[for losthunter]

[poetwarrior]

It has been nearly six hours.

Faris can feel it. The weakness is unmistakable. He's never experienced it before, but all K'da know what it means. He's been separated from his host for too long, long enough that he needs to join or he will die, and fade away into nothing.

He still isn't sure where this Nexus place is, but there are no Shontine that he's seen. No species he recognizes as one able to serve as hosts. There have only been two compatible races that the K'da know of, and he's seen neither. Robots, aliens, all manner of creatures, but nothing he recognizes.

This cannot be the end.

Movement, from the corner of his eye. The sight of painted skin, full of life and possibility. A human, perhaps. Faris has never met one before. But if this one has willingly inked his skin, perhaps it is possible... perhaps he would allow it. At least long enough to buy him some time.

The K'da gathers his remaining strength, ready to leap as soon as the human is in range. It may be the last thing he ever does, so he intends to make it count.

Comments

[poetwarrior]

Faris considers it, then shakes his head. "I do not know how your medicines would affect me, and I do not wish to waste important medicine on flavor," he says. "But thank you."

He experimentally tastes some of the paint, making a considering sound. "Closer, but not quite... do you have any oil that is used in engines? Or perhaps motor grease?"

[losthunter]

"Oh sure, I have some in the storage closet, that I used for my motorbike. It is to the left of the art supplies. By the bedroom door." Hunter explain how to find the item, without leaving the kitchen.

[poetwarrior]

Faris easily leaps over the art supplies without touching them, exploring the closet that Hunter described. His keen nose easily finds the quart of oil, and he brings that to the kitchen. "I do not need much, just enough to add contrast."

[losthunter]

Hunter uses a small spoon to place some of the oil in the bottom of the pan, where the meat is cooking. "Am I doing this right?"

[poetwarrior]

"Yes. My thanks." Now the cooking food smells appetizing to him. He has little idea that it's an odd combination to a human.

[losthunter]

Hunter definitely is not going to be eating this combination. But right now, his guest is more important.

"This is all a little weird to me."

[poetwarrior]

"Have you not had much contact with other species?" Faris asks curiously.

[losthunter]

"Most of the encounters I have had in the Nexus have been human so far. Or a close related species to human."

[poetwarrior]

"I see. The galaxy is a diverse place. Gaining more experience in this area may be good for you."

[losthunter]

"I do enjoy new experiences." Hunter pulls off the meat at the right cook, placing it on a plate for Feris. "And would enjoy meeting other species."

He takes the plate to the dinner table.

Then goes to clean his frying pan, so he can make something for himself.

[poetwarrior]

Strange and unappetizing as the meal may seem to a human, the K'da seems to greatly enjoy it. He eats the mixture like a dog might, not using his forepaws at all. "My thanks for the meal. It's somewhat close to what I am used to."

[losthunter]

"It is good to know that I have the right ingredients so you can enjoy the meal." Hunter meanwhile is using the meat to make a hamburger patty. He fries it up in the oil. Then as it is frying, chops some of the pepper and banana.

Those are added to the frying pan, after he removes the meat. Once those are nicely crisp, he puts everything into a bun with some mustard.

And then joins Faris at the table.

[poetwarrior]

"If I am to stay, I do wish to find a way to contribute," Faris says as they eat. "I do not want to take advantage of your generosity."

[losthunter]

"I am sure we can arrange something." Hunter reassures Faris.

[poetwarrior]

"I am gratified to hear it. No poet-warrior of the K'da should take and never give in return. It is not our way."

[losthunter]

"What are some of your skills or abilities?"

[poetwarrior]

"I am trained for combat and diplomacy. I also have a talent for composing verses."

[losthunter]

"I have a friend who would enjoy hearing any of your verses."

[poetwarrior]

"Oh? Is this friend of yours a historian?" Faris asks.

[losthunter]

"In a fashion. And he just appreciates stories."

[poetwarrior]

"Who does not?" Faris says reasonably. "Stories are how we learn."

[losthunter]

"Very true." Hunter smiles softly. "And it is good to hear that you enjoy sharing the stories of your world."

[poetwarrior]

"Do you not?" Faris asks as he finishes his meal.

[losthunter]

"I share the stories in a different way. Instead of verse, I use my art." Hunter gestures to his art studio.

[poetwarrior]

"I did notice your work. It has been some time since any of my people have had the time or space to create visual works." When he says 'my people' he includes the Shontine, not just the K'da.