic type, and where the foreign half of your bloodline comes from.

•Build friendships, romances and/or enmities with 5 diverse characters, all of selectable gender (with ace options).

•Find out why you are in demand in the capital and why you should study at the "Saint Elizsea Academy for Illustrious Young People" side by side with the cream of the crop of Ehylian society.

•Have a familiar! With options, so far, to choose from a wolf, a ferret, a raven, a snake, a crocodile, a deer and several types of dogs and cats.

Choose wisely! They all possess consciousness and at least a degree of magical attributes and some are...sassy.

•Shape the narrative with your decisions, every choice matters.

Important note: Due to reasons directly related to my inexperience coding, the MC can only be AFAB for the moment, with options to be cis, transmac, or enby.

•The Crown: You! As the fourth child of a marriage between a former general promoted to king for his illustrious strategies against the rebellion against the fae and a foreign scholar, your outlook is, to say the least, peculiar. Not only are you the product of a marriage of love, with the confidence of genuinely and willingly counting on the support of your brothers and older sister again, but also, well known for their almost barbaric customs, your parents have the audacity to allow you to decide what to do with your own life, from coveting and collecting knowledge to learning the art of war or venturing into any of the five arts, you have a place nothing less than privileged, so far from being the firstborn and with an older brother more than capable and willing to take charge of the kingdom, your future is, to say the least, very promising, until an edict of the dying, and extremely capricious emperor demands that every young people of marriageable age who is not taking charge of the administration of their jurisdiction at the time, must go to be evaluated at The Academy in the heart of the capital, with your first brother discarded, your older sister engaged, your second brother in the borderlands doing pilgrim work and your younger siblings too young to attend that leaves you alone as an option.

•The one who left (RO): Asterion/Astrya Dellamort. With silky midnight waves and expressive eyes that evoke the memory of the moon in their hue and roundness, they possesses an astonishingly delicate and pretty face, for someone who has been classified with little variation as a rigid, cold, arrogant, difficult and even bitchy person throughout their young life, Azzy, the nickname with which you baptized their and, unbeknownst to you no soul is allowed to use without going through severe verbal reprimands and/or public humiliation, was, at least until the age of 13, your best friend, with their mother being a strong ally, and more importantly, a supporter of your parents, it is no wonder that you two were brought together to be playmates since before you could remember.

Truth be told, Azzy was never easy, despite knowing you all their life there is something about you that bothers they deeply, they can trust your reasons, your transparency, but they can't understand your affection, because as the only child of the Queen, Azzy they was much more exposed and at a much younger age to the cruel machinations of politics, so, with an almost supernatural ease they developed a capacity with words as bewitching as it is deadly, cruel if you will even, not that you have witnessed it first hand, of course, for many complaints, frowns and playful reluctance, you probably have the rare honor of knowing and living with the kindest version of Azzy, which in turn gives you the merit of being the person who knows they the most and the least, being a witness to they gentleness but mostly ignorant of their cruelty.

It's not until a tragic occasion, when your relationship breaks down, abruptly, suddenly, with the roughness of a wound that hasn't healed properly even five years later, that you wonder why Azzy decided to cut off all contact with you, but, unbeknownst to you, they despises and belittles anyone who tries to gain their favor by putting you down.

Tropes: Friends (with the possibility of a friendly rivalry...or not) to "rivals" to lovers/ Attachment issues, let's say Azzy is fine keeping their distance, (they're not) but if you come back into their life there's no turning back/ The ice king/queen's weak point/ Misunderstandings/ Forced proximity.

The one who takes care of you (RO): Kaihlan/Karonthe Agrapolli. Strictly speaking, Kai is your bodyguard, but over the years they has taken on far more than their fair share of responsibilities, and no matter how much you and your parents have asked them not to overexert themselves, the satisfied gleam in their amber eyes whenever they do something to make your life easier, along with their unbeatable stubbornness, means that you can count on Kai as your shadow more often than not.

As the eldest of your father's right-hand twins, Kai has been two things to you: a constant and a teacher. With their undeniable combat skills and their minds as quick as their feet, it is not only an honor to have them defend you, but also teach you.

Kai is loyal to you to the core; in order to ensure your happiness and safety, they is capable of acts that go against morality and even the laws of man and god.

Kai is probably the tallest person you've ever met, so tall that when you were younger and cheeky you asked them if they weren't part giant, they laughed but otherwise didn't answer the question. With sun-kissed skin glowing a shade reminiscent of honey almost as much as their eyes Kai is not only tall, they're broad and rough, with large scarred hands that extend all the way to they forearms you'd expect they to behave like a bull in a china shop, and they do in a way, but when you're around them, they seem incapable of anything but the most dedicated and delicate care. Both M!Kai and F!Kai have hair brushing their shoulders in a fluffy reddish-brown mess, with the back of their necks longer than the front and scattered freckles from spending so much time in the sun.

Tropes: Puppy love/They look like they could kill you and potentially will if you're not MC, but they're actually a cinnamon roll, long-term crush, himbo/bimbo, surface only, gentle giant, wolf in sheep's clothing.

The one who admires you (RO):???. You're not sure how, but you've somehow managed to get a hold of a stalker.

What you know so far is little and downright mediocre, they either have enough power or influence to bribe someone into getting their letters to you within the castle grounds, or more unlikely, they're stealthy enough to slip past Kai's ever-watchful eye, so all things considered, there's most likely magic involved, which brings you back to the first point, or they're rich enough to hire or own a wizard themselves or they're powerful enough to conjure their presence into your chambers without raising suspicion.

Tropes: Loved you from the moment they saw you/secret admirer/strangers to ???/would burn the world down for you.

The one who does not show up(RO): Secret route! You'll know when you meet them...maybe.

Tropes: Love-hate/they despise loving you/they want to live in your heart... literally/the love that was never meant to be/they are doomed. to love you? to exist without you? not even they know.

The one you impressed (RO): Elysse/Eylarion Kurayoi.

If there is one word to define Ely it is scandal, with their elastic golden curls bouncing with the sound of their thunderous laughter, they would not readily admit how much they love to impress, but the mischievous sparkle in their mahogany eyes says otherwise.

You know little to nothing about them other than the rumors that proclaim that they have no standards regarding who they share a bed with, but for some reason you intrigue them, if you were to ask them they would say little more than that they are curious that you are so different and little else.

