Chapter Thirteen
Sophie purred to herself as she carefully groomed her tail, carefully nibbling with her tongue to remove the sticks and bits of grass that had stuck to her. Despite what people might think at first glance, her kind were very clean, and rather fastidious groomers.
"Hey there, pretty lady," said Kyle as he watered some of the plants around the hot spring. Sophie purred as she looked up at him.
Hello, my love, she replied lovingly. Kyle smiled at her from where he was, tending the grape vines. Sophie looked down at Josey, who was nibbling some grass next to her. Sophie purred as she stroked the rabbit's fur.
Kyle and Sophie had decided to look over and tend the plants near the hot spring, since the weather was so nice. They were safe from Serrex there, and it was quite lovely. The smell of the Ebelon plants was heavy in the air, but wonderfully refreshing and comforting. Sophie had also taken the opportunity to stretch and dry the Serrek skins she had recently taken. Sophie tossed the nasty bodies into the ocean for local predators and scavengers to eat. She even left some near the Balwars' cliff. Last time she looked, the baby Balwar looked about ready to start flying.
Next to her, Josey sat up and nibbled on the leafs of a fern, looking absolutely adorable to Sophie, who trilled happily. Aw, hello, little Josey, said Sophie as she gently petted her. To say Sophie had taken a shine to the little rabbit would be an understatement.
It had been just shy of a week since they had found her, and already Josey was a loved pet. Of course, that also meant a few troubles. More than a few, actually. After the "piddle incident", Kyle was looking up how to housebreak a rabbit. It wasn't that Kyle was really angry, per se, but nobody liked to wake up to a rabbit sitting on their feet, with the sheets wet with pee. Kyle looked at where his mate was petting Josey, and softly shook his head, a soft smile adorning his face. As much trouble as the little furball was, he was happy Sophie had a pet, and glad she was happy. That was all that really mattered.
He watched as Sophie lowered her face towards Josey. The black and white rabbit looked up at her and wiggled her nose in that rabbit fashion. Kyle couldn't help a chuckle when Sophie imitated the action with her upper lip. It was nothing short of adorable. It was just too hard to stay mad at the little rodent for long. Kyle stood up straight and stretched. He looked at the plants, and was satisfied they would grow bigger and stronger. He glanced up and saw some darker clouds, and could smell rain in the air. He looked at Sophie as she petted Josey.
Looks like rain. Let's go back to the ship, Kyle suggested. Sophie gave a positive as she gathered up Josey and put her into the basket Sophie normally used for herbs and plants. Josey was quite at home riding in the basket with plenty of good greens and someone to protect her. Sophie trilled happily as she wrapped her arm and tail around Kyle as they headed back to their ship. Kyle was happy for Sophie.
Kyle never had any pets before, but it felt nice, having Josey around. Kyle was absolutely delighted at how happy Sophie was at the presence of the little rabbit. Kyle glanced at the basket as Josey nibbled on some vegetables Sophie had brought for her. Kyle leaned his head against Sophie's shoulder as they walked through the woods. I love you, Sophie. She purred as she kissed him on the cheek.
And I love you, my wonderful mate. He gazed lovingly at her as she gave him a peck on the lips.
When they arrived back in the meadow, Kyle noticed something flying towards them. He frowned softly.
"What's that?" he wondered. Sophie gave a soft grunt she she looked up. Whatever it was, it was wobbling all over as it flew towards them. Sophie carefully pulled Josey closer. Kyle was surprised to hear a high-pitched call, a squeak of sorts. The small flying shape flew ever closer. When it was about fifty feet away, Kyle recognized it. "It's the baby Balwar! He's flying, Sophie!" Sophie trilled at this. Kyle was surprised, but amused as the young Balwar crashed into the grass in a manner that was reminiscent of albatross from Earth. It was far from a graceful landing. Sophie laughed and Kyle chuckled. The Balwar grumbled and squawked as it got to its feet. Sophie glanced up, and saw the mother and father Balwar, flying near the other side of the meadow. She gave the softest of growls and she held Josey close.
