Salvage and Seduction
By Lykanos Wulfheart
      
       Spinning in place, the salvage ship, Kashokoi-Hebi, gently backed into its landing zone, a master at the controls. After touching down, the engines whirred as the power cut off, the rig sandwiched between two smaller cargo transports. The bay was a large dock meant for the trading of goods, a long row of space vessels lined up between an energy field protecting the personnel from the vacuum of space and the metal doorways that let people and vehicles rush in and out, merchandise flowing between the ships and the rest of the enormous space station.
      
       Helios Prime had started as a mid-sized outpost for refueling and minor trading, but it quickly grew into the central hub of the sector, expanding into mass commerce, entertainment, and civilization. It sported shops for just about anything legal and a few things sinister, a variety of activities, and one of the more diverse food courts in that quadrant of space. At first it wasn't really designed for mass occupation, but that rapidly changed as more and more visitors decided to stay and work in such a bustling environment. Though it went through several upgrades over the decades, Helios Prime has always been regarded as one of the best places to do business.
      
       "And we're here," announced Tatsuya proudly as he spun out of the pilot's seat, dragon-like claws clacking as they met metal. His red, Asian style robes billowed as he stretched, his old frame creaking from the action. Like his granddaughter, the captain of the vessel, he was Drakken, a humanoid serpent race that resembled dragons of myth. Though his coppery scales had lost some luster with age, his orangey yellow eyes were full of life, ready to prepare for adventure. "I've got a few things to get ready, so I'll take my leave. I'll meet you in the cargo bay in three cycles."
      
       Still the newest member of the crew, the "werewolf" Zee, a mostly black anthropomorphic wolf who was recently rescued from cryo stasis, looked confused, still not accustomed to the universal unit of time. Fortunately for him, Pho noticed his quizzical head tilt, offering him a unit he did know. Thirty Terran minutes. Half an hour." She was the ship's doctor and adorably feminine Pantail, a species of human-like red pandas. After a brief pause, she seemed excited about the possibilities of the station. "Ooh, I should change into something nice! Maybe Tran and I could go out for some lunch." Hustling after Tatsuya, her long, ringed tail twitched with delight, disappearing as Kaida and Zee remained in their seats.
      
       With a worried huff, Zee spoke as he slouched forward, the words strangely reluctant for such a predatory looking soldier. "So, what about me? Should I just hang out on the ship? I'm not sure if I'm ready for this yet."
      
       Getting up herself, Kaida walked over and placed a gentle hand on Zee's fuzzy grey shoulder. "Try not to worry too much. This is a pretty safe port. Just stick with one of us and we'll show you around when we can." The compassionate squeeze eased a bit of the tension from his body as the captain's green, scaly features moved to the doorway. "But for now you can go help Tran and Misha in the cargo bay. They should have most of it taken care of, but knowing them, they could use your muscle."
      
       "Alright," he chuckled as he followed her out, splitting off to aid his new companions.
      
       ***
      
       The three in the cargo hold had finished and were exchanging stories when Tatsuya arrived followed by his granddaughter. As the group gathered, Tran, the lanky, blonde human, couldn't help but stare as Pho walked in, her charm stealing his attention. She had changed out her medical garb for a long-sleeved, elegant green cardigan that opened over a basic white half-tee. The black leggings blended into the dark fur of her lower calves while the earrings he'd bought dangled from her white, fuzzy ears, the bright green orbs matching her eyes. Pushing up his round glasses, he let out a pleased sigh before complimenting her with a drawn out, "You're stunning."
      
       Pho's tail curled up shyly as she wrapped her hands around Tran's shoulders in a loving embrace. "You really think so?"
      
       "Oh, I know so," he flirted back before leaning into a kiss, the long tail wrapping around his legs in a warm hug of its own.
      
       Clearing her throat, Kaida broke up the tender moment. "Alright, you two. You can be all lovey-dovey later. For now, mission briefing. Gramps, care to do the honors?"
      
       Stroking at the two, coppery strands of flesh that hung like a long mustache, one under each nostril, Tatsuya nodded as he pulled out a couple data pads. "We will be breaking up into three groups." Handing Tran one of the devices, he continued. "You and our lovely Pho will sell the ammo to one of my contacts here. His name is Porter Balince and he owns one of the leading arms shops. I've marked prices on the pad that we agreed on. If he tries to lower any of them, let him know we'll sell to a contact on Stratos 3."
      
       Activating the handheld device, he showed the information to Pho as he asked, "Isn't that a lunar colony that's a bit out of our way?"
      
       A subtle nod preceded his confirmation, "It is and it is. The reward would be the same, though inconvenient. They are willing to pay more for the older projectile rounds, but it would be canceled by our fuel costs. Ideally, Porter will hold to his word. Also, see if he'll buy the guns. He didn't seem as interested in them, but seeing the product in person may change his mind." Thinking about it, he advised, "You may want to take a gun and a clip of each ammo type. He likes the personal approach. Oh, and make sure to check in with the security force at the gate. I'd hate to get into any trouble here on Helios."
      
       Tran's expression seemed to agree, "Yea, the less trouble, the better. I think we have a case I can use to transport everything without it looking suspicious." Giving Pho another quick smooch, he said, "I'll be right back," before running off to change into clean clothes and find the briefcase.
      
       Tatsuya went back to explaining the missions as the Terran left. "The next group, myself and my granddaughter, will be selling the cryo chambers. There's a man here who's a part of some Terran science group that expressed significant interest in the pods, the projects inside, and the research data we found. All in all, we should be getting almost five times the value of the pods, so it's a hard opportunity to pass up." Noticing Zee's ears droop and eyes move to the crates, he added in an apologetic tone, "I'm sorry Zee. I really wanted to give them a proper funeral, but the crew could really use the credits."
      
       With a pained shake of the head, Zee slowly responded. "It's not that. It's just... I could just have likely been in one of those pods. A corpse to be cut apart."
      
       A nudge to the leg stopped his moping as the shortest of the crew, Misha Delaroe, the Mousian mechanic standing at a tiny four foot two, wiggled her tiny pink nose. "Hey, on the bright side, we're glad we found you. You're a good guy, Zee."
      
