"Have you thought over what it is you wanna say?" Valerie asked as she stood behind her girlfriend, arm clutching theirs in an attempt to keep them composed. They seemed ready to fall like glass on stone; fragile and easily broken. Though could the Ruler really be blamed?

The sentiment, though appreciated, was proving ineffective. "I'm running all sorts of scenarios through my head, thinking about what I'll say, what I can do… but it all feels pointless."

There were few things the Archfiend of the Deep wasn’t capable of. Annihilating galaxies in one fell swoop, bringing ruin to innumerable planes of reality; whole separate universes of alien physics, wiping out life ad infinitum. All this she was capable of and more, and that was all before she even took to the throne of her Domain. Now, her potential was practically limitless. Though her restrictions were many, the things she could do were more than enough to shun even the most all-might of gods. Yet for whatever reason, when it came to making an apology, she found herself powerless. 

There were few moments in Cathay’s life which ended in her apologizing. More often than not, it was those of a lesser existence pleading, begging, for her forgiveness; never the other way around. Why, the amount of times she’s actually found herself in such a position she could most probably count on a single hand.  

But now to be here, in front of the Armitage Family Home on the other side of Ravencroft, waiting in the cold night, the Ruler found herself regretting the fact that she hasn’t had more experience in the department of simply apologizing.

She felt weak as a result. Both mentally and physically. 

Spineless. Cowardly. She wanted to delay this. Go home and better articulate her thoughts. It was pathetic.

It was expected. To look at the stars, to know she was above all that rested between them, only to feel lowlier than even the most inept of mankind. Humiliation at its most crippling. 

"Hey, there's no rushing these sorts of things," Valerie assured her cosmic lover. She noticed right away the thoughts that plagued their mind, and in a way understood them better than they might realize. She’s been in similar binds before, so who better than to show them the way?  "We take things in strides, remember? Tonight's the hard part. Ripping the Band-Aid off the wound. That first step is always going to be the most painful."

Again, Cathay was unconvinced. "This isn't something I'm used to. I don't just… apologize to people, Val. It's tiring… I feel tired… and I'm afraid that the first step I take will also end up as the last one."

"And that’s completely fine!” Considering what Valerie knew of her godly girlfriend, seeking forgiveness was far from something that might be seen as natural to her kind. No doubt there'd be many cosmic forces that'd have their jaws drop at such a sight. Not Valerie though. She's seen states like this before, where someone very much doubted the actions they were taking. More often than not she’d see such a person every time she looked in the mirror. But having moved past such moments in her life herself, the bold human was determined to only ever be supportive of her girlfriend. "The more you stress over this the more it’s going to hurt. It can be painful, I’m not going to lie about that. But it can also be liberating. It’s a coin toss really on what you’ll feel in the end, and that’s what makes all this so tiring."

Valerie waited for a response. She hoped her words would at least calm the surprisingly fragile Overlord. When it didn’t seem as though they held much reaction over it though, a second course of action was necessary. The human giggled, recalling the events of the previous night, when Cathay was more ‘energetic’, free of the worry she felt now. 

"Of course… after what I did to you last night, and with the state you were in afterwards, it's no wonder you're feeling so weak right now~.”

Even at three inches tall the human still had a fire unlike any other. Despite bearing a presence more befitting of a Ruler's status, her true self, Cathay was like putty in the miniscule woman's hands. So easily did she melt then that there was no way she could deny any claims against the possibility. 

Cathay laughed softly, silently, as she gave Valerie a light shove. "You are unbearable at times!” She exclaimed with a hushed tone. Her eyes shined brighter as she remembered how fierce her Star was. A trait she admired immensely. “You realize this, yes?."

"Come on, admit it. You know you love that about me."

The Ruler couldn't deny that anymore than she could deny her weakened state. She’s annihilated far greater beings for far lesser crimes, and yet she allowed a human to persist despite having physically brought her so low. What greater form of affection was there for one of the Depths’ own original flesh and blood. 

"Of course I do."

Valerie's first "lesson" in the school of magic went about as well as one might expect. The shrunken human had spent more time trying to flip through the pages of her newly acquired, blasphemous spellbook than actually practicing a form of magic that would return her to her original height. Of course Cathay was no help at all,  choosing to instead lay on her back without a care in the world. The whole event of watching her beloved Star struggle was amusing, and though she knew she should act as the good ‘mentor’ she favored watching them push through their infinitesimal size. Quickly however, she learned that even at three inches it was still Valerie who held the reins in their relationship. 

When it became apparent that the Queen of the Depths wasn't going to be of aid in teaching the necessary spell, Valerie took matters into her own hands. Though limited in arcane insight, the eldest Armitage still possessed many tricks of her own, and while the Ruler's attention was elsewhere, the shrunken human had forced herself in between their legs. The act was sudden, and in Cathay's desire to allow her Star the chance to figure things out for themselves they were caught unawares. As such, she needed to exercise complete control over her body so as not to not harm her little girlfriend. 

Valerie's own form of punishment for the carefree tyrant. 

She won't deny that it was hard work. The pressure was unbearable, and the heat even more so. Teasing the smaller human had been a prelude for Cathay’s rising adoration, and already she proved to be slick in carnal cravings. It was like crawling through a flesh lined cave, ever drenched and ready to collapse around you at a moment’s notice. But the conditions of such exploration did not hinder Valerie’s performance. If anything, they only served to aid her in bringing her girlfriend a much craved release. In the end, and against such skill, Cathay was reduced to a mess, and though she was positively covered in her girlfriend's juices, Valerie crawled free, fully bearing the glory of dominating a goddess while stuck at a pinky's height. 

