Dog of War

Camila was nearly buzzing as she sat down at her desk. The documents that normally cluttered it had been filed or sent. Only one form remained, like the final savory bit of meal.; the Notice of Intent. She had spent some of the last afternoon reading over it a few times, and filling out the basics. Now was finally time to finish it, and lay claim to little Beckett.

 

The Affini and their Compact may not have any official religion, but its reverence for paperwork often approached one. Countless sophonts were immortalized in it, their cuteness and the care they received enshrined in paper and data. Despite its fairly short length, about a dozen pages shy of one hundred, the Notice of Intent was one of the most sacred, second only to Domestication treaties and contracts themselves. 

 

The Notice of Intent was more than just formally declaring that a sophont was spoken for, it was a proclamation of love. Every page iterated and reiterated that until there was no room for confusion. To fill one out showed that you not only wanted to care for the sophont in question, but that you intended to do so with the whole of your being.

 

Camila couldn't help but let her core sing as she filled out page after page. Beckett, or whatever his- her? “Their” for now. Whatever their name ended up being, they would be hers. They would receive the love and care they were so wrongfully denied all their life. 

 

There was still, however, the wardship.

 

Camila couldn't just lay claim to them that afternoon, she still had an obligation to try to prepare the little one for being independent. Beckett deserved that chance. That didn't mean it had to be a level playing field. Beckett was easy to tease, and seemed to thrive under orders. Even if they did in fact manage to adopt all the traits they would need to be independent, it was certain they wouldn't stay that way long. She would be a fool to let a prize like them escape her vines. 

 

She vibrated to a degree that she had to focus to keep her writing neat at the thought of it. Camila had always seen herself adopting a cute little Class J pet, largely- if not entirely- broken already. Perhaps getting a floret through one of the domestication centers on the planet below. She had never imagined actually courting her first floret. 

 

Sections of the form asking why she felt like she could help them had ideas flooding her imagination.

 

Maybe Camila could lean into the flirting until they couldn't think of anything but her praise. Maybe she could just offer them support until they finally caved, desperate for more. Maybe Beckett would soon realize the help she can give them, if they were hers, and beg. Maybe she could make them realize. Maybe they actually make it to trial and accept their fate. Maybe they even get it and then they realize 'independence' isn't what they actually want. Wherever Beckett's future led, it would ultimately flow into her vines. Where they belonged. 

 

Camila poured that feeling into the document, and all too soon the Notice of Intent was done. She would have to get the rest in order soon enough, but for now she felt satisfied. There was still the matter of dropping them off, but the document was as good as valid already. She would have a good chance to do it when she was out for his Xenodrugs. That brought her mind to the other tasks at hand- Cordelia and the Vet. 

 

Cordelia would need to pet sit for Camila when she went to get the grafts, and she’d certainly want to hear about the notice. However, there was still the question of when the Xenodrugs would be ready. It was a bit hopeful but maybe the vet could give her an update. Setting aside the notice with care, she pulled out her pad.

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Hello Mr Aurelius, I was wondering if you had any news about Beckett's Xenodrugs?

 

A few minutes passed before a response dinged through.

[PracticedVines]: Ah, Camila! Yes we've been having the most delightful time working on figuring out little Beckett's 'deal.' If you wanted an update on progress, we're still working out some of the finer details but we should be able to start making new formulas this afternoon!

 

[FrequencyFlower]: That's wonderful! When will they be ready? 

 

[PracticedVines]: Hmm, well if you want all relevant Xenodrugs, it'll be maybe two or three days. But if there's something specific you need, we could probably get you a few by tomorrow morning and the rest about two days after.

 

Camila thought about the prospect. She could get the Class Es Beckett needed a day sooner. She could even get Class Z's to help them sleep peacefully and just in case they did step out of line. Doing so would mean she'd have to go without full access to everything for a while longer. Prying away the Terran’s secrecy would be difficult without a Class D as well. Without a Class G, B or H she couldn't truly help with the latent issues. 

