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When Travis and Serenity returned to work on Firstday, they were greeted with a warm welcome. The others of SI had heard from the local gossip that they had been involved in an incident and had come out to show their support. Valardiz and K'Resirr had been able to avoid much of the attention since Travis had been the culprit. He didn't blame the two for throwing him under the bus on that one. Serenity had stayed by him during that time. Hir support and strength kept Travis from going crazy with his new found celebrity status. He'd prefer to have slipped under the radar but that wasn't going to happen with events like this.

Getting back to work was nice, though. Repairs to all major systems were already under way on Orion. SI had checked on their equipment as well and found that theirs were perfectly intact. They had avoided a major setback. There were some recalibrations that had to be done for the warp core sensors and data lines, but that was easy compared to having to rebuild the everything. Gearbox wasn't happy that hir engineers were put in harm's way. Shi had been stark raving mad with Travis. Shi had told him in no uncertain terms that what he had done was stupid and irresponsible. Travis took the reaming like a good employee. Serenity didn't allow Travis to be completely at fault since he not only saved the ship from destruction, but that he came back alive to tell the tale. Gearbox did concede that point to Serenity.

What was shocking to Travis was how vehemently Serenity was defending and protecting him from punishment. It was odd seeing hir on his side since he should have followed procedure in the event of an emergency. The reprimand he had been given was, in his mind, earned from his own arrogance and hardheadedness. It was surprisingly touching to see Serenity cover for him. Travis felt his heart starting to trust hir a little more after that day. His wounded heart was mending and building trust. If this was what waited for him, then he should start actively perusing changing his mind set. Trusting Serenity felt too good to not to.

Firstday and Secondday passed by with ease once the four engineers were back in the groove of things. They were focusing on making sure their equipment was serviced and anything damaged had been replaced. Travis and Serenity had done as much as they can before Thirdday so Ardiz and Kris could have a lighter load. While Travis and Serenity would have loved to help work, their timecards had already been signed off and submitted. Thirdday had already been blocked off so they could have a beach day. The real kicker about that SNAFU happened when Kris and Ardiz said that they could take it off still. In exchange, Travis and Serenity would be by themselves next week on Sixthday. That was amenable for the two and set into the schedule.

Secondday night had Travis and Serenity pick up Daimond from Chakker practice as per the usual. Seeing the athletic teen move the ball around made him all the more excited for the game at the end of the week. That would be a fun day if what Travis had seen was correct. It seemed to be as fast as biped soccer, but with a lot more plays that could be done. Having a taur body made the game much more interesting. Especially since Chakats had a prehensile tail that could aid in the plays. There was no wonder why Chaker became the most famous game on Chakona. Diamond was adamant that shi would become a star Chaker player. Sixthday couldn't come fast enough for Travis.

Not all was happy and perfect for him, though. He had forced himself to only display positive emotions while with others. This was easier now that he actually did feel positive. It was a different story when in the comfort of his own home. He had buried all the negative feelings and thoughts that tried to make their way to the surface. They did not control him to cause strife or discord between him and those he cared for. Instead, he decided to deal with those emotions on his own. He had heard rumors that meditation could help him organize his thoughts. Since the picnic, meditation had been implemented as part of his morning routine. The ride to his job offered the perfect time to allow his thoughts to wander as they would. They offered insight into why he felt so out of his depth and why his mind would not work right with regards to relationships.

The discovery was a chilling realization of just how broken he was. A dark voice kept nagging at the back of his mind. It whispered cruel things to him. Told him that he was naïve and far too trusting. Travis tried to find where that voice was emanating from his psyche, but couldn't pin it down. Every time he tried to find it the dark voice would just go silent. It was like chasing a submarine that kept dropping off of sonar. It would show itself with a quick ping then go silent and deep once the search was on. Even when he thought he had it pinned in some corner of his mind, it would slip away to reveal itself somewhere else. He was getting more and more frustrated at this game of cat and mouse. With his sanity caught in the middle, he was just steps away from going into another depressive tailspin. The more time he spent ruminating on his mental state, the more Travis was convinced that Serenity was right. He needed therapy badly. The request had already been sent up the chain and was out of his hands. He was still nervous about being that vulnerable. He trusted Amethyst, though. Shi, like hir sister, wanted the best for him.

There were so many things Travis wished he could do. So many unsaid words that needed to be said. The Dancing Lights Clan had done so much for him. They brought him—a Human! —into their lives. They became some of his greatest allies and friends over the days he had spent with them. They were close enough to be considered family. The thought of calling Braveheart and Marathon his adopted parents made his heart want to burst out of his chest. He wanted to call Amethyst, Diamond, and Lapis his adopted sisters. His heart yearned for the day when he could be welcomed as family. Yet, that day seemed so far off.

