#predator reader insert

A successful hunt has Ta’Kall roaring over his quarry. His mandibles flare widely as he shakes his head, his dreads swinging around his head. The lifeblood of the beast slowly cools against his skin but the heat in his body still remains. It always does after a hunt. 

He lets out a snarl and kneels down before his kill. He easily lifts the beast over his shoulders and stands up. Thankfully it is just a short trek back to his ship. He won’t have to worry about other beasts trying to steal his trophy, but he will welcome  the challenge regardless. Just more trophies.

Once he reaches his ship Ta’Kall is quick to start dressing his kill and get it hung up on a tree next to his craft for its blood to drain. He takes a moment to inspect his kill, looking over its form to gauge what can be made into a trophy, what can be taken for food, and what can be used for trade and selling. His eyes land on the claws and he feels the urge to make a necklace from them. A soft, longing growl leaves his throat at the feeling and that ever looming ache in his chest returns.

Ta’Kall nearly snarls. The concept of finding his mate and courting them with the trophies he has hunted over the years was practically a pipe dream. It was rare amongst Yautja to find their true mates most settling down with those who’ve proved their prowess as a worthy hunter. Yet, Ta’Kall can’t help but long for one to call his own. The others in his clan call him foolish for not picking out a strong female Yautja in the clan to impress since many have been eyeing him, but none appeal to him. None fill that longing ache.

He absentmindedly rubs his chest as if to soothe the pain he feels while his golden eyes watch the deep red blood drip from his hunt. He huffs a little and steps into his ship to take stock of supplies. He needs to get his mind off of the thought of his mate. 

He curses as he digs through his supplies. His food stores are fine but if he wants to keep throwing himself into hunts, he will either need to stay on this planet for more game or go elsewhere to procure some. He has plenty of the common currency stored in small chips since he rarely uses it. Additionally, he has some rare items he’s procured from hunting more advanced creatures outside of beasts. He could return to his home planet to restock, but when he moves to his piloting chair and checks his ship's levels he nearly snarls again. He wouldn’t have enough fuel to jump through the solar systems. He’ll have to stop at a station to refuel and that stokes fires of irritation in his being. 

He just wants to hunt. To prove himself. To find his mate.

Ta’Kall clicks his mandibles in irritation and stalks back outside his ship. The blood has slowed considerably. He brings down his strung up beast and brings it aboard his ship. He can butcher and skin it after he gets on course to whatever station he can find. He’d rather just go to his clan or trade with one of the others on Yautja Prime, but his lapse in keeping track of his fuel prevents him from doing so.

“Cjit.” He curses to himself as he starts his ship’s engines. He pulls the controls and presses the necessary buttons–all secondary nature to him. His ship shakes ever-so-slightly but otherwise stays steady as he breaks through the planet’s atmosphere and glides through space. 

He turns his attention to his navigation and swipes over the holo keyboard in search of a station. Little lights immediately blink into existence and all Ta’Kall has to do is pick where to go. It would be sensible to go to one of the smaller stations. Less likely is he to interact with other beings, less likely is someone going to challenge him to a fight since some individuals think Yautja are just mindless beasts. 

Yet, a little farther into this solar system, there was a much bigger blip. He shouldn’t consider the idea yet Ta’Kall can’t help but touch the circle. Expanding the station, he sees it’s not just a fueling station, but it seems to be some intergalactic resort as well named The Secret Relief. He’s heard of it as it's notorious in this solar system for the exotic species that both work and go there, gambling, access to drugs and liquor, all sorts of illicit activities underneath its ‘pristine’ and ostentatious appearance, and its supposed neutrality clause–no one is allowed to fight.

Normally, he’d avoid such a place. Not only is the neutrality clause bullshit to him, but it’s simply a place where he doesn’t belong. He enjoys the wilds, the hunt, the thrill. There, the thrill comes from wasting away useless currency and it’s a recipe for trouble no matter what.

Yet, as his eyes gaze over the holographic images of the resort and what it has to offer, Ta’Kall feels a pull to it. He should be putting in the coordinates of a closer station, but instead he’s setting his ship’s course to The Secret Relief. He clicks his mandibles softly at his own actions before he turns on the cruise controls and gets up to finish dressing his kill.

----

Your wrists feel raw from the metal cuffs that have been on them for the last three days. Your bare body shivers from the lack of clothes as you stare at the three aliens on the other side of your glass pen. You glare at Zorvath, an ugly Quk’ax with hanging jowls and muddy red, splotchy skin. Back on Earth, he would likely have been seen as a cross between an ogre and orc. Those were fictional creatures of course, but many aliens in space resemble what humans long ago have thought up.

It’s been a long hundred years since space travel was introduced to Earth, opening the human population up to a vast new world within the stars. For the most part it has been good. Technology and knowledge has been exchanged, Intergalactic Human Embassies have opened on a plethora of planets in different solar systems, and humans and aliens alike have emigrated and swapped cultures.

And yet, assholes are still assholes, and of course you were abducted like the old stories. But they aren’t just stories anymore nor were they ever were. While there have been many positives with space becoming open to humans, it also opened Earth up to intergalactic criminals targeting humans more blatantly. And so, when you were walking home from your job, looking forward to cuddling your cat and watching trashy television, you were taken by enslavers and then bought by Zorvath, the owner of The Secret Relief. You were his prized pet–one of the few Terrans this deep into space.

That was nearly four years ago. 

The glare his beady, fluorescent orange eyes give you is just as nasty as the one you were giving him behind your glass cage. To his left is his right hand man, Lozar–a rather violent Vrelgek (more orcish and goliath looking)– and to his right is a Bhuvah whose name you don’t know but your fists sure know his face. His pale, almost purplish, skin is bruised and his lip is split from when you caught him off guard after he gave you your food. You can’t help your smirk when you meet his green eyes and he shrinks back.

“Will you behave yourself, human? We have important individuals coming today that want a glimpse of a terran.” Zorvath grumbles, his guttural language translated by the language chip implanted in you, and your smirk drops back into a glare. He lifts his large hand, his ring finger missing, and he holds an all too familiar remote in his hand. You swallow thickly as you’re reminded of the collar around your neck. Memories of the violent shocks are at the forefront of your brains and you try your hardest not to let the instinctual fear show on your face.

You don’t reply and just shuffle your feet.

“Answer me.” He growls and suddenly the painful electrical currents course through your body. Your muscles lock up completely and you fall on to the hard ground unceremoniously, your limbs jerking until his thumb lets up on the remote. You pant as tears spill from your eyes. You refuse to look up at him.

You don’t want to answer him. You don’t want to be shown around like some pet. You don’t want him to lend you out to his friends to sit pretty in their laps like he has done before. You don’t want him to send Lozar in to punish you. 

But you grit your teeth and spit out, “I will behave.” Even if it pains you to say. 

“Good. Esteel will come in to dress you. If you cause any problems, know the collar will be the least of your problems.” Zorvath shoves the remote in his suit pocket before fishing out a vial with a deep, purple liquid. Elysian. It’s a nasty drug in the underground market that can be found in places like The Secret Relief. It gives the taker a euphoric high before it melts into an aphrodisiac. You visibly shudder at the sight of it which makes the Quk’ax smirk. He gestures for the other two with him and they all leave his underground pen.

The whimper you were holding back finally slips as you can’t help but cry. After four years in this hell, you’d think there wouldn’t be anymore tears to spare, but you always find yourself crying at least twice in a week. You slowly sit up, wrapping your arms around your bare chest, as you look elsewhere. While the other glass cages were empty–you know the others under Zorvath’s control were forced to entertain guests upstairs–it still is reminiscent of a zoo of sorts.

You were the only human in this sector of space, making you an exotic rarity and Zorvath’s ‘favorite.’ That title both protected you and made you a target. He wasn't as willing to let patrons of his establishment have you like he does with his other slaves, but people were always trying to touch. They tried pushing what little boundaries Zorvath had when it came to you. And just once, did someone offer the right price for you and you were forced to drink Elysian to comply. It's not something you want to ever happen again.

It isn’t long when Esteel comes in with a basket in one arm and clothes in another, also sporting a collar like yours around her neck. She’s a small Edrul, with pointed ears and pale blue hair that reaches her knees, eyes, and markings along her deep blue skin. She gives you a sympathetic look but doesn’t speak. Instead she hands you the clothes and turns around. You’ve both seen each other nude plenty of times yet she’s always giving you privacy when she can.

You quickly dress in the flowing, revealing outfit that accentuates your body. You know Zorvath picked this out as it is similar to the Edrul's, though yours is a little more flashy and revealing. Esteel gestures for you to sit and you do before she joins you on the floor.

“Do I get a say in how I want my makeup and hair done or does that jackass have that planned too?” You murmur to her. You manage to crack a small smile on her otherwise passive face.

“He wants you in colors that match his clothes.” She nearly whispers, her voice sounding soft like a lullaby. She gets her supplies ready before she starts working on your face. It is silent again before you see her brows furrow. “There is talk about wealthy investors coming.”

“So I have heard… And I assume that I am to be the perfect, dressed up pet?”

“You are to be a bargaining chip.” Her words freeze you and herself. You can see the look of sympathy and pity on her face once again and you swallow thickly.

“Oh.”

“I am sorry.” She touches your cheek with her palm ever so softly before she resumes her task. You don't say anything and let her work. You feel ice cold dread slowly drip into your entire being and you're sure your face looks vacant.