Of course, the retribution the human delivered onto the Primordial then was nothing compared to what she did directly after, once she had been returned to their full size. There are not many who can say they had a god bent over their bed, forced to suffer having both of their backdoors violated in ways that would make even a devil cry. Cathay was no meager goddess, obviously. She was one of the few who stood above all things in creation. A queen of totality; and even then, among those numbers, she stood above the ‘common rabble’, at the highest of stations within the cosmos. A greater Ruler. A moniker of status only shared by so few others, two in total, and only within leading Domains. 

Yet even with that in mind she still bent over all the same, like a good little pooch obeying their master, crying out Valerie's name. They were made to plead, to beg, for mercy. One of the few times they’ve apologized, and they were forced to do so on shaking legs until their loving tormentor was satisfied. 

Though the task of learning lessons was forgotten, the time spent to make up for that which was lost was MORE than enough to become etched into Cathay's mind. Burned into her memories, it would not be easily forgotten. Not this century, or a million others to follow afterward. 

The delicious deliverance of torture was such that even now, to have such memories brought to the surface, was enough to make the Ruler's legs weak again. Coupled with her already frail state and the flooding of sensations nearly forced Cathay on her knees. A momentary reprieve from any building worry she had. 

Thankfully, as always, Valerie was there to hold her firm.

"Easy there, Love." Despite being only human, Valerie's strength was formidable. Enough that she could hold the majority of Cathay's weight by herself; a boon no doubt brought about from a healthy lifestyle. Despite her literary profession, Valerie was an active soul who kept herself in shape, a stark contrast to Cathay who didn't exercise much effort to keep up her appearance. It was an easy task to keep one’s physical form pristine, that is if you possessed mastery over matter manipulation. A luxury the human did not possess, and as such she required the older methods of keeping up with appearances. It’s worked out well for her, Cathay can attest to that. Because of this, it was a simple task to keep the Queen of the Deep from falling over. "We wouldn't want anyone finding you on your knees in front of me, now would we? Who knows what they might think?"

A tantalizing thought to be sure, putting her tongue to work out here in the cold night air, underneath the stars. An idea for the future no doubt. In the present however, it would have to be ignored. 

"Let them watch," Cathay urged as she stood up, quickly regaining her strength. Momentary fatigue such as this couldn’t keep her down forever. No sooner after she got up was Valerie relieved of the duty of supporting her girlfriend's weight. Still, even if she could stand without difficulty, the Ruler refused to let go of her human obsession. Instead, they pulled them in closer, until Valerie felt her chest just beneath Cathay's. "I don't mind giving them a show… so long as they understand you belong to me."

There it was, that confidence Cathay needed tonight. Seen clearly in her actions, all she needed was a little push in the right direction. The Ruler used her height to her advantage, using it to lord over Valerie at this moment. Though the human was more than capable of making her squeal, these moments of temporary reversal were enjoyed. 

"Smooth talker, aren’t you? Did you save that line for me, or was it meant to get me in the mood for later?" 

"Perhaps," Cathay leaned in forward, lowering herself slightly so that her head, her lips, reached her dear Lover’s. "Though who said anything about later~?"

There would be no complaints from Valerie. They weren’t even sure Cathay would allow them. Regardless, before the Archfiend could react, their beloved human had already planted their lips against hers. 

The embrace was tender, warm, and grew increasingly more suggestive the longer it persisted. Despite earlier comments of anonymity when out in the open, Valerie had no issue reaching around back to cop a feel. The Archfiend's ample rear was her coveted goal, a handful of ass to grope at her leisure. She did so without care or worry of the door in front of the two of them, already forgetting the fact that she stood in front of her family home. There wasn’t even a thought spared to what sort of explanation would be given were the door to open. It was intoxicating, the knowledge that out of all beings in the whole of creation, only she was allowed the honor of being with someone as powerful as the Archfiend. Crown Killer, The Deep Drake, the Tyrant of the Deep Wastes. A thousand different titles for a woman impossibly old; and she was all Valerie’s

Similarly, Cathay found herself greatly enjoying the spirituous moment. To think that a lowly species such a man could produce someone so… exquisite. It was wonderful, and the Ruler couldn’t help but have her tongue snake its way into her Beloved's mouth; exploring every corner it had to hide and then some. It stretched forward. Lower. Further and farther than any normal tongue had a right to. It stretched downward, extending in length, exploring Valerie's throat in full and depriving them of much needed air. The deepest of kisses that brought a crimson shade to the human's cheeks, as well as a wave of heat that flooded her whole body. Immediately, Valerie’s entire being was seized, and she soon found herself wishing for the night to end. Later… all good things would come later. This feeling would have to be saved. 

But so wonderful were the sensations that both women wished for this one moment to freeze, so that they may continue on for just a while longer. Cathay even considered doing so… up until she heard the front door open. 

Valerie froze, fearing the worst. 

Trying to pull away, she found her strength lacking; a result of Cathay's breathtaking kiss. The Ruler either wasn't aware of the sudden onlooker or simply did not care. Either way, they refused to relinquish this pleasure until they were satisfied. A feat that was normally quick to achieve for Valerie, but at this time it seemed she was more likely to pass out from exhaustion. 

Understanding their Lover’s predicament, reluctantly, Cathay pulled away from her little kiss. Slowly; putting on a display of her long, serpentine tongue slithering out from her Star’s throat and back into her own maw. 

"Now… now that's… a kiss!" The winded human exclaimed. Her whole body was shaking. Throbbing with pleasure. Her esophagus itched, and in a way longed for its slimy, intrusive invader once more. "Forget safety… that shit was awesome…" 

They would have to learn what else Cathay's tongue could do. 

For now… they had their surprise watcher to deal with. At first, Cathay was confident it was Jason. A part of the reason why she wished to put on a display such a passionate moment. A form of revenge for the trouble he caused her in the past. Nothing truly ill-intended, the youngest Armitage was likely aware of Valerie and Cathay’s relationship. It was a jab for taking Gilah away, nothing more. But as the Ruler wiped her arm across her lips to be rid of any excess spittle, as her eyes met the gaze of the rather impressed observer, her black heart skipped a beat. 

