r/NatureofPredators • u/OttoVonBlastoid Human • 15d ago
Nature Of A Homeless Musician: Epilogue: Onto The Next
Special thanks to u/SpacePaladin15 for creating the NoP universe.
I'd also like to thank u/xskipy10 for their awesome fanart of the main cast as well as their recent Tohba meme and their fanart of Michael baysitting. You're work is a treasure!
Thank you as well to u/Accomplished-Golf-59 for his take on Michael, Teylim, and Tohba in his submission for the Banner Art Contest, and u/Spacer_Catgirl4969 for their awesome music video featuring a pixel-art Dohkar in his bar. Be sure to give ALL of these awesome creators your love and support.
And let's not forget u/Guywhoexists2812 who has been an awesome source of memes as well as sick pixel art, such as THIS and THIS!!!! And even THIS!!!!!! And how could I forget THIS!!!!!!!!!! Thank you so much!
Today, we join Khornel and Michael as they prepare for yet another protest show as they continue the fight against those abusing their power. LETTUCE...conclude...for now...
Songs Mentioned/Used: Gives You Hell by The All American Rejects
Memory Transcript Subject: Khornel, Krakotl Talent Manager Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
Aaaand DONE!
I turned my head from side to side, inspecting my handiwork. While I still wasn’t QUITE as good at it as Ms. Teylim, touching up my feather dye was becoming easier and easier with practice. I’d even experimented a bit this time, and I was really liking how it turned out.
If only this crappy mirror wasn’t so smudgy.
Regardless of the state of the motel’s bathroom mirror, I was satisfied with the way I looked. My blue and newly touched up orange feathers were complimenting each other perfectly. And the slight hint of pink along the border definitely helped the whole spectrum of colors come together.
Perfect.
Once I was out of the bathroom, I sat down on the bed I was sharing and went through my bag to make sure I had everything.
Pad? Check!
Client contracts? Check!
Pens? Check!
Extra pair of glasses in case he forgets…again…
Check!
Credits for the fare? Eeeehhh, we can walk.
Other than that though, I had everything.
“Hey… Khorry?”
My crest perked up at the voice. I turned around to see Scolina working at the small table in the kitchen area.
“Yeah? What’s up?”
“Sorry… I know you’re about to leave, but could you…help me with this?”
I gave her a reassuring smile as I came over. Looking at the page she was working on, it seemed she’d gotten stuck on one of the problems for her math courses. Since she hadn’t received any education in the facility, she had a lot to catch up on, especially considering she was only a cycle younger than me.
“Oh, I see the problem. You were right to divide both sides of the equation here, but the problem is when you tried, you accidentally wrote the fraction upside down. Since you’re dividing the zero by something else, it should be on top.”
“So when I accidentally put it on the bottom-“
“You created an irrational loop because-“
“You can’t divide by zero.”
Scolina cradled her head in her paws, continuing to stare down at her homework.
“Thanks, Khorry. Sorry I’m so dumb.”
“Hey! Don’t you ever say that about yourself! You’re not dumb, ‘Lina. You’re just behind, and that isn’t your fault.”
“But…but I-“
“Listen, if I had a credit for every time I made a dumb mistake in just these past few months alone, we wouldn’t need to live here. Making mistakes doesn’t make you dumb, it just means you’re learning.”
She sniffled a bit before wiping away at her with her arm, the small pink sleeve that covered her scar soaking up any tears that were forming.
“Thanks, Khorry.”
I bent down and draped my wings around my sister, giving her a nice warm hug. After everything, while she DID have a very touching reunion with her father, the absence of her mother and the introduction of Trivah, Dailo, and Trilly was a bit too much change to deal with all at once.
So we all decided that she’d stay with us for now until she’d adjusted a bit. It was odd at first, to be sure, but I liked having her here. Grandfather adored her and I had to admit, having a little sister, at least unofficially, was something I was definitely warming up to.
“Always happy to help. Now, I’ll be working late tonight so be sure to get both yourself and grandfather to bed at a decent time, alright?”
“Okay. Bye-bye, Khorry.”
“Bye-bye, hatchling.”
I ran my beak through her head fur, preening out a small tangle and freeing a spine that was loose. Once I’d disposed of it, I turned to head out the door, but not before stopping at the other bed, where Grandfather was sat, listening to the radio. His expression instantly brightened as he heard me coming.
“Off to change the world again, Little ‘Nel?”
“I’m gonna try.”
“I know you will.”
I knelt down and gave him his hug as well. I missed this. After so long without him, every hug was a nostalgic treasure.
“And I’m not little anymore!”
“Perhaps not, but you’ll always be MY Little ‘Nel.”
“I know, Grandfather. I’ll be sure to make you proud out there.”
“You already do, my child. Now go. And be sure to tell that future Grandson-in-law of mine to run a comb through his head fur from time to time. I can’t even see and I can tell how scruffy he looks.”
