Chapter Twelve

Kyle chuckled as his hair was ruffled by the towel. Sophie purred musically as she dried his hair. She gave him a loving kiss on the cheek as she finished and set the towel aside. Kyle smiled at her as Sophie purred. After a nice, hot shower, Kyle felt much better. Sophie purred as she carefully held his leg and checked his wound. It was healing very well. Sophie thrummed as she extended her tongue and let a long string of thin, transparent resin drip onto her fingers. She stretched it with her fingers until there was enough to cover Kyle's leg. She snipped off the end with the teeth of her tongue, and she carefully applied her silk bandage, the silk turning a cream color as it dried.

"Thank you, Sophie." She purred louder as she gently stuck the bandage to his leg.

You're welcome, my love. After all, that's what mates do. They help each other, she replied as she bandaged his leg.

Sophie had been very diligent, checking Kyle's wound every day, and helping him get around and doing tasks that he wasn't able to, due to his injury. He smiled warmly at her words and feelings.

They were mates, lovers, but they also were partners. They took care of each other, watched out for one another and helped each other in everyday life. That was what it meant to be mates. It was so much more than romance or physical intimacy. No matter what, Kyle knew he could always count on Sophie, and she him. Sophie purred as she finished securing his bandage. There. All done. She gave him warm, gentle feelings as he ran his fingers over the soft, smooth silk that covered his leg. He smiled at her.

Thanks. That feels better. Sophie wrapped her arms around his bare chest and embraced him. Kyle smiled as he returned her embrace. The contrast between the two of them couldn't have been greater. With Sophie's dark, midnight-black exoskeleton, and Kyle's pale-pink skin and sandy-blonde hair, the visual contrast was striking, but, at the same time, beautiful. Sophie purred gently as her fingers ran across his bare chest and the bold scar on his chest. The place of her birth. Kyle held Sophie's hand against his chest, letting her feel his heartbeat. She purred as she gently kissed him on the forehead.

I love you so much, Kyle, she said fondly, letting her warm, tender feelings flow into his mind. Kyle smiled as he hugged her.

And I love you, my pretty lady.

At first, Kyle had been a little nervous to be seen without clothes. It had confused Sophie at first, but as she grew to better understand humans, she was able to see the reason why. As soft-skinned creatures, humans were very vulnerable. They didn't have an exoskeleton, like she did. Their clothes were often the only armor they had. It was only normal for them to feel nervous, even frightened when without them.

Understanding that, Sophie was always careful, gentle and tender with Kyle. Feeling his soft skin made Sophie feel protective of her mate. Feelings she passed through their link, vowing she would protect him, keep him warm and safe and let him know he was loved. The book, To Love Man, said many human males were very insecure about how their bodies looked. Sophie purred deeper as she lovingly ran her hands across Kyle's soft, warm skin.

To her, Kyle was the perfect picture of a handsome human male. Kyle smiled at Sophie's warm, loving thoughts and feelings. Sophie thrummed as she nuzzled Kyle. He pulled on some clean jeans, careful of his leg, and a clean white t-shirt. Once he was dressed, he brought up the holo-screen. "So, what kind of bed do you want?" Kyle asked as he brought up images of human bed designs. Sophie hummed as she sat behind him, looking over the designs.

They had decided to start looking for furniture for their home. Although their ship was nice, they wanted to be able to live in their new house. Sophie draped her tail over Kyle's lap as she touched her finger to her lips in thought.

Something nice and comfortable. Something close, like a nest, she said as they looked at the different types. Kyle smiled as he stroked Sophie's tail with his free hand. Given how big Sophie was, Kyle was pretty sure they would need a big bed. Kyle had heard about king-sized beds, but had never slept in one. Sophie tilted her head as they looked at the bed styles. I like that one, said Sophie, pointing to a European-style, four-poster bed. Sophie seemed intrigued by canopy beds in particular. Kyle chuckled.

Well, it has to be big enough for us to move around in, said Kyle, glancing at the rather small captain's bed they were in, tucked into a niche in the wall. It was comfy, but a little cramped, in all honesty. Sophie didn't really mind, but a bed big enough for her to stretch out on was a pleasing idea.

As Kyle looked at the designs, he suddenly snapped his fingers.

"Granny Rose!" He grinned as he typed in the number for her shop. If anyone will have a good bed, she will, Kyle mused. Sophie agreed as she slipped away so as not to be seen. The communicator beeped until someone answered it. Kyle was surprised to see Gur answering. "Hi, Gur. Is Granny Rose around?" Kyle asked. Gur chirped as he typed, a small text box appearing on the holo-screen.

"Granny out, Kyle. Can I help you?" Kyle smiled softly at the Shamolene.

"Yeah, we are looking for furniture for our house, and wanted to ask if you had any beds?" Gur replied with a twitter, his feelers waving as he typed.

"No. Sorry. There is shop Granny knows, deals in furniture. Here's link," typed Gur, giving Kyle the data-link. Kyle smiled and nodded.

"Thanks, Gur. How're you and Granny doing?" Kyle was surprised to see Gur's feelers droop.