Several, in fact.

"Soooo…" Gilah rocked back and forth on her socked feet, watching silently and waiting for the two lovebirds to finish their little face-sucking session. "You two having fun?"

Cautiously, Cathay scanned the Mako Warrior, taking in what was now such a pedestrian sight for one so feared. In one hand, the Leviathan held a mixing bowl filled with brown batter. In the other, an egg beater to stir whatever treat she had been preparing before checking what was making all that racket behind her front door. 

Her mundane clothing was covered in various stains, along with the Mako's blue hair, which had been tied back into a ponytail. An attempt to no doubt to minimize the mess of whatever it was they were attempting to bake, though from the stains seen even there it was clear they were unsuccessful. Making must still be a new challenge to the once feared Butcher of the Deep. 

The proverbial cherry on top, however, was an apron that did well to hide away the Leviathan's Olympian figure. Behind that garb of basic cloth and clothing lay the physique of a warrior, one who has stared down gods, devils, and nearly all other manner of horrors at a comparatively young age. Beauty and brutality in one fine mold that now brandished, in bold, the phrase 'Fear the Cook'. 

A… less than respectable tether to the terror that was Gilah, and admittedly a smudge on her reputation were any of the Depths to see her. Despite that possibility though, it was still her. The fighter that had stood directly at the Archfiend's side during her ascension into true sovereignty. Cathay's first true companion… as well as her first crush. 

Her first friend.

Changed, but still the same soul she knew. Smiling even, in spite of their rightfully ridiculous attire. 

And they were just witness to Cathay deep throating the sister of the man who had claimed her heart. Oh joy… 

"I… uh…" the Ruler was speechless. Her previous concerns were rushing back to the forefront of her mind, forcing a nervous sweat to trail down her forehead and across her nose, eventually loosening her sunglasses without her realizing. It wasn't until Valerie gave Cathay a pat on the back did her senses return to her, and even then it was just to allow for a single, shaky word. 

"H… hi…" 

Silence at first, uncomfortable and unbearable. Then… laughter. 

Gilah couldn't contain herself. Against her better judgment, and despite the clear alarm in Cathay’s eyes, she couldn't stop herself from laughing. A cute, controlled, chuckle that strangely enough helped to ease away any growing tension. An immediate remedy brought through joviality. Placing the egg beater into the mixing bowl so as to free up a hand, Gilah repositioned her old friend’s shades back on her face. 

"Hey"

She wasn't scared, or concerned, or taken aback at all by the Ruler's sudden appearance. Gilah was completely unphased. A stark contrast to Cathay whose mind was momentarily taken for a spin at the Mako's nonchalant demeanor. She even seemed comfortable despite the sight she just saw.

“It’s been awhile, Cath.”

Were Cathay to be honest, she wasn't exactly sure of what to expect from her old friend. There were a myriad of emotions that could have possibly risen for this very reunion. Anger, perhaps, or many even denial over the Ruler wishing to become a part of her age old companion’s life again. It would feel deserved considering how she acted when last they were together. But the absolute furthest thing Cathay had expected was the peaceful expression she was currently looking at.. 

"Hey there Homewrecker," Valerie chirped in; an attempt to draw Cathay's mind away from its growing confusion. It worked, if only slightly, aiding in turning Gilah's gaze away from the still recovering couple. She averted her eyes, not out of embarrassment but more so fear. The Mako rubbed the back of their head knowingly, already keenly aware of the reason as to why she would be given such a name. "How's my Baby Brother? You know? The one you kidnapped. Is he inside?"

Of course Gilah wouldn't offer any sort of argument. Valerie was… essentially right on the money in her claim. Any jab delivered was rightfully deserved, as she had indeed essentially kidnapped the Human's younger sibling. Love makes a Depthborn do many crazy things it would seem, and dragging a person into the domain of the Deep was apparently one of them. 

"He's wrapping up with the cooking," Gilah replied, trying her hardest to keep away from making direct eye contact with Valerie. She's already been on the receiving end of the woman's verbal lashings, and so knew better than to test their ire when it could be avoided. While Valerie has stated on several occasions that Gilah’s and Jason’s relationship was allowed, as she wouldn’t go against her brother’s wishes, the young Leviathan wasn’t looking to take any chances. For once, she felt like the one in the shark tank. "Meatloaf and ribeye,” The meat-loving Mako explained.  “The loaf’s homemade. I was baking a cake until I… uhm… 

“Heard what you two were doing behind the door...." 

Gilah's senses were far sharper than that of any humans. Even superior to those of her own ilk. As different as an ember on a match was to a furnace. Unless her senses were tricked beforehand, she'd clearly be able to hear what Cathay and Valerie were up to. A fact that the Ruler had admittedly overlooked.

Just the idea that Gilah could hear everything said between the two, as well as what came after, was nearly enough to make Cathay desire to just shrink down and hide herself away. 

"I'll take that then~," Despite the embarrassment the Ruler faced, Valerie still took Gilah's arrival as her needed sign to head on into the house. Scooping the bowl away from the Mako, she decided it best to leave the Depthborn to their own issues. "You two can join in whenever you’ve caught up with each other. As for me, I'm going to check in with my lil brother. See if he needs any help." 

In truth, Valerie thought it best to allow Cathay and Gilah the chance to mend what they needed to themselves. Heal any wounds between them, though she suspected the one suffering from any deeper ailments was her beloved. While the possibility that Gilah likely had things she wished to get off her chest too, much of the baggage fell on Cathay. Of that there was no doubt. They were overthinking things terribly, and as much as Valerie wished she could stay to hold the Ruler’s hand though this… some things needed to be done alone.

This battle belonged to Cathay. 

