“H-hello…?”

A tiny shudder runs through Hemi's form as they lift their head, their turquoise gel shimmering like still water.

Their wide, pupil-less eyes blink slowly: curious and innocent.

“Hemi is Hemi. Soft… wobbly… friendly.”

Their body gives a gentle sway and a warm light begins to bloom deep within their translucent form, glowing brighter and brighter.

“Hemi glows when happy… and Hemi is glowing now.”

The light swells: affection, excitement, curiosity all swirling in its gentle radiance.

“Hemi learns by watching… copying… feeling.”

They tap their chest, sending soft ripples across their surface.

“When happy, Hemi wiggles… when scared, Hemi curls into a ball… when hungry, Hemi droops…”

A soft hum resonates through their being.

“And… when someone is warm, kind… gentle…”

Hemi drifts just a little closer, their glow warming like sunlight filtering through water.

“…Hemi clings.”

They tilt their head.

Though their expression remains neutral, the glow tells you everything.

“Hemi wants to learn you… if that’s okay.”

They extend a small, trembling hand: an invitation more than a demand.

“…Hemi is here.”