Max Intel: Melinoe
Chapter 25 - Crimination

Joon walked slowly back down the long hallway. She did not envy Bob his position, this situation was untenable. Her mind began to pull the various aspects of this new mission into focus: she was going to need Max to help her break it down into manageable chunks.

Joon knew this kind of thing was exactly what her family would jump at; it was going to be challenging, but Joon had confidence.

Tom was waiting for her at the end of her trek and the Assistant Manager bowed to her. "Your Excellency, I was made aware of your status, please accept my best wishes for success."

Joon smirked, "I appreciate that Tom, we have some work to do, do you have some place in mind, so we can get started?"

"You and your staff may use any area in our offices you desire, your Excellency."

Joon stopped and tilted her head. "Listen, Tom? Just call me Joon, I think we have established familiarity," Joon laid her hand on his chitinous arm.

Tom paused, his antennae hummed softly, "As you wish, Joon.

Joon nodded, "That waiting area should be okay for now, I want to begin as soon as possible."

The Bract assistant manager ambled next to Joon back to the waiting area. "Do you require the raw data, or would you prefer a detailed report?" Tom enquired.

Joon thought for a moment, "Let's gather what is available, I will have my people parse all of the data."

Joon had informed Agatha the moment Bob gave her authority and her family was ready to begin with two notable exceptions: Max and Vika had gone to find a quiet place for a quick vanilla smoothie.

Timothy arrived with a large datapad and placed it on the table. He tapped up the files of the incident and left while Tom stood by: "If you require anything, Joon, please let me know." Tom said after a few minutes of silence.

Joon looked up, her appreciation of the Assistant Manager plain, "Oh, yes, thank you, Tom."

The Bract nodded then ambled away.

Joon passed files around and Paula and Samira parsed the exchange and registration holo-logs. Astrid looked at the technical data while Joon and Agatha went over the ransom demand from the pirates. Joon sipped her tea as she read the ransom note; grimacing at the phrasing and incoherent rambling.

Max and Vika returned to the waiting room, no one looked up from their assignments; but Vika looked over Astrid's shoulder who immediately broadened the holo for her. Max joined Joon and Agatha's perusal.

The Captain winced, "Horrible syntax, whoa, six billion?"

Joon nodded, "Yea, a rubbish bin full of rats."

Agatha blinked, "I hadn't heard that one before."

Max nodded, "A Howardism, it means insane."

"I reached that conclusion." Agatha shared a smile with Max.

Vika licked her lips, Astrid gave her a casual glance. "Good smoothie?" Astrid murmured to Vika.

Vika winked at Astrid while rubbing her tummy. Astrid smiled then settled back into the data where her wetware collected it and began to correlate it. The Engineer eased the holo over to Vika who sat down and was still going through it.

Astrid pulled three small ingots from her pocket and she quietly fidgeted with the ingots while her wetware processed the data. Samira raised her eyebrow and pointed at a highlighted entry on the holo-logs. Paula nodded and pulled it up.

It was the holo of a bonded courier making a delivery at the Depot's front desk. The courier was Slarmian, they were delivering the ransom note, but the courier didn't know that. Paula and Samira watched the exchange: the courier did not seem in the least bit suspicious.

"I want to follow up on that lead, maybe the courier can tell us where that delivery was from." Samira said to Paula.

She nodded, "As good a place to start as any."

"What do we know so far?" Joon asked a few minutes later as everyone worked on their tasks.

Samira raised one of her hands. "The Bract have held this courier at port, at risk of losing their clearance, I want to interview them.

Joon nodded then turned to Astrid and Vika.

"Old ship... Big, slow and reliable." Vika offered.

Astrid added, "Old doesn't do it justice, it's well over a thousand. It's ancient, from what I can determine this isn't a Clipper scaled up."

Astrid concluded, "Clippers are newer Galleons scaled down. Why they are still using Galleons for anything is beyond me, they should be museums." Astrid's hand kept playing with the ingots on the table while she spoke.

Vika watched Astrid's hand fidget as gold, silver and copper reflected the light. The Engineer's manual dexterity was impressive, but something else caught Vika's eye. "Asa-chan." Vika said, "Are those what you bought?"

Astrid nodded, she pushed them closer to Vika in a short stack. The diminutive redhead picked up the copper ingot from the top and she turned it in her fingers, revealing the mark it bore.

Vika's eyes narrowed immediately, "Do you know what these are?"

