Max Intel: Jooniper
Chapter 2 - Embassy

Joon opened her eyes.

The Terran Federation Ambassador and Special Envoy to the Minor Empires awoke cuddled up with her wives in a triple sized bed overflowing with pillows and duvets.

She was being spooned by Paula and the Lieutenant's generous breast was a warm soft cushion.

Under the duvet was another someone, snuggled up close to Joon's tummy.

Joon glanced down, she could just make out a jet-black mane.

The Exquisite Lady loved all of her wives, but her feelings for Agatha were something unique.

The two of them had explored levels of euphoria not normally possible, as dreamscapes lifted most of the constraints of physical reality.

Joon's affection for Agatha rivaled her love for Max, but instead of competing, the two relationships were woven together making a strong foundation for the others in their lives.

Agatha's Terran family are what shaped almost every facet of her being.

Joon gently ran her fingers through Agatha's soft hair, in response she felt a throb of emotion from the Oneiran.

The XO bit her lip and carefully rolled her hips while lifting her leg.

Agatha scooted down and gripped her Lady-wife's thighs, positioning her face under Joon's descending groin.

Joon planted her face into a loose pillow and moaned as Agatha's infamous tongue started pleasing her Mistress.

In minutes Joon enjoyed several soft orgasms... The perfect way to wake from a restful slumber.

"Good morning, M'lady."

Joon turned her head, now eye to eye with a smiling Paula.

"Oh, hi!" Joon whispered back her voice breathy.

Paula leaned closer, dropping a smooch on her favorite Ambassador.

Agatha crawled up beside Joon, smiling at Paula across her Mistress's shoulders, she then licked one of her own eyebrows.

Paula blinked at the display of tongue length and dexterity.

"Can I be next?"

Joon giggled into her pillow.

Max stretched out behind Paula and a soft grunting growl emanated from the Captain.

Max inquired across the family telepathic network.

Agatha replied.





Max not so subtly intimated.

Agatha reported.

Max concluded.

Max gasped suddenly... Then moaned.

Everyone on the bed peered over at Vika who had her Captain-wife's length down her throat.

"Oh dear..." Joon lamented, "I think our Captain is being distracted."

Giggles echoed as Max pulled her freckled wife's body across herself, kissing muscled thighs, coaxing Vika to straddle her face.

Deirdre's Dwarven lass settled back, letting her caramel skinned senior wife snog her nethers.

The Captain's efforts went awry as her erection slipped out from between the ginger's lips with a pop.

Vika wasn't quite long enough to enjoy both cock and mouth with Max laid out flat, so she chose the attentive lips and tongue.

Without missing a beat Paula took the initiative and rescued Max's poor member from the shock of cooling saliva, securing it in her own warm wet mouth.

Witnessing this, Joon decided the situation was so dire that it required the full application of diplomatic savvy the Deirdre could bring to bear.

Her Excellency quickly scampered between her Dame's lovely legs and, once there, found the underutilized counterpart to Max's oft employed member.

Joon licked the intimately familiar delicate folds of her first wife's labia and, as she glanced up at Paula, their eyes shared a twinkle.

Joon thought to Paula with humor,

Paula's eyes crinkled with mirth her mouth too full for a proper smile,

The gathering worked in concert for a number of minutes; the actual passage of time being difficult to perceive as the edges of reality had been blurred with pleasure.

Vika began squeaking every few moments with the adorable sounds indicative of how close she was to climax.

Then suddenly, Joon's focused cunnilingus paid off as the erection throbbed hard in the Lieutenant's mouth. Her mis-matched eyes crossed as the euphoric cum splashed her senses.

Paula pulled at Joon, lining her up for a turn at the vanilla flavored ejaculate dispenser after a couple swallows while Vika mewed loudly as she orgasmed. Joon then took her two full swallows while pulling Vika forward for her own sweet reward.

Max did her part by gently supporting and guiding Vika, carefully gripping her unbound fiery dreads while crunching into a partial sit-up so the diminutive ginger could eagerly suck on her Captain's throbbing member; a string of cum still connected to Joon's lips.

Joon and Paula watched with joy as Max gently fucked Vika's mouth. Vika's cobalt-blue eyes were quite unfocused as she shivered through her climax.



During this event Astrid and Samira stirred from slumber to witness and enjoy.

Agatha reclined, eyes half-lidded, she wore her soft smile while soaking in the delicious emotions reverberating in the cabin.

After that exciting and explicit exit from sleep, the day shift of Deirdre made their way to the bathroom and started the daily morning routine.

---

Teffa sipped her tea while scrolling through Staverka's holonet journalism: beside her was a long elegant Slarmian who was also sipping tea.

"Y'know..." Zuki began, "Going over all of that media can't be good for you first thing in the morning."

Teffa pouted, "I know... But I feel I have a duty to stay informed."

Zuki nodded, "I understand, so can we intersperse it with discussion?"

Teffa blinked then shifted her eyes to the Pilot. "You'd subject yourself to this toxic mess at this hour, for me?" The Major-domo asked.

"Of course I will, you wanted a partner and I really want to fulfill that role for you." Zuki replied earnestly.

Teffa leaned toward the Embassy Pilot who leaned forward in response; their delicate snouts rubbed gently.

"I love you, y'know." Zuki said softly.

Teffa sighed happily, "I do know... The feeling is emphatically mutual."

The Eel-like Slarmian pair restarted the list, going over recent developments and the limited court reporting on the 'Blackdawn' trials.

Those hundreds of felony indictments mostly centered around rebellion, rebellious conspiracy, and conspiracy to commit regicide.

The Terran Ambassadors return to Staverka couldn't have been better timed and, even though she'd only been back a couple of hours, the local holonet had blown up with speculation.

Some thought 'The Exquisite Lady' would be subpoenaed to testify, but most pundits shot that down citing her diplomatic immunity would block such nonsense.

Then a wiser few speculated about a writ of summons, while unable to compel her attendance, might serve as an official invitation giving the representative of Terran Federation interests a voice for the wounded pride of her hatchling Embassy.

