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Even with as careful as I've been, and fully vaccinated, I was hit by COVID rather hard a couple of weeks ago. Thanks to pre-existing issues, it really flattened me, and I've had a long recovery time. Thank you for being patient, everyone.\n\nCurious about my custom species? Here's a link!\nhttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1k0PobVi3hgyzg8zrro6rnqLLpm_cybJd-3LP-kvp1KI/edit?usp=sharing\n\nFeel like giving me a little financial assistance? I’ve set up a SubscribeStar account! I'm extremely thankful for everyone who donates anything they can, be it a subscription or one-off donation.\nhttps://subscribestar.adult/kiroberos-entertainment", "description_bbcode_parsed": "Sorry about the long delay for this one.  Even with as careful as I've been, and fully vaccinated, I was hit by COVID rather hard a couple of weeks ago.  Thanks to pre-existing issues, it really flattened me, and I've had a long recovery time.  Thank you for being patient, everyone.

Curious about my custom species? Here's a link!
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k0PobVi3hgyzg8zrro6...

Feel like giving me a little financial assistance?  I’ve set up a SubscribeStar account!  I'm extremely thankful for everyone who donates anything they can, be it a subscription or one-off donation.
https://subscribestar.adult/kiroberos-entertainment", "writing": "``Really? They literally burned the building down?'' I'd thought the signs were [i]joking[/i]!\n\n``But our [i]stuff[/i] was in there!'' Atrith stared at Calien in shock, who just shook her head.\n\n``We focused on evacuating the people inside the building first and foremost. I'm sorry. But stuff can be replaced, and I'll personally make sure it all is for you...'' Calien gave her an assuring smile before looking to Exir and I instead. ``I'm glad you two made it out fine too. This is getting seriously out of paw. Hopefully with Larid Connected and Laridia Daily working with us, we can spread [i]accurate[/i] information around and calm people down again.'' They'd burned a building down seemingly at random. Part of me wondered if some of the people out there just wanted an excuse to destroy things at this point.\n\nWe were still in the cafe when Calien had caught up with us. Exir's parents were pretty understanding about everything I explained about Alphas. I'd worried some of the misinformation and rumors had gotten to them first, but they seemed to believe every word I told them. Of course, the concern was on Exir now. He looked... distant, claw lightly scraping at his now empty plate. Well, his fourth empty plate I should say. The kitchen had grown accustomed to him now, however, and seemed to just triple the serving of whatever he ordered.\n\n``What about Exir's issues?'' I looked to Calien, who sighed and shook her head.\n\n``Nothing. But I can't just order someone. And the odds of getting a volunteer when [i]this[/i] is the current political climate we're living in...'' She gestured to the crystal panel above her on the column she was leaning on. It had a running view of black smoke rising into the sky from the apartment, and fire teams hosing the entire building down. At least it looked like they had the riot taken care of. Although the fire had probably caused a panic and flight in a good three block radius. At least, that's what the standard Inaga instinctive reaction is to a fire...\n\nExir sighed again. ``Maybe it won't be as bad? Maybe our Alpha state is gentler than the Vulkus one, and Niva will be enough? I mean, I feel fine now but...''\n\nWe fell silent at that, with his parents shooting him sympathetic looks. I closed my eyes, then slowly shook my head before looking back to Calien. ``Also, do you think I could have another escort? I'd like to go with Exia and Yimir and pick Kada up from the Academy today. He... mentioned that he was starting to see journalists. I think someone saw him with us one too many times.''\n\nCalien's eye twitched at that, and she gave a defeated sigh. ``Great. Did he decide on where he was living from now on? I can have his stuff picked up from his dorm.''\n\nI shook my head at that. ``He [i]said[/i] that he was okay living here but... That's why I was bringing Exia and Yimir. I wanted to bring him back to his clan manor first and talk things over with him and his parents. Especially if he's in any danger via association with me...''\n\nExir frowned. ``It's hardly [i]you[/i], Exes. Pretty sure you're well liked for the most part. Uh, maybe a little too liked when it comes to the nutjob reporters...''\n\nCalien nodded, however. ``It's still a good plan. That way he can make a more informed choice about where he's living. Though I doubt it's going to stop him from being interested in [i]you[/i], Exes.'' She smiled a bit at that, and I huffed. I suppose so... I just didn't want to see him hurt. ``Regardless, yeah. I'll arrange for one immediately. We may have to make a different schedule for his classes until all of this blows over.'' Yikes.\n\nI nodded as well, then stood from the table. ``Alright. I'll go get the others. Thanks, Calien.'' She smiled wider and nodded to me, and I gave a bow to Exir and his family. ``It was nice to finally meet you all, even if it wasn't the best start. But I'm sure we'll get to talk again later...''\n\nAtrith grinned and nodded to me, and Nukka and Sakathis gave me more muted smiles. Nukka still looked a bit worked up from the sudden change of scenery. I can only imagine how horrific it had been to get hauled from their apartment shortly before it got set on fire...\n\nExir gave a smile to me and nodded. ``Of course, Exes. Good luck evacuating Kada! Oh, and with his parents. Heh.'' I gave him a grin, then waved before turning and heading for the elevator.\n\n[center]~ ~ ~ ~ ~[/center]\n\nHow anyone could have [i]possibly[/i] figured out about Kada's connection to us is [i]completely[/i] beyond me of course. We'd kept such a [i]low profile[/i]! Minus that bit where he'd jumping pounced me out of his academy class while people were still filing out of the lecture haul and open-mouth kissed me right there in public to the gasps and murmurs behind him. And the fact that he was now sitting on my lap on the tram over to his parents, with my arms wrapped around his waist and paws folded in [i]his[/i] lap. Yimir of course was delighted, but Exia actually looked a little jealous after the big kiss.\n\n``Grrr. I know Kada's adorable and all, but don't forget about our needs too!'' She pouted to my left, and I slowly gave her a nod. Yimir grinned to my right instead though.\n\n``Speak for yourself. I'm loving watching! You know, Kada, if you just slid your shorts and loincloth down in the back...'' He flushed bright red at that, and I reached my right paw over and booped her lightly on the snout, causing her to wince and rub at her nose.\n\n``Behave in public. Laridia has laws against that. But yes, I'll be giving you two attention tonight, don't worry. If Kada's there with us, he can watch of course...''\n\nHis flush shifted brighter at that and he squirmed. A few people nearby whispered and gestured our way, but eh. There weren't any laws about [i]discussing[/i] sexy things in public! I'd checked. Though by the way the one Inaga female was giggling, she might be another Yimir.\n\nHe huffed after. ``I already told you, it doesn't matter [i]what[/i] my parents say. I'm staying with you in the palace.'' I gave his ear a gentle nuzzle, and he shivered and relaxed again against my chest.\n\n``Just talk to them about it, Kada? For me?''\n\nA pout instead, but he nodded. ``I... of course, Alpha.'' I squeezed him, and he shifted back to smiling at that. Yimir was ogling, but Exia watched us more intently.\n\n``Hmmm, so all I really need to do is start acting a ton more submissive to you, and that should get me more attention!''\n\nMy turn to feel heat rush into my cheeks, as I turned to the left and shot a skeptical stare to Exia. ``You can just ask you know, brat. You know that it's more than just sexual...'' She perked at that, but my left paw slid under her chin and gave her a little rub, betting her to blush and lid her eyes.\n\nKada's eyes widened as she slid in, pressing her muzzle up against mine rather gently... and incidentally pushing her breasts right into his face. He flailed on my lap, but I nuzzled into the kiss and gave her cheek a little rub before she backed up again, smiling more warmly now. Kada looked like he wanted to die though, entire face red now. ``And first-time feeling breasts... That was... unique.'' Well, unique wasn't `bad', exactly. Exia lifted an eyebrow down to him, then nodded.\n\n``Hey, you can feel them more if you want. I mean, if it's fine with Alpha of course.'' His eyes widened again, then drifted back down to her chest, and I shot her a skeptical glance instead.\n\n``Public, Exia...'' She pouted at that and sat back down fully, huffing.\n\nIt was mercifully a rather uneventful tram ride this time. Of course, we were headed up the mountain now, and into the `noble' district. Not only did they get prime living areas along the upper ridge, but the patrolling guards and security had taken a sharp hike, it looked like. Well, not that I was complaining, avoiding literally traveling through a riot with people throwing fire around.\n\nClan Leizer's main manor was a humbler affair, but I kind of appreciated that. It was still large, though. Two wings and two stories by the looks of it, with a nice front garden with fountain. Just a normal fountain, not a statue-vomiting-water variant. They had their own guards posted, of the normal city guard type, but they perked and simply saluted as we approached with our own honor guards.\n\nKada just slowly hopped along in front of us and gave the guards a wave as we passed, clearly knowing them. They looked at each other with a little [i]look[/i], but didn't say anything further. Given we were arriving completely unannounced, this would be... [i]interesting[/i].\n\nWith him taking point, nobody even questioned us as we walked right up to the manor and through the main double doors. Inside was... cozier than I'd been expecting, looking more like the entry to a large house than some grand entrance to a clan manor. The main room was definitely pretty saturated with furniture, shelves, and all sorts of knickknacks, giving more of a `closed in' feel that I'd expect from an Illan dwelling. Of course, at least half of said knickknacks appeared to be of a lewd nature. Also expected.