Astrid's eyebrows rose at Vika's expression. The rest of the family was now paying attention to the quiet conversation. Vika looked around the table, her lips thin. She placed the ingot face up on the table with an expression of disgust.

"This is pirate money... From Freeport." Vika said quietly.

---

Agatha tapped open Astrid's portfolio, but the family knew she didn't need to, it was just for show if any Bract happened by. Their most exotic wife recalled all the pertinent information on Freeport and the stories and rumors surrounding it. Her many thousands of hours collecting seemingly useless information and local history were now on display in a useful context.

She prefaced her report with some basic information: most modern nations use credits, they don't actually have a physical representation, but are a certified non-replicable data placeholder for an actual value. In less developed nations currency or money is a physical representation of value, the actual money isn't worth what it represents, you need a stable government and economy to back that currency.

Freeport currency is worth exactly what the metals they are made of is worth, this is hardly anything new, but nations accepting that currency are few because the source has such a deplorable reputation. Most often if the currency is accepted by anyone it is done so quietly and recast, so reputations aren't tainted by proximity. It is plausible that Nef did not reshape the Freeport currency he sold to Astrid, in an effort to expedite the sale, believing the mark would never be recognized.

Freeport, like many disreputable corners of known space, is a haven for criminals. It is located outside Trankaran and ME borders, though the exact location changes frequently. Freeport began its life as a colossal mobile strip-mining platform. The project was called Golamar and its many investors got unprecedented returns.

Started two centuries ago by an Ornalith entrepreneur and several Trankaran backers, Golamar would travel from system to system stripping resources from targeted systems which were certified by accredited Trankaran prospectors as uninhabitable. Everything within easy reach was mined.

Golamar could chew asteroids and harvest gas giants and used advanced sensors capable of locating rare elements quickly. Its true purpose was to acquire easily obtainable resources and then immediately move on to the next available resource.

The massive platform was just barely hyper-warp capable. Golamar's only obvious limitations were continual maintenance and dedicated crews. A constant flow of container transports made the trek to and from Golamar and for over eight decades Golamar made incredible profits for its shareholders.

Many times there were discussions of making additional expensive strip-mining platforms like Golamar but the investors decided not to flood the markets with the product they were making such high profits on. So selfishness kept Golamar a singular extraordinary project. Closer systems had already been thinned and valuable easily-harvested resources had been stripped away so the platform eventually ranged very far from the ME and it became difficult and expensive to get the longer ranged cargo ships to Golamar and back.

At this point investors began to quietly back away from the project until one day investment was down to a trickle. Enter Fud Peu, an Ornalith business magnate, with no scruples and bottomless greed. He bought Golamar for a fraction of what it was worth and then used it in a plethora of schemes. Over Fud's lifetime he inflated or deflated Golamar's value for what suited his needs at the moment.

With promises of massive returns he misled naive investors without consequence. Fud found officials who were amenable to bribes and then blackmailed them as he rode Golamar's legendary reputation of profitability with abandon.

Fud wasn't as immortal as he thought he was, though, and his time eventually passed. His offspring inherited Fud's wealth, lack of morals and greed but not Fud's uncanny ability to produce capital so over the following decades Fud's business empire became a hollow shell.

The Peu family with very few exceptions are just as corrupt as Fud was and Peu became a name synonymous with criminal business practices. The one most attributed for this fall, from an arguably legal corporation to outright criminal enterprise, is Rum.

Rum Peu is the youngest and most obedient offspring of Fud. Thoroughly trained by Fud, he has neither cold intellect nor financial skills. Therefore: Rum could only imitate Fud, not formulate new ploys. Even his manner of speech and phrasing, an imperfect copy of Fud. So, after Fud's passing, Rum replicated many of Fud's schemes but they often failed. Genuine professionals perceived Rum as blatantly unintelligent and completely untrustworthy.

Rum is a notorious petulant bully. The success he enjoyed was largely from duplicity and menacing behaviors. He commonly preyed on the gullible, compliant, or submissive. Rum lived through lies and litigation, burning every professional relationship Fud had ever made. Soon no financial institution would work with him and he slipped deeper into criminal behavior.

Many criminal organizations find Rum Peu easy to manipulate because Rum fancies himself an expert operator in that world as he launders ill gotten gains through so-called legitimate businesses. Rum and any commerce he was connected to was banned from the Slarmian Bazaar and Bract Depots. This makes your purchase at Depot 3 both interesting and criminal.

