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Kyle hated early mornings. His mother’s tales told of Kyle refusing to leave the pouch until breakfast was cold and morning cartoons were over. Kyle had always thought those stories were an exaggeration, but it was true that he really didn’t like early mornings. He had carefully planned his classes so he never had to get out of bed before eight. Jiffy, ever the overcharged battery, always teased Kyle about it. The squirrel liked to get up at six, classes at seven, and have the rest of the day free.

To Kyle, the absolute worst were early mornings when he should be able to sleep in. Classes didn’t start until next week, it was time for rest and relaxation and freedom from family.

But the head librarians. They always wanted everything early.

Kyle pawed his phone to shut off the alarm then winced at the bright screen. Seven in the morning. At least the librarians were merciful enough to have the work study preparation meeting at seven thirty. Kyle didn’t have to wake up and see a ‘six AM’ time on his phone. That would be true torture.

Kyle sat up and rubbed at his face. He puffed and swung his legs out of the bed, standing and stretching. At least Kyle didn’t need to be too careful or quiet. He had spotted Tommy taking a nocturnal species supplement before he went to bed. Kyle had learned about them the previous year with Brent as his roommate. Some sort of mix of medication and natural supplements that knocked them out for the night and, in the case of a feline like Tommy or ferrets that sleep a lot, made them get real deep sleep so they weren’t tired all day. The chances of Kyle’s sounds waking Tommy up was pretty low. Kyle was glad he didn’t have to take those supplements. Just another thing Kyle liked about his species. Predisposed to night, but not a slave to it.

Blessed to be a kangaroo.

Kyle stretched and chuffed, paws ruffling over his fur. He scratched at his bulge, adjusting his boxers to be comfortable, then the same for his socks. He made his way to his closet and got dressed, slowed by several drawn out yawns. Still, Kyle managed to get out the door on time. He hopped through the morning light to the campus library.

***

Two and a half hours. Two and a half hours of wandering the library, going over the filing system, library policies, how to return books, how to reshelve… Half of the students attending had worked in the library the past year- Kyle among them. But there was no reprieve. The elderly tiger lady, and the equally ancient goat dude, had dragged the students through every single procedure, toured the library twice, and repeated every detail several times. Kyle loved that his work study covered almost all the tuition that scholarships didn’t. But those two made working in the library such a bore.

Worse, Kyle was pretty sure they were fucking. An image that always made him shudder and wrinkle his muzzle.

Kyle glanced at his phone. Ten… and his meeting with his advisor was at eleven. No time to head back to his dorm. He grunted in displeasure, looking around. A lot of smaller furs were scurrying around, several early rising avians chirping away. Kyle turned and hopped off to the closest large-fur seating cafeteria.

Kyle’s grumpiness ebbed away as the coffee kicked in. His large bowl of grass porridge, topped with a good pour of rice syrup, comforted the still-sleepy roo. Kyle ate another spoonful as he swiped through posts on his phone. He easily ignored the curious glances and stares. Smaller furs often gawked at larger furs for the first few weeks, betraying their lifetime in same-size neighborhoods. Kyle had the bonus of being a big red, an exotic species almost never seen outside the homelands. Even other large furs partook in the poorly disguised staring.

Kyle laughed as Jiffy came up on his screen. ‘Your favorite squirrel is back!’ with a picture of him winking, tongue out. Jiffy didn’t use his socials back home, where his family might notice.

‘Finally, Twitter was getting boring without its sexiest squirrel.’ Kyle typed in and sent, grinning to himself. He looked at the photo again, admiring Jiffy’s playful expression. The squirrel was a nut, but he was one of the most chipper and wonderful people Kyle had ever met.

The sound of a skateboard rolling then ‘clack’ing as it was kicked up caught Kyle’s attention. He looked up to see an opossum approaching his table, carrying a skateboard under his arm and a food tray in his paws.

“Ey, ‘nother poucher! mind if I join ya? The medium fur tables are pretty full.”

The opossum was climbing into a seat opposite Kyle before he could respond. Kyle glanced, noticing the cafeteria was pretty full with the lunch crowd.

“Uh, yeah, no problem. Never heard us called pouchers before.” Kyle focused back on the opossum. He had that chill ‘stoner’ look to him. ‘Medium’ fur was a bit generous, the opossum maybe a foot taller than Jiffy.

“Sounds cooler than marsupial, eh?” He reached his fist across the table. “Name’s Sam.”

Kyle reached out, bumping the first. “Kyle. Nice to meet you. I suppose that does sound better. Kind of has that ‘pouch boy’ vibe though,” Kyle chuffed. He dragged his spoon along the bowl, fishing out the last bite of porridge.