\n\nThere was a bell attached to the door, so the chances of us remaining undetected for long were already slim. Several maids and butlers were already peeking into the main room, ears raised, before bouncing in and greeting Kada with interest. They looked over us too, and a couple were already squinting my way, searching my expression and features as if recognizing me. Here we go... Though it was interesting to note the manor appeared to be staffed entirely by Illan.\n\nA female Illan hopped into view at the top of the stairs leading up to the second floor, however. She was in a pretty blouse and skirting, and lifted her ears up as she spotted Kada first and foremost. Her coat was quite white, but had a couple of creamy brown splotches here and there on it. She looked older than Kada, but I wasn't as good at taking guesses at other species' ages, admittedly.\n\n``Oh! Kada! You didn't say you were visiting today. And you brought guests?'' I lifted an eyebrow as she hopped to the railing instead and just sort of absently slid down it on one paw instead of using the stairs, before hopping off at the bottom as nonchalantly as someone stepping off the elevator. Kada didn't bat an eye, of course.\n\nInstead, he grinned and nodded. ``Hey Mom! Uh, yeah, it surprised me too. Sorry for arriving unannounced, but it's also kinda important.'' Ah! So, his mother. He gestured back to us afterwards. ``Exes, this is my Mom, Trinka. Mom, this is-``\n\nShe let out a suddenly startled squeak, blue eyes widening at me. ``Aaaaaaah! G-Grandmaster Alchemist!'' Several shrill squeaks later, the room exploded into a flurry of movement with Illan staff literally bouncing every which way while flailing and giving chirps and squeaks. Kada winced, while Exia, Yimir and I stared in shock as a couple crashed into each other in midair, rolling about each other before blurring onwards.\n\nThe initial panic cleared quickly, and soon the servants were shooting back in with a prepared tray of tea and cookies from... somewhere. Trinka gave a shaky bow towards me before gesturing to the left instead, at a side door. ``Uh, p-please, Grandmaster. If you n-need to talk to us, you and your entourage may use the parlor!'' Kada gave somewhere between a sheepish smile and wince to me, flushed, before shrugging. Right... Parlor it was!\n\nBy the time we'd actually walked the ten meters or so into the parlor of course, the servants had already mobilized and got one of the large tables cleared off, replacing the clutter with the tray of tea and snacks, and enough cups for all of us. Further, Trinka was joined by two other female Illan, who quickly flanked her to both sides, looking just as startled.\n\nStill, we filled in an entire half of the table, with the three female Illan joining on the opposite side. The chairs were built quite tall, but thankfully not too dramatic an elevation that I couldn't just hop up a bit into mine. Kada coughed after we settled, sitting to my right now. ``Uh, r-right. Again, this is my biological mother, Trinka.''\n\n``My also biological mother, Mieki.'' My ears shot up at that rather curiously as the female on the right flushed a little and gave a timid wave. Her fur was browner like Kada's was, and she had green eyes like his too. ``And my other mother, Viiku.'' She was an almost-black furred Illan with a rather pretty shade of pink eyes.\n\nI gave a smile and nod to each, even as he coughed and switched to introducing me. ``Uh, this is Exes. But you already knew that.'' Mieki looked shocked towards him, but Trinka gave me a nod and bow. ``And these two are Exia and Yimir, Exes' mates.'' They both smiled and nodded to the parents as well.\n\n``O-Of course! Um, what brings you to our clan manor today, Grandmaster? Is... Is Kada in trouble or...?''\n\nMy muzzle scrunched for a moment, but I quickly shook my head after, holding a paw up to her. ``Oh, no, nothing like that. Well, to some degree there's an issue but it's not his doing. Journalists have started bothering him around his Academy dorm room and in class, so we picked him up with escort today. He's going to have to either move back in here in the manor, or stay at the palace until things calm down a bit.''\n\nThat calmed them down a bit, but Trinka frowned instead. ``Journalists? Has something happened?''\n\nI shook my head again. ``No, I'm pretty sure it's because he's been hanging out with me. Well...'' I paused at their confused looks again and sighed inwardly. Looking to Kada instead, he caught my gaze and gave a small, sheepish smile, and I chuckled. Exia and Yimir of course nodded rapidly on the other side of me. Fine...\n\nHe perked, eyes widening a little as I slid my paw under his chin, but didn't resist, even as I moved him up and gently kissed him right then and there. He gave a shiver against my muzzle, and I nuzzled him, bumping our noses together before pulling back and giving a grin his way. He was flushed now, but grinned back, and I looked back to his parents instead.\n\nNow all three were staring at us in shock, with their muzzles dropped. Well... at least they knew now! I felt a bit impish, but I smiled towards them and nodded. ``Kada's been hanging out with me and my pack for a while now at the palace, and well... we're hoping he'll be available to officially join the pack once we're all old enough. That's why him moving into the palace, with us, is also on the table. Unless any of you have reasons why he shouldn't.''\n\nTrinka gave a sharp squeak at that, covering her muzzle a moment later before rapidly shaking her head. ``No! I mean, no, of course not! We'd be honored... n-no, we [i]are[/i] honored that you'd like our Kada in your pack! This is... something you want, Kada?'' She turned to look at him, and he flushed hard, cheeks shifting straight red before rapidly nodding.\n\n``Um, y-yeah. I really want Exes to be my alpha. He's... amazingly sweet and takes really good care of me. Plus, he loves gaming and talking about alchemy and magic and... Um... o-oh! He was also interested in the catalogs...'' Well, that was a segue...\n\nShe paused at that. ``Catalogs...?'' Looking back to me, she was met with Exia, Yimir, and I all nodding.\n\n``Yeah. Admittedly I'm uh... Well, I guess the easiest way to say this is I'm very relaxed and open when it comes to, well, sexual things. Honestly, I think a lot of people are [i]way[/i] too uptight about that sort of thing. Regardless, I'm more than a little interested in your actual clan products. What you have available when it comes to toys, augmentations, and other such things. Actually, even your nonsexual things would be neat to see, if it gave me a better feel for where Kada's background is stemming from.'' Exir had mentioned they had other things too, and I [i]was[/i] curious.\n\nTrinka's ears shot up to full with that, wiggling for a moment before rapidly nodding. ``Oh, of course! I never even... ah, you'll have to excuse us. We're not used to even really... presenting our information. Uh, could you go get one of the datapads, Viiku?'' The dark-furred female gave her a rapid nod before hopping out of her chair and bursting out of the room as fast as she could hop.\n\nGiving a little chitter after, Trinka took several deep breaths before looking back to me instead. ``We're not used to people actually coming and asking for presentations of things and such. Normally, if we are pursued, they're by someone who's heard already what our products are through word of mouth, and are after a specific thing. I didn't... even consider that the new Grandmaster Alchemist would take an interest in us!''\n\nMieki slowly nodded along next to her before speaking in a slightly higher voice. ``Yeah, it's... Most people here you're right about. They have a very narrow mind when it comes to sexual things. Even though that's not all we've created, because we [i]do[/i] create that sort of thing, it's like we're all taboo. At least until they want something...'' Her tone dropped a bit on the last part, and Trinka winced, then gave her a stern look and nudge to the shoulder.\n\nI chuckled however, then nodded, drawing both of their attention forward again. ``No, I understand. I fully agree, even. If I do get anything, I've got no intention to do it quietly or anonymously, mind. I planned on writing you guys up at least a review for everything. I think you're criminally underrepresented as is...'' I wasn't sure if it was something they were interested in, but I'd already written up twelve pages for the creators of the PEC. I figured I'd round it out to about fifteen easily enough without any padding to the essay, then release it to them. Of course, I covered the entire system and a plethora of the games we'd already tried on it, so it was a lot of topics to cover!\n\nThat, Trinka definitely looked surprised over. She relaxed after however, then gave a softer smile instead. ``That would be... amazing really. We're not quite as... out there as the main branch but... we'd be glad for any endorsements you can give. Our specialization is in transmutational alchemy and magic. Both for medical and recreational use. We also develop items and equipment in regards to those categories.'' Well, that sounded a lot broader than `sex things'.\n\nMy ears lifted at that. ``You make medical things?'' Exia shot me a smirk, but my paw whacked her knee under the tea table and she pouted.\n\nThankfully they didn't seem to notice. Or were just polite. ``Oh, yes! Historically, our clan was responsible for the type two targeted regeneratives. So, you could heal something highly specific and avoid nonaffected areas. We also, more recently, developed the bone shaping, which has a wide variety of uses in repair of degeneration and treatment of malformation.'' Eh?! That was a thing we could [i]do[/i] now?! Suddenly a bit of hope for my leg was sparked in me. Just a bit.\n\nAgain, Mieki nodded. ``Anything transmutation we're interested in. There's a lot of medical prospects because it turns out that's useful for healing and restoring things. Equipment we produce facilitates that. Processors for making our various healing formulas, plus a wide range of braces used to maintain bone shape while transmuting, given those last two examples.''