 

She made her decision.. 

 

[FrequencyFlower]: In order of importance; Class E, Class Z, Class G, Class H, and Class A.

 

[PracticedVines]: I can do the E, G and Z and have them ready by tomorrow for sure. Unless you'd prefer to wait?

 

Camila sighed. That wasn't what she wanted to hear, even if it was what she had expected. Still, helping the little one only a small bit was preferable to making them suffer any more than necessary. 

 

[FrequencyFlower]: No, that would be great. Thank you, Xander. 

 

[PracticedVines]: Of course! I'll let the others know.

 

Camila quickly swapped over her chat with Cordelia, eager to share the news.

[FrequencyFlower]: Cordelia, I have some good news! 

 

She quickly snapped a picture of the filled out notice, sending it through. 

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAA 

[ComfyPlamnt]: CAMILAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[ComfyPlamnt]: I'm so so happy for you! 

[ComfyPlamnt]: I really thought you might actually let Beckett slip though your vines

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Yes, I was hesitant at first due to their demeanor, but they're honestly quite charming in their own way. Especially now they're starting to open up. 

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: Ooo Beckett's using They/them already?

 

Ah, Camila hadn't mentioned Beckett's situation. She was puzzling over the best way to communicate the morning's events when a chime interrupted her. 

 

"Miss Verdun,” Jess sounded annoyed. ”Apologies, but Beckett hopped off the couch on his own!" 

 

"Is he okay?" 

 

"Well, yes, but I told him he should ask you for help and then he just hopped down and almost collapsed! He also refused to let me get help when he was dizzy this morning!" 

 

Ah, so that's what had her riled up. 

 

"Well I'll have to have a talk with the little one soon." One of many, to be sure. "For now, just let me know if Beckett needs help, okay?" 

 

"Okay Miss, will do!" Jess chimed out.

 

Returning to her pad, Camila began to type.

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Well not officially, but Beckett seems to have some issues with gender. It just feels strange to keep using he/him for the cutie when they don't seem to enjoy it.

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: Hmm, okeyyy, be careful with that though! 

[ComfyPlamnt]: If Beckett's actually a she and hears you say that it could cause problems.

[ComfyPlamnt]: Also, you don't say? It's so sad how many of the cuties were just fine living with what they got when they're far happier off as something else. 

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Of course, I was planning on using he/him around the petal until they were ready. I already got them to agree to try growing their hair out, and encouraged them to try some other clothes.

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: That's a good start! 

[ComfyPlamnt]: They might need a harder push in the end- Daisy did!

[ComfyPlamnt]: but it's a good start!!!

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Speaking of good starts, I did want to show you something.

 

Camila uploaded the video she had recorded of Beckett enjoying their first meal. Watching the precious moment as it unfolded again filled her with joy, and a need to properly claim them. 

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: SFKLGSJFAFASSGX AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

[ComfyPlamnt]: THAT'S SO CUUUUUTE

[ComfyPlamnt]: CAN I SHARE THIS? PLEEEASE?!

 

[FrequencyFlower]: I was going to share it myself after I dropped off the Notice of Intent tomorrow, but I did already log it as complete. You can share it around if you like. 

[FrequencyFlower]: Actually speaking of tomorrow I need you to pet sit for me. Some of Beckett's xenodrugs will be ready, and I don't want him to be alone.

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: Yayyyy!!!!!

[ComfyPlamnt]: Oo yes! Daisy was asking about Beckett actually. 

[ComfyPlamnt]: She's been pretty excited about her 'New Bestie' and teaching them about friendship in the compact.

[ComfyPlamnt]: We should move in together, they might be pinnates~

 

Camila giggled, her friend had a way to always make her laugh. 

 

[FrequencyFlower]: Should we just file for cohabitation, or did you want to join cores as well? 

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: Camila! 