       The aged Drakken agreed with the mouse lady, a calming, clawed hand resting on Zee's shoulder. "We're all glad we could save at least one of you, though my heart is still heavy for your comrades. That is why we will be taking care of this while Misha will be showing you around." A hidden wink to the pipsqueak preceded a pat to the wolf's black fluff. "As much as my granddaughter hates Terran time, you have five hundred years of catching up to do, and Misha is the perfect candidate to show you around and teach you what you've missed." Kaida's groan brought a smile to the reptilian face, pointed teeth shimmering with glee.
      
       Misha took the werewolf's paw-like hand with a joyous tug, pulling the towering beast behind her. "Come on, Zee. We can check out the shops while I tell you the important things to know." What Zee didn't know is that the little rodent had set this all up beforehand, asking Tatsuya to pair them up so that she might take the handsome lycanthrope on a little date. She didn't want to give it away, though, so she dressed as usual, a leather brown jumpsuit with the arms tied around her waist as if a belt. She did choose one of her nicer orange tops, a softer color that meshed well with the delicate pink of her nose, feet, and hands. On her head, she wore a pair of welding goggles that blended beautifully with her light brown fur as the darker browns of her hair flowed over, braided into neat, shoulder-length dreads.
      
       Before they got too far, Tatsuya called Zee back. "I almost forgot. Zee, since you don't have any credits..." Reaching into some unknown pocket within his noble robes, the old lizard produced a small credit chip, a flat device with a display built in. "Here, take this. I put five hundred credits on it for you."
      
       Kaida interrupted his kindness with an irritated, "Oh no. Where are we getting those funds from? Come on, Gramps, we still need to pay for supplies!"
      
       With a disarming wave, he spoke calmly to settle his hot-headed relative. "It's from my account, Kaida. If you like, we can deduct it from his share of the profits, but he needs something to start with." Her huff let him know he'd won, so he turned his attention back to the wolfman, handing over the tiny device. "Don't lose it. It's got all of your credits on it until we can open you a proper account. That will likely have to wait for tomorrow, though. You should just need to swipe that at the store where you're purchasing your goods from. Five hundred should buy you either a nice weapon or some good clothes and a fancy meal. However you chose to spend it, the funds are yours." Leaning in close, he whispered, "And you don't need to pay me back. Our secret."
      
       The hiss of disproval let him know he was caught. "I heard that, you old snake," stated Kaida, forked tongue poking out with childish displeasure. "Fine, you can do what you like with your credits, but don't come crying to me when you run out." Though Tatsuya could tell she was kidding, Zee seemed to think the young Drakken was serious as she walked off.
      
       Offering the money back to Tatsuya, Zee seemed hesitant to keep the gift. "Thank you, but I'd hate to impose. If it makes your granddaughter uncomfortable, I couldn't."
      
       Pushing the dark padded fingers closed over the credit chip, the coppery scales seemed to shimmer with the genuine kindness of the dragon. "She was teasing, my boy. It's hard to tell when she gets so fiery, but these are yours now. Go get yourself something nice." Walking after the captain, he spun gracefully to add, "And have fun. Helios Prime is a place to enjoy. Stick with Misha and she'll keep you out of trouble." With that, he whipped back and jogged after the green lizard-lady in the leather jacket.
      
       ***
      
       Near the edge of the main bazar rested an older looking establishment, the crooked sign at the top of the steel store reading "Balince'd Ballistics". Though the windows showed stock of blasters and other armaments, it was almost impossible to see anything beyond that. As Tran headed for the door, case in hand, his lovely wife clung to his arm, the elegance of her outfit a step above his own. His greyish blue dress shirt was loosely tucked into tan jeans while the shoes were basic brown hiking footwear. With the top button popped, he gave off an extremely casual business vibe that Pho's feminine charm offset enough to make him seem more a man on a date than a professional.
      
       With the push of a button, the metal door slid open, granting them entrance and a view of the shop. The space was unoccupied save for a hulking grey man behind the counter, his features blocky and wide like that of a stone gargoyle. In a gruff, yet inviting tone, the curator called them in. "Welcome. Welcome to my shop. Getting the missus some protection?"
      
       Walking up to the counter, Tran's Pantail companion released his arm so he could get to work. Setting the black briefcase up on the glass display, he said, "Ryuu Tatsuya sent us," as he spun the latches to face Porter Balince.
      
       "Haha," stated the man with the concrete completion, his gravelly voice more impressed than it was happy. "So, you must be a part of his crew. Well, his youngster's crew now, isn't it?"
      
       "Yes sir," mentioned Pho, her cheer bringing a grin to the vendor's wide jaw.
      
       Tran pushed up his glasses before getting to work. "He said you agreed on prices already, but that you'd want to check the merchandise. Feel free to take as long as you like."
      
       Porter chuckled as his massive fingers undid the latch, "Right to business, eh? That old Drakken and I would usually banter about tales of intrigue, but I assume you two would like some time to yourselves, no doubt." As Pho bashfully looked away, hand to her cheek and tail coiling shyly, the gentle giant picked up the pistol and looked it over. "Sorry about my boldness there, little lady. Just like seeing real love every now and again." With a grating noise best described as him clearing his throat, he pulled back the slide and picked up a clip for the weapon he held. "This looks like old Terran military armaments. Good condition, too." Holding up both the gun and clip curiously, he asked as if a child with a new toy, "Mind if I try a round? I'll pay for it."
      
       With an accepting nod, Tran agreed, knowing full well what the golem intended to do. The stony man set the gun down as he removed a single bullet from the clip, looked it over thoroughly, and then slipped it back into place. In a quick movement, he grabbed the firearm, inserted the clip, and shot off a round... right into his palm.
      
       Pho's terrified scream rang through the shop as she buried her face into her husband's chest, pulling at his arms as her tail seized around him, begging for protection.
      
       "Didn't mean to startle you there, missus," said the rough voice before he opened his hand and took a whiff of the spent powder.
      
