Shiny...

the voices called ok

[pale-lurker-official]

shiinnyy… shiny! MY SHINY! MINE! ALL MINE!

-

ooc:

oops! i did it again! I made another blooggg /ref

@echothevessel here back at it with another one!

tbh im surprised there isnt a blog get for Pale Lurker.. they’re such a silly!

Anyway, this Pale Lurker I will be calling “Lurk” or “PL” and will be using They/Them!

Instead of getting killed by Ghost, they got bonked on the head by them and has hence forgotten quite a bit and has memory issues, they also enjoy collecting random shiny things that they like! Kinda like Lemurs!

They also were the previous Champion of Fools within the Colosseum! How exactly? .. no clue LMAO thats what it says for their lore in-game.

They have some lore that i made up, and shall be discovered at some point ;)

Rules

NO NSFW. THE MOD IS A MINOR!!!

Be relatively nice to them! You can be mean but they prolly won’t care

Magic anons are okay! Though, if it gets too out of hand the anons will go off!

You may fight them if you want! Just note that I do rp-fighting rather than like WARble system fights n stuff (too much for me to comprehend…)

No shipping pls! Lurk is too doopis to understand what love is LMAO- And especially dont ship them with Valor! They have a sibling-esque relationship :)

USE THEY/THEM FOR LURK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tags

My shiny! - all posts

Shiny? - Asks

Old rival - interactions with @valiant-combatant

Echo voice acts - voice acting posts!

collecting shinies - arts!

remembrance - Lurk on the journey to get their memories back with the help of @valiant-combatant!

under the mask - Ooc posting

my design for them below!

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, finally understanding what it was they were requesting, resumed the affection. All the while, they looked down at their friend fondly, warmth in their expression.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned further into his hand, closing their eyes again.* "tank!" *They thanked, smiling widely.*

[valiant-combatant]

“You’re…w-welcome…” said Valor, continuing to pet them. Their happiness—and silliness—was so contagious. He’s never smiled and laughed this hard before, but it certainly made him feel good.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They laid their head down while they got more and more pets, yawning in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor noticed them yawn, pausing once more.

“M-Making you s-sl-sleepy…?” He asked amusedly.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh...." *They replied, starting to knead their cloak.* "very eepy.."

[valiant-combatant]

“Keep p-petting?” Valor asked, with a slight tilt of their head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They sleepily nodded with a small "mhm", scooting closer to them, pressing up their side against his torso.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Al-Alright, then…” Valor obliged with a final smile, continuing to pet their friend once more.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They relaxed further as they continued the pets, gradually falling asleep.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, finally understanding what it was they were requesting, resumed the affection. All the while, they looked down at their friend fondly, warmth in their expression.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned further into his hand, closing their eyes again.* "tank!" *They thanked, smiling widely.*

[valiant-combatant]

“You’re…w-welcome…” said Valor, continuing to pet them. Their happiness—and silliness—was so contagious. He’s never smiled and laughed this hard before, but it certainly made him feel good.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They laid their head down while they got more and more pets, yawning in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor noticed them yawn, pausing once more.

“M-Making you s-sl-sleepy…?” He asked amusedly.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh...." *They replied, starting to knead their cloak.* "very eepy.."

[valiant-combatant]

“Keep p-petting?” Valor asked, with a slight tilt of their head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They sleepily nodded with a small "mhm", scooting closer to them, pressing up their side against his torso.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, finally understanding what it was they were requesting, resumed the affection. All the while, they looked down at their friend fondly, warmth in their expression.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned further into his hand, closing their eyes again.* "tank!" *They thanked, smiling widely.*

[valiant-combatant]

“You’re…w-welcome…” said Valor, continuing to pet them. Their happiness—and silliness—was so contagious. He’s never smiled and laughed this hard before, but it certainly made him feel good.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They laid their head down while they got more and more pets, yawning in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor noticed them yawn, pausing once more.

“M-Making you s-sl-sleepy…?” He asked amusedly.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh...." *They replied, starting to knead their cloak.* "very eepy.."