[ComfyPlamnt]: I didn't know you felt that way~

 

[FrequencyFlower]: I was merely joking along, dear

 

[ComfyPlamnt]: Right... Anyways, I got to go now. Tell Beckett I said hi and I look forward to seeing him tomorrow! And to accept our friend requests!!!!

 

With that, Cordelia disconnected. 

 

Strange, she didn't normally end suddenly like that. She must have had something come up. 

 

Jess chimed in. "Miss Verdun," she giggled, "Beckett needs some help in the bathroom." 

 

Camila shot straight up, "Did something happen? What's wrong?" 

 

"He's not hurt or anything, just a bit... stuck. It's best if you go look, I don't wanna spoil it~" With that, the AI cut out. 

 

Stuck? How did they manage to get stuck in the bathroom? Camila tucked the pad inside her, and headed towards Beckett.

 

-_-_-_-

 

They looked over the new clothing options a few times, considering their next move. They had come to the conclusion that they should pick out a few varied options to show they were taking it 'seriously.' They selected no small amount of the clothing, just picking them based off how visually appealing they were. The issue was what to actually try for now. They had found two skirts that seemed comfortable, as well as a few nice women cut shirts, but just keeping it to skirts felt a bit basic. 

 

They scrolled down a bit further and came across the answer. A dress. The cut was fairly modest, and the colors simple- in fact the pinks, orange and whites were similar to Miss Verdun's and arranged artfully. It was a rather striking piece, and reminded them of Daisy's from the other day. Apparently it was something called a 'companion dress.' That had to be pet stuff, right?

 

A quick search confirmed their suspicions. They would have to find something else. Miss Verdun seemed content to tease them but wouldn't cross any established lines. Annoying, but manageable. However, If she ever got actively interested in them, they were likely doomed. 

 

They cleared the search, now looking for non-companion dresses. Some of these actually looked pretty good, they selected a few before settling on one for the immediate. They sent the request through and scooted the edge of the couch-

 

The loathsome chime that heralded that wretched machine played. "Woah there cutie! You're still recovering. Stay there, I'll get Miss Verdun, okay?" 

 

"You will not! I do not need Miss Verdun's assistance for this," they spat. "If I needed help, I would call her, and I don't need help." To prove their words, they slid off the couch, catching themself on it as their legs initially buckled under the shock. "S-See?"

 

Smooth.

 

"I- you-!" Jess beeped in a rapid sequence beyond their understanding before exclaiming, "I'm telling Miss Verdun!" and cutting her vocals.

 

That... Could be problematic. It was unlikely upsetting Jess once would result in domestication, but it was an avoidable mistake. Still, it was nice to annoy the machine. 

 

Before leaving the common area, they retrieved their boots and hat. They moved to the compiler to retrieve the clothes, bundling them up as they grabbed them. They moved then to the bathroom to change, the mirror there running almost to the floor. As they laid out the clothes they had selected, a scandalous feeling pricked up. 

 

Are we out of our mind?!

 

What the hell were they even doing... are they really about to feign gender issues? And then, what, transition? Just to maybe get the Affini to let her guard down? How far would that even go before they could escape? 

 

It did seem like Miss Verdun wasn't going to just drop this issue. The Rubicon had already been crossed. With the amount of surveillance they were under, she might even be watching them at this very moment. They could either use this, or waste a possible advantage. 

 

They stripped out of their pajamas, noticing they bore more than a passing similarity to the 'companion dress' patterns. They took the first outfit they had compiled, a baggy earth tone sweater and a black skirt that said it was knee length. They forced away the nagging feeling and pulled them on. It was surprisingly comfortable, although it felt slightly exposed being open at the bottom. They gave a turn to examine the material. It made a nice rippling effect. Then they caught their reflection. 

 

They stopped and cracked a nervous grin. Of course it wasn't going to look good on them, but  somehow that still stung. 

 

They stripped down before the feeling could take root, folding the sweater and laying the skirt over it. Maybe they should just get back into the pajamas and try to explain it. Tell Miss Verdun they gave it an honest go and it's not for them. It's not like being a man felt bad, anyways. 

