Max Intel: Melinoe
Chapter 20 - Reunion

Paula opened her eyes. She stared at the ceiling, trying to put all the fantastical bits and pieces of her dream together.

Paula had to be honest with herself, if she had come from a mundane upbringing she would have checked herself into a mental crisis facility. As it was, she was still overwhelmed with Jooniper Smith spending quality time with her: from light years away.

The Exquisite Lady had projected herself in a beautiful, verdant green, sylvan dress. Her strawberry-blonde hair in a delicate french braid; her grass-green eyes glowed with joy.

Of course... It wasn't just the Ambassador.

Paula was also introduced to Dame Captain Max Anders, Astrid Komatzu and Samira Bahjat.

Dame Max was projected in a flawless, tailored, midnight-black and silver uniform. She had short dark-blonde curls and a caramel colored complexion. Her light-brown eyes conveying both compassion and an unexpected edge.

Astrid wore her platinum locks in a pageboy hairstyle that framed her almond shaped lavender eyes and friendly smile. The Engineer projected herself wearing denim coveralls festooned with all manner of gadgets, gizmos, bits and bobs.

Then there was Samira... Who projected herself as some kind of mythical woodland denizen wearing a grey medieval tabard. Samira had deer legs, four graceful arms, short curved horns and a little fluffy tail. Her eyes were like molten-gold, coal-black tattoos covered her dusky sandalwood skin, her laughter and smile were infectious.

Paula spent time with each of them.

She got all the information, heard all the stories...

Agatha was the only non-human of the group marriage, she tied everyone and everything together. In the dreamscape, Agatha had stark-white skin and a fluffy mane of jet-black hair, her eyes were exactly the same cat-like grey with silver. Agatha projected without clothing as she often shifted to a fluffy black and white cat.

She was responsible for countless real world advantages and... Alterations.

Paula had heard the term futanari before, but she didn't understand the specific implications. So, in her dream, Paula was familiarized with it... intimately, with Joon and Vika's supervision.

The tiny redhead gazed at her with a naughty grin and a sparkle in her cosmic-blue eyes. Vika projected in ratty shorts and comfy blue flanel, her fiery dreads were unbound and seemed to have a mind of their own.

Max allowed Paula to do whatever she wished, making a very positive impression on her. After the perversely persistent penis primer, the ladies settled down for conversations.

Paula was now engaged to six people.

She outlined the employment and relationship situation in her own mind. This team is a married group of three polyamorous couples and Agatha: living and loving together, working for Terran Federation interests. They openly represented the Office of Foreign Affairs and covertly worked for Naval Intelligence, fulfilling different roles and enabling the team to succeed in various missions.

Paula felt safe and secure with her future spouses, each of them being dedicated and skilled. She felt no apprehension, feeling confident with the talented group. Vika's words echoed through her mind, 'You were destined to be here, at this time'.

It was the best night of sleep she ever had.

Paula just lay there basking in the afterglow of her first dream-party. An adorable, athletic redhead curled up next to her on one side. On the other hand...

"Good morning, Paula." a soft voice whispered next to her.

Paula turned her head to see unearthly steel-grey gilded in silver cat-eyes.

"Good morning, Agatha." Paula quietly whispered.

Remembering some of the accounts from the dream, Paula tried to picture Agatha's tongue, wondering what it would feel like inside her.

Agatha's eyes dilated, focusing on Paula's, she whispered, "I can feel that..."

Paula's jaw dropped open, she turned bright red, she then whispered. "I am so sorry, I totally forgot."

Agatha smiled, then leaned in closely, "Don't apologise, tell me what you were thinking."

Paula bit her lip, "I wondered what your tongue would feel like..."

She glanced briefly between her legs

Agatha beamed a smile, and scooted down and lifted Paula's leg as Paula stared down at Agatha, biting her lip, but not resisting. She felt Agatha's mouth kiss her lower lips and she quietly gasped, a smile forming on her face. Paula froze, her mouth dropped open again as she felt Agatha's long warm wet tongue push inside her, her mis-matched eyes crossed and rolled back.

Vika yawned, and looked up, her dreads askew.

She immediately noticed Agatha between Paula's legs, eyes closed in concentration and, with a smile, Vika gently affixed her lips around Paula's exposed nipple.

Paula's eyes opened, she began to pant.

Vika sat up and kissed Paula deeply.

"Enjoying that tongue?" Vika smiled.

Paula nodded breathless, her eyes rolled back again and she climaxed with a moan dropping her head back.

After Paula stopped shuddering, Agatha got up on her elbows licking her own face.

"Gud mernin, Agatah." Vika said in tradespeak.

Agatha beamed, "Gud mernin, Vikah"

"Tastinom?" Vika giggled.

Agatha nodded, "Verra."

"How does it look?" Vika tilted her head to the side. Agatha studied Vika's face and she easily picked out the tiny black heart shape she had placed under the corner of Vika's left eye from the mass of freckles.

"Looks good, I am sorry you couldn't get a real one." Agatha pouted slightly.

Vika shook her head slightly, "This is just as real, and a gift from you. Besides, they only broke two needles, not a huge loss."

Agatha smirked at the reason.

"How did the Consulate clean up go?" Vika asked with a raised eyebrow.

Agatha nodded, "Very well, first I filled up that shop cart with all the weapons I could find and put them in the armory."

Vika raised an eyebrow, "Corpses?"

"When forensics finished the documentation, they were removed... " Agatha explained. "With Poruchik Sulex's recommendation I contacted a cleaning service... And yes I swept the premises for devices when they finished." She concluded.

Vika nodded, she seemed lost in thought for a few minutes.

Agatha admired Vika while she was distracted by Paula's curvaceous physique.

"Wash then Kata?" Vika inquired.

Agatha nodded with a smile, "Would love to!"

Paula raised her head up from the thick pillow, "Kata... You're going to make me do martial arts, aren't you?"

Vika smirked, "Yes."

Agatha smiled with compassion between Paula's thighs, "I'm afraid so... and you just might have some fun doing it."

"I'm too old to start learning all of that unarmed combat stuff... I'd only look foolish." Paula pouted.

"Khernya." Vika grinned at her own comment.

Paula gasped at Vika.

Agatha tilted her head... "Do you remember Joon asking you what you wanted to look like?"

Paula stared at Agatha remembering the conversation, "I said I wanted to be twenty-two again..."

Agatha nodded. "Imagine a version of yourself with every quality that would make you happy," Agatha smiled slyly.

Paula didn't say anything, but her eyes grew huge.

Agatha gently kissed Paula's damp pussy, "Just think about it."

---

Max stretched, yawned and turned her head. Her eyes opened to silver-gilded grey cat-eyes.

Max thought to Agatha.

Agatha leaned in and smooched Max,

Max inquired.

Agatha smiled,

Max nodded,

Agatha continued.



Max was becoming much more awake, digesting what Agatha was conveying.

Max replied.

Agatha smiled

Max pursed her lips in thought,

Agatha nodded,

Max smiled,

Max inquired.

Agatha smiled softly,



Max blinked,

Agatha smirked a naughty grin,

Max blinked then nodded with a smile,

Joon rested her chin on Agatha's arm, "Morning, my loves."

Max sat up and deeply kissed Joon.

Joon moaned, "Mmmm that's nice."

"Oh... we are at Sakima-sadi-Misimi." Joon said softly.

Agatha nodded, "Yes, Mistress... For a few hours, If you wish to see Ambassador Zess I can make a discreet inquiry."

"Oh, yes, please, thank you, Agatha." Joon smooched her.

Max smirked, "I think Ag's is far too good at managing our lives."

"I can stop..." Agatha blinked.

"Nooo..." Joon interrupted, "Hush, Max! Don't capsize this boat."

Max smooched Joon and Agatha in turn, "I will keep my mouth shut."

They both giggled.

Astrid sat up on he other side of Max, "WhatsgoingonwhatImissnow?"

Samira yawned loudly.

"Nothing, Astrid, we're just waking up." Max replied.

Samira levered herself onto her two left arms, "Hey, when are Vika and Paula departing?"

Agatha smiled, "Soon."

Astrid blinked, "Are you coming back too?"

Agatha shook her head, "Nope, I'm going to stay there."

"To support Teffa in her new position of managing our Staverka interests." Agatha smiled.

Joon smooched her... "Best. Agatha."

The day crew dismounted the triple-bed en masse and proceeded with their daily morning routine.

---

Paula folded the grey dress trousers. She stopped and looked at them, her mind wandering as she placed them into her open hardside luggage.

Paula was still digesting the dream party, so much information and new commitments. She remembered discussing martial arts in the dream, the reality turned out to be a completely different prospect. Her thighs were still a little sore after her formal introduction to it.

The hot shower and massage that followed were amazing however. Having two of Agatha's Hands work over her muscles under the hot spray was a very welcome experience: Paula knew she would have been in knots without them.

She decided she might be okay with learning all of that unarmed combat stuff after all.

The one conclusion Vika shared in the dream was that she was no longer needed on Staverka. Which left Paula momentarily adrift about her current situation. Joon alleviated Paula's worry, intimating she would travel to Dau with Vika.

