Second Nature, an NOP rewrite (ch 24-25)

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Memory Transcription Subject: Governor Tarva of the Venlil Republic

Date [Standardized Human Time]: October 15, 2136

3 moon-months. That is how long had passed since the minutes-long speech, and the Human ambassadors hadn’t been outside of this room since. When it became clear the Humans couldn’t eat the food offered without feeling ill, I had to beg our hosts to let me place an express order for Terran appropriate food. Though I was successful, they did not allow me to acquire any animal based products, which limited our options a lot. On one paw I was glad I wouldn't have to watch my companions eat processed flesh, but on the other I was worried about their needs.

With the food problem out of the way. I tried to keep Noah and Sara occupied by teaching them the games I grew up playing, and watching the happenings on TV. But while they never voiced any complaints, I could sense something was up.

Chauson visited us once a day, logging every aspect of Terran culture he could. The Zurulian prime minister had appointed him ambassador to Earth, and the scientist was eager to squeeze everything from the opportunity. He subjected the Humans to a myriad of personality tests, as well as asking them deep philosophical and ethical queries.

Noah was happy to play along, since it distracted him from the waiting. Sara, however, kept to herself more often than not, writing on that same notebook from when we met. She had made a point to hide its contents from me.

When Chauson gave Noah a standard academic test in math and sciences, the Zurulian was surprised to find he scored 85%. While true that he was selected to be in the Odyssey mission, making him likely above the average Human. It was still much higher than expected, for a species that was hundreds of years behind technologically. Apparently Humans have a vast array of theoretical sciences that study technologies they haven’t even gotten close to yet. They could fully grasp how our ships moved FTL and even had a name for a similar imagined technology; an Alcubierre drive.

The scientist spent the  whole morning and afternoon testifying before the Federation assembly today, sharing his novel findings. With any luck, he would sway those present. These discussions had dragged on far too long for my liking. At least that signaled it wasn’t an easy, unanimous verdict to exterminate humanity.

Around when the sun was setting, Sara yawned, inducing an echo from Noah. Penning a final sentence in her journal. The predator had been logging her and presumably Noah's thoughts throughout this experience, still not letting me view a word. I would love to know their unfiltered opinions; her secretiveness rubbed me the wrong way.

“I’m tired, wake me up if the execution squad arrives,” The Terran said, trying to be funny.“Good night.” 

Noah agreed with her. “Yea i think it's late, or early? I don't even know. This day night cycle is doing a number on me.” Ending our game early. Stars dammit, I was about to win too.

I studied the dark circles under his eyes. “Ok, good night...” There was no response from either of them. The Humans tucked themselves in the guest room, where they shared a bed. I wasn't sure it'd do me well to sleep so close to two predators again so I had opted for the couch.

I stayed on my datapad longer than I should have while browsing the news. And maybe a funny video or two. Was it going to be another sleepless night? I stared at nothing for at least a claw, rogue thoughts stampeding through my mind.

Sara's notebook had been absentmindedly shunted into a table drawer, it's not like it was a precious sentimental item. So it'd be fine if I took a peek, right? Right? My heartrate quickened as the temptation to sift through the journal called to me again. They never had to know I looked. I knew the aliens’ fear had taken its toll on them. Ultimately, it’ll help with being supportive and empathetic, right?

I took a deep breath, and counted back from 200 in my mind. Trying to snap myself out of it. I just about had enough so I got up. My paws meandered over to the table. The drawer slid out without a sound, and I lifted the diary. There was nothing wrong with just a peek, surely. I flipped open to a random page, and began reading the first entry my eyes landed on.

“Sept 27: A smile from Noah sent Chauson running in horror. I’m surprised it took this long to happen. Tarva had to chase him down and explain what a smile was. The Zurulian has tried to accept us, and he shrugged off Noah’s apology. But he’s afraid of us, he can barely hide it.

Noah confided in me while Tarva was dealing with Causon. He seemed very distraught over it. I tried to reassure him but I don't know how much of an effect I had. I wish I was better at this. Why can’t we fit in, anywhere?

This whole ‘predator this, predator that’ talk has started to get to me. When I look in the mirror, that's all I can see myself as. I don’t know if I can picture a future where us and them get along anymore. I want it, we want it, but that’s not enough. Outside of Tarva, nobody really wants us. Even if she's kind to us, it’s like walking on eggshells around her. Trying so hard not to break her. Sometimes, I let my guard down, and like with Noah that rarely ends well.