She didn't hate the Balwar by any stretch, but she didn't want them to hurt Josey, who would make a good meal for them. Kyle gave her warm feelings of comfort as Sophie headed into the spire and their ship to feed Josey and keep her safe. Kyle looked down at the young Balwar, who had come close enough to sniff his leg. "Hey, little fella. Finally flying?" The Balwar chirped and squeaked at him. Kyle glanced up at the mother and father Balwar as they flew in slow circles. They were probably teaching him how to fly over the meadow, so, if he fell, he would land in soft grass. The little Balwar was about the size of Josey, with some green and brown to his coloring. Kyle smiled as he turned and headed for the spire.
"Eep!" came the call from behind him. Kyle turned, and was surprised to see the Balwar scampering after him, looking very cute and comical. Balwar were slightly clumsy and ungainly on land. Well, at least this one was. Kyle began walking towards the ship again, and, once again, the Balwar squeaked as he scampered after him. It was as if he was saying "Wait for me!" Kyle watched as the Balwar caught up with him, sniffing at his pant leg. Kyle chuckled at the cute little predator.
Just as many species can be, the young Balwar had a degree of cuteness to him as he looked up at Kyle with those shiny, golden eyes. Kyle smiled and tried purring. The Balwar trilled in reply, its tail wagging back and forth. Kyle chuckled, thinking he looked adorable. Kyle glanced up when he heard the call of the mother and father as they circled the other side of the field. The baby looked back and squeaked. It looked up at him and squeaked once more before turning and trying to fly, only succeeding in stumbling. Kyle smiled as he came forward, stooped and gently picked the Balwar up. Instead of fighting or fidgeting, it looked at him. Kyle smiled.
"Okay, little fella. Let's get you airborne. One, two, three!" Kyle heaved the Balwar upwards, the young Balwar squeaking as he flapped his wings. Kyle smiled as he managed to get high enough to rejoin his parents. With a smile, Kyle turned to head into the ship.
That was very nice of you, Kyle, said Sophie. Kyle smiled softly at his mate's proud feelings of her mate.
Well, all he needed was a little help. He's just a little fella. Sophie gave a positive as Kyle entered the ship.
Sophie was petting Josey as she fed her some lettuce and a few slices of tomato. Josey happily nibbled her lunch as Sophie purred, petting her gently and tenderly. Kyle watched, amused. It made him feel warm and happy to see Sophie so happy to have a little pet. Josey seemed just as happy to have a friend and someone to protect her. Indeed, despite Sophie's predatory nature, she didn't seem in the least afraid or worried. It just went to show how kind and gentle Sophie really was.
Kyle was surprised when the console beeped. Sophie took Josey over out of sight while Kyle answered the message. He was surprised when Terrance's face appeared.
"Ah! Master Kyle. How are you doing after the storm?" Terrance asked in his typical, polite manner. Kyle smiled as he heard Sophie trill as she fed Josey.
"I'm doing well, Terrance. Thank you for asking. What can I do for you?" Terrance smiled at this.
"Actually, it's quite the other way around. I sold your lovely paintings!" Kyle stared in surprise.
"All of them?" He felt Sophie's curiosity at this. Terrance smiled wider.
"I did indeed. People from off-world were very fascinated by your work! I have the money ready for you to pick up, or I can transfer it, if you like." Kyle smiled at this.
"I have to come in to Zeraven and pick some things up, anyway. I'll be there later today."
"Splendid! I shall see you soon." With that, Terrance closed the link. Sophie trilled as she hugged Kyle as he sat in the chair.
See? I'm so happy for you, Kyle! Now other people can see how good you are! Sophie's mind was awash in feelings of pride and love for him as she cuddled him. Kyle chuckled as he stroked her hands lovingly.
Thanks, Sophie. I owe it all to you. I never would have had the inspiration to paint those things if you hadn't inspired me, he replied lovingly. Sophie kissed him on the cheek.
