Gabriel spent most of the second leg of the trip in much the same way as the first, learning a new language, training and occasionally flirting with aliens. Well, one alien. And of course, at the same time trying to learn about the various races customs. It was going well although a bit slow. Right now he and Madeline were going over etiquette, greetings, and touching in general. Which turned to light flirting, and then back to a discussion on physical contact.

“So, It’s just humans that are, what’s the word?” Gabriel waved a hand around, “Well whatever, do all races have a lot of physical contact? And is sharing beds that common?”

Madeline shrugged, “Phigos are not too fond of it, they have some kind of heat sense and many have trouble sleeping with others. I think it’s like having warm air blown in your face or pulsing lights? I have never looked into it, just heard it can be distracting. I think Aziks generally sleep in groups but don’t know any details. Physical contact, in general, is common with Zilgi and most others, not so much with Phigos, for the same reason I mentioned and I don’t know about Ronieans.”

Gabriel furrowed his brow thinking, “I guess every society is different, I would feel a bit awkward if Scarrask cuddles up to me while we watched a movie”

Madeline grinned at him, “I don’t think Yavichans are that cuddly but maybe I’m wrong” She thought for a moment, “Do you like physical contact? I know you don’t mind holding hands or brief contact.”

“Sure, but normal contact for me is hugs and handshakes. I have not cuddled closely with anyone but partners. Well as an adult. I’m not that bad though am I?”

Madeline shook her head, “Not really, but sometimes you seem uncomfortable by physical contact, especially longer contact. we’ve only shared a bed once and that one was large so I can’t comment on that.”

“...Hmm, maybe it’s just learned behavior?” Gabriel said after a moment of thought. “The bed part that is, I have not shared a bed with anyone but partners for over...well, a hundred and fifteen years,” Gabriel said stroking his short beard.

Madeline rolled her eyes, “Oh my, that long, well that makes sense you would have developed habits” She said sarcastically.

Gabriel laughed, “But you see what I mean?”

“I think so. If you cuddled or shared a bed with someone that was not a partner or you weren't attracted to, would that would change?” She asked.

“Yeah” Gabriel nodded, “I mean, I would get used to it, but sleeping with someone I’m attracted to is sort of...” He waved a hand again.

Madeline nodded, “Yeah, biological signals, sex, and all that, every race has those.”

“I’m sure, so what’re the criteria for a sleeping partner for Zilgi?” He asked.

“Good friends, partners, family if I would be younger. Maybe it’s evolution but we usually sleep better with someone we trust, safety in numbers and all that,” she said shrugging. “We evolved from prey after all. And it’s comfy,” She added.

Gabriel nodded, “I see,” Gabriel said, having no idea if any of his or her speculations actually were correct. “Are we just sitting here guessing about all this or is it just me?”

Madeline held up her hands in a shrug and smiled, “Based on facts in my case, but yeah there’s some guessing. However, as far as I know, it is at least mostly universal with Zilgi”

“Right, I’m completely guessing, which wouldn’t be the first time. But I’ve only been in space for...about three weeks now? As I learn more, I’ll get used to all this.” He said grinning.

“Well, maybe we should practice,” Madeline said and winked at him.

Gabriel laughed, “Remind me later tonight” Gabriel winked back.

Madeline chirped and grinned, “Maybe I will, and speaking of later, we are dropping out of FTL after dinner right?”

“Yeah, a few hours after I think,” Gabriel said, “you might want to ask Micia.”

“Speaking of dinner, maybe we should get started,” Madeline said glancing at her pcu.

“Yeah, we probably should” Gabriel agreed and stood up, “What are we making?”

“Something stewed probably,” Madeline said shrugging. It turned out to be exactly that. Of course, the kitchen was not large and it’s not like they could make a four-course meal. Well, not easily. They all gathered at the table and ate in mostly silence.

Scarrask spoke up when they were done. “So, we are dropping out of FTL in four hours, then we will slowly cruise to the spaceport of Roniean IV. It would take about five additional hours but I’m planning on making that nine to get a long night's sleep and get ready. Or in Gabriel’s case a normal night sleep.” Scarraks said.

