talesofsonicasura

[talesofsonicasura]

Venom and Shadow

A crossover that came to mind thanks to the latest Sonic the Hedgehog 3 trailer. This partly stems from a different idea I had for a while. If you guys are wondering about the other members of the Sonic movie cast, that will be for a different page. Now let's get started!

It has been 3 months since Eddie lost his job and marriage due to the Life Foundation 'scandal'. Things have been difficult as he struggles to find jobs to keep the roof of his cheap apartment over his head. Nevermind the still fresh emotional turmoil the man inflicted on himself.

Eddie honestly thought the insanity was almost over. That is until one fateful night changed his life forever. He was shamefully walking home in complete darkness. Eddie recently came from another failed job interview, the fifth one this week to be exact.

There is only so much cash writing minor tabloid articles could make him. He was running on fumes and it's only a matter of time before he had nothing. Eddie needed another job if he doesn't want the bills to stack. His thoughts are interrupted by a strange noise in a nearby alleyway.

Any normal person would have ignored but the man was too curious for his own good. Eddie honestly expects the source of the noise to be an alleycat at best and a shaky homeless person at worse. He never expected some black furry creature with red highlights.

Or the white gloves it was wearing to be stained blood from the gunshot wound in their side. Eddie didn't have much of a choice when the being collapsed to the ground. Hopefully he wouldn't regret taking them back to his apartment.

Yup! Eddie's first encounter with the otherworldly is with Shadow instead of Venom. Before anyone even asks, he wouldn't give him up. The movies take inspiration from the comics and Eddie's character is one such thing. He stands up for those who can't defend themselves through words even after he got Venom.

Eddie could use Shadow to gain money or fame but the man wouldn't. By doing so will make him no better than the corrupt individuals he fights such as Drake. To summarize how the hedgehog got out, you can blame an incompetent GUN officer for not monitoring his stasis pod well.

Although Shadow didn't come out of it with just some gunshot wounds. Whatever the officer done to free him resulted in the hedgehog developing amnesia. The only thing he remembers is his name, Maria's and that he is a hedgehog.

Due to his amnesia, Shadow is closer to a docile, nervous yet curious blank slate than an angry vengeful mess. (Like the fandom portrayed him before we got the first trailer for Sonic 3.) Eddie obviously doesn't know what he got himself into. Yet something inside him told the man he had to help the hedgehog.

The next three months consist of Eddie caring for Shadow. It includes taking him outside for nighttime activities, giving him an education to some extent, and anything else the hedgehog needs. This includes clothing to cover up the obvious inhuman appearance whenever they got out especially during the day.

Eddie also studied up on veterinary and standard medical procedures as well. He can't exactly take Shadow to a doctor nor a vet. The man didn't offer him food that normal hedgehog's eat because it might've offended the kid.

Only one person knows what Shadow really looks like: Maria. Meeting the homeless was a very rough affair for two reasons. The first being how it exactly happens.

During the first month, Eddie got into an argument with Shadow and the hedgehog ran off. He runs into Maria being harassed by a few drunks on the street thus he defends her. The woman's name accidentally triggers a lost memory and the intensity of it causes Shadow to collapse. He wakes up in her arms while she lectures Eddie.

This isn't the first incident where regaining a memory would cause the Ultimate Lifeform pain. Even the smallest thing like a cartoon could trigger a memory within Shadow. The more important it seems to be, the more painful it is.

Something that made Eddie extra cautious when it came to finding any information about the hedgehog. He knows it's only a matter of time before Shadow regains his memory. Thus the man would rather take it slowly for both their sakes.

Overall, everything had been mostly peaceful for the duo. Eddie doesn't feel like drowning himself in a bottle as Shadow keeps him grounded and mostly content. That is until Maria goes missing.

When Dora Skirth(female scientist) asks Eddie for help, he's very quick to jump on it. Shadow wasn't taking Maria's disappearance very well and the ex reporter is afraid that the kid will run off to find her. A fear proven true when the hedgehog appears at the lab to rescue the now unconscious woman.

Shadow was able to get Maria to a nearby hospital in time and doctors were able to resuscitate her. The Venom Symbiote however had already jumped into Eddie. You can bet it was awkward when the amnesiac hedgehog sees his dad walk into the apartment like a zombie. He does stop him from eating trash chicken but couldn't save the tater tots or dino nuggets.

Things get even more chaotic after Venom nips Shadow for trying to save the food. An unknown yet familiar power deep inside the hedgehog slowly begins to awaken. Something that the symbiote seems to recognize.

These newfound Doom Powers immediately put Shadow in the crosshairs of Carlton Drake. Now Eddie has to fight against the Life Foundation while trying to solve the deeper and darker mystery about Shadow. He can't forget trying to manage a predatory symbiotic alien's voracious hunger either. Or the sporadic mutations that begin to emerge within his hedgehog son.

Luckily for them both, Venom is happy to help Eddie protect his 'offspring' than just deal with Drake. Although the Life Foundation isn't the only thing he has to handle. Sometimes the past refuses to stay behind.

Whether it be his or Shadow's.

@foolmariofest @umtrem @halfakitsune-nordiluskitsunaly @moth-looking-for-a-lamp

[talesofsonicasura]

Readers, make sure you have all your favourite Ao3 fics downloaded.

Writers, make sure you have copies of all the fics you have posted on Ao3.

I don’t want to be alarming, but things could get really bad really fast. OTW shared this today on Twitter, and I'm a bit worried about it 😅

Ao3 is a non-profit organisation. If they have to start paying taxes, I have no idea what will happen.

[talesofsonicasura]

While AO3's Terms of Service are being updated, you may repeatedly encounter a popup asking you to agree to the TOS. Please be patient; the issue should resolve once the update is complete. To learn more about the TOS updates, refer to https://otw-news.org/2p8acx9u

[talesofsonicasura]

Venomous Call Part 3

Another part for the KN8/Venom crossovers. This is more random than the other parts as I didn't have anything in mind for it specifically. Heads up for some weird biology shenanigans. First part can be found here and the previous part is here. Let's get started.

There have been times where Kafka had to escort someone as Venom. Scared children taken from their parents to old homeless folk. Depend on where it is, no one bothers the towering obsidian monster and his current companion.

Those who live in the Slums or were saved by Venom leave food/gifts for them. A token of gratitude for all the good the Lethal Protector has done. Kindness that helped keep Kafka's symbiote residents nicely fed when criminals lay low and kaiju rarely show up.

The entire hive are chocolate fiends. It's one type of food they can easily settle on for phenylethylamine without bickering. Venom likes tator tots but Ai prefers lentils or aged cheeses. Kafka might pocket corpses for cash a few times just to prevent a fight between them.

Mercenaries have often sought out Venom over the years. Their employers range from crime lords to even members of popular kaiju tech companies. Every encounter still ends the same with the Lethal Protector being fed although the uptick in the latter type over the years has Kafka concerned.

Only three divisions out of the twelve want to kill the symbiote wielder with the First Division being the lead. Six are mostly neutral about the Lethal Protector in general. The remaining three want to capture him alive with the Third Division at the helm.

Kafka's body went through a few shifts upon becoming a hive. A 6 inch growth spurt, his nails sharpened into claws, teeth became fangs while his canines lengthened, ears pointed and his eyes have a barely visible glossy texture to them. Not even his tongue was left unchanged as not only did it become longer but can function similar to a snake's.

The Monster Sweepers throwaway a lot less kaiju meat thanks to Kafka. Corpses retain certain nutrients like phenylethylamine at least a few days longer after death. Any part that isn't the brain is stored in an freezer for later usuage.

Carnage is the second comic symbiote who'll make an appearance. Unlike his canon counterpart, he's more... mellow. He's still a chaotic bloodthirsty little shit but it's aimed at kaiju. The reason being that he spawns in Soshiro instead of a murderous psychopath.

You can blame the Vice Captain deciding to bite Kafka for an attack opening. The Lethal Protector still got away but doesn't know Venom's eventual offspring has been left behind. Both symbiotes can tell when the opposite is about to spawn due to being combined by Tiny.

Ai had been clueless about the whole random spawning bit until Kafka grilled Venom. (He honestly thought it was the symbiote version of indigestion. The two tend to bicker a lot with each other and the himbo is the peacekeeper.) Yeah, Ai ain't safe from it either.

