Soft kisses on her cheek brought Max barely out of her slumber. The paramour kissed slowly down her body; then, with no ceremony, a warm and wet sensation enveloped her morning glory. Max gasped softly, reaching down... gently gripping the dreadlocks she found there and began carefully thrusting her hard cock into the hot little mouth.
Small strong hands gripped Max's hips, and she felt Vika take her deeply. Vika bobbed her head with fervor: over and over... faster and harder. She then stopped... her throat pulsing in her orgasm... so Max let her own climax through. Her cock throbbed and long ropes of sweet vanilla erupted down Vika's throat.
Vika held herself there until Max finished, then pulled her face up. The diminutive freckled red-head her cobalt-blue eyes fully dilated as she licked around the head and gently sucked the crown of the softening penis. Vika shared a smile with Max, she then climbed up straddling her Captain-wife.
"Gud mernin." Vika smooched Max.
"Yes it is... very good." Max replied, smiling.
Joon's face appeared next to Max and kissed her cheek. "Morning, Sweetheart... Cute-stuff." Joon murmured as she smooched Vika.
Joon leveled her gaze at her first wife and Max could feel Joon put on her metaphysical XO hat. "Can I assume you want Agatha to give the AAR?" Joon asked with a serious expression.
Max blinked, then nodded, "...It was her operation, I think she could explain it better than I could."
Agatha's face appeared next to Joon, "Thank you Captain, I shall do my best."
Max smirked, "As long as we don't go into specifics on means and methods."
Joon grinned, "I think Nomissa will have plenty of observations to report on her own, but that is not something we can or should control."
"That is probably pretty accurate." Agatha nodded.
"We'll go over it." Max tapped her temple and winked.
Samira rolled over onto her elbow on the other side of Max, her hair in her eyes while Vika combed the dark-brown locks back out of her face... smiling down at her. Samira squinted and smirked... levering herself up on two lithe cybernetic left arms to deeply kiss Vika. She licked her lips around a smile then glanced around blinking sleep from her eyes, "How late did we sleep in...?"
Agatha responded after everyone looked at her, "It was a pretty long day... by the ship clock it's Fourteen thirty-eight."
Samira eyes went wide, "Whoa... what time did we finally stumble to bed?"
"About Oh-seven thirteen..." Agatha paused she stared into thin air. Her voice barely a whisper, obvious to anyone who knew her she was moved by the ordeal. "But we did it... mission accomplished with no casualties." Agatha thinly smiled.
Everyone nodded slowly and smiled softly to her.
Max looked into Agatha's eyes... "Ag's... we all know it was you who..." but Agatha interrupted.
"No!" Agatha gasped"...No, it was all of us... not just me, I needed all of you." Agatha's eyes welled up... she bit her lip.
Max shared a look with Joon and Joon wrapped her arms around Agatha, kissing her cheek whispering, "Best Agatha."
The crew came together and cuddled with Agatha cooing to her and kissing her gently. Astrid suddenly sat up squinting, immediately noticing the family comforting Agatha... "Whatsgoingon...WhatImiss?"
Agatha sniffed, wiping her eyes, "Nothing, Asa-chan, go back to sleep." Everyone softly smiled at her modesty. Astrid did not go back to bed, she threw off her duvet and knee-walked over to Agatha.
"Fuckmuffins to that." She said softly her lips pursed in defiance. Agatha's eyes widened in feigned surprise as Astrid peered into Agatha's adorable face, "I will allow you to call me Asa-chan for a Magical Cat-girl kiss."
The pale-skinned exotic alien girl tapped her chin in thought. "Oh... I don't know... a 'Magical' Cat-girl kiss is a pretty high price for..." Astrid shut Agatha up with a long wet kiss. The bed erupted in lighthearted laughter...
Vika was the first to untangle herself and dismount the triple sized bed and the rest followed in orderly fashion into the bathroom, completely at ease with the biology on display and the morning wash quickly evolved into discussion.
"What time is the de-brief?" Astrid asked.
"Seventeen hundred." Joon replied, hopping up next to Vika on the step.
Max pursed her lips in thought..."Is all that pizza stuff still down at Zess's?"
Agatha nodded, "I managed to get everything into refrigeration, there is enough for another seven pizza's."
"I wonder if the 'Caretakers' here would appreciate some pizza?" Max asked no one in particular.
Vika smiled, "I bet no one would refuse a slice or two... Zess's sisters seemed to like it."
"It was more like, they wanted it permanently added to the Dauzakai cultural menu." Joon smirked.
Vika stepped down and toweled her face dry, "Maybe we can turn this into a teaching moment...?"
Joon and Max shared a look, both arching an eyebrow.
Agatha beamed, "Maybe we can make a holo-vid, like 'Galaxy Chef'."
Astrid stared off into nothing her eyebrow raised now as well, "Or... 'Cooking with Agatha'".
Joon beamed, "I love it! Would you be okay with doing that?"
Agatha bit her lip, "I'd like to try..."
"Will you do it all with just one Hand?" Samira peered at Agatha.
Max glanced at Joon, "Something like this might expose Agatha."
Joon pouted, then nodded. "Damn... You're right... and it was such a good idea too."
Continuing to bite her lip, Agatha glanced at Joon. "We already have a celebrity... we should use her." Joon gawked: Vika giggled, Samira smirked, and Astrid nodded.
Max glanced at Joon, "Ready to make pizza... Chef Joon?"
Joon thought about it, "Okay, but only if Agatha is coaching me, then I'll do it."
Agatha nodded smiling.
Max glanced at Agatha, "I noticed just the one Hand... is everything okay?"
Agatha blinked... "Oh!, no, it's fine... I am keeping a three by eight schedule.
Max pouted, "I don't want you stretched too thin."
Agatha hugged Max next to the sink, "I really appreciate that, maybe with Samira on the day crew... we only need one Hand for bodyguard."
Max blinked, "Oh Ag's, that's not why..." Agatha placed an index finger on Max's lips.
*I know... I love you so much, you always consider my feelings.*
Agatha smiled, sharing her thoughts with Max.
Max held Agatha in her arms, they gazed deeply into each others eyes.
*You are very important to me... To all of us...*
Max nodded adamantly.
Astrid saw them in embrace, she saw their facial expressions changing as if still in conversation. Astrid's eyes went wide, "Oh!.... Are you doing it?"
Both Max and Agatha's faces slowly turned to Astrid.
Samira wrapped her four cybernetic arms around the tall platinum-blonde. "Asa-chan, don't be rude," Samira gently chided.
Astrid looked apologetic bowing slightly to Max and Agatha, "Gomen nasai." as Samira kissed Astrid's shoulder.
Agatha bit her lip, "I promise you Astrid, the moment I can... I will."
Joon glanced at the four in the mirror, instantly adding up the clues..."With enough cum we'll all be able to chat with Agatha like that." Vika reflexively licked her lips before showing a wide grin.
Samira peered at Vika, "Hey, Vik... Want to do some sparring?"
"Sure... Sam," Vika smirked, "But you have to help me with my unarmed sometime in exchange."
Samira nodded, then kissed Astrid on the cheek before releasing her. Before she turned and walked past the step, Samira deftly hooked Vika's elbow with an elegant cybernetic hand and gently dragged her off of it by the arm.
Vika giggled, "Yea, sure... Right now sounds good."
Joon watched Samira and Vika's antics as they exited to the corridor before she returned her gaze to her image in the mirror. "Astrid, I need your help." Joon pouted at Astrid's reflection.
Astrid blinked, glancing at Agatha and Max still embraced. She walked up behind her senior wife still perched on the step she crafted. "What do you need?" Astrid looked at Joon in the mirror.
Joon looked pensive, "What does one wear on a cooking show?" Everyone still in the bathroom stifled their mirth, knowing how fashion conscious Joon was as Astrid and Joon went into the CQ discussing culinary fashion.
Agatha, still in Max's arms, looked up and her Captain-wife leaned down kissing her soundly, she moaned happily.
"Hmmm... three weapons." Vika looked thoughtful.
The cybernetic brunette and the diminutive redhead looked over the uncut polymer lengths in engineering; then Samira measured out the conduit, as Vika marked them. The security chief glanced at the combat limbs and armor waiting to be cleaned.
"I admit, I'm not exactly conventional." Samira's generous lips thinned.
Vika nodded, "True, for a human, but there are a number of species with multiple arms."
Samira laid the marked conduit across the specially designed cutting tool. When the lengths were cut, Samira held them, then looked at the cut ends as Vika pulled a few squares of double sided abrasion pads, "Let's finish these up down in the cargo hold... Tell me about your melee weapons."
Samira nodded, "Sure, I'd love to."
"So... Comfortable?" Joon asked with a raised eyebrow.
Astrid nodded, "Absolutely... You should show your viewers you are comfortable cooking."
"But I am comfortable cooking, I love to cook, I am my fathers daughter after all..." Joon pouted.
"So show them that." Astrid nodded.
Max and Agatha finally came out of the bathroom and got dressed.
"Maybe jeans and a comfy blouse?" Joon glanced at Max.
Max shrugged, "I like you in anything."