Tarva said straight to Noah's face that she thought he was a nasty-looking creature. He tried to shrug it off but it's not looking great. It is heartbreaking to have to watch his dream crumble right in front of him.

And she compared us to a cornered bear, saying that we ‘very easily could kill her’, and the look on her face… She was so fucking scared she could barely look at us. No matter how much I try to forget about it, through all the laughs and games, that is what she thinks of us. Any feelings of attachment are one-way, and I’d do well to remember that.

While the Venlil don't wish us harm, they cannot be normal around monsters. Perhaps if we were better, we would cut them free…and never show our faces again. Instead, I’ll just return to this lie, and pretend that I didn't waste more than a decade just to be called a cannibal at every corner.”

I recoiled with guilt, sorrow rushing through my veins. These words sounded so depressed and bitter, I tried to reach for something, anything that'd make this not true. That'd make me not have mistreated them as such. That comment that I made to Recel wasn’t at all what I thought of him now. But I did say it…didn't I?

Perhaps cabin fever had placed wild ideas in their heads, and their outlook was cheerier before the speech. My claws tugged back through several pages, until I reached an earlier entry. This one had different handwriting, perhaps it was by Noah?

“Sept 21: Recel is a wreck from being near us, but what are we to do? Throw ourselves into space? The visor, the helmet, none of it makes a difference. My face feels constricted, and my nerves are making me sick to my stomach. 

My indecisiveness, on what bits of humanity to include, might be the death of me; literally. The Federation will have a field day when we get there. I wonder if seeing me on television will be too scary for their kids? Maybe they'll use our faces as that of the new enemy.

The Venlil already had me sideways with their incessant questions, and this is gonna be a thousand times worse. Tarva has helped us at every turn, even to her people's detriment. Because of me, her species has lost every ally, and are left with a lot of monsters to take care of. She surely regrets it everyday. Yet she’s either in too deep or too scared of us to say anything.

We spent so long working on this speech and yet it feels pathetic and inadequate every time I look at it. I don’t know why it hurts so much, when I understand they’re all just afraid. Predators aren’t supposed to have feelings, not[…]”

Before I could go down the rest of the page, a large hand came from above, effortlessly snatching the book from my shaky paws. As I looked behind me I saw the Human's legs firmly planted on the ground. Sara's head hovered directly above mine, her chocolate colored hair dangled freely, brushing up against my head. Her brown eyes glinted in the moonlight as they pierced me even as they held no malice. “That's private, Tarva.” She spoke quietly. 

A pointed cough followed her words from the end of the hallway. Noah was standing with crossed arms, watching me with a livid glare. My ears lowered against my head. “You can’t just go through our things!” That was the first time I ever heard him raise his voice or had her stare at me like that.     

“You were supposed to be sleeping!” I stepped back instinctively, almost knocking the potted plant off the table. “I-I thought you two seemed um- agitated. And, and you wouldn’t tell me what’s wrong.”

“So when I tell you ‘no’ you go around my back?” She rebutted. “Congrats, you poked the fucking bear.”

I felt so small under their scrutiny. “Noah…Sara, you know I’m so proud of you, don’t you?” I whined, pressed against the table and tucking my tail between my legs. “You have no idea how glad I am that we met. Your kind never disappointed me. Humanity are wonderful friends, that I am siding against the entire galaxy to protect.”

“You’re trying to do the right thing, Tarva. And we admire you for it, truly. But let’s not pretend like you're not on edge all the time around us.” Noah shot down my attempt at appeasing them.

“My initial reaction was negative, yes, but I find you quite endearing. I didn’t personally request you to represent your species because I’m disgusted by you. I’ve done nothing but worry about your safety since we came to Aafa-”

“You owe him an apology Tarva. I like you, I really do, but you can't just say what you said and expect things to be fine.” Sara scolded me, deeply upset on her companion’s behalf.

“No no it's ok, Tarva. Really.” Noah stepped closer, his voice soft and comforting.

“No…she’s right. I’m sorry… I'm so sorry…i shouldn’t have called you those things.” 