"Not good, sad. Slavers, evil, starve, little, young, Brennus, Druids, Tribes catch, Man of Fire, Spears, anger!" Gur replied. Kyle blinked in confusion, not able to understand the almost frantic and angry replies of the Shamolene.

"What do you mean? Are Peter and the rest okay?" Gur gave a sound like a sigh.

"Others, left die, drown, food naught." Gur seemed to calm and recollect himself, his feelers curling and unfurling. "Bad men, leave slaves, starve. Tribes find, help. Many die, food and water need. Monks bring, thank." It dawned on Kyle what Gur was saying. He could feel Sophie's thoughts, just as distressed and sad.

"So, that's the emergency Brother Shaun was talking about," said Kyle. Gur nodded. Kyle felt Sophie's tail gently and lovingly drape over his legs in comfort. Kyle managed a weak smile. "We're glad the food and water from our island could help. If you need anything, or we can help, just let us know," Kyle offered, Sophie agreeing. Gur twittered, looking happier, and nodded.

"Much help in city. Big storm come, Kyle, Sophie stay island. Dangerous fly, swim. Big, big storm, Arctic, North. Bad, bad storm." Kyle smiled sadly.

"Thank you, Gur. Give Granny Rose a hug for us, will you?" Gur twittered and nodded, his feelers waving.

"Kyle, Sophie, stay warm, nest, storm pass. Come visit after." Kyle nodded. With that, he closed the link. Kyle sighed as Sophie crawled back onto the bed to hug him.

More slaves? Left to starve? Sophie couldn't believe it. Kyle frowned as he brought up the Zeraven mainframe and looked into the news. Sophie moaned as she held Kyle tenderly in her arms.

"Zeraven is still reeling over the discovery of several cargo containers of slaves, left for dead by jacks. Zeraven General has managed to stabilize many, but the death toll continues to grow. Thus far, ninety-six slaves have died from malnutrition and disease, with half of them children. Due to the fact the jacks were caught in Tribal waters, the jacks are being tried in a Celtic court, with several already being executed. The AurAul Tribe is holding funeral ceremonies in the city for the deceased. Anyone wishing to help should contact Monks' Mountain. Their site lists items they are most in need of. Remember, it's up to us to help. If not us, then who?" Kyle was, at the same time awed, and saddened as they watched the news. The images of people starving and sick tore at his heart, and Sophie's.

They were amazed, and saddened when they saw a video of a long procession of Celtic warriors in Zeraven, carrying the bodies of slaves on shields and spears, to be treated with honor and dignity. Kyle was pretty sure he saw Brennus among them. Kyle was surprised to see several Baleeja among the Celts, dressed in a Celtic fashion, and wearing neck torcs as well, helping to carry the dead.

Kyle smiled softly as he realized the Baleeja were members of the Tribes as well. At the head of the procession was a tall human woman, dressed in white clothing, her long, braided hair a silvery color. In one hand, she carried a small, crescent-shaped sickle of a golden metal. In the other, she carried a silvery branch of what looked like mistletoe. As she walked, she was chanting in her native language, every now and then shaking the mistletoe, making the tiny bells on it ring softly.

The warriors chanted with her, the whole long line of them an awe-inspiring sight. Sophie held Kyle close as the Celts carried the wrapped bodies to a large church in Zeraven, where they lovingly laid them to be cremated in honor. Kyle switched to the weather report and wiped his eyes. Sophie gently stroked his face as he sniffled.

It's okay, Kyle. I'm here, Sophie comforted as she gently rocked him in her arms. Kyle hugged her back.

They're a good people, aren't they? Sophie gave a positive.

Yes. They cared, and they are willing to help and defend others. Honorable people. Kyle hugged Sophie tighter, to which she purred, letting warm, loving thoughts flow into Kyle's mind and comfort him. Kyle wiped his eyes and checked the weather report.

Sure enough, there was a very large storm brewing up in the Zerichs Arctic circle. The report called it a "Great Norther", and said it only happened every sixty years. It gave the danger level as a nine out of ten, and ordered that all ships be grounded, and boats dry-docked. Kyle frowned and Sophie gave a soft growl, her tail twitching. We have enough food and our ship is warm and tight, said Sophie. Kyle frowned softly.

Yes, but I want to make sure everything is safe and sound before the storm hits. I especially worry about the Tropocos in the lagoon. I don't want them to be hurt. Sophie agreed.

Partially.

But your leg is still healing. I'll check things, you are staying here, Sophie said firmly. Kyle looked at her, a soft frown on his features. It was one of the very few times they disagreed like this.

Sophie, it's not like I'm going rock-climbing. Sophie gave a very soft, tiny growl.

Kyle, your leg is still healing. It may be bandaged, but it's still an open wound. All it would take is one false step, or to scrape your leg against a sharp rock, she softly reminded. Kyle sighed softly, his eyes downcast.

I just . . . don't want to be useless. Sophie purred as she hugged him, letting her warm, loving thoughts flow into his mind. She could feel Kyle's jumbled feelings, and understood. She gave him a gentle kiss on the cheek.

You're not useless, Kyle. I never would have made it here if not for you. She cupped his face lovingly, purring softly as she held his gaze. Kyle gave a shy smile.

