M Mining, Gathering, and Relationship Building!

[Jack Pine]

Spoiler: Timeline Placement

This was meant to be posted a lot sooner, but slipped our memory to. It has some skips, but this should be the second to earliest post for the NDC timeline wise. Covering the start of relations between the NDC and local Sirrisians roughly more then a decade ago in current time frame, along with first contact with the Senti.

Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Sanctuary System) [3497-GC]
Sirris II Orbit

The stars had been calm, empty, until the storm had started. Deep in reality, something twisted, a relativistic blister pulling, stretching, tearing open as it reached its limit. Space and time boiled over as alarms screamed, holes tearing through reality as dozens of burial steel hulls hurled themselves through the veil and started burning towards the core worlds. The echoes of their wormholes faded and collapsed behind them as antennae turned, broadcasting the image of the Duskerian Mining Guild alongside a short message.

“This is the Tsuraseli Mining Fleet of Shurista, requesting operational permissions with the Duskerian mining guild and for trade vessels to land in the area of Vaigarin settlements.”

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Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Sanctuary System) [3497-GC]
Bahum Family Estate - Orgar City (Outskirts)

Despite the apparent friendliness of the newcomers, the military units around Sirris II were in the process of preparing for combat. Of course, sitting at an old desk of local wood, a man best described as 'elderly' was calmly picking up a phone and dialing a number. On the desk was a more modern holographic display showing the message being sent.

"Yes, this is Uledor Bahum, Elder of the Bahum Family. Yes. I'd like to speak with the Military District Commander of Sirris II. I don't care that she's trying to prepare a military response, you'll put her on the phone. I'll hold."

He calmly sat there watching the message repeat while he waited with the phone to his ear. He soon broke into a smile.

"Ah, good. Now, you'll listen carefully, and once I'm done, you'll stand down. Yes, I'm aware they just jumped in. Yes, I'm aware they did so without announcement. If you'll let me speak. Thank you. If you continue to prepare for war, you will not appreciate the result. Oh no, they won't fight back. But they'll never offer to trade or talk to us again. Oh, and anyone who does do either will never do so with you again. Yes, I know who they are. And I'm telling you right now if you continue to prepare to attack them, you'll lose Vaigarin support entirely. Yes, we'll pull every single connection and person we have tied with you out. All of them. Did I stutter Admiral? You will stand down or you lose one of your most steadfast allies on the planet. I'm glad you agree Admiral. Have a nice day."

As he put down the phone, he smiled. "I was beginning to wonder if the Senti were ever gonna come back around..."

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Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Sanctuary System) [3497-GC]
Royal Estate - Obsidian City

Heels of knee high well adorned boots, clacked as Admiral Alice Casdan approached the twin thrones without hesitation. “My lords, we have a small situation, one that risks our very security at the referral of an unknown. I would like to ask for your orders on the matter directly Archduke Oaklen?”

The Archduke looked at her, having been pinching the bridge of his nose as more and more grumbling about the situation came in. Standing up and waving a hand, activating the holographic projection of their world, fleet, and the unknown ships in orbit above the center of the hall. “Who has referred to them?”, he asked simply, his brother leaving this to them.

“Uledor.”, was all as she said, looking disappointed in having to submit to the commands of someone not of their government.

Mark Oaklen simply looked at her confused with a tilt of the head, then a small grin, “You should have said that sooner. We will welcome them then, please, have our communication and transit department extend landing clearance. Send an envoy to them and prepare a meeting hall for the conference. See if the Vaigarin have translation packets, and a guid on customs we can examine for the hour we have before the conference.”

The admiral gave a sigh, annoyed at all this, “It will be done my lord, I shall have my fleet disperse and go back to standard patrol routes. I for one, hope we have not put too much power in the Vaigarin hands, or that we are not the ones under their control.”

“Naaahhh, don’t worry about it. Take the day off and get a drink, need to remember that we’re alone out here. We need every ally we can get.”, Mark answered cheerfully, walking over and patting Alice on the shoulder before leaning on her. “I haven’t fucked up too badly yet, so have I ever steered you wrong?”

“That’s why I never threw you out the airlock the day you and you decided to bring us along back then. And why I haven’t slapped you yet, Mark.”, she said with a grumble, willing to give in and trust him on this. He’d somehow, like his brother, had been on the money with every move, but she still had the military tendency to always expect the worst. With another sigh though, Alice gave in, gave a salute, and made her exit to return to the office for a bit.

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Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Santuary System) [3497-GC]
Skyridge Spaceport - Obsidian City

The Viagarins did indeed have translation packets, for several Senti languages, and it was difficult, at first, to identify which language they were using. Fortunately, after sifting through dozens of off kilter translations, they finally found one that made sense.

The Senti quickly accepted the offer of envoy, one of the carrier sized "cruisers" moving to start landing procedures in Sirrus's ocean. From there, kitchens were fired up, and foods were quickly made, and the NDC representatives may have been surprised by the sheer volume of aliens bringing trays of rich smelling foods to the table, clearly intent on turning this initial meeting into a jovial feast and cultural mixer.

With that worked on, Uledor smiled as he watched the NDC tried to figure out what was going on. Standing with Mark Oaken, Uledor looked every bit the wizened old man he put forward, not that the Senti ever believed that image. "So, glad you had your officer listen to me? She seemed rather upset when I told her to stand down and she would need to okay it with you first." He said, as a tray was brought forward. He smiled, took a small bit, and suggested Mark do the same. "I'd advise caution, at least until you can be sure of the suitability to handle Senti cooking. It's very metal heavy." He warned. "Oh, and these are just the cooks. Their actual diplomats are probably pouring over everything you sent, alongside my own packet to them to explain what has been happening since they last visited. Ironically, you arrived months after they left."

Mark took some of the glowing fruit on the tray, finding it oddly like a solid form of their plasma jet alcoholic beverage, which he popped into his mouth and chewed. Enjoying the taste, as different then to what he was somewhat expecting as it was. Turning to Uledor, he cleared his throat slightly, “I do, but she was only doing her job. After losing our own world, many of those who serve in our military are very protective of this one. In a place where we only know so much, they are constantly cautious and on guard. Please try not to hold it against them my dear friend.”

"I won't. I just knew I needed to be quick since I've heard from Galestrix how quickly the NDC navy can mobilize. I do apologize for jumping the hoops I did, but I thought it faster to contact her directly instead of trying to reach you and work it down." Uledor said, taking one of the meat-looking strips he'd grabbed and began chewing. "Ah, I think I recognize this cook's work. She's improved." He mused. "Less iron this time. She knew to account for Vaigarin tolerances."

As though on cue, the doors swept open, two giant, ancient Senti in full, glimmering black and gold armored spacesuited regalia stooped low to enter, before stepping aside. Past them, with a dainty, unassuming stride stepped a young Senti captain, her faceplate opaque, and her lights on and bright. A Viagarin made cloak encircled her shoulders, nearly brushing the floor before she opened it wide and into a Viagarin bow, revealing the ten inch tanto on her hip. As she rose, she approached one of the Duskerian security detail, drawing her knife before taking it by the back of the blade and offering it to him without a word.

After surrendering what could be described as a weapon, she and her security detail approached Uledor and Mark. The neck seal of the captain’s helmet hissed before she lifted it off her shoulders and set the helmet on the table, shaking out her shock of silver and red hair with a sigh of relief, revealing a humanoid woman with sharp features and iridescent silver skin, her eyes a deep, shocking red. “I am Vadasirinidias Aliset Es Krovinnis Pashtu Soren Eshirista. My grandmother tells honoring stories of you, Elder Uledor. My people are honored to be welcomed again to your home. Would you care to introduce us to the peoples that have made a home with you?”

Uledor chuckled and shook his head. "I admit I expected your grandmother to lead the talks here this time. But I see the last half century have changed hands for the Senti. As for the gentleman here with me, he is Archduke Mark Oaken, of the New Dusk Conclave. He is one of it's two heads of government, and a friend who has grown quite close with the Bahum. While the other Vaigarin people are more cautious of them, they have come to at least accept they are not as horrible as first imagined when they arrived mere months after you left." He said, letting Mark fill in anything the Vaigarin Elder might have missed.

“My brother Archduke Jack Pine is the other, He commands the army as well, while my military power is over the navy. You gave them quite a scare, but it will definitely keep them on their toes more. Pleasure to meet you though Vadasirinidias Aliset Es Krovinnis Pashtu Soren Eshirista, and welcome to the capital of the NDC.” Mark also spoke in fluent Vaigarin, offering a bow in greeting as he did, then offering a kind smile as they finished their introduction.

“A true pleasure to meet an ally of our friends.” Aliset offered her own smile in return. “Unfortunately, Uledor, while my grandmother has far more formal training in such matters, I was picked for my size and form, being more approachable and comfortable for our mutual friends. She is also growing rather… Temperamental in her age.”

The giantess standing nearby made a harsh sound from inside her helmet, prompting a sharp turn of the head and chatter in Shuristan approximating the word “Behave" from her son.

Aliset made a gesture towards the seats, taking a soup dumpling for herself. “May we sit? We have much to discuss. I do apologize for our sudden and unwarned arrival; our navigational beacon must have drifted farther into the system than we had realized in the past half century. It is fortunate that we sent only a small mining fleet, rather than risk Shurista, herself, becoming trapped in the system and torn asunder by your worlds.”