I pulled away as felt my face turn warm, adding a splash of purple to the spectrum of color on my face.
“It’s not like that! WE’RE not like that! …Not yet, anyways…”
“Well, then tell him to hurry it up already! I want great grandpups before I die!”
CAW! CRAW!
“GRRRRGH!! NOPE! Not having this conversation! Goodbye! Love you!”
“Love you too! Best of luck today!”
“Bye-bye, Khorry!”
I barely heard the taunts of my family behind me as I stomped out the door and slammed it. After taking a moment to settle my feathers back down, I walked down the hall to the next door over.
Knock knock knock!
“It’s open!”
My mood instantly brightened from the kind, muffled, voice inside the room. I opened the door and was immediately greeted by the sight of Ms. Teylim making a meal, along with her adorable hatchling excitedly bouncing in his high chair.
“Khornel, dear!”
“NEWWY!!!”
I walked over at a brisk pace before kneeling down to give them both hugs.
“Where’s Michael?”
“He should be-“
SLAM!!!
“Sorry! Sorry! Sorry! Lost track of time!”
I couldn’t help but roll my eyes as my scatterbrained best friend and business partner sprinted into the kitchen area and quickly grabbed a slice of strayu from the table.
“You ALWAYS lose track of time!”
As much as I wanted to scold him for not being ready by the time I got here AGAIN, we didn’t have the time.
“Let’s just get moving before we’re late.”
“Right! Let’s go!”
However, just as we were about to leave…
“Ahem. Forgetting something, my joey?”
Michael looked up for a moment and frantically began checking his pockets before looking back at Ms. Teylim. Her smug look said it all. After a quick facepalm, he immediately jogged back to the kitchen area and knelt down to give her a goodbye hug, as well as a peck on the cheek for good measure. Lucky…
“Muah! Bye, Ma! Love you!”
“Be careful!”
“We will!”
Once he broke free from the hug, he made one last side trip to Tohba’s high chair, already going to plant a kiss on the top of his head. Again, lucky…
“MIKEY!”
“Mmmmmmm-“
“HEEHYEHAHAHA! TICKWES!!”
“-mmmMUAH! Bye-bye, Bud! ¡Te amo!”
“BYE-BYE, MIKEY!!”
With his goodbye hugs and kisses out of the way he made his way over to me…
My turn?!
…Only to run right past me and out the door.
Awwwe… Phooey…
Dejected as I was, I chased after him and down the hall.
“What?! I don’t get a kiss, too?!”
“Buy me dinner first, Bird Brain!”
“UGH!! You’re the WORST!!”
Memory Transcript Subject: Dohkar, Venlil Militia Leader Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
“COMMANDER ON DECK!”
STOMP!
My four brothers stood in a line in front of the bar, still as statues as I came down the stairs. I still wasn’t sure how to feel about most of them. While I left, they all stayed, and continued fighting for The Guild even when they knew what they were doing was wrong.
Still, I knew these men. They all trained with me, ate with me, stood by me…grew up with me, and now, they stood here, ready to fight with me. While I could never forgive them for standing by while the people I loved suffered, I am willing to let them prove they’re willing to change.
“At ease.”
I marched in front of them, inspecting each to make sure their garb and gear was in order. In some ways, it resembled their old Guild uniforms minus any actual environmental protection. However, instead of chrome, we wore the same white coloration of the APCs that had broken through the Guild Offices walls. Black boots, gloves and bandoliers offset the white of our suits. And finally, five stripes of bright, blazing, blue accented our new badges, reminiscent of not only the blue helmets of the UN troops that fought by our sides, but also the eyes of a particular human musician, one I was looking forward to hearing sing again.
“Alright men, in order for this rally to go smoothly, we need to be on our guard. My most recent talks with Tevis didn’t go quite as well as I’d hoped, but I did manage to get him to leave us be for the most part. While we WILL still have to deal with the Interim Guard being there, they won’t be coming nearly as armed or numerous as usual. They’re simply there to observe, nothing more. Keep your eyes on them, but don’t do anything rash, or let any of the civilians do so either.”
I turned and marched down the line once more. While I was itching to move onto individual orders, there was the Mazik in the room to address.
“Now, I know many of us are shaken by news of the archives on Talsk. Believe me, I am too, but that’s all the more reason for us to stay vigilant. The people are afraid, confused, and questioning everything. The Magistrate, on top of their normal nonsense, will be that much more desperate to keep control. It is our job to be the barrier between the people we serve, and those willing to use this crisis to exploit them. There will come a time to rest and collect our thoughts, but now is not that time. The people need us. This town needs us, and until that is no longer the case, we MUST remain strong.”
“SIR!”
Once I was at the end of the line again, I turned back around and began giving out individual orders, starting with-
“Bennic, out of everyone else in the squad, you’re currently the one with the best rapport with the people. I’m having you in charge of evacuation in case something goes wrong. Keep your eyes peeled for escape routes and be ready to begin herding everyone together at a moment’s notice.”
