D0JU7iXP

1Wakefulness came slowly, a haze thick and sweet as honey falling from her memories. Vani smiled, any recall of pain from the night before dulled by what had come after. Twice, even. She continued smiling, slowly opening her eyes. She knew Tentacles would be there, still feeling a single ‘pod draped around her ankle. Blinking a few times to clear her sight, Vani shifted, sitting up, noting the sun outside was well on its way to noon. After last night, I don’t think sleeping in is really that bad.
2
3Vani yawned, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. The ‘pod had fallen from her ankle, and a quiet rustling told her Tentacles had moved around the bed.
4
5Vani’s somnolence extended. I didn’t want to wake you.
6
7“Thanks,” Vani reached down and brushed her fingers across Tentacles’s main body. “I had some nice dreams.”
8
9Tentacles wishes to enquire what are dreams?
10
11Vani considered for a sleepy moment how to explain the concept of moving pictures and images and other sensations to something that couldn’t see at all, and normally didn’t sleep either. [Tentacle] might not even know what hallucinations were. She would have to look up a good way to explain it.
12
13“There’s a lot of visual stuff, and I kinda need my breakfast to wake up properly today.” She leant down to kiss Tentacles. “Also, last night… I loved it. I want to do it again, sometime, but… I don’t know what to do for you. It can’t all be about me.”
14
15I would ask to discuss breeding, but that is for a different time. Tentacles is unsure of how to proceed with such exchanges. Perhaps experimentation with physical sensations is required.
16
17“You want me to experiment on you—with you?” Vani swung her legs over the side of the bed, feet pushing into the soft pile of the carpet.
18
19Vani understands, yes. This is what [Tentacle] desire.
20
21Half masked by another yawn, Vani asked: “After breakfast?”
22
23Can Tentacles have fish and apple?
24
25Standing and stretching, Vani replied. “There’s no fish left, but I’ve still got a few apples. I’ll have to go shopping soon.” Looking over at the dresser she decided it wasn’t worth the effort getting dressed just yet. And the fact her body was still tingling just a little from the stretching and the amazing sex last night.
26
27Tentacles’s ‘pods waved for attention: What is ‘shopping’?
28
29“I buy things like food and drink, cleaning stuff, maybe a science magazine.”
30
31This is exchange of tokens or barter for worth of similar items?
32
33“We use money,” Vani wandered to the stairs. “Maybe you can do some research after breakfast, before we experiment.” A thought struck her. “Or look up dreams; pretty sure there’s better explanations than what I’ve got.”
34
35Tentacles studied dreams on the metal tablet, nipping chunks off one of [Tentacle] apples. It seemed that dreams, in their basic form, were some kind of visual echo or hallucination, occurring only during nocturnal somnolence. Experts in the understanding of these alien minds had differing—and often conflicting—opinions on what purpose dreams served, if any. To [Tentacle] own sensibilities it seemed that memory consolidation was the most likely—because beings like Vani had to have some form of process similar to [Tentacle] own gestalt. The study of dreams was not, however, a major concern. An interesting diversion, but of little concern, as Vani had characterised her dreams as ‘nice’; a word Tentacles understood to mean pleasant or satisfying given differing contexts.
36
37Finishing the apple, [Tentacle] rolled over to rest next to Vani, extending a single pseudopod to lie against her foot. Not receiving any requests to stop, Tentacles began to coil the pseudopod around Vani’s calf, squeezing gently. [Tentacle] felt it as Vani placed a hand on [Tentacle] main body, stroking it gently down one side.
38
39Tentacles finds feeling of physical connectedness to be filling [Tentacle] with contented feeling of warmth. Does Vani feel this same warmth?
40
41“Could you repeat the first part?” Vani’s voice held an odd note. “Sorry. I was reading something.”
42
43Repeating the first part of [Tentacle] query, Tentacles analysed the odd note [Tentacle] had heard. Shame?
44
45“That warmth is called affection, little buddy,” Tentacles felt it as Vani attempted to tickle ver. [Tentacle] couldn’t figure out why it seemed oddly unsuccessful. “And yes, I feel it too. It’s part of forming a relationship—the ‘pair bonding behaviour’, you like to call it.”
46
47Tentacles calls it this because [Tentacle] did not know a better word. [Tentacle] did not know there was a better word.
48
49“I guess there’s still a lot I take for granted.” [Tentacle] felt it as Vani rose from the table, moving to the sink. There came the sound of water, in a flow, then random droplets scattering. A different sound, and then Vani walked to the fridge. Tentacles had to admit that [Tentacle] liked the sound and impact Vani’s feet made as she moved around this particular section of the dwelling. Always clear, solid, and the lower surface had enough stiffness to effectively transfer reverberations from that movement.
50
51“Hey, would you like to try feeding Bossco?”
52
53Tentacles made a cross—the largest negative symbol [Tentacle] cold think of—with two of [Tentacle] pseudopods fully extended.
54
55“Okay, I get it,” Vani was laughing. “I’ll do it.”
56
57Tentacles rolled back into the main area of the dwelling, waiting patiently for Vani to return from feeding her dog. Part of [Tentacle] was still suspicious of the animal. Most of [Tentacle] mind, however, was consumed with constructing experimental parameters for Vani to test. There were many physical sensations Vani was able to provide. [Tentacle] also had to consider that sensations merely physical in nature might have been unable to induce the chemically focused pleasure of true mindsharing. It also seemed that while Vani did have some pheromonal secretions they were instinctive in nature, not controlled as [Tentacle] own could be.
58
59Ve felt it as Vani returned, gently lowering herself onto the carpet, legs spread to either side of Tentacles’s main body. Her hands rested low, clasped together between her legs.
60
61“How do you want to start?”
62
63I am unsure. There exists vast range of possible sensation. Multitude of choice has suddenly become overwhelming.
64
65Vani laughed softly. “You don’t know where to start.”
66
67Tentacles finds [Tentacle's self] disconcerted by this notion, but yes. [Tentacle] does not know with which sensation to begin.
68
69“What if I pick something for you, and we go from there?”
70
71This is acceptable. Vani begins experiment?
72
73Tentacles felt Vani take hold of a pseudopod, wrapping her fingers around it, applying a gentle pressure as evenly as was possible given her anatomy. Her other hand joined in, rhythmically alternating a squeeze and a release. The sensation was mild at best, and too concentrated to induce reactions throughout most of [Tentacle] mind. [Tentacle] wished Vani had more appendages to work with in this experiment. [Tentacle] made the negative symbol.
74
75“Not working, huh?”
76
77Confirmed. Sensation too focused on single area, and of low strength.
78
79“You want me to use more force?”
80
81No. Would like to attempt more sensations.
82
83“Here, lay one of your ‘pods out next to me.”
84
85Tentacles did as [Tentacle] was instructed. A single pressure point indented the tip of the pseudopod next to Vani. Another next to it. Another. Four in total. Then they began to move in sequence, striking softly against [Tentacle] flesh, sending subtle ripples of sensation down [Tentacle] pod and also into her echo-sense. The sequenced strikes raced down [Tentacle] pod, eliciting a strange sensation of movement and contrasting stillness. An interesting effect, but not one [Tentacle] could yet define as ‘pleasurable’. It almost feels like rain.
86
87Effects of sensation are interesting. Tentacles is unsure if pleasure is created. Tentacles also notes feeling is equivalent to very limited rain effect.
88
89“That’s right…” Vani’s voice trailed off. “You liked the rain; and the shower.”
90
91Sensations of droplet impacts over whole body are enjoyable. We continue experiment?
92
93“Sure, what next?”
94
95Vani experiments with touches she showed Tentacles for masturbation?
96
97Tentacles felt it as Vani’s fingers gently brushed down the side of [Tentacle] body. Soft touches flowed and swirled and crossed over lingering paths as Vani’s fingers moved with surprising deftness. Attempting to trace the pattern—if there was one—proved a waste of effort, but somehow the mystery of those paths seemed to enhance how enjoyable this touch was. Definitely one to use and refine in future.
98
99Sensation is enjoyable. Frustration of pattern predicting also elicits mental enjoyment. Tentacles would like to know about why Vani wishes [Tentacle] to experience ‘pleasure’ via limited physical contacts.
100
101“Because I can’t mindshare,” Vani’s voice was soft. “And for now this ‘limited physical contact’ is all I can offer you.”
102
103Understanding begins, context of Vani’s earlier statement: It can’t be all about me. Implication is Vani wishes to reciprocate pleasure giving as act of building relationship, yes?
104
105Tentacles felt it as Vani shifted and leaned heavily against [Tentacle] main body. Vani’s arms wrapped around ver, linking on the opposite side, while Vani’s breasts pressed softly against [Tentacle] skin, both surfaces deforming slightly under the force applied. A moment later and Vani had moved back into her resting posture, waiting to continue.
106
107Tentacles wishes to enquire about previous contact.
108
109“It’s called a hug—kinda hard to do, given you’re a weird shape and all, but that’s alright. People do it to show affection, or understanding. Some people do it as a greeting.”
110
111Contact was strange. [Tentacle] was not expecting it. I cannot define it.
112
113“Would you like me to hug you again?”
114
115Yes.
116
117Ve felt more keenly for the sensations this time, observing [Tentacle] mind-state as well. Where Vani’s arms contacted [Tentacle] body, [Tentacle] felt warm—likely an effect of Vani’s metabolism. [Tentacle] also felt a slight roughness from very fine hairs, almost like the sensory cilia certain species possessed. As more of Vani’s body pressed into ver, [Tentacle] felt a tiny pulse of the warmth Vani had described as affection, and found [Tentacle's self] with a sudden urge to enfold Vani in the touch of comfort. An instant later [Tentacle] realised that this ‘hug’ was likely the human equivalent of the touch of comfort, allowing as it did as much direct contact as was possible between two strange bipedal beings.
118
119The hug was not finished, and now Tentacles felt Vani lay her head gently against the top of [Tentacle] body, hair trailing between them. Vani’s hair created an interesting sensation of soft and imperfect contact, and just as [Tentacle] was starting to define that, Vani gently kissed the top of [Tentacle] body and lifted her head away. The hug continued. [Tentacle] found more and more that this sensation was enjoyable—and that the soft warmth of affection continued as long as contact remained. It was not to the heights of what Vani wished to give in terms of pleasure, but it was still very much enjoyable.
120
121I like hug. It does not give pleasure, but feeling of warmth/affection is enjoyable on its own.
122
123“Okay then, little one, what next?”
124
125Vani wishes to create state of peak physical pleasure in Tentacles, yes?
126
127“That’s the idea. Hopefully.”
128
129Tentacles shifted [Tentacle] main body slightly, carefully releasing [Tentacle] ovipositor. The looped fibres of the floor were almost rough against the more sensitive skin. With a pair of pseudopods [Tentacle] gently took hold of Vani’s wrists.
130
131Vani may experiment with careful touch on ovipositor. You remember information from anatomy lesson?
132
133“It’s sensitive, and prehensile, so I need to be gentle,” Vani shuffled closer as she spoke, moving her arms slowly against the slight restraint. “Or perhaps you could show me how it is you would like to be touched?”
134
135It took Tentacles a moment to parse the question, and then [Tentacle] signed an affirmative. Experimenting together would be far more instructional. But [Tentacle] was still unsure [Tentacle] could reach the level of physical pleasure experienced by Vani the previous night. Anatomical—and neurological—structures were simply so different that [Tentacle] could not predict the outcome of the experiment, though [Tentacle] would admit disappointment if [Tentacle] concerns proved true.
136
137Setting those thoughts aside, Tentacles spread two additional pseudopods around each of Vani’s hands, thinning them as far as was possible to allow Vani the greatest sensation of what she was touching. [Tentacle] began with movements that would be familiar to her; strokes, swirls, tracing. [Tentacle] was even daring enough to attempt a very gentle pinch. Then, to be sure Vani understood [Tentacle] limits, [Tentacle] pressed almost painfully hard into the less sensitive root of [Tentacle] ovipositor, making [Tentacle's self] flinch slightly.
138
139“I’m sorry, did I hurt you?” Concern was evident in Vani’s voice.
140
141Action was deliberate. Vani may only use lighter force when her hands are released. Understanding.
142
143“I understand.”
144
145A sudden lack of envelopment brought Vani’s senses back to her hands, the mid-morning air pleasantly cool. She had to admit to being surprised that she hadn’t caused any major reactions thus far—and that the action that elicited the strongest response had been a simple hug. It was just proving more and more how truly alien Tentacles was, along with [Tentacle] unique biology. But there were almost human traits as well; [Tentacle] curiosity about the world; [Tentacle] desire to experiment; how much [Tentacle] was willing to trust Vani. Just like the trust she had shown allowing Tentacles to ‘see’ all of her by touch.
146
147With her own touch, Vani traced a single finger from root to tip of Tentacles’s ovipositor, noting how much rougher the skin felt. It wasn’t a pattern, or harsh, or sharp, but it was rougher than wrinkles should be, and yet strangely flexible. Two fingers idly tracing around the circumference, Vani leaned in for a closer a look. She could also feel that somehow, in some way, it was smoother tracing in some directions than others. She placed her entire hand against Tentacles’s ovipositor, moving first one way, then another. It was a strangely familiar feeling. So familiar in fact the she almost couldn’t place it.
148
149Fur.
150
151Something on Tentacles’s ovipositor had a nap, just like Bossco’s fur.
152
153Leaning in even closer, her hair falling across Tentacles’s ovipositor as she almost lay her cheek against it, she could finally see what it was. Tiny, rounded, fleshy barbs. They grew in patches, leading to the chaotic nap she’d felt in places. There was another place she’d seen shapes like that—because she was a sucker for articles about big cats. It looked like a tiger’s tongue. Except in a weird dark green-grey colour. Then she saw some ‘pods waving for attention.
154
155Vani continues thermal gradient stimulation?
156
157She blinked, sitting up straight, trying to figure it out. Then she realized how close she’d been. Close enough to share body heat. Close enough for her breath to skate across those flesh barbs. Papillae. That was what the tiger tongue things were called. It would serve as a description unless Tentacles had something better. She leaned down again, exhaling against a short length of Tentacles’s ovipositor.
158
159“Like this?”
160
161Yes. Is very enjoyable. Which mechanism does Vani use to create micro-pressure thermal gradients?
162
163“It’s just my breath, see,” And after taking a deep breath Vani blew gently along the length of Tentacles’s ovipositor.
164
165Vani’s breath has interesting stimulating characteristics. Breathe along other surfaces please?
166
167Vani did as she was asked, wondering just what Tentacles was trying to figure out. She leaned close over a mass of ‘pods, her breath skating around and between them. She picked up a tentacle and exhaled hard into the forest of suckers. She shifted slightly so her breath could play in a line across the top of Tentacles’s main body, then she moved again and blew against the nap of some of the papillae. Tentacles seemed to twitch ever so slightly at the change.
168
169Vani continues this breath against ovipositor?
170
171With a smile Vani shifted into a low crouch, moving her head so she could trace patterns with her breath. Skating up and down, and making little swirls. Exhaling soft and close, or blowing hard from far away. Every now and then Tentacles would twitch, or give a minute shiver. It seemed clear that [Tentacle] was enjoying the play. It was also becoming clear that the build up, or whatever it was, was not going to lead to some kind of alien orgasm. Even she added her hands into the equation—Tentacles didn’t protest—Vani couldn’t sense any changes in the creature before her.
172
173The play between them continued for a while, but the results of the experiment were obvious before Tentacles called a halt to them.
174
175Tentacles finds [Tentacle's self] unable to experience peaks of pleasure that Vani seeks during sex. [Tentacle] finds that [Tentacle] is disappointed in this outcome, but cannot understand fully why this should be so.
176
177“It’s okay,” Vani sighed softly, leaning back into Tentacles’s body. “I guess we really are alien to each other, more than I think.”
178
179This is stated fact. Physiological and neurological divergence is extreme, but not insurmountable. Understanding of this trait is full, but disappointment still exists.
180
181“Here,” Vani turned and wrapped Tentacles in a tight hug. “We can work it out together.”
182
183Together.
184
185Tentacles had to admit [Tentacle] liked the sound of that. Together.
186
187Chapter 19: Eggs & Explanations
188Chapter Text
189In her workshop—once again wearing too many clothes for her liking—Vani was putting more work into the scrap dragon she was building. The wings needed some solid mounting points, and to that end she was constructing a Y-brace in the belly of the beast, welding it to the heavy steel frame that ran through the dragon’s legs. Of course, if the dragon were to have its wings folded, like in her original design, then she could just weld the braces in and have the wings integral to the structure.