---

The beaches of Amistad were a sight to behold. The white sands stretched all round Topaz Bay and off down the coast to the north and south. The ships that traversed the seas of Chakona came and went into the port as they usually did. Their holds of raw materials, fish, and passengers were loaded and loaded as dock workers strived to keep the cogs of civilization moving. The morning was brisk and inviting with a forecast of warming up as the day progressed. A perfect day for a beach trip. Warm water with a blazing sun above offered fun and relaxation for anyone who cared to test the waves. This was the pleasure that Amistad could bring.

Travis had decided to keep his usual morning routine, but made a twist. He had gone early to the beach, long before the sun rose. His backpack had been filled with a few essentials he'd need like sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a towel to dry off. He didn't bring any food for lunch since Marathon said that was hir job. Shi had been tight muzzled about what would be served today. He knew that it would be delicious anyway. Marathon had proved time and time again that shi was an excellent cook. He was confident that he would not be disappointed. He did bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. He had enough experience to know that even if he didn't feel the need, he had to have water handy. He used to own a water bottle that had specific times that he had to reach etched in its side. He ended up losing that bottle during a really bad day at work. Having plasma shells explode in your barracks tended to turn everything to slag.

Travis felt a little depressed as he remembered those days. There were good times that made an appearance here and there that brought a chuckle or a smile. Those were overshadowed by the days of death, destruction, and pain that never really went away. Those festering wounds had been draining his emotions. It was akin to bleeding out. Travis could feel that he should be stanching that wound, but his self-flagellation wouldn't let him. His mind wanted the pain in some sick form of punishment. He knew that this was how he had gotten so bad in the first place. He never really took care of himself mentally or emotionally. This downward spiral was cut short when he had first met Serenity. That was when he found that his mind needed help. In his desperation, he had found something he had never thought he would do. He started to meditate.

Mediation was something he had heard about several times, but never had done it himself. He had always thought it was something stupid and a waste of time. His thoughts were changed after he found a report that meditation helped organize the mind. If the mind was organized, the dark feelings could be easily handled. Dealing with his insecurity would require some more tinkering with his mind than what this could give. It did take the edge off, however. It allowed him to function like a normal person for the most part. He still had a few instances where the darkness bleeds through, but he could operate in society without arousing too much suspicion. He found that he wasn't all that good at hiding from Serenity, which was perfectly okay in his book.

Travis had found himself a spot right on a rock wall overlooking the beach. To his left was Amistad with Mt. Catspaw in the background. The sun was just peeking above the mountain, casting its long shadows of the pre-dawn. In front of him was Topaz Bay with its crystal-clear waters. The waves lapped gently on the shore in a rhythmic pattern that allowed for his mind to clear. To his right was the rest of the oceans and the exit to the Bay. Ships entered and left as they went on their journeys to ports around Chakona. The white noise of the surrounding area was hypnotic enough to let him slip into his meditation easily. This was where things went a little strange.

When Travis went deep into his meditation, he usually didn't see or feel anything. The mind was tranquil in those moments with nary a care or worry. Thoughts were focused on breathing and the sound of nature around him. His meditative state was entirely focused on keeping the mind open. There was a concept of being receptive to anything and nothing at the same time in order to commune with one's true self as it appeared. A look in the mirror, so to speak. His conscious and unconscious mind met together in this place. Hours would pass in mere ticks of a clock, and between two of those ticks was where something different occurred. Travis had never felt anything like it before. There were so many questions that he wanted to ask. No answer would be forthcoming for a while.

Travis felt like there were three lines tied to his heart and soul. Each one felt different. Out of the three, he saw that one was pulled taut and stretched thin. He could equate it to a piece of string that was stretched just enough that it wouldn't fray or break. Whatever was at the end of the line, Travis guessed that it was very far from him. There was very little information he could gleam from it. All he got was a sense of vague understanding and good will. Other than that, nothing else was coming through. Travis decided that it wasn't important enough to dive any deeper. With that, he moved on to the next line.

This next one was stronger and deeper rooted. Travis instantly got the understanding that this connection went to Baiyoshay. The wisdom and steadfastness at the end of the link were hallmarks of who hy was. It was like iron links tied them together. There was also a sense of knowing a direction of where Baiyoshay was. The feeling was close enough to know that hy was still in Amistad. A shudder passed through his body at the feeling of eyes turning to him. Baiyoshay knew about this. Not only did hy knew, but was actively growing it. A small tug came from that link that told Travis everything he wanted to know. There was no anger or fear coming from the Skunktaur. Instead, only love and acceptance. It was a beautiful feeling that threatened to move him to tears. He gave his own small tug back before looking for the last one.

