Max Intel: Melinoe
Chapter 22 - Bestowment

Max opened her eyes. She felt completely at peace, just floating on the after-glow of an amazing dream party.

The athletic woman could hear the breathing of her family around her. She cherished it, this feeling of devoted camaraderie, It felt precious to her. Max would do anything to protect the family, to keep them safe.

For a few moments she went backwards in her mind, back to the end of this beginning. Max thought about what had happened to her, since letting Agatha go. The first Agatha, often imitated by the current Agatha in dream parties, was just a cat.

A finicky, demanding, nosy... wonderful cat. Surprisingly affectionate, observant and intelligent. Her first friend, Agatha, was a touchstone for twenty years of Max's life. Letting her go was hard, in some ways the most difficult thing Max had ever done.

But since that day... Max's life just wasn't the same.

After a decade of learning deadly, dangerous skills and following orders without question, her reality began to change. For one thing, John Blake, the Lion of the Federation, found Justice. He found Justice for hundreds if not thousands of murder victims. One among them was a retired T-Fed Investigative Service Inspector.

Deirdre Gilmore, a dedicated professional who took pity on a little girl.

Max could still hear her voice, her wise words, and her laughter. The woman was a teacher in every aspect of Max's life, incredibly patient and devoted. When Max started school, Deirdre was there to help her understand the new parameters and perspectives, encouraging the frustrated, gawky girl to find friendship. Even the heartfelt fussing at a girl who grew taller than herself was a precious memory.

Then she was gone... Lost to an assassin's bullet, at the behest of a crime syndicate.

Max blinked and sighed, looking back wasn't always comfortable, but it was necessary. One needed to see the past to understand the present, and anticipate the future. Max had lived with that empty place in her heart for a long time.

She now felt it had mostly refilled, no longer quite as painful, with many good memories remaining. The present Agatha had sworn she would do everything in her power to protect Max and their family.

Agatha had gone to great lengths for her, that sacrifice changed Max's very nature. Joon had confirmed it... Max now shared some of Agatha's biology. Max wasn't a Starchild, but she wasn't completely human anymore either. She was stronger, faster and had much greater stamina... She was also much tougher.

Agatha had said she was hesitant to explore the limits. Vika managed to take three hi-velocity ballistic rounds and walk away with only bruises.

That was much more protection than Max had expected, but Agatha didn't stop there.

She also enhanced her spouses with multi-spectral vision. Agatha was changing her family through Max... Through a requested additional appendage.

As it turned out... Max liked him.

Her new little friend came with a whole array of delightful sensations. 'The gift that keeps on giving' Paula said last night, after her second... or was it third, blowjob. Astrid had requested 'it taste good' and Max thought her cum tasted delicious.

She hadn't heard anyone say otherwise...

There was something about the dream party last night, though, that felt different. Momentous perhaps, like something had been achieved.

Max inhaled deeply, then looked down her long body... her little friend was awake. 'He' usually woke before she did, Max saw no reason not to refer to her penis as a he.

In her own mind Max still thought of herself as female, evidence notwithstanding, but Joon said Max always had a masculine edge to her and, of course, that now was punctuated.

Max gently stroked him with two fingers and a thumb, enjoying the sensations.

Agatha's voice entered her Captain-wife's mind.

Max smiled,



Max smirked,

Agatha didn't reply but soon Max heard someone wake, quietly slip out of bed and walk to the foot where Max was. Max had to do a double take. It was Paula, but it wasn't the Paula they went to bed with last night.

"Oh, wow..." Max said softly.

Paula was still voluptuous, but now with tanned flawless skin her face and body appeared many decades younger. She had a well defined flat tummy, her breasts and hips were very full and defied gravity.

"Good morning, Max..." The young woman whispered, "I understand my breakfast smoothie is ready."

Paula climbed up between her Captain-wife's thighs and eagerly sucked the hard cock into her mouth.

Max watched this youthful vision of sensuous beauty in fascination, noting the changes to her appearance. Paula looked up at Max's face, those whimsical mismatched eyes suggested erotic desires as the Lieutenant pushed her lips all the way down the now nicely lubricated shaft.

She took Max deeply into her mouth: Max felt the back of her throat and inhaled, biting her lip. Paula moaned around her cock, pulling back briefly for a deep breath before plunging back down, repeating that wonderful action over and over. Max could guess why.

Paula continued this deep bobbing, pushing the hard member deeper and faster. Then Paula stopped and Max felt the tell-tale sign of a strongly clenching throat in an orgasm. Max let through her own climax, filling Paula's mouth.

The gorgeous young woman swallowed it down as her eyes had rolled back during her own climax. Still pumping ropes of delicious vanilla, her cock throbbed in Paula's mouth: she kept swallowing.

Max ran gentle fingers through the silky-soft, wavy, chocolate brown tresses. There wasn't a trace of silver and Max looked forward to Paula's reaction to the changes.

Afterwards, Paula just lay her head on Max's hip, softening penis still between her lips with her heavy breasts on either side of Max's thigh, her breathing slowed.

Max softly stroked her hair, Paula gently suckled at her Captain-wife. Joon laid her head on Max's shoulder, "You both look amazing like that."

The single Hand of Agatha represented put her chin on Joon's hip, a dopey grin on her lips.

Max smiled at her first wife, whispering, "I don't think anyone told her about the throat-gasm."

"Oh, we totally did, but until you experience it, you don't really know what it's like." Joon whispered back, "It's a surprisingly strong climax, even when you're expecting it."

Max bit her lip, then whispered "Maybe I should get the same alteration... then you can wear your 'tool belt' for me."

Joon beamed a smile, "That sounds like fun."

Paula moaned, the cock slipping from her lips."That was... 'Really' good."

Joon nodded, "Yea, it is."

Paula looked up and smiled.

"Good morning, Beautiful." Joon smiled.

Other spouses began rousing.

"Holyshitthisisbadass!"

Everyone looked at Astrid's side of the bed.

Samira was already sleeping next to Astrid so she levered herself up on two left arms. "Are you okay?"

"This is totally amazing!" Astrid was laying on her back, her head on her pillow, eyes wide open looking around at random in rapid eye movements.

Samira understood exactly what Astrid was experiencing. The wetware was asking for instructions, and Samira could only guess what having five separate systems was like.

"There's so much stuff!" she exclaimed.

Samira sat up and turned to face Astrid, "Okay, yea... After the morning routine is over we'll go into it.

"But, but, but!?!" Astrid sputtered.

"But nothing, save it for afterwards, c'mon." Samira smirked at the rest on the bed...

Everyone giggled.

"Okay, okay, let me pause it... Wait!" Astrid was pulled to the edge of the bed, Samira held her hand.

Astrid blinked several times, then smiled broadly, "Okay... Wait... Your Hair! Did you get more tattoos?"

Samira beamed, "Come on! I want to see them, too!"

Paula was now lying on her back with a tiny muscular woman on top of her, engaged in a deep kiss. Vika pulled back and looked up at Max, licking her lips with a smile.

Max and Joon shared a look and with a nod they engaged in a deep kiss of their own.

Vika pulled Paula up, "You look delicious, Moya Zayka, I may have to ravish you later!"

"It can't be that good," Paula bit her lip, "Can it?"

Vika leveled a decidedly predatory look into her mismatched eyes. "Agatha does good work."

Max and Joon nodded in agreement.

Agatha beamed a smile, "Thank you."

Vika gave her a wink.

Paula smiled and the duo dismounted the huge pedestal bed, heading into the bathroom. Joon and Max, still kissing, eventually found their way to the edge of the bed. They slowly followed Paula and Vika.

Agatha sighed happily, slipping off the bed moving to join her family for a wash.

---

Samira inspected her new ink, or pigment, or whatever Agatha did was called. She and Astrid had finished with their biological needs and were at the sinks. Astrid couldn't keep her eyes off of Samira.

But she didn't say a word.

Samira had Agatha embellish every area she was wanting. Mostly the open stretches of skin unaffected by scarring: her neck, under her jaw, the sides of her head, two open areas on her back, her tummy. All except for her breasts, ears and face...

Samira's glorious ebon flowers and spiderwebs flowed everywhere in perfect symmetry. The coal-black tattoos covered most of her sandalwood skin, including eye-liner and lip-liner. Samira's hair was undercut all around her head, showing off the tattoos there and Agatha assured her she would never have to worry about upkeep.

Her parents would have had a royal fit, but she absolutely loved it.

Samira turned to look at her wives. Joon and Max walked into the bathroom, directly to the toilets. Vika gave Samira a thumbs up. Paula blinked in surprise, but nodded appreciation.

Astrid stood there with huge eyes.

"Do you approve?" Samira raised an eyebrow, biting her lip.

Astrid didn't say a word, she just pulled Samira into a deep passionate kiss as Agatha wandered in.

After the kiss concluded, Astrid ran her fingers through the fifteen centimeter long top-locks.

"You look completely magnificent. I love it."

Samira smiled pulling, Astrid back from the sinks and Agatha sat down on a toilet, watching and enjoying the show. Vika escorted Paula to the mirror, she then mounted the step that adorned two of the sinks.

Paula stared at her own face and body... She barely recognized herself. Her mouth hung open as her hands ran all over herself, testing elasticity and firmness.

Vika tilted her head, "I told you, Agatha does good work."

Paula nodded, "Yes, yes you did." Her expression changed to pure joy and she went directly to Agatha who was on the toilet, and kissed her.

Max and Joon stepped up for their wash as Joon smiled at the expressive spouses all over the bathroom in the mirror.