190
191Her client, of course, wanted it to look like the dragon was about to take flight, wings outstretched—which would mean some serious transport problems if the wings weren’t detachable. It also meant she would likely have to supervise the install, almost halfway across the country. That, however, was a problem for another day. Today’s major problem was sorting out the internal bracing. The problem she was trying not to think about too much was that Tentacles didn’t seem to be able to orgasm—or whatever [Tentacle] might call it—from physical stimulation alone.
192
193It was actually quite a puzzle, but one they’d agreed on trying to figure out together. From what she knew about biology, Vani understood it as being something like an electrical signal overload that triggered a lot of other things. Things from the autonomous nervous system. And though she knew [Tentacle] could feel things, Vani had to wonder if Tentacles had nerves at all. After all, Tentacles had shown her magic, and had literally come from another dimension. That, perhaps, was the root of the problem.
194
195But she wasn’t about to ask Tentacles if she could dissect one of [Tentacle] ‘pods, even if [Tentacle] could regenerate. It was also the fact she hadn’t done too well with the whole frog dissecting thing in high-school either. All of that seemed especially weird given that she didn’t mind the occasional painful scratch or cut on herself. She scratched softly at the scar under her left breast. Stabbed in the lung by a piece of loose rebar had been just above what she could handle. That was before factoring in how terrified she’d been. Shaking her head, Vani turned off the welder and crawled out of the dragon.
196
197She could work through it, almost every time. Almost. But this time she could feel it, pinning her to the seat, making her breath wheeze in the most terrible way. The taste of blood in the back of throat. The slightly used looking mask they’d put on her while they cut through the rebar just in front of her chest. Even the scream of the grinder, and the stupidly petty thought that it was going to ruin her dress with the sparks. She couldn’t remember what they’d said, but she remembered the compassion and reassurance in their voices. She also remembered thinking that one of them was too young—and way too attractive—to be an EMT. Or was it a firefighter?
198
199Vani blinked, shaking her head. She hadn’t told many people, but for a few months after she’d been seeing a shrink. There was a recurring nightmare, and then it happened when she heard a weird clang in the workshop at uni. A flashback—and a lot more intense than the one she’d just had. So she’d done some research. Looked into things for PTSD—which was still way too weird to her, given that this wasn’t a firefight, or losing a comrade, or some sort of mugging. It was just something that had happened. It was only during a counselling session that she learned it didn’t have to be caused by a person. PTSD was related to a traumatic event—and if being terrified of dying while impaled on a piece of rebar didn’t count as a traumatic event, she didn’t know what would. Vani smiled. Those had been the almost exact words of her counsellor.
200
201Looking up at the dragon, Vani sighed. “You know, I’m not sure I’ll be able to get any more work done on you today.” She looked at her watch. “Well, it wasn’t long until lunch anyway.”
202
203Bossco was waiting at the door, like always. And just like always he was jumping up exuberantly, trying to lick her face.
204
205“Down.” He didn’t stop. Vani put a hand on his shoulders, forcing him down. “I said ‘down’.”
206
207Bossco trotted at her side as she walked back to the house. He kept pressing his head against her leg, obviously angling for some ear scratches. Vani obliged. The wagging of Bossco’s tail helped lighten her mood. She sat on the middle step to take off her boots. Bossco rested his muzzle on her shoulder, sniffing her ear. He licked it.
208
209“Eww…” Vani pushed him aside as he tried it again. “Enough.”
210
211Only after she was inside did it occur to her that he’d just been trying to help. ‘Help’, in his own inimitably inept fashion, but he was only a dog, after all. Not the best with reassuring conversations.
212
213Rummaging through the cupboards in the kitchen, Vani was having trouble deciding what to make for lunch. There were still eggs, and plenty of bread. Soft-boiled, with ‘little soldiers’. She also wondered how Tentacles would handle food like that. Putting a pot of water on the stove to heat up, Vani went to find Tentacles, currently spread out behind a couch, ‘pods moving in strange patterns and limned with a subtle orange that didn’t quite glow.
214
215For [Tentacle] own part, Tentacles was concentrating on the progress of [Tentacle] uniplanar integration. It was complete enough now that [Tentacle] could safely accelerate the final stage with a touch of eldritch physics. It was considerably easier given that this planar realm was a constrained 4/11 on dimensionality, with only three of those dimensions—in total—being temporal. It was something the residents of this planet, at least, had yet to completely grasp. Far, far easier than the blossomed 6/17 [Tentacle] had passed through prior to arriving in this planar reality.
216
217Tentacles felt it as Vani paused near the reach of [Tentacle] tentacles. Tentacles shifted part of [Tentacle] consciousness back towards the physical plane, using a pair of pseudopods to indicate [Tentacle] was now listening.
218
219“Would you like some eggs for lunch?”
220
221Tentacles was so shocked [Tentacle] nearly created a second rift in the locus. Moving very slowly and deliberately, [Tentacle] disentangled the physics, leaving the process to continue on its own. To consume an egg—on its own, external to that which bred from it—was an act that had alarming implications. Tentacles could only remember a handful of times [Tentacle] had consumed an egg, and the required sacrifices and ceremony around such an important act. For Vani to suggest it with such casual nature was more than culture shock.
222
223There was a deep sense of revulsion at the suggestion, and also vague notions that perhaps Vani was no longer an ideal specimen for breeding. But there remained other evidence, such as the fact Vani asserted that humans gave birth to live young, and that many creatures on the planet seemed to consume eggs of other species as a matter of course. [Tentacle] had to make sure this was the case.
224
225Egg for consumption, what level of animal creates it?
226
227“Uhh…” Vani seemed confused by the question. “I don’t know what level. It’s from a chicken, a kind of bird we use for meat.”
228
229Chicken is not sapient?
230
231“Pretty sure. They just wander round, eating grain off the ground, pecking things, and laying eggs.”
232
233Ceremony is not required for egg consumption.
234
235“Wait…” Vani’s voice held a note of confusion mixed with realization. “Are you trying to tell me you eat your own eggs as some sort of religious thing?”
236
237It was always special ceremony, and the egg for consumption was delivered without coding of fertility within. Egg instead contained memories that [Tentacle] who delivered wished to no longer keep or suffer. [Tentacle] who delivered egg never ate of it, but required to reinforce mind of individuals that did consume egg contents. Memories from within that could not be consumed were diluted and washed away with currents of water. Deliverer of egg remained bound to egg location until dissipation complete. All individuals then created temporal construct to remove physicality of egg and disperse into adjacent planar realms.
238
239“I think I get it,” Vani’s voice was soft, and at some point during the explanation she had sat down, cross legged. “Somehow you could put every copy of a bad memory into an egg, and when you laid it, others of your kind would ‘taste’ it, to see if it was too valuable to forget. Does that seem right so far?”
240
241Vani understands basic concept well.
242
243“So, whoever laid the egg—the one that wanted to forget—had to help the others somehow if they chose to absorb those memories?” Tentacles felt it as Vani placed a hand against a nearby pseudopod. “And if no one wanted those memories, then whoever laid it had to wait until they were all gone, and then everyone nearby helped spread whatever was left spread so far apart it could never be re-absorbed.”
244
245In simplistic understanding of event, this is true. Significance for deliverer of egg is higher. Egg is special, memory should not be removed, but ceremony allows for this function, and transfer of memory if importance remains despite mental conception of deliverer of egg.
246
247“So it’s like a holy ritual or something?”
248
249If holy implies high significance to core individual, yes.
250
251“Okay, I think understand.” There was a lengthy pause. “So, aside from eggs, are there any other foods that might be taboo?”
252
253Consumption of own species is considered abhorrent act, even in desperation or mental damage.
254
255“Cannibalism. I don’t think we’ll have any problems with that. People just don’t eat each other—and Bossco knows better than to try and eat you now anyway.”
256
257Tentacles is willing to consume egg of chicken, if Vani guarantees no memory within, and no coding of fertility.
258
259“I’m not 100% on how chemical memory works, but I’m pretty sure chickens wouldn’t use it that way, and if the eggs were fertile they wouldn’t be worth eating.”
260
261Vani stood, awkwardly reminded of how many layers her work forced her to wear. She unzipped the front of her overalls and tied the sleeves around her waist. The lid of the pot had been rattling for a little while, but she’d been captivated by Tentacles’s explanation of how its kind forgot things. Still, time was wearing on, and she was getting hungry. One egg each, and some toast as well. A light lunch. The problem, of course, was the toast cooking faster than the eggs. Even after so many years she hadn’t quite got the the timing right. The toast popped up nearly two minutes before the eggs were ready.
262
263It didn’t take long to spread some butter on the toast, then slice it into strips. She called out to Tentacles, grabbing a pair of egg cups from the cupboard as she did so. She took the eggs out of the pot, then sliced the tops off them before sitting them in the egg cups. She dipped one of her ‘little soldiers’ in the egg, enjoying the gooey mess it ended up as. She handed the other egg to Tentacles, along with the strips of bread. Only after hearing a couple of odd crunches did she realise she needed to explain the concept of ‘little soldiers’ to Tentacles.
264
265“No, no,” Vani held a ‘pod in her hand. “You dip the bread in the egg, like this.” She suited action to words. “Then you eat it. And dip it in again, if there’s any left. Then get another ‘little soldier’. Yeah. Like that.”
266
267What purpose does ritual of coating ‘soldier’ in egg yolk have?
268
269“It’s not a ritual. You just do it so you can eat the yolk without having to use a spoon.”
270
271Tentacles could eat entire egg without spoon. ‘Little soldiers’ seems to add unnecessary process to eating.
272
273“For you, I guess,” Vani smiled. “I don’t have a beak for cracking shells, or a heat resistant tongue.”
274
275Point is understood.
276
277Vani let her mind drift back to what Tentacles had said about placing memories into those special eggs, and the first attempt [Tentacle] had made at chemical communication with her. An attempt that had left her feeling weird and slightly fuzzy, unsure if she’d been influenced by some kind of drug. But the weirdness had had structure, almost giving her a hint of flavour, of being… something. Something else. It was, she considered, something she would be willing to attempt again. Provided it didn’t end up poisoning her—but she was fairly sure Tentacles would be able to avoid that, having studied a fair amount of chemistry before attempting to make her up some analgesic substances. 
278
279Chewing on another ‘little soldier’, Vani found herself shuffling closer to Tentacles. “There’s something else I want to ask you.”
280
281Vani has question of importance?
282
283“Yeah. About chemical memories… how do they actually work?”
284
285Can Vani define work; topic of chemical memory is complex and multi-faceted. Narrowing field for explanation will help answering of Vani’s question.
286
287“Umm…” Vani tried to think of how to phrase what she’d experienced last time. “Is it possible for a non-chemical memory using person to understand them?”
288
289Possibility exists that person could absorb fractional gestalt from memory, or identify compounds, but full deciphering and understanding of memory is not possible.
290
291“So the first time you tried to give me a chemical memory, and I felt weird—that’s about all I’d get?”
292
293This has similarity to gestalt. Vani please explains feeling weird?
294
295“It felt like I didn’t have enough arms,” Vani tried to recall more detail. “My body felt wrong. And I think there was flash of silver, or maybe the taste of fish. I can’t remember it exactly.”
296
297That is gestalt. Vani tasted form of Tentacles for a moment, and feeling of satisfaction.
298
299“So the gestalt is like… an overall feeling?”
300
301It is sensation of being. One of many parts, above, but also within. Concept has difficulty of explanation. Gestalt is more than biology.
302
303“Hmm…” A thought had just occurred to Vani. “Could you create a memory that was only gestalt?”
304
305I could. Does Vani wish for Tentacles to do this?
306
307“Yes.” Vani took a deep breath. “I’m just not sure what it will do to me.”
308
309Compounds for chemical memory are non-toxic, and seemingly digestible for Vani. Tentacles understands feeling of risk; possibility of unsureness about influence?
310
311“I think if you really wanted to, you would have by now. And you also know that if you did now, I wouldn’t trust you again.”
312
313Vani has correct conclusion. I will begin, process is simple.
314
315It didn’t take long, Tentacles preparing a memory—or not-memory—that looked like pale green slime in the bottom of a shot glass. Vani stared at it dubiously. “That’s it?”
316
317It is gestalt-only memory. Substance is slight.
318
319Vani drained the glass, and felt her eyes glaze over. The world was black, and blurry. She could feel herself trying to branch her arms and legs out into the proper manifold configuration. Her mass was wrong, and her shape unstable. Then the world swam back into focus, sitting on the floor next to Tentacles, still wearing her working overalls. The feeling from the gestalt had been surprisingly strong. Except it wasn’t even really a feeling.
320
321Is Vani okay?
322
323Vani reached out and stroked Tentacles’s body. “I’m okay. That gestalt… I think I felt—or saw—or something—like you for a few seconds. I wanted to spread my arms and legs out into lots of ‘pods. And I felt like my body was all wrong.”
324
325That was my gestalt. The framework for being Tentacles.
326
327“So a gestalt is like—“ Vani searched her mind for the right words, but only found a loose allusion “—like an OS for your mind?”
328
329Possibly. Vani defines ‘OS’
330
331“Operating System. It’s the basic level of programming that a computer—like my laptop—runs on.”
332
333Then yes. Gestalt is like OS for Tentacles’s mind, but more complex. Gestalt is special word. Also means overall feeling of memory; or collection of memories that creates Tentacles. All are types of gestalt. Vani has experienced second kind. Without encapsulated memory experience is re-encoded as blankness and instinct. Would Vani consent to experiments at later time?
334
335“Later.” Vani found herself agreeing. “But we talk about it, what you’re trying to do, what I should expect, and so on—before we start experiments.”
336
337Conditional requirements understood. Later experiments. Now we eat more chicken egg?
338
339Vani smiled. “Sure, just give me a little while to cook some more.”
340
341Chapter 20: History Lesson I
342Chapter Text
343Vani lay in bed, relaxing, doing nothing other than let her hands roam across her body. Occasionally they would roam across Tentacles’s body. Occasionally a ‘pod would roam across hers. She was still mulling over the fact Tentacles was unable to experience whatever [Tentacle] equivalent of orgasm was through physical stimulation alone. She was also considering the impact that just the gestalt had had on her—and whether or not going deeper down that rabbit hole was enjoyable, terrifying, or just plain weird. But Tentacles had talked about chemical memories as being the norm for [Tentacle] species, and a way for newly born—or hatched, or whatever—offspring to immediately be able to face the challenges of the world.
344
345It also led her to thinking about mindsharing. A connection Tentacles had said involved every ‘pod from both parties, with both sharing and receiving chemical memories. Vani had to wonder if memories weren’t the only chemicals being shared. Though, if so, Tentacles should have said something about it—ve certainly knew enough about [Tentacle] own biology.
346
347“Tentacles?”
348
349Yes Vani?
350
351“You remember how we played with physical stimulation this morning?”
352
353Ve remember mutual frustration at negative outcome from experiments.
354
355“I know,” Vani sighed softly, playfully batting away a ‘pod near her thigh. “But I was thinking about how you spoke of mindsharing working both ways. Chemical memories.”
356
357Feeling is possibly considered equivalent, but description is difficult. Tentacles understands only basic mechanics of orgasm. Vani understands only basic mechanics of mindsharing. Experiential mismatch in data sets means direct comparisons remain impossible.
358
359“More specifically,” Vani pressed on, teasing a ‘pod that was stroking around her breast. “I was wondering if the state from mindsharing was chemically induced—by more than just memories, possibly.”
360
361Vani has excellent insight into this biological discipline. Many academics postulated this as reason for mindsharing continuing, despite lack of biological necessity. Many mindsharing dyads, triads and larger groupings contributed to experiments. Evidence remained anecdotal. Alternative hypotheses existed in many forms. Most common was that gestalt reorganisation triggered by mindshared memories caused chemosynthetic disruption. For species continuation, biology came to treat this disruptive range as pleasant.
362
363Frowning slightly, Vani tried to think of a decent parallel. “So it got you guys high?”
364
365Physical elevation from partners was irrelevant. Why does Vani ask this?
366
367“Sorry,” Vani shook her. “I mean it was like being drugged—“ and then Vani realised that was another thing they had not discussed in depth “—like drinking influence chemicals for pleasantness.”
368
369Postulation is not entirely inaccurate. Influence chemicals had been considered possible cause, but no traces remained after mindsharing.