\n\nThen, Trinka smirked. ``Of course, there [i]is[/i] a lot of sexual things we tackle. Gender shifting, recreational augmentation, and equipment and toys therein. Our clan tends to attract a certain type interested only in that, even if we represent a larger, more varied portfolio overall.'' Heh, that I could also understand.\n\nKada flushed a little himself, then coughed lightly. ``Um, s-speaking of, I think I'm finally ready to go for the Garkin anal augment.'' Oh boy...\n\nGarkin, interestingly enough, had a hemipeni, just like Gar. Inside a frontal slit, it was technically one penis, but it split at the base into two. Possibly as a direct evolutionary effect, female Garkin developed some [i]fascinating[/i] upgrades to their anal canal. For one, it was technically an actual rear cloaca, with a secondary vaginal tract leading also to the uterus. Self-cleaning and lubricating, much like front cloaca, it also added a plethora of muscles and nerve endings along the walls for additional enjoyment. Further, the back end of the colon tightened with additional muscle rings, forming a sort of secondary locking mechanism to control waste management. When they were done using the orifice for that, the inner colon sphincter would seal it off, letting it discharge and flush itself, automatically cleaning it! I found it amazing, honestly, that they developed something so sophisticated. Two unique entrances to their womb!\n\nThis had a backwards compatible effect, however. The body was... lazy when in development. Inside the egg, they kept things as universal as possible until the gender development of the fetus. That meant that after the females developed this rear cloaca upgrade, males started getting it too. They lacked the connection to their womb, obviously not [i]having[/i] a womb, which turned it into only a partial cloaca, with only their anal entrance. But it kept all the other properties. That was able to be isolated in an augmentation modification, and applied successfully to other species of either gender.\n\nTrinka's ears shot up at that, and she shifted to a grin instead. ``Oh! I'm glad. This... is definitely good for you, I think. I've never seen you so confident!'' He turned a little pink at that, but I found myself kind of pleased that his mother thought as much. ``I'm glad that Grandmaster-``\n\nI held a paw up and shook my head. ``Just... Exes, please. The title's a mouthful, plus, well... Once the pack goes through, I suppose we'd be family then instead.'' Both females perked at that, looking surprised again. Viiku also slowed to a stop a meter or so into the room, eyes wide while holding a large bound book with a datapad balanced on top. Ah, she'd heard that bit too, then.\n\nSlowly, Trinka recovered and gave a softer smile, before gesturing Viiku over to the table again. The book was set down in front of me, as well as the datapad off to the right of it, and Exia and Yimir pressed in, curiously looking things over. She nodded as we did. ``The datapad has a searchable feature and all our newer products, but we haven't gotten around to getting [i]everything[/i] on it yet. The book is our master index of products available.'' That caused us to shift to the book first and foremost, given at least [i]I[/i] had no idea what I was looking for, specifically.\n\n``Toys first! Do they have a toy section?!'' Exia grinned to me, tail wagging furiously, and I rolled my eyes, then looked at the table of contents.\n\nSnickering, Trinka answered first however. ``Yup. It's organized into sections. Toys are in the back.'' Ah! I checked the page number, then skipped down a good six sevenths of the book before looking for the specific number. So they had a lot of things that weren't toys too...\n\nKada grinned as he watched us, snuggling up closer to my right side so he could see what we were looking at, too. ``Might be easier to let them take the book back to the palace. We have like, twenty of them...''\n\nGiggling at that, Viiku nodded. ``You're probably right.''\n\n``At least getting you the Garkin anal augmentation is easy. Did you want that today?'' Mieki asked.\n\nI looked up and over at Kada as the girls slid the book more over in front of them. ``Again, it's up to you, Kada. You can take time to think about it. Nobody's forcing you.'' Some augmentations you could reverse after `installing' them. That one wasn't one of them.\n\nHe flushed light pink as he smiled back to me, then leaned in and gave me a little nuzzle under the chin. ``I know, Exes. And thank you for checking... but I've been thinking about getting this one for a while now. Meeting you just made the decision easier.'' He grinned with that, tail tuft bobbing behind him, and I gave a chuckle. Trinka and Viiku looked to Mieki, who threw a salute to them and hopped out of her chair.\n\n``On it! It'll take about fifteen minutes to install.'' She didn't slow down after revealing that, instead booking it out of the room at high speed. Actually, I rarely saw an Illan go at `slow' speed now that I think about it.\n\nTrinka nodded as she looked back to us with a smile. ``Feel free to peruse the book while you wait. Could you come with me, Kada?'' He perked at that and nodded to her before hopping off his chair.\n\n``I'll be back in a bit, guys!'' I ducked down and snuck a little nuzzle and kiss from him first, and he squirmed, blushing before shooting me a grin again and following his mother out of the room.\n\nThat left just Viiku as she watched the girls curiously, smile widening a bit. Hmm? ``Mmm, I bet you've already claimed Kada, haven't you? I could smell you on him.'' Eh?! I'm pretty sure all three of us flushed at the sudden comment, but she didn't give us a chance to respond. ``I can of course help you with anything you're interested in, in the toy section! That's one of my specialties. Want some suggestions? Maybe what I know for a fact that Kada likes playing with...?'' She shifted to a grin, even as Exia and Yimir looked up at her again.\n\nThere was a momentary delay before the flushed Exia slowly started to grin back. ``Ooooh... Yeah! Suggestions would be amazing!'' I got a creeping sensation of dread down my neck...\n\n[center]~ ~ ~ ~ ~[/center]\n\nAdmittedly, Viiku was very dedicated to her position. We'd left Kada's manor with no less than six [i]bags[/i] worth of toys, then ended up getting custom scans done on all of us. She warned that those toys would take a few days to make, but assured that they'd send them to the palace once done. Not that they didn't have more than enough to play around with in the meantime.\n\nThough I suppose I had something to peek over too. They'd given me one of their product books, and more interestingly, the index reference identifications to a lot of their `open' formulas in the Laridia archives. Even better, I had a dozen or so comm contacts now for various clan members that Trinka put forward, including the clan head, Vivira, a Keld. Trinka had shot her a message, and they were more than pleased to consider working with me personally in the future, it turns out. Connections!\n\nKada was a little sore when we left, and sat in my lap a bit more gingerly on the ride home. Apparently, my lap was softer than the alchemic plastic seats, which I was vaguely thankful for. They'd warned us that he'd probably be a bit tender for a few hours, as there were some pretty radical changes done to his insides. They were professionals though, and he had the full array of regeneratives, pain management, and swelling reduction medicine in him. Still, he didn't turn down my extra affections on the ride back.\n\nOf course, Yimir wasn't [i]fully[/i] recovered either, despite enjoying the afternoon out and about. Both she and Kada had decided to rest when we got back to the palace. Instead, Exia and I met up with Exir and went to the coronation practice at the Iron Father's temple, on the cliff.\n\nIt was interesting seeing my little sister in honor guard armor and standing there with a ceremonial spear, admittedly. She looked proud as punch of course, though Mom did too, watching her. Exir filled out the armor quite well too, with heavy shield and spear at the ready. Me? I was busy trying to not expire from heatstroke. The ceremonial robes were tailored to me, but really heavy compared to anything I'd worn before. The skirting was floor-length and clearly a trip danger, especially for me. There was also a long stole with ceremonial runes on it that I got to drape over my shoulders, making things even warmer while wearing it. I kept my mouth open and panted now, ears drooped as the director went over the ceremony. Ugh. Fuck this shit. I was preparing a thermal enchantment for when we did this for real.\n\nThe Inaga director nodded again, smiling to us all as she then gestured to the large and very elaborate looking brazier on the altar. ``Then Exes will do another quarter rotation and face the altar, lighting the brazier with magic before picking it up and doing a half rotation to the right, facing the audience again.'' She snapped her fingers and it flared to life behind her, casting orange light for several meters and causing me to audibly groan. I could [i]feel[/i] the heat off it from here!\n\nEveryone turned to me, ears raising, but I just flopped forward into a dull heap, sounding remarkably like I was landing on a pillow thanks to all the clothing I was wearing. ``Didn't we do the torch thing already? I think I'd rather do this [i]naked[/i] than wear all these layers while carrying a lit brazier!'' She scrunched her muzzle at that, and I heard Exia break into snickering behind me and to the left.\n\nCalien smiled as she watched, looking amused before lifting a paw, then closing it into a fist. The brazier went out in a little flicker of purple energy, and she chuckled, pushing off the pillar she was leaning against. ``Alright, break time, and Exes gets out of the robes for a bit. Can we get a thermal enchantment on them set up?''\n\nTwo Inaga and an Illan wearing royal butler outfits all bowed to her before darting over and helping me to my paws again, removing the robes as they went. I shivered, happy at this point to just step out into the open air in my loincloth, before flopping back over onto the floor and just panting there, tongue hanging out. The stone felt [i]good[/i] on my hot fur, it being nice and cool down here.