 

They placed the other skirt and its top on the pile, a deep green and white combo. Then they grabbed the dress... and paused. It was rather nice, and they had only tried one item. Having at least two attempts would be beneficial to convincing Miss Verdun this gender stuff was a dead end. 

 

That strange uneasy feeling returned. It was just clothing, there was no need to be having this reaction. It was just for a minute, maybe less. They pulled it over, ah- it had a zipper in the back. Getting it zipped up took a few tries, but eventually they managed to get it and hook the small latch there. 

 

The material was soft, and it hung off them in a pleasant manner. They gave another turn, facing the mirror. They were more ready for it this time, it didn't hurt as much as last time. It still was strange to see themselves like this. They went to take the dress off. 

 

Oh no. The zipper. They couldn't grasp it enough to pull it down! 

 

They struggled for a few moments, contorting to try to unzip it, before finally giving up. Maybe they could slide it over their head? No, it got stuck almost immediately. They started to get frantic. They needed to get out of this before-

 

Jess chimed in, "Don't worry cutie, Miss Verdun is on her way~" 

 

What?! Damn machine! They tried one last time to reach the zipper, failing as they heard the door slide open behind them. 

 

"Beckett?" Their blood froze in their veins at the sound of her voice.

 

"Miss-" They squeaked, before clearing their throat and speaking normally, "Miss Verdun."

 

-_-_-_-

 

Camila hadn't known what to expect when Jess called her, but this was such a treat! Beckett was actually trying! Not only that, they were adorably stuck in their dress. To top it all off, the little one was absolutely flustered. 

 

"Do you need some help, Beckett?"  

 

Beckett tensed up and took a breath in, relaxing as they released it. "Yes, do you think you could help me out of this?" There was still an unsteady edge in their voice. "I think I'll stick with my old clothes, this doesn't suit... me." 

 

Camila would have to consult the footage after this to get a better idea of what happened. There was something going on here. At the moment, the poor petal needed assistance. "Of course dear, just stay still." Camila knelt beside them. She wrapped a small vine around the zipper and guided it down, pulling the dress off over their head. "There you go. Do you want to tell me what happened?"

 

Beckett kept their back to her, pulling on the pajamas. "Nothing much to say. Pulling the zipper up was easy, and pulling it down wasn't."

 

"Well, yes, that much is apparent, but I wasn't talking about how you got stuck." Camila picked up the discarded clothes, taking note of the little one's tastes. "You're clearly upset about something. I would love to talk about it, if that's okay." She wondered if she should have asked for Class D over one of the others. 

 

Beckett scoffed, turning around to face her. "Well of course I'm upset, you walked in at an inopportune time!"

 

"Yes, but there's something else, isn't there?" Camila could feel something deeper in the little ones biorhythm than simple embarrassment. She took out her pad and looked at recent readings from Beckett's monitor- "From what I can see here, you experienced some mild anxiety about fifteen minutes ago."

 

Beckett was silent for some time, contemplating. When they finally spoke, their voice was softer than usual. "Didn't look right."

 

"Well what if I made it look right?" Camila smiled as an idea formed. She would have her confirmation soon enough.

 

They looked confused, "What do you mean?" 

 

Camila interfaced with the mirror and it shimmered across, the reflected Beckett disappearing. In their place stood a simulation of them after Class Gs had time to work. About a head and a half shorter, long silky black hair made a silhouette of the woman's soft curves. The dress Beckett had worn moments before accentuating her wonderfully. The prospect of being able to dig such an adorable pet out of little Beckett... 

 

Beckett seized up at the sight before them, recoiling, "W-what the- Miss Verdun!" Their face was beet red with panic and fluster.

 

Oh, the poor little dear. Camila had gotten caught up in helping Beckett find themselves, she forgot that this was likely to make them dysphoric. She quickly darkened the mirror. "Apologies. I didn't mean to cause distress."