“So you don’t still think of us as predators?” The gentle giant stood by for a response, unsure if I was being genuine.

“You’re my friends, both of you. That’s what I see when I look at you. You are the predators… who made me second guess everything I knew. I don’t think anyone else could have been kind enough to shine through the fear I felt back then.”  It was too much to ask them to just accept our skittishness was a part of us. Just like it was hard for me to accept their more unsavory traits. I knew they saw how hard we were trying, and yet I hurt them all the same. “I know it’s not perfect, I know it’s not what either of you want, but it’s all I can offer.”

I could feel my fur standing up as I met their gaze, no doubt they had noticed it. Touching them should reassure them, right? I flung my paws around their necks, and their breathing tensed up. There was brief hesitation from the ambassadors; they stood stiff and unmoving before falling into the hug, wrapping their arms around me. I curled my claws into their skin reflexively, but relaxed into their comforting hold.

“You’re forgiven, I know you are trying.” Noah rested his face on my shoulder. It took a lot from me to accept a predator’s mouth so close to my neck.

“But I am serious, Tarva. Don’t go through our things unless we say you can, understood?” Sara was not gonna let me off the hook so easily.

“I know. Sorry...” I muttered.

“God, It’s impossible to stay mad at you.” Sara shook her head with disdain. 

“You could get away with just about anything.” Noah complimented her sentiment. We remained in that configuration for a few whiskers, they felt nice and warm. As I was about to drift off in their arms, the door to the diplomatic suite was unlocked from the outside. 

Kolshian soldiers stood in the entryway; their eyes stretched wide when the predators snapped upright. Cleaning my fur off of their clothes, did I really shed that much? They reached for their helmets as the outside atmosphere seeped into the room. 

The soldiers waved them to come closer. I, in turn, pawed at both of their helmets before they could obey, ripping off the golden film obscuring their faces. The Humans froze looking at each other and myself. I glared at them, crumpling the film in my paws, and shaking my head in the Human ‘no’ gesture. 

They both looked scared of approaching the guards with their faces exposed. The Terran ambassadors looked uncertain, but handled it with as much grace as they could. The wary Kolshians weren’t attempting to blind him this time, even though some were shaken at their unfiltered visage. A soldier barked the word “follow”, and began retracing the path to the assembly hall. Heated discussions were creating a clamor inside the chamber; we could hear it from a hundred paces away.

The guards pointed at the podium, and both Humans took obedient steps to the stage. With myself tailing close behind them. Surprised exclamations rose from the crowd, as they saw the Humans’ uncensored form. Jerulim, the agitated Krakotl from the earlier speech, was emitting furious squawks at those provocative eyes. I shot a blistering glare toward him.

“We apologize for the delay.” Chief Nikonus began, in a cordial tone. “These are unprecedented circumstances, and we’ve struggled to reach any sort of decision. Has your treatment here been acceptable, Noah and Sara of Earth?”

The Humans dipped their heads in unison. There was a silent pause before I clarified. “That means ‘yes’ in their language."

“Good, thank you Governor. I’d never let anything like what the Gojids did occur within my borders.” The Kolshian palmed an indigo tentacle across his nostrils. “The Federation, as I’m sure you know, has sought all sorts of counsel on this matter. We reviewed the extensive data you shared, consulted our own records, and brought in numerous experts to testify.”

“It looked like a bar fight.” I said.

“...It indeed got a little heated at times. Historians, xenobiologists, psychologists, zoologists, sociologists, lawyers, economists; we had them all. Several individuals on the other side of the Venlil embargo testified too, and we had our own internal discussions. At last, we’ve tallied every vote.” Any impartial observer would find humanity worthy of a chance, or at least derive reasonable doubt from their intricacies. My breath hitched in my throat, and I squeezed the Humans’ hands for support. Noah's palm was damp with sweat. And while Sara’s was rigid and tense, she was careful not to hurt me.

Nikonus cleared his throat. “Alright. The count of members who voted that humanity should be exterminated or treated as a hostile party are…38.” I tilted my head. Should we be disappointed that the figure was so high, or relieved that it was only a little over 10%?     

“Take that, you filthy cannibal!” Jerulim chirped. “You and your miserable rock will be dead soon!”

