{"sf1_id":1436857,"sf2_id":"RnoQWxve","title":"Tricky Business","author":"Retconned","words":24174,"posted_at":"2019-04-11T19:06:45.000Z","tags":["Alternate Reality","Cartoony antics","Coyote","First Time","Greentext","Human","Interspecies","Love","Mythological Creature","Romance","Second Person","Vaginal","goddess"],"url":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1436857-tricky-business","original_url":"https://sofurry.com/s/RnoQWxve","image_url":"https://cdn.sofurryfiles.com/submissions/thumbnails/0d/e3/0de3f2dd-205b-42d8-8656-9cba92d3ffed","description":"The story of an ancient trickster in a world that has forgotten her...  \n  \nThis story remains one of my more popular ones, with the leading lady being fairly well liked, generally speaking!","content":"\\\u003e\\*DING-DONG\\*\n\n\\\u003eUgggh, great. The doorbell. Just what you needed right now...\n\n\\\u003eYou were napping on the couch. You've been fighting a pretty bad flu for about a week now, and still feel like hell. The last thing you want is company. Maybe if you ignore it, they'll go away...?\n\n\\\u003e\\*DING-DONG DING-DONG\\*\n\n\\\u003e...that's a no, then. You groan and rise up off the couch. Rubbing your head and muttering swears under your breath, you make your way to the back door.\n\n\\\u003eAs you approach the blue door, your visitor apparently starts losing their patience, beating on the door loudly. It feels like gunshots to your flu-ridden head.\n\n\\\u003e\"ALRIGHT I'M COMING, KNOCK IT OFF!\"\n\n\\\u003eAs if taunting you, the guest rhythmically knocks out Shave and A Haircut, Two Bits.\n\n\\\u003eIt's not until you unlock the door that you have a moment of sudden clarity.\n\n\\\u003eYou don't have a doorbell. Or a back door, for that matter. You live in an apartment on the 10th floor.\n\n\\\u003eAs soon as the lock clicks open, a woman you've never seen throws the door open dramatically.\n\n\\\u003e\"HONEY, I'M HOO~OME! And boy are my feet tired. Long day today.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe parades right past you, removing a coat and hat and hanging them on a blue coatrack by the door.\n\n\\\u003eYou blink a few times and confront your guest.\n\n\\\u003e\"Who are you supposed to-\"\n\n\\\u003eYou trail off when you get a good look at her. She looks to be some sort of... wolf-woman? Her entire body is covered in fur, and she grins widely with a snout full of fangs. A long tail playfully wraps itself around her body, and her ears twitch mischievously.\n\n\\\u003eShe almost looks... painted. Her fur is a dull blue, with geometric patterns in red, white and black. Something about her is vaguely familiar...\n\n\\\u003eSomething else strikes you: she's entirely nude. A rather modest bust sits at the perfect height for her to rest it atop your head effortlessly. Long, slender legs and a lean torso compliment this rack, giving her a fairly athletic build.\n\n\\\u003eShe speaks, smile never wavering.\n\n\\\u003e\"Who am I? Well, I've been called a lot of things! Lemme think. Chaos, Disorder, Mayhem, Mischief, Eris, Trouble, Discord, That Bitch, Whimsy...\"\n\n\\\u003e...you can't help but notice she's counting all these on one hand. Eventually, she stops rattling off names and gestures with her hand, revealing FAR too many fingers. However, her hand quickly returns to normal.\n\n\\\u003e\"...BUT, I prefer Coyote. You may have heard of me...?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe grins expectantly, tail bending to resemble a question mark.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I... can't say that I have.\"\n\n\\\u003eFor the first time since she's walked in, Coyote's smile falters.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh. Well, uh... if it helps, I'm THE Coyote. From the stories???\"\n\n\\\u003e...you do vaguely remember some old folk tales your grandma read you ages ago.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I thought Coyote was a guy? And not real?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe immediately regains her smile and guffaws.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah-hah! No, no; I was a woman all along, and I'm very much real. See?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly grabs your hand and places it firmly on one of her perky breasts. Yep, she's real.\n\n\\\u003e\"W-wait... aren't you like-\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile gets even wider, almost literally ear to ear at this point.\n\n\\\u003e\"Like... a goddess? Yes.\"\n\n\\\u003eOkay, this is definitely a hallucination caused by your flu meds. But... why not humor this \"Coyote?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Alright, prove it.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"With pleasure. How can I prove myself to you?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh...\"\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, she seems to get an idea. At least, the lightbulb that appears above her head suggests as such.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ooh! Ooh! I got it! Watch this.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe spins around dramatically, then throws the blue door open, revealing...\n\n\\\u003eA vast, sprawling desert of blue sand.\n\n\\\u003e...okay, she may actually be legit.\n\n\\\u003e\"...okay, uh... I think I believe you.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe chuckles again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah, you THINK you believe? Alright, I'll take it. Got a name, eh?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah... Anonymous.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer grin becomes a bit strained.\n\n\\\u003e\"A... Anonymymonous? Anymonymous? Amonynous? Anymanomanymus?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe tries increasingly incorrect variants on your name, and her tongue quite literally ties itself in knots. Eventually, she lets out a pitiful whine and shrugs, smile drooping into a little frown. She speaks perfectly coherently despite her, uh... condition.\n\n\\\u003e\"I, uh... I'm not good with long words. They get me all tongue twisted. How about I just call you... Nonny?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou cringe at the ridiculous nickname, and immediately a mischievous glint appears in her eyes. Her smile returns as her tongue suddenly untangles itself.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah! Nonny it is then.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...can't you call me Anon? My friends do.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mmmmmmnope! Gah-hah! I picked this name and I'm sticking with it!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...alright, fine. Whatever you want to call me.\"\n\n\\\u003eSeeing that it's legitimately bothering you, she puts on a more sympathetic smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"...hey. If you don't want me to call you that, I won't. Anon works for me, just so long as I don't have to keep trying to say Anymonymous.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh... if you don't mind, I'd prefer Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer grin immediately regains its manic energy.\n\n\\\u003e\"It's settled; Anon it is then. Congrats on getting a name! Lemme just christen ya real quick.\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you can react, she shatters a blue champagne bottle over your head!\n\n\\\u003e...you barely feel an impact; it's more like she just tapped you on the head, really, despite the clearly broken bottle in her hand.\n\n\\\u003eYou rub your head in confusion, and Coyote gives you an equally confused look. She glances down at the broken blue bottle.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I didn't use the real glass, did I? Lemme just-\"\n\n\\\u003eThe bottle regenerates, then the goddess unflinchingly breaks it over her own head, her tongue comically dispensing from her mouth and her eyes temporarily becoming stars.\n\n\\\u003eShe shakes her head violently, then grins.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nah, you should be good!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou blink a few times, questions flooding your mind. Coyote sees your thoughtful expression, and her grin widens again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Something on your mind?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...why me? If you're really a goddess, why come to me?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe tilts her head thoughtfully, putting a hand to her chin.\n\n\\\u003e\"...well, you just kinda seemed like you could use some company.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe sees your unimpressed look and immediately throws her hands up in defense.\n\n\\\u003e\"Now hang on, hang on! No need to look daggers at me just yet, gah-hah! I just wanted to brighten up your day a little bit, huh?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou shrug.\n\n\\\u003e\"What's it like being a goddess?\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile seems to extend beyond her face almost.\n\n\\\u003e\"Sooo much fun, Anon. Soooo much. You can't even begin to imagine how much I love my job, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Good for you. Now, tell me: what is it that I can do for you?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe flinches, her smile vanishing for a moment in favor of a frown.\n\n\\\u003e\"W- huh? I didn't say anything about needing anything from you. I'm just here for you!\"\n\n\\\u003eSuuuure.\n\n\\\u003eWhatever. You're too sick for this shit.\n\n\\\u003eYou silently walk away from the probable hallucination and head to your kitchen to heat up some soup.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote, confused, follows you, ears and tail drooping a bit.\n\n\\\u003eGrumbling and rubbing your aching head, you grab a can of cheap off-brand soup and start heating it up.\n\n\\\u003eThe walking fever dream silently watches you with a small frown on her face.\n\n\\\u003eYou sigh and mutter under your breath.\n\n\\\u003e\"I wish I weren't so damn out of it. I'm imagining goddesses, talking to myself, answering doors that aren't there...\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's frown becomes far more pronounced, and she lets out a sad whimper.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I... I didn't realize you were sick. Sorry.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou wave a hand at the hallucination with a false smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Not your fault. Want some soup? I've got extra.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe blinks a few times in surprise, and a blue exclamation point appears over her head for a moment.\n\n\\\u003e\"...you'd share your food with me? Even though I bothered you?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Why not. Help yourself.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's toothy grin returns as she quickly ladles two bowls of soup out. She gently sets yours down in front of you, then pats your head as she sits down across from you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Anon; that's very kind of you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mhm... hey, you're a goddess... can't you just cure me?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns for a moment, spoonful of soup halfway to her mouth.\n\n\\\u003e\"...sorry, not my department. I would if I could, though... ACTUALLY, WAIT.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe mysterious woman jumps from her seat and bolts, leaving her spoon hovering in midair.\n\n\\\u003eShe returns as fast as she left, practically shaking with excitement as she presents a vial full of a green liquid. She catches the spoon just as it begins to fall.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah-hah, drink this!\"\n\n\\\u003e...you'd rather not. It's glowing, and reeks of earth.\n\n\\\u003eYou sigh.\n\n\\\u003e\"No thanks. I'm sorry, I'm not gonna take a drink from something a hallucination is offering me. I'm too sick to trust my head right now.\"\n\n\\\u003eImmediately, her smile vanishes, replaced with a genuinely heartbroken frown.\n\n\\\u003e\"You... you think I'm just an illusion...?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hangs her head and whimpers sadly.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote looks at you sadly, and you can't help but feel a little guilty.\n\n\\\u003eBut... she's not real, right? There's no way.\n\n\\\u003eYou're just high on flu meds and a fever, and your brain's throwing up memories of Grandma's old Coyote stories.\n\n\\\u003e...you still feel it's only right to apologize to the mirage.\n\n\\\u003e\"Look... I'm sorry. I'm on very strong medication right now, so you being a hallucination just makes sense to me. I don't mean to hurt your feelings or anything. It's just...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe continues to whimper quietly, but seems to be more concerned about you than her own sadness right now.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I work a dead-end job, day in, day out. Every day's the same old story... why would a goddess just show up out of the blue one day? I'm pretty sure you're just my mind remembering those old, made-up stories.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe momentarily brightens up and guffaws at your unintentional pun, then immediately droops again.\n\n\\\u003eShe looks very... tired, now. Worryingly so, even.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote sighs deeply, her voice having lost its bright tone in favor of a rather somber one.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I understand. It was a long shot to think anyone still cared about old Coyote. Sorry to have bothered you, and I hope you feel better...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs again...\n\n\\\u003e...was she always a little transparent?\n\n\\\u003eAs Coyote simply sits and sighs, your heart aches.\n\n\\\u003eHell, if she's legit, she just wants to help. If she's not, there's no harm done.\n\n\\\u003e\"...actually, let me try that drink, please.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles, a little more wearily than before, and hands you the vial.\n\n\\\u003eYou hesitate, but drain the liquid...\n\n\\\u003eIt tastes like grass, but you feel a little bit... better.\n\n\\\u003eYou smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey... I feel kinda better. Thanks, uh, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eAt the sound of her name, she gasps and perks up, smiling.\n\n\\\u003e\"Y'know what? I don't think you ARE a hallucination. That medicine or whatever did in a minute what my doctor couldn't in a week. ...I think you really are THE Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer wide grin returns, and she seems to look more... corporeal again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Since it looks like you're legit... thank you for bringing mankind fire, among other things.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe cackles wildly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah-hah! I knew people still appreticiate- attreciate... I knew people were still happy about that!\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you can react, she dashes over and wraps her arms around you.\n\n\\\u003eLiterally.\n\n\\\u003eShe even somehow ties them into a little \"ribbon\" on your chest.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles brilliantly at you, and you hug her back.\n\n\\\u003e\"...thank you again. I actually feel a good bit better. Sorry for being a dick earlier.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's fine! I shouldn't have come out swinging, gah-hah.\"\n\n\\\u003eA thought hits your addled mind.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Coyote, did you know my Grandma? She told me stories about you.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes widen.\n\n\\\u003e\"YOU are the descendant of a story teller? Oh, I love stories, even moreso if they're about me; I made sure that I touched the life of every single person who ever shared my stories. It's the least I can do!\"\n\n\\\u003e...you have a vague memory of a coyote tooth necklace Grandma loved...\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess steps away, leaving you wrapped up in her arms somehow, then sits and laps up a bit of soup with a smile.\n\n\\\u003eHer arms simply stretch limitlessly, it seems.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote leaves you tangled in her arms until she finishes her soup, occasionally looking over and snickering at your predicament.\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help but smile yourself. Her attitude is infectious.\n\n\\\u003e...but something bothers you.\n\n\\\u003eWhy was she transparent earlier...?\n\n\\\u003eWas it... what you said?\n\n\\\u003eWhen you said you didn't believe in her...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote? I'm sorry I said I didn't believe in you. Is that why you turned transparent?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe flinches, and her smile becomes more forced.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I didn't want to burden you with this, Anon, but... yes. To be honest with you, I need you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"For what?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I need someone who believes in me. You see... I'm a dying goddess. Very few people alive still... still believe in Coyote. It's those few people even keeping me alive. When you said that, I-\"\n\n\\\u003eShe whines.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I nearly lost my form. Sorry to put this on your shoulders...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile, and her whining stops as she returns the gesture.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I believe in you. You've got your arms around me now... and besides, your tits sure felt real. In both ways.\"\n\n\\\u003eDespite her fur, she blushes wildly.\n\n\\\u003e\"W-well... I thought that was an easy way to prove I was real!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Heh, you came on pretty strong... sure you just need a believer, and not a lover?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps as her blush intensifies.\n\n\\\u003e\"...gah-hah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou wink at her.\n\n\\\u003e\"Actually, I'm still a little out of it... maybe if I grabbed another handful of your chest it'd prove you were still real~?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe giggles again.\n\n\\\u003e\"...l-let's maybe save that for later, huh?\"\n\n\\\u003eFor a goddess, she's pretty cute when she's flustered.\n\n\\\u003eEven though you feel better...\n\n\\\u003eYou're still exhausted.\n\n\\\u003eYou yawn and smile drowsily at your guest.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you again, Coyote, but I need a nap.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe stands and walks over to you, then retracts her arms. As soon as you're free, you hug her tightly.\n\n\\\u003eHer fur is soft, but she's mostly lean muscle beneath, it seems.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles warmly.\n\n\\\u003e\"You're welcome, Anon. Thank you... for believing.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...could I... lay in your lap, maybe?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe blushes a little, but nods.\n\n\\\u003e\"Sure thing. Let me just...\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you know it, you're lying across a blue-blanketed bed, your head nestled comfortably in Coyote's lap.\n\n\\\u003eShe gently runs a clawed hand through your hair with a smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Comfy?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod sleepily.\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes, thanks... Coyote, I hope you know I'll be here for you when I wake up.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes glimmer as another genuine smile spreads across her face.\n\n\\\u003e\"...thank you. Sleep well!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe bed is the softest you've ever laid on... it contrasts interestingly with her toned legs and soft, smooth fur.\n\n\\\u003eEither way, you drift off to sleep quickly.\n\n\\\u003eAs with every other night since this flu started, you don't dream...\n\n\\\u003eYou wake up from a fantastic rest, and immediately notice that you feel tons better. Seems like the medicine helped a lot.\n\n\\\u003eYou gently push yourself off the blue blankets of your bed...\n\n\\\u003eWait, blue? You have white sheets on your bed.\n\n\\\u003eConfused, you rise up some more and look behind you.\n\n\\\u003eIn place of a pillow is a furry blue lap...\n\n\\\u003eYou suddenly remember what's happening as you look up to see Coyote still sitting as she was when you fell asleep.\n\n\\\u003eA toothy smile lingers on her face as she sleeps, her head resting on a hovering blue pillow.\n\n\\\u003eAbover her head, little blue sheep hop over a similarly-colored fence.\n\n\\\u003eShe snores quietly, occasionally chuckling in her sleep.\n\n\\\u003eYou remember more of what this woman did for you... giving you some miracle medicine, hugging you tightly, apparently giving you the sleep of a lifetime...\n\n\\\u003eYou affectionately scratch the fur around her neck.\n\n\\\u003eHer smile widens a bit, and she giggles happily, but Coyote remains asleep.\n\n\\\u003eYou reach your other hand up and scratch behind an ear. She practically vibrates in happiness, tail thrashing merrily and ears twitching madly.\n\n\\\u003eShe chuckles again, and mutters in her sleep.\n\n\\\u003e\"mm... the great coyote... slumbered for years... it seemed...\"\n\n\\\u003eSeems like she's narrating her own dreams.\n\n\\\u003e...DO goddesses dream?\n\n\\\u003eWhatever the case, her little narrative continues quietly for a moment, then trails off as she snores again.\n\n\\\u003eThe little sheep continue to hop their fence.\n\n\\\u003e...curious, you poke one roughly.\n\n\\\u003eThe sheep lets off a loud, distressed bleat as it explodes violently into blue confetti.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote jolts awake with a gasp.\n\n\\\u003e\"GUH! H-huh? Oh! Uh, good morning. Sleep well?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod, amused, and she smiles again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Great! Glad to hear that.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe surprises you with another hug, then she stands up...\n\n\\\u003eAnd the bed vanishes, dumping you in the floor roughly. Coyote snickers as she falls on her rump as well.\n\n\\\u003e\"Whoops! Gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help but laugh a bit yourself.\n\n\\\u003eSmiling, you embrace the goddess to her apparent delight.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks again for the medicine. You really helped me out big time.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah, no problem, Nonny. Imean, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Now... I've gotta go to work today. You're welcome to tag along if you wanna take a different form.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe guffaws loudly. She laughs so hard that her eyes water.\n\n\\\u003e\"A different form? Gah-hah-hah-hah! What's the fun in that, Anon?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...Coyote, you're blue, and a coyote woman. You're gonna draw attention.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Aaaaaand?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...and you're naked.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe scoffs and waves a hand dismissively.\n\n\\\u003e\"Please. You humans are so uptight about stuff like that. I'll be fine, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...alright, if you insist. Maybe after work we could set up a story telling session at the library or something?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe beams.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oooh, that could be fun! ...and a convenient way to spread the word, gah-hah...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anything in town you wanna see in particular?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe scratches her chin thoughtfully, a question mark drifting above her head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mmmmmmm... I can't think of anything... but I'll admit I'm not too versed in modern day stuff. Soooooo I guess I'll just follow you, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Fair enough.