“Alright, and from there we are on our own,” Gabriel said and looked at Madeline.

“Yes, unless you manage to finish your business in three days, including the day we unload. We are heading back towards the Union after that and can give you a ride.” Scarrask said.

“If we manage we’ll take you up on that” Madeline said, “We are heading to Zilg after this.”

Scarrask nodded and put his dishes away and headed to his room. “The Captains is a strange man,” Gabriel said.

Micia laughed, “Yes he is. Sometimes he will not talk for days and sometimes give a long speech about whatever he thinks about at the moment. He is a good merchant though” She hopped off the couch and put her dishes away. “I have free time until we drop out of FTL so is there anything you need?”

Gabriel thought for a moment, “Hm, I have two questions, one is about you, the other communication.”

“Alright, me first,” Micia said.

“What is the chitin, or whatever it is, on your mouth called?”

“A Beak” Micia said, “was that the question? you can ask more”

Gabriel smiled, “Well, since you’re offering, can you fly?”

“In low gravity yes, for short distances, otherwise I glide,” She said and spread her arms.

“Cool,” Gabriel said grinning. "And how would I manage to call back to US 535 when we drop out of FTL?"

"We can initiate the call when it's time, just let us know"

“Alright, thanks. I have no further questions...right now, but I’m bad at coming up with them under pressure.”

“You have my number, just call anytime,” She said and headed to engineering. Gabriel and Madeline cleaned up after the meal and spent some time watching one of the movies Madeline had procured on US 421. It played like a filmed stage play, what would be considered overacting was rampant throughout. But when Gabriel got into the headspace of watching a theater show he didn’t hate it. Quite predictable though.

After that Gabriel learned enough Roniean to greet someone and say goodbye. So about four words. A massive achievement. He put the tablet down just a few minutes before the down jump and turned to Madeline, “So, last night in space, for a bit anyway”

“Yeah, can we go see some nature? The environmental room doesn't count by the way.”

Gabriel chuckled, “Yes, but we are sort of on a time limit.”

Madeline looked him in the eyes and nodded, “I know, and if finding your sister means being crammed into a sleeping cube for another month I’ll handle it.” she said seriously.

“Thank you,” Gabriel said, “That means a lot” He opened his mouth but paused.

“What?” Madeline asked tilting her head.

“I was about to say something that sounded rude or mean” Gabriel shook his head.

“And you think I will be offended?” Madeline said smiling softly.

“Maybe?” Gabriel said sighing.

“Ask away, or you’ll keep wondering,” Madeline said and put a hand on his arm.

“Alright...Don’t take this the wrong way, but why did you come with me?” Gabriel said.

Madeline briefly got a sad expression but she quickly got rid of it. “...A part of it is the excitement,” She said shrugging, “I had never been in space before and you are a new race and all that.” She paused for a moment and thought. Gabriel gave her time and just waited. “But...like I said after we left US 421, I’ve grown quite fond of you,” She said and smiled, “Mix those and... there are my reasons”

“Thank you, and sorry for that question. I’m not doubting you or anything but this might be dangerous and...and I’m worried for you.” Gabriel said feeling relieved. “I wouldn’t blame you for staying on the ship, in fact when I find Victoria I can...”

Madeline smiled and put a finger to his mouth, “Quiet, you’re not getting to go off on an adventure without me, dangerous or not. I appreciate your concern though.”

Gabriel nodded, “Alright, I do appreciate your help, but please be careful. We don’t know what’s waiting.”

“Safe like you?” Madeline said raising an eyebrow.

“Safer, I’m sturdy,” Gabriel said.

Madeline nodded, “Alright, I promise to leave you in whatever trouble we find,” She said smiling.

Gabriel laughed and grabbed Madeline in a hug, “Good enough for me”

Scarrask walked out a moment later, “We are down jumping in a minute, get ready” he said and returned to the cockpit without another word as usual. Gabriel and Madeline shifted to sit facing the back of the ship.