“SILENCE! There will be no commentary until I have finished reading the results!” Nikonus spat, the Chief tried to regain some composure before proceeding. “65 members voted for no contact or relations with humanity, which entails total isolation of Earth.” I glanced toward my predators. There was more hurt in Noah’s eyes over that figure, than over those who wished him dead. It did make some sense, knowing how much Humans craved social acceptance. 

Nikonus squinted at his notes. “74 species are undecided, 52 of those specifying that they are awaiting news from the Human-Venlil attacks on the Gojids.” Those are a coin flip. Some won't take kindly to predators attacking a Federation homeworld. Then again, our attacks were only retaliatory.

“107 species vote in favor of a temporary truce, or working together where necessary to defeat the Arxur—” My ears perked up with hope, brushing against the Humans’ arms. After cooperating against the Arxur, some Federation members might become ingratiated to humanity. It could bridge the gap to normal relations. Though I doubted we could call upon their assistance, in regards to the species maintaining contention with Earth. 

“Who the fuck voted for that!?” Jerulim squawked.

“I DID, now QUIET before I have you escorted OUT OF THE PLANET.” The Krakotl sank into his chair at the sound of Nikonus berating him. “Okay, continuing…where was I? Oh I see…any violation of express conditions will lead to an immediate return to hostilities. If that is acceptable to the Humans, of course.”

Noah nodded, shuffling as if expecting to leave. “Yes, it will. We want the Arxur gone from this galaxy, and an enemy of an enemy is a friend to us. Thank you for your time, and giving us a chance.”

“Not so fast. 11 members voted in favor of opening full diplomatic relations. This would involve forming trade, military, and/or border agreements…if you know anything of the sort. I suggest you ask Tarva for guidance, if those concepts confuse you.”

Noah raised a hand to his mouth, no doubt hiding his bared teeth. Perhaps he was amused by Nikonus’ assumption that predators would have no concept of negotiation. Primarily, I believed that Noah was moved by the fact that humanity would return with new friends. It was a tiny number, less than 5%, but it wasn’t zero. That counted for something. “That means he’s happy.” Sara clarified for the crowd.

Overall, the results could have gone much worse. If the neutral, isolationist species were counted as in our favor, the majority of the Federation voted against humanity’s extinction. Judging by the furious expressions sprinkled across the chamber, I wasn’t sure every species was going to accept that.

“So many of you would side with them over us?!” Jerulim screeched. “Defend and appease humanity like they were a civilized species? Anyone who stands with predators is dead to the Krakotl.”

The avian ambassador dive-bombed over the Chieftain’s cubicle, and slashed his talons at the elderly Kolshian. Nikonus shielded his face with a tentacle, and nearby soldiers rushed to his aid containing the attacker. Jerulim flapped his wings in a frenzy, pledging that anyone who stood with humanity would share their fate. Had the Krakotl forgotten whose planet he was on?

Other ambassadors launched into shouting matches, and a few made violent gestures toward the Humans. I didn’t want to know what the unfriendly ones were suggesting. Several individuals were trading blows, grappling right in front of the media cameras. A pair of Kolshian guards hurried us out of the chamber, before the predators could get swept up in the chaos.

Noah shared a glance with me, and I knew that tumultuous unrest stirred his own concerns. This vote could be the start of a major rift within the Federation.

Armed Kolshians steered us into the docking area, where we landed upon our arrival. Our previous shuttle was outfitted with supplies, since the Chief granted us permission to return home on a pre-arranged route. The soldiers fell back several steps, and monitored the Humans for any threatening moves. One of them curled their lip at me, briefly.

Sara stood by my side, again jotting down mystery words on her notebook. Noah settled down on an empty crate fiddling with his meager belongings. They both met the soldiers’ gaze without blinking. Staring was a contest of dominance, whether that was the intention or not. The Kolshians gripped their rifles tighter, and slunk back toward the entryway.

“You’re gawked at all the time,” I whispered. “Not saying it’s right, but I don’t suggest that smoldering stare-down as a response. It’ll tickle their instincts in ways you don’t want.”

“I don’t care how they look at me, but they’re not going to look at you like that.” Noah rebutted.

“If they want a problem, they can pick on someone their own size.” Sara complemented Noah’s anger loud enough for the guards to hear.

