<p>Filti was pacing back and forth with a hint of nervousness, his tentacles subtly undulating. The echoes of his steps filled the room, alongside a faint buzz from the embedded technology. It was uncharacteristic of Filti to pace, yet the significance of the day pressed upon him; he was about to encounter his designated companion in the re-population initiative. <em>I truly hope my looks don't cause them disgust,</em> he mused, ceasing his movement to take a seat on the pristine white sofa.</p> <p>He had been anticipating the Union's spacecraft's arrival at Station RP9, circling the planet Meruta, for a fortnight. This would be the station where he and his future co-parent would remain throughout the gestation period. The station's color palette was dominated by whites and silvers, exuding a clean, almost clinical vibe. <em>Perhaps it's a preference of humans.</em></p> <p>The knowledge of the ship's scheduled docking for the day had been on his mind. Though he had settled his body onto the couch, his tentacles still exhibited his inner tension.</p> <p>Suddenly, an electronic beep heralded the imminent entrance of someone. Filti sprang up from his seat and moved to the room's center, his posture emanating a stately air. The light above the door transitioned from blue to green, and as the door opened smoothly, Filti's gaze fell upon the individual chosen to be his partner...</p>