Even if I do behave, I am getting punished. You think to yourself. You force the fresh tears that fill your eyes to not fall down your cheeks, not wanting to trouble Esteel and get her punished if you are late.

Her hands are nimble and quick as she works on your makeup. And soon enough, she's styling your hair just as quickly. Even though Zorvath’s pets aren't allowed to talk much with one another, Esteel is the closest thing to a friend you have in this place besides Enox, her brother who is also kept here.

“There. You look beautiful.” She whispers again as she leans back. She pulls out a mirror and holds it up for you.

You do look beautiful, yet not like yourself. You look like a doll and you're half tempted to mess everything up, to be bare, but you know Esteel will get punished for it.

“Thank you.” You try to sound grateful but you're sure it falls flat. 

Your friend packs the basket and slowly stands up, before offering her hand to you. You gingerly take it and let her help you to your feet, and you both make your ways to the door of your cage. She sets her basket outside that heavy metal door and loops your arm with hers, giving your hand a small pat.

The door that leads up stares opens and you stiffen at the sight of Lozar, a dark grin on his ugly face.

“Boss wanted me to make sure you were ready to come up. I'm a little sad to see that you are.” He growls as he reaches out to both of you with his meaty hand. He cackles when Esteel nearly stumbles back in fear. “I would have loved to punish you both.”

Neither you or Esteel reply, even though the stubborn part of you wants to. Instead, you both drop your hold on each other and silently follow him upstairs. 

“Now, Zorvath’s new friends ain't here yet but that doesn't mean you stick to the wall. You entertain guests when they talk to you and you come when you're called for.” Lozar growls at you. He turns to face you once the three of you reach the main hall, the smell of smoke and liquor burn your nose and lungs. “I'd be careful though. Rumor has it a Yautja just landed and they ain't too friendly.”

He has a wicked gleam in his eyes before he saunters off through the crowd.

“A Yautja? Here?” You try to whisper but can't over the noise of the idle chatter and music around you.

“A rarity indeed. Let's just hope Zorvath isn't keen on caging them as well.” Esteel mutters before a regular at The Secret Relief whisks her away for his own whims.

You're left alone amongst a sea of aliens and you try to ground yourself in the moment and hold your head high. Your confidence is next to nothing, but you refuse to be treated less than dirt here. Your spirit slowly wanes, but you still have hope you'll get out of this. That you'll get to a human embassy and go home.

Through the pungent smells of smoke and the nauseating colognes and perfumes, there was a scent that stuck out to you. It was faint, but the woodsy and a smell you can best describe as cinnamon cut through all the others and oddly, for the first time since you were brought here, you felt almost calm. 

----

Whatever pull Ta'Kall felt when he saw The Secret Relief in his navigation doubled when he entered the atmosphere and parked. He was quick in getting his ship fueled up and ready to go and he should have left it like that. But when he looked to the extravagant building near the fueling spot, he felt that pull even stronger. He rumbled softly to himself and made sure to lock his vessel before he stalked over to the building.

The workers at the door stared as he approached and were almost frozen, but one quickly scrambled to open the door. Once inside, he immediately feels out of place here. The other occupants wore flashy jewelry and finely tailored clothes. He sees no use for things like that if they do not aid him in his hunt or in combat. Eyes find his imposing form instantly as he stalks through the ostentatious building. So many scents assault his senses and he has to will himself to stay calm and alert.

But a soft, gentle smell cuts through the masses and has his feet planting themselves firmly against the glossy, stone floor. Ta’Kall nearly rumbles out loud as wildflowers and something sweet invades his senses. It was oddly comforting and soft. He blinks and decides to follow that scent the best he could.

It’s faint but as he approaches a large, dim hall, it gets stronger. Bodies of different species fill the room, making it harder to pinpoint the scent. But he is an excellent hunter and tracker, he will find the source with ease. He scans the room for potential threats and starts to enter.

“Well aren’t you a sight, big guy.” A Vrelgek that nearly matches his height stops him, his words translated through his Yautja tech. Ta’Kall eyes the sharp tusks jutting from his bottom jaw and the dull markings along his rugged face. The Yautja cocks his head to the side and his mandibles twitch with his low growl. “I don’t mean disrespect but we haven’t had one of your kind come through here. What brings you to The Secret Relief?”

Ta’Kall doesn’t want to answer the Vrelgek. He just wants to find the source of that sweet scent. But given the way this male is dressed, with The Secret Relief’s logo on the breast pocket, and how he holds himself, he can tell he is either security or of high importance at the resort. As much as he loves a good brawl, he isn’t going to risk losing whatever is pulling him here. “Had to refuel.”

“Well, enjoy yourself. My boss is keen on speaking with you at some point. You can’t miss him. My name is Lozar.” He stretched out his hand and all Ta’Kall does is stare, unblinkingly, until Lozar drops his hand with a chuckle. Ta’Kall doesn’t say any more and continues to walk into the large hall, air heavy with smoke. His muscles ripple and tense as he sticks to the outskirts of the hall. Gambling, drinking, and borderline sex is all happening before his eyes.

As he stalks around, garnering stares of both fascination and fear, he picks up a pattern. Of the ones wearing similar flowing garments that leave little to the imagination, they all have collars adorning their necks with the resort's logo. All have smiles, yet all seem off. It makes Ta’Kall bristle more. He is well aware of enslavers and slaves. The Yautja of other clans take on servants from different species or take worthy fighters for hunts. His clan never partook, but they have faced threats of enslavement by foolish smugglers. Seeing these collared individuals, likely acting under duress, makes something inside the Yautja burn with anger.

Ta’Kall can smell the scent growing stronger and he almost rumbles once more. Compared to the pungent smells around him, that scent is a soothing balm to his growing agitation. He wishes to be back on his ship, planning his next big hunt. But first he must sate this curiosity. 

Something deep–something primal–in his being calls to him and he cannot deny it. It's when he gets to the far left corner of the room that everything freezes for him. His system is shocked to its core and he almost feels like he is floating in space.

A ooman. The source of this tempting scent, what's pulled him to this awful establishment, comes from a little ooman. He, personally, hasn't dealt with a human but he's heard tales of humans taking down and working with Yautja of the past. Naru, Mike Harrigan, and Lex Woods are names he's heard through stories shared between clans.

And this little ooman, wearing dazzling and loose fabrics with a collar around that soft looking neck, is his mate. 

----

Never in your life did you think you would come face to face with a Yautja. And yet here you are. Your eyes lock with his golden ones before you sweep over his appearance. His skin is scaly with an almost ashen grey skin with faint, blue markings along his body and crest. Long, black dread-like tendrils adorn his crest and you see his mandibles twitch as he stares right back at you. He is hardly wearing any clothes save for some pieces of armor and fish nets, giving you a nice view of his muscles. He is big… probably bigger than Lozar. 

You part your lips to say something but you don't…you can't. Only when he steps closer to you, further backing you into the corner, is when you finally find the source of that pleasant scent and any tension in your body flees for just a moment. Your eyelids flutter and finally you find your voice.

“Hello.” You murmur and take your own step forward. You almost want to smack yourself in the face. You know how to flirt, how to butter up a guest for Zorvath, yet with this Yautja you find it difficult. You hear a series of clicks that don't translate as the Yautja tilts his head, his eyes sweeping over your figure. Usually the stares you get at your body made you feel like curling up and hiding, yet his gaze didn't hold the same perversion as the other guests.

“Little human.” His voice is deep when he speaks and while you've been called ‘little human’ plenty of times, when it comes from him it almost sounds like endearment and not degradation. You swear you see his eyes soften as he holds his gaze with yours. He takes another step forward, his body nearly touching yours, before he swipes his clawed finger tips against your cheek.

You can't help the shiver his touch elicits and you have to stop yourself from pressing your cheek into his large hand. Something about this alien has you nearly hypnotized. You're almost scared because of how new these feelings are. Your lips part as his thumb touches your chin, his claw touching your bottom lip.

“Ah, there's the Yautja. You are the talk of my resort.” Zorvath’s voice cuts through whatever is happening between you both. You blink and nearly jump away, your heart racing as you fight back a glare at the Quk’ax. The Yautja's hand drops from your face and his mandibles tighten as a scowl appears on his already terrifying (yet, strangely handsome) face. “I see you've taken a liking to my pet. She's also a rarity in these parts.”

The Yautja growls softly, his mandibles clicking.

“The name is Zorvath. Now, what brings you here?”

“Her.” The Yautja growls, his head tilting in your direction. Your eyes widen and you feel heat rush through you. You shake your head. Stop it. He is just fascinated by you like everyone else. He's not claiming you, you tell yourself.

“Ah, while I don't mind some touching, I am afraid she is off limits.” Zorvath grins but has that challenging gleam in his eyes. “But the right price can get you a private room.”

Your mouth opens but you're silenced with a hard look from Zorvath. You weren't even sure what you would have said. What about the investors? Would they want some used pet? You ask yourself. You've come to understand Zorvath’s body language and facial expressions pretty well and you can tell when he is scheming something. You feel a chill down your spine as he eyes the large Yautja and Esteel's words echo in your mind.

‘A rarity indeed. Let's just hope Zorvath isn't keen on caging them as well.’

You watch as the Yautja fishes in one of his utility pouches before he hands Zorvath a credit chip. Your heart sinks and whatever you were feeling before dissipates at the realization the Yautja has rented you. The Quk’ax swipes his thumb over the chip and his beady, orange eyes widen. He looks up at the Yautja in surprise before a boisterous laugh leaves Zorvath. 