When your Ambassador requests your presence, you go. Besides, Paula wanted to meet the rest of her new family face to face.

She was trying to wrap her head around eight more of Agatha's Hands waiting for her on the Deirdre.

The four Hands Agatha had on Staverka would be remaining.

Teffa would not be abandoned, she would be receiving the 'on the job' training Agatha had enticed her with. Agatha believed in her, so did Paula.

The TFN Lieutenant looked at her two packed pieces of luggage and she tapped them on. She shouldered the carry strap of her folding chair and walked out of the bedroom. Paula had decided she would wear her comfortable buttery-soft BDU's on the flight.

Battle-dress may not be the most fashionable of TFN uniforms, but they were very practical.

Agatha and 'Una' were walking one of the material crates down the hallway toward the pad rampwell. Vika was perched on the back of the couch in the common area, her bulging duffel and rucksack below her.

She cocked her head to the side and smiled at Paula.

Paula leaned against the back of the couch, "I didn't know we were taking combat gear back with us."

Vika nodded, "Ag's said she didn't need it and had plenty of hardware from the attack."

Paula nodded then thought about that...

Agatha had inquired yesterday about a few sections in the Consulate Creation Accord so Paula simply sat down and went over both Writ of Embassy and Consulate Creation Accord with her.

The Writ was the 'bones' of the agreement between the GSD and the T-Fed, without it the details in the CCA were meaningless. According to the Writ, the Consulate was T-Fed territory and all materiel won in conflict within its confines was theirs.

In the CCA the Major-Domo or a higher ranked official was required to notify the Dynasty of a conflict within a reasonable timeframe. It was a concession that Agatha, in her position as First Secretary, enlisted Dynasty facilities to investigate the incident.

It would be considered bad form to do otherwise, but not against the 'rules' so to speak. Paula was meticulous when it came to the letter and spirit of any policy or agreement. Then she realized... That was what she brought to this diplomatic mission, she was the 'old hand' after all.

No one else on the Ambassador's... Joon's Staff... The Family, knew all the particulars. Paula smiled, her expertise would be valued and appreciated.

Vika slipped an arm around Paula's waist, "Are you ready to spend twelve hours alone with me, Moya Zayka?"

Paula heard the suggestive lilt in Vika's voice... It promised little time for research of Dau.

Vika and Paula shared a knowing smile, and then a tender kiss.

Paula gently held Vika's chin with her finger and thumb, turning it slightly aside. The taller woman studied the tiny black heart shape under the corner of Vika's left eye. "I like it..." Paula smiled, "Anna would be proud of who you are."

Vika smiled, "Thank you."

Someone cleared their throat behind them in the dining area.

Vika and Paula turned as one as Teffa set a polymer container down on the table.

"Teffa makit tastinom ferin..." She said in Trade speak.

"That was very sweet of you, Teffa." Vika said in Slarmian.

Paula saw Teffa's reaction to Vika's words.

"Yea, what she said." Paula smiled.

Teffa picked up the container and slithered around to them.

Vika shouldered her duffel.

The three moved down the hallway at a sedate pace, Paula's luggage followed dutifully behind.

"I am going to miss both of you..." Teffa confessed in Slarmian, Vika translated.

Paula nodded, "We'll miss you too, I'm sure we will be back at some point."

"Yes, we will." Vika added, "I know you will do very well."

The small group emerged from the pad doors, taking note of the holes in them.

Paula blinked at the damage, then glanced at Vika pouting.

Vika smirked, "I'm still here."

Agatha stepped out of the diplomatic shuttle.

"Hey ladies, You should be all set to depart." Agatha smiled, tilting her head.

Paula nodded, "I am going to study up on Dau as much as Vika will let me."

"Oh!" Agatha looked enthused, "I wish I could be there for that."

Vika just giggled.

Agatha laid a hand on Paula's arm, "I want you to get a general idea of what we know so far."

"So there is nothing pressing?" Paula raised her eyebrow.

Vika tugged Paula's luggage into the shuttle, still giggling.

Agatha smiled at Paula, "Nothing pressing, enjoy your flight, As I recall Vika can be very energetic."

Vika laughed from inside the shuttle.

Teffa handed Vika the polymer container full of snacks.

Paula looked into Agatha's visor and Agatha politely pushed her visor up on her forehead.

Paula was shorter than Agatha, but it was not enough to keep from kissing her.

The kiss was heartfelt.

When the kiss ended, Paula still held Agatha in a hug, gazing into her beautiful cat-eyes.

"I am a different person from when I arrived on Staverka." Paula continued, "In only forty-eight hours my whole life view has been reshaped."

Agatha nodded slowly, "Are you okay with that?"

Paula smiled softly, "I am, very, okay with that."

"I want you to be happy with that change." Agatha said.

Paula nodded, "I'm scared, but excited, too."

Agatha smiled.

Vika slipped out of the shuttle and wrapped her arms around Teffa. The Slarmian started leaking tears. Paula embraced Teffa also, which increased the humidity as the Terrans and Agatha teared up as well.

"Teffa luf yoo vera muchly." The smallish Slarmian muttered, sniffing softly. The embrace grew closer for a minute then broke apart.

They seperated knowing it was time.

Agatha walked the Slarmian back to the pad entrance, with her arm around Teffa.

"You will let me know that they get there safely?" Teffa asked in Slarmian.

Agatha gazed into Teffa's yellow eyes, "Of course I will, you are in the loop."

Teffa smiled and waved to Vika and Paula who were settling into the shuttle's cockpit.

Vika appeared to be running her checks and obtaining clearances for departure.

Paula's mismatched eyes were locked on Agatha and Teffa.

The little shuttle hummed into flight mode.

Agatha watched Vika's piloting with a skilled eye as the shuttle gently rose. Teffa waved again; Paula waved in response.

The Dauzakai Courier class diplomatic shuttle rose higher on her thrusters, it realigned it's heading and started gaining forward momentum. Agatha and Teffa watched as it ascended into the humid atmosphere, gaining altitude.

Teffa sniffed and lowered her arm.

Agatha felt Paula go beyond her senses... but could still feel Vika.

She hugged Teffa with a smile... Agatha could feel her connection with Vika beyond her empathic sense.

---

Joon finally sipped her tea from the delicate eggshell-thin porcelain cup... it wasn't even warm. It was hot when Zess poured it for her, but then Joon had started talking about the assault on her Consulate on Staverka...

Now ten minutes later it had cooled dramatically.

Zess sat staring at Joon during the entire story... Her tea was also no longer hot.

"I am sso ssorry my dear friend..." The Dauzakai Ambassador whispered, tears in her eyes.

Joon smiled sadly, "None of my people were hurt, Vika and Agatha were able to deal with the invaders in short order."

Zess shook her head slowly, "I would have been furiouss..."

"Oh I definitely was... But, Max talked me down and my wives took care of business." Joon nodded.

Zess stared into nothing for a few minutes sipping her cold tea.

She tapped awake her couch-pit com-table and put in a Holonet request.

Joon raised an inquiring eyebrow.

A few moments passed then the holo screen coalesced into the figure of a Dauzakai in formal robes. The Dauzakai bowed and said something to Zess in their musical language. Zess smiled and nodded, then began a long aria... Even gesturing to Joon.

When she did so, Joon nodded.

The Dauzakai bowed to Joon as well.

Zess continued with a flurry of staccato movements, all the while the Dauzakai was tapping in front of herself, nodding. In short order Zess brought her aria to a close, the Dauzakai bowed to her and the screen dissipated.

Joon blinked and turned to Zess, "So what was that all about?"

Zess smiled a cute little grin, "I'm helping a dear friend."

Joon's eyes widened, "What exactly did you do?"

Zess smirked, "I have encouraged my Firsst Ssecretary on Sstaverka to offer asssisstance to yourss."

Joon blinked again.

"Should I warn Agatha?" Joon asked.

Zess smirked, "Only if you want to, or you can jusst blame me for not informing you."

Joon wore a bemused expression for a moment.

"I would like to reciprocate your generosity with a live performance." Joon nodded thoughtfully.

Zess beamed, "If I knew you would do that I would have offered ssooner!"

"I'll happily play for you privately anytime, but I was offering a concert..." Joon began, "I would like to record it and add it to the final music holo-vid."

Joon bit her lip, "Zess... Before we go any further I need you to see what we have.

"Oh!" Zess exclaimed, "Iss it ssomething controverssial?

Joon nodded, "I'm afraid it might be," She pulled out her datapad and brought up the small holoscreen.

"I sspoke with Less about her newesst passsion," Zess smiled.

"Sshe is making a transslator program and device for Tizzi her Chazi... Pardon me, Dauchazi companion."

"Less told me sshe took you to the Trinity Stoness and you played there." Zess continued.

"Sshe alsso said you were all invited to the Ssamava Hive, rather inssisstantly."

Joon nodded.

"Less told me about the performance for the Dauchazi Queen." Zess looked at the small holo-screen.

"Here is that performance." Joon queued it up and let it play.

Ambassador Zess watched with wide eyes... "What a beautiful ssong."

She watched the six or so minute holo displayed in bright orange and gold colors: when it was done she focused on Joon.