I just miss you when you're gone. Sophie trilled as she nuzzled him.

You stay here and get dinner started. I'll bring us back some seafood, she said as her tail gently caressed Kyle's back. He smiled and nodded. Sophie happily trotted to the door of the ship, grabbing up a wire basket and heading for the lagoon.

XXX

Sophie purred gently as she came out into the lagoon from the tunnel. The sun was bright and shining, the wind blowing the scent of fresh air and grass as fluffy, white clouds drifted in the sky. She extended her tongue, scent-tasting the air. She could smell the wetness increasing, as well as feel pressure dropping. With a grunt, she walked over to check on the Tropocos.

Sophie had come to like the silly birds. She found them to be very cute. It made her sad the Serrex had almost wiped them out. Sophie softly grumbled to herself about her hated enemy. As she approached, she was surprised to find the Tropocos were missing from the small crevices they had been in. She gave a surprised snort. She smelled the air and extended her senses.

She was surprised to sense the Tropocos much deeper in the cliff. In fact, she could feel they all were nesting in the same burrow, almost like a Hive. Sophie wandered closer, curious. She could sense that not only did the Tropocos have eggs, but they were almost all fertilized. Sophie smiled to herself, wondering what the Tropocos would be like with their babies. Satisfied they were safe from the incoming storm, Sophie turned her attention to the lagoon.

Many types of fish and sea life was coming into the lagoon ahead of the storm. Sophie was actually a bit surprised. Then again, the life of Zerichs II knew the patterns of the weather better than anyone, and knew when and where to take shelter. Sophie slipped into the water to pick out some food. In the lagoon, there were all sorts of clams and shellfish for her to choose from. There were Zerichs prawn the size of her hand, and one of the most important ingredients for Kyle's bisque. Sophie caught a few and put them into the basket, closing the top so they couldn't escape. She also was delighted to see some nice, big Albarr in the lagoon.

The Albarr resembled a large clam, but on the top of the reddish-black shell were two horns that stood almost straight up. It was this that made some people call it the "Devil Clam", although Albarr had no means of defense other than digging into sand. Sophie took one of the medium ones, leaving the bigger ones for later. She added some smaller clams, scallops, for good measure. In the water, she could feel the temperature dropping, and the currents changing. She glanced out the opening of the lagoon. She gave one last check, and, satisfied the lagoon was safe, she surfaced and took her catch back to the Talon.

As Sophie passed through the large cavern in the hollow spire, she looked around, taking in the size of it. She gave a trill, which echoed through the cave and tunnel. She smiled to herself as she walked through the curtains of vines and out into the meadow where their ship was parked. She looked up, and could see the clouds coming, looking dark, stormy and foreboding. She swiftly returned to the ship, the door swishing open at the touch of her tail on the button. She purred as she entered the ship. Kyle looked up and smiled from where he was in the galley, cutting up some leeks and tomatoes for the bisque.

"Hey, pretty lady," Kyle greeted as he finished chopping the leeks and added them to the bisque. Sophie purred as she set her catch on the counter and hugged her beloved mate.

Hello, my beautiful Kyle, she replied, giving him a gentle kiss on the lips. Kyle looked at her catch and grinned.

"Wow. This is going to be a really good batch of bisque," Kyle observed, amazed a the size of the Albarr, which was as big as his head. Sophie gave a toothy grin, proud of herself and happy. Sophie set to cleaning her catch, shucking the clams out of their shells and cleaning the meat. Sophie saved the innards for herself, as humans didn't eat them.

Sophie's tail was the perfect tool to shuck the Albarr from its shell, the razor-sharp blade easily cut the meat from the shell with almost surgical precision. The meat inside was a very pale pink, almost white, and smelled heavenly. Sophie was purring deeply as she handed Kyle the clams, Albarr and shrimp as it was ready, excited and hungry. Kyle was all smiles as he added a tiny dash of hot sauce to the bisque. Just a tiny bit, as he didn't want it to be too spicy. Sophie was having a hard time not drooling. Kyle smiled as he offered a spoonful of the hot broth for Sophie to try. She purred happily as she extended her tongue, gently pouring the hot, steamy broth into her tongue. She trilled, shivering from her head to her tail with sheer delight.

It's delicious! Sophie declared. Kyle grinned wider as he felt Sophie's delighted feelings flood through their link.

I'm glad, Sophie. It needs to cook more, but it should be really good, especially with some hot, buttered bread to go with it. Sophie purred deeper as she nuzzled Kyle.

They were surprised when the console beeped. Kyle turned and walked over to see what was up. He typed, and the holo-screen appeared, the words Weather Warning in bold letters. Sophie approached, curious. The warning said that the Great Norther was going to be even worse than anticipated, and gave cautions for people to make sure ships were docked, boats were tied up or dry-docked and that shutters were sealed. It specified that the Great Norther had been longer coming than usual. Instead of sixty years, it had been almost eighty since the last one, and it was going to be a horrific storm. Kyle stared in awe as he saw the satellite images of the storm as it was forming near the Arctic circle. Kyle had hardly ever seen a storm that big on an inhabitable planet. Sophie gave a soft growl as she slid her arms around him. According to the map, it was going to pass very close to their island.