“Why, you can have her for a couple hours then, my new friend.” He grins and claps his rough hand on the Yautja's shoulder, who tenses and lets out a low growl. He takes that hand and points to the hallway that leads to the private rooms. You shiver in fear, both for yourself and the Yautja. “Go see one of my attendants and they will lead you to a private room.” 

The Yautja stares for what feels like a long time before he stalks off to where Zorvath gestured.

You feel lighted-headed and forced yourself to take a deep breath to try and calm your racing heart. Zorvath laughs at your expression and gets close into your personal space.

“You’ll go show that Yautja a fun time, you here? And when the timing is right…” He reaches into one of his suit pockets and pulls out a syringe, capped with a protective barrier. “Jab him in the neck or thigh with this. It should knock him down quickly.” 

“W-What…” Your voice trails off as you stare almost horrified at the task given to you.

“Don’t be so surprised, pet. Having something like him in my collection would be amazing. He could make a useful guard… enough voltage can get any creature to submit. ” He looks proud of his idea. When his eyes look at your expression, they narrow into a scowl. “Don’t give me that look. Be grateful that you don’t have to fuck him unless you want to. When he becomes my pet I may just stop giving you that Zevarix shot and we shall see what happens next.”

His implications are clear when he threatens to stop giving you birth control. 

You swallow what feels like bile before looking at the floor. You give him a singular nod and that forced gesture you give him feels like the weight of a hundred suns are on your shoulders and chest. You’d be the one subjecting another to Zorvath’s torment. Pocketing the syringe, you clench your fists as Zorvath shoves you in the direction of the private rooms. 

You stumble as your feet drag you to that dreaded hallway.

because you refused to give him your name at first (and look him in the eye), he's forced to start talking to himself. he's devising a plan and muttering something about 'escaping' before you can't help yourself any longer:

torres is the type of guy who believes in love at first sight. hence, why he couldn't stop staring at you the moment you both came face to face on an alien ship. he's utterly speechless at your condition - how the miniscule battle scars littering your brow made you look more intriguing. he was an enamored like a lovesick puppy, but quickly pulled himself together. he asks for your name after telling his, and you can't help but avert his gaze with silence.

"if we want to survive, our best chance is to work together." back where you came from you didnt just give out your name so easily. it meant something to you. but what was a name if you weren't alive to cherish it?

torres' features flood with relief as he turns to look at you. "thank goodness! so you can understand me!"

he earns a look of amusement from you before the doors open. you, torres, and two other patrons who spoke words you didn't understand, froze as the monsters with sceptors awaited your presence off the ship.

after being escorted off the ship with metal collars around your necks, the four of you stood in the center of what looked to be an alien roman coliseum. words were translated, but you weren't listening. torres had grabbed your wrist, telling you he had a plan.

the plan didn't leave your newfound family unscathed. unfortunately, the ancient woman with braided gray hair had bought you and the others some time to escape onto a ship torres had hijacked. kenji, the man with a samuari sword, clung to what was left of his arm as you, him, and torres made a great escape.

"you're bleeding," torres voice says behind you once he's able to get the foreign vessel on idle. you don't ask how he did it—you're too busy fastening fabrics of your clothes around the stump that used to be kenji's arm.

"i'm fine," you say, just as you look at kenji and give his shoulder a squeeze. he nods in thanks and you sit on the floor of the ship, attempting to tend to your own wounds.

"let me, ma'am."

before you could protest, torres is already kneeling in front of you, offering his jacket that was on the verge of death itself.

"i don't think you told me your name, miss," he said, eyes twinkling with wonder and anticipation. his forehead, like yours, is sprinkled with sweat. red streaks and purple clouds were starting to appear on his bare arms —evidence that the skirmish had left its mark.

slowly, you took the jacket, being careful to wrap it around your shoulders, concealing your minor injuries. you didn't need the jacket to hold your wounds together, but rather to keep you grounded while being in the sky.

"[your name]", you said, daring yourself to look at him because you refused to look out the giant windows of the ship that was taking you to only God knows where.

"well...it's nice to put a name to a pretty face," torres said, patting your shoulder gently. "im glad we're alive, [your name]."

without waiting for your response, he stood and shuffled to kenji who was either muttering in pain or praying - you couldn't tell the difference.

Your hand grips onto Ta’Kall's arm tightly as you lead him through the various hallways of the Sweet Relief. You're glad that damned collar is off you but now you're worrying about being spotted without it. No slave of Zorvath wanders without one. It's why you insist on avoiding the main hall where Zorvath or Lozar may be lurking or watching. The less eyes, the best chance you both have at getting off this wretched planet. 

Any patrons that you both come across avert their eyes at the sight of the Yautja you have following you. Word will spread, especially if someone decides to open that room and see the blood and bodies with your collar on the floor. Time is of the essence. 

You nearly slide to a stop when the hallway opens up to four different routes, peaking your head out to make sure no one was around. You feel Ta'Kall's chest against your back as he leans over to scout as well. His arm wraps protectively around your middle for just a moment before you both head straight forward. Just a little more and you'll reach the corridor that leads to the entrance. It'll have two guards but the other side and back entrances will have many more.

You stop again to check for guards before turning left. Having walked through these halls countless times you know the entrance is close. And this time, you don't have a pesky collar on your neck to stop you from getting out.

You hear the familiar sound of a door opening just ahead and you freeze. Next thing you know you were pressed against the cold walls with Ta’Kall's enormous frame covering yours. His hand covers your mouth briefly to muffle the yelp you let out as he peers down at you. You hear a series of laughter start to bounce through the hallway and the Yautja places his arm right by your head, blocking your view of the group of males and their view of your face. Your heart feels like it's in your throat and you fail to suppress your tremble from such sudden movements.

“I am sorry, little ooman. Forgive me again.” Ta’Kall rumbles just loud enough for your ears. You can see his mandibles twitch as he peers over his right at the group. He keeps his other hand on your mouth but you feel his rough thumb pet at your cheek. You hear footsteps stop and then both feel and hear Ta’Kall’s warning growl to them. The males’ cough awkwardly before you hear their footsteps grow fainter as the seconds pass by. His hand slides away from your mouth and gently holds your hip.

“You don’t have to apologize. I was just…startled.” You whisper, letting out the breath you weren’t aware you were holding.

“I do not want to cause you any discomfort, my mate.” He squeezes your hip, looking down each way of the corridor, before pulling away. Your heart flutters and then yearns to feel him against you again but you shake it away. Whatever it is between you both can be thought about and discussed on his ship. You intertwine your fingers with his again and take lead once again.

The hallway opens up to the huge entrance hall and you can see the large, opulent doors. Your hand squeezes Ta'Kall's in excitement. Freedom is so close and your legs ache to run out those doors and to feel the breeze and sun on your skin once more. You can go home. You can see your family. You can-

“Where are you going?” Lozar's rough voice snaps you back into reality. Your feet halt and you're dragged behind Ta'Kall's imposing form. Once again, that icy cold feeling enters your blood stream and you just know you're fucked. You hear footsteps approaching from behind you and you can’t help but get as close as you can to Ta’Kall. “Did you really think you could leave, terran? The second your collar came off we knew.”

Your Yautja companion lets out a growl and several clicks of his mandibles. You see his fingers flex and feel his muscles tense, ready for a fight. You turn around to face the two guards that joined. You recognize their faces but hold no recollection of their names. You just know all are more than willing to be brutal.

“Yautja, I ask that you step away from the human and submit, or this isn't going to be pretty.” Both the guards unholstered their stun batons and flicked them on. You just know Lozar did the same. You swallow thickly and hear Ta’Kall snarl behind you. You know they won't kill either of you, at least not now. Zorvath is desperate to keep you in his grasp and if he is presented with an opportunity to have something new in his collection, he'll take it.

Everyone stands still, tense and waiting for the other to strike. You barely feel Ta'Kall's leg shift before he lunges at Lozar, who nearly screams in surprise. The two facing you take swings with their stun batons but you duck underneath their arms and dash away from Lozar and Ta’Kall. You don't want to leave him but your best chance at besting these two grunts is the small poles that hold up the velvet-like ropes near the main hall. You quickly unclasp the rope and are surprised at how light your weapon of choice is.

As you lifted the pole up as if you were going to swing the bat at a baseball game, the two male aliens came running to you. You let out a shout as you swing at one of their heads. A loud, metallic clang echoes and mixes with the noises you hear from Ta'Kall and Lozar. The one you hit in the head groans and crumples to the floor. You toss the now dented pole on the ground and swoop up the fallen baton.

“Come on, human. Don't make this worse.” The one guard smirks at you, his slimy looking tongue peaks out and licks at his own lips. “Come easily and your punishment won't be half as bad.”

“Fuck off.” You yell and take a swing with the stun baton. The male alien dodges and you duck when he swings his own weapon. He cackles as he starts swinging again and again, forcing you to back up until your back hits the wall. He laughs again, his face a taunting smirk as he lifts his arm above his head.

“I'll get my turn with you this time, terran.”

You didn't think as you thrusted your baton up. You knew he was going to dodge it. But you took your chance anyway and raised your bent leg as well, kneeing him right in the crotch. He lets out a pained whine and kneels forward and you strike again. You jab the stun baton against his neck and your thumb swipes up on the power button, sending the highest voltage you can into his body. His limbs lock up and his jaw clenches as you hold the baton against his skin until he falls unconscious. 