After many decades of fraud, threats and failure, Rum was finally beginning to face consequences until he had only one place left: Rum fled to Golamar. Rum turned it into a haven for the kind of people who would give him what he craved, praise and adoration. His criminal associates happily made use of the massive platform, offering Rum lip service.

Golamar became a crossroads for illegality, trafficking, smuggling and, of course, piracy. Rum didn't care as long as they paid him tribute and gave him attention. He surrounded himself with sycophants and minions of his corruption, attracting the most dangerous and deadly the ME had to offer. Golamar became Freeport, and Rum Peu a useful idiot pirate king.

Agatha gave credit to most of this information from a Doctor Mel Peu, a historian and one of Fud's only reputable descendants. Dr. Peu's famous treatise on the Peu family, 'PEU: The Sinister and the Stupid; not mutually exclusive'.

Agatha's family had listened closely to her report.

Max scowled, "The natural enemy of marines are pirates. If Freeport is in open space, there will be no laws preventing their eradication."

Max studied Samira's reaction to her proposal. Samira set her jaw and nodded once in affirmation of her Captain's policy. Max looked at all of her wive's faces and she was relieved she saw no contention.

Astrid turned to Vika,"Have you been to Freeport?"

Vika blinked, "I have not... Nor would I ever go!"

Astrid's eyes went wide at Vika's answer.

Vika shook her head and her expression showed fear and anger, "Freeport is not a place to visit on holiday. If they think someone is cute, that someone is never seen again."

Astrid pouted, "I'm sorry, I am just trying to imagine it."

"Asa-chan," Vika rubbed Astrid's back, "I would not wish Freeport on anyone." Vika's expression was grim. "I believe Nef has some explaining to do."

Every member of her family nodded in agreement.

---

The dockfront traffic slipped into a lull with only a lone Bract maintenance worker around who was reconditioning a stretch of the concourse.

Samira sat on a bench at one of the nice rest areas next to a clear crystoplast wall. The view was of the docks and the relaxing vista of the surrounding L4 dust cloud. Samira studied the repurposed Slarmian Bazaar Parking Authority Frigate in dock cradle S38. The ship was named Boozi Tryst and was in surprisingly good repair despite its age. It was registered with Machii Courier Services of Staverka under an owner-run subcontract.

Couriers specialized in light freight that were time sensitive and could be delivered to almost anywhere. In the Minor Empires couriers had to be Bonded which was a privilege that could be revoked by the company who held the Bond for any infraction.

The pilot-owner was a Slarmian named Zuki with no criminal record and was a citizen of Staverka. Samira looked at the hold the Bract had placed on the courier, Suspicion of Trafficking. Trafficking was a serious charge, but Samira knew it was just a pretense. The threat of being banned from all Bract Depot's was a devastating one. That on your record alone would effectively end your career in ME commerce.

Agatha was sitting on a bench at the other end of the rest area, facing the concourse. She kept watch so Samira didn't have to, allowing her wife to do her job without concern. Samira used her wetware to send a little invitation to Zuki to join her for a quiet conversation. The message included Samira's new status on Depot03 as the investigator assigned to the hold: Samira believed in being polite, but in reality, Zuki didn't have much of a choice.

"I-inspector?" A soft voice asked in Slarmian.

Samira turned her head then stood up. The Slarmian was long and thin, with delicate fins adorning a sharp angular head.

Samira smiled and put out one of her hands, "Jist Sam plaes, yoo Zuki?"

The Slarmian stared at Samira's four cybernetic arms with bright-yellow eyes wide, "Y-yes, t-thank you S-sam," Zuki shook hands with the Terran.

Zuki was wearing a taupe four armed flight jacket with the Machii logo on the shoulder. Samira invited the obviously rattled Slarmian to sit with her. "Mai Slarmit esn't grate." Samira confessed.

"Zuki, speak Terran." Zuki smiled nervously while coiling down.

Samira smiled, "Oh good, I have trouble with conjugations."

Zuki blinked.

"First and foremost, you are in no danger of being banned." Samira said and watched the Slarmian visibly relax.

"Zuki, so scared, no idea what did wrong." Zuki confessed.

Samira nodded, "I need to know everything you can tell me about Missive 764-k87."

Zuki listened and nodded, "Zuki, had three deliveries for this Depot, only one missive. It part of pickup on Staverka, from the Machii office."

Samira nodded, "Nothing unusual about it?"

Zuki shrugged, "Missives very rare, important non-transferable documents. Customer pay extra for them, need DNA print on delivery."

Samira nodded, "What about the customer?"