I'll go make sure all the shutters on the house are closed. Sophie looked at Kyle and stroked his hair. We should put the ship into the cave in the spire, she advised. Kyle smiled and nodded. Sophie gave him a warm hug. I won't be long, she said as she left.

By the time Sophie came back, they could hear thunder in the distance, the wind was beginning to howl through the trees as the storm approached. Sophie ran to the far side of the meadow as Kyle started up the ship. Sophie directed Kyle as the ship hovered over the field.

The Talon was not a big ship by any stretch. It was only a little bigger than their house was. It was on the very smallest end of ships, with maintenance skiffs the only smaller ships. Sophie carefully watched as Kyle piloted the ship towards the cave. Sophie corrected him as needed, so he didn't smash into the edge of the cave mouth. Sophie gave a satisfied hiss as the curtains of ivy draped over the ship before hiding it from view. She trotted up to the spire as a huge clap of thunder sounded. Sophie turned and looked as it began to rain. She hurried into the cave and shook herself as it began to pour outside. Kyle opened the door and smiled as he motioned for her to come inside.

"Come on in, pretty lady," he said warmly. She smiled as she stepped inside and closed the door.

Sophie was glad they had made sure everything was prepared, as it was raining very hard. She hugged Kyle as he filled two bowls with hot bisque and buttered some nice bread for them to dip. Sophie purred as they snuggled in the bed, Kyle leaning back against Sophie as they ate a nice, hot meal together, warm and safe while the storm raged outside. Sophie purred and Kyle hummed to himself as they enjoyed the meal and each other's company.

Kyle, you're a wonderful cook, said Sophie appreciatively as she savored her mate's cooking. Kyle smiled, his cheeks heating up a bit at her praise. Once their meal was finished, Kyle brought up the Zeraven mainframe and looked into the Great Norther storm, and was surprised to see it could last as long as a month sometimes. When he saw how it was formed, he wasn't too surprised, seeing how the fierce Arctic air currents collided to form this monstrous storm.

Technically speaking, the Great Norther classified as a hurricane, but it was a bit different from those on other worlds. Sophie was just as curious, reading and learning along with Kyle. It seems to be such a peaceful world, but it has times it can be violent, Sophie observed. Kyle agreed. As they read, the satellite map of Zerichs showed the movement of the storm, and the patterns of the waves, monitored by a vast network of buoys, playfully called the "Wetwork" by locals. Kyle chuckled at the name, as did Sophie. The storm was predicted to last anywhere from a week, to a month, with the latter being the more likely, given the unusual nature of this storm. Sophie purred, her hands gently holding Kyle's, her tail softly twitching. We're warm, we're safe and we have plenty of food. We can stay in here until it passes. Kyle agreed. Sophie gently kissed him on the cheek, purring deeply and lovingly.

The wind began to really howl outside. Sophie gave a soft growl as she looked up at the windshield of the ship. The vines that covered the mouth of the cave were waving, dripping with water as the storm began to rage in earnest. Kyle was surprised as Sophie let him hear what her sensitive hearing could detect that his could not.

She could hear the sound of a tree coming down with a crash, somewhere in the forest. Sophie gently tightened her hold on him, warm, gentle thoughts of love and protection flowing across their link. Kyle smiled as he stroked Sophie's tail, receiving a purr in response. Kyle glanced at a leather-bound book, and grasped it. He untied the laces that bound it, and flipped it open. Sophie trilled happily as Kyle opened his sketchbook.

Kyle had been surprised to find the blank book at Purrthin's shop, but was not only delighted, but eager to put it to use. Already, he had filled it with many sketches and drawings, and had many more planned. Sophie stroked Kyle's hair lovingly as he flipped through the pages. Kyle had made several sketches for botanical drawings he intended to make into line and wash drawings with watercolor and ink. Kyle had already made one of the Ebelon plant, and was working on the rough sketch for the Zerichs Potato. Sophie kissed Kyle on the cheek as she looked at his drawings. You're very good, my love, she said fondly. Kyle smiled and stroked her face as he flipped through the pages.

Sophie gave a soft growl when she saw the drawings Kyle had made of a Serrek.

Kyle had filled a page with various sketches of the beast, the page dominated by one large drawing of a Serrek standing and looking back over its shoulder. There were smaller drawings around it of Serrex in motion, resting and fighting. They were skillful drawings, but Sophie still disliked the creatures. Kyle gave Sophie's tail a loving kiss to calm her as he turned the page. Her growl became a soft purr as she turned her thoughts back to her beloved mate and Bonded One. Kyle came at last to a page that was dominated by a rough pencil sketch of their house.

Kyle had begun doing drawings of their house as it was, and how it could be. It made sense to Kyle to do drawings of changes and additions for their house before they started said project. Better to see how it looked on paper before they went to the effort for real. Kyle picked up his trusty pencil and began to sketch on the plank page next to his sketches for their house. Sophie trilled softly, tilting her head as she watched her mate draw.