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou glance at the clock...\n\n\\\u003e7:55.\n\n\\\u003eShit, you have to be in at 8:15!\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly begin getting ready for work...\n\n\\\u003eA process slightly hampered by your guest. A lock of your hair simply refuses to lay down, springing up with a faint blue blur to it every time you comb over it.\n\n\\\u003eYour toothpaste tube seems empty until you point it at your face to see if it's clogged... then it squirts a blast of blue paste right at you.\n\n\\\u003eBasically, everything you need to do is delayed by conspicuously blue tricks.\n\n\\\u003eYou can hear Coyote snickering the whole time.\n\n\\\u003eAfter what feels like forever, you manage to get ready... at 8:10.\n\n\\\u003eYou're screwed.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote whistles loudly, and gestures for you to follow her through a blue door.\n\n\\\u003eYou do...\n\n\\\u003eAnd end up right outside your workplace.\n\n\\\u003ePhew.\n\n\\\u003eAh, the office.\n\n\\\u003eYou've been working in the tax office for years now.\n\n\\\u003eA job that admittedly makes your naturally bitter attitude a little worse.\n\n\\\u003eBut, it pays well enough, and you've always had a knack for numbers. So, meh.\n\n\\\u003eYou hug Coyote and thank her, much to the goddess's joy.\n\n\\\u003e\"My pleasure, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou stroll into the office, where your desk awaits. A few wandering eyes widen when they see Coyote, who puts on her best shit-eating grin and waves mockingly.\n\n\\\u003eThankfully, nobody dares say a word. Most of them audibly swear off caffeine and alcohol...\n\n\\\u003eAt least one wonders aloud:\n\n\\\u003e\"...the hell did I smoke last night?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou chuckle quietly as you boot up your PC.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote sits in a cushy blue chair next to you, already looking bored.\n\n\\\u003eYou glance out the window...\n\n\\\u003eThe window washer's already at it? Hm.\n\n\\\u003eKind of a shame the old guy up and left. You used to hit the bar with him every now and then. Last time you spoke to him, he said something about... being watched?\n\n\\\u003e...eh, he was probably some paranoid jackass. Doesn't really matter, does it?\n\n\\\u003eYou look back to your computer, then silently begin running the numbers, as usual.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote lets out a long, low, droning sigh of boredom.\n\n\\\u003eYou apologize, and she grumbles and nods.\n\n\\\u003eSomeone clears their throat, and your heart stops.\n\n\\\u003eYou look up at your coworker, Jim... no, John...\n\n\\\u003eAh, screw it, you never learned the guy's name. Whatever it is, he looks... out of it.\n\n\\\u003eHe puts on a fake smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, Anonymous... are you seeing the same thing I am?\"\n\n\\\u003eHe gestures towards Coyote, who grins as a faint blue spotlight shines on her.\n\n\\\u003eYou put on your best poker face.\n\n\\\u003e\"I have no idea what you're talking about. It's too early for this shit, man.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...y-yeah. Sorry to bother you.\"\n\n\\\u003eHe awkwardly shuffles away... then trips over a blue bump in the carpet.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote does a little fist pump as he drops some papers.\n\n\\\u003e...a sneaky idea comes to mind. You lean over and whisper to Coyote.\n\n\\\u003e\"hey... let's see how crazy we can make them feel. make them think there's been a gas leak. ...don't actually cause one please.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe grins wickedly and nods, then begins wandering the office.\n\n\\\u003eShe leans over some of your coworkers' shoulders as they talk at the water cooler, interrupting their chat.\n\n\\\u003e\"Excuse me, do you have the time?\"\n\n\\\u003eOne man, confused, looks at his watch, only for a blue bird to burst from the tiny cuckoo clock now mounted on his wrist.\n\n\\\u003eHe faints as Coyote snickers and walks away.\n\n\\\u003eAt another desk, a woman shreds papers. Except...\n\n\\\u003eCoyote crouches beside her desk, pulling out each shredded up paper and licking it, somehow sticking it back together. She then replaces the newly-repaired paper atop the stack.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, the woman catches on when she notices blue writing that gets increasingly mocking and goofy.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote heads off to prank one more person... when your manager steps out of his office.\n\n\\\u003eHe's an entirely joyless, cold man, and always has been.\n\n\\\u003eHe takes one look at Coyote and grumbles.\n\n\\\u003e\"If yer gonna come to work in costume, at least be decent.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote frowns for a moment and glances down at her chest, where her nips playfully peek through her fur.\n\n\\\u003eShe looks back up at the manager, with a grin.\n\n\\\u003e\"I don't know what you mean, sir; I'm quite decent.\"\n\n\\\u003eHe does a double take as a blue suit manifests on Coyote's body instantly. It fits her rather snugly, showing off her lithe figure well.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles and adjusts a pair of blue-framed glasses as the manager sputters angrily.\n\n\\\u003e\"Harumph. Anyway. Mandatory meeting in 5, people. Conference Room 4.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou make your way to the conference room, with the newly-suited Coyote joining you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah... he's gonna be a fun mark.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile becomes worryingly sinister, reminding you that she IS in fact a very powerful being.\n\n\\\u003eOnce you sit down, Coyote yawns loudly as a PowerPoint begins.\n\n\\\u003eAs expected, things go awry very quickly...\n\n\\\u003eBut you're concerned to see Coyote look a bit confused. She sniffs the air, then chuckles under her breath.\n\n\\\u003e\"of course!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe antics onscreen are definitely not Coyote's doing... they're an electric yellow rather than blue, for starters.\n\n\\\u003eA pie chart shows up, only for a blue-and-yellow, doglike head to appear and take a bite out of it. A staticky sort of... snickering sound tickles your ears.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote beams widely...\n\n\\\u003eThen her own face appears next to the mysterious one. The two exchange a smile, then vanish into electricity and blue confetti respectively.\n\n\\\u003eThe manager makes no sign that he's seen anything, but your coworkers look shellshocked.\n\n\\\u003eYou say nothing, but smile.\n\n\\\u003eA picture captioned \"Best Assets of the Year\" changes from a photo of the employees of the year...\n\n\\\u003eTo Coyote and a strange... dog woman? The two are clad in bikinis and flaunting their chests with wide grins. The mystery woman is covered in fluffy blue and yellow fur that seems to stand on end; her eyes are a brilliant yellow.\n\n\\\u003eThough you can't help but chuckle, you also can't help but admire the picture.\n\n\\\u003eThe actual Coyote elbows you with a snicker as the picture changes again...\n\n\\\u003eTo your manager in a bikini.\n\n\\\u003e...brain bleach is gonna be needed.\n\n\\\u003eSomeone on the back row retches and runs for the bathroom.\n\n\\\u003eAgain, the boss refuses to acknowledge anything.\n\n\\\u003eBut... his face grows bright red with embarrassment.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote and her friend continue to screw with the presentation, throwing pie charts back and forth like frisbees, moving the bars on bar graphs around randomly, waving at the audience...\n\n\\\u003eEventually, though, it all comes to an end. The two supernatural women take a bow, then vanish from the screen.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs out loud, and a few people awkwardly chuckle, much to the manager's fury.\n\n\\\u003eAs the manager grumbles and hastily turns off the projector, everyone files out of the conference room. \u0026nbsp;Everyone that passes you pointedly glances at Coyote, some smiling, others looking horrified.\n\n\\\u003eSome actually speak to you.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Anonymous, remind me to call my therapist after work today, please...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, uh... d-did you see two sexy dogs in bikinis too- ERR, I-I mean uh, two w-weird dogs? \u0026nbsp;WEIRD!\"\n\n\\\u003eOne particular individual stops and hugs Coyote tightly, snickering with a vaguely staticky voice...\n\n\\\u003eYou blink in shock when you realize it's the same blue-and-yellow woman from the presentation shenanigans. \u0026nbsp;She winks and extends a blue tongue, then vanishes into lightning.\n\n\\\u003eYou turn to Coyote, who's giggling as her fur stands on end.\n\n\\\u003e\"...who was that?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Raiju! \u0026nbsp;Or, spark dogs, as some call them. \u0026nbsp;Love those gals, they know how to party, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote winks and hugs you, sending a nasty static shock through your body.\n\n\\\u003eBoth the goddess's hearty guffaw and that same fuzzy snicker echo in your ears.\n\n\\\u003eYour manager stomps by, huffing, and you can't resist poking the bear.\n\n\\\u003e\"Sir, I think you should check for viruses before showing presentations like that.\"\n\n\\\u003eHe sputters indignantly.\n\n\\\u003e\"I suppose I shall! \u0026nbsp;Harrumph. \u0026nbsp;Immature hacker types these days...\"\n\n\\\u003eHe glances over at Coyote, the only sign he notices her being a very faint look of fear in his eyes, then shuffles back to his office.\n\n\\\u003eYou pat the goddess on the back.\n\n\\\u003e\"...that was amazing. \u0026nbsp;Thank you for making that meeting tolerable.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe beams and hugs you again.\n\n\\\u003e\"No problem!\"\n\n\\\u003e...after a mostly uneventful shift, during which Coyote pointedly rested her head atop yours and fell asleep, you finally clock out for the day.\n\n\\\u003eShe yawns as her suit and glasses vanish, leaving her once again clad in only her fur.\n\n\\\u003e\"Dear gods, Anon, how do you put up with a job that dull?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou shrug.\n\n\\\u003e\"It puts food on the table.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe rolls her eyes and sticks her tongue out.\n\n\\\u003e\"Bah. \u0026nbsp;I wouldn't last a day in there alone.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou shrug again as more questions about the mysterious goddess hit you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Say... what have you been doing all these years since you were more widely believed in? \u0026nbsp;I guess some people still believe if you're still alive, right?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns a little.\n\n\\\u003e\"I've done what I've always done: my job. \u0026nbsp;It's just... without people who believe in me, there's not much reason to pull big tricks like I used to...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe whimpers a bit, but catches herself.\n\n\\\u003e\"...isn't it scary, knowing that you could vanish?\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's bright attitude vanishes altogether, her blue fur even seeming to lose its hue in favor of a dull gray. \u0026nbsp;She looks utterly despaired.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Anon. \u0026nbsp;I do not mince words when I say... it is a fear you cannot imagine.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...that bad?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe wordlessly presses her hands to your head...\n\n\\\u003eAll you can fear is a visceral, existential terror beyond anything you've ever experienced. \u0026nbsp;A fear that grips every synapse in your brain and screams that the end times are coming, and it's far too late to prepare for them. \u0026nbsp;A fear that consumes every happy thought in your vast mind.\n\n\\\u003eYou see your companion through a lens of nightmarish hysteria, with her no longer resembling anything more than a whirling mass of chaos.\n\n\\\u003eYou begin to scream...\n\n\\\u003eAnd just as suddenly as the terror hit, it ends. \u0026nbsp;You are lying on the ground, head in Coyote's lap.\n\n\\\u003eShe looks grim, but her blue hue has returned.\n\n\\\u003e\"...that bad, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003eShuddering, you stand up and embrace her warmly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, I will never let you be forgotten.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile slowly returns.\n\n\\\u003e\"So what exactly counts as belief strong enough to support you? \u0026nbsp;Just, people acknowledging you?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe shakes her head with a little frown.\n\n\\\u003e\"No, no... if it were that simple, I'd be much healthier. \u0026nbsp;No, they have to know and accept me as Coyote, the goddess. \u0026nbsp;Acknowledging the coyote woman pulling pranks isn't the same, unfortunately. \u0026nbsp;...besides, I don't think people are even willing to do that much anymore. \u0026nbsp;It even took you a while to accept me...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe whimpers, terror slowly becoming visible in her eyes.\n\n\\\u003eYou hug her tightly and scratch behind her ears in an attempt to comfort her. \u0026nbsp;It seems to help a bit, as she slowly loses her frightened look.\n\n\\\u003e\"I want you to know that I'm here for you, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;I mean it. \u0026nbsp;Your stories were always the best things Grandma told.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe beams, losing her grim look altogether, and surprises you with a kiss on the cheek.\n\n\\\u003e\"Your grandmother was a wonderful woman, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"You KNEW her?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course! \u0026nbsp;I told you, I touched the lives of everyone who cared to share my tales. \u0026nbsp;She was so kind... and her take on my voice? \u0026nbsp;Wonderfully funny, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;I loved her tellings so much that I gave her one of my teeth as a gift!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"So the necklace...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's right, she wore it every day.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote looks nostalgic as she hugs you tighter.\n\n\\\u003e\"...say, what if we did a show for kids? \u0026nbsp;Are they a good source of belief?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Err, sometimes. \u0026nbsp;Children are hard to predict. \u0026nbsp;Some'll latch onto anything they're told, others are skeptics in the making. \u0026nbsp;I... I spoke to one once who denied me so forcefully that I lost part of my snout for a while...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly shakes her head violently.\n\n\\\u003e\"No, no. \u0026nbsp;I have self control, I refuse to get down and out. \u0026nbsp;I have you, and that's enough to keep me here.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe puts on a determined smile and pats your head.\n\n\\\u003e\"What if I typed up a collection of stories about you? \u0026nbsp;That might help.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe chuckles warmly.\n\n\\\u003e\"That's a great idea... but I get to dictate them to you, okay?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I think I can manage that. \u0026nbsp;Any reason?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's voice loses much of its whimsical tone in favor of a more even, almost motherly one. \u0026nbsp;Her voice echoes somewhat, and it seems the world falls silent, as if to avoid interrupting her.\n\n\\\u003e\"Anon, I want people to know there's more to Coyote than a mere prankster. \u0026nbsp;I brought fire to mankind, among other things. \u0026nbsp;Though I admit I have a sense of humor... I don't want to be remembered as a mere joker. \u0026nbsp;That may be a fate worse than to be forgotten. \u0026nbsp;I want man to remember me... as Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles at you, a faint blue aura surrounding her.\n\n\\\u003e\"Understand?\"\n\n\\\u003eA little in awe of her, you nod.\n\n\\\u003eShe speaks again in that tone you can only call... godly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Anon. \u0026nbsp;You are a good follower. \u0026nbsp;A good man. \u0026nbsp;Your grandmother would be so proud...\"\n\n\\\u003eA few nostalgic tears come to your eye, and Coyote gently hands you a blue handkerchief with a caring look.\n\n\\\u003e...you have a lot of good memories of Grandma. \u0026nbsp;She certainly gave more of a shit about you than your parents.\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help it. \u0026nbsp;Thinking about her just gets your waterworks going.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles gently and embraces you, wiping your eyes with her tail.\n\n\\\u003eShe coos in a comforting voice.\n\n\\\u003e\"It's alright, Anon. \u0026nbsp;I promise.\"\n\n\\\u003e...it helps.\n\n\\\u003eDammit.\n\n\\\u003eNow you just want to talk about her with someone else who loved her.\n\n\\\u003e\"...she meant a lot to me. \u0026nbsp;My parents never cared about me. \u0026nbsp;Soon as Grandma was able, she got custody of me. \u0026nbsp;That woman raised me singlehandedly till I was old enough to move out. \u0026nbsp;Even though... even though she could barely walk herself.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote nods, hugging you tightly.\n\n\\\u003eHer normally soft fur feels even more plush now, almost pillowy.\n\n\\\u003e\"She told me all kinds of stories... but yours were her favorite. \u0026nbsp;I remember... I remember her smile when she said a friend gave her that necklace...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help but get choked up again. \u0026nbsp;Coyote pulls you even closer.\n\n\\\u003eYou begin to worry that people may see your breakdown, but it soon hits you:\n\n\\\u003eYou're no longer in the street. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eYou're in an expanse of blue sand, with a soothingly warm breeze tickling you.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote closes her eyes and rests her head atop yours.\n\n\\\u003e\"Please, go on, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003eAnd so you do.\n\n\\\u003eYou spill your guts about everything that woman did for you. \u0026nbsp;You pour out your heart and soul, recalling when...\n\n\\\u003eWhen she got sick...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eEventually, you can't go on. \u0026nbsp;You collapse into a tearful heap. \u0026nbsp;Coyote gently sits down, pulling you into her lap, and begins quietly humming a mystical-sounding song...\n\n\\\u003e...one you faintly remember Grandma humming as well.\n\n\\\u003eTears in your eyes, you smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"T-thanks... I will do anything you need, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;The world will remember you for you. \u0026nbsp;I swear it.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe continues humming serenely, but somehow her voice echoes in your ears.\n\n\\\u003e\"I know, Anon, and I thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou lay in her lap for a while, merely reminiscing as her music and the soft sands comfort you...\n\n\\\u003eYou cuddle up close to the goddess, enjoying the heavenly softness of her fur as well as the reassuring warmth of her body.\n\n\\\u003eShe keeps her eyes closed, a cozy, loving smile across her face.\n\n\\\u003eYou begin to calm down, your sadness being slowly melted away.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's song seems to echo along the blue dunes surrounding you, turning what should be one woman's humming into a full on chorus.\n\n\\\u003eShe cracks an eye and glances down at you, then closes it again, apparently satisfied.\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help but look upon your surroundings...\n\n\\\u003eThe desert stretches on endlessly, the blue sands marked with patterns not unlike those decorating Coyote's own body. \u0026nbsp;A blue sun hangs overhead, giving off just enough heat to be comfortable.\n\n\\\u003eDespite a breeze blowing, not a grain of sand is disturbed unless you run your hands across the ground.\n\n\\\u003eYou gently dig a hand into the sand, and Coyote stops humming for a second to giggle.\n\n\\\u003eA few birds fly overhead, their chirping harmonizing with the goddess's music.\n\n\\\u003eYou could lie here forever and never feel uncomfortable.\n\n\\\u003eHer voice tickles your ears again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Do you like it, Anon? \u0026nbsp;This is my home.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod.\n\n\\\u003e\"I love it. \u0026nbsp;It's beautiful, just like you.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer warm laughter echoes in your head. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you. \u0026nbsp;I rarely bring mortals here... I'm glad you like it.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe strokes your hair lovingly as you melt into her lap.\n\n\\\u003eThe stress and boredom of your job dissipates, as does your sorrow over Grandma.\n\n\\\u003eInstead, you feel a sort of... divine comfort.\n\n\\\u003eAs she continues to hum, you ask Coyote something.\n\n\\\u003e\"Why pick this desert for your home? \u0026nbsp;Where are we?\"\n\n\\\u003eAnother silvery chuckle rings in your head, not interrupting her serenade.\n\n\\\u003e\"Is it not obvious, Anon? \u0026nbsp;I am this place, and it is me.\"\n\n\\\u003eFor a split second, she vanishes. \u0026nbsp;You look around, and realize that you're no longer lying on sand...\n\n\\\u003eYou're surrounded by blue fur.\n\n\\\u003eSomehow you know you're lying atop her stomach. \u0026nbsp;She chuckles again, and in an instant you're back on the sand, your head in her lap.\n\n\\\u003e\"Could you... tell me a story?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course... I'll even sing one for you.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote croons a tale of her own past in a beautiful voice. \u0026nbsp;The birds overhead adjust their tunes accordingly, and even the wind seems to harmonize.\n\n\\\u003eIn the sky above, clouds illustrate the story.\n\n\\\u003eA massive buffalo pursues Coyote, only for the goddess to leap into a tree. \u0026nbsp;The song tells of her deal with the beast, promising to make him horns sharp enough to slay his usurper.\n\n\\\u003eWith ease, she carves the perfect horns from a tree and sends the buffalo on his way. \u0026nbsp;He kills his rival with ease, repaying the goddess with a cow.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote can't help but snicker during her own song as she disobeys the buffalo's warning, ultimately losing the reward.\n\n\\\u003eOnce she finishes the story, she hums along to her new melody for a while, prompting you to join in with her.\n\n\\\u003eThere's a faint gasp as the whole desert seems to become more vivid than before... more lively.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote embraces you tightly, still humming her wonderful tune.\n\n\\\u003eHer tail gently coils around you lovingly, no tricks attached.\n\n\\\u003eYou slowly sit up, and wrap your arms around Coyote, hugging her tightly.\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes glimmer with little tears of happiness as she returns the gesture, still humming her divine melody.\n\n\\\u003eSlowly, carefully, you gently take one of her hands into yours. \u0026nbsp;She interlocks her fingers with yours and smiles...\n\n\\\u003eHer blue irises become heart shaped as she resumes her song.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote rests her head on your shoulder with a contented sigh.\n\n\\\u003eYou slowly lie down on the sand, with Coyote following.\n\n\\\u003eOnce all the way down, you sigh happily.\n\n\\\u003eThere, in the warm sand, you rest alongside a goddess- no, your goddess, holding her hand and enjoying her soft crooning.\n\n\\\u003eAs you lie beside Coyote, relaxing, you idly reach over and scratch her belly. \u0026nbsp;The goddess snickers at first, then simply smiles appreciatively.