“Yeah I guess. Never really bothered me, ya know? My mom’s pretty rad, and pouch life was awesome.” The opossum grinned, small fangs showing off. “Sorry if it put ya off. Just what I’m used to callin’ us back home.”

Kyle waved his paw dismissively, “No, not at all. Just not something I’ve heard before is all.” He wiped his muzzle with a napkin and returned the smile. “It’s nice to meet you Sam. Sadly, you caught me when I was heading out. Meeting with my advisor… I’d much rather stay and chat, if I had the option.”

Sam smiled wide and nodded eagerly, “Yeah, no prob! Maybe I’ll see you around campus.”

Kyle nodded, “That’d be great!” as he pocketed his phone and gathered his tray. He gestured his muzzle toward Sam’s right ear. “I dig the gauge, by the way. Looks awesome.”

Sam lifted a paw and touched his ear. Kyle spotted Sam’s hands, dark with pink fingers. He’d never seen the ‘biker’s gloves’ look opossums sported in person before. It was an oddly attractive look.

“Yeah thanks dude! Just got it sized up this summer. Mom thinks it’s dumb I didn’t get both sides. She still hasn’t connected it with the gay thing,” Sam laughed.

Kyle snorted as he stood, “I thought so. Same, but not quite the piercing kind of gay.” He nodded, “Catch you later.”

Sam smiled and nodded, “Yeah man. Later, good luck with the advisor.”

Kyle chuffed and turned. He would need it.

***

Kyle was left waiting outside the advisor’s door a good ten minutes past eleven. He felt so awkward in the Engineering-Mathematics building. Almost every fur was small, a few mediums, and all of them infinitely smarter than Kyle. Finally, some dog left the office and Kyle was called in. He settled into the large fur chair across from the bird. Some sort of swan, Kyle had assumed. Kyle had never been too good with avian types, especially with how few he had met in his life. But he was large, white, with a dark beak, and these dark eyes Kyle couldn’t read a thing from.

“Mister DeProto, thank you for agreeing to a meeting on such brief notice. I have had somewhat of a struggle getting all of my incoming freshmen appointees enrolled in courses. We have an unusually large incoming class this semester. I am remiss to say that registering our freshmen has taken priority, and I have had to fit you in as I am able, given you have already registered for classes.”

Kyle nodded, settling in the uncomfortable chair. The slot was just too thin, squeezing uncomfortably around his tail. “Really, Kyle is fine. And I’m happy to, Doctor Beasley. I know being undeclared in my second year isn’t what anyone wants.” Kyle flicked his ear, “Got to get that CCAPP thing going right?” he leveraged.

It seemed to work. The swan nodded eagerly, “Ah, you are taking this seriously! Yes, exactly. Plus, once you have declared we can ensure you have an appropriate advisor. You’ve already stated you have little interest in a math major, and that means I can’t guide you as effectively as an advisor matching your pursuits.”

The swan focused on his computer, clicking away with his mouse. Kyle glanced around the office. It was densely decorated, almost all of it math-related. An abacus rested on the shelf below Doctor Beasley’s framed Ph.D. Posters of math Kyle would never understand decorated some of the walls. There was a picture of Doctor Beasley in a weird graduation gown and cap, shaking hands with a jackal. The only photo in the entire office. Kyle figured the odd swan must be single. Not a hint of any kids, and the awkward way the swan composed himself led Kyle to think that wouldn’t change.

“Ah ha. Your class set looks good for this semester. However, you appear to be filling your general education requirements rather quickly. You will want some general education courses available once you declare a major. If you take only major courses each semester, and use them to fulfill your financial aid and scholarship unit minimum, you will be a very busy student.” Click click click. “I think the appropriate course of action is to try out potential major courses and withdraw from a current general education course. Perhaps one this semester?” The swan’s attention turned from the screen to Kyle. “You have previously stated you have no interest in a mathematics major. You additionally stated you have no interest in the hard sciences. What sort of subject interests you, Mister DiProto?”

Kyle teased the claws of one paw against the other. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “I’m not really sure, to be honest. Both my parents insist I need to go through college, but I have no idea what I want to do like… career wise.”

The swan nodded and returned to the screen. “Well, what are some situations you find yourself in? Do you enjoy much literature?”

It took Kyle a moment to catch on. “... Like, do I read a lot of books? Not really. Like, I haven’t read one in ages. Uh… I play video games, but I don’t think I could do that. Programming sounds awful, and I can’t do art at all.” He thought another moment, leaning his head back. He grinned dumbly to himself as he thought ‘gay sex/masturbating’ would be a great major.