"That wass amazing, the Queen iss so beautiful." She continued, "I don't ssee anything controverssial in thiss holo."

Joon nodded, "That is good, I was hoping the Dauchazi would be a known quantity."

The Ambassador blinked, "You're not done... what iss the unknown quantity?"

Joon nodded, and queued up the Daurazu performance and tapped play.

It was the same exact song, the presentation however was almost the complete opposite, it was in deep blues and purples.

The bioluminescent lightning pulsed with the song, revealing suprises on the Ambassadors face.

As the song ended Zess was shaking.

"Who... What... How?" The Dauzakai Ambassador stammered.

Joon held Zess's hands, "It's okay, Zess... They are quite real and not a threat."

Zess barely whispered, "Razu."

Joon nodded, "Agatha says they prefer Daurazu, much like your people and the Dauchazi, they are also children of Dau."

Jooniper Smith, The Exquisite Lady said, "You desired a music holo-vid for Dau, that is what I bring you."

Zess turned her eyes from the now frozen last frame of the holo and looked at Joon.

"I did ssay that... " Zess blinked slowly, "You intimated Agatha sspeakss with them?"

Joon nodded, "She does, and she will happily do so again."

Zess gasped, "I would sso wish it, my dear Joon."

"Dau hass been divided for sso long, I want uss united again."

Joon nodded, "Agatha was planning on having a couple of her Hands remain on Dau, I am quite sure she would love to introduce you to the Daurazu."

Zess blinked, "Oh, that would be magnificent!"

"So... About the holo performance." Joon inquired with a raised eyebrow.

"Yess!" Zess exclaimed, "The ssooner we introduce our ssiblingss from the depthss, the better."

Joon felt relieved, "I am happy to hear you say that."

"I would like to perform a concert for the Dauzakai." Joon put away her datapad.

Zess beamed a smile, "I know the perfect place to have it!"

She described a small ornate amphitheater with seating for about two hundred.

"That does sound nice..." Joon smiled, encouraged. "How difficult would it be to book it?"

Zess tilted her head, "When?"

"As soon as you want, I would want time for Astrid to set up for sound, and dimensions." Joon ticked off on her fingers, "Time for you to invite whomever you want."

The Dauzakai Ambassador was beaming with enthusiasm, "Let me inquire!"

She tapped a message and added a link to it.

A few moments later a holo-com alert sounded, Zess accepted it.

The holoscreen coalesced showing a wide eyed Dauzakai in a green robe.

Again Zess spoke in the musical language of her people holding her caller in rapt attention.

In a few moments the green robed Dauzakai was chirping and cooing, Zess waved goodbye and disconnected.

"We have the Amphitheater for ssix hourss... in about ten hourss from now." Zess smirked.

Joon beamed her own smile, "That is awesome, I'm going to have to make sure I'm ready for it then... Plus, you have a few invitations to send.

They both shared a giggle.

"Let me know if you need anything." Zess smiled.

Joon stood and nodded, "I will."

Zess stood and gave Joon a hug.

The embrace was heartfelt for both of them, their friendship having been solidified over Miku's ordeal.

Joon departed the Ambassadors work area and headed out through the foyer.

Joon thought.



Joon inquired.

Agatha replied.







Joon responded,



Joon explained.



Joon thought.



Joon responded,



Joon had climbed the ornate stairwell and was just reaching the top step.

She could hear the thwap-thwap of a melee spar echoing out from the Deirdre's open cargo hold across the grotto-hanger above the residence.

Joon walked over to the lowered ramp staring at a delicious heart-shaped butt tucked into BDU trousers in a prone display on the ramp.

She quietly crept alongside and layed down on the ramp while looking inside.

---

'Una' met the Grand Slarmian Dynasty Naval Infantry Officer in Command of the Palace Security Regiment at the entrance of the Consulate.

It was necessary... as the Consulate still lacked the appropriate staff for a more formal reception.

Agatha wasn't going to fret over it, she would make due. They would have staff eventually, some things take time. Luckily Polkovnik Emuzi was not the type to stand on ceremony for its own sake.

She was... Impressive.

Heavy-set and well muscled for a Slarmian, yet still longer in length than Poruchik Sulex. Her uniform was spotless and had all the embellishment and trappings of her office.

Agatha got the impression she was exactly the same person in or out of that ornate uniform.

Professional, dutiful and absolutely committed to the security of her Potentate. She appeared to be aware of Agatha and 'Una's reputation as she nodded respectfully to the 'mere' bodyguard.

Emuzi was accompanied by two aides who seemed like insignificant satellites in her orbit. They fussed over propriety but their Polkovnik ignored them.

She pointed at the floor in silent command and the two aides held fast in the reception area.

Agatha led her to the nicest office in the building up on the second floor. Yzix was already waiting with the Hand designated to play First Secretary today.

He was wearing almost the exact same apparel he always did, a plain brown but nicely made long tunic over a many pocketed grey waistcoat. Yzix's clothing hung on his long thin frame, his sharp yellow eyes picking up every movement and detail.

Agatha was using Teffa's 'good' tea service and an array of fresh biscuits.

When Emuzi slithered into the fairly well-appointed office, Agatha could feel both her and Yzix's emotions rise a few notches.

This could be good... or bad.

"Good Morning, Emuzi." Yzix politely intoned.

The female Slarmian glared, "That's Polkovnik... Inspector."

"Yes, of course, Polkovnik, my apologies..." Yzix nodded courteously.

Okay... bad then.

Agatha knew Polkovnik was a rank similar to a Navy Captain or Commodore, So she was of similar rank with a First Secretary, thus Agatha treated her as an equal.

"Please," Agatha stated softly, " I would like this meeting to be amicable."

Polkovnik Emuzi nodded, "Indeed, I would prefer it also."

Yzix wisely made no comment but nodded.

The emotions swirling between the two Slarmians suggested they, at one time, had a relationship beyond professional...

This was going to be tricky.

The Polkovnik's aides had remained behind in reception, so 'Una' went back to occupy them, and perhaps gather more insight into Polkovnik Emuzi.

Agatha seated herself at the large table, and the Slarmians coiled down on opposite sides.

Polkovnik Emuzi's mottled skin showed many scars, her heavy jawline rippled in muscle.

She also had a pronounced beak, synonymous in Slarmian culture with strength and attractiveness.

By Slarmian standards Emuzi was absolutely gorgeous.

"I have a preliminary report," Agatha began, "I will of course forward copies to your respective offices, but I would like to go over it with both of you now."

She tapped up holo-screens from her datapad and gave them a minute to look over the synopsis displayed before them.

Agatha started in again when she got a good feel for the emotions in the room...

"At this time I am now at liberty to inform both of you as to the six detainees I have in custody."

Both Slarmians reacted with sudden surprise, but not hostile anxiety... Agatha was pleased.

The latter would have indicated collusion.

"You have live terrorists?" Yzix abruptly stammered out the question.

Emuzi glared at Yzix, then refocused on Agatha, "I assume they are all Slarmian..."

Agatha nodded.

The Polkovnik leveled hard yellow eyes at Agatha, she then inquired, "What do you intend to do with them?"

Agatha observed the micro expressions and subtle indicators... feeling the emotions still swirling.

Slarmians were just as emotional as Terrans, only in different ways.

"I would like to have Inspector Yzix interview them on site, as that is not my area of expertise." Agatha calmly replied.

"They are still citizens of Staverka." The Polkovnik stated.

Yzix nodded in agreement.

Agatha felt the integrity of both Slarmians.

"Until curiosity has been satisfied, I am afraid I am going to insist on following my charter."

Agatha related the appropriate section in the Writ of Embassy, under the Consulate Creation Accord.

The Writ made clear Agatha had every right to subject Terran Federation Justice upon her Slarmian prisoners.

The Polkovnik clenched her impressive jaws in frustration.

"However, I fully intend to release them into GSD custody, after questions have been answered."

Agatha raised her eyebrow.

The GSDNI Polkovnik exhaled slowly.

"Very well... First Secretary," The Polkovnik began, but Agatha interrupted her.

"Please... Call me Agatha." Smiling softly, gently pushing calm to the imposing Slarmian.

The Polkovnik paused.

"As you wish, Agatha... You may call me Emuzi." She replied softly. Emuzi glanced at Yzix, "You... May not."

Yzix sighed.

Agatha eyed Yzix momentarily, poor fellow.

After that uncertain beginning Agatha could feel the Slarmians settle in and relax. Emuzi and Agatha discussed the report in detail, Yzix was able to clarify the vague definitions and archaic phraseology for both of them.

After almost an hour, a consensus of procedure was reached and a plan was developed.

The investigation would continue as before, with only small exceptions for the Consulate's integrity.

Agatha was able to retain the independence of her Embassy without hobbling investigative methodology.

Yzix's enthusiasm was palpable, and Agatha felt his self-esteem recovered from the previous night.

By the end of the meeting, Emuzi was almost friendly with him.

Almost.

---

Paula sighed happily.

Vika was being very generous, insisting on giving Paula all that she wanted. They were a little more than an hour into hyper-warp and she had already climaxed twice.