\n\n\\\u003eShe scoots closer to you and leans her head against yours with a contented sigh.\n\n\\\u003e\"Anon, I could lie here with you for eternity...\"\n\n\\\u003e...Anon, eh?\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote... if you want, you can call me Nonny. \u0026nbsp;I'm fine with that.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps and looks over at you, mouth agape.\n\n\\\u003e\"Really? \u0026nbsp;Thank you, Nonny, I appreciate that. \u0026nbsp;I love giving nicknames, and it warms my heart when people accept them.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe grins and nuzzles you affectionately.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, what do you recommend we do to raise belief in you?\"\n\n\\\u003eA few blue gears appear above her head, spinning wildly.\n\n\\\u003e\"...maybe I could hand out some gifts? \u0026nbsp;I used to do that a lot. \u0026nbsp;One time, I even took over Easter and handed out gifts...! \u0026nbsp;But, that's another story, for another time.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That might work. \u0026nbsp;...is there anything else you want to do, here or in my world?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe thinks for a moment, and nods.\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes. \u0026nbsp;I want to... spend as much time with you as possible. That's all.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote embraces you with a smile.\n\n\\\u003eFor a moment, Coyote perks up an ear and grins wider. \u0026nbsp;You have a short vision of being literally embraced by her smile, a band of glittering teeth wrapping around you lovingly...\n\n\\\u003eYou shake your head to clear it of your strange musing.\n\n\\\u003eInstead, you decide to set a goal for yourself:\n\n\\\u003eGet Coyote to a level of recognition that rivals even Santa Claus.\n\n\\\u003eIt won't be easy... but if she can help people out, that'll be a good boost to her belief.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, I will be here for this awareness quest till the very end. I hope you know that.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nods and hugs you again.\n\n\\\u003e\"I know, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;I know you are a good man, and more importantly a good follower. \u0026nbsp;Thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"You're welcome. \u0026nbsp;Do you suppose that book of stories idea from before could help?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It certainly wouldn't hurt anything. \u0026nbsp;Besides, I love telling Coyote stories, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, if we do this, a whole new generation of people will know about you and your work. \u0026nbsp;That should boost your belief a good bit.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nods again and grins.\n\n\\\u003e\"That's a great point. \u0026nbsp;See, this is why I need someone like you; you're good with practical problems! \u0026nbsp;Meanwhile, I'm just good at practical jokes.\"\n\n\\\u003eAs if to demonstrate her point, she grabs your hand again, only for an electric shock to travel up your arm courtesy of a blue joy buzzer.\n\n\\\u003eAs Coyote guffaws, you begin trying to think of a prank she might fall for...\n\n\\\u003e...but how do you trick someone with DIVINE prowess at tricks?\n\n\\\u003eOh well.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Coyote, how does time work here?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, you could stay here a year, and step back into your world only a minute after you left it.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou pull yourself as close as possible, then snuggle against Coyote. \u0026nbsp;She returns the favor, the two of you getting supernaturally cozy together.\n\n\\\u003eWhile continuing to snuggle against the goddess, some more questions come to you. \u0026nbsp;You can't help it; the fact that you're lying next to a goddess has your curiosity flaring up.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, are there other deities watching my world?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes, there are many, many of us watching. \u0026nbsp;Both big names and little ones, both almighty and barely clinging to life. \u0026nbsp;One in particular that springs to mind is Capra, the goat goddess of love and pleasure...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That seems... oddly specific.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe shrugs.\n\n\\\u003e\"Almost every species has their own notion of love, and so their own love goddess. \u0026nbsp;Capra just happens to be one of the older ones still around.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...do you know anyone who's been lost?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...yes. \u0026nbsp;But... Nonny, imagine knowing that you had a friend once, and that you lost them. \u0026nbsp;Now imagine that you cannot remember anything else about that friend beyond the fact that they existed once, and now they don't.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That sounds awful.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It is. \u0026nbsp;And because nobody remembers them... they cannot return to life. \u0026nbsp;Their only hope is for a mortal to stumble upon relics of their existence.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I'll make sure you never end up forgotten. \u0026nbsp;You and I will write down your stories. \u0026nbsp;We'll even make new ones.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"You'd make new stories with me?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe beams and hugs you once more.\n\n\\\u003e\"So... let's start off from the top. \u0026nbsp;How did you come to be, Coyote?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe settles into a more smooth tone of voice.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ages and ages ago, a tribe of men were wandering the desert. \u0026nbsp;Their supplies had been ransacked and destroyed by wild animals, including a roving pack of coyotes. \u0026nbsp;Driven to their deaths by heat and dehydration, the tribe cried out to anyone who could help them. \u0026nbsp;The response? \u0026nbsp;A lone coyote, come to investigate the sound. \u0026nbsp;The priest of the group fell on his face, beseeching the coyote for help. \u0026nbsp;He led it to their last remaining food supply... and was promptly struck down by the leader. \u0026nbsp;This leader turned to the coyote and laughed. \u0026nbsp;Some god you are, he said. \u0026nbsp;If anything, you are but a god of tricksters, trying to rob us of our last morsels. \u0026nbsp;Begone! \u0026nbsp;And so, the beast left... and the tribe died, cursing the trickster god their leader had run off. \u0026nbsp;Their belief, however misguided, birthed a true goddess... The Great Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Before you go on, could you give me something to write this down with?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hm? \u0026nbsp;Oh, sure.\"\n\n\\\u003eA blue notebook appears in your lap; it quickly opens up as words begin appearing on its pages: Coyote's birth story.\n\n\\\u003e\"There! \u0026nbsp;Should save you some writer's cramp, anyway.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you. \u0026nbsp;So, what did you do after being born?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"After being fully born as a goddess, The Great Coyote found herself overwhelmed with her newfound existence. \u0026nbsp;All she knew was that she was a goddess of tricksters... so she set out to play tricks on someone. \u0026nbsp;Who? \u0026nbsp;She wasn't yet sure. \u0026nbsp;However, she saw something that caught her eye... a flame. \u0026nbsp;At that time, man had not yet discovered fire. \u0026nbsp;Those who had harnessed it hoarded it greedily, looking down upon man for their ignorance. \u0026nbsp;Coyote visited these firebearers, hoping to sleep by their flame and learn its secrets. \u0026nbsp;However, they looked down upon her as well. \u0026nbsp;This filled Coyote with anger. \u0026nbsp;How could they be so rude to a goddess? \u0026nbsp;So, she waited. \u0026nbsp;She waited for the firebearers to fall asleep. \u0026nbsp;Once they did, she snatched handfuls of their fire and fled, but not before flinging an ember into ther tent. \u0026nbsp;The firebearers, having grown accustomed to the heat, perished, refusing to leave the warmth of their tent. \u0026nbsp;In the meantime, Coyote realized something... fire was HOT! \u0026nbsp;It burnt and blackened her claws, and in her haste to take the fire to her home, she dropped several pieces of it. \u0026nbsp;Those pieces scorched several animals, burning them and their descendants for eternity. \u0026nbsp;As Coyote continued to run and drop the fire, she noticed something: mankind, eyeing the fire with need. \u0026nbsp;So... she bestowed upon man the fruits of her theft, and man gained fire.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote stands and bows, and you politely applaud.\n\n\\\u003e\"...not to be rude, but how does this work when Prometheus brought fire to man?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Ah yes! \u0026nbsp;Coyote brought fire to man in her domain alone; Prometheus did the same for his domain.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I see. \u0026nbsp;What's your favorite story?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps and chuckles.\n\n\\\u003e\"Favorite? \u0026nbsp;Why, Nonny, you insult me! \u0026nbsp;That is like asking a mother who her favorite child is!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"C'mon, there must be a story you look back on fondly...\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote narrows her eyes and forces a frown...\n\n\\\u003eBut soon cracks, laughing and grinning.\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay, okay! \u0026nbsp;I'll share a recent one I look back on with a smile.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou snicker and elbow her.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, you look on everything with a smile.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah, that's true!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe clears her throat, then speaks in her \"narrator\" voice.\n\n\\\u003e\"One day, The Great Coyote was watching the mortal world with interest, as she often did. \u0026nbsp;What she found was interesting: mortals had developed a fascination with bars. \u0026nbsp;It seemed that many of them whiled away their afternoons in the establishments, and this tickled Coyote greatly. \u0026nbsp;You see, mayhem often erupted when mortals and alcohol mixed, and so this arrangement proved very attractive to the goddess. \u0026nbsp;So... Coyote became a bartender in the mortal world. \u0026nbsp;She did a wonderful job, working in such places as a mob-run club, a smoky bar in a small town, and even a lounge atop a grand tower. \u0026nbsp;At each and every one, she made sure that her mischief shined through. \u0026nbsp;And shine it did! \u0026nbsp;Every bar that employed Coyote saw some of its most successful days ever, albeit after some chaos unlike any they'd seen before. \u0026nbsp;Coyote was happy... but after weeks of this, she grew tired. \u0026nbsp;The Great Coyote's feet began to ache from hours upon hours of standing behind her bar counters. \u0026nbsp;And so, after serving one final party of four at her favorite venue, she retired from her career. \u0026nbsp;Coyote left the lounge, and sought out a resting place. \u0026nbsp;However... in searching for one, she sensed something: a mortal in need of a brighter day. \u0026nbsp;So, Coyote ventured to his home. \u0026nbsp;That day... the goddess Coyote met her greatest follower, and the man she loved.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"W-\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you can say anything, she kisses you.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote ends her kiss and smiles lovingly, her blue irises going heart shaped.\n\n\\\u003eYou stammer.\n\n\\\u003e\"M-man you love?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;You still believe in me. \u0026nbsp;You're willing to help me regain followers. \u0026nbsp;You even let me play tricks on you and your boss. \u0026nbsp;I mean what I say. \u0026nbsp;I love you.\"\n\n\\\u003e...this seems rather sudden, but...\n\n\\\u003eYou can't deny feeling the same way.\n\n\\\u003eIt's odd, really.\n\n\\\u003eThanks to Grandma's stories, Coyote always felt like a near and dear friend. \u0026nbsp;Even though at the time, the stories were vague on the trickster's gender, you've always felt an odd attraction to the character.\n\n\\\u003eAt first you chalked it down to wanting to be like the wily Coyote. \u0026nbsp;But, as you grew older, certain... interests began to creep into your life.\n\n\\\u003eYou'd be lying if you said you'd never imagined Coyote as a woman before.\n\n\\\u003eThat said, seeing her in person trumps even your wildest fantasy.\n\n\\\u003eHearing her stories firsthand... hearing how lovingly she speaks of Grandma... seeing how she obviously cares for you...\n\n\\\u003eThere's only one thing you can say.\n\n\\\u003e\"I love you too.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess smiles earnestly, no hint of her usual mischief, and hugs you close, incidentally burying your face in between her modest bosoms.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003eAgain, the desert around you seems more vivid than before. \u0026nbsp;Seems that love is more powerful than mere belief.\n\n\\\u003eAs you remain snuggled into her chest, you begin feeling a not entirely unwelcome sensation...\n\n\\\u003eYou both do and don't want her to notice you quietly popping a boner during this tender moment.\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess gives you another gentle kiss...\n\n\\\u003eThen suddenly sniffs the air, tilting her head.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Nonny, is that you?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe releases her grip on you, then glances down with a gasp.\n\n\\\u003e\"...you... you really think of me THAT way?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh...\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a pause as she blushes through her fur, looking uncharacteristically bashful.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I see. \u0026nbsp;Well, ah, if that's how you feel...\"\n\n\\\u003eStill sheepishly avoiding eye contact, she carefully lays on her back, spreading her legs.\n\n\\\u003e\"...then I want you to show me.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"W-what?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles sheepishly, tail covering her nethers carefully.\n\n\\\u003e\"...some followers provide offerings of p-physical love to their goddess. \u0026nbsp;I have never received such a gift... and I want you to show me your love.\"\n\n\\\u003e...you quickly yank off your clothes as the blushing Coyote eyes you up.\n\n\\\u003eOnce you're fully undressed, you carefully approach her. \u0026nbsp;She glances at you, then is suddenly lifted up on a small dune of sand; she's at the perfect height for you to penetrate without needing to crouch.\n\n\\\u003e...wait. \u0026nbsp;Isn't this world...\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, didn't you say that this desert IS you?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles again.\n\n\\\u003e\"I did. \u0026nbsp;And it is.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How will this work?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, I'll be honest: I have no idea.\"\n\n\\\u003e...well, only one way to find out.\n\n\\\u003eShe blushes again.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I've never done this before. \u0026nbsp;Please be gentle...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou carefully lay down atop her, being sure not to rest your weight on the goddess.\n\n\\\u003eWith one hand, you reach up and scratch her ears, feeling them twitch wildly at your touch. \u0026nbsp;A gentle smile spreads across her face, and you return the gesture.\n\n\\\u003eWith the other hand, you rub her belly, feeling her soft fur and firm midsection beneath your fingers. \u0026nbsp;She closes her blue eyes, taking a deep breath before sighing in contentment.\n\n\\\u003eBirds fly overhead once more, singing quietly.\n\n\\\u003eYou slowly allow your hand to climb up towards her chest, soon kneading one of her tits. \u0026nbsp;Her nipple quickly stiffens as she lets a moan escape her lips.\n\n\\\u003eA bashful smile again comes to her face.\n\n\\\u003e\"...you're very gentle. \u0026nbsp;Thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003eTaking care not to push her too hard, you continue to massage her chest, now using both hands. \u0026nbsp;She quietly pants and moans, watching you with a blush.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, she nods, trembling.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I think... it's time, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou know exactly what she means.\n\n\\\u003eYou carefully crawl off of the goddess, then stand up. \u0026nbsp;She stares with anticipation.\n\n\\\u003eCarefully grabbing a leg in each hand, you slowly plunge into Coyote's slit. \u0026nbsp;She lets out a long sigh as a hot breeze blows across your back.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles lovingly at you, sand propping her head up.\n\n\\\u003e\"Please, keep going.\"\n\n\\\u003eEnjoying the warm wind, you begin slowly, tenderly pumping in and out of the goddess. \u0026nbsp;She lets off quiet moans and sighs, each one punctuated by another warm desert breeze.\n\n\\\u003eThe birds overhead lose their focus, ceasing their singing in favor of echoing their mistress's moans.\n\n\\\u003eAs you slowly speed up your thrusts, Coyote allows the sand beneath her head to dissolve, causing her to lay back flat, no longer watching you.\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs in satisfaction, and begins singing another mystical melody, the wordless tune giving you a rhythm to match.\n\n\\\u003eSweat begins to pour down your body as the desert sun slowly grows more intense.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's singing becomes more and more strained, notes breaking and giving way to moans and whines.\n\n\\\u003eHer long tail snakes around you, squeezing your middle lovingly. \u0026nbsp;She shakingly reaches up and cups one of her own breasts in a hand, gently kneading it as you spread her legs farther.\n\n\\\u003eSoon, she can no longer carry a tune. \u0026nbsp;The goddess devolves into merely panting, repeating your name in a reverent tone when she catches her breath.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny... my follower... my love...\"\n\n\\\u003eWith a sudden, loud howl of bliss, Coyote comes to her climax, her walls clamping down on you tightly and bringing you to the edge.\n\n\\\u003eYou unload within the goddess, feeling her warmth increase, then fall forwards, landing on her lean stomach.\n\n\\\u003eIt begins to rain gently, with cool drops tickling your bare skin. \u0026nbsp;Despite the weather, you feel perfectly dry.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's soft fur gently brushes against you as you lie atop her, exhausted.\n\n\\\u003eShe wraps her arms around you lovingly as the blue birds begin singing again. \u0026nbsp;Coyote kisses you lovingly, tears of happiness running down her snout.\n\n\\\u003eShe looks more colorful, more vibrant...\n\n\\\u003eMore alive than ever.\n\n\\\u003e...of course. \u0026nbsp;Love is more powerful than mere belief, and as she said, sex is a legitimate expression of your love.\n\n\\\u003eThis may actually be a valid way to devote yourself to her.\n\n\\\u003eYou make a mental note to try this if she gets particularly weak in the future. \u0026nbsp;Certainly wouldn't hurt.\n\n\\\u003eYou wrap your own arms around the panting goddess, running your fingers through her smooth fur.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote sighs happily and kisses you once more.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;For your love... and for taking it easy on me.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod and rest your head on her, hugging her closer.\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course. \u0026nbsp;Anything for you.\"\n\n\\\u003eMore tears of joy drip down her face.\n\n\\\u003e\"You are truly the best follower I've ever had.\"\n\n\\\u003e...you can't help yourself.\n\n\\\u003e\"In more ways than one?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly guffaws loudly, her usual goofy smile returning, then abruptly snaps back to her adoring gaze.\n\n\\\u003eYou simply lie there atop the goddess for a while, enjoying her warmth and softness. \u0026nbsp;Eventually, your stomach growls.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Hungry, Nonny? \u0026nbsp;Let's step back into the mortal world, maybe grab a bite to eat.\"\n\n\\\u003eA door suddenly appears beneath your partner. \u0026nbsp;By the time you figure out what's coming, the door flies open.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote embraces you tighter as the two of you fall through the open passage...\n\n\\\u003eWith a loud OOF, the two of you land on your bed, back in your apartment.\n\n\\\u003eShe giggles and kisses you again as you sigh in relief.\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you lie on your bed comfily, with you simply resting atop her, enjoying her softness.\n\n\\\u003eWhile relaxing, you smile lovingly at her, with the goddess returning your gesture.\n\n\\\u003eA thought comes to your mind...\n\n\\\u003e\"Say... since you're here, does this mean that my apartment is like a shrine to you now?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe thinks for a moment, blue gears spinning above her head, then grins.\n\n\\\u003e\"I hadn't thought of that, actually, but I suppose it counts, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;Imagine: a Shrine of Coyote, in this modern day and age. \u0026nbsp;Almost brings a tear to my eye...\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore your eyes, your apartment is bathed in a faint blue light. \u0026nbsp;Coyote again looks more vibrant and lively, her smile widening and tail wagging happily.\n\n\\\u003eA small stone statue of the goddess appears atop your dresser, a broad grin plastered on its face. \u0026nbsp;Coyote snickers at her handiwork.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hope you don't mine me sprucing this place up a bit?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course not. \u0026nbsp;Go right ahead.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you tightly as more and more bits of blue decor appear.\n\n\\\u003eA framed painting of Coyote hugging you. \u0026nbsp;A jar of blue sand with NONNY written in it with black sand. \u0026nbsp;A blue bird in a cage.\n\n\\\u003eBefore long, her influence couldn't be more obvious.\n\n\\\u003e...and truth be told, you don't mind in the slightest.\n\n\\\u003eWhat you DO mind, however, is your grumbling stomach. \u0026nbsp;Coyote gasps and grins sheepishly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh yeah, you're hungry. \u0026nbsp;Sorry, I almost forgot! \u0026nbsp;Where to?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...how about the pizza place down the road?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds great to me; wanna walk or take the fun way?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh, how about we w-\"\n\n\\\u003e\"TIME'S UP, FUN WAY IT IS!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote leaps onto you, wrapping her arms and legs around your torso with a giggle.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, a blue whirlwind envelopes you, spinning you around wildly as the goddess cackles with glee. \u0026nbsp;She clings on for dear life as you start to feel dizzy...\n\n\\\u003eEventually, the wind stops; you slow to a halt, then promptly fall backwards, with Coyote landing atop you.\n\n\\\u003eShe winks and sticks her tongue out playfully, and you shake your head to clear it.\n\n\\\u003eShe soon lets you up, and the two of you head into the pizza place.\n\n\\\u003eThis old restaurant has never really been much to look at. \u0026nbsp;It's pretty dated, decor wise.\n\n\\\u003eBut... they make the best pizza in town here, so you're absolutely willing to deal with tacky interior design.