Session export: Pet Adoption Fair

“Mistress Ras!” called a lilting, chirpy voice. From over by the Mott pen, a colorful individual beamed at her while petting one of the babies. “It seems nap time is over for the moment. Just in time for the opening.”

Rue was on hand to assist with the animals, having proven trustworthy and caring for them. He was also, in Ras’ estimation, an excellent litmus test for potential adoptees. Sensitive and easily frightened or taken advantage of but perceptive and wise, Ras was keeping an eye out to see which potentials were good to Rue and which gave him a, as the kids called it, bad vibe.

“Yes, Mistress!” the hybrid chirped, and, gently lifting the tiny Mott calf that was curled on his lap off, set it with its siblings and scurried out of that pen, closing the gate behind him. He made his way quickly to another section, where a small inflated pool provided swimming for the semi-aquatic amphibians along with room on the grass. He beamed at the lot of them, making little faces back at their bleps and bops as they circled and swam.

Koda Kendis approached the fair. For once in a blue moon, he was not wearing his armor. Instead, he was wearing a simple brown leather jacket with a white undershirt, durable black pants and his boots, and a simple maroon neckerchief that rested loosely around his neck. He gazed around at all the different animals, part of him almost seemed anxious with how he was fidgeting with his cybernetic wrist.

Koda approached Verlassen and looke dover the registration sheet and started to sign his name, “No secret contract here that’s making me sign away all my assets, is it?” He joked, only a little. He signed with his cybernetic hand.

Koda turned and his lip curled into a slight smirk, “Well I’ll be.” He raised up his hand and waved at Rue. He turned back to the droid and gave it a nod before walking towards the only person he somewhat knew there.

“One. At. A. Time!” A stern yet feminine voice boomed from the open door of the speeder truck which just landed several dozen feet from the entrance. Two blue-skinned Twi'lek girls, Taz and Nakeya, were attempting to push their way through the half-open door, determined to be the first out. Behind them a seemingly angry Twi'lek mother, Ra'vida — peach skin, overalls, slightly chubby but looking fairly strong for a woman of her stature — tried to bring order to the chaos without luck, it seemed.

Finally the door opened due to the pressure of their squished faces on the glass, as the twins fell face first onto the grass-covered ground. Immediately the blame-game started, which was typical for Taz and Nakeya. Even before they stood up they started pushing each other.

The rest of the passengers disembarked while Ra'vida managed the duo, wiped their faces and made them presentable again.

“Bro, they’re fighting again?” Benke, the Mirialan boy with light green skin, deep brown eyes, and dark curly hair spoke up to his older brother Kevlan.

“They’re always fighting,” Kevlan replied. The Kiffar boy had tan skin and dark angular facial tattoos, black hair in short braids his sister Lirra had done for him earlier in the morning. Lirra, the Pantoran girl with gold eyes and bright blue skin, clung to him, not focused on the twins’ antics but on the enclosure where adoptable, and more importantly, huggable animals awaited her. Her eyes were aglow, but she was much too sheepish to approach alone.

The Bothan siblings, Bessc and Lisiann, followed closely behind with Tierra each holding her one of her hands. They were younger than the twins, Kevlan, Benke, or Lirra, but not old enough to get out of their mother’s embrace just yet. Zaddun, the Selonian boy with short dark hair, found his place around her neck and on her head, sheepishly sniffing the air and nibbling on her locks.

Lastly, Corde walked out of the bus, carrying little Acorn, the Zabrak girl with short curly hair and light brown skin. Frask, the cubby Quarren boy, and Daki, the bright-eyed Rodian, walked out next to her.

Tierra gave Ra'vida once more a look as the Twi'lek finished cleaning the twins and addressed all of them. “Let’s all behave today, okay? We came here to find pets for Daki and Frask, not to cause trouble. Let’s all have fun!”

Ra'vida took over where Tierra had stopped. “Do what the kind people in the enclosure say and don’t make me turn us around home.” Both her wives picked up on the feigned threat, but the kids didn’t. That was enough. “Ok, now go.” She gave both twins a kiss on the head and pushed them forward to join their siblings.

“Those two…” Ra'vida said as she shook her head and approached Corde who leaned in and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “What was that for?” Ra’vida’s expression betrayed pleasant surprise.

“Even bad cops need some love from time to time.” Corde winked, took Daki’s hand and moved on ahead while Ra'vida picked up Frask and followed.

Tierra was already at the entrance, ready to talk to the droid. “Party of fourteen for the fair, but I promise we won’t be any trouble.” She smiled pleasantly.

Rue’s head whipped around, nearly dislodging the voorpaks that had started burrowing into his hair and were peeking out like from a copse of ferns. His face lit up, and he waved back.

“Koda!” he chirped, and surged forward to hug the man– his fellow Kendis, Elly would repeatedly assure.

Koda was built as sturdy as they come, so he took the surged hug with no issue, he let out an impressive chuckle and gave Rue a quick hug back, patting him on the shoulders. “I was not expecting to see anyone I knew here. Just swung by mostly on a whim. A certain bird I know informed me that you’ve been brought into the clan. I wouldn’t be surprised if I see you shopping for some beskar in the future.”

Tierra’s smile momentarily faded as Rasilvenaira addressed them. It takes some effort to maintain composure when you suddenly meet an assassin face to face. What in the name of the Force is she doing here?! The thought blitzed through her mind like a bolt of lightning. A professional assassin, one of the deadliest in the Brotherhood, owning a fair?! All her trained instincts immediately kicked in one by one: Check you surrounding. Look for tails. Any survaillence around you? Closest exit? Closest weapon? And a myriad others.

Luckily for her, Corde had no such knowledge nor instinct. She approached, and greeted The Stormraven with a smile, as if the woman in front of her couldn’t just cut her and their youngest daughter in half with a breath.

“Honey, are you okay?” Ra'vida’s worried tone snapped her out of it. Only then did she notice Zaddun hanging from her neck, whiskers wrinkling in a worried gesture.

“I’m alright. Just…stress from work, that’s all.” She smiled weakly, only watching Rasilvenaira with the corner of her eye. Ra'vida’s unconvinced expression could make her knees buckle, but she reinforced the smile. “Today is about us, and them,” she pointed at the kids who were already rushing to look at the animals. She kissed her wife to reassure her. “I’ll be okay.”

Tierra put down her Selonian child and ushered him and the Bothan siblings to join their brothers and sisters while they talked to the owner. She had just walked closer when Corde was introducing them.

“Pleasure to meet you, Ms. Stormraven,” Tierra said with the best diplomatic smile she could muster. “Truly a wonderful place you’ve made here. We’re here to adopt for our two youngest. Well, second youngest. Acorn here is just a bit too young to be responsible for a living creature.” She leaned in close to Acorn and bumped her with her forehead. Acorn bumped her back, her stubby horns tickling Tierra.

“We only hope we can find one for each.” Ra'vida added. “Daki and Frask are good kids. We hope we can teach them responsibility for others this way.”

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Rue, in contrast, could have been knocked over by the pat on the shoulder a year ago, and wobbled now. He smiled at Koda, giggling from the tickle of one of the voorpak babies’ eight feet crawling along his neck. They were truly nesting in his hair, and it moved as they did.

“Yes, Sir. Elly said I was her brother and the girls’ uncle also and that that meant being a Kendis. No arguing. But also I am allowed to say no. This one was honored.” He tilted his head, carefully, minding the animals. “This one has no need of armor. It will not fight. But Koda is kind. And this one knows he would take good care of any animal here…but many are herbivores. They cannot eat dino nuggies.”

The last was said very seriously.

Meanwhile, his gaze strayed to the entrance, and upon beholding so many children of different species, his mouth fell open. His eyes suddenly filled and spilled with tears, and he covered a hiccup.

Koda sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, “That was one time…but I know how to handle animals…mostly. I can figured it out easily.” Koda turned when he was Rue’s reaction, “Oh stars have mercy…someone is having and academy trip.”

“They are so beautiful,” the hybrid whispered, just taking in the scene, rather distracted from his job fitting Koda with a pet. One of the voorpaks started eating his hair, but he didn’t seem to notice (probably because Alk did it enough).

And speaking of Alk, the diplomott was on the prowl, trotty trotting by the other motts and then approaching the big group at the front. His rump waggled as if he was greeting them.

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Acorn reached for the fluffy ball Ras had been holding. While the adults conversed she managed to wiggle herself in such a way as to grab the fluffy creature. It screeched as Acorn rubbed her face into its fur with a happy giggle.

<@142754576863330304>

–

“You look funny,” Lissian gave a toothy smile and giggled as she started at Rue’s colorful hair. Apparently she thought he was much more interesting than the animals. “Why is your hair like that?”

<@244244163002892288>

–

“Are you a bounty hunter?” Daki, the Rodian boy, stared up at Koda with somehow even wider eyes. “Can I see your gun?”

<@395091612952297484>

Rue crouched down slightly so he could be closer for the little girl’s inspection, still beaming through his grateful tears that he wiped away. He flicked his tail up between them and offered the tip, making it twitch back and forth in the sunlight, glittering and shining, throwing beams of violet, red, and gold light onto the ground.

“Hello, litlun,” he said first, then, “you may touch if you wish, but do not pull on my tail, please, it would hurt very much, like any tail,” and then, “it is because of my genetics. Do you know what that means?”

(And if he shot a glance at Koda in the meanwhile, as if to silently say guns were not for children, well.)

Koda looked down at the Rodian boy, “No. It’s not a toy. But I can show you how it looks.” Koda unholstered it and did a few spin tricks with it before holstering it again. He smirked and lifted it out of the holster again, making sure his safety was on and let the boy look at the blaster a little closer, the silver barrel having the engravings of feathers. “I engraved it myself.”

Lissian sheepishly touched the tail and her eyes grew two times as her mouth opened. “Wooow! That’s so stell'r!” She seemed to completely ignore Rue’s question about genetics, not really understanding, or just too fascinated by the shininess she discovered. It was a smooth texture, fluffy, but somehow silky as well. “You’re like a Wistie but huger and more boofy! My name’s Lissian! What’s your name? Can we be friends?”

“Sweetie, don’t bother the nice person,” Ra'vida’s voice reached her just as she took a step closer.

“I’m not, mom! I’m making friends!”

“That’s nice, dear. Sorry, Mr. Rue.” Ra'vida’s expression expressed concern for the Firrerreo.

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–

Corde set little Acorn down on her own two feet and pointed toward the Tuggles. “Go on, sweetie, I’ll be close.” Acorn turned to her with a suspicious look that said ‘you better not leave me behind’ and trotted toward the Tuggles that seemed to be playing with each other.

“I apologize, she’s a rather energetic child. She bonks everything, and what she doesn’t bonk, she hugs.” Corde said as she rejoined Ras. Realizing she was taking far too much time she nodded and said. “You must be busy with other things, we won’t bother you. Thank you for a kind welcome.”

<@142754576863330304>

–

“Primo! A real BlasTech Raskaf-four-four special edition!” Daki exclaimed drawing the attention of his brother Bessc. “Look at this, bro. I heard there were only fifty of these made.”

“Wooow.” Bessc too was mesmerized, imagining what it’d be like to disassemble the gun, see how it worked internally. “Can I touch it?”

“You two sleemos better stop before mom finds out. Then you’ll be in big trouble!” Nakeya and Taz snickered as they walked past, towards the Motts.

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“Seems you kids might know something afterall.” Koda chuckled at their enthusiasm, “Well this is a one of a kind, made some of my own modifications. Replaced the capacitor with a Trandoahan Tripler…not technically legal in most parts of the galaxy. This think will hit you as hard as a Gundark. But they’re right, don’t want to piss off your mother. And neither do I.”

Rue smiled up at the hibiscus Twi'lek, shaking his head and radiating a quiet joy. “There is no need to apologize to this one, Mistress. I would be most honored to be your friend, Lissian. You are very friendly, and your siblings seem very bright, so you must be too. I would guess you are…” He showily looked her up and down. “At least eleven.”

A quick glance up to her mother showed a sparkle of mirth.

Alk trotty trotted along with the ones heading for the Motts, though he was also drawn to the little one with horns like him. He paused to watch her for a moment, clearly torn.

“Alright, let’s review the rules again before we get off the ship. You’re to be on your best behavior. Gizkas are absolutely forbidden. We’ve got more than enough already. Also, I shouldn’t allow more than one, but your mother has convinced me to allow two adoptions if they’re not too chaotic together. Am I missing anything, Ro?”

Shadow Nighthunter thought for a moment before answering her Nagai husband. “No, I think that’s it, love.”

Sanguis Caldiren nodded, his gaze still on his twin step-sons. “I mean it about the gizkas. There’s enough of those blue devils your Aunt Ras gave you running around the estate gardens. They annoy the gardener as is.”

The ancient Sith took a deep breath before softening his tone. “Do you understand?”

“Yes, sir,” Deus and Artorias responded, Sanguis taking note of the rebellious and mischievous spark in the older twin’s eyes.

“Good. Alright, let’s go. Remember, mind your manners and obey whatever rules your Aunt might have.”

“But enjoy yourselves too,” Shadow quickly added as she balanced little Sorin on her hip. “And stay together.”

“But, mom…”

“Deus.” Sanguis’ firm tone silenced the boy’s protest. “You’re to keep Artorias with you at all times. That also means no wandering off, Art.”

“I won’t, I promise,” the younger twin assured with a smile and firm nod much to his twin’s exasperation.

“Alright, I believe we’re ready to go. Remember, be on your best behavior.”

Sanguis’ reminder was quickly forgotten once the shuttle ramp hit the ground, the eight-year-old twins bolting towards their aunt’s protocol droid. The Nagai sighed, already expecting a long day at the adoption fair. “I should’ve stayed home.”

“Love, relax.” Shadow put Sorin down, the Nagai-Sephi-hybrid’s little toddler hand secured in his mother’s grasp. “Try and have some fun. I know you don’t care for things like this, but the children do. One day, they’ll be all grown up and you’ll wish you had more time to enjoy moments like these with them. Plus, they’ve been training really hard, lately. Especially, Artorias. If it helps, think of it like when we vacation on Naboo and spend time at the bazaar in Theed.”

“You’re right, as always,” Sanguis relented, a soft smile forming. “I guess I have been a bit uptight lately.”

“A bit? That’s an understatement.” His half-Sephi wife kissed his cheek. “Let’s enjoy today with the kids. Loosen up. And don’t worry about anything. I brought a few vials with me to satiate your thirst if you need them.”

Sanguis chuckled and wrapped his arm around Shadow’s shoulders as he guided her and Sorin off the ship. “You’re always looking after me.”

“Someone has to. Anyway, let’s catch up to the twins before they torment Verlassen. The last thing I want is an earful from our new boss.”

Two small hands gripped tightly the crosshatched metal bars of the fence containing the roly poly snow slinkies playing within. A tan, grey and white mottled furred face pressed into the squares, a tiny still developing fluted chitinous nose smushed right up in there. The young almost three year old’s tri-colored tail stub waggled in excitement as he cooed happily. “Iah-na! Mam, look! They playin’!”

“They are playing, yes, Kipp. See, Nathalae?” Zujenia Bleu crouched beside the toddler, attempting to encourage his much larger brother to come check out the pups. The chubby rynlette just hugged closer into her, his long grey tail wrapped tightly around hers. Rubbing the youth’s back, the mother turned her attention back to her smallest, most adventurous son. “They are tuggles like Iarna, puppies.”

“Haha! Puppies!” Kipp teetered a step back and clapped his hands together with a whistle, laughing.

“He certainly seems to like them,” Diyrian Grivna uttered as she stepped closer. The third of the triplets, an aloof bean pole lad with cinnamon brown fur that matched his grandmother’s, was herded towards the pen with her. They had joined the others a little later, making sure Iarna was cozy back on the ship until later introductions. Zujenia pre-signing in the two with the droid at the gate made entering easier. “Bars, here, doesn’t seem to care too much.”