This one was bigger than the other two. It was a lot stronger as well. Travis could describe it was corded steel. Strong, flexible, able to hold up anything. Travis was sure that this bond was just the beginning, since there was plenty of room to grow. The playfulness and desire that he felt coming off the cord instantly proved who he was connected to. Serenity's own tug was stronger and more insistent than Baiyoshay's. Excitement coursed through him that was not his own. Serenity was anticipating seeing him today. Add in all the joy and slight arousal shi was projecting toward him, and the smile he had grew to a full-on grin. He could sense the pure and honest emotions of his Companion. He caressed their bond as the hours ticked by. About an hour after sun rise, he felt their bond grow ever stronger with passing minute. Soon they would be reunited.

Travis ended his meditation as the Dancing Lights Clan pulled up. While most of them would take the public transportation system for work and some leisure, they still had a couple of PTV's for their own uses and for carrying bigger items. Most of the clan piled in to two vehicles to join them for the day. In one was Braveheart, Marathon, Diamond, and Lapis. The other had Serenity, Sequoia, Amethyst, and Kairen. They all were able to find some time off to make this day happen. Travis was overjoyed at seeing his adopted family once again. He never got tired of their smiling faces. He rushed to them as they started unloading the supplies for the day.

“Hey, guys!" He called out to them as he approached. The first to react to his presence was Lapis, as always. The little stinker always seemed to know when he was approaching and the opportune time to get hir snuggles in. Shi bounded up to him before taking a leap. He easily caught hir and received the traditional lick-kisses shi had for him.

“Hi, Travie!"

“Hi yourself, ya little scamp. Come here!" He holds the cub with both arms as he nuzzles into hir. Shi squeals in happiness and returns the nuzzle with loud purrs of happiness. He lets hir go so shi could scamper over to help hir parents. Serenity was the next to great him. Shi opened hir arms wide to which he accepted hir embrace. They nuzzled each other lovingly before shi made room for the others. Sequoia was next, easily grabbing him for a hug. Amethyst came next, then Kairen. Kairen, however, had something different in mind.

Travis turned to Kairen and expected the same offer for a hug. He got the invitation, but hir smirk showed that he had made a big mistake. Before he could recognize the intention, he was trapped. Kairen had him buried in hir cleavage. While not as large as Baiyoshay's, they were still quite large. Travis felt his whole-body light up like a Christmas tree. The usual panic was tempered by the feeling of love, lust, and amusement from his bond with Serenity. With hir blessing in mind, he decided to go along for the ride. He squeezed hir tight and lightly motor boated hir. Shi gave him a chuckle before pulling him out of hir breasts and forced him to look at hir. He was soon kissing hir to which those around him cheered. A wolf whistle from Serenity told him that he was doing exactly the right thing. Shi pulled away and smirked at him.

“Nice kiss, lover boy. I definitely want to try you out." Travis had expected this from hir a lot sooner. Giving in to the temptation, he reached up and tweaked a free nipple. As per hir usual, shi went sans clothes. The free spirit of Kairen gave hir no shame in hir body. Shi gave a meow of pleasure. Seeing that shi was distracted, he slipped away like a ghost. Shi quickly realized where he had gone and sighed. “Clever boy. I'll get you one day. You mark my words."

“But today," Travis responded from the opposite side of the PTV, “is not that day!" He quickly made his way over to where Marathon and Braveheart were unloading some of the beach supplies. Diamond had been given a couple of beach mats and un umbrella. Travis hurried over and asked, “Anything I can take for you?"

Marathon replied, “Hello, dear! Yes, can you take this cooler please?" Travis grabbed the proffered container and realized it was a lot heavier than expected. He guessed that whatever was inside was going to be their lunch. Considering the size and caloric intake of Chakats, it would probably be a hearty meal.

“Jeez, that's heavy. I assume this is part of our lunch?" He asked as he placed the cooler on the ground. He was fortunate that it had wheels to carry it along, else he would have had to shoulder it. That would have been a workout considering its weight.

“You'd be correct!" Braveheart replied. Shi messed up his hair as shi said, “My loving Lifemate made sub sandwiches for all of us." Said 'Kat blushed a little at the sudden attention, but dutifully continued removing items from the PTV.

“I do hope you'll like it, dear."

“Marathon, if you made it, I assure you it'll be good," Travis said with some finality. He moved to grab a few smaller items he could carry as well. Shi smiled at him from his thoughtfulness and gave him a lick-kiss as a reward. Travis loved how affectionate Chakats could be. After having be starved of loving touches, this was like finding an oasis in the middle of the desert. He drank up every ounce he could get. Never once did he have to ask for it. It was freely given by all of them. His heart burned ever brighter at the prospects ahead of him.

They moved to the beach to find themselves a spot. The sun beat down on them from above, yet they didn't care. They quickly found a spot to set themselves up. The mats were set on the sand, the umbrellas deployed, and the coolers and baskets set aside. The next thing to do was to protect oneself from the sun. Travis had brought some of his own sunscreen to protect his skin. Those with fur had to use a special foaming substance that would protect their fur from sun damage. Each person chose a partner to help lather in the foam, or cream in Travis' case. It seemed that Travis was relegated to the two youngsters, seeing as everyone else had found their partner. Travis felt a little hesitation start to creep up on him. He ignored it and decided to just follow the crowd.