Of course the Archfiend was completely against the idea, especially when in such a mentally vulnerable position. Unfortunately for her, it was already too late. Even she couldn't force Valerie back once they've made up their mind. Walking away to help her brother with what remained of cooking was no doubt a ploy the human used to give Gilah and Cathay space. If anything, Valerie was more likely to retrieve a cold one from the fridge rather than be of any use. 

As Valerie walked away, Cathay could have sworn they looked back one last time with their thumbs raised. A mocking form of motivation.

Lovely…

That left the two leviathans with only each other, and once more all that stood between the two of them was horrific silence. It dragged on for what felt like an eternity, neither woman really sure of what to say let alone do. Neither Gilah or Cathay had ever really been in a situation like this, the closest being the events that transpired months ago; When the two had last seen each other, making their separate decision to live on Earth with their lovers.  

They hadn't spoken since then, though each knew the other was but a phone call away. A matter of regret for Cathay, as well as one of guilt. Deep in her gut she knew she should have reached out during the time she's been on this planet of primitive apes, yet all she's done is hide away in Valerie's apartment. Call it fear, for that is what it was. The terrifying Archfiend was afraid, unwilling to run the risk that the first real connection she had with another living being had been severed. Ruined. Through her own actions, and because of her temper. 

She was afraid of the possibility that were she to see Gilah, they would want nothing to do with her.

And even were such a thing to be untrue, even if Cathay's fears were entirely unfounded, the guilt still ate away at her. So much so that she was already more than willing to throw in the towel. She would be spared from greater disappointment that way.

That is, until she heard a whistle from the young warrior. 

"Look at yoooou~," Cathay was so caught up in her many thoughts that she hadn't even realized… Gilah was taking in her form’s appearance. Admiring its beauty, its height: everything. "Looking GOOD, Cath! I'm amazed you decided to keep that disguise. I thought you would have dumped it by now."

In truth, there were days she forgot she was even wearing a disguise. Skin constructed to blend in amongst the masses of mankind. While understandably disgusted by it at first, being forced to appear as some lesser creature, through Valerie's thorough aid she was able to eventually walk as comfortably as though it were the skin of her true self. At times even, the two felt synonymous.  

Still, the very last comment Cathay would have expected was one regarding her current physical form. Appraisal no less, and even now Gilah was admiring her Ruler’s body as though it were some fine piece of art.

Flattering, and strangely uplifting. 

A glimmer of hope. Perhaps Cathay's own imagination truly was beginning to get the better of her. 

Maybe she was blowing the whole situation out of proportion. She knew Gilah. Perhaps better than the Mako knew herself in some ways, given their history together. Despite her worries, Cathay understood them to be of a kind soul now. Far from the beast they were in their youth. Likely, they have already forgiven the Archfiend out of genuine altruism, and a hope to improve their relationship. Evolve it to this new life of theirs. Just as was the rules of the Depths. Adapt and overcome. 

Whatever the case was, it felt good. To see Gilah speak so plainly, so nonchalantly when others would step carefully. It worked wonders in putting Cathay's mind at ease, even if by some small margin. 

Guilt still remained, of course, but that didn't mean she couldn't play along. 

"Well of course I would!" Cathay proudly announced with a flick of her wrist and flip of her hair; assuming an air of superiority. Something befitting one of her position. "I need to give the humans something to feel good about, don't I? This disguise is finer than anything mankind could produce naturally, even if it is just human skin. Weak. Vulnerable. Ripe with flaws. Why, they should feel honored I'm lowering myself to their level! Regardless of how this form may appear, mankind should still feel privileged that I've chosen to walk among them as some flea ridden ape."

Gilah leaned in closely, catching the Ruler off-guard and breaking her spew of eminency. A coy smile was plastered across her lips. "You can act the part all you want, but we both know you don’t really think that. That is, unless you truly believe some skin suit’s beyond the beauty of someone like… Valerie perhaps?" The Mako clicked her tongue in disapproval, shaking her head as some doting parent might do. "Tsk, tsk, tsk Cathay. And here I thought she had you wrapped around her finger. Made you her sweet little 'Catty Cathy'. Or  at least that's what I’ve heard, from the texts she's sent to Jason."

Cathay felt her face flush red, the very notion that Gilah was aware of hers and Valerie's foreplay being too much to bear. What was more, she couldn't even deny it. The longer the Ruler found herself quiet, looking away in embarrassment, the more time Gilah had to understand she was right on point with her observation. And to top it all off, Cathay dared to say her allure outshined that of her beautiful Star's. An unintentional insult that she needed to take back.

Of course said Star also chose to grant the Ruler of the Depths a less than savory nickname, as well as divulge sensitive information. So there was that. Words would be had with Valerie again no doubt, though the odds were any punishment delivered would go as well as the last set. Not too off-putting of an idea really.

Despite the rising embarrassment she felt, Cathay found herself smiling, strangely enough. Softly at first, until her smirk gave way to a defeated chuckle. "I suppose she does have me at her beck and call, yes? Of course you are correct, Valerie is the superior beauty. That was a regrettable error on my part." Cathay relented, quickly accepting second place if it meant her beautiful Star could be placed above her. A spot deserving of one who knew how to dominate a queen. "But can you even compare her to lesser humans? Not taking her family’s mental fortitude into question, she's plainly wonderful. So much so that I'm more than willing to admit that some humans DO have… favorable qualities. Of course such numbers are a hundred million to one.” 

Though she would not admit it verbally… such numbers included Jason as well. Gilah chose her mate well, Cathay will give them that.   

The Ruler’s smile grew wider. "Of course, you're no stranger to beauty yourself. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that body of yours has changed since last I saw you. I never would have thought you'd attempt physical alterations without my aid."

The Ruler took this chance to gloss over the whole of Gilah's body, taking into account how much the leviathan has changed in such a short amount of time. Not only had her size remained steady at a solid height of five foot eight, but they've also improved on their ability to hide away any concerning Depthborn features. 