It took a while for Soshiro to realize he had a passenger until he woke up surrounded by torn chocolate wrappers and covered in dried kaiju blood. Cue one immediate trip to the DF private hospital as something is very very wrong. You can bet Carnage trashes the MRI and scared the absolute hell out of the medical staff present.

This is where the Defense Force learns they're dealing with aliens since the red symbiote hasn't been taught to keep that info private. A very eventful few days for them as Kafka can't detect Carnage until he 'suits up' a host for the first time. And he obviously wants to avoid going onto Defense Force grounds despite how much Venom threatens to eat his liver.

Lucky for the himbo, Soshiro suits up with Carnage during a mission gone wrong. The current kaiju they were fighting had the ability to jam their suits. Nobody knew until their power levels dropped to zero in seconds.

Kafka safely separates Carnage from Soshiro afterwards. One ability he has as a Hive is being able to retrieve any symbiotes related to Venom or Ai. Even if they are deeply bonded to a host on a molecular level.

Although all three are now concerned that the Defense Force might essentially know everything. Both symbiotes in general and Kafka's hive status. They don't blame Carnage but now have to be extra careful.

Sleeper is the next to spawn and by god did the next three months suck. You can say all three felt this particular one as Kafka went through the same symptoms that pregnant women deal with. Morning sickness, cravings, mood swings, and exhaustion. (Similar to what Comic!Eddie went through in the First Host Venom comic.)

There were a few encounters with the Defense Force during the time span but Kafka always manages to get away in time. Due to the info Carnage shared and the Lethal Protector's erratic behavior, it didn't take long to realize another symbiote was coming. The most brutal capture attempt on Kafka yet unfurls which involved the First/Third/Sixth.

He manages to escape with some assistance and Sleeper is born in a safe place. Although it took scarring Mina by revealing the physical changes to his human face as well. Kafka still regrets the decision but he had no choice since she was the last obstacle to freedom.

Sleeper matures quite slower than Carnage or any other future spawn. This is due to his kaiju and human sides having more influence despite his symbiote body. He's quick to learn new things but needs help in the understanding department.

Mina and Kafka eventually have a deep heart to heart with each other. (The exact location or current setting is unknown.) Words meant to be said for so long are told as buried feelings come to light. A reconciliation to properly mend their bond.

Skully is Ai's first spawn although the little fellow was born a bit unconventionally. Due to his kaiju nature, any buds take an egg-like form first. This is so the symbiote inside could further develop their body to survive without a host. A process that lasts for at least a week before finally hatching. Skully was born with a few mental issues.

He thinks and behaves more like an adult when in his 'suit' form but otherwise retains the normal infant mindset. Skully is clueless about what he does in this alternate state too. He does become more aware over time and mentality swap stops once fully grown(i.e 19 years old). Other disorder Skully has is mild ADHD.

Tiny is still present inside Kafka. Although the larval kaiju lurks deep within the hive mind making it impossible to find. He remains dormant for now but is aware of everything that happens outside.

Kafka ages much more slowly thanks to his biology being mixed with symbiote and kaiju. No one really knows what would happen once he does die. Maybe the man just becomes a symbiote-like entity since there's nothing left of his human form to stop another metamorphosis. Something that could truly benefit from the hive mind's vast information without harm.

Ai and his offspring all have cores. They don't show up in symbiote form though. Instead these crystalline organs appear inside their host's body. First in a liquid state that only solidifies when Ai or his spawn takeover. This adaptation provides extra regeneration and resistance capabilities in exchange for a weak spot.

There are days where Kafka tends to isolate himself. It mainly stems from his cannibalistic diet despite how long he's been the Lethal Protector. A downward spiral about his own humanity than just morals. Venom and any symbiotes inside him do their best to keep the man comfortable during such periods. Other people soon join in to help Kafka over time.

Mina is quite the worrywart when it involves her old childhood friend. It doesn't die down much once a safe arrangement has been made between both parties. She does butt heads with Venom a few times whenever he tries to push Kafka into hunting bad guys.

Attempts to handle the more cannibalistic side of the Lethal Protector's hunger is an undergoing project. The Defense Force hopes a suppressant or substitute could be enough to sway Kafka in some way. So far an arrangement is the best call as they don't want to push their luck yet with larger deals.

@discoknack @noodlesbf-blog @mechazushi @nervousladyposts @kafkahibinomybeloved @giantgoblin @writeroffanfiction @scribblermerlin

[talesofsonicasura]

Venomous Call Part 2

The next part to the KN8/Venom AU. We'll be delving more into the Kaiju No.8 side, particularly some of the series events and how things change through the symbiote's inclusion. Also Fugitive!Kafka because why not? Third part is here. Let's get started.

Similar to the symbiote bonded to him, Kafka is a very stubborn man. Even if it means being on the run from the Defense Force and seen as a wanted criminal to the public. It was pretty obvious that his fellow Sweepers would call him. Well ambush is the more appropriate term since they want answers.

They took the whole Venom thing surprisingly well although were pissed that he kept the whole thing to himself. Like the good friends they are, the Sweepers continue to help Kafka. Granting him shelter to helping the Lethal Protector escape the Defense Force.

Even understanding Venom's abilities better like crafting a disguise with synthetic skin so the man could have some of his normal life back. Unfortunately the Defense Force also evolved their tactics too. Sound grenades, ice bombs, and tranquilizers became a permanent part of their toolset.

Mina continues to lead the chase with her Vice Captain Soshiro following her lead. A status quo that would continue for a few more years. Until a small unidentified kaiju decided to shatter it into pieces. One of those rare moments where Venom should've kept their mouth shut.

Let me go a bit deeper into Kafka's bond with the symbiote before we delve further ahead. Both became very very tight knit over the span of their vigilante career. This mainly stems from good communication skills, ability to compromise and willingness to talk about any potential issue.

Kafka tries to keep their respective identities separate as much as possible. Sadly he developed a bad habit of using 'We' in public. This shift stemming from how bonded they are as the Lethal Protector and Venom's preference in plural based pronouns. Don't ask about his love life since the Symbiote is super possessive.

Now onto the small kaiju in the room: Tiny. Like in canon, the little bugger goes down Kafka's throat. Although it happens while they are Venom as the symbiote thought the tiny fella would make a nice snack. Things are fine...for like two minutes before the Lethal Protector falls to the ground screaming.

Kafka painfully watches the black symbiote disappear into his body and the growing cacophony of ghoulish cries overtakes his mind. He almost passes out until everything just stops. Venom eventually manifests again but Kafka doesn't even have the chance to ask what had happened when they both see it.

A dark naval blue symbiote emerging from the man's opposite shoulder. Its slimy body covered in glowing cyan veins and the face bearing a demonic white bone mask with short horns. Yep, Kafka's kaiju has become a symbiote who the himbo calls Ai.

Although this isn't the only change wrought by Tiny. Due to Venom's presence, the larval kaiju infused itself to the symbiote's biology and merged all three together. Whatever remains of the barrier keeping them separate is gone. Now here's a thing about the symbiote race.

They are an asexual reproducing race that come from a hive mind-like structure. What this means is sharing knowledge, telepathic connections, and obviously hosting other symbiotes. Tiny essentially turned Kafka's body into a living Hive.

Kafka's food intake only slightly increased from it. This is due to Ai's ability to multiply the nutrition garnered from kaiju meat. Although they still eat human criminals as there are nutrients that can't be gained from the monsters or animals.

Now Ai still recreates Kafka's kaiju form like in canon since he's more kaiju than symbiote. The form is more amorphous despite the appearance as Kafka can easily shapeshift his body similar to Play-Doh. (Best way to visualize it is this concept art from the Spider-Man 2 game.)

He does gain a new ability due to his hive status. The man can now combine both forms into a very powerful one. Although he can't maintain it for long due to the large strain it leaves on his body.

Kafka starts with only one which is Venomai, the combination of Venom and Ai. This form stands around 15 ft in height with features from both alongside a few extra. Ai's body structure but the horns/dorsal plates now glowing teal in color, jagged, and longer. Venom's tail has been given cyan tipped thorn-like spikes, body markings are rigged whilst becoming teal in color alongside a twin pronged stinger.

Their combined form bears four arms, four eyes(each set from the respective symbiote), four horns(similar case to the eyes), two tongues, glowing cyan claws, twin tails and two pairs of wings. Venomai is as if the ferocity belonging to all three was tempered into a deadly calm before the storm. To enrage them is an awful idea since they aren't above torturing the target first.

