‘Oh I can’t wait to see his face!’ Io crowed after Veera’s comment about Antoth ‘having a kitten’.

“You do realize it’s going to be me that he gets mad at, right?” Winters asked with mild frustration, feeling like somehow he was getting teamed up on…again. Both Veera and Io seemed quite excited at the idea of taunting the guard captain. He wasn’t so sure. “This is all because it was your idea, isn’t it?”

‘Of course sir. What is the point of jest if one does not see it through?’ Io replied philosophically.

“Ah now I see. We’ve gone from appreciating humor to creating humor, is that it?”

“Is that so odd?” Veera interjected.

“For a computer that had few to no human-like characteristics a couple weeks ago, yes, I believe most would consider it quite odd. I’m just concerned about Antoth though, not Io. You really think it’ll be that big of a deal?” He questioned seriously. Io gave him a pleased look in his visor upon hearing she still had his full approval.

“Honestly? No, I don’t really think so. It’s not like I’ve taken up arms or anything.” Veera began. Winters pointed to the knife she’d fastened to her hip, raising his brow at her. “Well ok, but it’s not like that’s uncommon in the village. I think it’s more the idea of it, the principle of the act. He sure won’t get upset over a knife. And in Antoth’s defense, I would say he’d not be the only one to have that reaction. So don’t worry Russell, alright? If there has to be explaining done, we’ll do it. I would be proud to bear your symbol, and that of your comrades.”

“Not fully reassured here, but clearly I’m overruled two to one. That and I did give the final authorization to make these so…” He finished with a sigh. Veera was unfazed.

“Can I try one on?” She requested with enthusiasm before a self-conscious look played over her features. She fingered the worn and fraying leather of her garment. “This thing is…kinda falling apart on me.”

“Yeah, no problem Veera. I’ll be around back.” Winters threw his thumb over his shoulder at the pod before walking around to the far side and sitting down again. He didn’t expect it to take too long, but didn’t want to be seen as rushing her. He looked down and ran a hand over the spare dress he still held onto.

‘Penny for your thoughts?’ Io asked.

“Oh nothing much. Just thinking.”

‘Yes, that much is obvious sir.’

“Remember how I said I felt like I was running in circles inside my own head?”

‘Yes.’

“Well now it feels like my brain is trapped in an industrial washing machine.”

‘You are having difficulty with certain emotional reactions sir?’ He paused to consider the question.

“I suppose so? I guess the idea of survival is very straightforward both in concept and execution, so far at least. It couldn’t be that.” He reasoned. They were interrupted by Veera rapping softly again the side of the pod. “So? How does it fit?” Winters asked. He sucked a breath in through his teeth as Veera walked into view. Fuck me…

From his seated position Winters’ eyes began at Veera’s calves and travelled upward, finding the white hem of the garment just above her knees. Moving further up he couldn’t dispute that Io had designed the garment well, much better than what she’d worn previously. It was not as tight as his, allowing for Veera’s fur to rest comfortably below it while still maintaining a snug fit. That fit gave Winters his first good look at her figure. He could already tell the meals were making a difference. Not much, but still noticeable. Her body was lithe, athletic, and gently curved. He followed her pleasing lines with his eyes until he reached her chest, at which point he snapped them straight to her face. He immediately wished he hadn’t, feeling the blush creep into his cheeks as he stared into her brown irises. “It looks…really good on you Veera.” He was surprised he managed the words at all, having been reminded forcefully that even with everything that had happened to him, he was still a hot-blooded male in his prime. She struck a little pose; hand on hip and swishing her tail.

“Glad to hear it! Io you are officially forgiven. The look on his face right now is more than worth it. And I do enjoy the design very much as well.” She flashed her canines, feeling powerful and womanly in a way she’d rarely experienced before. A male was staring at her, finally, for all the right reasons. That he was human and not Cauthan didn’t even register. The warmth spread through her again as Winters did that cute thing with the back of his neck. Ok Veera, I think he’s had enough…for now. She decided to relent. Sitting to his left, she raised her left hand expectantly. It took a moment but Winters eventually chuckled under his breath, nodded to her, and returned the high five. It was immensely improved by the lack of armor. She offered her thanks for the dress, taking the other from him. She slung it over a shoulder while re-affixing her knife to her waist. Io pointed out the location for her canteen as well. With her effects in place, she clapped her hands together. “Shall we get going?”

