Sparring Lessons (COMPLETED)
Mel's continued adventures joining the Mordena.
Max sipped lightly at his drink, surveying his fellow bar patrons as he waited for his guest. Ekkil Turikk was quiet today, much of its usual clientele away on postings helping prep defenses at Janikk, Baden, and Libara. Max would be joining them shortly, his own squadron assigned to shadowing Libara's forces, but for now their carrier was at the mercy of Logistics awaiting the last of their supplies courtesy of an unexpected maintenance issue.
He'd resolved to enjoy Janikk while he could.
<You're stewing in your own thoughts again. If you're going to go all sullen and grumpy on me at least tell me why.>
Max smiled at Cal's interruption, the cheeky Blade one of the brightest spots in Max's life since he'd been convinced to join the Mordena some eight years ago. <You know me. Everyone else is flying and I feel left out.>
<You're Lead. That comes with responsibilities,> Cal reminded with a laugh. <Better you than me.>
Max shook his head, polishing off the last of his drink before holding out the glass for a refill. <Don't remind me.>
They were expecting heavy losses in the conflict ahead. He'd used his downtime to check in at the Resurrection Center, verifying the availability of his team's reconstruction clones. If he wanted to maintain his wing as a priority, he'd have to stay on top of them until everything was in order.
The Mordena's casual approach to death and resurrection had been an adjustment, courtesy of Max's upbringing in the very same Hydell Order they were now preparing to fight. Still, he'd had to admit their methods held a certain efficiency to them, permitting the mercenaries to return to the battlefield mere hours after death if necessary.
<It's not all bad,> Cal said, and Max could swear he heard the smirk behind the words. <You got me out of the deal.>
Cal. The other subject Max was desperately avoiding. One of these days he'd have to tell the Blade his true feelings, but right now? With tensions already high from the pending battle?
Max gulped down his second glass of juice, only faintly registering as the bartender efficiently topped him off once more, his attention instead locked on the doors to the large training facility where the greener recruits were still finishing their morning training.
C'mon, Mel. He shook his head again, scratching at the fur behind his ear. He needed a distraction, and the new medic's request for sparring lessons had presented a perfect answer. It had been a while since they'd last spoken, courtesy of the heightened alert. Let's find out what they've been teaching you.
The moment they see Max waiting for them, Mel can already tell something is wrong with their friend. They don't need even their empath abilities to figure it out. Everything that is going on affects them too, their classmates and their teachers. They need this as much as Max probably does.
Ready to get your ass kicked, Commander? Mel gives their best confident grin to Max.
Ready to get your ass kicked, Commander? Mel gives their best confident grin to Max.
"Mel!" Max perked up as the doors opened, waving them over and motioning to the empty seat beside him. "How's the training coming along?"
Mel takes the seat and orders their fave drink, the sweetest on the menu. "The training is not what I imagined, it's better! but also very hard. Razick is a hell of a teacher, though." Mel places their hand on Max's arm "How are you?"
"I suppose you've heard about the Order's plans?" Max asked by way of answer, resisting the urge to down his current glass in one gulp.
Mel takes a sip of their drink and relishes the sweetness. They come to love Jannik's gifts to them, to their new home. "Yes. That's why am I asking how you are." They are not going to let Max off the hook so easily. "And that's why I need your help."
"The waiting's the worst," Max sighed, shrugging his shoulders. "But may as well make the most of it."
Cal laughed over their link. <Good to hear you finally admit that to someone. Tell Mel I said hello.>
<Tell them yourself,> Max snorted before turning to Mel. "Cal says hi. I can link you in, if you want."
Mel smiled and nodded in excitement at the idea. "Yes! Maybe Cal can give me some tips to kick your ass." Their smile turned mischievous.
The few other patrons turned sharply to watch them as Max's glass slammed on the table, the canid struggling to keep its contents from spilling out his nose.
<Sorry,> he apologized at last across the newly formed telepathic connection. <You're confident today. I like that!>
<Hey, Mel!> Cal's voice shone with excitement. <I missed you!>
Mel giggled, eager to get the canid out of his broody mood.
<I'm always confident!>
Then they greeted Cal. <I missed you too, Cal! Did you get in trouble without me?>
<I'm always confident!>
Then they greeted Cal. <I missed you too, Cal! Did you get in trouble without me?>
<Not as much as I intend to get into with you!> Cal crowed.
<You're my Blade. You're supposed to be on my side,> Max pretended to pout before rolling his eyes with a grin. <Something tells me you two are trying to make Ace regret introducing you in the first place.>
Mel made a face in mock offence <Cal and I did nothing wrong! He got me here in one piece, didn't he?>
They downed the rest of the drink. With a satisfied sigh, Mel smirked again.
<I know Cal is your Blade, Commander. I won't steal him, don't worry. After all, I want to be a healer, not a fighter. >
They downed the rest of the drink. With a satisfied sigh, Mel smirked again.
<I know Cal is your Blade, Commander. I won't steal him, don't worry. After all, I want to be a healer, not a fighter. >
<But it's fun being a fighter,> Cal laughed. <I highly recommend it. Even if you get stuck with with Max for a Dancer.>
Max rolled his eyes, turning away. <Didn't hear you complaining about that when the Relentless and I saved your skin from that firefight. But I get it. Clearly you're too good for me.>
<Just so we understand each other,> Cal teased.
<Loud and clear.> Frowning, Max tipped back his head to polish off the rest of his drink, shaking his head at the offered refill. He rose from his seat, squaring his shoulders and turning to Mel. "So. You ready to do this?"
Mel jumped to attention, their expression serious.
<Yes, Commander. Please, don't go easy on me. I'm a healer but I want to learn to defend myself and more importantly, my team.>
<Yes, Commander. Please, don't go easy on me. I'm a healer but I want to learn to defend myself and more importantly, my team.>
Max laughed, waving at Mel to relax. <I'm not your superior today, just a friend. There's a time and place for formality, and this isn't it.>
He fixed Mel with an amused smile. <Especially not if you and Cal are planning to gang up on me.>
Mel relaxed their posture and started to move towards the balcony.
<Cal, I'm counting with you! I remember we make a good team> They winked at Max. Confident again.
<Are you ready, Max?>
<Cal, I'm counting with you! I remember we make a good team> They winked at Max. Confident again.
<Are you ready, Max?>
<Guess we'll find out,> Max grinned, revealing his canines as he stepped out onto the bar's sparring mat. Bending his knees slightly, he balanced on the balls of his feet. <Show me what you've learned.>
<Don't let him lure you into a trap,> Cal cautioned.
Max smiled innocently. <Who, me?>
Mel took a step back in a defensive posture.
<Thanks, Cal. I won't.>
<Alright, Max. Do your best. I'll take it.> They raised their arms to protect their face.
<Thanks, Cal. I won't.>
<Alright, Max. Do your best. I'll take it.> They raised their arms to protect their face.
Max laughed. <Fine. Guess I'm going first!>
He lunged, the telekinetics in his boots lending speed and power to every step.
Mel moved swiftly to the right avoiding Max's attack. <Think faster> They threw a jab with their right arm.
Max ducked, spinning to his left and grabbing Mel's arm as he passed, using both their momentum to alter trajectory. <You mean like this?>
Mel twisted their arm and throw themselves at Max with all their strength to make him fall.
Max merely wrapped his arms around them, stepping back with one foot to brace against the impact as he expertly pinned their arms to their side.
<We need some sort of secret language so I can warn you without Max knowing what I'm talking about,> Cal lamented.
Max merely laughed, releasing his grip. <I love your enthusiasm, Mel, but we've got to work on your technique.>
Mel laughed, not bothered by their failed attempt. <You work on that, Cal.> They looked at Max with a crooked grin.
<At least I have something. Why don't you teach me that neat trick?> Mel tried once again to surprise Max, this time with a kick to his leg.
<At least I have something. Why don't you teach me that neat trick?> Mel tried once again to surprise Max, this time with a kick to his leg.
Max jumped backward, nearly losing his balance from the surprise. <Mel...>
<Never give up!> Cal cheered.
<But maybe wait a minute so I can actually teach you something first?> Max suggested.
<Thanks, Cal!> Mel giggled, satisfied their attempt was mildly successful.
<Ok, you can teach me.> They took a step back. <What should I do?>
<Ok, you can teach me.> They took a step back. <What should I do?>
<Show me your stance. The way you stand when you're getting ready to fight.>
Mel stood up, their arms raised to their face, fists closed. <Like this?>
<Good.> Max wrapped a hand around one of Mel's fists. <This is good. But this...> He kicked lightly at the toe of Mel's shoes, frowning as it shifted slightly. <You've got all your weight on your heels. You want it on the balls of your feet.>
Stepping back so Mel could see, he demonstrated, easily rotating his heels and adjusting his height and direction. <Knees bent, too. You're not an unbreakable wall. It's a dance. Be the wind. You need to stay fluid so you can adjust.>
<Instability is what makes me so agile in the sky,> Cal added. <If you're too stable, it takes too long to react.>
Max nodded his head. <Exactly.>
Mell followed Max's instructions. They shifted their posture, knees bent. Their body more relaxed. <Is this better?>
Max nodded. <Much. Because now when I do this...> He mimicked a punch at Mel's face, his movements in slow motion, allowing them time to easily react.
<I do this?> Mel swiftly evaded the punch. They noticed that carrying their weight as Max told them, helped them to have more flexibility.
<Exactly.> Max nodded. <You fight with your whole body. Not just your fists.>
Mel was grateful for Max's help <Thanks! What's next? I want to learn more!>
<Punch me.>
Mel threw another jab at Max.
Max stepped to the side, catching Mel's fist in his palm, allowing the force of the punch to push his hand while still offering resistance. <Good job on the fist, and your thumb placement. You feel that strain though, against your wrist? You're rotating it too much.>
Releasing them, Max made his own fist, pointing to his index and middle finger. <If you do it right, these two knuckles will impact first. Don't swivel so all four hit at once, that'll send a lot of the force to your wrist, instead of letting it travel to your elbow and shoulder.>
Mel concentrated on Max's instruction and imitated his movement. <Ok, let's try again!> They positioned exactly as Max told them, ready to throw another punch.
<You got this, Mel!> Cal cheered.
Max grinned. <Ready when you are, Recruit.>
<I'm ready, Commander!> Mel, eager as always, tried to punch Max in his jaw, moving their body in one fluid motion.
Max slipped his head to the side, countering the jab with a punch of his own.
Mel wasn't fast enough to defend themselves and the punch connected with their cheek. They lost balance and fell on their backside.