UIedor smiled and gestured to the chairs. "Of course. And I understand fully. And Valstia had mentioned how it was an amazing sight." he said, settling into chair. "That said, I am surprised to see you wearing your grandmother's cloak. I remember presenting it to her as a gift." He mused aloud.

“Yes, and she offered it for my use to display your peoples’ craftsmanship, and our familiarity and pleasant experience with your people.” Aliset nodded, biting into her soup dumpling with a grin. “I do apologize for the… Intense festivities, if my party may be so bold, Archduke. We find that first contact always works better over a meal. Though normally we will spend some time observing communications and the internet to glean customs and language that we present approximations of native foods. Our cuisine is rather difficult to reproduce in gravity.”

“I assume by that information, and the design of your armor. That your people are primarily, or exclusively, spacefaring. So I would definitely understand how gravity could indeed complicate your methods of culinary preparation.” Mark was warm in his words, kindly enjoying the conversation, and casual manner of the Senti people so far. The Archduke grinned, as he thought of the interesting way they seemed to live. “Also what’s life if it’s all work and no fun, so we can consider this a meal with good friends.”

Uledor chuckled. "I see. Well, I'm glad to hear she's doing well, and felt you wouldn't completely ruin these proceedings." He said as a bit of a warning to Aliset. He wasn't sure what the young Senti was like, but he didn't want to have her accidently, by some fashion, cause a diplomatic incident. Stars knew there'd been several when the NDC first arrived.

"As it is though, I accept that the meal to help forge relations. I imagine the NDC and Senti have much to talk about. We're still trying to catch up to the NDC's level of things." Uledor mused, leaning back in his chair. "Stars, I hope the Yilas don't find out until things are smoothed over this time. When the NDC arrived, those bloody showoffs tried to derail the entire thing by putting themselves as the rulers of all Vaigarin."

"We are a nomadic species, yes! This is the first world we have come across with such a smooth interaction. I will admit, it can be quite the trial, a young woman's first First Contact mission. I am glad that Elder Uledor's wisdom has already softened hearts." Aliset gave Uledor a wide smile as Attenni broke her stoicism.

She gave a sharp guffawing laugh, slapping her thigh in mirth. "Yilas? Those useless royals? Worse than the Councillors of my home Flotilla!"

Aliset cocked an eyebrow, maintaining a cool, professional demeanor as she regarded her grandmother. "I am so very glad that we have already grown so comfortable with each other."

“Well I would hope we prove to be less useless, given we’ve had to work our asses off this far. Pulling all of this together was a nightmare some times, and no easy task. But I’m happy with how it turned out, and now all the people we are getting to meet as a result.”, Mark added with a small chuckle.

"Trust me, Lord, there are many differences between a true Royal and a useless one. The useless ones tend to form congresses." Aliset gave a small smirk.

Uledor laughed. "Or 'conclaves'. I swear, dealing with the NDC royalty has been much more sensible than the Yilas." He said, while settling in. "And to be fair Archduke, your people had a lot to learn about the wilds of this world. I remember the first time your people encountered a band of Pack Roaches. I think I've heard some of your military forces refer to a training exercise as a 'Roach Hunt'?" He said, grinning.

“Yeah the nasty buggers tend to be number one on the watch list when troops go beyond the mountains. Thankfully we pack rather efficient firepower, however I wish I could say the same about our armor, when faced against their special projectiles.” Mark definitely remembered the horror stories of those autopsies, and not to mention the photos that made even someone with his track record queasy.

“You two seem to know each other, and it definitely has me wanting to know more about you Ms. Aliset. You seem like a very interesting woman.”, Mark offered, hoping to casually change the topic from such morbid things.

"Alas, I only know Elder Uledor by photograph and reputation. My grandmother, Atteni, was just my age when she first set foot on this beautiful world. I was not yet born when your peoples met. I do believe my father was born on this world, however." She offered a small smile. "I am only thirty five, and I only finished my xenopolitical training a decade ago. I captain the postage vessel Soren. She is a small courier, reasonably fast for her age. This is a nice detour, though. I so rarely leave my ship."

Uledor smiled. "The Senti first arrived nearly 2 millennia ago. I was in my first millennia of life when it happened. So I've gotten to talk and meet them for some time." He admits, smiling at Aliset. "And thus far, the Senti have remained steadfast trading partners, even if we've been unable to use what you use for our own developments. The NDC has been improving that for us since they arrived, since we're able to make use of their own, though it hasn't been easy."

"The burial steel is a difficult concept for many to master. The immortality of our people and the support our ancestors give the living family can be… jarring. Though I heard of a few of yours who were truly a sight to behold. Sutessetu still talks about Galestrix."

“I believe we have something slightly similar in our culture if I’m understanding the context of those terms correctly. We cremate our dead, and create burial orbs of graphene from their ashes, along with mementos for the next of kin.” Mark was still very much grinning, excited for all they could learn from other spacefarers. It was almost enough for the mention of Gale to slip past his notice. “Oh Gale, my son is quite smitten with her, engaged in fact. He met her on one of my previous trips to talk to the Vaigarin elders, and he was quite attached ever since the age of 15.”

Uledor smirked. "Yes, he very much was. I remember his shock at how open we are about such relationships when I noticed." He said, grinning. "As for us, well, the Tumnisians have their own rituals, though I'm sure they're honorable. For the Vaigarin, well, it depends on which Family you ask. For us Bahum, if the body is available, it is cremated, and the ashes are sent skyward, to join the Stars." He says, smiling. "If not, we look to the stars and hope that their spirit is able to ascend and join them." He mused.

"Funny, discussion of burial rituals was not something I was told to expect in my lessons. It is certainly an interesting subject. Quite telling of a culture."

“The dead should always be honored, and remembered in death, as they were in life. We only get one afterall, and must do all we can to preserve it, as much when it is extinguished.” Archduke Oaklen offered an honest reply, even despite the options they had to extend their lives in his culture, but still fairly true regardless. He smiled warmly before adding, “I would say, with the NDC’s space capabilities, perhaps we could help your kin reach even closer to the stars after their passing. I know as anyone how important tradition is, but also how they can adapt to development to a civilization, and only offer if you feel such adjustments would be appropriate.”

Uledor chuckled. "I've been to one of your space stations. While I don't doubt many a Bahum would be honored by the NDC offering to take our ashes closer to the stars than ever thought possible, there is something to be said about having one's kin fly them to the heights, and releasing the ashes to the sky." Uledor explained, with a smile. "And I don't imagine the NDC have many options for us to perform the tradition properly in space."

"I am going to be honest, here… I do not understand. My culture has been nomadic in deep space for over half a million of this world's years. Deep space is my, and our home."

“I mean, a space walk and opening the jar would definitely spread them. Or with custom power armor fitted for your people, you could fly even higher and spread them to heights previously unflown.” Mark was very liberal with his smile, partially amused by Aliset’s confusion. He nodded as he gave those ideas, “The only limitations are as far as the imagination can conjure.”

He then turned to their Senti diplomat friend with an apologetic smile, “As for your confusion dear Aliset, we who walk the earths, seek to return the souls of the deceased back to the earth, or the skies. It may not sound logical, but they are traditions that are deeply rooted in the history of our peoples. It is simply put, a difference in perspective in how the dead are honored, and assisted in moving on to the next life.”

Uledor chuckled. "We do it so that our dead can fall like stars in the sky. It was also learned, that doing so helped the lands beneath grow better. Until the NDC arrived, we did not know the reason why, only that it did." He said with a smile. "It is, for us, a mixture of tradition for our people to recognize that we see our Family as those who touch the stars, and thusly, should be 'sent' to them as best we can, while also helping our lands in the act."

"Oh! I understand… I think. My people do not make ashes when the dead burn. We become steel. And our dead never leave us… Uledor, do you happen to be comfortable with me doing something?"

Uledor glanced over at Atteni as Aliset asked her question, curious at what was being requested, since he figured the elder Senti might have an idea.

Atteni gave a shrug, and a gesture that said he was on his own.

Aliset closed her eyes, focusing, as the room seemed to become more crowded, ghosts walking from the corners, old friends and family long passed taking steps and shattering into motes of light that collected like dust on Aliset's armor and necklace, before the show died. A flick of her wrist caused a minor gravitational anomaly, not lasting more than a barely perceptible fraction of a second, but enough to set off alarms in power armor and combat awareness equipment in most of the building. "Our people do not die. We live on as part of the steel. We offer our strength of will and our combined knowledge to lend aid and bend the rules for our living. But we have our funeral rites."

Uledor watched, his mouth an open hole in the long white beard he cultivated very carefully at the demonstration of what just happened. The Tumnisians nearby were already reaching for the sabers which hung from their waists, already looking like they were getting ready to fight to defend their charge, when the whole thing was over.

“Now that is something that will be burned into my memory for a while, truly fascinating to see. We are fairly new to magic, the idea of the soul, a only surface scratched subject for us.” Came the in awe reply of the archduke, having felt his skin tingled, as the edges of his geist augmented view had buzzed. He was truly baffled by the somewhat spiritual display, and realizing there was still even more that they had yet to learn about the universe. “Your fallen, certainly do build the future for your living.”