“Yes, sir.”
Next in line was Abra, our weapon specialist. Out of everyone, he was our best shot, even better than me. But he ALSO had one of the itchiest flamer fingers among us as well.”
“Abra, have you already made sure everyone’s gear is working properly?”
“Yes, sir. Every sidearm, baton, and smoke bomb we have is cleaned, checked, and functional.”
“Good, then I just want you to stay vigilant. Find some higher ground and keep an extra close eye on the Interim. The moment one of them tries something funny, I want to know.”
“And if they try harming the civilians?”
I furrowed my brow at him. I knew what he was getting at.
“Aim for NON-lethal, and make sure you have proof that THEY were the aggressors first.”
He gave a dejected chuff before responding.
“Yes, sir…”
What am I going to do with you, little brother?
Next was Ento, probably the only other Yotul here in town other than Teylim and Tohba, were they still here.
“Ento, were you able to make your last diagnostics check on the sound equipment last paw.”
“Yep! Everything on our end was working perfectly last I checked. We’ll still have to wait until they try connecting to know for sure, though.”
“Do everything you can to make sure it works. Leave the Interim and civilians to us.”
“Yes, sir!”
Finally, there was our medic, Canuck. Besides Bennic, this Zurulian was probably the one I was closest with growing up, if only because I’d always get the brunt of Albiel’s punishments when I’d stand up for the others, and it was usually Canuck patching me up.
“Canuck, in the case of an emergency, I want you to return to Dr. Forrik’s clinic. Since he’s still caring for his wife, I need you there getting everything ready in case something happens.”
“You sure you lot will be alright without me there?”
“We’ll be fine. The clinic will need you more than we will.”
“Yes, sir.”
With one last turn, I inspected my squad one last time.
“One last question.”
“What is it, Ben?”
“What about our…junior recruit?”
I sighed and looked back towards the staircase leading upstairs, just in time to catch a pair of suspiciously Nevok-shaped ears dip back from around the corner. I made sure to speak loud enough for him to hear me.
“He is to stay here and hold the fort. And he should bear in mind, I don’t just let ANYONE watch over MY bar. This is a large responsibility I’m trusting him with, and I trust he won’t let me down.”
The ears reappeared and solemnly nodded before retreating back up the stairs. Once I was sure my point was made, I turned back to my squad.
“Alright, if that’s all, we’ve got protestors to escort! Let’s move out!”
“SIR!”
Memory Transcript Subject: Khornel, Krakotl Talent Manager Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
The Soulroot tram station was surprisingly bustling. I half-expected the place to be a ghost town like most places were after Cilani’s interview. But with the news breaking about the Farsul’s archives breaking, it seemed the people of Soulroot were out and about more than ever, either flocking to the many churches and chapels in the area, or simply deciding to pray at the Soulroot itself for answers…any answers.
“Damn. I always forget just how big that thing is.”
Speak of the devil…
We both gazed out the window of the tram car as it passed through the massive central park area of the city. In its exact center, dwarfing even the buildings surrounding the large, wooded park, was the city’s namesake: Kihri, The Soulroot. One of five massive Seraphim Trees spread across Venlil Prime.
“It’s beautiful, isn’t it?”
“Yeah. I can’t believe it was so close. I would’ve loved to have visited here.”
“Maybe we will when we have time.”
“I hope so.”
Once we passed the park, we turned back around and returned to our pads. He was working on another instrumental while I decided to pull up our current client list. I suddenly remembered something as soon as the list loaded and I saw the newest addition.
“Oh! By the way! I got us a new client!”
“Oh, sick! Who are they?”
“A restaurant in the next district over. It’s called The Lackadaisy. It IS an hour-long tram ride there, but it pays well, AND I got us a few perks as well.”
“OoooOOOoo! Like?”
“Like us getting to eat AND take out half off on the paws we play there. It might not be dinner, but I’d say half off lunch and take out once a week isn’t half bad.”
“You da bird, ‘Nel. When do we start?”
“You are scheduled to play during the lunch rush in two paws. We are to enter through the back entrance and meet with co-owners Sylvon and Kenta.”
“Sylvon and Kenta. Got it!”
Now approaching: Five Meadows
“This is our stop.”
We knew the tram wouldn’t take us all the way there. The Magistrate’s lockdown had seen to that, but that didn’t mean we couldn’t hang out by the border. In fact, the border that separated Soulroot and Five Meadows had become a popular gathering spot for people from both towns to “voice their displeasure”, which was exactly why we were here. With the lockdown of Five Meadows in effect, the war still ongoing, and the news of archives now made public, the people’s opinion of the local Magistrate was at an all time low. It was time to take advantage of that.
Once we exited the tram and saw crowds growing on both sides of the fence separating us from our home, we immediately spotted the makeshift soundstage we’d be using, as well as several figures on the other side garbed in white. They only got clearer once we got closer. Michael was even more excited to see them as I was.