“Mm, I think he would take a bit to warm up to a new pet. Change and all. But I do think having one around helps,” Zuji replied, looking up at her long-time friend with a smile. Squeaking and yips drew her attention away briefly. When the half-Ryn returned her gaze, it was with regret and the look of someone who had just been punched in the gut with cuteness. “Diy, I think I made a mistake. They’re so cute. Kord would kill me though.” .

Kord? Hah,” Diyrian laughed and shook her head. “He’d never. Though…I don’t think that’s the kind of romp he’d prefer, Jeanie. Not one filled of beasts taller than him that could squish him— well…”

A rolled up jacket hit the Kiffar in the chest with an accompany chastising huff and a gesture saying ‘language, there are children here.’ Diy barely covered the grin on her face as she tied the jacket around her waist. If promptly on cue as curious eight year olds with ears do, Zujenia’s dark rosy skinned zeltron-ryn — a ryntron — daughter popped up beside them. “What’s a romp to tuggles?”

“It’s the name of a pack or herd of them, or it’s called a family. Let’s call them a family, Shay, okay?” Zujenia flicked her tail in slight agitation, though she offered a smile to her daughter. A flash of ‘you’re lucky I love you’ feeling flashed through Diyrian’s mind, eliciting a chuckle from her. Shay’lra seemed content with that and changed her focus. “Are you gonna get a pet, Dee-dee?”

Diy hummed lightly and glanced around the fair, eyeing the various pens and cages. She had decided to come along for more than hanging out with Zujenia and in turn the kids, which was always an…adventure. Yet, she still was on the fence. Her eyes lingered on the kennel full of what looked like young Akk pups. “Maybe, Shaybe. They’d have to be able to play with Karran’s Inara and River, and not be afraid of Baby. But I’m not looking for something huge. That would be hard to keep in the citadel, yeah?”

“Yeah, would be like a bantha in a flimsiglass shop!” Shay giggled, then sighed. “I’m glad we live in the big house now. Two tuggles and, four, five— six of us is a lot of people in the house.” .

Well, the critters aren’t people but Diy understood what she meant. The Kiffar nodded to the young girl with a ‘mhm.’ A tug on her pant leg brought her attention back down to Barsali who was pointing away from the tuggles. Diyrian followed his gesture and noticed a young zabrak girl with curly hair tottering towards them.

“…”

“Diy? You good?” Zuji’s voice drifted up to her. The Light Force user noticed the gunslinger’s freezing through her senses.

“I think my ovaries just exploded…”

Zujenia stood up from where she’s been crouched and looked to where her friend was staring, catching the kid. She stifled a laugh and patted Diy’s shoulder, tickled at being present for the first time her pal had this experience. Kids weren’t usually the Kiffar’s thing, not until they were at some capacity to hold their own, preteens and teens. “I understand the mood.”

As a group of four approached the registration table and the silver protocol droid attending it, it was easily clear that three of them were closely related. The oldest of the group — though this was not easy to tell, as he could easily pass for a man in his mid-twenties — had long black hair and a well-groomed goatee, with a visible cybernetic having replaced his left eye and part of his skull. Next to him was a slightly younger man with messy dark blonde hair, covered in armor and walked with a staff. Trailing behind with the fourth was a youth with similarly messy chestnut brown hair and aristocratic features.

All three of the humanoids had nearly identical quicksilver eyes, though the younger adult’s were notably paler. It indicated his physical blindness, emphasized by the staff he used to get around.

The fourth was an HK unit with matte black and dark gray plates. His glowing blue orbs took in all the children running around the grounds, though he kept his rifle holstered over his shoulder. Regardless, HK-72 continued his threat assessment as the group approached the table.

The oldest two humanoids were bickering. Loudly.

“I don’t understand why you dragged me here, Father. I’m twenty-two years old… I think, if I wanted a pet, I could handle bonding with one on my own.”

“Don’t whine at me, Marius Apollo. You and your little brother could use something to bond over,” Celevon retorted, glancing back at his younger son to make sure that Rhys wasn’t getting into mischief.

The youngest of the humanoids in the group gave his father an innocent look, which was rather belied by his twitching lips. Truth be told, Rhys was amused by the argument between his father and oldest (half) brother.

At that moment, the gleaming protocol droid spoke up. “Everyone, please sign in here. It will only take a mo— That’s not a child.”

“Agree to disagree,” the Shaevalian-Umbaran tossed back, which earned him a glare from Marius.

Entering the wide open area, a Miraluka with a Harakoan Polecat on his shoulder excitedly made his way towards the animal pens. Blind, and unable to see the names of the species, he was guided by the Force with one goal in mind. To find a new friend or two to enter his growing family.

Eleceos loved people, he truly did, but he also feared them. He feared growing close to them, and then losing them to natural causes, or their own betrayal of him. He’d lost too many as it was. Many of which it turned out he never actually had.

He had always seemed to possess a closer connection to animals. And so, he had made them the focus of his companionship. He still had those he’s was truly close with, like Mune and Doon, but starting with his beloved Cythraul, Ashyrith, he had grown his own pack of friends.

And today that pack would only grow! He just didn’t know who would be joining just yet.

The chittering of his Polecat, Koda, filled his senses.

“I know Koda, there are alot of people here.” When the chittering continued, he couldn’t help but laugh. “Koda, calm down. I’m sure we’ll find a great fit while we’re here. And if not, there are plenty of places to find new friends out there. Let’s go looking!”

At the human’s approach, Natholae pressed deeper into Zuji’s leg, his brown eyes peering around with his hand in his mouth. The half-Ryn woman patted his head idly and supportively, despite the hint of tenseness setting in her shoulders. The other two toddlers were less shy. Barsali staying where he was near Diy and just staring at the woman with a raised hand. Kipp pulled away from the pen panels to approach, waving and smiling with a ‘Hiii!’ – only to be scooped up into his mam’s arms and bounced on a hip.

“Hello, nice to meet you, I’m Zujenia. We are familiar, yes, have one already. She’s such a good companion for the family, so thought about getting another one,” Zujenia replied, introducing herself with a smile.

“Her name is Iarna! We’ve had her since I was like a kid like them, smaller though. A baby,” Shay'lra pipped up, joining the three adults. The rosy skinned half-Ryn youth hummed in thought. “Do you have purple? Purple harnesses?”

“I’m sure they have sooo many colors you can pick from, chika,” the Kiffar with the Ryn family responded. She turned to Rasilvenaira and grinned as she offered a hand to shake, “Hi, I’m Diyrian. Not looking for a tuggle myself but might be interested in adopting an,” her gaze shifted to the cage nearby, “Akk pup. They hold a special place for me, but haven’t the chance to own one myself.”

Lissian bounced at the words, tiny chest puffed up, beaming and looking like she might punch at the sky – or one of her brothers. “I’m nine!” she bragged, though lowering her volume at a quelling look from Rav'ida. “We’re friends now.” It was said firmly, nearly as firm as the latched on grip she had on his hand.

Rue sniffled, wiping his eyes again. But it was for naught. As he followed Ras’ movement through the crowd, he was greeted by the sight of the family of Ryn hybrids that had come in earlier, admiring the tuggles. His gaze fixed on wear the mother and son’s tails twinned, and for a moment, he could hardly breathe for how full his chest felt. He hiccuped and tears started spilling again.

“Mister Rue? Are you okay?” Lissian’s concerned, sweet voice broke in. Her mother was fast on her heels, slight anxiety emanating from her.

“Yes, are you alright? Lissian, let go…” Was her daughter hurting him? Or had she offended.

“It is o-o-okay,” Rue hiccuped, squeezing the child’s hand to show she was allowed. “I a-am a-al-right. Wond-on-derdul. Amazing. This is. All so. Wonderful. Oh!” With his hand busy, his tail deftly lifted the skirt of his dress, using it to wipe his face. “I am just. So very happy. Is all. I am having a lot of feelings. But they are all wonderful, I assure you. I am happy to s-see healthy, happy children. And reminded of my G-grandmother there.”

He nodded at the Ryn clan, crying harder hearing the young one talking about their pet and the little ones scooped protectively.

“Here.” Rav'ida offered him a tissue. Being a mother of as many as the wives were meant being prepared. Rue’s tail took it, freeing his clothes of the sacrifice.

- “Thank you for your kindness,” he said, once able to speak some more. “Do not mind if I keep doing it…ah, I should go help.” Lissian had yet to let go of him. “Do you want to come see the animals?”

“Yeah!”

The adopted hybrid rose, and together the pair approached where the Miraluka stood with a polecat on his shoulder.

“E-excuse us, Sir, hullo, do you need assistance?” <@690640377262243843> <@206692046424113152>

Reiden had arrived in time to see what looked like a small army of children off load from a speeder. While the numbers may have been unexpected, it brought a smile to his face to know that the event that Rasilvenaira had set up looked like it could be a big hit. But the chirping of his comlink going off had made him backtrack for a little privacy and so he wouldn’t disturb anyone.

And in typical fashion, it was something that could have easily waited for another time. Hell, anyone else could have handled it as well. But, no, it was apparently his job to answer. At least it was an easy fix. He shook his head and sighed as he continued on. He spotted Verlassen at the table ahead. He couldn’t remember the last time he had seen the droid. He greeted him and signed in before walking into the area.

Ras had gathered a good assortment of animals for adoption. He looked around, noting which ones were where. He didn’t know which he might want for himself, if any, but he thought it would be good to show up and support a friend. And then there was the possibility of seeing Shadow and her family, which was always a bonus for him.

I bet the boys will love it here, he thought to himself.

Little balls of fluff with two many legs brushing against Rasilvenaira’s sleeve while the woman pet them flashed across Diyrian’s mind while she shook hands, her index finger extended habitually to touch the fabric. Her smile deepened when they parted, aquamarine gaze flitting to the pair of voorpaks that were visible on Ras’s head and shoulder. Beside Diy, Shay grinned with excitement, her short grey tail flicking along.

At the mention of the two pet limit per family rule, Diy and Zujenia did meet eyes with mild amusement. They didn’t bother specifying they were technically two different households or whatever it was called. Despite the heart explosions of cuteness and joking around earlier, neither was planning on coming home with more than one pet if they got one today.

“I’ll be sure to chat up, Scrappy, thanks,” Diy affirmed with gratitude. Much as her main beau was a creature lover, she would need to know what all is to expect in raising the pup.

“Thank you for the assistance,” Zujenia added. The half-Ryn paused in consideration, running through the list of inquiries she definitely had prepped when she heard about this event. “If I may, just a couple questions? Do they have their vaccines? And if we decided on one, would it be allowable to introduce them to ours? Ensure they get on together?”

“Right, lovely meeting you, I’m gonna head over,” Diy nodded to Ras as she patted Zuji’s arm lightly. She said to the latter, “Be back later.”

“Hey there, Scrappy, right?” Diyrian strolled up to the BD unit, who thrilled in seemingly confirmation.“Cool, what do you know on Akk Dogs?”

A whirrr sounded before the datapad lit up, screens flashing till it reached the right resource material. Diy uttered her thanks and dug in to reading.

Ele turned to face the group next to him and smiled.

“Hi there, I’m just looking for…I don’t know yet. I feel like I’ll know once I see it.”

He realized what he just said and laughed slightly feeling his head wraps.

“Well… not see exactly… just a figure of speech.”

“This one has heard of this colloquialism,” Rue replied sweetly, too high on happiness to be fully, properly demure. “Welcome, Master. This one is Rue. I am helping Mistress Ras. And this is Lissian, my friend. You have an animal friend already, we see? Perhaps this one may suggest looking at the animals that will not possess a prey or chasing drive such as the akk-hounds. A complete herbivore may be more appropriate.”

“Ah yes, this is Koda. He’s a sneaky little trickster. Likes to take things and hide em, especially if they’re shiny.”

Ele reached into his should and gave the polecat a good scritching.

“I have other animal friend as well, predator and prey. They all live quite harmoniously. I have good way with animals. As for what I’m looking for today… I’ll know it when I feel it. As strange as it might sound…the Force leads me to creatures that need me, or would match my pack.”

Eleceos have a nervous chuckle, knowing that he probably sounded crazy.

Reiden was first drawn to the gizkas. He smiled as some walked over and hopped around curiously. He reached in to give them scritches. “I’m not at all surprised that Ras brought along a bunch of you. Just try not to chew on things you shouldn’t, yeah?” He gave a hard look to one that tilted its head at him. “Yeah, I’m talking to you. I know how you guys can be, I’ve got one of my own at home.”

He laughed and watched them play together as he stepped back. The idea of having another gizka was certainly tempting. He often worried that Silver might get lonely, especially when he was away. Then again, two gizkas could just as easily become a problem. Maybe a fluffy little voorpak instead?

Rue tilted his head, regarding the Miraluka with little more than a blink, and a friendly smile. To Eleceos, he would be a beacon of light, radiating warmth, joy, hope unchained.

“This does not sound strange to this one. Perhaps though it means I cannot help you very much by telling you about the animals…but Magister Desi over at that table handles the supplies and you are welcome to spend as much time as needed to seek your new pack friend here, if indeed here they should be.”

Acorn looked around at the motts happily playing in the field as a soft bark drew her attention. She paused, turned in place one foot at a time and found herself staring into Alk’s eyes. The Diplomott snorted as the little girl reached out with both hands, fearless and without hesitation and grabbed his horn. “Pretty doggo.” She said loudly and, with a toothless smile, turned to her moms with a proud expression.

Corde started to move, worried that the mott would hurt her, but Tierra stopped her by embracing her from behind. “That one seems tame and friendly, liueba. Let her have her fun.”

Corde visibly relaxed and smiled widely at Acorn. “I just…I’m afraid something might happen…”

Tierra put her chin on Corde’s shoulder and squeezed a bit tighter. “I know this is a trial for you and I know it took courage to bring the kids here. It’s a small step but you’re doing great. As long as we’re here nothing like that will ever happen to our kids.”

Tierra had a way of weaving her voice that really gave Corde courage in tough times. Even back then she could turn her voice from commanding to soothing at a flick of a switch. It was reassuring, and Corde trusted her more than anyone. She had faith.

–

Frask, the stocky yet short Quarren boy approached ‘Mr. BD’ with trepidation. His brother, Zaddun the Selonia, pushed him on with encouraging squeeks. “Excuse me, Mr. Bee-Dee? Do you have any aq-, aqu-, akw-, aku-”

BD trilled in confusion, but Zaddun jumped in. “Aquatic animals!” and finished the sentence for his brother, obviously not his first tango with the youth’s tangled tongue. Frask nodded sheepishly, embarrassed at his blunder, giving Zaddun a look of despair. BD sagged and let out a mournful wail before chirping back up and accessing the datapad showing a Porg. Avian, semi-aquatic. At least it could swim in teh water for short periods.

“Beats seeing a kath hound drown.” Zaddun’s comment drew the attention of both his brother, BD, and Ra'vida who was just a few feet away. “What? It’s true!”

“Thank you, Mr BeeDee.” Frask exclaimed, clearly his brother’s joke didn’t dampen his mood. He turned on his heel and headed to see Rue about a Porg.

<@244244163002892288>

While their parents signed in with Verlassen and chatted with Ras, a familiar figure caught Artorias’ eye. A big grin appeared on his face, his golden eyes lighting up with joy as he tugged on his twin’s sleeve and pointed. “Deus, look! Uncle Reiden is here!”

Deus’ eyes widened with excitement, and he quickly charged the unsuspecting human. “Uncle Reiden!”

“Boys!” Sanguis called out, his body tensed and ready to round up his stepsons until he saw the object of their excitement. “Ah, I see Reiden is here. And looking at gizkas, no less. Lovely.”