\n\nThat's when a surprisingly nice breeze suddenly washed over me, chilling me a lot more than it should have. I gave a little shiver, ears perking as I sat up again. Calien perked too, then smiled as a Keld walked towards us from the entry to the ceremonial room. She had dark gray fur, with a more ashen gray patterning, in traditional Keld `mittens' shape. That being her stomach, chest, groin, and all four paws. Not that I could see her torso patterns, minus the bit that stood out over her blouse. Her skirt went down to her knees however, and she gave us both a gentle bow as she approached.\n\nSoft purple eyes locked onto me, mana glow fading from them, and she smiled, managing to make it look both practiced and genuine at the same time. Definitely a politician of some sorts. And a mage! Not that I was complaining for the wind gust magic. ``You looked like you could use cooling off. It's nice to meet you, Grandmaster Exes.'' Her tone was soft too, with a polite crispness to it. She gave a demure curtsey, and Calien nodded as she watched.\n\n``Exes, this is Councilor Sybial. She's Larid's Councilor of Alchemy, and one of my best public relations experts. You'll be working with her after the coronation to get up to speed on the essence patches. She's fully in the know.'' Oh!\n\nI coughed at that, then nodded. ``Uh, sorry for, well, being mostly naked. Was dying of heatstroke, it felt like.'' I stood at that and gave her a little bow myself, tail swaying slowly behind me as I did.\n\nShe gave a soft giggle, then shook her head. ``Oh, it's no problem. I know how stuffy ceremonial clothing can be. One of the driving forces originally for me learning thermal magic at all. I just wanted a chance to meet you before the ceremony, and give you some materials.'' Hmm? \n\nI noticed a moment later that there was a female Rapa behind her and a little to the left. I hadn't really even noticed her, oddly. She had an ash-gray base feather color, with darker black highlights towards the tip. Her eyes were almost black in color, making me more wonder if she had some sort of pigment mutation issue. Normally, Rapa were... [i]vividly[/i] colorful.\n\nThey were an interesting species, plopped right about in the middle of the small stature species. Their legs were aggressively digitigrade structured, like an Illan or Garkin, but instead of paws or claws, they had talons starting near their ankle, consisting of rough, scaley skin in bands. Three toes pointed forward with webbing between them, and one backwards. All four had talons on them, but the inner one of each was larger and curved, like a scythe blade. Everywhere else they were covered in feathering of various shapes and lengths, including on their powerful arms. Like us, they had three fingers and a thumb at the end of each `paw' of sorts, but their arms were technically wings. While not capable of true flight, they could glide over long distances, and were quite good at assisted jumping with them. Their tails were moderate in length and thick like a Garkin, and capped in a feathered plumage, similar to the plume off the top and back of their heads. A long beak extended from their face instead of a muzzle. It in particular was interesting as it existed in place of a `cover' function like the lips of a muzzle. The inner ridge was softer however, similar to Garkin gums, with actual teeth. Popular theory stated they used to not have the gum and teeth functionality before being elevated, but evolved them due to both a dietary shift away from pure fish, and the ability to speak properly.\n\n``Ah, my manners!'' Sybial gave another nod to me, then gestured to the Rapa, who padded up with a briefcase. ``This is my assistant, Nif'tril. The documentation for the essence patches, as well as a vial of each, are inside of the briefcase.'' Oh! I nodded to the Rapa, taking the briefcase from her and backing up again. She gave me the tiniest of nods, expression still absolutely blank otherwise, before turning and heading back to where she'd been standing before, behind and just to the left of Sybial. Huh.\n\n``Alright. Thank you, Councilor Sybial. I'll look over it all after the ceremony.'' I gave another nod to her, and she smiled, giving a little bow.\n\n``No rush. I know you're still learning, and it's too late for distribution this year anyway. Hopefully we'll have working fixes for the formulas by next, however. They're in bad need of update, as I'm sure you've heard.''\n\nThat I could nod to, definitely. ``Yeah. Inaga in particular it seems. Hopefully it won't take me too much longer to go through everything Grandmaster Chronak left behind.''\n\nThe Keld smiled to that, tails perking up behind her. ``Ah! He left you material to work with. That's definitely a good thing. I myself was one of the ones in line to potentially become the next Grandmaster, despite that being an... unpopular topic with the seated nobility of the city. But... to be perfectly honest, I don't envy your position. I'm... relieved to some degree that it didn't fall to me. Still, you have my sympathies.'' She shifted away from her polite expression for the first time, giving me a more solemn, if slightly sad smile, and I exhaled a little, nodding. She probably knew about the... costs then, of the Keyhole.\n\n``I'm... managing at least. Thank you, though. Master seemed to... really want me to be the one to take on the burden though. I hope that I'll be a good fit for the role but...'' I hesitated, frowning at that. He'd put a lot of faith in me, honestly. But part of me was still bothered about what he said about being suspicious of me. What... was he suspicious [i]of[/i] anyway? Other than my general weirdness when it came to my memory, I [i]felt[/i] just like... me. I didn't mean anyone any harm or ill will. The opposite really. I liked to think I really did enjoy helping people and seeing them happy.\n\nSybial smiled again and shook her head. ``Everyone needs time to adjust to new positions, Exes. I have no doubt that you'll be an amazing Grandmaster. I've read a lot of your essays and not only are they quite brilliant, but you have a thoughtful and gentle way of looking at things. It's... inspiring.'' She was earnest-sounding enough to cause me to flush, and my muzzle scrunched.\n\nSnickering, Calien nodded at that, still watching from the side. ``Yeah, Chronak didn't say that about just anyone. In fact, I believe he thought most around him as far from `genius' as could be.'' He really did give off that `surrounded by idiots' vibe most of the time, yeah.\n\nGiving out a tiny snort at that, Sybial covered her snicker after with a paw. ``I did hear he was a bit... difficult to work with sometimes. Though Exes seems very friendly, in contrast.''\n\nI averted my gaze there. ``Well, I haven't started swearing at you yet, or just walked off in a huff, so...'' They both grinned to that, and Calien gave a knowing nod. I shrugged after, however. ``Still, he was passionate in what he believed in, and an amazing teacher for me. I just... wish he was still around, I guess. It feels like I wasn't ready to be on my own just yet.''\n\nCalien relaxed a little and smiled again to me before gently rubbing my right shoulder. ``You're doing fine, Exes. Nobody expects you to just hit the ground running, and you're already handling things in a mature...'' She paused, eyes flicking up and down me once before she snickered again. Uh... ``...mostly mature way. Still, even I have to admit that the ceremonial robes are ridiculous.'' I huffed at that, and Sybial snickered too.\n\nNot that I had a chance to raise my hackles, given Mom had finished correcting Exir and Exia's stances and making sure they held their weapons correctly. That of course caused Exia to no longer have to stand there rigid, which meant she instead chose to almost knock me over with a running hug. Her muzzle buried itself gently into my neck, and I shivered, holding her there against me as best I could through the armor she was wearing. Exir and Mom walked up after, at a much slower pace, and she smiled towards the two of us.\n\n``Well, both of them fully passed their training this morning, and know their role in the ceremony. I'll keep up training of Exia of course, but she's well beyond the level needed to be Exes' guard.''\n\nCalien nodded to Mom with that, giving another smile. ``Thank you, Umani. You've been an amazing help so far. I think that means we're about perfect for the ceremony tomorrow. Unless you feel like going through it all for a... fifth time, is it? I'd say you're free to go for the day...'' Exia and I managed a groan at the same time as that, and Exir chuckled.\n\n``I pass. I uh, think a visit to Niva is in order...'' he admitted. He flushed lightly, but Calien just nodded to him, looking a little concerned.\n\n``Right. Speaking of, we should be expecting King Kormir next week at some point. Here's hoping he has some advice on how to better handle the Alpha concerns we're having.'' Right... He was an Alpha himself, so he probably had an intimate awareness of their troubles.\n\nExia gave me another little nuzzle, this time up to my ear, before murmuring into it. ``I think I might need some attention myself, bro. Got the energy?''\n\n``Not for you using your new [i]toys[/i] on me...'' I gave her a skeptical look, and she grinned, even as Exir lifted an eyebrow down to us. Sybial actually tilted her head, also looking down our way, though more quizzically. Right, not everyone had the hearing of Inaga here. Though it was probably more merciful that she'd missed that little exchange.\n\nShe bowed regardless, afterwards. ``Well, it was nice meeting you, Exes. I look forward to working with you in the future. I have to get going and prepare for my own speech tomorrow before the ceremony.'' Ah! Right, the speeches. Tomorrow was going to suck...\n\nCalien gave her a nod. ``Thank you for taking time to come up here then, Sybial. I'll visit your office later to go over some things.'' They both nodded to each other, and I relaxed a little. At least, after tomorrow, my official duties should slow down a bit.\n\nRight on time, as if I'd pushed some `tempting fate' button somewhere, my comm lit up on my wrist. I almost didn't want to even look...\n\n", "writing_bbcode_parsed": "``Really?  They literally burned the building down?''  I'd thought the signs were joking!