Paula was ready for a break, she had Vika pull out the fluffy pillow and set herself up reclining nude at navigation. She opened her portfolio datapad and tapped up the files Agatha gave her on Dau, the Dauzakai and the socioeconomic background as well as the political summary.

After a quick glance she dismissed thoughts that it was going to be dry reading. Soon she was submerged in the multilayered effect of the socialist meritocracy and how the interconnectivity of it's social networks aided in familial and individual goals.

It wasn't long before Paula was swept away on the budding technical and industrial platforms in the Dau system away from their home planet.

Then Paula just gazed at the countless rare and unlikely factors surrounding the planet itself including how it had become a tourist destination, promoting twilight beaches, luxury accommodations and amazing cuisine.

Paula started fantasizing about her new family enjoying the exotic locales together and was thoroughly distracted from the reading.

Her mind used the exposure in the dream party as a foundation to build the fantasy. She kept thinking about the six different smiles... each one a different size and shape. Somehow Paula's right leg ended up draped over the arm of the couch, her fingers petting the short soft hair adorning her sex.

Vika sat nude at the helm boldly staring at Paula's thigh and fingers.

Paula felt memories skip across her mind; and what she enjoyed so long ago with Anna. It was the happiest time in Paula's life until now and she wanted to connect them further.

"Vika?" Paula's lips thinned in slight apprehension.

The short, muscled woman shifted her gaze from shapely thighs to beautiful mis-matched eyes.

"Yes, Moya Zayka?"

"Would..." Paula paused, "Would you be upset if I asked you to do something your mother used to do to me?"

Vika smirked, a glimmer of interest appeared in her eye, "You would enjoy this something, yes?"

Paula bit her lip, "Very much."

"Tell me what you desire." Vika slowly climbed over to Paula, her muscles flexing, watching the older woman become aroused yet again.

"Iyu... Iyubovnyy ukus." Paula whispered in broken Slavic.

Vika's eyebrows raised... she nodded, slowly lowering herself between those shapely thighs again. "Where?" The diminutive freckled redhead inquired with a salacious smile.

Paula moaned softly as she gently gripped Vika's dreads and directed her lover's mouth to her inner thigh.

She gasped as Vika opened her mouth and dragged her teeth across Paula's soft supple flesh.

"Just... don't break the skin." Paula whispered in a breathless voice.

Vika focused on Paula's eyes, she saw a desire in them she had not yet seen. She could also feel heat rising off of Paula's vulva on her neck and cheek.

Vika let her teeth gently work into Paula's thigh, not quite enough to be a bite.

Paula trembled, her breathing was catapulted into a pant, she went from mildly aroused to sopping wet in moments. Vika gently bit down, hard enough for Paula to feel it, but not to break the skin as requested.

Paula's low moan slowly grew louder, her other leg was shaking and she writhed in the building up of her pleasure.

Vika switched thighs, leaving a circular pattern of tooth marks on the first. The moment she bit down on the other thigh Paula yelped in orgasm.

It was going to be a very interesting flight.

---

Whap-whap-swoosh-wap-thock...

Thwap!

"Arrgh." Max grumbled, "Every time... "

Miku and Nomissa sat right next to the aft bulkhead adjacent to the open cargo door. Both of them watched the sparring very closely. Next to them Agatha was laying belly down on the ramp propped on her elbows at the edge of the bay.

Joon had quietly crept up the ramp and layed down next to Agatha. Agatha winked at Joon when they shared a look.

Joon thought to Agatha.

Agatha responded.

Samira tilted her head grinning at Max, "What is your goal when you attack?."

Max laughed, "I'm trying to tag you, but you parried all of it and rang my bell with that wicked riposte."

"I'm not sure what to tell you Max, you're fast, strong and have a longer reach." Samira smiled.

"You should be laying me out!" Samira giggled at her Captain-wife's expression.

"Okay smart-ass, what am I doing wrong?" Max raised her eyebrow.

Samira and Max stepped back from one another. The cyborg turned to her side, holding her main weapon in front of her, at an angle...showing her grip.

"My offensive capabilities depend greatly on yours, because I tend to use your most telegraphed strikes against you."

"I would suggest trying to focus less on hitting me, and more trying to ruin my defenses."

Max nodded slowly, trying to wrap her brain around this different philosophy of combat.

"But now that you've shown me that...You're going to change it up." Max smirked.

Samira grinned, "Perhaps...You'll just have to find out."

Max was wearing her grey sports-bra and 'boy-shorts' style panties. They actually did a fair job of supporting her intimate appendage.

Samira was wearing her own sporty lingerie. The black racerback brasserie and thong actually made her tattoos and etching stand out even more.

They decided to dress this way because they didn't want to make any spectators uncomfortable from their nakedness.

Miku turned to see Joon and shared a silent greeting with her. Nomissa peered around Miku and nodded to the Terran Diplomat.

The two combatants squared up again.

Max started with oddly probing strikes; Samira swatted them away with contemptuous ease.

Then Max saw it...Sam really only had one weapon of significant range. So, Max tried a double strike: one to just deflect, one to get under the riposte.

Thak-tak!

It sort of worked...

Samira was able to block the first half of the double strike with her main weapon but not the second half. Except that she had a short blade waiting to pick up the second.

"There ya go... See, not so hard." Samira commented.

Max grimaced, "You followed up with a wakizashi parry."

"Not everyone has four arms," Samira smirked, "Keep going... I want you to see how I layered my defences."

Max narrowed her eyes and gave a short nod.

"Wait!"

The two martial ladies blinked and turned to look at Joon who was getting up off the ramp.

The petite XO walked up to each in turn, pulling them down for a kiss.

They watched her walk to the ramp at the forward end of the hold, she stopped and turned.

"Okay, as you were." Joon beamed a smile, turned and went up the ramp.

Max and Samira shared a smile.

"She is so cute." Samira grinned.

Max nodded, "We are lucky ladies."

"Ready?" Samira asked.

Max twirled her batons, "Oh yea."

Into another quick paced bout the two continued, displaying impressive stamina and combat skills for their guests.

---

"I know this one." Yzix said to Agatha.

The Inspector gazed through the observation slit.

"He is called Durx, he is some kind of game warden for Lord Arbox of Hybinus."

The Staverka Police expert on terrorism nodded to himself.

Yzix slithered further down the corridor to the next cell. Agatha walked with him.

The detainees were still restrained and naked, but they had access to water and had use of a drain in the floor. The observation slit was one way and allowed a complete view of the cell.

"Do you think he will have information?" Agatha inquired.

Yzix peered into the final cell, then faced Agatha. "I hope so, I do not recognize any of the others...Which may not mean much. But Durx is older, the rest are young adults, "

Yzix smiled weakly, "I doubt he was here for credits, I'd bet he was actually leading this assault."

Agatha nodded, "What do we do with the rest?"

Yzix blinked, "Oh, I will interview all of them, just save Durx for last.

"Do you need anything from me?" Agatha inquired.

Yzix smiled, "Do you have any Sczezzo?"

Agatha smiled, "I can arrange for some, is it for you, or the interviewees?"

"Yes." Yzix answered, then winked mischievously.

Agatha giggled.

They continued to an office adjacent to an interview room.

"So how do you and the Polkovnik know each other?" Agatha boldly asked.

Yzix sighed.

"Emuzi is my wife." The Inspector muttered.

Agatha blinked.

"You're joking." Agatha stopped at the office door.

"Not at all... We are... Separated until one of us retires." Yzix replied.

Agatha and the Inspector went into the office and closed the door.

"How does that work?" Agatha asked then immediately amended her question...

"I apologize, it's none of my business, I am just very intrigued."

Yzix nodded, "Our marriage, like many on Staverka, was an arrangement. Though, I can say I love her with all of my hearts."

Agatha listened, tasting authenticity in Yzix's confession of love for Emuzi.

Yzix continued, "We used to live together, though we are both very passionate about our careers. It wasn't working, neither of us were able to give enough space for the other. We had hoped that we could avoid a conflict of interest."

"My position was of less status and honor so it should have been me to leave it, but I was selfish and would not. I felt my work and the progress I was able to make was important to all of Staverka," Yzix sighed.

The long thin Slarmian was unhappy about his predicament, however he was determined to do his job the very best he could.

Agatha nodded, "I admire both of you. I hope you find room for each other someday."

The Slarmian nodded, "Someday."

"Are you okay with working out of this office?" Agatha inquired.

Yzix nodded, "Oh yes, this is more than adequate."

Agatha smiled, "Tell me exactly how you would like things set up, and what parts you need played."

The Inspector's sharp yellow eyes studied Agatha for a few moments. Yzix smiled, "I wonder if you really need my help. You now seem more than even a First Secretary."

Agatha curtsied.

She responded, "Let's just say I will be learning everything I can from you, dear Inspector."

Agatha smiled.

---

Joon pouted as Astrid rested her chin on Joon's little shoulder, "This is intolerable." Joon said softly.

Agatha laid her head on Joon's other shoulder. Apparently they had collected far too much footage to make a string of comprehensive scenes as they had done on the Staverka music holo-vid.