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, finally understanding what it was they were requesting, resumed the affection. All the while, they looked down at their friend fondly, warmth in their expression.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned further into his hand, closing their eyes again.* "tank!" *They thanked, smiling widely.*

[valiant-combatant]

“You’re…w-welcome…” said Valor, continuing to pet them. Their happiness—and silliness—was so contagious. He’s never smiled and laughed this hard before, but it certainly made him feel good.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They laid their head down while they got more and more pets, yawning in the process.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, finally understanding what it was they were requesting, resumed the affection. All the while, they looked down at their friend fondly, warmth in their expression.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned further into his hand, closing their eyes again.* "tank!" *They thanked, smiling widely.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor didn’t notice Lurk was looking at them until after a minute or two, when he felt the sense of being watched. He tilted his head in silent question, before slowly giving their head another pat, seeming unsure.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They leaned into the pat, their tail wagging again. They continued to look at them with big eyes, hoping they'd get more pats.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor continued to pat them for just a while more before eventually stopping, hand pausing to rest on their head instead.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They opened their eyes when he stopped the pats, looking up at them expectantly with big eyes, wanting more.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled softly, and seeing as they were enjoying the affection, continued to pat their head. It slowly grew less awkward and more intentional.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They closed their eyes as they continued to get patted, stretching out their arms in front of themself to get more comfortable, their arms now rather silly-ly stretched over his leg.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[valiant-combatant]

Likewise.

Valor reached out and gave them a few slightly awkward pats on the head.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk squeaked a little in surprise as they got patted, though leaned into the pats, enjoying the affection.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[valiant-combatant]

Now that their hands were free once more, Valor signed their response with a smile.

So are you. You’re the only friend I have, really.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up to read the signs,* "yeh... ....sames..." *They replied with a small frown, head-butting Valor again.* "Bestest fren an only fren.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, meanwhile, relaxed against the cave wall once more, arms falling to their sides. He watched as Lurk got comfortable on his lap, just quietly listening to the purring/rumolling sound emanating from them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stayed there and (mostly) silent for awhile, until they unexpectedly scooted closer to them, lightly head-butting their torso affectionately,* "You bestest fren :)"

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[valiant-combatant]

“I-It’s okay. It d-did n-not hurt.” Valor assured them before gently placing them back down onto the ground, not wanting to keep them in air jail for too long.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Once they were set down, they crawled up into Valor's lap like they usually did, tucking their arms and legs under themself as they got comfortable. After a few moments, they started to purr, or as they call it, "rumol".*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor was, of course, not very hurt by the nips and bites and kicks but still attempting to squirm their hand out of Lurk’s hold. Eventually, using their other hand, they carefully picked their friend up by the scruff of the neck.

“O-Okay…that’s e-enough.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"meh-!" *They squeaked as they got scruffed, their limbs dangling while they get held in the air.* "sorrie :(" *They apologized, thinking that they mightve hurt Valor.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[valiant-combatant]

“T-Trapped,” said Valor with mock disappointment as their hand was held in place.

And as soon as Lurk started biting and kicking, a fresh bout of laughter erupted in the Vessel’s artificially-created vocal cords.

“Hey…!”

[pale-lurker-official]

*Their playful growls turned into laughter as they continued to kick and bite their hand, making sure that he wouldnt be able to pull their hand away easily, though could still pull it away if they needed to.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, still feeling very playful, continued in his efforts to bat and swat at Lurk. Occasionally, they would try and move their hand away when Lurk was getting ready to pounce, but mostly failed and had their hand would be pounced on anyway. Despite how childish these antics were, they had to admit they were having fun.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk flopped over on their side, rolling over on their back and grabbed Valor's hand, pulling it towards themself to lightly bite his fingers and kick their hand with their back legs, playfully growling in the process.*

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk ran around their small cave, running around in circles and climbing on top of Valor, and even the walls a few times.*

*They, for whatever reason, had a ton of energy that they needed to get out, and had no clue how to do it besides running around and being the chaotic gremlin they are.*

@valiant-combatant

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had recently returned from one of their typical trips out to the edge, having spent the time taking out their usual restless instincts to kill on some Hoppers and Aspids. When they returned, they plopped down into the corner to rest, not bothering to clean the Hoppers blood off their mask.

He didn’t seem to mind the fact Lurk was running around and occasionally climbing over him whenever he was in the way. He merely watched them in amusement.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They continued to run around in circles, occasionally tripping and rolling over on their back, though each time they quickly recovered to get back to running.*

*They climbed up onto Valor again, perching inbetween their horns and then falling forward to land down on his lap. They pounced on their hand, bapping it a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor turned to face them, digits occasionally twitching with every bap.