Their titanic size of fifteen hundred feet for starters, obviously, but also their fins, their tail, and the scales that normally covered sections of the Mako's body. All gone. Only her gills, claws and teeth remained; along with the crimson eyes that had been given to her through the Sole Order of the Depths, Ordegash. Despite how odd they may appear to the common bystander, with some preparation such features could easily be hidden away.. 

It was an impressive feat given Gilah's previous inability to alter her body in any meaningful way. A necessary skill to learn if she was to live on Earth. Help was required at first, and granted by Ordegash. 

That old slug really did have a hand in a great many changes. 

But afterwards it was Cathay who lended aid. Altered a deal that would have deprived Gilah of her true nature as one of the Deep. That was no way for one to live. Nothing should have to lie to themselves for peace of mind. Still, despite the odds she faced then, Gilah had grown fast. Far faster than some might expect in a time frame of only a few months. And she was still young too. Ripe with potential if this little bodily alteration was anything to go by. 

It was honestly rather inspiring. The growing potential of those still young. 

"Not bad. Not bad at all."

That said, nothing Gilah could do held a candle when compared to the modifications Cathay was capable of making to her own form. Seamless and without effort, it was thanks to her own skills and power that the younger leviathan was even able to attain the ability to return to her own original size at will; a skill granted should a situation that requires it present itself. Regardless, what Gilah accomplished in such a short amount of time, after having deprived herself of the carnage which grants Depthborn eventual strength, was worthy of praise. 

But despite this achievement, Cathay was still willing to outshine the far younger legend. 

Blinking a few times, the Ruler's normally molten, red hot eyes transitioned from their natural, eldritch indication to shining gems of wondrous blue. A simple action that required absolutely no effort on her part "You've still got a ways to go though, Gilah, if you plan on doing anything this seamless~."

The Mako quickly found herself in awe at the sight. She's seen Cathay alter her form many, many times in the past. She's seen them at the natural largest, as well as their smallest self in the present. In truth, something this menial was nothing in comparison. Yet no matter how often she saw it, to see Cathay's mastery in fields which had troubled her was nothing sort of a spectacle.

Her awe fell fast though, and whatever smile the Mako had softened. She rubbed the back of her head again; nervous. Unsure if she should say what she had on her mind. 

"Yes, well… It's a little hard to pick up new tricks." Gilah admitted as she turned her crimson eyes away from her ancient companion. "Especially when you haven't spoken to the one person who could give you advice in months." 

There it was. The crux of Cathay's worries. Gilah was kind, yes, but she wasn't blind to the Ruler's absence in her life. Though distance between the two wasn't anything new, as their own paths in the Deep kept them separate at times, this instance of self imposed silence wasn't going to remain ignored. By Cathay's own decision she refused to see Gilah up until tonight. And that was only through Valerie's undeniable insistence and persistence.

Guilt returned, and with it Cathay found herself unsure of what to do. There were so many things that she wished to get off her chest. From old feelings of adoration, to the admittance that Gilah was right in choosing to live on Earth. It was honestly better for them. Jason, Ravencroft, the life she could live here was only ever going to be a benefit. Cathay would ensure that. There were so many things that needed to be said, but one stood out amongst the rest. 

"Gilah, I'm sor-"

"Really Cathay! I mean come on!" Gilah did not give the Archfiend the opportunity to apologize. Once they made the decision to speak out there was nothing out in the cosmos that could stop them. "You KNOW magic isn't my strong suit. Changing my body's features ain't the same as moving stars, and as it so happens I'm quite bad at both!"

Cathay recalled Gilah pulling off such a feat. Rearranging stars in the night sky to impress her dear Jason. She’s also quite certain that not long after leaving the planet they hung over, those very same gaseous balls of plasma quite literally fell from the sky. Such an unfortunate event that could have likely been prevented had Cathay chosen to offer some help.

Gilah hadn't even noticed the fact that they cut the Ruler off from what they wished to say. Or rather, they didn't much care as instead they wanted only to rant at an old friend.  

"You've got some explaining to do, Missy! Leaving me all high and dry, making me figure things out by myself! By your crown, Cath, I wasn't even certain you'd come here tonight! I have things I need to tell you but I wasn’t sure if I’d get that chance!”

Cathay felt the corner of her lips rise again, curling into a smile. Though she didn't get to say her peace… this felt better. There were few beings bold enough to keep the Ruler from speaking, and fewer still who could walk away from such actions. Just allowing Gilah to talk, have them speak their mind when it was rightfully deserved… 

It felt good. 

"Yes, I do suppose this fool of a fiend has much to explain," Cathay admitted with a chuckle. "And much to apologize for as well. Preferably over dinner if that pleases you?"

Gilah pondered the request for a moment. It didn’t take long at all for her to accept the possibility with a nod and smile. 

“But before that, you said you had something you wanted to tell me? What would it be, if you don't mind me being so bold as to ask."

Cathay hoped it was nothing bad. In her absence there was no telling just what sort of things could have happened to Gilah, now that she was living a relatively mundane life. While there was none on this planet that could really prove a threat to the Mako Warrior, the Depths has set its sights on Earth. There would be breaches, that was an inevitability. Once even a single whelp has marked a world, nothing would stop their eventual advance. It was the makings for a potential invasion, a fate the Archfiend wished to prepare humanity for. Largely it was in part to keep her close friend safe. 

Already two whelps had fought their way to the surface, though one dispatched the other not long before being killed themselves. While there was doubt that Gilah had the strength to handle herself, and possessed the potential size to match most any trespasser, the less they had to worry about the better. 

Any worries were dashed the moment Cathay’s eyes began to wander. Gilah wasn’t looking at her. Their eyes refused to meet theirs as a blush fell upon them. Confused at first, it wasn’t until the Ruler noticed the Mako’s hands upon her stomach did she begin to piece together the embarrassing information. 