<Well, I still have a lot to learn> They looked up at Max and winked <You are good. No wonder Cal puts up with you.>
<Well, I still have a lot to learn> They looked up at Max and winked <You are good. No wonder Cal puts up with you.>
<I only fly with the best!> Cal laughed. <But I've flown with both of you.>
Max offered his hand, wrapping it around Mel's wrist to help pull them to their feet. <Everything I know, you can learn. So tell me. What could have saved you from my punch?>
Mel frowned in concentration <I wasn't paying enough attention to what you were doing. >
<That's one. Any others?>
<I had weak spots you could exploit?>
Max crossed his arms, watching them sternly. <Where was your Shielding?>
Mel winced and looked down <Sorry, I remember that was the first thing you taught me.> They faced Max again, a serious expression in their face <I won't forget again.>
Max sighed, reaching forward to wrap Mel in a hug. <I'm not trying to lecture you, I'm trying to teach you. So is Razick, and she's the best we've got. I'll never come close to her skills.>
<And if he's willing to admit it, you know he means it,> Cal snorted.
Max growled, but made no comment.
Mel returned the hug, clinging to the canid <Thank you for teaching me, Max.> They relaxed a bit.
<Razick is a great teacher. I want to make her proud.> Mel smiled on Max's shoulder.
<What do you think, Cal? Do I have a chance to beat this big softie?>
<Razick is a great teacher. I want to make her proud.> Mel smiled on Max's shoulder.
<What do you think, Cal? Do I have a chance to beat this big softie?>
Cal's tone was thoughtful. <You'll have to be sneaky. And clever. But you can do it!>
Max sighed again, squeezing them tighter. <IWhile I appreciate your enthusiasm... You're a healer, Mel. It's not about winning the fight. Your job is to survive it.>
Mel let Max comfort them, hugging him harder still.
<Surviving was all I did since I was a kid and The Hydell Order took away my family, my home.> They trembled and hide their face in Max's chest.
<They can't do it again. I won't let them.>
<Surviving was all I did since I was a kid and The Hydell Order took away my family, my home.> They trembled and hide their face in Max's chest.
<They can't do it again. I won't let them.>
<I didn't mean–> Max rested his muzzle on the top of Mel's head as he fought to find his words, their vitriol against the Order bringing back his own memories of his life as a devout Militant. How many had he hurt just as deeply, under his mistaken beliefs he was saving the universe from itself?
"I'm not saying you should," he answered finally, his voice soft, before switching back to his Telepathy. <In many ways, healers are the most lethal weapon we've got. You keep your Battle Mages on their feet, and they'll win the fight for you.> He pulled away from Mel, instead placing a hand on each shoulder as he knelt to look them in the eye. <I know there's a lot of hurt in your past. I can't take that away, and running headlong into trouble won't either. You're more dangerous alive. Let us teach you how to stay that way.>
Mel gave Max a small smile <You think I'm dangerous?>
<I do.> Max gave a feral grin, showing his teeth. <And the more you take your time to learn, the bigger the threat you'll become. Show me your Shielding.>
Mel remembered their lessons with Razick and the first time Max showed them how to cast Shielding. They managed to cast one around them <I want to learn to stay alive, to be a Healer.> Mel's smile was more confident now <I can be a good student!>
Max smiled at the familiar spike of energy that always accompanied a new Shielding spell. <Good.> He threw another punch, lightning fast this time, the movement accelerated by his Telekinetic gloves and aimed to glance off Mel's new shield rather than hurting either of them from the impact. <Feel that? Much better.>
Mel perked up with excitement <Yes! I can feel it.> They worked on making it more robust. <What more can I do? Teach me, Max!>
<You should practice your Shielding all the time,> Cal suggested. <The more you practice the less you'll have to think about it, until you'll be able to keep it up all the time on instinct. Even when sleeping.>
<Also increases your magic reserves, as I'm sure Raz mentioned,> Max added, stepping back. <The more you use magic, the more you'll be able to use it. Like exercising.>
<I will practice more. Thanks, both of you.>
They looked at Max. <I'm still learning. But I want to be better. My Battle Mages will need me in one piece, right?> Mischief crossed Mel's eyes.
<But I can't promise to stay out of trouble. Specially if I'm with Cal.>
They looked at Max. <I'm still learning. But I want to be better. My Battle Mages will need me in one piece, right?> Mischief crossed Mel's eyes.
<But I can't promise to stay out of trouble. Specially if I'm with Cal.>
Max grinned. <But you won't be alone, which is the point.>
<I was born for trouble,> Cal added.
<And reborn,> Max added wryly. <Many times.>
Mel laughed <What a pair you make.> They leaned towards Max. <Should we try again?>
<Max is the best parter!> Cal's voice showed he meant it. <You're fun too, though, Mel.>
<Yeah.> Max shook his head, banishing the thoughts that threatened to distract. He turned to direct a half-hearted smile at Mel. <Show me your defensive posture.>
"You heard that? The best partner." Mel elbowed Max playfully.
They switched back to their Telepathy <Aww, Cal. Thank you. You could take me for a ride later? Pleaseeee? Max can come too if he wants!>
Mel obeyed Max and adopted a defensive posture, just like he showed them before. Mel also put their Shielding in place.
They switched back to their Telepathy <Aww, Cal. Thank you. You could take me for a ride later? Pleaseeee? Max can come too if he wants!>
Mel obeyed Max and adopted a defensive posture, just like he showed them before. Mel also put their Shielding in place.
<I could give you a tour of Janikk!> Cal offered. <There's lots I'll bet you haven't seen yet! What do you think, Max?>
Max merely growled, glaring at Mel before leaning toward their ear, his voice soft but thick with threat. "I'm definitely not going easy on you now."
<Yes!! I'd love that. I haven't had time to discover much since I got here.>
Mel smiled broadly at Max, no trace of intimidation in their sweet tenor voice. "Do your worst, Commander."
Mel smiled broadly at Max, no trace of intimidation in their sweet tenor voice. "Do your worst, Commander."
Turning away from Mel, Max growled again, instead grabbing hold of the the balcony railing to stare out at the planet. Pull yourself together, Max.
He swallowed, turning back to Mel. <Your feet are a little wide. No more than shoulder width apart.>
Mel corrected their posture, never losing attention on their Shielding. They didn't want to end up on the floor again, also they wanted to please Max.
<Is this alright?>
Rather than answering, Max aimed a punch for Mel's gut.
Mel expanded their Shielding and moved fluidly to avoid Max's punch. Although the impact affected them a little, they retaliated with a punch aimed at Max's side.
Max twisted away from the punch, balancing on one foot as he spun to swipe Mel's legs out from under them with the other.
<Watch out!> Cal warned.
Mel jumped away from Max. They crouched and then threw a punch at Max's knees.
Max chose to block, catching Mel's wrist on his lower arm and forcing the blow to go wide. He grabbed their upper arm with his other hand. <Get up. If this were a real fight you'd end up with a knee to the face right now.>
Mel jerked up their arm out of Max's grasp and stood up, defensive posture in place. Their expression was serious. <What could I've done better?>
<You give up too much of your mobility, crouching down like that. Unless you have some of these.> He flexed his hands to show off the Telekinetic gloves before pointing to his boots. <Don't give up an advantage unless you stand to gain more than you lose. You want to kneecap me, your own legs will do just fine.>
Mel rubbed their neck, frowning in concentration. <Yeah, I can see that.> They glanced at the balcony and then back at Max. <Can you teach me more defensive moves?>
Max grinned. <Absolutely. The most obvious one is to run away, but that's not always an option. Plus you don't need me to help you practice that.>
He cupped his left hand, sparks now jumping between the fingers. <I can teach you some hand to hand counters, or we can work on some Shielding techniques to keep you safe from magic and physical attacks. What's your preference today?>
<There's offensive Shielding spells, too,> Cal added with excitement.
<Which I will not be teaching today,> Max growled back.
Mel pouted giving Max their best pleading look.
<Why not?>
<Why not?>
Sighing, Max shook his head. <They're not defensive moves, Mel. I promise, you'll learn them. Probably from Razick; she's the one who taught me. But we talked about this. Your job is to stay alive, so you can keep your team alive.>
Mel yielded to Max's better judgement. <You are right. I want to learn more Shielding techniques!>
With a flick of his wrist, Max directed his Electromancy spell toward Mel's Shielding, the bolts arcing off his fingertips.
Mel, by reflex, strengthened their Shielding <I want to do that!>
<You and the shiny offensive spells,> Max snorted. <Are you sure you want to be a healer?>
<Yes! I want to be a healer.> Mel smirked looking at Max.
"But sometimes I get distracted with shiny pretty things."
"But sometimes I get distracted with shiny pretty things."
"You and Cal have a lot in common."
"Do we? Thank you for the compliment, Commander." Mel focused on their Shielding again.
<So, Shielding techniques. How can I defend against your Electromancy?>
<So, Shielding techniques. How can I defend against your Electromancy?>
<You two are both trouble.> Max grinned. <When I cast my spell at you, did you feel how it drained from the power of your Shielding?>
<Yep. I could feel it.> They frowned <I didn't know what to do.>
<You did great, Mel.> Max tilted his head at them. <Most times, when something impacts with your Shielding all you can do is hold. Make sure your Shielding is strong enough to survive the impact.> He grinned, sparks forming between his fingers again. <But sometimes there are other options. Like when facing Electromancy.>
Mel jumped a bit from the excitement <What options?>
<So for example, Electromancy wants to travel. It's going to arc along the path of least resistance.> Max shared his memories of Shielding practice under Razick's tutelage and Cal's periodic inputs, learning to adjust his spellwork to work with Electromancy attacks rather than against them. <Which means you can often give it a path to travel with less effort than it takes to block.>
Mel's eyes light up <That's awesome!> Their smile became a bit feral < That means I can create a path with my Shielding to redirect Electromancy back at my attacker or to impact someone else?>
<Try it and see!> Max cast his spell.
Mel focused on creating a path with their Shielding pointing to the open space. The Electromancy followed the weakest points.
Max grinned. <Just like that.>
<It takes more magic and concentration right now than just deflecting it,> Cal added, <but with practice? That will change.>
Mel smiled <Thank you for teaching me, Max.> They dropped the Shielding. <Cal, how much practice do you think I'll need to beat Max?>
Max sent a warning shot of sparks past Mel's ear. <Not a chance, if you keep dropping your guard like that.>
<Lots,> Cal answered simply. <It's doable, though. No matter what he says.>
Mel was surprised. <That's not fair! I needed a break.> They leaned closer to Max, smiling. <Thanks Cal for believing in me. I'll keep practising!>
"That's why Cal is my favourite." They said and stuck out their tongue at Max.
<Shall we go on, since you are so eager in teaching me a lesson?>
"That's why Cal is my favourite." They said and stuck out their tongue at Max.
<Shall we go on, since you are so eager in teaching me a lesson?>
Max grinned. <You should practice your Shielding all the time, not just when you need it. You'll build your magic reserves faster that way, and your spell memory. Eventually you won't even have to think about it, you'll be able to maintain it in your sleep.>
<I will! I need to stay in one piece if I want to help my team, right?> They cast Shielding again. <You're so patient with me, Max. I hope one day we'll share a mission and I'll make you proud.>
Max tilted his head in confusion. <I'm already proud of you, Mel.>
Mel ran to Max. They put their arms around his torso and cried in his chest.
