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A collection of nonhuman stories (five standalone stories, each with different protagonists)

1. The Deep-Sea Floor

For nearly five years, Lin An's greatest wish has been to earn his doctorate. He swears that once he finishes his PhD, he will never study again.

Following his advisor, he studies the writing carved into a black statue brought by a mermaid to an underwater base. People around him either go missing or grow younger and younger, while the stench of fish grows ever stronger. Lin An suspects he has unfortunately inherited his family's schizophrenia. Then, one night, he sees his colleagues devolving. He watches them gnaw on raw fish and dive into the sea without hesitation.

Lin An: What a long nightmare.

The sea, appearing in all sorts of forms: Blah blah, what are you saying? You smell so good, darling.

2. The Basement Art Album

Looking at that painter's work makes you feel sick all over. Unlike other artists who simply put on an air of mystery, he seems to have truly seen the evil things he paints. I was honored to become his model. I don't know why he chose me, but people say he gave me all the sanctity in his paintings, making his other works even more sinister. The people around him gradually left, and some even looked afraid just to see him. I was the only one who stayed by his side. Later, he locked me in his basement. With only the two of us there, I tried everything to escape. On the way, I found people throwing a party and was overjoyed, eager to join them.

But when people saw me again, they scattered like birds and beasts, as if the contents of the painter's works had come to life. Their faces were horrified, and screams filled the air.

The painter, eyes brimming with tears: Darling, you finally remembered!

Also: The Mountain Retreat Society, Rainfall Manor, and Big Brother Ghost

Theme: Love guides us forward