Shadow chuckled. “You better get in there and make sure they don’t try to persuade him to get them one. Also, I’m sure Reiden would love to see Sorin too.”

“Good idea. What about you?”

“I’ll look around. I just saw on the list Ras has kath hounds here. I’d like to take a gander at them and the tuggles.”

“Tuggles?”

“Mhm. They’re carnivorous, but kinda cute.”

“How big are they?”

“Not too big. Though they are pack animals, so if I want one, I may have to get two or three-”

“We agreed on two, Rowan. Two.”

“Yes, two for the twins.”

“No, Rowan, we are not getting more than-”

“Oh! I see the kath hounds over there! Have fun, love! Take care of Sorin!”

“Rowan!”

Sanguis shook his head as he watched his wife approach the kath hound pen. He looked down at his son and picked him up, placing the toddler on his shoulders. “Your mother is going to be the death of me.”

Sorin giggled as he tangled his fingers in his father’s raven, silky locks. Sanguis chuckled, distracted by the boy’s innocence. “Alright. Let’s go see your uncle.”

While he spoke to Eleceos, Rue noted from the corner of his eye as another of the children approached. He beamed at the Quarren youth and the Selonian one scurrying up behind.

“Hello, there!” With Lissian still latched to his hand, he waved with his half-arm, using his tail to gesture in welcome. “Can this one help you, litlun?”

- Meanwhile, Alk was indeed tame as Tierra predicted to Corde. He didn’t seem at all perturbed by the toddler hanging on to his horn. In fact, he made a playful bleat at it, ducking his nose to gently bonk the fellow horn-head back. Acorn was flopped directly onto her butt by the action, likely drawing a gasp from her mother, but she just paused, then giggled, toddled upright, and smacked her whole head right back against Alk’s snout (thankfully not on his upright horn).

Zujenia sighed in delight at the adorable Voorpak and, after shifting Kipp on her hip to free her hand, gave the fluffy critter a one finger pet. The young boy also wanted to say hi to Soli, his small hand caught and guided by his mother with instructions of gentle, physically assisted in polite interaction.

“Aww, they’re cute!” Shay'lra exclaimed, nearly reaching out before pausing and remembering it’s proper to ask. “May I?”

Meanwhile, Zujenia listened along to her inquiries’ answers. “Oh, that’s good to hear, on their health and the support network here. I, uh, had to guess and learn a lot with Iarna, the folks who had her prior weren’t…so resourceful or knowledgeable, heh.”

She paused for a quick visual check on her lot, the grey furred Rynlette finally detaching from her leg to watch his other brother play with a simple puzzle box he’s freed from her satchel. Satisfied, she smoothly continued with practice. “I think her meeting the pup would be good. I’m sure she’d be alright, had done well with the kids and had no issues in sharing a household with a nexu, but still…Hmm, a male likely best. Not interested in breeding, but seems like that would be easier in establishing the ‘hierarchy’? Though I’m not opposed to a female if one has a better temperament for us and her.”

. Diyrian kept reading on Akk Dogs care, realizing she should have done more research than a ‘maybe I will’ but hey, doing that now. She chuffed in surprise at the Selonian kid’s Krath hound comment, hiding behind the tablet slightly at the dark comment. Shouldn’t have laughed at that.

As Reiden was watching the gizkas, seeing which one might get on with Silver, he heard his name being called. There were only so many people who would address him that way, but he recognized the voice instantly. Relying on his senses, he spun just in time to catch the boy and lift him into the air.

“Deus! I had a feeling that I’d end up finding you guys here sooner or later.” He smiled and hugged his nephew before setting him down. “It’s good to see you again.” He turned and gently ruffled Artorias’ hair as the other twin approached. “And you too, Arty. I missed you both.”

Ele felt the warmth radiating from Rue, and could tell they genuinely loved the animals and the people around them. It was rare to “see” such radiance.

“Thank you, if I need anything I’ll be sure to ask for assistance. For now though, I just need to find a spot to…attune myself.”

Ele gave a friendly bow before looking around for an open spot. Finding one, and with eyes watching him with confusion, the Miraluka sat down in a meditative pose, centering himself in the Force and reaching out.

“Y-yes. Hi, I’m Frask and this is Zaddun…we…I…” Frask fumbled with his words but Zaddun nudged him out of his fear. “Iwannalookattheporgs!” He said with such speed that the words blended togather. He shut his eyes, uncomfortable with seeing Rue’s reaction.

–

Acorn bonked Alk again, this time pushing against him like a baby Reek trying to push its mother during playtime. She huffed and puffed but Alk simply stayed still.

When she was done pushing he happily licked her face in affirmation. It made her giggle even more and she gave him a hug and said, “you’re my friend, now.”

–

Daki stopped bothering Koda at the express command of Tierra, Corde and Ra'vida. The boy had a knack for skipping the rules set by one by going to the others for support, but they knew his tricks. He had to be handled bzly commitee.

Still even so he found himself looking at the Merqaals hanging everywhere with their sticky paws and string tails. The big eyes drew the most attention for Daki. They were cute, fuzzy and scaley. What’s not to like.

“Mom! I think I like this one,” he yelled across the fair as if he was the only one there. Tierra gave a hopeless smile as she walked thirty or so feet to kneel next to him.

“Let’s see what you found. This one? You’re sure?”

Rue just smiled at them, unaffected by Frask’s shyness.

“Hello, Frask and Zaddun, thank you so much for talking to me. Of course we can look at the porgs. Let us go, they are right this way. Do you want to hold my tail? Lissian is holding my hand and I only have one. And you can hold your brother’s hand too.”

However the children accepted, Rue would lead them to the semi-aquatic avians. He spoke again as they approached.

“You are both aquatic or semi-aquatic species, is this why you would also like a porg? To spend more time with them? That is very smart. The merquals are also semi-aquatic. The two animals have quite different diets and temperaments though. Can you tell me what you like about porgs?”

Koda ended up somewhat following along with the big group. The Merqaal pen caught his interest to begin with, but the interest the children had made him smile somewhat for an experience he never really got to have.

Daki turned back to his mother as Rasilvenaira urged him along. Tierra smiled at him, nodded and crouched behind the gate. She made a gesture with both hands on her chest, one they all knew meant ‘May the Force be with you’. She took her kyber medallion in hand and observed.

Confident now that his mother approved, Daki sat down and looked around at all the Merqaals around him. Most were sheepish, observing curiously from a distance, their split ears perching and lowering, eye blinking in his direction. Several minutes passed and, restless, he went to say something when a Merqaal came closer, sniffing him from afar. Sheepish as well, but braver than its siblings, the brown scales on its back rose slightly, like a frightened cat, but still it approached. Ras showed Daki how to put out his hand and put a treat into it as the Merqaal hopped forward and slobered over the hand and the treat. Daki jumped back, surprised and laughing. The Merqaal pulled back slightly but waited for the next piece of yum-yum. A Daki gave him several more the Merqaal rolled, its buff colored furry belly ready for scratches and pats.

“He’s so cute!” Daki exclaimed. “Mom can I keep him?” He turned to Tierra for approval.

“Of course you can, dear. What do you want to call him?”

He gave it no thought at all. “Slimer.”

“Thank you,” Tierra replied with a smile and visible relief as she took the datapad. As she took Daki’s hand he didn’t even notice that whatever cloud was spreading above her head had dissipated. “What a strange galaxy we live in.” she thought to herself dispelling any fear she had of the Stormraven.

“He closes one eye at a time, he’s so cool!” Daki exclaimed as he carried Slimer in both hands.

“Just be careful with him, he’s still tiny.” Dakki nodded and patted Slimer with one hand.

While Tierra handled things with the vendor, Corde and four of their children came to see Slimer and welcome him to the family.

Kal arrived later than he would have liked. But business is business and a client needed their droid repaired and he had a deadline. He just hoped that he wasn’t too late and there were still animals available. He hadn’t gathered much info about it, so he didn’t know what to expect. He knew Reiden would be there and was hoping to meet up with him - and they were supposed to go together anyway - but knew he would probably be busy if he ran into his friend and her family. But he wasn’t going to let that stop him. He was always surrounded by droids, so the idea of something else to keep him company sounded good.

After signing in, he found some information about the animals being offered. There was a good variety, but not so much as to be overwhelming, which he appreciated. He slowly walked the area, looking at the different animals. Ideally, he was hoping for something that wasn’t too big. So while the kath hounds were interesting and the motts adorable, they didn’t seem quite right. And then there was the practicality of it to consider, beyond his comfort level. He had a good home, but it wasn’t the largest, so he had to think carefully. The scaly akk dogs had the same problem. Voorpaks were almost the opposite: cute, but he worried he might lose or step on one. Of the remaining options, his mind kept going back to the tuggles and merqaals for some reason.

Frask and Zaddun clutched Ru’s tail as they walked staring up at him like watching a skyscraper. “I like,” Frask started, “when they yell really loud. And I guess they’re cute and I can swim with them. That’s always fun.” He thought for a moment before adding, “do they bite?”

Koda smiled at Daki interacting with his new friend. He spent a while leaned up against the fence just looking at all the other merqaals and watched them and their behaviors. He then looked around a bit to see where Rasilvenaria was to attempt to wave her down.

Koda have a slight nod of acknowledgement, “A pleasure, I’m Koda. These merqaals seem like they’re quite the creature. Are they much of a handful to care for?”

“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea.” He smiled and followed along with them, “I’m not too worried about them being too destructive. Do you think they’d handle space travel well enough? I primarily live in my starship.”

Koda slowly crouched down, doing his best to not look intimidating with his large stature. “Hopefully I don’t scare them too much. I’m normally dealing with much larger creatures…” He held out his hands with open palms.

Koda sat qietly and waited for one to approach, within a few moments a curious merqaal with a fluffy red belly much like Koda’s hair approached. Koda had grabbed some treats to encourge them with. Quickly the female lept up onto his lap and tried to nip at the treats and yank them away before Koda could stop her. Little did she know that Koda had a bit of a death grip at times. Instead the feisty thing wagged its body to try and get them free. Koda did his best to calm her and scratch her chin, gently allowing her to grab part of the treat without ripping it all away. “Well this one certainly has some energy.” He chuckled. “I wonder if it noticed my hair.”

“They can yell very loud, yes. Porg calls in a colony or rookery may exceed seventy decibels. They can bite, yes, and peck. They are omnivores. They eat fish and insects but primarily fish. Do you have a lot of fish where you go swimming?” Rue prattled back kindly. As they came up to where the porgs were, indeed it grew noisier, but not too much with only a few chicks. They waddled about, opening big mouths and trumpeting.

“Fighting me won’t get you anywhere.” Koda said to the fiery merqaal. Once it waited patiently for another, he gave her just the one, “There you go.” He smiled and scratched her under her chin. “Does she have a name?” Koda asked Rasilvenaira.

“Food motivated, eh? We’ll share that in common.” He gave her another treat and scratches, “I think she’s made up her mind, should I wait here or carry her along with?”

“I appreciate it a lot.” Koda smiled, carrying the little one with him, letting her jump up onto his shoulders as he gave her another treat, “I think Tracyn might be a good fit, what do you think Little Flame?” Koda motioned up to the fuzzy lizard thing. She simply enjoyed her treat.

Kal strolled along and stood by the Loth-cats. He watched them playing, two rolling around together while a couple more pounced on some of the others, making him laugh. They were an energetic bunch. His tail swayed slowly as he remained there a moment longer. But he wanted to check out some of the other animals so he reached in and gave some scritches to one that came close to the fence before moving on.

He glanced around and spotted where the tuggles were, heading in that direction. As he walked, he saw others looking at the animals. It was the perfect day for something like this.

“Are you getting a new gizka, Uncle?” Deus asked, the gears in his head already turning as he plotted the acquisition of the bipedal reptile.

“Deus Tarsus, don’t you even try it.”

The boy grumbled and stomped his foot, his father having predicted and thwarted his chance. Artorias chuckled, and patted his brother’s shoulder as the Nagai joined them. “Gotta be quicker, Deus.”

“Oh, shut up.”

“Hey. Watch your tongue, young man,” Sanguis warned before he turned his attention to Reiden. “Sorry about that, Reiden. The boys seek to add to the gizka horde invading the estate. It’s good to see you again. It’s been a while.”

Meanwhile at the kath hound pen, Shadow was studying the mammals, contemplating whether they would be a good fit with her other predators back home. Loki, her aging anooba, always got along with her tuk’ata and arx wolf. The three made for good hunting companions during her trips into the mountains and surrounding woods, though she knew Loki’s age would eventually catch up with him and slow him down. He had been her loyal companion the longest, but he had especially bonded with her late husband, tailing the Mandalorian everywhere he went. Since Brandon Tarsus’ death, he had been the ever-watchful guardian of the twins, sleeping in their room at night should anything or anyone seek to harm them.

She studied the kath hounds again. She didn’t wish to replace Loki, but the Sith knew that her arx wolf, Tsume, would need a packmate once the anooba passed. Her tuk’ata, Eqkaesyr, stayed more to himself, only tolerating the presence of the other beasts during a hunt.

I know I could probably just get another arx wolf, or maybe another anooba. Been thinking about getting vornskr, but that tail would be an issue around the kids…

The assassin pinched the bridge of her nose as she pondered her decision. A huff caught her attention, and she saw a particular hound studying her curiously, its head cocked to the side. That was all she needed.

“Okay, okay. You won me over. Hopefully, you win Sanguis over too. Lemme see if I can get someone to help me out.”

Shadow followed Ras in, and knelt before the dark steel-blue male. Thinking back to times past, she held out her hand and bowed her head, a sign of respect she had used before to gain her tuk'ata’s trust. A sign of respect and trust from one hunter to another as equals. As packmates.

He smiled at the boys. “I was thinking about maybe getting another one, yeah. Silver has been good, but I thought maybe he needed a friend that wasn’t one of my droids. He already chases one of them around,” he added, laughing.

The mouse droid in question would often be attending to its cleaning duties and the gizka would follow it around, leading to the droid increasing its speed, and of course Silver followed suit. It was really quite amusing to watch, although he did feel a bit bad for the poor droid.

He turned to see Sanguis and little Sorin and waved to them. “Oh, it’s fine. I’m only looking for myself here. I wouldn’t want to run afoul of their mother. She can hold a bit of a grudge.” He smiled. “It’s good to see you as well. Speaking of Shadow, where did she run off to?”

Shadow fed a couple of treats to her new friend before she followed Ras to retrieve the male’s file. A plethora of name ideas swirled within her mind, the Sith wanting to give him a name worthy of the beast.

Her arrival at the protocol droid wasn’t missed by Sanguis, nor was the Kath hound pup in tow. A sigh escaped his lips, only to be followed by a chuckle. “It would seem my wife’s heart has already been claimed by another beast once again.”

“Mom got a Kath hound? Yes! They’re so cool!” Deus exclaimed, his disappointment from earlier completely forgotten.

“Well, it certainly beats a pack of tuggles,” Sanguis added as he studied the pup from afar.

“I wanna pet it!” Sorin proclaimed, his red eyes brightening with excitement as he clutched his father’s locks tightly.

“Easy there, Sorin. We’ll go see it in a bit, I promise. You wanna see the other animals, don’t you?”

“Mmm.” Sorin glanced around, and saw something that caught his attention. “Ooo! I wanna see those, daddy!”

Sanguis looked towards the critter Sorin pointed to, his gut churning when he realized what they were. Porgs. It had to be porgs….then again…they’d make for a good meal…

Reiden followed his gaze and spotted the familiar half-Sephi and laughed quietly. “Well, she has spent a lot of time with Ras over the years, and she’s a fan of nature and animals anyway, so I guess it can’t be helped. But at least it’s not more gizkas. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone, not after I heard stories from Ras years ago. Hers were always chewing on different things or causing other mischief.” He eyed the twins, smiling. “Although with these two, I think there’s plenty enough of that already, isn’t there?”