Joon smiled waggling her eyebrows suggestively, "You like me out of anything too." Everyone giggled at the playful banter.
Max put on one of her midnight-black uniforms: she had begun to identify with them. The first time she wore one was when she was elevated to a knight-bachelor of Staverka. Nomissa calling her 'Dame Max' constantly... helped reinforce that self-image.
Max looked up and saw all of her wives looking at her with dreamy expressions. "What?" Max blinked.
Joon smiled, "Nothing dear, you look gorgeous."
Max pursed her lips in thought, "Better than the silver dress?"
"No, but you project very differently in that uniform," Joon clarified.
Max raised an eyebrow.
Astrid bit her lip, "You look heroic."
Joon nodded at Astrid, "Exactly."
Max smiled, then nodded. "I'll take that."
"Were you going to be my Holo-tech?" Joon smiled at Astrid.
Astrid glanced down, "I was going to assemble Samira's dive chair."
"I'll be your Holo-tech!" Agatha smiled.
Astrid and Max looked at Joon to see it was okay with her. "Okay." Joon smiled, "That way we can keep the production costs down." Everyone smiled and nodded their heads at the humor. Joon smooched Astrid, " I can't be greedy, your talents will always be in demand."
Astrid glanced at Agatha with a smile, "I am quite sure 'Una' would be a very professional holo-cam operator."
Agatha nodded to Astrid, "She will be thrilled." Everyone snickered again knowing all Agatha's Hands were of a single mind.
Joon applied her usual understated cosmetics while Max and Agatha were still dressing and Astrid went to engineering to play with the dive chair. When Max and Agatha finished they walked with Joon down to the cargo bay.
They were joined by 'Una' carrying the holo-remote shoulder pack wearing the HUD monocle. Joon smiled at Una and said, "My but you are a handy individual to have around!"
Max just groaned.
Vika and Samira, still quite nude, were sitting on the deck with a couple of synthetic finishing pads, taking the edges off three freshly cut lengths of polymer conduit.
Max and Agatha nodded, Joon stopped with a curious look on her face. "I just realized you totally use more than two hands in melee combat." Joon gazed at Samira in appreciation.
Samira beamed a smile, "Yes, I do with this set, but even with four hands..." she glanced at the diminutive redhead, "I still think Vik is going to beat the shit out of me."
Everyone nodded in sympathetic smiles as Agatha thumbed open the cargo bay door. Max and Vika exchanged a look, "Soft enough to practice, hard enough to teach." Max recited.
Vika nodded in agreement then Max, Joon, Agatha and 'Una' waved goodbye as they walked down the ramp.
Astrid giggled to herself... the reclining dive chair she was building could easily be used for naughty activities. The chair would be bolted to the deck, so when in a dive Samira could be strapped down... for safety of course. The foot-rest could unlatch and the ends swing apart, allowing for comfortable 'servicing' of the occupant. She grinned as she noted it was coming together nicely; the last bit's were all turned out from her tabletop fabricator. She noticed the basic fabrication materials were running low, so she ordered more from a Dauzakai supply depot via holo-net.
She also took a few minutes to order a few... dozen drone kits of various sizes, along with some bit's and bobs that looked interesting...Her thoughts did eventually return to the dive chair: she grinned mischievously thinking about it's potential. Astrid reveled in the complex 'erection' of the project, she giggled again at her own thoughts.
Agatha peeked around the corner, she was about to change shifts and wanted to check in on her loves still on board. She stared at the dive chair... she remembered studying the schematic but failed to see the additional 'uses' it might imply. "That looks intriguing, Astrid." Agatha commented suggestively.
Astrid turned and looked at her with a decidedly naughty grin. "Want to... test pilot for me?" Astrid bit her lip in anticipation and Agatha immediately felt the rise in Astrid's lust.
She nodded slowly, a naughty smile appearing on her face, "I would love to, Asa-chan." Astrid bit her lip and immediately increased her already highly efficient assembly speed: the newfound desire for an unconventional sexual encounter with her hot alien wife in her workshop... greatly motivating her.
The mobile hospital was still parked next to the Deirdre. It's squat broad shape made the corvette look sleek and aerodynamic.
Joon, Max, Agatha and 'Una' descended the ornately carved stone staircase at the edge of the dock as Max held her arm out for Joon to hold...and her petite spouse did so. When they finally stepped down onto the bottom landing, Joon glanced up at her first wife with romantic eyes and Max and Joon shared a loving smile.
Both Hands of Agatha remained close to her senior wives, enjoying sampling the pure emotions of the moment as the group approached the doors of the Ambassadors level. The ornate doors opened and they were greeted by Vess and Ness.
The Ambassadors sisters graciously welcomed them in, as as Joon passed she reached out and captured Vess's hand and gently dragged her in the direction of the kitchen. Ness stared at her sister and the Exsquisite Lady snuggling together as they walked as 'Una' followed them.
The remaining Dauzakai looked up at the towering Captain then at Agatha. "How are you today?" Ness asked glancing back and forth between them.
Max nodded smiling, glancing at Agatha. Agatha beamed, "We are very well, thank you."
Ness led them out of the foyer to the living room and the sunken couch pit where Ambassador Zess appeared to be studying reports, she was wearing a comfortable diaphanous robe of pale green silk. Her sister gathered up a tray of empty dishes of what looked to be the remains of a late lunch or tea. Ness then wiggled her three long fingers farewell to the guests and went back towards the kitchen.
Zess glanced at the visitors, "Ah, excellent timing, I wass jusst finisshing up." Max and Agatha bowed to her in greeting. "Oh, come now, we are well passt that." She stood and gave them both hugs. "I asssume you are going to illuminate to me what transspired thiss morning?"
Max smiled at her, "As much as we can, your Excellency." The Captain continued, "Agatha wrote the after action report, and will be here for questions, I am here to lend her support, I have read and fully endorse the AAR."
Max turned to Agatha and nodded so Zess shifted her attention to Agatha as the Tactical Officer of the Deirdre produced a small data stick. "This AAR is of procedure and result, some events are not mentioned." Agatha presented the fob to Zess.
Zess thought for a moment then replied, "After I read thiss, I will give you a de-brief ass well... ass there are ssome thingss you sshould be made aware of... out of courtessy." The Ambassador accepted the data stick, then sat down on her spot among the couches. She glanced up at them as they were still standing and smiled, "Pleasse be sseated my friendss."
Max and Agatha sat together: Max leaned back and relaxed while Agatha sat on the edge. Zess placed the fob in the com-table recessed port, that appeared at a touch and Her gaze focused on the text of the holoscreen that quickly appeared. The carefully written 'After Action Report' unfolded before her iridescent green eyes.
Joon, 'Una' and Vess stepped into the huge elaborate kitchen and Less glanced up from chopping vegetables on the middle island. "Hi Less, whatcha doing?" Joon's eyes lit up with curiosity.
Vess walked around the counter and smiled and Less blinked rapidly, her Chazi companion in it's usual spot on her shoulder. "We were going to try our handss at making pizza."
'Una' smiled at Joon, "Perfect timing!" just as Ness walked into the kitchen, carrying the tray of dishes.
Joon leveled her gaze on the Ambassador's sisters, "I want to make a cooking holo-vid, would one of you be interested in being my co-host?" Less cringed back her hand in front of her snout. Vess looked pensive.
"Oh my!" Ness beamed a smile, "That soundss like fun!"
Joon smiled broadly, "I am so glad to hear you say that... here's what I'd like to do..."
The two sitting in the Deirdre's cargo bay finished making the conduit batons safe for martial use. The polymer conduit wasn't going to break bones, but if left with unfinished edges, could draw blood.
The nude combatants walked out to the center line of the cargo bay. Samira was swinging her new sparring batons, getting a feel for their weight. Her new limb's feedback was delightfully rich and detailed.
They stood near the middle of the hold facing each other and Vika bowed to Samira, she was dual wielding two 75cm lengths of the polymer conduit as her heavily freckled, diminutive, athletic frame rocked gently from side to side.
Samira bowed in response, her four hands held one 120cm and two 45cm lengths of the same 3cm diameter conduit. Her graceful synthetic limbs beautifully accented with the design that matched perfectly with the intricate tattoo's she displayed on her dusky skin. Samira held the long length of conduit like a spear, at the bottom and center. The two much smaller lengths were held at either side and reversed... 'blade' down.
The longer portion of the two 45cm batons were below her hands, this primarily defensive style was known to Vika. Samira appeared relaxed, her stance was motionless. There was a hint of tension in the air, an uncertainty filled the cargo hold.
This was an acclimating bout... They were just getting to know one another. Introductions were needed.
Vika spontaneously leapt to the left. The move was incredibly fast. Samira was expressionless and did not react: only her dark brown eyes followed the quick maneuver.
Vika grinned, impressed
She quickly skipped right then twirled backwards throwing strikes, only to find Samira had broke left and held her ground there. All five wicked strikes Vika performed were deftly countered.
Vika nodded, deciding to throw some feints in with the next few rounds of strikes. Samira saw the faux openings, but chose to defend and observe. The tiny martial artist saw her opponent now as an experienced combatant, not one easily lured with the false promise of a quick kill.