 

"You can't just do whatever you want!" Beckett huffed, "I'm not distressed, it was just shocking."

 

Camila giggled. What an imperious attitude. What a fine hair to split. "If you say so, Princess~"

 

Beckett growled at the pet name. "Now you're just saying whatever!" She couldn't tell if the Terran was blushing or had just reddened with rage. Regardless, the quaver in their biorhythm told Camila all she needed to know; she had found another crack in their defenses.

 

"I'm proud of you for trying the clothes out. I, for one, think you looked adorable." A bit of well deserved praise should brighten the mood. 

 

"You think everything is adorable, Miss Verdun," Beckett grumbled. 

 

"Yes, most things have a certain degree of cuteness," Camila nodded, "but you are especially cute."

 

Beckett leered at her. "You Affini have very strange taste, Miss Verdun."

 

"I think you are just blind to your charms." Camilia gave them a smile in an attempt to cheer them up. "You know, I didn't expect you to jump straight to skirts and dresses right away. I'm really overjoyed you felt comfortable trying them so soon." 

 

Beckett looked confused. "What? Didn't you mess with the pad to show me a bunch of women's clothes?"

 

"No?" That wasn't a bad idea though, she'd have to remember that.

 

"But... The pad..." Beckett trailed off, mumbling to themself. 

 

Jess chimed, "Sorry, that was me! You were just looking at the same boring stuff for thirty minutes so I told the pad to mix it up!"

 

All the color drained from Beckett's face, "Ah. There has been a misunderstanding. Miss Verdun, I would like it if we just forgot the whole affair." 

 

Beckett had thought she had manipulated their search and still chose these items? Were they that single-minded when given a task or had they thought it was a test? She didn't want to press further without a Class-E. "We can talk about these matters another time. For now, I have some good news!"

 

"Oh?" Beckett swiftly changed back into the pajamas, "what's that?"

 

"Tomorrow I'll be picking up a few grafts for some of your xenodrugs, so in the morning Cordelia is going to be watching you." Then she would even be able to give her cutie their first shot of actual xenodrugs! She could hardly wait!

 

Beckett looked less than pleased, somewhat surprised, and fairly worried. "Oh, so soon?" 

 

"Only some basics, and besides the Class E you don't have to take anything else." Until she got her vines on some Class D's at least. 

 

"Class E... That's the anxiolytic class isn't it? Are there any side effects?" Beckett's strange pool of knowledge once again reared its head. Camila would have to run through all the basics and see what they actually did and didn't know at some point.

 

"That's correct," Camila confirmed before elaborating, "There are no dangerous side effects. You will experience a slight decrease in coordination, but nothing debilitating. It will help you adjust to your emotions." As well as let them talk about certain topics a bit easier. "You will be working on them at therapy as well."

 

Beckett folded their arms. "I see. I suppose I'll manage." 

 

"That actually brings me to the other issue." Beckett’s face contorted, clearly scrambling to recall any recent transgression. "Jess told me you ignored her when she offered to get me."

 

"I didn't want to disturb you just to get down." Beckett uncrossed their arms to shrug. "Besides, it was fine."

 

"Jess said you nearly fell." Camila wasn't going to let such reckless behavior stand.

 

 "I didn't though," Beckett continued to protest, "It was fine."

 

Camila made it clear that she wasn't impressed, "Little one, if you wish to retain the privilege of assisting yourself, I suggest you never do such a thing again. Knowing your limits and staying healthy is your responsibility as an independent."

 

Alarm quickly gave way to acceptance on Beckett's face, "Right. Apologies." 

 

Satisfied, Camila stood up. "Now that everything's all cleared up, I'm going to get back to doing some paperwork. Would you like some help back onto the couch?"

 

Beckett looked conflicted for several moments as they processed their fate. Finally, they sighed and hung their head in defeat, "Yes, Miss Verdun, Thank you."

 

Camila happily scooped them up then and there.