He paused for a moment to think. “If it’s any consolation, I’ve heard good things about kath hounds that were able to be trained. And I’m sure Shadow wouldn’t pick something not suited to your family or lifestyle.”

“Nice to see you again Ras,” he replied, turning to her. “You know, I haven’t quite made up my mind yet, but I am thinking about getting another one. Or maybe something else instead, I’m not really sure. Those voorpaks of yours look like they could be a good addition, and being so small doesn’t hurt either. Would they get along with a gizka, or would I need to keep them separated?”

He nodded along as he listened. There was always a lot to consider when it came to animals, especially when putting two together, and even more so when they were two different kinds. But hearing that they would get along helped to put his mind at ease somewhat. He was amused at the idea of one of the little critters perching on him like that. And it reminded him of how Silver had been when he first got him. Still quite young and always curious, the little gizka was always trying to climb on something.

“Maybe that’s the way to go then. Although I may revisit the gizka idea later, as well.”

Koda gathered up the paperwork he needed and thanked Rasilvenaria before heading off to the pet vendor for supplies.

“Hey there,” spoke up the Kiffar at Koda’s approach, eyeing his belted blasters, armor colors, face, and then the merqaal on his shoulder. Their expression softened. “I take it you need help with this little one? I’ve got food, bedding, dishes, enrichment options, tanks, the works…”

Sanguis knew Reiden was right. His wife had proven throughout their time together that she was very knowledgeable about critters of all shapes and sizes, the woman’s love for animals going as far back as her childhood thanks to her late mother’s influence. Her passion was just one of many things he admired about her, the Nagai often finding himself grinning when she talked about the hunting behaviors of the nexu or the majesty of a flying aiwha. If anyone knew what puffball or beast suited their family, it was Rowan.

Ras’ sudden arrival withdrew the Marauder from his thoughts, and he offered her a smile. “We’re doing well, thanks. About to go look at the porgs. Come on, boys.”

“Poooorgs!” Sorin shouted excitedly, the boy yanking on his father’s hair as if they were reigns for which he could guide the Nagai.

“I’m going, I’m going. Easy on the hair, son.”

Sanguis walked over to the porgs, trying to push back the images of the bird seasoned and roasted that his mind had conjured up. Immediately, several pairs of large, round eyes greeted them. Sorin widened his own eyes, immediately engaging in a staring contest with one of the porgs.

“They’re kinda cool,” Deus remarked. “But…I don’t think mom would want one.”

This new information quickly caught Sorin’s attention, a frown on his lips. “Awww. But why?”

“She doesn’t care too much for the noise they make,” Deus responded. “She said they’d make the worst wake-up alarm.”

Sanguis honestly had to side with his wife. The Sith also had no love for the loud cries the beakless birds were known to make. He definitely wouldn’t take one home as a pet, but to take one home as a future meal…

As if sensing his thoughts, one of the porgs’ gaze fell on Sanguis. The Nagai studied it, and could almost swear the bird was…pleading? The expression on its face was innocent and…childlike.

No, don’t look at me like that.

The porg’s eyes remained on him and unchanged. Sanguis clenched his teeth, the Sith not willing to let dinner win him over. Give it up. It’s not going to work.

The bird didn’t relent, topping its performance with a cute little burble. The act was enough, and Sanguis let off a growl of frustration. Ugh! Fine! You’re too …cute…to eat.

The Nagai shivered internally, not used to admitting anything outside of Sorin’s antics being cute. He quickly looked away from the porgs, silently ashamed of himself for letting the little pipsqueak crush his resolve. “Come on, boys. Let’s go see what else there is.”

Unfettered by the joyful noises echoing in the area, Ele sat unmoving as the Force flowed around, and through him. He was deeply entranced, connecting to all that lived around him. Without a sound, he searched for any creatures who would match him and his animal friends.

Colors of all hues and tones swhirled around the Miraluka. The prism like swarm of colors vibrated and resonated with their own individual frequencies. As Ele’s breathing remained slow and focused, a pull could be felt in his chest. Like strings attached to his heart, two of the many radiating hues latched onto him.

Eleceos snapped out of his trance, still being drawn to two specific young creatures. With a smile on his face he began to move, walking towards the first. Quite the crowd seemed to swam around the animal pen. He could hear the excited signs of children looking to meet new friends. The crowd called the creatures Merqaal.

As he looked over the remaining young Merqaal, one of them seemed to shift it’s eyes to him. With curious eyes, she moved towards the Miraluka, her bright personality shining through his senses, making him smile.

“Well, hello there little one.”

“W-we have a big l-lake,” Frask said sheepishly, hiding behind Rue’s leg as they approached the screeching porgs. “M-mom taught me how to swim there, and there’s lot of f-fish.”

With subtle encouragement from his brother and from Rue, Frask stepped out and came closed to look. Through the gate the progs looked tiny, skippinga round, tumbling, rolling and yelling at each other. Frask’s tentacles twitched as he let out a joyful yelp, maybe a laugh. It was hard to tell. “Can I pick one?”

Rue beamed at him, tugging Lissian and Zaddun along closer to join their brother as he crouched. “Of course you can. Find whichever one is your new friend and we will get the information from Scrappy.”

“I’m somewhat new to owning a pet, what would you recommend other than the basic essentials and some toys?” Koda patted Tracyn, “I’ve got plenty of credits to work with.”

“Oh, oh, that one!” Lissian pointed at one of the smaller porgs rolling cutely on the floor. “No, no, that one,” Zaddun said, pointing at one standing strong and yelling at them, trying to assert dominance despite his small stature.

Frask stomped his foot softly, nervousness taking over as he stared at the chicks. His eyes finall fell on a white, black and tan chick. Black wings, a black cap, and tan on the back and tail, with white everywhere else, this porg hid behind a small mound of dirt and sticks, behind its screaming brother.

“That one looks alone and sad.” He told Rue, pointing at it. “Is he scared? Can I hold him?”

Rue extended his senses for a moment, just to be certain about answering Frask. Not fear, no, but nerves.

“I think he is a little shy. I understand. I am too. You can see if he wants to be held, but do not grab him,” the hybrid instructed gently. He guided the child into the pen, instructing the other two to stay back and watch, and then secured the gate behind them. Then he knelt down and nudged Frask to do the same.

“We can try talking to him to draw him out. Like this. Eeeekkkekek.” Rue did his best imitation of the Porg’s trumpet, which caused Lissian to laugh. He smiled, completely unashamed, and did it again. “EeeeeeEEEk!”

*“Eee-e-eee-ee-keekek” Frask attempted, his small tentacles fluttering from the force of his exhalations. He stuttered throughout, but despite his siblings’ amusement, still tried bravely.

Both other Porg’s were looking at them oddly. Certainly they weren’t doing a very good job of calling. But they were creatures making noise. And that was enough to get the hiding porg to also poke his head out and squawk. And when Frask offered a hand, it toddled forward, sniffing for fish treats expectantly.

Rue passed Frask one from a bag on his hip.

“Go on, hold your palm flat, so he cannot bite your fingers, and put it in the middle.”

When the porg stole the morsel, Frask squeaked. But he seemed happy.

“I wanna try!” Lissian burst out, trying to climb the fence. Rue directed her to opening it, and the siblings joined in, sharing treats Rue gave them with rhe porgs.

“How’s that?” he softly asked Frask.

Rue smiled from ear to ear, tears welling up again as he saw the children giving out treats. Frask and Lissian laughed at Zaddun when a porg bit his fingers to get at a treat, he joined in as well, unharmed and amused by the courageous animal.

“This is fun!” Zaddun hollered loud enough for Corde, who was standing no too far away, to overhear and approach.

“Did you find one you like?” She asked Frask who was just giving another treat to the shy porg who now hopped around him, inquisitive and curious. It yelled as a treat showed up, and munched each one down with gusto.

“Yeah, mom. This one.” Frask said as he sat down next to the porg, put a treat in his lap and the bird readily hopped on.

“What’re you gonna call him?” Zaddun scurried closer as Frask picked the bird up. To their surprise it remained calm but honked for more treats.

“Hoppity.”

Zaddun and Lissian started laughing. “What a dumb name.”

Corde spoke up when she saw Frasks courage begin to wane. “Well, I like it, how about you Mister Rue?” She looked up at him, hinting at Frask.

Ele turned to Rasilvenaira and smiled. His faced seem to radiate joy at meeting his new friend.

“Yes please, I would love to meet her.”

Heeding Sorin’s chant, Sanguis walked around until he spotted the pen of Motts. As they approached, the Motts swung their heads towards the newcomers. A few shied away from Sanguis’ presence while the rest studied him and the boys curiously. Sorin leaned forward on his father’s shoulders, his eyes wide as he took in the various patterns and colors of the horn-nosed beasts.

“I wanna pet them!” he exclaimed, his red eyes darting from one Mott to the other.

“You want to pet everything,” Artorias muttered, the white-haired boy finding little interest in the peaceful herbivores.

Waiting for his twin’s usual chastisement, Artorias was surprised when he didn’t receive it. He turned to look for his brother, only to find Deus further away watching some of the other kids. Sanguis followed the boy’s gaze, his heart softening. “Deus?”

Deus quickly spun, expecting to hear a reprimand from Sanguis for lagging behind. Instead, he was met with a warm smile. “Yes, dad?”

“If you want to go say hello, it’s alright. Just remember your manners.”

Deus’ eyes widened with excitement, the half-human child eager to make some friends. “You mean it?”

“I do. Just don’t wander off. And take Arty with you.”

“Daaaad.”

Sanguis looked down at the younger twin, knowing his more introverted stepson needed a bit of coaxing to leave his shell. “Go on with Deus. It wouldn’t hurt for you to meet other children and socialize a bit.”

Artorias groaned, but did as he was told and went to join Deus. His brother quickly grabbed his hand and half-dragged the half-Sephi toward the other children. The sight made Sanguis chuckle. Where his family lived, the twins never really had a chance to meet other children. The solitude affected Deus the most, the boy always looking for opportunities to make friends whenever they visited The Monolith on Seraph. He remembered how the move from Nagi had devastated the older twin. Though he understood why they had to leave, Deus had pined for weeks for the few friends he had made on the Nagai homeworld.

“Papaaaaa! I wanna pet the Motts!”

Sanguis’ attention returned to his son, and he reached up and ruffled the boy’s hair. “Alright, alright. Lemme see if we can have someone help us. Also, I need to find your mother.”

“No need, love. I’m here.”

“Mama!”

Sanguis turned and found his beloved behind him with the Kath hound pup at her side. “Ah, there you are. I saw you earlier with your new friend.”

Shadow chuckled. “I’m sorry, love. I couldn’t resist. I bonded with this one rather quickly.”

The half-Sephi knelt and pet the pup’s head. “He will make a great addition to the pack. And he will make an excellent hunter and companion for Tsume after Loki…”

Shadow didn’t have to finish for Sanguis to know what she meant. He lifted Sorin off his shoulders and set the boy down before kneeling next to his wife and placing his hand on her shoulder. “I think he’ll be perfect. Did you name him already?”

“Mhm. Stormveiðr.”

“Stormveiðr…I like it.” He reached out with his other hand and let the pup sniff it. After a few sniffs, the Kath hound nudged his hand and allowed the Marauder to scratch his chin.

“Can I pet too?”

“Of course you can, Sorin,” Shadow answered. “Just let him sniff your hand first.”

The toddler grinned and approached the hound, his little hand outstretched. He recoiled and gasped when the little carnivore huffed, but Sanguis quickly wrapped his arm around Sorin’s shoulders. “It’s alright. We won’t let him bite you. Nice and easy.”

Sorin tried again, trusting his father as he placed his hand before the Kath hound’s nose. The pup sniffed him several times before, much to the boy’s delight, the beast licked his hand. “He likes me! He likes me!”

Sanguis and Shadow chuckled as their son hugged the pup and nuzzled his nose against the hound’s furry head. The Nagai then stood up, stretching a bit to pop his back. “Sorin wanted to pet the Motts. I’ll see if I can bug Ras or this Rue we were told about.”

Rue gazed at Frask very seriously, touching his cheek and drawing shy dark eyes to meet his.

“I think it is a wonderful name, Frask. Naming someone is very, very important. You give your love when you give a name. And I know Hoppity will be very loved with you.” He smiled then, gentling.

Reiden walked along, looking at the different spots. He had always thought porgs were interesting creatures. They were almost egg-shaped and their wings perhaps a little on the stubby side, at least in his opinion, but yet they somehow managed to fly to an extent. Their little teeth were an amusing juxtaposition of their cuteness, or maybe even added to it. On the other hand, he had sometimes found himself wondering what they tested like. He shook the thought from his mind. This was a place to find pets, not food.

When Sorin first mentioned motts he had smiled, remembering Alk. He had thought he spotted Rue earlier - it was hard not to with someone so colorful - but saw that he was busy. But where there was Rue, Alk was sure to be nearby somewhere. He walked over to join Sanguis and Sorin, smiling when he saw Shadow.

“It looks like you got yourself a new friend after all. Just couldn’t resist, could you?”

Shadow grinned. “What can I say? When you’ve loved animals for as long as I have, it just happens.”

She stood up and gave a curt nod to Reiden. “It’s good to see you again as always, Reiden. What mischief have you been up to lately?” she asked teasingly.

Meanwhile, Sanguis watched as his son followed his aunt into the pen. A part of him wanted to protest, but seeing the excitement in Sorin’s eyes stopped him. Deep down he knew that his son deserved a friend of his own, Deus and Artorias already bonded with the Gizkas and Tooka kitten their aunt had given them. At least a Mott would be better than another Gizka or a Porg.

Sorin held his hand out with the treats as Ras had instructed. A few Motts looked at him with interest, but only one came forth. His grin widened with awe, the boy struggling to hold still.

As if summoned, Alk appeared behind the lot of them, peering into the pen with the other Motts. If he was perturbed by other Motts getting his attention, he didn’t show it, being a very good diplomott and all. He’d tried to make it over sooner, but he did have a passenger still holding on to his horn– Acorn toddled along with him. She couldn’t climb up for a ride, but she could certainly hold on for all her little arms were worth. He pawed at Reiden’s leg, saying hello to his old friend.

“It’s good to see you too, Shadow,” he replied with a grin. “Mischief, me? I don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m totally innocent. Well, unless it’s about spoiling the boys, but I don’t think a bunch of animals is the way to go since you’ve got so many already, and more gizkas would just become a problem. I’m just here to support Ras, and I was hoping that I might see you all here as well. At first I was tempted to get another gizka so that Silver wouldn’t be so lonely, but now I’m thinking of maybe getting a voorpak if I can befriend one.”

He felt the paw on his leg and smiled at the sight of the familiar pygmy mott, reaching down to give him some well deserved scritches. “Alk, I knew I’d run into you sooner or later. I see you’re already hard at work today. Just make sure not to get too far from this little one’s family so they don’t worry.” <@244244163002892288>

Shadow looked down at the newcomers, her motherly instincts kicking in as she knelt down to greet them. “Well, hello there, little ones. Who are your friends, Reiden?”

Meanwhile, Sanguis followed after Sorin and Ras, unable to hide a toothy grin. Sorin giggled with glee as he went to retrieve his new friend’s file, and nearly tripped over himself. The little Mott nuzzled the toddler’s arm, eliciting more giggles and squeals of joy from the child.

“Have you thought of a name, Sorin?” Sanguis asked as they reached the protocol droid.

Sorin looked up at his father and nodded. “Mhm! His name is Zozu!”

“Zozu? Why Zozu?”