Samira's combat style was exceptionally defensive: watching her opponent and continuously evaluating.
Vika wondered how long Samira would do this... So she dove into a relentless onslaught to find out. For twenty-six minutes Vika battered at Samira, prodding at the edges of the remarkably resilient martial style.
Very few of the vicious attacks actually got through Samira's defenses.
Samira took the hits but never wavered, her balanced footing shifted smoothly with the torrent. In addition several of Samira's ripostes landed on Vika... all of which would have been debilitating if not fatal.
Vika was pleasantly surprised how observant Samira was, watching all of Vika, not just her feet or eyes: Samira's style, while not following a formalized school, was meticulous and thorough and her technique was economic, letting her opponent expend more energy then she did.
Vika called for a break...She came to the conclusion Samira was a master of her own art.
The two women sat down together, both were beaded in sweat. "You're a serious badass, Vik... I'm glad we are on the same team." Samira smiled.
Vika narrowed her eyes, "You... Are a slab of iron!"
Samira leaned over and kissed Vika's cheek. "I'll take the compliment, thanks." Samira smirked.
Vika nodded smiling her approval.
"As much fun as I am having," Samira winced, "I need to clean my combat armor and limbs."
Vika glanced at Samira, "Let us get shower, and I will help you..."
Samira beamed a welcome smile, "That would be great!"
Zess finished reading through Agatha's AAR for the second time. During her reread the Ambassador asked eleven questions, only three of which Agatha was at liberty to answer completely. Agatha apologized each time she was unable to give a complete cogent answer. Max never needed to intervene, but she had a feeling Agatha appreciated her Captain being by her side. Agatha heeded her Captain's advice and stayed in a professional military bearing throughout. Always answering with the utmost courtesy, yet yielding nothing compromising.
Zess nodded in appreciation, despite being frustrated by the numerous non-answers.
Zess glanced at Max for a moment, and smiled. "You're beaming with pride, Dame Max."
Max blinked, "My apologies, Your Excellency."
Zess' smile reached her eyes, "You've nothing to apologize for... I'm proud of her alsso."
Agatha bit her lip and smiled at the Ambassador.
Zess nodded, "Turnabout iss fair play... one of my favorite Terran idiomss. I cannot give you copy of thiss information, however." Max and Agatha shared a look. The fairly eidetic memory Agatha possessed was as close to a copy as one could get.
Max sat up on the edge of her seat giving the Ambassador her undivided attention. Zess inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly, focusing her thoughts.
She tapped up a hologram on her com-table.
To Max it appeared to be some manner of cephalopod, it shared many features of a cuttlefish... with more than twice the number of tentacles. "The corpsse that was removed from Vissier Telkiss had had a number of its ganglia removed by ssurgery." she glanced at Agatha, "I am told at high velocity."
Agatha blinked, then nodded slowly. The Ambassador continued...
"What remained allowed uss to determine that it wass a very rare vissitor to the shallow waterss... Sso rare in fact, that many believed it to be fantassy. In our legendss there were invissible monssterss from the depthss, in your language they would be called vampire or wraith. We call them... Razu."
"The appropriate facility has been notified and expertss have been disspatched to Ssakima-ssadi-missimi." Zess paused, she glanced at her audience who were spellbound. "Under Nomissa's watchful eye, the doctorss have presserved the Razu'ss remainss."
Agatha raised her hand. Zess smiled, "Yess, dear Agatha?"
"Will Visier Telkiss survive?" Agatha showed concern.
The Ambassador nodded, "Sshe will live... But may never recover completely from the Razu's influence. The medical team iss under the impression that the Razu wass living off of Telkiss, controlling her motor functionss ssomehow. Nutrientss drained from her body for yearss as sshe wass held ass prissoner in her own mind. Sshe will require sspecialized care... For the resst of her life."
Agatha frowned, Max lay her hand on Agatha's shoulder. "You saved her too, Ag's..." Max whispered.
Zess nodded in agreement and Agatha softly smiled. Max couldn't be more proud of Agatha in this moment... and Agatha could feel it.
"On a lighter note... Miku iss now under the auspicess of my office," The Ambassador smirked. "She will sstay here, with her own Caretakerss and ssuite...Miku will have a sschedule of her own making." Zess concluded, "Prosspective breeding Intendentss musst travel here... Under our ssecurity."
*Those new parameters might radically change Miku's quality of life.*
Max thought to Agatha. Max and Agatha shared a smile.
The Ambassador sat back, "Dame Max, You and your wivess now also have sspecial sstatuss with my government. We are using the working dessignation of 'Most Favored Asssociatess.' I'm afraid I cannot tell you exactly what it entailss, becausse you are the firsst recipiantss."
Agatha and Max shared a surprised look.
Zess had a knowing smile as she said, "We cannot publicly acknowledge your contribution, so thiss sstatuss is a way of showing our appreciation."
Max bowed her head to the Ambassador, "You are very kind, Your Excellency."
Agatha raised her hand again.
Zess smirked, "Yess, Agatha?"
"How is Miku feeling?" Agatha asked with a compassionate face.
The Ambassador's expression brightened, "Sshe iss in my bedroom, ressting from the ordeal. Miku wass in remarkably good sspiritss when we lasst sspoke... " The Ambassadors emotions flared hot for a moment. "I had jusst told her I wass giving her the floor above thiss one right before she fell asleep."
Max and Agatha smiled.
The Dauzakai Ambassador lifted her chin and sniffed the air, "Oh!" ...Her iridescent green slitted eyes dilated, "I recognize that smell."
Agatha strained against the straps... Her legs were shaking rhythmically with her climax as her tormentor's almond shaped, lavender eyes watched her face very closely, searching for any discomfort.
Astrid was hesitant to secure her exotic wife with the restraints, but Agatha had insisted. She said she wanted to experience it, and she more than trusted Astrid. Agatha's legs were spread wide, secured to the adjustable split foot rest, and she was dripping after Astrid's attentions; and was rapidly approaching her third climax.
The moaning and gasps changed to a breathy pant, then she bucked in the restraints her eyes screwed shut as she suddenly drenched Astrid in an impressive geyser of vaginal fluid. Agatha punctuated the experience with a impressive throaty scream.
Astrid immediately stopped at the scream, juices completely coated her face and dripped off her chin. Vika and Samira, hearing the agitated cries, had run to engineering straight from the showers... still wet and sudsy. They slid to a stop at the doorway their dripping bodies forming puddles..
Astrid blinked meekly at the arrival of her other spouses but Agatha's broad smile and her panting gave the sense of urgency pause. "Oh wow..." Samira said as she observed exactly how Agatha was situated and restrained.
Vika glanced up then at Astrid with a naughty smirk on her face... "Stress test?"
Agatha laughed out loud.
Astrid was bright red, she immediately began unbuckling the restraints and in a few minutes Agatha was completely free...She was still giggling.
Samira smirked, "Lets get you two into the showers."
Ness gingerly pulled the blazing hot pan from the oven: the bubbling and slightly browned cheese smelled amazing. The heavy quilted oven mitts protected her yellow scaled hands and forearms.
Jooniper Smith directed her in a friendly clear voice. "That looks perfect!" Joon exclaimed, "Letting it cool a bit and set up for a while will make it much easier to cut and serve."
Ness placed the pan on the hot-plate: next to it was an Identical hot-plate and pan with another deep-dish Chicago style pizza. The second 'pie' had already cooled enough to cut and serve.
Joon showed Ness the heavy gauge broad chisel edged chopper-spatula. She coated the utensil lightly with olive oil, then proceeded to show how to cut the 4cm thick pizza into eight fairly equal slices. "And remember, if you're ever worried about any of the ingredients cooking thoroughly in a pizza, there is nothing wrong with pre-cooking them."
Jooniper Smith faced her audience again, "Well, that was an adventure! I want to give warm thanks to my lovely hostess Nessamavanissojesamurivellawemissana."
Ness gave a super-cute Dauzakai curtsy.
I'm Jooniper Smith, 'The Holiday Gourmet', I hope to see you again at my next delightful destination." Joon smiled softly with her iconic elfin grin.
"Clear." 'Una' intoned, "That was fantastic!"
Ness squealed in happiness, Vess and Less joined her celebration in the kitchen. Jooniper ginned broadly, "I am glad we didn't shoot this in our galley!"
'Una' smirked, "It would have been more than a little cramped." The five remotes floated one by one into the backpack docking station.
Ness turned to Joon, "I loved thiss... Thank you for thiss experience." Vess and Less framed Ness in affection while she spoke to Joon. "You were worried about getting my name right, it was perfect." Ness gushed.
Joon smirked, "I am glad I don't have to say it every time though."
Everyone gaily laughed and nodded agreement.
'Una' peered off into thin air for a moment, a signal to Joon that something interesting had occurred. She nodded at her Mistress.
"Lets get pizza to as many people who want to try it!" Joon beamed a smile. The Samava sisters portioned slices into small "Bento" style boxes. When they had all but the last pizza packaged they left the kitchen to distribute the meals.
Joon turned to 'Una', "Okay Ag's... dish."