"I don't want to exclude any of it, but I can't include all of it." Joon pursed her lips in thought.

"You are very consistent with every performance, the length is between 6.29 and 6.30 with all of them." Astrid reported, "If I didn't have a computer telling me that I would have never guessed."

Joon blinked and glanced at Astrid.

"Say that again..."

Astrid lifted her head, "If I didn't have a..." But Joon interrupted her.

"No, the other part," Joon redirected.

"You are very consistent?"

Joon turned to look at Astrid, and nodded.

Agatha now rested her chin on Joon's little shoulder looking at Astrid.

"All of your performances are between 6.29 and 6.30 minutes, almost perfect." Astrid added.

Joon stared into nothing and nodded slowly, "I know exactly what I want to do now."

Astrid raised her eyebrows in anticipation.

"Six simultaneous performances... As one." Joon said softly.

Astrid blinked, then looked at Agatha.

"She's serious." The stunned Engineer said.

Agatha replied, "I believe she is and, if we can make it a reality, Staverka may end up being very jealous.

Joon and Astrid giggled.

"Okay. We are going to have to pull out the stops to make this happen." Joon started in on her desires.

"Shall I allocate all available hands, Mistress?" Agatha asked quietly.

Joon pursed her lips in thought, then nodded. "I think I'm going to need all you can offer."

As Joon described what she wanted to do, Astrid blinked, "It's a good thing I got a bunch of supplies... this is going to be crazy."

In a few minutes Joon outlined what she wanted to occur in around ten hours.

Two more of Agatha's Hands arrived to help Astrid custom build holo-projectors in the small confines of the Engineering bay.

Another pair of Hands dragged in the five security drone kits from storage below that she had ordered.

Astrid immediately took stock of what she had available to her.

"Dauzakai holographic tech is ten-kay superior quality, this might be a better show than you anticipated," Astrid smirked at Joon.

Joon nodded with a wry expression, "Nothing wrong with out performing yourself... right?"

Half a dozen soft giggles echoed.

"Oh hey." Astrid spoke up... "You want me to record the performance, right?"

Joon stopped... momentarily lost in thought, then she nodded and smiled, "Yes... for the Dauzakai music holo-vid."

Astrid's smile was huge, "Yes, M'lady!"

---

Paula nibbled on a biscuit.

"So you think I'll be... At the front of the 'queue'?" Paula asked.

"Most likely, yes," Vika responded, "Getting you armored sooner will make me feel more at ease."

Paula raised an eyebrow, "What have you seen?"

Vika shook her head, "Nothing specific, but our path is not one without dangers."

"Besides," Vika giggled, "When you are armored I can bite as hard as I want to."

Paula gasped and moaned.

She gazed at Vika's fascinating freckled physique, "Tell me about life on Deirdre."

The diminutive redhead pursed her lips in thought, "So far for me, it has been following dreams and avoiding trouble."

Paula nodded, "But you still have a daily routine, right?"

Vika shrugged, "Mostly, I believe it was the routine of Max and Joon, as they added wives I think everyone just followed their lead."

Paula smiled at the description, Vika saw the reaction.

"Do you like sleeping with all of them?" Paula bit her lip slightly.

Vika gazed fondly into Paula's mis-matched eyes.

"I enjoy the closeness and touch, yes." Vika continued. "The sex is definitly something I don't want to do without. We are a team, a very close one." Vika concluded.

Paula looked at Vika thoughtfully, "When you and Joon were at odds, and she threatened you?"

Vika smiled sadly, "I knew it would not have come to pass, I had just recently joined them and then Max was at death's door. She was fully justified not to trust me after that happened." Vika's lips thinned.

Paula nodded, then whispered. "I trust you..." She continued quietly, "When I lost trust in my first family, It was the most painful thing, to know they did not have my best interests at heart. I was there to be used...Exploited."

Paula pouted at the memory.

Vika cuddled up with her. "I knew I would find you, be with you, I know this family will support all of its members." Vika smiled. "I also know that without that internal strength, we would fail." She concluded.

Vika laid her head on Paula's breast, "You can rely on them, as they will rely on you."

Paula smiled, "That was what I needed, thank you."

The older woman kissed the younger on the forehead, it was a maternal gesture that felt oddly fitting for their relationship. Vika gazed into the reddish-brown and yellowish-green eyes: she loved how different they were. The two Terrans had finished off the snacks Teffa had made for them, a variety of baked goods, biscuits, Slarmian sugar breads and a sweet seed brittle.

They cuddled together and slipped into a nap.

Vika could feel Agatha, both behind her and in front of her, but she couldn't hear or see her. Something to work on.

---

Max was back in her tailored black uniform after her shower. She and Samira had a really good bonding experience sparring. Max learned a lot about her melee style and philosophy.

They also had a good conversation afterwards in the shower...ending in kissing, which was a bonus.

Samira dried her hair and slipped into the grey tabard, the gift from Vika.

"Should we look into getting you a few more of those?" Max asked.

Samira beamed a smile, "If it's the same material, sure..."

"Is it linen?" Max tilted her head.

"Yes, " Samira replied, "A heavy soft linen, it's so comfortable."

Max smiled, getting a good look at Samira's curves, "It fits your body perfectly."

"Vika does that, doesn't she?" Samira grinned.

"She does have a knack for that." Max nodded.

Samira tilted her head, "So it looks like we added a 'Witch' to the party."

Max smirked, "Adding another caster balances the party, right?"

The Captain and the Security Chief walked across the corridor to the Galley Dining compartment.

They both paused briefly in the corridor gazing aft to Engineering; it was packed with crew.

Max and Samira shared a look and continued to the Galley. There was a Hand of Agatha brewing coffee, she looked to her Captain-wife and lifted a tea cup. Max smiled and nodded... Samira gave a thumbs up. The two sat at the table, finding their usual seats...

"What kind of caster is a Witch?" Max asked.

Samira answered almost immediately, "Witches are support casters, they buff up the party and debuff enemies..."

Max blinked, "De-buff?"

Samira elaborated, "A debuff isn't damage per se... It's a spell or ability that either reduces stats or changes aspects of function... Like a slow, or a snare... A type of enfeeblement."

Agatha walked over and placed a cup of tea in front of Max and a mug of coffee in front of Samira.

"Thank you, Sweetheart." Max smiled.

Samira beamed a smile, "Cheers, Ags!"

"I believe Witches boast an impressive number of Lore-Knowledge skills and some abilities that are exclusive to only them." Agatha curtsied and went back into the kitchen.

Samira nodded, "She is correct... both Shaman and Witches have skills unavailable to any other classes.

"Fascinating." Max said softly while staring into thin air, sipping her tea.

"What are they?" Max inquired with a raised eyebrow.

"Well," Samira smirked, "Shaman get 'Ghost Dance' and 'Spirit Walk' where a Witch can use 'Hex' and 'Hearth'."

Samira looked off into the open air, "Not that I've ever had interest in those classes, I usually just concentrate on Paladin stuff."

Samira whistled innocently.

"Okay..." Max smirked, then focused on Samira, "So a Paladin is a Tank class?"

"Well... Actually," Samira grinned, "Paladins are versatile, they can be DPS, Healers or Tanks."

Max pursed her lips, "What are you?"

"Oh, I'm definitely a Tank." Samira giggled.

Max blinked, "Then what am I?"

Samira narrowed her golden eyes, "Are you asking my opinion, or do you need help with definitions?"

"Uh..." Max bit her lip in thought, "I was informed that I was a Warrior, I can accept that."

"Does that mean I am a Tank, or am I something else?"

Samira nodded in understanding, "In my opinion you could be a Tank in a pinch, but I think you are primarily DPS."

Max pouted, "DPS is... What exactly?"

Samira smiled, "DPS is an old gaming descriptor and it stands for 'Damage Per Second' ; it had eventually come to identify any primarily damage dealing class."

"Be it spell-casters like Mage, Warlock or Wizard or mundane ranged or melee like a Ranger or Rogue, or in your case Warrior."

Max knew Samira was an experienced gamer; but after listening to the explanations, Max rounded the Security Chiefs estimated gaming prowess upward substantially.

"Thank you, Sam, that was very instructive." Max smiled.

Max thought about her life and career experiences, she felt comfortable with both ranged and melee combat, thus she saw the role of DPS very attractive. Samira watched her Captain-wife's face while she drank her coffee.

Max looked again at Samira, "Tanks are just a distraction?"

Samira giggled.

"Something like that..." Samira clarified, "The term Tank is pretty self explanatory, Armored and Defensive."

"Also known as a damage sponge or meat shield, and yes, taunting the enemy or expressly being an easy target is part of the job."

Samira smiled, "I also enjoy a really well-built sturdy shield to shelter behind.

Max added, "You use ranged weapons as well as melee."

"I like to think of myself as an 'Evolved Tank', able to return fire if fired upon." Samira giggled.

Max found herself staring at Samira's expressive golden eyes. Samira noticed and gazed back into the soft-brown eyes of her Captain-wife.

"So... Sam," Max murmured, "Will this 'Gamer' style of analysis help our family?"

Samira nodded, "I think so..."

