Chapter Text
[SIXTH] was a failure of a Father. He’d gone to the Exam hoping for the best, but it was clear as soon as things started that he was out of his depth. He wasn’t fast enough, he wasn’t strong enough, and his Gift was laughable on the field. To add insult to injury, there was a written portion to the tests. He should’ve paid more attention when [REDACTED] and the others were trying to teach him things. He never thought he’d need to know how to fill out paperwork before, so they eventually gave up on teaching him the basics beyond what the letters of Common looked like, but now it was clear that he’d missed out on crucial life skills.
At least both of his requested companions passed their Exams. The Pirti was a given, but [SIXTH] didn’t really trust many others. He kept his cards close, so in the end he decided to ask the Pirti to pick someone she thought would be good to join them. The Entiiyas was a quiet man, but [SIXTH] could respect that. Even as the Pirti comforted him after his loss, the man stood like a silent sentinel, keeping others at bay. He didn’t make a spectacle of his situation, and for that [SIXTH] was grateful.
He gathered himself quickly enough after they returned to the base, but though he would be able to go on their trip, he was not authorized to use his Gift. That was fine, he rarely used it anymore anyways, and after his pathetic display he no longer deserved it. No, with the dangers fast approaching, it would be safer if he were to give his Gift permanently to his Son. Before he could do so however, he was approached by M’rai.
“[SIXTH], I apologize for the day’s activities, however I have a favor to ask of you.” Well, that was unexpected. [SIXTH] eyed M’rai warily. “You see, the HPSC have requested that an Intergalactic officer accompany our trip. Obviously we want to keep [REDACTED] as safe as possible during this time so keeping his identity hidden, at least for as long as possible, will be in our best interest.” [SIXTH] hated that he knew M’rai was playing on his sympathies, but [REDACTED] was more important than ignoring whatever request M’rai would have for him.
“One of [REDACTED]’s abilities is to transform into other species, however this ability is limited to how much DNA he personally has consumed. For surface level transformations, feathers and fur will suffice, however for a permanent ability he will need to consume a more significant amount of flesh. It is a horrifying concept, however I can assure that he has only taken from his previous guardians at the end of their life spans.” [SIXTH] glared at the implication that his Son was a monster of some kind for this trait, and it seemed that his disdain was felt if the cough and change of subject was anything to go by.
“What I mean to say is, my suggestion at this time is for you to offer your tail to [REDACTED].” What? Said aforementioned tail swished in concern, but M’rai simply continued, turning away to ignore whatever [SIXTH]’s emotional tendrils were displaying. “The officer who will be accompanying us will report that a failed examinee is attending our mission if he sees that you are able to use your Gift. I have foreseen that asking this of you will not only allow for [REDACTED] to more easily be accepted as your Son by this outsider, but also will ensure that he will hold his tongue on reporting your presence to their headquarters.
“Think about it. [REDACTED] will use this new form to hide himself, and haven’t you ever thought about what [REDACTED] would be like if he was a Tuli-Tuli like you?” [SIXTH] weighed his options, but he had already resolved to give his Gift to his Son permanently. This would only ensure his safety in the long run. The loss of his tail would be a small price. Without his Gift, the water-storing organ would be useless to him anyways.
“I’ll do it.”
“Excellent! You don’t have to worry about a thing, just meet with us after the next Late Cycle meal in the infirmary and I’ll have our best medical staff get ready for a quick and painless amputation. Thank you so much for agreeing to such a grievous request, I know that it’s asking a lot.” [SIXTH] waved him away.
“Go.” M’rai didn’t stick around, quickly heading back to his quarters as requested. [SIXTH] had to find [REDACTED]. He didn’t want anyone else bringing the news up to his Son.