Curious, she caressed his mind with hers, and saw he was thinking on where a shed had been, next to their house. As the lines formed on the page, Kyle was thinking about a greenhouse and a garden, filled with tomatoes, and cucumbers, peas and other wonderful greens. Sophie trilled, liking the idea. She looked at Kyle's design of a greenhouse, and gave a soft hiss. It makes sense to have the roof slant towards the direction the worst winds come from, to the northwest, said Sophie. Kyle smiled as he adjusted the drawing.

You're absolutely right. Thank you, Sophie. She hugged him tighter and purred.

As the storm raged outside, as the rain poured in buckets and the wind howled, Kyle and Sophie sat, snuggled in their ship, and planned. Kyle sketched in his sketchbook how they wanted to arrange their garden, as well as ideas for inside their house. At every moment, he was asking Sophie for her opinion and ideas. Already, Sophie liked Kyle's drawing for their living room, with a comfy couch sitting across from the peat stove. Kyle had done a few different drawings for their bedroom, but they all seemed to lack something. Sophie purred as she thought, her tail swishing.

I think we'll know how we want it arranged when we get some furniture in. Sometimes you just can't find the answer until you start the project. Kyle smiled and rubbed Sophie's chin. Sophie gave a deep, rumbling purr as she almost melted under her mate's touch.

Thank you, Sophie. I love you so much. Sophie wrapped her arms and tail around him, pulling Kyle into her lap and rocking him lovingly.

Oh, and I love you. My sweet, wonderful, darling, lovable mate, I love you so. Kyle smiled warmly as he felt Sophie's warm, loving thoughts flow into his mind as she snuggled him. Sophie lovingly nuzzled his hair as she thrummed, happy to be close to her mate in a warm bed with good food while the storm raged outside. Kyle closed his eyes as he snuggled close to her, feeling totally safe and protected in her gentle, loving embrace.

For the next two weeks, while the Great Norther rampaged over the surface of Zerichs II, Kyle and Sophie snuggled and planned for the future. Kyle made mountains of sketches, going over ideas for their little home. Sophie had the wonderful idea of using seashells as sconces for the lights in the hallway to their bedroom. Kyle loved the idea. Especially using some of the lovely pink and peach-colored seashells they had found. So far, that was the only idea they could really use without going to Zeraven for supplies, so Sophie was intent to hunt for seashells as soon as the storm was over.

XXX

Kyle was rather surprised to wake up, snuggled safely in Sophie's warm, loving embrace, to not hear winds blowing and rain.

The storm passed? Kyle asked as he rubbed his eyes. Sophie purred as she stroked his hair.

Yes. When I woke up, the winds had softened and it had stopped raining. Kyle felt rather excited to go out and see what it was like outside. Sophie was of the same mind. After a good breakfast, and a quick change of clothes, Kyle and Sophie left their ship and stepped outside for the first time in two weeks.

It was strange how calm it was, after such a powerful storm. There were a few fluffy white clouds drifting in the sky, and a very soft breeze was blowing, but it was surprisingly peaceful. The air was moist and fresh after the rains. The grass glistened with moisture, as did the leaves of the trees.

"Wow," said Kyle, taking in a deep breath of the fresh air. Sophie purred as her tail swished.

How lovely. I like this island, and this world, said Sophie as she walked beside Kyle on all fours. Kyle smiled at her.

It wouldn't mean a thing if you weren't here with me. Sophie looked up at him and purred, warm, loving thoughts flowing across their link. Kyle was surprised to see a large tree at an angle from where it had been uprooted and toppled by the storm, the tree resting at an angle against another one in the forest. Even standing out in the middle of the meadow, Kyle could see just how powerful the winds had been. Sophie curled her tail around his waist as she purred.

We're nice and safe. I'll protect you, and our home. Kyle smiled at her.

Thank you, Sophie. Her tail very gently squeezed his waist, an intimate and loving gesture.

Kyle had learned, among Sophie's kind, to touch someone with the tail, or to have someone touch your tail, was a sign of great trust, and even intimacy. Kyle gently caressed her tail with his hand, letting his loving, appreciative thoughts flow across the link of their Bond. Sophie smiled as she tilted her head, returning the feelings in earnest.

Let's go check the lagoon. I want to make sure the birds are okay, and see if any interesting seashells washed up, said Sophie as she released her grip on Kyle. He nodded his agreement as the headed back into the spire. They went into their ship to get a basket to carry anything they might find. Kyle also grabbed his sketchbook and pencils, in case he saw something that would make a good sketch. They had just been about to leave, when the communicator beeped. Kyle sat down and answered it while Sophie stayed out of sight.

"Hello?" Kyle was not too surprised to see the image of a young human man appear. He was wearing the uniform of the Zerichs Rangers and sunglasses.

"We're just doing a fly-by, and wanted to check in. We've got distress signals all over after the storm, and wanted to make sure you're all right down there," said the Ranger. Kyle smiled.

"We're doing all right. We're staying right here, so you guys worry about other folks. We're nice and safe here," Kyle replied. The Ranger smiled and nodded.

"Good to hear. If you need anything, just give us a holler, all right?" Kyle nodded.

"Hey, Faz! We got another SOS out in the Sorras! Let's bolt!" said a voice in the back of the Ranger's ship. The Ranger, Faz, grinned at Kyle before giving a quick salute and closing the link. Sophie purred from behind Kyle.