Aliset nodded, confused for a moment by several of the guards cursing in English as she tilted her head. Switching into a human language, though heavily accented, seemed easy for her as she spoke in plain English. "My, my, you humans do take your security seriously! Truly admirable, if unnecessary, here. But yes, our people often die of old age or the myriad of dangers of space flight. And I apologize for not using one of your tongues earlier. My husband taught me several, though I wanted to confirm yours."

Uledor blinked as the people began to speak in a language he himself was not familiar with. While his granddaughter was more adaptable to such things, Uledor was an old bugger, and he was rather happily set in his ways. Though he was willing to adapt as needed.

Mark cleared his throat, “Your’s is very hard to understand, as I can only understand a bit, but if I’m not mistaken. Did you just mention other humans?” The Archduke then switched back to speaking Vaigarin, as to be understood by all, “We speak a language called Haran Lingua, so I understood very little of what you just said, and I know Uledor understood jack and squat of it.”

With a small chuckle at the slight misunderstanding, he then sipped his drink a bit, some of their local foods also being brought now to share more culturally. Though for some reason, there was something about all she said that gave him a small touch of apprehension.

"Oh!" Aliset immediately switched back to Vaigarin, reiterating what she had said. "I am so sorry about that, the languages are so similar, I made a mistake. My husband is human, yes, I haven't seen him for a few years, unfortunately…"

Uledor shook his head. "You and your other languages." He grumbles, and just settled more into his chair. "Do not mind me. This is more for you, Archduke, and you, Aliset, to work things out between your groups. The Senti and the Vaigarin and Tumnisians have already worked things out between our peoples, and thus I'm sure several of the Senti ships have already traveled to other cities to do as they do." Uledor explained, looking like the old bastard he was who just happened to let himself relax and felt no pain or discomfort now.

And that would be the reason why, a husband, maybe he was starting to be too much like his adoptive son. That being said, he wouldn’t let that put too much of a damper on things, “Ah so you’re married, and there are other humans out there, guess our race just crop up everywhere.” Mark simply pat Uledor on the shoulder with an apologetic smile, “Forgive us my friend, it’s strange for us to meet someone with knowledge of a similar language.”

"Given how vast natural diversity is out there, it certainly is odd. Which is why I assumed your race." She offered a sweet smile, moving closer. "Are you also warm?"

"Aliset! Ease off." Atteni snipped, taking a seat next to Uledor and removing her helmet.

"Grandmother! You're one to talk, how many husbands do you have? On how many Flotillas? Of how many races?"

"At least let this man learn your culture before you begin courting."

"Bite me! I am not courting!"

Uledor couldn't help but chuckle watching as Atteni spoke off to Aliset. "The young have all the energy and thick headedness to make it work. That is all I'll say." He said, patting Atteni on the should as the Senti woman settled down next to him.

"At least my granddaughter has found ways to keep herself busy enough to not do anything stupid now."

“I wouldn’t say no.”, Mark simply said with a small chuckle at the exchange, “To answer your question in all seriousness though, yes I am indeed warm, we like a bodily temperature of 97 degrees fahrenheit. But can endure higher, as we were stuck living around deserts for the last centuries of life on our world.”

He was trying to not be too cheeky right now, something his brother still quite enjoyed razzing him over, given he was the more easy going of the two archdukes. The Archduke popped a couple more of the glowing berries, savoring the strangely citrusy taste, before continuing. “So I take it with those words, that being polyamorous is the norm for Senti culture. Also not to sound odd, but I read into everything said, in effort to learn all I can of your culture. Helps lead my line of questioning to lead to the gain of such information.”

"Ah, yes, how is Galestrix doing, these days?" Atteni stole a morsel from Uledor's plate as she smirked.

Aliset blushed a firey blue, visibly flustered. "Yes, polyamory is the norm. I, however, have trouble finding mates of my own species, so I apologize if I come across as… pent up. And besides, the exchange of information produces the smooth exchange of needed goods and services, to better serve both our interests."

“It bothers me not a bit, in fact, I was quite excited at first honestly.”, Mark said with a reassuring smile and laugh. “I have no mates at current per say, my heir is adopted, and quite smitten with Miss gale who you’ve mentioned. It’s sad when your work leaves your son an easier time to find love, but I do what I must, and it’s fulfilling work to know I am doing the best for my people.”

It was not surprising that they would mention other Vaigarin, but he supposed with Gale’s history,... that should have been expected. That just gave him the feeling though, that his son was in for some sort of shock like that of which, Mark himself was given earlier. He almost chuckled to himself at the thought of such a potentially awkward situation, “I swear my son is such a free spirit, always off on some adventure when not doing his work at the university. Or spending as much time with Gale as he can.”

Uledor smiled. "Galestrix is doing quite well. She's of course, having her fun as she can find it. But atop that, she was recruited into the NDC's military. Their, 'Royal Corps', I believe it was. OF course, that was with the help of the Archduke's son. She is one of their officers now. Of course, she's being required to attend their University as well, since apparently our 'college' level is only slightly more advanced than the NDC's own grad school level." He said with a smile.

"Oh, and she's become Bond-Mated to said son." He added as an afterthought.

"Oh, my congratulations on that! I wish her many fat chicks. Though Sutes may be a little heartbroken. She has been making noises about wanting to settle planetside. Part of the reason we came. We did not expect there to be others, here." Atteni grinned, stealing another morsel.

Aliset seemed to calm at Mark's explanation, straightening herself. "I was injured a long time ago, and my body recovered in ways that leave me rather disfigured by my own people's standards. However, the humans our kin meet seem to enjoy the figure that keeps me bridge bound and loveless. My only Senti husband is a scientist on Turrasiel named Nicol Sanger. And the only reason he still cares is because we fostered him when he and I were children. So whenever there's humans, the Councils like sending women like me. Apparently it puts your species at ease when a 'short and thick' female comes forward to negotiate. Could you explain that to me?"

Mark wasn’t sure which question to answer first, in a look of just utter awestruck confusion, as both were quite daunting to answer in their own right. “Um, well there are many reasons for that, to answer your question. To put it as simply as I can think to do so, girls of your type are just the best…. Physical fit. That being said, I will add that in our eyes, you are extremely attractive.”

Clearing his throat, Mark then decided to add a comment on the matter of children, “Uledor, that idea scares me this early, I am not old enough to be a grand daddy yet, hell I’m only even a daddy by technicality. As for Miss Sutes being disappointed, it was always my understanding that their relationship was with the understanding that there may be others, which he accepted. I will assure it dissuaded him none, and for my extrapolation, it will just be a pleasant surprise to the boy if all goes well.”

Astrid was sitting at her desk reading reports from the mine overseers, as well as the reports from the branch heads. A smile had been on her face when she got an alert about the arrival of the Senti, and then the rapid messages she’d received, as well as the other messages. “Dear goddess’ she muttered to herself and took the time to prepare herself. “Spacefaring, so they might have advanced technology. Maybe we could get new ones,” she said as she hurried to the door of her office and ran like she never ran before. She dodged people left and right and then took a transport to the meeting area. “Ok Astrid, remember, let’s give them a good first impression.” The Near-Human-Cat-Anthro hybrid said and then walked to the doors, which opened up revealing the feast.
“Amazing,” she said to herself, then calmly walked to the only empty seat which was conveniently beside the group. “Greetings. I hope I can be forgiven for not arriving sooner. I am Astrid Kurosaki.” She said “I am a CEO, a leader of a corporation called the Mining Guild. “ She said calmly in Vaigarin.
"Aah! Miss Astrid! A pleasure to meet you! Alas, my expertise is in xenopolotics. You may wish to speak to my cousin, Suseten. He will likely be…" Aliset had lost track of her cousin in the throng of people. "He will come when the politics is done… He is more a logistician than a politician. Mr. Oaklen, when our proceedings are done, I would be agreeable to handle more personal matters. Perhaps over a meal of your culture? Comfort food from your home, perhaps?"
Atteni gave a chuckle as she continued snacking on Uledor's meal. "So much for her remaining professional. Should I give the Archduke a selection of burial steel to make my granddaughter a gift?"
Uledor smiled. "Nah, I have a feeling if Sutes looks for her, she'll have something. She did seem quite taken by Gale even back in before you all left last time." He said with an amused chuckle. "Ah, hello Madam Astrid. I take it you had plenty of things to get together for this." He said, giving a nod to the Mining Guild leader.