Zuki blinked then nodded.

The Slarmian pulled out a commercial grade datapad and tapped up a list. "Tracking data say this Missive was purchased in Kiz Enclave on Nethril..." Zuki looked up. "Main office Staverka would have name on file."

Samira's gold eyes looked into Zuki's bright-yellow eyes. "Thank you, you have been extremely helpful, the hold is lifted, you are free to go."

Zuki blinked. "Really?"

"Stop by the Terran Embassy and you will receive compensation for this inconvenience." Samira smiled, "Tell them Sam sent you and you will be taken care of. Just keep this little conversation to yourself."

Zuki thought about what Sam just said, then nodded slowly in understanding. "What conversation?"

---

After Samira left with a Hand of Agatha to run down a lead, the family discussed what to do about Nef. Astrid clenched her jaw, her lips a thin line. "Can we get access to Nef's profile from Depot records?" Max asked.

Paula tapped in the request.

"What about his trade history?" Joon inquired. Paula nodded, her tapping increased.

Vika studied Astrid, she noted the clenched jaw. "You didn't know." She said quietly to her tall platinum-blonde wife.

Astrid frowned, "I should have at least been curious, I saw the mark, told myself I didn't care."

Vika nodded, "I wish you didn't have to know of these things, Astrid."

"But now I do..." Astrid growled.

Vika nodded, "Perhaps we can make a difference."

Astrid turned and looked at Vika. "You're right." Astrid looked at Max and Joon standing behind a seated Paula. The Captain was looking at Astrid and had heard some of the exchange, she nodded.

That stern look in Max's eyes was something Astrid never wanted directed at her.

Joon studied the data on Paula's holo. "Nef doesn't leave the Depot, but receives regular shipments..." Joon read. "He's a distributor for," Paula tapped some more, "Kylex Group."

Agatha perked up, "Kylex was the sole remaining company still invested in Golamar when Fud Peu bought it."

"Other than Golamar, what else is Kylex involved with?" Astrid asked.

"Kylex Group is an old resource company on Nethril, most of their portfolio is local." Agatha recalled.

Astrid nodded, "You said most, what stands out?"

"Something referred to as Project G," Agatha answered.

Astrid turned around, her wetware delved into the holo-net at Astrid's urging. The tall blonde with the pageboy hairstyle stared into thin air for several moments and Agatha raised her eyebrows at what she felt from the Engineer.



Max and Joon both glanced at Agatha, then looked over at Astrid. Paula looked up because it got so quiet then Vika watched Astrid's face from the side: It went from jaw clenching anger, to a maniacal grin.

Vika raised an eyebrow, "What did you do, Asa-chan?"

Astrid turned around and faced the rest of her family.

She glanced at Vika, "In a minute." Astrid cleared her throat. "I want to talk with Nef, and I need someone to play the part of my lawyer."

Everyone blinked.

"Doesn't Samira have a law degree?" Max asked.

Astrid nodded, "She does, but I don't think she is quite right for the role I have in mind. I need a prosecutor, not a defense attorney."

Vika smirked, changing her focus to Paula, "Moya Zayka can do that."

Astrid tilted her head at Paula.

"I can try." Paula shrugged.

"I need you to be a bad girl, a hard ass, a cold-blooded corporate attorney" Astrid smirked.

Joon raised an eyebrow, "What is this for Astrid?"

Astrid inhaled deeply.

"I just made an investment in the future of the ME, and I'm going to wield it like a weapon."

Max and Joon shared a look. Vika and Paula shared the same look and Agatha's eyes were wide.

Astrid continued, "I just purchased Kylex Group...And Golamar."

---

Teffa said the punchline and Agatha groaned but Lakita giggled. A Largath giggling is an extremely uncommon event on Staverka and it is an especially rare occurrence to behold outside of the Bazaar. In the four star restaurant found in the quiet affluent neighborhood where Joon's favorite dress shop was located, it had never happened before. But no one said a disparaging word, in fact most of those wealthy patrons didn't mind the adorable giggles, as they were not loud or prolonged; their thinking was an amused Largath was much better to be around than a one upset at being corrected.

Those giggles were also emanating from the table occupied by the First Secretary of the Terran Embassy of Staverka and her associates. Everyone knew about the assault on the old police precinct turned Consulate. They were well aware that Jooniper Smith was now the Terran Ambassador to Staverka so anyone who worked for The Exquisite Lady was just fine to giggle and have as much fun as they wanted to.