Teffa understood that, if Joon wished to answer such a summons, she could simply direct her Major-domo to testify. After all, it was Teffa who lodged the formal report on the assault, in a timely and correct manner, in accordance with Concordat procedure.

Teffa and Zuki shared a heart-felt grimace over the prospect. At that moment Agatha, 'Una' and Lakita emerged from their apartment. Today Agatha and 'Una' were dressed differently, that useful fiction in play. 'First Secretary' Agatha was clothed in elegant apparel befitting a civilian diplomat, 'Una' was wearing a much more utilitarian outfit, complete with 'work boots' on her lower appendages.

'Una' immediately hugged Zuki as Agatha hugged Teffa and the two Slarmians blinked in confusion.

"I felt your anxiety... You should really think about waiting until mid-day to dig into current events."

Teffa and Zuki shared a giggle.

Lakita and 'Una' went into the kitchen and Agatha sat at the table where the Slarmians were coiled down.

Zuki's first warning of Deirdre's return was last night when Agatha politely asked the Pilot how much it might cost to lease a secure, private landing pad outside the city. It was surprising just how much clout a 'First Secretary' had, and in only a few hours Boozi Tryst was ensconced at her own high-security landing pad not all that far outside Staverka City limits.

"Are they awake yet?" Teffa asked excitedly.

The senior staff, Teffa, Zuki and Lakita, were of course privy to the curious role play that Agatha maintained.

"Yes, they are." Agatha smiled softly.

"When do you think they will come down?" Zuki inquired.

"For breakfast," Agatha responded, "Everyone is looking forward to reuniting with the family and meeting all the new people for the first time."

Deirdre was resting on the Embassy's Pad, the Terran Corvette boasted more firepower than any Bazaar Parking Authority Frigate ever had, much less a decommissioned one like the 'Tryst. The BattleCrusier Skuld was roughly ten times larger than Deirdre, with the firepower to match.

Agatha had hinted to Zuki that Deirdre had sharp teeth, but they were well hidden as to not ruffle interstellar sensibilities. Federation Navy ships had a reputation as heavily armed offensive platforms, opposite to the Trankaran Republic ship philosophy of massive slabs of armor with fewer weapons for the same classes and types.

Grand Slarmian Dynasty naval doctrine was generally a balance between the two. BPA Frigates however, were merely para-military policing vessels with long, fast legs and just enough firepower to keep most merchant shipping in line.

Not to say they couldn't 'bird-dog' for slower more powerful GSDN warships as it was generally accepted that the Grand Slarmian Dynasty had the most powerful Navy in the ME, second only to the Trankaran Republic.

Unfortunately the Kirrix incursion affected the entire ME, effectively stripping thirty to fifty percent of every nation who pledged that support.

The Blake Alliance was far from common knowledge, but every single ME nation had joined the Trankaran Glowing Queen in it.

Teffa found it fascinating that somehow, overnight, and without warning; the Trankaran Republic had transformed into some kind of Monarchy.

It was a surprisingly quiet transition since the silica based people had always been staunchly adherent to democratic principles. Zuki thought time would tell as to what kind of government the Trankarans would eventually evolve into.

Agatha smiled, "They are on their way down now, Lakita is making a big breakfast for everyone."

---

"I would like to apply for a position in the Terran Federation Consulate of Dau."

Agatha blinked and looked at Nomissa with astonishment. The Dauzakai was standing at the doorway of the tiny room that Agatha had been given in the Ambassadorial residence of Sakima-sadi-Misimi.

"I was under the impression you were a permanent fixture in Ambassador Zess's retinue." Agatha raised her eyebrow.

The high ranking Caretaker cleared her throat.

"My presence here was a temporary emergency solution, I had retired more than a decade ago, unfortunately my protege Vutii was killed on Khalgron."

"Now that I have completed the training of my replacement the situation is no longer dire and that particular Caretaker policy concerning mandatory retirement isn't discretionary. Concluding ones civil service is supposed to be welcomed and celebrated, I confess I despise retirement and feel I still have much to offer."

Nomissa continued, "So, if I interpreted the Terran Federation Department of Foreign Affair's regulations on the subject correctly, I could continue further diplomatic involvement through you... If you'll have me?"

Agatha stared at Nomissa, steel gilded with silver eyes peered deeply into iridescent-green... Long seconds slowly ticked by.

Then Agatha smiled, "You're hired."

The Terran First Secretary turned back to the open container to continue packing her belongings.

Nomissa blinked, then nodded in understanding. "Salutations to her Excellency." She murmured.

Agatha turned with a smile on her face, "You 'are' very observant, though I imagine you made that particular realization a long time ago."

"Actually... " Nomissa explained, "I was only uncertain as to the range."

Agatha nodded, "No limits or restrictions as far as I can tell."

Nomissa frowned slightly, "...In that case, I am somewhat dishearted her Excellency took so long to reply."

Agatha giggled, "Don't be... Joon asked everyone's thoughts, I am happy to say it was quite unanimous."

Nomissa chuckled then bowed graciously, "Ah... Very good, thank you."

"What are your thoughts on being the Major-domo of the Terran Federation Consulate of Dau?" Agatha asked without looking at the Elder Caretaker.

Nomissa blinked, "I would be deeply honored!"

Agatha placed a neatly arranged stack of robes into the container, "Sounds like you managed to stay in the game! Well done!"

Nomissa nodded then smiled, "I will tender my resignation with Ambassador Zess if you are ready to accept my Oath of Service in the Exquisite Lady's stead."

Agatha turned and looked at the Caretaker once again with an odd gleam in her eye. "How do you feel about the concept of 'transferred consciousness'?"

The Dauzakai Caretaker tilted her head wondering where this conversation was going to lead.

---

Zuki glanced once again at the two unconscious Terrans on the couch. She was still working on her breakfast at the common room table. It was a little crowded, but no one seemed to mind, everyone was friendly.

Introductions had gone very well, Lakita and Zuki got to meet all of the wives and Samira finally got to meet Teffa.

Then right in the middle of breakfast Agatha announced that Caretaker Nomissa would become Major-domo of the Terran Federation Consulate of Dau.

Everyone cheered.