``But our stuff was in there!''  Atrith stared at Calien in shock, who just shook her head.

``We focused on evacuating the people inside the building first and foremost.  I'm sorry.  But stuff can be replaced, and I'll personally make sure it all is for you...''  Calien gave her an assuring smile before looking to Exir and I instead.  ``I'm glad you two made it out fine too.  This is getting seriously out of paw.  Hopefully with Larid Connected and Laridia Daily working with us, we can spread accurate information around and calm people down again.''  They'd burned a building down seemingly at random.  Part of me wondered if some of the people out there just wanted an excuse to destroy things at this point.

We were still in the cafe when Calien had caught up with us.  Exir's parents were pretty understanding about everything I explained about Alphas.  I'd worried some of the misinformation and rumors had gotten to them first, but they seemed to believe every word I told them.  Of course, the concern was on Exir now.  He looked... distant, claw lightly scraping at his now empty plate.  Well, his fourth empty plate I should say.  The kitchen had grown accustomed to him now, however, and seemed to just triple the serving of whatever he ordered.

``What about Exir's issues?''  I looked to Calien, who sighed and shook her head.

``Nothing.  But I can't just order someone.  And the odds of getting a volunteer when this is the current political climate we're living in...''  She gestured to the crystal panel above her on the column she was leaning on.  It had a running view of black smoke rising into the sky from the apartment, and fire teams hosing the entire building down.  At least it looked like they had the riot taken care of.  Although the fire had probably caused a panic and flight in a good three block radius.  At least, that's what the standard Inaga instinctive reaction is to a fire...

Exir sighed again.  ``Maybe it won't be as bad?  Maybe our Alpha state is gentler than the Vulkus one, and Niva will be enough?  I mean, I feel fine now but...''

We fell silent at that, with his parents shooting him sympathetic looks.  I closed my eyes, then slowly shook my head before looking back to Calien.  ``Also, do you think I could have another escort?  I'd like to go with Exia and Yimir and pick Kada up from the Academy today.  He... mentioned that he was starting to see journalists.  I think someone saw him with us one too many times.''

Calien's eye twitched at that, and she gave a defeated sigh.  ``Great.  Did he decide on where he was living from now on?  I can have his stuff picked up from his dorm.''

I shook my head at that.  ``He said that he was okay living here but...  That's why I was bringing Exia and Yimir.  I wanted to bring him back to his clan manor first and talk things over with him and his parents.  Especially if he's in any danger via association with me...''

Exir frowned.  ``It's hardly you, Exes.  Pretty sure you're well liked for the most part.  Uh, maybe a little too liked when it comes to the nutjob reporters...''

Calien nodded, however.  ``It's still a good plan.  That way he can make a more informed choice about where he's living.  Though I doubt it's going to stop him from being interested in you, Exes.''  She smiled a bit at that, and I huffed.  I suppose so...  I just didn't want to see him hurt.  ``Regardless, yeah.  I'll arrange for one immediately.  We may have to make a different schedule for his classes until all of this blows over.''  Yikes.

I nodded as well, then stood from the table.  ``Alright.  I'll go get the others.  Thanks, Calien.''  She smiled wider and nodded to me, and I gave a bow to Exir and his family.  ``It was nice to finally meet you all, even if it wasn't the best start.  But I'm sure we'll get to talk again later...''

Atrith grinned and nodded to me, and Nukka and Sakathis gave me more muted smiles.  Nukka still looked a bit worked up from the sudden change of scenery.  I can only imagine how horrific it had been to get hauled from their apartment shortly before it got set on fire...

Exir gave a smile to me and nodded.  ``Of course, Exes.  Good luck evacuating Kada!  Oh, and with his parents.  Heh.''  I gave him a grin, then waved before turning and heading for the elevator.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


How anyone could have possibly figured out about Kada's connection to us is completely beyond me of course.  We'd kept such a low profile!  Minus that bit where he'd jumping pounced me out of his academy class while people were still filing out of the lecture haul and open-mouth kissed me right there in public to the gasps and murmurs behind him.  And the fact that he was now sitting on my lap on the tram over to his parents, with my arms wrapped around his waist and paws folded in his lap.  Yimir of course was delighted, but Exia actually looked a little jealous after the big kiss.

``Grrr.  I know Kada's adorable and all, but don't forget about our needs too!''  She pouted to my left, and I slowly gave her a nod.  Yimir grinned to my right instead though.

``Speak for yourself.  I'm loving watching!  You know, Kada, if you just slid your shorts and loincloth down in the back...''  He flushed bright red at that, and I reached my right paw over and booped her lightly on the snout, causing her to wince and rub at her nose.

``Behave in public.  Laridia has laws against that.  But yes, I'll be giving you two attention tonight, don't worry.  If Kada's there with us, he can watch of course...''

His flush shifted brighter at that and he squirmed.  A few people nearby whispered and gestured our way, but eh.  There weren't any laws about discussing sexy things in public!  I'd checked.  Though by the way the one Inaga female was giggling, she might be another Yimir.

He huffed after.  ``I already told you, it doesn't matter what my parents say.  I'm staying with you in the palace.''  I gave his ear a gentle nuzzle, and he shivered and relaxed again against my chest.

``Just talk to them about it, Kada?  For me?''

A pout instead, but he nodded.  ``I... of course, Alpha.''  I squeezed him, and he shifted back to smiling at that.  Yimir was ogling, but Exia watched us more intently.

``Hmmm, so all I really need to do is start acting a ton more submissive to you, and that should get me more attention!''

My turn to feel heat rush into my cheeks, as I turned to the left and shot a skeptical stare to Exia.  ``You can just ask you know, brat.  You know that it's more than just sexual...''  She perked at that, but my left paw slid under her chin and gave her a little rub, betting her to blush and lid her eyes.

Kada's eyes widened as she slid in, pressing her muzzle up against mine rather gently... and incidentally pushing her breasts right into his face.  He flailed on my lap, but I nuzzled into the kiss and gave her cheek a little rub before she backed up again, smiling more warmly now.  Kada looked like he wanted to die though, entire face red now.  ``And first-time feeling breasts...  That was... unique.''  Well, unique wasn't `bad', exactly.  Exia lifted an eyebrow down to him, then nodded.

``Hey, you can feel them more if you want.  I mean, if it's fine with Alpha of course.''  His eyes widened again, then drifted back down to her chest, and I shot her a skeptical glance instead.

``Public, Exia...''  She pouted at that and sat back down fully, huffing.

It was mercifully a rather uneventful tram ride this time.  Of course, we were headed up the mountain now, and into the `noble' district.  Not only did they get prime living areas along the upper ridge, but the patrolling guards and security had taken a sharp hike, it looked like.  Well, not that I was complaining, avoiding literally traveling through a riot with people throwing fire around.

Clan Leizer's main manor was a humbler affair, but I kind of appreciated that.  It was still large, though.  Two wings and two stories by the looks of it, with a nice front garden with fountain.  Just a normal fountain, not a statue-vomiting-water variant.  They had their own guards posted, of the normal city guard type, but they perked and simply saluted as we approached with our own honor guards.

Kada just slowly hopped along in front of us and gave the guards a wave as we passed, clearly knowing them.  They looked at each other with a little look, but didn't say anything further.  Given we were arriving completely unannounced, this would be... interesting.

With him taking point, nobody even questioned us as we walked right up to the manor and through the main double doors.  Inside was... cozier than I'd been expecting, looking more like the entry to a large house than some grand entrance to a clan manor.  The main room was definitely pretty saturated with furniture, shelves, and all sorts of knickknacks, giving more of a `closed in' feel that I'd expect from an Illan dwelling.  Of course, at least half of said knickknacks appeared to be of a lewd nature.  Also expected.