Sorin shrugged and wrapped his short arms around his Zozu’s neck. “I like Zozu.”

Sanguis chuckled, amused by the toddler’s choice. “Well, I think Zozu is a good name.”

The Nagai bent down and let the mott sniff him before he pet his little head. “Welcome to the family, Zozu.”

“I’m not sure who the girl is, probably someone visiting here today. But this little mott is Alk. Friendly, helpful, always looking distinguished. I met him and his friend Rue a couple months ago when stopping to refuel my ship. Typically where one is, the other isn’t far behind. I thought I saw Rue on my way in, but he may be busy.” He smiled, letting out a short laugh as he patted Alk’s side gently. “But you’d know him if you saw him. He has hair like a rainbow.”

Alk snuffled at Shadow’s hand and proudly lifted his head as much as he could with Acorn hanging on to him, happy to be recognized by Reiden and complimented so.

“Well…” Desi’s look turned a bit critical, and they warned, “an animal is a lot of work and a serious responsibility. They won’t only be there to be cute when you want them. It’s no different than a child or caretaking for any other dependant. They need training, enrichment, suitable food and treats, accessories, grooming, medical care…why don’t you tell me a bit about their new home environment and I can help you set up?”

“For the moment, I’ve been traveling in my starship. It’s a Lancer-Class, so it has all the same amenities as home and then some. I understand the responsibility I’m trying to uphold…my partner and I are expecting a child soon enough and I thought that this might be a good experience to start…and to give them a friend if needed. I’ve trained with nomadic tribes and hunters, so I know my way to handle beasts and hunting dogs who can be a bit feisty. I’m certain with enough time and understanding that this one and I will come to terms.”

The Kiffar eased a bit hearing Koda at least had some experience handling creatures. “Alright…so, a ship. Are you planning to have that kid onboard or are you going to settle planetside somewhere? You’ve picked out a species that likes some water and fresh air. A strictly indoor life like staying on a ship could be fine for a tooka, but a merqaal is a little wilder of a domestic breed.”

“I’m still working on getting a more permanent residence. But for the time being it will be the ship. But I’m rarely off a hospitable planet for more than a few days. So making sure we get out and about won’t be a problem, and she seems to like standing on my shoulders. I wouldn’t be surprised if I’ll have her join me on any trips I make on foot.”

Desi nodded along, grabbing a datapad to start making a list of supplies and charges. “Alright…and I take it your partner is alright with a pet too? Not to make this an interrogation, but usually you want to see both pet parents, as it were. Surprise adoptions are generally bad ideas.”

“I warned her about it first. She’s the one who brought the fair up to my attention, said it would be good for me to try and bond with an animal that is actually mine.” Koda reached up and scratched Tracyn, “Seems I’ve got a type, Tracyn here is going to match her energy just fine.”

The Kiffar chuckled, finally. “Alright. Then here, let’s get you started…”

They turned the datapad to face him, explaining each item they were recommending, from a small pool and fountains and sleeping beds to harnesses and leads, child locks for cabinets, mess bags, food, toys, climbing shelves…

Koda mulled over a majority of the items, picking out what he thought would be best and what he could get installed into the ship. He’d had a decent amount put away, but he wasn’t able to just drop a fortune on everything. But what he got would be more than enough for the new critter and to liven up the ship for them.

Left to their own disposal to engage with the tuggle bevy, Zujenia corraled her kids together. She set down Kipp with his brother, Barsali, and then guided Nathalae from behind her leg so she could crouch too, hugging him close and pointing at the pups playing. Shay'lra crouched alongside them, delighted to hold her hand out and see if the tuggle would approach. A few would occasionally break off from tussling to sniff them or hap-spasm away with little eek noises, playing. A couple ventured to examine the triplets, but found more interest tackling each other than them.

Save for one.

The fawn colored female first came up alongside Shay'lra, digging exploratively at her shoes before trying to climb into her lap. Her darker muzzle raised as she mocked nipped the rosy hand that went to pet her, wriggling playfully with no fear or an actual intent to bite. Her brown eyes were attentive and intelligent, quickly learning the pattern of Shay’s tickles and being ready to pounce for them. Zujenia watched the pup slink just under Kipp’s enthusiastic pets with ease and no loss of energy, bumped her snoot gently into Barsali’s hands, and even got Nathalae to play as she tackled the tuft of white hair of his tail.

“Aww, she’s so cute, mam!” Shay'lra cooed beside her. The girl looked up, smiled and waved to someone outside the pen. She called somewhat quietly, trying to mind not yelling around the animals, “Dee-dee! Look, this one is so sweet and fun!”

Diyrian halted outside the metal panels and leaned on them slightly. She had just departed from the info station after giving Scrappy her compliments on its assistance. “Which one?”

“This one! See?” Shay'lra reached over and grabbed the playful pup’s attention by wriggling her fingers, scritching her belly when the tuggle flopped onto her lap. .

“Cute indeed.” Diy turned to Zuji with a raised brow, “Is that the one?”

“I…think so. I mean, Iarna needs to meet her still but if that goes well, yes.” Zuji smiled at the critter, her own sandy tail curling happily with barely checked infatuation. She looked to Diy. “How about you? You going to go through with it?”

The Kiffar looked over at the akk dogs next door, “Yeah, think so. If I find one that jives with me, y'know?”

“Mhm,” Zuj agreed, “I think you will.” She paused then add, “If it’s a female though, you might have to find a new favorite word.”

“What? She would be a badass she–” Diy stopped herself, remembering there’s children present. She chuffed, shot her gal pal a grin and headed off to look at the akk dogs.

Ele waited with trained patience and a calm disposition. He wanted the young Merqaal to feel safe with him as climbed up his leg. As she came up to his chest, he wrapped his arms against her gently, cradling her to him. The Merqaal nuzzled into his hold, and Koda the Polecat chirped happily at the newest friend to join their pack.

“She’s beautiful.” Ele exclaimed with a smile. “Obviously I can’t see her, but I can feel the purity of her soul and heart.”

He turned to face Rasilvenaria.

“Thank you for your help. There is another here though. Over there.”

Not knowing what creatures he was referring too, Ele pointed towards the Akk Dog pens.

Eleceos ran his hand along the black scales of his new Merqaal as he followed Rasilvanaira. The closer they got to the Akk Dogs, the stronger his senses zeroed in on the other animal. He looked to his guide as she questioned him with a confused frown.

“What’s wrong with Akk Dogs?”

“I’m more than used to handing difficult creatures. Arcona is full of them.” Eleceos replied with a chuckle.

He entered the pen and, feeling his new Merqaal shake slightly calmed her down with the Force. Koda remained on his shoulder, looking at the Akk Dogs with fascinated curiosity. Ele sat down, exuding a peaceful aura and looking over to the creature that seemed to have resonated with him.

Patiently, we waited, allowing the young animal to make the first move.

Ele held out his hand and seemed to fall still for a brief moment. Through the Force he felt his mind meld with the young female pup. A measure of understanding connected them before Ele slowly stood up.

“I don’t believe a leash will be necessary. She’s a good girl. She won’t run away from me, or harm anyone.”

Ele turned to Rasilvanaira with a friendly smile on his face.

“Thank you so much. I am more than thrilled to have 2 new friends to join my family. I’ll need to get these two home to Selen. It’ll be fun setting up their spaces. I can’t wait to introduce them to the rest of the family.”

Eleceos follwed her while he thought. He carefully considered her query. Names were special after all. Two names came to his mind and the Miraluka smiled.

“This little girl,” he announced holding the Merqaal up a bit, “will be Leiss. And this young one will be Halla.” Ele placed a hand on the Akk Dogs head, gently rubbing her hide.

Frask sniffled as he looked at the baby porg and then at Rue and gave him a wide hug around the waist. “I’m gonna call him Hoppity.”

Corde’s hands settled on the young Quarren’s shoulders as she knelt besides him. “It’s a wonderful name.”

“I guess it’s alright,” Zaddun said, kicking the ground, now seeing the approval the cool colorful keeper and his own mother gave Frask. Lissian shrugged as well and gave the porg a treat. “Hi Hoppity, I’m Lissian. Can we be friends?”

“Thank you, Mr. Rue,” Corde said with a smile. “I’ll take them off your hands and handle the paperwork. You’ve helped us a lot.”

<@244244163002892288>

Acorn stared at the unfamiliar people around her, still holding on to Alk’s horn like it was her prized possession. She viewed them all suspiciously, as if they were going to take Alk away. She huffed as Reiden gave Alk some attention but before she could bonk the man, Ra'vida swooped in, mom reflexes kicking in from half the fair away, and grabbed Acorn into her embrace. Slightly peeved and angry, Acorn bonked her mother instead and stared at both Shadow and Reiden with disapproval.

“I’m sorry,” Ra'vida rubbed her head and apologized to the strangers. “She can get feisty.” And then turned to Acorn as moved away. “You little monster,” She scowled playfully and booped Acorn’s nose. “That hurt, you know?” Together again, they rejoined the family who was just finishing up the adoption paperwork.

Rue placed his hand over one of Corde’s on Frask’s shoulder, looking into her eyes. “They have been the greatest joy,” he told her sincerely. Then he drew back, briefly touching each child’s arm and giving Lissian’s hand a last squeeze, smiling at them all. “Thank you for being my new friend. And thank you for being Hoppity’s family. Just head over to Verssalan. He will give you the information.”

–

Meanwhile, Alk trotted after the retreating family for a moment, seeming a bit lost by Acron’s departure. As the toddler looked over her mother’s shoulder, carried away, Alk gave a last toss of his head and hop, as if saying goodbye. Then he turned back to Reiden and Sanguinius.

<@411418079810289665> <@232396983854301187>

Kal next found himself standing in front of the merqaal enclosure. There was something about these little creatures that just drew him in. Maybe it was their curious features or their friendly faces. He couldn’t help but smile as he watched them crawling around and playing together, a couple even tried to climb the fence a little. They almost reminded him of his droid Circuit when they did that. The little Seeker droid was known for climbing things from time to time rather than hovering. He never could figure out why, but he just assumed it must have been some quirk in the droid’s programming.

He knelt down, getting more level with the merqaals. He blew a soft note through his nose at them and smiled. “I like you guys, you’re fun.”

Kal rose and turned to face her, nodding. “I’d love to meet them. There’s something special about them that keeps drawing me back.”

“I’m Kal. It’s nice to meet you,” he replied as he stepped inside.

He knelt down and watched the merqaals. He slowly let out a breath and held out his hand, waiting patiently. The creatures continued to play with one another for a moment, but then curiosity got the better of them. Some shied away while others stood their ground, and a couple inched closer. One in particular, white scales with blue fur on the belly, shuffled over, sniffing at his hand. He smiled and slowly moved to lightly scratch behind its ears.

“Well, hello. You’re a friendly one, aren’t you?”

He laughed and rubbed the merqaal’s head. “Easy there, you’ll get your treat, don’t worry.” He held his hand in the air and waited for the creature to settle a little then gave him a treat. “We’ll just have to work on that then. But for now, I think this is a good start.”

Shadow stifled a chuckle as she watched the headstrong toddler get carried away. As a mother herself, she understood the other mother’s concern too well. Her oldest had a knack for wandering off when he was Acorn’s age, although Loki often re-directed Deus back to safety.

She looked back at Alk and smiled as she scratched the pygmy mott’s chin. “ You’re a cute fella, aren’t you? The boys would probably love to see you. Speaking of which…”

Shadow looked around, her golden eyes scanning for the twins. When she found them, Deus was rehearsing an introduction while Artorias sulked. She looked back at Alk and pet his head. “I think a certain young one could use a little encouragement…”

“Hello, my name is Deus. Deus Tarsus. Put it there, pal.”

“That sounds so dumb.”

Deus huffed, his frustration growing as he pulled back his hand from a pretense handshake. “At least I’m trying. ”

Artorias rolled his eyes and muttered about how he wished he could just find a spot and hide. “Just a simple hello. Is that so hard?”

“Well if it’s so easy, you do it.”

“Me? I don’t wanna do it.”

“Then stop complaining. I wanna make a good…a good…what’s the word again?”

“A good impression.”

“That’s it! Yes, a good impression. Dad said first impressions matter. Now come on! Let’s say hi.”

Artorias groaned, the boy wishing he could hide under a rock instead of face the possible embarrassment to come.

“I’ll never say no to some supplies. It will save me the time of going out again right away, but also show me what to look out for. Thanks for your help.” Kal lightly scratched at the merqaal’s neck and watched him for a moment, thinking. “Mako sounds like it could be a good fit for this one.”

Kal nodded and glanced at the datapad for a moment before walking off. He let the merqaal perch himself on his shoulder as it looked around curiously. Kal whistled a soft tune out of his nose as his tail swayed happily. So far the two seemed like a good match and he hoped that would prove true over time. His thoughts drifted to his droids next. Their reaction to the new addition was yet to be determined, but he hoped that it would go smoothly. He gave Mako an appreciative pat, turning to smile at him.

“I think you’re going to like your new home.”

“Ohh Kitty, this is the BEST boba flavor ever! You have to try it,” chimed the voice of Minnie, Bril’s long-term girlfriend and fruity drink extraordinaire as they walked down the duracrete path with their arms entwined.

“Uhh no thanks, pur'ka, you know how I feel about the little tapioca things,” he replied, only to be met with a pair of seafoam green eyes that could cut beskar.

“But it’s kavassa fruit and hsuaberry. You have to try it.”

The tall zabrak moved a hand to rub the back of his neck while looking up with a sheepish chuckle. “You know, I’d love to try it,” he said before leaning over with puckered lips, prompting the bubbly nautolan to shove the straw into his mouth. His eyes actually lit up when he tasted it. “Okay, that’s pretty good.”

“Told ya,” she said with a contented giggle before reaching over to scoop Femi, their snow-white tooka, into her arms. “Mama knows what’s best, isn’t that right, darling?” Femi chirped in response.

As they walked, Bril’s perpetually active senses in the Force were alight with the flames of myriad living beings, both sapient and non-sapient; a few of them, he recognized. “A few people here I recognize,” he said idly, moving his arm to drape loosely around Minnie’s sunny-yellow shoulders.

She quirked a brow at him. “Hopefully no one you’re going to get in trouble with, kitty. Remember, we’re here to find Femi a sibling, not for you to get arrested again.”

“It’s funny you mention that because I can sense that Reiden is here. But you won’t have to worry about him getting me out of jail again … probably.” He winked at her, to which she playfully rolled her eyes.

An excited warbled chirp rang out as the Varactyl crested a hill, while the little girl riding on it’s back squealed with delight. The Twi'lek/Togruta hybrid girl held her arms in the air while the Varactyl bounced and bounded down the hillside towards the pet fair, sliding a little on the grass.

“Whoa there, Kera! I swear you are excited as the two of us,” Tahiri laughed as she expertly kept her seat in the saddle, gripping it with her legs, so that she could hold onto the little girl in front of her.

“Go! Kera, go!” the little girl exclaimed, urging the Varactyl onward, enjoying the ride.

“Zeva, we need to settle down, cause we’re almost there. Keraathol, we need to slow down and approach the pet fair slowly so that we don’t scare any of the baby creatures there. Okay you two?” Tahiri gently, but sternly told both the creature and little girl.

Kera immediately understood, giving a sharp chirp in confirmation as she slowed her pace, the Varactyl’s movements became smoother. Zeva on the other hand almost pouted, as she had wanted to go faster, however, upon seeing the fair itself across the field, the little girl perked up a little bit.

Seeing that several ships were already there and the fact that they were parked here, made Tahiri sigh a little. She hadn’t been too sure if they were allowed to park in the fields around the location of the fair, so she had instead landed in the small city port several kilometers away. Luckily, she always had Kera with her, so they didn’t have to pay for any transport out to the fair itself.