They happens to be your roommate at the academy and as someone who for better or worse seems to be extremely transparent and understands how everyone who has an important name in the capital acts, it might be convenient to have them around, but be careful not to leave them too close to the warmth of your home because they might not want to leave.

Tropes: Master/Mistress of seduction until they flirt with someone they really like/ Bad reputation or justified prejudices?/ the capital's rebellious child/ The most beautiful at the ball/ The beauty and the beast

Feel free to ask me anything! And thanks for reading!

[vestaignis]

Беркут (Aquila chrysaetus).

Беркут-одна из наиболее известных хищных птиц  семейства  ястребиных. Самый крупный орел — длина тела до 90 см, размах крыльев 180–240 см. Самки гораздо крупнее самцов — их вес достигает 6,7 кг, у самцов — до 4,6 кг. Окраска тёмно-бурая, на затылке золотистые перья. Крылья широкие и длинные, хвост закруглён. У молодых птиц основание хвоста и пятна на подкрыльях белые. У старых птиц рулевые перья с беловатым основанием. Очень крупные когти, которыми беркут захватывает свою добычу. Клюв крючкообразно загнут вниз, массивный.

Населяет обширные верховые болота и леса по их окраинам. Везде редок. Огромные гнёзда (в некоторые из них может вместиться лошадь) строит на деревьях, устраивая их в развилке крупных ветвей у ствола. Строительный материал — толстые сучья деревьев, внутри гнездо выстилается травой и шерстью. В кладке 1–3 грязно-белых с бурыми пестринами и крапинками яйца. Насиживание длится 45 дней. Молодые птенцы покрыты белым с сероватым налётом пухом, который впоследствии заменяется чисто белым. Проводят в гнезде 2 месяца, после чего некоторое время держатся около гнезда, самостоятельными становятся спустя месяц. Беркут ведет оседлый образ жизни, часть птиц в осенне-зимний период кочует.

Питается в основном грызунами и падалью. Иногда нападает на животных покрупнее — на сусликов, зайцев, хорьков, и даже лис. Может охотиться и на животных, превышающих его вес, но только в том случае, если это детеныш или больное животное. Часто охотится на птиц, догоняя их в воздухе. Подолгу летает за птицами, которые летают быстрее его, но менее выносливые, после чего с легкостью схватывает уставшую, загнанную птицу.

Беркут: интересные факты: Птица беркут отлично поддается дрессировке, и во многих странах мира беркутов используют для охоты.

Силуэты этих гордых птиц красуются на многих гербах мира.

Беркут умеет различать цвета, что является редкостью в животном мире.

Птенец беркута может съесть другого птенца (каннибализм), часто старший птенец убивает младшего (каинизм), что происходит обычно при острой нехватке еды или если старший птенец — самка.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetus).

The golden eagle is one of the most famous birds of prey of the hawk family. The largest eagle - body length up to 90 cm, wingspan 180-240 cm. Females are much larger than males - their weight reaches 6.7 kg, males - up to 4.6 kg. The color is dark brown, on the back of the head are golden feathers. The wings are wide and long, the tail is rounded. In young birds, the base of the tail and spots on the underwings are white. In old birds, the tail feathers have a whitish base. Very large claws, with which the golden eagle captures its prey. The beak is hooked downwards, massive.

Inhabits vast raised bogs and forests on their outskirts. Rare everywhere. It builds huge nests (some of which can fit a horse) in trees, arranging them in the fork of large branches near the trunk. The building material is thick tree branches, the inside of the nest is lined with grass and wool. The clutch contains 1-3 dirty-white eggs with brown speckles and spots. Incubation lasts 45 days. Young chicks are covered with white down with a grayish coating, which is subsequently replaced by pure white. They spend 2 months in the nest, after which they stay near the nest for some time, becoming independent after a month. The golden eagle leads a sedentary lifestyle, some birds migrate in the autumn-winter period. It feeds mainly on rodents and carrion. Sometimes it attacks larger animals - gophers, hares, ferrets, and even foxes. It can hunt animals that exceed its weight, but only if it is a cub or a sick animal. Often hunts birds, catching up with them in the air. Flies for a long time after birds that fly faster than him, but are less resilient, after which he easily catches a tired, hunted bird.

Golden eagle: interesting facts: The golden eagle is an easy bird to train, and in many countries of the world, golden eagles are used for hunting.

The silhouettes of these proud birds adorn many coats of arms of the world.

The golden eagle can distinguish colors, which is a rarity in the animal world.

A golden eagle chick can eat another chick (cannibalism), often the older chick kills the younger one (cainism), which usually happens when there is an acute shortage of food or if the older chick is a female.

Источник:/faunagid.com/berkut, /www.poznavayka.org/ zoologiya/ ptitsa-berkut-samyiy-krupnyiy-orel/,/dzen.ru/a/XiGFBN3-9gCussGR, /faunistics.com/berkut/,/ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/Беркут, /ptici.info/ptici /berkut.html,//krknigannov.moubokulovo.edusite.ru/p13aa1.html.

[ratsummer]

Something I've been thinking about is cozy, fleecy ghoul hammocks... You know, like the ones for ferrets??

They're strung up in various parts of the abbey, like the library, sunny corridors, and the ghoul dens. All ghouls are welcome to use them: some are hanging high up in the rafters for nimble air ghouls, others are under skylights for quint ghouls to stargaze. Generally, water and earth ghouls are only tempted in by promises of cuddles from other types of ghouls, as they're more inclined to keeping their feet on the ground.

All this to say, I think Dew LOVES to be up in a hammock. He liked it fine when he was a water ghoul - he'd clamber up with Ifrit or Zephyr, rocking them gently by letting his tail drape over the side and swishing it about. But now that he's fire, he simply can't get enough hammock time.

His favorite hammock is in a quiet, south corridor, strung up high in front of two-story windows. It's not as lofted as the ones the air ghouls favor, but high enough that most of the larger ghouls don't bother with it - perfect for when he needs to hide away. This particular hammock is almost sleeping bag style, with soft, fleecy pockets he can tuck himself into. He's stashed a couple pillows and multiple soft blankets up there too, just for extra coziness.

When Phantom comes along, shy and touch-starved, Dew can't help but immediately introduce him to his favorite hammock. At first, he lets Phantom hide away there by himself when he needs some quiet time to adjust, or when he needs to feel wrapped up and safe with pack smell but he's a little too overstimulated for ghoul cuddles. But before long, Phantom is dragging Dew up for hammock cuddles almost daily.

