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When Josheb's brother responded with a snort, Levity focused on him. What was so funny?

Josheb protested, "Hey, I bring stories to the people!"

With a small headshake, Caleb stepped forward and offered his palms. "Caleb Dare. We're here because my little brother was after a scoop on Big Foot. That's the kind of journalist he is."

"Why are you making that sound like a bad thing? We found him, didn't we?" Josheb's gaze bounced between her and Levity, full of curiosity. "Say. How often do you get asked if you play basketball? Or like … rugby?"

Canarian drooped into an apologetic posture. "Mr. Dare, your question would be slightly more polite if you adjusted the position of your feet. But only slightly better."

"That's code for rude," grumbled Caleb. "Sorry. We're still getting the hang of the whole interspecies cultural liaison thing."

"So … my feet? Show me!" Elbowing Canarian, the man added, "And call me Josheb."

Divinity crooked a finger at Caleb, met his palms, and proved she could be just as nosy. Pointing to the crystal that was set into his necklace, she asked, "Did you make a friend?"

Caleb's expression warmed. "Andor is a bear."

Levity whispered, "Andor Skypact? Oh, I want that story."

"You'll have it," Josheb promised. "Everybody will. They're putting the finishing touches on our pilot episode. Hisoka Twineshaft invited us to help smooth the way for peace. We're taking the cryptid angle. Entertainment that informs."

Canarian took charge, assigning seats and distributing refreshments, then gesturing for his uncle to begin. Hisoka Twineshaft considered his hands, which were folded on the table, then searched Levity's face. "May I ask something impertinent?"

She beckoned.

"Why have you decided to help us?"

Not if she would. Why she would.

Impertinent indeed.

Her answer was ready. "This is my city, and its neighborhoods are my home. Many people here feel like they know me, and in return, I get to know as many as I can. As a journalist, their stories become my stories. Everyone's connected.

"The grocer's son is on the city council. He married his high school sweetheart, the daughter of the owner of the diner. She's a schoolteacher, so she knows everyone, and everyone knows her. Her hairdresser happens to be an avian who's a true artist when it comes to braids. She keeps her ears open, which is how I found out that her favorite small-time fishmongers—two old-timers and a boat—were getting along in years and needed help. The boy I brought around to meet them was a good fit. Hiring him meant they could stay in business, and they love him like a son. They have no idea that he's otter clan."

Harmonious blinked. "The grocer's sweetheart's hairdresser's fishmongers have a son who's Amaranthine."

Levity said, "The Perspective covers the news, but when you talk to my boss, Becca will tell you that my main job is fostering a sense of community. When Roy and Mel opened their home to Levin, their differences didn't matter. They share a path, and their connection is real. Two stories became one, and that's beautiful.

"All that to say … I don't just think peace between the Amaranthine people and humanity is possible. I don't just hope it's possible. I know it's possible." And turning to Adoona-soh Elderbough, who spoke for the packs, Levity announced, "I'll do this for the clans. On one condition."