XXX
It was a little after noon when they landed in Zeraven. There were some slightly dark clouds in the sky, but they were few. Sophie made sure Josey had plenty of veggies to nibble while they were gone, and locked the ship tightly. Kyle looked at a small list of things to do he had written down. He rubbed his chin in thought. "Hmm, let's see: We need some more vegetables, some meat, we also need to look into getting a bed and a table, chairs, maybe a dresser," Kyle muttered as they walked. Sophie purred gently as she hugged him.
Let's stop by the gallery, first, Sophie advised. Kyle smiled and nodded.
Good idea. Maybe you'll see your little friends again, Kyle couldn't help a chuckle at the memory of the Milurian and Shamolene children that Sophie adored. She trilled musically at the memory.
As they passed through Zeraven, they could see there was not as much cheer as there had been. Kyle softly frowned, knowing the reason. Sophie gently hugged him close, the folds of her burnoose gently folding around him, and the gentle, tender folds of her mind enfolding his lovingly, reassuring him and comforting him. Kyle's mind drifted to the slaves, left for dead, with no food, no water and no help.
"Hello, dearies," said a familiar voice. They looked up, and were surprised to see Granny Rose and Gur. The elderly woman smiled kindly at them with her usual, warm smile.
"Granny, Gur. Nice to see you again," said Kyle as she hugged him. Sophie purred as she too gave Granny a hug.
"Likewise, dearie. We were very worried about you two. How're you healing?" Kyle smiled softly as Sophie wrapped her arm around him and pulled him close.
"I'm feeling better. My knight in shining armor has been right here for me," said Kyle as he hugged Sophie back, to which she purred deeper. Granny Rose seemed to glow with happiness. Gur twittered his agreement. Kyle looked at the two of them. "How did you two know we'd be here?" Kyle asked, Sophie trilling curiously. Granny Rose chuckled.
"Oh, I have my ways, sweetie," she chuckled. Gur seemed amused too, appearing to whistle innocently.
As Granny Rose and Gur accompanied Kyle and Sophie to the gallery, Kyle explained what they were shopping for. Granny Rose looked thoughtful when Kyle mentioned furniture. "Hmm, I think I can help you there, dearies. But, first, let's go pay Terrance a visit, shall we?" Kyle nodded and Sophie purred.
XXX
Terrance smiled as Kyle, Granny Rose and Gur all entered the gallery. Sophie had climbed up some of the buildings so she could observe, without being observed herself.
"Ah, Rosalyn! So nice to see you again!" said Terrance as he embraced her. She chuckled to herself.
"Than you, Terry, for helping this wonderful young man find his place," she said warmly. Terrance smiled, his mustache twitching.
"Please, Rosalyn. Must you call me that ridiculous nickname?" the amusement was clear in his voice.
"Why, of course!" she replied. Gur twittered with amusement at this. Terrance looked up as Kyle was looking at a painting.
Kyle was looking at a painting of a Paleyan Phoenix in flight against mountains as the sun set. The Phoenix wasn't the main focus of the painting, but it was lovely. With Kyle's help, Sophie was able to see all the colors and the subtle nuances of the painting, without ever setting foot in the gallery herself.
Hmm, it looks nice, but it also looks a little flat, seen from the side like that, Sophie mused. Kyle smiled and agreed.
Well, some people have a hard time drawing or painting from certain angles. It's not always easy. Sophie gave a soft, gentle purr as she agreed.
"Ah, Master Kyle. So nice to see you again," said Terrance as he approached. Kyle chuckled.
"Nice to be back, Terrance. Thank you for being kind enough to display my work." Terrance chuckled at this.
"Oh, no. It's I who should thank you, young Sir. Your marvelous work got immediate attention, and, I dare say, a very good price. Now, come with me, and I'll get your money. You most certainly earned it."