As they got closer, Tahiri gently tapped Kera’s side with her bare heel. The Varactyl came to a stop a few meters away from the entrance where a silver protocol droid was stationed. The Sith Elder, letting go of the little girl in front of her with one hand, gripping the back edge of the saddle and leaned back a bit. Using the strength in her core, she hopped up onto the saddle, and sent a mental query to Kera. As the red, blue and green crested Varactyl lowered herself to the ground, Tahiri let go of Zeva fully and gracefully hopped down to the grass, then lifted Zeva down.

The breeze and warm air felt nice, along with the grass beneath her feet, which made the petite Togruta glad that she had decided to go a little more natural, instead her usual attire. Although she knew that this was more of a family event, so she made sure to wear a slightly more modest leather Togrutan outfit, with a traditional Togruta sash in front of her mini skirt. The upper leather shirt was simple in design, diagonally covering her front in an X-shape and then with a slim straight piece beneath, mirrored on her back as well.

Zeva was wearing a cute cerulean blue blouse, with a matching mid length skort. Along with simple thin leather soled slipper like shoes. Perfect for this type of outing.

Reiden smiled, nodding in agreement. “Oh, I bet they’d really like him.” He followed his friend’s gaze and spotted the twins. “I’m sure they’ll be fine,” he assured her. “But sometimes a little nudge is just what you need.”

It was so good to see all of them again. It was hard to believe how big the twins had gotten, but that’s what happens with kids, especially when you don’t get to see them for a while. He’d take any excuse to see them, which was part of the reason why he had initially decided to check out this fair today, since he was fairly sure that they would make an appearance. But it made him happy that the family had moved back and he had gotten to meet little Sorin.

“It looks like Sorin had some luck with the motts,” he commented as his eyes scanned the fair and he spotted the youngest boy, smiling more.

The Varactyl sniffed the offered hand, taking in several scents besides the humanoid whom presented their hand. Looking at Rasilvenaira with a wary but curious gaze, before then glancing towards her rider for confirmation that this was an okay person.

“Thank you. Her name is Keraathol,” Tahiri scritched the side of her neck, feeling the question from her. Nodding and then watching as Kera nuzzled the proffered hand. “She’s quite unique really, and is super friendly, most of the time. She’s a hybrid between pure bred Varactyls and the subspecies Pijal Varactyls. It’s the biggest reason for her coloration. She would have been expensive, but I was only able to get her cause the traders were going to sell her for meat due to her being the runt of clutch. So I took her off their hands.”

“She’s also really fast,” squealed Zeva as she bounced in place next to Tahiri. “Wait Rue is here? Eeee Aunt Hiri, you have to meet him. Mr. Rue is sooo nice, and he’s pretty too.”

Once Sanguis had retrieved the file for Zozu, Sorin followed him back to his mother and Uncle Reiden with his little mott in tow. He spotted his mother petting another mott. Curiosity got the better of him; as always, he had to pet it.

“Mama! Who this?” he inquired as he rushed over as fast as his little legs could carry him.

“Slow it down, bud. This is Alk. Your uncle just introduced me to him. He’s a pygmy mott.”

“Ohhhh. Is Zozu a pygmy mott?”

“Zozu?” Shadow exchanged a quick glance with Sanguis, the Nagai confirming Sorin’s name choice with a nod before his wife continued. “Zozu isn’t a pygmy. He’ll be bigger when he’s grown up.”

“Oh. Can I pet?”

“You can. Alk is very friendly.”

Sorin reached out and pet the little mott’s head, the boy grinning with glee from making a new friend. “Hi Alk. I’m Sorin. I have a mott too! His name is Zozu. Maybe you two be friend’s too!”

Reiden watched Sorin’s approach and couldn’t help but let out a quiet laugh at all the excitement. He gently ruffled the boy’s hair, smiling. “I think you made a good choice with Zozu.” He held his hand out to the young mott to let him sniff before offering him some scritches too.

Alk stomped happily and sniffed at all the new hands. He sniffed the baby Mott Sorin had chosen as well, careful with the baby and toddler. His tail wagged a mile a minute. He stomped some more and jerked his head towards the tooka pen as if indicating his person.

<@411418079810289665> <@232396983854301187>

-

Meanwhile, Rue, so frequently mentioned, had said goodbye to the other children and now approached a new couple, one of which he recognized. His posture grew a bit shier, but he was in such high spirits from all the little ones around that the deaths under the ashen skies of Selen seemed further away enough not to weigh so much.

“Sir Starosta,” he greeted Bril with a bow, speaking softly. His gaze darted briefly to Minnow. “Mistress. Hello and welcome.”

“‘Mistress?’” the Nautolan echoed, smirking at Bril, her seafoam gaze squinching, before she turned back to Rue and gently waved off his bowing. Her hands kept moving while she spoke, spilling through casual signing. “Only he calls me that these days, and only at home, hehe! Hiya, nice to meet you. I dunno if you remember me but I’ve seen you before when the Marshals were helping after the eruption…Brilly meant to talk to you more. Stuff just happens, yanno? I’m Minnow. You’re, um, what was it?”

“This one is Rue.” He straightened up, looking to the Zabrak.

<@1056685516441006091>

“Aye, she does,” Tahiri looked up to the sky for a moment, then raised her right forearm. A tiny screeching roar came from a shadow that circled above, before a dark form alighted on the Togruta’s raised forearm. The young dark colored Tailring flapped it’s wings a couple times, before crawling along her arm and then squeezing into the gap between her right and back Lekku’s. Wrapping it’s tail around her right Lekku and settling the rest of its body along the back of her neck, the front paws resting on her left shoulder, it’s little head rearing up right next to her cheek.

“And so does this little one,” the Togruta gently ran her fingers along the long neck of the tiny beast. “She is my newest little one to the pack. Her name is Eeth'Mireth.”

Zeva looked up, broadly smiling, “Yay! Thank you. Oh, my name is Zeve, and this is my Aunt Hiri.”

“Tahiri Tarentae. Hiri is a nickname my niece has picked up from my brother,” Tahiri shook her head and smiled, offering a hand. “I wanted to come and see if we couldn’t find a good pet for Zeva, and possibly another one to add to my own pack.”

Glancing behind the woman in front of her, the petite Togruta spotted a very familiar tall Zabrak and a lithe Nautolan checking in. She opened her senses up a bit more, knowing he’d sense her eventually.

<@1056685516441006091> <@244244163002892288>

Bril and Minnie wasted no time in signing in on the registration board upon being prompted to do so by Verlassen. Rasilvenaira was a new name to him, one he’d have to meet before the event ended, but the latter he recognized.

“I thought I sensed Rue here. It’ll be good to see him aga–”

<@142754576863330304>

And as if on cue, the veritable wellspring of light in the Force, untainted despite the harrowing past of its source, impinged upon the young Starosta’s senses more intensely now as Rue approached. Bril smiled upon seeing him and bowed in kind, though only with his head in a more formal greeting. “It’s good to see you, Rue. I hope you’ve been fairing well?”

Minnie’s mention of him addressing her as “mistress” in the privacy of their own home earned a quick pinch in the arm from the man. With his senses fully open, it didn’t take him long to pick up on the familiar warmth of his godmother, whom he acknowledged with a gentle pulse that propagated across the phrenic divide between them as if to say, “I see you.” He did the same to Reiden, just to make his presence known to his accomplice friend.

<@375384499770359819> <@232396983854301187> <@244244163002892288>

After thanking Rasilvenaira, Zujenia set to work reviewing the lil tuggle’s information and signing the adoption forms. With Bars and Kipp secured in the tactical baby duo backpack, their toddler legs dangling, it made it easier to focus on the paperwork, especially with Nathe knowingly not going anywhere at her feet. The half-Ryn hummed thoughtfully, stylus lingering on the name slot. She nudged her daughter with an elbow and smiled, “What should we name her?”

Shay'lra’s dark rosy cheeks beamed with dimples, excited to help offer names. She stuck her tongue in the corner of her mouth while thinking, “Oh I know! Muffin cus she kinda reminds me of a muffin, brown ‘n’ all.”

“A muffin?” Zujenia said after stifling a laugh, “She does a bit, doesn’t she? What other names you’ve got?”

“Uhm…Leia, Sagitta, Coreillian Jane, Princess…”

Zuj chuffed and brushed the tip of her tail on her daughter’s arm. “Most of those are from your books, yeah? Hmm, what about ‘Imka’? Charming like a princess.”

“Well, it’s no Muffin or Pumpkin,” Shay mockingly flipped some of her short white hair, a grin cracked on her face, “ But I like it.”

“Alright, haha, Imka it is.” The half-Ryn mother finished securing the adoption paperwork before handing it back over to Verlassen. With the documents transfered to her own accounts, she crouched and picked up Natholae, now carrying all three boys. Zujenia turned to the Zeltron-ryn girl and gestured towards the supply booth. “You want to help pick out Imka’s things?”

“Ka– I mean,” Shay'lra coughed, correcting herself but not any less excited, “I so want to, yes!”

And the family made their way over towards Desi and the pet supplies.

“This one has been quite well, Sir Starosta,” Rue answered with a bright, beaming smile as his head lifted. His tail flicked back and forth. “The children here today are wonderful. It is wonderful. Has Mistress Minnow and her Sir been well also? Are they looking for a tooka today?”

His only hand gestured at the kittens, while one of the voorpaks that had burrowed into his massive braid crawled down his arm and attempted to leap in. Simply turning his hand over allowed him to catch it at the right time and return it to its nest in his tresses. The others briefly popped out to sniff it.

Minnie squealed. “Ohmigaesh! They’re so cute. Oh. Mi. GAWD. how many are in there I’ve never been more jealous of hair in my life.”

“Oh, hi,” Diy greeted after looking up, having not noticed the woman’s approach. She gave a small grin with a glance back down to the pup she was stroking. “Yeah, Pirle.”

She had left out the meaning, which was more for her and totally not something to be decided by the man behind the typewriter. A brief paused occured, her brain thinking that of course she would carry the pup, but sensibility added she should get some much needed supplies. Scooping her arms under the huttball sized pup and cradling her close, Diy stood up from her crosslegged position and moved for the gate. She chuffed, “Probably should get one, need to get some supplies and food for her too anyways. I’d love to fill out those papers too. Be lying if I said I could leave here without her now, haha.”

Diy affixed the ruby-colored collar on Pirle. She then tucked her into her jacket and zipped it up till just the pup’s little head was peeking out, those large eyes peering sheepishly yet curiously around. Taking the datapad, she flipped through the different documents, vowing to herself to go through most of them later. For now, she filled out what was needed for her adopting, signed off her name and Pirle’s, and exchanged the handshake that is truly the sealing of the deal. “Thanks, for helping me pick her out. Gonna definitely be going on adventures together, can’t wait.”

Bidding Rasilvenaira bye, Diyrian headed towards the supply vendor that was pointed out. A grin spread on her lips when she recognized five familiar faces lingering over there. As she approached, Pirle ducked into her coat shyly, out of sight save for the lump beneath the phaux-nerf leather. Diy gave her a little scritch before halting beside her friend. “Fancy meetin’ ya’ll here.”

“Dee-dee! Hi! We’re getting stuff for Imka! Which one? Purple or Teal with stripes? Or pink?” Shay'lra touched each different color of tuggle pup-sized harnesses to demonstrate. After the third, the girl paused and quirked one ashen eyebrow, scrutinizing Diy. “Is there something in your coat?…Wait, did you get a pup?!”

“Haha, yes, I did,” the Kiffar chuffed. Poking a finger into her jacket, she coaxed the white she-akk’s – gonna be weird using that word properly – head out.

“Awwwww!” Shay exclaimed, infatuated already. She frowned slightly when the akk dog ducked back inside the jacket. “Oops, I spooked her. It’s a her right?”

“Hah, yes, a she–” Diy caught herself once again with a chuff. “Her name’s Pirle.”

“Cute! Hi, Pirle,” the girl whispered-spoke. .

“She is cute. I think she fits you, Diy,” Zujenia added, while swaying side to side habitually for the boys on her back. “We’re picking up some things before we grab the tuggle, just easier.”

“Imka?”

“Yeah, for best with Shay’s suggestions,” the half-Ryn chuckled. “Come on, let’s find stuff for Perle as well.”

“Pleasure to meet you as well, Rasilvanaira,” Tahiri smiled and then nodded to Kera, before taking Zeva’s hand. “We’ll get checked, and check around. Thank you.” <@142754576863330304>

She watched Ras leave, then walked over to the silver protocol droid with Zeva, quickly signing in and then taking a good look at the list of creatures that were available for adoption. Pausing for a moment, she felt the the gentle and familiar Force pulse from her godson, of which she acknowledged in turn, sending a gentle pulse back along with a slight but not urgent tug, as if kinda saying “We should meet up.”

<@1056685516441006091>

Tahiri, having studied a great deal about creatures within the vast universe, knew about all of them. But little Zeva looked up at the list, squinting and began asking questions about what kind of animals they each were. The Elder simply smiled and sighed. Then went into a brief explanation of each of them, before being remind by Verlassen, the droid who checked them in, that there was an info table.

Thanking the droid, she turned and knelt in front of Zeva, “Why don’t we go over to the info table, and then you can look up which ones peaked your interest the most. Then you can decide which ones you’ll like the best and we can go look at each to see if any come to you? Whatcha think?”

Zeva simply nodded, and then paused for a moment, her Lekku scrunching up and curling slightly as she thought, “I think I’d like to know more about either of the kitties, the Akk dogo, the Mer… Mercal… Mercel…”

“Merqaal,” Tahiri helped the tiny hybrid as she struggled with the pronunciation.

“Merqaal, yes. And the Tuggle… maybe even the Voorpak and Gizka.”

Tahiri nodded, making a mental note of the pro’s and con’s, mainly about the responsibility and care of each creature the young girl had listed off. “Well that’s a big list and lots to learn about each of them. Let’s get some simple facts about each of them first and take things from there. The creature sometimes picks you, rather than the other way around.”

“Hmmm right. That’s how you said you got Solan right?”

“Yes, that’s exactly how I got Solan,” Tahiri thought about her first pet, an Akul. The very beast which preyed upon her own people, and yet this creature had decided to instead of attacking, to claim her as a part of his pack. She couldn’t have asked or gotten a more loyal companion. A thought occurred to her, that she would have to ask Ras about later on.

Lost in thought, Zeva called to Tahiri as she was already heading in the direction the silver droid had pointed for the information table. Shaking her head, Tahiri got up and quickly caught up with the girl. The table wasn’t hard to find and the little BD unit droid was very helpful in getting the proper datapads to properly inform the little girl.

As Reiden watched Sorin with Alk and Zozu, something tugged at his awareness. His gaze leveled off as he turned to face in that direction and focused. A familiar presence had joined the many already gathered in the area. One he hadn’t felt in some time.

Bril.

That wasn’t what he had expected from the day, though it was not unwelcome by any means. With any luck, the Zabrak wouldn’t have had any trouble gaining access to the planet after their previous encounter. Reiden had tried to make sure that any record of his and Evelyn’s detainment was expunged, or at least noted as being the result of a simple misunderstanding. It was as much to cover himself as it was the actions or an overly ambitious officer trying to make a name for herself. The last thing they needed was to cause an incident. He smiled and sent a pulse of his own in return, welcoming him to Seraph.

“We’ve been well. Thanks for asking,” said Bril with a smile to Rue, “We’re just getting back into the swing of things after a long and much-needed vacation.

"And yes, we’re here to find our little Femi a brother or sister.”

He stifled a laugh at Minnie’s response to the voorpak that disappeared into Rue’s hair. He was surprised she found it cute given its multiple legs.