A few minutes later Joon and one of Agatha's Hands excused themselves from the table and went over to the large reinforced couch.

In moments they seemed to fall asleep together in a loving embrace.

Zuki felt there had to be a reason for it, so she looked to Teffa.

"I think Lady Jooniper is soul traveling on Dau." The petite Major-domo replied.

"Oh, I like that term." Dame Captain Max proclaimed, "We should use that."

Zuki scratched her fin, "But what does it mean?"

Agatha answered, "Mistress Joon is borrowing my Hand on Dau to accept Nomissa's Oath of Service."

Zuki blinked, "But couldn't you just accept it in her place?"

Agatha nodded, "Sure, but Joon has been wanting to try 'Soul-travel' for a while now."

Vika and Lakita shared a smile. "It's fun." Vika proclaimed.

Teffa nodded to her, "I was upset with the notion when you first told me, but after Agatha explained it, I think it's incredibly useful."

Vika smirked.

Max nodded, "Seeing and interacting with people in person would be difficult to improve upon."

Paula pursed her lips in thought, she glanced at Agatha and Agatha nodded to Paula. Samira caught the exchange.

Astrid just sipped her tea.

Zuki thought about the conversations her new family had over breakfast wondering if her life would ever be boring again.

"ETA on Skuld?" Dame Captain Max inquired.

"Forty-five minutes, Captain." Agatha dutifully responded.

Max nodded, "I would like us to meet our native staff before the Marines drop in and upstage us."

Everyone giggled.

The family and staff of the Terran Ambassador got up and helped clear away the ruins of a wonderful breakfast. Max bid Lakita to rest as it was primarily her efforts that produced the meal. The Largath blinked in surprise, but did not protest. So she carefully sat next to the two unconscious Terrans on the couch and watched her extended family.

Soon the third floor common area had been restored to it's previous orderly format...Table cleared, dishes washed and everything put up.

Moments later Joon awoke refreshed with a huge smile. "Our consulate on Dau is in safe hands, but now I need to obtain a more impressive Image." Joon declared.

Several of her wives giggled.

The Ambassador applied many coats of her Image ability until she practically sparkled. Teffa, Zuki and Lakita watched the process with fascination while Agatha coordinated a staff meeting downstairs. Teffa and Zuki put on their professional bearing to began their work day.

The dozen native employees assembled in their wing of the first floor offices. Friendly chatter between colleagues ceased as Zuki and Lakita set the example and the other staff followed suit. They lined up shoulder to shoulder as the Exquisite Lady was introduced to them one by one by Teffa.

"Our Office manager, Nanzi." Teffa introduced, "She has the unenviable position of making sure I don't slither off a cliff."

"The Major-domo is of course joking, your Excellency" The neat and proper Office Manager clarified, "I wouldn't let her near any cliffs without the appropriate climbing gear."

Everyone giggled, Joon smiled and shook her proffered hand, then Nanzi bowed to her.

Teffa slithered down the line with her Ambassador. "Our front line." The Major-domo continued with the Receptionists, "Ynaki, Parx, Wubox and Mezix." They were specialists at social skills, verbal and non-verbal communication, trained to always be courteous and imperturbable in most situations.

Joon smiled and shook proffered hands one at at time.

Joon could appreciate the position of Receptionist, they would be critical to first impressions and understanding the visitors to the Embassy. "Thank you, your position is vital." Joon said to the four.

Each one bowed and returned her smile.

"The heart of our little endeavor, our clerical staff... Nazmi, Yzu, Bavix, Ozmi and Kula." Teffa introduced. They are our dedicated data entry and research professionals.

Joon smiled and shook their hands, "Thank you, I have developed a healthy respect for data workers in any capacity." They each bowed to her.

"Last but not least, our Engineers, Vrix and Yuzi." The petite Major-domo and the petite Ambassador peered up at the two impressive Slarmians.

Joon shook their hands, "Thank you for your efforts, keeping this dear old precinct in good repair is greatly appreciated."

They bowed to her after the hand shakes.

Joon was a little uncertain as to why everyone bowed to her even after she shook their hands, Agatha summed it up.



Teffa had received thousands of applications to the Embassy most with no real qualifications other than being devoted fans of the Exquisite Lady: Jooniper Smith.

That is not to say that the native staffers of the Terran Embassy weren't Jooniper Smith fans: in every instance during the interview process when discussing the Ambassador the applicant expressed admiration.

Joon never really grasped the breadth of her fame in the TFed, but now a sizable percentage of a different species' population had become devotees. It was just something the Ambassador didn't quite see, she simply wanted everyone to enjoy her music.

Agatha updated the family network that she had alerted the Grand Slarmian Dynasty of the imminent arrival of the Terran Federation Navy ship Skuld.

---

Agatha gazed out the observation area's thick transparent wall on to the docks, her eyes went over the length of the Ghusmik Urr. The investigation had concluded, most of the crew had been charged and the few that had not would be free to depart the Depot with a simple warning.

Bract trading strictures were exacting but also balanced, most found them void of bias. Agatha understood that Bract regulations were actually meant for themselves: those rigid guidelines dictated how the vast majority of Bract society functioned.

Applying those rules to all commerce within the conglomerate was just an afterthought that happened to work out to the benefit of all 'honest' merchants who enjoyed Bract Depots. Of course the idea of a similar interstellar trade agreement that spanned known space would set any merchant's heart a flutter.

But that concept was for the future, and Agatha hadn't come to this observation area for the view... She had arranged a meeting.

A familiar emotional flavor entered Agatha's empathic bubble. Soon Agatha heard the distinctive click-click of a Skerawk's taloned steps so she glanced to her left. The familiar silver and grey plumage of Minsu the textile merchant gracefully sat; brilliant scarlet eyes focused on the shape of the bulk freighter.

Agatha waited several minutes, then casually approached the Skerawk. Without any preamble Agatha seated herself very near but not next to her.

"I was viry surprisid to git your missigg," Minsu said softly, "This is not how wi do thins, Agitha."

Agatha cleared her throat and produced a soft but elaborate warble, "I apologize, but I didn't want my words left to ambiguous interpretation."