Kyle, Granny Rose and Gur followed Terrance into the office of the gallery. In short order, he brought up a good, strong box that clinked with coins. "Let's see, your profit comes out to six-hundred Collin. A very good profit for a first-time artist, if I do say so," said Terrance as he signed the receipt slip. "And they're very much looking forward to your next works." Kyle smiled shyly as he felt Sophie gently stoke his mind, her feelings warm, gentle and happy. Granny Rose chuckled and Gur twittered with amusement.
"Since we'll be shopping today, Terrance, why don't you leave out two-hundred Collin, and have the rest delivered to Kyle's ship," said Granny Rose. Kyle looked at her and smiled. Terrance smiled as he made the arrangements.
XXX
Kyle almost couldn't believe how quickly his work had sold, and for how much. The fact people were eagerly waiting for more was also a shock. Sophie purred as she hugged Kyle as they walked with Granny Rose and Gur.
See, Kyle? You're a talented artist, and they see it, she said softly. Kyle smiled as he hugged her back, her deep purr loud enough for Granny and Gur to hear quite clearly.
"Now, then, dearies, let's see about some furniture for you," said Granny as Gur twittered, feelers waving.
Kyle and Sophie followed Granny and Gur to a store with a large front window, and a carved wooden sign above: Nara's Jumble Shop. The bell above the door rang as they entered.
"Ah, Granny! How nice to see you," said a voice. Kyle couldn't help smiling at the male Baleeja who tended the shop.
He was not as tall as Sophie, but taller than Kyle. He was a soft, chestnut-brown color, his muscles looking powerful, yet sleek.
"Hello, Nara. I want you to meet Kyle and Sophie," she said, motioning to the two. Nara smiled warmly as he shook Kyle's hand. Sophie kept her hand covered in her burnoose.
"How wonderful to meet you. Granny's told me so much about you. So, what can I do for you?" asked Nara as he stood with his hands on his hips. Kyle fished out his list.
"Uh, we need some furniture. A bed and table at least," Kyle replied as Sophie purred gently. Nara looked thoughtful at this, touching his chin.
"I have several beds, and I also have plenty of tables to choose from. Here, come and have a look," said Nara as he led Kyle and Sophie to the back of the shop. Kyle stared at the whole warehouse full of furniture and other odds and ends.
"Wow," said Kyle, voice echoing in the large space.
"I keep everything organized by type. Otherwise, I'd never be able to find anything!" Nara chuckled. Kyle stared as he walked among the aisles of furniture and other things. "Beds are over here," said Nara, leading Kyle and Sophie towards one side of the warehouse. Kyle looked at the beds, which ranged from very simple, metal frames, to elaborate, carved wooden ones that looked more at home in a Medieval castle than in a jumble shop on Zerichs II.
Kyle was so bewildered at the many different types. Sophie, though, was looking carefully, giving soft purrs and growls now and then as she judged each bed, checking size and many other factors. She gave a soft grunt as she pressed her hand down on the mattress of one of the beds, carefully feeling it for softness and support. Kyle was surprised, but stood back and let Sophie judge the beds. She knew what she was looking for, and he knew she would pick something comfortable and nice for the both of them. Sophie went along, testing the beds, until she trilled happily, finding one that matched what she was looking for, both in feel, and look. Kyle came forward, and was surprised.
It was a canopy bed, made with a wrought iron frame. The frame was a little rusted in several places, but it was sturdy, and the mattress was comfortable.
This? Are you sure, Sophie? Kyle asked as he came over. Sophie trilled happily, giving a positive and warm feelings she she pulled him onto the bed with her, trying it. Kyle had to admit, it was comfy.
This is perfect! This is just what I was looking for! Kyle looked at her, then the bed.
Isn't it kind of . . . plain? Sophie purred, her mind awash with warm feelings, and also something akin to mischief.
Oh, you let me take care of that, my love . . ., she mentally purred.
If Kyle had wanted, he could have seen just what his mate had planned, but that would have spoiled any surprise. He trusted Sophie, and agreed. He smiled as he looked at Nara.
"We'll take it," said Kyle with a smile. Nara grinned, arms crossed, tail swishing with amusement.