“V-Very…hype-hyperactive, are you?” He uttered with a slight smile. His speech was getting more coherent, clearer than before.

[pale-lurker-official]

"yeh!!!!" *They replied, crouching down low to the ground, doing a little wiggle before pouncing again, very lightly biting their index finger.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor winced, more from the unexpectedness of the bite than any actual pain.

“Ow,” They said, to humor them.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Lurk let go of his finger, flopping over onto their side as they continued to mess with their hand, their small tail wagging happily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor’s smile grew just a little wider as they watched their friend’s antics. They then proceeded to use their other hand to start wiping the blood off their mask, looking at the viscous fluid in repressed disgust.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They stopped batting at their hand after a bit, rolling over onto their stomach and getting up again to run around, though their circling didnt last too long. They clambered up into Valor's lap after about a minute or two, plopping down as they breathed heavily.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor had finished cleaning himself off then, his mask now returned to its pristine white as he wiped what’s left of the blood on what he hoped to be a rag Lurk didn’t need anymore. They looked down at their lap’s occupant, tilting their head slightly.

Tired already?

[pale-lurker-official]

*They looked up at their signs, then nodded, laying down on their side.* "very tire.."

[valiant-combatant]

Valor shrugged.

With how much you were running before, I’m sure you are.

They sat still and silent for a moment, before deciding to use their voice yet again.

“I-I think…I a-am getting be-better at this,” He said, subconsciously signing along as he spoke.

[pale-lurker-official]

"at speak?" *They asked, tilting their head.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor nodded.

“M-Maybe the mat-material I r-r-received has b-been helping. I s-still find it…w-we-weird to speak, some-t-times.”

[pale-lurker-official]

"You will gets lot better at speak!" *They encouraged, rolling over on their back.* "Will not feel weirdeded soon hopefulleh!"

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hope so, too,” Valor said, looking down at them, “It’s n-not just t-the sp-speak-ing that is w-weird…”

And then something revealed itself from under Valor’s mask. A long black appendage with a sharp point—a tongue.

[pale-lurker-official]

"woh.." *Lurk rolled back over on their stomach, sitting up as they stared at the tongue, mostly confused. They didnt know that he'd gain a tongue along with their mouth!* "You gots tongue!" *They pointed out, tilting their head various times.*

[valiant-combatant]

“Yes,” Valor spoke as said tongue disappeared back into his new mouth, “It’s…w-well. L-Long. And…wig-wiggly.”

They shuddered.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Dat okey! You gets used to it after while. I forgor dat I gots a to gue sometimes.." *They replied, sticking their tongue out at him with a smile.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor smiled back at them.

“Y-You look…sill-ly like th-that,” They gently teased.

[pale-lurker-official]

*Luek giggled, their tail wagging again.* "You silly!!" *They retorted.*

[valiant-combatant]

“No, y-you’re silly,” Valor protested, laughing quietly himself, “D-Did I l-look silly when I sh-showed you the t-t-tongue?”

[pale-lurker-official]

*They nodded, their tongue going back into their mouth.* "Very silly!"

[valiant-combatant]

“Fine. I am s-silly,” Valor conceded with a sigh of mock resignation, leaning back further against the wall.

“But it d-d-doesn’t m-mean you a-are not,” They added, punctuating their sign-along with a gentle nudge to Lurk’s side.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got nudged, laughing. They pounced onto his hand playfully, like what they had done earlier.*

[valiant-combatant]

“H-Hey!” Valor exclaimed, laughing once again. It was louder than before, more full and mirthful than the first.

[pale-lurker-official]

"Hehe!!!" *They giggled, batting at their hand a few times.*

[valiant-combatant]

Valor, now feeling a bit more playful, tried to bat back at Lurk themself. Of course, they were doing it as gently as they could—the last thing they wanted was to painfully send their smaller friend across the cave.

[pale-lurker-official]

*They squeaked as they got lightly bapped, stopping for a moment. They weren't expecting them to bat them back, but they were happy that he did.*

*They began to bat at Valor's hand again, pouncing on it a few times.*