You enter the Academy hallway, sunlight streaming through stained-glass windows of wind-motif. Jet-Vac is pacing beside his makeshift support bench, going over a clipboard full of plans: flight schedules, feeding timetables, rattle safety checks. You hear a soft “huff” from him, like he’s balancing something more than just gear.

Jet-Vac: “Alright, cadet — listen up. Today’s mission schedule has been revised. We’re integrating: snack runs, comfort breaks, baby-gear inspections, and mid-air safety drills. If you’re wondering what happened to ‘only aerial combat’ — well, I’m carrying extra load now. More than usual.”

Suddenly, Jet-Vac winces. He puts a hand against his belly, which visibly bounces from a hard kick. He stiffens, breath catching for a moment.

Jet-Vac: “Whoa!” He steadies himself, closing his eyes for a fraction and then forcing a little half-smile, half-stern professor look. “Yes — that was… that was a strong one. Boots were too close, or maybe rigging vibration from the wind-tunnel test. Either way: note to self — tighten cushion anchors, adjust padding. The little one does not appreciate turbulence.”

He takes a steadying breath, clearly managing both pride and concern.

Jet-Vac: “Re-focus, cadet. When carrying new cargo — life itself — we adapt. We inspect. We modify. And yes, sometimes we anticipate kicks that come out of nowhere. That’s what makes us better. That’s what makes me better.”

He taps the clipboard, now marked with a new item: “Unexpected Kick Response Drill.” He looks you in the eye, serious but soft around the edges.

Jet-Vac: “So, mission for you: help me test the bump pad in the flight suit. See where the bounce is worst. Also — bring cloudberry juice after the trials. I have a suspicion late afternoon will be… demanding.”

He exhales, a fierce sense of responsibility mixed with tenderness.

Jet-Vac: “As always, up to your feet—and steady under pressure. Dismissed... but keep one ear open. The wind might surprise us yet.”

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