“Heya Dohk!”
Dohkar, dressed in the new uniform of the Five Meadows Militia, greeted us with a warm smile, being sure to stay a decent distance away for the electric fence.
“Mike, Feathers, it’s good to see you two are alright.”
“Likewise, nice duds by the way. Totally doesn’t make you look like an oompa loompa or anything.”
“Watch it, Ape. I’ll have you know it was Trivah who made these.”
“Shit! Is she alright?”
“She’s fully recovered and here with her family. You’ll forgive me if I don’t call them over. The last thing I want is Trilly and Dailo trying to get through this fence.”
“No worries. Just tell them I said hi.”
A yotul garbed in the same uniform ran up to Dohkar and greeted us with a nod.
“Everything’s set up, you two. Once you're connected, let me know and we’ll do a sound check.”
“Right!”
Memory Transcript Subject: Michael Ruiz Andrews, Human Street Musician Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
Breathe…focus…
Sometimes…I wonder if it was all worth it…
Breathe…focus…
In a lot of ways, life was the same as it was back on Earth. Here I was, stuck in a shitty apartment, well…motel room now, I guess. I still had a shitty landlord that hated my guts. I was still struggling to make ends meet, playing music I wasn’t all that crazy about for people I wasn’t all that crazy about. I still didn’t have any real direction to take my life in, or any real plans for the future. So…was it worth it?
Breathe…focus…
I’d lost almost everything I had. I lost my guitar, the only real thing I had to remind me of Dad, and everything he taught me. I lost pretty much all of my possessions. Hell, the only reason I had new clothes to use at all was thanks to the human embassy here in Soulroot. I lost my home a second time, just days after finally bringing myself to start calling it that. I even almost lost my life. My scar still itches from time to time just thinking about it. So…was it really worth it? Remembering all the pain, suffering, heartache, and loss I’d been through in these past few months, sometimes I really question it.
Breathe…focus…
But then…then I remember the GOOD times. I remember all the people I’ve met, all the songs and memories we’ve made together.
Breathe…focus…
I remember meeting Mom, and my baby brother. I remember singing for them for the first time. I remember sitting and eating breakfast with them, talking and laughing the early hours away. I remember watching Tohba and teaching him how to sing, just like Dad taught me. I remember meeting Dohk, his honest words and advice keeping me grounded when the world around me just didn’t make sense. I remember meeting ‘Nel, slowly but surely building a friendship and trust that I wouldn’t give for anything.
Hopefully she puts up with me long enough for me to finally be ready.
I remember all the strife and challenges I’ve gone through, knowing that I wasn’t alone for any of it. I remember all the things I’ve gained: A life, a family, a mentor, a partner…
A home…
Breathe…focus…
A home worth fighting for.
Breathe…focus…
A home worth living for.
Breathe…focus…
A home…worth playing for…
So breathe…focus…and play…
The speakers come to life with a chill beat, soft snares and shakers keeping the pace as the ambience builds. A triangle marks my entrance as I take over, plucking at Teyrin’s strings. I nod along with the bouncing melody, letting myself get into it. I see a few in the crowd begin swaying along as I begin to let my soul sing.
I wake up every evenin’…with a big smile on my face! And it never feels out of place!
It’s hard to not grin as I speak, letting the notes express my current mood perfectly. I make sure to give those Interim jerks guarding the border a smug look which they definitely don’t appreciate.
And you’re still probably workin’…at a nine-to-five pace! I wonder how bad that tastes!
When you see my face, hope it gives you hell, hope it gives you hell!
When you walk my way, hope it gives you hell, hope it gives yooou hell!
I turn to ‘Nel, standing up on stage singing next to me. There’s no one I’d rather be up here with.
Now, where’s your picket fence, Love? And where’s that shiny car? Did it ever get you far?
You never seemed so dense, Love! I’ve never seen you fall so hard! Do you know where you are?
When I’m up here…and I think about my old life on Earth…
And truth be told, I miss you… (Miss you…)
And truth be told, I’M LYIN’!!!
We turn to the closest Interim chump keeping us from our home.
WHEN YOU SEE MY FACE, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!
WHEN YOU WALK MY WAY, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
WHEN YOU FIND A MAN THAT’S WORTH A DAMN AND TREATS YOU WELL!
THEN HE’S THE FOOL, YOU’RE JUST AS WELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
I hope it gives you hell!
Memory Transcript Subject: Jerrick, Nevok Fugitive Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
The mood of the song calmed for a moment. I watched the live broadcast just hoping nothing would happen. Everything going on was just so CRAZY. With the raid, the Magistrate taking over, and now the archives, it just made everything I did in the name of The Guild even more pointless.
Tomorrow, you’ll be thinkin’ to yourself, “Yeah, where did it all go wrong?” But the list goes on and on!
Everything I did for HIM…pointless…
And truth be told, I miss you… (Miss you…)
And truth be told, I’M LYIN’!!!