Blinking in surprise, Max wrapped his arms around Mel, resting his chin against their head and squeezing them tight. <Let it out, Mel. You're safe. Home. Where you belong.>
<We're family and everything now,> Cal agreed firmly.
Mel sobbed <The last person who said I made him proud was my dad.>
Max clung tighter, not really sure what to say to that.
Mel calmed down and whispered, "For a long time I thought no one would feel that about me again."
<Thank you, both of you. It means a lot to me.>
<Thank you, both of you. It means a lot to me.>
"You were wrong," Max said quietly, planting a quick, affectionate lick on Mel's cheek before tugging them back to the bar's seating. <I think that's enough sparring for the day. Let me buy you a drink.>
<They're free, Max,> Cal chided. <Just like everything else on Janikk.>
Max only grinned.
Mel followed Max but didn't let go of his arm. <I'd like something to eat too.> They gave Max a small smile. <And then we can go on a ride with Cal?>
<That last one's up to Cal.> Max pulled out a chair at one of the many empty tables, motioning for Mel to sit.
<And how much you drink,> Cal added quickly.
Max winced. <I will never live that down, will I?>
<No.>
Mel perked up at that. <Now I need to know! What Max did, Cal? Don't spare any details.>
<When Max was still new to the Mordena, during one of our drills he threw up all over my cockpit. It was a mess. Very unpleasant. And the smell! Lingered for months.>
<I'm the one with the nose, Cal,> Max growled, slouching into a seat. <Wasn't that bad. And besides, it was your fault.>
<Just trying to break in the new body,> Cal protested.
<Yeah. And me. You're still trying to find my breaking point.>
Mel laughed "You're a goner, Max" They winked, knowingly. <I'm so glad I didn't throw up when we had our little adventure together, Cal.>
Cal laughed. <Yet. More adventures await.>
<Oh, is that a challenge? I can't wait for more adventures with you! I think I'll pass on the food now, though.>
<You sure?> Max pointed to the holographic menu in the middle of the table. <Food's really good here.>
<This is Janikk, Max,> Cal laughed. <Food's good everywhere. I love being a Blade, but I'll admit... Sometimes I miss the food.>
<You want to make me eat so you're not the only one that threw up all over Cal! I won't fall for that trap.> They leaned over the table, hands on either side of their face. <You know, Cal, I'm happy I met you as a Blade. And I'd happily eat in your honour. After we go for a ride.>
Cal's voice was smug. <You're outnumbered, Commander.>
Sighing, Max rose from his seat, motioning for Mel to follow him. <Wasn't a trick. Cal's going to test us both though, now. You just challenged him.>
Mel followed Max, clung to his arm again, and looked up with a grin. <Oh, we are going to have so much fun!>
<Not as much as Cal,> Max warned, typing a code into the local portal network gateway. It sprang to life with a hiss and a snap, the balcony outside the primary Blade hanger springing to life. <After you.>
The Blade's voice betrayed his excitement. <Can't wait to fly with you again, Mel!>
Mel ran to the Blade <Me neither!! I missed you.>
Cal's wings rippled as he settled a bit closer to the hangar floor. <We get into a lot of trouble together.>
Mel was eager to climb into the cockpit <Yes! And this time is going to be even better because Max is with us!>
They turned to look at Max. <Are you ready?>
They turned to look at Max. <Are you ready?>
Hoisting himself onto Cal's wing before reaching behind the cockpit seat, Max pulled out a pair of circular metal rings and handed one to Mel. He demonstrated how to secure it around their neck before activating the protective helmet, complete with holographic heads up display. <You'll want one of these today.>
Mel took Max's hand after he finished securing the helmet. <Thank you for taking care of me.>
Max brushed his hand over Mel's, squeezing back. <Of course.> Leaning in, he checked and adjusted the safety harness holding Mel into the single seat of the cockpit. <You're important to me.>
<To us,> Cal corrected.
Mel smiled <I know. That makes me happy.>
<Good. You deserve to be happy.> Cal ruffled his wings again. <You all set?>
Max settled onto the base of Cal's wing as the Blade closed his cockpit. <Ready when you are, Mel.>
Mel was ready. <Let's fly!>
Cal required no further urging, launching himself from the hangar and climbing steeply into the bright Janikk sky.
Mel giggled. They loved flying with Cal and Max.
Once they'd reached what the Blade considered an appropriate altitude, Cal tipped to the left and began a lazy circle around Dirkkatael. The leaves of the living city rippled in the afternoon breeze, the grove of trees forming the walkways and buildings still visibly towering over the vast wilds of Janikk surrounding it, even from this height.
<So... Has anyone given you a tour yet, Mel?>
<Nope. I didn't ask either. I was busy with my training.> Mel settled comfortably in the seat. <Where do you want to take us?>
Cal spun without warning, aligning his belly with the sky before pulling his wings closer to his frame and angling his nose downward. A burst of power from the telekinetic engines sent them hurtling towards the ground at alarming speed.
Mel raised their arms. <YEAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!FASTER!!!>
<So one of those flights, then,> Max said dryly as Cal activated his portal drive, adding its engines' power to the telekinetics.
<You are enjoying it, Max. You can't fool me. You do remember why I want to be a healer, right?> Mel was having too much fun.
Max shifted slightly, directing a mischievous grin at Mel through the cockpit bubble. <Not what I meant.>
They passed Dirkkatael's canopy, the many layers of Janikk's capital city a blur as they passed. The smaller trees of the forest below rushed upwards to meet them, and Cal was still accelerating.
Mel kept their arms up, all smiles and excitement.
Deactivating his Telekinetic drives, Cal threw up a portal at the last moment, smoothly banking into a lazy glide around the mid level of the city. <Told you they'd enjoy it.> He couldn't hide the pride in his voice.
<And I didn't disagree.> Max shook his head, rising from where he'd pressed his belly against the base of Cal's wing. He rolled his shoulders, turning to address Mel as shifted into a cross-legged position. <You're a bad influence, you know.>
Mel grinned at Max <I think you meant to say I'm a fun influence.> They looked around, content. <You were great, Cal. Thank you.>
<You mean I am great,> Cal corrected, tucking in tighter to the city.
Max turned his back to Mel, instead waving cheerfully to a small band of children pressed up against the balcony Shielding, completely ignoring the bemused caretaker behind them. <We have an audience.>
Mel laughed <Yes, Cal. You are great. That's why I like you so much.> They waved to the children too. <We should give a show to our public, don't you think?>
Max shook his head with a sigh. <You're incorrigible.> He leaned backwards, slipping from Cal's wing to plummet head first toward the ground below.
Mel was, for once, surprised. <And you are a show-off.>
<Why do you think we get along so well?> Cal laughed. <Should we go fetch him? Or let him fall a bit longer first?>
Mel pretended to think. <I think our audience will appreciate a daring shown. Let's wait a bit.>
<You two are going to be the death of me,> Max grumbled, shifting horizontal to slow his descent.
Cal only laughed. <And?>
<And I'm having too much fun!> said Mel happily. <But let's get the grumpy Commander.>
Cal laughed again, twisting to begin his descent. <You hear that? You're a grump, Mel agrees with me!>
<Only around you! Wonder how that happens?>
Mel's glee carried full-on mischief. <Come on, Max. You are not fooling anyone. Well, maybe yourself.> They enjoyed Cal's graceful movements flying them around.
<You're not helping, Mel.> Max glared at Mel upside down through the cockpit window, arms crossed, Cal's dive now perfectly aligned with his own freefall.
<We can make Max wait a bit more, Cal?> Mel blew a kiss to their Commander.
Max rolled his eyes. <It's fine. I'll catch the next one.>
<I bet the next one wouldn't be as fun as Cal and me.> Mel smirked.
<More reliable,> Max laughed, reaching with his Telekinetic gloves and boots and pull himself toward them.
Cal pulled level as Max latched on. <You call me the trouble maker, but everyone knows it's really you.>
<I like to think we share the blame,> Max shrugged, casually walking to Cal's wingtip. <You insist we share everything else, and I'm feeling generous today.>
Mel looked at Max and grinned <Awww, what a great partnership you two have. It brings me fond memories.>
<We bicker like an old married couple,> Cal agreed. <But we work well together. That's what matters.>
Max didn't say anything, instead running from one wingtip toward the other, his boots lending speed and stability to his sprint.
Mel looked at Max, grinning <Yes, the fond memories were about my parents.>
Cal rolled, the movement timed with Max's arrival at his opposite wing, launching the canid high into the air.
<I'm glad you have fond memories of your parents, Mel.> Cal evened out, banking slightly into lazy turn. <It's important to remember where we came from, it's part of who we are.>
<They made me promise to keep going and I did, because I wanted to honour their lives. Now I'm here with you. I'm glad I found you.>
<Me, too,> Max admitted, the canid still above them and out of sight against the bright Janikk sun.
<Now, Cal> said Mel arching their head to catch a glimpse of Max. <You promised to show me around. What did you have in mind?>
<There's a lot to see on Janikk!> Cal rolled lazily, maintaining his current flight. <Not sure Max would appreciate us leaving without him, though.>
<Thanks for that,> Max grunted. <Not that I can't take care of myself. But you're my only pair of wings.>
Cal laughed. <I'm sure you'd think of something.>
<I want Max there! It wouldn't be as fun without him!>
<I guess I'll fetch him.> Cal pulled upward, his quick acceleration at odds with the reluctance in his voice.
<No need.> Max's shadow quickly expanded to block the sun, outstretched hands easily finding their grip along Cal's belly. <Thirsty? We could start with the lake.>
Mel happily cheered <Yes, let's go!>
<The lake it is,> Cal agreed, casting a portal above them as he pulled his wings tighter to his body.
They sailed through, the portal exit aligning them horizontal once more. Cal's belly pointed to the sky, his Shielded canopy almost scraping the scraggly bushes eking out their existence in the rocky ground beneath them.
Max snorted. <Show off.>
Mel was in awe <Shush, let him show off for me.>
<Mel appreciates me.> Cal's voice was smug.
<Your first mistake.> But there was laughter in Max's voice as he dropped into view, now hanging from Cal's wings. He made his way toward Mel with a grin, the Telekinetics in his gloves ensuring he maintained his hold, his feet dangling dangerously close to the rock below. <We'll need to get you your own Dancing boots one of these days.>
Mel clapped their hands in excitement <Yes, please! And you can teach me how to use them?> Their eyes brightened <Cal, imagine the fun we can have if I get Dancing boots!>
<And the trouble you can cause?> Max laughed, grinning through the cockpit. <You and Cal are going to be the death of me.>
<Which one?> Cal asked helpfully.