With a kind smile, Mark casually replied to Aliset, “Count on it, though… It sounds like your grandmother and Uledor might be plotting for more permanent personal matters for us beyond that.”
Though with the appearance of Astrid, it was time for the Archduke to drop the cheekiness for now. Composing himself and his posture, he greeted Miss Astrid with a nod and drink, “It was admittedly very sudden for most of us Astrid, so no fault of yours there.” Turning back to the others, Mark simply added, “Miss Astrid’s guild is the organization that handles the majority of our mining, as well as resource processing. They are pivotal to not only our economy, but to the growth of the nation as a whole, and can be found to have offices in every territory we govern.
Astrid smiled at each member of the group as she was greeted, and her smile widened as Mark spoke of her guild. “Indeed, as my twin sister would say if there are Mining Opportunities, the Mining Guild will be there.” She’s said before focusing on the Senti, Aliset, and nodded. “ah, then I shall make sure to get a chance to speak to them. “ She said and only smiled as she learned that Suseten might be with Gale, someone she’d heard about.
She nodded to Uledor” Yes, I feel fortunate I was allowed the time to prepare. I admit I feel excited to meet another race, and especially one who has spent most of their time in space, as I hear your people have Lady Aliset. It’s exciting to be sure, especially to see if trade could be done. I find it especially exciting if we the Mining Guild could make something out of any unique alloy. If we can create something for our initiates, we-oh I am so sorry! Here I am spilling my interests” She blushed, hoping she hadn’t just uttered a faux pas.
Aliset gave a courteous nod. "Unfortunately, the burial steel is a holy thing, that cannot be traded as its value is implacable. It can be gifted, by admission of family, but that is all. However, we do have other technologies, methods, and labours that may be of interest to you. Again, my cousin may be a better person to broach the details to. However, I am here to facilitate the peaceful negotiations of trade and learning between our peoples."
She pulled a small hologram projector from her suit, setting it on the table to bring up the image on board. It displayed what looked to be some form of charged particle cannon, and the image displayed underneath showed it in the hands of a miner, using the device to slice away pieces of an asteroid. "That is a standard ablative beam cutter. We use them to break down derelict ships, asteroids, or other things we may come across. We have them on our ships as personally carried versions, and our mining cruisers can cut apart and tow pieces of continent sized asteroids."
“That respectfully, Aliset, is very terrifying. What stops a beam with power like that from not hitting something far behind what you're cutting, as I imagine with that much power, it would keep going for some time before decaying to null.” The concern shown on the Archduke’s face, trying to get more information on the environmental risks with such a technology. They had learned their lesson once, and they would not make the same mistake again, he just hoped the Senti took such things into consideration too.

"Normally we have a mining cruiser behind the target to scatter the beam off the shields." She gave a shrug. "There are ways."

Uledor shrugged. "It sounds dangerous to me, if handled improperly. One mistake and you lose far more than just some rock. Especially if done on a planet." He mused. He wasn't a miner by trade. But he'd spoken often enough with the work foremen of the Tumnisian crews who dig out their people's cities underground. They were always concerned with finding ways to mitigate the loss of life while still ensuring work would be able to continue unabated.

“Reflective materials should also be a worry, or those that refract. I am not saying I doubt your consciousness of such dangers, just that I wanted it reaffirmed that it was. We have made mistakes in the past, and while we are aware that others will not always make the same mistakes, we at least try to help others in that they don’t.” Mark was honest with his concern, and he was not expecting the elder to back said concern, but figured now he should have expected him to have similar worries. He did not, as he said, doubt the senti only that wanting to know they kept such things in mind and in thought.

“For every danger, there is a mitigating procedure. For instance, many of our FTL systems are based on using burial steel as a reference point, allowing the building of spatial bridges between two points. We commonly inhabit deep space, so even spent cutter beams cannot be wasted. Often the beam is shunted into the particle accelerator assemblies of our cruisers, that the energy may be scavenged. This allows us to filter the atomics that are burned away in the beam. It is not much, and I am no technician, so I am not too sure about the details. However, I spent several of my training years aboard a mining cruiser called Surasi. Due to our ships being built of our people, they are as alive as we are. In a different way. I’m sure my cousin, Sutessetu, would be better to describe the point where a ship comes to life.”

-----
Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Sanctuary System) [3497-GC]
Tellas's Bar - Skyaldor Entertainment District

Several hours after the chaos of the Senti formation jumping in had died down, one of the Medical officers found herself in a Duskerian military bar, singing her people’s songs and generally making a nuisance of herself by drinking the Duskerians under the table, at least until she recognized a particular pair of horns and wings. “Galestrix! Fifty years and you don’t write? I live on a mail ship!” Sutessetu laughed as she approached.

Galestrix had only just stepped in, and suddenly found herself being grabbed by someone. "Hey! Who in the Void... Oh. Sutes!" She had started to growl, readying herself to begin spitting sparks, before she recognized who it was that had grabbed her. "I see you're doing well! Been keeping the Crest?" She asked, referring to the tattoo of the Bahum family crest that Sutes had on one shoulder blade.

“Why, of course! I never forgot those marks you left on body and soul. This place has changed so much since we were last here.” Sutes gave a wide smile. “I see you have new neighbors.”

"Yeah, they came in about 50 years ago. It's been a pretty crazy time since." Galestrix said, smiling, and dragging her old companion to an empty table. "Grandpa basically heads the delegation between the Vaigarin and the NDC. As much as some of the other family's grumble about it being a power grab."

“I imagine most of the complaining comes from the Yilas?” Sutes smirked, shaking her head. “In all honesty, watching my cousin work burned my mind away from politics. Let’s discuss how your life has grown and changed! Any husbands? Children?”

Galestrix laughed. "You mistake me for an Abree! I haven't yet found the one I'd settle with a clutch for. As for the complaints, the Quetzo have been complaining almost as much as the Yilas. But the Fucon have been absolutely enamoured with them. All the new technology and techniques for crafting yes?" She said, smiling. "Beyond that, I've been well, I've found myself juggling my time between my favorite hobby and a new line of work I never saw myself as. I'm a Pilot in the NDC's Royal Corps. As well as still doing work on my back when I'm not behind the stick of one of the NDC's craft."

“I’d do no such thing! That beautiful glimmer that catches the setting sun and makes your eyes glow, makes the Yilas peacocks seem gaudy and tacky. No way you could be an Abree.” Sutessetu gave a laugh at Gale’s comment. “I’ve always loved to hear of your hobbies and talents. I’m sad I wasn’t the one to take you into space, though.”

"Yes well, my grandfather has been clucking when the NDC haven't been looking. It would seem I managed to catch the eye of the NDC royal line. Who were my sponsor through Officer's School and Pilot's School, and provided my letter of recommendation to the Royal Corps." Galestrix said. "Though the house Madam was, rather miffed at the Pine's attempting to 'poach' her best whore, sorry, 'courtesan'. Until they struck a deal." Gale replied, grinning. "Of course, with all that they've brought with them, there's a few new hobbies I've picked up from the NDC. I've taken up the blade they call a 'katana', as well as dived into electronic video and games. It's all quite interesting." She continued, though she leaned and and grinned. "Though the most funny thing is to see their Species entry on the Vaigarin. They think the humanoid form we take is the norm."

Sutes gave a snort of laughter, her eyes squeezing shut as she cackled into a politely held hand. “Poor souls! I would hope my aunt’s jewel is not lost in your transformation.” She pointed to a point just below Gale’s breastline, where as Gale had left a tattoo, Sites had used a burial steel slag gem and the magics she had learned here to fuse the opalized green crystal into one of Galestrix’s scales. “That said, these electronic games, I have heard of them. An interactive storytelling medium, if I remember correctly? The teaching applications would have an interesting implication.”

"You know that it's fine." She replies, patting Sute's shoulder. "As for the electronic media, they can be. Some are less so. But the NDC have done a lot to pull the Vaigarin out of what they call the 'Industrial Revolution' to being a space-faring species as well." She says. "I know the Senti offered many a time, but other than the Rweje, very few of us could even hope to use your means of technology. The NDC's? We can use, learn, and make our own."

“You were always as powerful as my grandmother with our technology, but I see your point. It is… Easy to forget that not all peoples have such ease in space.” Sutes gave a soft sigh. “I find it funny, though, that the NDC did not seem to know to expect us. Perhaps it’s the same reason they think this to be your normal form.” A smirk as she gestured to Gale again, taking a sip of her drink before offering it over. “Your family’s recipe, I believe.”

Gale smiled wanely. "To be fair, until the NDC arrived, we knew not how you arrived to our world. And the times you would show were, as nebulous as the winds could be. What could we do to warn them that you might be by at some point?" Gale asked, entirely rhetorically. "As for the recipe, not mine. A Yilas if you can believe it. One who somehow managed to fall very far from the family tropes." She said, smiling. "Humble, earnest, and actually wanted to learn how to brew for themselves. I think they had a bit of Fucon in them. Which is impressive."

“Wait, you claim this is Tellas’s?” Sutes cocked her head. “She and I went to med school together. At least until she dropped out. And I thought we told you we came from between the stars.”

"You did, but never the how. As for Tellas', yup. This is her pub after all." Galestrix replied, grinning. "Pretty regular spot for the NDC folks, so she's made good buisness."

“Good girl! She never was one for the useless royal vibe. By the way, I never clarified this, personally. Are we wives?” The senti woman took another sip, watching Gale’s reaction.

"What's a 'wives'?" Gale asked, tilting her head in confusion.

“You marked your family’s crest into my body. And in the third center scale below your bust is a gem grown in the slag of my aunt. The same woman whose death made my cousin’s knife. To senti, gifts such as that are an admission of one’s position as a member of the family. A marriage is a mutual admission that we are family. I suppose it is a cultural complexity,” she gave a soft shrug. “I had planned to ring that scale in the steel, but I do not know if burial steel will hold with your transformations. Perhaps using Setiel’s steel.”

"Oh, you mean Mate-Bonded. No. I would say we're Clutch-Bonded. Uhhh, family without the expectation of staying together. Siblings so to speak, if not of the same blood." Gale said, smiling. "I still remain free for myself. Though, to hear grandfather go on, you'd think he wanted more than the four mate-bonds he already has."