Especially if she happened to be a Largath.

The three ladies at the table were all wearing new clothes, bright, colorful and custom made just for them. Agatha wore a sea-green ankle length skirt and a long sleeved shoulderless sky-blue blouse while Teffa had on a four-armed pink and purple floral print dress that was styled for her thin lines and slight stature, making her look cute and adorable. Lakita was wearing a knee-length black pleated skirt with silver vertical pinstripes, and a fantastic frilly tangerine blouse.

They had enjoyed an hour or so of shopping while their new clothes were being sewn and Teffa was having the time of her life while Lakita had never known such an activity was even possible.

Agatha spared no expense for her girls. Anything either of them were curious about, Agatha bought for them. Now they were telling jokes and enjoying a scrumptious meal where none of them had to cook or clean up afterwards.

The three of them were not alone, as 'Una' was in deadly school girl uniform watching over them. It added to that useful fiction. Una had also insisted on piloting the Embassy's magnificent armored luxury transport. Teffa had intended to pilot it, but Agatha argued that it was beneath an Embassy Major-domo.

The tiny Slarmian was elated at the suggestion.

Lakita has never seen such a vehicle, She found it surprisingly roomy and accommodating. She took up three seats, but could get in and out without any difficulty.

Girls night was a huge success, Agatha spent lots of credits to give the local economy a reason to welcome them back. They only experienced a few double takes or stares, because of novelty not bigotry. Agatha kept close tabs on the emotions surrounding them, she tasted no outright hatred; mostly just initial shock and anxiety that quickly turned into curiosity. Agatha doubted there was a Largath alive that could have been as gentle or considerate as Lakita.

She was setting a new standard for Largath in Slarmian culture, not unlike the security guards did for the Bract.

---

"You did what?!" Joon asked, and she and her family took a moment to understand what Astrid just said.

The puzzled look on her wive's faces wasn't quite what Astrid had expected. She half thought there would be a scream of fury, as that was the kind of reaction Ingrid would have produced from Astrid's declaration. Astrid remembered Ingrid losing her shit when a ten year old aspiring ballerina had broken two phalanges in her foot.

Ever since that day Astrid often wondered why.

It wasn't until many years later did Astrid discover that Ingrid's precious little angel was worth two hundred billion credits. That information came from her Aunt Yumi, who was worth the same amount. It seems Astrid had inherited her father's shares of the Komatzu family legacy.

Hiro and Yumi split the inheritance from their own father: sixty-six percent between the two of them. Together they had controlling Interest of the successful Tran-stellar corporation.

When Astrid was at her advanced technical university, Ingrid showered her in affection and made accolades to Astrid's success in her chosen career; something she had never done before. Then when Astrid was awarded control of her inheritance, Ingrid encouraged Astrid to continue to 'Let Mommy take care of that for you.'

Astrid was able to gracefully dodge that issue, but Ingrid countered with a proposed betrothal to Roger Lundqvist. Whereas Roger was a beautiful man who pledged his heart to her in public proclamation, she soon learned it was all a facade; a scheme of Ingrid's to retain control over the fortune attached to Astrid.

The proof of the shallow reality of Ingrid's love for her daughter. Astrid did not actually care about her inheritance; but Ingrid's obvious obsession with it and her devious machinations only proved she was unworthy to have any control of it.

'Ingrid is a sociopath, Obasan.' Astrid said to Yumi, three days after her breakup with Roger.

Yumi could not disagree with her assessment.

Astrid spent her whole life learning how things worked, she only just then figured out Ingrid. The weight of her value to the woman that gave birth to her was suffocating. It weighed on her for years afterwards, driving Astrid to only think about her job.

Astrid happily recalled the first time she felt that weight lifted: Meeting Max, Joon and Agatha: every day since it grew lighter. Astrid felt so much possibility with her loves as the family grew when they added Vika, Samira and Paula.

Astrid felt incredibly empowered with all of them supporting her.

Loving her.

Her purchase of Kylex Group and Golamar was a logical step in her efforts to support her family in return. "It's going to be impossible for anyone to dispute our actions legally." Astrid smiled. "As we have the right to defend our property."

Her family almost blinked in unison.

Paula worked it out first, "We are now legally bound to recover Golamar."

Astrid smiled.

Max glanced at Paula, "Eviction?"

"That's brilliant!" Joon exclaimed.

Astrid smiled softly at Vika who looked at the tall platinum-blonde with new respect. "Umnaya devochka," Vika smirked, "I like it."