After the familiar floating sensation died down Gabriel yawned, “Can we go to bed now?”

“Since when do you need my permission?” Madeline asked.

“Let me reformulate, would you like to come to bed with me?” Gabriel said and winked.

Madeline chirped, “That’s better, yeah I’m getting tired.” She said nodding.

They put the tablet away and prepared for bed, “So what do you think will happen tomorrow?” Gabriel asked as he pulled his shirt off. He was facing the door to give Madeline some privacy.

“Well, we need to find someone to take us to the black market ship, which hopefully is still there, and then look around?” She said.

“Yeah, I don’t suppose you have any experiences with black markets?” Gabriel said.

“Nope, none at all. We need to get you a disguise as well, getting recognized is not going to help.”

Gabriel slapped his forehead, “I haven’t thought about that, will the helmet work?”

“It might, maybe not on the station but I imagine it will in the black market.”

“Hm, maybe we can get something better made at the station, or spaceport or whatever it was called. Is there any difference?”

“Not really, spaceports have transports down to the surface regularly. Otherwise, it’s a station like any other.”

“I don’t suppose there are any races that breathe a different kinda air? you know that needs a suit and helmet?”

“No, unfortunately not,” Madeline said and Gabriel heard the covers rustle, “I’m done changing.”

Gabriel turned around, “We’ll figure something out, how hard can it be to hide the only human in the Union?” He said grinning and moved to the mattress.

“Gabriel,” Madeline said and he looked up, She patted the bed beside her, “Here, sleep with me.”

“Uh,” Gabriel stopped, Madeline smiled at his expression.

“I thought you wanted some practice?.” She said grinning.

“That sounded...” Gabriel smiled and shook his head.

“Sorry,” She said chirping, “You don’t have to if it makes you uncomfortable”

Gabriel thought about it. For a second or two.“When in Rome” Gabriel said and got under the covers, Madeline gave him space to settle down, then she moved close so she could rest her head on his shoulder.

“What’s Rome?” she asked.

“Uh...A city on earth, a very large empire over two thousand years ago...I think, history is not my strong suit. Anyway, it means adapting to the customs of the place you’re going to. The full saying is when in Rome do as Romans do” Gabriel said, a bit surprised by the snuggling.

“We are not in Zilgi though,” She said and yawned.

“Not yet, true. But practice never hurts.” Gabriel said. Madeline chirped and ran her claws over his chest. Gabriel made a mental note to ask her for a back scratch in the future.

“Isn’t this better than sleeping alone?” She asked after a few minutes, once Gabriel had gotten used to it, and after his heart rate had gone down.

“Yeah, I can’t argue with that” Gabriel admitted. He absentmindedly ran his fingers through the fur on her back. It was very comfortable, the intimacy was something he didn’t know he was missing. Madeline quickly fell asleep soon after and began snoring softly. Gabriel smiled and fell asleep as well a few minutes later.

Gabriel woke up and felt something tickle his face, a soft form in his arms. By some quick deduction, he realized he was spooning Madeline. He felt surprisingly alert, though the alarm had not gone off so there was still some time left before they arrived. He was holding Madeline’s hand and took the opportunity to see what differed from his.

Her hand looked made for climbing, which of course they were. Apart from the claws, they were remarkably similar to humans, apart from thicker skin on...her palm opposite the knuckles. Gabriel’s knowledge of biology failed him. He rubbed his thumb around the base of the knuckles on her palm.

He heard a soft noise from Madeline, “...A bit harder” She murmured. Gabriel obliged and used a bit more pressure. From what he could tell they had muscled in similar, if not the same, places. This allowed him to massage as he would himself. He kept it up for a minute or so before letting go. Madeline gently flexed her fingers, “That was adequate payment for playing with my body” She said, barely keeping the laughter away.