There was a bell attached to the door, so the chances of us remaining undetected for long were already slim.  Several maids and butlers were already peeking into the main room, ears raised, before bouncing in and greeting Kada with interest.  They looked over us too, and a couple were already squinting my way, searching my expression and features as if recognizing me.  Here we go...  Though it was interesting to note the manor appeared to be staffed entirely by Illan.

A female Illan hopped into view at the top of the stairs leading up to the second floor, however.  She was in a pretty blouse and skirting, and lifted her ears up as she spotted Kada first and foremost.  Her coat was quite white, but had a couple of creamy brown splotches here and there on it.  She looked older than Kada, but I wasn't as good at taking guesses at other species' ages, admittedly.

``Oh!  Kada!  You didn't say you were visiting today.  And you brought guests?''  I lifted an eyebrow as she hopped to the railing instead and just sort of absently slid down it on one paw instead of using the stairs, before hopping off at the bottom as nonchalantly as someone stepping off the elevator.  Kada didn't bat an eye, of course.

Instead, he grinned and nodded.  ``Hey Mom!  Uh, yeah, it surprised me too.  Sorry for arriving unannounced, but it's also kinda important.''  Ah!  So, his mother.  He gestured back to us afterwards.  ``Exes, this is my Mom, Trinka.  Mom, this is-``

She let out a suddenly startled squeak, blue eyes widening at me.  ``Aaaaaaah!  G-Grandmaster Alchemist!''  Several shrill squeaks later, the room exploded into a flurry of movement with Illan staff literally bouncing every which way while flailing and giving chirps and squeaks.  Kada winced, while Exia, Yimir and I stared in shock as a couple crashed into each other in midair, rolling about each other before blurring onwards.

The initial panic cleared quickly, and soon the servants were shooting back in with a prepared tray of tea and cookies from... somewhere.  Trinka gave a shaky bow towards me before gesturing to the left instead, at a side door.  ``Uh, p-please, Grandmaster.  If you n-need to talk to us, you and your entourage may use the parlor!''  Kada gave somewhere between a sheepish smile and wince to me, flushed, before shrugging.  Right...  Parlor it was!

By the time we'd actually walked the ten meters or so into the parlor of course, the servants had already mobilized and got one of the large tables cleared off, replacing the clutter with the tray of tea and snacks, and enough cups for all of us.  Further, Trinka was joined by two other female Illan, who quickly flanked her to both sides, looking just as startled.

Still, we filled in an entire half of the table, with the three female Illan joining on the opposite side.  The chairs were built quite tall, but thankfully not too dramatic an elevation that I couldn't just hop up a bit into mine.  Kada coughed after we settled, sitting to my right now.  ``Uh, r-right.  Again, this is my biological mother, Trinka.''

``My also biological mother, Mieki.''  My ears shot up at that rather curiously as the female on the right flushed a little and gave a timid wave.  Her fur was browner like Kada's was, and she had green eyes like his too.  ``And my other mother, Viiku.''  She was an almost-black furred Illan with a rather pretty shade of pink eyes.

I gave a smile and nod to each, even as he coughed and switched to introducing me.  ``Uh, this is Exes.  But you already knew that.''  Mieki looked shocked towards him, but Trinka gave me a nod and bow.  ``And these two are Exia and Yimir, Exes' mates.''  They both smiled and nodded to the parents as well.

``O-Of course!  Um, what brings you to our clan manor today, Grandmaster?  Is...  Is Kada in trouble or...?''

My muzzle scrunched for a moment, but I quickly shook my head after, holding a paw up to her.  ``Oh, no, nothing like that.  Well, to some degree there's an issue but it's not his doing.  Journalists have started bothering him around his Academy dorm room and in class, so we picked him up with escort today.  He's going to have to either move back in here in the manor, or stay at the palace until things calm down a bit.''

That calmed them down a bit, but Trinka frowned instead.  ``Journalists?  Has something happened?''

I shook my head again.  ``No, I'm pretty sure it's because he's been hanging out with me.  Well...''  I paused at their confused looks again and sighed inwardly.  Looking to Kada instead, he caught my gaze and gave a small, sheepish smile, and I chuckled.  Exia and Yimir of course nodded rapidly on the other side of me.  Fine...

He perked, eyes widening a little as I slid my paw under his chin, but didn't resist, even as I moved him up and gently kissed him right then and there.  He gave a shiver against my muzzle, and I nuzzled him, bumping our noses together before pulling back and giving a grin his way.  He was flushed now, but grinned back, and I looked back to his parents instead.

Now all three were staring at us in shock, with their muzzles dropped.  Well... at least they knew now!  I felt a bit impish, but I smiled towards them and nodded.  ``Kada's been hanging out with me and my pack for a while now at the palace, and well... we're hoping he'll be available to officially join the pack once we're all old enough.  That's why him moving into the palace, with us, is also on the table.  Unless any of you have reasons why he shouldn't.''

Trinka gave a sharp squeak at that, covering her muzzle a moment later before rapidly shaking her head.  ``No!  I mean, no, of course not!  We'd be honored... n-no, we are honored that you'd like our Kada in your pack!  This is... something you want, Kada?''  She turned to look at him, and he flushed hard, cheeks shifting straight red before rapidly nodding.

``Um, y-yeah.  I really want Exes to be my alpha.  He's... amazingly sweet and takes really good care of me.  Plus, he loves gaming and talking about alchemy and magic and...  Um... o-oh!  He was also interested in the catalogs...''  Well, that was a segue...

She paused at that.  ``Catalogs...?''  Looking back to me, she was met with Exia, Yimir, and I all nodding.

``Yeah.  Admittedly I'm uh...  Well, I guess the easiest way to say this is I'm very relaxed and open when it comes to, well, sexual things.  Honestly, I think a lot of people are way too uptight about that sort of thing.  Regardless, I'm more than a little interested in your actual clan products.  What you have available when it comes to toys, augmentations, and other such things.  Actually, even your nonsexual things would be neat to see, if it gave me a better feel for where Kada's background is stemming from.''  Exir had mentioned they had other things too, and I was curious.

Trinka's ears shot up to full with that, wiggling for a moment before rapidly nodding.  ``Oh, of course!  I never even... ah, you'll have to excuse us.  We're not used to even really... presenting our information.  Uh, could you go get one of the datapads, Viiku?''  The dark-furred female gave her a rapid nod before hopping out of her chair and bursting out of the room as fast as she could hop.

Giving a little chitter after, Trinka took several deep breaths before looking back to me instead.  ``We're not used to people actually coming and asking for presentations of things and such.  Normally, if we are pursued, they're by someone who's heard already what our products are through word of mouth, and are after a specific thing.  I didn't... even consider that the new Grandmaster Alchemist would take an interest in us!''

Mieki slowly nodded along next to her before speaking in a slightly higher voice.  ``Yeah, it's...  Most people here you're right about.  They have a very narrow mind when it comes to sexual things.  Even though that's not all we've created, because we do create that sort of thing, it's like we're all taboo.  At least until they want something...''  Her tone dropped a bit on the last part, and Trinka winced, then gave her a stern look and nudge to the shoulder.

I chuckled however, then nodded, drawing both of their attention forward again.  ``No, I understand.  I fully agree, even.  If I do get anything, I've got no intention to do it quietly or anonymously, mind.  I planned on writing you guys up at least a review for everything.  I think you're criminally underrepresented as is...''  I wasn't sure if it was something they were interested in, but I'd already written up twelve pages for the creators of the PEC.  I figured I'd round it out to about fifteen easily enough without any padding to the essay, then release it to them.  Of course, I covered the entire system and a plethora of the games we'd already tried on it, so it was a lot of topics to cover!

That, Trinka definitely looked surprised over.  She relaxed after however, then gave a softer smile instead.  ``That would be... amazing really.  We're not quite as... out there as the main branch but... we'd be glad for any endorsements you can give.  Our specialization is in transmutational alchemy and magic.  Both for medical and recreational use.  We also develop items and equipment in regards to those categories.''  Well, that sounded a lot broader than `sex things'.

My ears lifted at that.  ``You make medical things?''  Exia shot me a smirk, but my paw whacked her knee under the tea table and she pouted.

Thankfully they didn't seem to notice.  Or were just polite.  ``Oh, yes!  Historically, our clan was responsible for the type two targeted regeneratives.  So, you could heal something highly specific and avoid nonaffected areas.  We also, more recently, developed the bone shaping, which has a wide variety of uses in repair of degeneration and treatment of malformation.''  Eh?!  That was a thing we could do now?!  Suddenly a bit of hope for my leg was sparked in me.  Just a bit.

Again, Mieki nodded.  ``Anything transmutation we're interested in.  There's a lot of medical prospects because it turns out that's useful for healing and restoring things.  Equipment we produce facilitates that.  Processors for making our various healing formulas, plus a wide range of braces used to maintain bone shape while transmuting, given those last two examples.''

