THE WINNING SIDE WRITES HISTORY.
WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO LIVED THROUGH IT?

The Ruse Theory is the title I use for my series of Cuttletavio fanfiction (Cap'n Craig Cuttlefish X DJ Octavio Takowasa - Splatoon), which also entails as the general descriptor of my entire interpretation of the ship. The lore is- for better or for worse- extremely detailed, as I have found myself occupied with worldbuilding and expanding upon what the Splatoon series gives us. While I do work on the fic quite often and plan on finishing it, I'd like to document the nitty-gritty details and miniscule aspects here, for funsies.

If you are to delve into this page, please heed these warnings beforehand!:

• This story involves darker topics, typically of the violent and gruesome nature.
• This story ALSO involves topics pertaining to government corruption, abuse from the system, and similar.
• My interpretation of Cuttletavio is meant to be healthy. I do not enjoy the 'Toxic Old Man Yaoi' trope perpetuated by much of the fandom.
• I have some OCs involved in the lore of this, but they serve either minor roles or act as vessels to embody particular ideals (such as the vague idea of a Commander of the inkling forces, etc.).

FACTIONS AND KEY PLAYERS:
INKADIAN HAVEN, OCTARIAN SHOGUNATE,
AND EVERYTHING INBETWEEN.

The Continent of Inkadia is a vast, expanseful region, located east of the Splatlands. As of the Mollusc Era, two primary groups inhabit the land.

First, came the Octarian Shogunate, whose ancestors arrived many cycles ago. They are considered to be the oldest faction to stake claim in Inkadian lands. Most groups who attempted to settle or invade unto their territory were quickly extinguished under the sardinium rule of the Takowasas. With great conquest, and formidable stature, they came to rule over much of the region. The militaristic nature of how they arrived to this point would end up having notable effect on the outside- and inside- perception of their ruling body. For centuries, the Octarian people would be divided unto two camps of belief: fear of the Shogun, and respect for the Shogun. Many who came to bear the helm would succumb to the temptations of tyranny and inkshed. Warmongerers, of whom forgot the purpose their violence served. This reflected in the manners of which the throne would be passed down. Officially speaking, the Shogun would pass their title to their eldest descendant once they retired or passed on. However, with the abuse of control under their grasp, this would lead many children of the bloodline to slay their own progenitors.

In terms of beliefs, the Shogunate consists of a very traditional people. Their values are held deepest in teamwork, perseverance, and the beauty of the mundane. While not completely against change, much of their population is averse to the suggestion. The Shogunate's ideals are a double-edged sword. Unity, but often at the cost of conformity. Dedicated to their work, yet this can consume some of their most passionate. A love for the simple and wonderful, but resistance to new ideas that could intrude on this simplicity. As of recent- a little before the pre-war period of the story-, a new Shogun has risen to prominence, and has made great strides to implement progress within Octarian society. The era of tyranny is over, and has proven to allow the best factors of the Shogunate to shine through.