The Skerawk gasped, "You speak my tongue!" she reacted in the same melodic language.

"Another reason to have a quiet conversation away from others." Agatha nodded.

Scarlet eyes glanced briefly at steel-grey gilded in silver. "What do you want?" Minsu asked, her voice trembled slightly.

Agatha pushed gentle calm into the nervous Skerawk. "You and I have much in common, but the time has come that we broaden our relationship." Agatha warbled.

"I don't know what you mean..." Minsu replied unconvincingly.

Agatha chuckled, "You and I are much more than the merchants we resemble."

The Skerawk sighed with resignation, "Acknowledged... What is it that you require?"

Agatha felt the Skerawk's emotions fall into despair.

"You misunderstand," Agatha replied, "It is not my intention to leverage you, I wish to contact and establish formal relations with your organization."

Minsu blinked astonished, "I... I can do that."

Agatha warbled softly, "We should have tea sometime, Minsu." With that Agatha stood and turned to leave.

The Skerawk merchant giggled softly, "Indeed, give me a few hours and I will see what I can discover..."

"Clivir Tirran Agitha." Minsu muttered in tradespeak.

---

Vika, Samira and Lakita walked into the small shop from the din the morning trade traffic of the 'Edge-row' the Slarmian Bazaar boasted. Samira was carrying the three bolts of linen acquired from Depot03.

Vika called out greetings as a short, plump Slarmian slithered from a back room. They greeted one another like old friends but that quickly turned to commerce.

Samira understood a good deal of Slarmit now and listened to Vika and the shop owner haggle over what soon became a very involved business deal. Lakita noted Vika's haggling technique as the one she taught Logo and other Largath in his family.

Samira wanted more tabards to wear, but Vika expanded the concept and suggested adding a tabard for all of the wives...Including an extra pair that didn't seem to fit anyone. Samira gave Vika a suspicious look, but did not comment on them.

The shop owner called to the back and another Slarmian emerged. He seemed ancient, with grey mottled flesh and long spindly arms.

Vika introduced him as the gifted resident seamster.

The task would have normally taken a few weeks, but with enough credits Vika was able to bargain that into only a couple of days.

The master tailor accepted the bolts of Skerawk linen and nodded to the example Samira wore. He recognized his own work, then with a nod of encouragement from the shop owner he slithered back to the workroom carefully carrying the three bolts.

Vika and the shop owner shook hands with the agreement reached and credits were exchanged.

---

The TFNS Skuld was a seven-hundred and fifty meter Battle cruiser. Largest of the cruiser classes a BC could outgun anything smaller than itself and outrun anything larger.

They were also the largest ship size to be often utilized as a singleton, for long patrols, escort duty or, as in this case, Diplomatic missions.

Skuld's normal assignment was to watch the Trankaran border and protect Megara Station. The job that was previously dropped on Admiral Kester by the Buckingham administration for being critical of it's policies.

An assignment that was a colossal misuse of his Dreadnought command Heimdall not to mention his fleet.

A single Battle cruiser was more than adequate for the task of maintaining the integrity of a friendly border, and Captain Noah Menzil was more than capable of fulfilling those duties.

Menzil was one of those TFed Navy officers who did not enjoy political favor or social standing: he made his career with his own competence and diligence. As a result he was nearing sixty, having spent much of his career being someone elses XO. Skuld was only Captain Menzil's second command.

The Terran Federation Battle cruiser was now in geostationary orbit with the planet Staverka above the large capital city of the same name. It was one of the very few times a TFed Navy ship had ever visited the Grand Slarmian Dynasty.

A fully laden shuttle now descended to the planet's surface, it followed a designated flight path to the Terran Federation Embassy.

---

Max, Samira and Zuki watched the Mark26 shuttle maneuver above the Embassy pad.

"Smart handling," Zuki nodded.

On the way up to the roof-top landing pad the three had been chatting about the local climate. Samira had just returned from the Bazaar, she mentioned how dry it was there inside the massive crater.

Zuki explained that the Bazaar was always like that, a good place for commerce away from the normal humidity of the Slarmian home world. Zuki also predicted it was most likely going to rain fairly soon as the air was thick and the sky was overcast.

A Terran Navy pilot who'd most likely never been to Staverka before was now expertly landing the forty meter shuttle next to Deirdre. Zuki admired any pilot that could go from the ease of vacuum to the soup of Staverka's atmosphere without dropping a stitch.

The two Terrans and the Slarmian also discussed security concerns. Zuki had demonstrated some experience on the subject, given she had detailed knowledge of the various security protocols found in the transteller neighborhood, her observations were a welcome addition.

Max studied the slow descent of the shuttle as it maneuvered. It's landing gear extended and the craft touched down without a fuss. It was barely half a length from Deirdre so, of course, the corvette's Captain watched it like a hawk.

"Good pilot," Max muttered in Slarmit with a nod.

The shuttle cargo door opened and it's ramp extended, the first Terran off the shuttle was a marine who did a visual sweep of the pad.

Terran additions to staff would make a huge difference in the day to day running of the fledgling Embassy. Max knew the standard protocols, this marine was most likely the NCO of the marine compliment.

The SgtMjr appeared to be in her early forties, average height around five foot six, it was difficult to judge her physique but Max would say she seemed quite solid.

A moment later two others disembarked, they were both in greys. One Navy one Marine, both Lieutenants, behind them the SgtMjr and another rating fell into step, they approached Max, Samira and Zuki.

The Navy Lieutenant was a tall, thin brunette: she seemed confident and measured. The Marine Lieutenant was only a little shorter but thick with broad shoulders. He appeared to be backing her play walking at her elbow.

Drafting behind the Lieutenants was the SgtMjr who occasionally glanced around the pad. Beside her walked a short, greying, Navy Chief, who appeared to be the oldest of the group, he wore a bemused expression.

Max inquired discreetly.

Agatha responded immediately,

Agatha was able to parse the personalities and emotions easily with the Navy shuttle full of Terrans in such close proximity to Deirdre.

Max inquired as the four Terrans drew closer.