       Tran gave a soft chuckle which was rightfully met with a soft pound of Pho's fist to his skinny pec. The action only made him chuckle harder as he said, "Oh, come on. That was pretty funny." Seeing that she wasn't laughing, he commented, "His species is pretty resilient."
      
       "Boggren," said the blocky brute as he put the spent ammo down and unloaded the gun, taking the round out of the chamber and loading it back into the clip. "For ancient ammunition, it still smells pretty fresh. Wasn't kept on world, was it? You must have salvaged it from the vacuum for the powder to stay so dry."
      
       With another nod, Tran smirked, "Indeed we did."
      
       Closing the case, Porter thought for a moment before giving his decision. The rocky voice seemed impressed as he spoke, "Had there been any must in the odor, I'd have to ask for a lower price... but these are quality rounds. I'll take your whole stock at the listed prices. The guns, though, they never really sell too well. I can offer you the value of their scrap cost... but seeing as Tatsuya is a friend and all. Here." Pulling a data pad from below the counter, he did a series of clicks before speaking to them again. "If you check, the funds have been sent. You can bring the goods whenever it's convenient. Also, I sent that old lizard a couple names of collectors who may pay for quality vintage firearms."
      
       With a surprised pleasantness, Pho bowed as she thanked the shopkeeper. "T-thank you, Mr. Balince. It was very kind of you to share this information."
      
       After Tran collected the case, Porter rested the mass of his arms on the counter. "No trouble at all. You just tell the old coot that he owes me some tales of adventure before he leaves."
      
       "Will do," chuckled the human as he put an arm around his lovely mate.
      
       Waving his thick hands to scoot his visitors out, Porter commanded them with a friendly gruffness, "Now get out of here and spend some time together. I can't stand you two wasting that passion in this place. Go! Bring the shipment tomorrow." Another kind bow from the red panda lady and they were off.
      
       ***
      
       Zee's head was swimming. He and Misha had only made it a little ways into the populated sectors of the market when he had to step off to the side. The various species looked strange, the odors that bombarded his untrained nose were staggering, and wearing only a pair of brown shorts to cover his black and grey fur left him feeling naked compared to the humanoid species sporting garb similar to what he had when he was human. Pushing his back to the wall, he moved his paws over his eyes as he slid down, the massive fingers hiding even the grey line of fur that looked like a scar over his right eye. With a heaving chest, he tried to slow his breathing, the immensity of the situation overwhelming him. He flinched when the delicate hand touched his fur.
      
       The little Mousian slid next to him, stroking his arm as her tail swept to the side, the short brown fuzz of it drawing close to her feet so no one would step on it. "Zee? Zee, what's wrong?"
      
       Still huffing frantically, he tried his best to answer, "I-I can't. It's so much so fast. Too many races. Too many smells. The smells! The noise!"
      
       Standing back up, Misha stepped in front of the werewolf and flattened his ears forward, lowering the volume of the world around him. "Just breathe. Focus on me. Just stay focused on my voice... my scent. Let the others fade out." Gently, her fingers worked into the fur around his ears, soothing the panic from his ragged breathing.
      
       Slowly, the canine relaxed, moving his hands to his lap as his puffing slowed back to normal. Opening his eyes, the first sight was of the little lady's chest, forcing his glance to shift shyly. When he was finally acclimated to his surrounding, he hesitantly asked, "How did you know to do that?"
      
       Sitting to the burly beast's right once more, she smiled as her cheery voice answered. "It happened to one of my little sisters once. It was her first time to the big city and she froze up. Just like you, it was the all the stimulation, sights, sounds, all of it."
      
       Looking at his lap, still trying to come out of his sudden embarrassment, Zee took the opportunity to learn more about his crewmate. "So, how many siblings did you have?"
      
       "Oldest of five," she stated proudly, "And the only one to go off world. Most of my people tend not to be as adventurous as I am, though it's been changing since we opened trade with more species. I actually became a mechanic so that I could fly through space and explore the universe." Wiggling her dainty pink digits, she added, "And tiny fingers help you get into tight spaces, so Mousian mechanics find work pretty fast."
      
       Finally relaxing, Zee let his legs slide out as his curiosity grew. "If you don't mind my asking, how did you join the crew?"
      
       "Tatsuya actually found me. I'll tell you the story if you walk with me. It should help ease your mind as we go further." Hopping to her feet, she offered a hand to the wolf, knowing full well she'd be unable to take all his weight.
      
       "Fair enough," smirked Zee as he took her hand. Using his other, he pushed himself up as to not topple his caretaker. Almost six foot himself, he towered over the humanoid mouse as he asked, "So, was Tatsuya in charge when he found you?"
      
       Leading the way down the wide hall, Misha giggled at the question. "Oh no. I'm not that old. I joined on shortly after Kaida took over, just about..." pausing to calculate the time he'd understand, she held up her fingers, "five Terran years, give or take. You see, I had been working on a space station, way smaller than this one and way closer to home. Used to do maintenance in the food court. Probably how I got good at cooking. As much as I liked the work, the life was too stagnant. I wanted to explore, not just hear about the stories of visitors."
      
       As the pair moved into one of the more open spaces, Misha kept an eye on her charge, though he seemed pretty content listening to her talk. With a grin, she continued, "So, what I did was post my qualifications to a job board. Although I had only done minor repairs on a few transports, I had been a mechanic for almost three years at that point, though I'd only spent a year of that in space. I knew I'd have a lot of competition, especially with so little experience, but Tatsu showed up one evening and asked me why I wanted to be a starship mechanic. I was so nervous I had to have squeaked like ten times, but I said 'I want to see the stars up close. Visit new civilizations and be a part of something bigger.' Pretty sure I said 'adventure' a few times, too." With a shrug, she said, "But it was exactly what he was looking for. Offered me the job and said that I was his first and only choice from the posts he'd seen. Seems I had the traveler's spirit he was seeking."
      
       Zee's chuckle was genuine as he agreed, "Tatsuya seems like a great guy. Even having only met him a bit ago, his kindness is astounding."
      