“Sure, but where to exactly?” Winters asked. They’d not made plans for the day, but he was sure she had something in mind. Veera was smiling broadly though.

“Would you…would you like to come back again?” The plumage of her arm was vibrating against him, it was pleasantly ticklish. He knew what she wanted to ask. Are you feeling well enough to come back?

“Yeah, I think so.” They both stood and made ready to leave; Winters pulling on his vest and hefting his sword. He closed up the pod and joined Veera for the long walk back to the village.

‘Did you hear that sir? I’ve been forgiven! You’re welcome by the way. I think she looks quite fetching.’ Io appeared before him with a very self-satisfied look on her face. Winters couldn’t help but shake his head with a laugh.

“You two are becoming quite the devious duo.” He remarked casually. Veera gave him an arch look from his left, but she didn’t deny it. Io flashed him a faint smirk before vanishing.

‘I’m finding life quite enjoyable, sir.’

“Hey Io, do you notice anything different?” Winters asked as the trio walked through the forest towards Veera’s home. He’d been staring at the gray sky through the canopy and thought he could see more of it than usual.

‘You’ll have to be more specific sir.’ Io appeared on his visor display with a look that he knew meant there were, indeed, stupid questions.

“Veera, do the leaves on the trees change with the seasons?” He directed the next question at his fluffy companion. She nodded.

“Yes, they do. They sort of…fold in on themselves. They form thin needle like shapes.” She explained. “I guess it helps protect them, allows the snows to fall to the ground instead of weighing the tree down?”

‘How interesting.’ Io remarked. ‘It is a combination of terran adaptations. The ability to absorb much more sunlight than a coniferous tree without the need to regenerate biomass annually…brilliant!’

“Not sure it was intentional.” He replied.

‘Irrelevant.’ Io insisted with a flick of her head. ‘Oh I wish we were back in the Aegis so I could take more detailed scans. This information decidedly falls under the category of immaterial to survival but extraordinarily intriguing all the same.’

“I’m sure we will be back soon, and now you know what to look for. For the moment I’m enjoying my time outside of that thing.” Winters reassured her, happy to indulge her love of learning. “Speaking of winter Veera, I wanted to ask you about cold weather clothing. Was that leather dress the…only item you owned in that regard? Was it enough?” He inquired uncomfortably, hoping she wouldn’t take his question the wrong way. If Veera was at all offended, she didn’t show it. A dark memory ghosted over her features.

“There were a couple times when it almost wasn’t. Even when it was enough, I spent little time outside. I would constantly seek fires and warm indoor spaces, during the day at least. Nights were difficult.” She recounted sadly before fingering the synthetic wool of her new garment. She trained a smile on him that could light the bridge of a Dakota class ship. “I’m looking forward to snow this year though.” Winters felt his heart thrum.

“While I share your enthusiasm for snow Veera, it could get a bit troublesome for someone like me. You know, lack of fur and all. How do the others in your village keep warm?”

“Well, between the fur and a pelt or two most are fine for the winter. You’ll see the vast majority wearing chesko fur while hunters and a few others will likely have a step up from that. Hyrven pelts are wonderfully soft and thick, but difficult to come by. My father told me they hunt in packs, so catching one alone is rare. And if you happen to be hunting them alone…well…”

“The hunter becomes the hunted.” Winters supplied in a low tone.

“Indeed. Organized hunting parties will go out on occasion, but usually food is more important than pelts. In those cases, splitting up to cover more ground makes sense.”

“That seems reasonable. Ratha told me that chesko pelts are poor, for lack of a better word. Is that true?”

“I suppose so. They certainly don’t hold a candle to hyrven, but given that we already have fur that’s usually not an issue. Although…” She trailed off, looking away from him with mist in her eyes.

“What is it Veera?” Winters edged closer to her as a sign of support and tried to keep his tone even. He didn’t want to push an issue if there was one.

“Well, there have been a few winters when it wasn’t enough.”

“You mean people died from the cold, even with some form of protection?” He asked in surprise, feeling an unnatural chill creep up his spine.

“Yes. That’s how my mother…” She looked down, tail drooping to the forest floor. “I suppose it could have been the sickness, but the cold certainly did its part. Others perished that winter as well.”

