Page 11 of Bounty Hunter's Match

The mixer started smoothly enough. Perfect Match’s main space had been transformed with floating lights and strategically placed environmental controls. The twins’ recording equipment hovered discreetly in the corners - or what passed for discreet with those two.

“Timer starts... now!” Risa announced from her perch. “Three minutes to make a connection! Remember - no molecular bonding, no challenge fights, and please maintain solid form!”

I positioned myself by the wall, scanning the crowd. A Merrith engineer sat across from a Renthian trader, their table specially shielded against electromagnetic interference. Two Mondians discussed trading routes while carefully not breakingthe reinforced chairs. A Fanaith slipped into an empty seat, their amphibious form rippling with barely contained energy.

“Ready for the next round?” Rina called out. “And... switch!”

The Fanaith shot up, expression confused. “Switch? Like a pursuit chase? A hunt?”

“No, just move to the next-” But the Fanaith had already taken off, surprisingly fast for an amphibious species. “Stop!”

They darted between tables, trailing water droplets. “Is this not a speed challenge? I am very quick!”

“Different kind of speed,” I muttered, moving to intercept. But the damage was done.

“Race?” One of the Mondians perked up. “A competition of strength and agility?”

“No racing!” Camden appeared at my side. “Just conversation- oh stars.”

The Mondian couple had stood, their massive forms towering over the other participants. “We will demonstrate traditional courtship movements!”

“Don’t-” But they were already moving, their version of a ‘gentle dance’ shaking the entire floor.

“Livestream numbers are spiking!” Risa called down. “Quick, get a close-up of the water damage!”

The Fanaith zipped past, still pursuing their interpretation of speed dating. “Am I winning? When do we claim our mates?”

“This is not a competition,” I growled, catching them mid-stride. “Sit.”

They blinked large black eyes at me. “The large striped one said it was about showing strength.”

I turned to see a Nexian flexing all four arms at their startled partner.

“Actually,” a helpful voice piped up from the ceiling, “according to our cultural expert...”

“I am not your expert.”

“According to renowned Vinduthi warrior Barek,” Rina continued smoothly, “traditional courtship involves subtle demonstrations of capability while maintaining respectful distance.”

The room turned to stare at me.

“When did I-”

“Your interview has over a million views!” Risa beamed. “The part about protective positioning was especially popular.”

“That was about security protocols!”

“Of course it was.” Camden’s smile did things to my chest I refused to analyze. “Maybe you could demonstrate proper courtship etiquette?”

“I do not demonstrate-”

“The Mondians are about to attempt another dance move.”

I swore under my breath. “Fine. Everyone sit. Hands on the table. No molecular alterations, no challenge fights, and absolutely no dancing.”

“But the data suggests physical movement helps forge bonds,” a Sylphid whispered to their partner. Their form wavered dangerously.

“Maintain solid form,” I ordered. “Three minutes. Talk. That’s all.”

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