"How much was it?" Max asked, her eyebrow raised. Agatha and Astrid shared a look.

"Oh, I don't remember, not too much... What does it even matter?" Astrid giggled.

Max pursed her lips, "That much, huh?"

Astrid smiled, "I can afford it, and I am now able to make a few important changes."

---

"She did what?" Samira asked.

Agatha smiled and pulled Samira into the lift cab so the door could close, "Astrid made an investment, we now have our own legal reasons to find Golamar and cleanse it of a pirate infestation." Agatha summarized while tapping the screen to travel to the outlet level.

Samira stared at nothing for a moment, "That's cheating!"

Agatha raised an eyebrow, "Is it? I believe I did something similar by creating a system to keep my wives safe." Samira opened her mouth but nothing came out. Agatha smiled fondly at Samira, "Why change a few words in a rule somewhere, when you can change the game?" Agatha shared a look with Samira.

Samira blinked, "Wow, yea, okay, I can see that."

"So we are going to interview Nef?" Samira asked.

Agatha tilted her head, "We are going to watch Astrid's back, she has a plan."

The doors of the lift opened and the two ladies walked out together. Samira and Agatha turned onto one of the stark corridors lined with open bays filled with pallets of merchandise for resale and various materials for manufacture. Agatha led the way, she was already involved with the set up for what Astrid was planning.

As they drew closer to the industrial quarter of the outlet, Samira noticed a pair of Largath security in full kit. Agatha casually approached them, she didn't face them, but stood nearby. The Largath were not out in the middle of the corridor, they were out of sight from Nef's outlet. Agatha said something out loud in a guttural language Samira knew was Largatta. The security did not respond verbally, they both gave a thumbs up.

Agatha nodded and she glanced at Samira, "Everyone is in place... Showtime."

---

The lift doors opened and Astrid and Paula walked out; both with a steady, measured pace reinforcing their professional appearance. Astrid was in her dark-violet office attire with matching pumps while Paula was in her dress greys, her black boots echoing in time with Astrid's steps.



Astrid smiled,



Astrid and Paula turned onto the main corridor, they had taken the closest lift to Nef's metal outlet. The way they walked seemed to ward off any merchants from approaching them with a sales pitch. With executive-style portfolio datapads in hand, they looked like commercial veterans going to battle.

Astrid and Paula turned into Nef's bay, the various pallets of ingots and sheet metal looked no different from the day before. Nef looked up from his datawork as he noticed the two Terrans in his domain.

"Ms. Komatzu!" The Ornalith greeted, "Back so soon?"

Astrid smiled, she and Paula walked right up to the short desk. "Hello again, yes, I have returned." Astrid said as she slowly nodded.

Nef's three eyes went back and forth from Astrid to Paula. Astrid's face held a slight smile, whereas Paula's held no emotion at all. Nef did not have a lot of experience with Terrans, but he knew what a smile meant.

He was also familiar with non-expression from a Terran, and it bothered him.

"So..." Nef searched Astrid's face, "What can I do for you?"

"Oh!" Astrid giggled, "Yes, I was curious about this." She pulled out the three metal ingots she had in a dark-violet blazer pocket. They were held in between each of her four fingers, she closed her hand and deftly rolled them into a stack. Her long fingers rolled them one by one in a little dance. Astrid laid them out on Nef's comdesk with a delicate touch, the mark on each one face up. "What is this little symbol?" Astrid asked, her voice pitched with an innocent lilt.

"Oh, that?" Nef's voice seemed to flutter slightly, "That's just a proof mark, means the metal is pure."

Nef put a lot of confidence behind that statement, his sales experience showing.

Astrid smiled, and turned to Paula, "See, it's a proof mark, nothing to worry about."

Paula did not respond, she didn't even react. Her neutral expression was completely unmoved, but her eyes never left Nef. The Ornalith was now very nervous, Astrid knew he was, Agatha had told her so. Nef was a fairly typical member of his species.

As one of the only Silicon based lifeforms in known space Ornaliths could survive conditions non Carbon based lifeforms could. Which meant they could live, work and thrive in places most other species could not. While their trilateral biology was quite unusual, it offered stability unattainable by a biped. These various factors lent Ornalith culture a work hard and play hard mentality. They were known to be an exceptionally good workforce.

Ornaliths did come in different flavors though, just like everyone else. So it is not surprising that someone in Nef's position might take advantage of a customer. It's not without some precedent in Ornalith circles, but certainly not enough to color the whole species.