He will get more combinations with each symbiote addition. If you are wondering about the comics, Venom does have multiple offspring specifically seven: Carnage, Phage, Agony, Lasher, Scream, Riot and Sleeper. The himbo is going to be dealing with more than two symbiotes in his head. Although how many comic related ones could appear is still up for debate.

Sleeper's guaranteed though. Especially since one of his forms is a cat and we know which KN8 character is obsessed with felines. (Plus he's a good goopy boy and the recent writers handling the Venom comics are dicks.)

Now there is a major flaw to Kafka being a Hive. Should both Ai and Venom be removed then he will die. Just losing one can greatly cripple the man as they are vital in maintaining his bodily functions. Not good for Kafka since the main tactic for the Defense Force is to separate him from Venom.

He still befriends Reno although their first encounter was quite different. The Lethal Protector had saved the young man a few years ago from a would-be kidnapper. Ichikawa remembers it to this day so he was beyond shocked when very familiar black tendrils pulled him out of the spider kaiju's path.

Or for them to come from his senpai's shredded right arm. Kafka kills the Yoju before quickly hiding as Mina's squad approaches. He is very surprised that Reno lies to the Defense Force for him. Venom does kidnap Ichikawa from the hospital since the Symbiote was curious about why he would lie to them.

Reno also gets a front row seat to the Lethal Protector's Tiny Style glow-up. He becomes an early alert system for Kafka once in the Defense Force as he is even more concerned about the himbo's health. Being able to help the vigilante avoid Mina and Soshiro's line of sight eases both their nerves.

While we're on that topic, Kafka is obviously not joining the Defense Force. He's a wanted man and a synthetic disguise ain't gonna change that. The Lethal Protector will still support them from the shadows even if they try to catch him.

Encounters between both groups really hit their peak around this point compared to his early days. It gets even more chaotic with another factor: the public. When it comes to Venom, how people feel about him is a very mixed bag. There is one type of group who are constant thorns to the Defense Force: The Slums.

Places where criminals are way worse than kaiju. Bad neighborhoods that have various threats which can range from Yakuza to corrupt government officials. The perfect feeding ground for the Lethal Protector when it comes to human prey.

It didn't take long for folks who live in such areas to view Venom as a hero. They are fiercely protective to the point a mob will form in seconds to chase off anyone that dare try to harm them. Even the Defense Force isn't safe as some officers have returned to base with bruises or broken bones.

Mina is usually the one who finds Venom the most and you can bet the symbiote's comments bring mixed results. The Defense Force has a theory going on that whatever is inside Kafka might be bringing his inner thoughts to the forefront.

One such possibility being love or lust for Mina from the more...crude comments. She has tried to get the man to come willingly before trying to use force. Kafka does share some details about Venom during these encounters(not being a Symbiote Hive or the black slime being an alien for obvious reasons.)

The small bit he shares is why he eats people and how the man could die. Mina didn't take it well as she already feels responsible for him becoming Venom.(I.e left him behind because he couldn't get into the Defense Force.)

She wants Kafka back and the safest place for him is in her division's custody. Those like the 1st would rather bring the man back dead than alive. Unfortunately they have to play a few more rounds of cat-n-mouse before that happens.

Kaiju attacks begin to be aimed towards the Lethal Protector. The beasts appearing in areas where he frequents most or been to last. Something wanted to test Venom and things only escalate from there.

At least Kafka can handle the taste of human flesh now as the Defense Force are no longer the only people who want him.

@discoknack @noodlesbf-blog @kafkahibinomybeloved @foolmariofest @renard-dartigue @scribblermerlin @mechazushi @giantgoblin @writeroffanfiction @cynicalwindmill

[talesofsonicasura]

Venomous Call

I decided to go more in depth with KN8/Venom crossover idea. There will be some comic elements but it's mostly based on the movie version of the Lethal Protector. For this part, I'll be going over the Kafka's early "Venom Days". Any questions can be asked on my main blog, @sonicasura. Let's get started. Part 2 here. Part 3 is here.

A 25 year old Kafka has life changed forever on one fateful night. He's trying to get his life together after having failed his last shot at the Defense Force. A task that proves very difficult when recruitment ads are plastered everywhere to remind him about his broken promise.

Could Kafka's life get any worse? Well being hit with a meteorite can officially be crossed off his bucket list as that's what happens. A 7 pound hunk of space rock piercing his right lung. Before Kafka loses consciousness due to blood and air loss, he sees something ooze from the meteorite.

The man wakes up back in his bed but he feels off. Like he isn't alone and fuller than usual. Kafka is completely oblivious about the news report where the bodies of the local Yakuza were found in a headless bloody pile.

Well until a growling voice comments how tasty the dead kaiju he's cutting up. Or that the black sludge which used to be his right arm had thrown away the saw and is eating at the corpse. Kafka's just glad no one else was next to him right now.

I will say the start for our himbo's partnership with Venom is less awkward than what Movie Eddie had to deal with. Kafka will question the symbiote about everything as he keeps any info in a notebook. He does puke when Venom tells him they ate a few humans(the Yakuza) earlier.

The man is much more adverse at the idea of cannibalism but he has barely any choice in the matter. Symbiotes sometimes need the required nutrients in their purest state which includes brains from living creatures. Humans have more phenylethylamine than small pest kaiju and the larger ones aren't present much.

Thus Kafka aims Venom's hunger at the criminal underworld. Like Eddie, he is very compatible with the symbiote although on a higher level so all his senses are tied to Vee's when they fully 'suit up'. Our himbo eventually grows numb to the taste of human flesh but it still mentally fucks him up sometimes.

Kafka's Venom form is quite different from the others. He is 10'9 in height, has two long horns similar to his kaiju form, a long bulky tail, rigged spikes going down his spine, white stripes on his arms, legs, neck, and tail. Venom will later add the Hoshina Clan Emblem for their chest symbol. (The symbiote thought it looked cool.)

Like the comic book adaptation, he uses natural webs to get around than just the tendrils the symbiote can provide. These abilities stem from Venom feeding on the kaiju corpses. Other comic related powers are: poisonous fangs, self-sustenance, flight(generating dragon wings), Morphomerge (bond with inanimate objects like vehicles to an extent), Energy Absorption and Transference.

There's a case of mistaken identity for a while. Venom kills No.7 and the Defense Force arrives on the scene before the Lethal Protector could leave. They assume he's the daikaiju, not the corpse. It takes a while before the Defense Force realizes that Kaiju No.7 had been neutralized and this is something else entirely.

Mina loathes Venom quite a bit. One being that the 'kaiju' likes to toy with her while calling the Captain "Pretty Lady". (Kafka is quietly dying on the inside whenever the symbiote does this.) The second reason being how Venom acts like a protector despite the fact he eats humans rather than just kaiju.

In short, Mina thinks he's a high and mighty monstrous hypocrite. Soshiro is a different case. He has a fun little 'rivalry' with Venom whenever he comes across them. Kafka obviously doesn't find being sliced and diced fun. Soshiro is quick to joke about the modified Hoshina emblem on the Lethal Protector's chest.

He finds the whole bit amusing even with Venom's man eating tendencies. They are labeled Capture Dead or Alive. He is one of the first cases where a kaiju not only has human level sapience and intelligence but a (twisted) moral compass too.

It didn't take to uncover Venom's weakness to fire. That opened up a bigger shitstorm as Mina witnesses some of Kafka's human form underneath the black ooze. She didn't see his face but it was enough to reveal the Lethal Protector needs a host to operate.

Venom obviously has a constantly updating file in the Defense Force archives. The major details are always highlighted such as his ability to adapt. Soshiro had accidentally bumped into the Lethal Protector gorging on a dragon Honju's corpse during a patrol.

Venom hadn't been in the mood to fight so our Vice Captain got front row seats to him sprouting wings that were heavily similar to the monster he had been eating. This was the first incident to raise him up the list of Defense Force priorities. Biggest is obviously the host bit.

That had gotten everyone in a tizzy as it means Venom was potentially lurking inside a human host. Many questions and theories were bounced around. 'Is the host aware of the entity in their body?' 'Are they even alive or just a corpse being puppeted?'

It made building a sensor to detect the Lethal Protector top priority amongst the Science Department. This includes smaller models as they now had to scan the civilian population for Venom's host. Everything only gets more difficult for Kafka when the DF discovers the symbiote's weakness to high frequency sounds.