       A joyous chirp sounded her approval. "He's been a saint for as long as I've known him. Actually, he spends more of his funds on his friends and crewmates than he does on himself. And even though she doesn't seem like it usually, his granddaughter is more like him than she admits. She loves to give off that 'tough captain' vibe, but she's a softy where it counts." Spinning around to face her companion, happiness shimmered in her black-tinted, pinkish eyes. "Enough about me and the crew, though. What about you? Did you grow up on Terra?"
      
       "I think so," said the werewolf as they continued walking. "It was called Earth when I was there, but I grew up on the planet. I was raised out in the country when there was still some left. Like you, I was an adventure seeker, so I joined the military when I was able. When they offered, I jumped at the chance to go to space... which is how I ended up here."
      
       "And we're glad you did," she beamed. "So, any family?" As soon as she said it, her round ears sagged with the realization that they'd all be gone. "I'm sorry, I wasn't thinking."
      
       "No, no," he stammered, keeping the pep in his eyes. "It's alright. I never had any siblings, but I did have a bunch of cousins that lived nearby. We'd always run off and find some sort of mischief. Aside from them and my parents, it was always my squad that took the place of family."
      
       Having made their way into a large, circular opening with paths shooting off in all directions and small stall vendors speckling the plaza, Misha stopped them by one of the benches under what looked almost like a palm tree, though the leaves were twice as wide and an almost incandescent purple. "This is the main courtyard. From here it branches off into different sectors." Pointing to direct his attention to the various pathways, she continued. "Food court is that way. Goods and services over there. I think the bulk of the entertainment is over that way, and a couple of these go to housing. Oh! The intergalactic treasury is down that way. I think Tatsuya will be taking you there tomorrow to set up an account."
      
       "Oh, hey. What's that?" Zee started heading for one of the stall vendors as Misha followed behind, something familiar catching his eye. Along with a few other older style-weapons rested a compound bow, black with pivot points to collapse the device.
      
       The scrawny Terran behind the counter seemed pleased to have a customer. "Welcome to Low-Tech Solutions. We specialize in older gear suited for the nostalgic or more savage sectors of space. I see you favoring the collapsible bow. The tension can be raised or lowered based on the strength of the user, but a powerhouse like you should have no trouble at all."
      
       Pointing to the weapon, Zee asked, "May I?"
      
       "Why certainly. Go ahead and try it out," said the little man as he clasped his hands together.
      
       Picking it up, Zee hefted the device, surprised at how light it was. "Wow, doesn't weigh a whole lot."
      
       The shopkeeper eagerly fed off his impression. "It's a composite material. As strong as ship metal and a fraction of the weight. I've never tried it, but supposedly it can handle a small arms laser blast and keep going." As the werewolf pulled back on the string, it moved to his cheek with almost no opposition. The man was awestruck by the beast's power as he pointed to a small dial on the side that ended near the cable. "Not many people can handle a pull strength of a hundred pounds. That's... well, that's impressive. This dial can turn it anywhere from fifteen to three hundred. The higher the tension, the further and faster an arrow will fly."
      
       Twisting it to the maximum, Zee gave another pull, this time looking a bit more normal as if a human pulling a poundage suited to their muscles. "There we go. That feels about right. A little on the easy side, but not bad at all."
      
       The vendor's eyes were wide, but he wasn't about to miss a sale. "It looks perfect for a mighty warrior such as yourself. A born natural. Not your first time with this style of weapon, is it?"
      
       Glancing down to Misha, he answered, "Growing up, my cousins and I played this thing we called 'Cowboys and Indians'. We'd line up cans and pinecones then shoot them with hand guns or compound bows, whichever team we were on. I... may have been a natural with all the weapons."
      
       Elbowing his hip, she chuckled. "I can see why you went military." Turning to the man at the counter, she inquired, "How much is it?"
      
       "Three hundred fifty creds." Pulling out a quiver from below, he set it where the bow had rested. "For another hundred and seventy five, you can get a compression quiver, fully stocked. It has simple interworkings that stagger the arrowheads to fit a full fifty inside, heads and all. Unlike its earlier model, this one exposes three shafts at any time to accommodate the bold or multi-armed individuals. The side has a pull-away strapping to hold your collapsed bow and a pocket on the other side to hold various heads. The shafts included are screw-ins for optimization. The price includes the standard broad heads, arrows, and the quiver itself. Total price of this deal would be five hundred twenty five, about the same as a used blaster pistol, though this ammo is reusable and very few know how to use this type of weapon against its owner."
      
       The whole thing was a blast from his past, though higher tech than what he'd used as a teen. Pulling out his credit chip, he seemed a little disappointed as the nostalgia washed from his muzzle. "I really would like it. Grew up with this kind of stuff... but I only have five hundred credits."
      
       The lanky salesman seemed unfazed as he kept his spirited hype going. "Tell you what. You seem like a nice Lupian, so I'll cut you a deal. Five hundred even for the whole thing. What do you say?"
      
       Looking down to his friend again, Zee still seemed hesitant. "I won't have money for food, will I?"
      
       Misha waved him off. "Oh, go ahead. Lunch is on me. It's not every day you find tech that jives with you. Don't pass it up." Her eyes lit up with her sudden realization. "Ooh-hoo! I could make you some tactical arrowheads. I have a bolt threader on the ship. Ooh! And I haven't mixed chemicals in a while, either. I could make incendiaries, flashbangs... If we can find some high tensile fiber cable, I could even try to engineer a grapple arrow! This is exciting!"
      
       "You talked me into it," laughed the big canine as he handed over the chip. "Now, do I let him keep that since it's empty?"
      
       "Oh, no no," stated the pipsqueak. "We can reload it. You'll want to keep if for when you get your pay.
      
       After deducting the funds, the shopkeep showed Zee how to collapse the bow and Velcro it to the side of the almost plastic-like, brown quiver. Thanking his patron, the man went back to patiently waiting for his next sale.
      
       As they walked away, Misha poked at his hip. "So, you mentioned food. Are you hungry, by chance? I could go for something if you could."
      
       Strapping his new toy to his back, his ears perked at the mere suggestion of food. "I could! This new metabolism is a bit faster than I'm used to, so I apologize if I get too pricey."
      
       "Oh, it's fine." Misha led her friend down the short walkway to the food shops, however, halfway in and Zee was almost knocked to his knees, thick fingers grasping to block his damp, black nose.
      