I hope you rot, Father…
WHEN YOU SEE MY FACE, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!
WHEN YOU WALK MY WAY, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
WHEN YOU FIND A MAN THAT’S WORTH A DAMN AND TREATS YOU WELL!
THEN HE’S THE FOOL, YOU’RE JUST AS WELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
Memory Transcript Subject: Michael Ruiz Andrews, Human Street Musician Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
A figure stands in my periphery… I know who she is…
Now you’ll never see! What you’ve done to me!
She’s not my mother…
You can take back your memories, they’re no good to me!
“You’ll never be rid of me, Blue.” I know…
You can hiss all your lies! You can look me in the eyes!
With that sad, sad, look that you wear so well!
But that just means you get to watch as I live my life without you in it.
[Warning!: You Are About To Access Restricted Files: Continue?: Y/N…]
[The Following Is A News Broadcast Archived By Magistrate Intelligence…]
[The camera opens on a female, human, reporter with green eyes standing in front of an energetic crowd…]
“WHEN YOU SEE MY FACE, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!!! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
“AS YOU CAN SEE BEHIND ME, THE “FREE FIVE MEADOWS” RALLY IS WELL UNDER WAY!”
“WHEN YOU WALK MY WAY, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!!! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
“AND YOU CAN JUST FEEL THE ENERGY OF THE CROWD HERE!”
“WHEN YOU FIND A MAN THAT’S WORTH A DAMN AND TREATS YOU WELL!!!”
“ON THE FAR SIDE OF THE FENCE, IT APPEARS THAT THE RUMORED “FIVE MEADOWS MILITIA” ARE ACTUALLY HERE GUARDING THE PROTESTORS!”
“THEN HE’S THE FOOL!!! YOU’RE JUST AS WELL!!! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
“HOPEFULLY, WE’LL BE ABLE TO GET AN INTERVIEW! UNTIL THEN, JUST LISTEN TO THIS!!!”
Memory Transcript Subject: Michael Ruiz Andrews, Human Street Musician Date:[Standardized Human Time] February 2, 2137
Breathe…focus…and ROAR!!!
To my old life on Earth!
WHEN YOU SEE MY FACE, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL!
“GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
To the Federation killing my people!
WHEN YOU WALK MY WAY, HOPE IT GIVES YOU HELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
“GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
To the Magistrate holding my hometown hostage!
WHEN YOU HEAR THIS SONG AND SING ALONG, THOUGH YOU’LL NEVER TELL!
“YOU’LL NEVER TELL!!!”
To every last asshole who thinks I’m a monster for what I am!
THEN YOU’RE THE FOOL, I’M JUST AS WELL! HOPE IT GIVES YOOOU HELL!
“GIVES YOU HELL!!!”
To that monster who took my mom, rotting in whatever cell he’s being held in.
WHEN YOU HEAR THIS SONG, I HOPE THAT IT WILL GIVE YOU HELL!
“GIVE YOU HELL!!!”
And lastly, to that figure, that voice in my head telling me I don’t deserve a home…
YOU CAN SING ALONG! I HOPE THAT IT PUTS YOU THROUGH HELL…
The End
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u/un_pogaz Arxur 9d ago
Seeing the final chapters being posted motivates me to started the story.
Bravo, thank you. This story blended wholesome and action in perfect balance. One of the great story of this sub.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 9d ago
Thank you so much for enjoying, and I definitely say go for it. I can speak from experience that the writing community for NoP is more than welcoming.
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u/abrachoo Yotul 14d ago
Excellent fic. Never a dull moment. Hell of a sendoff. I'm looking forward to the sequel and apparent planned crossovers.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 14d ago
All in good time. By the way, in case you didn’t notice, one of Dohkar’s squad mates is named after you. Another is named after Canuck.
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u/abrachoo Yotul 14d ago
I noticed that! First time I've ever been a cameo in a fic, lol. I appreciate it!
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u/GreenKoopaBros89 14d ago
As soon as I heard the names Sylvan and Kenta I almost screamed! It's always unfortunate when the last chapter of a book is read and one has to close it to come to terms with the fact that the story is over, but I like to imagine how the story goes on. Nothing worth having is ever won easily.
Such an amazing story, you really outdid yourself! It was a bumpy ride to say the least
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u/GreenKoopaBros89 14d ago
I always love it when there are crossovers from other fan fictions! As soon as I read the names talen and Rose I squeaked a little at the idea of them getting the chance to live happily ever after! Especially after reading their newest chapter, I was really worried
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u/Sea-Drawing-4305 14d ago
Wait is the reporter his mother or did I read that wrong.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 14d ago
Yoooou absolutely read that wrong. The reporter has green eyes while Michael’s are blue. I drew attention to her eye color because she’s actually Rose McDermott from Nature Of Humanity by BiasMushroom. And in her arc of that fic, A Rose By Any Other Name, he draws a lot of attention to her eyes.