“As though my three husbands… er, mate-bonds and myriad children are all I want in life? I should ask your grandfather if I may borrow you for a few years, and see how he reacts to you coming home with burial steel powers.” She gave a chuckle. “Thank you, for helping me clear that up. It had been something I wished to ask.”

Galestrix smiled. "You sound something like an Abree saying that about children." She says, grinning.

“Your point? My little Tessini is a mere four years from her Trials of Adulthood! And Kursute is now a Captain on one of the cruisers that we came with.” Sutessetu gave a hearty laugh. “Abree and senti have very similar familial structure, though I hardly found a Smith capable of giving Atteni a run for her skill than a Fucon.”

Gale nodded. "Indeed. And you should be proud of them all. I may have the urges of a Abree from my mother's side, but I'm like my Grandfather, firmly Bahum on family. When I find a drane I want to settle down with, I will. And if it's with a distantly related Bahum, I'll likely just be one of his mate-bonds." She said, referring to how Bahum's had more women than men, which left them quite polygamous in what some in the NDC had coined 'Bahum Harems'. Gale had learned exactly why that was, and would argue till she was blue in the scales that it wasn't like that.

“And that will be a lucky Drane, when he finds you.” Sutes gave a soft smile, reaching into her breast pocket before offering her hand. “I wish I had never left this beautiful world. Perhaps nomadicism is not for me. Perhaps when Tessini passes her Trials, then I will become Sutes Bahum.”

"A shame you wouldn't bear a Bahum." Galestrix said, smiling sadly as she patted Sutes hand. "I can only imagine just how frightening and powerful a child of a Senti and a Vaigarin could be." She stated. "But between you and me, if you do plan on becoming mate-bonded... avoid grandpa. He cackles too much when talking about his mate-bonds."

Sutes’s hand turned up, grasping Gale’s as something was pressed into Gale’s hand, and Gale could see the swirling colors begin to shine through Sutes’s skin and clothes, echoes of memory. “There is precedent for Senti bearing with non. A set of genetic markers traced back to the Scourge. Aliset has it. My mother has it. And much of the data indicates I have it.”

Gale looked down, seeing the clip in her hand now. Looking at Sutes, she raised an eyebrow. "I see. And, what might this be?" She asked, referring to the clip now pressed into her hand.

“I remember the size of that gem. That clip should fit just under the edge of the scale, covering the point. The top should lock into the edge of the gem, with the pins digging into the scale. It is on a slider, and telescoping, so it should grow with you.” Sutes’s smile grew.

Gale blinked a few times, and smiled, before leaning over the table and hugging Sutes deeply. "Many thanks to you. I wouldn't have felt comfortable trying to grow with this on." She said, smiling. "Though, admittedly, it is still fun seeing people's reactions to our... uncaring of the need for clothing. It's just a formality we acknowledge to avoid scandalizing people." She said, looking over at a couple of Quezto who were in a nearby booth. Most people were adamantly ignoring that pair, not because of anything they'd done to warrant it, but just because they wore only their feathers for trade.

Gale was pretty sure there was a woman or three who were eyeing what the Quezto were 'packing' so to speak. "Though some laugh at it as usual."

Sutes’s arms wrapped under Gale’s wings as she gave a firm squeeze. “I’ve been holding on to that for thirty years. I’m glad you like it!” Releasing Gale, she smirked at the pair of Quezos, shaking her head. “For you, a simple formality. For us, utility and safety. Tellas takes trade feathers?”

"Only if you're a Quezo. She prefers NDC scripts or Sirrisian coins if you haven't gotten with the times. Still plenty of them floated around parts of the world." Gale says, shrugging. "I know. And Stars above, we both know why Vaigarin's even bother with clothing, since we're well protected, however it may seem." she leans back, and smiles more. "So, gotta ask. You still a drale hunter, or have you given the idea of a drane a proper roll around in your head?"

“I’m not leaving this world again. Might be nice to meet a drane you approve of.” She gave a soft snort. “Of course, I’ll have to talk to my husbands on the matter. Perhaps I can finally dress more in the lovely styles of your people.”

Galestrix hmmmed, and looked over her friend. "I think you've the bust to really pull off Bahum or even Abree styles... I remember your back well, it was perfect for our backless attire... But I think you'll find too much, ahhh what was the term... "trash in the back"? No, no that wasn't it..."

“My butt is not so big!” Sutes laughed again, clapping her hands together. “Besides, Aliset takes the honor of being the bottom heavy one in the family!”

Galestrix laughed. "I understand dear, but you're still bigger than me, and I'm considered overly large for a Vaigarin." She pointed out, smiling in good nature. "I have found I have to, ahem, 'borrow' from NDC styles to really make what I have work."

“And you see me complaining? Those fit you a lovely way, and I wonder how a Senti doublewrap will look…” Her voice trailed off as she imagined the way Shuristan fashion would fit over the draconic girl, with the garment being comprised of a set of low cut leggings with two sets of long, stretchy straps about half the width of the length of the thigh to be wrapped up the body to form pockets and folds, before being affixed at the small of the back and nape of the neck. “Shuristan fashion on you would be the death of me…”

"That's a fair point, and I wouldn't know. I think all I've ever seen any of you Senti in is those jumpsuits of yours." She said, gesturing to the one Sutes was in right now. "It's like you all are afraid to show us what you dress like when not working."

“Then you’re in luck.” A smirk crossed Sutes’s lips as she stood, unzipping the jumpsuit and dropping it to reveal exactly the outfit she had imagined, colored in a rich green and copper that faded into a royal blue at the edges to contrast her skin. “Perhaps we can trade clothes.”

Galestrix gave a low whistle. "My oh my, that is very nice. I think I should show you how I look in a Mithral suit at some point, though mind, mine has been, well, quite customized. I think I've scandalized officers wearing it." She says, grinning. "So, you're legit thinking of settling down on Sirris II huh?" She asked, bringing the discussion that way. "I can't imagine you not leaving again. It's kind of just how we've always known the Senti to be. The idea of one of you settling down is just, weird."

“I…” She took a deep breath, neatly folding her jumper as she sat down again. “I love my home ship. I love my Flotilla. But I fell in love with your world and it tore my heart out every time I had to go offworld. That scale clip has been sitting on my desk long enough I was starting to wonder if I would ever get the opportunity to give it to you. And in seeing how you responded to it, it cemented my decision. I don’t have the frame of reference to ever call myself Sirrisian. But how Shurista has treated Aliset? How it treated me? The only reason I’m not a cooped up introvert like my cousin is that I had husbands before I started putting on this weight. You know this world is the first time she’s let herself off the ship in three years?”

Galestrix nodded slowly. "I see. I'm not sure I understand, but I can see. As for frame of reference, well, I imagine you'll have plenty of things to help you gain it. Between the Vaigarin and the NDC, who aren't Sirrisian by birth, but are growing to be such by nature, or Sirris is adapting to them, one or the other, I'm sure you'll find a way to fit in." She says, smilng. "Besides, with at least one Senti around, maybe grandfather won't have to threaten the NDC with the entire Vaigarin people leaving it again."

“Wait, what?” Sutes looked confused, shocked. ”Uledor threatened to leave the NDC? Why?”

"Because we were mobilizing to attack you. Not talk, not figure out what was going on, straight up attack." She said, shrugging. "He called the District Commander, told him to stand down, or the NDC would find itself short allies all over. Especially here on Sirris. Just for the act of attacking a Senti fleet."

“Well, now, that sounds like your grandfather. And considering I’m not an expanding ball of plasma, I should probably thank the old codger.”

"Yup. And it would have sucked, because I would have been one of the pilots going up there to attack you." Gale admitted, sighing.

“I’m glad the last thing I get to see before the rest of my life begins is you. Either way.”

"Me? Now now, don't go making a drale feel like she's special! You might find yourself in trouble that way!" Gale replied, laughing. "So, should we continue drinking, or do you wanna see more of the city?"

Sutessetu’s brows furrowed, confused. “But you are special. Let’s visit your favorite sights. I’ll explain on the way?”

Gale nodded, standing up, while smoothing out her 'jacket'. "Let's. It's kind of impressive how much they've built up over the years, and just how tall as well. Used to think only nature could find ways to reach the heights some of these buildings get." She admitted, offering, a hand to her friend.

Sutes took the hand gladly, tossing back the last of her drink before she stood, leaving a handful of Sirrisian coins on the table. “I should bring you back to the Flotilla. The inside of Shurista is just as stunning. Though easy to get lost in.”

Galestrix nodded. "It'd be nice. Didn't you once describe as walking through the lifespan of generations once?" She asked, trying to remember the phrase as they walked to the door.

“That’s one ship,” Sutes commented, letting herself be led out. “That scale cover, my suit, my necklace, are made of something called burial steel. I told you this thirty years ago, but the powers you may start developing come from somewhere between Listia and If’Ni. The knowledge and power of our ancestors, carried by the steel that was made from them.”

Gale shrugged, as the door closed behind them. "I can't say I've begun to develop powers, but I'm apparently almost as skilled at the Geist system as the Operators that are kinned for the role are. I'm told that's one of the reasons I get as much lee-way as I do for some of it." She admits, looking up at the city growing around and above them. "Hard to believe that just a couple of decades ago, this whole area was just a waystation for travellers."