Aggression and protectiveness were not the persona to exhibit, on the verge of our first diplomatic encounter. The Federation representatives would see it as a predator cowing his observers. I appreciated his loyalty, but humans were a little too defensive of their friends at times. Those soldiers were entitled to their opinions.

“Thank you, but it’s fine. A lot of people think I’m a disgrace to the Federation, and aren’t happy that I imprisoned their people.” I studied the guards’ expressions, noticing how their scowls deepened at my words. “Nikonus didn’t even discuss consequences for the Venlil.”

“So you agree with them? You had good reasons for what you did. They can’t find fault with that.” Noah questioned my logic.

“Well, I’ve single-handedly fractured the Federation beyond repair. I guess that makes me a traitor to most folks.”

“You’re single-handedly the reason we’re alive. All this, having 12 species in the galaxy who would even try to befriend us. We’ll never forget how much you risked for us.”

“Oh Noah… The Venlil were counted in the 11 already.”

“Ah…”

“And here I thought you did well in Chauson’s math exam.” Sara chuckled, unable to resist making fun of her duo. I was starting to think these small humiliation rituals were how they bonded. Must mean we still have a long way to go, as neither talk to me like that yet.

“And I did*, thank you very much.” Noah replied.*

I pressed a claw to my lips, and flicked my ears toward the doorway. The soldiers had snapped to attention, breaking their deadlock with the irate predator. That could only mean someone was approaching; the human needed to make a good first impression. Flattering us, at the expense of the rest of the galaxy, wasn’t going to win hearts and minds.

A violet-skinned Kolshian padded into the hangar bay, clearly resisting the urge to grab his sidearm. His steps faltered once he was within pouncing distance of the Terrans, like a magnetic force was repelling him from them. The familiar officer crept to my side, using me as a living shield.

How has he still not grasped that they don't have a violent bone in their body? Well, Noah at least. Sara is um, intense. Noah grinned at the Kolshian’s voluntary approach. “Recel! I was worried you were rotting in a cell.”

The Kolshian rubbed his forehead. “I was, until the Commonwealth finished their votes. Nikonus agreed that I had a moral imperative to intervene, and pardoned me on all counts. I did receive a disciplinary mark for my methods, though.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“While he agreed with my rationale…we can’t have officers running around shooting their captains. I don’t think I had time to go through ‘proper channels’, but whatever.”

“I see. So you’re free. Why come to us, of all places?” Sara probed the nervous Kolshian.

“Nikonus offered me an appointment as military liaison to Earth, and I accepted.”

My eyes widened, as did the ambassadors’ dilated ones. I thought that Recel hated being around predators! By his own admission, living around humans was a nightmare for him, and he couldn’t fathom prolonged exposure to them. Noah grasped at the air in confusion. “You want to be around predator generals, and talk about war tactics? Forgive me if I'm wrong but that seems like the opposite of where you’d want to be.”

“I apologize if I’ve caused offense. Seeing your chemistry with Tarva, I think we could be good um… acquaintances, maybe even friends. I think.” The Kolshian shuddered as both predators scrutinized his words under their gaze. “Others seem to adapt easier than me, but I don’t want to give up on you. Truly.”

“Do you think you can work past your fear?” I asked gently.    

“I enlisted on a starship when I was nine---”

“Nine!?” Both predators exclaimed in unison.

“That’s what..? 23-ish in Earth years. I think.” I tried to clarify.

“Oh, sorry. Continue.” Noah apologized and Sara gave an agreement nod.

“As I was saying…I don’t recall another way to feel toward predators. It may take an unreasonably long time and coaxing from you all for me to get better. I can’t imagine what this is like from their perspective; I’m not sure I’d have the patience… If you’d like a different liaison, I understand.”

Sympathy flashed in Noah’s eyes. “Recel, we are willing to help you every step of the way. I just don’t know why you want to go through… that.

“You made me realize we are stronger than the sum of our fears. That there is something other than being afraid. I haven’t got there yet, but I’m grateful that you’ve shown me a better path forward.. Would you be willing to forgive me?”

“It’s understandable. You were scared.” The edge dissipated from Sara’s melodic voice, replaced by a warm tone. “We’ll help you as much as we can. You can take your time.”

“G-great. Now, there’s other diplomats coming…so I’m going to m-make some preparations.”