“I see. We can pursue another route. What experiences or occurrences interest you? What has recently engaged your attention?”

Kyle kept staring at the ceiling. His claws stilled. He raised his paw to rub at the back of his head and ear. He lowered his gaze to meet the swan’s. Beasley was staring intently at him. Kyle got the distinct impression the advisor wanted to be done with this as soon as he could. That he probably didn’t want to deal with this.

“I recently learned a lot more about my parents, and their divorce. That’s been on my mind a lot the last few days.”

Kyle couldn’t see Doctor Beasley shift or move in any way but the atmosphere was suddenly distinctly uncomfortable. Beasley’s eyes quickly went to his computer, then to his hands fidgeting together.

“I see, that’s quite interesting, Mister DiProto. This topic could have relevance to several focuses. A focus on family and the relationships within a family unit does have career potential. Woodfall has an excellent psychology program. There is a focus within the psychology major in social work. This focus could lead to a fruitful career as a therapist, family counselor, or a marriage counselor?” A hopeful glance met Kyle’s eyes.

Kyle lowered his hands to his lap. He shook his head after a moment. “I don’t think so,” he murmured. “I don’t think I’m smart enough for that.”

“On the contrary, Mister DiProto! Your grades are exemplary. I honestly believe you could excel in any focus you choose. I understand that you have no interest in mathematics or the hard sciences, but psychology is a very unique focus compared to these areas.”

Kyle winced. He took in a slow breath. “Doctor Beasley, I don’t think I’d be a fit for a job like that. My size alone makes the majority of the population uncomfortable.” Kyle curled his toes in his shoes, trying not to visibly emote the pain as he continued, “I am also a big red. Being a marsupial has its own implications, but… I think I’d have to go back to the homelands to have that sort of job.”

Beasley didn’t respond for a long moment. Then he quickly nodded, looking back at his hands. “That is a very astute observation, Mister DiProto. I had not considered those implications in my suggestion. However,” he lifted his head again, “I do want to empower students to pursue anything they wish to. Several students think math is impossible for them, but excel once they are properly fostered. On the other wing, that may be a challenging path, and that is not a future everyone wishes to pursue.” Kyle spotted the swan tugging at a feather on his wrist. He quickly looked back up to meet Beasley’s eyes. “I do want to extend my sympathy, Mister DiProto. While I could never truly understand your experience, as a different species, I can share that there are implications to being an avian in our society as well. As a faculty member, and as a mentor, I believe it is my role to offer… If your admission about your family, or aspects of speciesism are affecting you, the university health center employs therapists-”

Kyle quickly lifted his paw, waving dismissively, silencing the swan. “Thank you, Doctor Beasley. No, I’m fine. Better than ever, really. But I don’t think that’s for me,” Kyle chuffed. He looked out the window, his gaze softening as he thought. “... Another thing is ch- Macropod. My father is fluent. It’s his native tongue. Mom can’t speak it though.” He turned back to Beasley. “I kind of regret not learning it. My best friend knows sciuridae, and a few other friends… well. It’s been on my mind.”

“An excellent idea, Mister DiProto!” Beasley practically sang, blatantly happy to move past the previous subject. He backed his seat and spun around, opened a filing cabinet and rummaged through it. “While we do have a strong languages program, I regret to inform you the macropod language is not a supported focus.” He looked back over his shoulder, “We do have some introductory macropod language classes, and there was a macropod language and culture club. It may still be active.” He turned back, rummaging further. “Ah, yes!”

Beasley turned and rolled back to his desk. A couple pamphlets were in his hands. “At the end-of-semester assessment last school year you shared that you have quite a diverse friend group, and your engagement with the LGBTQ+ activities on campus.” Beasley set the pamphlets and a major information sheet across his desk. “We have a fledgling communications major. This program is only a few years old, but the faculty recruited for it are excellent and an external evaluation this previous school year resulted in a stellar review.”

The swan moved to his computer, tapping away eagerly. “There are many careers a communications major can lead to. Interspecies communication, and preservation of native tongues, are aspects worked into the communication program. There are also implications in several industries for a communications major.”

Kyle curiously took the materials and looked over the pamphlets. Both were about the new communications program. One looked like an advertisement, bright and extolling the program. The other pamphlet was more informative, listing what a communications major would learn and a course-to-career model the university had implemented. The sheet Beasley had handed over was a major’s sheet listing all the course requirements and optional activities.