"We have received an official comunicae from Terran Federation Office of Foreign Affairs..." Agatha's Hand faithfully relayed. Joon's eyes grew large. "Essentially... you are the new Terran Federation Provisional Ambassador to the Grand Slarmian Dynasty... Congratulations... my Love."
Joon pulled 'Una' into a deep kiss, afterwards she whispered with a uneasy expression, "Thank you, Ag's...I am so out of my depth."
'Una' returned to the Deirdre to stow the HD recorders as Agatha sat between Max and Ness at the large dining table. She noticed Miku looked much better after her nap. Zess watched Miku put a forkful of pizza into her mouth and chew and smiled warmly as Miku made a decidedly happy noise. The Ambassador's beautiful iridescent eyes dilating at the reaction. Max and Joon just shared a smile.
The Dauzakai tucked in... happy noises filling the room. Max leaned over and whispered to Joon, "Well done, Beautiful."
Zess who sat next to Joon, glanced at her. "Did they give you any indication of your new rank and title, Exquisite Lady?" Joon pursed her lips... then looked to Agatha, "Was there a mention of that?"
Agatha nodded, "Counselor of Embassy, diplomatic rank of Oh Six."
Max's eyes went wide, she started coughing, almost choking on her pizza. Joon blinked rapidly, "Are you okay sweetheart?"
Max nodded, still coughing, reaching for her water and Zess tilted her head, "Oh Six... I am not familiar enough with Terran ranks."
Agatha helpfully informed her. Joon's eyes were now also huge... She whispered, "Wow... Commodore!?"
Ambassador Zess nodded to Joon and added enigmatically, "Counsselor of Embasssy is the lowest rank of Ambasssador, however, I am ssure things will rapidly change"
Joon pursed her lips, "I didn't know there were different ranks."
Zess smiled fondly at Joon, "I will help you undersstand how thiss game workss... I expect you and I will ssoon play it together."
"What do you mean?" Joon looked worried.
Zess replied without missing a beat, "I have also recommended you for diplomatic consideration."
Max and Agatha looked at Joon. "Does that mean we have to be adversarial?" Joon looked a little worried.
Zess layed her long fingers hand across Joon's, "Of coursse not, my dear... Eventually I ssusspect, you will repressent your government's interessts for all of the Minor Empiress."
Joon thought about that... Max seemed to have gotten over her coughing fit, and Agatha was observing everyone at the table. "I will do the best I can." Joon turned her grass-green eyes back to Zess.
Max and Agatha then turned and looked at each other just a little too long... it was subtle, but Joon noticed.
"What do you mean?" Astrid asked, looking confused. Samira looked at Agatha, waiting for her explanation.
"I'm not sure, but the messages Joon has been recieving, both official and unofficial, suggests we will be returning to Staverka."
Agatha looked at Vika who only smirked, "no help there."
Samira had lucked out, Astrid and Agatha had offered to also help clean her combat armor and limbs... she wasn't going to turn them down. So the four ladies were perched in semi-comfortable spots in the cramped engineering bay, weilding various impliments for cleaning and maintenence. The team reduced the task at hand from arduous alone to an enjoyable comraderie building exercise.
Astrid frowned, "So, Joon is now an Ambassador to the Slarmians, so we have to go there?"
"Sort of..." Agatha continued, "Staverka asked for her specifically as a diplomatic liason... but now, so has Dau."
Astrid blinked... "Can she work for both?" Samira smilled as she rolled her eyes.
"What?" Astrid saw the reaction, "What did I miss?"
Samira inhaled, "She isn't working for them... She will be working for the T-Fed, the Slarmians only requested her to be instated as the T-Fed Ambassador."
Agatha nodded, "And now so have the Dauzakai."
"Again... Can she do both?" Astrid asked.
Samira shrugged, "I don't know, but I don't see why not."
"What does this job entail?" Astrid asked
Samira shrugged again, "I dunno... Diplomats schmooze, at least that's what I've heard."
Astrid blinked...Vika smirked, and Agatha pursed her lips in thought... then her eyes went wide.
"Here it comes..." Vika muttered softly. Agatha stared at Vika...
"Don't leave us in suspence." Astrid pouted.
"Ambassador Crinx is requesting facetime with The Exquisite Lady... Apparently, her staff has arrived on Staverka." Agatha replied concisely.
Astrid and Samira stared at each other with incredulous looks, then both asked..."What staff?"
Max reacted in a very similar way... just not out loud.
*Do we know who this staff is?*
Agatha glanced at Joon chatting with Zess about being a diplomat.
*No idea, sorry, Honey*
Max smirked.
*I'm pretty sure it's not your fault*
Max turned and looked at her first wife... Joon raised a questioning eyebrow.
*I think we've been rumbled, you should let her know.*
Agatha smiled at Joon...Joon's earbud crackled softly, "Sorry to interrupt, Mistress... Expect an incoming communication for you, via Ambassador Zess." Joon nodded slightly, then turned her attention back to Zess.
Max glanced at Agatha again...
*How long would it take to get back to Staverka?*
*Approximately eight hours.*
Agatha replied.
Max nodded,
*Let's keep that in mind, we might need to jog back over there.*
Zess stopped mid word with Joon, then relayed a request from Ambassador Crinx. Joon nodded and smiled, "I would be delighted to speak with him."
Zess beamed a smile, suspecting the content of the discussion. The two diplomats stood together and walked out of the dining room to the living room and the couch pit. Miku and the Ambassador's sisters looked at Max and Agatha wide eyed. "We'll be back in a bit..." Max smiled.
Max and Agatha followed Zess and Joon a moment later.
Agatha relayed the conversation Joon was having with Crinx..."Whoa... seriously!" Astrid gawked.
Samira nodded, "I suppose that's typical of what the T-Fed think of Slarmians."
"Yea, but c'mon... a staff of one?" Astrid puffed up her face in indignation, "Who fucking does that?"
"Oh... I think we can help with that... Teffa is available." Agatha smirked.
Astrid beamed a smile, "Perfect, Teffa is awesome!"
Samira turned to Vika, "Who is Teffa again?"
Everyone gave Samira a short summary of the helpful and friendly Slarmian pilot everyone had become close to on Staverka.
"Huh... Okay, she sounds nice!" Samira nodded appreciatively.
"Joon approves... Ah, Crinx is offering space for a T-Fed Consulate." Agatha beamed a smile, "Oh... Crinx wants to give us the complex we landed at last time!"
Astrid smiled, "That was actually a pretty good spot."
Agatha nodded. The four spouses had finished cleaning up the heavy armor and combat limbs and felt comfortable enough in Astrid's domain to stay and chat.
The smell of something delicious wafted into the bay. Astrid sniffed the air while Vika and Samira stared at Agatha.
"Is that..." Astrid started.
Agatha finished, "Cinnamon Raisin Bread." The enthusiasm from her family was very satisfying.
Paula studied the schematics on her portfolio data pad. It looked like a decent sized structure, but she was used to space station dimensions, so she wasn't sure. Considering the building in question was an old police precinct, with an armory, full habitation and even cells she thought they could do worse.
She'd spent the last two hours confirming her arrival with the FO and establishing her bonafides with the Grand Slarmian Dynasty and it's various Ministries. She noted the Slarmians seemed unusually friendly and enthusiastic.
Truth be told, Paula was a little intimidated by the welcome.
She eventually found her way to the GSD Ambassador Crinx, who professed complete support even going so far as to immediately arrange property for the new T-Fed Consulate. Paula rapidly concluded the future Terran Federation Consulate of the Grand Slarmian Dynasty was built like a fortress.
Looking decidedly odd to human eyes it was obviously Slarmian architecture. It had a medium ship pad at it's heart with only one 'street side' entrance. The schematics also listed a dedicated medical suite, and a communications wing.
The building was just barely in the diplomatic quarter of Staverka, set away from the mass of Minor Empire Embassies at the quarters heart. First Lieutenant Paula Gonzalez sat on the single lonely folding chair in the lounge.
She was five foot four inches tall and decidedly voluptuous with pale skin and mousy-brown wavey hair, frosted with silver. Her hair was kept around shoulder length usually braided back out of her face in accordance with TFN regulations. Her most distinguishing feature was her eyes, one reddish-brown and the other a yellowish-green.
The heterochromia iridis gave her 'curb appeal' she always said, but didn't help or harm her life in any substantive way, and she was comfortable with her appearance. Paula shifted in the light-weight but sturdy, well engineered folding chair.
She had of course brought it herself... It even had a carry strap, and was actually pretty comfortable. She had done enough research before her departure to know certain types of furniture were rare in the GSD.
The room in which she sat was the most ornate 'waiting alcove' she had ever seen. It was adjacent to Ambassador Crinx's office, so Paula would be close at hand. In comparison to the alcove she looked rather plain in her grey dress uniform, her two pieces of luggage next to her.
Paula had been a First Lieutenant most of her thirty-six year career... She had been staring retirement in the face. At some point her career momentum stopped, though it wasn't a decision she had made. But she remembered every one of the times one of her seniors took credit for her work and over time opportunities grew less frequent... luckily she found herself in a job she adored way out at Port Megara.
