Name: Novakid Tattoos, Star Ink, Snugget Marker Description: Metallic markings resting in a pocket just below the surface of the membrane made from gold, silver, or other malleable metals. Applied using a specialised pen or brand. Abilities: -Versatile cosmetic modification that doesn't impact movement or other day-to-day functionality. -Permanent and unchanging unless manually removed. Conditional Abilities: -Liquids and gases — including asteria gas, nyx gas, and scintilla gas — can be used alongside or in place of metal for a greater variety of tattoo appearances. Greater coverage of gas over an area can be used to tint the appearance of the light emanating from the cytoplasm. -Can assist a Novakid in hiding through blocking their natural light. Results may vary. Limitations: -Damage to the membrane can cause the tattoos to warp or even spill out. As the membrane repairs, any warping will gradually disappear. Spilled tattoos will still need to be replaced. -Quite painful to receive. -Makes the membrane marginally more fragile in the tattooed areas. -Neither materials that can't withstand high temperatures nor materials that are rigid at high temperatures can be used. Conditional Limitations: -Hold shape poorly within the corona. -Can minorly interfere with Novakid-Visitant symbiosis. -Tattoos made from flux-conductive materials (such as precious metals) hold strong flux traces from their bearer. How does it work: A specialised magnetic device is used to alter a Novakid's membrane to contain a very thin pocket just beneath the surface, into which the tattoo material is injected, where it is held in place and kept shielded from the full force of a Novakid's inner heat. Flavor text: Like much with the Novakid, it's unclear from where and when the tech originated, likely having been invented and re-invented many times over. The technology is mainly used for the sake of self-expression, but finds some use in snugget rearing and cultural practice. In recent decades, they have become fashionable within the Novakid Trade Alliance after interactions with their Anodyne cousins, whose natural crystalline adornments inspired mimicry (that isn't quite so gross to Novakid sensibilities.) Attainability: [Open] Tags: [Civilian] Category: Genetic
