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Helping the Matchmaker: 2026 Valentine's Day Event

Summary:

This story was written for Xanje's 2026 Valentine's Day event. The player helps Rinn with matchmaking the parents for all the new hybrid creatures.

Posting as my 200th AO3 story! (If you see it as 196th, you probably aren't logged into ao3)

Chapter 1: Prologue

Chapter Text

You've heard the creatures in the glade talking among themselves about a special event that Rinn the Matchmaker did in February last year, and the year before. You might even remember participating in it, or know someone who did. So this year as February gets closer, you have Rinn's place on your mind.

One day you ask the creature who just rewarded you for visiting Lisi the Healer whether she can tell you anything about the event. She's new, a little Calico Meekra, and has no idea what you're talking about.

"Oh," says a Rat with a golden, glowing aura, swooping down from a nearby tree to hover magically near the Meekra, "I know about Rinn's February mentoring event. Maybe you will get a chance to help them out this year." A whisper in the Meekra's ear, making her giggle, and the unusual creature floats back up into the treetops before you get a chance to ask more.

This leaves you highly anticipating the event. You've seen Fae Nyari hover in a similar way, but have to wonder what sort of Rat has that ability. Maybe Rinn will know. Once February arrives, you make your way to their home and find a sign on the door. "Please join me out in the clearing," it reads.

The clearing is full of signs beautifully painted on freshly sanded boards. The words aren't large, so you need to approach each one closely to read it. The first one you approach explains the use of green and pink stones in Rinn's work as the Matchmaker. There are so many intricate details you never realized were involved.

Another sign explains how Rinn can tell which pairs of creatures are able to create progeny, as well as how long it will take and what potions they are able to use if they wish to speed things up. You find yourself reading one after another until you think you've reached your capacity for learning for the day.

"It's good to see such a diligent student of my art," Rinn says, coming up behind you.

A little startled, you turn and begin to thank them for all the educational reading.

"Last year I gave out papers with all this information, but I thought this might be more sustainable," Rinn says. "Once you've read it all, head on home and get some rest so you'll be fresh tomorrow to help out."

You have to ask. "Did you paint these all yourself? It seems like so much work."

Rinn laughs. "Ah, you're very observant. That will help with the tasks I'll have for you these next few days. No, I had help. Someone you might get to meet very soon."