Poor Swiss has on many occasions gone looking for his sweet little bug, hoping for a cuddle, only to discover he's been secreted away to Dew's hammock - soft purrs and tails poking out the only things giving them away from floor-level. He can't get in there with them: it's a little too awkward of an angle for him to get in without feeling like he's going to plummet to his untimely death, and it also can't support all three of them without ripping off the wall.

Once, Swiss was feeling particularly bummed that they were up there without him - he was feeling needy for his little ghouls, and they'd been up there for hours. Admittedly, he was feeling a little vindictive, so he climbed up the little access ladder to shake them around a bit and whine. Once he got up there though... Well, it was hard to snap a picture with the way his heart was melting, but it's now pinned up on the wall over his nest.

It was hard to see where one ghoul ended and the other began, the way they were pretzeled around each other, dead to the world. Dew was stretched and contorted so that more than half of his limbs stuck out over the sides of the hammock. His hair was loose, tangled up around his horns instead of neatly braided down his back, and his clothes were tangled and bunched up in a way that simply couldn't be comfortable.

Phantom was koalaed around Dew's middle, half underneath him, but somehow wormed around to have his head pressed dead-center on Dew's chest. Their sweet bug is happiest sleeping when he can have an ear pressed over someone's heart, the steady beat and purrs soothing him all the way through.

Dew doesn't really sweat much anymore unless he's actively running around wreaking havoc... but poor Phantom was drenched. He looked like a toddling kit gone down for a hard nap - his hairline was damp and shining, hair curling up where it wasn't plastered to his skin. His cheek was mushed hard against Dew's shirt - when he got up he'd have crease and wrinkle marks impressed on his face for hours. He also had his mouth hanging wide open, a puddle of drool steadily soaking into Dew's shirt.

Swiss couldn't help but purr and stare fondly at them for a few minutes. When Phantom's brow started to scrunch up like it does when he's having a nightmare, Swiss started gently, gently rocking the hammock to soothe him. Almost instantly, the little ghoul's face was smooth and peaceful once more, hands clutching at Dew's waist and squeezing him tighter as he snuggled down. Dew made little grunting sounds as he wiggled too, scooching and squirming until he got Phantom tucked up under his chin.

Accepting that he'd just have to wait until after dinner to get Dew and Phantom snuggles, Swiss sighed and skulked back toward the ghoul den. Maybe he could snatch up Rory for some little ghoul snugs...

Anyway... yeah... ghoul hammocks <3 <3 <3 Thoughts??

[dragon-queen21]

Agere Prompts: Winter

-Caregiver who starts a snowball fight, instantly getting ganged up on by a bunch of regressors.

-Caregiver shoveling snow into a huge pile + little one burrowing through it to make a snow tunnel (bonus points for the little one being a pet regressor, bear, snow ferret, snow leopard, bunny, etc. and it’s now their burrow or den for the winter)

-Trying to take pictures of snowflakes to truly see if they are all different. Maybe having a contest to see who can draw/cut out the most unique snow flake patterns

-Character getting caught out in a snow storm, maybe their car gets stuck, or their out adventuring and lose track of time when they know a storm was forecasted. The stress makes them regress. What happens next? Do they have to hunker down in place? Do they call for their caregiver? Does their caregiver make it in time and bring them home? Or are they forced to spend however much time in a place that they are unfamiliar with?

-Regressor who has never experienced snow, finds out they have chronic migraines that are related to the weather. A day supposed to be spent outside having fun is spent in bed miserable

-Regressor who is always cold + caregiver who is like a walking furnace. The little one clings to them like there is no tomorrow. (Bonus points if regressor isn’t typically clingy when small but now sticks to their cg like glue.)

-Pet regressor getting ready for ‘a long winters nap’ gathering their friends/caregiver’s blankets and pillows and making a huge den/nest for them to sleep in. (Bonus if they force their caregiver to ‘hibernate’ with them)

-Caregiver with a pet space of an animal that hibernates. Cuddling with their regressor and sleeping away the winter blues

-Character with chronic pain that flares when it’s cold, preferring to stay inside while their siblings play outside. Are they disappointed that their body doesn’t work like their friends? Are they happy that they get to do something special inside? Does their caregiver stay with them, or maybe anther little friend? Or do they enjoy the time alone?

-“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad planning for the weather!” Caregiver explains while bundling their little one up in an obscene number of layers in preparation to go hiking

-Regressor stepping in the footsteps their caregiver makes through the snow.

Masterlist

[clairebearsparkles]

Spiritfarer x The Magnus Archives

Oliver Banks as the Spiritfarer made the most sense to me since he’s the End Avatar we know and love, so it makes sense he’d be the one to do this job. Plus he has a history with boats, it kinda works out.

Michael as a ferret at first didn’t have a love of thought behind it, but I realized that is sorta the point. He was an extremely not special guy, he was just a normal man, just a ferret. His lack of importance to the greater need of Gertrude was his tragedy, he was dispensable.

Jane as a pile of worms is due to her actual connection to the worms, but it’s even more than that. When I was figuring out whether or not I actually wanted to add her to I had to ask did she die with the wasp next or did she die in the archives, and that is the point of her spirit. She is this mess of worms trying to recreate a version of herself from before the wasp nest, someone who simply does not exist anymore.

Agnes is a peacock styled as a phoenix, to show how she was mythicized by everyone who met and knew her, but she was still always just a person, just an average bird with the weight of her prophecy on her shoulders.

[jayinserenity]

So, I did it again and got caught up thinking about some Wyrmclan cats, today's subject being Daisypaw who I have Feelings about and grieving is complicated when you're in his position so @wyrm-clangen pls feel free to let me know if I've totally missed the mark or anything but... yeah. I wrote another drabble.

“C’mooon Daisypaw, I haven’t gotten you sick? Why can’t I go see them???” Daisypaw rolled his eyes above the mask, careful not to let Ivyshine see as he sifted through the herbs in the carrier Ferretlily had given him to bring to the quarantine tunnels. Sparrowlight was wheezing a little as he laughed, and Daisypaw saw Wingpaw, settling into her nest carefully, smile a little at her uncle’s antics. 

“You haven’t gotten me sick because Ferret and I cleanse thoroughly every time we leave this den and we’re both relatively healthy. Raggedspeckle just gave birth and the kits were just born so they can’t fight off illness nearly as well.” He responded, refusing to play in to the older tom’s nonsense, but regretted his shortness a little as he heard Ivyshine flop back into his nest and saw the sickly warrior droop in genuine sadness. “Turtlefreckle will be watching over her, and Icyclaw has been sleeping outside the nursery every night. You focus on getting healthy so you can get back sooner.” Daisypaw sighed as he turned back, nudging the slender black warrior with the hard surface of his mask. He turned away again when Ivyshine’s wet eyes looked up at him, seeming like he was ramping up for another round of dramatics. 