First up was Lapis. The little tyke wanted to immediately run for the water, but Travis was able to corral hir long enough to get the foam in hir fur. Shi of course grumped and hissed at him a little for spoiling hir fun. He just laughed at hir posturing and continued with his work. Once shi was covered, he told hir to wait a few more minutes before jumping in the water. The foam had to set or else it would just wash off in the water. Shi pouted, of course, but obeyed readily. Shi went over to hir sire Braveheart, who was just finishing up with Sequioa's back. Travis turned to Diamond with a mischievous grin.

He said slyly, “Now, who's my next vic—I mean patient?" Diamond laughed at his antics, which caused him to chuckle as well. Shi sprays a little foam in hir hand before handing him the bottle. Shi starts working hir forelegs as he starts on hir back. As he was rubbing the foam into hir fur, he noticed so many things about this teenager. Shi was strong, athletic, and took very good care of hirself. Hir fur was just as soft as the other 'Kats he hugged or petted. The only one who had softer fur was Baiyoshay, but that was because hy was a Skunktaur. The corded muscles and toned limbs showcased just how much time Diamond put into practice. Shi would become a star player; he just knew it. He hoped to see that day come to be.

He had done both hir backs, hir tail, and had just gotten started on hir legs. Shi had rolled to one side in an almost similar fashion as Kairen did to him that past Seventhday. His eyes were instantly drawn to the junction of hir legs. A twinge of arousal hit him from that memory of Kairen and sight before him. He shook his head and tried to focus on doing his job. When he looked up to Diamond to ask hir to roll on hir other side, he saw the slight gleam in hir eyes. The blush shi also sported told him that he had been caught. Regret, shame, and disgust with himself made him want to turn away. The hand that gripped his shoulder stopped that from happening. He felt a comforting squeeze that gave him all the encouragement he needed to stay right there.

“Don't worry about it, my dude. I don't mind," Shi was still smiling at him. Why was shi smiling at him? This was all sorts of wrong. He shouldn't be looking at hir like this, especially since shi was so much younger than him.

“I shouldn't be thinking of you that way. You're half my age!"

“That doesn't matter. I trust you."

“But—" Travis had to stop himself before he dug the hole any deeper. Why didn't shi find him appalling? They both knew the laws. He had prosecuted so many sex trafficking rings during his time. There was no way this wouldn't count as something to be shamed and condemned. Panic was wanting to set in, but something else was blocking it. It didn't come from Diamond, or anyone nearby. It seemed to come from himself. Was he really not letting his panic get to him? Was he getting better? Maybe. It was too soon to tell, and he hadn't even completely started therapy yet. What was going on? “Surely there are laws about statuary rape?"

“Oh, there are, my dude. For the sexually unmature. I am mature, though." He looked around, trying to gage if anyone was looking at him. He did notice Serenity glance his way. Shi winked at him before returning to Marathon's belly. Travis' eyes returned to Daimond as shi scootches closer. Shi wraps him up in hir arms. “I wouldn't ever tell you not to look. I'm proud of my body. I worked hard for it and I am well within my right to show it off if I want. Look at the others. They are just as naked and unashamed as I am." Travis looked to the rest of the Clan and saw what shi was pointing out. All the clan members were undressed to their furs. Well, Kairen had come without clothes as per hir normal. This time shi had opted not to wear hir usual choker. The others had arrived in various different clothes, but had stripped down to nothing. Travis was in awe at such beauty before him.

Diamond's arms wrapped around him to press hirself into his back. The feel of hir still growing breasts on his skin sent goosebumps up and down his back. Hir hands placed them selves above his heart as shi leaned hir head against his shoulder. Hir soft purrs comforted him that there would be no repercussions. He was safe with them. Judgment would not befall him here. He placed a hand on hirs as he nuzzled the side of hir face. He sighed slightly as shi returned his affection. Shi patted his chest before a lick ran up his cheek.

Before he could respond, shi said, “You're a good man, Trav. Never let anyone tell you different. Not even yourself." Travis closed his eyes and bowed his head. He wasn't ashamed, nor was he trying to come up with excuses. Instead, he focused on the bonds he had with this family. The way they cared for him and each other. He was a part of that. He didn't have to fear for his position with them. They wanted him here, and that was the greatest honor he had. The smile and feelings he had made him light up with warmth and slight giddiness. Diamond knew right then that he was getting better, if slowly. Progress was made. Now, to test the waters.

He smiled softly and said, “Thanks, Dee. I really appreciate it. I guess you won't claw me if I say, you really are beautiful, inside and out."