Upon sensing Tahiri’s response, he sent a telepathic message to her, speaking in Togruti: “I sense a youngling with you. Is that who I think it is?”

<@375384499770359819>

Rue’s head tilted, and he nearly asked what a vacation was, but the pets were more important. He pulled one of the voorpaks back out of its nest and held it out to the Nautolan.

“Would you like to hold one? Just be the careful.”

“Ohmygodohmygodyesssssyisssyis,” Minnie squeal-whisper-chanted, reaching out both hands and just about hopping in place. Right as the voorpak stood up more fully to inspect her, she noticed its legs revealed, its tiny baby body not covering them all yet.

…all…eight.

It didn’t climb cutely into her hands, it scurried like a spider.

The tiny Nautolan shrieked and cringed at the same time, cutting off the sound as her body just reacted limbs freezing and flailing at once, trying to just launch the icky thing away from her but also escape at max speed. She jerked back into Bril and had an arm around him and a leg half up uselessly like she was trying to climb a tree away from a predator.

Thankfully Bril didn’t even have to telekinetically catch the poor critter, as Rue was deft enough to catch it, his tail snapping farther than his arm could and coiling swiftly to draw the little one back towards his body in a surprisingly practiced motion– as if it had been used to corral wayward toddlers before. He scooped it up and murmured comfortingly to it, and it crawled up his arm and around and around his body still like a spider before it nosed back into his hair with an indignant squeak.

“Perhaps, um, not a voorpak for you, Mistress.” It was probably the most polite rejection she’d ever gotten.

Bril chuckled and rubbed Minnie’s back in the hopes of calming her down a bit. “Yeah, things with multiple legs aren’t really her speed,” he said while smiling sheepishly to Rue, “How about a tooka sibling for our beloved Femi here?”

He held the snow-white tooka into the air, who responded by reaching out a paw to boop him on the nose.

Rue cooed at Femi, smiling and gently offering his hand out and slightly away and down for her to sniff. The tooka curiously twisted and sniffled, especially when Rue chirped at her.

“Did you just…meow?” asked Minnie, forgetting her manners for a second and giggling at the cute scene as she started to unstick from her boyfriend after the Legs Incident.

Rue titled his head – neatly dislodging a voorpak and causing it to clamber and crawl up his hair and over his face and ear – and blinked at her as if caught unawares.

“Ah, perhaps? This one is only…” He shrugged a little, a loud, soothing rumble emanating from him. “…talking at them I suppose?”

“Adorable…” Minnie whispered. “You’re purring. I wanna purr. Like, real purring, not like, y'know.” She waggled her eyebrows.

Rue blinked at her again. Peered closer.

“Are you experiencing facial drooping?”

“I…no, it’s– okay you don’t get the meme, that’s alright! My brother’s boyf–” she cut herself off, groaning and rolling her eyes, but changing course nonetheless, “his ‘person who is courting him,’ he doesn’t get a lot of the like, common expressions and stuff either. Wagging my eyebrows like that means I’m making some innuendo, usually sexual. Cause liek. Purring as a verb can be used that way a lot, especially in the romance genre.”

That much seemed to intrigue the hybrid. He peeked, making another chirrup noise, and patted himself down.

“Ah, this one does not have its notebook,” he lamented. “Well, thank you for the lesson, Mistress Minnow, it is very informative and this one appreciates it. But ah, it should likely focus on your quest for a sibling besides. Is Mistress Femi very social?”

“We’ve socialized her pretty good, ya! And I think she gets along okie with other pets…don’t you, Kitty?”

Minnie turned and smiled with a wink at Bril.

Rue blinked again, murmuring to himself, “Oh. He is not actually part feline. The nickname is sexual. Fascinating…”

While Zeva looked through the array of datapads, Tahiri stayed close by looking around the entire area, gently stroking little Mireth’s neck. She let herself flow with the Force around the area, examining each of the different species.

She could tell Ras had paid special attention to making sure each of the baby creatures were very healthy and at good ages to bond well. She could feel each little spark as the baby animals ran around, slept, or were bonding with their new companions who would be caring for them the rest their lives. Even though she had brought Zeva to get a pet, one mainly to help with the loneliness of when Ro would be gone, she could feel one, maybe two who could possibly become additions to her pack. The Togruta was also mentally going through what her brother had wanted in the pet, he didn’t want anything too big, or anything that could harm Zeva or his equipment.

Which means the Gizka and Porgs are out, especially since they love to destroy wiring and get into things they’re not supposed to. Voorpaks are super delicate when young, so that’s not a great match…“

Tahiri felt a mind touch hers and heard Bril’s familiar voice within her mind. Smiling she sent back a message along their connected thread: "Yes. She’s the one I mentioned in our recent correspondence. My little unique niece. You’ll have to meet her.”

<@1056685516441006091>

After a few more minutes, the little girl thanked Scappy for helping her with the datapads, and skipped over to Tahiri.

“Okay. I think I’m ready to meet some baby animals,” looking very confident.

“Alrighty. Do you know which one you’d like to see first?”

“Hmmm…” the tiny hybrid thought for a moment. “I think want to see the Tuggles first.”

“Alright, then let’s go,” she pointed the way to the Tuggle enclosure, watching as the excited girl skipped just ahead of her.

On the way there, a very familiar looking half-Ryn with a whole gaggle of kids, caught her eye at the supply vendor. She sent a warm wave of energy through the Force to her bestest girlfriend, and then waved to her, not wanting to intrude upon the gathering.

<@244244400488710155>

At Rue’s quaint display of mimicry, Bril seemed less surprised than his nautolan other half. Although he possessed nothing more than a passing familiarity with the colorful hybrid, he had spent enough time in the field with him over the past year to pick up on some of his more eccentric qualities; his empathy for other living things was one such quality, which he suspected was at least in some part responsible for his uncanny ability to mimic others so well. As much as he enjoyed pondering the subject, the armored zabrak found his attention pulled back to the present when his pur'ka mentioned something about purring. He resisted the urge to scowl at her when she opted to wiggle her eyebrows suggestively instead of being more … forthright with what she meant.

“Hm? Oh, yeah, she does well with other pets for the most part. Can be shy, but I think that’s because I tend to bring home really large ones before Minnie inevitably makes me take them to a shelter,” he said, rubbing the back of his head with a chuckle, “but with a sibling closer to her size, I think she’d do great. Isn’t that right, i'shuree pelire?” He leaned over to give Femi a kiss on the head, causing her to respond with a warm trilling sound.

Bril suffered from his own case of facial drooping when he heard Rue’s comment. He lifted a hand to pinch the bridge of his nose, and sighed. “Yes. How astute of you, Rue.”

“`Translation from Zabraki: "pur'ka” = “beautiful one”

“i'shuree pelire” = “my precious”“`

Rue perked up at Bril’s praise, biting his lip to try and stifle an enormous smile, rose flushing his cheeks as his tail tip wagged furiously back and forth for a moment.

“Thank you, Sir Starosta!” he chirped, standing a little bit taller. With greater ease he gestured back to the tookas. “Well of course there are other members of her own species, though there is always the possibility of territorial behaviors therein. Or we also have several other animals that may be of similar size and likeness, such as the loth kittens, which are also felinade. And much less disruptive and less maintenance than a porg or akk hound…”

Minnie just shot Bril a look, as if to shame him for his sarcasm on such a sunshiney innocent space cinnamon roll of a person. Then she turned to examining the kittens, though mostly she was just dying wanting ALL OF THEM.

It was then she noticed over among the loth cats one little white baby away from the others. Her posture was shy and stitled, almost hurt or scared, and she seemed overly still…

“Um, Mister Rue, is that one okie?” She pointed.

Rue followed her finger, and his brows creased, but he turned back with a smile nonetheless.

“Oh, yes, Mistress Minnow, she is alright. This one assures you all the animals here are well cared for. That one is deaf. It causes her difficulty socializing with her littermates, and she cannot respond easily to their roughhousing. It has made her quite timid, despite our attempts to play with and familiarize her to humanoid affections at least.”

Minnie looked like she’d gone from bubbly to ready to cry in just a few seconds. Seafoam eyes turned to Bril again pleadingly.

And just like that, she’d made her choice, and Bril knew there was no changing her mind – not that he intended to this time. Bril had a soft spot for the underdogs. Maybe it was because he was the youngest of three siblings and the youngest still of his found family, or perhaps because he was frequently bet against in his shockboxing career. Whatever it was, he shared Minnie’s desire to take the adorable loth kitten in and to nurture it with as much love as they did their tooka. A warm, thrumming sensation swelled across their bond in the Force as the couple watched the kitten from afar.

“That’s the one, huh?” he asked while stepping behind her and draping his arms around her shoulders, resting his chin on her shoulder while they watched.

Minnie leaned back, bracing on Bril and gripping onto his arms for support. That river of warmth flowing between them stirred and darted with Minnie’s turbulent emotions like her namesake. For a few moments, as Rue eased back and let the couple have their time, all she could do was make an affirmative sound, sniffling.

Eventually, her hands lifted off his forearms, and she turned to face him, signing and gesturing expressively.

I can’t help but think of Foxen, she referred to her brother, his name sign a sharp bite that in her hands was softened, something stalwart and gentle, when I was growing up– it was just us and Jaxxie, you see? I was…maybe in middle school, M-I-D-D-L-E S-C-H-O-O-L, middle school, when I noticed that we were the only ones that talked to him? Everyone else he used the pad. All my teachers, doctors, out shopping, whatever. There might be a droid sometimes. And by then we’d been with the clan for, like, ten years? And not one other person bothered to learn Sign. You don’t REALLY get how much it means that you did, that Flyndt did.

She slowed, arms falling, only to rise again as she wiped at her welling eyes. Without eyelids, she needed a tissue, and Bril was quick to telekinetically produce a bright pink handkerchief with bows on it from her purse for her (despite Femi trying to swipe for it). She wiped her eyes again, expertly careful of her makeup.

I couldn’t speak my first language with anyone outside my immediate family, and who knows where we’d have been if Jax hadn’t known it? To think Foxen only had me because he raised me. I learned that’s the norm. To not be understood. That’s why I first started my communications degree. And if you just put in some effort, some patience…Bril, I can’t leave without that kitten. Even if her and Femi don’t get on, maybe we can just foster her? I don’t know…

She started speaking aloud again while signing along, “I’m sure Miss Ras here would find her a good place, I just…”

Reiden felt the urge to go explore, to maybe see if there was something that he connected with. He turned to Shadow and her family and smiled. It had been good to see them, but they’d have more time later or soon enough otherwise. The twins were busy contemplating making new friends and Sorin had Zozu and Alk occupying his attention. He said goodbye to them and lightly ruffled Sorin’s hair and gave Alk one final scritch behind the ear before heading off.

He had remembered Ras mentioning a tooka that looked after the voorpaks, so he headed in the direction he remembered them being as he had walked around before. Today was a good day, both in terms of weather and something fun to do, not to mention the turnout he had seen. As he looked up, he spotted a familiar explosion of color personified and raised a hand in greeting.

“It’s good to see you again, Rue.” <@244244163002892288>

Bril watched her hands attentively as she signed, occasionally shifting his eyes to her face to further contextualize the emotional content of each signed word and phrase. His eyes widened when it dawned on him that no one else had attempted to learn sign to better communicate with Foxen, his Ori'vod. Bril clenched his jaw to fight back the tension building in his face, and looked away, but not before a bit of that emotional weight lumbered across their bond. He huffed while taking a half step backward and looking up to the sky, hoping to buy himself more time to collect himself. After a few more moments, he nodded to assure her he was okay before starting to sign; he was much slower than Minnie, but he had been doing it long enough where he had little issue conveying exactly what he meant.

When I was first trying to get to know Foxen, you know, before we really became close, it was because I wanted to show you that I was willing to get along with someone so important to you despite our tense first meeting. It didn’t seem like a big deal to use the pad, then, since he normally doesn’t seem to have a problem using it. But as he and I really started to form a relationship of our own, It dawned on me that the absolute least I could do was try to learn the language he’s most comfortable speaking, not just to accommodate him but to show him that I see him as more than. Bril had to pause again to gather himself, more than what he tends to think of himself as. To affirm his personhood. And now, he’s my bro, so that means I do what I can to make sure he feels seen and heard.

He turned to look at the little loth kitten sitting away from the others and smiled softly. “And that little one will get the same treatment,” he said, speaking aloud now.

Alk whuffed and wiggled his ears after Reiden, always happy to see his friend, and continued to sniff at the new Mott baby and Sorin.

Rue, who had eased back while Bril and Minnow spoke but was watching their hands fly in rapt fascination, turned when Reiden spoke. He smiled widely at his friend.

“Reiden!” greeted the hybrid, offering open arms for a hug.

Minnie didn’t try to modulate her emotions so much like her kitty did; she loosed a small sob and tackled him, hopping up to wrap both arms around his neck and hug while her toes scraped at the ground, almost dangling. Bril’s arms were quick to support her. “Thank you, thank you, love,” she blubbered repeatedly in the handful of Zabraki terms she’d learned.

When Ras walked up, she sniffled and pulled back, a small sigh accepting that her makeup was done for when she saw it on Bril’s shoulder in pink smudges. Oopsie. She turned to face the animal keeper, trying to collect herself.

“Um– yeah, hi, sowwie, just. Kinda feeling a lot of feelings right now. Um.” She took a deep breath, and resumed signing while she spoke. She couldn’t really see Ras’ face, and that sort of lack of awareness was always scary, but she knew she was safe with Bril. “Mister Rue told us there was a deaf kitten here? We want her. I know– that’s probably, like, sus, right, but we’re really serious. My. Um. Not to infodump on you, ma'am, but my big brother, he basically raised me, he’s mute. So we sign. Right? And I know it’s not the same but my heart is just dying for that little kitty and we wanna take care of her.”

<@142754576863330304>

“I can wait. No worries,” said Bril in response to Rasilvenaira’s note. The last thing he wanted was the kitten being startled by them, and he definitely didn’t want to see Minnie have her feelings hurt if Ishi was afraid of them.

“You got this, love,” he said to her with a smile and an encouraging nod.

<@244244163002892288>

The tiny Nautolan looked a bit nervous but also quite game for the challenge, willing to wait here all day if needed. She followed Ras in and sat down in the kitten’s sightlines, so strongly reminded of her brother that it was sort of uncanny. Too bad he’d hate being compared to the little one. Once seated, she just pulled out a compact and started to fix her face with careful, slow motions, letting the kitten notice her around and existing nearby.

<@1056685516441006091>

Reiden nodded to Ras in return then smiled and embraced Rue. “I was glad to learn that you would be here helping out today. I knew it would only be a matter of time until I ran into you. And I already saw Alk. He’s always very helpful to people.”

“I am so glad,” Rue enthused, beaming over in Alk’s direction and seeing him with more children. “Today has been… beautiful. Are you well, friend Reiden? Oh–” he gestured to the Zabrak that had stayed outside the loth cat pen. “This is Sir Starosta Bril Teg Arga. Bril, this is Sir Reiden.” <@1056685516441006091>

Thankfully, Minnie didn’t have to punt any mean smelly boy kittens, though she was fully prepared to! Instead she stayed mostly still, still, only moving her fingers to let Ishi sniff her and then her breathing freezing for a second when the tiny paw touched her knee.

“Aksjfjfnfnf,” squeaked the Nautolan, barely noticing that Ras up and went invisible next to her whatthekark. If she hadn’t been used to seeing Flyndt do that regularly, she’d have been spooked.

Ever so slowly and gently, Minnie turned her palm over and let Ishi sniff some more. Then carefully used just a few fingers to lightly scratch under her jaw and ear, testing her response. When Ishi leaned into it, she did it a bit more, then withdrew her touch to see if the kitten followed.