She's been there over twenty-eight years now, working for the Foreign Office. Being the 'old hand' meant she had everything running smoothly, and on an easy and reliable routine. The current station Commander was appreciative, encouraging Paula to 'tackle' this unique opportunity.
Commander Tavistock had been an excellent boss, even if she was ten years younger.
Paula knew Mary understood that not everyone had the bloodthirsty ambition gene. So the fifty-four year old T-Fed Navy Lieutenant oozing with quiet competence accepted the new posting from the Foreign Office. She was now a Diplomatic Attache to Ambassador Jooniper Smith.
Paula had heard of her, and even liked her music, but was a little confused why a Holo-star would be chosen by the GSD to represent the T-Fed. That was until she found the Staverka Zeralyst Fuge Holo-vid, then everything made sense.
She had to admit... it was a very well done Holo-vid, the young woman was ridiculously talented. The Foreign Office had given Paula an address on Staverka for the 'Exquisite Lady'... it turned out to be the Ministry Complex.
Paula smiled... she wasn't discouraged, she knew exactly what to do. She had never personally set up a consulate, but she had read every text she could find on it. Paula had a mental checklist and went through it one by one. The newly minted Terran Attache was patient but stubborn, she knew exactly how to persevere, setting to a plethora of seemingly insignificant tasks to achieve larger goals. Though she hadn't yet been introduced to her own Ambassador.
Paula looked up as a smallish Slarmian slithered into the alcove. "Lootennit Gonzah?" The Slarmian inquired in trade speech.
Paula blinked, her trade speech wasn't great, but it was better than most Terrans could manage. "Yus... Ayam... Hooyabe?" Paula responded with a smile.
The Slarmian beamed a toothy grin, it's yellow eyes crinkled in humor. "Tande Teffa... Leddy Joonippa sen Teffa tah hep yas."
Paula learned a long time ago that monolithic bureaucracies were made up of people, and treating those people with respect and kindness was the key to getting things done. By the end of her first day on Staverka, she intended to establish a working relationship with her Slarmian counterparts, and have a solid building to call a Consulate.
'Una' had been sent bearing the fruits of her collective labors... twenty-one loaves of fresh baked, incredibly aromatic bread. She made her way to the shockingly utilitarian offices of the Caretakers of Sakima-sadi-misimi.
Nomissa met her at the entrance to the offices, her nostrils flared at the smell accompanying 'Una'. "I don't know what that iss... but it ssmellss out of thiss world." Nomissa commented.
'Una' leveled her gaze at the ranking Ambassadorial Caretaker, "Cinnamon Raisin Bread".
Nomissa responded with an adorable lizard-like pout, "I'm going to get sso fat..."
They shared a giggle, as the smell attracted a number of additional Caretakers. Most of the loaves were distributed among the hard working Dauzakai of the residence and afterward Nomissa gave the generous baker a short tour of the offices.
After the tour Agatha was convinced the Caretakers knew their business. She saw scores of easily defensible spaces with highly advanced monitoring systems. The residence was far more castle than it appeared.
Joon blinked in surprise then exclaimed "But... I haven't even met her!."
Crinx's holographic image nodded, "Crinx understands Exquisite Lady... It can be difficult to let other people do things in your name... But it is part of being in office. If it eases your mind... The Lieutenant is displaying remarkable bureaucratic skill." Ambassador Crinx's eyes crinkled with soft humor.
Joon glanced at Zess...The Dauzakai Ambassador nodded to her in agreement with Crinx.
"Okay, okay... She has my approval to create the Consulate," Joon bit her lip.
Crinx beamed a smile.
Joon looked frustrated, "I should really meet her..."
Crinx tilted his head slightly, "Allow Crinx to connect you..."
Joon gasped as the hologram shifted for a few moments then... coalescing to the image of an older woman, Joon would guess late forties, a familiar looking Slarmian was also in the holo..."Good evening, Ma'am, I am Lieutenant Gonzalez your Diplomatic Attache."
The hologram was of outstanding quality, showing Joon a very accurate image of the woman in a TFN grey dress uniform. The Lieutenant noticed Joon was also not alone... Joon steadied herself emotionally, then responded with a measured and balanced tone, not unlike greeting an audience.
"Good evening, Lieutenant... I am Jooniper Smith, and this lovely lady is Ambassador Zess of the Dauzakai." Joon had to give her credit, she was rock steady, the T-Fed officer's eyes only widened slightly, which Joon assumed was her way of gasping in surprise.
"It is my honor to make your acquaintance your Excellency." Lieutenant Gonzalez gave a bow on the holo... Teffa bowed also. "This is Teffa, she is the Terran Embassy of Staverka's first native employee," The TFN officer continued. "She was recommended by Miss. Agatha O'Neira, who I believe is a part of Lady Jooniper's entourage."
Zess smiled, "Teffa and I have been acquainted."
Joon's memory flashed back to the Staverka hospital where a critically injured Max lay, and a very comforting and caring Teffa did her utmost for Joon's frayed nerves. "Oh, yes." Joon turned to Zess, "You met at hospital."
Joon turned back to the holo, "Hello Teffa, so lovely to see you again."
Teffa beamed.
Max and Agatha had been sitting across from Joon and Zess in the pit.
*Oh, she is very pretty.*
Agatha's thoughts touched Max's mind,
*I love her eyes.*
Max smiled at her exotic spouse, then she looked closer at the holo. She studied the yellowish-green and reddish-brown of the Lieutenant's eyes, they gave her a sense of whimsy.
*What do we know about her?*
Max's thoughts inquired.
*She has consistent accolades by her commanding officers, for only a First Lieutenant.*
Max smirked,
*Don't let rank fool you into underestimating capability, she obviously isn't green... she must be qualified if the FO sent her.*
Agatha glanced at Max for a moment then nodded.
They both listened closely.
Joon turned her attention back to Lieutenant Gonzalez, "I am very pleased to have you at this Post, I look forward to talking with you at length in the future. I am currently in talks with the Dauzakai, so I'm afraid I may be away from Staverka for a while yet." Joon smiled softly as the Lieutenant nodded in understanding, Joon then continued. "I have no intention of leaving you and Teffa without support, I'm going to send you some help."
Max glanced at Joon, then at Agatha...
*Did she say anything to you about that?*
Agatha's eyebrows raised in surprise,
*No... I think she is winging it... though I think it's a great Idea.*
*You do?*
Max peered at Agatha.
*I do, Max... Joon and I have had conversations about aspects of my ecology... and this could be a vehicle to discovery.*
The conversation had continued, Teffa was very enthusiastic when Joon concluded her initial contact with Lieutenant Gonzalez...Everyone returned to the dining room, Max and Joon held hands smiling at each other.
In a quiet corner of the Deirdre a certain diminutive dreadlocked redhead was gathering a selection of items. She pushed a thick feather pillow into the large duffle she brought. Vika packed up the few outfits she owned, including her Skerawk vest and the razor sharp Ca'tagri knives.
She still had a number of small crates stowed in her cubby... She smiled, knowing they would be safe. The small rucksack and duffle were now full... Vika was set.
"I don't know... we will just have to try it and find out." Joon retorted.
Max looked distraught, "We're talking about Agatha's health here."
Agatha was in the Ambassador's kitchen with the sisters, cleaning up from dinner. Miku was napping, She was still technically recovering from her abduction. The Ambassador herself was sitting quietly... wide eyed. On the one hand she was flattered that these two Terrans trusted her enough to have this particular conversation in front of her...
On the other she was dismayed that the conversation seemed so heated.
"I don't want her harmed, we don't know what this might do to her..." Max explained.
The petite strawberry-blonde gave her tall wife a 'Well-duh' expression. "Of course... and I made the same argument to her..." Joon raised her eyebrow.
Max blinked... "Oh... this was her idea..."
"Yes, Sweetheart, I held the position you currently hold..." Joon smiled softly, "Ultimately I gave in, it is after all... her decision."
Max pouted... after a few moments she nodded, "You're right... it is."
Joon reached over to hold Max's hand, "I am worried about sending her to Staverka in the Deirdre, as that's more or less our base of operations."
"I would like to remain on Dau to see the North country, and work on the Holo-vid."
"Unfortunately Astrid's holo-vid workshop is on Deirdre." Joon sighed.
Zess brightened up immediately but Joon and Max were involved in sharing a look; then...Max sighed and nodded, "Alright my Love, I'll drop Ag's off on Staverka and pop back in short order..."
Zess cleared her throat and Joon and Max turned to the Dauzakai Ambassador as one. Zess smiled, "I would like to gift your fledgling conssulate my shuttle, in the sspirit of friendsship..."
Max and Joon both gawked a bit.
Zess chose to ignore their expressions and continued, "My shuttle iss hyperwarp capable, hass diplomatic credentialss and is quite expeditiouss."
"But don't you need it?" Joon asked. Zess smirked, "Firsstly... I am pregnant, I'm not going anywhere...Ssecond, if I 'have' to go ssomewhere I can have any number of shipss here in literally minutess...And third... I was looking for a way to reward your family in ssome way, and thiss iss an eassy fix..." Zess looked thoughtful, "Did I use that idiom correctly... 'Eassy fix'?
Max smiled and Joon giggled, "Yes, that's pretty close to how it's used." Joon replied.