It had been at a trafficking ring disguised as a rave den. One of Venom's prey accidentally turned up the stereos in fright when the Defense Force had busted down the door. The higher frequency made the Lethal Protector howl in pain before he destroyed the devices.

He obviously ran but it was too late to keep this weakness a secret. With these two major weak spots known, the Defense Force would soon concoct a plan to uncover Venom's true identity and apprehend him. I'm on the fence about Kafka escaping with his identity in tact or becoming a wanted man.

There's some very tasty angst with the latter as Mina is obviously part of this operation. Seeing her childhood friend underneath the monstrous black mass would already hurt. To see him choose the monster and the creature chastising her for abandoning him is the coup de grace.

Especially if the only thing Kafka could say is something like 'I'm sorry for being a worthless friend' before he flies off as Venom. He no doubt has negative feelings for his lost friendship with Mina. Plus symbiotes tend to bring such emotions closer to the surface in their hosts.

She is obviously gonna chase after Kafka. Those words pretty much addressed the part of her that Mina tries not to. How she essentially abandoned Kafka because he couldn't get into the Defense Force.

The regret that her purposely distancing herself from him led to the Captain's childhood friend to become Venom. And how much it ate away at him. Mina will want to fix this as Kafka is her responsibility in the end.

Even if it means putting the man inside a kaiju containment cell.

@discoknack @foolmariofest @noodlesbf-blog @mechazushi @scribblermerlin @giantgoblin @kafkahibinomybeloved @drmarune @renard-dartigue

[talesofsonicasura]

Woke up from a nap earlier to my brain wanting to mess with Kafka and Mina.

Kafka had always been a strange person. He was born with a birthmark on his back: a black outline of butterfly wings. Those who saw it obviously mistaken it for a tattoo to the point he stopped correcting them.

Another oddity became known on the day he turned 6. Kafka had gotten a nice new neighbor and been talking to them for weeks. Strangely it seems like nobody else wanted to see them. The little boy obviously asked his mama about it and even gave her the neighbor's name.

Kafka learns that his new friend was in today's obituary. He soon realizes he could see and talk to the dead. The third peculiarity reared its head when the boy was 13. Kafka's family were holding a barbecue with a few families from the neighborhood.

A game of tag unfortunately goes wrong when the boy gets shoved into the hot open grill. Despite the holes and burnt marks in his clothes, the boy wasn't hurt. Kafka had learned fire can't hurt.

All of these strange things about hundreds didn't really scare him. Sure Kafka knows it's weird but he thought it was cool. Maybe it can be a major help when he joins the Defense Force with Mina! Then the fourth oddity finally bloomed.

For the past two weeks, 22 year old Kafka has been complaining about his back feeling super itchy. Both him and Mina recently just finished their first attempt together at the Defense Force. The only thing they are waiting for are the results.

Back to the itching, Mina thinks Kafka may be allergic to something. A notion that has him worried since he took an allergy test for the exams and it came out completely negative. She asks if he has a rash which Kafka embarrassingly admits only for the first week but it's been gone since. Mina chalk it up to the skin condition haven't fully went away yet.

Fast forward to the next day. The results came in but Kafka hadn't responded to her messages. She runs over with his in hand only to notice the lights in the apartment were off yet the door was unlocked. Mina worryingly stumbles inside the dark apartment.

It's an absolute mess, moreso than the usual. She soon finds what has to be Kafka in the bathroom. Yet there's something very off with him. Her best friend is shivering as a curtain blanketed part of his back.

Then realization struck once her eyes finally adjusted to the darkness. What was on Kafka's back hadn't been a curtain. It was faded crimson butterfly wings.

"Help me Mina... They won't come off."

If you guys noticed what I'm referencing then super kudos to you. For those in the dark, my mind decided why not delve deeper into horror with an unusual muse: Kirby's Morpho Knight. This is what's going on.

Kafka has essentially been chosen as Morpho Knight's champion in a sense. In Kirby lore, this Fluttering Dreameater is a primordial entity that ferries the souls of those who should have died and leads them to paradise. Simpler terms, the grim reaper disguised as a seemingly innocent sun colored butterfly.

Morpho Knight has an affinity for fire and imbues the butterfly sword he wields with them. An attribute Kafka also inherited although he'll need some help to get his own swords. With age, the remainder of his blessings would soon manifest.

One being his own wings much to Kafka and Mina's eventual horror. These aren't fully developed though but they will be flight worthy in soon time. You can bet your ass both are horrified.

Kafka's involvement in the Defense Force immediately begins under heavy watch as Mina believes it was the only choice they had. Neither knew if his condition could worsen over time and didn't want to take chances. Kafka was a mystery since the butterfly wings were the visible anomaly with his body. No core or anything else that screams kaiju.

He would stay at headquarters before eventually ending up in Mina's care once she becomes 3rd Division Captain. (She could only visit before due to her position as an officer.) An arrangement that already formed a foundation when Kafka's unnatural affinity for the sword became known. This happened during an experiment with his growing fire ability.

A test to see if he could channel it through an object and one option was a training sword. The moment Kafka picked it up is when things went sideways. A simple training sword was configured into a burning hot butterfly blade and he swung it as if possessed. The large deep slice he scorched into the wall, one made to withstand a kaiju attack, had been enough to call Soshiro in.

Merely one of multiple incidents to come before canon even starts. Only thing I can say is everyone better prepare for fire and flames to come. A himbo imbued with the powers of an eldritch butterfly death god is one thing.

Tiny the larval kaiju will appear to ramp things up.

(Here's the link to the boss fight for those who want further context on how insane this will be.)

@discoknack @foolmariofest @driokrine @writeroffanfiction

[talesofsonicasura]

Spiritualist

Despite the obscurity, Digimon Frontier introduced a very interesting mechanic into the series: Spirit Evolution. Humans being able to become Digimon through the usage of artifacts. Something that's sadly never fully explored again.

No, I ain't counting Data Squad since that's more scientific than mystical. Then Digimon Next Order came out and one particular set of items got my attention: Digivolution Crystals. If you don't know, these are items that digivolve your partners.

Each crystal correlates to one Digimon whose a Champion stage or higher. What makes it more interesting is the options don't have to be related to your partners' respective lines. Then the idea hit me. A new class for humans whose lives become intertwined with the Digital World: Spiritualist.

Similar to the Digimon Frontier protagonists, they use items from the Digital World to Spirit Digivolve. However Spiritualist aren't restricted to the Warrior Spirits. They can use Armor Digieggs and other Digivolution items to become any possible species.

Spiritualists do need a strong spirit in order to properly control their Digimon form or risk losing themselves. Mental training and spiritual exercises are very common practices amongst this class. A Digimon can lend their strength to make transformations of their family easier to control. Ex: Agumon improves success with the Dragon Family.

Highly skilled Spiritualists can transform into certain Digimon without usage of an item. This requires complete understanding and mastery over said form. Some individuals can even use one Digivolution item to access an entire line if skilled enough.

Strangely, most Spiritualists don't take on a Digimon partner despite the benefits they provide. This has led to rumors and controversy involving the class amongst others. 'Do they believe Digimon are replaceable?' Something that only began to increase when new Spiritualists have a high chance of going on a rampage. Every class chosen by humans tends to have their issues or controversies.

If anyone wants to try their hand at this then go ahead! I'm quite curious at what people can come up with if given a nice push.

@foolmariofest

[talesofsonicasura]

Free prompt for UnderDogs/Hoshikaf shippers!

Kafka and Soshiro being married before canon happens. Like they tied the knot four years ago with the former being a pseudo House Husband of sorts. Kafka still works at the Sweepers but has extra free time since he is a highly trusted worker amongst the organization.

The night our himbo gets his powers? It was supposed to be their 5 year anniversary but a certain Spider Honju had to ruin it. Also Soshiro visiting Kafka in the hospital and watch Tiny(the larval/mosquito kaiju) go down his husband's throat.

He definitely tried to use the Heimlich Maneuver on the man but our himbo ends up knocking the wind out of the vice captain via a elbow to the gut. A kaiju metamorphosis would boost a panicking person's strength after all. (Kafka definitely will feel bad for the bruise he left on his husband's stomach.)

You can bet your ass Soshiro would be extra protective of his himbo lover thanks to this incident. The vice captain already had a mini existential crisis about mercy killing Kafka if he became feral after turning into a Kaiju. It was a massive relief the man retained his identity although with some added primal behavior.