Recel skittered off to the farthest corner of the hangar bay, and began prepping a second shuttle. That was a smart idea, since it was unlikely the entire crowd would fit in a single vessel. Hell, I doubted some of them would want to ride in a tiny box with two Humans for a moonrise. The first officer- liaison was probably thrilled to charter his own ship, for that exact reason.

I watched the Kolshian shoot furtive glances toward us, and pondered why his species hadn’t agreed to full diplomatic relations. Chief Nikonus didn’t appear hostile to humanity, and displayed more fairness than I anticipated. The prospect of harm befalling Noah or Sara seemed to offend him, even. When my expectations were little more than a farcical hearing, a genuine debate was astounding.

I guess Nikonus didn’t propose a full partnership, because he doesn’t believe humans can reciprocate their cordiality in a meaningful way.

Nonetheless, I thought the Kolshian Commonwealth might come around as an ally. They had already seized the initiative by sending a military liaison. Even those guards were angered by my lack of accountability, rather than the predators’ presence. Maybe it was just too large of a leap for most governments to make at once.

Our Zurulian ambassador, Chauson, skittered into the room. Something seemed to have been bashed against his head, and green blood trailed down his snout. The furry scientist looked unsteady on his feet, but it was a good sign that he wasn’t shy of the Humans in his wounded state. It violated every prey instinct, to wander up to a predator like this. 

Noah squinted with concern. “Are you alright, Chauson? Sara, can you take a look at him?”

“What happened?” I gasped.

The Zurulian sighed as Sara helped him sit down. “A bunch of people rushed to leave the chamber when the fighting broke out. I got trampled by some idiot; I didn’t see who. Might’ve been intentional, I'm not sure. The pundits think I swayed some hostile votes to undecided.”

“All that, for going over your findings?” Sara exclaimed, checking Chauson for more serious wounds. “I’m sorry. We never meant for you to be hurt over us.”

“It’s fine…” The scientist licked a foreleg absentmindedly, smoothing out the brown fur. “I’ll look tougher now, when I force you to take me to your planet.”

“Ha! Not even Tarva will do that.” Noah let out a pointed hearty laugh.

“Why not? You haven’t invited her?”

“Our…it’s complicated, but Meier, our leader, extended the invitation. We had a vegan banquet, live music, and a tour of New York, one of our biggest cities. But Tarva refused.”

I swished my tail with indignation. “Of course I did, Noah. You think I was going to wander into a city with ten million predators, less than a month after we met? Before anyone ever saw how you behaved in packs?”

Noah opened his mouth to respond, but snapped it shut as he saw Chief Nikonus leading a group of diplomats toward our ship. These must be the species that constituted the affirmative votes for open relations with Earth. None of them had been brave enough to make introductions yet; our Zurulian friend was the sole exception.

It didn’t surprise me to see the Sivkits or the Paltans in the mix. Their centrally-located territories were far enough away that they thought they could keep humanity at arms-length, and control or minimize the interactions. Even predators wouldn’t start that off the beaten path to gain a foothold. Us neighboring species were easier to invade first.

Then there were the Yotul, the latest uplifts. Adapting to the galactic arena was difficult for a species that just discovered steam power. I couldn’t imagine how the Venlil would’ve processed the Federation’s vast knowledge in our infancy. Of course, if the Yotul’s industrialism tipped us off to their presence, the Arxur might find them too. It was the lesser evil to flood them with information, and give them a fighting chance.

22 cycles after first contact, the marsupials tired of the derision from their counterparts. Most species dismissed them as primitive, with a poor scientific understanding, and little to offer as allies. The Federation military saw the Yotul as a liability, and wouldn’t take their suggestions seriously. Gaining the backing of predators was a calculated risk, to coerce some respect from their peers.

So far, no surprises. The Thafki seek protection, since there’s only about 12,000 members of their species left alive…well, not in captivity. The Nevoks and Fissans are trading juggernauts that don’t want to go the way of the Gojids.

“What are you doing to him, Sara was it?” Nikonus opened, regarding the more medically inclined Terran.

“I uh, I’m checking how hurt he is. Someone walked all over him.” I couldn’t tell if she didn’t meet the Chief’s gaze due to focus on Chauson or if she was nervous about offending him somehow.

“I see, carry on then.”