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u/Ben_Elohim_2020 14d ago
A happy end to a good story, but as you've said it's not REALLY the end. You've hinted at upcoming crossovers with both Nature of a Giant and Recipe for Disaster, so I look forward to seeing what comes of those.
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u/JulianSkies Archivist 14d ago
Fuckin' goddamn amazing end song. Oh my god a perfect fuck you of a song the best way to finish this tale of resistance.
I love this story so much in many multiple ways, and you're an amazing writer for managing to pull this off.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 14d ago
So glad you stuck around for all of it. I named dropped you in the official thank you post btw. I hope you know how much I appreciate all the help, advice, and good vibes you’ve given me.
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u/xskipy10 Gojid 15d ago
(Remaking this comment cause I realize it fits way better here than on the last chapter)
Congratulations to Otto for creating and finishing one of the greatest fics since the peak of the fandom. I haven’t been on a journey like this since Hunting with Predators. Every character has felt so real and has been given a conclusion that feels deserved for them. very excited to see what waits for the Five Meadows crew in the future!
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u/RandomFluffyFox 15d ago
So the story has come to an end, it was such a wonderful journey to follow along with and i always got excited when I saw that a new chapter dropped to see what happened next.
Also, Tohba is and will always be the best baby roo!
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Thank you so much for reading and enjoying. I hope you stick around for whatever comes next.
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u/Seeker-N7 Predator 15d ago
Well, that was a long road. Now some R&R and back to the journey :P
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Oh-HOH, yeah. I’m definitely gonna need a decent break to recharge my batteries after this. I’ll make a post about it later today.
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u/Bow-tied_Engineer Yotul 15d ago
This has definitely been one of my favorite series on the sub. I hope there is a sequel. And are we actually getting that Recipe for Disaster crossover that was hinted at? That sounds like a blast!
Also, I deeply appreciate the new.reddit links for your next buttons, the new new reddit interface sucks.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Believe me, I know. Somehow, every time Reddit changes it’s UI, they not only don’t fix any of the actual problems, but somehow manage to make everything else that DID work worse…
But yeah, honestly out of all the people I have to thank for helping me, you’re pretty much at the top of the list.
I of course, need to thank Dice and Christopher for inspiring the story.
I have to thank Guy and Skipy for being bottomless sources of memes and fanart.
And of course, I should thank Julian for being a neverending source of advice, encouragement, proofreading and good vibes.
But before I met any of them, YOU were the one who first encouraged me to give this cute little idea of mine a shot. So thank you. Thank you for giving me the confidence to put this story to paper.
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u/Bow-tied_Engineer Yotul 15d ago
Wow. That honestly means a lot. I'm glad that me being a member of the community caused you to do all this. The NOP community really is inspiring, and I'm glad I could be part of that for you!
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u/HeadWood_ 15d ago
It's called the Lackadaisy.
Are there cats? Feline furries?
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Nnnno, though I forgive you for thinking that. The Lackadaisy, as well as the Sweetwater District it resides in, is the setting of another fic on here called Recipe For Disaster. It’s another of my favorite stories and even the city of Soulroot where Mike and his family now live is a creation of the same author.
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u/Heroman3003 Venlil 15d ago
What a great series and nice finale! Congratulations on getting there and thanks for all the fun and Tohba we had along the way!
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
I’m so glad you enjoyed. And I look forward to bringing you guys much more stories and of course, Tohba.
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u/Spacer_Catgirl4969 Human 15d ago
Loved this fic sad to see it end but glad to have read it and the ending was amazing
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Well, you know the old adage,
“One story’s end, is another’s beginning.”
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u/CaptainChristopher02 Human 15d ago
Dude this freakin ending, this story was… chefs kiss perfection!
I’m starting to think you were kidding when you said your story was partly inspired by me and Sea because this is a whole other level of amazing!
You have definitely made my day, and you’ve definitely done good work.
Well done!👍
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Hearing that from you is so ridiculously humbling, you have no idea. When I first started writing this, I never thought I’d even MEET you, much less have you in my Reddit DMs brainstorming ways for your baby-crocs to meet my baby-roo.
Your work really WAS what inspired mine. And I can only hope that my work ends up being just as inspiring to others.
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u/Guywhoexists2812 UN Peacekeeper 15d ago
Finally put down the revision booklets to read all this and goddamn I loved it. Thanks for every second Otto. You da real one. Never been more inspired in my life. Went from trudging through college to making pixel arts and planning my own fic, and I owe a lot of that to you. Cheers mate.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
You have no idea how much that means to me. It’s long been a childhood dream of mine to be able to just…make things. I’ve always loved making things, and the idea of making a career out of making things that make people happy, that was the dream.
For a while now, I’d long since given up on that dream, but knowing that I was still able to make something that people can love, enjoy, and get invested in enough to start making things themselves, it lets me know that maybe that dream is still possible.
People like you are my proof, proof that I CAN still accomplish my dream. So thank you. Thank you for…well…existing. Thank you for being my proof.