“Don’t worry so much, Ivy, my littermates are watching out for her too!” Wingpaw mewed, her voice was hoarse from her coughing and while she was obviously trying to use her usual energetic nature to reassure, Daisypaw could tell the younger cat was exhausted. He made sure she took the lungwort and feverfew, hoping dosing her more heavily would help her fight off the yellowcough that had managed to sneak up on them. Thank Starclan none of her littermates or denmates had become ill as well. Between her and Sparrowlight, Ivyshine had been mollified, and Daisypaw gave the patients a final check before gathering up their supplies and slipping from the quarantine tunnel. 

He hadn’t been joking about the cleansing, Daisypaw entered the tunnel to the cold underground river with only a little dread. The water was frigid, and clung to his pelt worse than the sap that had gotten stuck in his fur when Rookrise took him to gather pine needles.

Daisypaw carefully ignored the pang of pain that thinking about Mom brought. She’d been looking for more feverfew with Rattail and Willowdew one day and then… none of them had come back. It had been the kits all over again, search parties scoured the territory for them, but no one knew where they’d gone. Daisy had been trying not to think too hard about it, Ferret had told him it wasn’t his fault they weren’t found. That him being on the search patrols probably wouldn’t have changed anything. 

It was easier said than believed. 

Daisypaw shook the water from his pelt, taking off his new clean mask and rinsing the inside before leaving it to dry next to Ferretlily’s own, and padded tiredly back up the tunnel towards the main cavern. The faint light from outside filtering down reassured him he hadn’t lost the entire day in the quarantine tunnel so he set off through the varying burrows searching for his mentor. 

Most of the apprentices were out training, he knew, the mentors had decided to keep everyone as busy as possible. Something about idle paws, Daisypaw didn’t really pay attention. The only one that really mattered was Bluepaw, to be honest. Turtlefreckle had been keeping Bluepaw extra busy, now that his own litter were apprentices, and Daisypaw knew his brother’s mentor was trying to keep his own mind off of the yellowcough outbreak as much as Bluepaw’s. He only saw the new apprentice, Goldpaw or whatever his name was, hanging out with Sunpaw and Midnightpaw. The two younger apprentices had been on dawn patrol that morning, so Daisypaw supposed it made sense that the three were here, talking about something or another over a rabbit and a shrew. Sunpaw gave him a small smile and waved his tail, but Daisypaw… well he couldn’t really bring himself to care as he passed the other young cats. He saw the brown apprentice’s tail flop back down from his periphery before he was into another set of tunnels, following the freshest hint of Ferretlily’s scent under everyone else’s. 

“... can’t keep pushing them this hard. The fact Wingpaw got sick so suddenly makes me wonder if she was too run down to fight the illness off.” He heard his mentor’s voice from the leader’s den, and settled himself to sit outside politely. “I know leaf bare has been harsh, but we can’t afford more of the healthier young cats getting sick.”

“You’re right. I’ll talk with the mentors later, see if we can set a better schedule.” Fiercechasm’s voice then. “Give them some rest time.”

“Thank you. I’ll try and do the same with Daisypaw, I’m worried he’ll run himself ragged.” Daisypaw frowned, flicking an ear in annoyance. Ferret was always fussing. “He’s not taking the time to process anything… sometimes I wish I had an excuse to send him out with the other apprentices, but with Rookrise gone I can’t spare him.” Daisypaw felt that annoyance fade a little at the guilt and tiredness if Ferretlily’s voice. He knew, objectively, he should be sadder than he was. Mom being missing. Mama and Panther dying last moon. But he just… didn’t. 

“Has he talked to Zuva?” Fiercechasm was asking, and that bit of annoyance was back. He didn’t need a mediator, besides, what was Zuva going to do? Bring his moms and sister back? This wasn’t something the old molly could fix like a spat over the last bass on the fresh kill pile. 

“No, and he gets irritated every time I ask.”

“Same with Bluepaw, Turtlefreckle has been trying, but now that Wingpaw is sick… I don’t want them to isolate more.” Daisypaw scoffed. Then realized both voices from the leader’s den had gone quiet. 

“... Daisy, I know you’re out there. Come on, we need to talk.” He sighed, but got to his paws and padded in to the den. Fiercechasm was looking a little uncomfortable, sitting to one side, but Ferret just looked tired. “Eavesdropping?”

“Was looking for you, figured I’d wait till you were done, didn’t really care about the conversation at first.” He muttered as he sat opposite her. Ferretlily didn’t hold the same intimidation factor his mother had, Hornetrise could make a rogue back down with a single look purely based on size alone, but he’d be lying if he said he wasn’t a little uncomfortable under Ferretlily’s assessing eye. She always seemed to see right through him. 

“... you know that’s part of why I’m worried, right?” Daisypaw nodded, feeling his ears droop a little without his permission. “I’m not mad at you, Daisy, but this not caring and only being around Bluepaw or me, it’s not healthy.” Daisypaw frowned. What did Ferretlily know? Did she lose both her parents and her only sister over the course of two moons? Daisypaw’s irritation sparked into anger.

“Who says it’s not? You? Fiercechasm? Zuva?” His tone wasn’t kind, and he saw the way Fiercechasm startled.

“Yes, yes, and yes. Daisypaw you aren’t the first cat to lose ones important to them.” Ferretlily started, her own irritation seeping in to his voice, and Daisypaw pinned his ears. 

“So they get to say how I should handle it?”

“No, but you can’t just pretend the rest of the clan doesn’t exist-”

“Are you giving Midnightpaw the same lecture? He’s only really hanging out with Sunpaw and the Heartclan reject-”

“Daisypaw!”

“Enough.” Fiercechasm didn’t snap, didn’t shout, but her voice cut through their argument just the same and Daisypaw felt a little shame at the disappointment in the deputy’s eyes. “Ferretlily, maybe you should go get some air.” The senior healer frowned at the younger cat, but nodded and left nonetheless, leaving Daisypaw with the silent deputy across the leader’s den from him.

“... I’m not going to go play moss ball with the kits and pretend everything is ok.” He muttered after a moment, scowling down and to the side to avoid looking at her.