<All of them.>
<But you are still going to get me Dancing boots, right?> Mel tried their best pleading voice. <And help me with my training?>
Max let out a loud howl, swinging himself upward to allow his boots to grip Cal's wings, one gloved hand now directly on the cockpit bubble. <We're Mordena, Mel. Trouble is what we do best. Of course I'll help you.>
Mel was smug. <I know I am in the right company.> They looked around. <Where is the lake?>
Max laughed. <You'll see. Cal's showing off again.>
<Janikk deserves to be seen at her best,> Cal huffed, accelerating.
Mel cheered. They loved speed.
The horizon sped closer, then fell away, revealing a large, curved cliff face wrapping around the northeastern shore of a sprawling lake. A delicate waterfall cascaded over the furthest edge, its collection of water streams playfully carving their way throughout the malleable rock, dancing and diving their path into the crystal clear waters far below.
Max grinned through the cockpit window, clearly eager to observe Mel's reaction.
Mel's eyes widened and gleamed with emotion. Their smile light up their face. <Oh, this is beautiful.> They whispered and brought their hand close to their heart. <Thank you.>
<Welcome to Janikk,> Max grinned, his tail beating behind him. <The most beautiful planet in the universe.>
<Not that you're biased or anything,> Cal snorted. The Blade slowed into a hover, rolling right side up and tilting his nose down slightly to give a better view.
<It's home. Of course it's the most beautiful planet in the universe.> Mel was in awe and grinning. <Cal, how close can you get me to the waterfall?>
<Wrong question!> Max laughed, clinging tightly to Cal's wing as the Blade lept forward and down, pulling to a sudden stop underneath a section of waterfall where the cliff face cut away enough to allow for the Blade's wing.
<It was a good question,> Cal protested.
Max merely shook his head, walking to the point the water pelted against Cal's canopy. With a slight twist of his wrist the stream shifted, instead falling smoothly to either side. He stood above, grinning down at Mel. <Want out?>
<Thank you, Cal. You are always so fun!> Mel looked at Max and grinned. <Yes!>
Crouching beside the cockpit as the bubble opened, Max reached behind Mel's seat, undoing their seat restraints.
"Put this on. You'll need it."
He mimicked wrapping the safety harness around his chest, arms, and thighs, before dropping it in their lap.
Mel followed Max's instructions and secured the harness in their body. <Cal, will you stay around?>
<You're stuck with me,> Cal laughed as Max unreeled a tether from behind the seat, latching it securely to the back of Mel's harness. <You don't have telekinetic boots, so he's hooking up the safeties we use for Dancers in training.>
Max tugged on the tether, checking both its connection to Mel and to Cal. <That should do it.>
Mel leapt out of the bubble and slammed into Max's chest, hugging him. <Thank you for taking care of me, dads!> They cried happy tears.
"Oof." Max felt the air rush out of his lungs, instinctively wrapping his arms tight around Mel and taking a step backward with one foot to brace against the impact... But his foot found nothing but air and waterfall.
Feeling the strain against his ankle, Cal allowed the telekinetics to disconnect, sending him tumbling off Cal's wing, Mel still in his arms.
Mel clinged to Max and their laugh mixed with tears <Look, Dad! Father and me are flying too!>
Activating the telekinetics in his gloves with practiced ease, Max kept one arm wrapped around Mel, anchoring them to his check. He grabbed the rope of the tether with the other, wrapping it around his palm and holding tight. He felt the rope pull tight and let out the breath he didn't know he was holding.
<You two okay down there?> The concern in Cal's voice was unmistakable. <You're having lots of emotions right now.>
<We're fine.> Max pressed his lower jaw against Mel's back, his neck wrapping over their shoulder. "And that is why we use the harness."
They leaned into Max and giggled. <Sorry, Dad!> Mel looked at the fall below them. <Uh, that's high.> They whispered "I knew you'll catch me, Father"
"Mel..." Max closed his eyes as Cal activated the hoist, slowly pulling them back up. What was even the right thing to say?
"Mel... I will always catch you."
"That's why I chose you two. I think I did since I went on an adventure with Cal. Then you tried to teach me Shielding and stayed with me when I became Mordena." Mel switched to Telepathy <Mordena is family, but you're more than that. Do you accept the title? Do you accept me?> For once they sounded shy.
<Up,> Max ordered, helping Mel climb back onto Cal's wing before hefting himself up behind them. He busied himself tightening the straps on Mel's harness, swallowing hard as he found his words.
<That mission was a lot of fun,> Cal said quietly, his voice betraying his own emotions.
Max tugged at the last strap before pulling Mel back into a hug. <Of course we accept you. You matter to use.> He squeezed tighter grateful the Telepathy wouldn't reveal the lump in his throat. <I've been a Dancer for a long time... Just as comfortable falling from Cal's wing than standing on it. But I've never been so scared as I was at the thought of you getting hurt just now.>
Mel smiled in the hug <All of our missions will be fun, Dad!> They put their arms around Max <I didn't want you to scare you. I'm just so happy I've found you.>
<Why me, though?> Cal asked softly. <I mean, I understand, with Max. He's just got this way about him. Makes you feel safe. I'm just some reckless old fighter.>
Mel turned their feeling with more intensity toward Cal <When we met I was a mess. I did a dangerous thing in search of a home, a place to belong. And while Commander Acer was kind and warm with me, it was you who made me feel like I was worth the trust placed on me. The moment I met you I felt connected to you in a way I hadn't felt in a long time. You listened to me and gave me the choice to make the right decision. And yes, we did a reckless thing going to rescue that Sparnell freighter, but we did it together. We trusted each other because both of us are trouble, but you also protected me and guided me. You believed in me. How could I not choose you to be my dear Dad?> Mel breathed deeply and chuckled while tears ran through their face. <Was my little speech enough to go through that dense mind of yours?>
It was Max who broke the silence, a deep belly laugh breaking through the tangle of emotions. <They've got your code, Cal.>
<Not funny,> the Blade pouted.
<I disagree.>
Max tilted his head, wrapping his arms tighter around Mel. <Suit yourself. And you say I'm the grump.>
Cal shook his wings, slowly sliding out from underneath the water to begin a gentle hovering descent toward the lake below. <Thank you, Mel. I'll do my best to earn this honor.>
Max released Mel from the hug, instead grabbing both their shoulders to hold them at arms' length. <You're still pretty reckless. Cal and I?> He laughed. <You're in for a universe of disappointment if you think we'll make good role models.>
<Oh, Father. I joined the Mordena. I'm not interested in good role models.> Mel put their hands above Max's shoulders mimicking his posture. <Are you two willing to handle my reckless ass?> They looked at the lake below and winked at Max <I can't promise I'll stay out of trouble.>
Max tugged at the rope still attached to Mel's harness. <Just make sure it's the kind we can help get you out of.>
Mel smiled <Deal! I'll do my best.> They put their hands over the harness <You already put this thing on me like I'm some kind of unruly child.> Mel laughed <You are already doing great, my dads.>
<All the Dancers-in-Training use one of those,> Cal protested. <Even Max, way back when.>
<Except that first flight you took me on. Back when you got your wings.>
<That was different! You weren't Mordena yet!>
Max just shook his head, returning his attention to Mel. <And besides, you clearly need it. Didn't even give me a chance to tighten it up before you made that clear.>
Mel grinned even wider <Tell me more about your training! I wanna know what you did together, in those old ancient times...>
Cal burst out laughing. <You're ancient, Max!>
The canid scowled. <So what does that make you?>
<A state-of-the-art Mordena Blade, regularly updated to the latest technology and configuration,> Cal said smugly.
<Don't forget the most fun, dad!> Mel said and made a face at Max. <You're cool too, don't worry.> They leaned into Max not caring about the scowling canid.
Max braced himself, ensuring his footing remained entirely on Cal this time as the Blade settled into the water. With a lopsided grin, he focused his magic. <I can cause trouble, too, you know.>
A large wave formed on the otherwise still lake, growing in size and power as it barreled toward them.
Mel hoped their Shielding protected them from the wave but didn't care too much. <I'm aware, Father.> They laughed and leaned heavily on Max.
Father. Max was still getting used to that word. The way Mel kept using it, though, he figured they'd make sure it didn't take too long.
He split the wave last minute, the two halves crashing across Cal on either side of them, showering them with a fine spray of water generated from the impact.
<I'm not that thirsty, Max.> Cal's voice shone with amusement more than anything. <Tank's already full.>
"Well, that was refreshing!" Mel's voice was light "But I am thirsty." They tugged at the harness. <Should we test this? Again?> They jumped into the lake.
<Mel!> Max focused his magic, sending another wave to retrieve Mel and deposit them on Cal's wing. He leaned down, making short work of the quick releases. <If you want to go swimming we should probably take that off. It's heavy.>
<Remind me never to have kids,> Cal quipped. <They're a real wingful.>
Max punched a fist into Cal's wing. <Little late for that, Lieutenant. You've been adopted.>
<Oh, Dad! You have no idea how much of wingful I can be!> They stretched their arms and legs <I'm also hungry. But a swim sounds fun too. Would you join me, Father?>
<Of course he would!> And with that, Cal lifted from the lake and rolled, launching both passengers through the air toward the water.
Mel emerged from the water coughing and laughing <You're the best, Dad>
Max dove in gracefully beside Mel, having converted Cal's familiar motion into a controlled arc with a helpful push from his boots. <You know I'll get you back for that.>
<Unlikely,> Cal said smugly. <But I look forward to your attempts.> He settled back into the water beside them. <You'll probably want to take off your shoes, Mel. I can keep them safe in my cockpit for you.>
<Yes, thank you, Dad!> Mel tried to take off their shoes "Hmmm, a little help?" They asked Max.
Max dropped his own boots into Cal's cockpit before turning to help Mel. <Probably easiest if you're sitting. They're a bit waterlogged is all.>
Helping Mel climb up onto Cal's wing, Max directed his Hydromancy to pull the water from their laces before deftly undoing the knots.
Looking at Max's Hydromancy Mel said <You know, seeing all the things you can do and how in sync you are with Dad it almost makes me want to become a Dancer. Almost.> Once their boots were secure in Cal's cockpit Mel jumped in the water again and splashed at Max playfully.
Grinning, Max directed the water to reverse direction and splash Mel instead. <Honestly, a lot of that's just battle mage stuff. You keep up with your field medic lessons, you'll learn.>
"Oi!" Mel complained and then laughed. <I will. I want to be useful to my team. You told me I should stay in one piece to heal them when they need me.> Mel submerged in the water again and when they emerged leaned over Cal's wing <See? I can learn too! I'm not just a troublemaker.>
<I can teach you Dancing though,> Cal offered, spreading his wings to catch more of the sun. <Once you have the boots.>
Max shifted onto his back, folding his fingers together behind his head. <He's a good teacher. I learned a lot from him.>
<Including the importance of being a troublemaker.>
<Yes,> Max agreed reluctantly. <But there's a time and a place, Cal. One day you'll learn.>
Mel was content just floating around in the water <I'd love to receive Dancing lessons, Dad!> They poked Max in his side. <When will you get me my boots, Father?>
Max shrugged, still floating. <Whenever we're done here. Will take a few days, but we can get them on order.>
Mel drifted to Cal's wing again and hoisted themselves up. They reached into the cockpit and took one of Max's boots, carefully, they examined it and put it back next to the other. <It's a pity I can't use yours.> They exaggerated a sigh. <Can we go to the bar again? I'm hungry.> They pleaded at Max with their best innocent look. <And then we can order my new boots?.>
<You should have eaten while we were there, instead of sweet talking Cal into a joyride,> Max growled.