“I am remiss to suggest this, but there is an introductory communications course with open seats. However, this course is scheduled at the same time as your algebra course. I believe it would be reasonable to adjust your schedule to enroll in an algebra course in the spring semester. This way I could schedule for you to take this communications course and test the skies for the communications major.” Finally, Beasley had to take a breath. “The course is comm-103, ‘The impact of shared tongue’. This course introduces the development of shared tongue, the adoption of shared tongue, and finally discusses the positive and negative effects that shared tongue may contribute to.” Beasley raised his eyes over the monitor, “Would you like to engage this schedule change and explore a potential major, Mister DiProto?”

Kyle almost felt he had suffocated along with Beasley’s rambling. He looked down to the materials in his paws before nodding. “This actually sounds… kind of cool. I didn’t know a communications major was a thing.” And dropping algebra, for any reason at all, sounded wonderful. He nodded again, smiling. “Yeah, let’s do it.” He sat up properly and chuffled happily.

Beasley was typing and clicking for a moment. The printer behind him hummed as it warmed up.

“Wonderful. I’m printing your new schedule. Everything should be set. Comm-103 uses an open-source eTextbook, so there are no materials to purchase.” Beasley took the page from the printer and handed it over. “The only remaining aspect is the university’s new mind-and-body initiative. We are strongly encouraging students to enroll in a course, or join a student club, that will keep them as active physically as they are mentally.”

Kyle stood, wincing as his tail slid from the too-tight chair. “Oh, I’m going to… does it have to be an official class? I was weight lifting over the summer and I was going to start hitting the gym here this semester.”

The swan nodded, “Excellent! That is perfect. You do not have to enroll in a course or a club, so long as your actions are recorded. Our gym facility requires using your college identification to enter. This will record your participation and satisfy the requirement.” Beasley paused, a hint of awkward taking hold as he thumbed his bill with a feathered digit. “Weight lifting is a high investment activity, and has potential for,” he shifted in his seat, “Weight lifting has potential to induce PAIA. If you have not yet accessed the gym for weight lifting they will likely require you to attend a brief meeting about controlling PAIA, as well as semi-regular assessments.”

Kyle’s ears laid out, “Pie-ah? I’m sorry, I’m not familiar with that, Doctor Beasley.”

The discomfort hit tenfold. “I see, ah. I should not have used the shortened name. That is my mistake, i apologize. PAIA- Physical Activity Induced Aggression.” Beasley paused, taking in Kyle’s confused gaze. “... Formerly referred to as PRS… predatory rage syndrome?” Beasley continued, his tone hushed.

Kyle’s ears flicked forward, confusion only intensifying. “Uh… Doctor Beasley, I’m not a carnivorous species.”

Beasley nodded quickly, raising a hand as if to defend himself. “Of course, Mister DiProto! But that is why it was renamed. There is no real grouping to it, and the term- that term, predator, is hideously outdated and offensive. Several species can exhibit PAIA, and multiple physical activities can trigger it. Competitive, physically interactive sports are well known for this. Weight lifting may be grouped into the PAIA activities. Given your… as you stated earlier, Mister DiProto, size, and the history associated with… … your species. I simply imagined … I simply wanted to forewarn you, so it did not come as a surprise, Mister DiProto.”

Kyle looked down at his hand, curling his digits. It wasn’t the first time he had felt extra aware of his claws, trimmed as he tried to keep them, or the power of his limbs. Or the claws on his toes that could, he had been told, gut someone. “Ah, yeah, no worries Doctor Beasley. Just like everyone bailing out of the pool when us reds show up.” he chuckled. He realized Beasley was showing a hint of fear. Kyle quickly lowered his paws. “Ah, sorry. Dark humor. I’ll be fine, and thank you. I really appreciate the warning, and your help with the major stuff. You’re a really great advisor.”

“Really?” escaped Beasley’s bill before he could suppress it. “Oh, ah. Thank you Mister DiProto! I do strive to serve our student population as best I am able. I hope you have a wonderful semester, and please reach out to me if this communication course is not appropriate for you. The sooner we plan your next semester, and test other potential avenues for your studies, the better.”

Kyle smiled and nodded, “You have a great one too,” before he turned and escaped the office.

***

Kyle stopped fleeing the moment he stepped out of the building. No hopping, but still, he walked out of there as fast as he could. Why had he shared so much? To that avian advisor, no less? Kyle hadn’t ever felt comfortable around him before. How could he have just… spilled everything? … not everything, but a lot.

Kyle slumped onto a bench outside the EM building. Then he sprawled. No one else was on the bench, no reason for him to keep tucked in upon himself. He spread his legs and arms and let himself be comfortable for a while. The office had felt so small, so constricing, despite being sized for large furs. The moment he had mentioned the thoughts racing in his mind the world seemed to squeeze in. But he couldn’t stop just… talking.