“I know.”

“And I’m not gonna go cry and pretend it will make it better.”

“Because it won’t.” Daisypaw startled, then, looking up at Fiercechasm and seeing her expression soften. “Pretending everything is ok and wallowing in sadness won’t make it better. But neither will pretending you’re a loner in a camp full of clanmates who love you.” The two of them sat quietly for a bit, only the faint sounds of one of the patrols coming back breaking the heavy silence, before Daisypaw finally heaved a sigh and let his hackles drop.

“I don’t want it to hurt like that again.” He mewed, and it felt a little better to say it, and even better when Fiercechasm nodded in agreement. 

“I know. But holding everyone a taillength away won’t make it hurt any less when you lose one of them. I tried that, and it still hurt just as bad.” Daisypaw watched the deputy as she seemed to stare at something he couldn’t see, and wondered which of their lost clanmates she was remembering. 

“When Plum died, I shut down, didn’t want to be around anyone. Some days I could barely look at Sparrow and Swift knowing that they were all that was left of her, other days I clung to them like they were my last link to life… then Duskpaw was struck on the Thunderpath. And even though I thought I’d given up on opening my heart to the rest of the clan, losing her was like prodding an open wound. Watching Rattail and his kits mourn, then watching them do it all over again when we lost Seed to the twolegs the next moon? I realized that hiding away and pretending I didn’t care wasn’t protecting my heart. It was just hurting the ones I cared about.” Fiercechasm looked back at him, and Daisypaw was surprised to see her smile, even if it was tinged with sadness. “I know how tempting it is to hide away and pretend you don’t care. But there are cats who care about you. I know Swish has been worried, he can take Bluepaw on patrol when Turtle lets him, but you’re hidden away in the quarantine tunnel… Maybe start there?” Daisypaw felt another wave of guilt. He knew their older brother had been hurt too, but he’d assumed since Swishbeam was with Eddymist he wouldn’t care. Knowing that Swish had been trying… a little bit of warmth seeped back into his chest at that. 

“... Thanks Fierce. And sorry for yelling.”

“If you need to yell and be mad, that’s ok Daisypaw, but know that your clanmates are here for you. If you want to be mad or get out of the burrows for a bit to do something that isn’t looking for herbs, just ask.” Daisypaw nodded and gave a weak smile as he slunk out of the den, noting Riftstar standing further from the den in a way that told him the leader had heard, but wanted to give them privacy. He turned a little to give Daisypaw that gentle smile he always did before heading in to talk to Fiercechasm.

“Daisypaw?” He startled a little, looking up at Sunpaw as he approached. Midnightpaw and Goldenpaw were still near the apprentice’s den, but the quiet brown apprentice was looking at him in worry. “I know it’s kind of silly to ask if you’re ok, because I know I’m still not okay about Mom, Heron and Burdock, but… do you want to come sit with us? Goldenpaw was telling us some Heartclan stories, and you always told really good stories when you would watch me in the quarantine tunnel.” Daisypaw blinked, a little surprised, looked between Sunpaw and the other two apprentices watching them before that bit of warmth he’d felt talking to Fiercechasm came back. He didn’t fight the little smile that came to him as he nodded, seeing Sunpaw’s expression light up before they went to join the other two apprentices. He told himself he’d swap stories until Bluepaw got home. But by the time his brother joined them, not only was he in the midst of telling the younger apprentices about the time Ferretlily had started an argument with Agavepelt of Nightingaleclan in the middle of a Gathering that had led to a three-clan screeching match and ended the Gathering early. 

“Good to see you out of the tunnels, Daisy.” Bluepaw mewed, tucking up next to him and giving his own tired smile. Bluepaw didn’t sleep well these days, dreams filling with howls and snarls where Daisypaw’s were haunted by coughing and gasping, but with the rest of the apprentices settling around them, Daisypaw wondered if maybe, just maybe, they’d be okay. It wasn’t okay now, but it might be, someday. 

[mylittleredgirl]

we have rat!!

they were supposed to come with some basic supplies that their previous owners forgot to bring, so i’ll have to drive out to petco again. they’re enormous and will definitely need a bigger cage so they don’t fight and have enough space to separate litter box from eating & nesting. i don’t think they could get through 1” bars after all, so i might be able to find something locally meant for ferrets, but this will hopefully do without injuries for long enough if i need to order something.

i have never used fleece blankets before as cage liners because 15 years ago carefresh was still the thing everyone did, so i cut some up to size but i’m honestly not sure how they’re supposed to work (clipped to the bars so they lie flat? strips? just a giant scrunched up mess?). i was hoping it would be something i could take out and wash rather than having to soap up the cage in the shower every week.

they are hand friendly but sneezing a lot and pretty dirty and smelly (i have NOT missed that!!), and triggering some allergies in me that i didn’t used to have to rats. once they settle in and get used to me, bathtime is on the agenda, unless being in a clean environment is enough for them to groom themselves less gross.

they have names (left to right: cookie, socks, brownie… although the girl who was getting rid of them couldn’t remember which was cookie or brownie), but they haven’t been name trained. any suggestions?

[brucewaynehater101]

I’m thinking about a shifter AU, one where everyone can transform at will into an animal, but I’m also trying to write as feral a Tim Drake as I can. Like, aggressive as heck, and hates anyone trying to control him, and doesn’t play nice at galas.

So I’m thinking about making his animal a Honey Badger.

Thoughts? And what would you give the rest of the Batfam?

I have just the fics for you ^^

This short series:

I would love to see more about that AU, though. It's hella nice seeing more chaotic Tim characterization ^^ I do absolutely love the idea of Tim being a Honey Badger.

For similar reasons, I hc Damian as a ferret. They can be sweet and affectionate, but they are typically mischievous, sneaky, playful, and incredibly intelligent creatures.

For Cass, I do see her as a swan. She's graceful and fiercely protective. A lot of perception around swans are that they are calm and elegant beings. Sure, but they will also beat the shit out of people. It's usually in defense of their nest, self, or resources. They've also been used as guard animals.

Dick, as I've mentioned in one of my fics, kind of reminds me of a llama. They seem harmless, but they are used to protect flocks of sheep. They are fearless in their defense.

Barbara reminds me of a fox for her intelligent, sneaky, playful, and ferocious ways. Foxes may seem small, but they utilize that to their advantage.

Those are the more unique animals I've thought of....

Hmm...