They're nice people, she observed. Kyle agreed as he got the basket and headed down to the lagoon with Sophie.

The lagoon was calm, the soft breeze blowing, the waves gently washing on the rocky shores as Kyle and Sophie entered their own little sanctuary. There was some debris on the shores here and there. Some leafs, some broken tree branches and a few other things, but it was mostly the same. As they got closer, Kyle could see some things that had apparently been washed up by the waves during the storm. Sophie trilled curiously as she came closer. Kyle's smile grew as he saw all the seashells. There were many different types and colors. Some were as tiny as the fingernail on Kyle's little finger. Others were bigger than his hand.

Sophie was excited as she picked one up. Hmm, this is a nice one, said Sophie as she linked her mind with Kyle's to see the color. She happily set it in the basket before picking up another. Kyle couldn't help the wide grin as Sophie happily picked up shells. Sophie gave a loud trill as she picked up a shell that was pink, striped with brown, and had a bunch of spikes and spines on it. Wow! Look at this one! Kyle blinked in surprise at the shell, which was almost as big as his head. Sophie was fascinated at all the different types of shells. Some of them still had what was left of the animals inside them, killed by the storm or being out of the water. Sophie was able to pry them out with her tail and claws for a nice snack. Kyle frowned as he looked around.

"Where are the Tropocos?" he asked aloud. Sophie purred as she showed him the hole into the cliff, letting him see with her senses that the Tropocos were all inside.

They're safe, Kyle. Don't worry. They're smart birds. They've survived here for a long time, Sophie assured. Kyle sighed with relief, glad the silly birds were safe. He looked at Sophie as she picked up more seashells, and smiled at her.

Sophie looked so beautiful in the sunlight, the light glistening on her exoskeleton and smooth skin, catching highlights of a very dark blue here and there. Sophie felt her mate's adoring thoughts and purred deeply as she looked at him. Thank you, Kyle. You're so sweet. Kyle smiled shyly and blushed ever so slightly. Sophie dropped a few more seashells into the basket before she walked over, stood up, and wrapped her arms and tail around him. She nuzzled him lovingly, her smooth, slightly wet skin carefully rubbing against his. She pulled back and carefully traced the line of his jaw with her fingers, the touch supremely delicate and tender. I want to go and check the forest, make sure nothing carrying Serrex washed up. Kyle squeezed her hand as he nodded.

Just stay safe, Sophie. Don't go near any leaning trees or anything. She gave a positive as Kyle took the basket and began picking up shells while Sophie left to check their forest.

XXX

The woods were not changed a great deal from before, but they most certainly were more wet. She could feel the dampness of the woods all around her. They were cool and wet, but not overly so. She liked it a lot. The smell of rain and water was heavy in the air, giving the woods a fresh scent. Sophie stopped and extended her tongue to scent-taste the air. There was no smell of Serrex that she could detect, but she wanted to check as thoroughly as she could. The wind was blowing from the west, so it would blow the scent of any of those nasty beasts right her way, even if they were on the other side of the island.

Sophie's sense of smell was far keener than a human's. Indeed, even a dog would not match her sense of smell. Sophie stopped at the old stump and smelled the pretty Vanilla Violets, liking their scent. She refocused herself, smelling the musty scent of the bunch of mushrooms to clear her olfactory organs of the flowery scent that could interfere with her check for Serrex. Sophie walked through the woods, her tongue extended and the mouth open as she carefully scanned her surroundings for anything out of the ordinary. She passed through several small clearings, beams of sunlight shining down into the dark woods, glinting off her shiny exoskeleton.

Suddenly, Sophie stopped. She smelled something. Something new. It wasn't the scent of a Serrek, but it was something. She came to a large, moss-covered tree. She extended her tongue, smelling the air, following the scent. It seemed to be coming from under the roots of the tree.

XXX

Kyle smiled as he picked up a smooth, pink seashell. It was very pretty, and just the right size to make a sconce for the lights in their home. Kyle hummed to himself, imagining the hallway to their bedroom, lined with lamps that had beautiful creamy-pink seashells for lampshades and sconces, illuminating the hallway with soft light. It would look nice. Sophie's tail and claws were sharp enough to cut the necessary holes in the shells, and she would enjoy the task. Sophie was very creative, especially with making things. She was becoming a fabulous sculptress, and relished her tasks. Kyle smiled as he thought on how much he and Sophie had grown already together, and they had not even been together for a whole year. He could only wonder how deep their connection would become in years ahead.

Kyle! Kyle was startled when Sophie came bounding up and leaped off the top of the cliff to land very elegantly and lightly nearly beside him. He turned to face her, at first worried. I found something in the woods! Kyle felt her mind connect with his. He could smell the scents of the woods through her keen senses, and could see the woods as they looked to her, devoid of color, like a negative image. He could vaguely see something under the tall roots of one of the trees. Sophie pulled him onto her back as she returned to the woods. Although Kyle's mind couldn't really deduce what it was she found, Sophie did: It was a wounded animal.