Kyle’s hip vibrated. He slipped his phone out and unlocked it. ‘I knew I was the sexiest squirrel ever! ;B Lunch @ Aadi’s right?’.

Kyle took a breath, his heart slowing. He smiled at his phone for a little before he responded.

‘I mean, there was this really hot purple giant squirrel.’

‘HOW DARE YOU!’

Kyle laughed heartily, drawing the attention of even more nearby furs. He ignored them, again, then typed quickly to beat whatever else Jiffy was typing.

‘Come on, you know there’s only one squirrel for me.’

‘Yeah, I’ll be at Aadi’s.’

‘I’d kick your ass if I could reach it.’

‘Fuck it instead. I’ll lay down for you.’

‘You’re the worst.’

‘You’re the best.’

Jiffy sent a kiss and peanut emoji.

Kyle chuckled and lowered his phone, relaxing on the bench again. He looked upward, admiring the blue sky. He contemplated the idea- a communications major. He could barely talk to his best friend about their relationship, let alone his thoughts and emotions about it. Was communication really his thing?

Kyle peeked back at the screen. Not enough time to hop back to the dorm and make it to Aadi’s by one. Not when he was going to pick up treats. He sighed and relaxed back again, taking in a moment of peace before he had to hop off.

***

Kyle chastised himself for not bringing headphones. It was a decent trip between campus and the eatery he had ordered from. Worst, it was boring. All he had were thoughts of how college might proceed. And Jiffy. And his father. Kyle really should text him to… just to text him.

Kyle smooth-hopped along, ensuring he wouldn’t destroy the food he had purchased. Nowhere near as efficient as he could be, but certainly faster than walking. He puffed as he went. The heat of summer had stuck around into August, making Kyle’s shirt damp as he got back to campus. He threaded through the buildings to the extra large fur dorms, just to the west of his own dorm building.

Kyle found the right building and made his way to the door. He couldn’t enter without a keycard. He went for his phone to text, then paused. A grin spread on his muzzle as he moved back from the door. He knew that Aadi had ended up on the second floor. He went around the building while watching the windows. He kept his ears cocked, listening… and there it was. The mix of voices unique to several different species, several far off an extra large fur’s register. Kyle looked at the opened window and grinned. He squatted and bounced high.

“Someone want to let me in?” He asked as he came level with the window. Pat the Younger jumped out of his seat beside the window, an adorable squeak accompanying it. Kyle heard several of them laughing as he landed. He chuffed, smiling ear to ear as he hopped back around to the door.

“Hey little guy!”

Kyle felt it as much as he heard it, rolling out from the doorway as the door swung open. Kyle tilted his head back, and back, smiling up at a long, fanged snout.

“Hey Aadi!” Kyle grunted as he was lifted and hugged against the scaly. Aadi was the largest fur Kyle knew personally, the caiman towering somewhere around eight feet. Bigger than Rupert, even. Kyle did his best to hug back. He was used to the cool feel of Aadi’s scales. The hard panel on Aadi’s chest and the harness around Aadi’s shoulders wasn’t quite as nice.

“Easy big guy, your regulator’s on.” Kyle chuffed. As much as he adored being in the arms of such a large guy, Aadi was way too strong and the chest piece far too stiff.

Aadi laughed, “Sorry! Sorry,” as he let Kyle slip back to the ground. He pulled the door open and gestured for Kyle to enter.

Kyle squatted and lifted the bag from the eatery. He got a good look over Aadi. The black caiman was shirtless, creamy front scales mostly exposed, spare the harness and chest piece. Pants, and then enormous, webbed feet. Dark like Aadi’s dorsal scales. And cream colored soles and webbing.

Kyle stood quickly, wishing once again Aadi wasn’t straight. Why did he have to be horny.

“Thanks!” he chuffed as he hopped into the building. He stood back and let Aadi in, then followed Aadi up the stairs. Kyle could never get over how incredibly spacious the extra large fur dorm was.

“Someone left a kangaroo snooping around outside. I decided to adopt him,” Aadi cheerfully rumbled as he stepped back into his dorm room.

“Joke’s on you, now I get to call you Daddy all I want.” Kyle chuffed in response.

“Damn it.” Aadi grumbled.

Kyle was assaulted by a rush of hugs and excited greetings, the entire crew back together. First up was Kevin, the yellow lab squeezing him and giving his cheek a lick. The dog took the bag from Kyle before both Pats approached together, a combination sea and river otter hug. Finally, Angel gave Kyle a gentle, brief hug. Jiffy climbed up on Kyle the moment everyone else had finished.

“Hey Kyle.”