“And you are handsome. I don't think that deserves a clawing. Instead…" Shi trails off as shi forces Travis to look at hir. Shi gives him a soft kiss right on his lips. It was a chaste, full of love and acceptance. Before too long, the kiss ended. “You get that for being so kind to me, my sister, and our family." Travis grinned at hir declaration. If this was the reward for being better, then he'll keep improving. His thoughts came to a screeching halt when he suddenly found himself kissing a nipple instead. The sudden change had derailed what he had been thinking about long enough for said nipple to find its way into his mouth. From all the times he had suckled Serenity, instinct had him immediately do the same to Diamond. A spurt of milkwater filled his mouth before he knew what was going on. He was just about to remove himself when that was done for him. “And that is for being so adorable. Now, hold still while I get your back."

Travis swallowed the mouthful of milkwater, noting how different it tasted from Serenity's. A stray thought hit him of what the others would taste like. That thought was instantly nuked from orbit. He wouldn't dare ask. That was too embarrassing to even attempt! However, the giggling behind him said that Diamond picked up on his desire. He felt hir hands continue to rub sunscreen into his back. He laughed with hir while he did his front. Together they worked the cream into his skin. It didn't take long to get him set with his smaller stature and less limbs. They rejoined the others soon enough. Marathon was just putting the last bits of foam over Serenity's breasts when they all gathered.

Their sun protection was fast acting, so they only had to wait a few minutes. In that time, Travis went up to Serenity and hugged hir from the side. He decided to come clean and tell hir what just happened a few seconds ago. Shi merely chuckled at him and told him not to worry about it. Diamond fully knew what shi was doing, and Serenity didn't mind. They had discussed it before in great detail. There was nothing wrong in their eyes, so Travis had no fear in reprisal from anyone. As long as everything was consensual, there would be no problem. Shi did mention that shi was appreciative that he would communicate with hir about this instead of stewing on it. Travis accepted that and went along for the ride. He was slowly learning that things operated differently in a Chakat family. His own mind and heart were starting to get with the program as well.

After the allotted time was up, most of them were ready to hit the water. Travis had an idea that entered his head as the antsy Lapis stared longingly for the ocean. He picked hir up in his arms and asked if shi was ready to go swim. Shi agreed readily, hugging him tight. With a chuckle, he told hir to hang onto him. He placed hir on his back so he could carry hir. He looked over to the others as they started to get up and stretch themselves out. He moved into position so he had enough of a head start to at least give him and Lapis a fighting chance. Braveheart gave one last stretch before saying to the clan that they were ready to enter the water. Travis saw his opportunity and took it.

“Last one in is a hairless monkey!" He turned and started a full run for the waves. An indignant shout came up from behind him as the others gave chase. They all splashed into the water at the same time, laughing and cheering all the while. Travis kept going till he was about waist deep, exclaiming, “Cold, cold! Really cold! Off you get!" before chucking Lapis off into the water. Shi squeaked and sputtered at being suddenly wet. Luckily for hir, Travis was merely acting on the water being cold. The currents of the oceans made Topaz Bay comfortable almost year-round. There was a period of about six weeks where the water got too cold during the winter, but they were long past that stage.

In return for having been unceremoniously dumped into the water, Lapis decided revenge was the best option. Shi growled a little before pouncing. The momentum of the cub sent Travis splashing into the water. When he sits up, he looks down to the water-soaked cub as shi pulls hir hair away from hir face. They laugh at each other before he lightly splashes hir. Shi splashes back, which ends up in a water war. Braveheart came up to them as the war progressed, and also got involved. Lapis and Travis decided that they would team up and ending up tackling Braveheart into the water. Laughter and joy abounded as the others splashed and played.

As the hours passed, the Clan enjoyed their time in the water. They did break for lunch and enjoy the subs Marathon made. Travis ended up leaning against Serenity as they ate with Sequoia leaning on him. He had one arm around draped around Sequoia's waist as the other handled his sandwich. The stories and jokes talked about kept Travis mind distracted. However, that did not mean he wasn't paying attention. He had noticed the subtle glances that everyone had been giving him. At first, he thought they were just checking in with him to make sure he was okay. Then he found that a lot of their glances were filled with want and desire. He didn't know if they were meant for him, or if he was catching something that the family wanted to express. One thing that did catch his attention was how Diamond kept grinning at him knowingly. Seeing hir there with that smirk gave Travis all the confirmation he needed.

He noticed that Marathon and Braveheart were getting a little frisky together. They were whispering something into each other's ears that caused them to giggle. They snuck glances at Travis, Sequoia, and Serenity sitting together. Sequoia seemed to have noticed cause shi looked over to Serenity and gave hir a wink. Serenity got the hint and pulled Travis closer to hir. He was placed so that his cheek rubbed right against the side of hir breast. He looked up to see hir forest green eyes peer down at him with a smile. The warmth of hir body combined with hir purring kept him from overly panicking.

