Page 18 of Testing the Kot'oll Officer

“Hold on!” I rush forward, grabbing a furball just as it launches itself into the air, ready to take Vatok down. In my haste, I stumble too and we both end up collapsing onto a pile of soft blankets which are at the door of the storage room. These were probably donated by someone, still waiting to be sorted into the storage room. Now that we’ve stumbled and moved, we aren't as close to the toys as before. The toys are now surrounded by a whirlwind of dogs, fluff, and jelly-like creatures all clamoring to join the fun.

I can't contain my laughter as Vatok groans beside me, wide-eyed but eventually breaking into a chuckle himself. “This was not part of our duty. I hope I didn't mess up much."

I wiggle my way out from under the tangle of blankets, brushing stray hairs from my face. "Oh, absolutely not part of the task," I manage between fits of laughter, trying to catch my breath. The sight of Vatok, sprawled on the floor, surrounded by an enthusiastic mass of critters, is one for the books.

“Just how exactly do I get myself into these situations?” Vatok shakes his head, attempting to untangle his arms from a particularly excitable jelly-like being that has taken a liking to his ankle. The poor creature wobbles, almost toppling over in delight.

“Maybe it’s your magnetic charm.” I pat the fluffball next to me, getting her to leave. She bounds off to join the party around the toys, giving us some room to breathe.

“Magnetic charm? I don’t think that’s what started the toy.” He tries to maintain his composure as a small dog-like creature nips playfully at the hem of his pants.

"Regardless, the animals love you."

"No, it's about the toys."

Just then, the fluffball decides to jump back onto Vatok’s lap, even as the toys are calming down and so are the animals. Vatok's brows furrow in mock exasperation.

I laugh and pat that one too. "It's not just about the toys."

Aldriana reappears at the doorway, arms crossed gently, a broad smile spreading across her face at the sight. “I see you two have made fast friends!”

“Is this part of the volunteering thing? Am I banned from the shelter?” Vatok asks, half-serious as he bobs and weaves amongthe flurry of fluff and slime. “I hope not. But I might need some more serious instruction.”

“I think that was a one-off incident,” Aldriana assures him, her eyes sparkling with delight. “But hey, it’s all about building connections, right?”

My giggles continue as I take in the utterly chaotic scene. Just moments ago, this place was a structured haven for the animals, but now it’s a delightful disaster. Toy squeaks echo off the walls, and a cacophony of barks, chirps, and splats produces a symphony that vibrates through the very air of the shelter.

Creatures scurry about, their short legs racing to claim a spot among the chaos. A particularly excitable luminescent jelly-like creature rolls across the floor, leaving a trail of glowing goo that glimmers like morning dew. Nearby, a handful of small, furry beings are playfully tumbling into each other, their fluffy tails flicking in pure joy as they chase after a shiny, rolling ball that adds to the madness.

A few partition boards are pushed over, falling to the side, making everything seem even more chaotic. These animals are such balls of energy. Though this is far from organized, it's pleasant to look at.

Vatok's four arms awkwardly brace themselves against the endless giggles from the swarming animals. “I think this shouldn't be here, but I don't think they can follow instructions, not like beings who are driving in the sky,” he muses, chuckling even as he strokes the creature that flops onto his lap, with fur tickling his skin.

I get off the blankets. "Let's get onto the actual tasks."

He nods and nudges the animal to leave him alone before he can stand. He straightens his clothes, fixes his hair, and his belt, all at the same time. "Okay, let's get going. I hope I didn't set us back in the schedule."

"There's a schedule, but it's not that straight after all."

Aldriana claps her hands, a twinkle in her eye as she surveys the aftermath. “Alright! With a little help, we can have this place back in shape in no time.”

A renewed surge of energy in my veins, the enthusiastic banter with Vatok fueling my excitement. “Let’s divide and conquer! I’ll handle feeding the jelly creatures, and Vatok can manage the fluffballs.”

“Wait, you mean these?” He gestures to the messy scene.

“Yes! Those adorable bundles. They tend to get a little rowdy, but I think they're just excited to meet you.”

“Well then, let’s see if they can keep up with my ‘magnetic charm.'”

As we whip the shelter back into shape, we gleefully compare notes on the various animals. Vatok leans down to help the small jelly creature that’s stuck on its back, its translucent body shimmering under the shelter lights.

“Are you alright there?” he asks, concern softening his expression.

“See? You’ve got natural instincts!” I say as I scoop up the squirming jelly with both hands, sending sparks of laughter rattling in the air. “And now you’re officially a part of the shelter team!”

Every so often, Vatok lets out a chuckle as another fluffball jumps onto him, clearly enjoying his presence. “I wonder if I should rethink my career choices. This seems like much more fun.”

“Right? It’s like a comedy central.” I kneel to refill a jelly creature’s bowl. “Here you go, squishy friend. Time for your breakfast!”

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