Kyle glanced over as Angel sat down. Beside her was a chunky corgi. Angel took his hand, leaning on the canine.

“Ah, hey Ray!” Kyle returned with far more enthusiasm. The group’s plus one. Kyle really wished Angel had picked someone better to date. He looked back to Aadi, tilting his head. “Why do you have the AC blasting and your regulator on?”

“That would be my fault.” came a deep voice behind Kyle.

Kyle turned and stepped out of the way. A lumbering form entered, even larger than Aadi. The elephant had a towel wrapped around his waist, another towel over his shoulder, and the rest of his gray body exposed.

“This is Harry, my super awesome roommate!” Aadi gestured toward the elephant lumbering past, heading towards the separated bedroom. That was standard for every extra large dorm. Kyle wished large dorm rooms had a separate ‘hang out’ area standard for each dorm.

“Wish I hadn’t seen that,” Ray grumbled as Harry closed the door separating the room section.

Kyle rolled his eyes.

Aadi finally answered, “Harry overheats easily. He let me join the room, but the deal was the room stays at his ideal temperature.” Aadi tapped at the regulator on his chest, “So this baby will be getting a real workout this year.”

“You’ve got a backup right? It’s pretty cold in here. It’d suck if you get too cold and go all hibernation for a couple days.” Pat the Younger looked concerned as he suggested it. The sea otter teased his fingers together, rubbing at his paw webbing, Pat’s tell for anxiety.

“Hah!” Aadi boomed. “Nah, the school has that covered. If it dies I head to one of the cold blooded saunas on campus, then get hooked up with a crappy school temperature regulator. But don’t short this baby,” he tapped the chest plate with a claw, “It’s top notch. Grams got me it ‘cause she worried about that too. I’ll be fiiiine.”

Pat shrugged but nodded.

“Look what’s back!” Pat the Elder waved her paws at a folding table. Food and drinks were laid out along it. Off to one end was a glittery sign with arrows pointed downward. ‘The Kyle Pile’, herbivore friendly items below it, separate from the rest of the food.

“I cannot believe you kept that all summer. Way to make the token herby feel welcome.”

“Hey. I got herby safe beer.” Aadi rumbled. That gave Kyle pause, a smile forming on his muzzle.

“I suppose that’s pretty fair. Totally deserves me bringing samosas.”

“You went to Nia’s?!” Jiffy squeaked above Kyle’s head.

“Yup. Got a variety too.”

“Food time! Everyone’s here, it's food time!” the squirrel squeaked excitedly, jumping off Kyle and scampering to the table.

***

Kyle rested, sated and buzzed, back on Aadi's couch. Jiffy was in his lap, shifting just barely this way and that, as he battled Pat in Street Fighter. Not so much Kyle’s jam, but he was happy to support his little friend. He still held a mostly-full can of beer in his paw; what Jiffy had to forfeit after the small bit he could drink. Kyle already had downed one, and felt a pleasant relaxation and tingle as he chilled.

“So you two going to get married yet?” Ray asked from across the room, pointedly eyeing Jiffy in Kyle’s lap.

The squirrel, ever faster, squeak-laughed. “Dude, do you have zero memory? Home is on the other side of the world. Makes marriage hard. But yeah, I get it. You two got engaged. Subtle way of bringing it up.”

Jiffy briefly glanced over to Angel and Ray, each in turn. “Congrats, by the way,” as he gazed at Ray, “And I’m so sorry,” he smiled cheekily at Angel then returned to the game. He didn’t miss a beat while looking away, easily fending Kevin off in the game.

“It was a joke, Ray.” Angel comforted, placing a hand on top of Rays. The corgi puffed out a breath, looking out the window.

Patty stood, hopping in front of Kevin to avoid interrupting the game, and made her way back to the food table.

“You could just get a plate,” Kyle teased, eyes glued to the screen.

“I’m a snacker. Deal with it,” she shot back. She nabbed a samosa and took a bite. “I still can’t believe you went all the way to Nia’s. You’re the best,” while she munched.

“Except it’s all rooey in here.” Ray complained ‘quietly’ to Angel.

“Yeah yeah, sensitive nose. I’m a dog too. You’re just as bad as Kyle.” Kevin retorted.

“Frito pawed bitch.” Jiffy hissed under his breath, quiet enough only Kyle heard. Kyle snorted and put a paw on his muzzle, muffling the laugh as much as he could.

Kevin barked and dropped his controller, slumping back. “You’re up, Aadi. Wreck Jiffy for me.”

Aadi chuckled and rolled forward out of his enormous beanbag. “You got it, hot shot.”