“Hey, sugar?" Serenity asked sweetly. His first thoughts were that he was about to be asked something he didn't necessarily want to do, or would cause some form of embarrassment. Hir loving smile eased those tensions. The request was something he had been wanting to do again ever since he first got to try it. “Want some milk?" He nodded eagerly, but stopped himself. He was surprised at his response. Surely, he shouldn't be that excited for that. His feelings were dashed and replaced with want and desire as Serenity used hir right hand to prop up a breast. Hir dark black nipple stuck out at him, eagerly wanting to be suckled. A slight throb in his pants told him something else was getting hard as well. He focused on Serenity and “Here, drink. Sequoia?"

“Hmm, I want some as well. C'mere, pretty kitty." Sequoia bushed Serenity down so that shi was on hir backs. Sequoia went right for the left nipple and starting sucking greedily. Travis went to the other and starting nursing as well. Serenity purred deeply at the feel of hir lovers' mouths on hir. This was heaven to hir. Hir life giving milk being devoured by those shi cared for was the ultimate high for hir. Shi sighed pleasantly as hir lovers drained hir breasts. Hir hands held them to hir, caressing their heads and necks. One of Sequoia's hands started tracing light circles around Serenity's belly button on hir upper torso. That elicited some light laughter and shudders. Travis own hand went over to rub and tease Sequoia's own breasts. He wouldn't leave the Stellar Foxtaur out. They relaxed together for a time just like that

After a while, though, Sequoia came up. Travis looked over at hir to see hir own nipples slowly dripping white beads onto Serenity. Shi looked at him and grinned. There was no mistaking what shi intended. The eyes were said to be the window to the soul. Sequoia's soul was yearning for more. Shi wanted to be pleasured as well. Travis remembered their first time together and how much Sequoia wanted him as well as hir denmate. It did feel slightly odd to be a part of their dynamic, seeing as they knew each other longer than they knew him. It didn't matter in the long run. They were here, they loved one another, and they would face life together as family. That was what counted in the end.

“What's up Sequoia?" Travis asked with his own grin. He was playing the game with them. That's why it was so easy to go along with what Sequoia and Serenity wanted. Them being happy meant he was happy as well. Sequoia rose up a little and gave the same treatment to hir own breasts Serenity had done moments prior. Both nipples spurted a bead of milk from them. Hir own production had finally come through.

“Well, my own breasts are so very full of milk. I'd like for you two to drain them. I wany my darling lovers to please me." Travis couldn't argue with that, and neither would Serenity. They moved so they could reach Sequoia's dangling breasts before latching on. Travis could tell that Sequoia was getting accustomed to this kind of thing as well. Shi sighed and let the two of them suck hir milk out. Sandwiched between their two bodies, enjoying milk with Serenity, Travis was in heaven. After relishing in their bliss, they removed themselves and laid together. Travis and Serenity laid side-by-side, arms used as pillow for the other Sequoia's lower torso lay across Serenity's own lower body and Travis, ending up with hir upper torso between them. The free arms of the two on their backs encircled Sequoia as hir own clung to them. They settled in that group hug with content smiles. They relaxed like that while their lunch and milk digested.

Just a few paces away, Braveheart watched as hir daughter played with hir mates. Seeing them happily enjoying themselves filled hir with abounding love and joy. Their youth and passion invigorated hir. It even was arousing in a fashion. Hir own black nipples were as hard as they could be. Seeing hir daughter in such a position was causing hir lust to start climbing. Especially since shi loved seeing a nice pair of breasts being played with. Serenity and Sequoia did have a very good pair, especially when filled with so much milk. Shi thought about how hir own would come in towards the end of hir pregnancy. Would Travis enjoy suckling them as he did hir daughter's? Shi hoped he would. When shi first saw him, shi knew he would be in for the long haul. Shi just hoped he would be able to adapt to their family customs.

Chakats believed that love was to be expressed and multiplied, not hidden away and divided. Physical affection was the glue that made family units stronger in a Chakat household. The love they shared manifested so that siblings and parents shared in physical pleasure. Braveheart and Marathon both had the dream that their family would bond to be as tightly knit as they could get. Anyone else brought into the fold would be loved on in the same way. That display, though, had to be tempered when Travis came to visit. It was definitely harder to hold back with him around. There were days when Braveheart wished shi could grab him, cuddle the dark clouds away, and love him as a parent should. Topping that would be having him love hir the same way hir daughters did. Braveheart was certain Travis would end up as ingrained in their family as Sequoia and Kairen were. Especially seeing as all four of hir daughters were taking a very increased and vested interest in this Human.