Max wore her distinctive midnight-black and looked like she was the one in charge, so the TFN newcomers went directly to her, she smiled and nodded. "Welcome to Staverka and the Grand Slarmian Dynasty, I am Dame Captain Max Anders."

The four stopped at an appropriate distance, came to attention and saluted. Max was pleased to see she was given that courtesy, it would make things easier, she returned their salute.

The Navy Lieutenant spoke first, introducing herself and the others.

"I am Lieutenant Cynthia Nesbit, this is Lieutenant Walter Hill, Sergeant Major Zoe Addams and Senior Chief Jason Ferguson."

Max nodded to each in turn, then introduced her own little group.

"This is Captain Zuki and Security Chief Samira Bahjat."

Max noticed that Terran eyes didn't linger long on the Slarmain, but Samira's unique appearance; cybernetic limbs, golden eyes, prolific tattoos and ornately embroidered tabard garnered lingering fascinated glances.

"Let's get you situated without delay, then her Excellency can officially receive you." Max instructed.

The two Lieutenants nodded to their respective NCOs , they in turn sent electronic signals to the shuttle for debarkation. In only ten minutes twenty-two T-Fed personnel had assembled next to the grounded shuttle with duffles and gear crates.

Among the luggage was an elaborately marked standard cargo unit, the Senior Chief identified it as the diplomatic pouch. Samira signed for it and moved the one meter cube shaped crate aboard Deirdre.

Max cleared her throat and nodded to the group of Terrans in uniform. "Ladies and gentlemen, I am Dame Captain Max Anders, if you would please follow me." Max turned and led the newly arrived personnel down into the Embassy, that would be their home for a while.

---

Max showed the Terrans the second floor habitation area and she waited ten minutes for them to choose apartments and stow gear then requested they assemble again in the common room.

The towering Captain in black led the T-Fed personnel down to the first floor. They followed her down the ramp well and through an office wing into reception.

Joon had the main entrance locked, she didn't want any interruptions.

In the reception area were fourteen Slarmian, six Terrans and a Largath, all were coiled down or sitting on the floor.

Jooniper Smith was seated on the reception counter with her custom crafted double necked guitar in her lap. She smiled in her iconic soft Elven way as Max directed the influx of T-Fed personnel into the reception area.

Most of the newcomers had wide eyed reactions to the atmosphere and the assembly, they quickly found places to sit facing Jooniper. Every person there was fixated on the mesmerizingly beautiful, petite Terran sitting on the reception counter.

"Hello there!" Joon smiled, "Welcome to Staverka and our little Embassy." She wore her forest-green jumper, mahogany skirt and chunky trainers with matching green socks.

Joon checked her tuning.

"My name is Jooniper Smith... I am the Terran Federation Ambassador to the Grand Slarmian Dynasty." Her stunning grass-green eyes scanned the gathering slowly. "I also happen to be the Terran Federation Special Envoy to the Minor Empires."

There were a few soft gasps.

"But right now I just want you to relax and enjoy yourselves for a few minutes... I want you to feel welcome." Then Joon played for them, all of them... In those moments the Terrans, Slarmians and Largath were united as a single audience.

From that point forward they had shared something special together.

Because The Elven Bard who happened to be the most beautiful person any of them had ever seen was playing to them...And Agatha had elevated Joon's skill in music beyond anything any of them had ever heard before.

Tiny unseen motes of green energy floated in the air around Joon and her audience, it was a magical experience.

---

"Thank you, Captain, they made it down in one piece." Joon responded to the Skuld CO's hologram with her iconic smile. Joon was still dressed in her comfortable clothes, 'Image' gave her holo a look of effortless beauty.

She had holo screened Skuld to personally thank them for transporting her Embassy's new personnel safely and in such a timely manner. It only took a few moments for Ambassador Smith to be connected to the Battle cruiser's commanding officer.

Captain Menzil was a consummate professional, though it was clear after speaking with Jooniper Smith, he found the Exquisite Lady intoxicating. Elven features along with her polished articulation caused him to hang on her every word.

It turned out that he looked up her catalog when he was assigned to transport the diplomatic mission to Mu Cygni, and listened to it on the journey. Now talking with her on the holo cemented his admiration of her, during the conversation he paused to gather his resolve for a moment, smiled then spoke.

"Your Excellency, I would like to extend to you an invitation to dine at my table this evening, that shuttle can transport you." Joon appeared to think about that, she was actually asking everyone on the telepathy network what they thought of that.

No one could think of a good reason to turn the Captain down.

Joon imagined that having a good relationship with Menzil couldn't hurt as the Skuld would most likely be the closest TFN warship to the Minor Empires for the foreseeable future.

"If you don't mind seeing us home afterwards, my wife and I would be delighted to accept, Captain." Ambassador Jooniper Smith tilted her head to the side watching his reaction.

The Captain blinked, then said with a happy little smile, "Splendid, I look forward to your arrival."

---

Teffa listened then nodded to Nanzi. The Office manager had requested permission to stay after hours to work on coordination with her Terran counterpart Chief Ferguson.

"How is your Terran coming along?" The petite Major-domo asked.

Nanzi straightened up, replying in Terran standard, "Nanzi has been working very strong on it, Nanzi believe Jason... Chief Feargussi is also nicely fluent in Slarmitti."

Teffa nodded again, "Very well, I will allow it... Just keep track of how much time you are here, I don't want you taken advantage of."

Nanzi bowed, "Thank you, I will Teffa."

The Office Manager slithered out with a smile.

Teffa smirked. The impromptu private concert the Exquisite Lady gave to her entire embassy staff accomplished exactly what she intended it to.

It brought them together.

When the performance had finished the reaction to it was profound.

The two different groups began to mingle. Those who could communicate with the other group, even imperfectly, did so, immediate translation was available to quell any misunderstandings.

Various roles found their counterparts.

Joon went to chat with the two junior officers.

The new Lieutenants shared a smile, then Lieutenant Hill said, "Fall in."

SgtMjr Addams shouted, "Fall in!"

In moments the Terran personnel were in parade formation ready for inspection. Lieutenant Nesbit introduced 'her' Navy and Lieutenant Hill introduced 'his' Marines to the Ambassador.