No way to make your love life more chaotic than your husband becoming a kaiju! (I would've made it more insane if I used Skyscraper Softie!Kafka for my personal take.)

@nightfal1n @iceclew @terra-sketches @drmarune @renard-dartigue @oxandthorn

[talesofsonicasura]

Accidentally posted this on the wrong blog. Whoops. 😅

My somewhat sleep ass decided to torture Kaiju No. 8's Hoshina Soshiro a bit.

What if there was a different reason why he joined the Defense Force and seems so defensive of Mina Ashiro? Hoshina was similar to Kafka in that he had a childhood best friend growing up. This person being his light in the darkness and took every chance to brighten even his worst days.

Both aimed towards their own positions in the Defense Force with a vow to support each other the best they can. Hoshina and his cherished friend strived to improve themselves each day. They were at the top of the world. Well until Hoshina's dear friend vanished without a trace.

Unlike him, they wanted to become a weapon smith for the Defense Force. A task that requires different qualifications to join than the normal entrance exam. One such way was being recognized by a popular tech company.

Luckily their chance came as an expo where top 5 kaiju tech companies in Japan will host a competition with the prize being a free internship. Hoshina's friend gone in hopes of being recognized and become the person who would one day make his gear. Sadly a Kaiju will attack the expo that very night as the future vice captain becomes devastated by loss.

Although his friend didn't truly die that day. When they tried to escape the frenzied civilians, the panic would accidentally trigger one of the contestants' prototypes. A data manipulator made from a unique Kaiju core that could materialize, deconstruct, and store physical constructs.

Hoshina's friend found themselves pulled by the machine unseen by any of the survivors. Their life been spared but would forever change inside. His friend's data will unfortunately merge with the machine's storage and eventually the Kaiju core.

The Data Manipulator is left untouched as years past by until current day when one new intern turns it on. What comes out of the machine was no longer human but not exactly a Kaiju either. The scared intern would tell the Defense Force about the creature they saw.

A four armed 7 ft tall monstrosity that looked like a horrific red caricature of cartoon hedgehog. Their robotic voice constantly muttering 'Fatal Error' as the perpetually open fanged smile never left. Or that they said 'Hoshina Soshiro' before vanishing into the cable lines.

Yep. I got bored and gave Hoshina a friend who practically turned into a kaijuesque version of Fatal Error. They don't have a name at the moment so Fer will be their temporary moniker.

Considering how high tech the kaiju fiber suits are, it makes you wonder how ugly a potential malfunction would be. Fer is essentially a walking data version of said item with their 'core' hosted inside a pocket dimension inside their stomach. They have all their current memories alongside the unfortunate urge to feed on data and other kaiju.

Also Hoshina now has a spooky stalker to worry about. It'll definitely take some time before he realizes that this horror show is his lost best friend. Plus the irony of him trying to keep Fer a secret from his troops like Reno is doing for Kafka.

[talesofsonicasura]

I'm Still Me

Sorry for not responding to this blog for awhile! Life has been nuts and I been getting asks on my main blog so there's that. Currently suffering writer's block hence the lack of stories or character scenarios too.

Doesn't mean AUs and worldbuilding headcanons are affected. I got a new one from an series that has finally gotten some attention, Kaiju No 8. You can tell it was about time we gotten a Shonen which doesn't follow the standard rules. And this AU involves are lovely 32 year old himbo main character Kafka so please enjoy!

The premise of Kaiju No 8 is when a cleaner with a dream to standby his best friend gains the power to become the very monster said companion faces: a Kaiju. Now in canon, Kafka becomes human again after his first fight and has to maintain a double identity. What if he didn't change back?

Kafka is now forced to navigate life stuck in the body of a Kaiju. Trying to understand his new physiology, instincts and abilities with the (slim) hope he can become human again. Luckily Kafka isn't alone in this new struggle.

He has Reno and his fellow Monster Sweepers to help him. The latter group find out the truth after Kafka doesn't show up to work for multiple shifts. All of them were obviously shocked to see their long time friend/coworker had become a kaiju but still have his back. (The himbo absolutely cried from the support.)

Reno shoulders Kafka's dream on his back as the group knows the Defense Force might never accept a Kaiju into their ranks. To him, it wasn't fair for his friend to be denied this last chance by fate and the young man will do something about it. Luckily Kafka is willing to help train Reno whenever possible.

He tries to get his life back together while his younger friend aims for the Defense Force. The Monster Sweepers help Kafka acquire new clothes and necessities needed to live with a kaiju body. Looking for ways that can allow their friend to still be apart of society without jeopardizing his life.

It doesn't mean the human turned monster was safe from the events to come. A certain Kaiju interfering with the Defense Force leads Kafka no choice but to get involved as his friends are caught in the crossfire. The man soon becomes a target for both sides.

Defense Force who wishes to learn the truth about Kaiju No 8's mysterious nature and the Kaiju that want to tear apart the traitor against their kind. Meanwhile Kafka struggles to hold onto his identity as he tries to understand his new powers. They call him Kaiju No 8. He knows he is Kafka Hibino.

Yet is the man really either? Is he still human? Has Kafka really become a kaiju? Or is he something completely different? It is up to Kafka to decide that he is still himself. Hopefully the conclusion leads the human turned kaiju one step closer to the humanity he once had.

[talesofsonicasura]

What’s this I hear about a troll hunter au

Sorry for the very very late answer as there was no notification but I have a few Trollhunter related AUs. Heartstone Healer which involves Jim being a golem similar to the character Knack, Uncle Leon where Resident Evil Leon is Toby's uncle, To Become Maddening where Jim gets trapped in the Madness Combat universe as a child then returning three years later as an experienced killer, and Dance of Destiny where Jim astroprojects into the Monster Hunter world and become a hunter with tribal style magic.

[talesofsonicasura]

Weretoons

I couldn't help but think of this concept after seeing this post. *Check out @horologiiiumart to see their Pizza Tower AU* Cartoons! We know them from age to style, whether it be classics or modern day. The most unique of them being particular movies like Who Framed Rodger Rabbit, Space Jam and Looney Tunes Back In Action.

What makes these quite special, especially the forner, are the interactions between our world with the cartoon side. Toons live on completely different rules unlike normal people. Any natural laws of the world being replaced with their cartoon version.

Jumping ridiculous heights outta sheer fright, bodies mold and stretch when interacting with certain things or storing objects much stronger than the average pocket easily. It is an easy thing for a toon to understand and do. But what if there's an exception to this rule.

Weretoons are a very unique entity amongst were-beings. A non-toon being who becomes a fully functional Toon under various conditions. The basic being a full or crescent moon on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights. (Days where new episodes for cartoons usually air on said night or incoming morning.)

*Caution must be heeded around Weretoons during the Blood Moon! Their antics have a high probability of not only becoming malicious but can potentially maim normal people! Lunar Eclipses will increase their aggression too.

Solar Eclipses and Blue Moons are the only safest shift alternatives for normal folk. Although it is best to keep an eye on inexperienced Weretoons with the latter. Blue Moons can cause uncontrollable sadness or unhealthy actions related to it.*

Transformations can also be triggered by excessive laughter, vengeful rage, or exposure to certain quantity of ink. Essentially the building blocks for cartoons in simpler terms. (Their purpose, the rules and creation of the popular Rubberhose.)

There is no clue if they occur naturally but these can be created through artificial means. Like any epidemic, it involved a Patient 0 and enough people to get infected for it to be impossible to eradicate. A Weretoon can spread their influence through biting, organ/blood transfusion, or their descendants.

*The percentage of those who become Weretoons through heritage start at 80% before dwindling down to the average 20% further down the bloodline.*

Weretoons don't always share the same species between non-toon and toon forms. A large chunk of individuals gain unrelated features or can become a completely different species upon a shift. EX: One human can become a Cartoon Dragon while another turns into a cartoon version of themselves.

In toon form, the Weretoon doesn't follow all natural laws. A good chunk are instead replaced with the Cartoon Laws of Physics. These new rules mainly focus on motion, objects, matter and gravity. Non-toons can be subjected to them by a Toon in the right moment.

Weretoons are born with a unique type called Tropes. These often determine their abilities and what kind of cartoon shenanigans they can do. Here's a simple list involving the more known ones. Link to a character archetypes for those who want to delve further.