Then, Trinka smirked.  ``Of course, there is a lot of sexual things we tackle.  Gender shifting, recreational augmentation, and equipment and toys therein.  Our clan tends to attract a certain type interested only in that, even if we represent a larger, more varied portfolio overall.''  Heh, that I could also understand.

Kada flushed a little himself, then coughed lightly.  ``Um, s-speaking of, I think I'm finally ready to go for the Garkin anal augment.''  Oh boy...

Garkin, interestingly enough, had a hemipeni, just like Gar.  Inside a frontal slit, it was technically one penis, but it split at the base into two.  Possibly as a direct evolutionary effect, female Garkin developed some fascinating upgrades to their anal canal.  For one, it was technically an actual rear cloaca, with a secondary vaginal tract leading also to the uterus.  Self-cleaning and lubricating, much like front cloaca, it also added a plethora of muscles and nerve endings along the walls for additional enjoyment.  Further, the back end of the colon tightened with additional muscle rings, forming a sort of secondary locking mechanism to control waste management.  When they were done using the orifice for that, the inner colon sphincter would seal it off, letting it discharge and flush itself, automatically cleaning it!  I found it amazing, honestly, that they developed something so sophisticated.  Two unique entrances to their womb!

This had a backwards compatible effect, however.  The body was... lazy when in development.  Inside the egg, they kept things as universal as possible until the gender development of the fetus.  That meant that after the females developed this rear cloaca upgrade, males started getting it too.  They lacked the connection to their womb, obviously not having a womb, which turned it into only a partial cloaca, with only their anal entrance.  But it kept all the other properties.  That was able to be isolated in an augmentation modification, and applied successfully to other species of either gender.

Trinka's ears shot up at that, and she shifted to a grin instead.  ``Oh!  I'm glad.  This... is definitely good for you, I think.  I've never seen you so confident!''  He turned a little pink at that, but I found myself kind of pleased that his mother thought as much.  ``I'm glad that Grandmaster-``

I held a paw up and shook my head.  ``Just... Exes, please.  The title's a mouthful, plus, well...  Once the pack goes through, I suppose we'd be family then instead.''  Both females perked at that, looking surprised again.  Viiku also slowed to a stop a meter or so into the room, eyes wide while holding a large bound book with a datapad balanced on top.  Ah, she'd heard that bit too, then.

Slowly, Trinka recovered and gave a softer smile, before gesturing Viiku over to the table again.  The book was set down in front of me, as well as the datapad off to the right of it, and Exia and Yimir pressed in, curiously looking things over.  She nodded as we did.  ``The datapad has a searchable feature and all our newer products, but we haven't gotten around to getting everything on it yet.  The book is our master index of products available.''  That caused us to shift to the book first and foremost, given at least I had no idea what I was looking for, specifically.

``Toys first!  Do they have a toy section?!''  Exia grinned to me, tail wagging furiously, and I rolled my eyes, then looked at the table of contents.

Snickering, Trinka answered first however.  ``Yup.  It's organized into sections.  Toys are in the back.''  Ah!  I checked the page number, then skipped down a good six sevenths of the book before looking for the specific number.  So they had a lot of things that weren't toys too...

Kada grinned as he watched us, snuggling up closer to my right side so he could see what we were looking at, too.  ``Might be easier to let them take the book back to the palace.  We have like, twenty of them...''

Giggling at that, Viiku nodded.  ``You're probably right.''

``At least getting you the Garkin anal augmentation is easy.  Did you want that today?'' Mieki asked.

I looked up and over at Kada as the girls slid the book more over in front of them.  ``Again, it's up to you, Kada.  You can take time to think about it.  Nobody's forcing you.''  Some augmentations you could reverse after `installing' them.  That one wasn't one of them.

He flushed light pink as he smiled back to me, then leaned in and gave me a little nuzzle under the chin.  ``I know, Exes.  And thank you for checking... but I've been thinking about getting this one for a while now.  Meeting you just made the decision easier.''  He grinned with that, tail tuft bobbing behind him, and I gave a chuckle.  Trinka and Viiku looked to Mieki, who threw a salute to them and hopped out of her chair.

``On it!  It'll take about fifteen minutes to install.''  She didn't slow down after revealing that, instead booking it out of the room at high speed.  Actually, I rarely saw an Illan go at `slow' speed now that I think about it.

Trinka nodded as she looked back to us with a smile.  ``Feel free to peruse the book while you wait.  Could you come with me, Kada?''  He perked at that and nodded to her before hopping off his chair.

``I'll be back in a bit, guys!''  I ducked down and snuck a little nuzzle and kiss from him first, and he squirmed, blushing before shooting me a grin again and following his mother out of the room.

That left just Viiku as she watched the girls curiously, smile widening a bit.  Hmm?  ``Mmm, I bet you've already claimed Kada, haven't you?  I could smell you on him.''  Eh?!  I'm pretty sure all three of us flushed at the sudden comment, but she didn't give us a chance to respond.  ``I can of course help you with anything you're interested in, in the toy section!  That's one of my specialties.  Want some suggestions?  Maybe what I know for a fact that Kada likes playing with...?''  She shifted to a grin, even as Exia and Yimir looked up at her again.

There was a momentary delay before the flushed Exia slowly started to grin back.  ``Ooooh...  Yeah!  Suggestions would be amazing!''  I got a creeping sensation of dread down my neck...

~ ~ ~ ~ ~


Admittedly, Viiku was very dedicated to her position.  We'd left Kada's manor with no less than six bags worth of toys, then ended up getting custom scans done on all of us.  She warned that those toys would take a few days to make, but assured that they'd send them to the palace once done.  Not that they didn't have more than enough to play around with in the meantime.

Though I suppose I had something to peek over too.  They'd given me one of their product books, and more interestingly, the index reference identifications to a lot of their `open' formulas in the Laridia archives.  Even better, I had a dozen or so comm contacts now for various clan members that Trinka put forward, including the clan head, Vivira, a Keld.  Trinka had shot her a message, and they were more than pleased to consider working with me personally in the future, it turns out.  Connections!

Kada was a little sore when we left, and sat in my lap a bit more gingerly on the ride home.  Apparently, my lap was softer than the alchemic plastic seats, which I was vaguely thankful for.  They'd warned us that he'd probably be a bit tender for a few hours, as there were some pretty radical changes done to his insides.  They were professionals though, and he had the full array of regeneratives, pain management, and swelling reduction medicine in him.  Still, he didn't turn down my extra affections on the ride back.

Of course, Yimir wasn't fully recovered either, despite enjoying the afternoon out and about.  Both she and Kada had decided to rest when we got back to the palace.  Instead, Exia and I met up with Exir and went to the coronation practice at the Iron Father's temple, on the cliff.

It was interesting seeing my little sister in honor guard armor and standing there with a ceremonial spear, admittedly.  She looked proud as punch of course, though Mom did too, watching her.  Exir filled out the armor quite well too, with heavy shield and spear at the ready.  Me?  I was busy trying to not expire from heatstroke.  The ceremonial robes were tailored to me, but really heavy compared to anything I'd worn before.  The skirting was floor-length and clearly a trip danger, especially for me.  There was also a long stole with ceremonial runes on it that I got to drape over my shoulders, making things even warmer while wearing it.  I kept my mouth open and panted now, ears drooped as the director went over the ceremony.  Ugh.  Fuck this shit.  I was preparing a thermal enchantment for when we did this for real.

The Inaga director nodded again, smiling to us all as she then gestured to the large and very elaborate looking brazier on the altar.  ``Then Exes will do another quarter rotation and face the altar, lighting the brazier with magic before picking it up and doing a half rotation to the right, facing the audience again.''  She snapped her fingers and it flared to life behind her, casting orange light for several meters and causing me to audibly groan.  I could feel the heat off it from here!

Everyone turned to me, ears raising, but I just flopped forward into a dull heap, sounding remarkably like I was landing on a pillow thanks to all the clothing I was wearing.  ``Didn't we do the torch thing already?  I think I'd rather do this naked than wear all these layers while carrying a lit brazier!''  She scrunched her muzzle at that, and I heard Exia break into snickering behind me and to the left.

Calien smiled as she watched, looking amused before lifting a paw, then closing it into a fist.  The brazier went out in a little flicker of purple energy, and she chuckled, pushing off the pillar she was leaning against.  ``Alright, break time, and Exes gets out of the robes for a bit.  Can we get a thermal enchantment on them set up?''

Two Inaga and an Illan wearing royal butler outfits all bowed to her before darting over and helping me to my paws again, removing the robes as they went.  I shivered, happy at this point to just step out into the open air in my loincloth, before flopping back over onto the floor and just panting there, tongue hanging out.  The stone felt good on my hot fur, it being nice and cool down here.