\n\n\\\u003eWhile you're not at all impressed, Coyote seems awestruck.\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes seem to twinkle as she looks around with a gleeful smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Wow. \u0026nbsp;I love this place already! \u0026nbsp;I appreciate a less modern look every now and again.\"\n\n\\\u003eGuess that makes sense; she is a rather old goddess despite appearing to be maybe 10 years older than you physically.\n\n\\\u003eYou walk up to the hostess stand and get a table for two; the woman behind the counter glances at Coyote with apparent confusion, but says nothing.\n\n\\\u003eOnce you're seated, you open up the menu.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, what kind of topping do you like, Coyote?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Uh... hm. \u0026nbsp;Do they have buffalo meat?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...I, uh... I doubt it.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns and huffs indignantly.\n\n\\\u003e\"What kinda self respecting pizza joint doesn't have the best topping? \u0026nbsp;I'll be back, wait here.\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you can stop her, Coyote stomps back into the kitchen. \u0026nbsp;As she walks, her frown gives way to a grin as all manner of chaos breaks out in her wake.\n\n\\\u003ePizzas fly up into the air on blue gales of wind. \u0026nbsp;Toppings relocate themselves to other pies as patrons reach for the slice they want. \u0026nbsp;Various lights glow brilliantly, \"coincidentally\" shining as to make an image of Coyote's face on the wall.\n\n\\\u003eBut the worst?\n\n\\\u003eThe lid on a shaker of red pepper flakes promptly unscrews itself just as a man goes to add some seasoning to his food. \u0026nbsp;A man you recognize, with a stifled snicker, as your manager.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, the goddess makes it to the kitchen, a blue apron and chef's hat spontaneously appearing on her person as she enters.\n\n\\\u003eShe throws one last mischievous wink your way as the door closes behind her.\n\n\\\u003e...shit.\n\n\\\u003eThis is gonna go down one of two ways.\n\n\\\u003eEither you'll get a questionable pizza with minimal fuss...\n\n\\\u003eOr you'll have to find a new favorite pizza place.\n\n\\\u003eIt all comes down to what Coyote does in that kitchen.\n\n\\\u003eYou flag a waiter down and ask for a beer; you're probably gonna need it soon.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, the door to the kitchen opens up; a man is literally kicked out by a familiar blue foot. \u0026nbsp;He flies forwards and lands face first in a pizza, with a loud snicker punctuating his landing.\n\n\\\u003eTo your growing horror, more and more kitchen staff are evicted as the lights in the back room steadily grow blue. \u0026nbsp;The ambient chaos of the dining room slowly ramps up...\n\n\\\u003eMetal trays whirr through the air like mad frisbees. \u0026nbsp;Breadsticks swing about in mock swordfights. \u0026nbsp;The radio station changes to some song you've never heard...\n\n\\\u003eA familiar voice welcomes listeners to KYOT Radio, and then promptly kicks off a wild, jazzy tune.\n\n\\\u003eGlasses and bottles literally dance across tables, growing tiny blue legs and kicking along to the music.\n\n\\\u003eFrom the kitchen, you hear Coyote herself whistling along to the music, with loud BANGS and bright flashes of light occasionally peppering her melody.\n\n\\\u003ePeople around the restaurant look... impressed? \u0026nbsp;The hell?\n\n\\\u003eSure, a few look horrified. \u0026nbsp;But the majority?\n\n\\\u003eThey seem to love it. \u0026nbsp;Especially the kids.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, a triumphant yell echoes from the kitchen's depths as what seems to be a massive blue firework flies out of the window.\n\n\\\u003eIt flies right into the center of the room, where a disinterested delivery guy regards it with a complete lack of expression.\n\n\\\u003eYou hold your breath as the firework halts and seems to swell up...\n\n\\\u003e...then gasp as it bursts, showering the whole room in blue sparks.\n\n\\\u003eWhen the smoke clears, you're shocked to see that everything is... back to normal.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote, clad in her apron and chef hat, steps out of the kitchen with a smug grin, carrying a large pizza in one hand.\n\n\\\u003e\"Bon appetit! \u0026nbsp;One Coyote Special, hot and ready.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe serves up the food, then sits down as her clothes promptly vanish.\n\n\\\u003eWithout hesitating, Coyote grabs a slice of her cooking and takes a bite, her face lighting up with joy.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm-mm! \u0026nbsp;You have to try this, Nonny; you'll love it.\"\n\n\\\u003e...will you?\n\n\\\u003eYou're not entirely convinced that, uh, buffalo pizza is going to taste particularly good.\n\n\\\u003eBut...\n\n\\\u003eYou can't say no to that face. \u0026nbsp;She apparently worked hard on this.\n\n\\\u003ePutting on a fake smile, you grab a slice and take a bite. \u0026nbsp;You brace yourself for what's sure to be the worst food you've ever-\n\n\\\u003eHey wait, this isn't bad at all.\n\n\\\u003eIndeed, it's actually... it's actually pretty good!\n\n\\\u003eYour smile becomes genuine as you heartily scarf down the rest of your slice. \u0026nbsp;Coyote looks genuinely thankful.\n\n\\\u003e\"You really like it?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I do, thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm so glad to hear that!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote reaches across the table with both arms, letting them extend unnaturally so she can hug you remotely.\n\n\\\u003eWhen she lets you go, you grab and wolf down another slice of her pizza.\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you quickly polish off the rest of the food, grinning and chatting idly as the other patrons watch and murmur.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, your blood runs cold when someone approaches...\n\n\\\u003eA cop.\n\n\\\u003eThe officer looks over at you with a strange smile, eyes totally obscured by shades.\n\n\\\u003e\"Evenin'. \u0026nbsp;You two enjoyin' yourselves?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod, and so does Coyote.\n\n\\\u003e\"Greeeeat. \u0026nbsp;Listen: I got a disturbin' the peace complaint on you, so I'm gonna need you to leave.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Sure thing, officer. \u0026nbsp;Sorry for the inconvenience.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm. \u0026nbsp;Don't let it happen again, alright?\"\n\n\\\u003eHe nods curtly, then shuffles off awkwardly...\n\n\\\u003eOnly to accost and handcuff a guy your age before leading him out of the pizza place.\n\n\\\u003eWiping sweat from your brow, \u0026nbsp;you quickly hop up as Coyote happily packs up the last slices of pizza in a blue box.\n\n\\\u003eWith that, the two of you head out, with several people high-fiving Coyote as she passes by.\n\n\\\u003eHer smile is definitely earnest.\n\n\\\u003eAs you quickly exit the pizza place, Coyote snickers and scarfs down a slice of her buffalo pizza.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, that was interesting. \u0026nbsp;Did that help with your belief any?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nods, mouth too full to speak.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mhm! \u0026nbsp;Mfew new belieferf.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great to hear.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou give her a celebratory hug, then keep walking when you see the cop from before, still leading his perp away.\n\n\\\u003eThe guy insists he did nothing wrong as the officer simply grins, showing no signs of halting his march.\n\n\\\u003eMan, are you glad you aren't THAT guy.\n\n\\\u003eInstead, you're lucky enough to have an audience with a literal goddess.\n\n\\\u003eSubconsciously, you hug her again.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote finishes her slice with a sigh of happiness.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ah... that was a good dinner. \u0026nbsp;What now, Nonny?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh... maybe a movie or something?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds good to me; anything good playing?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"There's some neat looking stuff out now. \u0026nbsp;We could always just pick out something when we get there.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds like a plan to me! \u0026nbsp;Let's head thatta way.\"\n\n\\\u003eCasting one last glance back at the unfortunate arrestee, you head off to the theatre.\n\n\\\u003c???\\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eWhat the hell?\n\n\\\u003eYou were enjoying a nice dinner at your favorite pizza place, then everything suddenly went berserk! \u0026nbsp;Then, when you thought it was all calming down, you got arrested?!\n\n\\\u003eMan, what a bad day.\n\n\\\u003eCould things possibly get worse?\n\n\\\u003e...probably. \u0026nbsp;Sigh.\n\n\\\u003eAs the officer stiffly leads you away, you plead innocent. \u0026nbsp;You really didn't do anything!\n\n\\\u003eHe says nothing, only chuckling and smiling. \u0026nbsp;Seems he's not interested in hearing you out at all.\n\n\\\u003eYou sigh... and shrug as a longshot solution comes to mind.\n\n\\\u003eYou throw up a prayer to Anubis, hoping in vain maybe SOMETHING will happen.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003e...sigh. \u0026nbsp;So much for that.\n\n\\\u003eYou're shoved awkwardly into the back seat of an unmarked white car. \u0026nbsp;The cop laughs again as he climbs into the driver's seat.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ready to go, dirtbag?\"\n\n\\\u003eDefeated, you nod and sigh...\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eOnly to hear banging on the window.\n\n\\\u003eYou look up to see...\n\n\\\u003e...no way.\n\n\\\u003eA broad, muscular-looking jackal woman(?) in a business suit, holding a wad of papers. She gestures for the cop to roll down his window, and he does so reluctantly.\n\n\\\u003eShe eyes him with harsh intensity and speaks with a haughty tone.\n\n\\\u003e\"Have you got proof this man did anything wrong?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Err...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How about probable cause to overstep your jurisdiction? \u0026nbsp;I can smell that you're not from here, and are indeed far from home.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, you see...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Do you even have identification?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh...!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Then you haven't the right to arrest this man. \u0026nbsp;Release him NOW.\"\n\n\\\u003eWith a splutter and a defeated sigh, the cop lets you go, shaking his head and muttering.\n\n\\\u003e\"...have to find one... try a different excuse...\"\n\n\\\u003eHe hops back into his car, flips you the bird, and speeds off. \u0026nbsp;The jackal huffs indignantly, then turns to you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Are you injured?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou shake your head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Excellent. \u0026nbsp;Please, if you ever need my help again, just ask. \u0026nbsp;I think you'll find I'm rarely busy.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks, Miss, uh...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou faint.\n\n\\\u003cAnon\\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eAs you walk, a bad feeling creeps down your spine.\n\n\\\u003e\"I dunno, Coyote... something about that cop was just off.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hm. \u0026nbsp;I didn't smell another deity around... could just be a weird mortal, I guess?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I hope that guy was alright.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess cranes her neck and perks up an ear, then smiles.\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, he's fine. \u0026nbsp;It all worked out, I promise!\"\n\n\\\u003e...you feel reassured by her smile, and put the incident behind you.\n\n\\\u003eAfter a surprisingly uneventful walk, you make it to the theatre.\n\n\\\u003eAs fate would have it, they're playing some cheap knockoff of that Percy Jackson movie from some years ago. \u0026nbsp;Jacky Person and the Thunder Burglar, apparently.\n\n\\\u003eSometimes you wonder how Hollywood gets away with this shit.\n\n\\\u003eAnyway, you head inside and buy your tickets, pulling Coyote away from a popcorn machine when it starts glowing an ominous blue.\n\n\\\u003eShe puts on an exaggerated pout, but relents and grins after a second.\n\n\\\u003e\"So what's this about, anyway, Nonny?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's about demigods and gods.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes light up.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oooh! \u0026nbsp;Am I in it?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...I don't think so. \u0026nbsp;Sorry.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Aww. \u0026nbsp;Oh well; I can see how you humans interpret some gods I know!\"\n\n\\\u003eWith that, you make your way to your seats.\n\n\\\u003eThe movie is almost hilarously low budget. \u0026nbsp;A fact not lost on Coyote, who's been laughing hysterically the whole time.\n\n\\\u003eThe other patrons have been throwing popcorn for a while now.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah-hah, did you see that? \u0026nbsp;Hades, in a hawaiian shirt? \u0026nbsp;Oho man, that's rich!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Is... is that supposed to be Cerberus? \u0026nbsp;Oh man! \u0026nbsp;The big girl wouldn't be happy to see this; they've made her a big dumb beast!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"GAH-HAH-HAH-HAH! \u0026nbsp;They- They made Anubis a guy! \u0026nbsp;Gah-hah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Aaand of course Zeus is a creeper; at least they got that one right.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer running commentary continues for the whole film, eventually driving the other watchers to leave. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eYou're now all alone with the goddess and her raucous laughter.\n\n\\\u003e...her infectious laughter.\n\n\\\u003eYou crack up yourself, cackling with the hysterical goddess. \u0026nbsp;She wraps her arms around you and hugs you, still laughing, and you return the favor.\n\n\\\u003eWhen the two of you finally stop laughing, the theatre is silent.\n\n\\\u003eYou share a smile, then kiss her on the cheek.\n\n\\\u003eShe blushes a bit, then pulls you into a tight hug.\n\n\\\u003eYou flinch when you hear a woman speaking from behind you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmhmhm, seems the mortal made the first move. \u0026nbsp;One would think a force as wild as Coyote would be the dominant one.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou look around in confusion as a familiar, staticky chuckle echoes, heralding a rather energetic-sounding woman's voice.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, Cap, there's a first time for everything, kheh heh!\"\n\n\\\u003eAnother, more businesslike voice speaks up.\n\n\\\u003e\"Why are we watching this? \u0026nbsp;I thought we were watching that montage of historical assassinations I made...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Death, nobody said that but you, kheh!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm acutely aware of that now, thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Shhh... silence now, both of you; they're listening.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou look up at the screen and see three silhouttes on a blank white background.\n\n\\\u003eOne seems to be a goat woman, another is clearly the Raiju from Coyote's presentation, and the last...\n\n\\\u003eIt looks like some amalgam of bones.\n\n\\\u003eThe Raiju waves with another crackling giggle.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hello again, kheh heh!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe bony silhouette rapidly changes shape, now resembling a sabretooth tiger's skull.\n\n\\\u003e\"Bah, we never watch what I want to watch. \u0026nbsp;I don't know why I hang around with you two.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Because people die from electricity a lot?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Perhaps because I nearly passed into your domain once, and you're merely waiting for the possibility of it happening again?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...it was a rhetorical question. \u0026nbsp;Whatever, I need some coffee.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"If you keep drinking that stuff, you're gonna die, kheh heh!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I swear to gods I will kill you where you stand.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote looks at you and shrugs with a grin.\n\n\\\u003e\"Movie club. \u0026nbsp;What can I say?\"\n\n\\\u003eIn the interest of friendliness, you decide to chat up the audience.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, uh... who are you ladies?\"\n\n\\\u003eAll three of them chuckle.\n\n\\\u003e\"I am Capra, o follower of Coyote. \u0026nbsp;A goddess of love... and pleasure.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm Volta, the Raiju from your office!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm Death, simple as that.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Nice to meet you all? \u0026nbsp;Don't you think watching a couple kiss is a bit rude?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hardly... it IS my jurisdiction, after all.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Nah, even if it is, I ain't worried about manners, kheh!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'll be honest and say: yes, it's kinda rude.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay... hey, maybe you guys would want to watch a movie with us? \u0026nbsp;We're trying to chronicle some of Coyote's stories to bolster her belief.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmm, and I suppose you need inspiration, o Coyote priest?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"If you can help, it'd be much appreciated.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oooh! \u0026nbsp;Ooh! \u0026nbsp;Lemme start up a movie, kheh! \u0026nbsp;Whatcha wanna watch?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"A moment, Volta. \u0026nbsp;Mortal, why don't you and your goddess head to the library after this? \u0026nbsp;You could find out what tales of her exploits have already been published.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Good idea... thanks, uh, Death.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe bony silhouette noncommitally waves a hand.\n\n\\\u003eVolta's silhouette vanishes, then reappears as another low-budget pantheon-themed movie starts...\n\n\\\u003eThe movie soon reveals itself as some stupid comedy along the line of Weekend At Bernie's, in which Anubis tries to convince the public that King Tut never died.\n\n\\\u003eIt's okay, you guess.\n\n\\\u003eIn just a moment, Capra, Volta, and Death manifest in the theatre. \u0026nbsp;Capra sits regally in a chair like it was a throne. \u0026nbsp;Volta reclines and kicks up her feet. \u0026nbsp;Death collapses roughly, slouching in her seat.\n\n\\\u003eSeeing them in person is quite different from seeing their shadows.\n\n\\\u003eCapra is clad in a robe that exposes her prodigous bust proudly. \u0026nbsp;Her horns curve elegantly, and several golden bits of jewelry decorate her body, with emeralds set in each piece. \u0026nbsp;Her green eyes watch you intently. \u0026nbsp;She suddenly blinks a few times and, blushing an emerald green, pulls her robe up so it covers her chest.\n\n\\\u003eVolta's loud blue-and-yellow fur seems to stand on end, making it difficult to discern her exact build. \u0026nbsp;She, like Coyote, wears nothing but her fur. \u0026nbsp;Her yellow eyes glow brilliantly with energy, small sparks occasionally discharging from them.\n\n\\\u003eDeath has incredibly thin-looking skin and pale blond fur stretched over a bony, gaunt form. \u0026nbsp;Bullet holes dot her chest, as do stab wounds. \u0026nbsp;A noose dangles from her neck. \u0026nbsp;She appears to be the tallest of the trio, and wears a white suit stained with blood in places. \u0026nbsp;She seems rather bored.\n\n\\\u003eCapra chuckles.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmhmhm. \u0026nbsp;Perhaps I should summon my own follower...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe snaps a finger, and a rugged man appears next to her in a flash of emerald light. \u0026nbsp;He immediately embraces her, kisses her cheek, and lounges in his seat, watching the movie with interest.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, someone kicks open the theatre door.\n\n\\\u003eIn steps a massive, muscular jackal woman in a black suit and tie. \u0026nbsp;She gently carries an unconscious man you recognize as the guy getting arrested earlier.\n\n\\\u003eVolta waves.\n\n\\\u003e\"Kheh, hey Anubis! \u0026nbsp;Whatcha got there?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hm? \u0026nbsp;Oh, just a client... what are we watching?\"\n\n\\\u003eHer eyes narrow at the sight of the movie's gaunt, male Anubis.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmph. \u0026nbsp;Seems they got two things wrong there.\"\n\n\\\u003eAnubis sets the man down gently, then, almost subconsciously, she stretches, her shirt riding up a bit to reveal chiseled abs.\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs and flops into the seat next to the fainted man.\n\n\\\u003e\"Might as well get comfortable, I suppose...\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote grins as she looks around at all her friends. \u0026nbsp;She turns to you, and you smile back, throwing an arm around her.\n\n\\\u003eAs you cuddle Coyote close, you chat up the other supernatural ladies.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, Volta, Death: you have any followers you want to bring?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Kheh! \u0026nbsp;I'm not that high ranking, silly!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anon, who would follow Death...?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay then, fair enough... Say, Anubis, what's the story with your companion?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe looks over at him with a sigh.\n\n\\\u003e\"He called for help, I responded, and he fainted when he realized who I am. \u0026nbsp;So... I'm making sure he's okay before I send him home.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's nice of you.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote leans on you, resting her head on your shoulder lovingly.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, the fainted man wakes up with a start.\n\n\\\u003eHe looks around in a panic, then his eyes fall on his bulky companion. \u0026nbsp;He blinks a fee times.\n\n\\\u003e\"A-Anubis...?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nods curtly...\n\n\\\u003eAnd he promptly falls onto her, embracing the hearty goddess.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thankyouthankyouthankyou sooo much. \u0026nbsp;I love you.\"\n\n\\\u003eAnubis stammers, obviously flustered.\n\n\\\u003e\"W-well, ah, y-you're welcome, mortal... t-think nothing of it.\"\n\n\\\u003eHe continues to hug her tightly, babbling rapid thank yous and declarations of love, causing her to become more and more flustered, sweating and stammering worse.\n\n\\\u003e\"S-so... strong, yet so caring... thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...y-you're very kind...\"\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess practically faints herself when the man plants a kiss on her cheek, practically having to leap from his chair to do so.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs hysterically, making Anubis even more worked up.\n\n\\\u003eVolta winks at you before gently toucing Anubis on the shoulder...\n\n\\\u003eCausing a bolt of lightning to disintegrate the sleeves of her suit, revealing rather muscular arms, much to her embarassment and her companion's apparent delight.