Ishi did, pattering up to her leg– Minnie didn’t try to grab her just yet despite the coaching. She was careful as Ishi tucked up close to her stomach in a ball, perching there and using her as a sitting spot/shield/warmth while she watched the other kittens.

“I think I’ll stay here a bit if that’s okie,” Minnie whispered, lightly flicking her fingers in front of Ishi on her knee to see if she could entice the baby to playing instinctively.

“I have been, thank you. I ran into my friend and her family here, so it was nice to see them again. I’m like an uncle to her kids. That’s the youngest with Alk now, actually.” He glanced over at the mention of the Zabrak, smiling. “Bril and I met last year. He and a friend came here on a mission. I was wondering when we might run into each other again.”

“That is wonderful,” Rue enthused, practically sparkling with happiness over the children. “This one would be honored to meet them. Reiden is most certainly a lovely uncle as he is a friend.”

Then he glanced between Reiden and Bril. A curious, polite question, practiced for the making of the small talking:

“How did you meet?”

Minnow absorbed the instructions and story with heartache plain on her features, but nodded. Her muscles almost twitched to salute, but she resisted, mindful of her precious passenger. Taking both toys and treats, she offered one morsel on an open palm to be sniffed for and snatched, continuing some gentle plays and pets until most of the treats were gone.

Only after Ishi genuinely seemed to be nosing around and daring to slightly climb Minnie for more treats did the Nautolan cautiously cup her free hand under the tiny kitten’s rear, lifting her enough to cradle her in her arm, braces against her chest and shoulder, not unlike a baby. She offered another treat over her shoulder, trying to show a positive association.

“I’d be happy to introduce you later,” he replied, smiling again. “Thank you, I try to be for them. I met the twins shortly after their father had passed, so I made sure to be around and help out when I could. They had moved away a couple years ago and I didn’t get to see them like I would have liked to, so I’m trying to make up for lost time when I can. Especially now that there’s a new one in the mix.”

He thought for a moment at the colorful hybrid’s question. He wasn’t exactly sure how best to answer and how much to reveal or hold back. He glanced at Bril, a small laugh escaping. “Bril and a friend were on a mission that took them here, like a research trip. There was a bit of a mix up with some procedures beforehand. But I had gotten an alert about the ship entering the system and being stopped, so I was able to look into it and clear things up.”

Part of him felt bad about stretching the truth, but Rue didn’t need to know just how serious the situation was. Or that Bril and Evelyn had been arrested. His mind then turned to the officer that had taken the pair into custody after the mission. He still hated that she had disregarded his order and felt his word was not enough to vouch for them, but it wasn’t worth dwelling on. At least the mission had been accomplished and things hadn’t turned out worse.

Bril had been enthusiastically watching Minnie bond with Ishi, so much so, in fact, that he hadn’t acknowledged Reiden much beyond a polite nod. Not wanting to appear rude, he took a step closer to him and Rue, and held out a hand to Reiden.

“Good to see you again,” he said with a smile. He then moved his hand to pat Reiden on the back while turning to address Rue. “Yeah, Reiden here really did a solid for us that day. I’m still indebted to him for that.

<@232396983854301187> <@244244163002892288>

“It’s good to see you as well, Bril,” he replied as he shook the Zabrak’s hand. He grinned at him. “Please, there’s no need for any kind of debt. I’m just glad that I was able to help out in the end.”

Reiden looked over at the animal pen, tilting his head towards it. “Were you able to find something you like here?”

“Nonsense. I’ll pay you back one of these days,” he replied, “And yes, actually,” Bril gestured to where Minnie was kneeling before the little loth kitten, “I think we’re both in love with that little one, there. What about you? Have you bonded with any of the animals here?”

It was as if summoned, that at that moment, one of the voorpaks nesting in Rue’s hair poked out. It sniffed at the air, nose twitching, and then scampered down Rue’s body, running over and up his tail, and climbing onto Reiden’s pantleg.

“Oh,” observed the hybrid, smiling. “That one likes you.”

He smiled, nodding. “That’s great. I haven’t really looked yet, just seeing what’s around and saying hi to my little nephews. But Ras had mentioned there were some-” he was cut off as the tiny voorpak climbed his leg. He bent down and gently picked it up, lightly rubbing a finger into its fluff. “Well, hello little one. I was actually thinking of visiting these little guys to see if any of them liked me.”

Zeva was a little intimidated by the rambunctious kits of the Tuggles as they played in their pen. The tiny hybrid didn’t want to step closer to the pen without her aunt by her side, as a couple of them rolled into the side of the pen as a result of their play. Tahiri simply smiled when she sensed the apprehension from her niece, reaching down to rub the back of her head.

“It’s all right,” the petite Togruta smiled in encouragement. “Remember when you met Zuska and Solan for the first time. Those two were roughhousing very similarly, and it may have seemed bad and viscous, but those two are just big fluff balls.”

“Yeah… I remember,” the little Togruta/Twi'lek hybrid perked up a little.

Tahiri moved a bit closer to the pen, with Zeva glued to her side, moving almost in sync with her steps, before they both came to a stop to the left of the pen gate. Picking her niece up and putting her on her hip, so that she could see and observe all of the kits at once, a warble sounded from her little shoulder passenger. The Elder sent a reassuring thought to the little one that she wasn’t going to have to move.

“Oh, hi again Rasilvenaira,” Tahiri turned to greet the woman whom they had met earlier. “Yes, I think Zeva would like to see if any of them will bond with her.”

She put Zeva down and looked down to her, nodding her head toward Ras and smiled.

“Please ma'am, I would to try. I read that they don’t get too awfully big, so my father will be happy with that,” she twisted in place as she talked, but made sure that she was looking Ras in eyes as she spoke. “And I read that they are cuddly, so I’d really like that.”

Zeva looked up at Tahiri for a moment, her aunt nodding and patting her back. Going into the pen she stood to one side and listened to what Ras said. Kneeling down and settling on the ground next to Ras, she looked up at the woman and then to the Tuggle kits. She waited to see what would happen, almost holding her breath a little.

The kits themselves had paused for only a moment, a few watching Ras and the new comer, before going back to playing with their siblings. However, one seemed like it couldn’t be pulled back into playing, even though it’s siblings nipped at it’s tail and wiggled in front of it’s face. Briefly, it went back to playing, rolling with one sibling before they got caught up with a couple of the other kits roughhousing.

Cautiously he came forward, his tiny nose wiggling at a rapid pace, taking in the little girls scent. Turning his head and making a tiny trill noise, his blue eyes looking between both people.

Taking the treats, she watched as the male went over to Ras first and then came over in front of her. As he rolled over, she giggled which made him turn his head a little, causing her to giggle more. Offering a treat, he rolled back onto his feet and snatched up the treat. She pulled back a little at the suddenness of the action.

The kit, seeing that reaction to grabbing the treat, paused and chittered softly again to Zeva. This time he slowly came forward, snuffling her knees, before looking up at her, begging for another treat. Opening her left palm, the tiny hybrid presented the Tuggle with another treat, he sniffed her hand first and then gently took it, his body wiggling and skittering sideways towards her with excitement. Giggling again, she realized he was just fast, so she put a couple more treats in her left hand and offered it to him.

The Tuggle kit happily took the treats, now being a bit more bold and nuzzled her hand searching for more. Zeva let him search for a moment, before gently using her fingers to scratch under his chin. The kit pushed into her hand, loving the scratches and giving her another little trilling.

Zeva looked incredulously at the Tuggle for a moment, then with slow and gentle movements she began to pet his cream colored fur. He squirmed a little more onto her lap, the wiggling of his body making her giggle once more. Looking up at Ras with a huge grin spread across her face.

“Yes, please,” then she paused a moment, finally registering everything Ras had said. “Has he really chosen me? Can I really have him?”

Zeva nodded, a few tears welling up in her deep purple eyes, before she blinked them away and watched carefully how to put on the harness. She walked out beaming from Lekku to Lekku.

“Hmmm,” she was thoughtful for a moment. “I think Zoko is a good name. What do you think Aunty Hiri, Miss Rasilvenaira?”

Tahiri had already knelt down letting the Tuggle kit sniff her hand, before he nuzzled her and she gave him scritches behind his little ears.

“I’ve always asked my companions if they like their name and then go from there. Why don’t you ask him, and see if he’ll recognize it as his name,” the Elder encouraged, smiling as she looked down at the kit and pointed over to Zeva.

“Oh ok. Zoko? Do you like the name Zoko?” the little hybrid asked the kit. The Tuggle looked from Tahiri to Zeva, and upon hearing the name perked up a bit, his body wiggling a little bit.

“Zoko? Come here Zoko!” The Tuggle bounced in place for a moment and then ran back over to her, wrapping his body around her legs and looked up her with those cute little stary blue eyes.

“Well, I think he likes his name,” Tahiri chuckled and scritched Mireth.

Tahiri and Zeva, with Zoko, followed behind Ras, listening to her. Tahiri took the datapad.

“Thank you,” Tahiri quickly looked everything over, signing in Zeva’s stead and then turned to ask the girl how she wanted Zoko’s name spelt.

“Z, o, k, o. Zoko,” giggling as she watched Zoko hop around at the sound of his name. She patted her leg and once the kit came over a settled by her, the little girl gave him the last treat she had.

“Perfect,” Tahiri filled out the rest of it and then produced a small sling-like bag, putting the datapad inside and securing it to her waist. “Thank you again, Rasilvenaira, for helping us find Zeva a companion. We’ll probably look around a bit more, I have a particular feeling that there’s someone else I myself may need to meet. So I’m sure we’ll see each other later on.”

“Yes. Thank you Miss Rasilvenaira, for helping me find Zoko.” the little girl curtsied again and walked a little closer to Ras. “May I give you a hug?”

“You may have been liked already,” Rue commented, laughing softly. The other voorpaks on him made his hair rustle, showing both Bril and Reiden that there were several more in it somewhere. The one that had chosen Reiden was a ruddy red with black stripes on its back and black ears. “That one is a male and very adventurous. Do you like him back?”

Reiden watched the tiny ball of fluff hop a little before settling down in his palm and laughed. “Yeah, he seems fun. I think he’ll get along well with Silver, my gizka. Curious thing wound up in the air vent connected to my quarters at one point after adventuring through our old medical station. I’ll just have to make sure they don’t get into too much mischief together.”

“I will, thank you,” Tahiri nodded and smiled to Ras, before turning to the little girl now hugging the wiggling noodle of fur. “Come Zeva, lets go take a look around and then we’ll get you some supplies for Zoko.”

“Are you going to find another pet, Aunt Hiri?”

“Maybe, depends on if this feeling I’m getting through the Force is here and now, or an echo through the Force. Though I sense they’re within the fair itself, so it’s all just a matter of going in the right direction, and them sensing that I’m nearby.”

“Oh, well then let’s go and look for your pet, Aunt Hiri!” Zeva exclaiming, gently putting her wriggly noodle of a pet down. Patting her leg, the little girl waited till the Tuggle kit had calmed and stayed put beside her, looking up at her with those little blue eyes, begging for more treats since he did good.

“I promise I’ll have more treats soon,” gently patting his head.

“Alright, if you two are ready, let’s go have a look around,” chuckling, Tahiri waited till her niece and Zoko were beside her, before heading towards the other pens. Looking around the different species and observing them, she kept herself open, extending herself out in search of the one little spark she had felt from earlier. She had been too focused on Zeva finding a pet companion to be concerned with getting a new addition to her pack. Tahiri was relieved and glad that Zeva had chosen a good creature to be her companion, and that the Tuggle had chosen her as well.

Pausing for a moment as she finally sensed the flow of the Force swirling around a particular pen. Approaching the pen, she spied one of the strangest and cutest looking little creatures she had seen this side of the galaxy.

“Oh, a Merqaal huh?” musing to herself, as she watched the creatures run around.

While the others chatted and Reiden was chosen by his voorpak, Minnie and Ishi continued to bond. The Nautolan allowed the treats easily once Ishi seemed fine climbing her, and soon enough Minnie was holding her, up off her lap, in her arms, without having entirely lifted her herself. It seemed enough of a success, as Ishi clung a bit but didn’t panic when Minnie very slowly rose to attempt carrying the kitten from the pen.

She stayed back, moving extra careful, cradling Ishi close. She didn’t want to startle her with a too fast introduction to more people, so she thought in the general direction of her bond with Bril instead to knock to him.

<@1056685516441006091>

Nodding to Ras, the Togruta smiled and followed the woman into the pen.

“Yes they are. Please, I believe one of these little ones are reaching out to me.”

Taking a few of offered treats, she knelt down on the grass, resting her hand, palm open with a treat, her leg itself. Showing the playful baby Merqaals that she was no threat. They all paused in their play to look at her, some simply shied away, while others just went back to playing. The one with a cream colored back, and black belly scales, came over and place itself in front. It watched her, tilting it’s head in curiosity. Tahiri copied the motion, tilting her head in the same way. They played that game for a few moments, both tilting their tilting their heads back and forth. When the little one hopped forward, and flaired it’s frills a little, wiggling it’s tail, the Togruta moved her hand forward slightly, offering the treat. The little Merqaal looked from her to the treat and then boldly came up, snatched the treat up and climbed onto her lap, sniffing and exploring her.

Then the little one tried to climb up her stomach and onto her chest, which Tahiri allowed, slowly leaning back to let the Merqaal do it. Offering another treat as the little one sniffed her face. The Merqaal was about to take the treat till a grumbling squeak sound from her left shoulder. The two look at each other, each doing a little squeak and trills, before sniffing each other.

Tahiri slowly righted herself, placing her hand under the female Merqaal’s rump to keep her from falling off her chest and gave a warm and calming pulse through the Force to both of creatures. They looked at her and then at each other again, before nuzzling their cheeks together and then rubbing Tahiri’s cheeks.

“I think she is a perfect little addition too, and you’ll have a play mate close to your age Mireth. Welcome to family, little one, now we need a name for you,” then she turned to Ras and smiled. “I believe she’s chosen. Does she have any nicknames?”

Bril felt the thrum across their bond, like a gentle nudge in the back of his mind. He’d been lost in thought before, but the sensation brought his attention back to her just in time for him to see her lifting Ishi from the pen that housed the rest of her littermates.

So cute, he spoke across their bond.

Minnie nodded, smiling cautiously at her Zabrak. She didn’t want to be impolite to Rue or Reiden, but didn’t want to scare Ishi either, so she tilted her head towards Ras and gestured with her free hand, signing, meet there?

They were bringing this girl home. Hopefully Femi wouldn’t mind.

Bril simply nodded upon seeing Minnie’s sign. After that, he turned to address both Reiden and Rue.

“Hey, it was really good seeing you two again. We should catch up properly later, maybe over lunch,” he said to them both before reaching into his pack and pulling out two printed cards, one for each of them. It read:

*Last Light Investigations

Dr. Arga-Erinos*

It also included the coordinates of the business and Bril’s comlink code, which they’d be able to contact him through should they ever needed him or simply wanted to catch up, as he’d suggested.

“I have to go catch up with our Minnie and introduce myself to our new member of the family, so I’ll be seeing you two.”

He smiled, lightly bowed his head, then headed to where Ras and Tahiri were standing.

<@232396983854301187>

Reiden took the card and grinned at the Zabrak. “It was great seeing you, as well. I’d be happy to catch up some time. Enjoy meeting the new addition. I hope things go smoothly.”

“I can understand that completely, Rasilvenaira. Aye, if this one can get along with with a little spit fire that Eeth'Mirith, she’ll get along with my Akul and Vornskr as well, as both of them are big softies when it comes to baby creatures. Those two can be the fiercest protectors, but turn into big cuddly balls of fur with anything that seems too little to protect itself,” the Togruta chuckled. She followed Ras out of the pen, and crouched down to let Zeva meet her Merqaal.