She proceeded, her time honored routine, to wash her face.

Joon splashed water over her face then stood up straight as the water dripped down her breasts. She smiled at herself in the mirror and ran both of her hands through her hair.

There was a flash of a green that glowed in her eyes, a soft green glow surrounded her for a few moments then faded into her.

Joon gasped in fright, her eyes wide. "HOLY SHIT!"

Everyone immediately turned to look at her: and just stared.

Joon turned to Max, "Did you see that?"

Max's jaw dropped open.

"What?" Joon asked, looking around at her wives, Agatha just smiled broadly at her. Even the normally unflappable Vika was gazing at her with a starry-eyed look.

Max blinked several times, "Jooniper! You're fucking gorgeous!"

Joon raised an eyebrow, "What?"

Max pointed at the mirror.

Joon turned to look and saw a stunningly beautiful, perfectly naked, Elven Princess in the mirror.

"Oh wow... Wait, what the fuck?" Joon couldn't believe her eyes.

Max stood beside Joon, and in the mirror, Max stood beside the naked Elven Princess.

"Oh shit." Joon said.

"Yea... Can you describe what you did?" Max raised her eyebrows.

"I... I washed my face, "Joon started, "I splashed water on myself, then I ran my hands through my hair."

Joon ran both her hands through her hair. Everyone saw the flash of green that glowed in Joon's eyes, a soft green glow surrounded her for a few moments then faded into her.

Joon turned to Agatha, "What the fuck is this?"

Agatha bit her lip, "It's your first Bard Ability, Mistress."

Joon just blinked.

---

The Day shift finished washing up, Joon held everyone in the CQ for a quick meeting.

"Okay, my sweet, Magical, Cat-girl of a wife: please explain." Joon concentrated on Agatha.

Agatha nodded, "As you know I have been armoring and improving our family for a while now."

"With the Lessons of Dau, I have discovered new ways of doing so," Agatha smiled at Joon.

"Your first Bard Ability makes you beautiful to anyone."

Joon blinked, "What?"

She turned to Max. Her first wife nodded, "I've never seen you look so beautiful."

Paula muttered, "Stunning."

Vika nodded, "Perfect."

"Gorgeous." Astrid added.

Samira sighed, biting her lip. "Mmhmm."

All of the wives nodded.

Samira thought for a moment, "The Ability buffs your image."

Joon's eyebrows rose, then she nodded, "Image... that sounds precisely correct to me.

A few moments of discussion among the crew then...

Samira commented, "Looking at this in gamer logic."

Quiet fell as the wives listened.

"This 'Image' buff makes you beautiful to anyone, any species... as a performer that is Amazing."

Joon nodded seeing that logic.

Samira continued, "As a diplomat... it will be a massive Advantage."

Paula raised her eyebrows, "Oh, Definitely!"

Joon looked at all of her wives, they nodded in agreement.

She bit her lip, still standing naked before them, she took a deep breath.

Joon ran both her hands through her hair... a flash of green glow glimmered in her eyes, the green surrounded her for a few moments then faded into her.

"I got this." She nodded.

Joon turned to Agatha, "We will discuss the Lessons of Dau over breakfast."

She then glanced at her family with a critical eye, "Bard isn't the only Fantasy Class on this ship."

Everyone's eyes widened.

Agatha nodded and smiled, "Yes, Mistress."

---

Eight nude women of the Deirdre stood tall in the cargo bay.

Agatha said she was reestablishing her three by eight shift rotation.

So 'Una' joined them in the bay...

It was a little cozy with the two large crates of Astrid's new toys taking up space.

Agatha standing at the aft of the hold bowed.

Everyone bowed in response.

The Kata began.

First rotation...

Paula was a beginner, so she had no technique to speak of and she barely knew half the forms.

But, she did not give up or get upset, she carried on and tried her best to learn.

Max was inspired with Paula's determination.

Paula's newfound youthful exuberance showed too, she was smiling brightly while she danced.

Second rotation...

Max observed the rest of her family.

Astrid and Vika's techniques were much improved, their forms were sharp and accurate. Joon was growing in confidence, she could easily gain rank if she chose, maybe even two.

She looked incredibly alluring and attractive, Max could have watched her for hours.

Samira was also watching Joon, It was hard to tell if she was distracted by Joon's Ability or not.

Third rotation...

Something was odd.

Max tried to puzzle it out, something close was nagging at her. Then it went click in Max's mind, like her hand finding something familiar in the dark. A crisp trigger pull on a firearm, the edge of a perfectly honed blade. An arrow arcing to a target forty yards away scoring a bullseye.

The world slowed, there was a perceivable sepia tint to it.

Max glanced around her. Her family was moving in slow motion just as she was. Max had felt this sensation once before, on Staverka. Her body was dying, but Max wasn't finished yet, she had a mission to complete.

She had no impending suicidal mission now, and she wasn't dying. It was like she had all the time in the world to think, adjust, maneuver.

The third rotation took three times as long to complete, Max didn't mind at all. She used that time to study the condition she found herself in.

Was this her Fantasy Class Ability? She shifted her focus to Agatha at the Aft of the cargo hold.

Their eyes met. Agatha's smile and a twinkle in her eyes was Max's answer.

Max felt she could let the sensation go... and it faded.

The Kata concluded and everyone bowed at normal speed.

The family praised each other, but especially Paula as everyone made their way to the CQ showers. Warm water, cleansing foam and plenty of assistance.

Max gave Agatha a raised eyebrow.

She smiled and tilted her head.

"What did you experience, Max?" Agatha inquired, her voice projected over the shower.

Everyone heard that and looked at their Captain-wife. Showers were turned off, only the sound of water dripping off nude bodies remained. Joon shared a look with Max.

"You too?" She inquired.

Max nodded, "Yea... But I think it's combat dependent."

"I was able to perceive time differently, it was slowed way down and I could be very precise."

Everyone listened.

Joon pursed her lips, and shifted her focus to Agatha, "I wish you would explain this, I feel like you're playing a game with us."

Agatha shook her head slowly, "I am sorry, Mistress, that is not my intention. It is necessary for you to Discover your abilities this way, see them in context. Please allow the process to proceed naturally, I will assist when needed." Agatha smiled softly.

Joon nodded, her lips were thinned indicating she wasn't thrilled with that answer.

Agatha raised her eyebrow at Max, "Maybe sparring would help?"

Max smirked, "That's what I was thinking: after breakfast."

Vika and Samira both smiled at the prospect. They dried off chatting about possible abilities. Samira had a number of really good ideas for everyone.

Agatha only smiled.

The day crew went to the CQ and mostly dressed in BDU's. Joon wore her favorite green jumper, with the mahogany skirt, matching green socks and chunky trainers. Samira wore only her beloved tabard, it was very comfortable.

Max announced she was going to chat with Uncle Goat, and started out towards the corridor.

"Can I sit on your lap?" Joon asked,

The petite Ambassador gave Max an sensuous look, her eyes filled with promise.

Max blinked, "Oh wow!, when you do that with your Image on, it goes right to my head.

Joon grinned suggestively, "I promise to use my powers for good... Mostly.

In an instant Max literally swept Joon off her feet with two strong but gentle arms. She squealed in delight and laughed as Max put her over a shoulder. Joon's little round butt was lightly spanked as she giggled loudly. The rest of the family laughed at the spectacle of naughty humor with sexy fun.

Max shifted the petite Elven beauty back into her arms, smooching her soundly. Then carried her to the bridge, Joon giggled the whole way.

---

The day crew were seated at the Mess table, Agatha had made Howard's Pain Perdu. Everyone watched as Paula tried it, she put a forkful in her mouth and closed her eyes. Paula moaned softly as she chewed slowly, savoring the flavor.

"Delicious." She said without ceremony after she swallowed.

Joon beamed, everyone smiled, and they all tucked in. The conversations still carried much speculation of Class Abilities, and what had occurred in dark corners with Uncle Goat.

When they had their fill, several Hands of Agatha cleared the table and freshened everyone's beverage.

"So, what happened?" Astrid inquired, addressing Max.

Samira asked, "Did your Uncle set up the meeting?"

Max smirked, "He is everyone's Uncle if he's my Uncle, as he is Joon's Grand Uncle and we are all married to her."

Joon snarked a giggle, "That sounded a little silly."

The crew smiled.

"You know him." Vika said to Max. "You said before, he is a good man."

Max nodded, "He is."

Joon sipped her tea and Max cleared her throat.

"So, we are to contact the FO at eleven zulu, and they will take Joon's call." Max summarized.

"He emphasized that Joon's successes should take center stage, that any 'help' he gave her would be justified." Max looked at Joon.

Astrid sipped her tea.

Joon continued, "Uncle said I should shamelessly use that we are related, it will cover a great deal of the other tidbits we don't need the FO to know about. He also said I need to make sure they know I am working for them."

Max and Joon shared a look.

Astrid pursed her lips, "So as long as you impress them, they won't bother you?"

Joon smirked, "As I am to understand it, as long as I fill out all the data work."

She glanced at Paula, they both smiled, "I'll have the freedom to do my job."

Everyone had a sip of their beverages.

Samira focused on Joon.

"What happened to your 'Image'?" Inquired Samira with a raised eyebrow.

Joon studied Samira's face, her cyborg spouse really did look magnificent now. Her dark-brown undercut top locks were neatly brushed to one side. Charcoal-black tattoos on full display covering her neck and around her head. They framed her face, making her dusky sandalwood complexion glow. Eyes of deep-amber gilded in gold gave Samira a mythical quality.