\n\n\\\u003eAnubis buries her face in her hands, looking very much as though she's blushing under that black fur.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Volta... please control yourself.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"But... fine, geez. \u0026nbsp;Spoilsport.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe Raiju pouts comically, then collapses back into her seat with a huff.\n\n\\\u003eWhile watching Anubis scold Volta, you chat up the unenthused Death.\n\n\\\u003e\"So... you going to see Infinty War?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...NO. \u0026nbsp;I've always preferred the X-Men films anyway.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe huffs and shakes her head.\n\n\\\u003eYou glance back over at Anubis. \u0026nbsp;Her makeshift follower leans against her, an arm wrapped around her middle. \u0026nbsp;He looks up at her with an adoring smile and thanks her rapidly. \u0026nbsp;She grins sheepishly...\n\n\\\u003eThen quickly smooches him on the cheek. \u0026nbsp;He nearly faints again, much to her amusement.\n\n\\\u003eVolta watches with relative disinterest, munching clearly burnt popcorn.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote yawns and leans more of her weight on you; you hug her as close as you can. \u0026nbsp;Her soft, warm fur is as remarkably cozy as always...\n\n\\\u003eYou kiss her on the cheek once more. \u0026nbsp;Your smooch is met with Capra's follower giving you a thumbs up and an approving nod. \u0026nbsp;He then plants a kiss on his own goddess, who blushes green.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote sighs happily. \u0026nbsp;Convinced she's comfortable and content, you sit back and enjoy the film.\n\n\\\u003eAnubis grows slowly more open to her admirer's affections, letting a tiny, shy smile cross her face as he hugs her tightly.\n\n\\\u003eShe wraps a strong arm around him, pulling him into a tighter embrace than he can manage himself.\n\n\\\u003eCapra and her follower lean on one another like two old trees, simply enjoying each other's company and love.\n\n\\\u003eVolta continues to munch her popcorn, toasting each individual kernel with tiny bolts of lighting fired from her fingertips.\n\n\\\u003eDeath remains silent in her seat, apathetically watching the movie onscreen rather than acknowledging the sappy romances surrounding her.\n\n\\\u003eShe meets your gaze and shrugs before tossing a handful of candy into her sabertoothed maw.\n\n\\\u003eYou feel a pang of sympathy for the bored Death, and so decide to strike up a conversation.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, what kinda movies do you like?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Ah, mainly anything with a decent bodycount, ha... though I'm admittedly fond of these superhero films you mortals have been putting out.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh, have you seen Logan?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I have. \u0026nbsp;I wasn't particularly fond of it, personally.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, me neither. \u0026nbsp;...so, what's your story?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe raises an eyebrow.\n\n\\\u003e\"Story? \u0026nbsp;Mortal, I know good and well you're aware of the concept of death.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I am, but I don't know Death the woman.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...hmph. \u0026nbsp;Well, my story isn't a particularly interesting one. \u0026nbsp;I thrive on my widespread belief... every mortal knows of and fears death. \u0026nbsp;Some... welcome my approach, but most revile me.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...and so you don't have any loving followers like the others?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs and rubs her bony temples.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I have a few... gentleman callers, shall we say. \u0026nbsp;Mortals who relentlessly flirt with their own demise. \u0026nbsp;A few who have grown so despair-filled that they crave my touch over life. \u0026nbsp;But, I have no true followers, no. \u0026nbsp;As expected, given my station.\"\n\n\\\u003eA small frown crosses her face for a moment.\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm sorry, Death.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...thank you, Anonymous. \u0026nbsp;That's very kind.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How did you-\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Please. \u0026nbsp;I know the names of every mortal there is... as well as their ancestors.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe puts on a smile. \u0026nbsp;...a rather unnerving one.\n\n\\\u003e\"I also have a fair bit of insight into each and every one's eventual demise...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou blink, and suddenly the spectre's face fills your entire vision.\n\n\\\u003e\"...WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW HOW YOU WILL PERISH?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou stammer out a non-answer... and Death backs away, laughing hoarsely.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ah, I merely jest. \u0026nbsp;I wouldn't burden you with such knowledge.\"\n\n\\\u003eDeath continues laughing as you think on her words.\n\n\\\u003e...you're mortal, and Coyote isn't. \u0026nbsp;One day... you won't be there for her anymore.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eYou draw yourself up to your full height and confront the chortling force of nature.\n\n\\\u003e\"Tell me. \u0026nbsp;I'm not afraid to find out.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe abruptly stops laughing, then stands, towering over you and indeed everyone in the room. \u0026nbsp;Her body seems to shift on a skeletal level, her sabertooth tiger head becoming more akin to some sort of canine.\n\n\\\u003eShe stares down at you, scarlet eyes glinting maliciously.\n\n\\\u003e\"Very well, mortal. \u0026nbsp;Listen closely, for I shan't repeat myself.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou find yourself in a pitch black void, alone with Death. \u0026nbsp;Her white suit stands out audaciously against the darkness. \u0026nbsp;The noose dangling from her neck sways in an ominous wind.\n\n\\\u003e\"Anonymous. \u0026nbsp;When I look upon your life essence, I see a man of little joy. \u0026nbsp;From the departure of your Grandmother to only a few days hence, you've been a rather miserable sort. \u0026nbsp;However... I see... a very blue influence in your life that seems to be helping your bitterness.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou stare up at the monologuing Death.\n\n\\\u003e\"And...?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe snarls loudly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Do. Not. Interrupt. Me.\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a momentary flash of black light, and she suddenly has a massive scythe by her side.\n\n\\\u003e\"I have few qualms with taking you early. I am alotted some leeway with this sort of thing.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou maintain your resolve.\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm not afraid of you. \u0026nbsp;I would do anything to live, for Coyote. \u0026nbsp;I want to know my fate so that I can change it for the better.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe reaper scoffs.\n\n\\\u003e\"CHANGE FATE? \u0026nbsp;Insolence. \u0026nbsp;You think you can challenge destiny?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I would challenge anyone for her happiness.\"\n\n\\\u003eDeath regards you with an intense glare...\n\n\\\u003eThen a smile spreads across her face.\n\n\\\u003e\"I like you. \u0026nbsp;You have immense courage, to speak to Death itself in such a manner. \u0026nbsp;Anonymous... you need not worry about changing your fate. \u0026nbsp;I think you'll find it rather favorable.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Meaning?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe chuckles again.\n\n\\\u003e\"To put it simply, I see plenty of blue in your future.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod, smiling as you are returned to the theatre. \u0026nbsp;Death nods respectfully, then takes her seat once more.\n\n\\\u003eYou cast a glance around the room.\n\n\\\u003eAnubis's companion has somehow managed to fall asleep, leaning against her and snoring. \u0026nbsp;She gently cuddles him close, a genuine smile on her face.\n\n\\\u003eCapra and her follower have also dozed off, sleeping in each other's arms as green hearts lazily float overhead.\n\n\\\u003eVolta amuses herself by throwing bits of charred popcorn at the sleeping couple. Staticky cackles escape her every time she hits them.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote suddenly throws her arms around you with a wild grin.\n\n\\\u003eDeath still looks unamused, simply popping the remainder of her candy into her fanged jaws with a frown. \u0026nbsp;Meeting your gaze, Death pointedly grabs her noose and tightens it.\n\n\\\u003eVolta lets off another staticky cackle as she successfully lands a kernel in Capra's open mouth.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, Coyote begins to doze off, yawning cutely. \u0026nbsp;She cuddles up against you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mmm... love you, Nonny...\"\n\n\\\u003eUnfortunately, the movie suddenly ends just as she says this. \u0026nbsp;Volta cackles loudly.\n\n\\\u003e\"NONNY? \u0026nbsp;Kheh heh, what a name!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote drowsily smiles at her friend as you blush madly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, uh... that was fun, everyone. \u0026nbsp;We should get together again sometime.\"\n\n\\\u003eVolta nods eagerly. \u0026nbsp;Capra and her follower remain asleep, snoring in harmony.\n\n\\\u003eAnubis gently squeezes her snoozing companion with a sheepish smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"...perhaps we should.\"\n\n\\\u003eAnd Death, well...\n\n\\\u003e\"Mmm. \u0026nbsp;If I come to another of these meetings, I'm bringing the film.\"\n\n\\\u003eEveryone murmurs in agreement as you and Coyote exit the theatre. \u0026nbsp;She waves farewell to the roomful of goddesses, grinning ear to ear.\n\n\\\u003eOnce outside, you start trying to remember what you were planning.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;What were we going to do next?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Huh? \u0026nbsp;Uh... the library, right?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh yeah; thanks.\"\n\n\\\u003eWith that, the two of you stroll off towards the library.\n\n\\\u003eSometimes it's amazing how people seem so willing to overlook Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eThe library is no exception.\n\n\\\u003eNot a soul acknowledges her presence, even when she tries pulling little tricks on them.\n\n\\\u003eAfter tripping a fellow with her tail, to no reaction beyond a sigh, she walks over to you with a pout.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmmph. \u0026nbsp;None of these people are fun. \u0026nbsp;Can we just grab some books and get out of here, Nonny?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, one sec.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly round up some books on the various pantheons of the world, as well as some collections of Native American folklore, making sure they mention Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eWhen you check out, the librarian, an ancient-looking woman, squints at the goddess.\n\n\\\u003e\"...young lady, you seem familiar somehow.\"\n\n\\\u003eWithout hesitation, the trickster bows, blue confetti bursting behind her.\n\n\\\u003e\"I am the Great Coyote, if that rings a bell!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...\"\n\n\\\u003eA look of awe slowly spreads across the woman's face.\n\n\\\u003e\"...from the old stories? \u0026nbsp;It... it can't really be you, can it?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's me, the real deal. \u0026nbsp;I could... prove it, if you'd like?\"\n\n\\\u003eThe librarian nods eagerly, and Coyote gets a broad grin.\n\n\\\u003eShe snaps, and the library grows dark. \u0026nbsp;On one wall, an animated adaptation of Coyote's buffalo story plays out, with her narrating live as she so loves to do.\n\n\\\u003eThe patrons watch and listen, impressed, and applaud when it's all over. \u0026nbsp;The librarian seems absolutely awestruck.\n\n\\\u003e\"I... I believe you. \u0026nbsp;My mother loved to tell your stories, Great Coyote. \u0026nbsp;To actually meet you... it's an honor!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe tiny lady walks around her counter and embraces Coyote tightly, the goddess stooping down to meet her.\n\n\\\u003eWhen the two break apart, the librarian waves farewell, as do the patrons.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's smile practically glimmers as she exits the library with you, looking even more colorful than ever before.\n\n\\\u003eAs you look at Coyote, she seems more solid and tangible as well as more vivid.\n\n\\\u003eIt warms your heart to see her looking more healthy and happy.\n\n\\\u003e...but you can't help but tease her.\n\n\\\u003e\"Y'know something? \u0026nbsp;I bet you'll get fat from all this new belief you're getting!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe stops walking for a moment and looks at you, mouth agape...\n\n\\\u003eThen snorts loudly before breaking into her usual guffaw.\n\n\\\u003e\"Gah-hah-hah-hah! \u0026nbsp;You may be right; I certainly feel more... full than I have in a while. \u0026nbsp;Thanks for all your help, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you close and kisses your cheek lovingly.\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly has a thought.\n\n\\\u003e\"Wait, why are we WALKING home?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou suddenly fall into a hole in the ground, landing roughly on your bed, back in your apartment.\n\n\\\u003e\"There we go, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;Let's see those books, eh?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou crack one open to a random page...\n\n\\\u003eAnd your heart skips a beat.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eIt's... it's one of Grandma's Coyote stories.\n\n\\\u003e...wait a minute.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, Coyote... do you suppose Death would let me visit Grandma?\"\n\n\\\u003eFor once, the blue goddess frowns, whimpering a bit.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I'm sorry, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;It's not possible. \u0026nbsp;Death might be willing to allow it, but the fact of the matter is that mortals meeting the dead is undoable. \u0026nbsp;I... I'm sorry.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hangs her head sadly.\n\n\\\u003e\"...the one thing you probably want most... and I can't do it for you. \u0026nbsp;I'm so sorry.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote embraces you again, squeezing you tightly, and begins to sing another of her wordless tunes again, soothing you.\n\n\\\u003eYou run your fingers through her heavenly fur, smiling in spite of your pangs of sadness.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote... it's okay.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe continues to sing, her voice wavering a bit as tears drip onto your shoulders. \u0026nbsp;Her embrace tightens again.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, she sighs and stops her song, releasing you with a wistful smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"I know. \u0026nbsp;You are strong. \u0026nbsp;I just... wish I could help you. \u0026nbsp;All I can offer is my love.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"And that's enough for me, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou kiss her on the cheek, and she smiles earnestly.\n\n\\\u003eShe looks thoughtful for a moment, then nods.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, I'm going to do something for you. \u0026nbsp;Something I don't do lightly.\"\n\n\\\u003eBefore you can ask what it is, she opens her mouth wide...\n\n\\\u003eThen yanks out one of her long, sharp teeth bloodlessly, wincing.\n\n\\\u003eShe carefully deposits the tooth in your hand with a smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"I hope you like this gift...\"\n\n\\\u003eIt feels like... this tooth contains some intense energy. \u0026nbsp;You nod and close your fist around it.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;I love it.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles again, showing a comical gap in her grin.\n\n\\\u003eYou can't help but chuckle, and she returns the favor as the fang regrows before your eyes.\n\n\\\u003eYou glance down at the fang, a thought coming to mind.\n\n\\\u003e\"How about... I tell YOU a story for once?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, I'd love that!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou crack open the book again and flip to one of Grandma's favorites.\n\n\\\u003eAs Coyote listens, enraptured, you narrate a tale of the trickster, emulating Grandma's style as best you can.\n\n\\\u003eYou even minic her Coyote voice, cracking the goddess up constantly. \u0026nbsp;She also laughs at the shadow puppets you make for some parts.\n\n\\\u003eOnce the tale ends, she applauds, smiling brilliantly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Great job, Nonny; you have a knack for storytelling... it's almost as if I lived that very story, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nudges you with her elbow, chuckling, and you laugh along.\n\n\\\u003eAt Coyote's urging, you read another of Grandma's old favorites, throwing an arm around her and embracing her warmly.\n\n\\\u003eYou still gesture and perform shadow puppets...\n\n\\\u003eIt's just that you don't realize one arm is still around the goddess until the story ends. As you watch, your new, blue third arm vanishes as Coyote snickers.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thought you may need a hand, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou hug her tightly, laughing along.\n\n\\\u003e\"I love the way you tell my stories, Nonny; do another, do another!\"\n\n\\\u003eSmiling, you thumb through the book until you find another of Grandma's stories. \u0026nbsp;You begin narrating...\n\n\\\u003eBut...\n\n\\\u003eThinking about her smile... her exuberance for these stories... her... in general...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eYou trail off, drowning in memories of Grandma.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eYour worthless dad couldn't be bothered to even show up to his own mother's funeral. \u0026nbsp;That atomized what little respect you had for the man, and cemented your decision to get as far from your parents as possible.\n\n\\\u003eYou can only imagine how heartbroken she would be, knowing her own child didn't care...\n\n\\\u003eAgainst your will, you feel tears coming on.\n\n\\\u003eYou think of yourself as a strong person, but dammit, your Grandma gave you everything she had. \u0026nbsp;She was truly the strongest woman you've ever known.\n\n\\\u003eAnd now she's gone. \u0026nbsp;Not even a goddess can bring her back.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eSilently, tears flooding down her own face, Coyote hugs you close. \u0026nbsp;You bury your face in the soft fur of her shoulder and let it all out.\n\n\\\u003eAll your grief. \u0026nbsp;Your sadness. \u0026nbsp;Your burning hatred of your parents.\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess takes a deep, shuddering breath and attempts to sing one of her songs...\n\n\\\u003e...but ultimately stops, merely hugging you and letting herself cry as well.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I'm sorry, Anon. \u0026nbsp;So very sorry.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou hug her closer, trying to calm down.\n\n\\\u003e\"She... she's why I'm the man I am now. \u0026nbsp;She's why I fell for you, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;She helped me move past my family and be happy... and she's gone.\"\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eCoyote sniffles, wrapping her immeasurably soft tail around you lovingly.\n\n\\\u003e\"She was such a wonderful woman. \u0026nbsp;So very strong... so caring... one of my all-time favorite followers. \u0026nbsp;I loved her too, Nonny, and I want you to know something... though she got sick, I made sure she never suffered a day in her life. \u0026nbsp;I called in favor after favor with my friends, doing everything I could to brighten her life. \u0026nbsp;In the end, and you know this yourself, she passed with a smile on her face, with her most beloved family member there: you.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe sobs openly now, hugging you impossibly close. \u0026nbsp;You are entirely enveloped in soft, warm fur.\n\n\\\u003e\"I say this because I want you to know: it's okay. \u0026nbsp;It's all okay. \u0026nbsp;I'm here for you.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou attempt to choke out a thanks, but nothing comes out.\n\n\\\u003eThe wind blowing past your ears tells you that you are once again in Coyote's Domain.\n\n\\\u003eThe warmth and softness seem to intensify as Coyote finally manages to begin singing once more.\n\n\\\u003e...it's okay. \u0026nbsp;Everything...\n\n\\\u003eEverything is okay.\n\n\\\u003eYou slowly pull your face from her fur.\n\n\\\u003eIt's raining in the desert again. \u0026nbsp;This time, though, the goddess's tears aren't joyful.\n\n\\\u003eDespite her sadness, she smiles at you lovingly, arms and tail wrapped around you as she lies in the sand.\n\n\\\u003eSeems that at some point she simply laid down, with you ending up atop her.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote says nothing, merely smiling and singing shakily, tears flowing down her snout.\n\n\\\u003eYou bury your face again, hugging her close and cuddling her.\n\n\\\u003eEverything... feels okay.\n\n\\\u003eFor the first time since her death, you finally feel like your life is gonna be alright.\n\n\\\u003eYou have someone with you now.\n\n\\\u003eSomeone to love and be loved by. \u0026nbsp;Someone who knew and loved her as much as you did. \u0026nbsp;Someone who went to great lengths to make sure she never spent a minute of her illness feeling sad or despaired.\n\n\\\u003eYou have the Great Coyote, and you finally know what makes her great...\n\n\\\u003eIt's her heart.\n\n\\\u003eDespite her mischievous streak, Coyote really does love and care for her followers...\n\n\\\u003e...you've never been more determined to serve her. \u0026nbsp;In Grandma's memory, you WILL do everything in your power for the blue-furred goddess.\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you share misty-eyed smiles and hug one another close, feeling the rain tap against your back.\n\n\\\u003eAfter silently smiling at one another for what feels like forever, you lean in and kiss her.\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you hold your kiss for as long as you can, feeling your tears slowly dry up. The rain slows to a halt, the blue sun cheerfully peeking through.\n\n\\\u003eA rainbow appears, bearing both the familiar Coyote blue...\n\n\\\u003eAnd some other colors you recognize.\n\n\\\u003eVolta's shocking yellow. \u0026nbsp;Capra's inviting emerald green. \u0026nbsp;Anubis's professional looking black. \u0026nbsp;Death's pale, eerie blond.\n\n\\\u003e...then there are a few you don't recognize.\n\n\\\u003eThere's a very soft, pleasant mint green. \u0026nbsp;A loud, almost... triumphant pink. \u0026nbsp;And...\n\n\\\u003e...a color that seems to defy your attempt to describe it.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles as she breaks off her kiss.\n\n\\\u003e\"I love you, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I love you too.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou remain lying atop her, comfortable.\n\n\\\u003e\"...so. \u0026nbsp;How about we get to work on that book? \u0026nbsp;Get your word out there quicker and all?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sure, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;I've actually been letting the old autobook run for a while. \u0026nbsp;It caught your stories!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe opens up her book, showing a perfect transcript of your earlier narrations.