370
371“What about during?”
372
373Emission of influence chemicals was noted in very few observations. Observers remained unsure of purpose, for initiation of mindsharing, pseudopodal guidance, or perhaps reflexively due to prior acts. Possibility also of dilute traces from other activity in area.
374
375“Okay, maybe we’re getting off track here.”
376
377Tentacles reminds Vani that she began digression with new line of questioning.
378
379“Maybe I should start another one.” Vani underscored her words with a kiss to each of the ‘pods she was currently holding hostage.
380
381Discussion is for increase of pair bonding rapport?
382
383“Yeah,” Vani let one of the ‘pods go, tracing around Tentacles’s body with two idle fingers. “I wanted to ask what your home was like. I mean, it’s easy enough to imagine another dimension like Earth, with stars and planets and stuff, but yours was probably completely alien. I wanna know if I can understand it.”
384
385Plane from which Tentacles comes was aquatic void. Liquid filled all space, but liquid was not water—ve are not sure Vani’s plane has chemical equivalent substance to ocean between stars. Vani may question existence of stars within great ocean, but planar space manifold contained five dimensions, meaning orbital paths became unstable. Pressure of liquid medium was mitigated by radiation and ejecta output of extant stars. If liquid fell inwards, path led to escape or collapse, no orbits. Tentacles is not sure [Tentacle] can explain sufficiently without use of highest order physics and invocation of infinites.
386
387Vani shook her head. “Yeah, I wouldn’t get it anyway. So, your home was basically all wate—liquid—and had stars that pushed the liquid away?”
388
389In essence of simplicity, correct. Culture could expand and exploit entire universe. [Tentacle] could feel great pulse when stars would die, gravitic wave propagating through liquid as bubble does in water. Explosion-collapse of star launches chemical ejecta into liquid, creates currents, combines elements eventually. Evolution takes untold time. Eventually Tentacles’s people spawn. We study planar reality. Understand pulses. Touch stars. In dead stars we find gates beyond.
390
391“Wait, how did you touch stars without getting incinerated?”
392
393Bodies native to plane supported vastly different composition. Stars could not harm except by crushing during starquakes. Continuing: Gates beyond are forbidden when explorers do not return. Technology is developed. Magic is realised through dimensional potentials. Spread is accelerated by mindsharing. Magic and technology required by first successful explorers. Returners mindshare experiences beyond. Understanding dawns across culture. Tentacles’s culture then remakes self. Suits bodies to travel through planar realities with physical manifolds unsuitable for normal dimensional existence. Magic becomes ingrained. Gestalt becomes disconnected from physicality, then returns remotely. Link is strengthened through technology, then magic. Mind may exist for moments outside of form, during interplanar travel, or during existence in hyper-manifold planes.
394
395“And you guys did all this without even being able to see?”
396
397Echo-sense provides at-range perception of locations. Entire realm filled with liquid. Vani is understanding now?
398
399“Sorry, I’m still trying to wrap my head around this whole thing,” Vani rubber her chin. “And then somehow you took your minds out of your bodies, and put them back differently. There’s so much I don’t understand.”
400
401Explanation difficult. Requires concept-words for which Vani’s culture lacks even most basic precepts. Cannot create new combination-words to explain. Even use of term ‘gates beyond’ and ‘magic’ highly inaccurate to actuality of concepts discussed. Confusion was always possible. Likely. Tentacles tries to simplify to understandable level, but may not have capability with given vocabulary and knowledge of this plane’s physics.
402
403Vani sighed, throwing herself back against the pillows. “I’ll just have to try and keep up then, and hope my head doesn’t explode.”
404
405There is possibility of dangerous cranial event due to knowledge acquisition?
406
407“No, no,” Vani laughed, feeling some of the weird tension suddenly draining from her. “It’s just something we say when we think information might be overwhelming. Like this stuff.” She waved a hand in the air. “Just go on, please. I am interested even if I can’t understand more than half of it.”
408
409Continuing: Culture expands to several planes via gates beyond. Magic used to open pathways to planar matrix not requiring gates beyond for functionality. First limited branes discovered—travel restricted to unidirectional path. Much time passes, consolidation phase of culture begins. Physical existence now possible in dimensionality from three to twenty-one. Returners from limited branes begin mass mindsharing experience. Branes are result of sapience. Sapient cultures infiltrated, dominated, or uplifted as necessary to dissolve limitation on branes. Culture expands to empire. Planar matrix evolves like fractal branching. Explorers become curious about expansion narrowing in depths of matrix.
410
411“So, like a giant tree, with branches?”
412
413Vani is more insightful than she thinks in this matter. Tentacles also decides matrix narrowing is curious. [Tentacle] is bored with conquest. Subterfuge provides excellent intellectual challenges, and allows study of planar matrix from ‘below’. Limited brane was selected—but no sapience discovered beyond. Event was not unprecedented. Lack of returning gates beyond was. Planar realm was six dimensional, dead, uniform heat distribution. Tentacles realised [Tentacle] had discovered heat-death universe. Sapience existed, but no longer possible. This was ‘hard’ barrier at depth of planar matrix. Frustration beyond comprehension that [Tentacle] could not communicate this.
414
415“Oh… I…” Vani didn’t have words to describe the great pang of sorrow she felt for [Tentacle] companion.
416
417Tentacles dove deeper into planar matrix, well beyond planned depths. Gates beyond to higher matrix non-existent. [Tentacle] continued exploration, searching depths for possible sapience. Gates beyond themselves becoming rare. Time blurred with space as Tentacles explored depths of planar matrix. Increase of limited branes without sapience beyond. Second heat-death plane discovered, but not behind limited brane. [Tentacle] created matrix beacons to warn of dangers. Then [Tentacle] discovered limited brane near bottom of matrix. [Tentacle] found [Tentacle's self] in dimension with planets. Gravity. Atmosphere. Emergence point could not have been accidental.
418
419“Earth?”
420
421Yes, Earth. Magic seeks centres of sapience in the plane beyond. Accuracy is low, but distance is relative to sapience distribution in realm. I fell, through the sky. I waited, into the night. I was chewed on by a monster with teeth and bones. I found sapience restraining that beast. I found you. I found Vani.
422
423Tentacles found [Tentacle's self] suddenly supporting Vani’s weight as she wrapped her arms and legs around [Tentacle] body, lying her head against it as in the hug earlier. But this time Vani did not move. Her breath rippled across Tentacles’s body, causing [Tentacle] to shiver. Making [Tentacle] wonder why [Tentacle] could feel tiny drips of liquid, and those drips leaving tracks down the side of [Tentacle] body. [Tentacle] could also feel a strange, rhythmic shuddering of Vani’s body against [Tentacle] own. Arms grew tight around [Tentacle] upper surface. [Tentacle] felt a gentle kiss where the drips had fallen.
424
425Vani seemed reluctant to leave the hug, so [Tentacle] began slowly enfolding her legs and torso in the touch of comfort. She sat back slightly, then leaned in close again, leaving one arm around [Tentacle] body.
426
427“How long…” Vani’s voice had acquired a breathy quality that Tentacles had not heard before. “How long were you alone?”
428
429Ve do not know. Time can also exist multi-dimensionally. Tentacles cannot measure it in words meaningful to Vani. [Tentacle] could say deep. Or long. [Tentacle] could sometimes sense another nearby, passing adjacent planes. Matrix roots too distantly separated to allow communication.
430
431“That’s… that’s…”
432
433Tentacles felt the tiny droplets again, falling against a pseudopod. [Tentacle] lifted one to Vani’s face.
434
435Is Vani leaking?
436
437Vani laughed, her voice keeping the same breathy quality. “Tears. when people get sad, they cry.”
438
439Why is Vani sad?
440
441“Because she imagined living alone, trapped in another world for eternity.”
442
443Vani was trying to understand Tentacles’s mind state? To make… better?
444
445“Yes.”
446
447There is word for this?
448
449“Compassion,” Vani sniffed.
450
451Tentacles likes compassion. It is good word.
452
453Chapter 21: Friend
454Chapter Text
455Tentacles was outside, exploring the land surrounding Vani’s dwelling, within what she had called a ‘safe area’. [Tentacle] found it interesting to move and experience all that [Tentacle] could contact. The tiny prick of miniature cellulose based leaves, followed by their subsequent folding. The gentle rise and fall of the land, not perfectly level beyond the dwelling. The hard, almost spiked sensation of colliding with a bush at low speed. The strange shaking sound, much like a whisper, that followed those impacts was another phenomena worthy of investigation.
456
457So was the fact a damp muzzle was pressing insistently into [Tentacle] body. A short lick from a rough tongue followed it. Then a very soft thump, as something was retrieved and dropped next to ver. A ball. Bosko nudged it towards [Tentacle] with his nose. [Tentacle] was confused by the action, using a tentacle to lift the ball for inspection. As soon as [Tentacle] did so, Bosko’s posture changed from relaxed and expectant to ready and waiting to spring.
458
459Ve threw the ball.
460
461Bosko bounded after it, the animal’s speed impressive given its moderate size. Moments later and the ball was dropped next to another tentacle, Bosko assuming a posture of readiness once more. Intriguing. Tentacles threw the ball again, harder this time. Bosko tore away again, quickly leaving the range of Tentacles’s echo-sense. The dog returned swiftly, skidding to a stop before dropping the ball again. Throwing the ball again—because clearly that was [Tentacle] expected role—Tentacles resolved to ask Vani about this behaviour, and whether it was related to the play she had mentioned the first time [Tentacle] had interacted with Bosko.
462
463At the edge of [Tentacle] echo-sense, Tentacles felt heavier footsteps coming from between the dwelling and the secondary structure—what Vani had called her workshop. The footstep’s were Vani’s, her clothes leaving her form vaguer than usual from the strange echoes and absorption of the woven materials. [Tentacle] waved a pseudopod in greeting.
464
465“Good to see you two getting along now.”
466
467Ve waited as Bosko raced over to Vani, then dropped the ball next to her.
468
469“Don’t give me that look,” Tentacles was confused. [Tentacle] hadn’t made any ‘look’. “Take the ball over there, you’re playing with ver, not me. No. There.”
470
471Bosko trotted back over, dropping the ball next to a tentacle, ready to be thrown again. Tentacles picked it up, launching it at top speed. Bosko tore off after it, impacts from detritus of muddy ground landing close by Tentacles’s extended pseudopods.
472
473“I’m just gonna grab a snack. You two may as well play until one of you tires out.” Vani had placed her boots on the porch, and from the sounds and sense of movement she had to removing the outer layers of her woven garments from the workshop. Bosko returned, sliding to a halt again, dropping the ball and letting it roll. Tentacles threw the ball again, idly wondering why the animal next to [Tentacle] enjoyed the repetitive exercise. As the dog sprinted away again, Vani spoke once more. “Y’know, when Bossco tires out, I might be able to use your help with something in the workshop.”
474
475This is for relationship pair-bonding building?
476
477“Nah, it’s for work. You’re strong, and can hold stuff pretty damn steady. It’s just some assembly work.”
478
479Tentacles finds [Tentacle's self] intrigued by this notion. Vani performs work in exchange for tokens of value, yes?
480
481“It’s called money, but that’s a pretty good description.”
482
483The dog returned, but this time did not drop the ball. Instead the animal moved slowly towards the dwelling, and Tentacles heard a quiet splashing from that approximate direction.
484
485“Well, looks like Bossco’s done for now; come on, I’ll show the workshop.”
486
487Tentacles followed Vani across the field, noting how much heavier Vani’s footsteps seemed because of the heavy leather and rubber padding surrounding her feet. They left moderately sized areas of depressed grass and dirt, not unlike the wide, straight trail Tentacles assumed [Tentacle] [Tentacle's self] was leaving. The workshop, as Vani called it, was a space with approximately the same ground area coverage as the dwelling, but no internal divisions. At the centre, [Tentacle] could feel—with [Tentacle] echo-sense—a large mass of hollowed metal. The shape was vaguely familiar, and as [Tentacle] closed in, [Tentacle] realised it was both incomplete, and something Vani could never have seen.
488
489And yet, it lay in front of them plain as the ground beneath them.
490
491“Tentacles?” Vani frowned, concerned at the agitated waving of the ‘pods she was seeing.
492
493How does Vani comprehend structure of voidsailer without planar knowledge?
494
495“Voidsailer?” Vani knelt beside Tentacles and gently stroked [Tentacle] body. “I’m sorry buddy, but that’s a dragon, not a voidsailer.”
496
497What is ‘dragon’?
498
499“A legendary creature, big, lizardy, generally with wings, breathes fire. At least, that’s a typical western dragon legend. Eastern dragons are long and skinny, and fly through magic, rather than using wings, they might control storms, and are said to bring good luck. Then there’s things like wyverns and lindwyrms, which, for now, I’ll just say are other types of dragons.
500
501“Thing is, though, none of these ever existed.”
502
503Vani is wrong. Description of dragon types akin to voidsailer physical structures. Possibility comes from cultural contamination, or ancestral contact between planes. Tentacles cannot be sure of which.
504
505“It would definitely make history more interesting to study.” Vani shook her head, trying to focus. “But right now, I just want you to hold up the wings while I bolt them on. There’s a light dolly winch on the I-beam up there, but I thought you might like to help.” Vani smiled. “And it takes a while to rig these awkward shapes properly.”
506
507Vani explains process for working?
508
509“Follow me, I’ll show the wings we’re putting on.”
510
511Vani walked to the rear of the workshop, taking a ‘pod to guide it to the wing. Tentacles carried it without much effort as she walked back and directed another ‘pod to feel for the bolt holes on the left side of the dragon’s body. And for someone that couldn’t see, Tentacles was holding the wing steady and surprisingly close to where it should have been.
512
513“Alright, let the studs come through the holes there. Slowly. Good. Now hold it up while I lock these nuts up.”
514
515Half an hour, and a second wing later, they were done. Vani stepped back to admire her work, using the camera to take a few pictures. And only then did she realise she’d left it on the whole time. With a resigned sigh she set about the tedious process of deleting the files from the camera itself, using the annoying little touchpad. It wouldn’t do for other people to know about Tentacles. Not that [Tentacle] posed a threat. Anymore. But [Tentacle] was new, and strange, and Vani wasn’t about to let some men-in-black types start experimenting on her friend.
516
517She frowned at the thought, trying to figure out why it had surprised her. Ah, ‘friend’. It was true though. She didn’t so much think of Tentacles as some supremely strange, interplanar being. Instead [Tentacle] sat in the much more comfortable—and now interestingly shaped—category of ‘friends’. But it still made sense. Vani smiled, pocketing the camera and heading back to the house. Lunch, and then maybe some more experiments in the afternoon. Or maybe looking up some tentacle porn, because it wouldn’t hurt to get a little inspiration.
518
519Vani stared at the screen before her, cocking her head, squinting, trying to figure out what went where from who to what. She rewound the clip slightly, but still couldn’t really make heads or tails of it. The art she’d found—in what were surprisingly large amounts—seemed a lot better than the animated clips. Maybe the artists just care more. After closing that tab, she flicked through some more galleries, looking for more—oh, yeah, that might be fun… Vani grinned, looking at the picture, and seeing a lot of things she and Tentacles could do together. And there was even a bit of bondage and submission too. So good.
520
521Upside down, legs held apart—maybe forced apart, arms tied behind, and a ‘pod in every hole. And more ‘pods serving to bind her breasts. It would be a good one. Or maybe she could forgo the ‘pods for a little while, and they could just talk. About the other things she’d seen. And about mindsharing, and experimenting with Tentacles’s influence chemicals. She shivered slightly, goosebumps forming as she thought about what it would look like to have all those fluids running down her body as she was suspended upside down. Part of her wished she could film it, and be honest about exactly what was going on. Participating in the act would have to be enough.
522
523Tentacles was easy enough to find, still in the kitchen, experimenting with what [Tentacle] called ‘constructed foods’, and what Vani normally called sandwiches, or insert-food-here on crackers. Of course, Tentacles’s ideas about what tasted good included some very strange combinations. Vani watched as [Tentacle] took a salted cracker, dipped it in peanut butter, then used the tip flaps of a ‘pod to sprinkle salt and cinnamon on it, then a single potato chip.
524
525“I honestly got no idea what you’re tryin’ to do now.”
526
527Construction combinations open intriguing possibilities for flavour/texture combinations. Palatability remains variable, but nutrients remain useful for regeneration material and increasing energy level. I am attempting to find best combination for texture-flavour-nutrient-energy mixture. Increase towards vertices of matrix correlate to shift away from opposite vertices. Combination to satisfy all criteria is seemingly non-existent within combinations tested.