Kevin slid off the couch. The cushion jumped beneath Kyle when Aadi dropped his weight onto the couch. He took up all the couch space Kyle didn’t. Aadi leaned over, arm wrapping around Kyle’s shoulders. He leaned further, closer and closer, until his muzzle tip was at Jiffy’s ear.

“I’m going to destroy you.” he stage-whispered, a rumbling growl emitting and vibrating through the couch.

“Ugh don’t do that mating growl. Fuck’s sake Aadi.” Jiffy whined, pushing at the scaled muzzle tip and squirming in Kyle’s lap. His puffy tail flicked several times, swiping over Kyle’s muzzle. Kyle felt the same way, the vibrations stirring something deep inside him. “Fucking tease. Turn gay already,” Jiffy squeaked.

“Pff, I’m too old for you kids,” Aadi laughed as he sat back up. “‘sides, my dick’d split you in two, little snack.”

“Hot,” Jiffy squeaked. He swapped characters, Kyle grinning at the retort and swap. He knew Jiffy was going with his best character. At the same time, the beer was taking a toll on the rodent. Watching these two play was always a good show. Then, the lingering tingle of the mating growl triggered a thought.

“Hey Aadi,” Kyle peeked up to the caiman. “You’re kind of a big dude,” earning a snort from Aadi. “And a… well you know. Carnivorous species. Did you have to do PAIA stuff when you got here?”

“PAIA?” Aadi glanced over and paused, lowering the controller. So much for distracting him during the match. “You mean rage syndrome right?” and he laughed heartily.

Kyle could see Ray quickly frown, turn away and become interested in his phone. The Pats looked over with a faint concern, a touch of guilt in their eyes. Angel and Kevin seemed more curious than anything.

“Of course! Since the day I hatched. I mean, not in the Navy, right? They love that. But basically my whole life, and yeah, when I got here too.” Aadi raised his controller and started the match. He opened his muzzle to continue but Angel spoke first.

“What the hell’s rage syndrome?”

“It doesn’t matter. You don’t want to know.” Ray quickly spat, glaring at the three on the couch.

“Oh fuck that,” Angel huffed as she shoved at Ray’s shoulder. “Tell me,” she insisted, looking back at Aadi.

Ray grunted and pushed himself out of his seat. “Gonna take a leak,” he barked, stomping his way out of the room.

“Angy loaf.” Pat snickered.

“Bet he had an incident. Or a lot” Jiffy muttered simultaneously.

A hearty laugh echoed out of the bedroom, unclear if Harry was laughing at the comment or whatever he was doing in there.

“Ah yeah, our girl grew up in goat land! Predatory rage syndrome.”

“It’s CALLED physical activity induced aggression, grandpa.”

“Whatever, it’s all the same Patty. Us predators- sorry, carnivores- get all aggressive. Riled up or pumping testosterone or musth or blood lust. Something triggers us and we get really angry or violent. Rage syndrome’s supposed to be all about us attacking herbivores and small snacks like Jiffy. But truth is it’s mostly going after our own or others matching our size and strength.”

“Oh. That’s… neat,” Angel bleated. Her tone was clearly nonplussed.

Kyle stared at the screen. Aadi and Jiffy kept playing the whole time, not seeming to care about the subject. Aadi had called Jiffy his ‘small snack’ for a while, affectionate and sweet like. Jiffy didn’t even flinch in this context, and Kyle couldn’t help wondering if Jiffy was just immune to that sort of thing. Then Jiffy’s racing heartbeat, after greeting Tommy properly, snuck back into Kyle’s mind. Could he feel Jiffy’s heart beat now? Did it race around Aadi, like it did with Tommy?

“Hey, space cadet, you still there?” Jiffy squeaked while batting at Kyle’s muzzle with his fluffy tail.

“Huh?”

“Jeeze. Aadi asked-”

“Why are you asking, Kyle?” Aadi repeated. “Why’d you bring on rage syndrome?” the caiman’s voice overriding Jiffy’s.

“PAIA” Patty corrected again, earning an eye roll from Aadi.

“Oh, uh, yeah,” Kyle chuffed, trying to get out of his head. He refocused on the screen, realizing Aadi and Jiffy were both at last-hit health. “My advisor wanted me to do that whole mind and body thing,” Kyle nudged Jiffy gently. “Class or club or whatever. I told him I’d go weightlifting on my own. Did it over the summer. Then he said I’d have to do some PAIA stuff.”

The match was at last-hit but the characters went still. The room was quiet. Kyle perked his ears, slowly looking away from the television. Jiffy was staring at him. Aadi too. And the Pats.