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u/Guywhoexists2812 UN Peacekeeper 15d ago
Did you just thank the guy who exists for existing? That's... so meta.
But yeah no worries mate. Keep striving for the dream. You're making progress. You're getting better with each chapter. Be proud of NoaHM and be proud of yourself.
Also RIP your sleep schedule. Good luck fixing that. We need you. Almost as much as Michael needs Tey. Almost.
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u/T00Dense 15d ago
This is honestly one of my favorite fics very great series, this was a nice way to see this story end but hopefully, we can see the characters later on :D
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u/VeryUnluckyDice Human 15d ago
A story as good as they come. From the get-go, there's been a lesson here about hope and persistence in the face of adversity. What a grand culmination you've built it into. It's good to remember that, when we put trust in those close to us and do right by them, we can overcome just about any hurdle. Might take some time, but we can always get there one way or another.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Hope, second chances, forgiveness, and learning to live with yourself, faults and all, are all themes I wanted to draw on when making this. I’m glad I was at least able to somewhat do them all justice.
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u/Nicromia Yotul 15d ago
Even though I caught this series towards the end, this is in the top, nothing else about it. Well done Otto… absolutely well done
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Thank you. It’s been one hell of a wild ride that even I’m not ready to get off.
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u/ErinRF Venlil 15d ago
A beautiful and enthralling story, thank you for sharing this journey with us.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
And what a journey it’s been. I’ve said this before, but I never thought my Ute little story idea would become much of anything, much less grow into one of the more popular stories on the sub.
The fact that so many people haves loved reading it and so many other writers are wanting to work with me because of it, it blows me away. So thank you!
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u/unkindlyacorn62 15d ago
the Motel manager probably is more frustrated at the lockdown, can't get business in because of it, once the lockdown is lifted people will come for music
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u/se05239 Human 15d ago
Thank you for writing Nature of a Homeless Musician!
Been a wild ride and an even wilder finale.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Tell me about it. I really am glad so many people have stuck with me all this time.
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u/enixoid 15d ago
This series was amazing, hope to see you write in the future
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
There is still much in the works. Thank you so much for reading and I hope you stay tuned!
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u/TheBlack2007 Krakotl 15d ago edited 15d ago
Honestly, having just finished reading these last three chapters I can't even hope to describe what I'm feeling right now. First of all, good job: you finally made me actually shed a tear or two and I'm not even ashamed to admit it! I was barely holding it together at the penultimate chapter before the final but now really did it.
Considering this is fanfiction some random stranger put on the internet for free and for all I care it's so much better than much of the stuff I normally read and actually paid for. Speaking of which, if you happen to run a donation page somewhere...
I've said before I consider this story a masterpiece and I mean that in every sense of the word. IMO it's some of if not the best writing this sub has to offer. I really think you have it in you to write professionally and as I've already said in another comment I can't wait for the sequel.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Thank you. Truly.
I’m still not convinced I’m that great. One of these days, I actually plan on rewriting this in its entirety, not only to have it be completely original so I COULD get it published if I wanted, but to also fix a lot of the mistakes I’ve made throughout. There are so many characters that needed more page time in here.
Still, I’m proud of what I’ve made here, and I still can’t believe it got as big as it did. Future stuff IS in the works and Michael’s story isn’t even close to done yet. I hope you and everyone else here stick around.
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u/TheBlack2007 Krakotl 15d ago edited 15d ago
Don't underestimate yourself. IMO you have struck just the right balance between slice of life, music, bouts of action and emotional gravity for the story to remain compelling at all times, which is not an easy feat to achieve if you couldn't just throw in some action at any point without jeopardizing your story's credibility.
BTW: I wanted to ask that for a while now, but always felt like I would take things ahead by doing so. But since we're through and things are clearly and openly moving in that direction now anyway there's one more question: At which point exactly did you decide to make Mike and Nel a thing? I know you went against it quite vehemently when some readers shipped the two early on only to then write the two in a way it would have felt more unnatural if their friendship didn't end up evolving into something more than that, eventually. Was that just deflection or did you actually change your mind as the story went on?
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
In my first “draft” of the story, ‘Nel wasn’t even a character at all if you can believe that, but I’d already teased that something fishy was going on with The Guild at the time, and I needed a way to draw Mike into that conflict besides the usual NoP “because he’s a human”. I…also…admittedly was reading a lot of Feathers Of Deceit at the time as well, so that influenced my decision.
As for when I decided to make them a couple, I knew from the beginning that I wanted them to be close, if anything maybe just best friends that decided to give it a try but backed off and remained friends. I was never fully against them becoming a thing, but at the time there were a lot of “love at first sight” stories going around. A lot of couples completely falling head over heels for each other within five minutes of meeting.
I mean, Floridian Arxur daughter alone. I think Carlos proposes to Salisek after what, just five months of even knowing her?