528
529“Oh, so you’re experimenting to find the tastiest food that’s best for you?” Vani laughed, shaking her head. “You can’t really have both. You have to compromise somewhere.”
530
531As is becoming apparent. Does Vani wish to help?
532
533“No thanks,” Vani gently brushed Tentacles’s body with her fingertips. “But later I’d like you to help me with trying out some kinky sex stuff I found.”
534
535This is for pair bonding, building relationship?
536
537“Mostly just because I’m horny, but it’s not going to hurt our relationship either.” Vani felt a ‘pod slowly start to coil around her wrist, squeezing it for a moment before releasing.
538
539Vani will also be experimenting to increase Tentacles’s pleasure via physical stimulation?
540
541“Of course; if you want that.” Vani stole a cracker from the bench where Tentacles had spilled them from the box. “But I was also going to ask about mindsharing, and how you said the act of giving brought some pleasure—and maybe if it was combined with something physical?”
542
543Tentacles thinks this will be most intriguing experiment. Mindsharing normally contained minor physical interactions, but Vani’s suggestions are basis for solid experimentation. [Tentacle] are looking forward to ‘later’.
544
545Vani smirked, forgetting Tentacles simply couldn’t see it. “So am I. So much.”
546
547Chapter 22: Covered
548Notes:
549If I've got something wrong about complex BDSM relationships here, please let me know—I don't want to malign or misrepresent such an awesome and diverse subculture.
550
551Chapter Text
552Vani was lying in bed—or on the bed—wearing a side-tie bikini bottom, and a loose wrap around her breasts. She wanted Tentacles to take them off, maybe even rip them off, only a little rough though. All part of the play. Another part of her was also wondering if she could ever comfortably fit Tentacles’s ovipositor inside her herself. She hadn’t been a fan of fisting, and that ovipositor looked even bigger. And then with all those papillae, it might turn out to be painful. Or, at the other end, it might so pleasurable it was at risk of being crushed accidentally, being more than a little uncomfortable for her partner. But all those considerations were for the future.
553
554For now, she was going to be stripped, restrained, and fucked in every hole. Then, hopefully, left dripping and covered in something warm and sticky. She smiled, her hand finding a ‘pod beside the bed, gripping gently as it curled around her wrist. There was also something else they could do, just a little thing, before they started. She undid the wrap around her breasts, then grabbed a second ‘pod, pressing and thinning both ‘pods just past the centre of her chest, halfway between her breast and collarbone.
555
556“What do you feel?” Vani’s voice was soft.
557
558Ve feels a strange pulsation within Vani’s chest. Does Vani have internal echo-sense?
559
560Vani laughed, lightening her touch against the ‘pods. “No, I don’t. Think about the anatomy you studied.”
561
562Pulsation is rhythmic beating, regular, rapid. This is Vani’s heartbeat?
563
564“Yes,” Vani smiled, lifting a ‘pod to kiss it. “It’s probably fast because I’m excited about what we’re doing.” Her smile turned curious. “But I was wondering, do you have a heart—or something else?”
565
566Tentacles is not sure [Tentacle] has analogous organ to heart. [Tentacle] has triplicate diaphragmatic valve systems for creating, reducing and maintaining fluid pressure internally, and cell-chambers with permeable external membranes and restrictive orifices. Vani might call these check-valve hydraulic pumps. Systems maintain fluid pressure or counter external pressure, but are not fully required for movement of internal fluids. [Tentacle] are not sure [Tentacle] have a heart.
567
568“You do,” Vani rolled over, kissing Tentacles’s body. “Maybe not in form, but in our interactions. You care about me. It hurt you to be alone for so long. Just because you don’t think you have a heart doesn’t mean you can’t be heartbroken. And if you were heartbroken, it means you have a heart. Somewhere.”
569
570Perhaps my heart is part of gestalt identity, not physical manifestation?
571
572Vani kissed [Tentacle] again, and laughed. “That’s exactly what I’m saying; I’m just using shorter words.”
573
574Ve like this mannerism of Vani—of showing Tentacles compassion even during moments of excitement.
575
576“That, and because you might need to show it to me later—I’m asking you to be a bit rough, after all. And we both have no idea how having that much chemical memory inside me is going to affect me either.”
577
578Understanding; teaching of concept through self-demonstration very effective. To secondary effects from chemical memory, if Vani attempts actions [Tentacle] think she does not want—like breeding—ve will use touch of comfort as restraint, but only on arms and legs. Is this acceptable to Vani?
579
580“It is. I just don’t know how long that influence might last.”
581
582Ve can always try rocking Vani to sleep—although previous evidence indicates she sleeps once satiated sexually.
583
584Vani smiled ruefully, unwittingly reminded of how she’d wanted to talk and return pleasure to Tentacles after their first time. But [Tentacle] was right. “Maybe this time, that’s the best result.”
585
586Her mind flashed forward, to what she planned to have Tentacles do to her—and realised that effectively bound and gagged, she wouldn’t be able to say her safe words; or grip or push against anything. She could only nod, or shake her head—things Tentacles wouldn’t be able to see. She frowned… gagged, with a mouth full of—oh. She could bite, gently. Tentacles wouldn’t be able to miss that, but first she had to make sure she wouldn’t hurt [Tentacle] ‘pods if she did have to bite them.
587
588“I realised we might have a problem with saying safe words if my mouth is full, and your ‘pods are all occupied, probably your tentacles too.”
589
590Vani has solution?
591
592“Yeah, I do, but I want to make sure it’s not going to hurt you.”
593
594Vani is concerned with causing injury to Tentacles?
595
596“Well… yes. I know you can regenerate, but I don’t want that to happen on purpose. I was thinking I could use a gentle bite—here, let me demonstrate.”
597
598Tentacles let Vani take a pseudopod into her mouth, feeling some apprehension as [Tentacle] felt Vani’s teeth dig into [Tentacle] flesh. Not enough to cause injury, but enough to be very uncomfortable—perhaps even painful. A warning that [Tentacle] might be causing pain—too much pain—to Vani.
599
600“There’s another problem—and I’m sorry I didn’t ask you about this the first time—you need safe words of your own. For when doing something doesn’t feel right to you, or you want to stop. Like my ‘Heimdall’ and ‘Flugen’. And we also need to figure out how you could use them when I can’t see, or when you can’t use your ‘pods fast enough.”
601
602Ve have a beak. [Tentacle] could bite Vani with gentle pain to communicate distress. You will allow Tentacles to demonstrate?
603
604Tentacles felt a slight shift as Vani held out her arm. She guided a ‘pod to a spot on her forearm, below her elbow, and another, to a point on the outside of her thigh. [Tentacle] could feel a slight shivering, and a shallowing of breath. Vani was unsure, possibly afraid of injury to herself. Tentacles pulled Vani’s arm down slightly, trying to nip the indicated area gently with [Tentacle] beak. [Tentacle] learned a lot in the following instant, as [Tentacle] beak pierced the flesh of Vani’s arm, drawing forth a thin line of blood. [Tentacle] felt the sudden force as Vani jerked her arm backward—more powerful than the slight movement [Tentacle] had been expecting in case of injury. [Tentacle] also heard Vani’s sharp intake of breath as the muscles in her arm tensed as she moved.
605
606Apologising very much. [Tentacle] did not know Vani’s skin to be so thin.
607
608Vani placed a hand against her forehead, bowing her head. “I should have known. It’s that parakeet all over again.”
609
610Parakeet?
611
612“A bird, at a pet store. It bit my ear.”
613
614With beak?
615
616“Yes, birds have beaks.”
617
618Is Vani injured? Does she require recovery?
619
620Vani shook her head, rising from the bed. “It’s not that deep, it just stings. I’ll get a bandage from the bathroom; and file using your beak under ‘bad ideas’.”
621
622Failure of experimentation is not uncommon between Vani and Tentacles. May Tentacles help make better for Vani?
623
624Laughing softly as she opened the cupboard, Vani turned to speak. “It’s fine, I can do this one myself; but thank you.”
625
626Ve are unsure now of how best to communicate discomfort if beak not usable like Vani’s teeth. May have necessity to keep pseudopods free for communication, or tentacles for variation in contact.
627
628“Wait…” Vani cut off a short strip of bandage for her arm, running the phrase ‘variation in contact’ through her mind, trying to figure it out. Her hands were running on autopilot, grabbing an alcohol wipe for the cut—because she had no idea what could be on that beak, from Earth, or elsewhere, that could get into the wound. The cold swipe, and the slight sting. Different contacts. Pressing the bandage down over the cut, feeling the sticky sides against her skin. Contacts. Was that what [Tentacle] was already thinking?
629
630“When you say variation in contact, you mean like changing around your suckers, or using the point of your tentacle pad, right?”
631
632Correct. Suckers for discomfort, point for stopping. [Tentacle] can demonstrate for Vani.
633
634“Please,” Vani sat back down on the bed, guiding a tentacle to her belly.
635
636The force Tentacles applied with the suckers on [Tentacle] tentacle was almost painfully strong. Vani leaned forward slightly, trying to rub her stomach. Tentacles let go, then tried again. More gently, but still enough to be uncomfortable. Vani patted the tentacle pad softly, then aimed the point just above her navel. Again it was forceful enough to be uncomfortable, but not quite painful.
637
638“I think that’s clear enough,” Vani fished around on top of her bed for the wrap, cinching it tightly around her chest. “And I think we’re ready to go, you remember what I explained earlier?”
639
640Vani wishes to be held inverted, her legs forced apart. She wishes Tentacles to remove simple clothing—force may be applied to do so. Vani has said she wishes for compression of breasts, and insertion of pseudopods into mouth, vagina, and anus while her hands are held bound by pseudopod or tentacle. She also wants Tentacles to attempt mindsharing when she is near orgasm, if [Tentacle] can recognise signs. Both Vani and Tentacles are then to move under warming rain, after short delay. Vani has then confused Tentacles with implication that pillows can talk.
641
642Vani laughed, shaking her head softly. “No, no, it’s called ‘pillow talk’ because you normally lie on pillows afterwards, and share little secrets, or things you want to do again.” She took in a breath, standing. “But everything else was pretty much right—and remember, if doing something to me, or you, doesn’t feel right, you can use your safe-touches. It doesn’t have to be my stomach, just somewhere you can easily reach, okay?”
643
644Ve are having understanding of specifics now. Vani wishes for beginning of actions?
645
646“Please…”
647
648Tentacles wrapped the base of each of Vani’s legs with a tentacle, the pad and suckers against her calves. First [Tentacle] moved suddenly to unbalance her, then caught her with a bed of pseudopods. [Tentacle] found Vani’s sounds of surprise to bring a strange sense of enjoyment. It seemed to be related to the knowledge that [Tentacle] could have caused Vani pain and distress—as stated by Vani earlier—but chose deliberately not to. A minor act of compassionate defiance. Vani was now suspended with her head a short distance from the floor, her hair falling over Tentacles’s body and pseudopods. It was an intriguingly soft sensation, and for a moment [Tentacle] let Vani simply sway in [Tentacle] ‘embrace’, enjoying the way in which Vani’s hair swirled and flickered across [Tentacle] flesh.
649
650Ve sent a pseudopod up and around Vani’s stomach, snaking down between her breasts. The soft weave of fabric bound tight against her chest couldn’t stop the explorations of a single pseudopod, first flattening itself to move under the tight fabric, then expanding again to gently press against the inside of Vani’s breasts, finding the supple flesh firmer than previous encounters. [Tentacle] understood it had something to do with the woven material Vani had covered her breasts with.
651
652Another pseudopod joined the first, exploring the exterior of the woven material, attempting to find a fastening, but all [Tentacle] could find was a short fold—and yet, upon undoing said fold, the fabric loosened, allowing Vani’s breasts to fall slightly, stretching the fabric in a different manner than before. With a third pseudopod [Tentacle] began to unravel the woven fabric, removing it from Vani’s chest, exposing her breasts. A pseudopod snaked around each, contracting slightly, squeezing with light firmness. [Tentacle] did not want to overly discomfort Vani.
653
654The tip of each pseudopod was left free, allowing the tip-flaps to open, very softly pinching at Vani’s nipples, causing her breath to become slightly ragged. The third pseudopod from Vani’s chest now free, Tentacles now moved it towards Vani’s mouth. With one hand Vani took it and pushed it aside. [Tentacle] tried again. After the third attempt [Tentacle] stopped.
655
656Vani sighed. “Did I say ‘Heimdall’?”
657
658No.
659
660“Then keep trying, and solve the problem.”
661
662It took [Tentacle] a moment to understand what Vani meant. Only Vani’s hands were pushing the pseudopod away. With swift, firm movements [Tentacle] used that same pseudopod to snake around and between Vani’s wrists, pulling her hands behind her back. Only then did [Tentacle] try to place another pseudopod in Vani’s mouth. This time Vani struggled, but playfully moved her lips up and down the length of pseudopod she could reach. [Tentacle] gave her breasts a gentle squeeze, and was surprised to feel Vani increase her speed of movement, perhaps from excitement, perhaps from something else.
663
664Two pods explored the borders of Vani’s lower body garment, tracing from simply woven cloth to thin, slightly slippery strips of bordered fabric. With another idea forming in [Tentacle] mind, Tentacles pushed a pseudopod under the main sections of fabric at the front and rear. At the front a trio of tip-flaps gave Vani’s clitoris the lightest of pinches. Vani’s whole body moved, arching sideways and backwards, but [Tentacle] felt no pressure from bites, so [Tentacle] continued with a feathering stroke away down the length of Vani’s labia.
665
666The pseudopod under the rear section of fabric turned back on itself, tip-flaps closed, seeking the tightened ring of muscle that [Tentacle] had been instructed to penetrate. As [Tentacle] started to push, [Tentacle] felt a soft biting sensation. [Tentacle] remembered Vani’s advice from before—and from within that pseudopod [Tentacle] drew forth a thick, gelatinous fluid that could function as a lubricating substance. Gently [Tentacle] spread it around Vani’s anus. The bite was harder, firmer.
667
668Ve withdrew that pseudopod, and though there was another bite, this one was brief, soft, almost playful. [Tentacle] understood then that while Vani wanted this action, she was not yet ready for it. Instead, with that pseudopod and another, [Tentacle] played with and eventually untangled the fabric strips keeping Vani’s lower body garment in place. [Tentacle] placed it on the bed, with the long strip that had been around Vani’s chest. Then [Tentacle] took two pseudopods, one arcing from Vani’s belly, and the other from her back, and gently forced them into Vani’s vagina. [Tentacle] did not thrust with them yet, merely left them penetrating her.
669
670Vani’s lips moved faster, slightly acidic saliva now coating the pseudopod in her mouth. Remembering their experiment on the beach, Tentacles decided to add another, enjoying the variations in sensation [Tentacle] was feeling. A slippery, acidic, vacuum constriction from Vani’s mouth. An all round softness in her bound breasts. A slick sensation accompanied with gentle waves of alternating compression and release within her vagina. Even the slight quivering strain of Vani’s calves as she attempted in vain to close her legs. [Tentacle] began to thrust with the pseudopods in Vani’s vagina, and felt it as her whole body began to writhe and twist, attempting to break free.
671
672Ve placed another pseudopod against Vani’s stomach, tapping softly as it moved up, very slowly tracing its way up, finally pinching Vani’s clitoris with its tip-flaps. Softly swirling along Vani’s labia, another joined it to balance out the sensations. [Tentacle] felt Vani’s attempt to gasp as both pseudopods suddenly dove into her vagina, stretching her, thrusting in alternating patterns, feeling for her response. Again [Tentacle] ran a pseudopod up Vani’s back, closed tip-flaps pressing gently but insistently at Vani’s anus. This time there was only a slow, soft bite. [Tentacle] made sure to draw forth more of [Tentacle] gelatinous compound. Vani’s mouth relaxed.
673
674It was tight. The strength of that ring of muscle was impressive. [Tentacle] felt it as Vani swallowed, her body tensing. [Tentacle] moved slowly here, while continuing to thrust with [Tentacle] other pseudopods, or squeeze Vani’s breasts, or playfully duel with her tongue. [Tentacle] wished there was a way they could communicate more than just the simplest feelings while in this state. [Tentacle] could experiment, testing which additional sensations Vani might enjoy. [Tentacle] was also entranced by the coordination required to keep track of so many different movements inside and around Vani’s body.