To be precise, she immediately spotted the metal band that was wrapped around the fourth finger of their right hand. 

“Is that…” Cathay felt the air in her lungs leave her body. Were her wings to be outstretched they would have fluttered. Most telling of all was, despite having just changed them, her eyes shifted between blue and molten red before resting on the latter once more. Her whole body tingled with boundless jubilation. “No way…”

“Gilaaaah!” Before the former Butcher understood what was happening, she found herself in Cathay’s arms, lifted off of her feet. The Ruler was overjoyed. “Jason proposed!? That’s wonderful news!!!” 

Though her opinion on the youngest Armitage was generally kinder than that which was given to the rest of mankind, Cathay still held minor resentment towards him; if that wasn’t already clear to see from her stunt in deepthroating Valerie. Jason had taken her first love, there was no sugar coating that. He had succeeded in winning over the heart of someone Cathay had known for thousands of years. In a fraction of time so small by comparison that his year long efforts may as well have been a mote of dust in some vast ocean. 

But were it not for him, Cathay would have never met Valerie.

And he did promise to give Gilah the life she deserved. A life better than anything she might have had with a Primal that only knew how to dominate and destroy. For that, Cathay was grateful regardless of her opinions. Now, to see her dear friend with a ring around her finger, knowing this human wanted to treat Gilah with all the love he could give; it was nearly enough to move the Archfiend to tears. 

Caught by surprise, Gilah’s mind was still processing the fact that she was being hugged. By Cathay no less. Had… they ever actually hugged before? Their lives were so long that she wasn’t exactly certain. It was odd. Not unwelcomed, but certainly quite strange to be hugged by one so feared. “That’s… not actually what I wanted to tell you.”

“I mean… eventually I would have!” the Leviathan tried to explain as she was still held up high. “But it didn’t feel as important when compared to the other thing. I mean… it’s still important, I guess, but kinda… less so?”


“There’s more!?!”

Placing Gilah down, Cathay’s head turned in every direction, sometimes in unnatural degrees, trying her hardest to find anything that may be out of place with her friend. They failed to see what may be more incredible than Gilah and Jason officially tying down the knot. 

That is, until the Mako gestured downward towards her stomach.    

It took some time to register. At first Cathay couldn’t make heads or tails of what her friend was trying to imply. Things really only began to make sense the second she peered a little further into what they could possibly mean. There she found it, or rather heard. The soft, slow beating of hearts yet developed. Potential yet to be born. The earliest signs of life taking root. 

Cathay’s elation only continued to rise the longer she looked. “How long?”


“Three weeks now. Jason and I found out not too long ago.” Gilah watched as Cathay’s jaw just dropped. “We kind of thought you and Valerie would want to know before I'm too far along in it. You… both of you really… deserved to-.”

“OF COURSE I’D WANNA KNOW!!!” 

Children… Offspring…

Little terrors of the Deep born of Jason and Gilah’s union.

Both thoughts seemed an impossibility in Cathay’s own impossible mind, yet here she was listening as her age old companion explained the fact that… she was expecting. 

“Wait, did you say you knew for THREE weeks? That hardly gives us any time!”

Of course this brought on a whole slew of different complications the couple would have to deal with in the future. Raising Depthborn children was no easy task. Hell, if anything there wasn’t a single being in the Deep that could be considered an award winning parent. Trying to dine on your own offspring was unlikely to win any awards, and as a result newborn whelps were aggressive to a fault; genetically geared towards surviving in even the most harsh of environments. They were filled with as much energy any one creature could possess, and proved so incredibly fast in their development. They grew up quickly, reaching a point where they can fend for themselves in only a few years. Given the fact that any Depthborn could live endlessly so long as they had meat to dine on, that was a remarkably speedy rate of growth. 

It was all so that they may better defend themselves in time. The Depths are ruthless, and so creatures that called the domain their home needed to grow up fast. Coupled together with the already tiresome traits of human offspring, which itself already made regular parenting an uphill battle, and you’ve got a recipe for offspring unlike any other. 

But no matter how difficult those little terrors proved to be, regardless of how busy she was, Cathay was determined to remain by her friend’s side all the way. 

The Ruler took her companion’s hands in her own, holding them tightly. “Anything! Anything you need just say the word! Money! A place to relax! Or even just someone to look over the kids! Just name it!”

Gilah smiled, amused to see Cathay so full of energy at this revelation. They were taking the news far better than she could have hoped for, even appearing as though she were ready to break out in song. There was no doubt in her mind that this arose out of the Ruler’s need to make it up to one who she believed she had wronged, but also out of genuine affection towards her closest friend. Not passionate love anymore, that all belonged to Valerie, but more the love one feels when they are with a person whom they simply cannot do without. 

Familial in a way. Sisterly. 

Still, despite the genuine appreciation Gilah had for the gesture of generosity, a lot of what Cathay could offer her would amount to unnecessary luxuries. That is not the life she wished to live. She wanted her kids to have a family they could rely on, yes, but she wouldn’t spoil them silly. That would just make things worse, especially should they grow to not value the fragility of lesser life.


“How about just being my friend? Think that’s something you can manage?”


“Absolutely!” 

Any fears Cathay might have had were gone. Gilah washed it all away through her general kindness. She felt a fool to have worried so much, yet nothing could have prepared her for the two possibilities she had heard tonight. 

“By my crown Gilah, we have so much to prepare for!” The Ruler took her companion by the arm, attempting to drag them into the house so that they could discuss further over dinner. “We’ve got your wedding to plan out for starters; need to make it the best damn ceremony the multiverse has seen. And then your kids won’t be here for another year probably, so we’ll definitely need to plan ahead for them. That is, unless you want your little terrors to tear through your womb and stomach, which I highly doubt.” 