       "WHAT is THAT?" The aromas from the stalls hit all at once, but each odor was its own. His mind tried to process it all, but he still was not prepared for so many pungent scents all at the same time, some great, some vile. "Grah! It's like my nose is on fire and my head can't take the pain!"
      
       "Yep, that's a multi-cultural food court for ya." Patting his hip, she helped him over to a bench to wait it out as he acclimated. "Once you learn to use that sniffer, it won't be so bad. But for now, you'll just need to keep taking a little whiff here and there. Don't feel too bad, though. Most of us with a keen sense of smell get overwhelmed the first time or two. Just so much going on in the air here."
      
       With a heavy sigh, Zee tried to sneak another little sniff, the burn of information returning as he coughed against the pain. "There's this really bad one. It smells like something died, then was charred, then rolled in spice and died again. Why is it so bad?"
      
       Misha seemed to know exactly what he was talking about. "Yea... I try not to eat anything that smells like it died. Tell you what. We can do some Terran food. See if it's still like you remember."
      
       Coughing as he took another breath through his nose, he seemed to be settling into the environment. "Do they still serve hamburgers and pizza?"
      
       "What's a ham burger," asked the rodent as her cute, pink nose twitched. "But pizza sounds right. I think Tran had Pho make us one once. It's like a big bread circle with meat and cheese on top, right?"
      
       Nodding past his easing discomfort, he breathed out his answer. "Yes. That sounds like a pizza to me. A hamburger is um... well, it's a cooked beef patty on a bun. They usually put a slice of cheese and some sauces on it. Haven't had a good one since I was on earth. The provisions we had on the space station were pretty bland for the most part."
      
       "Well," chirped Misha, "I think you're in luck. Terrans still serve what you described, though you can get it in beef, pork, or... what was that last one... chicken. They all look pretty much the same. Like a ground puck, just of different colors." Making a little grossed out face, tongue and all, she put a hand on his leg, meant as a gesture of friendship, but she seemed embarrassed as if the werewolf might think it more. Instead, she turned it into a pat as she stood. "So, all ready to go? Your head isn't still hurting, is it?"
      
       "No, much better. Thanks for being so patient with me, Misha. Sorry for being so much trouble."
      
       "Oh no you don't," she teased as she pretended to scold him. "You are still getting used to your new body. You're no trouble at all. If anything, I'm having fun getting to teach you this stuff. It's almost like when I was growing up and showing my siblings how to do everything. You're just like a giant, fluffy Mousian pup."
      
       His amused glare made her start laughing. "Thanks... I think." Standing as well, he took subtle sniffs every so often, desensitizing his mind to the wild aromas. Leading the way, Misha knew where to go, though her curious companion kept getting side-tracked by the scent of fresh meat.
      
       Only about a quarter of the way in and they arrived, the Terran cuisine spread among four stalls. One seemed like a fusion of Asian and Mexican. The next was more like typical fast food, meat patties and potato chunks. The third was set up almost like a Subway, though it only seemed to deal in vegetables and deserts. The fourth he had no idea what it was. It looked and smelled like some fusion food place, what he hoped were noodles and sauces in combinations he'd never seen back home.
      
       Stepping up to the fast food style eatery, Zee let Misha go first, just in case things had changed over five hundred years. When she went to order, the Terran at the counter pushed the display from the top of the surface over the edge to Misha's height. Nothing physically moved, just one big data monitor for a counter. Plugging away, she found her target. "Hey, Zee? Is this what you remember?" She had selected the 'personal mixed topping pizza', which looked like a rectangular flatbread supreme.
      
       "Sorta," he said as he bent down. "I think the circular ones were more popular, but these were around. Both pizza."
      
       Adding a drink and confirming her selection, she clicked to add another item and moved the selection screen back to the top. "Now just go through the menu and find what you like. If you have any questions, ask the man at the counter. I'd help you out, but I only know a little about Terran food. Pho's way better for that than I am."
      
       Poking around, he found a combo for a 'beef patty with vegetable paste' and a side of cubed potatoes. It was as close as he could get to his burger and fries. Scrolling through the drinks brought a gasp of excitement. "They still have coffee? Ooh, I need to try this!" Confirming his selection, Zee moved while the vendor waited for Misha to pull the screen back down and wave her credit chip. When finished, they stepped back and waited. Zee did take note of the chef in the back, a blueish humanoid that was definitely not human. Leaning down to Misha, he joked, "Some things never change. Back when I was a kid, the ethnic restaurants would sometimes have chefs of a completely different ethnicity."
      
       Trying to follow his gaze, she had to ask, "What do you mean?"
      
       With a quick point to the back, he commented, "Pretty sure he's not hum- sorry, Terran."
      
       Though she couldn't see, the little lady started to laugh as she covered her mouth to muffle her amusement.
      
       When they got their food, The Mousian asked for two straws before leading her ally to a table. "So," she started as she readied her drink, "have you figured out how to drink with your muzzle yet?"
      
       His ears drooped as he looked at his coffee. "I... have not, not entirely. I did try a little. I think I have the lapping down." His ears drooped further as he admitted, "I also poured water down my chest a couple times trying to sip."
      
       Her smirk only increased his guilt. "I'm pretty lucky in that my muzzle isn't as blocky as yours. I can sip if I'm careful." Handing over a straw, she advised, "This is your friend. Lapping is socially acceptable, but it can be a bit messy if you're not careful. However, it is considered a bit brutish for your kind to chug, since almost half your drink spills out. I've seen Wolvars do it at the bar. Not a pretty sight."
      
       While the mouse woman nibbled at her pizza, Zee took in the scent of his burger. To his surprise, he could pretty much distinguish most of the parts that made it up, even those in the green goo between the bun and patty. He detected onion, pickle, lettuce, what he hoped was avacodo, and tomato. Taking a bite was far less impressive than his newfound power. The patty tasted bland and the bun felt like it bad been reconstituted. Setting it back down, he commented, "Yea... it tastes a bit like what we had on the space station. Nowhere near as good as I remember." Blowing on the dark brown liquid, he took a delicate lick to test the temperature. "Wow," he stated as he took another lick, a drop clinging to his fur. "It's about like it was back then... but it's not super-hot. Is that normal?"
      
