Upcoming competition

The bustling sounds of the capital city filled the air as Juniper stood in his apartment, listening intently to Gio's voice over the communicator. Gio's excitement and nervousness about the upcoming beast competition were palpable, even from a distance.

"So, the competition is in two weeks," Gio said, his tone a mix of anticipation and determination. "I've been training hard with Bardo, and I feel like we're ready for this challenge."

Juniper smiled, his heart swelling with pride for his partner. "I have no doubt you'll do great, Gio. Bardo is strong, and you're a skilled beast trainer. I wish I could be there in person to cheer you on."

"I wish you could too," Gio replied, a hint of longing in his voice. "But I have an idea. I want you to come watch the competition from the main beast arena. It's the closest spot to the wildlands, where the competition takes place. You'll have the best view on the live feeds plus I can meet you after."

Juniper's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? I'd love to be there and support you, Gio."

Gio's smile was audible in his voice. "It's a date, then. I'll arrange for your access pass. You'll get a glimpse of what beast training competitions are all about."

As their conversation continued, Gio shared the details of the competition—the challenges they would face and the thrilling atmosphere in the wildlands. Juniper listened intently, before bidding goodbye.

Meanwhile, in another part of the interstellar, Daiju was preparing for a photo shoot. He had to leave Juniper's side to fulfill his commitments as an actor. He was surrounded by the team, all busy setting up for the shoot.

"I'm sorry I have to leave, Juniper," Daiju said as he gazed into his lover's eyes over communicator. "But don't worry, I'll be back as soon as I can. Daizen is just being too pushy with the schedule."

Juniper nodded, understanding the demands of Daiju's profession. "It's okay, Daiju. I know your work is important, and I'll be here."

Daiju smiled warmly. "I'll send you pictures and messages during breaks, and as soon as this is over, I'll be back in your arms."

As they bid farewell, Daizen, Daiju's manager, approached, dragging him away to begin the shoot. "Come on, Daiju. We don't have time to waste."

Daiju glanced back at Juniper with an apologetic look before following Daizen, who was rather stern and focused on the schedule. As they walked away, Daiju sent a wink and a virtual kiss Juniper's way.

On another front, Demetrius was preparing to return to his military duties. He had arranged to meet Juniper before at another time inviting him to see Kairos, the rescued Litkyn beast from the planet Carvina.

"I'd love to visit," Juniper replied. "Kairos is such a magnificent creature, and I want to see how he's doing."

Demetrius assured him, "He's adapting well. The facility takes good care of him, but I thought you might want to see him again. You can always learn more about contracted beasts in this way."

Juniper's mind drifted back to the time he had met Kairos. It had been a significant moment when he went on his first journey away from the capital traveling with Gio and Demetrius.

"I'll make arrangements to visit soon," Juniper promised.

Before they ended the call, Yong-Jin's face appeared on the communicator screen, smiling warmly. "Hey, Juniper. Sorry I couldn't stay. Some important matters came up with my work.``

Juniper nodded understandingly. "It's okay, I hope everything is going well with your investigations."

Yong-Jin's expression grew serious. "Yes, it's a complex case involving fake IDs circulating in some regions of the interstellar. I'm determined to get to the bottom of it."

"I know you'll do your best," Juniper encouraged. "And if you ever need someone to talk to or take a break, you can always reach out to me."

Yong-Jin's smile softened. "Thank you, Juniper. Your support means a lot to me. And don't worry; I'll find time to catch up with you soon."

With their conversations winding down, Juniper bid farewell to each partner. Juniper once found again that he was looking forward to living with others when all was quiet.

***

The days leading up to the beast competition passed quickly, and Juniper found himself caught in a whirlwind of emotions—excitement for Gio's upcoming performance, a longing for Daiju's return, curiosity about Kairos' progress, and concern for Yong-Jin amidst his challenging investigation which is unknown.

But through it all, Juniper remained grounded and supportive. He focused on his work, tending to his beloved plants, and using his broadcasts to educate others about urban gardening and sustainable food practices.

The comments from his viewers were overwhelmingly positive, expressing gratitude for Juniper's efforts to make fresh vegetables more accessible to everyone.

On the day of the beast competition, Juniper couldn't contain his excitement. He arrived at the main beast arena, the atmosphere buzzing with anticipation.

The crowd was a mix of enthusiastic supporters, trainers, and spectators eager to witness the fierce battles between skilled beast trainers and their formidable companions.

Looking down from the seating areas some of the trainers had arrived in the centre of the arena but Juniper couldn't spot Gio among them.