Memory transcription subject: Valek, Venlil-Human Partnership Program Participant
Date [standardized human time]: August 27th, 2136. Late afternoon
"Hold on, that's not fair!"
My ears pointed accusingly at the unfazed Venlil in front of me. Professor Tarva couldn't expect Maeve to spend all her time masked! How could the herd get used to her if all they saw was black wool?!
"No, it isn't fair, but it is necessary. Humans are already familiar with this garment, in fact it was the human half of our program that suggested it; they call it a Burka. Maeve has already proven mindful to avoid predatory tracking by using her periphery, and the color of her hair makes this particularly important. Need I remind you, she is the first human this herd has seen, but not the first predator! Some in your village have even survived the Arxur, or have you forgotten?"
I faltered at that reminder. Of course I knew that some of the town was more… sensitive than others. But this was Maeve! They would come around!
"But even at home?! Who can she scare when it's just me? You can't expect her to be herself in her own room?"
Always ready with a new reason, Tarva shot back, “For now, yes, we can! Both Humanity and The Venlil have to make every effort to prevent an incident. If this doesn't go well, it could irreparably damage the entire alliance!”
I was losing ground, but I had to fight this! It wasn’t fair!
“It’s ok, Valek,” Maeve soothed beside me, “I don’t like it either, but Tarva is right.” Speaking directly to Tarva now, who remained infuriatingly confident under the eyes of a predator, Maeve continued, “Can you include an ongoing review process in the terms? These… conditions you’ve given us have no end date. I understand the immediate necessity, but this inflexibility is setting us up for failure.”
Tarva motioned calmness, “Our goal is to increase exposure incrementally. Based on what is in the medical report from your first meeting, Maeve has already proven herself able to introduce herself gently. We will check in directly every two paws, and keep a close eye on the news in the area. I understand that is not stated in this contract, we will include it for transparency.”
I was ready to push for more, but Maeve took my paw, “I think we can work with this Valek. I want this, and I’m willing to work for it. Is this ok?”
My tail lashed, but my ears conceded. “Fine; I see the line is drawn. The Grove will accept Maeve, you’ll see.” Maeve smiled at me and I squeezed her hand while we made our marks on the contract.
With a visible sigh of relief, Tarva spoke gently, “Thank you. We want this to work as much as you do, really, but we, and I’m glad you two, understand the reality of what we are doing. I think Maeve is a fantastic representative of her species, and I know the Grove will accept her, eventually. The supply ship should have finished its landing by now; I'll let them know to expect you.”
Signaling dismissal, Tarva stood from her cushion and returned to her station, presumably contacting the supply ship.
Stepping out into the hall, my body let loose its coiled frustrations from the indignity, “We should have pushed for more! You’re not dangerous, and if the Herd is close-minded, that's their loss. You shouldn't have to hide yourself for them.”
“What more could we have pushed for? The fact that I’m allowed to go at all is a big win, and I’m very thankful we convinced them to pay for a new bed-and-bath room for me. And the Burka is for my protection, not the Venlil.”
“What do you mean?” I asked, one ear locked on her, the other swiveling absently.
“Looking at the difficulties of other partners, I think a big reason for our success is that we started with text only, and using this garment will, hopefully, have the same effect in person.”
I knew she was right, but I was in no mood to hear it. “Lets go to the mess and get something to eat. I need to bite something.”
“No.” Maeve stated with finality, “We are going to the room. I need to talk to you privately.”
The weight in her voice finally slowed my tail, and we were silent for the walk back. My nerves bundled as the silence weighed on us, before Maeve laid a hand on my shoulder to reassure me. Finally making it back to the room, Maeve motioned for me to enter first, and locked the door behind us. She stood in front of the door, balled fists on her hips, before taking a deep breath and relaxing.
“What’s going on? You walked into that office looking for a fight and were still pissy when we finally left.” Maeve’s eyes met mine, and I stood tall.
“They were going to keep you hidden! Like some beast to be contained! It’s not fair to you, and it’s not ok! You’re not a danger and they should know that! This whole program has shown, without any doubt, that Humans are not a threat, and should be welcome among the Federation. They should be thankful that Humanity came to us first, and we should welcome you into the Herd! You know that! But you just let them tell us how to live --”
“Hey! I know you’re mad but you don’t get-- ” Maeve stopped short, before taking another deep breath, “We need to stop, and we both need to calm down.” And with that, she sat on the floor with her back against the door, watching me.
Looking back, it is with great shame that I remember what I said while I rambled for those ten minutes of just… so much anger. I railed against the perceived slights that I thought Tarva levied against us. I spouted insults and profanities at the injustices of my kind against the humans, unearned and poorly targeted. I even accused Maeve of not trying hard enough. It was only when my voice broke and I spent more time breathing than yelling, that I finally sat down exhausted, and further collapsed on the cold floor. Only after several breaths did I hear movement, as Maeve crawled from her seat by the door to my side, brushing my head slowly.