<To be fair, I offered first.>
<Not the point, Cal.>
Mel threw themselves across Cal's wing and put their hand over their heart. <Oh, Father! Are you going to let your own child starve?> Mel pouted for good measure. <Pleaseeeeeee>
<No.>
Mel gasped <What do you mean no?> They moved over the wing closer to Max. <Come on, Father. Don't I deserve a good meal after my long day of training?>
Max sat up, treading water as he watched Mel. "And you could've had that if you'd eaten when I offered. That's something you'll have to learn out in the field, too. You can't just stop everything to eat whenever you want. You won't always have that option."
<I see. So this is also a lesson.> Mel sat crosslegged and looked down. <I understand your point, but the reason I didn't eat before was you said Dad made you throw up once and I didn't want to embarrass myself in front of you two.> They hugged their knees. <I was trying to make a good impression.>
"Mel..." Max frowned as Cal rose from the water. <Cal, what are you doing?>
<I don't care, Max. It's my fault they're hungry, and I'm going to bring them back to get food. You can come if you want but I'm the transportation, not you.>
Mel grinned and got the boots out of the cockpit and settled there. <Thank you, Dad!> They secured the straps and the helmet.
Max growled in frustration from the lake. <I was going to say you don't have to worry about making a good impression, you already have! Cal, get your wings back down here.>
<No.>
<I didn't know that before! Now I have, Father.> They smiled at Max down on the lake and held his boots close to their chest. "You're outnumbered, Commander."
<Mel! Cal! Are you seriously going to just leave me here?>
Cal continued to hover in place. <I don't know. What do you think, Mel?>
Mel feigned considering the question. After a long pause, they replied. <I wouldn't want to leave one of my brand new dads behind.>
<I suppose you're right.>
Cal gently lowered into the water, allowing Max to climb back onto his wing. The canid scowled on mock indignation, shaking himself dry before finishing the job with his Hydromancy. <I was going to say we can go eat now,> he growled quietly, holding out his hand for his shoes. <I'd made my point.>
Mel extended their hands and gave Max his shoes, but before the canid could make a move they pulled him in a hug and whispered "Thank you, Father. I've learned my lesson."
Max wrapped one arm around them, claiming his boots with the other. "I worry about you."
Mel released him and fiddled with their straps and helmet. "I know. It's nice to matter to someone that much." They said in a quiet voice.
"You're going to get a lot of that, now that you're Mordena," Max said with a grin.
<We're rather open with our emotions,> Cal agreed. <Because it's safe.>
Max frowned, bending distractedly to run one gloved hand across the Blade's wing. He shook his head as if to clear it, redirecting his attention back to Mel with a mischievous grin.
"You're all wet."
He planted a giant lick against Mel's cheek.
Mel laughed and clung to Max again. "Could you help me with that?" They looked at Max knowingly. <I was open with my emotions and you still needed a little speech, Dad. Using our words is also good.>
Breaking free, Max found a seat on Cal's wing and began to pull the water from his boots and Mel's clothing.
He fixed them with a pointed stare before leaning in to whisper in their ear. "Later. After we deal with the Order."
Mel smiled and nodded. <Father, hurry up! I'm hungryyyyyy.>
<So demanding,> Cal laughed, ignorant of the prior exchange. <At least you could say please.>
Max pointed into Cal's cockpit. <Sit. Need to strap you in. Thinking we'll get the boots first.>
<Sorry! Please, hurry up, Father.> said Mel and then clapped their hands with glee <Yes! I want my new boots!> They sat, waiting for Max to secure the straps.
Max snorted, lightly stepping on Mel's shoulders for leverage to tighten the safety harness. <Have you ever taken things slow, Mel?>
<Nope.>
<Just my speed.> Cal launched himself into the air, ignoring Max's protests. <Where to?>
<You're going back to the hangar,> Max growled. <Troublemaker.>
<Grump.>
<Impetuous flying contraption.>
<Spoilsport.> Cal rolled, Max quickly crouching to hold on to the wing as the cockpit activated. <Mel. Long way, or portal?>
Mel laughed quietly at their fathers' antics. <As much as I enjoy flying with you, I really need to eat, Dad.> Their stomach grumbled. <Portal, please?>
<You got it, kid.> The blade activated his portal drive, landing on the hanger runway mere seconds later.
Max lept from his wing, jogging toward the large array of lockers along the wall as Cal taxied to his parking spot. <Be right back.>
<That was a fun ride, Dad.> They started the process of releasing the straps that held them secure in the cockpit. <I want to do it again soon! Will you show me new places?>
<Always. Plenty of things to see on Janikk.>
<And shoot at,> Max said wryly.
Cal seemed undisturbed at the accusation. <I'm a Blade. It's what I do.>
<You've got the mentality of a toddler sometimes, you know that, right? Except instead of putting random things in your mouth, you shoot at them.>
<Don't have a mouth anymore.> Cal pulled his wings in, coming to a stop. <Had to adapt.>
Max merely burst into laughter in response.
Mel joined Max in his laughter until their sides hurt.
Max jogged back to Cal, still chuckling as he hoisted himself back onto the Blade's wing. "Funniest part is, I have no idea whether or not he's joking. He was already dead when we met."
He handed Mel a rectangular pre-packaged food bar. "Here, eat this. Doesn't taste like much, but it'll tide you over."
Mel accepted the bar "Thanks, Father!" and proceeded to swallow the thing.
"Of course." Sliding back to the flight deck, he ran his hand affectionately over Cal's side. <You'll be okay?>
<Absolutely.> There was mischief in Cal's voice. <Made plans with friends to go shoot at things later.>
Mel laughed with the unfortunate consequence of choking with the bar.
"Mel!" Max was back in Cal's cockpit in an instant, supporting Mel from behind as they coughed. "You okay?"
Mel managed to swallow the rest of the bar and coughed some more. Their eyes watered a bit "I'm okay." They patted Max on his arm. "Don't worry, Father."
"You sure?" He looked relieved but unconvinced. "You don't want to need Cal to open up your airways for you. That never goes well."
<I said I was sorry.>
Mel's eyes widened "I need to hear that story." They touched their chest. "Something to drink will be nice."
"Something to drink would be nice before I share that memory," Max laughed. "Preferrably in very large quantities."
Wrapping one arm around Mel's middle, he directed his attention to a noticeable assortment of uniformed Mordena crowded around one of the break tables. "Coral! Water, please?"
"Get your own water!" a curvy gray striped katanoj shouted back. She flashed a set of colorful playing cards at Max. "I'm busy!"
"How long will Henri be doing your chores this time?"
"He wanted a rematch!" She pointed to the human on the other end of the table, his attention locked on his cards as if his life depended on it. "Henri! You heard the boss! Get the Commander some water."
Still studying his cards, Henri casually flipped the lid open on the large water bottle beside him, sliding it to the edge of the table closest to Max before selecting a pair of cards from his hand and spreading them on the table. "Your turn."
Max grinned at Coral's incredulous protests, channeling his Hydromancy to pull the liquid from Henri's now-open glass until a small globe of water hovered directly in front of Mel. "Drink."
Mel opened their mouth and drank the water. The coughing and choking stopped. "Thanks, Father." Mel smiled at Max. "Help me get out?"
He climbed back up on Cal's wing, holding hia gloved hand out to Mel. "Let's get you some boots."
Mel took his hand and hoisted themselves out of the cockpit. "I'm ready!"
<Have fun!> Cal cheered, dipping his wings slightly as Cal helped Mel to the ground before jumping down himself.
The canid motioned toward the nearest portal node. "I'll take you where I get mine."
<Thank you, Dad!> Mel followed Max without letting go of his hand.
Max poked at the keypad for the node until the portal sprang to life, revealing a large two-story atrium. The well-lit space was boxed in on all sides by living walls, the balconies above draped in bioluminescent flowers. Enchanting statues of assorted materials, carved into life-sized replicas of the plants and other creatures of Janikk, cast their soft glow from the walls, ceiling, and even the floor at regular intervals as the inhabitants of Janikk milled about on their daily business. A pleasant hum of greetings and warm conversation filled the space.
Max motioned to Mel. "After you."
Mel stepped into the space. "You know, sometimes I still can't believe I'm part of this." They looked up. "I want to protect it."
"It's a far jump from the Order," Max agreed, enjoying the pleasure on Mel's face. "Back then everything was about obligations and expectations. Earning the right to a better life... Or whatever they call it. I still don't know why my squad caught the Grand Navarch's attention, but every day I'm grateful."
Mel leaned over Max "I'm grateful to the Grand Navarch too. I'm glad we are here."
"Well I'm grateful you managed to avoid attracting too much of his attention," he laughed, ruffling Mel's hair. "A one day interview with Timm is much preferable to however long the Grand Navarch kept me. Weeks, at least."
Mel chuckled "I guess I was lucky. But you're here so that means the Grand Navarch was right in keeping you for so long."
"I suppose..." Max tilted his head, guiding Mel through the atrium, pausing briefly under a large sculpture of a dragon bird in flight. "Wouldn't have said so at the time, though. It's a lot. Watching as someone tears apart everything you've ever believed in? Sometimes I wonder. What did that really do to me?"
Mel stopped and hugged Max tightly, then they looked at him in the eyes "I'm sorry, Father."
He wrapped an arm around them, ruffling their hair once more. "It brought me where I am today. And that's enough."
He pointed to one of the many hallways branching from the atrium. "Anyway, doesn't matter. What's done is done. Place I go for boots is this way."
Mel followed Max into the hallway he directed "Will you help me train with Dad after I get my boots?"
"Was planning on it." Max glanced at Mel before continuing down the walkway, nodding return greetings to those he recognized as they passed. "Can't be there for all of it, of course – some things will have to be between you and Cal – but I'll help where I can. And unlike me, you get to learn on the ground."
He laughed, turning to grin at Mel. "As you can imagine, Cal didn't allow me that luxury."
Mel grinned back "Are you going to tell me about that time he opened your airways?"
"Not much to tell." Max returned his attention to the pathway, his hand in Mel's as they walked. "We'd been practicing most of the day, and stopped so I could eat something Cal had shot, since neither of us wanted to go back yet and I was hungry. He made a joke, I laughed so hard I started to choke, Cal panicked, and that was my first trip to the resurrection center."