       Wiping his chin with a napkin, she reminded him, "The straw helps. But, yes, the stores brew the coffee to a drinkable temperature. I guess they must have evolved a defense to burning their mouths." Sticking out her tongue and wiggling her nose, she went back to munching.
      
       Another bite of the beef patty was just as disappointing, though it did make his stomach a little uneasy. He had a feeling he knew what the issue was as his craving for meat went on the rise. "Um, Misha. I hate to ask, but..."
      
       "Yes?"
      
       "I was wondering if I could get some real meat. This thing isn't sitting right and Pho did advise I focus on proteins..."
      
       Scooting her credit chip across the table, she seemed to understand. "Go ahead. I had a feeling you might not like it. I hear those things were better half a megacycle ago." Seeing his confusion, she clarified, "Ten Terran years."
      
       "Thanks Misha. I owe you."
      
       As he moved toward the alluring scent of cooked animals, she called out, "No you don't, it's on me."
      
       Zee's nose led him to what he assumed was a butcher's shop, though they did cook cuts in the back. The predatory looking humanoid manning the desk sniffed at him as he looked over the stock. A few whiffs and Zee knew what he wanted. "Excuse me, but what is that?" The feline eyes seemed to approve as the butcher pointed to the skinned rabbit-like beastie. "That is guam. It's a vermin that populates quickly, but, in my opinion, one of the tastier creatures. Care for a sample before you buy?"
      
       "Yes please. Do you cook it first?" As hungry as he was, Zee didn't really care, but the human in him was still a little weirded out by the thought of raw meat.
      
       Handing over a small skewer with a sliver of the whitish pink tissue, the butcher advised, "The Terrans and weak stomached races tend to like it seared. Between you and me, our kind find it better raw. Still, entirely up to you."
      
       Trying his sample was enough to tempt him. "Alright, how much for one?"
      
       "Fifteen credits."
      
       The bland burger and fry substitute had been almost ten, so he jumped at the chance. "That seems like a far better deal than those Terran patty things. Can I get a small bit seared and the rest... um..."
      
       The predator on the other side seemed amused with the squeamish carnivore. "Fresh. And we can." Yelling back, he commanded, "Vengar, one guam. Sear a leg, the rest fresh." Focusing back on his customer, he gave a toothy grin. "Those Terrans charge way too much for that swill. But... we do get a lot of their kind out here, so they can do as they please. Fifteen credits."
      
       Scanning the chip, Zee waited for his food hungrily while the butcher eyed him. It felt a little awkward, but he could tell his gawker was more impressed than hostile. When the food came, he gladly took it over to the table and gave Misha back her funds. To his surprise, she knew exactly what it was. "Oh, guam. Great choice. Mind if I sneak a little of the cooked one? Been a while since I've had it."
      
       "Not at all," he offered hungrily as he worked at the raw meat.
      
       ***
      
       The pair of Drakken arrived at the Terran science outpost on the far side of the complex. Fortunately for them, the shuttle dropped off not too far from the entrance, though it was still a few blocks walk. The white, dome-topped structure looked both impressive and secretive, no windows showing what went on behind the walls. At the front door, the older of the two pushed the comms button. "Ryuu Tatsuya and Kaida here to see Professor Hugo Mayson."
      
       The captain still seemed to have her doubts about this sale as they waited, her tail flicking anxiously. "This still seems too good to be true. How sure are we they aren't trying to cover this up?"
      
       Tatsuya seemed confident as he responded, stroking at his mustache. "Even if they do try to double cross us, we have allies. Plus, I had Tran encrypt the data, so they get nothing until we get paid."
      
       A feminine voice came out of the wall mounted speaker as the door hummed. "Professor Mayson is ready for you."
      
       Opening the metal doorway, Kaida offered, "After you," as she waited for her grandfather to walk through. Following behind, she jabbed in, "This way your scaly butt gets blasted first." Tatsuya couldn't help but snicker as they made their way to the common area.
      
       "Ah ha! Mr. Ryuu. Ms. Ryuu. A pleasure to finally meet the ones who found our missing research station." Hugo looked like your standard scientist, black, mid-cropped hair, grey sweater vest, and an open white lab coat. Though he seemed happy to see them, Kaida couldn't shake the feeling that he was almost a little twitchy. As he tapped his fingers together, he asked, "So, the research notes. You did bring them, right?"
      
       Kaida produced a data pad from a pouch while her elder talked business. "It's encrypted. Once we get the funds, we'll unlock it and provide you with the cryo pods. Like discussed, the specimens are still in their chambers as we found them." While his granddaughter handed over the device, he continued. "If you open the video, you'll see the condition of the stasis chambers." Waiting for the Terran to finish with the display, Tatsuya took the pad back as the man considered what he saw. "Is everything satisfactory?"
      
       Pulling out a pad of his own hidden inside the lab coat, Mayson started plugging away. "Everything looks as you described. Now, we will be getting the only copy of the research, right? This deal was to recover the pods and the data. We can't have that spreading around, you understand?"
      
       The captain seemed a bit gruff when she answered the human, arms crossed and tail tapping. "We have a backup on the ship that will be deleted once we enter the decryption code on that pad. Can't be too careful, you understand."
      
       A few more taps and the professor shrugged, "It's almost like you don't trust me. You're not a Terran hater, are you Ms. Ryuu?"
      
       Knowing that his youthful companion was about to stick her clawed foot in her mouth, Tatsuya cut her off even though it was much to Kaida's dismay, her nose wrinkling with displeasure. "It's not that. The captain just likes to be cautious. Never can be too careful in the salvage business." A quick glare let his partner know that she was getting out of line.
      
       "That's good to hear,' smirked the buyer. "I know some tend not to trust my kind. Racism and all that. Nasty stuff." A few more clicks and it was done. "There we go. Check your balance if you don't trust me. Should all be in there."
      