“And now she’s a living, breathing spaceport.” She gave a sigh. “I remember when we would dance in the rain, not a hundred yards from here.”

"There's a few parks of the old area around left as is. One of the conditions to build here. Including the Bahum Field." She said, grinning. Technically, any settlement that had a 'large' Bahum family presence, this usually considered a family unit, had a 'Bahum Field' were they would work with young Vaigarin in controlling their abilities. "I remember when you were present for Griziah's first shifting. And how she tore up a bush as she tried to change back."

Sutes laughed about that, letting a rather unladylike snort fly. “I should not laugh, so! I remember healing her wing after she managed to come back. And the thorns under her scales, poor girl.”

"She learned not to hold anything as big as she was after that!" Gale laughed as they walked. "One of the first places the NDC put up after settling in was a canteen. Tellas was not happy about the competition to her bar. Until they explained that they were just setting up a place to eat while they got settled in." She said, smiling. "Now where it stood is the City Hall."

“And I take it Tellas is a lot happier knowing that her nearest competition is a tea place owned by a lovely pair of our Jade friends about six blocks down the main road.” Sutes snorted. “The hall is very nice, though.”

"She is. She's also got the best business in the district since the next bar to compete with her is more a dive for those just wanting to vanish, as opposed to a place to drink and have fun." Gale replied, smirking. "You should see Yilas Day's in her bar. Totally made up, but she uses it as an excuse once a month to see what the most 'wild' outfits are that month."

“Just when I thought she was a Bahum in disguise, maybe a bit of Focun…” Her voice trailed off and her head tilted downwards and away, the blue blooming across her cheek as she tried to figure how to return to the subject. “So that steel I handed you. Think of it as… Well, I took you as family when I gave you the gem… But… Sorry.”

"But what Sutes?" Gale asked, leisurely walking the streets of the city. While it wasn't the capital of the NDC, it had grown into a major hub simply due to it's excellent location for a starport. "I think the last time you were this nervous is when you asked me to apply the crest to your shoulder." Gale pointed out.

“For the same reason.” She rolled her shoulders, taking a deep breath as the crest glinted in the light, revealed by the straps leaving strips of her back open. “What does your people do when requesting a lifelong partner?”

Gale blinks and pauses. "It, honestly depends on the Family. Ask an Abree, and it's as simple as asking it. A Yilas has to flaunt a great amount of wealth and prestige... Bahum's are... We're probably the oddest. At least, with mate-bonds. Because of how our population ends up, the drale's of a family tend to stick to the one drane till he dissolves the bond or passes on. Why do you ask?"

“Because I don’t have long left, in your people’s time scale. Maybe two hundred, two hundred and sixty years at most. And I don’t know if it would be fair to ask you if you’d even be willing to enter such a bond knowing you’ll outlive me by three or four times…” She felt her heart sink, and if Gale had the burial steel abilities, she would see a dark bloom across Sutes’s chest for a moment. “That took a morbid turn… Sorry, it was a stupid idea for me to try to ask that.”

Gale stood there thinking on it silently for several moments. "I, thought Senti rivaled us in how long they could live. I mean, I'm only 87. I wouldn't be surprised if I make it to a thousand thanks to the things the NDC have brought to us." Galestrix said, smiling. "So the idea of you being, well, so short lived to me, is, stranger than you settling down."

“We Senti starve to death between three hundred and three hundred thirty. We grow so large we cannot maintain our bodies. I’m already seventy five. I’m still a precentennial, and I don’t want to become some stuffy old lady that never leaves that medical bay. My people may be nomadic. But I want a home.” Sutessetu kept walking, letting her towering height show as she reached up to brush the top of one the light posts nearly three meters above the ground. “Death died on the homeworld. And not all of us wish to join If’Ni.”

Galestrix nodded slowly, following behind Sutessetu now. "I see. Well, ask any Bahum, and we'll tell you when we pass, whenever that might be, we ascend to the stars to become another in their number. It's an old family thing, but even with us entering space ourselves, we hold onto it." She says. "I cannot say anything honestly, that could help. Before the NDC, so few of us made it even our first millenia, well, it's why the Elder's are viewed so highly. That grandfather managed to make it three millenia, is a feat in and of itself. Often we were slain by nature itself because of some stupid mistake we made, or it was the act of another upon us. We don't know what our natural end point of aging is. To date, no Vaigarin has ever been recorded of dying of old age."

Sutes gave a sigh, not turning back. “I know. Which is why I worry how unfair it is to ask to spend the rest of mine here. And ask you to be part of it.”

Galestrix walked over to Sutes, and hugged her friend. "I'd be glad to be a part of it Sutes. I just don't know if I would be willing to stick to one place now that I have so much more open to see. But I know if you were to do something here, on Sirris, you would be beyond impressive." Gale said, trying to cheer her up.

“I’d like my own medical practice. Maybe down in Obsidian City. Or here. Down by the river. I’d like to be the one who’ll still be here when you get back. Or you can take me with you?”

"Sutes, you sure you want to mate-bond with me? I'm not saying you can't, or you shouldn't. I just want to be clear that, that is really what you want." Gale asked, having to reach up to grab ahold of her friend's cheeks and pull her down to look at her in the eye, fully.

“Why wouldn’t I? You were the one to walk forward and cart me off into the woods when we were children. And if I don’t ask now, when will I get the chance again?” Sutessetu lowered herself to her knee, offering a smile. “Yes. It’s what I really want. And I’m thirty years late asking.”

Galestrix laughed, and hugged her friend. "I just wanted to be sure. You do understand, I won't, I instinctually can't be exclusive to you, yes?" She asked. "Also, if you're gonna mate-bond with me, you're gonna get something that shows it. No little tattoo for you dear."

Blue-green eyes welled with tears as she squeezed tight in return, “I know. My husbands have other wives, themselves… And what were you thinking to show the bond?”

Gale nodded. "Just making that clear. As for the bond... How well do Senti take to, well, we can't give you a wing clasp like Bahum traditionally do, but I think something for your neck would do nicely, unless your against it? Otherwise, we'll have to work something out."

“I think a neck thing would be just fine.” Sutes nodded, pulling Gale in for another firm hug, this time laughing as she picked the dragonet up and swung her around.

"I would say a collar, but some might get the wrong impression." Gale said, laughing as she was spun around. She was only 2.1 meters tall, which made her shorter than her friend... no her mate by a long shot. "That being said, mate, I think you should see about opening that medical center, instead of trying to chase after me to wherever the NDC send me. Having a place I can come back to that isn't my family's home, much less my grandfathers estate, would be much appreciated."

“And if you should need patched up, Goddess forbid, at least it will be known where to bring you!”

"I'm glad to see you eager for this." Galestrix replied, grinning and laughing.

"Well…" The Senti woman seemed to shrink slightly, awkwardly turning various shades of bright blue. "And I think the necklace should be nice and tight and impossible to remove?"

Gale tilted her head. "What, like a choker? Or, do you really want a collar?" She asked, wanting to be sure she understood what it was that Sutes was wanting. Though it was hinted with the vivid shade of purple blue at the word "collar", that Sutes knew exactly what she wanted.

Seeing that, Gale smirked. "Should I get a leash for it as well?" She asked, leaning close to Sutes' ear as she did, lowering her voice to be quiet. "Maybe even share you with Heinrich Oaken?"

A small click of Sutes's teeth and she gave a soft kiss. "You can try to keep me on the leash. I'll meet Heinrich. And you can… convince me."

"Really now? I mean, while Heinrich Pine isn't my drale, he is one whom I've gotten with. Especially since he was the one that talked me into joining the NDC as a pilot and officer." the Vaigarin replied, smiling. "And he's quite open to things. He hasn't given me trouble for still working as a whore in a high-class brothel."

"Why does that not surprise me?" Sutessetu gave a half look, using a small magnetic anomaly to pull the shard of burial steel from Gale's pocket and slip it up her shirt. "You've always loved to have your fun."

"I have! And you remember that I also were doing other things. Then things happened and I found I could learn a lot in the NDC capital while enjoying myself." She stated, gasping slightly as the metal slipped up her shirt. "Hey now! I was gonna put it on! Just not in public!" She said, reaching over and giving the Senti a boop on her nose.

The metal gave a small click as it locked over the scale Sutes had placed a gem in so long ago. Carefully, she placed a hand to Gale's chest as she leaned back. Her free hand cupped the point of Gale's jaw as her thumb ran along the cheekbone. "I wanted to see how it looked."

Galestrix chuckled and enjoyed the feeling of Sutes holding her and rubbing her jaw. "Well, if you waited a little longer, we'd have been in my little part of the city." She stated. "Besides, I figured you'd want to see more of the city first?"

"Yes! Let's go explore." Sutes leaned forward suddenly, kissing Gale on the nose before she turned and bounced into the street, giggling. "Maybe I can tempt you into chasing me!"

Galestrix laughed, and followed after Sutes, and started showing her the sights of the city. The newly raised landmarks, the old road markers and signs kept for historical purposes. The river the city was braced against with signs of expansion on the other coast, though not as much. Of course, soon they reached a area where the lighting was kept more dim, and had more warm colors like reds involved. OF course, the signs probably helped one realize this was in fact, the red light district.