“I’m sorry Veera. I didn’t mean to bring it up.” Winters spoke softly, resting a hand on her shoulder. She brought her own up to grasp his fingers.

“It’s alright.” She took a deep breath before continuing. “I suppose for you it feels like a fresh wound right? For me, it’s an old scar. It hurts sometimes and I don’t go around showing it off, but it’s always there. I don’t try to hide it either.” She looked over at him, enjoying the slight equalization in height now that he was out of his combat armor. She figured her ears likely matched the top of his head.

“Even so Veera, we don’t have to talk about this.” He offered.

“I do not mind, especially if it helps you in the coming months.”

“In that case, you have my thanks. I do appreciate it.” They walked in silence for a few minutes before Winters spoke again. “Given what you’ve told me Veera, it seems like I need to down at least a couple chesko before the snows come in. That way, even if it isn’t the best material, I should be able to head out and attempt to bring down a few hyrven. You said they would be easier to find after the snows, right?”

“I would say that’s a good summary, yes. No hard and fast rules of course, you might get lucky…or unlucky, but I think you’ll be fine starting small as you described. Besides, while the hyrven might have superior pelts, they are lean hunters. The chesko provide much more meat.”

“All good points.” Winters concluded as they reached the edge of the fields surrounding the village. He noticed a bit more activity than usual. A few carts and baskets were visible scattered among the fields now heavy with produce. “Harvest time?”

“Over the next several days, yes. Oh, that means they’ll be setting up soon! I can’t wait to show you!” Veera exclaimed happily, feathers perking up in excitement.

“Show me what?”

“The harvest festival!” Veera stated gleefully, as if that were enough explanation in itself. Winters shrugged, knowing he’d figure it all out soon enough.

“Well, I suppose I can’t wait to hear about it then. Ah good, Antoth is here. I can finally try this out.” He called out to the grizzled captain. “Hey Antoth, what’s up buddy?”

“Oh my gods what is he doing?” Veera asked herself.

‘Well if I’m correct regarding his intent Veera, you did request to see this.’ Io told her as Antoth approached them without any trace of humor on his face.

Winters stopped suddenly and slapped himself in the forehead. “Oh shit…the helmet. Uh…hey there Antoth…how’s it going?” He tried again, bringing up an arm as Veera had showed him earlier. She began laughing as she realized what was going on.

“Are you serious right now?” The guard captain asked him. Winters nodded. “What, left some part of your magic translation equipment back home?” He nodded again. “Well, I suppose it’s nice enough knowing under that impenetrable shell you’re just like the rest of us…vulnerable. Oh fine.” With a huff, he smacked a scaled forearm into Winters’ own before turning on his heel and ordering the gates opened. “And quit your laughing young one!” He looked back over his shoulder as Veera burst into peals of laughter. Getting a good look at Veera’s state of dress he stilled and turned back to face them. His hand unconsciously traveled to his sword’s hilt as his expression hardened under his helmet. “Veera, it’s been but a cycle, maybe less, and you bear his markings?! What is the meaning of this?” Winters crossed his arms over his chest but remained silent, knowing he couldn’t really join the conversation. All the same, he wanted to make it clear to Antoth that this was no accident. Once Veera managed to stifle her laughter sufficiently, she began talking with the black-furred guard.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry…that was just too funny, the look on your face!” She exclaimed with mirth.

“Don’t change the bloody subject Veera. Explain this.” He waved a hand at her to indicate the garment she was now sporting.

“Russell was nice enough to make me a little something.” She replied casually, as though it were the most usual thing in the world, smiling as she reminded Antoth of her ‘friend’ status with the human.

“Don’t get coy with me young one. Do you realize what this looks like?”

“No, what does it look like Antoth? Is there a problem with him offering me his protection? Tell me.” Veera challenged him, shooting a look over at Winters. She hoped she hadn’t been too presumptuous in her statement. He smiled in affirmation and nodded back at her.

“Protection?! Half the village is going to think he’s thrown you down and taken you!” Antoth hissed, trying to keep his voice low. Veera knew he meant well, knew that he understood Winters’ motivations better than most, but Antoth had gone a step too far. Winters remained silent but shook his head at the captain’s words.