Shi was pulled from hir musing when hir lifemate's voice called out, “Brave, darling. You're staring." Braveheart shook hir head to turn to Marathon beside hir. Marathon hirself was just as aroused as Braveheart was. Probably even more so since Marathon got off on seeing hir daughters playing. Having a voyeur as a lifemate also made from some very intense shenanigans. “I enjoy watching as well, but you're starting to project a little. I don't think we need the entire beach knowing what's going on."

“Sorry, Mara," Braveheart said to hir mate. Shi scooted closer and wrapped hir arms around Mara in a loving embrace. They leaned against one another as they looked over to the three relaxing in the sun. “I just can't help it. I love seeing our daughter so happy. Shi really lucked out." Braveheart didn't say more as a troubled expression crossed hir features. Marathon easily picked up on the hesitation and brought a hand up to caress Braveheart's muzzle.

“But?"

“But I'm worried about Travis." Braveheart sighed and buried hir head in Marathon's hair. Shi took a few deep pulls of the scent of hir mate and sighed. “Even though he is happy and getting better, that dark cloud keeps trying to come back. The poor kid has been through a lot of pain and misery if what half Serenity told us is true. Amy is adamant that shi start working therapy with him as soon as possible. I…" Shi paused as shi fought to find the words shi wanted to say. They finally came to hir when shi realized one important fact. The one piece that shi knew shi could fix if shi wanted to. “I think he needs our help, darling. He needs parental figures in his life." Marathon agreed whole heartedly. Shi also could tell that Travis didn't have a very good home life. He kept wanting to cut himself down, to make himself as small and unimposing as possible. He had been trying to hide so that he wouldn't get punished for a misstep. That was what gave both of them the inkling that parental figures scared him.

“I have to agree. The poor dear has been though so much on his own without any support. Do you think he'll accept?"

“I hope so," Braveheart sighed. “Ren would be devastated if shi lost him. I want to try to talk to him, see if I can offer guidance." Braveheart separated from Marathon and stood up. Shi shook out hir hair before starting to walk over.

Marathon called out, “Do I need to come, or…" Shi trailed off as shi started to stand as well. Braveheart made a motion to hold as shi turned back a little.

“No, not right now, Mara. I think this has to be a one-on-one talk. You just sit tight and relax. I'll be back." Marathon nodded and settled back down. Braveheart continued on hir way till shi was standing above the three as they lightly dozed. Serenity opened one eye and saw hir mother standing over them. With a slight smile, Serenity gave a nod in greeting. Braveheart nodded back before leaning down a bit. A gentle hand stroked Travis' head and slowly brought him back to the waking world. He opened an eye to see Braveheart rubbing his head. The comforting feeling caused a smile to form on his face. Pure instinct had him nuzzle into the hand to which Braveheart chuckled softly. He was so precious sometimes.

A soft sigh came from him before he asked, “What's up, Braveheart?"

“Hey, bud. I need to talk to you real quick. Mind taking a walk with me?" Travis nodded and disentangled himself from Sequoia and Serenity. He gave both of them a kiss on the forehead in parting. Sequoia stirred a little, but did not wake. Shi snuggled deeper into Serenity's arms with a murmur. Serenity held onto Sequoia and nodded to Travis. With that, Travis and Braveheart walked down the beach.

A minute passed without words. Braveheart held hir hands behind hir back, resting at the point where hir torsos met. Travis walked beside hir, watching the people and the ocean. The laughter of people all around him and the crashing waves were indicative of how this place brought out the inner playfulness. He smiled as he saw a bunch of children, all different in size and shape, play in the surf. The unity and togetherness he saw was something he wanted in life. He didn't want the strife, bigotry, and hatred that plagued Terra to infect this beautiful world. He was saddened that it already had in some from. A memory he could recall demonstrated that point. The phantom pain from a rock smashing his head rushed through him once more. He vowed to never let the anger of others, no matter how much it hurt, to stop him from doing the right thing.

“My daughters have taken a liking to you." Bravehearts words brought him out of his reminiscing. Shi continued, “Serenity has got hir claws hooked into you and shi's not liable to let go. Not that I think you mind that all too much, right?" Travis smiled a true smile at that. No, he was pretty sure he would never want those claws to come out. He loved hir and the Dancing Light Clan. He didn't want to be separated from them.

“Too right. Even Lapis has grown attached to me. I'm thankful for you all every day."

“And we're thankful for you. You have been a blessing to my family." Travis beamed and continued walking. He noticed the pensive look Braveheart had as they continued for several more paces. A look of surety replaced the pensive look, and Braveheart asked, “Travis, you love my daughter, right?" He was almost going to give a snarky comeback, but the severe look made him stop that line of thought. This wasn't a trick or some joke at his expense. Shi was really asking this. He didn't know if this would be the standard “dating my daughter" talk he heard others make mention. He decided to be careful with his words.

He answered, “Yes, I do."