Strongman- A trope that embodies incredible physical prowess such as strength or speed unmatched by many.

Eldritch Horror- A trope which manifests in transformations which range from varying degrees of body horror for intimidation and frights.

Jester- A trope that focuses on crafting mischief onto others on usually dangerous or potentially lethal levels.

Chaos Agent- A trope which embodies sheer mayhem with no care for the immense destruction wrought and anything caught up in the antics. *Most dangerous*

Loser- A trope that manifests as various degrees of misfortune or lackluster skill which can affect more than just the possessor.

Mad Scientist- A trope where anything can be made possible through science but will go wrong at some point and be possibly inhumane.

Magician- A trope which can turn the simplest sleight of hand into actual magic as long as the trick isn't fully interrupted.

Defense against Weretoons often varies upon the respective form. They can be killed like any non-toon equivalent if unable to or haven't shifted. It is highly important to not cause an blood drawing injury when a Weretoon is in mid-shift.

*This video is pretty good at explaining further depths on the concept of dealing with a toon.*

This often leads to a creation of a Clone. Clones are Toons born from this process and can create Weretoons just like their predecessors. The only differences between them being their tropes, appearance but also nature. Most clones tend to be very off-point or malformed versions of their Weretoon creators.

Their intelligence and copied memories usually varies between how close they are in resemblance to the original. All Clones are very clingy which often leads to stalking until taught not to. They tend to be very hostile with those deemed a threat to their Weretoon or said creator if mistreated enough.

It is near impossible to kill/injure a Clone and Weretoon in toon form except for one thing: The Dip. A lethal concoction of turpentine, acetone and benzene that became a real threat upon the popular staple status attained by Who Framed Rodger Rabbit. Weretoons can get hurt by it even if they aren't in toon form. Ink is the only thing that can treat Dip injuries. A fully submerged Weretoon will be severely burned in non-toon form and death can follow if they shift before removing the solution.

The Dip is a popular tool almost a particular group of people known as Cartoon Hunters. A common fear amongst Weretoons and Clones since these individuals will go to any length to kill a confirmed person. Most Cartoon Hunters won't let any moral boundaries like innocence or victims get in their way. Only the death of the Weretoons matter to them.

Dangers such as these led to most living in hiding or secret communities. Weretoons can be considered tall tales and crazy stories due to how elusive their nature has become. That doesn't mean there isn't a chance someone in your neighborhood can be one.

[talesofsonicasura]

Shades

The first Persona game I've experienced is funnily enough not Persona 5. My true start in a sense had been the quieter and homey air of Persona 4 Golden. Despite not being able to play it back then, the game left enough impression to get me invested in the series.

There is one particular part that stuck with me though. It was the idea of someone's Shadow becoming a Persona through acceptance. A very common occurrence as everyone in the game except for the Protagonist gone through this.

Most of the bosses in 4 is someone's Shadow who went berserk if their other half rejects them. Why you may ask? Because these are the manifestations of our inner darkness, a Doppelganger. Doppelgangers can be considered an already volatile powder keg to put it simply.

Personas are the opposite side of this very coin. An incredible power that can only be wielded when someone accepts their shadow half and can take many forms depending on the person. Or you might view it as a conduit for a summon if going for the demons route like in Shin Megami Tensei.

Shadows can become Personas and vice versa. Yet, what if there's a halfway point? Neither a Shadow or Persona but have the potential to become either depending on their choices.

An entity I will call a Shade. Beings stuck in the threshold between both paths and whose actions can determine what they become. Shades work on completely different rules though.

The creation process being the biggest difference as they don't originate from any variation of the Metaverse. Every Shade was once a human or non-cognitive being. From an entire person to even a body less soul.

All Shades are someone whose life or potential were completely shattered. Those that wish to move forward but can't without assistance. Shades can be created in two different ways.

First is Patronage where a Persona or Shadow offers to grant them this wish. The Shade born from such a process always takes after their 'Patron' in form and have similar abilities. EX: Shades whose Patron is Arséne often tend to share the Curse attribute alongside physical traits to him like horns, wings, or similar attire.

The second is Cognition Metamorphosis. A peculiar process where the potential Shade manifests their own form without a patronage. Their visage and abilities are based on the individual's inactive Shadow/Persona. Cognition Metamorphosis can only occur if the potential Shade has a strong spirit or in an area heavily linked to the Metaverse called a Transcendent Point.

The state of the person's body upon either transition is an important factor. Should a potential Shade not have one or it is too damaged then it'll take time to fully develop. Kinda like tadpole into frog.

An accurate comparison unlike those who do have an intact body. They fully emerge from it as a complete Shade. A process made easier and faster with their old body acting like a conduit or a chrysalis to be more accurate.

Now I can really delve into differences that Shades have when it compared to Persona and Shadows. These entities can be fully interacted by everyone outside of the Metaverse. Normal living beings are able to see, hear and even touch Shades without any issue.

This is because they aren't fully separated from the human realm until becoming either a Persona or Shadow. Although there will be complications though. Every Shade has a negative effect on a person's perception of them.

These tend to range from unable to say certain words, inability to hear their voice, or an unnatural villainization. A sometimes very volatile twist in perception as some individuals become unreasonably hostile to Shades that can affect them. Not everyone is susceptible to this negative shift though.

Shades are born with the ability to create Domains. Personal dens and places of safety that can be created by melding their power into an area. A pseudo Safe Room to put it simply. Domains can be adjusted by their respective Shade whether on purpose or personal growth towards their Persona/Shadow evolution.

If a Shade die, then their body and anything crafted by their powers disintegrate as erased from existence. How they become a Persona or Shadow also varies. The latter being more easier to achieve if a Shade looses themselves to inner darkness from sorrow to sheer malevolence.

In order to become a Persona, they have to find their goal. Whether it be a purpose, truth, or even a resolve. A Shade who manages to reach this particular goal then they become a Persona and can leave the mortal realm for the Sea of Souls. These two respective processes are called Ascension/Descension.

Persona born from Shades can remember their past lives with full detail and are able to return to the mortal realm if they formed a strong enough bond with an individual(s). Those that become Shadows hold no memories nor emotions other than the one which created them. It is highly advised to be ready for a vicious fight if encountered.

Shades have the ability to grant boons to non Persona users which can evolve over time, Crowning being the term. Animal like receivers become Familiars who could potentially transform into powerful Beasts called Dusks. People are blessed with powerful weapons, armor and even magic.

If the crowning Shade becomes a Persona then their familiars transition into Shades while Dusks become Persona. Items or magic transcend into much more powerful variations. Not the same can be said for the opposite.

If this Shade becomes a Shadow, then their familiars transition into unstable Shades and Dusks to volatile Shadows. Given items or magic become cursed making them very hazardous to the wielder. Even those around the gifted can be in danger if too close.

This is probably one of the few ideas that I already wrote for but never flesh out. For those wondering, it is a MHA/Persona fanfic on Ao3 called Incarnation. (One that needs to be updated as it's stuck in hiatus.)

If you guys want to try out this idea then go ahead. Make sure to link the page so any confusion can be confused and others could give a try. I'm always curious on what people can come up with!

[talesofsonicasura]

Persona 5: Phantom Cat Pt2

Here we go with Part 2 of the Phantom Cat AU. I'll be covering the Confidants, plot changes, but also the potential of Poppy Playtime being more involved. Let's get started.

If I can sum up the Phantom Thieves' relationship with Joker in one word, it'll be protective. Even the Personas especially Arsène are no different. Ren does admit to once being human but everyone doesn't learn about his tragic backstory until after Okumura's Palace.

You can bet their ass they were disgusted upon finding out Playtime Co's inhumane experiments. It isn't uncommon for Ren to find one or more of his companions lay against him when he loafs around like a giant cat. Something the Thieves' Den makes easier as Leblanc's attic is not that spacious.

Morgana sympathizes with Ren the most. Both of them aren't human and won't be accepted by the outside world for it. Ren was lucky to find someone who raised him with kindness than just free the young man from a terrible fate. They're feline brothers, your honor.

Ryuji, Yusuke and Haru are three flavors of food friends. The former track star sneaking out for a daily run with Ren alongside the occasional ramen or snack food chow downs. His zoomies become manageable thanks to Ryuji. (Sojiro is still reeling from a hyper Ren pouncing on him.)