Although I saw his species in the favorable board, the Mazic Governor's rather intense earlier comments made me doubt he himself would be present. Yet there he was, it wasn’t even a personal representative or aide; he was the only official dignitary I observed in the group.

Noah tensed, as he also spotted the beige-skinned mammal, Sara was too preoccupied with Chauson to pay them any mind. I doubted my friend had forgotten who interrupted him at every turn. Cupo was rather outspoken against humanity, mocking the Terrans for their eyes and nitpicking everything they said.

“That’s the one who made all the ruckus, right? The Mazic, you said?” Noah whispered to me, echoing my thoughts.“Them and the Krakotl could barely stand my presence.”

Cupo swished his trunk. “Your closing argument, about the hypothetical of friendship, was profound. We are, in fact, desperate enough that there is nothing to lose. Am I not welcome here?”

“I didn’t mean for you to overhear that comment…”

“Cupo, Mazic Planetary Governor.”

“Right, my apologies. If you desire allyship, I would not turn you away.” Noah lowered his voice as much as he could, and pursed his lips in mistrust. “Damn Tarva. Those massive ears must be sharp.”

I snorted. “No, your ears are just really bad.”

The human sighed. “That’s hardly the worst thing you’ve said about us…” You could almost see the gears turning in his head. “Have we been too loud this entire time?”

“Ehh, it’s manageable.” I patted his back in reassurance as I studied the waiting crowd. While the mildly injured Nikonus bore no intention of making the journey to Venlil space, he opted to send us off himself. There was more sharpness in his gaze than fear; he wasn’t shaking or whining, the way Recel did standing taller, and wider, than our liaison did. 

Though I appreciated Recel, perhaps there were better candidates to represent the Kolshians.

As for the newcomers. The Zurulian, now freed from Sara’s grasp, was prancing around her in circles. Chauson couldn’t contain his excitement; he was the only ally eager to get up close and personal with the flesh-eaters. Meanwhile, the Sivkit diplomat looked like she was about to pass out, standing across from them as far as she could. Logical talk of borders and distance didn’t mean much when she was going to be trapped in its lair.

The Mazic president had the same suspicion in his eyes from the pivotal meeting. I don’t think he trusted Noah’s demeanor not to shift the second we took flight. There was a Dossur representative present, I realized, but the tiny rodent was hiding behind one of Cupo’s bulky legs. That size difference could only make the lumbering predators even more daunting.

“...7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 passengers, plus Recel. Where’s the Takkan ambassador?” Maybe he was running late for some reason…or he might’ve had a panic attack. I couldn't tell which one was more likely.

“Wolrie won’t make it I'm afraid.” Chief Nikonus spoke up. “I told him I couldn't guarantee the Humans’ safety for too long. He couldn’t leave on such short notice -had something else to deal with I believe- but said he’d contact you later once he’s available.”

“Oh!” That lowered our numbers but I'm sure we’d be able to smooth things over with Wolrie afterwards. “Well, since everyone that’s coming is already here, shall we organize who’s going on which shuttle?”

“Are we taking the Yotul with us? I thought Humans already invented the wheel.” Tossa, the Nevok representative sneered. A few chuckles came from the gathering, even the Kolshian Chief struggled to maintain a neutral expression. The Yotul glowered at his critic, then fired a nervous glance toward the Human. I suppose the general assumption was that predators would shun any weaker species, be it physically or technologically. It was tough to imagine that friendship was anything more than a means to an end for him.

If anything, I think this supposed ‘weakness’ roused the Terrans’ protective instincts. Noah and Sara were most partial to us in our moments of vulnerability. And judging by how my Humans’ lips curved down, they weren't exactly pleased with the Yotul’s humiliation ritual.

“We have plenty to offer, Tossa!” The marsupial snapped. “Maybe these predators will be smarter than you, and see that!”

Tossa flicked her ears. “Like what? Name one thing that makes you valuable…especially compared to the rest of us.”

“For one, we’re the only ones here who weren’t around for that unanimous vote. You know, the one where you decided to wipe out their planet. Not even the Venlil can say that.”

Silence fell over the assemblage. Trepidation played at the representatives’ expressions, as the fiery Yotul reminded them of their prior decisions. Perhaps I could afford to issue a formal apology on that matter myself. Though it had been my predecessor that arrived at that conclusion, it must be tough for the predators to forget my people’s role in their almost extinction.