"It faded about five minutes before we sat down for breakfast." Joon replied with a smile. Joon glanced at Agatha, "How long did you say the applications last?"

Samira changed her focus to Agatha.

"About ten minutes per cast, Mistress." She smiled.

Joon nodded, "Apparently the casts do stack though."

Samira blinked, "Oh, that's excellent, you might want to experiment, as it might have a maximum number of stacks."

Joon nodded thoughtfully, "I'll do that."

Samira smiled and took a sip from her coffee mug. Max and Joon shared a look, Max continued the brief.

"So if Joon lands her interview, ..." Max was immediately interrupted.

Joon cleared her throat and raised an eyebrow at Max.

Max smirked, "So 'when' Joon lands her interview, we can expect a little more cooperation with the FO."

Max and Joon shared a look and Joon smiled.

Paula nodded, "I can attest to that, the FO are sticklers for data work, but they do give excellent support."

Vika smiled at Paula and Agatha raised her hand.

Joon nodded to Agatha.

Max raised an eyebrow, "Are you ready for the Lessons of Dau introduction?"

"There are a number of things I wish to discuss, but first I have a few current events to update..." Agatha replied, she bit her lip.

Max smiled, "You have the floor."

Agatha nodded and stood up.

"We now have confirmation that the Kirrix are engaged in what has been described as open civil war."

There was a sharp intake of breath from much of the family.

"Rumor has it that Lioness Alyssa Marant enjoined half of the Kirrix leadership to return their captives and withdrawal to Kirrix space or she would reduce all of their worlds to ash."

Everyone at the table just stared at Agatha.

"I wouldn't normally comment on rumors, but there are a number of credible corresponding sources."

"They claim half of the Kirrix are trying to kill the other half, so Alyssa won't kill them all."

She waited for anyone to comment, but no one did.

Everyone sat blinking.

Agatha shrugged, "Moving on..."

"Authorities on Staverka continue to investigate allegations of terrorism, seditious conspiracy, and conspiracy to commit regicide. Needless to say, Zalix was somewhat concerned. I am afraid we are directly involved, as I am still holding their initial intelligence windfall in custody."

"Outside of the Consulate, only Yzix, Emuzi and Zalix know who and where he is. Zalix, through Emuzi, has requested he remain our guest for a while yet, as security concerns make it difficult and dangerous to process him at this time."

"I would then ask my Ambassador for her instructions."

Joon smiled, "Oh, I think we can help Zalix through this rough patch."

Everyone nodded and smiled.

"Thank you, your Excellency, I shall relay the sentiment." Agatha curtsied. Agatha slowly scanned around the table, all six of her human wives were watching her with trepidation.

She slowly regained her seat. "I believe everyone here knows just how special Vika and Paula are."

The family glanced at Vika or Paula and nodded.

"The abilities that they possess are what inspired me to do what I have done. I have installed a system that emulates a version of that kind of special Ability in all of you. 'The System' is just for my wives, I will remain as I am to care for and assist all of you in a more mundane fashion."

Agatha smiled softly.

"The Fantasy Class Powers must be Discovered, then Learned if applicable.

Max shared a look with Joon.

"I will try to explain and clarify them when possible, however, you must be willing to stretch your minds to find them."

Max pursed her lips in thought.

Agatha raised an eyebrow, "Any questions?"

Max raised a finger up.

Agatha nodded.

"Do you already know what we'll be able to do, or are they generated as we go." Max inquired.

Samira nodded, "Good question."

Agatha smiled.

"The Class abilities have already been allocated, be mindful of how power distribution is divided in the Fantasy Genre Samira has such a firm grasp of."

Everyone looked at Samira.

"Oh shit... I'm the fucking guide?" Samira's jaw dropped.

Astrid giggled, "Being a cosplay gamer nerd is now super important Sam!"

Samira blinked, "I guess so..."

Joon peered at Samira, "What did Ags mean by power distribution?"

Samira nodded to Joon, "Essentially, mono-class versus multi-class.

"Max is a Warrior, she has a single line of progression through her Class abilities."

"She'll be able to dedicate all of her learning experience in it."

Agatha nodded.

Samira continued, "If I remember correctly, you went with Cleric-Bard?"

Joon clarified, "Bard-Priest... Cleric's wear armor and swing weapons, I'm not interested in that rubbish."

Joon winced, "No offense."

Samira smirked, "None taken... So you would need to open your first level Priest ability, before you could advance with your Bard again."

"You have to split your learned experience between the two Classes."

Max nodded with understanding, looking at Agatha, "That's why you want us to practically learn our Class abilities, it's literally using Experience.

Agatha smiled.

Joon turned to her towering wife... "What's your Class ability called?"

Max blinked, she turned to Agatha, "You didn't tell me."

"I don't need to..." Agatha smirked.

Max thought about it a few moments, then her eyebrows raised, "Maneuver! I was thinking about it when I was... ?Experiencing? it." Max's eyes grew large. "Agatha doesn't need to tell us, we'll recognize it."

The family smiled as one.

Then Paula raised her hand, looking at Agatha, "What about Vika and I?"

Agatha looked to Samira.

Samira blinked, "Oh... uh... Vika was, er, is multi-class Rogue-Shaman and Portent is her first level Shaman Class Ability, so she should be working on her first Rogue one."

Paula lifted her chin slightly while her eyes focused on Samira.

"And you." Samira continued, "Already have Fortune as your first Class Ability for Witch." Samira smiled, "So you're accumulating experience for your 'Second' level Class Ability."

Paula shrugged, "As far as I know, I was born with Fortune."

Samira nodded, "You and Vika have a huge head start on everyone."

Paula opened her mouth for just a moment, then said. "I guess, we do."

Vika held Paula's hand and smiled broadly. "See, Moya Zayka... We were meant to be here."

"Wait!" Astrid suddenly said, slapping both of her hands spread out on the table.

"I have a Crafting Class. How do I advance that?

Astrid looked at Samira frustrated, "Do I make a pile of gizmos hoping something clicks?"

Agatha focused on Samira.

"You could do that," Samira nodded, "Or you could follow your Quest line and make drone stuff for Mage. That way you're not grinding away on useless crap."

Astrid blinked, "Oh yea, I'm a Dronemancer." Astrid's brow furrowed, her mouth went a little too wide, and she smiled with an evil grin.

"Stop it, Asa-chan." Vika said softly, "You are scaring my wife."

The table broke out in giggles.

Astrid giggled loudest, then looked at Samira "So... If I am a Mage, with drones... What abilities do I have?"

Samira shook her head, and shrugged, "It could be almost anything.

"But I would say, while your drones are attacking, what is keeping you safe?"

Astrid blinked, "Ohhhh! I didn't think of that."

Samira nodded, she gently brushed Astrid's cheek with the backs of her cybernetic fingers, "I constantly think of everyone's safety, It's my job."

"Pala-Faun." Vika winked at Samira.

Samira smiled at Vika, then looked at Agatha, "So what's our level cap?"

The table quieted down, everyone looked at Agatha.

Agatha raised an eyebrow, "Level cap?"

Samira's jaw dropped again.

Joon and Max shared a worried glance.

"What does that mean Samira?" Max asked, her face worried.

Samira looked into thin air and replied softly, "There is no limit to how powerful the Abilities will eventually get."

Joon peered at Agatha.

Astrid smirked, "Infinite Agatha again."

Agatha winked at Astrid.

Max nodded, "So while doing all of our jobs, diplomacy, intelligence gathering, making music holo-vids... we're becoming Fantasy Heroes.

Joon smiled at Max, tilting her head slightly, "Sounds like fun, where do we start?"

Max smiled, "I was hoping you had a plan."

Joon peered at Agatha, "Is there anything else to add from the Lessons of Dau?"

Agatha shook her head, "You have had the introduction, Samira is an expert on these kinds of systems."

Samira focused on Agatha, "Your Class is Magical Cat-girl. Is there another name for it?"

Agatha locked eyes with Samira. "Thaumatologist"

Samira blinked, "Whoa."

"What does that mean, exactly?" Astrid asked.

Samira replied softly, nodding in understanding, "Expert on Miracles."

Everyone took that moment to sip beverages and contemplate.

Max casually looked at Joon, "So where are we going?"

Joon didn't look at Max, she was still focused on nothing, contemplating.

"I think we'll go look at a Bract Depot."

Max nodded, "Ah. Do we have information on them?"

Joon shrugged her shoulders slightly, "Not much. The FO calls them a Corporate Republic, but they don't act like one, or not obviously so. They are very commerce focused, but they mostly carry cargo for other nations. Bract are very good at moving things from one place to another. They have the cheapest rates and immaculate reputations. Bract will carry for, or trade with almost anyone."

"They draw the line at Kirrix and do no business with slavers or traffickers. Bract Clippers are one of the most recognizable ships as they are a common sight in and out of Terran space."

Max sipped at her tea.

Vika raised her hand.

Joon smiled, and nodded to her.

"Logo and I worked as security on a Bract Clipper for more than three years." Vika said matter of factly.

Max and Joon shared a look.

Joon beamed, "Great, what can you tell us about them and their Depots?"

Vika smiled.

"Bract have five Major Depots in the Trankaran Republic, they have dozens of minor ones, some far outside Republic territory. I have been to all major ones, they are busy places." Vika smiled, "Bract follow rules of order. Bract Regulations. No matter the Trade Strictures or National Laws of clients they are always followed."

"They rarely consider not doing so, Bract Regulations are always more severe. Every Clipper has a Captain and a Regulations Magistrate."

