With not much to do while they searched for resources, Spacedawg felt the pull of curiosity. He decided to explore the nearby forest. As he wandered deeper into the woods, he heard a commotion—a mix of snarling, hissing, and a distinct “meow.” Sensing trouble, he pulled out his blaster and moved toward the noise.
Spacedawg came upon a clearing where six strange-looking wolves prowled around a tree. He quickly scanned them with his tablet, identifying them as Dease Dire Wolves. Knowing he had to act, he shot a round into the air to get their attention. The wolves turned and stared him down, growling menacingly.
He readied Fyrs-Ond, his trusty magical axe, and let out a low growl of his own. The wolves charged. With swift and precise strikes, Spacedawg took them out, but the last one managed to escape.
Spacedawg turned his attention to the tree. A ginger-colored cat climbed down and rubbed against his leg.
“Thank you,” the cat said, its voice startling Spacedawg.
“Did you just talk to me?” Spacedawg asked, incredulous.
“I did,” replied the cat, who looked like he was just out of kittenhood.
“What’s your name, little fella?” Spacedawg asked.
“I don’t have a name that’s easily translated,” the cat responded.
“I think I’ll name you Elliott,” Spacedawg decided.
“I can live with that. Thank you for saving me. I am indebted to you. Those wolves slaughtered my family,” Elliott said, his voice tinged with sadness.
Spacedawg offered, “I’d be happy to make you a part of my crew.”
Elliott agreed, though he was limping. Despite his injury, he guided Spacedawg through the forest.
Elliott complained about his wounded leg, and Spacedawg stopped to clean the wound with his first aid kit. “You need to stay off this leg,” Spacedawg advised, picking Elliott up and carrying him the rest of the way to the base camp.
At the camp, the Alchemist examined Elliott and determined he needed surgery. “I can perform the operation,” he said. Elliott looked at Spacedawg and asked, “Will you stay with me during the surgery?”
“Of course,” Spacedawg reassured him.
The operation took only half an hour. When Elliott woke up groggy, Spacedawg was there, gently petting him. Elliott started to purr, feeling comforted. The Alchemist observed, “It looks like Elliott has already bonded with you, Spacedawg. He might just become our crew mascot.”
Over the next few days, Elliott regained his strength. The crew doted on him, but it was clear that Spacedawg was his preferred parent. Meanwhile, Maelstrom
Origin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... More was making significant progress on building the long-range radio, bringing hope to the stranded crew.
As Elliott’s health improved, so did the crew’s spirits. They were determined to find a way off the moon and continue their mission, united by the bond they shared and the new companion who had joined their ranks.