Yusuke enthusiastically introduces the living toy to the art world since he cannot visit a museum like a normal patron. Ren sometimes find himself being a muse for some of his paintings and usually portrayed as a peculiar enigma. The two always chow down on curry afterwards.

Gardening with Haru anyone? Ren always feel bad about how much money his new family have to spend just to keep him fed. (Futaba had a limit put on credit theft by Sojiro as he doesn't want both his kids to rely on illegal crime to survive.) Something Haru can understand since she has similar issues. The two bond over coffee together.

Emotional support Ann is a definite. The two constantly talk about facing their issues and ways to strengthen their heart. Ren is always happy to lend a ear whenever Ann has problems in her model career or updates about her friend Shiho's recovery. She gives good advice when the giant toy needs help getting Futaba used to the outside world.

Makoto is the socially awkward training partner. Both Ren and her don't have much experience with people outside their friend group so neither know what can be considered normal. The two hammer out each other's issues whenever possible or just vibe together.

All of the Persona in the group do their best to make Ren feel normal every time the group is together thus shenanigans are guaranteed. Carmen and Milady are the wine aunts who endorse the chaos. Necronomicon is his 2nd fellow prankster partner(Futaba is 1st).

Zorro, Johanna and Goemon being the only responsible adults most of the time. Captain Kidd is a sheer chaotic neutral as no one knows whether he'll start something or remain level headed. Finally we get to Arsène.

The poor pigeon hasn't been in this particular element before. Nonhuman Persona Users are a thing so it ain't that. Ren's heart can be considered a massive mess. Whatever was done to make him a living toy, it left something vile behind. Yet Ren continues to defy fate even with the leech latched onto his soul.

Thus Arsène can be a bit more aggressive when it comes to Ren's health. Always near the surface of his partner's subconscious whether to offer soothing words or protect him if needed. In the Thieves' Den, Arsène is usually found snuggled next to Ren with a cover around his knife heels.

Now most of Joker's Confidants are people he has to sought out. A more complicated affair due to not being human. There is actually one more Confidant he has mostly maxxed out and knows about his status: Tae Takami of the Death Arcana. (Yes I absolutely complete the whole thing early just to unlock Alice.)

Sojiro was concerned about Ren's health as they had no clue if or when health complications will occur. Thus it led to Tae becoming his secret doctor as she not only the closest but is trusted amongst the community for her skills. It was a very interesting conversation to say the least.

Now Ren is quite crafty when it comes to establishing his other bonds. Until he could shift into a more human size, Futaba prepared a special plushie with a built in-camera that he can talk through. The excuse being Ren is an hospital patient undergoing recovery after serious health complications and this toy helps him interact with the outside world.

Now onto plot changes, the deadlines alongside their consequences for failure remain the same. It's just not for the first two Palaces. Ren is still captured and put in the Interrogation section. Although it took the traitor attacking from the shadows to injure him enough for police to subdue the Bigger Body.

He's far more beat up, chained and has a specialized muzzle since Ren is a giant chloroform breathing cat toy monster. Can't forget the possibile dissection if he can't escape his fate. The plot for the Third Semester dances around the chance to be human again in his face. Ren doesn't take it of course.

For Scramble, he casually chills in everyone's bags and pull the special patient card to converse with others. Ren can still cook as it's a calming hobby for him alongside gardening. Plus the sight of a giant CatNap in an apron cooking was too hard to resist.

Also yes, I am in the 'Adopt Sophia' group cause she's precious. Especially when Ryuji got to say fuck just to defend her. Sophia definitely calls Ren 'kitty' but he really doesn't mind unlike Morgana. Yes, they do snuggle in the Thieves Den as no one shall avoid the cuddle pile.

Awkward dad Zenkichi anyone? Man absolutely flipped upon seeing Ren as he thought the whole report about 'Phantom Cat Joker' being a giant purple monster was a joke. Nope and you shall get your tired ass dragged into cuddles cause Ren smells stress.

The Persona also get more involved in the shenanigans too. Only Ren's confidants or those who delve into the Metaverse long enough can see much less interact with them. Best to keep Captain Kidd away from fireworks though. (There are special cases but that's for later.)

Before you ask, yes, Joker's main Showtime special is different. Instead of just blasting Shadows with Eiha, Ren breathes out chloroform smokescreen and bursts forth alongside Arséne to come down on their targets like a predator. The attack retains the Curse element but does Physical damage too. A Two in One type combo.

Tactica's plot remains the same however every target views Ren with disgust. All saying there is an 'chimeric abomination' latched onto his heart. The enemies also target him more than Erina and the other thieves.

Speaking of her, she does think Ren is a cat who again doesn't really mind much. Toshiro absolutely freaks out and takes awhile to get used to him. Gameplay wise, Ren is mostly the same except he has more movement options to fit his feline Bigger Body.

Pouncing on further away enemies, inflict Sleep status in large groups, and his Phantom Judge special turns into Phantom Roar. An attack where Ren breathes out a massive cloud of chloroform for Arséne to convert into a Eiha powered explosion. Not only does it do massive damage but also has a high chance of inflicting Sleep status on targets.

Finally we move onto Poppy Playtime. If you guys were paying close attention, then the signs should be obvious. Something is connected to Ren and his past holds the answers. Thus the Phantom Thieves of Hearts visit the Playtime Co Factory to see if they can help their friend. He had been experiencing vivid nightmares which all link to this place.

Now the factory isn't the same like in the game. For unknown reasons, the place has become a pseudo-Mementos linked to the collective consciousness of the various souls who linger inside. Thus the factory has potential to shift anyone in the affected areas in or out the Metaverse side without warning.

A chance of Shadow attacks are not only high but there is a possibility that something even deadlier lurks inside. There are occasions where it is required to travel through this dangerous 'Labyrinth' to progress deeper. (Can't have them blazing through the place.)

Everyone split into two groups so they can cover more ground. Group 1: Ren, Yusuke, Ann, Makoto; and Group 2: Morgana, Haru, Ryuji, Futaba. They'll be encountering characters who not only appear in Poppy Playtime but also Project Playtime. Player character is there too so the Phantom Thieves will meet them.

Guaranteed canon divergence as some of the Poppy Playtime cast might not even encounter the game protagonist. The Phantom Thieves won't ignore someone in need *looks at one particular character* and don't kill their targets. For them, living with guilt for one own sins is a fate worse than death.

New players have entered the game that neither groups could ever foreseen. Can the Phantom Thieves of Hearts solve the mystery and shut down this the factory's immense distortion? Only the phantom cat will determine victory or defeat.

[talesofsonicasura]

To Save A DogDay

I couldn't help but write this after seeing the constant dedication of saving the giant toy doggo. So here's something to assist you guys in the effort. I've done some research(even though Google was being an ass) and took a look at this particular post by @dafloof

First off, DogDay is surprisingly big despite being cut in half. If I have to compare his size then think of those giant plushies you win from a theme park or carnival game. Thus the only possible carry for the average person to safely escort him is bridal or hanging off like a koala on the side due to the grab pack. He might be able to shrink himself to a more manageable size if DogDay is similar to CatNap in body structure.

Although that doesn't mean the task is impossible outside of adrenaline. DogDay may be big you got to think about his possible weight. Bigger Bodies are still toys with the Smiling Critters being plushies. How much of him is stuffing and not organs?

The necessary body parts for him to still be alive are the lungs, heart, brain, stomach, and some sort of skeletal structure. Here's a weight chart for the average human. (Although these might be smaller if harvested back as a child than an adult.)

Stomach: 2-4 pounds/lbs

Brain- 2.5 pounds/lbs

Heart- 0.25 pounds/lbs

Lungs- 1.8 pounds/lbs

Human Skeleton- 15-25 pounds/lbs

Average weight here 21.05 - 31.05 lbs. His arm bones might be reinforced similar to the Prototype but they still wouldn't be that heavy. For carrying in your arms, 35- 55 lbs is what the the untrained person can hold. Body weight contributes to how much someone can carry with a 139 lbs untrained woman being able to deadlift around 74 lbs. For men it is 125 lbs for 148 lbs.

Adrenaline can help contribute to this as there have been feats done by people in dangerous situations. One example being a human mother fighting off a polar bear to protect her kids or someone moving a car by themselves to get free. We can do insane things when it comes to survival.

There's also the mental side to this. Our brains actually diminish the perception of how strong we are by 40%. If you carry something you love or cherish like a person, then they can weigh less just from that viewpoint. Sometimes thinking like the Little Engine That Could will make a difference.