"And here's where the majority of the mingling between tumnisians, Vaigarin, and NDC happens. Because of course, the idea of the press of bodies is something we all agree upon." She says, smirking.

"Well, you're warm, so there is that. This city is so beautiful! I know gravity is weird and I'm gonna have so much to relearn. You moonlight as a tour guide?" She tossed a teasing smirk as a hand brushed a sensory portion of Gale's wing.

"Only for friends and family. My uncle won't leave Orgar City for anything, being the Vaigarin Minister for the city. And my great aunt would rather rub shoulders with a Yilas than visit this icon of the NDC's settling on our world." She said, shaking her head. "Grandfather splits his time between the Bahum Estate in Orgar, and the NDC's Obsidian City, which is their capital. But he still asks me about the rest since I visit them more." She asked, smiling.

"And thank you for saying I'm warm. But I'm sure you had another word in mind." She teased, letting the calls from the various workers ring out around them selling all kinds of things of sexual nature. "I figured I'd show you were I work when I'm not behind the stick of a aerospace craft." She said, as they approached a large building, though more in that it was almost half a block on it's own, and barely 5 stories tall when others around it pushed towards 10 or more.

-----
Medusa Expanse - 011030:6 (Sirris II, Sanctuary System)
Heaven's Doorbell Gentleman's Club - Skyaldor City (Red Light District)

"Ooh, this one's… Wait, I remember this building!" Sutes rushed up to the front, her hand brushing the older brickwork. "You've changed a lot… hey, Gale, you see this?"

Gale chuckles and waves at the doorman. The Oni man waved one and of the four he bore at her. "I see it quite often actually. I work here now." She says, smiling. "Madam Celeste bought it shortly after the city began to be built up into a proper settlement. Now it's one of the classiest, ahem, 'gentleman's clubs' in the city." She said, grinning.

"Gentlemen's clubs? Where the ladies shoo away the rude, the men have no power despite their coin, and a Matriarch takes care of her girls? We have those on Shurista, though with slightly different words." She smirked back, though that wasn't quite the answer she was looking for as she surveyed the swirling colors of Gale's form. "How's gramma?"

Galestrix shrugged. "Pack Roaches got her about 5 years after the Senti left last time. Had gone to see about helping a new settlement start up and got jumped. Only a few of the Tumnisians escaped." She said. While the loss of a Vaigarin was a sad thing, there weren't very many of them compared to the Tumnisians, or even the NDC or Senti, but the race also lived for a long time. They grew used to loss rather quickly. "It hit grandfather hard, but he shook himself out of it with working alongside the NDC. Gave him something to focus on." She finished, smiling slightly. "He's been more lively than ever with everything going on."

"Sorry to hear." Sutes's face pursed as she rubbed at a scar on the back of her thigh. "Glad everybody else is doing okay. And she must have fought bravely, if there were survivors. We headed inside?"

Gale nodded. "We are indeed. Sure, I've a home in the city, but I tend to sleep here since it's just easier. Also quieter." She replied, stepping forward. "Evening Brian. Just bringing in a old friend." She said, getting a nod from the Oni, as she opened the door for Sutes.

The reception area which was tastefully done in such a way as to not hide the nature of the building's business, but also make it clear that what it did was not in the front of the building either. Near the back of it, was the front desk, behind which sat a somewhat bored looking woman, wearing a quite respectable gown considering the fact this was a gentleman's club. Looking up she smiled as Galestrix stepped in.

"Evening Miss Gale. Working tonight?" She asked, getting a shake of the head from Gale.

"Not tonight. Bringing a friend to join me for an evening." She said, waving to Sutes.

Sutes, herself, gave a small wave as she approached shyly. "Good evening! I love what you've done with this place!"

The human woman nodded. "Well, your quarters are open, so I'll let you both through. The Madame is still cackling about the government giving a stipend to us."

Gale nodded. "Thank you." She said, before walking to the elevator. Once the door closed, she turned to Sutes. "Nervous again?" She asked, smiling.

"Always. Not every day I get to curl up to your more comfortable form. And maybe tonight I get collared." She shrugged. "Besides. Many of these species I don't know. And the only person I know is you. You know I'm a little nervous, meeting people."

"Well, if you're gonna set up a medical practice, I think you'll learn rather quickly how to hide it." Galestrix replied, nodding. She didn't say Sutes wouldn't remain nervous. Just, learn how to hide it. Important distinction. As the elevator reached the fourth floor, the highest in the building, Gale led her friend to room 402, opening the door after waving a hand by a scanner. There had been a faint, if harsh, click of the door's lock undoing.

Stepping into the room, it almost looked palatial, with a large four poster bed, a side table on the far wall, a pair of Vaigarin arm chairs, and on one wall a window overlooking the city. "Welcome to my work room." Galestrix said, smiling as she spun around and waved her arms to present it. "Sadly, still too small for me to shift in, but most don't come for a big dragoness after all." She stated, with an amused grin.

"Then they have so little taste!" Sutessetu snorted, flopping onto the bed with a sigh. "I thought most of this world's cities were underground."

"The NDC chose to build above ground. It's weird, but it seems to work for them. Plus, they've built free-standing structures that are taller than 5 stories with the machines and tools they use." She replied, shrugging.

“Weird.” Sutes lay on the bed, rolling her eyes. “Gravity makes building hard. I was never a builder, though Saliten is. He always raved about how the subterranean cities worked better than above ground. But lo, how many peoples build up. I don’t know; I’m a doctor, not an architect.”

Galestrix shrugged. "I dunno. I'm just a pilot who likes to lay on her back with someone between my legs." She replied, grinning. Walking over to the bed, she settled on the edge. "Besides, I'm sure you're gonna get a lot of experience doctoring a lot of folks. Gonna be a large variety to learn now." She teased. "Makes me jealous that you get to get your hands on so many more people than me."

“Oh, please.” She rolled over, laying her head in Gale’s lap. “I’m only seventy three, I’m still so early in my career. If my grandmother is any indication, I’ll either stay a doctor for the next two and a half centuries or I’ll become a smith in my hundred and fifties. I have so much to learn, and practice. I didn’t know your kin were the jealous type.”

Galestrix chuckled, hands rubbing through Sute's hair. "To be fair, from what I've gathered, most of the races of the NDC live about as long as a Tumnisians does. So if you were one of them, you'd be nearing your final years. Stars, I would be as well." She pointed out. "So you being 'only' seventy three is going to make you vastly more skilled than some of the same aged contemporaries you'll be working alongside and against."

"And yes, we can be jealous. It's not a common thing. Grandfather still doesn't talk about the coppers after all."

“That…” Brows furrowed as she considered the concept. “My frame of reference must be faulty. Are you saying my people live three or four times as long as most other species here?”

"Indeed. We're the oddity, Senti and Vaigarin. Not all of the NDC races are so short-lived, but the majority are." Gale said.

"Oh. Well, that… That puts things in an odd perspective, doesn't it?"

Galestrix smiled. "It does. So, knowing that, what do you think of what you're getting into."

"I'm… I will love our husbands as long as they live."

Gale chuckled. "Well, we'll see. Heinrich has been talking about plans to... Avoid that particular problem." She said, grining. "He hasn't told me much off hand, but he has certainly been asking a lot of questions about Vaigarin biology, making me wonder if he isn't preparing to do one of those body transfers that the NDC has been using." She mused. "But that's just conjecture on my part."

"That's possible?" Sutes looked confused. "Is the body transferred into not… Does it not have its own mind and soul before he transfers? What happens to the old body?"

"I don't know. I've never looked into it beyond that they can do it." Gale replied, with a nonchalant shrug.

"That makes shocking implications upon the First Law, does it not?"

Gale tilted her head as she tried to dredge up the memories of the Senti Laws. "That's, the one about the sanctity of mind, body and soul, right? How they shouldn't be fiddled with?" She asked, hoping she was remembering the right one. For some reason she couldn't help but think she just referred to the third?

"Yes, the holy sanctity of mind, body, and soul, and the implication that all sapient beings are people with this basic right. Thusly, any who would violate those sanctities are not people, and must be destroyed as the dangerous predators they are." She nodded, reciting the law from her own family's Civil Service background. "It's a basic tenet of Senti culture."

"I don't think it's quite like that. From what I know, the body's created are empty vessels until the transfer is made. But again, I don't know." Gale replied, shrugging once more, as the door chimed, indicating someone wanting to come in.

"I don't remember setting myself to being available tonight..." She murmured aloud, walking to the door.

At the door, stood Heinrich as she would open the door, a royal suit worn with all the additives of being the crown prince. He had a bouquet of local flowers in his hand, and the usual happy grin on his face whenever he was with gale present. “So uh hey, I just got done at the conference, and while I was still dressed nice. Figured I’d stop by and see if you wanted to go on a date with m-..”

He was stopped as he recognized that there was someone else inside, recognizing her as being one of the new species to visit. “Oh I’m sorry, I hope I didn’t come at a bad time, you must be catching up with a friend?”

"Oh! My apologies!" Sutes spoke in perfect Viagarin, standing and offering a deep bow. My bond mate and I have not been together for over five decades."