Mel laughed "I wonder if I'll ever make a trip there myself. I'm more worried that someone under my care may end up there... How is it? How does it feel?"
Max tilted his head as he thought. "What I felt most was nervous, if I'm honest," he admitted. "It's the sort of thing you don't really think about happening to you, until it happens to you, you know? And Cal was no help. Too worried I'd stick with what I'd been taught by the Order and not come back."
He turned right, down a more narrow walkway, lined with small shops advertising their wares with carefully crafted signs and Shielded windows. "Resurrection itself was nothing special. Like trying on a new pair of boots, made just for you. I'm told it's uncomfortable if they get the genetics wrong, but I've never had a problem. Just a... comfortable unfamiliarity, if that makes sense? The new body feels new, but the kind you know you'll grow used to."
"I guess we'll see for how much time I get to have this body until I get a new one..." Mischief shone in Mel's eyes. "Do I get gloves like yours too?"
"You can... Although you don't have claws, so you'll probably want the ones that cover your fingertips. I'm told they have better grip. I wouldn't know." He stopped in front of a fairly nondescriped cobbler shop, one hand on the door as he turned to Mel. "You ready?"
"Always"
Max opened the door, ushering Mel into the cozy shop. Shelving lined every available space along the way, most overflowing with meticulously labeled footwear awaiting repair. A large desk sat pressed against the back wall, its own storage spaces crammed to overflowing with materials and tools, its surface somehow clean and empty aside for the single pair of military boots carefully positioned in the center atop an old, stained rag of fabric. Several tools floated around the boots, including a threaded needle busily attaching a brand new sole, and a polishing sponge diligently reapplying a sharp layer of shining black.
"Good afternoon, Mary!" Max announced to the seemingly unoccupied space. "I have another order for you."
"You lost your gloves again, Commander?" A small purple fae emerged from the inside of one of the boots and began to cross her top pair of arms before her eyes caught Mel. Allowing the tools to set themselves gently on the desk, she flitted toward them, switching off the small headlamp buried among the feathered fluff between her antennae. "Well I'll be. You must be Mel, the new recruit! Welcome to my shop."
Mel inclined their head and smiled at the fae "Thank you for welcoming me. I see my father comes here often." They winked at Max.
Max sighed, hanging his head. "Mel..."
The fae was already hovering below his snout, all three pairs of arms crossed as she stared him in the eyes. "Father? You've been holding out on me!"
"It's a very recent development. Haven't really had the chance to tell anyone yet," Max said softly, eyes sad as he turned to Mel. "And since everyone comes here for their boots, now I won't get to tell anyone. They'll already know."
A stocky red dracoling made their way into the shop, raising an eyebrow at Mary. "Picking up for the squadron?"
She waved an arm dismissively at one of the shelves. "They're done, just grab them. I'm helping a new customer and their father."
The dracoling cast a curious glance at Mel and Max before making their way to the indicated shelf, rifling through its contents with focused purpose.
Mel looked at the floor, shy and whispered "Sorry, I'm so happy to have a family again... I didn't think...I don't want you to be sad."
Max forced a smile, pulling Mel in for a hug. "What's done is done. And Cal's probably already told everyone back at the hangar by now, anyway, since it's his news, too."
"It's about time you two settled down." Mary nodded her approval, waving at the dracoling as he slipped from the store, a small parade of newly repaired boots floating behind him.
"Oh, I didn't... We're not... There's too much going on right now with the Order right now. I don't want to distract him."
"Too much going on!" Mary waved her arms to encompass all the clutter. "I've never been this busy in my life! It's like you Dancers don't maintain your own kit until you think you might need it. Yet here I am, acting like I'm your damn therapist."
She shook her head, drifting back to her desk as a datapad slid smoothly from the shelf and settled neatly beneath her. "All I know is, you better tell that Blade of yours before he decides you're not interested and finds someone else. But that's your business. Back to mine: What can I get you?"
Feeling Mel shifting to hide behind him, Max stepped aside, wrapping one arm around them to gently pin Mel to his side as he ruffled their hair for the other. "My child, who I am proud of and love very much, needs a full set of Telekinetic boots and gloves so Cal and I can teach them to cause even more trouble than they already do."
"Sounds about right, knowing you two." Mary poked a bit at the tablet with her third pair of arms, bringing up a holographic display showing a collection of different colors and styles of shoes. When she addressed Mel, her voice was warm and kind. "Did you want the standard military kit, or would you like to customize? Anyone who can get this hopeless bachelor to adopt them deserves something special. So what'll it be, kid? Anything you want. My treat."
Max made a face at the fae, accompanied by a quick bark of laughter. "You don't pay for a damn thing, Mary, and neither do we." He grinned down encouragingly at Mel, a lopsided smile as he allowed his tongue to loll out of his mouth. <She's right, though. Pick out anything you like. You deserve it.>
Mel snuggled closer to Max and smiled at him. Then they addressed Mary "I'm honoured Max accepted me as his child. I'm hoping he won't 't stay a bachelor for much longer." Mel looked at the holographic display with interest. "Do you have anything in red?"
"They're all custom!" Mary laughed, wings rustling. "We can make them whatever color you want!"
"And style," Max added, his face turning serious. "Although you'll be using them in the air, so I recommend picking something with the buckles on the calves. For safety."
Mel brightened up at that "Excellent! I want red boots and black gloves." They clapped their hands with excitement. "Yes, while I know Dad is going to take care of me it's best to think about safety measures." Mel grinned, a bit sheepish. "And I'm a bit of reckless troublemaker, so better to be safe. Right, Father?"
"Expecially when Cal's involved," Max agreed with a laugh.
Mary propped two pairs of hands on her thorax. "And what about you, Commander?"
"I'm not the best influence, either."
"Aha! He admits it!" Mary turned triumphantly to Mel. "Let's start with the gloves, then, since there's less options. Fingers, fingerless, and a few different padding options depending on what you think you'll get into. And buckles or other fastens on the wrist, so they don't slide off."
"You'll probably benefit from the standard gloves," Max suggested, showing his own hands. "Reinforced against wear and tear, but not enough you can't feel what you're grabbing."
"Great! But with fingers. Sadly, I don't have claws like you" Mel pouted a bit.
Mary laughed. "More trouble than they're worth, if you ask me! Half my orders are repairs against claw damage."
Mel grinned at Mary "I bet you do! But I must warn you. I have no claws but it's very possible you see me here often asking for repairs."
Max snorted but otherwise held his tongue.
Mary had no such reservations. "Considering your parents, I have no doubts of that."
Mel preened. "I have a family reputation to protect."
"You were Sparnelli? Me too!" Mary beamed back, cleaning her antennae. "You ever need help settling in, just ask. The Jannadaelox are a welcoming bunch, but it takes some adjustment, figuring out you can carve your own path."
"Former Legion, actually," Max answered for Mel.
Mary studied Mel thoughtfully. "Don't get many of those. Guess you're already used to all our magic, though, if you're shopping for my boots."
Mel replied cheerfully "I'm still getting used to all of this, to be honest. I'm training to be a healer." They adopted a more serious tone "I was Legion, but now Mordena is my place and Jannikk is home. Max and Cal, they are my family." Mel smiled again, "A new friend would be nice too."
Mary tapped her tablet. "If you're in here half as much as your father, we'll be friends soon enough. I'd like to get your order set up now, though, so we can work it. Things have been crazy busy here since the Order's attack plans went public. You'd think our Dancers didn't maintain their equipment until they thought they'd need it!"
"More drills, more wear and tear," Max growled quietly.
"Not usually this much." Mary poked the tablet to pull up her menu, directing Mel to scan through the options. "Once we know what you want, I'll take your measurements and let you know when they're ready."
"Thank you, Mary." Mel looked at the options and decided on a black pair of standard gloves with fingers. They also picked red boots with safety straps and buckles for the ankles, following their father's advice.
"Fancy." Max grinned his approval.
Mary waved an arm, causing one of the desk drawers to open. Another wave and a holographic scanner rose to settle neatly on the table. "You'll want to take off your shoes."
Mel nodded "Sure." They took off their shoes and wiggled their toes.
The scanner settled onto the floor at Mel's feet. "Step right up top, if you would? It's going to make a digital model of your feet, and measure your pressure points to see where you need more support."
Mel followed Mary's instructions.
"Perfect. And step down again?"
As Mel stepped down, Mary directed the device to return to the table, holographically projecting a list of numbers. She nodded knowingly as the list scrolled past, wings slowly folding and unfolding as she studied the readout.
Max shrugged his shoulders, looking at Mel. <I have no idea how she knows what that all means.>
Mel put their shoes on again and looked intrigued at Mary. "How long until I get my boots and gloves?"
"Usually I'd say a couple days..." Mary's voice trailed off as she navigated the holographic display, manipulating some of the numbers with two pairs of arms before setting it to deactivate. "There we go."
She fluttered away from the device, standing instead at the edge of her table. "Hold your hands over it now, please? Just a few seconds, palm down, then rotate your wrists to palm up and hold."
"Alright" said Mel and did as Mary told them.
"Perfect," Mary said, watching Mel follow her instructions. "And... Done. Thank you."
She fluttered her wings, waving her arms at the overfull shelving. "As I started to say, we're not usually this busy. The whole business with the Order has everyone scrambling. Your boots will take a least a week. Probably closer to two, knowing these knuckleheads' tendencies to wait until the last minute for repairs. Turns all the small fixes into big projects."
Max stepped back, palms held in front of him as Mary turned to glare his direction. "What? I've gotten a lot better at that."
"Uh huh." Mary sounded unconvinced. "That's what you said the last time, too." She waved her hand at one of the far shelves. "Your spare gloves are fixed, by the way. Pick them up on your way out."
Mel laughed "You're in trouble, Father!"
Max ducked his head, feeling the blood rushing into his face, grateful for his fur to hide it. "Thank you, Mary."
"Try to be kinder to them this time," she waved dismissively, returning her attention to Mel. "Your gloves will be faster. We've some blanks prepped I can trim, resize, and sew together. With any luck, I can have those delivered for you tomorrow, or you can come by anytime to pick them up. Your preference."
"I can pick them up tomorrow!" Mel inclined their head and smiled. "Thank you, Mary."
"I'll see you tomorrow." Mary sounded pleased at Mel's enthusiasm. "Afternoon, though. Definitely won't be ready before lunch."
"Good thing you clarified," Max laughed. "They'd be waiting for you to open otherwise, knowing Mel." He grinned, licking Mel's cheek.
Mel nodded eagerly "Yes! I want my gloves!" They leaned into Max. "Thank you, Father."
"I didn't do anything." Max wrapped his arms around Mel. "Just took you to the best military outfitter we've got. Mary will see her people handle the rest."
Mary's wings fluttered at the praise. "Bet that flattery gets you out of a lot of trouble, Commander, but it won't work on me."