If we're doing good dad Bruce, a grizzly bear. While they are often perceived as scary and/or dangerous, they tend to be kind. They are said to be peaceful, empathetic, thoughtful, and really love their kids. They can be scary and harmful, but tend not to be.

Alfred should be a kangaroo or a bee.

Duke could be a goose. They are friendly and loving beings that can cause a ton of chaos. They are known for being loyal and protective. They've been known to stay around sick/injured loved ones, even if that's detrimental to them.

I think Steph would be really cool as a wolf, but I was trying to list animals I haven't really seen (or seen much of) in animal shifter AUs. Therefore, she could be a penguin! While they are known to be aggressive to other penguin species and humans, they are extremely loyal, friendly, playful, calm, and curious.

Jason could be a beaver :)

I didn't want to be mean, but a blobfish would be hilarious for any of them.

[sitp-recs]

Hey, again love your recs! I'm completely in love with Drarry because of these lovely stories. Wondering, an recs with a rugged Harry/ Draco ( as in manual labour), and always sweet and smutty is always a win. I appreciate your time, thanks a bunch!

Thank you anon, I’m happy to hear that! Ohh very interesting ask, here are some E-rated fics for you. You might also enjoy this list with buff!Draco 🫡

Hot Metal by @bafflinghaze (E, 5k)

Harry Can’t Deal with the vision of Malfoy hot and sweaty at work in his blacksmithing forge. Meanwhile, Draco is entirely perplexed with Potter’s odd behaviour.

Heart to Hearth by @jtimu (E, 7k)

It should perhaps not have been a surprise that the repairman on his front step came not with coveralls and a toolbox but instead with a sardonic stare and a raised eyebrow. Harry stood in his open door and shut his mouth with an effort.

Wield Me by @tackytigerfic (E, 10k)

Draco Malfoy, blacksmith, is renowned through the magical world for his skill and exquisite creations. He could quite easily spend the rest of his days making pretty trinkets for the fae court, and being handsomely rewarded for the privilege. But why take the easy route when instead he could get involved in a dangerous mission with Unspeakable Harry Potter (who also happens to be Draco's... well, he's something, isn't he?).

Hippomancy for Beginners by khalulu (E, 11k)

When Draco desperately insists on becoming a Centaur Liaison, he doesn’t know what he’s getting into, especially with that annoying hero-turned-hermit Harry Potter living right at the entrance to the Forbidden Forest. Not to mention foreign unicorn women, slavering three headed beasts, bitter brews, unexpected friendships, and the consequences of a very cocky vocabulary.

Voices From The Fog by noeon (E, 13k)

After years of running away, Harry crosses paths with an all-too familiar face and follows him to Amsterdam.

One Floo Over the Lovegood’s Nest by Nattish (T, 14k)

Harry is not terribly surprised that there are magical plumbers, chimney sweeps, and pest control men. He is surprised that one of them is Draco Malfoy. And that he’s bloody hot in a jumpsuit.

Phoenix Repair Services by carpemermaid (E, 20k)

Draco hires a suspiciously private wizarding handyman to fix his kitchen when he returns home to find it destroyed. He expects a middle-aged wizard with greying hair and a pudgy gut to show up. Instead, he gets Harry Potter—with a utility belt and a charming smile—who is more attractive than he has any right to be.

Here Be Dragons by birdsofshore (E, 21k)

Harry doesn’t want to waste his time investigating illegal dragonhide trading, whether it involves a fetish club in Knockturn Alley or visiting a remote island in Wales. Why the bloody hell does Malfoy always have to be up to something?

Kept in Cages by @sweet-s0rr0w (E, 77k)

Deep in the heart of the Ministry lies the Beast Division: a hidden room where ancient beasts roam, and winged creatures soar, and grumpy giant ferrets eat all your biscuits unless you keep them well hidden. Draco Malfoy would know – he’s been working there for five years now, after all.

I Am Not Who I Became by mab_di (E, 93k)

Draco left England after the trials and has travelled the world meeting wizards and Muggles from different cultures and with vastly different relationships to magic, each other, and the natural world. Now he's a fisherman in Finland on commercial vessels. Harry has been struggling since the war and has become a recluse while trying to write his autobiography.

[thegnomelord]

Ahhh! The Harpy Gaz fic was so cute. But that section at the beginning has me thinking about Ghost, who is interested in reader hybrid that has a very unusual courting ritual(s).

Like, apparently, pandas have a weird hostage situation. The female runs and hides in trees while male competitors fight for her. They will follow her around and try to steal her away until she's ready to mate. It's theorized that this little battle actually stimulates the mating cycle. Similarly, female ferrets don't ovulate unless they're being mauled half to death. (Doesn't sound pleasant to me, but to each their own) my thought here would be more like Ghost's total confusion as to why you seem to like fighting him so much.

Or one of my personal favorites, certain birds and pufferfish (and probably many others that idk yet) have taken to terraforming. They'll create intricate designs and illusions with sand, rocks, sticks, bones, whatever you can think of to attract a mate. The structure they create doubles as a sort of nest. Bowerbirds are particularly keen on displaying an assortment of blue things specifically.

Ooh or shrikes, imagine Ghost's reaction to seeing his favorite food impaled on a sharp object (maybe a combat knife). Tbh, that would be a little threatening. Opening the fridge and seeing a steak or something stabbed with a combat knife and a little note saying, "For Ghost, I hope you enjoy 😁❤️"

Sorry for the little rant, I have an unnecessary amount of knowledge about animal mating rituals.

- 👑 anon

No, no, as a fellow animal nerd I find this stuff so interesting!

I think Ghost would be weirdly into the knife being impaled in his food. Especially if you attempt to feed him with the knife, like sticking small chunks on the tip and expecting him to eat off the knife. And while he acts aloof he's hard in his pants because there's something hot about you using a dangerous object so tenderly with him (also weapon kink idk)

I really love the idea of reader being some deep sea monster or of some species that has a "fuck or die" mentality. Like some anglerfish or spider sexual dimorphism thing where if you were to court your own kind they'd be like 4-5 times your size and wouldn't hesitate to eat you. So you're very crafty and your courting rituals are weird as fuck.

Like Ghost is reading up on your species mating habits and seeing you tie up your mate and if they can't get out you fuck? And if they can you die? Should he be worried? And like he's rethinking every enemy takedown simulation you two had when you needed to tie him up like; were you courting him? was he courting you? what?