Gale chuckled and smiled. "Ah Heinrich. Lovely timing. This is Satelehuc bynaekūhyc Sutessetu Ésoren Ešurista, an old, old friend." She said, "Sutes, this is Heinrich Oaklen. The one likely to be my Drale soon enough. Depending on if he ever decides to ask. But I imagine his work at the Obsidian Royal University has been keeping him busy. But I also respect he has other things he wants to do first as well." She said, smiling. "Come on in Heinrich. If you're gonna be with me, might as well meet a fairly skilled doctor." She continued. "Admittedly, she'll probably be starting up her own medical practice here in Skyaldor. Which would be nice, since Sutes has some experience with Vaigarin anatomy."

"Yes, I studied for a decade with the Rweja doctors of Senas during my early residency as a Senti medical officer. I apologize if I am using the wrong language, I am no linguist. But I have been of the medical arts since the Trials of Adulthood where I passed at sixteen." Another deep bow from Sutes. "I heard you speak with my cousin. I apologize for her… Abrasive attitude."

“Oh, I would love to, it seems like I’m meeting all sorts of interesting people today.”, he replied as he stepped in on Gale’s invitation to join. “It is a pleasure to meet you, she gave my name, but I would like to fully introduce myself just to eliminate formalities from the start. I am Crown Prince Heinrich Richter Oaklen, son to Archduke Mark Oaklen of the royal family. I extend greetings from not only our people, but those of the royal family, as well as our small nation.”

Heinrich gave not only a human bow in greeting, but also a Vaigarin human bow in greeting as well. His smile never wavered, even after the small false scare of calling her guest her bond mate, before having said he would be too soon. “As to you mentioning before, I certainly plan to my dear, I am just preparing an appropriate gift slash surprise for the day. In my culture, you offer a lifelong mate, a fine ring to be worn as a sign of your marital status. I am trying to figure out an appropriate equivalent between a human and Vaigarin for such a day.”

Gale chuckled. "Well, you lack a wing Heinrich, so we'd have to find an appropriate place to place a clasp of some kind." She says, chuckling. "And I didn't give your full title because I know that you sometimes get irked by it." She pointed out, but settled him onto the bed. "But yes, Sutes here wished to become my Bond-Mate today while we were walking from Tellas' bar to here. I accepted. But I also warned her that I would still seek a Bond-Mate with a man as well. And she was fine with it I believe?" She said, pausing and looking at Sutes as she said the last bit so she could clarify if needed.

"Senti are a polyamorous people by instinct. Our families grow with our vessels, as our homes are as much family as our husbands, wives, and children our crew," she clarified. "I will love your family as my own."

“Polyamory isn’t quite as widespread here as the norm, but it is very normal among my family. Although I may be adopted, dad always says I am still somehow the apple that didn’t fall far from the tree.”, Heinrich answered with a chuckle, still holding the flowers in hand. “I guess that means these are for you now too then dear Sutes, if you don’t mind me calling you such.”

He smiled warmly at the other woman, offering the bouquet between them, hoping they liked such things. It wasn’t the first time he’d offered Gale flowers at least, but it definitely was a first for Sutes given this was their first meeting. “Can you tell me about yourself? I’m eager to know more about you.”, the prince asked Sutes.

“Oh!” Sutessetu blushed, her silver skinned face turning a bright blue. “I do not know where to begin! Aah, Galestrix and I have been clutch-bonded since we were small children, when my aunt brought us here. I fell in love with this world, though I am still unused to the feeling of gravity…”

“That’s fair, we only had weak and artificial gravity for a period of time to live on at one point. Having a world with full gravity, and such a lively world at that, is a paradise to us.”, the prince commented as took great interest in what she shared. He found the blush very endearing, as it was different then Gale’s usual stoic and calm demeanor. “You’re people have a very interesting culture from what I was able to only glimpse from the conference.”

“Again, I apologize for my cousin’s attitude issues. We may be deep space nomads operating a galactic scale trade network, but we are not all the self important pomp and circumstance so popular among xenopoliticians.” Sutes rolled her eyes. “I am a simple doctor, of only sixty years experience.”

He chuckled a bit at the apology, “No it’s fine, I’m used to it among other politicians. One of the things I make a habit of avoiding that sort of behavior myself. Also that’s a wonderful sort of career, as it is a good way to help others. I myself am not a doctor, but as Gale mentioned, work as a professor in our education system.”

“An educator? A very prized and precious career! I will likely retire in a couple of centuries, when I have truly mastered my craft.” She smiled broadly, looking him over, for a moment. “Though you barely look my age.”

“That is fair, I am not sure of your age, and it felt rude to ask a lady her age. I am 25, rather young even though I am an adult, but I will likely live to 300 like your species sort of does from what I’ve gathered.”

“Seventy six,” Sutes grinned, not missing a beat. “I will likely outgrow you quickly, then!”

Heinrich looked rather confused at that, not sure what she meant, “I won’t be growing anymore as an adult. We stop growing at roughly 25.”

Gale chuckles from the seat she'd taken to one side of them, relaxing.. "She's going to keep growing in physical size until she dies, Heinrich. Much as a Vaigarin can in our draconic forms." She said, smiling. "So when she means outgrow you, it's very much in a literal physical sense."

"Yes, you met my grandmother, Atteni, and my uncle Saliten. Atteni is three hundred and fourteen years old. I believe she stands at a hair over 4.7 meters. Salitan is almost a half meter shorter, but he is only 270. Atteni is average height for her age."

Heinrich gave a little smirk, having a secret up his sleeve, “So he’s been alive a decade longer then me. I know I wouldn’t ever reach that sort of size, since humans don’t grow more. I plan to make sure to have a long life, and cash in the many years I was gifted with. I look forward to spending most of them with the both of you for sure.” He was purposely being cheeky in letting himself flirt a little with the girls, but also hinted at his chronological age.

Gale quirked an eyebrow at his comment. "I see. Well, you certainly have a few secrets you like keeping from me." She remarked, but let the pair get back to getting to know one another.

Heinrich looked a little indignant at the light poke for not telling her, but it also was not something he normally brought up either. “Well it’s not like I thought it would be anything major, and was kinda inconsequential at the time. I was also 15, and two months out of cryo. What was I supposed to tell my first crush, “Hi I'm an over 200 year old popsicle, just ignore the best by date, I’m sure I’m still fresh”? I was trying to impress you, and I want to be honest about who I was, not how said me was preserved like a ready to heat freezer meal.”

He cleared his throat, “I’m a survivor of war, it wasn’t exactly anything cheery I wanted to bring up at the time. But I will fill you in fully as much as you want now.”

Sutes gave a snort of laughter, before it slipped free in her people's musical language, distorted and unintelligible in her mirth.

Gale couldn't help but laugh. "Fair enough. I won't fault you for that. But what is a crush?" She asked, not familiar with the term. "I mean, I know I've seen plenty of people fall head over heels in lust with me, but I'm not familiar with 'crush'. Well outside of the result of a heavy object landing on a much smaller one."

“Well it’s sort of similar, but not really, or entirely based on lust. It’s more romantic, love at first sight kind of thing, granted I wasn’t looking for a fling or something that was just a short burn. So I took those three years after, to really get to know you, and make sure those feelings were completely true on my part.” Heinrich said before giving a small smile, “I would say it became love at first cuddle some time after though.”

Gale smirked. "Glad to hear. So, Sutes, what do you think? Would he do well?" She said, grinning. "I mean, who'd have expected me to fall for a Professor of all things!"

"Truly, a fine specimen. Strong, healthy. Wise. And still young enough to take risks," she mused, standing to approach Heinrich and examine him closer, her voice taking on a sultry edge to betray her sarcasm in the clinical analysis of Heinrich's clothes and body. "Amazing, how similar the human body is to that of my kin… Perhaps the compatibility runs deeper than culture. I will have to experiment, but I enjoy the prospect so far."

“I am a man of science, experimentation is something I like to do.”, he said, returning the slight smirk, having hung around Gale long enough to see those signs for what they were. “We should make an extended trial run session some time, just to get the best readings for our hypothesis.”

"Oh Stars help me, I'm surrounded by those who see experiments in just basic acts!" Gale bemoaned, smiling as she said it, despite the feigned despair in her voice.

"Extended, you say? Are you sure you can handle one of my experience? Let alone my mate working with me?" She gave a small chuckle.

His smile only got wider, confidence with experience on his side, thanks to Gale. “Oh I think Gale has trained me well, as after all, she had to make sure I was a competent mate as well. Feel free to test me so I can prove it anytime.”

Gale rolled her eyes. "Well, at least the plans aren't about testing me!" She remarked, glad for the diversion. "So, it seems we're in agreeance to this relationship. So, Heinrich, how does it feel to have found yourself with a oft derided 'Bahum Harem', even if it isn't a traditional one?"

"Oh, this will be fun!" Sutes reached for Heinrich's face with one hand, cupping his jaw before using her thumb to stroke his cheekbone. Her hand snaked back before she bounced away. "Just for your warning, I have been a doctor for fifty or more of your years."

“Keeping injuries patched, and keeping us company at night, quite a catch of a woman.”, Heinrich said in reply to Sute first, tempted to chase that metal rear. “As for being part of a Bahum harem, well I don’t think my father will be disappointed about grandkids in the future.”, he added with a smirk towards gale and a wink. “Suppose I should get my task finished as soon as possible so I can join in the wedding bells.”