They arrived at the place where Sophie had found it. It's under the tree. I can smell it's hurt, and frightened, she said as she let Kyle get off. He set the basket of seashells down and carefully bent down to look under the tree. He could see something there. He saw a bit of fur. White fur. He tried to reach in, and found it too far. Sophie gave a soft grunt. Here, she said as she used her tail like a lever to push some of the roots apart. Kyle was able to wriggle between them, his head and shoulders vanishing under the tree. Well? What is it? Sophie asked. She felt surprised from Kyle's mind, quickly followed by a warm, gentle feeling.

Sophie! It's a bunny! Sophie tilted her head and trilled, not knowing what a "bunny" was. She felt Kyle's mind, and saw a little, furry animal with long ears and big feet. "Easy, easy, little fella. Shh. Easy. Nobody's going to hurt you," said Kyle as he wriggled out with the little animal in his arms.

It was black and white, almost looking like it had a saddle on its back. The ears were black, but part of the face was white. One eye was surrounded by black, making it almost look like an eye patch. The frightened rabbit was trembling against Kyle. Sophie could smell some blood on it, but only a tiny amount. It had been scratched and banged up a bit, but seemed to be in good health. Sophie trilled, coming closer. "Careful, Sophie. Rabbits get scared easy. They can get scared so bad they die," said Kyle as he unbuttoned his shirt and wrapped the poor little thing up. Sophie stopped at that. She moaned sadly as she looked at the frightened little creature, trembling in Kyle's shirt.

Will it be all right? she asked, worried. Kyle gave a positive.

I think so. Let's take it back to the Talon and put it in a box or something so we can let it calm down. Best to let it stay in the dark and calm down. It's very scared. Sophie gave a positive.

Sophie's head suddenly shot up and she gave a snort and soft growl. She smelled the oily scent of a Serrek on the wind. She let Kyle know through nothing else than scent as she pulled him onto her back, took up the basket of shells, and headed for the lagoon.

They must have smelled the blood of the poor thing, she surmised as they headed back to the lagoon. Kyle agreed, taking care to keep the poor rabbit bundled up in his shirt, and not let it see too much or get jostled too much. Sophie was as careful as she could be as they headed back to their ship, both concerned about the poor, helpless little animal, and the reappearance of her hated enemy. Once the rabbit was safe, she was going out to hunt the Serrex down.

Sophie gave a gentle purr as she let Kyle off her back inside the Talon. Kyle carried the trembling bundle over to the far side of the ship and found a spare cardboard box. He set the rabbit inside, still in his shirt. He turned and went to get some vegetables for the rabbit to eat, and a bowl for water. Sophie trilled softly as she came up, curious. She peered into the box at the bundle.

"Careful, Sophie. We don't want to scare it any more," said Kyle as he returned with some lettuce and a bowl of water. He set the food and water into the box and backed away from it. "Let's just leave it for now. Let it calm down." Sophie gave a positive as Kyle got another shirt.

Kyle, how do you know so much about rabbits? she asked, curious about their new little guest. Kyle smiled at her as he pulled on the light-blue t-shirt.

Back when I worked on space stations, some of the really wealthy people had pet rabbits and even a little garden. Kyle let Sophie see his memories of when he had to fix the computer for the automated sprinklers for some rich person's garden.

It was the very first time in his life that Kyle had actually seen and touched grass. The "garden" was a small room, about ten feet square, with grass on the ground and various hedges and shrubs around the edges of the room. Kyle had been able to sit on the soft, cool grass. He was surprised when a white rabbit hopped out from one of the bushes, and came closer. It was also the first time Kyle had any kind of contact with a real flesh and blood animal. He had been awed, petting its soft fur.

Now, to anyone living on a planet, such a thing wouldn't seem like any kind of big deal, but, with the limited space on space stations, and lack of plants, it was a big deal to someone like Kyle. Now, looking back, Kyle could see how small that little room was, and how tiny and scruffy the shrubs were. It was nothing compared to the beautiful world they now called home. Ever since then, Kyle had always dreamed of being able to touch grass and feel the soft touch of real plants.

Kyle sat and brought up the holo-screen and brought up the database. He found the page about rabbits to show Sophie, who was intrigued. Sophie was always curious. She sat behind him on the bed as they read about their new little guest. Sophie trilled with fascination as she learned about this curious little Earth animal. Seeing how rabbits were prey animals, Sophie understood why Kyle had her keep a distance. Sophie was a predator, no doubt about it. It was a fact she was in no way ashamed of, but it did pose problems from time to time. That being said, not even remotely did Sophie feel a desire to hurt the little creature. It wouldn't provide very much food, and Sophie wasn't one to kill just for killing's sake. While she did like to fish, and she had the instinct to hunt, she was not a killer. Hurting small things like the rabbit was the domain of Serrex, not Sophie.

Speaking of those nasty things, Sophie remembered the scent she had detected. She had been so interested by the rabbit, she had forgotten about them. Sophie gave a soft growl as she hugged Kyle, stroking his hair.

Kyle, you stay in here and keep the rabbit safe. I want to go and get rid of those pests. I don't want them breeding and starting the whole mess over again, Sophie mentally growled. Kyle smiled and nodded, knowing Sophie would easily defeat the Serrex. He cupped her face tenderly and gave her a gentle peck on the lips.