Now I am not forgetting the dangerous little critters. There are ways to deal with them and have enough time to bring DogDay along. In his cell, there are two ports they can crawl out of. Blocking these whether by flares or stuffing them with nearby items can do the trick.

Second is bribery. We aren't restricted to the environment like in the game and throughout the facility there are intact vending machines. The toys obviously need to eat but seem unable get into the machines. YOU CAN.

Break the glass and stockpile as much snacks as possible. Finding bags or boxes to carry them wouldn't be hard. Offer these to the little Critters in exchange for DogDay. You can open one bag for further incentive as the chance to get a special treat is something no one will be able to resist.

DogDay might be able to drag himself so breaking the chains with the Grab Pack or a different tool is possible. They are probably rusty thus easier to break. It will obviously hurt for DogDay to drag his body so stealing something like a cushion from CatNap's hideyhole could ease the pain.

Should that not be the case then other options are available. Considering Playcare is a fun house, you might be able to find scooterboards or a platform cart to carry him. If not then a makeshift sled to pull DogDay about is the next best move.

Now there's actually another escape route. A duck ride that you couldn't access in the game due to bugs. I think Mob was planning for a chase down there as it is fully fleshed out with puzzles and an environment.

DogDay can hold onto the boat while you solve the puzzles to get out. For those who hadn't chosen bribery then flares will keep pursuing Little Critters away. Maybe set a fire as you escape since there's plenty of items to make a molotov cocktail if crafty enough.

I suggest finding some walkie talkies as someone needs to look after DogDay. The area under the statue can be a possible safe spot but being able to contact Kissy Missy and Poppy will better the chances of his recovery than just survival. Both know the factory's inner works enough to remain hidden so they might know where to find supplies. A possible ally with valuable info can sway them to help.

There is also the option of coming back to Playcare. DogDay might still be alive as you can hear his muffled cries during the chase. He might be worse for wear due to the little menaces piloting him like a bootleg Megazord. Walkie talkies can help you page Kissy Missy to help with escorting the Bigger Body safely.

It is possible to save DogDay if you are smart or crafty enough to use the environment. The factory offers a lot of potential options to help with that. Do know that you can turn a simple water gun into a flamethrower.

Why follow the rules of the game when there are ways to break them?

[talesofsonicasura]

Persona 5: Phantom Cat

An idea that plagued me ever since I saw Poppy Playtime Chapter 3 and been playing Persona 5 Royal. Joker but he's a Bigger Bodies CatNap. Things are gonna go insane and have a new flavor of dark.

For those who want to learn more about Poppy Playtime before delving in, this post has all the current info links.

Ren Amamiya was an orphan raised in the Playcare orphanage at Playtime Co. A secondary candidate for the Catnap Bigger Bodies experiments if one were to be found too unstable to use(looks at Ch3 CatNap). It's clear from the various VHS tapes which can be found throughout the chapter that there are some workers who been aware about the horrors done in Playtime Co.

People who absolutely hated it or disagree with such inhumane idealism. One particular scientist decides to do something unheard of: allow a child experiment to escape. Ren being the chosen person as they had grown close to him but were unable to adopt him in time before experimentation. The transformation for the boy gone faulty which led to a more unorthodox method of conversion.

Ren was made into a small Catnap who will overtime grow into a Bigger Bodies version. The perfect size for the scientist to sneak him out in a duffle bag and vanish after work was done for today. A simple swap with a normal Catnap toy.

No one knew they were in the process of moving to Japan nor the truth until it was too late. An experiment has gotten out into the real world. The scientist alongside the recently converted Ren were unaware about the growth process and thought he been made into a normal toy.

A mistake that became noticed when Ren had double in size within a span of two weeks. Despite this new problem, the scientist did his best to raise the boy. Unlike the other CatNap, Ren is completely different from the Smiling Critters as a whole.

His face isn't a stuck in a perpetual grin and he can make various facial expressions like his cartoon counterpart. Ren is around 12 years old when he fully grew into his staggering 23 ft tall Bigger Body. Long lanky body that is more lean has an almost humanlike upper torso. Well if they got extra long limbs.

The youth can easily pretend to be a toy as he's well fed and the healthy weight hides his bone structure. (CH3 CatNap was starved.) Ren can compress his body to 11 ft at minimum for the moment. He needs to train in order to shrink to the size of a plush, even more to reach rat size(thank Shido's Palace.)

(Comparison Bigger Bodies Catnap and the small toy alongside the cartoon art)

Ren doesn't produce Red Smoke but instead normal choloform. This is because he would be upgraded once reaching full size back at Playcare under The Doctor's orders. A safe measure to not deal with two rogue Red Smoke spraying CatNaps.

He didn't have a voice box added as the employees involved in this experiment rather leave him mute. Ren does get one from his rescuer which sounds like his own voice but can be adjusted to fit his age. Despite being a Bigger Body the youth lives a very happy life.

A few weeks after Ren's thirteenth birthday is when tragedy struck. The boy lost his parent from the result of a drunk driver(Shido.) Ren is forced to pack up all his prizes possessions and leave knowing their family home would soon be foreclosed.

He moves into Yogen-jaya as the place was the closest, most rural but most importantly least populated area. Ren survived by eating whatever food people threw out and stealing from homes if desperate. On one fateful day, he breaks into Sojiro's place where meets Futaba.

She was obviously frightened by the 11 ft (compressed) monstrous cat in her house. Until Futaba notices that the strange creature acted more like a hungry skittish feline from the almost empty messy fridge. It was in that moment Futaba would do something insane. She let Ren stay with her.

Using her hacking skills, the youth stole money from people's bank accounts/cards and ordered Ren food to pick up in secluded spots throughout the neighborhood. The duo's bond becoming that of siblings over time. Although it didn't take long for Sojiro to bump into Ren.

He was super concerned and frightened to see the giant feline in his home even when Futaba jump into his defense. It took awhile before Sojiro trusted Ren as he let the Bigger Body stay due to the sibling bond with his adopted daughter. The two were obviously disgusted at Playtime Co once they heard about the boy's backstory.

For those wondering, this entire thing did change events in the Persona 5 main story. The first being the Phantom Thieves line up. Makoto takes Ren's position as she was taken into Kamoshida's Palace alongside Ryuji in his place. He becomes leader much later.

Next is the Palace lineup. There are no time limits for the first two(no expulsion threat nor Medjed threat. Makoto kept Ryuji from losing his cool for the former.) Futaba's Palace takes the second slot instead of Madarame. The reason being her mental attacks have gotten so worse that Ren sought the Phantom Thieves' help upon finding the Phansite. Futaba was rightfully upset upon finding out but she understood her big brother's worry.

A few depictions of Ren can be found inside her Egyptian Themed Palace, each showing him as a guardian deity. Even Shadow Futaba carries a little charm that looks like him. Ren also awakens Arseńe in this very Palace. His Phantom Thief outfit remains the same but can stretch or shrink to fit his body no matter the size change. Same goes for his weapons, the knife becoming a broadsword when large and the handgun into a grenade launcher.

The current Phantom Thieves absolutely freaked out when they first met Ren. For the beginning, he gave them the request and the keywords to reach her Palace. However Ren wasn't aware that a new obstacle had manifested due to his powerful bond with Futaba.

A stone Sphinx at the halfway point who will only let them through if they present the 'The Pharaoh's True Guardian'. The group believe they needed a plush which is sorta correct. I thought it be funny yet perfect symbolism to make Ren a key companion for Futaba's Palace. Now onto the Joker changes.

Ren is still a Wildcard but he has no access to his original Velvet Room. Keyword being 'original' for he'll gain usage to a completely different one. This one being managed by Margaret who been concerned about the strange behavior of Igor and Lavenza's absence.

Ren's appearance in the Velvet Room is his canon iteration. Although this room takes the appearance of a fun house with him wearing a Catnap hooded costume. Every mechanic in the Velvet Room revolves around carnival rides or game booths.

Fusion are the tea cup rides while Fusion Alarm shifts into Bumper Cars. Itemization is a the Disappearing Crate magic trick. Strengthening results in the Hall of Mirrors. Training being various games from tossing to dunk tanks.

I will be going over the Confidants, Thieves' Den and the other Persona 5 games in a different post as this is getting pretty long. That's it for now! Until next time folks, I'll see you later.