You hear a loud crash and when you look up your heart drops. Lozar looks battered and cut to hell, but he just threw Ta’Kall through one of the decorative glass panes in the lobby. You give the male you just took down one last hard kick to his face before you run over to the two. You know that Vrelgek's skin is tough so just one stun baton would be a tickle to him, but if you could distract him it could give the Yautja the upper hand.

You dash over and whack the baton against Lozar and hold it. He lets out a low groan and whips around to face you, swinging his arm. You were quick enough to duck under the blow–his movements are slow given the wounds he now sports. He looks down at you with an almost frenzied look and that's when Ta’Kall is quick to get back up on his feet, grabbing Lozar's wrist before bringing down his two blades connected to his gauntlet. You hear the grotesque sound of flesh being cut into and when you look, the Vrelgek's arm is barely hanging on by mere threads of his muscles and veins.

Lozar roars in pain as he collapses to his knees. You're hit with all the pain and torture he bestowed upon you… all the times he laughed at your misery…when he partook after you were rented out and drugged to a buyer. You snatched up a piece of broken glass and didn't hesitate to let out your own shout of rage as you stabbed the pointed tip into one of his red eyes. He cries out in pain and collapses forward, his uninjured hand unsure of where to clasp at first. His deep red, almost purple, blood pools beneath his body.

“We must go.” Ta'Kall growls when you both hear shouting in the distance. He takes your hand, pulling you along as your stare lingers on Lozar. It wasn't until you focused back on the Yautja you felt stinging pain in your palm. The glass must have cut you.

You both barrel out the grant front doors as you hear more footsteps grow behind you both. You don't look back, trying to keep up with Ta'Kall's pace. 

“Just kill the Yautja at this point! But get me back my terran!” Zorvath's guttural voice booms behind you both. Ta'Kall snarls and stops only to scoop you up into his arms before he takes off running again. His large feet thump against the pavement and you can feel his chest expanding with each deep breath he takes. You manage to peek over his shoulder and see a bunch of Zorvath’s guards readying and aiming their blaster. Your heart jumps into your throat before Ta’Kall grunts and shifts his hold so you stay mostly covered by him.

You nearly scream when you hear plasma bolts whizzing by and hitting the ground and ships around you both. Ta'Kall lets out a low growl and his mandibles flare with a hiss, his body jerking as he shifts his arms again. He taps on his gauntlet and you hear metal shifting in front of you. A ship's external ramp quickly opens and next thing you know you're plunged into darkness when the Yautja holding you goes inside. He slams his fist against the wall and you can hear the ramp close back up.

Ta’Kall doesn’t let you down until you're both in the cockpit. He places you down in a chair much too large for you before taking his place in the pilot's chair. He growls again when plasma bolts ding against the outside the ship. You buckle up with shaking hands as his fingers dart across the screen and various buttons. The engines roar to life and your stomach lurches when the ship bolts off the ground. Ta’Kall presses another button as he makes the ship ascend into the air, breaking through the planet's atmosphere. 

“We're jumping systems twice.” Ta’Kall warns. You don't even get a chance to brace yourself when he presses the button. Having only traveled through space twice–when you were abducted and then when you were sold–so you weren't used to the feeling of hyperjumping. You feel sick as his ship lurches and stops, and then lurches again when he presses the button once more. You feel like you're going to vomit once the ship settles and cruises at a fast pace.

Your body settles rather quickly and when you're able to focus your vision, you gasp.

“Can I stand up?” Your fingers already fumble with your buckle before Ta’Kall grunts a soft yes. You stand up from your chair, legs a little unsteady, as you get as close as you can to the window. 

You are in awe at the sight of pitch blackness with all sorts of stars and colored solar flairs in the distance. You can see in the vast distance a few planets. When you were taken, you didn't get to see the view. You were thrown in a dank cage in the trafficker's cargo hold. And when you were sold, you were thrown in yet another cage in near darkness. Your breath is basically stolen at the emptiness in front. You can't help but let out a laugh mixed with a cry as you think of all that you missed out on thanks to the aliens who abducted you and that bastard Zorvath. 

—

Ta’Kall watches you stand up and you look truly beautiful. Yet, he can see tears start to form in your eyes and his heart clenches when you let out that sob-like noise. He unbuckles himself from his chair, wincing a little when he stands.

He rumbles your name in concern. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah…” You sound breathless when you respond. “I just… never got to see space before. When I was taken I was kept in cargo holds, but this… this is beautiful.”

“There are many great wonders. Some of the jungles across the stars are quite lush. I can show you them in the future.” He sees you tense a little before you turn around.

“I–oh my god, Ta’Kall.” Your eyes are wide and your brows are scrunched with concern as you rush up close to him. He follows your gaze down and can see his bright green blood leaking from a graze, likely from a plasma bolt. Your hands reach out but he growls and waves you off as it isn’t a serious wound. “Don’t you growl at me. You're hurt!”

He hadn't meant to growl, but it was in his nature to not come off weak, especially not in front of his mate. Still, the way you're showing concern for him and you aren't scared to stand up to him has him feeling warm and content. He can't help the low, pleased purr that comes from him.

“It is a graze. I will be fine, little ooman.” 

“That’s not just a graze.”

“It is okay.” He purrs again and gingerly takes your wrist. He turns your hand over and gently pulls your fingers away from your palm. He sees a shallow cut in your flesh and sees your red blood around it. He doesn’t like the sight of you hurt. 

“I must have cut it when I grabbed the glass. I didn't think about anything at that moment. I just wanted to hurt Lozar for all he did.” You mumble.

Ta’Kall coos. “I will show you where my medicomp is. Come.” 

He gently pulls you a long into his space craft until he gets to where many of his weapons and gear are stored. He lets go of your wrist and squats down, tapping the button on the wall twice before it opens. 

“This is the one I keep on the ship. Usually I keep a smaller one on me when I hunt.” He explains to you as he pulls out the kit and sets it on his work bench. You stand by his side and he nearly purrs again when you watch him with interest. “If you ever need it, you are welcome to it.”

“Okay.”

He rumbles affectionately as he pulls out the injector. He turns his body towards you and shows you how to inject it near a wound. You watch in rapt fascination as his minor wound heals up and is no longer leaking blood. He takes one of the clean cloth wipes and haphazardly wipes it away before meeting your gaze. 

“Will I have to do that to my hand?” 

“The wound isn't that deep. It should heal by tomorrow with the right treatment.” He takes your hand again to look over the cut. He reaches into his medicomp and grabs a little tube of ointment, trying as gently as possible to get the healing ointment over your cut. When you wince he mutters several apologies to you, his being hating the fact hurt you even if it was necessary. He is quick in getting the wound covered and lightly wrapped with thin bandages. “Ointment increases the healing speed. We will check tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow, okay.” You nod and clench your hand into a fist before relaxing it. Ta’Kall sees a surprised look on your face, likely from the lack of pain. 

“I will show you around my ship.” He offers his hand for you to take this time if you choose to. He watches how you look at his face and then his hand before you place your hand in his. His mandibles twitch up and he is pleased. 

He guides you through his vessel. It isn’t large, but spacious enough for two beings to exist inside. He shows you to access his gear and weapons first in case you ever need to defend yourself. He almost growls at the thought of him unable to protect you, but he keeps it to himself. He takes you to his food stores and preens at how impressed you were with his trophies. 

And when he takes you to his nest? He has to focus on not purring when you admire the fur from different beasts he has hunted. But he can see the look of apprehension on your face and it worries him. 

“Are we… sharing this?” You ask softly, turning your head up to look at him.

“We can. If you wish to sleep alone, I will respect that. I will need to rearrange some things first but…”

“Ta'Kall.” His name from your lips stops him from speaking further. 

He looks at you–he really looks at you now that you've both gotten away from that planet. You're still in those clothes that you were likely made to wear and he realizes he has nothing for you…Even thinking back to what food he has on his ship, would any of it be good to you? What foods can a human eat and what should they avoid? He has no clue. He has no idea what to say and waits for you to continue.

“I am thankful you saved me and got me away from that place, but, I am not sure if I can just jump into being mates with someone after all that?” Your hands start to pick at the fabric of the bottoms you wore. “Besides, dating is a thing in human customs and then commitment-”

“Dating?” Ta'Kall tilts his head to the side. The word translates to something akin to courting. “Is that the same as courting?”

“Yes, in a way.”

Ta'Kall should smack himself. Of course, his mate should be properly courted first. He's been enamored and then put in a situation where your life was in danger he hasn't had time to think. He will hunt a proper kill and present you a trophy to start. But first, he needs to care for your immediate needs. “I wish to court you…but not now. You take your time, I am content to wait. We will head to a market tomorrow to get you whatever you need.” 

You raise your hand and press the tips of your fingers against your lips. His golden eyes focus on how your mouth trembles as if you were about to cry. Did he do something wrong?

“I am just touched.” You manage to get out with a smile. “The first time in four years someone didn't push me to do something. Thank you.”

“You don't need to thank me, little ooman.” He is half-tempted to reach out and cup your face, but he refrains. He takes a few seconds to think over his next words and how they may translate over  to you. “I may be…overbearing at times but you can trust me.”

You nod and don't say anything further as you look over everything in the small room. Ta'Kall watches you for a few moments before excusing himself, returning to his pilot's chair. He lets out a deep breath and starts to search for a nearby planet. He wants to help you obtain new clothes as soon as possible and he hopes there are some places that carry items that are both suitable and to your liking.