“Feel better?” Maeve asked, quietly.
“...... no.” I admitted, ruefully.
“This is unfair, and frustrating. You’re right to be angry, but I’ve never seen you, or really any Venlil, like this. Is there something else going on?”
My tail flicked dismissively, and my ears flattened to the back of my head angrily.
“Does this have something to do with… us?”
Suddenly everything clicked, and my body went still from the realization: I was scared I would lose Maeve. Finally letting it sink in that I, that We, were safe, I spoke up. “You weren't my first. My first was as a Relief Partner for a friend. We were good friends, and she trusted me to help her through her cycles for an orbit or two, but there wasn’t… love in it. There was trust, and… convenience. I’ve never felt this way with anyone, I’ve never thought of a future with anyone. And the idea that our relationship, that whether or not we can stay together, is determined by someone else’s fears and politics… It's terrifying. “
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Maeve lowered her body to lay with me on the ground, my back against her. Winding her arm around me, she pulled me against her as if to squeeze her assurances into me. “There is nothing anyone, Venlil, Human, or otherwise, could ever hope to do to keep us apart. Even if everything goes wrong, and I’m forced to leave, I will find a way to keep us together.” Finishing with a soft kiss on my crown, she released her grip and helped me up. I spoke with my ears back and tail curled in regret and shame.
“I’m sorry for what I said. I won’t deny that I felt what I felt, but I know that what I said was meant to hurt. It was cruel, and not who I am or who I want to be for you. I cannot ask for it, but I hope I can earn your forgiveness.”
Maeve brushed her hand against my snout, and smiled, “Thank you. It did hurt, but I know it was said in fear. I forgive you.”
“OK!” Maeve clapped her hands together, “let's get packed. I want to get a snack before we get on the ship, so we don't have a lot of time.”
--
Maeve and I had fallen into a comfortable silence, broken when we got to the shuttle bay. Tarva was waiting there with a human soldier, carrying a bundle of black fabric. “Hello Cuties! Excited to see VP, Maeve?” Tarva’s boisterousness prompted a polite smile and nervous laugh from my sunlight, “Yeah, you should be! It’s gorgeous, and I’m glad you're going to see so much of it. You’re going to be landing in the Capital, and taking the Ring to Hidden Plains from there; I’m sure Valek can tell you more on the way. This is your Burka,” she said, motioning to the bundle, “We ask that you put it on before entering the shuttle bay. The Pilot doesn’t normally take passengers, and he’s only seen humans from a distance, so we are well outside his comfort zone. As mentioned in the Terms of your hosting, you will need to continue wearing this anywhere unfamiliar Venlil may be, which would include transit all the way to your room.” Maeve deflated at this; this meant several hours under that thing. But she straightened her shoulders and nodded assent. “We have modified the phrasing for that condition, which will allow you to be without it anywhere you and your handler can reasonably believe no unfamiliar Venlil will be, as well as guidelines for what is 'unfamiliar'; I hope that will help.”
Maeve and I were all smiles and wags, thanking Tarva profusely before she continued, “We’re still doing the paperwork for construction of Maeve’s guest room, so I’m sorry, but it won't be done for several days; you may need to share a room for a bit.”
“Th-That's ok, I can sleep on the couch.” I stuttered.
Tarva flicked her tail in thinly disguised amusement, “Right. I’m sure the ‘couch’ is very comfortable. You didn’t hear that, Private.”
“No, ma’am.” the soldier agreed, eyes boring into the wall opposite. Maeve flushed and I shifted nervously.
“The work is already paid for, but you can contact your handler if you have any other large financial needs, including clothing; Besides that, you are being provided a stipend in credits, we worked with humans to establish something as close to ‘subsistence wage’ as we could figure. Valek, you and your family will be financially supporting Maeve for non-necessities. We are still working with human doctors to establish what, if any, supplements you will need, hopefully you'll see that in a week or so.”
“Ok, we got housing, finances, food… That's about it! Any questions for me?” Maeve and I declined, and Tarva finished, “Alright! Private Jensen, give the lady her finery, and follow me; our next stop is the Med Lab, I need your help with something expensive.” Then calling over her shoulder, “Have a nice flight you two!”
--
We safely landed, and I was practically bouncing to show Maeve my world! I have to admit, the Burka kept people from panicking, but we were given a very wide berth wherever we went. Not wanting to rush through our people’s capital, I wandered with Maeve through the city to notable parks and landmarks. We visited the viewing platform on The Giant, a massive skyscraper and a marvel of engineering built in defiance of the strong winds of Venlil Prime. We stopped by a sweets shop and tried some Crystal Cuties! Maeve was thankful for the finger food, as the Burka made eating a challenge.
I asked to stop at one more place, somewhere I try to get to every time I come to the Capital: the Cattle Memoriam. A large park in the middle of a split in the city; no one dared impede the Day from this place. A base made of solid white granite supports a statue of Twinkling Ivy in the shape of a venlil pup held in a cage, holding a broken collar. Made of solid Morning’s Light, this iridescent gold metal burns away its tarnish in harsh sunlight; this memorial will never lose its luster under the Venlil Sun.