XXX
Kyle couldn't help a smile as Sophie purred, holding his hand as they walked with Granny Rose.
They had bought the bed, a dresser and a nice table with two chairs, and all for one hundred Collin even. That was a pretty good deal. The table even came with two sets of legs, so it could be lowered, and people sit around it on cushions. "Thanks again, Granny. You and Gur have been a big help to us," said Kyle as Sophie trilled her agreement. Granny chuckled and Gur twittered.
"Oh, you're welcome, dearies. It's the least I could do," said Granny as the four of them walked.
As they neared the docks, Kyle saw a group of people he had never seen before.
They were quite clearly members of the Celtic Tribes, but they were different from the others he had seen. These men and women were leaning against very large hover-bikes, and quite intimidating ones at that. They were dressed in shades of gray, black and browns, all very muted colors. Some were smoking pipes, others were sipping from canteens of water. They all wore tattoos of the complex, curving spirals the Celts were famous for. Even their faces were tattooed.
"Granny? Who're they?" Kyle asked, looking at the strange members of the Tribes. Granny Rose frowned softly.
"They're the Banshee Squadrons. They're member of the Tribes, but they are tasked with dealing with outside threats, rather than other Tribes, like Brennus and other warriors do. You might look at them as the Celtic Air Force, after a fashion," explained Granny Rose as Kyle looked at them. There was something kind of . . . frightening about the Banshees. They looked far more serious and more focused than the other warriors. Sophie wrapped her arms around him tenderly, pulling him close. Granny Rose saw Kyle's face, and gently patted his shoulder. "Don't be afraid, either of you. They're as trustworthy as Brennus and the others. They were the ones who found the containers of slaves, and that caught the bounders responsible." Sophie purred as this, stroking Kyle's hair.
They're good people if they saved those poor slaves, said Sophie as she gently crooned. Kyle smiled and nodded.
It was then the Banshees suddenly snapped to attention, standing up straight and bowing their heads, hands over their chests. Kyle and Sophie turned to see a procession of Celts heading towards the docks. The same woman in white clothing was at the head of the column, carrying an urn. Several of the warriors were also carrying similar urns. The woman was chanting in her language, the warriors responding. It was some kind of poem, as the words rhymed. Kyle recognized Brennus among them as they headed to the docks. Granny Rose gently touched Kyle's hand and Gur twittered, bowing his head.
"They're carrying the ashes of the slaves who didn't survive," she explained. Kyle looked at her, then back to the long line of Celts.
"Who's the lady in white?" Kyle asked. Granny Rose gave a weak smile.
"She, Kyle, is the Arch Druid of the AurAul Tribe. She's the highest person in their Tribe." Sophie trilled as Kyle stared at the Arch Druid.
She was now standing at the very edge of the docks, the warriors arranged on either side of her. She held up the urn, as did the warriors.
"Now have they passed unto the Otherworld! They are free from pain and suffering! Never again shall they want for food, nor shelter! Blessed they are, for now they dine in the Halls of the Gods! Let their ashes nourish the seas, and let us honor their memory! From this life to the next!" cried the Arch Druid. With this, she tilted the urn, letting the ashes spill out into the seas, the warriors doing the same. "Hail the honored dead!"
"Hail!" the warriors cried in one thunderous voice. Sophie purred at this show of respect, even love for those whom the Celts now buried in the seas.
How kind of them. Such love and devotion for people they didn't even know, she mused as she rubbed Kyle's shoulders. Kyle agreed mentally. They watched as the Celts talked in their own language, the tone somber. Kyle noticed Brennus talking with a pair of Baleeja in Celtic. They nodded as a group of Celts formed and went off towards the North, while the Arch Druid and the rest went back the way they came.
"Good Tribes, care for people. Honor, mercy, compassion," said Gur through his keyboard. Kyle smiled and nodded. Granny Rose smiled as she looked at Kyle.
"Now then, Dearie. What else do you have on your list?" she asked. Kyle blinked as Sophie purred and touched his shoulder.