Max blinked, "Like a Lawyer?"

Vika shook her head, "More like a Judge, a Magistrate does not work for the Captain, they are assigned to the Clipper by the Conglomerate. No Bract Captain owns their Clipper either, all are owned by the Conglomerate."

Joon nodded, "That's probably why the FO consider them a Corporate Republic."

Vika shrugged, "How Bract are with Regulations, other nations would have riots and violence. It is less like a business or nation, more like a religion. Breaking Regulations does not happen. Bract don't even consider it. Bract are all about the Game." Vika nodded.

"The Game?" Joon asked.

Vika nodded, "They don't talk about it to non-Bract, but the Game is very important to them, Bract worship it. I know because I worked with them, heard them talk and learned their language."

Everyone blinked

"You speak Bract?' Paula looked amazed.

Vika shook her head, "I don't speak it for shit. Bract language is like... Shikchikchikshhhickchkkshikk." Vika lifted her tiny fists above her head, moving them like Bract antennae. "I understand it," Vika said, dropping her arms. "I learned Bract while learning ship jobs, and being around them for years. I never told them I had learned, dreams showed me not to."

Samira listened intently then took a sip from her coffee mug.

Vika continued. "Bract speak many languages, they don't need to teach theirs to anyone. They don't usually speak it around non-Bract, and they only talk about the Game in it."

Vika's family listened closely to the tiny, muscular woman.

"Bract love their Game, Clipper Captains all Play it. One Game Season is five to six Terran years long. During a Season, Plays are made, Scores recorded. If a Captain is skilled, smart, and very lucky, the Captain could get a Galleon. If a Play does not follow Regulations it is considered a Bad Play and there is no increase of Score."

Joon interjected, "What constitutes a Play?"

Vika replied, "Fulfilling a commercial Contract."

Everyone nodded in understanding.

"When a Captain gets and fulfills a Contract they increase their Score in the Game."

Paula looked at her tiny wife with an inquiring look, Vika nodded to her.

"How do they determine these things?" Paula asked, fascinated.

"The Magistrate interprets Regulations and keeps a Captain's score. All Captains want to increase their score, Very Good Plays increases score a lot. Top Scoring Captains get Galleons."

Max pursed her lips, "Tell us about these Galleons."

Vika nodded, "I have seen three, they are rare. There are many thousands of Clippers but only a handful of Galleons. A Bract Clipper is 500 meters long, a Bract Galleon is 2 kilometers long "

"Wow," Astrid blinked, "That's enormous." Astrid asked, "So what's the point of this Game, is there a prize, are the Galleons the prize?"

Vika shook her head, "I don't know."

Max frowned, "Maybe we can go to their Home world and find out."

Vika focused on Max, "In three years of work, I learned and listened on a Bract Clipper. I had never heard anything about a Bract Home world." Vika disclosed.

Joon and Paula shared a look.

"How does one get in touch with a Bract Embassy?" Joon asked.

Vika smiled, "They have Marketing and Customer Service departments."

Joon and Paula's eyes went wide.

"There is one at every Depot." Vika concluded.

---

After breakfast Samira and Astrid approached Joon. "Hey, um, would you be okay with monitoring me on my first dive?" Astrid asked tentatively.

Samira had an arm around the taller Engineer, "I told her she wasn't allowed to dive without you."

Joon nodded, "Sure thing, I'm curious to see what Agatha did inside your body, Medical is a little cramped, but there should be enough room to do that."

Paula nodded, "I'll move my desk if you need more."

Joon led the way as they went up to Medical.

"Oh, I think we'll be alright." Joon smiled at Paula. Joon was still getting used to Paula's youthful appearance. "Did you get taller?" Joon asked with a smile.

Paula blinked, "Maybe a little, an inch or two?"

Samira sidled up next to Paula, "Looks like it. You, me and Agatha are all at five foot six."

Mismatched reddish-brown and yellowish-green met deep-amber gilded in gold. Samira and Paula were eye to eye, they both nodded in affirmation. Joon shared a smile and a wink with Astrid, as they entered Medical. Agatha was already there with a pillow.

Astrid beamed a smile and kissed Agatha.

Samira said to Astrid, "I'm gonna go use the Diving chair in the Hub."

Astrid sat on the scanner and laid back with the pillow. Paula sat at her desk and was able to see everything from there and Agatha stood by to assist if needed.

Joon did a quick scan of Astrid, then reviewed the results. The physiological changes the humans married to Agatha had undergone were beyond remarkable as far as Joon's medical perspective was concerned. Joon had closely monitored herself and her wives for days after they first started getting regular improvements from Agatha through Max.

Now she was used to seeing the extraordinary results, and even anticipated them.

Joon had given Paula a good once over when they had a moment after she arrived, and checked it against her TFN medical file. She suspected when she updated Paula's file it would have little resemblance to her old one.

Astrid was also now a completely new situation for Joon. The addition of that amount of cybernetic wetware was completely unheard of. But there they were, fanned out between the two hemispheres of Astrid's brain, the shards of Dau's finest crystalline molecular wetware circuitry, five of them.

Joon had Agatha look it up when it was still being discussed. The accepted rule for Terran wetware systems was that a gifted individual could effectively use two completely unique systems. The two systems would cooperate, essentially doubling effectiveness.

The most wetware ever used by a human was the equivalent to three of those shards. A TFN cyber warfare analyst was first to volunteer to have an additional unit to the two units of wetware they already had.

The procedure was a success... Initially.

However, during recovery the patient reported a lack of focus. The analyst's first units were not syncing up with the addition even though they were given priority. That individual suffered from severe headaches and debilitating episodes for weeks. Resulting in a severe lack of productivity, a net loss for the investment. Eventually the additional unit was removed.

This 'experiment' was repeated many times, with a huge number of volunteers. All variables were tried, without success, the same symptoms occurred. TFN concluded that two wetware systems could cooperate, three could not.

Astrid was in completely new territory, Joon couldn't fathom what it might mean. Agatha promised Joon she would take very good care of their wife. Other than the fact the five wetware shards were there at all, nothing even vaguely out of sorts with Astrid could be detected.

Joon could see all the new hardware, Astrid had requested three data jack com connections. Astrid requested those locations and Agatha happily obliged. One in each arm, and one in the same place Samira had her tail.

Joon blinked at the last placement, then shrugged. If Astrid wanted a data jack just above her butt, that was fine with Joon.

Agatha did amazing work, Astrid didn't feel any discomfort whatsoever.

Samira and Astrid shared a kiss. "I'll see you in a minute." Samira winked and walked down to the com hub.

In less than a minute Agatha nodded, "She's in. Go ahead, Asa-chan, we got you."

Astrid took a deep breath, twin data jacks snaked out of her arm and connected to the Medi scanner. "Here I go." Astrid's eyes closed and her body went limp. Joon watched her display closely as Astrid dove into cyber for the first time.

---

Agatha descended the beautifully carved ornate stairwell. She was wearing a plain dove-gray Dauzakai robe she had acquired from the holonet; it had arrived only a few hours earlier. It was very well made and comfortable, she wore her waist length glossy-black hair in a single braid down her back.

The doors opened for her at the bottom floor, she walked into the foyer of the Ambassador's suite. Agatha stopped at the edge of the living room, Zess was scrolling through a holo-screen.

Zess looked up, and smiled.

"Come down, Agatha, I still don't bite." She said in Dauzakai.

Agatha walked down into the couch pit, standing on the other side of the table. Zess smirked, she reached over to the spot next to her, and patted it. It was the spot where Joon had sat when they were together.

Agatha casually walked over and sat in the spot.

Zess poured two cups of tea, then slid one carefully in front of Agatha. "I am greatly honored with the friendship I have with you, and your family." Zess said in her musical language.

Agatha bowed her head, gently lifting the tea cup to her lips and took a small sip.

"It is we who are honored to have made such a friend as you." Agatha replied in Dauzakai.

Zess gazed upon Agatha, "I can only imagine what you can do, but I ask only that you lend us wisdom, Starchild."

Steel-gray gilded in silver shared a few moments with iridescent green. Agatha smiled, "Please, your Excellency, I am only a first secretary. I am happy to play that part, yet, I prefer just Agatha."

Zess nodded, "So it seems. If I may be so bold as to inquire of your desires for Dau?"

"I want the peoples of Dau to have long, happy, fulfilling lives." Agatha smiled.

Zess exhaled in relief, "In that I believe we are of the same heart."

They sipped tea together.

Zess seemed to be in two minds with Agatha. One side wanted to revere her, there was an 'ancient beyond time' quality to the Starchild. The other saw Agatha as pure, innocent, new life, to be protected and enlightened. The Ambassador felt she must try her best to understand both of her feelings, and still treat this lovely person with the respect she deserved.

"I was hoping I could shamelessly use you to make proper orations with the Dauchazi and Daurazu." Zess said with trepidation.

"Actually..." Agatha smiled at the Ambassador, "I have been giving that some thought."

Zess blinked, "Oh, yes?"

Agatha nodded, "If you are willing to entertain the idea, I was thinking of introducing the Dauchazi and the Daurazu to the Dau cyber-net.

Zess sat frozen, her mind whirling, her eyes grew large, pupils dilated.

"Agatha..." Zess said softly, "If you could do that... It would be miraculous."

The First Secretary to the future Terran Federation Consulate of Dau nodded her head and smiled.

"I was hoping you would say that."

---

Max stretched out, pushing against the bulkhead for a bit then switched legs to stretch her other Achilles tendon. She wore her gray boyshorts panties and sports bra.