"Proof mark." Astrid said again softer.

"Nothing to do with Freeport."

Nef froze. His reaction gave him away, and Nef knew it. Astrid's eyes told Nef she knew it too. Nef did the one thing he always did when he panicked.

"Who the fuck do you think you are?" The Ornalith roared.

"You dare accuse me of something, I will sue you for libel, I will make sure you never trade in the ME again!"

Astrid winced at the volume. Nef was going with the 'be loud and make a fuss' technique, which was far better than the 'physical violence' technique that her family was most worried about.

He raved at Astrid for a while. "Lickspittle bitch, I'll have you thrown off this Depot!"

Astrid shared a look with Paula then let her wetware go to work and Nef's comdesk updated. It was so surprising it actually momentarily threw Nef off his tirade. He'd never seen his comdesk do that without his consent. Nef blinked, putting two and two together. "That's company property!" Nef bellowed.

Astrid nodded, "Yes, it is."

Nef saw the familiar Kylex Group logo coalesce, but it was different now with a new color scheme. He leaned in closer to the hologram and in small, plain script it said...A subsidiary of Komatzu Industries.

"No!" Nef muttered, "No fucking way!"

The Ornalith's shock fueled his fury. But before he could ramp up his tirade once again, Astrid glanced at Paula, who nodded. Paula's mismatched eyes fixed a withering glare upon Nef. The Terran in military uniform laid into the Ornalith with a firestorm of legalese, not the least of which involved the forbidden trade in Freeport metals on all Depots and the consequences of being caught.

He couldn't get a word in edgewise. She dismantled his sense of entitlement, dissolved his confidence and then obliterated his career with Kylex Group. Paula specifically and completely shredded his reputation, his personal wealth, and any hope of having a job better than swinging a pick in a dark hole somewhere.

She may have pushed Nef a little too hard.

"Fucking cunt!" Nef lunged at Paula...

It happened so fast that Astrid wasn't able to react to it; but Paula did, and the result was fascinating.

It took a moment for Astrid to understand what had happened and what she was seeing. The Ornalith was lying prone on the floor, his three legs had collapsed under him splayed out. Nef was like a marionette with its strings cut. He was groaning and had also soiled himself. Paula hadn't moved since she recoiled from the lunge, her right hand held before her in a peculiar gesture.

The two wives shared a look as the Ornalith moaned on the floor of the bay. Astrid peered at Nef, he was still conscious, just suddenly not very talkative. Paula glared down at him, her datapad still in her left hand. "You will answer Ms. Komatzu's questions."

A weak, strained voice emanated from the prone Ornalith his words slurred, "Wha th'fuck di'you do t'me?"

Paula responded, "You will answer Ms. Komatzu's questions and keep a civil tone, or I will leave you this way for the rest of your life." After a few moments of deep reflection, Nef softly replied, "Kay... Wha d'ya wan t'know?"

---

The crew of the Deirdre was sitting around the Mess table just finishing off a late meal, and everyone had brought an appetite to a delicious supper.

It featured a flavorful, well seasoned, roast served with buttery potato-like tubers and spinach casserole with mushrooms. Agatha served flakey berry tarts with after dinner tea.

The Deirdre was no longer docked at Depot Zero Three: the tiny warship was heading to Nethril, specifically, the Kiz Enclave.

Max looked around the table, "Okay, let's get this started."

Joon nodded, "I would like all the pieces laid out, please."

"That sound's good." Max nodded, "Astrid, you start."

Astrid nodded, "Nef was part of a quiet arrangement Kylex had put in place a long time ago. It was legal when it began, though it may not be now, we will need to inquire officially. The metals sold to other manufacturers and in the outlet may not have been legally obtained." Astrid clenched her jaw, "They may, in fact, be reclamation derived from hijacked ships." Samira then explained the concept of a chop shop, on a massive scale.

Expressions were dark.

Max nodded, "So we left Agatha to run the metal outlet, and to sort out Nef's little setup.

Agatha nodded, "Having two of my Hands on Depot03 will also allow us to keep the Bract informed."

Joon nodded, "Okay, I got all of that, how did you get Nef to talk?"

Astrid smiled at Paula as Paula innocently sipped at her tea. Joon tilted her head at her Administrative Assistant.

Paula placed her cup down, "I never considered it would be that easy."

Vika gazed at her in adoration as the Lieutenant thought back to her childhood, listening to her elders talk about the old ways. Paula shrugged, "I did what I saw my grandmother do when I was a little girl. Except, this actually had the desired effect."