\n\n\\\u003eThere's a footnote in blue ink...\n\n\\\u003e\"As narrated by the Great Coyote's favorite follower.\"\n\n\\\u003e...after what feels like days, if not weeks of narration, you have exhausted all your Coyote stories.\n\n\\\u003eThe autobook transcribes them all, editing as needed, and puts little footnotes from Coyote in several places.\n\n\\\u003eSuddenly, she grabs the pen and turns to the front of the book. \u0026nbsp;On the very first page, she manually writes:\n\n\\\u003e\"In loving memory of Anna Marie Mous.\"\n\n\\\u003eSatisfied, Coyote nods and hugs you tightly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Still has room for more... I'll have to keep thinking, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"We should start thinking about art too. \u0026nbsp;Can you draw?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns thoughtfully.\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh... I CAN, but it's not the best.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe quickly opens the book to a blank page, then scribbles up you and her hugging.\n\n\\\u003e...it's not the best art, but it is cute.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles earnestly when you look at it.\n\n\\\u003e\"Looks good to me, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great! \u0026nbsp;...but we'll get a professional to do this. \u0026nbsp;Got any ideas?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou blush a little.\n\n\\\u003e\"...maybe we could put a listing on, uh...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou cough and mutter the name of a furry site you frequent.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ohhh, they specialize in MY type, huh? \u0026nbsp;Gah-hah-hah! \u0026nbsp;Sounds good to me.\"\n\n\\\u003eStill embarassed, you put up the listing...\n\n\\\u003e...thanks to the bizarre time situation, the post attracts no attention despite you waiting for a good while.\n\n\\\u003eOh well.\n\n\\\u003e...wait. \u0026nbsp;You could just leave Coyote's Domain.\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay... I think once we get the art, we should be ready to start looking for a publisher.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote grins and hugs you tightly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Nonny; thank you so much! \u0026nbsp;This will definitely help.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile gets a little more wry.\n\n\\\u003e\"...speaking of art... I guess I should've known you had, ah, DIFFERENT tastes in women, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;At least it looks like you've got pretty alright taste in art...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe squints at your still-open profile page, and you sweat bullets.\n\n\\\u003e\"...gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;Wait'll the others hear that you prefer our type...!\"\n\n\\\u003e...if she's gonna tease, so are you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Y'know, I could get something SPECIAL made of you while we're at this. \u0026nbsp;Have a version for the book and one for... private use?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe starts to blush again, blue face turning bright red.\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course, we'd need to send off some reference photos...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe averts her eyes from you, face practically glowing red.\n\n\\\u003e\"...gah-hah...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles bashfully, then suddenly lays on her side, posing seductively.\n\n\\\u003eShe snickers a bit, face slowly becoming her usual hue.\n\n\\\u003e\"...well? \u0026nbsp;Aren't you gonna take a picture? \u0026nbsp;Tell whoever picks us up to draw me like one of those French girls, gah-hah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly snap a picture of her, saving it for... posterity, yeah.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote stands and stretches before hugging you again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Let's go back to your place, huh? \u0026nbsp;See if we get any takers.\"\n\n\\\u003eAs before, a blue trapdoor drops you and the goddess onto your bed.\n\n\\\u003eOnce there, she promptly lays on her stomach, watching your laptop intently.\n\n\\\u003e...a few minutes pass, and she groans in boredom.\n\n\\\u003e\"Bah, this is taking too long.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, what if we played a video game to kill time?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ooh, sounds fun! \u0026nbsp;Whatcha got?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I have Okami... stars Amaterasu?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns.\n\n\\\u003e\"...Sundog?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uhh... yes?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmph. \u0026nbsp;I don't like Ammy that much, personally... she's nice enough, just... I dunno.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's alright; I've had the same feelings about people I know. \u0026nbsp;What would you prefer?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uhhh... something fun, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uhhh.... how about... Marvel vs Capcom 3?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds good to me; let's roll!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly load the game up... then remember:\n\n\\\u003eAmaterasu is in this too.\n\n\\\u003e\"...hey, uh... what's the deal between you and Amaterasu again?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I just... don't like her much. \u0026nbsp;Why do you-\"\n\n\\\u003eShe catches you totally off guard when she snarls at the appearance of the sun goddess onscreen.\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly skip ahead to the character select screen...\n\n\\\u003e...and pick Ammy just to tease Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eShe elbows you, grinning, and selects her team.\n\n\\\u003e...as soon as the match starts, she goes absolutely berserk on Amaterasu.\n\n\\\u003eYou don't land so much as an attack before Coyote annihilates the white wolf, cackling in a much more sinister way than her usual, exuberant \"gah-hah\" laugh.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote wears a frankly concerning grin that only fades when the sun goddess is offscreen.\n\n\\\u003ePanting, Coyote sighs happily and turns to you mid-match.\n\n\\\u003e\"THAT felt good, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eNote to self: don't piss Coyote off.\n\n\\\u003eThe rest of the match is considerably less offputting. \u0026nbsp;You manage to squeak out a win despite being down a character.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote beams and hugs you even despite her loss.\n\n\\\u003e\"That was really fun, Nonny! \u0026nbsp;Thanks for playing.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"N-no problem.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...sorry I got a bit intense, gah-hah.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's fine, really.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I just... I do NOT like that woman.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I understand.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Are there... any other rivals I should know about?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Huh? \u0026nbsp;No, none I can think of...\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile, narrowing your eyes.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, after all my help and love, you're still gonna keep secrets from me? \u0026nbsp;How naughty~\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs, face going a bit red again at the tone of your voice.\n\n\\\u003e\"No, no... it's just that I can't think of any more.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Suuurre~\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote giggles again as someone suddenly knocks on your door. \u0026nbsp;You cautiously answer it...\n\n\\\u003eAnd are stunned to be face-to-face with someone who can only be...\n\n\\\u003eAmaterasu, clad in a gold-colored kimono.\n\n\\\u003eThe sun goddess smiles literally warmly as she bows.\n\n\\\u003e\"May I come in?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"S-sure...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe thanks you politely as she enters the room.\n\n\\\u003eUpon seeing Coyote, Amaterasu stops dead in her tracks. \u0026nbsp;A warm smile again crosses her serene face.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ah, Coyote! \u0026nbsp;I hadn't expected to see you here. \u0026nbsp;You're looking well!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe trickster puts on an unconvincing smile.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hello, Ammy. Doing well?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I am, thank you. \u0026nbsp;Seems you've found a follower, eh? \u0026nbsp;Wonderful. \u0026nbsp;I wish the two of you great prosperity and luck.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe bows again, then turns to you.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003e\"So: you are... Anonymous, yes? \u0026nbsp;Wonderful to meet you. I have heard much!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe glances at your laptop, gasping when she sees her likeness onscreen.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ohhh! \u0026nbsp;That's what I felt, then. \u0026nbsp;I've never been happier to see mortals using my name. \u0026nbsp;These... Okami games have done wonders for me. \u0026nbsp;I'm positively radiant.\"\n\n\\\u003e...she is. \u0026nbsp;Ammy casts a brilliant glow from her person constantly.\n\n\\\u003e\"But, I suppose I shouldn't linger long. \u0026nbsp;As unorthodox as it is, this IS your shrine, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe blue goddess swallows her anger as her grin becomes more strained.\n\n\\\u003e\"Please, feel free to stay a while.\"\n\n\\\u003eAs if waiting for that, Amaterasu gently takes a seat on the floor.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;I appreciate you welcoming me into your shrine.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"N-no problem.\"\n\n\\\u003e...this is shaping up to be a bad situation.\n\n\\\u003eOkay, okay. \u0026nbsp;Don't panic. \u0026nbsp;Take this easy, and hopefully you can defuse this before you end up in the middle of a catfight of deific proportions.\n\n\\\u003e\"Would you excuse us for a moment, Amaterasu?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course, Anonymous; you are my hosts, after all.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles and bows her head as you lead Coyote to another room.\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay, can you please tell me what the big deal is between you two? \u0026nbsp;And be specific, please.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote huffs, staring daggers in the direction of the living room.\n\n\\\u003e\"...she got so much belief from those games, and she didn't even have to work for it. \u0026nbsp;I worked myself to the bone for centuries, and I... I nearly died from being forgotten. \u0026nbsp;It's not fair, Nonny; not fair at all.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...you're jealous of Amaterasu?\"\n\n\\\u003eYour goddess narrows her eyes.\n\n\\\u003e\"NO. \u0026nbsp;There's a difference in being jealous and begrudging someone for unearned success. \u0026nbsp;I'm happy she found a source of belief in this day and age; I hate seeing my friends... vanish. \u0026nbsp;All I'm saying is that she didn't WORK for her newfound popularity. \u0026nbsp;The Okami games were made without her intervention. \u0026nbsp;Meanwhile, do you know how many of my stories were written under my intervention? \u0026nbsp;Every single one.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs.\n\n\\\u003e\"...so that's why I'm not fond of Ammy. \u0026nbsp;Sorry. \u0026nbsp;I'll try to be civil.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod and hug her, then the two of you return to your guest.\n\n\\\u003eAmaterasu simply sits serenely, looking around the room with a sunny smile. \u0026nbsp;When her eyes fall upon you, her smile widens.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ah, there you are. \u0026nbsp;Coyote, you have a wonderful shrine here, I see. \u0026nbsp;Anonymous? \u0026nbsp;Seems you've done a fine job of supporting her.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you, I try my best.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote nods and pulls you close.\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, my Nonny is a great follower. \u0026nbsp;I'm lucky to have him.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe white wolf claps her hands together with an airy chuckle.\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm very happy for you. \u0026nbsp;I know you work very hard.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile, feeling Coyote's grip tighten.\n\n\\\u003e\"Why don't I get us some drinks? \u0026nbsp;Would you like something, Amaterasu?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Perhaps I'll have a drink, if you don't mind.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod and head off to the kitchen, quickly pouring three drinks and rushing back to the goddesses.\n\n\\\u003eThe sun goddess bows her head and smiles appreciatively, and Coyote flashes you a toothy grin.\n\n\\\u003eWhen you poured the drinks, you had conflicting ideas.\n\n\\\u003eDo you go with the weakest stuff you have, in case Coyote's up to something?\n\n\\\u003eOr do you go straight for the hard stuff?\n\n\\\u003e...you ended up going for the strongest drinks you have.\n\n\\\u003eIf Coyote can't stay civil... you'll probably need it.\n\n\\\u003eAmaterasu takes a sip, and her eyes go wide.\n\n\\\u003e\"My, my! \u0026nbsp;You've certainly spared no expense for your guests, Anonymous. \u0026nbsp;I appreciate that.\"\n\n\\\u003eWith a vague glint of mischief in her eye, the sun goddess downs her whole drink in seconds.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote grumbles a little and quickly gulps down her glass as well.\n\n\\\u003eHer pupils narrow as she gives you an appreciative grin.\n\n\\\u003eYou rush off to refill their drinks.\n\n\\\u003eWhen you return, both goddesses thank you, then quickly make short work of their beverages.\n\n\\\u003e...you're gonna need more booze.\n\n\\\u003e...after an hour or so, you've gone through your whole bottle.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote and Amaterasu are sitting on the floor together, giggling at nothing in particular.\n\n\\\u003e\"I must say... sometimes it's nice to unwind; to be a little more... spontaneous.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'll drink to that, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote downs the last few drops of her drink, then shakes her head as a blue lightbulb suddenly appears over it.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hang on, what're you doin' here, anyway, Ammy?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmm? \u0026nbsp;I sensed a deity's presence here, as well as some belief in me, and so decided to investigate.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Belief in you? \u0026nbsp;That game...?\"\n\n\\\u003eThe white wolf nods, giggling, then leans her weight on Coyote with a happy sigh.\n\n\\\u003e\"...this is fun. \u0026nbsp;Thank you for inviting me in.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote frowns at Amaterasu, whose eyes are closed. \u0026nbsp;She doesn't see the trickster's slowly mounting anger...\n\n\\\u003e\"...did you come here thinking you could score a follower?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp; No, no... I have many of those anyway...\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote snarls and bares her teeth, glaring at the blissfully unaware sun goddess.\n\n\\\u003eThis is not good.\n\n\\\u003eYou meet Coyote's gaze and shake your head desperately.\n\n\\\u003eHer voice echoes in your head.\n\n\\\u003e\"DID YOU HEAR HER RUBBING IT IN MY FACE? \u0026nbsp;CONCEITED BITCH!\"\n\n\\\u003e...you try to mouth a response to her.\n\n\\\u003e\"I don't think she meant it that way; please don't fight with her.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote continues to glare, then deflates with a sigh.\n\n\\\u003eAmaterasu perks up an ear and opens her eyes.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm? \u0026nbsp;Is something wrong? \u0026nbsp;You feel... tense.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"No, no; nothing's wrong, Ammy.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe sun goddess frowns.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote. \u0026nbsp;You can tell me if something's the matter.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...it... it's you, Ammy.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe white wolf's jaw drops as she stares at Coyote, horrified.\n\n\\\u003e\"W... what? \u0026nbsp;Have I done something to offend?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I... it's your followers. \u0026nbsp;Ammy, I work hard for my few followers. \u0026nbsp;Nonny here is pretty much my lifeline at this point.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I know... you work very hard.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"And... you got such a huge boost from those games... and you didn't have to lift a finger for them to get made. \u0026nbsp;Ammy, it's just... it's not fair.\"\n\n\\\u003eTo your shock, the sun goddess sheds a few tears, looking very remorseful.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote... is that how you've felt since those were made?\"\n\n\\\u003eThe blue goddess nods, hanging her head.\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps when Amaterasu pulls herself into a hug.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I'm so sorry. \u0026nbsp;I had no idea... and here I am, reminding you of an injustice. \u0026nbsp;How tactless of me to sit in your shrine, talking about my own belief, when you've worked so very hard just to cling to life. \u0026nbsp;I truly apologize. \u0026nbsp;I only hope you can forgive me.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles, a tear dripping from her own eye.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I can. \u0026nbsp;That means a lot to me, Ammy; it really does.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"So, we're alright?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, we're alright. \u0026nbsp;Sorry for getting snippy.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"No, no; I'm sorry for bragging.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe two goddesses reconcile with a hug, smiling.\n\n\\\u003ePhew.\n\n\\\u003eCrisis successfully averted.\n\n\\\u003eTo celebrate the goddesses making up, you propose a toast, to which they happily raise their empty glasses.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs.\n\n\\\u003e\"H-hey... what if we did a drinking game? \u0026nbsp;Could be fun!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...sorry, I'm out of the good stuff.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"WHAAAT? \u0026nbsp;Hmph.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote puts on a pout, driving Amaterasu into a fit of laughter.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh, Coyote! \u0026nbsp;You never cease to amuse. \u0026nbsp;I should visit this area more often... who else is around?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm, Anubis... Death... Volta...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I see... perhaps I should visit them as well.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote gasps and clings on to the white wolf.\n\n\\\u003e\"Don't go yet! \u0026nbsp;We're having so much fun!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm not leaving yet, don't fret. \u0026nbsp;...provided your follower doesn't mind me staying a while?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I don't mind... but I would like to hear some tips on boosting belief while you're here. \u0026nbsp;Got any advice, Amaterasu?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ah, I do. \u0026nbsp;Place your hands upon the lives of all those who follow you. \u0026nbsp;Give them your blessings, in a manner that they will know it's you. \u0026nbsp;Be helpful, be kind, and above all else just be THERE for them.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's it?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's it. \u0026nbsp;Simple as that.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"...hey, Ammy? \u0026nbsp;Thanks.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote hugs her friend tightly, the two smiling warmly.\n\n\\\u003eTo celebrate the goddesses making up (and to kill time), you suggest a game of cards.\n\n\\\u003eIt goes pretty well, for the most part, but...\n\n\\\u003eYou're pretty sure Coyote is cheating. \u0026nbsp;A lot.\n\n\\\u003eFor one, you don't remember this deck having a blue ace. \u0026nbsp;Especially not one with a suit resembling a familiar grinning face.\n\n\\\u003eFor her part, Amaterasu at least plays fair. \u0026nbsp;You also refrain from playing dirty.\n\n\\\u003eAfter all... both these ladies ARE deities, and could probably smite you if they wanted.\n\n\\\u003eAs you play, you make small talk.\n\n\\\u003e\"So, uh... Coyote and I are getting a book published.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Is that so? \u0026nbsp;A collection of her famous stories, no doubt.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's right, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;My Nonny helped me compile some of the best.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I wish you good fortune in this endeavor, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe sun goddess smiles warmly while your phone chirps loudly.\n\n\\\u003eYou check your email...\n\n\\\u003eSome artist has gotten back to you on the book.\n\n\\\u003e\"Incogneato\" apparently. \u0026nbsp;A cursory glance of his gallery shows that he's pretty competent and prolific.\n\n\\\u003eHe'll do nicely.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs triumphantly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Great! \u0026nbsp;If he agrees to help, I may have to do him a favor some day... give him something he really, really wants.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe puts a hand to her chin, apparently thinking about a good repayment.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote grins and nods as a lightbulb flashes over her head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Got it, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;He'll get his dues when the time is right.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe refuses to elaborate further, so you shrug and message the artist.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hello, my name is Anonymous. \u0026nbsp;This is gonna sound insane, but I'm publishing a book of old Coyote folklore and I was hoping you could illustrate her in various scenes?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou send it off, and soon receive a reply.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh, my granddad told those stories when I was a kid. \u0026nbsp;Sure, I can probably do that. \u0026nbsp;Thought Coyote wa a dude though?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"No, she's a woman, I assure you. \u0026nbsp;I have some reference pics if you want me to send em your way.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ref pics?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou send off the photo of Coyote, and immediately get a response.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh wow. \u0026nbsp;Nice Photoshop skills.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou hesitate to respond.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks, but I think art would look better in the book, y'know?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I getcha. \u0026nbsp;Gimme some scene descriptions and I'll do what I can, man.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great, thanks so much. \u0026nbsp;You don't know how important this is to me.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey man, I get it; passion projects like this are great fun. \u0026nbsp;Glad to help.