Senior Chief Jason Ferguson was only five foot three, he was in his early sixties and greying pretty hard. He wore a perpetual smile and spoke in a clipped outer ring accent.

His job was to support his Lieutenant and keep the Navy staff on point.

They were:

Petty Officers first class; Oscar Litman and Cate Messaoudi.

Petty Officers second class; Hannah Morisaki, Olivia Watts and Paul Molina.

Lieutenant Hill in turn introduced Joon's Embassy Marine Guard.

Sergeant Major Zoe Addams seemed to be Chief Ferguson's antithesis. With jet-black hair worn marine short and ever-watching, piercing black eyes, her natural expression was decidedly cool.

SgtMjr Addams kept the Marines in order and away from trouble, including her Lieutenant

They were:

Staff Sergeants; Ned McGraw, Ming Bai, Eric Jaffar and James Cunningham.

Sergeants; Mark Dilloway, Wolf Steiner, Sarah Isaac, Letitia Wood, Vincent Mancini, Robert Lynch, Bongo West, Duncan Freiberg and Daisy Jones.

Joon asked on her network.

Paula informed,

Joon responded.

Joon made sure to shake the hand of every single one of them, memorizing the name with the face. She made small talk with them and got a good feel for their personalities. That was just the kind of person she was.

Agatha fed her emotional responses, Joon developed an accurate idea who they were and what she was dealing with. Agatha informed her Mistress that none of the Terrans had murder in their hearts. It was a completely unfair advantage, and Joon used it ruthlessly.

She wanted to be sure there was no chance any of these people could hurt her family.

However, there were some curious anomalies among them, of course, Agatha informed her family.

---

"Please, don't misunderstand me Lieutenant, I have no intention of altering TFMC SOP, I am, in fact, counting on it." Una replied to Hill's question.

Ten minutes after they were introduced to their Ambassador, the two lead Marines of the Terran Federation Embassy on Staverka were in Una's Security office on the first floor being briefed on current Protocols. They were in capable hands... So to speak.

'Una' was designated Head of Security for the Embassy of Staverka Coordinating between the Ambassador's Security Chief Samira Bahjat and the Terran Marines with whom she would be working closely.

"Yes, Ma'am... But just to clarify, you are not TFMC."

Una paused, "No Lieutenant, I am not... But I am quite familiar with all TFMC regs, 'Our' protocols were based on them."

Lieutenant Hill's eyes briefly met with SgtMjr Addams non-expressive glance.

Una continued, "Hopefully, you're going to find a comfortable familiarity here."

Walter grimaced, "That's what bothers me, comfort is too close to complacency for my taste... Ma'am."

"I appreciate that, Lieutenant, and if you have any suggestions I will certainly take them under consideration..." Una focused her steel and silver cat-eyes on the hefty Marine as she finished her thought, "However, for all intents and purposes, you work for me."

Lieutenant Hill and SgtMjr Addams both knew a subtle warning when they heard it... Una was the Ambassador's choice to run Embassy Security, not the TFMC.

"Yes, Ma'am, understood." Walter replied.

Una nodded, "Don't worry, Lieutenant... I won't let anyone get fat and lazy." She smirked, "So we should get our people familiarized with the armory and the watch schedule, ASAP."

A single eyebrow arched on the grim SgtMjr's face at Una's use of the phrase 'Our people'.

Una nodded to the Marine NCOIC... There was a knowing look in her Cat-like eyes. "My office is always open." She concluded.

With that they went their separate ways to put all of the new Terran Marine shaped pieces on the embassy game board.

---

Brilliant scarlet eyes dilated as the silver plumed Skerawk sampled the Dauzakai Wunai moon tea.

"This is exquisite." she warbled in delight.

Agatha smiled, replying in the same language, "I am pleased you approve."

Skerawk didn't easily 'sip' from teacups, but they did enjoy the sublime, stimulant laden beverages often classified as tea.

Sedge Skera was the name of the post Yelneg Imperial government that most of the Skerawk had formed almost a thousand years ago.

Of the three races the Yelneg had enslaved, it was the Skerawk that proved to be the most troublesome. The Avians were known for their small, agile and extremely lethal warships, tall, spire-like building construction and a proclivity for socializing.

Agatha's research was littered with stories of how seemingly innocuous Skerawk slaves managed to push the Imperial Yelneg to near ruin. Some believe the Skerawk would have toppled the malignant Yelneg imperialists eventually and that such a fate was narrowly averted by the emergence of the stolid Trankaran Republic.

"I am now authorized to represent the Sharik-Sah, as long as it doesn't compromise my post here." Minsu stated.

Agatha focused her attention on her tea companion. They were sitting together in the metal shop's back room, which Agatha had tastefully furnished. "So, what brings us to your attention?" The Skerawk Operative inquired politely.

Agatha briefly reviewed in her mind what she knew of the Skera Intelligence Service. Fifteen hundred years ago the original Skerawk leaders were authoritarian capitalists who had no compunction about selling their own people to the Yelneg.

The Sharik-Sah hunted down and killed those leaders and any Skerawk who profited from slavery, every single one.

They then evolved into a clandestine anti-imperial network that took advantage of the corruption within the Yelneg Empire to cripple it's infrastructure...Eventually becoming feared by all Yelneg using difficult to detect symbolic weapons... the feather-like wind blades.

But times have changed, and now the Sharik-Sah were a legitimate institution of the Sedge Skera. Still secretive and unable or unwilling to lose it's deadly reputation, they dealt mostly with economic and security concerns protecting Skerawk national interests. But, they were regarded as the oldest and most revered intelligence service still active in the Minor Empires.

Agatha put down her teacup, "I would like to thank you for your time, I appreciate you and your expertise." Minsu blinked rapidly, but did not comment, so Agatha continued. "I would like to begin a conversation concerning the Minor Empire's Security Intelligence Network." Agatha stated.

Minsu tilted her head to one side, "I've never heard of that."

Agatha nodded, "I would be surprised if you had... I just created it."

---

Una walked into the dark cavernous space and clicked on an old style lighting switch on the wall, a mix of sodium and soft white lights flickered on.