XXX

It was close to dusk when Sophie returned to the Talon. She had hunted carefully and long, and managed to track down the few rogue Serrex. One male and two females. Sophie was glad she found them, as that was easily enough to start another population. Three Serrex were absolutely no match for her. She almost felt bad about it . . .almost.

As Sophie approached the spire, she was surprised to feel her mate's flustered, somewhat angry thoughts.

Come back here, you! Sophie was confused as she hurried to the ship.

Kyle, I'm back! What's wrong? She asked as she opened the door.

That little imp got out, Kyle mentally groaned. She purred as she saw Kyle on his hands and knees, trying to catch the rabbit, hiding under a console. "Come on out, you little rodent," Kyle muttered. Sophie was amused as she felt his exasperated thoughts. Sophie gave a soft trill, amused.

How hard could it be to catch? she wondered. Kyle ignored her, and the question as he tried to corner the rabbit. Kyle tried to be nice, making kissing noises, which greatly amused Sophie.

"Come on, you little furball," he said as he leaned forward slowly, trying to be as nonthreatening as he could.

The rabbit jumped and bounded off his head and back. Sophie was surprised when the rabbit extended its legs, and the membrane between then, and glided across the room . . . right into her arms. She wrapped her arms around the black and white rabbit as it fidgeted. She purred gently as she supported it's fragile back with one hand, the other softly stroking it.

It's okay, little one. I won't hurt you. It's all right, she soothed, purring as she stroked it. Kyle stood up and gave a soft huff.

I didn't know it was a Flying Rabbit, he mused as he dusted off his pants.

In the early days of human space exploration, some scientists had genetically engineered some Earth animals to be more adaptive for certain environments. Miniature cows, mountain goat-sheep crosses and flying squirrel-rabbit crosses were just a few. This had been vital in some environments, the mountainous and rugged planet Callus-138 came to mind for the flying rabbits, who would have found it much easier to reach grass at the bottom of the many canyons and cliffs that their normal counterparts could not.

Sophie cooed softly as she stroked the soft fur of the rabbit. After a few moments of fidgeting, it calmed down. Kyle couldn't help a smile, despite the trouble the little imp had caused. Sophie was very fascinated as she examined the little creature. Sophie very carefully held the rabbit up, tilting her head as the rabbit wiggled its nose in that rabbit way. She let it sit on her large hand, not restraining it in any way. Kyle was surprised when the rabbit put its front paws on Sophie's face. Sophie trilled musically.

Aw! She's so cute! Kyle blinked in surprise.

It's a girl? Sophie gave a positive. Kyle had been too busy trying to catch the little troublemaker to check if it was a boy or girl. Kyle smiled as he put his hands on his hips. Sophie continued to purr and coo as she gently petted the rabbit. He wondered what Dr. Reinhardt would think, seeing her being gentle and loving to this small rabbit. Sophie was no bloodthirsty killer, Kyle knew that for a fact. Anybody who thought otherwise only needed to see this. Sophie was the most gentle, tender person he had ever known. "Why don't we put her in the Autodoc to check her?" Kyle asked. Sophie gave a positive as she carried the rabbit over to the machine as Kyle started it up. She set it down carefully, purring as the machine scanned the rabbit.

While the Autodoc was made with humans in mind, it also could scan and display the bio-functions of non-human life as well. Kyle looked at the scan, and smiled. There was very minimal damage. A few bruises that were healing, and she could do with some richer food, but, overall, the rabbit was in good health. Sophie purred happily as she scooped the rabbit up into her arms. Kyle couldn't help a wide grin, feeling how happy his mate was. He gently petted the rabbit as Sophie held her and purred. Well, she seems to really like you, so why don't you name her? Sophie purred as she thought, her tail softly swishing. Sophie gently stroked the rabbit's long ears. She gave a tiny hiss.

I know. I'll call her "Josey"! Kyle blinked as he felt his mate's thoughts, remembering the film about the famous outlaw, Josey Wales. Kyle gave a soft chuckle. The name did seem appropriate, given how much trouble the rabbit could cause.

"Josey she is, then." Sophie purred as she stroked Josey's soft fur. Kyle put his hand on Sophie's shoulder, letting his warm, tender and happy thoughts flow through their link. I'm glad you're happy, Sophie. Sophie purred as she wrapped her tail around him, pulling him close as she hugged him against her with Josey.

Thank you, Kyle. None of this would be, if not for you, she said fondly as she cuddled him. Kyle leaned his head against hers. She gave him a quick peck on the nose, to which Kyle giggled. Sophie grinned and purred at him.

Thank you, Sophie. You're a wonderful mate and friend. She purred as she nuzzled him, letting her thoughts of pure, tender love flow into his mind.

So are you, my sweet, wonderful Kyle.

Author's note: I apologize for not getting this up earlier, but life was being hard, and I didn't want my negative feelings to bleed into Kyle and Sophie's story.

I also want to thank everyone who was kind enough to donate, and help us out of such a tough and horrible time.

An extra-big thanks goes to Phazer 00 and Teshy, who both have been kind, wonderful and encouraging friends through this whole mess.

Thanks, everyone.:)

Read, Review and enjoy.