He keeps his ship cloaked for now and makes sure it still remains untraceable. After jumping solar systems twice, he isn’t too worried about you both being followed. Even if that Quk’ax had his forces looking for you, he'd defend you until his last breath. His mandibles twitch at the thought before he focuses on his task. There is a planet at the farther reach of this solar system that appears to be hospitable and has several large markets in a few of the regions. It'll take only about an hour or so at full speed.

Slowly he stands up and surveys the area. A few blankets and a pillow will be just fine for him to sleep here when the time comes. He's slept in several trees before, none were comfortable but he was used to being uncomfortable. Ta’Kall rumbles softly as he traverses through his ship to tell you his plan. 

When he arrives back to the nest, he is surprised to see you propping up the pillows down the middle. He cocks his head to the side as you jump a little and look up at him.

“Oh, hey.” You chuckle nervously but smile. “I figured this would be a better solution.”

Ta’Kall tries and fails to suppress his pleased purr at the arrangement. He shakes his head a little to try and not think too hard about it. “This will work.” He pauses for a moment before continuing, “I found a planet we will land on. Hopefully they have items you can use and foods you can eat.”

“Oh, you don’t have to-”

“You shouldn't have to wear that same outfit. And you need coverings for your feet  Let me get you some clothes that aren't tied to that place.”

You look down at your hands and take a deep breath before looking back into his eyes. “I don't want to feel indebted.”

“You won't. Trust me. Besides, you can’t travel around barefooted, can you?” He pointed to your feet and he saw you slowly nod.

“Alright. Just nothing too expensive. I was… I was always dressed up in expensive clothes and I want to get away from that.”

“Whatever you want, it's yours.”

There is a pregnant pause between you both as you stand up and get out of the nest. You look around the small room before clearing your throat. 

“How long do we have until we get to this place?”

“An hour. Maybe a little longer… Do you want to learn how to fly?”

—

So, you've come to three conclusions. 

One, flying a space ship is pretty fucking cool.

Two, Ta’Kall is good company and while you've just barely met the Yautja, you've already found yourself trusting him.

And three, you couldn't take his ship and fly away without him. It was a brief thought and it was nothing more than that: an idea. You couldn't betray Ta’Kall like that even if it meant getting home. You'll just have to tell him you want to go home at the right time. You don't know how he will take you wanting to return to Earth, so you plan to just play it by ear… maybe drop some hints here or there.

Ta’Kall took over the controls when it came to landing but still instructed you on what to do and how to implement the self-landing function. The scenery is lush and vibrant, surrounding a large grey and neon city. You watch as Ta’Kall parks you both outside the city in a forest clearing, feeling little to no jostling.

“Why did you park here and not in the city? I'm sure they have spots.” You ask as you get out of the passenger chair.

“I can keep it cloaked without issue. Many people attempt to steal or scavenge from Yautja since our tech is advanced and not sold elsewhere.” He explains and you nod. He guides you out of his ship and you're almost worried about how friendly the biological system would be on your human anatomy–mainly your lungs–but you remember the shot the smugglers gave you, allowing your body to adapt to other planets.  

The air felt heavy with moisture, yet it felt refreshing at the same time. You step on to the purplish grass and are reminded you're still barefoot from the ridiculous outfit Zorvath had you dressed in. You take a moment to look at the vibrant plant life. Many of the leaves on trees and bushes were a mix of greens and purples while the bark and branches were deep reds. 

“Stick close to me.” Ta’Kall rumbles as he leads you through the foliage. You can spot little salamander-like creatures scurrying over fallen logs and other creatures you have no way of describing climbing around trees to get out of sight. You look up and spot several animals that look like birds, all with various colors adorning their feathers and what seem to be four eyes. You stumble a little over a branch and Ta'Kall whips around to look at you.

“Sorry, distracted.” You sheepishly grin and stick to watching him and the path you are taking. 

It didn't take as long as you expected to reach the city portion and you were amazed at how seamless the transition from forestry to the city. There was no boundary or wall between the two. It's almost as if the city is leaving room to expand. The ground transitions from grass and dirt to smooth, dark stone. Trees and foliage are no longer the primary sight but rather dark grey buildings adorned with neon signage.

As you both venture deeper into the city, you start to see more and more aliens of various species walking the streets or driving hover cars. You didn't see anyone like Ta'Kall or yourself for that matter, but you weren't expecting to either. Both of you got stares but for the most part people minded their own business and continued on with their days. You can see the way Ta'Kall's muscles are taut like they were at the Sweet Relief, how his hands are clenched into tight fists.

“Are you okay?” You take a bigger step forward so you can hold on to his arm.

“Lots of bodies around. I prefer…the trees and being on the hunt.” He mutters as he looks at the signage, leading you both to what seems to be the shopping district. His pace is noticeably slower now that you're holding his arm. His muscles slowly relax but his posture is still stiff as you both walk side by side. 

“On the hunt?”

“Yautja love to hunt.” He starts to explain. You can tell he is starting to preen a little as he explains a part of his culture to you. “All clans are different, but our hunts are mostly to show worth and entertainment. We collect trophies from our kills and gain ranks. Then we use the rest for food, trade, or selling.”

“So trophies are the primary goal and help with status?” 

“Yes. The bigger and more challenging, the more likely a hunter will get respect in their clan. They show off our prowess, our strength, and show our mate we are capable of protecting and providing.” You can see the way he glances towards you in the corner of his eye before focusing straight ahead. 

The thought of Ta’Kall hunting something big for you was both a pleasing and terrifying thought that you shoved away. “So hunting is a big part of your life then.”

“It is.” Ta'Kall rumbles and brings you to a stop at a crosswalk. You scoot closer to his large frame as others crowd around you both, waiting for the lights to swap to green. “Many clans send their young blooded off to hunt their first big kills to become full fledged hunters. Some target Xenomorphs, some want huge targets.”

The crosswalk dings and shifts color and all the bodies around you start moving. Ta’Kall guides you along with him through the crowd. Everyone seemed to avoid him, but a few times a shoulder bumped into yours. You didn't realize you were holding your breath until you both made it to the other side and the crowd of people went off in their own ways.

Soon you come to a blocked road and you see aliens wandering all over to different booths that line the streets. It reminded you of the morning market back where you lived, and how you'd meet with your parents and friends for a day of browsing and shopping. A wave of homesickness hit you instantly. And still, when you let Ta'Kall lead you down the blocked off street, you don't see anything related to humans or Earth.

“Ta'Kall?” You call out his name and tug his arm a little to get him to stop. He turns and looks down at you with a tilt of his head.

“Yes? What is it, little ooman?”

“Do you think there is a human embassy here?” You hope they could get the others at the Sweet Relief free and then get you home.

“Nothing popped up when I looked into this planet and city. This deep into space there aren't many except on the planet Alpha Sontarian V, but this system is large. From here, it would take a day and a half of travel.” He must have seen the look of sadness that came across your face because you can see his rough facial features shift into an expression of concern. Slowly he kneels down before you so he is more at level with you. He did it before, but the action still makes your heart flutter despite the ache you feel.

No one at the Sweet Relief taller than you ever tried to be at your level.

“What's wrong?” 

“I…” You swallow thickly as you hesitate to speak. Do you tell him or say nothing is wrong? He's been nothing but respectful to you thus far, would he turn on you for simply wanting to head home? “I worry… If I tell you, you won't be happy with me.”

“Never. Never unhappy with you.” He rumbles and takes your hands in his much larger ones. You glance around and it seems like no one is paying attention to either of you. It reminds you of your visits to bigger cities.

“Even though we hardly know each other?”

“Even then.”

You take another moment to gather some courage and to trust his words. He hasn't given you a reason to not trust him yet, after all. “Ta’Kall…I want to return to free the others at the Sweet Relief and return to Earth. My life there…my friends and family…my cat…I was taken–stolen–from all that I knew. And while being with you so far has been nice and you freed me, I miss everything back home and-”

Ta’Kall's voice calling your name stops your rambling. “You wish to go home. I don't fault you in that. We can find an Embassy and you can make the report and then can return to Earth.”

“Just… Just like that? You don't…You're not going to ask for anything?” 

“I do ask for one thing.”

Your breath catches and you slowly nod for him to continue. 

“Let me be the one to take you home, little ooman.”

“You'll do it?”

“Yes. I know you aren't ready to be mates. And even if you reject me, I want you safe and happy. Forgive me for being selfish in wanting to spend time with you before you are home. I still want you, little ooman, but I am content in waiting.”

“Oh, Ta’Kall.” You smile and don't stop yourself from hugging him. You feel him hesitate for a moment before his arms are around you. “Thank you.”

“You don't have to thank me.” He repeats those words to you yet again today before he pulls away. His mandibles twitch as they stay tense over his mouth, his eyes searching your face before he speaks. “Come, let's get you necessities for our travels.”

Ta’Kall stands back up and takes your hand in his. You're surprised at his gentleness and the way he so easily gave in to your request to go home. Yet you've seen how vicious and lethal he can be in battle. Despite the longing to go home, you're fascinated by the different sides of Ta’Kall and as you watch him try to decide which booth to go to first, you find yourself wanting to get to know him more too. 

It doesn't take long for you both to be holding a few bags of things Ta’Kall bought you with his credits. At first you just wanted a few basic things, but he insisted you pick out things you truly wanted. You found quite a few clothes that mostly fit you that were cute but practical along with necessary toiletries. 

Ta’Kall is gruff and blunt when talking with the various stall owners and it makes you chuckle to yourself. Many vendors are off put by him until he pays, and while most of the other perusers seem to just spare a glance at you both, you were finally able to spot the people that stared. Some looked apprehensive, some looked like they wanted to challenge him. And some seemed to eye you in a way you weren't comfortable with. But you pushed that aside.