675
676It would not be harmful to ask what else Vani desires. Tentacles withdrew [Tentacle] pseudopods from Vani’s mouth, but continued squeezing and thrusting with the others, and used [Tentacle] tentacles to spread Vani’s legs slightly more.
677
678“Why did… yo—oh…” Vani writhed with pleasure, almost lost in an ocean filled with strange rushing sensations. “Are you uncom… comfortb…fortable… someth… wrong?”
679
680Ve are seeking permission to experiment, [Tentacle] did not wish to cause pain to Vani as [Tentacle] altered sensations.
681
682“Alter…ed how?”
683
684Ve will insert tentacle into Vani’s vagina, very lightly engage suckers. Move while covered in lubricative films.
685
686“You didn’t ha… have to stop… ask, we have… saf—safe-touches… and safe worrrr—oh, fuck yes. Safe words. Please… that. Again.”
687
688Vani felt her entire body tense, held upside down by her calves and shins, her breasts almost painfully bound. She could feel four different kinds of thrusting deep inside of her. And then, behind her, but inside her, there was another sensation. Gentle expansion. Movement up and down. Thrusting gently as if to meet its partners towards her stomach. But her fulfillment was incomplete, one possible angle no longer occupied with giving or receiving pleasure.
689
690“‘Pods… back in… mouth.”
691
692Vani tried to smile, starting to swallow the length of the ‘pods inside her mouth. One went deeper, gently pressing at the back of her throat. She bit down gently, feeling the ‘pod withdraw slightly. Then she realised she’d closed her eyes, missing that it was now three ‘pods in her mouth. She swallowed again, drawing them deeper. Her breath came unevenly, her nose not quite able to keep up on its own. She swallowed a gasp and the tip of a pseudopod as she felt something else press insistently against her labia, rippling, ticklish patterns of suction letting her know exactly what was in store for her.
693
694She struggled in vain, attempting to break free, playing the part of the alien captive. She writhed, and tensed her arms, but did not bite. She was only surrendering a little of her control. She knew her eyes went wide when the ‘pods withdrew from her core, preparing the way for something… else. She felt it easing in, pointed tip first, curled backwards, suckers making a terribly powerful sensation even more so. It was potent, drawing forth hidden muscles, her body contracting within, trying to draw this new member even deeper.
695
696An almost painful pull at her back snapped her back to herself. She tried to quell the muscles responsible, but it was hard, building frustration in powerful ways that those same muscles would have to release soon. It felt big, almost painful. It was right at the edge of pleasure and pain, capable of tipping either way. Then those treacherous suckers pulled at her from within, and the muscles of her core could not be denied. She swallowed hard, trying to draw the ‘pods in her mouth deeper into her throat.
697
698She could feel it as her ass began to contract in sympathy, even as Tentacles placed a point against her back. She couldn’t apologise, or explain herself, because in that moment she was letting go of herself, letting her body take its own path to pleasure. Even as that point of flesh pressed hard into her back, she could feel the other members beginning to pulse, bands of expansion and contraction driving something forward, ready to expel something deep inside her, on her, over her. She didn’t care.
699
700Sound and sight blurred together, and she wondered at the concept of colour. A longing for touch became all consuming, and she didn’t know if the tears were hers or another’s, reaching out with misshapen pods filled with bones to comfort something made of flesh and ancient memory. Her echo-sense was mute, and she wondered at the strangeness of this body, with bones, and only four primary limbs. She fell without falling, her mind rushing back from something beyond her to something deep within her.
701
702She wasn’t quite covered in the sticky stuff, but there was a lot of it. She could feel some of it shifting slightly inside her ass. A lot of it leaked around her pussy, gelling between her labia, falling in runnels down past her landing strip and over her stomach. She could even feel a drip running down from one of her cheeks…and not one on her face. Her breasts—and her nipples especially—were covered in thick, off-white-green goo. What had been in her throat was already on its way to her stomach.
703
704As the goo ran around her, she felt herself being tilted right way up. She was being carried. With one hand now free, she patted Tentacles’s body. “I can walk.”
705
706Her feet were on the floor, but her knees felt weak, and the first step she took was very shaky. The second also. By the third she was using the door into the bathroom for support. Fucking hell. She smiled, staggering to the shower, her shoulder colliding painfully with the door.
707
708“Fuck.”
709
710She reached in to turn the water on as a ‘pod snaked around her ankle.
711
712“I’m fine. A little shaky, but fine,” she put her hand under the water, finding it still too cold. “And what about you, how do you feel?”
713
714Tentacles feels strange, mindsharing into a partner that cannot understand chemical memories. [Tentacle] almost feel like [Tentacle] have wasted something.
715
716“Because I can’t understand what you gave me?” Vani’s voice was far more curious than hurt. “And what else?”
717
718Ve enjoyed sensation of movement coordination while have multiple pseudopods performing divergent taskings. Tentacles is unsure about Vani’s explanation of safe-touches, as Vani’s pain-constrictions did not stop despite using stop touch.
719
720Vani sat in the middle of the shower, playfully pulling Tentacles in a ‘pod at a time. “I know it hurt a lot more than you wanted, and I also know saying sorry won’t fix it right away. I also want you to know that this is not me making excuses—because this happened, and I hurt you, and it shouldn’t have happened that way.
721
722“When my body—any person really—gets close to orgasm, their body will tense up like that. It’s an instinctive movement, a reflex, something I can’t control—at least, not for long. I should have thought of it before, given how big your tentacle pads are, but my mind was lost in the moment; focused on my own pleasure.”
723
724This is apology?
725
726“Yes, and a debrief, because things went a little wrong.” Vani rubbed her hand up and down the side of Tentacles’s body. “And also, aftercare. You remember the first time, when I made you hurt me, then made you make it better with massage?”
727
728I remember. Is Vani offering to make better?
729
730“I am. It’s the only way to rebuild trust and rapport in a relationship like this. If you ask to be hurt, you’ll usually have a plan in mind for how to make it better afterwards. But this wasn’t planned. You could discipline me—cause me equivalent pain as punishment—if you wanted. If you don’t want that, you can ask for me to do something to make it better for you. Or, if you simply want me to apologise, that’s fine too.” Vani spread her hands wide. “It’s all up to you though, I don’t get to choose—I’m the one that broke the rules.”
731
732Tentacles will discipline Vani as she apologises. Is this acceptable to perform later? Tentacles is enjoying warming rain, and resting with Vani.
733
734“Later is fine. It lets you figure out an appropriate punishment, while I work on my apology.”
735
736Tentacles accepts these terms. Vani will be disciplined later. Now, Vani and Tentacles rest together under warming rain. It is nice.
737
738“Yeah,” Vani leaned forward, wrapping Tentacles in a hug. “It is nice.”
739
740Chapter 23: Experiment V
741Notes:
742So, those of you asked about Patreon in the past… I have one now.
743
744First up, don't worry, the story will continue to be posted right here on Ao3.
745
746Second up, Patreon perks: 2 weeks early access for each chapter, .pdf collections of chapters, and, for $15 patrons, collections with cover art, or writing notes/internal commentary, or both.
747
748My Patreon profile uses the exact same username as here.
749
750Chapter Text
751Tentacles was using Vani’s metal information tablet to research discipline. The word itself had many meanings; from learned and ingrained habits, to fields of study, to minor punishments to remediate wrong actions. [Tentacle] tried working in reverse. Vani had spoken of something called BDSM, so [Tentacle] decided to research that to give [Tentacle's self] some context. What [Tentacle] learned, listening closely to some familiar words used in seemingly wrong contexts or places, was illuminating. Both about the desires Vani might have, and about acts and practices humans might consider normal.
752
753Ve was also considering how [Tentacle] might discipline Vani for what appeared to be more of an accidental breach of trust than a deliberate transgression. Under the warming rain, [Tentacle] had said that [Tentacle] would discipline Vani—as one of the the options she had listed—but now [Tentacle] was wondering how [Tentacle] felt about doing such a thing. It did not seem to be something Vani welcomed, but rather, accepted as necessary for restoring any lost rapport due to the accidental inflicting of pain. Do I want recompense? Balance? Tentacles felt as if the words themselves didn’t quite fit what [Tentacle] actually wanted, Are these word-concepts correct? And then [Tentacle] also asked if [Tentacle] actually wanted to cause pain to Vani, even as this act of reparation was offered.
754
755Conflicted, [Tentacle] even considered waking Vani, but lying on her mattress, emitting quiet, rhythmic breathing sounds, she seemed so peaceful. Contented and sated. Leaving such concerns to [Tentacle] subconscious, Tentacles instead started to perform more research on the field of prosthetics, wishing [Tentacle] could simply manifest an eye in order to assimilate and process data faster. Then [Tentacle] considered how such a novel construct might alter [Tentacle] perceptions, shifting from a radial-polar frame of reference to one that saw arc-planar as a baseline.
756
757Sight was something difficult to imagine properly, let alone perceptualise. [Tentacle] had always used a sense that was somewhat similar—ver echo-sense—but that created a gestalt image of [Tentacle] in central position, with all nearby objects sorted by radial separation from midline and elevation or declination from equatorial band. [Tentacle] could understand form, shape, and some textures or densities. Distances and locations were exact. [Tentacle] tried to construct a model of vision based on what [Tentacle] knew of Vani.
758
759Two eyes, set close together, would provide overlapping fields of view. To what advantage? [Tentacle] was forced to think hard to understand why an arrangement with short horizontal separation would be desired over vertical separation, or a wider spacing to allow a fuller field of view. [Tentacle] considered how [Tentacle] own echo-sense worked with multiple tentacles, and understanding the return from each pulse. But Vani’s eyes used the the radiation spectra of this universe, which would mean information delivered so rapidly that even her brain with its electric signalling would be unable to process the minute time differentials. Does each eye see exactly the same thing?
760
761…no.
762
763Ve had almost answered in the affirmative when [Tentacle] realised that each of Vani’s eyes would see a slightly—minutely—shifted image compared to the other. Different distances away would generate more or less shift in the images, and by interferometric comparison Vani’s mind would understand relative distances to each object, and between objects themselves. But how was it possible that Vani could perceive something the shape of a voidsailer/dragon at the scale she had constructed in the secondary dwelling, while at the same time understanding glyphs and words smaller than a tip-flap? [Tentacle] knew Vani’s eyes could close, a horizontal narrowing. Could that be a mechanism for attenuating unwanted input?
764
765There was so much to learn. And that was just basic functionality. How could humans even begin to replicate that, without the help of magic, when [Tentacle] was struggling to understand how it might be done with magic. [Tentacle] pressed the glyph-keys to spell ‘eye’, and searched. [Tentacle] listened intently to the cool voice, wishing it could have the same slightly erratic pacing and variation in inflection Vani’s voice had. Tentacles stilled as [Tentacle] heard about the different types of eyes that existed, and possible evolutionary paths to create them. [Tentacle] did not have to start ex nihilo to create an eye.
766
767Ve could start much simpler. Something that could detect light and dark. Then several somethings. Construct an array. Keep refining the array, increasing number of cells, reducing cell size. [Tentacle] could then attempt a simple detector array based on wavelengths—which [Tentacle] could code as flavours, but which [Tentacle] knew Vani called colours. [Tentacle] echo-sense could both augment and refine this idea. But [Tentacle] also needed a method of creating a perceptual input channel unlike any other [Tentacle] currently possessed. Something with the array sensitivity of [Tentacle] touch, and the response/resolution of [Tentacle] echo-sense. Which, [Tentacle] belatedly realised, was amplified by [Tentacle] sense of touch being so sensitive.
768
769Another very important consideration was whether [Tentacle] wanted to manifest this experimental object as something physical, or use [Tentacle] command over interplanar constructs to create something that could also be dispelled. Both approaches required considerable energy, and offered their own unique advantages and disadvantages, be they portability, feedback, adaptability, or solidity. It was something that could wait, because [Tentacle] would need to ask Vani about the availability of certain gross compounds and protein chains for each option. Resource scarcity might prove to be the deciding factor.
770
771With a plan set for experimentation with simple eyes and cell-arrays, [Tentacle] mind swam back to what [Tentacle] wanted from disciplining Vani. [Tentacle] also had to ask [Tentacle's self] whether [Tentacle] was suffering from the same type of mind-state confusion Vani had been during an early experiment with the touch of comfort. [Tentacle] wasn’t certain the situation was entirely analogous, as Vani had experienced a condition of strangeness, while right now [Tentacle] was only assessing options mentally. And why does Vani offer option of suffering deliberate pain caused by Tentacles when she caused pain by accidental mechanism?
772
773Why do I hesitate? Tentacles found [Tentacle's self] asking. Is it due to possibility that I might enjoy deliberately inflicting pain on friend? Is this feeling of compassion extending too far? What does Vani think Tentacles gains from experience of inflicting pain as apology is issued? It was not a question [Tentacle] could answer easily. Not until [Tentacle] tried thinking of it from Vani’s perspective. Vani had hurt her friend—accidentally—but offered to suffer equivalent pain to make experiences equal. She had accepted that she was at fault, for assuming Tentacles knew more about her internal muscles. She thought—she knew—that not acting on the touch of stopping had broken the trust between them. A little. Vani wishes to redress fault and restore trust. Return pair-bonding strength to higher level.
774
775It took a moment for Tentacles to realise the importance of that revelation. Because on the surface it seemed a simple act of reparation, seeking forgiveness for a transgression. Deeper, it showed a sense of fairness and justice, and respect for differentiation of individuals that was sometimes uncommon in larger cooperative societies. At its deepest it showed that Vani was as committed to continuing the relationship as Tentacles [Tentacle's self] was, which meant that breeding in the future would become a reality.
776
777Ve hoped.
778
779 
780
781
782Vani lay in bed, staring at the sunrise—she hadn’t bothered shutting the curtains, again. She wanted to roll over, go back to sleep for a few more minutes. But she also needed to think of a sincere apology, and perhaps help Tentacles plan her punishment. And also figure out just how much she could absorb from the chemical memories she had ingested the night before. It was almost like the way some people described a drug trip, but… different. There was an element of otherness, of complete difference, that simply couldn’t be processed. Something that meant the filter through which she saw these things—if saw was even the right term—was warped and almost beyond recognition.
783
784It was the ‘almost’ that was the most frustrating part. Something just out of reach, glimpsed out of sight, heard on the edge of the wind. A thought that flitted away before it could be known.
785
786“Gyaah…” Vani growled in frustration, sitting up and throwing the covers off. “Why?”
787
788The question nagged at her through the morning, as she washed her hands, rushed breakfast with rapid spoonfuls of cornflakes, and fed Bossco his ration of dog biscuits. Even as Tentacles handed her a list of required materials the question held her in thrall, trying to figure it out. She blinked and re-read the lists. What the fuck?!
789
790“Chlorine?” Vani frowned, her restless pacing finishing abruptly. “You know that’s poisonous, right?”
791
792Vani ingests chlorine as elemental compound to flavour food.
793
794“I what—oh.” Shaking her head, Vani sat heavily on the couch. “Salt. It’s not just chlorine. Sodium chloride, it’s a compound.”
795
796Compounding removes toxicity?
797
798“More than that, because sodium’ll explode if you put it in water. But in salt it’s fine. I really don’t know how it works.”
799
800Understanding. Metal tablet has access to explanation?
801
802“Yeah, you should be able to look it up.”
803
804Later. [Tentacle] enquire if Vani can locate and acquire other items on list.
805
806“Some of them. Whatever that cobalt is, I’m pretty sure it’s gonna be bad for me.”
807
808It is to serve as radionuclide generator to empower Tentacles for higher order disruptions of local physical laws.
809
810“You do know radiation is bad for people, right?”
811
812Vani’s species cannot catalyze radiation by-products for energy generation and storage?
813
814“Uh… no.” Vani was glad she was sitting down. “So you’re telling me you can ‘eat’ radiation?”
815
816Radionuclides provide little nutrient based sustenance, but energy potentials in chaotic state can be utilised for efficient creation of eldritch breaches.
817
818“Okay, I think I follow,” Vani put the list down next to her. “But I still can’t get this stuff. It’s controlled by the government, and I really wouldn’t want to be near it myself, let alone handle it.”
819
820Vani can write list of items she can acquire for Tentacles?
821
822“Sure,” Vani took a crayon and a fresh sheet of paper, creating a much shorter list of her own. “Why do you want this stuff all of a sudden anyway?”
823
824Tentacles wishes to experiment with creation of ocular systems and visual-to-gestalt interfaces.