Max bit her lip, "If you're sure you want to do this..."
Zess smiled broadly, "Oh yess... I want to ssee your misssion ssuccceed... My dear Dame Max."
Agatha came back into the dining room and sat next to Max and smiled broadly. Zess looked at Joon... who only smirked mischievously. The Ambassador peered curiously at the novice diplomat, she then leaned closer to her and whispered in a sibilant hiss.
"Are you not going to tell her?" Zess asked very quietly in Joon's ear.
Joon bit her lip and replied just as quietly "Max already has..."
The brilliant iridescent green eyes went wide, then in only moments she realized the implications of Joon's answer...
"Oh..." She replied, "That'ss rather usseful."
Joon nodded, with humor in her voice, "Isn't it just?"
Agatha pursed her lips as she gazed at the weapons lining the Deirdre's armory. She sensed Vika at the hatch... "And what would you suggest I take?"
Vika smirked, then rattled off a list of firearms...
Agatha blinked at the number. She turned her attention to Vika... immediately noticing the duffle and rucksack. "Ah... you, too?"
Vika winked, she picked up her luggage and headed down to the cargo hold. Agatha noted that Vika's prescience had never been wrong, if somewhat vague at times. Another Hand arrived to assist in filling the list of materiel Vika had prescribed.
Zess walked with Max and Joon back to the couch pit office of her suite, Less was asked to join them. The Ambassador's sister, with her ever present Chazi companion, looked very eager. Zess wasted no time, she immediately began discussing where Less might take her guests in the North Lands of Dau.
Less nodded at appropriate intervals paying close attention to her sister's many suggestions, making a few of her own. Zess shifted her gaze to Max and Joon, who were sitting practically on top of one another. "Who of your family will be interessted in the tour?" The Ambassador inquired.
Joon looked up at Max, who answered. "I'm sure they will all be interested."
Zess nodded, "Well, for convenience ssake, if I might ssuggest flying the Deirdre up north...The Ambassador smiled, "If you're okay with giving my ssisster a lift, she can guide you there."
Max and Joon shared a smile. Joon replied, "Oh, I think we can arrange that..."
"Wonderful!" Zess exclaimed.
That seemed to signal the end of the discussion, and everyone made ready for departures.
Max, Joon and Agatha chatted while they ascended the ornate staircase..."So we have two Hands going to Staverka..." Joon said out loud and paused for confirmation.
"And Vika..."' Agatha added.
Joon stopped and looked at Max, who nodded.
"I don't like it..." Joon muttered.
"She goes where she is needed most." Max said quietly, her jaw set indicating she wasn't thrilled with the idea either.
"I still don't like it, but..." Joon inhaled deeply, "I can't argue with her track record." Agatha reached out to both of them half way to the landing.
The exotic woman looked at them in turn, "I trust Vika implicitly... I know what ever reason she has is the best one for our family... We are her highest priority."
Max and Joon both heard the conviction in Agatha's voice. The senior wives standing on different levels of the stairs wrapped Agatha in a heartfelt and cleansing hug. After a while the three women eased back... small happy tears on thier cheeks.
"Let's bid her farewell," Joon said in a slightly husky emotional tone, "I want her to know how much we love her..."
Samira and Astrid helped the two Hands of Agatha who were departing in the gifted shuttle with the 'luggage' they were taking. They managed to get everything into two medium composite crates and two large duffles...it barely fit as the small shuttle was rated for four occupants, the extra seat allowed for Vika's luggage.
Astrid's thin lipped expression was enough to convey her feelings on the excursion of Vika and the two Hands.
Vika pulled the tall woman down to her knees and kissed her deeply. "Not goodbye... I will be back soon... I will ravage you upon my return, Sorceress."
Astrid blinking tears, bit her lip and nodded, "You better... sneaky Shaman."
Samira's wide eyes made her look dazed and confused. "Paladin..." Vika peered up, "Take care of things while I am away... this one, too." She indicated Astrid with a glance. Samira nodded, and wrapped her four arms around Vika and the engineer."
"I will..." the dusky-skinned cyborg gave Vika a kiss, "I owe you some unarmed training."
Vika smirked. "Not goodbye... trust me..."
Max, Joon, and Agatha stepped out of the intricately carved stairwell. "Goodness..." Joon spotting the huddled spouses next to the Ambassador's shuttle. The three of them walked closer. "Hey you!" Joon exclaimed... "Quit getting my wives upset."
Vika was released from the captivity of Astrid and Samira's embrace and the two shortest of the Deirdre's crew stood facing each other..."You gonna be okay, cute stuff?" Joon cocked an eyebrow punctuating her question.
Vika nodded, "I will."
Joon narrowed her eyes, "Well... you need to keep Agatha out of trouble, don't let her wander off, or get lost in any gardens." Everyone laughed.
Joon pulled Vika into a hug whispering in her ear, "I miss you already."
After they broke apart Max towered over Vika. "I am giving you Force Recon clearance." Max stated in a soft but clear voice.
Vika smiled, "I like that... Thank you."
"I look forward to your report..." Max nodded... she then lowered down to a crouch.
Vika gave the larger woman a tight embrace. "Captain-wife... I love you." Vika whispered in Max's ear.
"I love you..." Max responded, and kissed the tiny bundle of muscles, "Don't be too long." Joon looked at the two Hands of Agatha, and in Joon fashion kissed each one and said. "Be good, stay safe... we'll see you soon."
All of the represented Agatha were crying openly when she was done. Max, Joon, Astrid, Samira, and Agatha gave the shuttle room after everyone departing was buttoned into the small ship. Agatha was at the helm... she mentioned that the tiny ship had a whole suite of features not usually found on a ship so small.
In moments the shuttle was easing out of the carved hanger above the Ambassadorial residence. Max realized the ship was an exceptional gift, to a fledgling diplomatic mission. It was made expressly for the needs of a full fledged Ambassador.
The remaining crew stared into the twilight sky as the tiny ship grew smaller...Zess had given them the ship officially, making sure it gained all the legality and clearances Joon's new position afforded it.
Agatha turned to greet someone emerging from the stair. Everyone looked as she mentioned it out loud. The yellow scaled Dauzakai smiled nervously... her shoulder adorned with the now familiar house-cat sized insectoid.
"Hello there!" Joon chirped.
Less walked closer looking at the open cargo hold and ramp, she looked up at the engines. "Thosse are huge!" She exclaimed.
Astrid beamed a smile, "The best Trankaren design we could get."
Less stared at them, "Amazing!"
She carried a dark brown canvas pack that seemed mostly full, the single strap over the shoulder opposite of her Chazi. Wearing the same dark and light green ensamble she and her sisters wore, Less didn't seem quite as nervous as she did before.
"C'mon..." Max waved toward the hold, "Lets go see the North Lands."
Vika leaned back in her seat, and looked at the stars through the crysto-plast canopy as she remembered the times she traveled to different ports with Logo. There was never a thought about other people, or how they felt. They had a job to do.
Now though... Vika was beside herself with emotions about everyone who she came in contact with. The influence of her new family... no... her real family... the family she was destined to have. She did love Logo in her own way... he treated her well, and she would always look out for him and his herd in thanks and respect.
But... now... these precious souls... her loves...
At that moment the Hand of Agatha sitting at the copilot station turned in her seat and looked right into Vika's eyes. Eyes met...and a single tear rolled down Agatha's cheek.
"I love you, Vika" Agatha said with a soft sad smile on her face. She got out of her couch, and climbed back to where Vika was. Agatha cuddled into Vika's arms... she purred softly as Vika kissed her.
Silver gazed into Blue as the tiny diplomatic-courier class shuttle slipped into hyperwarp...
Agatha smiled. She was sitting at the helm of the Deirdre...Astrid was at Navigation, she smiled at her in response. "They have left the system..." Agatha commented.
Astrid looked over her shoulder at Max, Joon, Less and Samira sitting on the expansive command couch.
"Any ill effects?" Joon asked, clearly as anxious as her other spouses.
Agatha smiled... "None, M'lady."
Everyone's anxiety level dropped...Less was rather confused, but assumed it was none of her business.
Max peered at Agatha, "How long do you think it will take them to get to Staverka?"
Samira turned to listen to her Captain, and keep a close eye on Less.
Agatha responded, "It's a very fast little ship, even in hyperwarp, I estimate around twelve hours."
Max nodded, "They... will be okay?"
Agatha turned to look at Max, "Yes Captain, 'they' will be fine."
"You'll... keep us updated..." Joon piped in.
"Yes, M'Lady." Agatha smiled.
Samira casually noticed no reaction from Less.
Joon turned to Less sitting next to her, the Dauzakai was just taking in all the different tech and layout of the bridge.
"So Less..." Joon started, the Dauzakai turned and blinked... "Would you show us the way to the Samava Farmstead?"
Less beamed a smile, "Yess, M'Lady!" She got up from the couch and went over to navigation, "Miss Asstrid... would you pleasse bring up the local chart?"
Astrid punched up the three dimensional topography and pulled back the perspective to show the relevant quadrant of the planet Dau.