You both were coming to the end of the blocked road and you could smell all the food in the air coming from this side of the large street. Your mouth watered and your face heated up greatly when your stomach grumbles, reminding you that you haven’t eaten since this morning's scraps. You can see the amusement on Ta'Kall's face before he gestures for you to pick a stall, handing you a chip with some credits on it.

You aren't too familiar with what's being sold, but you head to the stall with an Edrul selling dishes from her home planet. Your mind wanders back to the twins–Esteel and Enox–and you recall them telling you about their favorite foods growing up. Perhaps you'll try one of those if they are available.

The Edrul behind the counter gave you a welcoming smile, her light green markings, pulled back hair, and eyes stood out vividly against her dark grey skin. Ta’Kall stood back as you tried to describe what Esteel once told you.

“Ah, you want some plaxyeote then. Good choice.” She grins and immediately gets to work. Her hands work fast behind her appliances, steam flows out and fills the immediate air with a delicious scent. You turn to look at Ta’Kall but see he is no longer behind you but at a different food stall that seems to be selling various kinds of cooked meat. 

It takes the Edrul approximately six minutes before she hands you a plate with a sweet looking fried snack, drizzled in what looks like a thinner fruit jam. Thankfully, eating utensils across the stars seem to have a universal appearance so you grab a fork.

“Thank you for trying out my food.” The Edrul waves you off as you join Ta’Kall, who's holding a plate with a lot of meat on it. Thankfully there are a few standing tables open for you both to eat quickly.

“Take some meat too. That looks too sweet for a meal.” Ta’Kall chuckles a little as he sets his plate down. You can see him eyeing his plate before he looks at you. 

“Did you get all that for me too?” 

“Yes, for the most part.” He pokes at whatever it is on his plate with one of his claws.

“I don't think it's going to bite, Ta'Kall.” You giggle at the huff and unamused look he gives you.

“I am used to cooking my own meat with herbs from my home. I don't come into places like this very often.” He admits to you in a voice that sounded almost vulnerable. “It has been a long time since I set foot in a place like this.”

You're silent as you start to eat a few bites. It's hard to discern the flavors and compare them to something you know, but it is sweet like fresh fruits and pastries. Yet, there is a hint of savory flavors hidden within the fried portion. It's not a mix of flavors you're used to given the scraps Zorvath and his guards fed you, but you don't hate it at all. 

“Can you…tell me about where you are from, Ta’Kall?”

“About my clan or the planet?”

“How about your clan?”

“Eat some meat and I will tell you.” He grumbles as he pushes his plate towards you. You laugh softly and do what he says, taking a piece of meat and popping it into your mouth. It tasted like a strange mix of chicken and pork, but it was juicy and seasoned in a way you found delicious. 

Ta’Kall starts to speak, explaining his childhood and his life with his clan. You listened with rapt attention and you can see how happy he is to tell you about his home. It makes you happy to see him willingly share information about his people and life back on Yautja Prime. He told you stories of his youth, the dynamic of his clan with the dealings with other clans, told you what he viewed as juicy gossip between others in his clan, and the hierarchy of elders and hunters. 

You eat your fill and slowly push the meat plate back towards him. “What about your family, Ta’Kall?”

He takes a moment to think, his mandibles shift before he speaks. “My mother and father mated mostly to have strong pups, but they shared a mutual respect for one another. They had two pups; my older sister Ca'ytea and myself. We trained alongside one another for many moons.”

“Were you two close?”

“Yes. Out of everyone in my clan, I trust her the most. She is strong and capable of taking down any prey.” He seems almost proud to boast about his sister and it makes you smile. “What about you, little ooman? You said you had a cat.”

You smile at the way his mandibles twitch and how his head tilts to the side after his question. “Well… I did–or do–have a cat. I hope my parents are taking care of him right now. He's a talkative little, orange thing.”

“And what is his name?”

“Arson.”

The way Ta’Kall blinks at you has you laughing louder than you intended. 

“Arson Fireman, but I just call him Rusty. He was rescued from a pretty bad house fire when he was a kitten before I adopted him and I thought I was funny naming him that like he was the one to cause the fire. He would be about seven years old now…” Your voice trails off for a moment and you blink away the sadness. You decide to tell him about your family. “Anyways, besides Rusty, I am pretty close with my parents. It was just me for them, they couldn't have anymore kids so they made sure I knew I was loved. We were always traveling, even if we didn't have the money. My favorite places to go to were the lakes or the beach.”

“And why is that?” Ta’Kall leans forward against the table and like you did with him, he gives you his undivided attention.

“I'm not exactly sure, but feeling the wind against my skin, seeing the untouched lands, and just feeling…free in those spots had me feeling at peace. I didn't always do the same things. I waded and swam, sat in the shade to read, or walked around the trails, but I always felt calm and free.”

“Hmm…and I am the same on my hunts. Free and at peace when I am in jungles or deserts.” He finishes off the last of the meat in just a few bites. “If you want on our way to Earth…I could take you to a few places I have been to that have lakes and beaches. I will need to hunt while we travel after all.”

You smile. “I would love that, Ta’Kall.”

He stares at you for a few moments. His mandibles shift closer to his mouth and he looks down and away from your gaze as if he was bashful. He steps away from the table and reaches down to pick up the shopping bags. “Come, let's get back to the ship. It'll take a day and a half of travel to get to the closest embassy.”

“Alright, lead the way.” You gather up the trash and throw it away before wrapping your arm around one of his again. Your chest feels lighter from getting to know Ta’Kall a little more and you find yourself excited to spend a little more time with him.

Ta’Kall sits stiffly in the room he was led to. The bed was plush, the decorations were almost tacky, and the room stunk of cleaners. His mandibles twitch and he wishes he brought in his mask with him, but at least he has his cloaking device. 

He’s not sure what went through his mind when he paid that ugly Quk’ax for you, and he isn't sure if he regrets it, but his baser instincts wanted you. He knew he wouldn't get you alone or away if that Quk’ax was around. He didn't care about the money. He just wanted to speak to you.

Ta’Kall was about to stand up and leave the room to find you when a soft knock echoed off the door. He freezes, ready to strike, as the door slowly opens. His muscles relax at the sight of you peeking your head into the room before stepping inside. Heat immediately floods Ta'Kall's body at the sight of you. You look so soft. He finds himself itching to touch you, to lick at your skin.

When he pictured his mate in the past, nothing ever came to mind. He didn't have an ideal image thought up, didn't have preferences, nothing. He just wanted his mate to love him and he would spoil and spend his time taking care of them. Yet as his gaze rakes over your form, it's clear to him that you are his. You are soft opposed to his roughness. You are collared yet he saw the defiance in your eyes when Zorvath was near. You are his.

You look so hesitant as you approach him and it makes Ta’Kall's stomach twist unpleasantly.  He wants to see you smile at him, not look at him with fear. You're standing right before him and he lifts his hand, raising his palm to the ceiling.

“Ooman... I won't harm you.” He growls as soft as a Yautja can. He realizes the circumstances and understands how it may look to have given that Quk’ax money. “I…” His mandibles twitch and he huffs and looks down at the floor, unable to think of anything else to say at this moment. 

“Do you have a name, big guy?” You murmur to him and you slowly–so, so slowly–place your hand in his. He watches you nudge his knees apart and a purr rumbles in his chest when you take your place between them. He finds it cute how you blink and look down at his chest for just a fleeting moment.

“Ta'Kall.”

“Ta'Kall.” You speak his name slowly, as if you were tasting it on your tongue. Something primal in him further awakens. He watches your eyes gaze over his face and you stare at his mandibles and mouth. You tilt your head and raise your hand, your fingertips touching the sensitive appendages. Ta’Kall groans in pleasure and you move your hand away, but he is quick to grab your wrist.

“Your touch… soft.” He purrs and guides your hand back to touch his mandibles. “What should I call you?”

“I have many nicknames. Most here call me ‘pet.’”

He snarls. He doesn't want you degraded or to be lesser. You are his mate, making you his equal. But he did rent you. He shakes his head at the thought and at what you said. “Your name.”

Your eyes widen in surprise before you murmur your name. He repeats it followed by an affectionate click at the end. He slowly lets go of your wrist and instead he cups your head with both of his hands.

You're small compared to him. Small and soft. Two qualities not seen in a Yautja but he doesn't care, because these are two qualities of you. He shifts his thumbs so he can pet your cheeks. He's surprised at how gentle he is, but he doesn't want to scare you off–not when he just found you. He still purrs as he looks and pets you.

Ta’Kall feels his heart stop as he watches you move your free hand up to cover one of his. You nuzzle into his palm before lowering your face down, your nose brushing against his wrist. His gaze darkens when you further turn your face and your lips ghost over his skin, all while your eyes slowly look in his direction.

A low growl leaves his throat. He can’t help but slide his arms around your body with one hand cradling the back of your head. He brings his head down to the slope of your neck and drags his mandibles along your skin, eliciting a soft whimper and shiver from you. His face nudges the collar and he hopes he can be the one to free you from it.

“So soft, little ooman.” He can't help but part his mandibles and teeth so his tongue can taste your flesh.

In a flash, Ta'Kall moves you onto the bed with him hovering over you. He presses himself against you with a growl and braces his weight on his forearms. He feels you squirm against him and shiver again. His little ooman, so reactive. 