That's when a surprisingly nice breeze suddenly washed over me, chilling me a lot more than it should have.  I gave a little shiver, ears perking as I sat up again.  Calien perked too, then smiled as a Keld walked towards us from the entry to the ceremonial room.  She had dark gray fur, with a more ashen gray patterning, in traditional Keld `mittens' shape.  That being her stomach, chest, groin, and all four paws.  Not that I could see her torso patterns, minus the bit that stood out over her blouse.  Her skirt went down to her knees however, and she gave us both a gentle bow as she approached.

Soft purple eyes locked onto me, mana glow fading from them, and she smiled, managing to make it look both practiced and genuine at the same time.  Definitely a politician of some sorts.  And a mage!  Not that I was complaining for the wind gust magic.  ``You looked like you could use cooling off.  It's nice to meet you, Grandmaster Exes.''  Her tone was soft too, with a polite crispness to it.  She gave a demure curtsey, and Calien nodded as she watched.

``Exes, this is Councilor Sybial.  She's Larid's Councilor of Alchemy, and one of my best public relations experts.  You'll be working with her after the coronation to get up to speed on the essence patches.  She's fully in the know.''  Oh!

I coughed at that, then nodded.  ``Uh, sorry for, well, being mostly naked.  Was dying of heatstroke, it felt like.''  I stood at that and gave her a little bow myself, tail swaying slowly behind me as I did.

She gave a soft giggle, then shook her head.  ``Oh, it's no problem.  I know how stuffy ceremonial clothing can be.  One of the driving forces originally for me learning thermal magic at all.  I just wanted a chance to meet you before the ceremony, and give you some materials.''  Hmm?

I noticed a moment later that there was a female Rapa behind her and a little to the left.  I hadn't really even noticed her, oddly.  She had an ash-gray base feather color, with darker black highlights towards the tip.  Her eyes were almost black in color, making me more wonder if she had some sort of pigment mutation issue.  Normally, Rapa were... vividly colorful.

They were an interesting species, plopped right about in the middle of the small stature species.  Their legs were aggressively digitigrade structured, like an Illan or Garkin, but instead of paws or claws, they had talons starting near their ankle, consisting of rough, scaley skin in bands.  Three toes pointed forward with webbing between them, and one backwards.  All four had talons on them, but the inner one of each was larger and curved, like a scythe blade.  Everywhere else they were covered in feathering of various shapes and lengths, including on their powerful arms.  Like us, they had three fingers and a thumb at the end of each `paw' of sorts, but their arms were technically wings.  While not capable of true flight, they could glide over long distances, and were quite good at assisted jumping with them.  Their tails were moderate in length and thick like a Garkin, and capped in a feathered plumage, similar to the plume off the top and back of their heads.  A long beak extended from their face instead of a muzzle.  It in particular was interesting as it existed in place of a `cover' function like the lips of a muzzle.  The inner ridge was softer however, similar to Garkin gums, with actual teeth.  Popular theory stated they used to not have the gum and teeth functionality before being elevated, but evolved them due to both a dietary shift away from pure fish, and the ability to speak properly.

``Ah, my manners!''  Sybial gave another nod to me, then gestured to the Rapa, who padded up with a briefcase.  ``This is my assistant, Nif'tril.  The documentation for the essence patches, as well as a vial of each, are inside of the briefcase.''  Oh!  I nodded to the Rapa, taking the briefcase from her and backing up again.  She gave me the tiniest of nods, expression still absolutely blank otherwise, before turning and heading back to where she'd been standing before, behind and just to the left of Sybial.  Huh.

``Alright.  Thank you, Councilor Sybial.  I'll look over it all after the ceremony.''  I gave another nod to her, and she smiled, giving a little bow.

``No rush.  I know you're still learning, and it's too late for distribution this year anyway.  Hopefully we'll have working fixes for the formulas by next, however.  They're in bad need of update, as I'm sure you've heard.''

That I could nod to, definitely.  ``Yeah.  Inaga in particular it seems.  Hopefully it won't take me too much longer to go through everything Grandmaster Chronak left behind.''

The Keld smiled to that, tails perking up behind her.  ``Ah!  He left you material to work with.  That's definitely a good thing.  I myself was one of the ones in line to potentially become the next Grandmaster, despite that being an... unpopular topic with the seated nobility of the city.  But... to be perfectly honest, I don't envy your position.  I'm... relieved to some degree that it didn't fall to me.  Still, you have my sympathies.''  She shifted away from her polite expression for the first time, giving me a more solemn, if slightly sad smile, and I exhaled a little, nodding.  She probably knew about the... costs then, of the Keyhole.

``I'm... managing at least.  Thank you, though.  Master seemed to... really want me to be the one to take on the burden though.  I hope that I'll be a good fit for the role but...''  I hesitated, frowning at that.  He'd put a lot of faith in me, honestly.  But part of me was still bothered about what he said about being suspicious of me.  What... was he suspicious of anyway?  Other than my general weirdness when it came to my memory, I felt just like... me.  I didn't mean anyone any harm or ill will.  The opposite really.  I liked to think I really did enjoy helping people and seeing them happy.

Sybial smiled again and shook her head.  ``Everyone needs time to adjust to new positions, Exes.  I have no doubt that you'll be an amazing Grandmaster.  I've read a lot of your essays and not only are they quite brilliant, but you have a thoughtful and gentle way of looking at things.  It's... inspiring.''  She was earnest-sounding enough to cause me to flush, and my muzzle scrunched.

Snickering, Calien nodded at that, still watching from the side.  ``Yeah, Chronak didn't say that about just anyone.  In fact, I believe he thought most around him as far from `genius' as could be.''  He really did give off that `surrounded by idiots' vibe most of the time, yeah.

Giving out a tiny snort at that, Sybial covered her snicker after with a paw.  ``I did hear he was a bit... difficult to work with sometimes.  Though Exes seems very friendly, in contrast.''

I averted my gaze there.  ``Well, I haven't started swearing at you yet, or just walked off in a huff, so...''  They both grinned to that, and Calien gave a knowing nod.  I shrugged after, however.  ``Still, he was passionate in what he believed in, and an amazing teacher for me.  I just... wish he was still around, I guess.  It feels like I wasn't ready to be on my own just yet.''

Calien relaxed a little and smiled again to me before gently rubbing my right shoulder.  ``You're doing fine, Exes.  Nobody expects you to just hit the ground running, and you're already handling things in a mature...''  She paused, eyes flicking up and down me once before she snickered again.  Uh...  ``...mostly mature way.  Still, even I have to admit that the ceremonial robes are ridiculous.''  I huffed at that, and Sybial snickered too.

Not that I had a chance to raise my hackles, given Mom had finished correcting Exir and Exia's stances and making sure they held their weapons correctly.  That of course caused Exia to no longer have to stand there rigid, which meant she instead chose to almost knock me over with a running hug.  Her muzzle buried itself gently into my neck, and I shivered, holding her there against me as best I could through the armor she was wearing.  Exir and Mom walked up after, at a much slower pace, and she smiled towards the two of us.

``Well, both of them fully passed their training this morning, and know their role in the ceremony.  I'll keep up training of Exia of course, but she's well beyond the level needed to be Exes' guard.''

Calien nodded to Mom with that, giving another smile.  ``Thank you, Umani.  You've been an amazing help so far.  I think that means we're about perfect for the ceremony tomorrow.  Unless you feel like going through it all for a... fifth time, is it?  I'd say you're free to go for the day...''  Exia and I managed a groan at the same time as that, and Exir chuckled.

``I pass.  I uh, think a visit to Niva is in order...'' he admitted.  He flushed lightly, but Calien just nodded to him, looking a little concerned.

``Right.  Speaking of, we should be expecting King Kormir next week at some point.  Here's hoping he has some advice on how to better handle the Alpha concerns we're having.''  Right...  He was an Alpha himself, so he probably had an intimate awareness of their troubles.

Exia gave me another little nuzzle, this time up to my ear, before murmuring into it.  ``I think I might need some attention myself, bro.  Got the energy?''

``Not for you using your new toys on me...''  I gave her a skeptical look, and she grinned, even as Exir lifted an eyebrow down to us.  Sybial actually tilted her head, also looking down our way, though more quizzically.  Right, not everyone had the hearing of Inaga here.  Though it was probably more merciful that she'd missed that little exchange.

She bowed regardless, afterwards.  ``Well, it was nice meeting you, Exes.  I look forward to working with you in the future.  I have to get going and prepare for my own speech tomorrow before the ceremony.''  Ah!  Right, the speeches.  Tomorrow was going to suck...

Calien gave her a nod.  ``Thank you for taking time to come up here then, Sybial.  I'll visit your office later to go over some things.''  They both nodded to each other, and I relaxed a little.  At least, after tomorrow, my official duties should slow down a bit.

Right on time, as if I'd pushed some `tempting fate' button somewhere, my comm lit up on my wrist.  I almost didn't want to even look...

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