“Then let them think that!” Veera spat. “Those that do will likely be thankful anyway. No chance of me passing on my stripes if an alien has claimed my maidenhood, right? No male would be crazy enough to bed me knowing that, right?! Wouldn’t want the human’s used vessel. I care not for their useless opinions.” Winters had taken a step back so that he was beside her again. His face was caught somewhere between fierce embarrassment, swelling pride, and righteous anger.

“Veera…” He reached a hand out.

“No Russell, I know that look and I won’t have you apologizing. Antoth of all people should understand what it means to serve the Sentinel. We protect each other.” She looked venom at Antoth as she drew herself flush with the human. The guard was unfazed, chuckling in a deep rumbling tone.

“You always did have your father’s defiant streak. And you are right Veera. There are many ways to serve Uthos, as I’m sure the human understands. I was only trying to help you avoid any…unpleasantness. You will not have trouble from me or my men. It does appear to be very well made, to say nothing of the precision of the design. You continue to impress upon me that I should be thankful you’re on our side Winters.” He nodded to the human who returned the motion. Veera noted the unspoken agreement and relented.

“Thank you for your concern Antoth, but I have endured their silly jeers before. I suspect this time around I will have much to smile about. It is very well made, isn’t it!” She twirled once in place.

“It will be quite a festival, that’s for sure. Why don’t you show Winters around a bit? I believe the servants of Tyrdus are starting their preparations today.”

“That was the plan! Thank you Antoth, we’ll see you around.”

“Go in peace, both of you. And Winters, get a bloody sheath for that sword. I’ll have to take it from you if you don’t.” He grumbled. Winters gave the captain a final nod and the two of them proceeded inside.

‘That was quite the talking to you gave him. I enjoyed that very much.’ Io informed Veera as they passed under the gate. ‘Thank you for standing up for us.’

“Believe me when I say it’s my pleasure Io.” Veera replied happily as one of the guards did a double take.

“So, where to now?” Winters asked. “We’ve got a few hours until it’s dark.”

“C’mon, let’s go have a look around!” Veera decided, taking him by the hand and leading him down the main road towards the village center. He lengthened his strides to draw even with her.

“What’s got you so excited?” He cocked an eyebrow at her.

“Didn’t you hear Antoth? They’ve started setting up for the harvest festival!”

“So that’s…what exactly? You didn’t exactly explain before. Everyone brings in the harvest and for a night or two there’s a party?”

“I suppose you could say that, but you make it sound so dull Russell! There’s food and drink, the craftsmen will show off some of the wares they’ve been working on, there’s contests and dancing and bonfires and…” Veera trailed off suddenly as her feathers began fluttering, a reaction Winters was quickly coming to recognize as blushing. Well, this can’t be good. He thought.

“What is it?”

“Remember how you said that humans have your…game?” She asked shyly. Winters immediately understood, remembering what Veera had told him about the manner in which the Cauthan chose a mate.

“Yes. You said your people have their own manner of doing so, something non-tactile? It revolves around the festival somehow?”

“Yes and no.” She looked away from him and up the road. “It doesn’t have to be during this time, but when we come of age there’s certainly the expectation. It’s an opportunity to present yourself to the rest of the village, and to engage in courtship in various ways for both men and women. We rarely have such time otherwise. That and…” She trailed off, unwilling to meet his eyes.

“And…?” He encouraged her to continue.

“It’s the best time for…well…for mating.” The last word was whispered so softly Winters could barely hear it, but she gripped his hand hard as she said it. Winters remembered how Veera had implied she’d been unsuccessful at such courtship in the past. He brought his other hand up to the back of his neck, unable to say anything. Io saved him from having to break the increasingly awkward silence.

‘Veera, may I ask you something? It is a bit intimate, but not about you personally.’

“I suppose so Io, are you feeling curious again?” Veera asked.

‘Yes, quite so. You said that this is the best time for Cauthan to reproduce. Why is that? Is it because you can only do so a certain number of times in a year? Is it related to the gestation period?’ Io remained clinical in her questions, for which Veera was grateful. Winters blew out a long breath but couldn’t deny he was curious as well.

“Uh…well, yes?” Veera shrugged, trying out the gesture she’d seen Winters make before.

‘Any chance you could elaborate?’

“Io she doesn’t have to.” Winters interjected, wanting to spare Veera from such a discussion. She was clearly uncomfortable.