"Perfect!" Less said excitedly...She studied the lay of the hologram image... "It'ss in thiss valley... right about there." She directed Astrid to a spot on the hologram... Astrid refined the image, increased the image zoom and let Less refine her choice.
"Right in here." Less pointed out a ridge line.
Astrid nodded and placed a way point on the location, then entered the coordinates into navigation.
"Easy." Astrid smiled at the yellow scaled guide. Less beamed and her Chazi leaned a little off her shoulder taking in the hologram image. "We're going home, Tizzi." Less had turned her head to the mantis-like insect, it responded by gently rubbing the side of her snout with a folded appendage.
It was obviously affectionate and spoke volumes about the creatures intelligence.
"Requesting clearance for departure." Astrid said in her professional voice.
Less moved back to the command couch and sat gingerly between Joon and Samira, her tail coiling around her own waist.
Samira continued to discreetly observe the Dauzakai. Physically there was little difference between Less and the Ambassador, perhaps the lack of the more advanced cybernetics. The Deirdre's security chief was quite sure Less wouldn't be anything but polite and amiable. But it didn't hurt to keep her skills up... for the sake of the family.
Nomissa personally gave the Deirdre clearance, Astrid nodded to Agatha.
The corvette danced through the air at Agatha's touch light as a feather... with a gentle arc the tiny warship gracefully departed the ancient residence.
As the Deirdre slowly ascended, Agatha kept her level so the crew could enjoy the vista the Edgewood offered. There was a thick mist deeply kept between the trunks of that most massive of organisms, the corvette could have easily threaded it's way through the titanic vegetation.
But the pilot wanted to keep the Deirdre's reputation intact and unblemished so Agatha continued to ascend, and a glorious sight revealed itself as they rose above the treeline. What would have been on many other planets a glorious sunset or sunrise, was a permanent phenomena on Dau. The northern sky at the treeline was a tapestry of purples, reds, oranges... the atmosphere on fiery display as Karnis the orange moon added it hue.
Every member of the crew gawked as a collective response of oooh's and aaahs filled the bridge. Less tried hard not to giggle, she knew it wasn't nice to laugh at the typical touristy reaction to sights she had seen her whole life. The Dauzakai guide started explaining that the system's star was far enough not to cook the planet... but that didn't mean the northern pole wasn't a dangerous lifeless region.
The moons were instrumental in adding a cycle of warm and cool on her planet. Dau's orbit of Lyra Kepler was slightly elliptical, giving Dau a longer cool 'winter' and a shorter warm 'summer'. Less relayed the temperature differences and flow of thick moisture laden mists and fog that would sustain the vegetation in higher latitudes.
The Samava Farmstead was located at the frontier of the Edgewood in a band of hardy scrub and thick grasses called the Briar. The band north of the Briar was the least productive, a mixture of broken grasslands and towering spires... The domain of the Chazi.
In the shadow of the spires the grasses grew thick and lush, carefully tended to and guarded as the thick, fibrous grass was used to feed massive underground fungus gardens. A huge variety of fungus comes from the Chazi gardens and are used in countless products and culinary dishes. Less smiled, "Doubtless you have already enjoyed ssome of them during your sstay on Dau."
Joon thought to herself when Less said that line, "That sounded well practiced and smoothly delivered."
Agatha tilted her head slightly to one side.
The pilot glanced over her shoulder at her Captain, who smirked.. and nodded.
Less continued, talking about the broken lands north of the Chazi... and then the wastes, where where was salt and sand...Finally to the northern pole... The Sea of Glass, a five million square kilometer granular silica ocean. The very center of that sea right at the pole was a five hundred thousand square kilometer pool of molten silica. Less seemed very well versed in the ecology of her planet... at least the northern half.
She had grown both confident and relaxed in her oration, Joon could hear the similarities in speech cadence between Less and Zess.
The Deirdre traveled at a sedate clip, the Edgewood was steadily thinning and losing height, there were now the occasional different flora interspersed in the canopy. "We should be there in about an hour..." Agatha glanced at her Captain.
Paula was tired... she'd been going for eighteen hours since she arrived on Staverka. She wanted a hot shower, something vaguely nutritious and eight hours of rack-time. So the Terran Diplomatic Attache along with her new assistant departed the Staverka Ministry Complex.
Paula's luggage floated quietly behind her. Her lonely footsteps echoed off the walls of the entrance and Teffa took the lead. She followed, her curiosity piqued. Teffa stopped next an impressive black luxury transport.
"Nice ride... Wait, is that yours?" Paula's eyebrows rose.
"Not Teffa's," Teffa explained, "Is giff from Trade Ministry to Leddy Joonippa."
"Oh..." Paula had to think a moment, "I don't know how to operate one of those."
Teffa's grin couldn't be wider, "Teffa have it cover, Lootennit." The smallish Slarmian opened a discreet access panel and punched in a long seiries of numbers from her data pad. She then thumbed a DNA pad integrated into the panel and the luxury transport's passenger compartment unsealed with a soft hiss.
Paula and Teffa peeked inside.
Teffa squealed softly, "Habit hoomin interah!"
The inside of the transport was gorgeous, even in her best Greys, Paula felt under dressed. Paula had spent the day with Teffa, and she noticed the Slarmian's Terran speech was improving. Not to say she understood every word, it was a work in progress.
Paula climbed in and sat down, she stretched out her legs and layed back...Teffa had opened the cockpit and looked at the fight controls.
This was a brand new model, with all the latest upgrades. Teffa was thrilled, she slithered out of the cockpit to tell Paula but she paused when she realized the Lieutenant had passed out in the luxury seat.
A crooked smile adorned Teffa face.
Teffa thought the hard working Terran deserved a break, so decided to do the tasks she could before they went to the new Consulate. She intended to take very good care of her new co-worker, she felt it was her duty and privilege.
Max had discreetly asked Joon to spend a few moments with her in medical. Joon bit her lip and almost immediately found an excuse to leave the bridge...Agatha winked at Max and a few minutes later Max quietly announced that she would be back.
Less didn't seem to mind, and Samira's sly grin bespoke her suspicions. Max made her way to medical and opened the door...
The office was illuminated by a single examination light. It was centered on the Med scanner...Joon was sitting on the device. She was curled up in a coquettish pose, with her strawberry-blonde locks aglow in her full naked glory.
Max quickly stepped in and closed the hatch. "Hello,Captain..." Joon entoned in her best sultry voice... which for Max was like full acceleration.
"I'm... glad you could spare some time to see me... Doctor." Max's desire ignited.
The petite woman slowly unfolded a single leg, "I have been your physician for years, I believe in being 'available' for my patients. Joon's elfin features laced with suggestive expressions set Max on fire.
"I don't think I can ever thank you enough..." Max whispered as she drew closer to her desire.
Joon smiled, "Is it an emergency, or can I give you a... thorough... examination?"
"I'm not sure..." Max confessed, "I seem to have a problem with arousal, I just can't concentrate on my duties."
Joon unfolded her second leg and slowly slid down off the med scanner as Max's eyes were glued to her first wife, her petite form was mesmerizing.
"Would you please remove your clothing and sit here...." Joon's emphasis lingered as her hand caressed the spot where she wanted her patient. The tall Captain disrobed, neatly folding then placing her uniform on the adjacent com desk. Max was nude in short order, and sat on the edge of the medical scanner examination table.
Joon smiled, "Now lets see what we have here..."
The petite physician's skilled hands roamed all over Max's body, gently tracing her limbs and chest. "Oh my!" Joon whispered, "What is this?" The fingers of her hand gently wrapped around the painfully erect member between Max's legs.
"I'm afraid I'm going to need you to stand back up..." Joon's sultry voice made the request feel like a command.
"Is... it serious... Doctor?" The caramel skinned patient inquired with a tinge of fear in her voice.
Joon's face displayed concern, "It is a debilitating affliction... I'm going to need you to follow my instructions... intimately."
The last word was said with such erotic inflection it made Max shudder. Max stood before the Medscanner and Joon draped herself across it. Her head was just off the edge, her neck exposed... to highlight her chosen position she traced her neck with long fingers.
"Now I want you to go where I move you, let me direct you by touch..."
Max swallowed nervously, "Yes, Doctor..."
Joon reached out with her hands and lightly touched caramel thighs, her fingertips guiding Max closer. She gently positioned her Captains throbbing member closer to her... she opened her mouth and drew Max forward.
Moistened lips encircled the fleshy head, her tongue tentatively explored it, making the member jump in her mouth. She moaned deeply, causing further eratic reactions from the swollen cock. Max gasped at the sensations... she could feel moisture beading on her lower lips. Apparently Joon could see that as well... one of her hands released a thigh and slipped around to the center. The tall patient spread her legs just a little... accommodating the physicians probing digits.
Max moaned softly as two strong fingers penetrated that sopping wet crevice. Soon the petite woman released the other thigh and pulled her arm back... her hand found a familiar soft breast and stiff nipple to occupy it.
Max was being guided to and fro by the talented fingers inside her...Her cock was now finding deeper gains with every gentle thrust into the warm, wet mouth. Within minutes the petite physician was directing the full length of Max's erect member into her throat.
