The Mandoleer’s Folly glided smoothly into the bustling spaceport at Ottawa Prime, the heart of the Canadian Expanse. The crew moved with a mix of purpose and anticipation, knowing their mission was nearing completion. Princess Dagbjort stood beside Captain Spacedawg, the weight of their shared journey evident in the air between them.
Once docked, Spacedawg and his crew escorted Princess Dagbjort to the Canis delegation’s quarters. The formalities of their duties contrasted sharply with the undercurrent of personal tension between Spacedawg and Dagbjort.
Inside a quiet room, away from the hustle and bustle, Dagbjort turned to Spacedawg. “Do you know how the Canis court each other, Spacedawg?”
He shook his head, curiosity piqued. “No, I don’t.”
She stepped closer, a playful glint in her eyes. “Then sniff me, Captain.”
Spacedawg hesitated but then leaned in, inhaling her scent. He was immediately struck by an overwhelming sense of comfort and attraction. “Your scent… it’s unbelievably comforting.”
Dagbjort smiled softly. “What you’re smelling is called the Duft. It’s a type of musk that a female excretes to attract a male she’s interested in.”
Spacedawg’s confusion was evident. “What am I feeling right now?”
“It’s the precursor to what we call the Bonding, known here as marriage,” Dagbjort explained.
Spacedawg was at a loss for words, his mind racing with the implications. Seeing his reaction, Dagbjort’s amusement shone through.
“Food for thought, my darling Captain Spacedawg,” she said, leaning in to gently kiss his lips. “I should like to know you better. Perhaps, when your duties permit, I’d like to see you again.”
With that, she turned and walked back to her delegation. As she entered her spaceship, she turned one last time to blow Spacedawg a kiss. He stood there, watching her leave, unsure of what to make of the encounter.
Ed approached, noticing Spacedawg’s dazed expression. “What happened, Captain?”
Spacedawg blinked, a slow smile spreading across his face. “I think I just got engaged.”
The crew shared a moment of surprise and laughter, celebrating not only the success of their mission but also Spacedawg’s unexpected connection with Dagbjort.
Back on the Mandoleer’s Folly, preparations for their next mission were underway. Spacedawg stood on the bridge, looking out at the stars. He reflected on their recent adventures and the bond that had formed with Dagbjort.
As the crew gathered, ready to embark on their next journey, Spacedawg felt a renewed sense of purpose. He knew that new challenges awaited, but he also knew that he had something—or someone—worth fighting for.