825
826“This is because I joked about growing eyes the other day, isn’t it?”
827
828Vani intended humour, but [Tentacle] was intrigued by concept. Further research has proved possibility exists, experimentation begins with simple light/dark recognition system.
829
830“While you’re at it, what about ears?”
831
832Tentacles already hears and interprets sounds correctly.
833
834“But you need to use a few ‘pods to do it. wouldn’t it be better to keep all your ‘pods free?” Vani leant forward and collected a few ‘pods with her arm, keeping them tight to her body.
835
836This would be desirable, but increase in efficiency may not offset cost in resources.
837
838The ‘pods were already exploring and slipping around every way they could. She let them go. “All you really need is the right shape, and something sensitive enough to tell the sounds apart inside that shape.”
839
840Morphological deformation of Tentacles skin is simplest of matters. Internal membranes are used to reinforce structure and create channels to maintain semi-rigid structural elements. Does Vani recommend topology of her ears for ideal hearing?
841
842“There’s little bones in my ears as well, they help transmit the sound.”
843
844Tentacles does not desire usage of bones. Vani’s ear shape works without internal bone structure?
845
846“I’m not sure,” Vani shifted from the couch to the floor. “But copy the shape, and lets test it, shall we?”
847
848Tentacles extended a pseudopod, gently moulding it to cover Vani’s ear. The shape was surprisingly complex and convoluted. [Tentacle] used a second pseudopod to gentle grip and extrude [Tentacle] own flesh, around [Tentacle] midline, attempting to replicate the shape and structure as closely as possible. Setting up internal fluid channels posed some minor difficulties, but was easy enough to overcome. When [Tentacle] was finished, [Tentacle] raised a few pseudopods and bid Vani to speak.
849
850Ve waited, then extended [Tentacle] pseudopods into their previous formation.
851
852“…ing. So I guess it didn’t work?”
853
854Detection area too small, or fidelity too low. [Tentacle] attempts new form.
855
856With that, [Tentacle] set to work, noting with [Tentacle] echo sense that Vani was using the metal tablet. Possibly searching for something. Talking, about ears. [Tentacle] had almost completely formed the new shape—triangular—like Bosko’s ears, when [Tentacle] released [Tentacle] pseudopods from listening duty again. The new ear shape was little better, barely detecting Vani’s words, and keeping them muffled and unintelligible besides. [Tentacle] sent [Tentacle] pseudopods back up into their hearing formation.
857
858“This is kind of interesting, y’know?” Vani’s voice carried a note of interest and amusement. “And maybe the problem is you’re not a veterbrate—I mean, the only bony-ish part of you is that beak. Ears may not work. But there’s something called a tympanic membrane—just skin over a space filled with air. And something under it to feel tiny movements?”
859
860Tentacles considered Vani’s words carefully, lowering internal pressures in an annular shape immediately above cluster of pseudopods. [Tentacle] then took one of those pseudopods and stretched it as thinly as possible over the depression in [Tentacle] flesh. Vani’s voice was muffled, not quite understandable, but [Tentacle] knew [Tentacle] was close. [Tentacle] gestured to Vani to continue talking, then began to manipulate the internal shape of [Tentacle] makeshift tympanic membrane.
861
862Ve started by increased the radius of the annular component, and decreasing the pressure below, creating a more significant depression that pulled [Tentacle] skin and external membranes taut. [Tentacle] could almost hear Vani’s voice at this point, catching occasional words, or stronger phonemes. Then [Tentacle] had a better idea. Allowing internal flow back to the previous depression, [Tentacle] created an annulus opposite [Tentacle] contact patch with the fibro-cellulose covering of the dwelling’s lower level. [Tentacle] made sure to tension this one before applying [Tentacle] pseudopod over the top, and was surprised at the clarity [Tentacle] was achieving. [Tentacle] could actually hear Vani better without the reverberations of [Tentacle] makeshift cover—but [Tentacle] was also hearing many other noises besides.
863
864Reverberation layer is for attenuation of unwanted frequencies, and amplification of desired inputs.
865
866With some trial and error, [Tentacle] found that [Tentacle] could create a depression the perfect shape to capture most of Vani’s vocal range. Keeping a thinned pseudopod over it at all times would be annoying, but that could be counteracted by the simple expedient of accelerating regenerative cover. [Tentacle] had more than enough energy in reserve, and it would take little effort to preserve the pathway, though after regeneration fluidics would have to kept a minimum distance away, and the tympanic drum would no longer have load bearing capacity—though [Tentacle] skin should stretch enough to fill the depression that way.
867
868Feeling a tentacle resting on her shoulder, Vani lost her train of thought. She nuzzled the tentacle with her chin, looking up to see what Tentacles was saying.
869
870Ve are confident new tympanic drum will function, but time is required to complete creation thereof. Until completion [Tentacle] will use previous system.
871
872“You’re growing something?” Vani sat up slightly to see the chunk seemingly missing from Tentacles’s upper body.
873
874Reverberative covering for tympanic dish, to create drum system. Energy reserves more than sufficient for this task. Now we wish to ask Vani about discipline she desires, and why this is so.
875
876“You get to decide,” Vani gently lifted the tentacle off her shoulder. “I don’t. I’m the one that broke the rules.”
877
878But [Tentacle] are understanding that this was accidental; desire was not to cause harm or injury to Tentacles. Tentacles was not enough of understanding Vani’s internal musculature. This confuses Tentacles about Vani’s motive for suffering equivalent pain when fault does not appear to exist.
879
880Shuffling closer, Vani began tracing idle patterns on Tentacles’s body with one hand. “It’s not about hurting you—not that I intended to. It’s about the fact I ignored a safeword—safe touch. That is something that should not ever happen. Especially one that means to stop. You’re punishing—disciplining—me for that transgression, not for causing accidental pain.”
881
882This applies, even if failure to observe is caused by accident?
883
884“In a good relationship, it always applies. Always.” Vani turned away, leaning against Tentacles, bringing her knees up to her chest. “And if you apply it even when it shouldn’t matter then you won’t forget it when it does matter.”
885
886So Vani desires suffering of equivalent pain caused by Tentacles in order to reinforce gestalt pathway that acknowledgement-failure of safe touch is not allowable?
887
888Vani took a moment to process, then nodded, forgetting once again that Tentacles couldn’t see the motion. A moment passed as a querying ‘pod popped up.
889
890“Yes; I want you to hurt me so I know in future that I can’t ignore a safe touch.”
891
892Can Vani define parameters of ‘hurt’ such that Tentacles does not injure or inflict excessive pain on Vani?
893
894“I can,” Vani smiled, rising. “In fact, I can show you some tools used for this special ‘discipline hurting’.” She paused at the bottom of the stairs. “Come on. And while we talk about these tools, we can discuss the scene constraints.”
895
896Chapter 24: The Threshold
897Notes:
898If I have anything drastically wrong about the way this would go down by BDSM community standards, please let me know. It is never my intent to misrepresent or malign the community in any way.
899
900Chapter Text
901 
902
903 
904
905Opening the top drawer of her nightstand, Vani felt a little thrill of trepidation mixed with lustful excitement. Eventually most of her lovers had learned about the toys she kept, but it still felt like an important moment every time. Choosing to be that little bit more trusting, more open than usual. And also to see their expressions—of course, that was somewhat harder with Tentacles, who didn’t have any expression to speak of. Unless the waving of ‘pods and tentacles counted as an expression.
906
907She decided to start with the simplest toys, a leather paddle, and a crop. There would be time to go over cuffs, spreaders, ropes, and clamps later. Better start with something that had an obvious use. She passed the paddle to Tentacles, who immediately began experimenting on it with [Tentacle] suckers.
908
909What item has Vani given Tentacles, made of synthetic stretched fibres under polymer coating?
910
911“It’s called a paddle, and it’s made of leather.” Vani took the paddle back for a moment. “It’s used to spank someone, like so.”
912
913Tentacles may test this on Vani?
914
915“Once, on my butt.” Vani reached down to massage her backside after Tentacles hit it, perhaps a little harder than [Tentacle] had expected. “If we’re only playing, it has to be a bit lighter than that.” Vani grabbed the paddle again and spanked Tentacles’s body. “More like that, okay?”
916
917Tentacles took the paddle again, and this time Vani didn’t feel any sting. It felt properly playful. Tentacles offered the paddle back to her.
918
919“No, you can keep it for a bit, you can hold more than me.” As she spoke, Vani flopped face first onto the bed, making the other toys bounce and jingle. “You can play with spanking other places too, if you want—but gently, like I showed you.”
920
921Vani couldn’t help the little smile that quirked her lips as Tentacles began to gently spank first her thigh, then her foot, a shoulder, and trying very carefully to get the side of her breast without catching the paddle on the sheets. She rolled on to her side, playing with the crop, running it along the length of a tentacle as Tentacles seemed to freeze for a moment.
922
923“You okay buddy?”
924
925Vani is using item of similarity to paddle to touch Tentacles?
926
927“Yeah, I am,” Vani played the crop up and down the pad of the same tentacle before giving it a playful smack. “This one is called a crop, it can hit harder, and you can vary the sensation more. Like this.” As she spoke Vani turned the crop sideways, so the edge of the leather dragged slightly against another tentacle.
928
929I may try, with gentle spanking?
930
931“Sure,” Vani let [Tentacle] take the crop in another ‘pod, turning once more to lie on her front. “Then we can talk about restraint, and our—your—scene for later.”
932
933Tentacles examined the crop with a pair of pseudopods, noting its firmness and differing construction to the paddle—although both were apparently used for the discipline hurting of which Vani had spoken earlier. One end appeared to be made of some kind of long chain cellulose fibres, coated to keep the exterior smooth and free of defects. To the opposing end was attached a short, folded strip of the same material that the paddle had been made from. The central shaft was a new material, smooth, but [Tentacle] echo-sense could detect micro-scale fibres of something much harder woven into it.
934
935Moving slowly, [Tentacle] replicated the actions Vani had made. First [Tentacle] pressed the folded end flat against Vani’s leg, drawing it along a line to her hip. Then [Tentacle] tried using the same motion [Tentacle] had used with the paddle. A sharp intake of breath from Vani told [Tentacle] that this was not the correct method to use.
936
937“You said gentle.”
938
939Apologising. Technique for spanking is not same as for paddle.
940
941“Hmm…” Vani had taken one of [Tentacle] pseudopods into her hands. [Tentacle] could feel the manner in which Vani’s hand moved, a strange rolling about the wrist joint, with a sudden reversal that caused sharp deceleration. At the same time Vani seemed to draw her whole arm back. “Can you make that kind of movement?”
942
943Ve tried it, finding it hard to coordinate everything required for the reversal deceleration component of the movement. [Tentacle] could stop suddenly—but reversing direction was harder. So what makes it easy for Vani? It took [Tentacle] a moment to put it together, but it reduced itself down to Vani having bones, with muscles attached to either side of her wrist, making rapid momentum changes possible through a natural hinge and counterweight system. [Tentacle] couldn’t find an innate reason for the finesse with which Vani had used the crop earlier, so that merely had to be continued use—practice.
944
945Ve took the crop and wrapped two pseudopods around it, one below the other, then rested a portion of their lengths together. [Tentacle] attempted following the motion Vani had made, aiming to strike her backside with the folded end of the crop. Just before impact [Tentacle] pulled up with the lower pseudopod, and pulled back with the upper, attempting to replicate both the gross and fine movements Vani had made.
946
947“Okay, still a bit hard, but much better,” Vani sounded happy. “You just need practice—though if you do, try and use both cheeks, okay?”
948
949Is Vani using humour?
950
951“A bit, yeah—but I don’t mind if you want to practice now. Later, in your scene, you’ll be hitting me harder, but if you can figure out ‘gentle’ first, it’s easier to scale up than scale down.”
952
953Vani speaks of scene, can she explain to Tentacles what ‘scene’ is in context of discipline hurting?
954
955“It’s what you want to do to me. Things we both agree are allowed, and not allowed. Using safewords, or safe-touches. You also get to decide how long it should go for—unless we use a safeword, or want more. We both get to ask for aftercare—like giving me the massage after stretching me in the shower, our first time. We could pretend to be other people, playing roles. We also decide on toys, and even outfits. But the most important parts are what’s allowed, what the safewords are, and what happens for aftercare.”
956
957Tentacles took a few minutes to process the information, parsing it section by section so it couldn’t be misunderstood. [Tentacle] decided the best way to confirm understanding would be to repeat basics and question specifics.
958
959Ve wish to ask questions about scene.
960
961“Sure,” [Tentacle] could sense Vani rolling over, facing the roof of the dwelling.
962
963If there is item-action that Vani wants, but Tentacles does not, is it in scene?
964
965“No. We both have to agree.”
966
967Can Tentacles add item-action to scene after beginning?
968
969“If I’m okay with it.”
970
971Do safe-touches change?
972
973“Change how?”
974
975Changes in type and meaning.
976
977“You can use the exact same safe-touches as before,” there was a slight pause. “I use my safewords because they don’t normally come up during an average conversation. Also, ‘flugen’ was a joke between me and some friends that just kind of stuck.”
978
979What is maximum length of scene?
980
981“Until someone falls asleep. I mean, some couples will always be their roles, but I’m not that deep into the culture.”
982
983What can be asked for ‘aftercare’?
984
985“Anything that might reasonably make you feel better after the scene—for example, getting hurt, you might want to be cared for. After hurting someone, you might want them to tell you they still care about you. It’s even acceptable to ask for intimate contact.”
986
987Why might person ask for sex after being hurt?
988
989“It’s not normally sex,” [Tentacle] felt Vani’s hand reaching for ver, and began to gently coil a pseudopod around her wrist. “It’s more like this, right now. You can ask to be kissed, caressed; have all your hurt made better. You might want to wait while your partner takes off your restraints. Taking it slow, being touched gently like that, keeps your mind where it should be. It’s also talking about how you felt about the scene. If it made you uncomfortable. If you liked it. If you wished something else could happen.”
990
991Tentacles remains unsure of what [Tentacle] should do after scene.
992
993“Then why don’t I ask for mine first?” Vani gently pulled on the pseudopod around her wrist, attempting to drag [Tentacle] closer. “You can tell me I’m still a good person, I just made a mistake. You could brush my hair and tell me why you still want to be my friend.”
994
995Vani would not ask for hurt made by Tentacles to be made better?
996
997“Not this time. I feel like I deserve what I’m going to get.”
998
999What if Tentacles does not feel that way?
1000
1001“Then maybe your aftercare could be to make it better. Or I could tell you that we’ll be fine, I accept this pain for causing you distress by ignoring your safe-touches.”
1002
1003What if Tentacles did not wish to hurt Vani?
1004
1005“I wouldn’t force you to. Remember, I said that a scene is something that we both agree to.”
1006
1007But Vani might foster minor dislike of Tentacles for refusal?
1008
1009“A little bit, for a little while,” [Tentacle] felt Vani roll over, leaning out to kiss [Tentacle] body. “It’s who I am. I’ll get over it—and I’m sure you would have good reasons to refuse a scene.”
1010
1011I am not sure I want to hurt Vani.
1012
1013“Even if I hurt you?”
1014
1015Conclusion was action was in fact accidental, stemming from Tentacles’s lack of knowledge on Vani’s internal musculature, and Vani’s mind falling into gestalt, perhaps losing some control over her body.
1016
1017There was silence, for a long time.
1018
1019Vani?
1020
1021“I won’t force you into doing this, if you don’t want to. But, I will be a bit disappointed.”
1022
1023Ve understand. Unsureness comes from not understanding if relationship will remain strong after deliberately inflicting pain on Vani. If pain inflicted goes too far. [Tentacle] wants to, but [Tentacle] is also afraid of wanting to. Does Vani understand this dichotomy?
1024
1025“Maybe better than you think. One of my first scenes was actually getting whipped—literally, being hit with a whip, to leave welts. I remember being afraid; not being sure if I could handle it—and I couldn’t. It was too much pain, and being held up like that, but I just said the safeword and she came right up to me, asking me if I wanted her to let me down; asking if I needed an ice pack, or hot a drink. Or a cold one. I was crying, I remember, but it wasn’t from the pain—it was from the sudden rush of kindness and concern.