"You sure?" Max laughed, holding Mel tighter. "Ready to go eat?"
Mel clung to Max "Yes, Father! What do you recommend for a late dinner?"
"Depends what you're in the mood to eat!" Max laughed, waving his farewells as he guided Mel back to the door.
"Have fun, you two!" Mary called behind them. "Don't forget your gloves, Commander!"
Max grinned, holding out his hand, the telekinetics in the gloves activating to meet him, several items toppling from the shelves at their departure.
"You're a menace, Max!' Mary squealed, her own telekinetics catching the threatening downpour of gloves and boots and assorted military kit. "A menace!"
He grinned back from the doorway. "I'll miss you, too. Thanks for everything!"
Mel giggled "I want something sweet!"
Max tilted his head. "Sweet like fruit?"
"As a fae, I approve!" Mary called out from her desk with a laugh. "Now get out of my shop!"
Mel followed Max out to the shop "Sweet like cake with fruits!"
Max stopped mid stride. "Sweet like... That's not very healthy!"
Mel gave him an innocent look. "I said with fruits!" They clung to his neck. "Please, Father!"
"After dinner, not instead of dinner."
"Fine." They pouted but didn't let go of Max "I'll tell Dad about your unfair treatment." They sighed dramatically.
Max laughed. "Good luck with that. He hasn't tasted anything for... a decade now? Probably tell you to go lay out in the sun for a while." He shook his head, tapping Mel lightly on the nose. "Lucky for you, I know a place I think you'll find acceptable."
Mel perked up at that "Really? Lead the way, Father!" And then sprinted away "You gotta catch me first!"
Max kept his original pace, tilting his head as he watched Mel take off. "You don't even know where we're going."
"I'm going to win!" yelled Mel behind their shoulder. They kept running until they noticed Max wasn't following them. "You are not fun." They crossed their arms and pouted.
"Everyone else tells me I'm a handful," Max laughed. He furrowed his brows. "Except Cal. He agrees with you."
Mel walked to Max again and hugged him. "Because we are worse than you." They let go and smiled. "Take me to this place you mentioned."
Ruffling Mel's hair, Max pretended to think. "I don't know, now. Maybe you've already eaten enough sugar for one day."
"But, Father!!! I'm starviiiing!!" They pleaded. "I can eat something that is not sugar. That's how hungry I am."
"I'll believe that when I see it." Attempting to keep a straight face but failing, Max grabbed Mel's hand and led them through the twists and turns of Janikk's capital, weaving expertly through the crowd. He nodded at several of the passersby, some in the sharp black and red military uniform of the Mordena mercenaries, but many also sporting an assortment of civilian Jannadaelox fashion, often accompanied by shifting colors or flowing fabrics which moved with a life of their own.
"It's quiet today."
Mel looked around "Is it because of the Order?"
"Probably." Max turned again, this time down a side alley. The path grew narrow, but remained brightly lit courtesy of the lighting fixtures spaced at regular intervals.
"It might interest you to know..." he continued, eyes still on the path ahead. "Well. 'War is business,' a lot of the Freeholds say about us, but we don't often actually go to war. Not like the other, bigger factions anyway. But when we do..."
They emerged from the alley onto a wide balcony, the woven branches of the city arrayed in an open circle stretching from the ground all the way to the sky. Hanging plants and flowers in every imaginabke color filled the railings, as high as they could see.
From the center of the courtyard rose a giant mechanical scaffold, stretching the full height of the understory. Sparks of light and sound flashed from the many workers crawling across the structure like ants.
"Huh. That's new."
Mel spared a glance at the workers and the scaffold in front of them. "What happens when we go to war?"
"Everyone chips in," Max said, distracted, his attention still held by the growing metal fixture.
Blinking as he pulled his attention away, Max shook his head and motioned for Mel to follow him along the balcony. "Sorry. This way. We're almost there."
Mel looked at the metal structure again and then followed Max.
"Have you explored much, when you're not in training?" Max asked, squeezing Mel's hand as they walked.
Mel held tightly to Max's hand. "Not really. I'm focused on training for... what may happen."
"We'll have to change that." Max nuzzled their cheek reassuringly before motioning toward a storefront ahead. "We're almost there. I hope you're hungry."
Mel smiled "I already told you I'm hungry." They eyed the place "Do they have cake?"
Max didn't answer, merely smiling as he opened the door and stepped aside, allowing Mel an unobstructed view.
The calm chatter of friendly conversation - punctuated with laughter - filled his ears, accompanied by the tantalizing scent of thick, meaty gravy heavily seasoned with herbs and vegetables.
He motioned Mel inside.
Mel stepped inside. "Oh, it smells good!"
"Wait until you taste," Max grinned, following them through the door and guiding them to the short line at the counter. "Every sort of pie you could imagine." He gave them a stern look. "No skipping straight to dessert."
Mel rolled their eyes. "Alright, Father." They looked around. "What pie is your favourite?"
"Your usual, Commander?" the red dracoling at the counter asked, ear fins fluttering.
"Yes." Max beamed, returning his attention to Mel. "Their meat pies are amazing. I usually prefer rokk – it's the darker, heavier meat you could smell when we walked in – but if you want something lighter the drazikk lizards are my second favorite."
Mel thought about it. "I want rokk pie!"
"Two rokk pies," the dracoling confirmed. "Will you be eating here or taking them with you?"
"Here, I think," Max answered, looking to Mel for confirmation.
Mel nodded and looked around for a free table.
"Sit anywhere you like. We'll bring them out when they're ready." The dracoling smiled kindly before turning her attention to the human behind them. "And what will you be having, ma'am?"
Max wrapped an arm around Mel, guiding them away from the counter. "It's always crowded here, but friendly. With any luck we'll find–"
"Yo! Maxi!"
Max scowled at the smug cream katanoj. "I wish you'd stop calling me that."
"Which is exactly why I never will," she purred, standing up and motioning to her table. "We were just finishing up, if you want to join us?"
The gray tabby beside her nodded, eyes half closed as he licked gravy from his fingers.
Mel looked at Max, a wicked grin on their face "Maxi?"
"Oh, don't you start," Max growled back, leading Mel to the table. "I am going to murder Coral."
"They'll just bring her back again," the cream katanoj purred. "And give her a free pass to get back at you. She knows her way around a knife, too. You'd never sleep again."
The gray tabby grinned up from his meal. "Who's your friend? Don't tell me the rumors are true."
Mel, suddenly shy, studied their old boots while following Max.
"They're true," Max said, butting Mel encouragingly with his snout. "This is Mel. My... child."
The word still felt strange in his mouth, even though the accompanying emotions did not. He felt a burst of love and pride, wrapping his arms around them protectively. "Mel, this is Crystal and Zeth, two of Coral's friends."
"We're your friends, too, Maxi!" Crystal pouted.
"Not if you keep calling me Maxi," he growled back.
Mel leaned into Max's embrace. "Hi, I'm Mel and Max is my Father." They smiled, happiness bursting out of them. "And Cal is my Dad."
Crystal broke into a grin. "You finally told him you feel? You old dog. I'm so happy for both of you."
"I didn't–" Max began, but she cut him off.
"I'm sure you had something to do with it, too, Mel. This old grump here has been dragging his feet for years."
"I'm not a grump," Max huffed.
"Crystal, I don't think–" Zeth interjected, but Crystal wasn't done.
"Have you decided what you're going to do next?" she asked, gently lifting her glass to lap at its contents.
Max paused, waiting for another interruption, but she merely folded her hands in her lap and watched him expectantly.
"Cal and I are just friends," he said weakly, sliding into one of the empty chairs and burying his face in his hands. "I don't know why everyone keeps insisting otherwise."
Mel sat next to Max and put an arm around his shoulders. "You'll get it. Eventually." They looked at Zath and Crystal. "Where did you meet my Father? Any embarrassing stories to share with his child?"
Max whimpered.
"Well!" Crystal grinned. "How embarrassed to you want him?"
"My condolences, mate," Zeth frowned, reaching across the table for Max.
Mel made a show of considering the question. "Let's start with mildly embarrassed." They patted Max and leaned into his shoulder.
"No complaining, Father. I just want to know more about you." They grinned.
"You could have just asked me," Max sighed, looking up at them. "Or Cal, if you want the longer version."
"Come on now, Maxi. I don't usually get to talk about these stories. Let a girl have her fun."
"The problem is," Max sighed, "Crystal knows all Coral's stories about me, too. Coral and I go way back to my Militant days. She was my first project."
"You're not that naïve pup anymore," Zeth reassured. "Nobody blames you for believing what you'd always been told."
"I don't blame you." said Mel without letting him go. "Just one tiny little story? Please?"
Max sighed. "The Order took everything from you, Mel. And here you are, adopting me as your Father. But I used to be one of them. As devout as they come."
"They called him 'Doubtless,'" Crystal added softly.
"Coral's fault," Max said automatically.
Zeth laughed. "Isn't everything?"
"Oh? Tell me more about Coral and my Father!" Mel pleaded with their eyes.
"Coral has always been a problem," Zeth laughed. "Since the first day we met."
"Longer than that," Max laughed. "Back in the Order, I made a bet that anyone could be convinced to life a life of devout service once they'd been shown the big picture. You know, where they stood in things and how they could use their talents to help the Order accomplish its goals."
"You really were naïve," Crystal laughed, rolling her eyes.
"Don't remind me."
Mel leaned over Max. "But you are here now. With the Mordena. With me."
Max nuzzled against Mel as a chipper young canid with bright purple stripes sauntered over, gently settling a pair of steaming hot meat pies on their table, followed by a teapot and a pair of cups - one wide brimmed with a stem, the other a simple teacup. "Anything else I can get for you?"
"Thank you," Max said quietly, still pressed against Mel.
"Let's see if this pie is as good as you said it is" Mel said and patted Max on the back.
Max retrieved the stemmed glass for himself before pouring a steaming red tea into both glasses. "Are you questioning my sense of taste?"
"Of course not, that would be an insult for my lovely Dad" Mel winked at Max.
Max lapped at his tea, attention still on Mel.
Zeth rose from his seat. "It's been great running into you again, Max, but we should probably get back to the preparations."
"I'm glad we got to meet you, too, Mel," Crystal added, reluctantly following Zeth's lead. "You look out for Max, okay? See if you can keep him out of trouble."
Mel laughed loudly at that. "Sorry, I'm afraid I can't promise that." They dug into their pie with gusto, delighted at the rich, strong flavour.
Max grinned back. "Stay safe. Both of you." He returned his attention to Mel, pulling his own pie towards himself. "So? Good enough for that sweet tooth of yours?"
Mel nodded with their mouth full of pie. They were eating very fast.
Max let out a bark of laughter, pulling his own pie toward himself. "Don't eat too fast, you'll make yourself sick."
He took a bite, savoring the flavors.
