Page 46 of Technically Abducted
Tev'ra's smile is brilliant, made even more so by the gentle pulse of bioluminescence beneath his skin. "Are you ready to speak with them now? Or would you prefer to wait?"
"Now's good," I say, feeling surprisingly nervous. "Before I lose my nerve."
"There's nothing to be nervous about," Tev'ra says gently. "They'll be delighted to meet you."
He activates what appears to be an advanced interface and after a moment, a large screen materializes on the wall.Two Nereidan faces appear on the display—clearly Tev'ra's parents. I can see the family resemblance in their bone structure and the way they carry themselves. They're older, their skin showing subtle patterns that suggest advanced age, but their bioluminescence is warm and active.
"Creator-parents," Tev'ra says, "I would like you to meet Finn Sullivan, the human subject of my assessment."
"Finn Sullivan," the slightly shorter one says, their voice carrying genuine warmth. "How wonderful to meet you. I am Vel'tha, Tev'ra's creator-parent."
"And I am Mor'en," the other adds, their expression kind and curious. "Our offspring has spoken of you with considerable enthusiasm."
I glance at Tev'ra, whose skin has brightened with what is definitely embarrassment. "Has he?"
"Indeed," Vel'tha continues. "You beat Tev'ra's score on the assessment scenario, and he held the record for years. Innovation requires adaptation. We are quite impressed with your capabilities."
"We are quite curious about human culture and technological approaches," Vel'tha adds. "This kind of direct cultural exchange represents unprecedented research opportunities."
"We wish we were young enough to participate in such fascinating work ourselves," Vel'tha says with genuine wistfulness. "When we were Tev'ra's age, interspecies contact was purely theoretical. To actually meet and converse with a member of another species... it's the opportunity of several lifetimes."
"Though we're quite proud that our offspring was selected for such groundbreaking work," Mor'en adds warmly.
The casual way they express interest in my culture, like it's something valuable rather than alien and strange amazes me.
"Has Tev'ra preparedvel'thanifor you yet?" Vel'tha asks suddenly.
I look at Tev'ra, who appears confused. "Vel'thani?"
"A traditional comfort preparation," Mor'en explains. "Nutritionally dense, with complex flavor profiles that most species find appealing. Particularly suitable for guests experiencing environmental adjustment."
"I am unfamiliar with that preparation," Tev'ra admits, looking slightly embarrassed.
"Of course you are," Vel'tha says with fond exasperation. "You've been living on research rations and synthesized efficiency meals for years. I'll send you the preparation instructions immediately."
"That's really not necessary—" I start to say.
"Nonsense," Mor'en interrupts kindly. "Proper hospitality requires ensuring guest comfort and nutrition. Besides,vel'thaniis quite delicious. We think you'll enjoy it."
The matter-of-fact way they discuss taking care of me, like it's the most natural thing in the world, is both overwhelming and wonderful. I've never had adults who weren't paid to care about me express concern for my wellbeing.
"Thank you," I say, and mean it more than they probably realize.
"How are you finding the hydration facilities?" Vel'tha asks. "Tev'ra mentioned you were learning aquatic navigation techniques."
"Swimming lessons," I clarify. "And they're going well, thanks to Tev'ra's patience."
"Patience is essential for proper instruction," Mor'en observes. "Though I suspect our offspring has found the experience as educational as you have."
There's something in their tone that suggests they know more about what's been happening between us than Tev'ra'sprobably told them directly. Which should be embarrassing, but somehow isn't.
"Your son is an excellent teacher," I say honestly.
"He comes from a long line of educators and researchers," Vel'tha says proudly. "Seven generations of our family line have contributed to various knowledge advancement projects."
"What kind of research do you do?" I ask, even though I know from Tev'ra. I want to hear it from his parents too.
"I specialize in interspecies nutritional compatibility," Vel'tha explains. "Ensuring optimal health outcomes when different species share environments or resources. We have learned so much about different species through this program, though humans have proven to be the most adaptable, as well as some of the most challenging."