She was buzzing. Cathay couldn’t recall a point in her life where she was this excited. Including her ventures in bed with Valerie, this felt special over all other things. Of course the eldest Armitage would understand, as such news was nothing to scoff at. No doubt Jason would tell her in time, or perhaps Gilah would tell the both of them again during dinner. Whatever the case was, Cathay just would not stop. 

As she made her way inside, she saw both Jason and her Star looking her way; each with a ridiculous smile on their faces. Just like before, Valerie gave the Ruler a thumbs up, already aware of their highly improved mood. No doubt she had seen everything from a distance, trying to listen in on any little bit of information she could pick up on. This time though, she was joined by her younger brother, the duo serving to act as a source of appreciated annoyance towards Cathay’s positive progress. She promptly flipped the both of them off, Valerie specifically for leaving her alone. When she looked at Jason though, her middle finger retracted. 

Musing on the effect he has had on Gilah, the Ruler relented. He has only ever really been a benefit for her. The mate she needed for the life she wanted, and though there have been a few headaches born of Jason’s existence, his salubrious nature could not be denied. 

She met the siblings with a thumbs up of her own. A signal that all was well for now. 

Before she could make her way in though, Cathay was stopped. Turning back she found Gilah unmoving, amused and smiling, but not yet ready to head inside. 

“Slow down a bit, Cath. You’re jumping ahead to a lot of things WAY too fast.” the Mako remarked. “Not to say I don’t love that energy, but we can talk about any wedding plans later. It doesn’t have to be today.”


“As for my pregnancy… Jason and I already have that figured out.”

“How so?” Unless there was a human doctor that knew how to deliver two whelp offsprings, while also keeping their mother alive, Cathay didn’t see this panning out well. 

As if on cue, a car pulled up to the Family Home’s driveway. 

Gilah poked her head through the front doorway, looking for her husband to be. “JASON! DONOVAN JUST PULLED UP!”

The second eldest of the Armitage family, and the only one to have moved away from Ravencroft completely. Cathay only knew what she was told by Valerie, and understood the human's reasons for leaving the city. Unlike his siblings, Donovan caught onto Ravencroft's stranger aspects early on in life, and they only became more keenly aware of them as they grew older. Not on a level similar to Jason, where old sea tales were believed, but more a feeling that something was always off about their childhood home. Not quite as oblivious as his sister was to the obvious, Donovan took adulthood as the chance to get away from it all. The strangeness of the city, the tales of the sea, and the disappearance of his younger brother. 

They haven’t been home in a few good years, and while the middle child of the Amritage trio no doubt came back to Ravencroft in part due to Jason's return, Cathay had the feeling that there was more to their visit than that. 

Such suspicions were confirmed, as the moment Donovan exited his vehicle Cathay found herself assaulted by an odious wave. A growing scent of iron accompanied by the overpowering smell of carrion meat. Flesh and bones that've been left to decay in the sun. An… admittedly appealing aroma to those who dined on such things, Depthborn among such numbers. Checking to see if Gilah had picked up on the sensation as well, Cathay stopped herself the moment she felt was… off. 

The Mako honed in on it as well. She could tell something was off putting here. Though Donovan was a plain looking man, the shortest of his siblings but in no way lacking their pleasant features, he absolutely reeked of death. 

But he didn’t serve as its source. 

It became clear that whatever was assaulting Cathay's senses was coming from inside their car; and Donovan was trying with all their might to get whatever was in there to step out. Though she could see the human well enough through her sight beyond sight, it was their companion that eluded Cathay's vision. 

She could not hear nor see them as clearly as she should, and the longer she focused on the area within the vehicle the less Cathay found herself able to actually view anything. Not unlike the blind space a Ruler might focus on when trying to observe a Calamity, the area the Archfiend couldn't look at was fuzzy. Like a cloud or fog, she couldn’t see past its outer layer.  

Strange

This was no form of concealment. No spell in effect. There was no magic in the cosmos that could keep at bay a Ruler’s sight. Not unless it was deprived from Cathay’s ruinous tablets. 

It was a struggle to be sure to see what eluded Cathay. 

And from the look of things, Donovan wasn’t faring any better. It appeared as though they were losing out in a contest of strength, failing to pull free something that just did not wish to cooperate. 

From her spot Cathay could see him well enough. Darker hair, though on the reddish side like his brother and sister. Short, as already stated, easily dwarfed by the likes of his siblings; yet in spite of that, the Ruler could tell the human was of a stoic nature. Calm and determined, which was a boon as any physical strength Donovan could have had was clearly inherited unto Jason rather than himself. 

An unfortunately needed trait as whoever or whatever was in the car proved to be leagues stronger than the short human. It wasn't until a different approach was taken, and some gentle coaxing was exercised, that they were finally able to persuade their unseen companion to finally come out. 

Cathay was confused. The one that stepped from the car was only just a woman. Unimpressive, just like the rest that weren’t her Valerie. 

Donovan's wife perhaps. Another human Valerie had told her about, though only through allusions really. Considered to be more of the quiet sort, Cathay only knew them to be a doctor of great skill. A master in the medical field, as well as versed in various forms of therapy. Physical, mental, and spiritual; which she found odd for a medical professional. 

That said, they remained remarkably unimpressive. An ape of any worth was still an ape after all, and though there was a clear physical appeal to be seen of them, Cathay will admit they were far too short for her liking. Though their platinum blond and deep blue eyes were worthy of attention, maybe even adoration, their apparent height of only five feet three inches was below that of even an average human. They proved to be even shorter than Donovan. Subpar, the both of them.

At the very least the woman boasted a taste for professionalism, wearing the most refined attire Cathay had seen of a primate so far.

Of course, not taking her Star into consideration. 

That said, something felt off about the woman. The longer Cathay looked at them the more it became clear that they were the cloud which fogged her vision. In turn, as the woman looked in the Ruler’s direction, it was seen that they were afraid. Of her. Shaking in their boots, unable to stand without aid.  