Mel swallowed and drank their tea. "Sorry, old habits." They smiled sheepishly and grabbed a smaller bite. "I'll slow down and enjoy it, Father"
"It's important to eat when you can, but no need to eat it all at once," Max laughed, lapping at his tea. "I believe you wanted to learn more about Coral?"
"Yes, but only if you want to tell me more." They savoured the tea. "I don't want you to get sad."
"Coral is a problem the same way Cal is a problem," Max snorted. "I trust her with my life. Which is probably foolish, given what I'm about to tell you, but it's worked out for me so far."
"Oh, this is going to be fun." They kept digging at the pie and looked at Max.
"So. I mentioned the bet, right? One of my superiors overheard it, said he'd take that bed. Told me he had a few challenges he was trying to solve. If I could solve them for him, he'd give me my own command."
"Go on." Mel was intrigued by this bet.
"Of course I accepted. Seemed an easy way to prove my point. At least, until I met Coral." He laughed, taking another bite of his pie and chewing happily.
"Why? Was she difficult to persuade?"
"She prefers to do all the persuading," Max answered after a moment. "And by that I mean in our first encounter she tried to seduce me. When that didn't work..." He chuckled. "Well. Crystal wasn't joking when she said Coral knows her way around a knife."
Mel's eyes widened and almost dropped their tea. " Did she try to kill you?"
Max shrugged, casually leaning back in his chair, fork in the air. "I was a threat. One more Militant lackey come to arrest her for desertion. I can't blame her for that." He grinned, leaning forward for another bite of his pie. "Especially not now."
Mel downed another bite of their pie with tea. "What happened after that?"
"She's persistent, but so am I. I convinced her they'd keep sending people after her, but that my offer was the best she'd get. Offered her a spot as my second in command, and she snapped it up. We've been a team ever since."
Max scratched at the back of his shirt collar. "Or did you mean the part about me not being able to judge her? She may have deserted at one point, but I convinced the remains of my team to defect to the Mordena with me. So I have no room to talk."
"That is a good story, Father." Mel finished their pie and smiled. "Where is my dessert?"
"You and your sweet tooth," Max laughed, calling over one of the waiters. "Mel would like a slice of fruit pie. Sweetest you've got." He paused. "Preferably no added sugar or they'll never sleep tonight."
The waiter smiled brightly, tail beating happily behind her. "I have just the thing."
"Tell me about your classes, Mel?" Max asked, lapping at his tea.
"One of the main things is Shielding, and you know I need more practice with that." They created one around them and gently pushed their empty plate over the table without dropping it to the floor. "And lots of exercises to keep us in shape." They looked at their hands. "It's a lot of fun, but..I'm worried."
Max was instantly on alert. "Tell me. I'll listen."
Mel tensed and the plate crashed against the floor. "I'm sorry, Father." They ran away from the shop, avoiding the people passing by around them. Mel reached the courtyard and the metal structure that they had passed earlier. Their breathing was shallow and fast.
Shit. Max lept to follow, pulling on his gloves as he ran. Tapping into their telekinetics he lifted himself onto the underside of the balcony above, allowing him to better track and follow Mel without interrupting the others around him. He debated pushing forward to jump in front of Mel, cutting them off, but held back. They seemed to be running with purpose, and knowing where they were going would help him when Mel was ready to talk.
He was panting slightly when they arrived at the courtyard, muscles straining from maintaining the upside down jog. Releasing his boots' grip he allowed himself to fall, rotating and flexing his knees to land gently beside Mel. He reached to wrap his arms around them and pull them to his chest, hoping Mel would allow it.
Mel clung to Max and sobbed.
Wrapping his arms around them, Max ran his hand up and down along their back in long, soothing strokes, resting his chin against their head as he curled himself around them protectively. "I'm here. You're not alone. Let it all out, and when you're ready to talk, we'll talk."
Between sobs, they whispered. "I can't lose my home again." They shivered in rage and fear. "I'm not good enough yet."
"Mel..." Max stepped back, gripping Mel's shoulders with both hands as he met their eyes. "You're not losing your home. Not today, not ever. Trust me."
Mel calmed down a bit. "Promise? And I'll be good?"
"Promise." Max ruffled their hair with his fingers. "We're good at what we do. Mordena, Jannadaelox, even Janikk herself, we each have a role to play. And we do it well."
He motioned to the metal tower, now noticeably taller despite the brief time since they'd seen it last. "What do you suppose that is?"
Mel looked at the structure again. "The workers did it. It's bigger than before. What is it?"
"Been trying to puzzle it out myself," Max admitted. "At first I though maybe it would launch defensive rockets, but if we were building those in the capital that would make us an even bigger military target, so I doubt that's it. Part of an advanced Shielding array, maybe?"
"We'll find about soon enough." They leaned against Max for support. "I'm sorry, Father." They struggled to stay upright.
Max scooped them up in his arms, granting Mel a giant lick on the cheek. "Sorry for what? You didn't do anything wrong."
Mel hid their face in Max's chest. "I didn't stay for the pie." They sighed. "I panicked and ran away. How am I going to help my team if I get like this?"
"You're not the first person to run away," Max chuckled, carrying Mel to the nearest portal node. "And you won't be the last, either. Besides, fleeing pie is a far cry from fleeing your comrades on the battlefield." He pretended to eye Mel suspiciously. "Well, for most people. You do have a thing for sugar, so I don't know."
Mel chuckled and looked at Max "Thank you, Father." They sagged against his arms. "I'm very tired."
"It's been a long day," Max agreed, nuzzling Mel with his nose. "You can stay at my place tonight, if you like."
"Yes, I'd like that." Mel smiled. "You are a good dad, I'm glad I adopted you."
"I'll do my best," Max promised, expression serious as he fiddled with the node controls before stepping through the resultant Portal. "I'll have to head back to the front again, soon, though. Been assigned to Libara, and helping their defenses prep."
Mel followed Mac, leaning on him, their eyes heavy. "I wish I could go with you."
"Some day," he promised. "But not this time. You're needed here."
Mel whispered. "I want to be good for my comrades, worthy of being Mordena."
You're already worthy, Mel, or you wouldn't be here."
"I keep forgetting. I still feel I have to prove myself."
"You already did. All that's left is to be yourself," Max said, typing his code into a panel before stepping through into his apartment. He hadn't changed much in the cozy studio apartment since he'd inherited it from Cal, aside from replacing the Blade's former wardrobe with his own clothes, and of course obtaining dishes of his own since he'd never quite gotten comfortable with the thought of eating off the set of bone china Cal had comissioned using pieces of his original corpse. Or the second set the Blade had requested to commemorate Max's first death.
The canid shivered slightly at the reminder. He'd grown accustomed to many of the differences between the Mordena and his Order upbringing, but that one was still a lot to swallow.
Max made a note to get Mel access through the keypad tomorrow. Voids, he'd probably need a bigger place, now that he was a father.
"You can take the bed, I'll take the sofa," he offered, slipping out of his shoes before setting Mel on the floor. "When you're ready, of course. Looks like they delivered your pie."
Mel perked up at that. "I want a bite before I go to bed!" They made grabby hands at Max.
"I'll get you a fork," Max laughed. He rifled through one of the drawers, setting it down beside the pie on his small, two person table. "Anything else you need? Something to drink?" He scratched behind his ear. "I don't have any clothes your size, but I can grab one of my shirts for you to sleep in. And I think I have some sweatpants somewhere."
Mel was already digging into the pie, mouth full. They nodded.
Max nodded, rifling through the drawers beside his bed until he found something comfortable looking in the closest size to Mel he could manage. Folding them neatly on the bed, he returned to the kitchenette to pour himself a glass of water, with a second for Mel. He brought them to the table, sliding into the other chair. "How is it?"
"It's very good. It reminds me of the fruits and cake I ate when I got here." They drank from the glass Max gave them and looked at their empty plate. "You were with me there, and now too." Mel reached for Max's hand. "I love you, Father."
Max accepted their hand and squeezed, planting a large lick on Mel's cheek. "I love you, too. I only hope I'm good enough for what you need." Scooting his chair closer, he wrapped them in a hug, resting his head against theirs. "You've had a long day. Why don't you wash up and get ready for bed? I put some clothes out for you, and you can claim one of the toothbrushes from the bathroom vanity as yours."
"You and Cal are what I need." Mel hugged him tightly. "Will you wait up for me until I get to bed?"
"Of course!" Max nuzzled their neck before extracting himself and beginning to collect the dishes from the table. "Now get. I'll wash up here."
Mel went to the bathroom and did their nightly routine and changed clothes. The feeling of being at home warmed their chest. "I'm ready, Father!"
Max looked up from his efforts spreading blankets on the sofa. "You can take the bed. I changed the sheets, and let the barracks know you were with me." He grinned. "Tomorrow I'll set you up with your own access to my apartment, in case you want in while I'm at Libara. You're welcome anytime."
Mel ran to Max and hugged him. "You are the best."
"I'm glad you noticed," Max barked, a gleam in his eye as he returned the hug. He tousled their hair. "Bed. Now. We both have long days tomorrow."
"Fine. I'll be a good child, for this time. Don't get used to it." They winked at Max and slipped into the bed.
"Does that mean you'd like me to tuck you in, then?" he teased.
"Do you really need to ask? Of course, I'd like that." Mel smiled, childlike despite their age.
Max's grin softened. "Of course. I'd be happy to."
Tracing his hands around Mel's form, he carefully tucked the edges of the blanket underneath them, singing softly in a language Mel didn't quite recognize.
"Good night, Father." Mel closed their eyes and let Max's voice embrace them. They felt safe and fell asleep.
Max watched as Mel's breathing slowed, and continued to watch as he sorted through his own emotions of the day. He'd planned on simply helping Mel learn practice some of the techniques they'd been learning, and maybe grab something to eat together, but the day had turned into so much more than that.
Father. The title was heavy on his thoughts as he carried out his own nightly routines before dressing for bed in something a bit more modest than his usual preference. He'd never set out to be a parent. Never even imagined himself as one, not when he was a Militant and certainly not as Mordena. But here he was. And it felt right.
He sighed, settling onto his spare pillow as he made himself comfortable on the sofa. He'd be coparenting with Cal. That was something else he'd need to tackle, and soon. His infatuation with the Blade had bubbled over to the point everyone could see it - except Cal himself, apparently. "After Libara," he muttered to himself, closing his eyes. There was a lot going on right now, and he and Cal both needed to keep their focus if they were going to help against the pending Order attack. His wing would need him to set a good example, too; as much as they'd thrown their full support behind the Mordena, they'd be facing off against some familiar ships - and family, in some cases - and he needed to be strong for them.
But after that? Maybe, just maybe, he and Cal and Mel would have a family of their own.
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Theme by Damion Otter. Vazdimet and Magic Logos by . Faction and Family Logos by tjtrewin. Subscriber boxes by Stormbril. Meet the Vazdimet team.
Please check our Fan Content Policy and Discussion Board Rules for details on interacting with the Vazdimet universe.