       While the green Drakken glared, the copper one pulled up the data. "It's not that we don't trust you. Just standard procedure." As soon as he saw confirmation of the transfer, the old lizard typed in the decryption code, "Pho's sexy tail rings". Snickering to himself, he spoke over to Kaida as he gave the pad to Mayson. "We really need to stop letting Tran pick the codes. Can't keep a straight face anymore."
      
       Rapidly scrolling through the information, Professor Mayson was like a kid in a candy store. "Yes. Yes! Haha, I knew it. Post-natal augmentation. And it worked. This was well worth it, thank you." Turning to walk away, he spoke as he continued reading. "I'll send some men with you to retrieve the pods. You can ride out with them if you like. Wait outside and they'll bring the transport around."
      
       As soon as his visitors were out of view, Hugo walked through a side door. Passing by one of the facility's security force, his tone took on a devious taint. "Take a team of four. Once we have the pods, dispose of the lizards. No witnesses." Continuing down the walkway, he called back, "And make sure all the data on their ship is destroyed. We can't have anyone knowing about Project Animus.
      
       As the Drakken moved outside, Kaida let her pent up irritation burst forth. "Grah! That Terran was so suspicious. Tell me you saw it."
      
       "Calm down, little one. We have the credits. If they wanted to kill us, they'd have done it by now. Plus, you always think Terrans look suspicious. Remember when Tran joined our team? He was just trying to update protocols and you were itching to rip him in half for sabotage."
      
       Pointing with a single shaking finger, she spouted, "You know there was more to it than that! I lost control of the ship for almost an hour. How was I supposed to know he told you that and not me?"
      
       With a calming chuckle, the old man nodded. "My point is that just because he looked suspicious doesn't mean he is." Her grumble was almost adorable to her grandpa. "Besides, if they are plotting something, it's better to not let them know that you know. Keeps the element of surprise in our favor."
      
       Five minutes later and the transport arrived for them. It looked like an open topped golf cart with a long flatbed coming out the back. Two men rode in the seats while the other two dangled their legs over the edge. Scooting onto the other side, Kaida and Tatsuya dangled their legs as they kept their tails to themselves. The vehicle zipped down the walkway about twice the speed of your average runner.
      
       Once back at the Kashokoi-Hebi, the six of them got to work. The four muscular Terrans and the youthful Drakken did the heavy lifting while Tatsuya manned the lift. The work went pretty quickly, each crate going off the salvage vessel one at a time and getting pushed onto the flatbed. As they worked, both of the dragons noticed that a couple of the men sent to help kept glancing at the security officers as they patrolled the massive cargo bay. There wasn't much talking, but the tension was pretty high despite the smooth operation.
      
       Tying down the cargo, the group gathered up for farewells. Tatsuya led off with, "It was a pleasure working with you. Please thank Professor Mayson for his patronage."
      
       The kindness was met with drawn blaster pistols, both hostages holding up their hands. The leader of the goon squad demanded, "Hands down. Look natural and get back onto your ship."
      
       Doing as they were told, Kaida lashed out her forked tongue at her grandfather. "See, I told you. 'No Kaida. That Terran totally isn't suspicious Kaida'."
      
       A quick shove lurched her forward as the man behind spat out, "Quiet down and get moving, you overgrown lizard."
      
       Whispering, she tried to plan, "Any ideas, Gramps?"
      
       "Shut it," came with another blaster jab as she turned to growl over her shoulder.
      
       Poised as if he were a wise sage, Tatsuya took in the environment with quick, cautious glances. In a calming hush, he said, "All we need is a distraction."
      
       Returning back to the ship, Tran and Pho were hoping to ditch the weapon case and go out for a late lunch. The red panda lady was clinging to the man's arm as they walked into the docks, the cute couple looking like an office romance story. About half way in, the gaps in the crates revealed their crew and the visitors awkwardly shuffling back into the ship. Pho was just about to call out when Tran gave a soft shush. Moving closer, he motioned for his wife to go behind the piles of cargo when he saw the brute shove their captain.
      
       In a snap decision, Tran yelled out, "Hey guys, how's it going?" His plan worked perfectly, the attention of the assassins drawn to him as two laser blasts came his way. A quick dive tackle moved him and his fluffy lover to the floor and behind cover, Pho's "oof" ringing out as a blast tore into the wooden barricade and another zipped past, scorching the metal wall a couple yards above the massive doorway.
      
       Back on board the cargo bay of the Kashokoi-Hebi, Tatsuya didn't miss his chance. The two further attackers were focused on the newcomers while the ones beside him and his family were minorly thrown off guard. In one fluid, masterful motion, the old Drakken used his tail to whip the hand of the man holding his granddaughter nearly point blank while simultaneously pushing her into the Terran. She knew exactly what to do with her momentum, a swift right-handed uppercut landing square in the man's chin while her other hand pushed the barrel of the blaster to the floor.
      
       Tatsuya used the momentum off his ally to spin low on his toes, ducking below the gun as both hands thrust into his guard's chest, both winding and disarming the fiend as he was pushed off his feet and into the man behind him. Though the second thug kept his footing, the one hit by the open palms bounced off and landed belly to the ground. While Kaida pummeled her opponent down, the fluid form of her elder spun though the air like a martial artist. The two attacking his crewmates were just close enough that while his tail wrapped around the arm of the man to his left, his vicious claws raked across the wrist of the other, rendering the Terran unable to pull the trigger. Tightening his coil, the henchman on the left was forced to drop his weapon as the pressure nearly crushed his bones. Much to the thug's dismay, that was only the start of his pain as the scaled combatant grabbed at his shirt and belt. With a powerful serenity, the Terran was flung into his bleeding compatriot, both masses toppling to the floor.
      
       Knocking her man out, Kaida pivoted to find the two smashed together. The third who had been on his belly had regained his blaster and was twisting to fire. Her "down" was overshadowed by a chorus of "Drop the weapon". The initial laser fire had not gone unnoticed, five of the nearby security detail having rushed to investigate. "Put it down or we will fire." The final assassin knew he had lost, letting the pistol slip to the metal floor.
      
       "What is going on here," demanded the larger of the squad as he lowered his firearm. The initial carnage pegged the Drakkens as the victims, though they remained unscathed. Because of that, the whole event reeked of misconduct.
      