"You know a great deal of combat is knowing what to do and when to do it. Being able to follow training in reflex, without getting caught flat footed. Proper training is always the hardest thing to get into people."

"This 'Gamer' style of analysis will help our less combat-adroit wives visualize their roles, focusing training and learning skills more efficiently," Samira continued. "Maybe even letting them contribute more and encourage proficiency."

Max listened and nodded in understanding, "It sounds like Gamers have a logical view of combat."

Samira nodded, "Gamers look for ways that work to streamline things. Into things that work very well." Samira smiled in conclusion, "I'm no different."

Max smiled, "And it's fun."

Samira exclaimed, "And it's fun!"

---

Two yellow-scaled Dauzakai in formal robes entered the Terran Consulate on Staverka. They walked slowly into the reception area, they did not see a soul.

The taller of the two crinkled her nose at the faint acrid smell of combat that clung to the Consulate. On the raised counter was a thin plastic folded hand-written sign.

In Slarmian, Trade-speech, and Terran the sign read...

'Please push button for attendant, Thank You for your Patience.'

The Dauzakai shared a look but did not say a word. The taller of the two Dauzakai pushed the button, and they waited. A few minutes pass and a smallish Slarmian swiftly slithered down the corridor.

"Tande Teffa, Terrani Consul wekkum! howet Teffa hep yas?"

Both Dauzakai bowed, the shorter of the two spoke.

"Greetings, Teffa, I am Penii, First Secretary of the Dauzakai Embassy of Staverka," The Dauzakai greeted her in perfect Slarmian.

Teffa beamed a smile, "Welcome, First Secretary! How may I help you today?"

"I have an appointment with First Secretary Agatha." The Dauzakai smiled and nodded.

Teffa blinked, "You do?"

The smallish Slarmian tapped open her datapad, immediately discovering the appointment.

"I am so sorry, I was unaware of it, yes, please come with me." Teffa led the Dauzakai back down the corridor.

Teffa brought them to the well appointed office on the second floor. Agatha had a Hand there, scrolling through interview footage of Yzix and one of the detainees. She closed the holo-screen and stood up to greet her guests, her hand outstreched.

"Hello there, Welcome to our little Consulate." Agatha smiled.

"First Secretary Agatha, I am First Secretary Penii." The shorter Dauzakai shook Agatha's offered hand.

"If it's alright with you, I would prefer informal address, please, just call me Agatha"

The Dauzakai First Secretary nodded, "Please call me Penii."

"Thank you Penii," She smiled, "Who is your friend?"

"This is Kiss, she is my Major-Domo." The taller Dauzakai bowed as Penii introduced her.

"Wonderful!," Agatha smiled, "Teffa is my Major-Domo, We are both new to our posts and could probably learn a great deal from both of you."

Teffa and Kiss exchanged a bow.

"Would either of you like some tea?" Teffa Offered.

The Dauzakai bowed together, Penii responded for both of them, "Yes please, that would be lovely."

Teffa was about to leave.

"Don't go, Teffa." Agatha reacted, "Una will bring the tea."

Teffa blinked, then smiled.

"I believe we have a fair amount to discuss." Agatha smiled, "So let's relax and get to know one another."

---

Joon watched her wives perform techno-engineering magic.

There was almost no discussion after the initial division of labor and formalization of the plan.

Agatha obviously did a lot of the heavy lifting, her five Hands prepared, assembled and repurposed the five security drones.

Astrid simply articulated on the schematic how she wanted them to become mobile 10k holographic projectors. She even designed them to be upgraded with her proprietary graphics filters and software. Joon watched Astrid do the conversions on the fly, and Agatha follow her example.

The XO of the Deirdre was incredibly impressed, the senior wife side of Joon was just proud of her spouses. One of Agatha's Hands blew her a kiss and kept working.

Joon settled into getting a feel for each holo-vid of her performance. She wanted to know them well enough to showcase them in the best position for content. Joon wanted the projections to be life size, and where they were placed around the 'live' performance would make all the difference.

Some of these projections had some truly unique content...Dauchazi...Daurazu...If they weren't showcased with the correct amount of honor, there might be a negative reaction.

Joon used her intuitive social senses as well as what she knew of the Dauzakai to influence her decision. She glanced at the time; Joon had about four hours to get her plans in place.

Zess had forwarded the schematics of the amphitheater including all associated technologies.

Joon thought back to her first public recital, she had no idea what she was doing then. She knew only a little more now.

Joon knew the basics, and let her instincts guide her with the rest. She hoped it would work out that way this time.

---

The armored door slid open.

The prone Slarmian didn't move, he had been expecting this. Only much sooner.

He was hungry, he was sore, and he was still trying to put together what had happened. What the hell went wrong? Other than the lock making an awful racket, entry was smooth. The low-light gear, suppressed weapons, armor... Equipment wasn't the issue.

Intelligence said there were only a handful of occupants, they had the layout and knew where all of the cameras were.

Someone leaked...

Durx considered his position.

He was bound and hobbled with his arms and the end of his length all locked into the restraint. Slithering would be slow and it put him at a severe disadvantage.

He feigned sleep, perhaps he could gain the upper hand in surprise.

"I know you are awake. If you try anything I will remove your arms." A chilling voice said in perfect Slarmian.

Durx slowly turned his head.

It was one of the Terran bodyguards he was briefed on; she was physically much smaller than Durx.

But the way she said 'remove your arms' raised his hackles filling him with dread.

Durx grew up in the wild jungle-swamps on the other side of the planet. He was Master of Beasts for Lord Arbox, he knew what savage was. But the cold voice of the Terran cut through him like something from his nightmares.

"Get up." She commanded.

She wore the dark grey uniform of the Terran Navy: without insignia. A dark visor covered her eyes, her pale skin and black fur made her seem even colder.

Durx slowly rose up.

"Move this way." The Terran commanded.

Durx slowly slithered to the door, he could see he was still in the old precinct.

The Terran pointed down the corridor, "Move that way."

Durx thought that she didn't look armed, but he couldn't be sure.

She appeared to be completely alone. Durx now felt she was far more lethal than his brief had surmised.

"Move." She said again.

Durx followed instructions. He slithered slowly down the corridor, passing other cells, then around a corner. Durx felt his sore muscles screaming at him, the hobbling made it worse. He slithered past closed doors of offices: Durx recognized the layout.

"Stop." The Terran commanded.

She opened a door they had passed, then stepped back.

"In." was all she said.

Durx had a feeling not going into the room would be painful, so he slithered in. As he slithered in he saw a broad table with a familiar figure behind it.

The door closed behind him with the clack of a lock.

"Naval Infantry Scout Sniper for ten years. Master of Beasts for Lord Arbox for fifteen years. Very impressive Durx, you're quite the operative." Inspector Yzix smiled. "If you are so inclined to answer a few questions, I would really appreciate it."

Durx smirked, "Lawyer."

"Ah..."

Yzix shook his head, a look of regret on his face, "I believe you have been misinformed."

Durx narrowed his yellow eyes, "If you're here, then I get a lawyer."

Yzix again shook his head, "I am only here out of courtesy, I have no authority concerning your present predicament."

Durx blinked in confusion.

"The problem is... I believe your 'real' masters didn't actually read the contract made between the Grand Slarmian Dynasty and the Terran Federation." Yzix postulated.

"The Terrans do not belong to the Minor Empires, thus are not required to follow our Codes of Justice."

Durx balked, "Good try old worm, we're 'in' the Minor Empires, they gotta follow the rules."

Yzix chuckled, "The other Consulates and Embassies in Staverka do... They are signatory of the Trankaran-Minor Empires Judicial Concordat over fifty years ago.

"I'm afraid the Terran Federation did not. And you assaulted them on their own soil."

The Inspector pointed at the floor to emphasize they were both currently in a foreign nation.

The restrained Slarmian was not well educated, but he wasn't stupid either. Durx blanched as the realization sank in, "They gonna kill me." he said softly.

Yzix nodded, "Most likely, everyone knows Terrans are not exactly tolerant."

"They barely see Slarmians as people, and you decided to attack their Consulate."

Yzix shook his head slowly in utter disbelief.

"So if you have anything to say that might be helpful to my investigations, I would appreciate it." Yzix looked up with a smile.

"Why the hell should I help you if I'm gonna die either way?" Durx almost yelled.

"Well..." Yzix responded calmly, "I imagine that would depend greatly on how rich and detailed that information is, though I should remind you. The Terrans probably don't care about anyone less involved than you are. If you understand my meaning." Yzix tilted his head to one side.

The Inspector nudged the soft spot he knew Durx had. "I know old Lord Arbox values your loyalty, but I doubt Black Dawn does."

"I never." Durx had to start again from being choked up, "I never said nothin 'bout Black Dawn."

Yzix nodded, "Very true..."

Durx looked into the sharp eyes of the Staverka Police Inspector, knowing Yzix was the last Slarmian he would ever see.

Yzix sighed, "Alright, Durx, I hope you had a good life." The Inspector coiled up gathering his half eaten Sczezzo sandwich and his datapad.

"Wait!" Durx pleaded.

---

Max's eyes were large while she listened. Her petite and energetic First wife, XO, Medical provider and Ambassador went over her plans with the assembled crew in the Galley.