Or an especially powerful monster that has a tendency to make nests out of bones, to show how strong they are. So Ghost just walks into your room to see it covered from floor to ceiling in bones of all kinds of creatures with you looking at him like a puppy lol

Or or some kind of mercreature monster reader having a ritual where they pull their mate down to the depths away from competitors, because if it's not dark and cold and you're not drowning your mate won't want to fuck, and Simon's wondering if he needs to buy scuba gear?

[baambastic]

He almost missed the hiss of the window sliding open behind him.

Tim quickly grabbed a blanket and pulled it around himself, trying to hide as much of his features as he could and bemoaning leaving his gear in the Nest. Whoever it was, they were good enough to get past his apartment’s security—not as strong as the Nest’s, but still—which greatly narrowed down who it could be. Tim hoped it wasn’t Dick or Steph, but he wasn’t sure that he was in any condition to fight off an enemy, either.

“What the hell, Tim,” came a familiar and not unwelcome rasp. “Why are you so terrible at answering your fucking phone?”

“Not a good time, Pru,” Tim replied, idly noting that his voice sounded similarly rough.

Pru stomped closer, apparently not bothering with stealth anymore. “The fuck is that supposed to mean? Not like you’re doing anything.”

Tim turned farther away, trying to keep his face hidden. “I’m not feeling great right now, alright?” He was too tired to sound as annoyed as he actually was.

“Bollocks,” Pru replied. “Since when did being under the weather stop you? Getting stabbed through the spleen sure as hell didn’t.”

Tim… didn’t have a good response to that.

Pru leaned forward, and Tim pulled the blanket more in front of his face.

He could half-see her brow furrow at that. “…What’s really going on here?”

“Nothing.”

Pru drew back, looking thoughtful for a moment, then shrugged and turned away. “Alright then, keep your secrets. Gimme a call when you’re feeling honest, and—”

Without warning, Pru whipped around and yanked off the blanket. Tim cried out and tried to grab at it before he was revealed, but he moved just a fraction too slow.

Crap.

Tim slowly raised his eyes to meet Pru’s gaze. He wasn’t sure what to make of what he saw there. Shock, for sure, but there was something else there behind her eyes that he couldn’t quite pin down.

Neither of them said anything for a long moment. Knowing Pru, that wouldn’t last.

Sure enough, as soon as she’d regained some of her composure: “What the bloody hell, Tim.”

Tim winced. “I, uh…”

“You look like Killer Croc shagged a daft ferret.”

“That feels a bit crass—”

“I mean, seriously, Tim,” Pru barreled over him, “you look like you belong in Barnum’s circus right now. What in the ever-loving hell happened?”

Tim threw his hands up. “I don’t know! One minute I’m talking business with Tiffany Fox, the next I’ve got scales all over me! It might be magic, but other than that, your guess is as good as mine!”

Pru cocked her head questioningly. “Was she into it?”

“I—what?”

Pru gestured to his body. “The Fox girl. I’m not judging, I know some of you Yanks like that sort of thing.”

“You just said I belong in a circus,” Tim shot back, before his brain caught up with his mouth. “Wait—no—Pru, it was Neon Knights business. And I left before she could notice.”

“If you say so,” Pru said noncommittally. “Weren’t you dating that other Fox chick, though? Bet she’d be mad if she knew you were two-timing her.”

Tim rubbed his temples, trying to stave off the growing headache from the headache standing in front of him. “Okay, first: I’m not ‘two-timing’ anybody; Tiffany is strictly a business associate. Second: Tam and I broke up weeks ago. I thought you knew this.”

“I did not,” Pru enunciated. “You never tell me anything.”

“I tell you about leads on the Spiders all the time,” Tim protested. He’d moved away from Pru as they talked. He still didn’t know if this thing could spread to other people. He was sure she noticed, but she didn’t comment on it.

“Sure, but you never tell me anything about you,” Pru countered. “Anyway. Not important. You mentioned leads on Spiders. I’ve got one.”

[validinsanity]

Sprinkles

summary: Konig finds a small little animal in danger. Having a bleeding heart he takes it in and tries to care for it. Being out of depth with taking care of things instead of killing them; he struggles both with his new ward and making friends with his fellow operator; Horangi.

KONIG GETS A HAMSTER and of course along the way i give him a friend. :P multi chapter not sure how long but lets hope! thx to @lialucis for the name suggestions

Sprinkles 

He’d noticed it while eating outside on base one afternoon. Never eating in the food hall, only ever sneaking food while the mess was near empty. König  had taken a small bowl of what was left at the cafeteria; rice, beans and some kind of salad. Sitting in the back of the building behind the training ground he’d found a quiet grassy patch to take meals. No one had bothered him since he’d started eating here. 

Just as he was lifting his snipperhood to start eating, he heard a small noise. Startled, he scanned the area for its source– a tiny creature down by his left. Squirming in the grass the thing was pinkish with a few patches of fur. Its eyes had seemed closed and it was wiggling around desperately. He wasn’t sure what it was just that it was tiny and helpless. 

Nature was cruel. König could relate. As a child, he’d been bullied for his height and awkwardness. His father had chastised him repeatedly telling him he had to endure. Of course life was only for those who could withstand most hardships. Survival of the fittest. Only those that could adapt to their environment could prosper. It was a man’s fatherly advice to their son in hopes to toughen him up. But it had just made König feel inadequate in his own skin. Being tall and having a broader build hadn’t made him stronger. It just put a target on his back. 

König stared at the little animal watching it wiggle again. He knew shouldn't get involved. He had no idea what it even was. Just as he was about to turn back to his food, a crow appeared. His heart leaped to his throat. It was nature. Nothing he should meddle with. He watched the bird stalk towards the tiny creature. Oh no. 

He scrambled up, scattering his food across the grass. The crow flew off scared away. Without thinking, König rushed forward, scooping up the baby in his hands. Nearly tripping in his haste, he rushed back inside, hunger long forgotten. 

Like a mad-man he ran back to his room. Bumping into a few men excusing himself as an afterthought. Finally in his quarters he fumbled with his keycard and lock stumbling in. Frantically, he searched for something soft. Locating a discarded t-shirt he grabbed it and made a small nest on his bed and placed the animal in it. The small creature wiggled but soon stopped. 

“What the hell am I doing…” König  sighed, his anxiety spiking. He didn’t know what to do. Didn’t know the first thing about taking care of something so small. He killed people for a living! Not care for them!