       The captain spoke up with a level-headed vigor. "We were finishing up a business transaction when these scum decided to double cross us. If you check my registry, all the cargo was listed on our manifest. We have done nothing wrong." Her toes twitched as she fought the urge to kick the downed man beside her. Instead, she pointed to her ship. "It's the Kashokoi-Hebi. We can stay here if you'd like to check your records. Also, two of my crew are over there." With a careful nod, she indicated where Tran and Pho had gone down.
      
       Much to her surprise both peeked from around their protection. "We're all good, captain," stated Tran as his mate clung to his shoulders.
      
       With a sinister grin, Kaida nudged her copper counterpart. "Told you they'd double cross us."
      
       Chuckling, the old dragon nodded. "That you did. Good thing we got that distraction I needed."
      
       Her snideness turned to mild irritation as she shot out, "Yea, about that. What gives? You only gave me one!"
      
       Pretending to pop his neck and fingers, Tatsuya couldn't hold back his laughter. "I just needed to stretch my scales, little one."
      
       "Show off." She moved over to lean against the cargo bay doorway as the officers rounded up the henchman.
      
       The head security rep came up to her with a friendlier demeanor this time around. "Everything checks out. We would like a statement from you and your crew, but you're free to go." Looking back to the crated pods, he added, "We will need to impound that shipment, though."
      
       Tatsuya took over with, "That will be fine, officer. The sale was completed, so we have no claim to it."
      
       "Excellent. I'll be right back for your statements."
      
       When the guard had moved out of earshot, Kaida whispered, "Why didn't you fight for that? We could have resold it."
      
       A calming wave of his hand let her know that greed was clouding her judgement. "It would not be right. In this business, honesty and integrity are key qualities. We sold it once. To sell it again would be underhanded." With a grin, he added, "Besides... this will let those bodies get the burial they deserve. They not only get to rest, but some justice has been met. Let's just leave it at that."
      
       ***
      
       While on their way back to the ship, Misha and Zee were met by the rest of the group. The little mouse quickly spoke up, "We got your message. What's up? I thought we were meeting at the ship?"
      
       Tran, with an arm around his lovely lady, replied, "Plans changed. We're hungry and all skipped lunch."
      
       Glancing up to her werewolf companion, Misha eyed the group. "Lunch was four Terran hours..." Her captains growl made her add, "twenty four cycles ago. What kept you?"
      
       The group stared at Kaida as she spat out, "It wasn't me!" Glaring at her grandpa, she hissed, "I was the one who said those Terrans couldn't be trusted!"
      
       "There's a story here, isn't there?" Zee was genuinely curious, but was equally hungry. "We did get paid, right?"
      
       "We did, indeed," stated the old Drakken as he passed and patted the werewolf's shoulder. "Speaking of which, you and I will be going to the treasury tomorrow to set up your account."
      
       "And," chimed in the beautiful Pantail, "You owe Porter some tales of intrigue."
      
       "Ah-ha! I believe I do." Tatsuya chuckled. "And how is that old golem?"
      
       Tran couldn't help but snicker. "Scared the fluff out of Pho."
      
       With a quick shove to his chest, she stuck out her cute, delicate tongue. "Shut up. You didn't warn me on purpose."
      
       Tatsuya was pretty sure he knew what it was, but just to be sure he mimed a gunshot to the hand... to which Tran burst out laughing getting him another well-deserved smack.
      
       Clapping his hand together, the old reptile smiled to the rest of the party. "Well, we'll all need to share some stories over dinner. My treat. There's a nice Drakken sit-down restaurant here that I've been looking forward to."
      
       Everyone cheered gratefully and followed his lead. Catching up to the joyous dragon, Zee had to know. "Um, Tatsuya... What do your people eat?"
      
       "Have you ever tried Kragmar stew?" Seeing the obvious no strewn across the wolf's face, he grinned. "No? You'll love it. It's a meaty dish. Thick broth and good flavor."
      
       Pho, the vegetarian of the group, asked, "What was that purple plant dish? I might do that again."
      
       It took Tatsuya a moment to think. "Oh, zenmer root? Not a fan myself, but I hear the herbivores love it." Sticking out his forked tongue, he made sure to flash his teeth to the dainty red panda lady.
      
       "You'd better watch yourself, scaly." Jokingly huffed the doctor. "I'd hate to have to sedate you."
      
       "You wouldn't hurt an old man, would you," he teased.
      
       Kaida jumped in with a snide smile. "Old man my tail. We saw how you jumped around back there. I think you need more work to do, Gramps." Turning her attention to Misha, she gave a little chuckle with her nudge. "So, how was the date?"
      
       The mouse's nose and the insides of her ears grew red as she blushed, the dainty muzzle twitching with mortified humiliation. "Wha? Y-you shut up! It wasn't a date!"
      
       Tran tapped her shoulder as he pointed out, "Oh, come on. We all know you have a thing for Zee."
      
       The embarrassment only grew as Misha's tail flicked. With a high pitched shout, she burst out, "Shut it!"
      
       As the group laughed, the rodent fell behind. She was trying her best to settle down, but her ears were so low they almost blocked her vision. Unbeknownst to her, Zee had slowed down, too, the wolfman hunching down to speak. "Hey. I just want to say that I had fun today. Thanks for everything, Misha."
      
       Tapping her fingertips together, her reply was almost a stutter. "N-no problem. Glad you enjoyed it." Yelling back at the group, she added, "And it was not a date, you guys!"
      
       Zee smiled at her, the Mousian not really seeming the shy type up until now. "You know... If you ever did want to go on a real date, I'd be happy to." Giving her a gentle pat, he stood back up to follow the rest of the crew.
      
       Misha pulled her ears down to cover her eyes, tears welling up as she contemplated the possibilities of her and him actually being a couple. The idea appealed to her. She had her tinkering, her adventure. The only thing she was missing in life was love.
      
       "Hey, Misha," Called Pho from the distance. "You're falling behind."
      
       Wiping the beads of delight from her cheek, she ran. "Wait for me, you guys!"