Vika was sitting on the floor, legs spread wide in a split, she leaned over and wrapped a hand around her foot. She wore some of Agatha's long thick socks trimmed up as arm warmers and leg warmers.

Max smirked, Vika was more flexible than she was, but Max was likely stronger and had a reach advantage. After limbering up, the two women picked up their batons and gave each other a good stare down.

A Hand of Agatha sat up against the bulkhead, watching the two combatants. Max could see Vika was not the type to give up on intimidation, she was very good at it.

After maybe a minute Max smiled and twirled her batons.

Vika nodded and started her little dance.

Previously Max had assumed Vika's dance was to throw off her opponents, but now it seemed like she just enjoyed it. She had lulled Max into that rhythm the first time they sparred, and if Max ever fell for that again she would receive Vika's special reward.

Max began with a slow but steady advance, something she could manage with Vika's random movements. Then Max had that nagging feeling again at the edge of her mind.

Her finger rested on the trigger... Max gently squeezed.

Reality slowed, the now familiar sepia tint enveloped Max's perception. Max continued with her slow advance, which was now even slower. Every single tiny movement Vika made was now obvious to Max. The way she breathed, her flexing muscles, her eyes watching all of Max.

In all the time Max had studied martial arts she never felt so self aware. Her own breathing and stance, they way her muscles were taut and tense.

Max willed herself to adopt a more relaxed and fluid composure. Within moments Max could see concern in Vika's eyes.

Max eliminated the signals her body broadcast, telegraphing intentions. Then Max saw Vika's own subtle telegraphing, it was very fast.

Under normal speed Max wouldn't have seen it, but now...Max deftly slid to her left only a foot or so, but that was plenty of room, riposting Vika's initial strike, and then blocking her follow up.

Max did not dive in for the kill, she wanted to see Vika's reaction. Vika went low, Max would not have predicted that. Max had just enough time to leap back to the right, so that's what she did.

Then with a long arm, her baton tapped the top of Vika's head. Vika tumbled away, her look of surprise was delicious.

Then Max saw Vika's eyes narrow, the diminutive combatant dove into a flurry. It was not subtle, but it would have been exceptionally quick.

Max decided to meet speed with speed. She swooped in and tagged both of Vika's arms and a leg. Vika was unable to answer the strikes, though she tried.

The tiny redhead was now wide eyed. Vika nodded, acknowledging the radical improvements.

Max gave her a salute, then they both closed again. Vika came in wide, then cut short, setting up another feign.

She was laying traps, she was very good at that, trying to take advantage of an aggressive opponent. Max decided to walk right into the traps, and disarm them.

Once again Vika's eyes went wide as Max deftly blocked her insidious strikes: one after another after another. Pushing the normally offensive minded Vika into a defensive posture.

Max, from Vika's point of view, had become completely implacable. Countering her every move, out maneuvering her most successful tactics. With an uncharacteristic grimace Vika found herself up against the bulkhead. Max had seen every one of her intentions, read her telegraphed reactions.

The Warrior went in for the kill.

Then, without any warning Vika was gone.

She disappeared in a puff of blue vapor with a soft 'Wuff' In an instant Max felt a resounding double strike to the small of her back.

---

Astrid experienced a swirl of color, then she found herself in a gray place.

"Welcome!"

Astrid knew that voice. "Hiyee!" Astrid said excitedly.

"Ready to get started?" Samira inquired.

"Yes, please." was her response.

"I need you to bring up your main menu and go to the Avatar drop down and select 'New Avatar'."

Astrid did that, then she saw how intuitive the process and selections were.

"Oh, I got this now." Astrid commented.

Samira chuckled, "I am changing a few things with Sami-Faun myself, just hit apply when you're done."

"Yup yup!" Astrid's cheery voice replied.

"Feeling any discomfort?" Samira asked.

"Not at all, I feel amazing!" Astrid giggled.

Sami-Faun coalesced into the neutral grey space.

The dark-metal color now gone, replaced with shining bronze, Sami-Faun's eyes now blazed bright gold.

Her bronze torso and limbs were covered in a subdued basic black rose pattern.

"Oh... You look amazing!" Astrid's disembodied voice commented.

"It's not perfect, but pretty close." Samira giggled happily.

Sami-Faun turned in a circle doing a little dance with her four arms weaving gracefully.

"Nice!" said Astrid.

A few moments passed then Astriwyn coalesced next to Sami-Faun.

Astrid's Avatar was taller than Sami-Faun, with alabaster skin, gold hair and amethyst eyes.

She wore a thick purple bathrobe.

"There you are!" Samira giggled.

"You can make some changes in the doodads menu, also getting accessories designed by fashion programmers is definitely a thing."

"Or you can just make your own, and import them into your accessories folder." Samira commented.

Sami-Faun turned her facing towards Astrid.



Astrid and Samira both said 'yes' at the same time.

A shimmer followed by a ghostly ethereal black and white cat appeared.

Astriwyn knelt down looking at Agatha's avatar.

"So pretty, Agatha!" Astrid exclaimed.



Astriwyn stood again, "Hmmm, I want to make a nice comfy space in here."

"Okay, we can work on that..." Samira began.

Astrid did not seem to be listening.

Astriwyn waved her arms, and various constructs began to coalesce.

There were now two overstuffed dark-green plaid chairs with a small low table between them, a matching hassock followed afterward between the chairs.

Sami-Faun didn't move. Astriwyn turned and gracefully walked to the first chair and sat.

"This feels lovely, I like it!" Astrid giggled happily.

"How... How did you do that, Astrid?" Samira asked, her voice sounded concerned.

Astrid giggled, "I'm not exactly sure."

Sami-Faun turned her avatar where she was facing the other chair and moved towards it. It took a moment, then her Avatar managed to fit on it.

"Hmmm." Astrid commented.

"You're not interfacing smoothly," Astrid continued, "Let me adjust your clipping."

"Do what now?" Samira asked.

Then Sami-Faun became less an object on the chair, as she was a figure sitting in the chair.

"Much better." Astrid commented, Astriwyn nodded her head, her Amethyst eyes glowed.

"Holy shit!" Samira commented, Sami-Faun crossed her legs, in recline.

"How did you do all of this?" Samira asked.

Astriwyn tilted her head, "Do all of what?" Astrid asked.

"Astrid, nobody can write virtual objects on the fly or adjust someone else's parameters while in a node, this is... Bonkers." Samira commented.

Agatha's ghostly cat avatar hopped up on the hassock, settling down into a sitting pose.



"Said the Magical Cat-girl, Fantasy Ability giver. Is this Astrid's Ability?" Samira asked.



Astrid giggled and laughed then giggled again, "Sorry, I'm sorry, I know I shouldn't laugh."

"What's so funny?" Samira asked, a hint of worry in her voice.

"My mother forbade me from getting wetware, now I have a pile of it, and creating constructs with a thought."

"I absolutely adore being here with you Samira." Astrid announced.

"It makes me so happy."

Astriwyn leaned forward, resting her chin on her fist.

"Oh wow. Even your emotes are advanced." Samira commented.

"I want the best for my family," Astrid stated. "There is nothing more important to me, and I hope there never is."

Sami-Faun nodded, "I think you're amazing Astrid."

"Now, let's pop back out, and run a bunch of diagnostics."

"Okie dokie." Astrid replied.

---

Teffa scrolled through the applications, there were hundreds of them.

She tried to pay close attention to what they said, every application she liked she noted which and why then moved on to the next. Sitting at the reception counter the small Slarmian wondered if Staverka would ever be the same again.

There were a number of protests in Hybinus, several of the Noble Houses there had launched complaints. It was no wonder the reaction with the startling percentage of Hybinul Lords under indictment. But while the investigations were ongoing, no one wanted to bring too much attention to themselves.

Teffa was surprised there was so little backlash, the Hybinul Lords were supposed to be fervent and undaunting. Slarmian history was full of strange twists and so many unintended consequences; Zalix the Great lost his entire House while he was away on business. Now his House was literally the majority of Slarmian culture,

So much so that by popular decree, Slarmsk was renamed Staverka.

That was over two hundred years ago. So many things had occurred since. The first visit from Trankarans, being encouraged to increase the Slarmian technology base. Planet wide education, free knowledge, no longer just for the rich and privileged. House Staverka investments, allowing a proud and profitable middle class to emerge.

Industry in the heavens, with help from Trankaran investors. Expanding the Bazaar, redefining what free trade was. Colonies to other systems, again with Trankaran expertise and assistance. Forming of the Minor Empires, ratifying the Judicial Concordat. Giving all members of the Minor Empires self determination under agreed laws.

Yet even with all of these miraculous developments, the old ways lay beneath the murky surface. The belief that the 'High Lords' would someday rule again, back to some imagined glory. It undercut so many dealings with Hybinus, they clung to old prejudices and bigotry.

She wondered if other nations suffered thus, surely not, intelligent and honest intentions for the good of one's culture had to be the rule and not the exception.

Teffa sighed and scrolled to the next applicant.

Then the door to the Consulate opened and a colossal figure stepped inside. Teffa looked up and froze, having never seen one outside of the Bazaar.

An eight foot tall Largath walked carefully to the reception desk.

Teffa tried really hard not to be scared, she mostly succeeded.

Mostly.

"Haloo." The Largath said in a surprisingly soft but clear voice. "Tande Lakita, Ayam herin tew makit poyntmint ferin Leddy Joonippa, Vikah wiffa plaes."