“And you are getting closer to the Skunktaur, Baiyoshay, right?"

Travis hesitated before saying, “I'd say so. Is that a problem?"

“No. At least, I hope not." Braveheart sighed deeply. Travis could tell that this wasn't going to be an easy conversation. “You know that Serenity has been talking to Baiyoshay as well, right? I think shi's starting to like hym as well."

“Oh, I'm well aware. In fact, I suggested it." Braveheart nodded at that a little and smiled. It seemed that answer pleased the doubts growing in hir mind. However, the conversation wasn't done yet.

“That's good. It helps that you are okay with them exploring. It makes this talk a little easier."

“What's going on, Braveheart? I'm not in trouble, am I?"

“No trouble, bud. I just want to guide you as a friend, and I hope as an adopted parental figure." Travis nodded slowly. He had many conversations with Braveheart and Marathon. He considered both of them the parents he wished he had. Hearing that this was to be a parent-child heart to heart, he stopped and faced hir. Shi stopped as well and both of them had the others undivided attention. “I know Serenity talked to you about how we Chakats usually have multiple mates, right?" A nod from Travis indicated hir correct assumption. “Marathon and I are no different. We both have other mates, and children by those mates." Travis was confused on why shi was bringing this up. He didn't think this was a warning, or even an attempt to have him reconsider. No, shi said that this was guidance on something.

“I remember seeing a picture of a foxtaur tod with you, and another Chakat and a Human female with Marathon."

“That's them. The tod is my denmate, Barkto Highmountain. I have a daughter named Destiny by him. Marathon is denmated to Longshot and Hannah. Marathon sired a daughter with Longshot named Emerald. Our family is a little bigger than you expected, eh?" Travis had to agree. There were more parts to the Dancing Lights Clan than he realized.

“So I noticed. Why bring them up?" Here, Braveheart seemed to lose some of hir confidence. Shi turned to look at the people around them. Shi motioned to them and how each unit was different. Big, small. Multiple mates, single parents. All sorts of different family dynamics were on display at the beach today. Travis guessed that this was what shi was trying to get at.

“Notice the families around us? Each has their own story, their own dynamics. Ours is no different. I saw how you were looking at Dee earlier." A spike of fear flashed through him. He was sure he was going to get clawed. When that paw landed on his shoulder, that fear was dissipated. Braveheart smiled at him reassuringly. “Shi's beautiful, isn't shi? Chaker has given hir a toned and beautiful body. It's not wrong to stare if shi wants to flaunt it. It's also not wrong that shi wants you as much as Ren does. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if Ren invited Dee for some fun at some point with you." Travis' jaw dropped at that statement. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

“You're joking. You have to be. There's no way that would happen."

“Oh, I think it will. Didn't you know that Ren and Amy were Dee's firsts? The bond they share as sisters runs deep and strong. They love each other and express that love in every way they can think of." Travis blinked owlishly. That was news to him. Yet, he shouldn't have been surprised. He had heard of the different family dynamics of Chakats before. There was plenty of material to show how they differed from Humans. “There's also the fact that Baiyo is very interested in you as well. I wouldn't be surprised if you end up having hym as a Companion or denmate soon." Travis blushed slightly at the thought. He liked Baiyoshay a lot. Hy was a stalwart friend and great advisor. Hy also was an amazing lover, even with hys quirk.

“Yeah, hy has been getting closer to me and Serenity. I think you may be right." Travis grimaced. He didn't know why, but a dark thought manifested itself. It asked the question of if he could really make them happy. The inner insecurity was trying to make headway in his thoughts.

“That's why I wanted to talk to you. I wanted to make sure you were prepared for what it takes to be in multiple relationships and how to navigate them." Travis felt a little shame fester a little, but it was overshadowed by the large amount of relief he had. To have Braveheart's guidance with regards to navigating a non-monogamous dynamic would be invaluable. His fear was replaced with certainty that he could do this.

For the next couple of minutes, Braveheart advised him on how to make sure that their relationship would succeed. Shi emphasized communication multiple times. Shi claimed it was the bedrock, foundation, and cornerstone of keeping themselves on the same page and keep their bonds healthy. He couldn't hide his feelings, lest a breakdown would happen. Travis knew how communication was important, but didn't know how to apply that to the situation he found himself in now. With some advice from Braveheart, he was able to see when and how to discuss things with Serenity as needed. Shi assured him that they would remain strong as long as they continually talked to one another. Travis thanked hir with a giant hug that shi returned. When they separated, shi gave him a swat on the rump and told him that they should get back to the others. Travis returned hir swat with one of his own. Shi laughed and batted him with hir tail. They walked back down the beach to their spot to see most of the others starting to head back towards the water. Braveheart called out to wait for them and took off bounding. Travis rushed off after hir. Thus, the day continued with them playing in the water.