\"\n\n\\\u003eSeems like a decent enough guy.\n\n\\\u003eAfter a while of exchanging messages, you end your conversation with Incogneato.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote laughs and hugs you and Amaterasu.\n\n\\\u003e\"We're so close to getting this out, Nonny! \u0026nbsp;I can't wait!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Congratulations, you two. \u0026nbsp;Best of luck.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks, Ammy; glad we made up.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"As am I.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe group hug continues for a while, then ends as Amaterasu yawns.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I suppose I should be on my way. \u0026nbsp;Thank you for yout hospitality, both of you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks for coming, Amaterasu. \u0026nbsp;You're welcome back anytime.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yeah, feel free to swing by sometime! \u0026nbsp;We'll catch a movie with Death's movie club.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe sun goddess smiles and nods, then bows one last time before leaving your apartment.\n\n\\\u003eOnce she's gone, it occurs to you just how LATE it is.\n\n\\\u003eYou and Coyote get ready for bed quickly, then promptly collapse onto your mattress.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles drowsily and kisses you.\n\n\\\u003e\"G'night, Nonny... love you. \u0026nbsp;Thanks for everything.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Love you too.\"\n\n\\\u003ePulling her close, you cuddle Coyote's amazingly warm, soft fur. \u0026nbsp;With a sigh of happiness, you close your eyes and slip away into a restful sleep, ready for whatever tomorrow may bring.\n\n\\\u003eBarely conscious, you bury your face in the fluff of Coyote's neck.\n\n\\\u003eYou gently rub her back, mumbling as you drift off.\n\n\\\u003e\"I'm gonna be here even if this book doesn't work...\"\n\n\\\u003eWith that, you completely fall asleep.\n\n\\\u003eYou dream of Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eOf handing her a ring with a dazzling sapphire inset.\n\n\\\u003eOf her walking down the aisle in a blue dress, her godly friends all dressed up and watching.\n\n\\\u003eOf her smiling through tears of joy as she says \"I do.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou dream... of true love.\n\n\\\u003eIn your dream, you carry your new wife over the threshold of a blue door, entering her Domain as the godesses cheer and clap. \u0026nbsp;You chuckle as Anubis grabs Volta bodily, keeping her away from the door.\n\n\\\u003eThe muscular jackal also has to fend off Capra, much to her chagrin.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, you manage to get the door shut and locked...\n\n\\\u003eThen you lovingly consumate your wedding right there in the sand and sun. \u0026nbsp;Time jumps forward...\n\n\\\u003eThe last thing you see before waking up is Coyote smiling bashfully and gesturing at her stomach with a blush...\n\n\\\u003e...you awaken feeling very rested. \u0026nbsp;Your face is still buried in fluff, and Coyote is still asleep.\n\n\\\u003eWell... you're not gonna wake her, right?\n\n\\\u003eNo, no; you simply cuddle up closer, enjoying her company. \u0026nbsp;You glance up at her face, seeing her grin as she sleeps...\n\n\\\u003c Coyote \\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eAs she slept, the trickster walked the dreamscape.\n\n\\\u003eShe never dreamed, herself; it was more fun to explore the dreams of others.\n\n\\\u003eEspecially those she loved, like her Nonny.\n\n\\\u003eTonight, she found herself in a rather heartfelt dream...\n\n\\\u003eHe was dreaming of marrying her. \u0026nbsp;Of...\n\n\\\u003eStarting a family.\n\n\\\u003eShe couldn't help but smile at his thoughtful proposal, even the blue ring he chose. \u0026nbsp;She laughed at his choice of guests, especially his thought of that old softie Anubis ever physically barring someone from a room.\n\n\\\u003eA blush came to her phantasmagoric cheeks when the dream dipped into the more intimate side of marriage...\n\n\\\u003eAnd faded in favor of a heartfelt smile when the final stinger came. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eOnly her Nonny would dream of having little demigods with her.\n\n\\\u003e...what... what would her children even LOOK like?\n\n\\\u003eThe thought struck her as oddly funny. \u0026nbsp;Coyote laughed, doubling over in mirth.\n\n\\\u003c Anon \\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eYou continue to snuggle the goddess, smiling when she chuckles in her sleep.\n\n\\\u003eYou're in no rush to get up. \u0026nbsp;You love her, and you love this situation.\n\n\\\u003eWell, five more minutes won't hurt anyone. \u0026nbsp;You're off today, anyway.\n\n\\\u003eBeing careful not to wake her, you reach over and grab your phone. \u0026nbsp;Seems that your artist is still asleep, as the last message he sent was a good while ago.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eOh well. It'll get done eventually.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eYou set the phone back down, then cuddle up to Coyote again. \u0026nbsp;She smiles in her sleep again, subconsciously hugging you.\n\n\\\u003c Coyote \\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eWith her Nonny's dream over, Coyote found herself bored.\n\n\\\u003eShe was still physically tired, so she couldn't wake up just yet...\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eHmph. \u0026nbsp;She snorted indignantly while thinking of a good dream to visit...\n\n\\\u003e...bingo. \u0026nbsp;The artist was asleep right then.\n\n\\\u003eEffortlessly, the trickster strode across the dreamscape until she reached Incogneato's unconscious mind.\n\n\\\u003eShe dipped into his dream, providing him with some divine inspiration. \u0026nbsp;She hoped it would help him in his work...\n\n\\\u003eAfter all, she was very grateful for his willingness to help out.\n\n\\\u003eSatisfied with her input, Coyote left Incog's dream, giggling at the various lewd bits haunting his mind.\n\n\\\u003c Anon \\\u003e\n\n\\\u003eYou start to dose off again just as the goddess awakens.\n\n\\\u003eShe yawns and stretches, then grins at you.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003e\"Gooood morning, Nonny! \u0026nbsp;Pleasant dreams, gah-hah?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod, and she hugs you close.\n\n\\\u003e\"...I'm touched that you think of me that way. \u0026nbsp;Marriage and... starting a family and all.\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote kisses you lovingly, smile becoming a bit more sheepish.\n\n\\\u003e\"...l-love you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Love you too, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe savors your words with a happy sigh.\n\n\\\u003eYou and Coyote share adoring smiles for a good while, simply enjoying each other's company.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, you pull her into a proper kiss, showing her how much you love her.\n\n\\\u003eHer tail wraps around you tightly as she kisses you; she grasps around until she manages to take your hand into hers, interlocking her fingers with yours.\n\n\\\u003eWhen the kiss ends, she smiles warmly, pupils becoming heart-shaped.\n\n\\\u003eYou continue to lie there, holding hands, for several minutes. \u0026nbsp;Eventually, your stomach growls.\n\n\\\u003e\"What do you say we have some breakfast?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds good, Nonny!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou leap from the bed and surprise Coyote by sweeping her up into a bridal carry. \u0026nbsp;She giggles madly as you head to the kitchen, toting her lithe form through the apartment.\n\n\\\u003eOnce at the kitchen, you gently set her in a chair, then get cooking.\n\n\\\u003eYou're not the BEST cook, but you can at least make a decent meal. \u0026nbsp;You think.\n\n\\\u003eActually, it seems that you're more capable than you thought; you manage to make two perfect plates of food, with not a single issue.\n\n\\\u003eYou suspect Coyote had some input on this, but you didn't see any blue magic...\n\n\\\u003eOh well. \u0026nbsp;Food's food.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles and thanks you profusely when you serve up her food.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote starts to eat, but you stop her when you get an idea. \u0026nbsp;You lift the lean goddess again and set her atop your lap.\n\n\\\u003eOnce she's there, you insist on feeding her.\n\n\\\u003e\"You're not using your hands this morning! \u0026nbsp;Lemme handle this.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe grins, but doesn't protest as you gently feed her her breakfast. \u0026nbsp;Once her plate is clean, you reach up and gently rub her head, scratching behind her ears as well.\n\n\\\u003e\"So... anything in particular you wat to do today?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hmmmmm, nah, I can't think of anything! \u0026nbsp;Whatever you want is fine, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How about we start with a nice walk?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds like a plan!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly get ready, dodging blue pranks and gags as you do so. \u0026nbsp;Coyote looks a bit confused, then bonks herself on the head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Duh. \u0026nbsp;I already pulled those on you once, of course you're not gonna fall for them twice, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou chuckle warmly and finish getting ready, then depart, hand in hand with Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eIt's nice and sunny outside, if a little hot.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eOn a whim, you lead Coyote to your favorite local ice cream place.\n\n\\\u003eIt's always nice on a day like today.\n\n\\\u003eA few people take note of the goddess, smiling and even waving in some cases. \u0026nbsp;She grins back, tail wagging happily.\n\n\\\u003eWhen you get to the counter, you order your favorite while Coyote browses the menu.\n\n\\\u003e\"Uhhh... what do you like, Nonny?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"If I'm honest? \u0026nbsp;I like a lot of em.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh, alright. \u0026nbsp;Guess I'll pick one at random, then, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly has a blue dart in her hand. \u0026nbsp;Closing her eyes, she throws it at the menu board...\n\n\\\u003eIt loops with a slide whistle sound, then sticks into a name. \u0026nbsp;Coyote opens her eyes with a grin.\n\n\\\u003e\"Alright, dreamsicle it is, apparently!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe bemused worker, a young lady who's been working here for a few years, laughs as she scoops up the goddess's chosen treat.\n\n\\\u003e\"You picked my favorite, miss...\"\n\n\\\u003eThe blue woman extends her hand.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Miss Coy- wait. \u0026nbsp;You mean... THAT Coyote? \u0026nbsp;I did a school report on your stories! \u0026nbsp;You're awesome, you know that? \u0026nbsp;Your ice cream's on the house, ma'am, and you too, Anon!\"\n\n\\\u003eWow. \u0026nbsp;You've been coming here for a while now, and they've never given you anything free.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote wags her tail happily as she gets a tad bit more colorful once again.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you! \u0026nbsp;You're very sweet.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's an honor to meet you, miss Coyote! I hope you come back again soon; my boss would LOVE to meet you! \u0026nbsp;She's big on folk tales and stuff.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe goddess chats away with the young worker while you polish off your own ice cream silently.\n\n\\\u003eWhen they finally stop talking, Coyote takes a taste of her ice cream...\n\n\\\u003eAnd her eyes literally light up.\n\n\\\u003e\"I... love it!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe wolfs it down in record time, a wide grin across her face.\n\n\\\u003eOnce she's done, you bid the young woman farewell and lead the goddess out of the parlor. \u0026nbsp;You start off towards the lake, another of your favorite places in town...\n\n\\\u003eYou sit down by the lake and sigh happily.\n\n\\\u003eIt's always so peaceful here. \u0026nbsp;The wind is blowing, the birds are chirping, the sun is shining, Coyote is jogging through the shallow water in slow motion...\n\n\\\u003eWait.\n\n\\\u003eWHAT?\n\n\\\u003eSure enough, Coyote is slowly, ever so slowly, \"running\" through the shallow end of the lake, clad in a blue one-piece.\n\n\\\u003eSaid one-piece is conspicuously unzipped just enough to put some cleavage on display.\n\n\\\u003eEverything around her seems to move in slowmo, even the water splashing around her feet.\n\n\\\u003eHer tail is especially eyecatching, flapping as she runs in a strangely mesmerizing way.\n\n\\\u003eEventually, though, she brings her Baywatch parody to an end, returning to your side. \u0026nbsp;She shakes herself dry violently, causing her fur to poof out comically.\n\n\\\u003eShe winks at you, tongue poking out.\n\n\\\u003e\"I've always wanted to do that!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you share a laugh, then simply sit and enjoy the placid scenery. \u0026nbsp;Coyote sighs in contentment as she laysbher head atop yours.\n\n\\\u003e\"This is nice. \"\n\n\\\u003eYou murmur in agreement, wrapping an arm around the smiling goddess.\n\n\\\u003e\"When we get done here, I'll take you to the museum; they're supposed to be doing an exhibit you may like.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds fun, Nonny! \u0026nbsp;But... let's just stay like this a while, please.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Absolutely.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe kisses you, then wraps her tail around you lovingly.\n\n\\\u003eYou wouldn't dream of interrupting a moment like this.\n\n\\\u003eYou hold her close, feeling the warmth of her amazingly soft fur. \u0026nbsp;She again rests her head on you, quietly humming a calm song.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote cuddles as close to you as possible, her song tickling your ears. \u0026nbsp;A soothing breeze blows across the lake, gently caressing you and your goddess.\n\n\\\u003eHer music quietly echoes across the small park surrounding the lake. \u0026nbsp;Birds tweet along to the melody. \u0026nbsp;The wind blows through the trees, whistling in harmony with her.\n\n\\\u003e...even now, it's awe inspiring when you think about Coyote being a goddess.\n\n\\\u003eTime seems to grind to a halt.\n\n\\\u003eYour moment of supreme comfort seems infinitely magnified.\n\n\\\u003eHer fur is indescribably soft, to the point that you could get addicted to running your hands through the heavenly fluff.\n\n\\\u003eHer tail coils around you with a surprising firmness, yet is gentle enough as to not harm you.\n\n\\\u003eHer song fills your head entirely, flushing out any negative thoughts you may have.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's smile seems luminous, brilliantly illuminating your day.\n\n\\\u003eShe sighs happily once again as her song comes to a close.\n\n\\\u003eAfter what felt like a year of cuddling up with Coyote, time seems to return to normal.\n\n\\\u003eSeems that only a minute actually passed.\n\n\\\u003eNot that it matters. \u0026nbsp;All that really matters is that you felt a year's worth of cuddles in that one minute.\n\n\\\u003eYou thank her quietly, and she nods with a smile, eyes full of joyful tears.\n\n\\\u003eAnother sigh of contentment escapes Coyote's throat as she lets go of you.\n\n\\\u003e\"That was really nice... thanks, Nonny.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank YOU, Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003eWith that, you head off to the museum.\n\n\\\u003eThe place is actually surprisingly packed today; probably thanks to the new Native American exhibit.\n\n\\\u003e...that or the fact that the gift shop is giving out freebies to kids. \u0026nbsp;That's also a potential reason.\n\n\\\u003eApparently some local company chipped in some funding for this exhibit; the banner cheerfully states TRULY LOCAL HISTORY, SPONSORED BY FIZZ-EEZE!\n\n\\\u003eHmph. \u0026nbsp;That feels kinda disrespectful, in a way. \u0026nbsp;Oh well.\n\n\\\u003eAs you stroll through the wing, Coyote happily rhapsodizes about everything on display.\n\n\\\u003e\"Oooh, look, look! \u0026nbsp;I used to carry a pouch just like this, gah-hah! \u0026nbsp;Oh! \u0026nbsp;Look at that headdress!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe points out every single item, rattling off facts about them. \u0026nbsp;People start to gather around as she starts to get more personal in her stories, eventually grabbing a chair and launching into one of her Great Coyote stories.\n\n\\\u003eThe crowd is enraptured, staring and listening intently to every word. \u0026nbsp;The goddess feeds on the attention, a smile lighting up her face as she talks.\n\n\\\u003eWhen she's done, she bows to a cheering crowd...\n\n\\\u003eThen introduces herself.\n\n\\\u003eThere's a stunned silence, then the majority of them fall into asking her questions and babbling about how cool she is.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote looks over at you with a broad, genuine smile. Her voice echoes in your head, giddy with excitement.\n\n\\\u003e\"They love me, Nonny! \u0026nbsp;Thank you so much!\"\n\n\\\u003eCoyote smiles broadly as she launches into another story.\n\n\\\u003eThis time, she acts it out, weaving the tale with the help of conspicuously blue props. \u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003eThe crowd is awestruck, though some look extremely concerned. \u0026nbsp;One man glances down at his drink and frowns.\n\n\\\u003eThe kids are enraptured, clapping and cheering. \u0026nbsp;Coyote eggs them on, even giving some of them a chance to use her props.\n\n\\\u003eWith every word, every action, Coyote seems to grow more solid and vivid. \u0026nbsp;Her illusions become more elaborate as the story goes on.\n\n\\\u003eHer voice again rings out in your head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, I... I feel so alive! \u0026nbsp;So... healthy!\"\n\n\\\u003eYour heart swells with happiness and warmth. \u0026nbsp;You slowly walk up to the storytelling goddess...\n\n\\\u003eOnce she concludes her tale, you pull her into a mighty hug and give her a kiss.\n\n\\\u003eA chorus of \"AWWWW\"s fills the room as she blushes a little and giggles.\n\n\\\u003eYou wave at the crowd.\n\n\\\u003e\"Thanks for listening, everyone; we're gonna take a little break, but Coyote will be back!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe audience goes wild, cheering and screaming, as you and the goddess slip off to another room.\n\n\\\u003eOnce alone, she smiles again, a tear running down her cheek.\n\n\\\u003e\"So many believers in one place...! \u0026nbsp;Thank you, Nonny; thank you so much!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you close, her fluffy tail wrapping around you tightly.\n\n\\\u003eYou smile and run your fingers through her incredibly soft tail fluff.\n\n\\\u003eAs you do, you lean on and kiss her again. \u0026nbsp;Once you break it off, you speak up.\n\n\\\u003e\"Say... we could volunteer here some. \u0026nbsp;That'd probably help your belief.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oooh, good idea! \u0026nbsp;I could tell stories for everyone!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Heh, yeah. \u0026nbsp;...Coyote, thank you. \u0026nbsp;Thank you for everything. \u0026nbsp;You've really changed my life these last few days... or however long it's been. \u0026nbsp;It feels like a lifetime, and I've loved every moment with you.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles, tears in her eyes.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, I should be thanking you. \u0026nbsp;If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be here. \u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;You even helped me write new stories... Thank you. \u0026nbsp;I love you, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;So, so much.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you close, a newfound strength in her embrace.\n\n\\\u003e\"I've enjoyed helping you with the stories... heh, maybe one day we'll be in the legends. \u0026nbsp;You, me... and maybe... a family?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe gasps, the fur on her face going red.\n\n\\\u003e\"A... family? \u0026nbsp;...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe squeezes you even tighter, tears dripping onto your shoulder.\n\n\\\u003eThe tender moment is interrupted by the chanting of the crowd in the other room. \u0026nbsp;Coyote grins wickedly.\n\n\\\u003e\"Let's give em the grand finale, gah-hah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou nod and head out in front of the trickster.\n\n\\\u003eShe bursts into the room to thunderous applause. \u0026nbsp;With a bow, she launches into one last story.\n\n\\\u003eEveryone watches, captivated by her magic. \u0026nbsp;Even the more skeptical onlookers smile begrudgingly.\n\n\\\u003eOnce she gets to the last line, she winks at you.\n\n\\\u003e\"...and just like that, the Great Coyote... was... GONE!\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a room-filling blast of blue smoke. \u0026nbsp;You feel something grab your ankle and pull you through a hole in the floor...\n\n\\\u003e...you land on your couch. \u0026nbsp;Coyote throws an arm around you as the TV shows the crowded museum. \u0026nbsp;Every single person in the audience is cheering, some yelling out Coyote's name.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles tearfully, ears twitching happily.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote hugs you close, resting her chin atop your head and burying your face in neck fluff.\n\n\\\u003eYou enjoy the softness of her fur quietly, thoughts racing.\n\n\\\u003e...COULD you start a family with her? \u0026nbsp;Is it even possible?\n\n\\\u003eFor that matter... how would she feel about... marriage?\n\n\\\u003eYou start to formulate a plan... a plan to propose. \u0026nbsp;You'll need a ring, though.\n\n\\\u003eMaybe one of the other deities can help you? \u0026nbsp;But... you'd need to get away from Coyote for a bit.\n\n\\\u003e...wait. \u0026nbsp;Can't she hear your thoughts?\n\n\\\u003e\"Say, Coyote... could you, uh, stop reading my mind for a bit?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe frowns and tilts her head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Eh? \u0026nbsp;I can do that... why?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's a surprise.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer smile returns, her eyes glimmering.\n\n\\\u003e\"Ooooh! \u0026nbsp;Done and done.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you. \u0026nbsp;...Coyote... is it actually possible for us to start a family?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe blushes, tail thrashing wildly against the couch.\n\n\\\u003e\"A-ah... well... yes, it is. \u0026nbsp;But, for a mortal and a god to have a child, the god has to be willing to conceive... plus, demigods are complicated...\"\n\n\\\u003eShe blushes silently.\n\n\\\u003e\"...are you...\"\n\n\\\u003eSilence.\n\n\\\u003eShe stares at you, smiling.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny... I... would love to start a family with you some day.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe two of you embrace tightly and kiss.\n\n\\\u003eYou have a momentary urge to get Coyote in the mood. \u0026nbsp;Your mind tells you to let her subconscious conjure up something FUN...\n\n\\\u003eBut another part tells you to hold off and save yourself for when she's ready to start a family.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eHm. \u0026nbsp;You put a pin in that for now.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, can I borrow your Autobook for a moment?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Hm? \u0026nbsp;Of course, Nonny!\"\n\n\\\u003eThe book appears in your lap. \u0026nbsp;Coyote stretches and stands up.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mm... have fun; I'm gonna take a little nap. \u0026nbsp;I've been busy today, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe strolls off to the bedroom, yawning.