“You? Mister herby? YOU? PAIAs?” Jiffy squeaked loudly, breaking into a fit of giggles, then full-on laughter. His controller dropped as he held his torso, laughing heartily.

“Yeah, that’s kind of… weird.” Pat murmured, Patty nodding. Even Aadi’s expression was somewhere between amused, incredulous, and disbelief.

“Well, duh.” Kevin cut in, looking between the others. “... He’s a big red. Like, he could off most of us all easily. Have you ever had a history class?” He paused before looking at Kyle. “I mean, like… -A- big red cloud. If they wanted. Not you. But it makes sense they would for your species, though. It’s pretty species-dependent.”

Aadi laughed heartily again, leaning over. His heavy arm dropped over Kyle’s shoulders again. He squeezed Kyle’s far shoulder. “Everyone but me, maybe! I’ll go swimming with you any time, little guy!”

Kyle chuffed and laughed, “Thanks. Just don’t death roll me.”

“No promises,” Aadi winked.

Jiffy had finally recovered enough to take a cheap shot, grabbing his controller and knocking out Aadi’s character.

“I can’t believe that. Kyle getting PRS. That’s the funniest thing I’ve ever heard.” Jiffy sat himself up proper in Kyle’s lap. “I’m properly more dangerous than this goof.” He reached out, nabbing the can of beer with both hands. He took a drink, then returned it to Kyle’s paw.

Ray entered the room as Angel asked, “So what’s an incident?” Ray froze. It was just a moment, then he continued to flop back into the seat beside Angel.

“Oh, incidents are where you have PRS take over and you do something violent.” Aadi continued as they started the next match. “I would have a hell of a list of incidents, if I didn’t grow up where I did and I wasn’t in the Navy. I mean, I’ve got a few. Fucker!” he hissed as Jiffy dragged out a combo. “It’s garbage at the same time. For me… or Kyle, Kevin, Ray,” He flicked his gaze and then back to the screen, “Maybe you two too, Pats? It’s anything that makes people get scared. A couple billy goats beat the shit out of each other and it’s just normal. I hear meerkats are violent as fuck. Basically it’s us big folk are too scary to behave what others want to call natural.”

“Mm, never thought of it that way,” Patty mused. “It’s fair.” Pat started rubbing at his webbing again. “Back home there was this rat pack spread across a few of the apartments. The things they did were crazy. Ambulances and stuff. But I never saw it come up as a PAIA incident.”

“Yup. Of course I’ve got a record. You all know- DAMNIT!” Aadi bounced and slammed back into the couch, making Kyle bounce again. “You little fucker, how did you even-”

“Read the book of your life, daddy.”

Aadi glared, his body rumbling with a growl. He puffed out his nostrils and looked around the rest of the group. “Anyway, of course I’ve got incidents. I doubt any of you do, though. It’s chill over here.”

“Nope! Too hot to get in trouble,” Kevin boasted, lounging back with his hands folded behind his head.

“Too dumb,” Angel corrected.

Pat raised his hand, one webbed digit raised. “Got registered because this buck bully was shoving me against a wall and punched me. I bit him, all downhill from there.” His paws gripped one another again, rubbing resuming.

Patty shook her head in response, then looked at Pat, taking his paw between hers before the rubbing wore his fur out.

The room’s attention went to Ray, who pointedly ignored it.

“Aaaaanyway.” Jiffy squeaked, “I don’t think you have to worry Kyle. We’ve heard the whole…” He waved a paw dismissively in the air before rematching Aadi, “Boomers are scary. Whatever. You’re a sweetie.”

“Thanks.” Kyle murmured, nosing atop Jiffy’s head.

“We’re going to head out. Lots to do.” Angel conceded, pulled up from her seat by Ray.

“We still doing Crossroads on Sunday?”

“You know it!” Angel whooped, “I’m gonna kill you all this time! Fear your game master!” She stuck her tongue out, throwing the horns at the rest of them.

“Nerds,” Aadi jested as he landed a killing blow on Jiffy, matched by a loud squeak.

“Lucky!” Jiffy squeaked, immediately clicking rematch.

Kyle wasn’t really there for any of it. Life lessons were suddenly making sense. Don’t hop too fast. Don’t sit on your tail in public. Keep your claws trimmed.

Never hop in and swim close to others.

The pieces of Kyle’s life kept slipping together. They finally intertwined. All of Rupert’s lessons, all of the jokes… the not jokes. Furs did flee the pool when he showed up, even as a joey.

Tommy flinching.

Reality crashed down on Kyle. And Jiffy suddenly felt so delicate in Kyle’s lap, shifting about as he was losing to Aadi yet again.