He presses his clawed hand against your belly and slowly it travels upwards. Everything about you is so soft he can't help but nuzzle the side of your head in pure affection. Your sweet scent is stronger, your body so much more warmer. His hand is about to touch your chest when he hears a soft cry. Ta’Kall's entire body freezes at the sound and any flames he feels inside himself are put out by what feels like ice cold water.

He slowly pushes himself up to look down at you and you're crying. It feels like a knife has been thrusted into his chest and is slowly being turned with each tear that spills from your glossy eyes. This…This is not how he wanted things to go. But he looks back at the collar on your neck and remembers he did essentially buy you for a few hours. 

He snarls, more at himself for his foolishness, but he sees how you flinch and look away.

“I'm sorry. Keep going.” You all but whisper and that knife deepens in his chest.

He rumbles your name as softly as he can to get you to look back at him. “I'm not upset with you. I'm upset with myself. I'm…” He swallows hard and his mandibles twitch. “I am sorry. I didn't mean to push…”

He's at a loss for words. Seeing you so upset because he could not control himself has him sitting up and moving off you. He sits away from you to give you space as he looks at his own hands. Just barely meeting his mate and Ta’Kall knows he messed it up.

“This was not how I wanted… I just wanted to speak with you alone. My instincts got the better of me, little ooman.” Ta’Kall finally admits and looks back in your direction.

“W-What?” You look confused as you sit up, your hand clutched tight against your chest. “You don't want to-”

“I do.” He is quick to reply, his mandibles shifting now from nervousness. “But not like this. Not with you wearing that collar, not under the pretense I paid for you, not here in this place. That is not what you deserve and I am a foolish Yautja.”

“Oh…” That reply was soft and he watched you stand up and face away from him. He nearly misses the way your shoulders shake and faintly he hears you sniffle. He rumbles and gets off the bed, only to kneel behind you. He wants to grab you and turn you around so you can see him in this submissive position. But he refrains from touching you without your permission. He will have to earn that back.

Ta’Kall rumbles your name again and slowly you turn around. Your beautiful eyes widen once again at him as he kneels before you. He keeps his hands clenched into fists on his thighs as he tries to formulate another apology. 

“Ta’Kall?” You whisper his name and he feels that warmth flood through him again at the sound.

“Don’t…be scared of me.” He bows his head and keeps his gaze on the ground. “I don't want you to fear me. You are-”

Ta'Kall doesn't get to finish his sentence when he feels your body slam against his. Your arms wrap around his neck and shoulders while you press your cheek into the slope of his neck. He tenses, unsure what to do as your fists rest on his upper back.

“It's okay. You can hold me.”

Those soft words bring joy to his being and he wraps his arms around your frame, even if he feels like he still needs to make it up to you. He holds you tight and makes no further move. He lets you have control this time. He is at your mercy and he welcomes it. 

“Why did you want to talk with me, Ta’Kall?”

His hold tightens on you almost indiscernibly when you ask that. He takes a few seconds to formulate his words. He doesn’t want to frighten you off again yet he cannot hide this truth from you. “There is… a pull that brought me here. It is you.”

“A pull?”

“Yautja, and other species, have what are called mates.” He starts to explain. “You are my mate, little ooman.”

“M-Mate…” You start to pull away and it nearly pains him, but he makes no attempt to stop you. “What do you mean mate?”

“It is a feeling. I felt it pulling me here. When I picked up your scent and when I saw you I just knew. You and I are fated”

“But… I am a human.”

“Does not matter.” He states matter-of-factly. While he hasn’t seen mates between a Yautja and someone of a different species, he has seen it between others who are different from one another. He sees the disbelief in your eyes and he can’t help but tilt his head. “Do humans not have mates?”

“I’ve heard of stories but I didn’t think it would happen to me. Not here.” Your eyes turn downcast and you look away from him. 

“I will free you.” Ta’Kall tries to convey his conviction to you. Your still glossy eyes as you meet his gaze. You look as if you're searching for something and he murmurs your name. “I will free you.”

Your lips turn down in a frown again and you’re hugging him again, pressing your face into his shoulder. Your trembling returns and concern fills Ta’Kall. He wishes for just a moment he could read your thoughts, wishes he knew you better, so he could comfort you properly. All he can do is hold you. Slowly, he caresses his large hand up and down your back like his mother did when he was a youngling.

“I’m sorry.” You whimper against his flesh.

Sorry?

Suddenly, you push yourself away from him and tears are rolling down your face, your breath is ragged. You toss something on the ground before you hastily wipe your face and smear some of your makeup. Ta’Kall eyes the syringe on the floor before his eyes snap back on your form.

“Zorvath wanted me to inject you with that and make you a part of his collection, but I can’t go through with it. I can’t do that to someone else.” You hiccup and he watches you take steps backwards to the door.

“Wait-”

“I’m sorry.” You repeat before you’re turning around and dashing out of the room.

Ta’Kall’s eyes land on the offending syringe and he can’t help the low growl in his throat. The thought of Zorvath putting you up to harming him makes him want to roar with anger.

He was angry, of course. But he felt pride at the fact his little mate could have easily brought him down yet chose the honorable thing. You are strong, my little ooman.

----

Everything inside you feels like a fucking mess.

You enter the main room once more and get to the bar. Thankfully you were allowed one drink a night, not that Enox is above slipping you drinks. Everything that Yautja, Ta’Kall, said scrambled with your head and heart. The concept of soulmates was a thing on Earth and at one point you believed it, especially with how in love your parents were. But you were now a pet  and you didn’t have the luxury to fantasize about your one true love. You could only focus on one day at a time and an escape.

But his explanation and gentle touches sparked something in you that you couldn’t deny. The woodsy and cinnamon-like smell invaded your senses when you entered the room he was in and made you light-headed. The way his hands touched you and how his forked tongue felt against your skin sent heat rushing through your body that you haven’t felt on your own in a long time. And when he pulled away when you cried about the thought of injecting him under Zorvath’s command thinking he hurt you? It makes your heart feel lighter to be cared for in such a way.

It was all sudden and all too much. You were sure he hates your guts after you showed him the needle, mate or not. But you don't regret it. You had to show him he is under threat here. You reach the bar and lean against the marble-like counter with a deep sigh. 

Maybe he is just fascinated with humans and is confused … 

“You look like you need a drink.” Enox's smooth voice snaps you out of your thoughts. You glance up to Esteel's twin brother and let out a shaky sigh. Much like yourself, Enox was a rarity. His colorings differ from a typical Edrul; light blue skin while his hair, eyes, and identical  markings to sister are dark blue, something uncommon amongst his kind. His eyes scan over your face before he dips down under the bar. When he stands up he slides over a small makeup kit that is kept for cases of smeared lipstick or a messy face.

“Is it that bad?” You grumble and pop open the box, fishing around for a mirror.

“No, but it looks like you've been crying.” He shrugs his shoulders as he finishes cleaning a glass. Immediately, he gets to work fixing you something to drink as you try your best to hide the subtle tear tracks and smeared makeup on your cheeks. “There is talk of a Yautja here. Heard one of the clients complained he got to take you to a room.”

“I'm sure everyone knows by now.”

“Do I need to fight it? Because I don't care if he is an eight-foot hunk of muscle. If he hurt you-”

“No, Enox.” You sigh and look down at your hands. You remember how large his hand looked grabbing your wrist and how gentle he was when he touched you. It makes another shiver run down your spine. “Despite him renting me, he was… a gentleman.”

“Really?” Enox looks surprised. He glances at the patrons at the bar to make sure they don't need anything before he focuses his attention on you. He sets your drink down on a coaster before leaning against the bar with a smile. “Do tell.”

“Nothing happened. He just wanted to…talk.”

“To talk?”

“Well… He did pin me down.” You saw Enox's eyes widen before he glowered. “But he stopped when I was uncomfortable. He didn't even want to touch me again until I said it was okay.”

The male Edrul stares at you for what feels like a minute before he props his head up with his hand. “How big was his dick?”

You sputter and try to keep your voice down. “Enox!”

“What? I've only seen one Yautja before Esteel and I were sold to Zorvath. I've always been curious about them.”

“We didn't even get that far I-” You suck in a deep breath and lower your voice. “Zorvath wants the Yautja for his collection and wanted me to inject him with whatever that yellow stuff is. But…I couldn't.”

“You'll get punished for that.”

“I know.”

“But I'm glad you didn't do it.”

“Me too.” You sigh softly and finally take a sip of the drink he made you. Your heart clenches at the familiar taste. You remember telling Enox about drinks back on Earth because he wanted to make something familiar for you, and you're deeply grateful for it. “Ta'Kall is his name. He was… sweet, oddly enough.”

“Oh?” Enox raised a brow and leaned in with a smile. “And why's that?”

“He says he felt a pull to me and he wants to free me. He said we are mates.”

“Do you think he can do it?”

“I don't know. How many bastards here fell in love with one of us with promises to free us, only for it to never pan out.” You let out a huff and your own doubts smashes the little bit of hope that Yautja gave you. 

“But he is a Yautja. I don't know how much you know of them but they are very skilled hunters.” Enox comments, his eyes drifting back to customers before looking at you. “And they are fiercely loyal to their people, clans, and to those they hold close. If he sees you as his mate and wants that tacky collar off of you…there is a shot.”

“But he'll free me and you and Esteel and all the other unfortunate people here are still kept as slaves.”

“You know Esteel and I wouldn't blame you for getting free.” He places a hand over yours and gives it a soft squeeze. “If this Ta’Kall is being serious about freeing you, you can get help for the rest of us out of here. There is always hope.”