\n\n\\\u003eYou tentatively open the book up as if it were a laptop. \u0026nbsp;Unsurprisingly, it actually IS one when it opens.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's desktop is a picture of you and her hugging. \u0026nbsp;Aww.\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly navigate to the browser, DiviNet, apparently.\n\n\\\u003eIt opens up to what looks like a chat room.\n\n\\\u003eA message blinks.\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Ah, hello, Coyote. \u0026nbsp;How art thou?\"\n\n\\\u003eYou hesitantly respond.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hi. \u0026nbsp;It's not Coyote, it's Anon. \u0026nbsp;I'm trying to surprise her.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Ah, hello, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ares: MORTALS BEGONE\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Volta: Aw, can it, jughead!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ares: FUCK YOU\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Ares has logged out.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Hotheaded fellow, as always. \u0026nbsp;What seekest thou, O Coyote priest?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I need a ring.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Oh? \u0026nbsp;Hmhmhm. \u0026nbsp;Perhaps Hephaestus is your man.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How do I contact him?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Try his site on DiviNet. \u0026nbsp;He refuses to simply use HermeSkype. \u0026nbsp;Heathen.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay, thank you, Capra.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: You're quite welcome.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Volta: Hey Anon! \u0026nbsp;Send me some pics of you and Coyote, kheh!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Hush, you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Volta: At least ask her to take a pic with ya next time! \u0026nbsp;She may be into that! \u0026nbsp;Maybe! \u0026nbsp;Maybe dont even ask and just take a pic!\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Volta has been timed out for 5 minutes by Amaterasu.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Apologies. \u0026nbsp;She gets a little feisty.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"No worries.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Amaterasu: I normally have no issues with letting her have her fun, but sometimes enough is enough.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis: Oh, Coyote priest... can... I ask you something?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Sure.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis: What's it like, being a mortal in a relationship with a goddess? \u0026nbsp;I want to make sure my new follower is enjoying himself.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: I can help.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis: Please let Anon answer.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Uh... it's wild. \u0026nbsp;Coyote has done a lot of amazing things.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis: I see. \u0026nbsp;I'll try to impress him. \u0026nbsp;...out of curiosity... do you think he likes me?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Absolutely. \u0026nbsp;Especially your muscles.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Anubis: Thank you. \u0026nbsp;Incidentally, how IS Coyote?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"She's feeling much better, thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe various gods and goddesses send off messages of congratulations.\n\n\\\u003e...you private message Capra.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, how's your relationship with your follower?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: Mm? \u0026nbsp;Excellent. \u0026nbsp;He is so loving... he is actually sitting by my side at the moment.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great. \u0026nbsp;...does Coyote have any fantasies I should know about?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Capra: No, I believe you'll find her rather 'vanilla', as some say.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay... thanks.\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a chime as you receive a PM.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Coyote, are you there? \u0026nbsp;I wanted to ask you about landing a mortal follower.\"\n\n\\\u003eUh oh.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Coyote? \u0026nbsp;Something about your PM page feels different. \u0026nbsp;Are you feeling alright?\"\n\n\\\u003eWell, shit.\n\n\\\u003eYou can't lie to a goddess, right?\n\n\\\u003e\"Hi, Coyote's asleep; I'm her follower.\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a pause, and the screen seems to... twitch.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: You're MORTAL? \u0026nbsp;I thought I tasted human on this page...\"\n\n\\\u003e...tasted?\n\n\\\u003e\"I am. \u0026nbsp;Sorry she's not here to help.\"\n\n\\\u003eThe screen definitely wobbles this time.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Well, can you help me? \u0026nbsp;Please???\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I can try.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Please.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, for starters, tell me about yourself.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: I'm an elder goddess. \u0026nbsp;You know. \u0026nbsp;The Lovecraft popularized my kinfolk.\"\n\n\\\u003e...she's... she's an eldritch monster...?\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh. \u0026nbsp;Well, uh... maybe just be yourself?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Be myself?! \u0026nbsp;I have driven men to madness with a glance; torn flesh asunder with a mere flick of my ear. \u0026nbsp;What makes you think a mortal would want me?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Okay, okay, please calm down. \u0026nbsp;Just trust me when I say you'll be happier if you stay true to yourself. \u0026nbsp;Changing to suit someone else leads to heartbreak.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: ...I guess that's true? \u0026nbsp;Anything else you can do to help me? \u0026nbsp;I'm kind of desperate.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, what kind of follower are you hoping for?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: I actually have my eyes set on someone...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"What do you know about him?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: E V E R Y T H I N G\"\n\n\\\u003eHer... her words seem to float off the screen for a moment.\n\n\\\u003e...your head kind of hurts.\n\n\\\u003e\"What kind of hobbies does he have?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: The usual stuff a mortal has? \u0026nbsp;I suppose?? I don't understand mortals.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Oh, okay... the big thing to know is that you should be willing to try new things with him. \u0026nbsp;It'll show that you really want to make this work.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: That feels like a cop-out answer but okay. I'll try some mortal activities. \u0026nbsp;Thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"One more thing... don't your kin... break mortal minds?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Yes. \u0026nbsp;It's not entirely voluntary...\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Can you tone it down around him?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: I can try... but I worry. \u0026nbsp;You mortals are so... squishy. \u0026nbsp;Fragile. \u0026nbsp;I'm afraid I'll hurt him accidentally.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, just be as careful as you can. \u0026nbsp;Apologize if you hurt him.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: I see... thank you, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003eHow did she... never mind. \u0026nbsp;Elder goddess. \u0026nbsp;Reading your mind is probably a reflex for her at this point.\n\n\\\u003eTalking to this woman is giving you the creeps...\n\n\\\u003e...and a worryingly \"itchy\" headache.\u0026nbsp;\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I hate to rush off, but I have something I need to do.\"\n\n\\\u003eThere's a pause before her response, the words of which again seem to float off the screen.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: What, talk to Hephaestus? \u0026nbsp;Fine, fine, fine. \u0026nbsp;Thanks for the help, I guess.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Good luck, Elartha.\"\n\n\\\u003eA full-body chill runs through you after typing her name. \u0026nbsp;A distant, discordant sound rings in your head. \u0026nbsp;Your vision blurs for a moment.\n\n\\\u003eHer response floats off the laptop altogether, the words flying into your face. \u0026nbsp;They feel coarse and rough, and taste like metal.\n\n\\\u003e\"Elartha: Goodbye, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003eHer chat window shrinks and vanishes as your head clears.\n\n\\\u003eWhat the hell just happened?\n\n\\\u003eNever mind that. \u0026nbsp;You have a ringmaker to get in touch with.\n\n\\\u003eYou're not sure how this DiviNet works...\n\n\\\u003e...but it apparently doesn't matter. \u0026nbsp;You mutter under your breath about Hephaestus's site, and the browser automatically redirects you there.\n\n\\\u003eIt's a very smartly made, professional looking site, one that clearly had a lot of thought and effort put into it.\n\n\\\u003eA link in the top navbar says \"Contact Me\", and so you click it. A chat window inmediately opens up.\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Hey there, mortal. \u0026nbsp;What can I do for you?\"\n\n\\\u003eWell, might as well stick to business.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hi, I wanted to see if I could commission a wedding ring?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Yeah? \u0026nbsp;For who?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, can you keep it under wraps?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Yeah, sure.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"It's for Coyote.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Alright, lemme see. \u0026nbsp;You're gonna want a sapphire inset, blue highlights, some geometric patterns, maybe a little engraving of a coyote's head. \u0026nbsp;That all sound about right?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes, actually.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Figured. \u0026nbsp;Anything else?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"When can you have it done? \u0026nbsp;How much will it cost me?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: About a day, I'd say. \u0026nbsp;Cost wise, hm. \u0026nbsp;Well, I doubt you carry gold. \u0026nbsp;Hm. \u0026nbsp;Did you get referred here?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Yes, by Capra.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Yeah, figured it was a love goddess. \u0026nbsp;I can give you a discount for being sent here, so... cost should be, oh, I dunno, about $5 million?\"\n\n\\\u003eYour jaw drops.\n\n\\\u003e\"Really?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: No, not really. \u0026nbsp;You mortals are pretty gullible, you know that? \u0026nbsp;No, this is just a ring, won't take me more than a bit. \u0026nbsp;I'm not worried about payment. \u0026nbsp;Besides, you kicked in some belief by coming here, and from what I hear you saved that loony trickster from death. \u0026nbsp;So, I think I can spare this much for someone like you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"That's very generous. \u0026nbsp;Thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Yeah, no problem. \u0026nbsp;Need anything else? \u0026nbsp;Got questions? \u0026nbsp;Shoot.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How are you doing lately? \u0026nbsp;Like, you and the rest of the Greek pantheon?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: You know, you're one of the first mortals I've spoken to that's asked that in a while. \u0026nbsp;Things are going well thanks to modern media. \u0026nbsp;You mortal folk have done well keeping us in the spotlight, I must say.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Good, good. \u0026nbsp;Is there anything I can do to help you? \u0026nbsp;I feel bad asking for work and doing nothing in return.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Don't you realize you ARE helping? \u0026nbsp;You're contributing belief to me, Coyote, and every other deity you've dealt with. \u0026nbsp;You even outright served as the trickster's sole anchor to this world for a time. Don't worry about the cost.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Like I said, it's nothing. \u0026nbsp;Helping you helps me in the long run. \u0026nbsp;It's a give and take, you know? \u0026nbsp;Gotta hand out those blessings to reward those who care. Then, they'll be more inclined to keep caring, and to make more people care. \u0026nbsp;Easy as that.\"\n\n\\\u003eWho would've guessed the god of the forge would be so chill?\n\n\\\u003e\"Can you tell me anything about demigods?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Out of academic curiosity, or are you thinking of starting a family? \u0026nbsp;Either way, demigods can be tricky. \u0026nbsp;Life is rather complicated for someone who is both part mortal and part deity. \u0026nbsp;But, ultimately, every single one is different. \u0026nbsp;My advice to you? \u0026nbsp;If this is something you want, tell her.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Thank you. \u0026nbsp;So, uh, Aphrodite and Capra; are they rivals?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: In some sense, I suppose, but they've never butted heads. \u0026nbsp;They ARE love goddesses, not hate goddesses.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"True. \u0026nbsp;Is Zeus really as, uh, out there as the the myths say?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Moreso.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I figured. \u0026nbsp;Hey, uh, do you know anything about how a mortal can safely talk to an elder god?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Hm. \u0026nbsp;Well, that's tricky. \u0026nbsp;They are by nature major cognitohazards to mortals. \u0026nbsp;One answer of course is to just not think about things too much. But that of course isn't optimal. \u0026nbsp;No, the best way is to rationalize them into more understandable forms. \u0026nbsp;Normally they'll try to manifest in a mostly coherent form, but they don't always have the best grasp on that sort of thing. \u0026nbsp;A sane, levelheaded mortal can fill in the gaps of their form to have a safer, if still unnerving, experience.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I see, thanks. \u0026nbsp;You're a pretty nice guy, Hephaestus; you should come hang out with me and Coyote sometime.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: I would, but I'm pretty busy. \u0026nbsp;I appreciate that, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I know some people who may need rings soon, and I'll be sure to refer em to you.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Thanks, Anon. \u0026nbsp;I appreciate you spreading the word.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"So... uh... can you do more 'intimate' commissions too?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Haha, maybe just start with the ring, Anon.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"True. \u0026nbsp;So, I'm using Coyote's computer to talk... how can I get in touch in the future?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: You have a smartphone, right? \u0026nbsp;Right. \u0026nbsp;If you look at it right now, you'll see an app installing. \u0026nbsp;Use it to connect to DiviNet whenever. \u0026nbsp;It's disguised as a tax calculator so Coyote won't find it before you're ready.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Wow, thank you. \u0026nbsp;So, how do I get the ring discretely?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: You let me worry about that. \u0026nbsp;I'll make sure she never catches wind of it. \u0026nbsp;You just worry about popping the question when the time comes, and the ring will be there when you need it.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"How will it be delivered?\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: It'll probably just be teleported. \u0026nbsp;Simple, subtle, smart.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, thanks again for the help. \u0026nbsp;Take care, Hephaestus.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"H: Likewise, Anon. \u0026nbsp;By the way, don't forget to delete your history before giving Coyote her computer back.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou log out and scrub Heph's site from the browsing history, then put the Coyotebook away.\n\n\\\u003eWith that, you peek in on Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eShe's fast asleep, smiling and snoring. \u0026nbsp;She looks so comfortable...\n\n\\\u003e...you carefully slide into bed with her, taking pains not to wake her.\n\n\\\u003eOnce there, you cuddle up as close as you can. \u0026nbsp;Unconsciously, she wraps an arm and her tail around you.\n\n\\\u003eThe soft, warm fur of your goddess quickly lures you into a drowsy state.\n\n\\\u003eYou glance at the clock. \u0026nbsp;5:00 PM.\n\n\\\u003ePlenty of time for a nap. \u0026nbsp;With a yawn, you lay your head over closer to Coyote's smiling face, then begin to doze off yourself. \u0026nbsp;You lean in and kiss her gently, prompting her grin to widen a little.\n\n\\\u003eWith that done, you promptly fall asleep.\n\n\\\u003eYou quickly feel yourself slipping off into a dream. \u0026nbsp;You are standing in the midst of a meadow of blue flowers.\n\n\\\u003eIt's not long before a familiar melody wafts through the air, tickling your ears.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote, clad in a flowing blue dress, elegantly dances through the flowers, singing one of her soothing songs and approaching you slowly.\n\n\\\u003eShe smiles, love in her eyes, as she reaches you and extends a hand. \u0026nbsp;You take it without hesitation.\n\n\\\u003eThe meadow becomes a familiar blue desert. \u0026nbsp;You and your goddess waltz across the cerulean sands, the entirety of your surroundings swaying and dancing to the rhythm of her music.\n\n\\\u003eCoyote's dress vanishes, and she pulls you close, insanely soft fur carressing you gently.\n\n\\\u003eShe kisses you atop the head and hugs it close to her chest, still quietly singing.\n\n\\\u003eHer voice rings out through your mind, even in the dream.\n\n\\\u003e\"I love you, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;So much.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"I love you too.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe pulls you even closer somehow; your body feels intertwined with hers on some metaphysical level.\n\n\\\u003eIt's as if, for a moment, your entire world is nothing but the unmatched softness and comfort of her fur.\n\n\\\u003eYou sigh happily, burying your face further in her fluffy neck fur...\n\n\\\u003e...you awaken with your head resting firmly beneath Coyote's chin. \u0026nbsp;You glance at the clock after managing to pry yourself away from her miraculous fur.\n\n\\\u003e1 AM.\n\n\\\u003e...seems your nap became a full 8 hours. \u0026nbsp;Oh well.\n\n\\\u003eCarefully rolling away from Coyote, you check your phone to see if the artist got back to you.\n\n\\\u003e...\n\n\\\u003eHe sent you a fantastic, amazingly accurate sketch of Coyote.\n\n\\\u003e\"I dunno how this came out so well, but here it is. \u0026nbsp;If this works for you, I'll do the whole book in this style.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile and pop off a response, then cuddle back up with Coyote, knowing that this guy's the perfect choice for an artist.\n\n\\\u003e...you wake up again, this time at 7 AM, and check your phone once more.\n\n\\\u003eIncogneato has sent you a ton of rough sketches.\n\n\\\u003e\"I know I should be asleep, but it's like I've got divine inspiration or something; I don't even feel tired. I can probably get all this done in about a week or two.\"\n\n\\\u003e\"Great, thank you!\"\n\n\\\u003eYou laugh triumphantly, and Coyote jerks awake with a moan.\n\n\\\u003e\"Mmmm...? \u0026nbsp;What's... did I miss something funny?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe laughs drowsily, then yawns.\n\n\\\u003e\"That artist said he'll be done in like a week; Coyote, the book is almost ready for publishing.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe suddenly snaps into alertness, staring at you slackjawed.\n\n\\\u003e\"Nonny, you mean... we did it?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe lets out a howl of glee, the room filling with blue light as she throws her arms up.\n\n\\\u003e\"WE DID IT! \u0026nbsp;WE DID IT, NONNY!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe pulls you close and spins around, hugging and kissing you. \u0026nbsp;You can't help but chuckle, and she joins in.\n\n\\\u003e\"We sure did.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you tight for several minutes, tears of joy dripping down her snout, when a deep, thundering voice echoes in your head.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey Anon. \u0026nbsp;Check your pockets... I rushed your order. \u0026nbsp;Felt like you needed it now. \u0026nbsp;Good luck, my friend.\"\n\n\\\u003e...you feel a newfound weight in your pocket, an unmistakably ring-shaped weight.\n\n\\\u003eTime for the big moment.\n\n\\\u003eYou think back to something Grandma told you about...\n\n\\\u003e...the day Grandad proposed to her at the lake.\n\n\\\u003e\"Hey, Coyote, let's go out to the lake to celebrate. \u0026nbsp;Sound fun?\"\n\n\\\u003eShe nods vigorously.\n\n\\\u003e\"Sounds great, Nonny; let's take a shortcut, gah-hah!\"\n\n\\\u003eShe grabs you and pulls you through one of her trademark floor portals; you land in the grass, right by the lake.\n\n\\\u003eIt's very picturesque today. \u0026nbsp;The sun shines beautifully, reflecting off the pristine water. \u0026nbsp;The green grass and leaves wave playfully in a cool breeze. \u0026nbsp;The birds sing their songs and the ducks quack in a counterrhythm.\n\n\\\u003eIt's all perfect.\n\n\\\u003eYou look over at Coyote.\n\n\\\u003eThe gorgeous scene is reflected in her eyes, her smile showing her zest for life and all the beauty it entails.\n\n\\\u003e...it's time.\n\n\\\u003eYou gently elbow her in the ribs, winking.\n\n\\\u003e\"Well, I guess with this book coming out, you won't be needing me anymore.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe looks rather confused.\n\n\\\u003e\"Whaaat? \u0026nbsp;Don't be silly, Nonny; I need you. \u0026nbsp;I LOVE you! \u0026nbsp;I wouldn't trade you for a million followers.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou smile and pull the ring from your pocket, keeping it concealed for now.\n\n\\\u003e\"Really? \u0026nbsp;Well, that's great. \u0026nbsp;Means I still have some use for this.\"\n\n\\\u003eYou present the ring to her, sapphire inset, blue engravings and all. \u0026nbsp;Coyote gasps.\n\n\\\u003e\"Coyote, will you marry me?\"\n\n\\\u003eA genuine smile crosses her face, for once not showing any teeth. \u0026nbsp;Tears well up in her eyes as she practically tackles you, wrapping her arms around you.\n\n\\\u003e\"Of course I will, Nonny. \u0026nbsp;I... thank you.\"\n\n\\\u003eShe kisses you repeatedly, tears still flowing, as a flock of blue birds flies overhead, singing a familiar tune and flocking in the shape of a heart.\n\n\\\u003eThe birds get to the end of their song, then explode into blue fireworks. \u0026nbsp;Some blasts are shaped like the trickster's smiling face, some like your face.\n\n\\\u003eThe sparks spell out a message...\n\n\\\u003e\"COYOTE AND NONNY: ETERNALLY IN LOVE\"\n\n\\\u003eShe hugs you even closer, kissing you once more before simply resting her chin atop your head with a happy sigh.\n\n\\\u003e...yeah, you can definitely get used to this.","series":{"name":"Completed CYOAs","previous":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1436473-second-coat.json","next":"https://fse.anthro.fr/stories/1465661-terminal-condition.json"}}