Teffa's jaw dropped open.

She felt a sense of calm wash over her as a comforting arm wrapped around her waist. Agatha was next to her, "Be at ease, Teffa... Lakita is a friend."

Teffa listened as her boss and best friend spoke in an oddly deep guttural language. The Largath's four eyes blinked in surprise, then quietly chatted with Agatha in that language. After long minutes the conversation concluded and they bowed slightly to each other.

Agatha turned to her Slarmian Major-domo, "Teffa, I want to formally introduce Lakita, she is going to be our employee. She is also going to be studying Diplomacy and languages with us."

Teffa blinked then looked up at the hulking figure.

The small Slarmian put out a delicate hand, "Welcome to the Terran Consulate of Staverka."

A huge but gentle paw surrounded Teffa's hand. "Tanku, Teffa." The Largath Doe smiled broadly showing off massive incisors.

---

Vika was still panting as she spoke in Largatta to Agatha. Max layed flat on the deck of the cargo bay, while listening to the rough unfamiliar language.

Agatha had quickly explained the situation she was faced with, to her out of breath wives. She had recognized the feel of Lakita entering the Consulate and rushed to accommodate her. Vika began chatting in the deep guttural tongue, and Agatha responded.

Max was still puzzling out her surprise 'death' while this exchange occurred. '`Are you going to be able to translate for Agatha while this, Lakita, is learning?'

Vika nodded, "I think it will work out, very soon Agatha will learn Largatta, it's all good."

Agatha smiled, "She seems very earnest, I am setting her up on the family floor."

Vika nodded, "Nice... I hope she and Teffa get along."

"Lakita is very smart, also patient, she is a good choice for learning diplomacy." Vika smiled.

"Why is she there Vika?" Max asked, not seeing an obvious reason.

"Lakita will be the first Largath emissary to the Minor Empires." Vika said soberly. "Logo wants to unite the Herds of Larga and help his people better themselves."

Vika smiled at Max.

Max blinked, "A Largath, Nation?"

Vika nodded, "I put the idea into Logo's head years ago. I think he can pull it off."

A few moments passed as Max thought about that. Max sat up, "Are you going to tell me what you hit me with?"

Agatha raised an eyebrow at Vika.

"Shadowstep." Vika said simply, she immediately continued.

"I need to thank you, Max, I would have never done it without your incessant assault."

Max and Vika shared a look.

"Maneuver is incredibly strong." Vika said, "I was trapped, you had me completely outclassed."

Max smirked, 'Except for Shadowstep."

Vika giggled, "Captain-wife you had me beat, I am giving you the win!"

Max narrowed her eyes, "I'll take it... But, only because I don't think I'll ever get another chance."

Everyone giggled.

Max looked at Agatha, "What did Joon say about Lakita?"

"She loved the Idea, not many Ambassadors have a Largath on staff." Agatha replied.

They giggled again.

Max and Vika laid back down on the cargo bay deck.

After a few minutes, Max spoke. "Hey, Vika?'

Vika turned her head to Max, "Yes?"

"Can you Shadowstep out of combat?" Max bit her lip dreading the answer.

There was a soft 'Wuff' and Vika appeared standing at the entrance to the Cargo bay.

'Wuff' Vika appeared sitting next to Agatha

'Wuff' Vika appeared standing above Max smiling down at her.

Each time Vika used Shadowstep she left behind a tiny cobalt-blue cloud that quickly evaporated.

Max sighed softly, closing her eyes, pinching the bridge of her nose.

"Nope, not a chance."

---

Joon replayed the readings from Astrid's dive. Samira and Astrid were crowded in with Joon at her desk. Joon pointed out the different squiggles and numbers, explaining what she thought they might indicate.

Astrid was using all of her wetware systems in concert. The problem was, Joon could not explain the low interface readings. This was a volume of processing power that just didn't seem accurate.

It should be at about seventy percent, not seven.

"Unless..." Joon thought for a moment.

Astrid and Samira both looked at Joon, "Unless?" they both inquired in quiet stereo.

"Unless wetware isn't an 'additive' effect as the Terran experts had concluded." Joon pursed her lips in thought.

Astrid blinked, "What else would it be?"

Joon glanced at Astrid, "Multiplicative."

"Fuckmuffins!" Astrid whispered.

Samira raised an eyebrow, "Is that going to hurt Astrid?"

Agatha leaned over the desk, "I would never let that happen, Samira."

Astrid gave Agatha an endearing look as Samira nodded to Agatha. Paula had been listening the entire time and hadn't said a word. She thought about the horrendous risk Astrid was taking to be this 'Dronemancer'.

A chrono-alert blinked on Paula's com desk.

"It's 10:45 Zulu, M'lady." Paula informed Joon.

"Thank you, Paula, I'll start prepping." Joon smiled.

Agatha blinked.

"Ah... Mistress?" Agatha asked, "Would you be interested in hiring one of Vika's Largath family for the Staverka Consulate?"

Joon blinked, then beamed a smile, "Hell yea!"

"Having a Largath on the payroll would be awesome: is it Logo?"

"No, Mistress, it's Lakita... She wants to learn how to be a Diplomat and speak different languages."

Agatha continued, "Vika says Lakita is smart and patient."

Joon nodded, "She's hired!"

"M'lady?" Paula reminded.

Joon giggled, "I hear ya... I have to get myself all dolled up for an Admiral."

Astrid and Samira scooted back out from behind Joon's desk

Joon ran both her hands through her hair...

A flash of green that glowed in her eyes, a soft green glow surrounded her for a few moments then faded into her. Joon repeated that action twenty times then on the twenty first time the soft green glow did not appear after the flash of green that glowed in her eyes.

Agatha said it would be around two hundred minutes of the buff. Astrid and Samira who were still in Medical, seemed to be content just to stay and ogle their Lady-wife but Paula wanted to give her Ambassador plenty of space.

Agatha sat on the Medical scanner.

Joon's backdrop of her Holo-net call would be a collection of packed open cabinets full of medical supplies and packaging. It gave her office a sort of 'Combat Medic at the edge of a war zone' atmosphere.

Astrid and Samira gave her thumbs up as Agatha connected the Deirdre to the TFN holo-net.

A hologram coalesced on Joon's coms desk and the scene of an distinguished older woman behind a large ornate com desk appeared. She appeared to be reading from a holo-screen. Joon put her in her late sixties, she had gray hair streaked with silver, expressive brown eyes and a matronly build.

The Admiral was in dress uniform, so it was obvious who she was. "Provisional Ambassador Smith," the Admiral began without looking from her screen. "I am pleased you were able to get through, I am..." The Admiral turned to introduce herself, but when her eyes actually looked at Joon, she froze mid word, her eyes went wide.

Joon smiled elegantly, "Admiral Maybridge, it is my honor and absolute pleasure to finally meet you." She couldn't waste such a fortuitous opening, she used every charismatic bone in her body, and was utterly charming.

Joon didn't know if Maybridge was the kind of woman to appreciate the effort, or be hostile.

She had to take the chance. "Please... Call me Jooniper." she punctuated the request with her iconic soft Elven smile.

Maybridge blinked as she acquired a sudden look of wonder. "I am... Glad we can finally have this chat, Jooniper." The Admiral gazed at the exceptionally beautiful woman. Shaking off her awestruck daze, "I suppose it would be churlish of me not to insist you address me as Eleanor."

"I would enjoy that very much, thank you, Eleanor." Joon replied with exquisite courtesy.

"You have been a very busy lady, Jooniper." Maybridge began with a look of concern.

"I read the reports, this Event Massacre, the GSD requesting you, now the Dauzakai requesting you?"

Joon smiled, "If you hadn't sent me help, I would not have done nearly as well. Lieutenant Gonzalez is a godsend, thank you so much."

Joon worked hard to be attentive, engaging and a pleasure to talk with. She and the Admiral had a very long and surprisingly candid conversation covering a wide array of topics that seemed to have crossroads through one Jooniper Smith.

Maybridge was only somewhat cagey about Jooniper's undefined TFNI connection. Joon explained carefully that her Grand Uncle was essentially Hamilton's right hand. The only thing asked from Hamilton was for Joon to inform TFNI about anything that caught her eye.

Eleanor found it amusing that Joon had apparently charmed the Admiral in charge of Naval Intelligence. Joon confessed she suspected Hamilton was a fan before they met. They discussed Irasmus Boggs, Eleanor hadn't met him, yet.

Uncle Ira had helped Joon and her wife get a 'good deal' on a decommissioned corvette. Ira was very glad Joon had Max there to keep her safe.

Joon touched briefly on Max retiring from TFMC after the Battle for Terra and that they then decided to travel to the Minor Empires to vacation and reinvent Joon's music career.

Eleanor mentioned she had seen one of the pub holo-vids, but nothing of Joon's more recent work so Joon changed that by sending Eleanor a copy of the Staverka--"Zeralyst Fuge" music holo-vid, which the Admiral watched immediately.

Her speechless reaction set Joon up perfectly for the next one: the Dau--"Nothing Else Matters" music holo-vid.

The Admiral had never seen anything like it, she especially noticed the crowd's reaction, and that they were exclusively Dauzakai. "You've made quite a name for yourself out there..." Maybridge pursed her lips. Joon smiled graciously, "Thank you, Eleanor, I am deeply honored to represent the Terran Federation."

Eleanor stared at nothing.

"Who is next on your list?" Admiral Maybridge looked like she was formulating.

Joon nodded in understanding, "I intend to approach the Bract Conglomerate."