Joon tried to sum up her idea of the performance she wanted to have, even though she was completely winging it.

"We should go there early and do sound checks and other technical stuff."

Max blinked.

Joon inhaled, "I want to fly Deirdre to the amphitheater right now." She held her breath waiting for Max to reply.

Max smiled, "Of course you can."

She was unable to finish as Joon smothered her response with a deep kiss.

"Awwww." Was the reaction.

Joon and Max shared a look.

"Y'know. You 'are' the Ambassador," Max whispered in Joon's ear.

"If no one is shooting at us, you are technically in charge."

"I would rather we work stuff out together," Joon pursed her lips.

Max's eyebrows rose, "I really appreciate that sweetheart."

Joon gazed into Max's soft-brown eyes, "I love you so much."

"You are my soul, Jooniper." Max pulled her into a hug.

After a good snuggle, Joon looked around the galley, "Lets go check out this venue."

Agatha danced and Astrid and Samira beamed smiles.

The crew gathered on the bridge while Agatha took the Helm and Astrid slid into navigation. Max, Joon and Samira sat on the command couch together bringing up holo-screens. Samira tapped up her security sweep of the Deirdre.

Astrid got clearance as Agatha finished her checklist and Max brought up on her holoscreen the topographic map, passing the link down to Astrid at navigation.

The Engineer looked over her shoulder and blew Max a kiss.

Joon sent a text to Zess saying she was heading over, and would there be a problem with doing a sound/tech check? Joon got a direct link with the Amphitheater director's text, Joon copied and sent the inquiry.

She got an almost immediate answer, she was welcome anytime.

The crew of the Deirdre sounded off status, they were clear to go. Agatha brought the tiny warship up from the grotto, performing a slow, precise turn, then easing out of the carved hanger in the cliff-side.

Deirdre rose like a feather on an updraft.

Astrid locked in the destination three hundred sixty-eight kilometers west of Sakima-sadi-Misimi. She looked over her shoulder, Agatha did the same.

Max smiled when they did, "Okay ladies, proceed."

"Aye-aye Captain." Both Agatha and Astrid said together, smiling.

Deirdre leapt forward like a hunting cat, her military grade Trankaran engines growled, straining to go faster.

The thrum of her engines reminded Max that Deirdre was not a placid or plodding merchant vessel. Deridre was a huntress of the shadows, her velocity kept mounting.

Agatha seemed unaware of how fast she was going as the tiny warship broke the sound barrier.

"Ags!" Astrid whispered loudly.

Agatha immediately brought the speed back down. "I'm sorry, she wanted to go fast, if only for a little bit," Agatha glanced at Astrid biting her lip.

Astrid giggled, "We'll have to schedule some go time for her."

Agatha beamed a smile.

The Terran corvette reduced it's velocity dramatically as it drew near to the site that was detailed as the destination.

The amphitheater was located above a large community in the cliffs.

Udrill-za-Hedima had a population of over one hundred thousand. The city ran on primarily crustacean and lichen farms, and had a decent sized technical college. It also boasted a huge four star luxury resort higher up the cliffs on the carved steps with three restaurants catering to tourists.

Between the resort and the native metropolis was the amphitheater. It was located in a historical district of the city, kept in pristine condition for hundreds of years.

ATC was almost completely automated here, as they had requested parking before they left Sakima-sadi-Misimi. Deirdre was also given priority status, giving the ship a better than even chance of receiving a parking location near the amphitheater.

Agatha maneuvered Deirdre into a tight fit, backing her in gently just below and east of the amphitheater.

The corvette was larger than most pure atmospheric transports, yet there were a few larger spots she could squeeze into.

The crew of the Deirdre locked her down, and prepared to head out.

Astrid looked to Joon, "Do we dress up now?"

Joon pursed her lips, "That is a good question. I would say no, not yet, let's reconnoiter first."

Max and Joon shared a smile.

Astrid wore the HD holo remote docking station, and she was followed by five altered security drones. Samira saw them and nodded appreciatively, She herself was carrying the special chair. Max managed both of Joon's instrument cases leaving Joon to lead the way with Agatha and 'Una' on her flanks in bodyguard mode.

The six made their way through the carved well lit complexes that honeycombed the massive cliff community.

This was the first time they got an up close look at Dauzakai city architecture.

Astrid noted out loud that the complimentary geometric techniques allowed the rock to retain its strength and load bearing qualities.

Samira smiled fondly at Astrid.

Agatha subtly directed Joon in her navigation of the corridors and terraces, passing what they assumed were private residences.

They saw a number of Dauzakai along the way who greeted them kindly and after a ten minute hike they found one of the entrances to the amphitheater.

Joon texted the Director that they were outside.

Within minutes the door was opened and the cutest little Dauzakai greeted them.

She couldn't have been more than four feet tall, she was in green robes that swished while she walked.

Joon insisted on proper introductions

"Hello," She smiled, "I am Jooniper Smith."

"Greetingss, I am Itumii, Director of the Udrill-za-Hedima amphitheater."

Joon shook her hand.

"Thank you so much for the time and effort, Itumii." Joon smiled.

The Director blinked, "It iss my pleassure."

Apparently Itumii had direct access to the interior lights, as they all came up at once.

The six members of Dierdre's crew took a moment to appreciate the sight.

The ornate amphitheater had a proscenium stage with a magnificent, scalloped shell style ceiling.

Beautifully carved columns lined the auditorium and the natural striations were visible on every surface.

"Wow." Joon smiled, "This is amazing."

Itumii bowed at the compliment.

Joon led the crew down the open aisle to the stage.

She nodded, "This is perfect."

Joon looked at her family, "Okay, Let's do this."

---

A warning chime sounded.

Paula heard it in her subconscious, she felt Vika get up.

In her sleeping brain she gave the situation a full review.

"Moya Zayka. Time to get up."

Paula heard Vika, she even wanted to get up. Unfortunately her body wasn't interested. Then she felt something. Gentle wet lips around her nipple.

Suddenly hard sharp teeth.

Paula's eyes shot open, "AHHH!"

Vika had knelt next to her on the cabin floor where they had built a nest of soft luggage and apparel.

"I need you to arise and dress, we will be in Lyra Kepler in less than ten minutes." Vika said while looking Paula over with a naughty expression.

Paula blinked, her heart beat returning to normal. "Thank you for waking me, but we have to work on your technique." Paula swallowed.

Vika smiled, "It worked, did it not?"

Paula stared at Vika, her face slowly turning into a smile. "Yea...It did."

Vika pursed her lips, "Wear a dress uniform."

Paula blinked, "Okay."

The short redhead winked at her.

Vika pulled out a brilliant deep-blue dress with black trim that Paula hadn't seen yet.

"Oh my." Paula raised her eyebrows.

Vika beamed a smile.

Paula got into her best dress uniform occasionally looking over at Vika getting into the blue dress.

"Did you know I was going to ask for 'love bites'?" Paula asked softly.

"No." Vika glanced over.

Paula smiled, "So it is possible to surprise you."

Vika gazed lovingly into Paula's mis-matched eyes, "Yes."

Paula finished getting into uniform as Vika slid back at the helm.

"Thirty seconds." Vika announced.

Paula had everything on but her cap, coat and boots, she slipped into the co-pilot seat.

The tiny Dauzakai made ship came out of hyper-warp at the edge of the Lyra-Kepler system.

---

Joon looked at the frozen holo-projections of the five scenes with just the chairs.

The five projector drones hung in the air in an array across the ceiling of the amphitheater.

They were very close to but not quite touching the scalloped interior.

Joon assured Itumii they would not damage any part of the historic center.

She walked from one end of the stage to the other, sometimes squinting.

Joon then hopped down from the stage and went to the very back of the seating.

She thought.

Agatha ran the Holo. The holographic image of Joon playing while seated on the chair next to the bright window was incredibly sharp... Remarkably life-like.

Joon thought to Agatha.



Joon replied



Joon inquired.



Joon thought about the lavender dress she bought Astrid on Staverka, she had been drooling over it.

Astrid tried to talk her out of it, but Joon insisted. She knew Astrid only had her business outfits.

Joon wanted Astrid to have at least one pretty dress, something just for her.

She made her way backstage with Agatha in tow.

Agatha and 'Una' wore her iconic 'deadly schoolgirl' bodyguard uniforms.

Joon got into the freshly laundered, comfortable adventuring clothes.

Mahogany skirt, forest green jumper, matching knee-socks and hiking boots. It was decidedly underdressed for a performance, but she wanted to keep the theme. After she completed her change, she wanted to track down Itumii and find out how she would be introduced.

Agatha popped out to find Itumii.

Little details like that, while annoying, were necessary. In some ways 'showbiz' was only an illusion, but it was also an art-form. Zess had loved the song she chose, even if it was a Terran song, like the song she used for Staverka.

Agatha peeked in,

Joon turned and beamed a huge smile, "Showtime!"

---

Much like when they left the Mu Cygni system: Vika received only salutations and kind greetings from the local ATC upon entering Lyra Kepler.