1026
1027“Things went wrong. I wasn’t ready for that much, yet. But she understood, and she helped me through it. We went for lighter stuff. It was actually a lot of fun. I also remember the time she used the safeword, undoing my cuffs, and telling me she couldn’t finish the scene. And we sat there, buck naked, each of us with a mug of hot chocolate, and we just talked about it. About why, and why not. And how important we were to each other. We put blankets around each other at one point, I’m pretty sure. It was actually really nice. We’re still friends, actually, we just don’t sleep together anymore.”
1028
1029Use of safewords has lead to increased bonding, in spite of negative circumstances?
1030
1031“Not in spite of; because of,” a soft smile spread across Vani’s lips. “It’s about understanding limits, and understanding each other. We used to use three words to define our play.”
1032
1033You required usage of only three words?
1034
1035“Important ones, if a scene failed on any of them, we wouldn’t do it,” Vani sat up on the edge of the bed. “Safe. Sane. Consensual. Those were the words.”
1036
1037Tentacles is increasing of understanding about idea of scene, of restriction on possible action, contingency for negative outcomes. [Tentacle] is unsure, but [Tentacle] wishes to try.
1038
1039“Then tell me what you want.”
1040
1041Tentacles stilled, placing the crop and paddle back near the other tools Vani had intention of explaining. [Tentacle] was asking [Tentacle's self] what it was [Tentacle] wanted out of this experience, if hurting Vani was not the objective. It never was. She wishes pain to be combined with learning. And [Tentacle] knew that lessons purchased with pain were long remembered, no matter what form of being was being taught. Another thought occurred to ver. Vani feels pain and apology will cleanse remorse.
1042
1043And when [Tentacle] had come to that conclusion, Tentacles knew what [Tentacle] wanted from the scene.
1044
1045Ve want Vani’s hands unable to interact or stop discipline hurting. [Tentacle] want to hear apology for wrongdoing from Vani. [Tentacle] want to believe apology. [Tentacle] also desire permission to strike Vani with tools of discipline hurting.
1046
1047“I’m okay with all of that. So, how long?”
1048
1049Ve do not know how long scene should be. [Tentacle] have not attempted before.
1050
1051“Twenty minutes? An hour?”
1052
1053Thirty minutes?
1054
1055“Okay. Now how hard do you want to hit me?”
1056
1057Playful spanking would be insufficient?
1058
1059“Playful spanking is for tease. Discipline is supposed to hurt.”
1060
1061Ve can demonstrate, scaling force upwards?
1062
1063“Okay, just let me lie down first,” Vani shifted on the bed, lying face up this time. “You don’t just have to spank my ass either. You could go for my legs, or my stomach; my breasts, my back; even my face—but you have to be careful if you strike my face.”
1064
1065Ve do not desire striking of face. Underlying structure may be damaged more easily than other indicated areas. Additionally, is Vani sure she would allow her breasts to be spanked?
1066
1067“Yes, actually,” Vani smiled at the memory. “Not much, but if you want to get a few strikes in it should be okay. And there are some other areas you need to be careful of, if you're spanking them.”
1068
1069Vani can list other areas she mentions?
1070
1071"Of course. The first is my throat, you remember what I said the first time you wrapped your 'pods around my neck?"
1072
1073That Vani was feeling vulnerability due to possibility of injury, even with full trust of Tentacles. That this was not undesirable state, but [Tentacle] would have to be careful.
1074
1075"Good. The same applies moreso with spanking. Or you can just avoid it completely if you prefer. The back of my neck, and around the sides here, and here. We're only spanking, but again, some caution. And my lower back, about waist level, halfway out from my spine, I think."
1076
1077Ve will not be spanking Vani on throat or neck. On lower back area [Tentacle] will reduce force. This is acceptable to Vani?
1078
1079"Yes. That's good."
1080
1081Ve is now understanding all constraints.
1082
1083“So, what about your aftercare?”
1084
1085Tentacles would like touch of comfort, to be told relationship is still maintained strongly. [Tentacle] would also like to take away pain from Vani.
1086
1087“Yes, yes, and no. I want it to hurt for a little while, remember?”
1088
1089Ve remember, and this makes me uncomfortable.
1090
1091“What if we set a timer, and if it still hurts after that timer runs out, then you can make it better?”
1092
1093Tentacles can accept this compromise, if timer is reasonable limit after scene.
1094
1095“Ten minutes?” Vani frowned, thinking. “Actually, make it fifteen, because I’d really like you to brush my hair, and play with my toes.”
1096
1097Tentacles accepts, but questions ability to perform actions while also keeping Vani in touch of comfort.
1098
1099“You might just have to keep a couple of ‘pods, or a tentacle or two free to do that—but if you need to have everything touching me, we can stay like that for a little while too.”
1100
1101This is ideal to Tentacles. Does this mean scene has been defined for later creation?
1102
1103“Yes, but there’s one little thing you forgot…”
1104
1105What has Tentacles forgotten?
1106
1107“You get to do some test spanking…” and with that Vani handed over the paddle and the crop. Her eyes were already closed, but she wore a lustful smile. Nobody said they couldn’t have a little fun beforehand.
1108
1109Vani felt the familiar sting of the crop against her thigh. A little lighter than Yuki used to. Then the paddle, a soft thwack against the side of her breast. Another, across the front of her breast, stinging somewhat around her nipple. The side of the crop dragged down from her throat to her navel, ending a solid, stinging strike. It was close to actually hurting. But she kept her eyes closed, waiting, wanting. Another solid thwack from the paddle, against her other thigh this time. Enough to make her wince, and maybe enough to leave a mark too.
1110
1111“Do you want to leave marks, later?” Vani opened her eyes to see the reply.
1112
1113Vani’s flesh can be marked by impacts?
1114
1115“If you hit hard enough, yeah… although, you’re not going to be able to see them.”
1116
1117Is vision necessary?
1118
1119“Sometimes seeing those marks is arousing. Sexually exciting.”
1120
1121Tentacles does not fully understand visual stimulation. Leaving marks is not necessary. Is force [Tentacle] is now using sufficient for Vani’s discipline?
1122
1123“I’ll roll over, I want one more test,” Vani suited action words, lying face down on the covers. “Now hit me with the crop, maybe twice as hard as you were hitting me before.”
1124
1125Vani sucked in a breath, using one hand to massage her cheek. The sting took quite some time to subside. It would definitely leave a mark.
1126
1127“Okay, later, you can hit me a little bit harder than that, if you want, but no more.”
1128
1129Ve is understanding limit. Is there lower bound for discipline hurting strikes?
1130
1131“It has to be harder than the playful spanking earlier. You can still drag and slide things softly, but when you hit me it has to be causing pain.”
1132
1133Like this?
1134
1135“Ow. Yes. Like that.” Vani took the crop and paddle back, lying them next to her other toys. “So, I guess that just leaves restraint—how do you want keep me from interfering with my hands?”
1136
1137Vani has additional tools for this purpose?
1138
1139“I do,” Vani smiled, picking up a pair of handcuffs, and a leather wrist cuff. “Both of these do the same thing, one of them is just more comfortable.”
1140
1141Tentacles took the leather strap first. [Tentacle] could tell it was leather from the residual warmth and the feel of the material. It was a contact sensation [Tentacle] could easily admit to liking. It also made slight ringing noises, and as [Tentacle] explored it, [Tentacle] found small hoops of metal held by a smaller strap of leather. But those alone would not lock it into an annulus.
1142
1143How does tool restrict Vani movement?
1144
1145“Like this,” and [Tentacle] could feel Vani’s fingers working some small mechanism attached to the shorter leather strap, pulling it tight around [Tentacle] pseudopod. The functionality of the device against [Tentacle] own pseudopods was nil, and questionable against [Tentacle] tentacles. But against Vani’s hands, filled as they were with bones, they would be much more effective for minor immobilisation. They would not cause Vani discomfort, so any additional sensation—such as pain from discipline hurting—would become primary focus.
1146
1147Conformable leather straps can be used for restraint of Vani’s hands. Implication is straps are additionally bound to secondary device.
1148
1149“A belt, or a cross chain, or a bar. Or just something nearby to keep my hands out of the way. It’s up to you, but you also have to be able to undo it.”
1150
1151Vani can teach Tentacles to manipulate device of locking for this strap?
1152
1153“Sure, just have a couple of ‘pods follow my hands.”
1154
1155As Vani explained the mechanism of the buckle—as she called it—gently manipulating [Tentacle] pseudopods, Tentacles began to notice an odd sensation filtering through [Tentacle] body, starting near [Tentacle] newly formed tympanic membrane. The sensation itself was difficult to define, almost like an internal/external pressure differential, but also feathering slowly down [Tentacle] entire body. It was strange enough that [Tentacle] stilled [Tentacle] pseudopods, attempting to isolate the sensation.
1156
1157It stopped.
1158
1159Ve was confused. So, apparently, was Vani.
1160
1161“You okay there?”
1162
1163Ve had strangeness of sensation. Pleasantness of odd discomfort flowing down body. I tried to isolate it, to hold onto it.
1164
1165“I think you might have had some tingles.”
1166
1167Tingles?
1168
1169“It’s a sensation I get sometimes, when I’m being taken care of, touched softly. It’s not sexual, but it feels very nice.”
1170
1171Sensation was pleasurable. [Tentacle] would explore this in future timing. [Tentacle] wish to know if scene has been fully defined.
1172
1173“It has. Our safewords and safe-touches are the same. And we’ll play it out this afternoon, maybe just before dinner. Right now I really have to try and get some more work done on that dragon.”
1174
1175Tentacles still insists Vani has accidentally copied voidsailer.
1176
1177“Maybe I’ll call it that, when the piece is done.” Vani rolled off the bed onto her feet, standing to pull on some clothes. A ‘pod gripped her ankle. “Sure, you can help me dress today. It can’t be any worse than my mom’s fashion disasters."
1178
1179Chapter 25: Internal Justice
1180Notes:
1181If I have anything drastically wrong about the way this would go down by BDSM community standards, please let me know. It is never my intent to misrepresent or malign the community in any way.
1182
1183Chapter Text
1184Frowning at the dragon before her, Vani hauled herself up next to the wing to inspect the hooks for the canvas eyelets. She cursed, realizing how much extra work her client’s bright idea had caused, rather than going for the normal sheet steel wings. And it wasn’t just along the body of the dragon, but along all of the wing spines as well. It was easier to weld them in here, with the wings in place, because they were going to send a blank sample for her to check the fitting with. Which meant all of the hooks could only be tacked on. For now.
1185
1186It also meant playing around with the pallet-jack and the custom risers she’d made for working at these heights—heights too low for a ladder, but too high to just reach up. Her second commission had taught her the importance of working at the right height, aching arms, and nearly falling off a ladder twice. She’d decided then and there that she would have to swallow some of the cost for the extra labour time, and just make something to work from. The problems the risers had saved her from on some of the following commissions proved how useful it had been to make them.
1187
1188She also knew she was distracting herself, trying not to think about the scene later. About just how much it was turning her on. Shaking her head, Vani returned to the task at hand, picking up another hook and tacking it in place with the torch. She hoped the dimensions they’d given her were close enough that she wouldn’t have to adjust too many of the hooks to have the canvas sheets fitting properly. She checked her watch again. Finish tacking the hooks along this spine, and then she could call it a day.
1189
1190As she left the workshop, Bossco came bounding over, woofing happily as she scratched behind his ears. Bossco sprinted ahead as she walked back to the house, occasionally darting back and trying to slip around her legs. Her admonishments just made him more excited, and as she reached the back door to the house she found one of the balls they played with. With a three count she hurled it into the field, taking off her boots as Bossco tore off into the distance, little bits of dirt scudding up behind him. By the time he got back, Vani was through the door. He just sat there, trying to look pathetic.
1191
1192“Don’t give me that look. You know playtime is after dinner.”
1193
1194And speaking of playtime…
1195
1196Vani made her way up the stairs, her overalls unzipped. Tentacles greeted her at the entrance to her bedroom.
1197
1198“Just let me strip off first, okay?”
1199
1200Ve have no problem with this. [Tentacle] are having problems with practice of fastening leather straps into annular formation. Help may be required for scene.
1201
1202“That’s fine,” Vani spoke over her shoulder as she started to shuck her overalls onto the bathroom floor. “If I feel you struggling, I’ll lend a hand.”
1203
1204Shaking her leg out of the overalls, Vani pulled her t-shirt over her head, then unclipped her hair, letting it fall messily over her shoulders. She looked back around at Tentacles, seeing [Tentacle] attempting to buckle the cuffs again, around another tentacle.
1205
1206“Do you want me completely naked?”
1207
1208Tentacles’s purpose is to strike exposed flesh, correct?
1209
1210“Okay, naked it is.” Vani unhooked her bra, throwing towards the laundry hamper. She also gave each nipple a sharp little pinch, making herself shiver. Just one of the reasons she’d started to explore the BDSM scene while she was at college. Tonight wasn’t about that excitement though—but it was sometimes hard to divorce the feelings from the acts. This was making amends for transgressions. Her mind stopped wandering as a ‘pod tugged gently at the band of her briefs. She pulled them down, then knelt on the floor for Tentacles to cuff her. She could feel [Tentacle] struggling—fumbling with the cuffs—but she allowed Tentacles a few moments longer to try and do it verself, just in case.
1211
1212“Here,” Vani threaded the strap through the buckle, pulling it tight with her free hand. “Now try pulling the other one through with your tip-flaps—no, no, through the buckle—the square hoop shape… oh. Wait, can’t you thin your ‘pods or something? Yes. Yes, like that, now try pulling it through. And then you’ll feel the pin go through the hole there. Okay, close, just a little more next time. Excellent. Now what did you want to cuff me to?”
1213
1214Vani felt it as Tentacles dragged her towards the handrail outside the shower. [Tentacle] couldn’t quite seem to use the dog-clips, but Vani watched with interest as [Tentacle] retrieved a short length of rope, threading it though the hoops on the cuffs, and around the rail before knotting it in a complex pattern. Vani gave it an experimental tug. It wouldn’t stretch, but it could slide a little along the handrail. She had to commend Tentacles’s knotwork. And possibly introduce [Tentacle] to shibari.
1215
1216Looking behind her, Vani saw Tentacles picking up the crop and paddle. And forming [Tentacle] ‘pods in—
1217
1218Vani sucked in a sudden breath, her fists clenched. She was definitely meant to feel that one. Instinctively she tried to move to massage the pain away.
1219
1220Vani does not gain arm movement until [Tentacle] are satisfied with her apology.
1221
1222“Then I’m sorry.”
1223
1224The crop stung the top of her left cheek, hard enough she knew it was going to leave a nice welt. The paddle slapped against her right thigh, almost seeming to balance the sensations. She muttered something insincere and vaguely insulting. Fists clenched, she couldn’t help a ragged breath, the side of her breast feeling like fire. Two more strikes with the crop lashed hard against her thighs. She sagged, but refused to fall to the floor. She could feel herself starting to get wet.
1225
1226Apparently so could Tentacles, rubbing a pod against her labia enough to coat it in her wetness. She turned to see what [Tentacle] was doing, but suddenly felt little suckers pulling insistently at her cheek and ear, turning her to face away from Tentacles. Her other cheek, rather lower, received a spank hard enough to knock her sideways. The tentacle turned her head again, to the side, to read the ’pods waving around.
1227
1228Will Vani offer sincere apology?
1229
1230“No.” Vani smiled through gritted teeth. She wanted this. She deserved it. She wanted to remember why.
1231
1232Then [Tentacle] will be forced to use more pain.
1233
1234Vani drew in a ragged breath; six lashes against her thighs and buttocks leaving her weak at the knees and more charged than ever. She could feel a pair of ‘pods twining around her legs, coiling from knee to thigh around each, holding her up, keeping her legs slightly spread. She felt the rough leather side of the crop drag against the length of her labia. A gentle smack against her clit was followed by a stinging slap from the paddle against her left breast, landing squarely on her nipple. Now she couldn’t fall from her knees, but her arms weren’t doing much to keep her up either. She could feel the tears begin to burn her eyes as the crop left a welt just below her right nipple.
1235
1236The paddle met the outside of her left cheek with a slap that rang around the small room, and even with the ‘pods around her legs she fell slightly. Her knees slid back, and she realised the ‘pods were no longer holding her up—only the tie around her cuffs was. Another ringing slap against the inside of each thigh, dangerously close to her labia. She could feel the tears rolling down her cheeks. But there was something she had to be sure of.
1237
1238“Heimdall.”
1239
1240Tentacles force too much for Vani?
1241
1242“No,” Vani shook her head, taking several short breaths against the pain. “You’re just slapping too close to my pussy to use that kind of force.”