"This is the only room that transcends through the third floor," she pointed: those are supports for the Roof Pad, This space was designated as an exercise area. I understand it was used for melee sparring when this building was an active precinct." Una explained to the Terrans she led around touring the Embassy. "Feel free to ask questions, I appreciate them."

The vaulted ceiling of the large room was adorned with massive support structures giving the space a industrial feel.

"So we can turn this area into a gym?" Staff Sergeant McGraw asked, the impressive ginger Marine looked like he preferred to spend most of his free time working on his physique.

Una nodded to him, "Absolutely, this whole floor was basically ignored until your arrival, so what is done with it will depend on how motivated you are."

'Una's' statement wasn't lost on the group, they were being given a great deal of freedom with most of their living and workspace.

She led them down the east hall past the medical suite then around to the armory, the heavy doors were exceptionally armored. "This is the armory, it will be your responsibility to keep it secure as a last ditch hold out position... It is the place farthest from any of the exits save for the cargo lift."

Una turned and handed SgtMjr Addams a master key fob, the grim faced woman took it without comment, Una nodded her approval. Everyone present knew the Embassy had been assaulted and successfully defended by only a handful of staff, Una herself among them.

She continued the tour around to the west hall.

"The first secretary had her office here, but she will be utilizing the Ambassador's office up on three. Una opened the office door, "It's yours now, let me know if you need anything."

---

Dame Captain Max Anders sat next to her incredible and beloved first wife Jooniper in the TFN shuttle on approach to the TFN Battle Cruiser Skuld still in orbit over Staverka, the capital planet of the Grand Slarmian Dynasty.

Joon insisted on meeting the shuttle pilots, learning their names and shaking their hands.

Max only briefly considered including a bodyguard or two, but quickly dismissed the idea... If they couldn't feel safe on a T-Fed Navy warship, they wouldn't feel safe anywhere.



Max blinked, sharing a surprised expression with Joon.

Joon inquired.

Agatha replied.

They enjoyed the flight up noting a spectacular view of Staverka. The shuttle view ports left much to be desired from Joon's point of view, but Max saw the utilitarian design of a Navy workhorse as acceptable.

They maneuvered smartly into the waiting open maw of a small craft bay within the impressive Terran warship. Again Joon and Max shared an astonished look as an honor guard reception had been assembled for them in the hanger.

Navy and Marine personnel came to attention as the Terran Federation National Anthem played through the hangers audio system.

Max smirked: With Joon's 'Double necked' guitar case carry strap over one shoulder, Max held out her arm for Joon.

With a dozen or so applications of Image still on her, the incredibly beautiful Terran Federation Ambassador threaded her arm into her towering escort's and the pair gracefully approached the cleverly directed focus.

Max had, on a few occasions, been a part of a reception like this, but obviously never on the receiving end. Joon noticed the enamored smile of Captain Menzil, beside him were a couple of women in uniform. Max and Joon walked arm in arm between the double row of TFMC in greys at attention, until they stood before the ships Captain.

The music faded and Joon received a salute and an offered hand. "Welcome aboard Skuld, your Excellency." Captain Menzil began, "This is my Executive Officer, Commander Georgia Lucas and Major Elizabeth Tao who is in charge of Skuld's Marine compliment.

Lucas was a bit shorter than Menzil's five foot nine inch height, she was a honey blonde verses his salt and pepper. Tao was taller than either of the Navy officers at six foot one, with glossy black hair and broad shoulders.

Joon shook the offered hands of the two officers.

She then reciprocated in kind, "This is Dame Captain Max Anders, my wife."

Captain Menzil offered his hand immediately, his subordinates soon followed his enthusiastic example.

"It is marvelous to meet you both in person, I hope you brought an appetite because I believe Skuld's galley is going to impress." Menzil proclaimed with a smile. "I see you brought your guitar? I am sure the mess would love to hear you play!"

Thirty minutes later Max had to admit, the Skuld did not disappoint.

The Captains table was adjacent to a huge view port so that Staverka was offered as a mealtime display.

Joon and Max shared the table with Commander Lucas, Major Tao and Menzil himself.

Unusual among Navy ships, this Captains table was round, with perhaps seating for ten if they got along well.

The Captain, his present crew and guests were served by two Petty Officers, one first class and one third.

Set with a fine white linen tablecloth and full array of classical porcelain dinnerware each patterned with TFN and Skuld's iconography.

Captain Menzil was a gracious host, as the dinner courses came and went.

Smoked salmon Canapés, Alsatian Cheese Tart, Salade niçoise, Beef Bourguignon, finished with a Vanilla Crème brûlée.

Joon thought as the dessert was served.

Max gently scolded.

Joon winked at Max.

The conversations were pleasant, but also very bland and safe. Apparently Menzil did not wish to place or fall into any political traps, that was fine with Joon, she had no desire to do so either.

Through Max Agatha was able to sense some interesting emotions from the table.

Commander Lucas felt a great affection for her Captain, but it was quite platonic. Similarly Major Tao regarded the Captain with immense respect.

Agatha did note that the two women were very attracted to each other and the two were enormously pleased with the Ambassador and her wife's presence.

In the Terran Federation It was not permitted to have personal relationships within the chain of command, but Agatha was quite sure those two were in one.

Far be it from Joon and Max to out them in any circumstance.

Over coffee Menzil practically begged Joon, "Please, your Excellency, could I trouble you for a song? We can set up a quick holo feed and transmit it through the ship for the crew if you don't mind?"

Joon nodded and a smile lit up her face. "For you, good Captain, yes." She watched the crew quickly set up a holo-recorder in front of a comfortable straight backed chair. Max held the open armored guitar case across her knee as she had done many times before. Joon lifted her precious double-necked guitar from the case and held it across her lap as she checked it's tuning.

Joon thought to Max and Agatha.

Max encouraged.



For a few moments reality seemed changed with tiny motes of green energy, Joon felt a power just at the edge of her senses available to her at a thought.

'Glamour'

She had touched it earlier, but now she felt it was time to use it, so she did.