“It’s ok Russell, I guess I’m being a little silly here. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about, right? Io to answer your question more thoroughly, most Cauthan females are capable of becoming pregnant four times a year. The pregnancy lasts around a year. So for us, I guess over time it just became the standard that females try to become pregnant in the fall. It’s the time of year when the most resources would be available to support a pregnant mother. The same applies to the newborn cub. When your mother isn’t working the fields, she’s able to devote her time to you, right?” She explained with a melancholy look on her face.

‘Thank you Veera, that does make sense. I am sorry for prying.’

“Think nothing of it Io.”

“What about when the frost comes?” Winters asked coldly. Veera gave a terse reply.

“If the child can survive the first winter that bears well for them.”

“I see.” The two of them fell silent as they approached the center of the village. Winters began focusing on the ambient chatter and activity around him. There was clearly plenty happening despite the majority of the village being out in the fields. He caught a couple of whispered phrases thanks to his translator. “Veera…”

“Oh shush you, they’re just jealous.” She jerked her head at the offending individuals. “Never cared a moment about who I was with until it was an alien.” She gave him a wonderful smile and tightened her hold on his hand just slightly. Winters’ blushing reply just made her grin wider.

“Who you’re with…huh?” He was of two minds. One logical, emotional mind wanted to correct her. The other primal mind wanted to smirk at the male Cauthan eying ‘his’ woman. He remained neutral.

“Yes Russell. You and I understand one another; we have no need to explain it to them. Besides, it sounds like you’re making much more of a stir than I am. I would say I’m a lucky woman, but I believe Io had you first?” She giggled.

‘Of course!’ The VI insisted.

“Do I even want to know?” Winters groaned, now trying to actively block out the ambient conversation.

“Oh come now, you two got to make me feel awkward. It’s my turn!” Veera stopped to lean against a building adjacent to the hunter’s lodge. Winters noted it was one of the few two storied ones, complete with chimney. He wasn’t sure if Veera had chosen this intentionally, but joined her in the space between the buildings. She drew his attention away from the others with her next question. “Do you know how Cauthan females choose a mate?” She asked, looking him over.

“Well, human females tend to balance physical attributes with other qualities such as intelligence, wit, kindness and other such things. I would think it’s similar for you?”

“You would be right Russell, and the harvest festival is a chance to show off any or all of those attributes. In terms of the physical though, what would you say strikes a lady’s fancy?”

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” He asked sarcastically.

“Very much so, you aren’t?” Her reply was completely earnest.

“Definitely awkward.”

“But you still wish to know, yes?” He shrugged, rubbing his neck. He blushed harder as Veera giggled. He was way too easy to read.

‘I do! I want to know!’

“Et tu, Io?” Winters clutched his heart dramatically.

‘Of course sir, it’s a harmless conversation. You’re the vain one if you think we’re talking about you.’ The VI insisted.

“That was savage Io. I’m actually impressed in spite of myself. Oh very well, I concede. I don’t know Veera…their plumage?”

“Perhaps, certainly it helps if a male cares for his fur and feathers. But I was referring to their scales.”

“Really? How so?” He knew his surprise was showing on his face. Just like that his curiosity dominated any misgivings he may have had about Veera’s train of conversation.

“They leave little to the imagination Russell. Even if you’re a soldier or a smith and are heavily muscled, that’s all resting under a layer of fur. The forearms though? Not so much.”

“I think I understand…you’re saying that it’s an indication of a male’s overall strength or definition?”

“Precisely. A teasingly small one, but it’s all we have unless we wish to get up close and personal.”

“What does that have to do with me? I don’t exactly have any scales.”

“No, you don’t Russell.” She gave him a hungry look, humor flickering in her eyes. “You don’t have any fur either.” He finally understood as Veera’s eyes began to roam south.

“So…you’re saying I’m like one big forearm?” He concluded. Veera was stunned into silence for a brief moment before she doubled over in laughter, resting an arm against the wall of the building for support.

‘Sir, that has to be the most ridiculous way of ruining a moment I could ever conceive of. And you accused me of not knowing how to read a room. Veera, would you like me to keep track of such incidents? I’m sure it might be of use in the future.’

“I wouldn’t worry if I were you Io.” Veera said before snorting in laughter again. “I’m not going to be forgetting this one anytime soon.”

“You’re both being ridiculous.” Winters groaned and looked up at the deep blue sky. The clouds had broken. Well, at least this feels a lot more like normal.