“Scheiß!” He shook his head, trying to calm down. “I am a colonel, why am I being ridiculous!” Taking a deep breath he straightened up. He had a new ward to care for. This is nothing new. Access the situation, gather information to gain the best outcome, then proceed and execute. That is what he does. He is a strategist first and foremost. A weapon to be used in combat. This–this was no different. With another breath, he looked down at the little thing. It was potentially some kind of mouse? It did not have a tail like one and its coloring was off. It seemed to be something else entirely. Brown fur coming in with white suggested some kind of ferret? No, it was much too small. 

Identifying it was one problem; next was what to feed it. Milk seemed like a safe bet. He’d have to make a trip to the mess hall again. The poor thing would be lucky to last a day. 

It had to survive. He wouldn’t know what to do with himself if it didn’t. 

Mind set, he made his way to the mess hall. He’d gone earlier after lunch, but now it was nearing dinner and he worried more people would be present. König hated people. He was not shy–no, shy implied that he could eventually overcome the uneasiness and get comfortable with people. He was so terrified of people. Even now he recited in his head go-to scripts for when people had the guts to ask him for something out of battle: “Please, visit me during my office hours.” “If you’d excuse me, I have somewhere to be.” “Unfortunately, I’m occupied at the moment…” All good excuses, designed to steer these interactions into a more controlled setting. 

Bracing himself, he entered the mess hall. It was still early enough that the dinner rush hadn’t arrived, but a few recruits and operators could be seen occupying seats. König scanned the area eyes locking in on the back corner of the room. There, a self-serving area filled with coffee, teas, and, most importantly, milk. He just had to make it across the room to the table without anyone speaking to him. Great. 

He maneuvered around the tables, managing to reach the back and pour himself a small amount milk. He chose specifically the goat milk they had here and placed it in the microwave present and waited for it to warm up. He placed the cup in and set the timer for a minute. Now with only having to wait for the liquid to warm he was left standing uncertain what to do with himself.

 His anxiety grew as he stood there, unsure what to do with himself. Fingers twitched, reaching out for something to hold or fidget with while he waited. König shifted his gaze over to the nearby table that held the operators he usually worked with. 

Castillo was chatting with Conner, Oni listening intently. The only one who seemed to be not paying attention was Horangi. He was staring off into space. König  quickly turned back to see the timer. 20 more seconds and he’ll be able to leave. Grabbing some napkins he stuffed them in his pockets. Absently also finding a stirrer he held it between his fingers and played with it as he looked up to look at the group once again. His eyes traveled back to Horangi. 

The man had his signature sunglasses even though it was indoors and his gaiter up as always. The man’s usual helmet was off, revealing off his black hair styled with some kind of gel that made his hair look wet. König wish he could run his hands through-. 

The microwave’s sudden ding startled both of them. Heart jumping from the sudden eye contact König reached over and grabbed the cup and shuffled his way back to the door. He could feel Horangi’s eyes follow him as he left. 

Once back in to his room König leaned back on his door. He’d managed to get what he needed and now it was time to focus on what was important. Placing the cup of milk on his side desk he entered his private bathroom and gathered more supples. Finally, he placed a few napkins under the animal and grabbed the small syringe he had in a medkit in his bathroom. Taking a small amount of the milk into the syringe he slowly started to feed the tiny creature. It first did not make any effort to latch on to the makeshift bottle. Slowly however as König  dribbled a little bit of milk on it, the baby managed to figure out it was food. 

Relief washed over König as he saw it begin to feed. It would live. So long as he kept feeding it every so often, it would be okay. He slowly continued to feed it milk until it stopped feeding looking plump and round. Whatever this creature was, it was… cute. 

Cleaning up the mess he’d made with the napkins and milk he discard them in the wastbin. Then, his eyes landed on a box from his his siblings–they’d send him some photos and treats from home. He would use it as a temporary home for the little creature. Carefully, he placed the little animal inside the box with his t-shirts, letting it sleep as he cleared space on the top drawer of his nightstand. 

Inside werejust pens, envelopes and letters he’d gathered from his family back home in Austria. He’d read them sometimes at nights when he felt homesick and lonely. Now they were placed aside to house his newest addition in the top drawer until he found a more suitable place to put it. 

König paused. If he was going to keep it, he might as well name it, right? Now that he was sure he could care for it. At least for the time being.��

[moonliched]

I really love your fic. The chemistry between Meryn, Moon, and Sun is amazing, and I love their dynamic together. Moon and Sun are goofy, and I love their silly antics. The boys are pining and it's adorable.

Do the boys or Meryn have any like courting traditions they'll try? I'm guessing the shell Moon gave Meryn meant something from your notes.

🩷(⁠Ӧ⁠ｖ⁠Ӧ⁠｡⁠) hwell thank you sm!! i'm shaking up Sun and Moon like bottled soda full of love :3

yep! Meryn doesn't come from a culture that's big on open affection or courting at all, so they express their feelings in their own way. the love knot bracelet is one kind, and jewellery will come back into play in a romantic way later! others are swimming alongside Sun and Moon, as Meryn typically values isolation, and spending time asleep (vulnerable) near them. Meryn also will offer to build things for the mers. the sharing of food is actually very significant to Meryn, which is why they were hurt when Vanessa rejected their offers, and they eventually stopped sharing altogether. lastly, physical affection which they're often hesitant to initiate. these come across as general gestures of affection and trust, but they mean a lot to Meryn and often go over everyone else's heads.

in mer culture, giving a gift that takes time and skill to create is a significant gesture, as it keeps the individual from doing stuff for survival in the meantime. Moon's shell gift was a bid for connection and an apology, with a message of genuine affection behind it. Sun wants to feed Meryn handmade dishes in return for all the food they've shared with him and Moon.

future gifts will have deeper romantic intent behind them! for example, both Sun and Moon want to provide for Meryn's 'nest' (bed) because they think it's too sparse. they want to share their own nest, but they have to consider it's underwater and Meryn needs air. Moon wants to gift them more trinkets. whereas Sun is taking into account that Meryn is an explorer at heart, and ferreting out nice places they might want to swim. Moon has advised Sun away from songs due to the hypnotism fiasco in an earlier chapter😅

most courting gestures are dependent on context, e.g. inviting a friend vs. partner into the bedroom can have a different connotation to us irl. Moon and soon Sun have learned that Meryn is resistant to assuming romantic intent, plus they're an alien so they're not going to know all about mer culture. but that's fine bc Sun and Moon are content to throw everything at the wall and see what eventually sticks lol, since they're enjoying themselves anyway xD

so happy you like!