Gabriel chuckled, “Sorry, I got curious. I’ll ask for permission next time”

“You do that, though I could get used to waking up like this,” She said and rubbed her fur against his face. And just then the alarm went off. “Ugh,” Madeline said and reached for the pcu. “Back to work,” She said disappointed and crawled over Gabriel to get out of bed. “I’d better shower right away if I’m going to have any chance of drying before we dock.”

“Good call,” Gabriel said, annoyed at the pcu for interrupting. He sighed and took a shower as well and was dressed and ready by the time breakfast was served.

“We are docking in an hour, I might need some help unloading if I can get anything sold, apart from the cargo clip-on that is,” Scarrask said as they finished with breakfast.

“Right,” Gabriel nodded, “Any suggestions after that?”

“Only one, there is a bar called Empty space on deck 14. Docking ranges from forty to forty-five so it’s lower down in the station. I think it will be the best place to hire a pilot that will not ask too many questions” Scarrask gave them meaningful looks.

Gabriel nodded, “Thanks for the tip, should I hide my face by any chance?”

“No, this is not a small uncivilized border station, it’s like US 535 only larger. Complete head coverings require special permission.”

“Everything Ronieans do require special permissions or forms” Micia muttered.

Scarrask chucked, which sounded like a clicking valve releasing air pressure. “They can be quite stubborn about their forms yes.”

“So I can wear a hat? whatever good that might do” Gabriel asked.

Micia smiled and nodded, “Yes you can, but unless you plan on painting yourself green no one will mistake you for a Roniean.”

“Hmm, well maybe the news hasn’t gotten to everyone yet?” He asked.

“It has reached here, but no picture is included, still...” Scarrask said and shrugged with his two lower arms.

“Most will put two and two together” Gabriel nodded.

“Especially if you keep using those idioms,” Madeline said smiling and shaking her head.

Gabriel grinned back, “Oh right, I should call Morthri. Do we still have some time until we dock?”

“Yes, plenty of time for a call, if he answers soon,” Scarrask said, “I’ll make the call” He stood up and headed for the cockpit, leaving the rest behind to clean up. After that Micia disappeared down another hatch and another minute later Scarrask came back. “The call is ready.”

“Great, thanks. So how do I...” Gabriel asked gesturing around vaguely.

“I will forward it to your pcu,” Scarrask said and disappeared to the cockpit again. A moment later Gabriel’s pcu rang. He picked it up and pressed the large blinking button. He held it up to his ear.

“Hello?”

“Ah Gabriel, hello!” Morthri’s excited voice sounded out over the speakers. “I was hoping you’d call, we have some information that will be important but first, tell me the reason you called.”

Gabriel pulled it away from his ear, “Conference call huh” He placed the pcu on the table. “Oh, it was mostly to see about mouthwash and food if I remember correctly. Or rather if any standard products are poisonous to me”

“Great, that is included in what we have found, just a moment” Gabriel heard a door open and some rustling of clothes and typing. “We have examined your biology and you are not allergic to any ingredients commonly used in food. Same with any ingested products, though I should warn you to stay away from the alcoholic drinks Ronieans favor, they will affect you negatively.”

“Thanks, humans have plenty of alcoholic drinks. Do they at least have a percentage count on the bottles?”

“Yes, they do. Now over to biology, as you are a newer race we had to check if any other races are allergic to you, you are not allergic to any by the way, and the answer is no. With one exception” Morthri continued and quieted for a moment typing away.

“Eagerly awaiting,” Gabriel said.

“Here it is, so you will not cause an allergic reaction normally, by that I mean your spit, skin, the oil on your skin and all that will not cause a reaction. However, if you end up having sexual intercourse with a Cecaiampal there is a fifty percent chance that she or he is allergic to your seminal fluids.”

Gabriel regretted not asking if he could turn off the conference call but that was too late now, Madeline looked amused at least which was something. “Thanks...I’ll remember that”

“Good,” Morthri said, “And the reaction is not serious, just soreness and maybe some pain. You will need to limit your sexual encounters to give your partner time to...”

“Thanks, I got it” Gabriel interrupted, “Anything else?”