I brought Maeve forward, but she pulled away. “This place is not for me. Please, pay your respects, I’ll stay here.”
I walked along one of the clear paths, every open space outside choked with gifts and remembrances. Letters, photos, anniversary gifts; the occasional Strayu, some half eaten by a family, most with only a small piece missing. No one was untouched by this war, and I was no exception. I came to the foot of the memorial, and raised my snout to the Day. I brought my tail to my chest, and held the tuft. I flapped my ears behind me. Once for my Brother, lost in a colony raid. My parents begged him not to go, but I encouraged him to wander beyond the Grove. Once for my Relief Partner, missing on a trading vessel to Nishtal, never arrived and never returned. I didn’t tell her how I felt. Once for my Professor, the old exterminator joined the front when the Arxur last tested Venlil Prime. I didn't like him, but he didn't deserve to die.
I turned my body and snout to the Night, and bowed my head, wishing the quiet passing of all those lost, and the healing of my people’s grief. With a heavy sigh, I returned to Maeve, who stood at my return. “I’m sorry for your loss. I hope for their safe return, or peaceful rest” I blinked away my grief, and took Maeve’s hand, continuing our journey.
--
Memory transcription subject: Alvi, Venlil Citizen, Unemployed.
Date [standardized human time]: August 26th, 2136. Early evening
I was still drying my tears when I finally got to the station. Out of rent money, and my landlord getting pushy anyway, I thought I'd move to The Grove after seeing a "help wanted" post; everyone needs farmers. Dragging my packed pack, I stepped onto the train and tried to find a seat. Finding none, I thought to squat in one of the private cabins. As expensive as they were, there was bound to be a few empties; and I was rewarded for my ingenuity, until…
The door slid open in front of me, and a black and gray speckled Venlil filled the doorway, speaking to an unseen companion, "...dler to get a side facing the sun, so we should have-- oh! Hello!"
I sat frozen in my seat, unsure how to get out of this, while the Venlil began again, "I'm sorry, this is a private cabin, would you pl--" a shadow seemed to cover his shoulder, and he shifted his attention to his side, "... are you sure?" I heard only the train and passengers, but they communicated regardless, "Ok." Then addressing me, "Maeve is inviting you to stay with us, if you like. The cabin is already paid for, and we wouldn't mind the company. Can we come in?"
I was thankful for the allowance, and flicked my tail in welcome. I'd need to sleep on this ride and I'd rather not be in a public seat for it. This Venlil seemed a good sort anyway, so this shouBy the Sun what is that?!
An enormous black creature, needing to duck under the doorframe, filled the other half of the cabin, the sight of it launching me back into the far corner. My heart was pounding in my chest, my back to the wall and that thing blocked the only exit. My body refused my commands as it gasped and shook in the corner.
The Venlil motioned safety and calm, "It's ok! It's ok, I know she looks scary, but it's just her covering. She is very kind, and means no harm."
The solid shadow stood frozen, then moved slowly, seating itself on the bench opposite, as far from me as it could make itself.
The Venlil spoke again, "What's your name?"
“Ah-Ahlvi. My name is Alvi.”
“Hello Alvi.” He flicked a welcome, closing his eyes while he did so, “My name is Valek. This is Maeve. What brings you on the train today?”
Slowing my breathing, I stuttered out “I-I’m on my way to the Grove. Looking for work.”
Valek flipped his ears in joyful surprise, “That's fantastic! We are heading that way too, to my family’s farm, the Old Berrypatch. What kind of work did you do?"
"I--" I gulped, trying to keep my focus on the Venlil in front of me, rather than the void behind him. "S-Service s-sector. The company downsized, so I wanted to try something new, something smaller."
"That sounds really exciting! Maeve told me she used to do that back home." I could see the creature inch along the bench to my end of the room, but my body refused to move. It-- She-- was across from me now, its face and form covered by the impenetrable garment. The pair sat across from me in silence, looking at their pads; Valek’s ears occasionally flashed my direction to check on me, but the thing called Maeve seemed to not know I existed.
I sat pressed into the corner for several minutes, waiting for something to happen; an unfounded fear that rooted me, regardless. A while longer, and I had calmed enough to speak. “H-Hello, Maeve.” A fold of night returned my greeting; was that her tail? “Why are you wearing that?”
She stood still for a moment, before Valek’s pad pinged again, and he passed it to me.
Hello Alvi, it's nice to meet you! I wear this because I look very scary, and I don’t want to scare you.
Why are you typing instead of talking?
I’m worried my voice will be scary too, but I do speak. Would you like me to?
I thought for a long moment, then, handing the pad back to Valek, answered, “Yes, I’d like to speak please.”
Valek swung his tail in joy, though Maeve didn’t move; only took a slow breath before speaking,
“Hello, Alvi.”