1243
1244Tentacles was confused. Inference from context was that [Tentacle] was striking too forcefully near Vani’s vagina. But she had given it a different name. One normally used for smaller animals of felidae family. [Tentacle] did not understand, but would ask later. Right now [Tentacle] task was to discipline Vani for failing to acknowledge a safe-touch. [Tentacle] had noted the changes in Vani’s posture with [Tentacle] echo-sense, and with [Tentacle] still growing tympanic membrane [Tentacle] could hear the changes in Vani’s breathing as [Tentacle] continued to inflict the pain.
1245
1246Ve still wasn’t sure about how [Tentacle] felt as the impact shock from the paddle against Vani’s buttocks rippled up [Tentacle] pseudopods, but [Tentacle] knew it to be something Vani desired. [Tentacle] was also intrigued by the concept of receiving aftercare—as Vani called it—for having inflicted pain rather than for having received it. [Tentacle] had asked to be reassured about the strength of their relationship. Vani had said she would do so. But she had not yet said sorry to [Tentacle] satisfaction. It is almost as if Vani is deliberately prolongi—oh. Tentacles felt a flood of realisation wash over [Tentacle] as [Tentacle] began to understand how it was Vani that was in control.
1247
1248Ve also wondered if surrendering some of that control would be acceptable. Slowly, carefully, [Tentacle] sent two pseudopods out to curve around Vani’s knees, locking them in place at that angle. Vani stiffened slightly, but said nothing. [Tentacle] could feel her shifting her weight. [Tentacle] used the crop to deliver a sharp blow to the inside of her thigh. Vani shifted again. [Tentacle] struck her other thigh with the crop. She stopped moving, but she spoke clearly.
1249
1250“Heimdall.”
1251
1252Vani wishes Tentacles to stop?
1253
1254“No. I just want to know what you’re trying to do.”
1255
1256Tentacles is applying touch of restraint, using pseudopods to prevent Vani movement during application of discipline. This is acceptable to add to scene?
1257
1258“I think so,” Vani’s reply sounded a little ragged. Her breathing uneven. “But no stretching, just holding.”
1259
1260This was intent. Firm holding prevents Vani moving.
1261
1262“Well, I’m not going to apologise if you keep me waiting…”
1263
1264Tentacles used the paddle to slap Vani’s stomach, creating a sound that reverberated strangely in the small room. Then [Tentacle] dragged the smooth side of the crop from Vani’s armpit to her hip—but [Tentacle] didn’t strike with it, instead placing a tentacle pad against Vani’s hip and rippling [Tentacle] suckers to attach it firmly. Another tentacle slapped Vani’s backside before latching onto her other hip. Two pseudopods pressed into the flesh of Vani’s arms, coiling around from shoulder to elbow, squeezing firmly. [Tentacle] could feel Vani’s muscles tense and release.
1265
1266With a swift flick [Tentacle] struck Vani’s backside with the paddle, creating another reverberating sound. Then [Tentacle] struck again, on her thigh. Then a powerful blow with the crop on the underside of Vani’s breast. [Tentacle] could feel it as she tried to move with each blow, attempting to reduce the impact. But the touch of restraint prevented such movement, forcing her to experience the full force of every blow. Three rapid strikes with the crop against Vani’s other breast was followed with a powerful blow from the paddle, making her whimper.
1267
1268“I’m sorry.” This apology was unprompted, but incomplete. [Tentacle] responded with a sharp strike with the crop to Vani’s thigh.
1269
1270Apology is insufficient. Vani must explain reason for being sorry.
1271
1272“I’m sorry… I… … hurt you.” It sounded more sincere, but [Tentacle] knew it was incorrect. Vani’s remorse was for ignoring [Tentacle] safe-touches. [Tentacle] responded with a softer slap with the paddle to each of Vani’s breasts.
1273
1274Vani is sorry for wrong thing. Tentacles will be forced to inflict more pain.
1275
1276“One mor…e… one more… round.”
1277
1278Tentacles readied the crop and the paddle, [Tentacle] pseudopods and tentacles holding Vani firmly in place. [Tentacle] did not offer any warning. The crop lashed out twice, each blow landing just beneath Vani’s nipples. The paddle alternated between the inside of each thigh, the force a little lower. Then three rapid strikes against one buttock. Five against the other, the crop almost seeming to sing with the cadence. [Tentacle] could hear Vani’s ragged breath. Another sound suggesting that she was crying. [Tentacle] suddenly felt incredibly uncomfortable about hurting Vani so badly.
1279
1280Vani felt the tip of a tentacle pad pressing at the small of her back. She turned, vision blurred by tear filled eyes. Tentacles was using [Tentacle] safe touch. And at the moment of— Vani cut herself off. This wasn’t about her.
1281
1282“Y–Yo… You want… to stop ri—right… here?”
1283
1284Ve are afraid. Vani is crying from pain inflicted. This was not predicted end point of scene—but was endpoint of previous scenes.
1285
1286“Shit…” Vani swore, breath still ragged. A small part of her wished she could wipe the tear tracks from her cheeks so her friend could feel better. “Of course you… you wouldn’t know…  this–this is… this is normal with… with pain play… in discipline.”
1287
1288Vani had expected outcome of crying from pain?
1289
1290“It’s a… huma–human reaction t–to overwhelming pain. Another reflex. I’m so used to… to play with other people I… I just didn’t… realise. I sho—should… have warned you,” Vani tried to take in a deep breath, her backside, thighs and breasts still feeling like fire. She managed a ragged gasp. “I am very sorry. We can… end the scene… h–here, and go… straight to your afte–af–aftercare, if you want.”
1291
1292Tentacles desires this, but also wishes to hear final apology from Vani, for Vani to conclude scene internally.
1293
1294“Okay,” Vani tried to let herself fall, but was still held in the touch of restraint. “I am so sorry… that I hurt you—and broke our trust—by ignoring… by ignoring your safe-touch.”
1295
1296Ve would have accepted this apology. [Tentacle] also accept Vani’s prior apology about crying reflex being assumed human self-knowledge. Tentacles would also like to know if [Tentacle] could re-order [Tentacle] aftercare.
1297
1298“You want to make me feel better, right?” Vani smiled, gently tugging at her restraints. “You can start by releasing me from the touch of restraint. And then you can make one thing better; my breasts, or my butt, your choice. The other has to wait, remember?”
1299
1300Ve can accept this compromise to accommodate Vani’s original plan for aftercare.
1301
1302Vani watched with interest as Tentacles used [Tentacle] ‘pods to undo the rope binding her cuffs to the rail. She helped as Tentacles’s pods struggled with the buckles on the cuffs. She knelt on all fours for a moment, knowing sitting back or lying on her stomach was going to hurt something. So was standing. Vani felt a number of ‘pods, pressing softly against her ankles, thighs, hips, shoulders, and wrists. Because Tentacles had wanted to use touch of comfort for reassurance.
1303
1304“Go on then,” Vani stood slowly, wishing she could instead lie back in her lover’s arms—or ‘pods—without anything hurting. She took a hesitant ‘pod in her hand, slowly coiling it around her other wrist. “It’s okay. I kinda want this too, and playing with my toes, remember?”
1305
1306Feeling the ‘pods coiling and twining around her arms and legs, and enshrouding her torso with tender care, Vani leant backwards, allowing Tentacles to take her weight. “I know I can trust you; you won’t hurt me unless I ask you to.”
1307
1308Vani felt a ‘pod pressing gently into her backside before spreading something cool and gel-like over the welts. [Tentacle] healing gel. Vani had forgotten all about it, even though she’d thought of plans for using it. Even with the scratch on her arm from [Tentacle] beak, she hadn’t thought of it. Because asking for it must have been so natural to [Tentacle] people… Once again, Vani had a glimpse across the abyss that separated them as people. An abyss bridged by respect, tenderness, and a little kink. Maybe even love. Definitely trust.
1309
1310“Sometimes I think it’s weird how different we are,” Vani lifted an arm to her face, placing a warm, brief kiss against every coil of ‘pod she could reach. “But then I think of everything we’ve talked about. Where we’re really not that different. We mostly want the same things. You were surprised about compassion. I was surprised how deep your history was. And it was kind of exciting too. I want to know more, one day. But I think I understand you better for what you’ve told me.”
1311
1312Vani could feel Tentacles’s free ‘pods using their tip-flaps to swirl and massage the gel all over her cheeks. The sting from the welts was almost gone.
1313
1314“I know you’re probably a little bit scared that stopping the scene might have hurt our relationship. Maybe you’re even afraid that hurting me until I cried damaged the bond between us,” Vani licked one of the ‘pods on her other arm, then exhaled right next to spot she’d licked. “But if I didn’t like you, do you think I’d still be willing to give you ‘temperature differential’ play?”
1315
1316A tentacle pad approached each of her breasts from the sides.
1317
1318“No…” Vani drew the word out slowly. “You can only make one better.”
1319
1320The tentacles seemed almost disappointed as they folded over, retreating out of sight. Vani couldn’t help a little laugh.
1321
1322“I think I’m going to have to teach you about acting too. I want to teach you about a lot of things. I want you to teach me about things too.”
1323
1324Tentacles had been feeling a strange internal warmth for the entirety of the time Vani had been speaking. Even with the pain inflicted on her, Vani’s muscles felt strangely relaxed, except in those places pain had been inflicted. The way Vani had been moving, kissing [Tentacle] pseudopods, using her breath to cause temperature differentials, and talking so casually contributed strongly to the internal warmth [Tentacle] felt. It was almost as if the core of [Tentacle] gestalt was the target of something deep and positive, directed specifically for [Tentacle] benefit.
1325
1326Because it was.
1327
1328Ve was so shocked by the revelation that [Tentacle] pseudopods almost slipped off Vani. An instant later [Tentacle] coiled them again, regaining the contact of Vani’s warm flesh and fine body hairs. Vani stretched, her muscles tensing oddly as her body assumed an offset X shape. [Tentacle] heard a strange vocalisation. Then Vani turned her head to kiss a pseudopod coil around her shoulder.
1329
1330“Y’know, this is actually real comfortable,” Vani stretched again, but much less expansively. “If you ain’t careful, I might drift off here.”
1331
1332Tentacles carefully freed several pseudopods so [Tentacle] could talk.
1333
1334There is risk Vani might enter accidental somnolence?
1335
1336“It’s not a risk,” [Tentacle] could tell from the pitch and cadence of Vani’s voice that she was quite happy. “And I’m pretty sure it’d be quite deliberate too. Oh, and if you’ve got ‘pods free to talk, you’ve got ‘pods free to play with my toes or brush my hair…”
1337
1338After performing task, Tentacles may make Vani’s breasts feel better with negation of pain?
1339
1340“Yes, you may.”
1341
1342Using [Tentacle] free pseudopods, Tentacles touched the underside—soles—of Vani’s feet, trying not to tickle them. [Tentacle] traced one pseudopod up the inside of Vani’s foot, using [Tentacle] tip-flaps to attempt to kiss the underside of the largest toe. With another pseudopod [Tentacle] stretched the opening of [Tentacle] tip-flaps, gently manipulating the next toe in line from the largest. The wordless vocalisations Vani made seemed to indicate contentment and relaxation. [Tentacle] continued to manipulate Vani’s toes in sequence, from largest to smallest, experimenting only with slight movements and the odd tip-flap kiss. The biomechanics were wrong to even attempt to replicate the kisses Vani could deliver, but [Tentacle] felt that she understood what the action was supposed to signify.
1343
1344After several minutes playing with each of Vani’s feet—alone, and in tandem—ve sent a pseudopod over the enclosed hollow with doors that Vani called a vanity, searching the top counter for a hairbrush. [Tentacle] selected the softer of the two available; one that seemed to have more blunted synthetic spines per unit area than the other. [Tentacle] was not entirely sure on how to utilise the brush. Previous data suggested that Vani held it a distance and moved it along a bundle of strands with little force. [Tentacle] had observed Vani brushing her hair on several occasions after exiting the warming rain. Inasmuch as [Tentacle] echo-sense allowed close observation anyway.
1345
1346Ve used a tentacle to gently hold Vani’s head in place while [Tentacle] isolated a section of Vani’s hair. With another pseudopod [Tentacle] drew the brush through the isolated hair, noting how a slight resisting tension kept the hair in the brush until enough strands had fallen free for the entire section to fall back against Vani’s neck. Vani wasn’t making any noises, but her breathing was soft and regular, perhaps on the edge of the somnolence she had spoken of earlier. Another section of strands, and [Tentacle] felt a powerful resistance to the drag of the brush. [Tentacle] did not force it for fear of hurting Vani outside of scene limits.
1347
1348Vani sighed. “Yeah, it gets knotted sometimes. Just hold the hair behind the knot and pull it through.”
1349
1350Ve wasn’t quite sure how to constrain Vani’s hair, first attempting a circular bind with a free pseudopod. A pained exhalation from Vani told [Tentacle] that wasn’t working. Two pseudopods pressed against each other was more effective, but not by much. Then [Tentacle] tried a tentacle suckered around a pseudopod. It seemed to work, keeping Vani’s hair in place, and preventing the tension being transferred back to her head. [Tentacle] continued to isolate Vani’s hair in small sections, wondering about the purpose of this ritual movement when not used after cleansing. [Tentacle] also wondered about the purpose of the gentle manipulation of Vani’s toes and feet.
1351
1352It was the aftercare Vani had requested, but [Tentacle] could not quite see the purpose behind the individual actions. To the whole, [Tentacle] knew it was designed to reinforce positive feelings within Vani, but [Tentacle] was having trouble understanding how that could be so when feelings of pain remained. [Tentacle] knew pain faded over time, and [Tentacle] was beginning to consider that such small, positive actions might serve as a distant loci for Vani’s gestalt, away from the pain, but associating strongly with a positive effect from another. By feeling compassion directed towards her.
1353
1354And if that positive mind-state experience is preceded immediately by a negative physical experience, does that make it feel deeper?
1355
1356Ve posed the question Vani.
1357
1358“Yes,” her voice was soft, with a slight slur. “If you want you can make my breasts feel better now—but you also need to reassure me that I’m a good person, remember?”
1359
1360Tentacles held up a pseudopod in the affirmative.
1361
1362“I know you needed the touch of comfort earlier, so I didn’t ask then, but I just want to make sure, okay?”
1363
1364Ve are understanding. Vani is using low intensity reminder of responsibility at what she sees as ideal point of exchange.
1365
1366Slowly [Tentacle] uncoiled from the touch of comfort, lowering Vani to the floor. As the last of [Tentacle] pseudopods was withdrawn, [Tentacle] felt Vani forcing herself back slightly, pressing into [Tentacle] body, maintaining contact and physical closeness. [Tentacle] liked the warmth of her body, and the growing feeling of linked togetherness it was creating. [Tentacle] used two pseudopods to spread [Tentacle] healing gel across the pads and suckers of two tentacles, allowing Vani to witness what [Tentacle] was doing. [Tentacle] felt Vani place a splayed hand against the upper/outer surface of each pad, then gently compress each tentacle against the breast it was closest to.
1367
1368Tentacles still shares trust-link with Vani. [Tentacle] are understanding she was making honest mistake. She could not fully control reflexive action.
1369
1370“That’s mostly about me,” Vani’s voice was low, still with that slight slur. “What do you feel?”
1371
1372To make Vani mind-state improve?
1373
1374“Please.”
1375
1376Ve are feeling that [Tentacle] has much to learn about human body and reflexes. Actions and triggers [Tentacle] want to explore. [Tentacle] would very much enjoy Vani to help in exploration and understanding of this.
1377
1378“And I will,” Vani looped an arm around a tentacle, then shifted sideways, leaning into the nook she’d created.
1379
1380I am still enjoying being in proximity of Vani, and close to her in gestalt senses. Wishing for feeling of warm closeness to increase as Vani and Tentacles extend relationship.
1381
1382“I like being close to you too.”
1383
1384In future timing, if Vani and Tentacles could speak of breeding, [Tentacle] would welcome discussion—discussion of processes only, rescinding obligations of actions therein.
1385
1386Vani let out a breath and nestled closer, enjoying the way Tentacles’s suckers were spreading the healing gel and attempting to massage her breasts without moving. “Sure, we can talk about it sometime; no pressure.”
1387
1388Ve are thankful Vani is understanding. [Tentacle] also wish to know if Vani is now free from pain.
1389
1390“Pretty much,” Vani smiled, closing her eyes and leaning back. “But I wouldn’t mind staying like this a while longer.”