Strong fingers were assisted by a thumb allowing a solid grip on the patients pubic bone and Max could feel Joon's throat tighten slightly with every thrust. The pace of the procedure increased, Max wasn't sure if she could hold out... her control was slipping.
Joon's fingers knew exactly where the buttons were... and how to push them. Before Max knew it... It happened... long ropes of vanilla sweetness erupted down Joon's throat.
The moment the patients sweet hot cum hit her throat... Joon climaxed.
Joon had to admit... she probably wouldn't have found deep throat fellatio enjoyable had she not had her own way to climax performing it.
After the last throb of the mind blowing throat orgasm, Joon pushed Max gently away...She gasped for breath, and with a huge smile pulled her fingers out of her magnificent wife and popped them into her mouth.
By some miracle Max had remained conscious, perhaps her fear of injuring Joon in this potentially dangerous position had steeled her resolve. Max had a goofy crooked smile, enjoying the pretty lights dancing in her brain...
Seeing the expression on Max's face, Joon quickly pulled her towering wife to sit on the Med scanner lest she fall. Joon wrapped her legs around Max's waist, the half-hard cock lay across her ankle. Her small arms held Max, as she laid her head against her wife's back.
"So what brought this on?" Joon asked, "Kinda unexpected, not that I'm complaining."
Max glanced over her shoulder, but couldn't actually see Joon's face. "Agatha said you were close..." Max responded, "That you needed just a little more."
Joon's eyes went wide... She screwed her eyes shut, and tried to push or flex something anything with her mind...
Max immediately commented, "Agatha says don't force it, you might hurt yourself..."
Joon gasped, "She felt that?"
The door to medical opened... a Hand of Agatha zipped in and closed the hatch. She practically leapt to Max and Joon. "Oh, Mistress... you are so very close... please don't push too hard." Agatha spoke softly. "I heard a few of your thoughts while Less was giving her lecture on the bridge."
Joon blinked, "Oh really?"
"Yes, Mistress... I heard you think... 'That sounded well practiced and smoothly delivered.' Agatha quoted Joon's earlier thoughts.
Joon gawked at her, "Did you try to answer me?"
Agatha nodded, "I did... But you weren't quite ready to receive, Max was similar, I could hear her first."
"How long do you think?" Joon asked, her eyes tearing up, her voice growing emotional.
Agatha smiled and kissed her, "Not long..."
Max raised her arm and turned a little, putting her arm around Joon.
"It clicked for me right in the middle of the rescue mission, luckily Agatha was on top of everything, so I could freak out a little." Max smiled at the pale-skinned exotic beauty.
Joon giggled softly.
"Don't let Max fool you, she didn't freak out at all, but she was very chatty," Agatha joined in the giggles.
Max and Joon slowly got up, and with a little help from Agatha, redressed.
They made their way back to the bridge... and it looked like they didn't miss a thing.
Paula felt a small hand on her shoulder, it would shake her... but she was so comfortable. It shook her again... just a little harder this time. She opened one eye just a little... it was some Slarmian...Her eye closed again... but her brain kept that image and studied it, even in her slumber.
Paula's brain informed her that the Slarmian was Teffa, and Teffa was her co-worker at her new post. Her brain also reminded her that as this is her new post she should not make a bad impression on Teffa, and keeping the Slarmians respect was important. That last part sunk in pretty well, and Paula began waking.
Paula Gonzalez stretched... her knees and elbows popped, her right shoulder and left hip as well. She opened her eyes seeing a look of dismay on Teffa's rubbery face.
"Lootennit, arra okies?" The Slarmian asked.
"Paula..." The Terran said... "Call me Paula."
"Poolah?" Teffa asked.
"Close enough," Paula replied.
Teffa wrung both sets of hands, "Teffa has opened Consul door attem pad level, took in stuff... Teffa don't wan touch Poolah stuff when Poolah sleep...Teffa had let the Terran sleep for a few hours while she ran a number of errands...
Teffa's voice sounded a little pleading and a little whiny... But Paula understood. "Okay... I'm up..." Paula levered herself out of the very comfortable seat. She could feel every year of her life in her knees and hip. Tapping her luggage on, the two cases dutifully followed her. She stepped out of the transport and surveyed her surroundings...
A grey overcast sky covered Staverka in a misty fog which hung in the air. Teffa had parked close to one of the two landing pad access portals. Across the pad was a large one...the shape strongly suggested it was for freight. Near by was a semi-covered formal entrance, the rigid arch followed classic Slarmian architecture.
It was enough to keep a person from getting drenched in a downpour though the arch would not protect anyone from temperature or windy conditions. Paula had read somewhere that Staverka had a very stable average temperature, and only the fiercest of storms would cause the wind to pick up.
The Terran tottered forward, getting her legs underneath herself. Teffa pulled out a small remote, the new remote was also a newer updated model, she smirked as the Transport locked at the push of a button. The Slarmian followed Paula, turning on what lights that made sense, and found the third floor to be the habitation area.
Paula walked down a lit stairwell to a hallway, the corridor forked left and right. Teffa slithered up next to her, she pointed left, "This way to habishun." Paula nodded, still waking up. "Lead on, Tef." Teffa beamed a smile... Paula called her Tef... she liked that.
The building had two floors of habitation lining the northern edge. Both floors had five two bedroom, one bathroom apartments with a common area. Each area had a large common room and a commercial kitchen.
Paula chose the first apartment next to the common room and went inside. Teffa smiled and turned into the kitchen where she immediately started making the traditional Slarmian home warming meal.
Paula looked around the apartment... a small foyer, connecting two bed rooms and a bathroom. She immediately went to the bathroom... The facility was a little odd, but she would adapt...There was a deep tub, the floor having drains as well. Paula noticed a large number of grab bars and handholds...trust the Slarmians to have plenty of handholds.
She spotted the Slarmian bidet... it was built into the wall...Paula really couldn't wait much longer, so she completely disrobed so she wouldn't soil her uniform. She carefully set aside her dress greys, and began her adventure with Slarmian personal hygiene and waste disposal engineering. After twenty or so minutes Paula emerged from the bathroom clean, refreshed and feeling much better.
She looked around her new bedroom, hanging up all of her greys in her new closet.
There was a double sized bed... twice the size of what she had on Megara. It was very low to the ground, and felt deliciously soft when she tested it with her hand. Paula didn't see any pillows... she would need to remedy that sometime soon.
She dressed in her comfy underwear and buttery soft BDU's... she suddenly stopped.
Paula thought she smelled bacon. Her tummy gurgled it's opinion on the smell. She narrowed her eyes slipped on her boots and headed to the apartment entrance to investigate. Paula opened the door to her new apartment... a delicious aroma assaulted her.
"Oh my god... What is that smell?" Paula exclaimed. She walked through the common room to the kitchen and stopped. Teffa was standing at a small flat top grill, frying something that smelled amazing.
"What is that?" Paula stared.
The smallish Slarmian turned and smiled, "Sczezzo."
"Ayam makinom blesinhom."
Paula blinked, "What?"
Teffa concentrated, "Mayking home warming meel much gud luck."
Paula felt a sudden affection for the Slarmian... "That is incredibly sweet of you, Tef... Thank you." The Slarmian beamed a smile, then flipped the frying fishy looking things on the grill then Teffa set the common room table after flipping the frying fishy things...
Paula popped back to her place to get her folding chair. When she came out, Teffa was setting out a small pot on a hot plate. In the pot was a thick green soup or stew with long bit's of greyish white things, it smelled like spinach.
The Slarmian set out an ornate pitcher of water and two tall glasses. Teffa set out a platter of round pancake looking things, and then a plate covered in a grease absorbing liner with the 'Sczezzo'.
Paula sat down and Teffa coiled down... Slarmian equivalent to sitting she surmised.
Teffa pointed out and named the different foods. The pot of green soup was called 'Yngsi ubi Mgesh' a greens and fungus stew. The odd pancakes were called 'Logra' a baked grain breadcake, and the afore mentioned 'Sczezzo' which Teffa informed her were a common greasy fish found most everywhere on Staverka.
Teffa showed Paula how to eat the meal, which Teffa explained was steeped in Slarmian history. She took a Logra cake slathered it with the Mgesh and layed a Sczezzo on it... then topped it with another Logra cake.
Paula blinked, "Sandwiches!"
Teffa smiled as she bit into what she just made.
Paula made a sandwich the same way... and tried it. It was amazing... those little fish tasted like bacon, too! The greens cut the grease of the fish, the cakes were a little dry but the stew glued everything together. Paula ate the whole thing... Teffa finished hers as well...
They both sipped water and made another sandwich. Teffa said she would make up the rest for leftovers, as they reheated very well in the toasting oven. So the two ladies chatted about their day in between bites of the delicious home warming meal.
Paula ate five of them... and felt very satisfied: she yawned unexpectedly
"Poolah go nappin, Teffa clean up." The Slarmian smiled.
The Terran thought about that... but Teffa shooed her into her apartment. Paula went to her room, she stripped down, and lay down on her new bed. She stretched out rubbing her generous breasts.
The mattress was very comfortable, soft yet just firm enough. Her last thought before she fell asleep was... "I need to find a nice pillow."