The small little human could barely even look at Cathay without appearing as though she were ready to throw up. Something which her husband immediately picked up on. Taking action quickly, a kind trait for a family man to possess, Donovan guided his seemingly sick wife towards the house. 

As the duo got closer though, the odious scent continued to grow. Soon, Cathay found all the pieces falling into place. She understood more and more as the connections were made. Donovan's wife was greater than she appeared to be. Much like Gilah. Much like Cathay herself. Another trespasser on this weak little world. 

Something far beyond the understanding of humanity. 

Donovan stopped before Cathay, looking at her with his hand stretched outward in greeting. When it quickly became obvious the Ruler wouldn't shake his hand he instead turned to Gilah who graciously acknowledged their presence. 

"Sorry to do this when we just got here, but do you think Alma could use your bathroom?" Donovan asked with a nervous laugh. “I don’t think the car ride here agreed with her all that well. It’s not an easy thing finding this city, and even less so actually driving here.” 

Cathay could see clearly into his mind. Donovan lacked his sister’s mental fortitude, but no doubt boasted other forms of cosmic resistance; same as his brother. This was his first time meeting Gilah, and he regretted having to ask her to use the bathroom. Not the best of first impressions in his mind, but because of her current condition his wife’s wellbeing was the top priority. Not a bad prerogative to have. 

Though it was clear that the middle child of the Amritage line didn’t break the apparent tradition of sleeping with things far beyond their understanding. Cathay doubted a car ride would prove all too damning for one of such high stature. If anything, their condition was because of her. 

Alma. 

That was a name she has not heard in quite some time. A being that was thought to have perished long before the civil war within the Depths. The implications were already unsettling, and the more Cathay thought about it the more she could feel a headache taking shape.  

As though cruel fate wished to push the Ruler’s concerns ever further, Alma stepped forward. By herself and without her husband's aid, she bowed before the Queen of the Depths, sweating through her fatigue yet resisting the urge to collapse downward in prostration. They lowered their head, never meeting the eyes of someone so much more powerful than themselves. They would not dare. 

They feared for the consequences of such an insult. 

Cathay rubbed the bridge of her nose, already aware of what all this meant. Gilah only laughed, already privy to the knowledge which bothered her age old friend. 

"My R-Ruler…" Alma said, the fear in her voice abundantly clear. She shook with every breath taken, and though she reeked of death it was nothing in comparison to what she knew of the Archfiend. Just as Cathay had not expected them to be here, they in turn did not expect to see such a legend on the surface of Earth. Their intended sanctuary away from the Kingdom most reviled. "It is a p-p-pleasure to make your a-acquaintance…"

A clear lie, though that was besides the point. It was obvious to Cathay that this being in front of her was one of her own. A Depthborn, one of an extremely advanced age, wrapped around the fingers of an Armitage. For reasons Cathay did not understand, they possessed some means of combating her authority, and in truth she didn’t care to find out why that was. 

"Ah… ahahahaa, fuuuuck ME!"

It was happening again. 

Cathay couldn't understand why it was happening again!

She couldn’t figure out just WHAT it was with the Armitage family that drew so many Depthborn to them, nor couldn't she understand why another force of nature was attempting to seek affection in a mortal. 

Whatever Alma's repertoire of skills was, it was clear she had been invited to aid in Gilah's pregnancy. They were a doctor after all, one whose origins were found in the Deep. They had skills humans just wouldn’t be able to compete with. It was a point of benefit Cathay would not argue on, though that would not stop her from lamenting this development. 

She wanted to rant.

She wanted to RAGE.

Once again Cathay found her sanity at stake, seeing another Depthborn in the arms of someone so much weaker than themselves. Call her a hypocrite for calling out one of her own, after she’s had her way with a human herself, but she felt as though she were nearing a limit once again. Tonight has been… emotionally draining. A lot of ups and downs, highs and lows she wasn’t really prepared to mentally deal with. This final revelation felt like the breaking point that would snap the straw on the camel's back. It’d be better for everyone really were she to just call it early. She’d hate to ruin everyone’s mood. 

But a gentle hand upon Cathay’s shoulder stopped her from doing so. Kept from just walking away, Gilah presented the Ruler with a silent choice. Either she could walk off right now and deal with the issues this new addition to their group would likely present, along with the migraines that came with them.

Or…

She could stay for dinner. Get to know Donovan and Alma, hear their side of the story. Be a part of the family, flaws and all; even if it was only for tonight. . 

Though not a word was said by them, Cathay knew her closest of friends wished for her to be here tonight. Of all present, it was THEM they wanted here the most. 

Who was Cathay to deny them that? 

Digging her nails into her scalp, and at her complete wits end, Cathay yielded to these developments with a sigh.

“Fine… FINE!” She still wanted to pull her hair right off of her skull, but were she to do that now she’d be disappointing Gilah. They were her guest after all, invited to hear wondrous news. So, even if it was just for one night, she would relent for their benefit. That much and more was owed to the Mako who held a place so close to the Archfiend’s black heart. 

“FUCK IT! I guess we’re doing this again!” 

Things would be fine, Cathay needed to tell herself that. She has made preparations for a well secured future. One where mankind can defend itself, providing a strong home for her… family.

She chuckled. 

Even the thought of such was humorous to her. Family… never in all her years would she have thought to find herself involved in something even remotely similar to the concept of family. The closest thing she’s ever had was Gilah, and it was no mystery how that relationship turned out. Now… that idea of a concept has grown. 

It was… pleasing.  

Yes, there would be headaches in the future. There would be trials and tribulations for the Queen of the Deep, but then that was something she was well and already used to at this stage of her life. As she headed on inside with her… family… Cathay found herself strangely looking forward to whatever the future may hold. 

Mundane though some days might be, she would bear with what was to come. Cathay would take it all in strides. The hardships. The joy that came after. The memories of both. She would have it all…

And share the moments with those who would stand by her side.