The Admiral smiled and nodded. "I have come to a decision about you, Jooniper." Admiral Maybridge looked serious. "I am reclassifying your Diplomatic Mission."

Joon blinked, "What does that mean, Eleanor?"

The Admiral smiled again. "I am promoting you to Minister of Embassy, and naming you Terran Federation Special Envoy to the Minor Empires."

Her jaw dropped and her eyes grew large.

Joon's shock made Eleanor Maybridge chuckle, "Congratulations, Jooniper, you deserve it with all you've accomplished so far. I am going to have... Discussions with Hamilton and your Uncle. There is no doubt in my mind we will come to a mutually beneficial arrangement. I want you right where you are... Doing good work for Terra."

Admiral Eleanor Maybridge nodded to Joon with respect. "Good luck, I hope we chat again very soon." Maybridge smiled.

The hologram dissipated as the call ended.

Joon sagged in her chair... the call was nearly two hours long.

Paula shook her head slightly, "That was amazing, if I hadn't seen it myself, I wouldn't have believed it..."

Joon blinked.

"Special Envoy. " Agatha beamed.

Joon looked around: Both Astrid and Samira had stayed the entire call and we're sharing the top of the med-scanner with Agatha.

"That was wild." Samira reacted, a silly grin on her face, "You... Seduced her!"

Everyone giggled.

"I wouldn't go quite that far." Joon smiled.

Paula and Joon shared a look. "That was the most skillful conversation I have ever seen," Paula commented. "You touched on everything your Uncle said, too, went over all the highlights of your accomplishments. Then sealed the relationship with the music holo-vids. It wasn't forced, you weren't manipulative, it was exceptionally friendly. You're a natural Diplomat." Paula beamed.

Astrid added, "With Image."

Paula nodded, "Oh, Image definitely got your foot in the door, but after that, it was all skill."

Joon smiled, settled back into her chair, and closed her eyes. "Must. Remember. To use my powers only for good."

Everyone giggled.

---

Agatha prepared a late soup and salad lunch: Bean and Bacon Soup, with Navy Beans, Chives and Crispy Bacon mated with a lemony Salmon and Asparagus Salad, with Snow Peas, Fried Egg and Roasted Pistachios.

The day crew gathered at the Mess table, appetites at the ready. After the lunch was consumed with happy noises and verbal accolades Agatha cleared the table and set out shortbread with hot beverages.

Max sipped her tea, her eyes closed. Joon eyed her first wife, "So how did the sparring go?"

Max inhaled, she opened an eye to peer at Joon. "I suspect you are asking to politely open a conversation, to then lead it to your meeting with Admiral Maybridge."

Joon gasped in a feigned affront. "Max! I would never! I am honestly curious if you managed to best our little Vika yet?"

The Captain-wife winced at the jab; there were soft giggles from the rest of the table as Joon's lovely grass-green eyes looked up adoringly at her towering first wife.

Max pouted a bit, "Sort of..."

Joon blinked, "Pardon my dear, Sort of what?"

"I was really close; but she got out of it." Max suffered through an explanation.

Joon nodded with an understanding patient smile.

The entire ship knew Joon was fucking with Max, it was funny, and Max was being a good sport.

Vika got up, walked around the table pulling Max into a hug.

There were now 'Awws' and Joon smiled at the diminutive redhead.

"Can you show me here?" Joon inquired with a raised eyebrow.

'Wuff' Vika disappeared, leaving behind the dark-blue puff of vapor. She had instantly teleported herself back into her seat on the other side of the table next to Paula.

Paula blinked rapidly, "Holy! Fucking! Shit!" The normally restrained and polite Lieutenant's eyes bulged out at Vika. "How is that even possible?" Paula asked.

"Is called Shadowstep, Moya Zayka, it is my first Rogue Ability."

Paula's lips thinned, "I guess I need to work on my Witch-ness or something."

"Don't feel too bad," Samira commented, "I haven't got anything going yet for Paladin."

Astrid pouted, "Me neither."

Max nodded to Samira, "We can spar after lunch."

"It's a date!" Samira nodded.

Astrid tilted her head and looked up at the ceiling, "I'm going to get lost in my drones."

Joon pouted, "You are all a bunch of meanies."

Everyone giggled.

Max wrapped a long arm around Joon.

"We are all extremely proud of you, my phenomenal Lady-wife." Max kissed her passionately and they shared a meaningful look afterwards. Joon smiled brilliantly, her Image was still up and she looked incredibly radiant.

"Paula, explained it to me... A Minister of Embassy is ranked just under full Ambassador." Joon related as Paula nodded. "They save full Ambassadors for Major Nations... Like the Trankaran, or the Ashanath. We determined that Eleanor didn't want twelve minor Diplomats running around. So she reclassified my mission, making me the designated T-Fed Diplomat for the entire ME region."

Joon finished, then nodded to Paula. Paula smiled at Joon, "It's a smart way of managing it, especially if you have an excellent Ambassador available. Terran Federation Special Envoy to the Minor Empires." Paula continued, "Staverka is a perfect place to designate offices for the Terran Envoy."

Joon bit her lip, and smiled, her eyes a little glassy. Max gazed into Joon's eyes, "I know you can handle it, and we will support you in any way you need.? The table nodded in agreement.

Everyone sipped their beverages and nibbled on shortbread.

"Twenty minutes 'till the upload is complete." Agatha updated them.

Max glanced at Joon, "I think we are more than ready."

"How far away is that Bract Depot?" Joon asked, looking at Agatha.

Agatha reported diligently, "Three hours twenty-six minutes. Lagrange Point Yh76-L4, a.k.a. Bract Depot zero three. Bract preferred to use Lagrange points for their depots. The lightly adorned gravity neutral zones were almost never claimed territory, rarely even contested. Bract build their depots in the middle of nowhere, that was just how they liked it."

Vika nodded, "I don't know why, but Terran Merchants call them 'Truck stops'."

Max blinked, Samira giggled, and Astrid peered quizzically at Vika.

"I don't get it." Joon said softly.

Samira explained, "Historically a Truck stop was a place where long haul transport vehicles could stop and refuel, they included accommodations, dining and security. Apparently Bract depots are a variation of the concept."

Astrid smiled at Samira, "How come you know about stuff like that?"

"Cop school." Samira winked at her.

---

Max sat on the expansive command couch. She was wearing just her panties and sports bra again: Max had an appointment with a Paladin in the cargo hold. But, before she could start with that, however, she wanted to make sure the upload was done.

Agatha was at the Helm and Navigation.

Max thought about the subtle division of labor on Deirdre. Diplomacy and Intelligence, two sides of the same coin. Joon and Paula could handle the Diplomatic side, with Agatha's assistance, while every other member of Joon's staff was a TFNI Agent.

Agatha was still doing most of the heavy lifting, but having her Hands as 'First Secretary' at Consulates was a logical solution to a complicated problem. It always came down to Intelligence, and Agatha had the information advantage.

She was able to keep her family constantly up to date in a timely fashion. The way she utilized Vika's knowledge light years away was only one example. Max hated to admit it though, it rubbed her the wrong way.

She didn't want to take advantage of Agatha.

At that moment Agatha got up from Navigation, and walked back to the command couch.

She sat next to Max, "It really doesn't bother me, you know."

Max blinked.

"Are you reading my mind?"

Agatha shrugged a little, "Kind of hard not to... you were projecting."

Max bit her lip.

"Max..." Agatha smiled softly. "I love how you always consider my feelings when you make plans. And, I will always appreciate that, but this time, let me do the job you need me to do."

Max thought about her words, then took a deep breath. "Okay: but if you ever need a break..."

Agatha nodded, "You will be the first to know." She tilted her head to the side. "Upload complete, TFNI data control confirmation received." Agatha smiled.

Dame Captain Max Anders nodded and smiled.

"Do you think you can find this Depot okay?"

Agatha nodded, "Yes, Captain... Go play with Samira."

Max smirked and smooched Agatha, she made a purr-meow.

The Captain hopped up and jogged off the bridge.

Agatha giggled.

---

Joon was reading through the data she had on Bract physiology. She sat at her coms desk her Image accentuated face slightly contorted in concentration. Paula was also at her desk, still sifting through the seemingly endless waves of data work that followed the Assault of the Terran Consulate of Staverka.

She would occasionally send one over for Joon to read and initial with her print. Data work was the fuel by which bureaucratic machinery inexorably moved at glacial speed. Paula had developed her skills through decades of experience and she became adroit at tweaking the little advantages she could find.

But, there was no substitute for getting the work done; and she excelled at it. Paula had become Joon's administrative assistant, choreographing the steps her Ambassador would be performing.

It was a dream job for Paula, she never wanted to be an Ambassador, she disdained that kind of attention. The coordination and research was what she found addictive and rewarding. "M'lady, may I ask you a question?" Paula glanced at Joon.

Joon blinked, "Of course you can, no need to stand on ceremony, I'm not like that."

Paula smiled, "I want to; a little anyway, when we are working it makes me feel more secure."

Joon looked at her, "If you prefer it, then we'll do it that way. She smiled, "What's up beautiful?"

Paula's cheeks colored slightly, "What are we going to do if we cannot make inroads with the Bract?"

Joon nodded in understanding, "Yea, I'm not sure the Bract would want a music holo-vid, but we should try anyways. In answer to your thoughts though, If we can't get a foot in the door: we try a window."

Joon grinned like a mischievous schoolgirl.

Paula's expression was worrisome, "For the sake of argument, I hope they like music."