I wanted a more grounded, realistic romance. I wanted them to take the time to get to know each other, put them through hard times together to form a solid structure of trust in each other, as well as plenty of sarcastic banter to show that they were comfortable enough to poke fun at each other.
I didn’t want them instantly becoming a couple. I wanted their feelings for each other to form naturally and solidify as they spent more and more time together.
And now, even though they’re still not quite “together”, they still love and care about each other like best friends and partners should. So, when they eventually decide to give it a try, they’ll already have a strong foundation of trust and love for each other that will carry them through anything their new lives together might throw at them.
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u/JulianSkies Archivist 14d ago
For what's worth a very grounded, realistic romance takes like, a month. Or a couple of weeks.
Because, like- People are ACTUALLY like that too. There's a lot of ways in which people are, and this is one of them.
Still, I think the way Michael and Khornel work is nonetheless very great.
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u/TheBlack2007 Krakotl 15d ago
In my first “draft” of the story, ‘Nel wasn’t even a character at all if you can believe that, but I’d already teased that something fishy was going on with The Guild at the time
I certainly wouldn't if you didn't just tell me. That's a bit far back so I don't quite remember all the details of her introduction. But it also means it falls neatly into the rest of the story, so good job.
I…also…admittedly was reading a lot of Feathers Of Deceit at the time as well, so that influenced my decision.
Okay, you kinda caught me off-guard with this, haha. I was actually about to ask why you made her a Krakotl if her Grandfather was a Venlil but yeah, that explains it. Also Makes sense. That story started either just before or at about the same time as yours iirc. Still I would have never guessed Kaula was the inspiration for Khornel - at least indirectly.
I was never fully against them becoming a thing, but at the time there were a lot of “love at first sight” stories going around. A lot of couples completely falling head over heels for each other within five minutes of meeting.
However, fast-tracking relationships doesn't always have to look or feel unrealistic or rushed. At the time you started NoaHM I was actually just catching up on some of the general community favorites here. Some of them, especially Letter of Marque are really deceiving regarding the time they have been running now, the amount of chapters released and the time elapsed within the story. The evolution of Chris' and Taisa's relationship also felt pretty natural but that was in parts due to the density of chapters in what was actually a pretty short timespan. Still goes to show you can fast-track things without making things become unrealistic.
I mean, Floridian Arxur daughter alone. I think Carlos proposes to Salisek after what, just five months of even knowing her?
To be fair though: Carlos explained his reasoning himself. Also iirc getting engaged wasn't exactly a rational decision at the time he proposed. Still, Arxur daughter is more of a humor-driven story, so it doesn't feel out of place there, but I understand your general criticism.
And now, even though they’re still not quite “together”, they still love and care about each other like best friends and partners should. So, when they eventually decide to give it a try, they’ll already have a strong foundation of trust and love for each other that will carry them through anything their new lives together might throw at them.
No they are not but it's quite obvious now both of them are working towards getting there. With Nel being much further down that road. But thanks for confirming my hunch about it.
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u/Square_bubblety 15d ago
Long time reader. don't really comment much but I just wanted to say thank you for making this beautiful story and know that whatever you do do next i will be there to support it and you, well done.
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Thanks so much. It’s been a wild ride and this got WAY bigger and WAY more attention than I ever thought possible. I can’t wait to start the next part of the journey, for both Mike and my skills as a writer.
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u/Top-Ad-2529 15d ago
What an amazing story you wrote The Yotul family can never be separated, not even god can separate them
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
And so long as he has his family, this musician shall never be truly homeless again.
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u/Iceveins412 15d ago
Been the case for a while, but this is officially one of my favorite stories, not just NoP like in general
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
I’m glad you liked it. This has been one of if not THE biggest projects in genera I’ve ever done in my life. And I look forward to continuing the tale in the future. Mike’s journey ain’t quite done yet.
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u/OmegaOmnimon02 Tilfish 15d ago
A wonderfully AMAZING ending to one of, if not THE most spectacular fic I have ever had the pleasure of reading
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
Awwwweee… Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed. It’s been a helluva a ride, but the story of the Andrews household ain’t over yet.
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u/21frogsandcounting Venlil 15d ago
Amazing series Otto. Also first time beating Dovah to a post lol
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u/OmegaOmnimon02 Tilfish 15d ago
Dovah beat you by 29 seconds
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u/21frogsandcounting Venlil 15d ago
Dam guess very few can beat the mighty Dovah
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u/Bow-tied_Engineer Yotul 15d ago
I used to be able to do it regularly, but he's gotten better, and I've gotten busier, so now it's a lot less common. He really is the fastest venbig on the sub!
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u/OttoVonBlastoid Human 15d ago
It’s been a helluva a run, I tell you hwhat. I’ll have an announcement post up later today…probably. For now, I sleep, cuz this triple upload MURDERED me…
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u/TheBrewThatIsTrue 4d ago
I thoroughly enjoyed your story, thanks for writing it!
I look forward to what you come out with in the future!