“Always the optimist.”

“Someone has to be.” Enox grins before he hears his name being called down the bar. “I got to go, but keep your head up, okay?”

“Okay.” You murmur and watch him glide to the other side of the bar with a flirtatious smile on his lips. You sigh softly and take a big gulp of your drink. You know Zorvath or Lozar have had to spot you by now. You tap your fingers on the glass, wet from condensation, as you mull over everything Ta’Kall and Enox said. You could use the Yautja to your advantage. You could get your freedom and then hopefully get everyone else out of here.

But would Ta'Kall agree to that? You may be his mate, but that doesn't mean anything if you'll be back in a submissive position. You could try to run from him when the timing is right…but how? You've never learned how to pilot a space craft or navigate the stars and solar systems. You could hopefully find an Embassy but you'd still need to get there somehow without him catching you.

But wouldn't him chasing you be oh so fun?

You stifle a groan and take another big gulp from your glass. You glance around at the opulent room and all the bodies filling it. You catch a few stares; some leer at you while others have undeniable lust. And of course, your mind can't help but think back to the Yautja and his stare. While lust was there, his golden eyes held a softness in them as they looked you over. It shook you to your core. No one in your time at The Sweet Relief has ever looked at you like that.

You hear a growl of your name behind you and you freeze. Slowly you turn around on the bar stool and stand up, facing Zorvath. He looks pissed but you don't hesitate to meet his angry gaze with a glare. 

“The room is empty, pet.” He hisses, his eyes narrowing.

“He caught on and I couldn't stick him.” You try to lie as smoothly as you can.

His large hand roughly grips your jaw and he brings you close to his face. You nearly gag at the mixture of his powerful cologne and alcohol on his breath. “I doubt that. I would say you are lucky that I need you to be looking your best for the investors, but what they have in store for you…”

You swallow thickly at the sting of fear. Your hands feel cold as you ball them up tight and your nausea seems to double at the thought of being handed off to the strangers that want you. You find it harder and harder to keep your head up as his angry face turns into a prideful smirk.

“We'll see what they do when I give them a remote to your collar and a vial of elysian. Though I made sure to recommend they hold off on that. I want you to feel some terror and pain.” He lets go of your face with a push before he grabs your arm in a rough hold. He drags you through the crowd and doesn't give you a chance to right your footing, making you stumble and nearly fall several times. He takes you to the second floor and that feeling for dread sinks lower into your belly.

Zorvath stops you before a table with three alien men, their gazes all darken when they see you. Instead of holding your arm, Zorvath opts to grip the back of your neck as if to try and scruff you. The three investors glance to one another before looking past you to the Quk’ax.

You don't register anything being said. All you can hear in your ears is your blood rushing through your body. Your limbs feel colder and you're restless. You want to run away from this. You shouldn't have left Ta’Kall, shouldn't have showed him the syringe. You find yourself stuck, frozen instead of fight or flight. You barely realize Zorvath has let you go to shake the hands of the three aliens before they each stand up.

You jerk back when Zorvath attaches a leash to your collar and he hands you off to the three.

“I warn you my pet likes to fight.” Zorvath grins wickedly as he walks away. You don't even get a chance to try and do anything before hands roughly grab your arms and lift you. The less muscular of three holds the leash tight as they start moving to the stairs and then to the private rooms. Your body goes into fight mode instead and you're struggling in their grasp. You kick your legs out and squirm, thrashing your body as best you can. Guests watched with amusement while the others like you watched with pity and sympathy. 

No one makes an attempt to help you.

The one holding your leash slams open one of the private rooms. You are thrown to the floor with a hard ‘thud’ that knocks the wind out of you. You feel sharp pain spark and shoot through your body from where your hip and elbow hit the hard, stone flooring and tears spill from your eyes instantly. You cough and try to get on your hands and knees, but one of the aliens kicks you hard in the gut. 

You hear a cacophony of laughs at your pain and you grit your teeth. You aren’t sure if they are too busy laughing at your suffering or if they simply let you get up, but now you're on your feet with your arm wrapped around your middle as you glare at them. Each had a disgusting look in their eyes and they laughed again when they saw the anger in your gaze.

“She is ours for the night.” The one with scaled skin literally hisses out. 

“Zorvath never lets his precious pet out. We are going to make the most of tonight.” The more brawny, silver skinned of the three cackles. They were talking about you as if you weren’t even in the room with them.

You maintain your glare and defiance despite the fear running through you. Your muscles are tight and you're ready to fight. Even if the odds are stacked against you, you are going to take this chance and hopefully escape.

“Why don’t we use the elysian on her, Xaldrin?” The scaled one looks to the silvery-skinned one. He then gestures to the grey, muscular alien with large ears and small, bumpy growths on his face and head. “Krel’or has the remote to the collar too.”

“The fight is better. Makes things fun, Trulmak.” 

You glance around while they are discussing what to do with you, looking for anything that can be a weapon to you. Spotting a glass carafe of wine, you take small steps back. The three were too focused on their conversation to notice you picking up the carafe. You stand still for just a few seconds before you rush up and smash the glass against the silver one’s bald head. He stumbles forward and while they are distracted you make a run to the door.

Your hand unlocks the door and you turn the handle when shocking pain courses through you, locking your muscles together. You fall against the door and your limbs jerk as you let out choked noises from your collar shocking you. The shocks stop as you feel large hands grip your ankles and tug you back to the center of the room.

“Fighter just like Zorvath said.” Wine and blood drip from his head as he snarls down at you. You try kicking your legs out from his grasp but his grip is too strong for you. You bare your teeth like an animal as you try reaching up to scratch at his ugly face. 

No one notices how the door opens on its own. 

The other two join in and you feel hands pulling at your clothes. You are desperate in trying to free yourself from their grasps–biting and clawing at whatever you can get at. Another pained snarl comes from one of the aliens and once again your whole body locks up as violent shockings course through you.

“Fuck it. Give her the-” The one called Xaldrin was cut off by a wet gurgle. Everyone freezes at the sight of two invisible blades–only visible by the purple blood coating thing–sticking out of his chest. A wet noise is heard as the blades are removed from his chest and his body is flung to the side.

Various shouts that weren’t properly translated could be heard from the remaining two investors as when suddenly the light shifts in one spot and Ta'Kall appears. He looks down right murderous at the two before he snarls and pounces. They barely stand a chance against Ta’Kall, thrown into a rage at the sight of these fowl creatures harming his mate. You quickly scoot away from the fighting until your back hits the wall, chest heaving with each breath you take.

Ta’Kall was vicious and efficient, sustaining no real damage to himself. The three didn’t get a chance to land a strike. You wanted to duck your head and cower but find yourself oddly enraptured at the scene. With the added knowledge that he views you as your mate, you know this was out of protection… or possession. 

Various colors of blood are splattered against the floor and the walls and three bodies lay limply, all while Ta’Kall stands over them with his chest heaving. His golden eyes stare down at the visceral mess he made and his body is taut. Slowly, he leans down and picks up something you can’t quite see. He straightens his back and rolls his neck with a low, almost pleased sounding growl. You felt almost both numb and nauseous at the gory sight. You were unable to contain your whimper as you felt bile burn the back of your throat and your eyes sting with tears.

The Yautja’s head snaps up and his eyes lock with yours at the sound of your distress. He lets out a huff and shakes his head before he steps over the mess he created. Your eyes widen and you try to scoot further back despite already being against the wall. Ta’Kall slowly squats in front of you, letting out a series of soft sounding clicks that don’t translate for you. His large hand slowly reaches out to you and you try your hardest not to flinch or make any sudden moves.

“You are safe now.” He rumbles as the tips of his nails and fingers touch and caress your cheek. He looks down at his other hand and it's the remote to your collar. He looks it over and his thumb swipes over it before pressing a button. You flinch out of instinct. Instead of painful shocks that come from messing with the device, you hear a soft click from behind your neck. Ta’Kall drags his fingers down to your collar and to the clasp that rests against your nape. You feel him fiddle with the clasp and another click was heard. Next thing you knew he’s pulling off the collar and tossing it aside like trash. His hand curls around your neck but he doesn't squeeze or hurt you. He just holds you. 

“Free.” Ta’Kall growls and leans forward, resting his forehead against yours. His hand cups the back of your head to keep you there, as if you feel any need to pull away at this point. You let out a shaky breath and stare into his golden eyes. His fingers curl into your hair as his mandibles click softly. “Free, my mate.”

“I-” You can’t get the words out. Your throat feels constricted as tears fill your already glossy eyes. You almost want to sob when you swallow thickly and don't feel the metal collar dig into your skin anymore. 

“We can speak on my ship, but we need to get you out of here.” 

Your heart clenches as he helps you to your feet. “What about the others?”

“Can’t.” Ta’Kall looks at your face and he huffs when he sees the hurt and disappointment come across your features. His mandibles furrow and click nervously before he relents.“Not yet, at least. I need you safe.” 

“But…Okay.” You whisper and let him take hold of your hand, his own dwarfing yours. He pulls you along despite your feet stumbling and catching on nothing as he guides you away from the corpses he left and out of the room. You both don't run, understanding that you can't raise suspicions, but once you find your footing you're practically taking the lead. Your heart is hammering in your chest as you no longer feel tied to this awful place. 

You know you’re not free yet until you leave this wretched resort and planet, but you can’t help but feel excitement and hope at the taste of freedom so close.