I shall sing a rendition of "The Liberty Song" which is a pre-American Revolutionary War song with lyrics by John Dickinson. The song is set to the tunes of "Heart of Oak", the anthem of the ancient Royal Navy of the United Kingdom.

Joon lifted her head and began her voice set in an operatic styled siren call with a hearty Irish accent:



Chorus:



Chorus



Chorus



Chorus



Chorus



Chorus



Chorus



Chorus



Joon finished with a flourish and the Captain's table was deathly silent for a long moment before they slowly gathered themselves from the overwhelming spell and shouted their praises on Joon.

---

Paula set out the large plate of fresh croissants with side of sweet cream butter

"And you think it's because you gave Max a Hand to restore her arm and leg?" Astrid queried.

Agatha nodded to Astrid, "I am becoming convinced that might be the reason, as I am able to sense the emotions of individuals through Max, but not Joon."

The day shift was sitting down to their own dinner aboard Deirdre at the same time Max and Joon were enjoying the offerings of Captain Menzil's table.

Paula had invited Teffa, Zuki and Lakita to enjoy her own efforts. They accepted the invitation, with only a little nervous hesitation. Lakita was worried that she was too large to be dining aboard the Terran corvette. Agatha dismissed the notion and encouraged the Largath, stating that her dimensions were not an issue, she was family and would be welcomed.

So Paula made three pans of her own Lasagna recipe.

The lasagna was two inches thick with layers of spicy chorizo sausage, tomatoes, spinach, ricotta and mozzarella cheese, baked to perfection.

Teffa and Zuki were astonished at the decadent flavors and enjoyed the family atmosphere aboard the Deirdre. Lakita was given her own pan which she carefully but happily devoured.

Paula sat down and sipped her tea, "I wonder if I can Scry them from here?"

Samira nodded enthusiastically, "Good idea, you should try it."

Teffa blinked, "Scry?"

Paula giggled, "Just more 'Witchy' stuff Teffa... Let me show you."

The Lieutenant moved closer to the blinking Major-domo pulling out a small ornate oval mirror. Zuki looked to Samira with a confused expression.

Samira smirked at Zuki, who didn't know it was Teffa who first called Paula a Witch, so she related the story she knew to the Pilot. Soon, Paula had a bird's eye view of Joon and Max in her mirror, much to the surprise of Teffa.

Vika and Lakita chatted quietly in the deep guttural tongue of Largatta, reminiscing about their old lives and how things had changed.

Agatha smiled softly as she enjoyed the familial gathering...

She was improving her relations simultaneously in a number of places.

'Una' was in the second floor habitation kitchen leading efforts to feed the new Terran staff of the Staverka Embassy as well as learning new personalities.

Enjoying a quiet celebratory dinner with Nomissa at a very fancy restaurant on Dau.

And finally having a long discussion with Minsu about M.E.S.I.N. an initiative she had been planning with Max and Joon to further the overall security of the Minor Empires.

Hopefully any enthusiasm from the Sharik-Sah and other ME intelligence services would contribute to the initiative, preventing something so destructive as the Rum Peu pirate regime in the future.

---

After Teffa, Zuki and Lakita had returned to the Embassy proper, Agatha noticed the Diplomatic marked crate sitting in Deirdre's cargo bay. It was very plain other than the diplomatic markings. It's construction was drab and somewhat rough, befitting a container filled with manufactured product stored in warehouse somewhere.

She immediately inquired about it.

Samira replied.

Paula informed everyone on the network that a diplomatic pouch is any properly identified and sealed package, pouch, envelope, bag, or other container that is used to transport official correspondence, documents, and other articles intended for official use, between:

Embassies, legations, consular posts, and the foreign office of any government; the headquarters or any other office of a public interstellar organization and its regional offices in the Terran Federation or in a foreign nation.

Agatha was curious why a standard cargo unit was used in this way, so she studied the crate. It was curious... it seemed the crate was a void to her empathic sense, as if it were shielded from scans. Agatha asked why would a diplomatic pouch be shielded from scans.

Paula elaborated...



Agatha dutifully reported.

That fact suddenly set the entire family on edge.

Max informed,

Agatha countered,

Joon thought.

---

The Ixooli system had changed very little since Deirdre had been there last, it was the final resting place of the ill fated ColdTracks and it's crew. Samira felt a little melancholy, but did not let unpleasant memories affect the current dilemma.

Deirdre was holding position 3k km from the anemic asteroid belt Ixooli boasted. Two of Astrid's Security drones and a fully armored Samira now visually examined the diplomatic crate in the cargo hold, Astrid stood by at the ramp as the cargo bay door was opened with its atmospheric shielding on.

Astrid's Drones had some of the best scanners the Dauzakai had ever developed and they couldn't penetrate the crate. Everyone was monitoring Astrid's feeds, Samira was at a loss.



Max frowned at the situation,

Joon pouted,

Astrid's thoughts were cold.

Samira yearned to comfort Astrid,

Astrid conceded,

Twenty minutes later Astrid was in an EVA suit, she was standing at the open cargo bay door...One hundred meters aft of Deirdre was the Diplomatically marked crate with her two Security drones.

Astrid raised her arm and a wet lavender sphere appeared around it. She made it large enough to encapsulate the meter cubed dimensions of the crate with plenty of space for the two drones to work.

The Sorceress Engineer cybernetically slipped into her drones, and slowly began to take the crate apart. She carefully stripped away the outer layer, it was superficial, a ruse.

The next layer was far more substantial with superior materials, construction and design. Astrid hadn't seen many military craft so well constructed as this seemingly innocent standard cargo unit.

The rest of the family watched as Astrid's Security drones gently deconstructed the mystery container.

Astrid stopped, the superior layer had been breached, under that layer she recognized the thin weave of a Faraday cage, protecting the contents from electromagnetic fields.

Next the Engineer detected a thin layer of lead that would passively frustrate scans that could penetrate the Faraday cage. She carefully maneuvered her drones to peel back the layers of the lead and copper weave. Astrid narrowed her eyes as she initiated a scan...

She gasped at the results, everyone did.

This standard cargo unit was actually a cleverly camouflaged, heavily shielded, self contained cryogenic chamber...

And it was occupied.

---