Joon smiled, "I have been examining some data that suggests Bract may not have the auditory capability to fully appreciate my music.

"Ah..." Paula pursed her lips, "So a window may produce more or better results."

Joon nodded, "Bract appear to be a tough nut we may need espionage to crack."

"Where, oh where, am I going to find a ship load of spies to do THAT?" Joon concluded with a grin.

Paula giggled, "I don't know M'lady, but I imagine someone will present themselves."

Joon thought about it.

"I'm not going to rush into anything immediately, but thinking about it isn't going to harm our chances of success." Joon commented.

Paula nodded, "Our spouses don't seem too bothered by the idea."

"Vika seems like she is itching for infiltration and reconnaissance."

Joon nodded, "Our little badass might be the edge we need with the Bract."

Paula smiled softly, "She sure is something. I remember the first time I saw her."

Joon smiled and listened closely.

"She looked like a miniature marine in a tank top and mini skirt." Paula mused her eyes unfocused.

"I had absolutely no idea who she was, but she had me completely entranced."

Paula and Joon shared a knowing look.

"Oh yes." Joon replied, with a smile, "This family is full of captivating lovelies."

---

This time when Max walked into the cargo bay, she could feel the nagging itch already. Before there was even a hint of combat her mental finger could feel the trigger.

Samira pulled off her tabard as Max walked over to her. Agatha was in her spot sitting against the bulkhead. Vika sat next to her, her grin was almost salacious.

"I want to try something." Max began.

"I think I can initiate Maneuver out of combat, and I want to see what it feels like."

Samira nodded, "Oh, absolutely... Agatha did say some of our Abilities would have to be learned."

Agatha smiled as always, Vika laid her head against Agatha's shoulder. Max nodded to Samira, who was completely naked.

"Tell me what you want me to do... Boss." Samira smiled.

By the time Max finished her nod to Samira, she pulled the trigger. Her world slowed as Samira spoke to her, the words elongated and deepened. Max understood all of it, the verbal communication was only slightly distorted.

Dame Captain Max Anders walked around the hold; just casual walking became a choreographed expression of grace. Max let her movements become fluid, displaying elegance she would not have otherwise possessed.

"Holy shit." Samira stood transfixed, "That's amazing, it's like a kind of dance."

Max turned and looked at her. Observing her cyborg wife, Max noticed immediately the lack of muscle movement hindered reading her.

Samira picked up the two 75cm batons and tossed them at Max. They floated slowly at her, Max plucked them out of the air without effort. Samira saw the catch, and beamed broadly.

"Oh, this is going to be fucking wild." Samira said out loud as she picked up her own batons.

Max watched Samira's little black hooves step with enthusiasm as she walked towards the middle of the hold. Samira gathered herself up and faced her opponent, she bowed gracefully.

Max bowed to her in return.

The cyborg went into her 'Castle' stance, her golden eyes focused on Max. Max moved with alacrity, her quick strikes came in metronome precision.

Samira blocked every one of them.

Max altered the attacks, staggering the cadence dramatically. The adaptive reactions Samira displayed were remarkable, she still blocked all of them.

Samira's face showed concentration.

Max altered her attacks further, dropping in feints and double strikes. Samira's wetware was almost perfect in compensating for the changes. Her smaller batons were now as active as her larger main weapon.

Max was able to observe all of it, she saw small openings in Samira's defenses.

The Warrior went into precise flurries. Quick short strikes with only speed not power. In that storm of strikes Max laid in a wicked, powerful double strike. Hitting Samiria's main weapon so hard the cyborg could only manage to hold onto it with one hand.

Max went in for the kill shot.

Samira raised her weaponless arm up, blocking with the back of her forearm out, her hand in a fist.

Max's strike connected with Samira's forearm... or rather, it would have.

Vika gasped.

Within a fraction of an inch to actually making contact, was a golden transparent force. It only took a millisecond to appear as Samira blocked Max's magnificent kill shot. In that tiny moment Samira's golden eyes blazed like two amber stars. Every single charcoal-black tattoo and laser-etched design over her entire body was now a brilliant glowing gold.

Her nude form, both artificial and organic, was covered in transparent golden plate armor.

They articulated around her body in greaves, cuirass, cuisses, sabatons, gauntlets, pauldrons, vambraces and sallet. Upon her weaponless arm was a huge tower shield of ancient design. The transparent armor and shield were covered in a translucent design. Beautiful golden flowers interspaced with spiderwebs.

Max stepped back to process what had happened and what she was now seeing.

Samira just stood there bathed in golden fire. Her arm held the archaic supernatural tower shield without effort. She stared at it, her golden eyes still illuminated. The armor also appeared to have no appreciable weight.

Max let her Maneuver fade away, she sat down on the deck as she studied the brilliant gold tattoos and designs that covered her wife. They seemed to emit the light for the armor and shield, or indicate the power behind it.

Samira refocused her eyes on Max. "Thank you, Boss... That was fucking perfect."

Max smirked, "So, what's it called?"

Samira dropped one of her small batons. She lifted that arm up in the same defensive position as her first shield arm. Another tower shield formed, an exact duplicate of the first, the moment her cybernetic hand made a fist.

Samira and Max shared a look, they both nodded.

"Aegis." Samira replied.

---

Samira found that Aegis, now that she had Discovered it, was available to her at any time. She had Max beat on her for a good ten minutes, to see if there were any weak spots.

They couldn't find any.

Vika said the weakness was it was impossible to hide with it.

Samira responded that as a tank, it was more than perfect. She couldn't be ignored, only a blind opponent wouldn't see her. Max agreed, they would have to test it further when they were someplace safe for firearms.

Samira understood... a ricochet might have unforeseen consequences. Though, she was very looking forward to it.

Everyone in the cargo hold walked up the ramp well together.

Max and Samira hit the showers. In the shower Max had Samira bring up Aegis again. It was just as spectacular wet, and it seemed to shed water just as well as batons.

Samira said it was effortless, she'd never worry about being without armor again. When she let the Aegis fade, Samira's golden tattoos and designs slowly reverted back to black.

She was ready to defend in a heartbeat, truly the Paladin and Security Chief of the family.

After showering, Max and Samira dried off and walked into the CQ where Max slipped into her BDU's and Samira her tabard.

"We are 'definitely' getting you more tabards." Max said softly.

Samira beamed a smile, "Yes, please."

Max and Samira shared a heartfelt hug.

---

Astrid had completely disassembled one of her new security drones, studied it, cataloged it and reassembled it.

She was now doing the same thing with one of her combat drones.

Samira walked in and asked, "How are you doing?"

Astrid nodded, "Not too bad, I saw a few things I want to change with the security drones."

Samira smiled, "Like what?"

Astrid went into a running diatribe on autonomous mode monitoring trees: she stopped suddenly after ten minutes of steady talking. "Oh god, I'm so sorry, I was totally absorbed. How was sparring with Max?" Astrid's cheeks were flush with embarrassment.

"That's okay, I am very glad you get stuck on tech things." Samira wrapped her four arms around Astrid. "Because I am about half tech, and I like when you get stuck on me." Samira winked.

Astrid giggled, "Okay, thank you, you are way too nice to me sometimes."

Samira shrugged, "I love my Engineer, with all of my heart."

Astrid smiled softly, "We are the Chiefs, we work well together."

They shared a soft romantic kiss. When they finished, Astrid asked, "Did you Discover anything?"

"Yep." Samira replied.

"Are you gonna show me?" Astrid bit her lip.

"Yep," Samira nodded, "In the corridor."

Astrid blinked, "Why the corridor?"

Samira smiled softly, "So you don't get so excited you hurt yourself in the Engineering bay."

Astrid's eyes got big, "It's that good?"

Samira nodded, "It's pretty good."

Astrid let Samira go, and followed her out into the corridor where Samira backed up a few steps and called up her Aegis. The corridor shimmered in amber light, Samira stood in her glowing golden armor. Her tattoos ablaze in golden brilliance, her shining eyes looked at Astrid.

Samira clenched two fists, one on either side of her and a pair of matching transparent amber glowing tower shields appeared.

Astrid sank to her knees, tears rolling down her face. "Oh fuck! Holy shit Sam! How can it be so good?" Astrid had both of her hands over her mouth.

Samira knelt next to Astrid.

The Engineer reached out with her hand, touching the warm transparent plate armor. Astrid shook her head, "These aren't supposed to exist... They're only a wild theory."

Samira nodded, "So you know what this is?"

"H-hard-light constructs." Astrid stammered, "W-we don't... know how they..." Astrid faltered, she looked into Samira's glowing eyes, mesmerized.

"Agatha, turned us into Miracles." Astrid sniffed.

Samira let her Aegis fade, Astrid traced the softly dimming tattoos on Samira's neck with her fingers. "Yea, she did." Samira smiled, "And I'm going to be the best damn Miracle I can be."

Astrid sniffed again, she smiled softly at Samira, "Me too, Sam, me too."

Samira and Astrid embraced. Then Samira stood as she pulled Astrid to her feet. "My beloved Sorceress, may I, your stalwart servant, be of any assistance to thee in thy magical research?" Samira asked while holding Astrid's hand bowing slightly over it.

"Research?" Astrid blinked.

Samira smiled, biting her lip in a cute way, "Y'know, with the drones?"

Astrid's eyes widened, "Oh, Yes! My dutiful and wondrous Paladin, I would simply adore your company as I delve into Unearthed Arcana."

Samira and Astrid shared a magical look.

The Chief Engineer and the Security Chief walked back into the Engineering bay, hand in hand.

---