We have to get some food next, Kyle, Sophie gently reminded him. Kyle smiled at her.
"We have to get some meat, vegetables and maybe some fruit." Granny smiled and Gur twittered, feelers waving.
"Ah, good idea. We have to get a few things ourselves. Come," said Granny Rose as she and Gur led the way.
XXX
The market wasn't as bustling as it had been, but there was still people doing business and buying and bartering. It was very obvious that everyone was shaken and saddened by what had taken place. It was a little hard for Kyle to concentrate on the task at hand, but Sophie helped comfort his mind. It was just another example of how grateful he was that she was in his life, and how the Bond helped them both comfort and protect each other.
"Dearie, here's something you may like," said Granny Rose, gaining his attention. Kyle looked at the meat stand, and read the sign.
"What's 'Sheebo'?" Kyle asked as Sophie trilled softly in interest.
"Sheebo is the only 'meat' the Milurians eat, Dearie. But, it's actually both animal and plant. They look like giant broccoli to our eyes," she chuckled. Kyle blinked at that. Both plant and animal?
"Um, how does it taste?" Kyle asked, unsure about something so strange. Granny Rose chuckled and Gur clicked his beak.
"It tastes like shrimp. It's very good with butter and salt." Kyle looked at the Milurian food, which did look like shrimp meat, slightly transparent and gray. Sophie gave a positive, and he smiled as he brought out some coins.
"Why not? Never hurts to try something new," he mused as Sophie purred.
They also got some fruit and vegetables from other stands before heading back towards the docks. They were about halfway there, when someone called out.
"Hoy!" They turned as Constable Hamish came running up. "Ah, been looking for you! You're hard to find, you know?" Hamish joked. Kyle chuckled and scratched his neck as Sophie purred and hugged him.
"So, what do you need, Constable?" Kyle asked. Hamish smiled and brought out a sheet of paper.
"We got your money back from that rat that cheated ye!" he replied as he handed Kyle the sheet, which he opened and read. It declared that "Trevor Stone" had been cheated, in violation of the Fair Land Act and endangered in violation of the Land Disclosure and Sale Act, and that Kenneth "Bud" Brown had violated Trade and Merchant laws and guidelines, and was Blacklisted from Trading and holding a business license. Kyle stared at the whole thing, reading every line. It ended with the seal of Zeraven Superior Court in red wax.
"Wow . . . I-I don't even-" Kyle looked up at Hamish, who was grinning. "Was there a trial?" Kyle asked. Hamish nodded.
"Aye, and the bastard lost spectacularly!" he laughed. "He had no defense for what he did, and all the evidence was plain as day! It was so clear-cut, we had no need to involve you at all. Besides, you were still healing and such." Hamish straightened his beret and put his hands on his hips. "So, you got your money back, and you get to keep the island, too." Granny Rose smiled and Gur chirped.
"And that nasty bounder won't be able to cheat anyone again. I'd say it all worked out well, given the circumstances," said Granny. Sophie purred and hugged Kyle a little tighter, lifting him up just a bit.
"So, what about the people from the treehouse? Did you manage to find their next of kin?" Kyle asked. Hamish frowned at this.
"Not yet, but we're doing our best. Nailing the bugger on that will be a little tougher, but I think we can at least prove he had a hand in it." Kyle frowned as Sophie growled lowly. Hamish smiled at them.
"The trial for that will be longer, but I'm sure he won't get away. The bugger's under House-Arrest. If we find any kin, they'll get part of his money as compensation. If not, he'll serve Hard Labor for a good seven years, then be deported. Scum like him aren't welcome here!" said Hamish with a harrumph and crossed his arms. Sophie nodded her head with a soft growl of agreement.
They heard some distant thunder, and Hamish looked back at the clouds to the West. "Another storm coming. You go back home and get comfy. The money's back in your account, so don't worry." Granny Rose smiled at Hamish.
"Thank you, Dear Heart. We couldn't ask for kinder police than yourselves." Hamish scratched his hair and chuckled.