Usually a challenge was polite but fairly consisted of destination and business. Paula attributed the courtesy to being a diplomat.

Vika tilted her head in thought.

"Diplomat? Me?" Vika blinked at Paula.

Paula smiled, "Of course you are. You work for an Ambassador."

Vika stared into nothing, "I had not thought of it that way."

"Well you definitely should, but you need to realize, it can also work against you." Paula nodded.

"It's a profession with some inherent prejudice, Like lawyer." Paula concluded.

Vika blinked and silently reacted with an "Oh" expression.

She watched Paula braid her own hair without looking in one go like a consummate professional would.

Paula winked at her.

As the tiny craft drew closer to Dau, Vika received a few text messages from Agatha.

"What's up?" Paula asked.

Vika smiled, "We are meeting at an event being held at a historic Amphitheater."

The older woman looked impressed, "Oh my. Is it an official state function?"

"Better." Vika responded, "It is a Jooniper Smith concert."

Paula blinked.

Vika softly giggled.

"Joon has been busy making a music holo-vid." Vika glanced at Paula.

Paula nodded, "I have seen the one with Staverka."

Vika nodded, "Zeralyst, yes, a good one."

Paula muttered, "She's ridiculously talented."

"She will be your wife," Vika smirked.

Paula stared into nothing thinking about that.

"I guess she will be." Paula smiled softly, biting her lower lip.

She cautiously peeked at Vika, "You won't become jealous?"

Vika shook her head, "I love my wives, they are mine, soon you will be also."

"No reason to be jealous of other wife." Vika shifted her eyes to Paula and raised an eyebrow.

Paula nodded, "Good."

"Good." She repeated much softer to herself, again smiling while biting her lower lip.

The flight down to Dau allowed Paula to witness the combination of rare and unique cosmic qualities of the planet.

Paula was awestruck at the vista.

Vika's piloting skills drew verbal appreciation from Paula.

"You can learn this also, if you wish." Vika winked at her.

When they were more or less level, Vika tapped in the destination and ATC landing request. Watching Vika multi-task made Paula smile. Vika was given a destination and clearance to land.

The little Dauzakai ship was an optimum size for atmospheric transport craft, there would be little difficulty landing. Paula closed her eyes when Vika did a pirouette only meters from the landing pad.

Vika settled the Courier class shuttle down without a fuss with no discernible shudder.

"We need to hurry, or we will miss the start." Vika said, while she strapped on some adorable little black boot-sandals with deep blue laces.

Paula nodded, stepping into her own boots while she grabbed her coat and peaked cap; following Vika out of the shuttle.

"What about luggage?" Paula gasped following the trotting blue clad figure.

"Leave it. Agatha will take care of it." Vika yelled over her shoulder.

The two women in very different outfits jogged along together, going down stairways and declines.

"Nice... To get... Some... Exercise..." Paula huffed next to Vika.

Vika smiled up at her, "Something else to work on, Moya Zayka."

Paula pouted as she noticed the shorter woman not even breathing hard. Then she thought about being at the front of the 'queue' and smiled.

After fifteen minutes of trotting, Vika and Paula saw the small crowd of Dauzakai. Every one of them in beautiful robes or some in a type of uniform jacket with bronze crests.

Vika slowed to a walk, Paula followed her. Paula had her coat over her arm and cap in hand. They walked up to huge double doors, Vika appeared to be looking for something.

Inside was a glorious foyer, intricately carved walls and ceiling depicting all manner of Dauzakai iconography.

"Hey you!" a voice called out from a side doorway.

Paula turned to see Vika running to the doorway. Vika leapt into the arms of what can only be called a mythical denizen. She walked over to the two hugging in the doorway.

"How was the flight?" Samira asked, letting Vika down to her feet. Golden eyes went from Vika to Paula and back.

"It was very nice, Paladin: very good company!" Vika beamed.

Paula put out her hand, "Lovely to meet you."

Samira ignored the hand and wrapped four arms around Paula.

She was four or so inches taller than Paula, but her height seemed to vary. Samira wore a slate grey tabard which was very close to matching Paula's uniform. It was beautifully embroidered , on her breast a magnificent heraldic crest in argent and sable.

"It is wonderful to meet you, fiancée." Samira kissed Paula's cheek.

Paula blinked but held her bearing in public.

"Come with me. We are about to start." Samira beamed and walked them in. Samira led Vika and Paula along the edge of the magnificent auditorium.

Paula had seen much larger, but none so ornately appointed, yet tasteful.

She then saw their destination, she stiffened slightly.

"I found them Ags, they were right where you said they'd be." Samira giggled.

Paula recognized Dame Max and Astrid and of course Agatha.

She did not see Joon, however.

Astrid wore a stunning lavender dress, and an odd HUD monocle, Vika commented on it.

They shared a giggle.

Astrid kissed Paula's cheek, her smile was dynamic. Dame Max was in the incredible space-black uniform from the dream, and it looked even better.

The very tall woman pulled Paula into a gentle hug, "Lovely to meet you."

"Showtime." Agatha said softly, as the lights of the auditorium flickered low a few times in sequence. Astrid and Agatha both had out portfolio-style datapads, they appeared to be coordinating.

Paula looked up at the roof of the hall...

She could pick out some kind of drones up there.

The large double doors opened and robed and uniformed Dauzakai filtered in. In only minutes there were over a hundred in the audience, in ten minutes every seat was filled, and there were dozens standing in the back.

A green robed Dauzakai came out from the curtain.

There was applause.

She briefly sang something in the Dauzakai language.

"Greetingss, I am Itumii, Director of this Amphitheater."

More applause.

"I would like to acknowledge her Excellency, Ambasssador Zess for arranging this affair."

"And for honoring Udrill-za-Hedima with her favor."

More applause.

"Without further delay, Motherss and Ssissterss, please give a warm welcome to..."

"Her Excellency! The Exquissite Lady Jooniper Ssmith!"

Loud applause.

The curtains opened. Down center stage was a chair, it was a plain chair.

A woman carrying a iridescent green stringed instrument walked out and stood next to the chair.

"Greetings and salutations residents of and visitors to Udrill-za-Hedima."

Applause.

"I was asked some time ago to find a song that I felt represented the spirit of Dau."

"I think I did that...It is my hope you agree"

"I was asked to make a music holo-vid with that song that would promote Dau to the Galaxy. I am still working on that; but I'd like you to see what I've got so far."

"The Song is 'Nothing Else Matters' by an old and mostly forgotten Terran band called Metallica."

The lights dimmed, and Joon sat in the chair as a soft spotlight illuminated her.

She took a moment to check the tuning of her instrument. As she did so five additional chairs faded into view as if by magic.

A couple of gasps came from the audience.

Each chair began slowly drifting into the air stopping at different elevations, the chair directly above and behind Joon was the highest.

With the perfect timing that can only be achieved with telepathy, Jooniper Smith and suddenly five of her clones sitting in the floating chairs began to play.

What became instantly apparent was when the five clones of Joon appeared, so did five holographic surroundings.

Gasps and loud intakes of breath as over two hundred stunned audience members tried to absorb what they were seeing.

The Trinity stones were at the top, the copy of Joon playing there, playing to the stones was a gesture of good will to Dau.

To the immediate right was the beautiful image of Jerish-Milas the 'little' Edgewood.

On the left was a domestic picture familiar and cherished by all Dauzakai.

The upper right was something few Dauzakai could ever claim to have seen, a Chazi of great magnificence listening closely and appreciating Joon's performance swaying to the rhythm.

Finally the upper left was something utterly alien, yet hauntingly familiar, the placement was not an accident, the trinity stones were the key...

Next to the Chazi stone, was a Chazi Queen... Next to the Razu stone, an image of dozens of Razu.

The incredible blue and purple fire burned arcing pulses with the notes of the song this Terran musician played.

Jooniper played perfectly, each hologram was in full realistic detail. The five custom built projector drones had performed beyond Astrid's expectations.

The audience was given six performances to absorb simultaneously, the music allowed them to change focus without losing them. They could enjoy all of them, or any one of them separately.

The hauntingly beautiful song that Joon had chosen echoed through her wives. They had been there for all of those performances.

Seeing this on such a perfect stage for the Dauzakai to witness was awe inspiring. Agatha would never be able to describe the full gambit of deep emotions she felt from the audience.

She knew bringing the peoples of Dau together was very important.

When the final notes were played out, six Joons looked up with that soft, elven smile.

Holograms faded away leaving only the floating chairs remaining.

The audience went wild, the applause was thunderous.

Normally sedate and gentle Dauzakai were trilling and hooting in their language.

Joon stood and bowed.

The applause was deafening.

A Hand of Agatha carried out Joon's custom made double necked guitar onto the stage.

Joon exchanged it for her Harp-guitar.

The audience began to settle down, as they now expected more music.

Joon beamed her iconic smile.

"Oh you're not going away with only one song!" Joon joked.

The audience laughed then cheered.

The Exquisite Lady played her greatest hits from her holo-net catalogue including Zeralyst. Joon had been afraid that it would be too much, but after almost an hour...

The Audience loved it.

She was called back for two encores, then she thanked the beautiful audience and said good night.

---