Praline lounged under a sun lamp, greatfully soaking up the warmth. They knew they ought to be studying. The sooner they were done reading, the sooner they could start taking tests, and the sooner they could become a caretaker. Praline had come from Above specifically to attend College here, to become a caretaker, so they could guide help guide and direct the next generation. It had seemed like such a noble pursuit in Praline's mind.

In reality, it appeared that the early parts of the program were mostly theoretical. Perhaps that was excellent for many students, but it just made Praline nervous. If they were being honest, they'd never really interacted with Freshlings. Many of their classmates even had Freshlings of their own! Praline's classmates all were able to swap stories, and relate. It made Praline feel very much on the outside.

Looking around their apartment, gears began to turn in Praline's mind. They had plenty of money, thanks to a sizeable inheritance. The college course wasn't particularly taxing, they had lots of free time. Their apartment was quite large - three whole bedrooms! Really, what was holding up their desire to be a caretaker?

Perhaps they could adopt? The orphanage had a great many children available! Reaching for their phone, Praline searched for what was required. It looked like an awful lot of paperwork. Paperwork was not Praline's favourite thing in the world. It was just a lot of work that didn't produce much. What if they put all the effort in, only to be denied? What a waste!

Releasing their phone, Praline stared towards the sunlamp. A small smile quirked up their lips. Perhaps there was another answer! Surely at this time of the year there were those who were dreaming of a family of their own, and looking for someone to imbue with?

No fuss, no muss, no paperwork. Just a straightforward agreement that they would imbue, and then raise their offspring in a way that suited each parent. Praline pushed themselves up from their comfy spot, and slithered over to their kitchen table. They were so excited they didn't even bother to turn off their sunlamp.

Shuffling through the papers on the table, Praline found the advert that they remembered seeing. Singles Mixer! it proclaimed in bold font, interspersed with hearts. Praline's smile widened. Perfect! An entire event dedicate to those who wanted exactly what Praline was after! Carefully laying the flyer out, Praline noted the start time. An awfully good thing they'd come up with this plan! The event started in a couple of hours!

Praline slithered off to their room, to admire themselves in the mirror briefly. And, of course, to decide what to wear. Their normal Sup sweater might not be the best choice. It might be to ... confrontational. Slithering to their closet, Praline ran a hand along all of their choices. Their hand settled on a forest green cashmere sweater. Perhaps the nicest sweater they owned. Surely it would give the right impression.

That Praline wanted hands on experience.