"Well, I have to be getting back. Stay safe!" With that, Hamish headed back towards Zeraven.
I'm glad that awful man got what he deserved! Sophie growled as she gently rocked Kyle side to side.
So am I, Sophie. Now, he can't hurt anybody anymore, Kyle replied. Sophie gave a positive. Granny Rose smiled as she watched them, Gur twittering as he touched her shoulder.
"Well, it looks like these old bones weren't aching for nothing. You dears get back and snuggle and be warm while the storm hits," said Granny Rose as she rubbed her hands. Kyle smiled and nodded, Sophie purred in agreement.
"We will. Thank you, Granny. You've really helped us a lot." She smiled and nodded.
"I'll see you next time, dears." Kyle gave her a hug, as did Sophie, before they headed back to their ship.
The bed and other furniture had been delivered and stored in the cargo hold for them. All they had to do was get it home and unload it, which Sophie was excited to do. She was already planning how to arrange their home, and her secret plan for their bed, which Kyle was curious about, but left it for a surprise.
Upon entering the ship, Kyle wasn't too surprised to be greeted by a fluffy, little, white rabbit bottom on top of the table in the galley as Josey once again demonstrated her ability to escape. Sophie trilled as she came over and picked Josey up off the table where she had been nibbling some cabbage. Kyle couldn't help but smile as Sophie wrapped Josey in the folds of her burnoose and cradled her. Kyle smiled as he headed to the pilot's chair.
"Let's go home," he said as Sophie took a seat with him, Josey in her lap.
XXX
They beat the storm home as the sun was just starting to set. As eager as Sophie was to start on their bedroom, Kyle suggested they wait until the next day, as it was getting dark, and with more rain on the way, it would complicate things even more. Sophie reluctantly agreed as they brought the food out and began preparing the evening meal. Kyle cooked the Sheebo as Granny Rose advised, and, oh, it was delicious! He just had to tell Shiloh he had tried it! Sophie also liked it, the delicate, salty but delectable flavor was just wonderful. Sophie thought it would make a wonderful addition to Kyle's bisque, which he heartily agreed.
The rain softly pattered on the windshield of the ship as night fell, but the wind was very gentle. Kyle and Sophie snuggled in bed as Kyle read one of the books he had bought from Purrthin, Sophie's arms and tail wrapped around his waist as they settled for the night.
"So, excited we've got our own bed now?" Kyle asked. Sophie purred as she gave a positive.
Yes. The ship is nice, but I will be happy to sleep in our home. Kyle could feel excited thoughts from Sophie as she thought how she wanted to arrange their bedroom. What she planned to do with the bed, she kept to herself. Kyle could have seen, if he wanted, but that would ruin any surprise. He trusted Sophie, and just smiled.
Kyle looked up when he felt a weight land on his feet. Josey had hopped up on the bed, looking at him with her brown eyes and wiggling her nose. Kyle chuckled and Sophie purred. The little rabbit really was cute, even if she could be a mischievous little furball. Josey wiggled forward to sit on his feet, and Kyle looked over the top of his book to glare at the furry little creature.
"You pee on me again, and it's fricasseed rabbit," he warned. Sophie gave a shocked hiss.
Kyle!
Author's note: I apologize for such a long silence on this story, and that does deserve an explanation.
The last time I had posted this, we had just gotten through one crisis, with the help of some of my wonderful readers, to whom I am eternally grateful. Right after that, we had a really nasty scare with my Mom, involving the C-word. Needless to say, it's hard, if not impossible to write when you're scared, worried and depressed. While we got through that scare, more things cropped up. Between job-hunting, repairs, and everything else, I was too tired to write, and when I did, the bad things began creeping into Kyle and Sophie's story, and I didn't want that.
Things have stabilized a bit, but I'm still looking for work. So, while updates may not be as regular as they once were, I will do my best to update at least once a month.
I also want to give a shout out to everyone who was kind enough to donate when we needed, and tell you that you all are immortalized as the "Zeraven Irregulars"!