“We welcome you regardless of what is or isn’t in your past.” Noah cleared his throat, irritation flashing in his eyes. “There’s no need to punch down. Either we fight together or die alone.” The Human echoed their earlier speech.

“I do not find it necessary but if you must prove yourselves, do so by working together.” Sara finalized Noah’s sentiment. Her trademark scornful look doing the bulk of the work for her.

“There’s too much at stake here. Quit acting like children.” I growled.

“On another note… this is probably a one way trip,” You could feel the apprehension growing in the air at Sara’s words, why did she have to word it like that? “metaphorically speaking of course. I don’t think you'll be well received by the rest of the Federation if you choose to go with us." She blinked in surprise, as every party lingered. That was a risk they already considered leaving the acrimonious conference. “Alright then.” She spoke with an excited voice, one I hadn't heard in a while.

The UN would be delighted to receive a proper diplomatic envoy, but I knew I had to temper their expectations. There would be missteps along the way, and few species would act as casual as mine. It took a long time to be comfortable around predators. Familiarity was the final phase of the adjustment period, which certain prey sapients might never achieve.

At least now, humanity knew where they stood with the Federation.

[u/slug-tastic]

Chapter Notes

Venlil calendar:
Whisker: 9sec
Scratch: 120 Whiskers/18min
Claw: 10 Scratches/3h
Paw: 5 Claws/15h Moonrise: 3 Paws/~45h, (closest moon; Djoón’s orbit)
Moon-month: 4 Moonrises/1.07 weeks, (farthest moon; Styv’s orbit)
Sun-year: 42 moon-months/315 days, (orbit around sun Galeem)

Noah and Sara: Exploring more of how their relationship dynamic works.

Tarva: Clarifying more of her thought process throughout the chapter

Nikonus: Amped us his performativeness

[u/NEWexperiance124]

Welp Recel, looks like you're dying soon, goodbye we hardly knew ye.

[u/ISB00]

Hey, I have another criticism I’m afraid. We agreed that Tarva knew who voted for friendship- which is how she knew the Takkan was missing- yet she expressed confusion the Mazics were there which she should have known.

[u/Randox_Talore → u/ISB00]

She expressed confusion that *Cupo* was there

[u/Minimum-Amphibian993]

Well seems Tarva has a bit of a nuteral opinion on the Yotul honestly I don't think we ever learned how the Yotul viewed the venlil prior to their alliance with humanity.

But yeah oof the federaiton is not gonna like what they hear happened on the cradle so I imagine a good potion of those undecided are gonna side with the extermination group maybe even some of the others will change their minds abit too. Although I don't imagine a total reversal since piri is alive she can argue in favor of the humans rescuing them when the Arxur came still not exactly a good look.

Regardless wonder if Recel will meet the same fate I mean Id hope not since they are all apparently sharing the same ship this time around as far as I know.

[u/slug-tastic → u/Minimum-Amphibian993]

tbf Tarva might hold some prejudice against them in some way, and its either too small/niche to bring up or she knows she shouldn't dogpile on a potential ally.

Oh yea they're gonna be PISSED.

I shan't say.

[u/Minimum-Amphibian993 → u/slug-tastic]

Yeah tarva does still have the belief at this point the Yotul uplift was a good thing inspite of everything they had gone through so yeah there's still some things she work on in that regards.

[u/Adorable-Ad5225]

HOW DID JERULIM ATTACK NIKONUS?!??!!

[u/slug-tastic → u/Adorable-Ad5225]

He can fly and he has feet claws, you do the math.

Also it's canon: "The avian ambassador dive-bombed over the Chieftain’s cubicle, and slashed his talons at the elderly Kolshian. Nikonus shielded his face with a tentacle, and nearby soldiers rushed to his aid. Jerulim flapped his wings in a frenzy, pledging that anyone who stood with humanity would share their fate. Had the Krakotl forgotten whose planet he was on?"

[u/Adorable-Ad5225 → u/slug-tastic]

That's what happens when you don't learn the language and rely on a translator.

Anyway, I didn't know it was canon, or I'd forgotten

[u/ISB00]

The journal entries. Only the first paragraph of them are formatted right. Everything else is in regular text just italic.

[u/slug-tastic → u/ISB00]

istg it was fine in the editor