“Let’s see, yes one more. Ronieans have a drink that contains caffeine..."

"Coffee?" Gabriel interrupted, a large smile appearing on his face.

"I see humans drink caffeine as well. Regardless if you drink too much you might get trouble sleeping or faster heart rate, headaches...And maybe some other symptoms, we are not quite sure, the simulations are good but not perfect.”

“Simulations?” Gabriel asked, raising an eyebrow at Madeline who shrugged.

“Oh yes, we use simulations to see effects from substances,” Morthri said as if that explained everything. “And one more thing, this time it has to do with your physical strength.”

“Sure, go on”

“You are stronger than just about anyone, by some amount in most cases. You might have figured by the tests of course, but more importantly, the force you can produce through punches and kicks is extraordinary. Ronieans come closest but you beat them several times over, our instruments were not calibrated to your strength and we didn’t get a perfect test.”

“So... that means?” Gabriel asked.

“Be careful how hard you hit someone,” Morthri said. “I have read the reports from the fight with the Igris, however, you handled the gang well so just be mindful. If you aim to incapacitate try and aim for non-vitals”

“I’ll do my best, any more last things?”

“No, I don’t think so. However, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to call. I will be at my office standard hours station time, and while I don’t mind calls in my free time I will have a harder time finding an FTL relay.”

“Oh right, well I’ll try and remember to check in every once in a while. But with my track record no promises...anything new about my sister?” Gabriel added.

“Just what you already know. When the Igris bought you about four weeks ago, give or take a few days, your sister was still for sale in stasis. Since then he received coordinates for another market which you now have. But there are no guarantees it’s the same ship”

“Alright...I’ll try and call back in a few days when I get to a relay, talk to you later”

“Anytime, bye,” Morthri said and hung up.

“So, the plan stays the same?” Madeline asked and moved over to his side.

“I guess unless you have any suggestions?” Gabriel sighed and leaned back.

“Not really.” She rested her head on his shoulder. “So we get a less conspicuous mask for you…”

“You don’t like my helmet?” Gabriel asked with a smile.

“No, It’s creepy, and probably stands out. Now, where was I?” Madeline said chuckling. “Find a pilot that doesn't ask questions, travel to a black market and...and I’m not sure where to go from there”

“Same...and that’s assuming the ship is still there,” Gabriel said sighing.

“Yeah, but let’s stay positive,” Madeline said and stood up stretching, “Come on, let’s pack our things” She held out a hand and with some effort pulled Gabriel to his feet.

After a quick pack, they stood ready at the cargo doors. Gabriel had managed to fit the helmet in his original bag so as long as he wore the weighted suit he didn’t have to bring two bags along. Scarrask managed to sell some of his cargo so after the clip-on was disconnected they spent an hour at dock unloading a few crates and trading. Ronieans were efficient but as Micia had said liked their forms. Everyone had to sign to enter the station and for every trade more forms and contracts were signed and everything was inspected.

“Everything is signed and ready,” The Roniean customs officer said and closed her bag. “Welcome to the Roniean Station 51 ambassador”

“Thank you,” Gabriel said and bowed his head to the Roniean who returned it before walking away. He turned to Scarrask and Micia, “And thank you too both for bringing us here.”

“No problem,” Scarrask said, “You paid us back. I would not have let Micia go off alone on US 421, which saved several hours. Not to mention I got paid in currency as well” He nodded and smiled at Madeline.

Micia walked over and hugged them both, “I hope you can make the trip back with us”

Gabriel smiled and hugged her back, “Yeah, me too.”

Gabriel and Madeline said goodbye to Micia and Scarrask and ventured into the station. Gabriel immediately felt more at home here than anywhere else he had been, the smells of cooking with strong spices and laughter from restaurants, the loud talking, and busy streets reminded him of earth.

He turned to Madeline, “So, off on the next part of our strange adventure” He grabbed her hand.

Madeline smiled and walked forwards pulling him along, “Well, let’s not stand around, like you said, adventure awaits...”