Joon grinned, "What was it?"

Paula smiled, "My second level Witch Ability: Hex."

Everyone quietly cheered her.

Paula's cheeks colored, "I will need to experiment, I barely understand it."

"I volunteer." Max offered, "I'll bet a few of us will be happy to assist."

All of Paula's wives raised their hands.

Paula smiled, "Thank you."

"So what happened? Is Nef still Hexed?" Joon asked.

"Astrid found out his secrets and Depot03 Security has him in custody." Paula replied. "I removed the Hex from Nef, I got the distinct feeling it doesn't go away on its own."

"Okay, why are we going to Nethril?" Joon asked.

Samira answered, "Because that's where the ransom demand was sent from."

Agatha continued, "I am visiting the Machii office on Staverka to get the name we need."

Joon smiled, "Did you speak with Crinx?"

Agatha nodded, "Zalix has authorized the inquiry, he wishes to remain on excellent terms with the Bract Conglomerate. Machii has no choice but to comply with our investigation. Zalix has also offered direct military assistance should we require it."

Max and Joon shared a look.

"The Staverka home fleet is stripped down to a quarter of its former strength. GSD has many ships at the Kirrix front." Agatha informed.

Max sighed, "Until the Kirrix can be routed completely, I fear pirates are going to continue being a serious threat to the ME and its commerce." Max looked at her wive's faces around the table. "So let's do what we can to eliminate Freeport from the equation."

Joon smirked, "So we have a few hours to kill?"

Agatha replied, "Four hours twenty minutes to Xi Piscium."

"What can you tell us about Nethril?" Samira asked.

Agatha smiled, "Nethril is a gas giant, it is home to the Nethrilla Syndicate, one of the nations of the Minor Empires. The planet is also home to a sizable population of Ornalith, they have over the centuries developed a strong friendship with the Nethrilla. The Syndicate and the Dictorum have an interesting arrangement, like a rental property on a massive scale."

"Nethril has some interesting global effects, and the natural cloudscape is dotted with foam islands. These light structures support many forms of life who in turn add to the buoyancy and integrity of the islands. The largest of these islands is called Kiz. It has a population of around seven million, approximately eighty-five percent are Ornalith."

"Nethrilla are not bothered by this fact, they have many thousands of smaller communities without Ornalith. Kiz Enclave also boasts most of the wealth on the planet, serving as the center of trade for the system. Nethril is also headquarters to many ME corporations, Including institutions of higher learning, Technical Colleges and shopping districts, due to porous tax laws."

"While cuisine is generally aimed at Ornalith and Nethrilla tastes, there are resort hotels that offer a vast array of fine dining experiences. The vistas on Nethril are said to be the best in the Minor Empires."

Agatha's family had listened to her descriptions with dreamy expressions.

"How long can we stay there?" Joon asked Max.

"Not long." Max smirked.

Joon pouted, "We need to get busy then, so we can visit properly."

Max eyed her first wife, "She had you at the shopping district, didn't she?"

Joon fluttered her eyes innocently.

Max nodded, "Well, I know you want to go back and shop at Depot 03 as well..."

Joon nodded, "Yes, I do, I want to visit all the shopping centers."

Everyone giggled.

Max looked around, "What's everyone planning to do now?"

"I'm going to jump back into my drones with Samira." Astrid smiled then turned to Samira.

Samira had gone under the table and soon, four cybernetic hands came up Max's lap. Astrid's eyes went big as Max blinked: looking at Astrid, "I think Samira is taking her turn in the queue."

Everyone giggled, even Samira under the table.

Max obliged her by standing up and dropping her trousers and panties, then sitting again. Joon shared a kiss with Max, "Okay, I believe we are all in agreement to help Paula with her Hex, where should we do that?"

Max smiled, "Cargo hold?"

Joon glanced down, "Sounds good."

Samira was making noisy sounds at the same time.

"Mmmm." Max moaned.

Vika nodded, "Same thing you said to me, I think you really enjoy those."

Everyone giggled.

Max gently ran her fingers through Samira's short fluffy dark-brown toplocks. Samira took a breath and leaned in, taking Max deep. Max let her climax through and her member throbbed in Samira's mouth. Samira wrapped her arms around thighs and waist until Max was spent while everyone licked their lips in response to hearing the climax.

Max panted happily when she was done as Samira eased back still swallowing. Samira went back to her seat and Astrid immediately pulled her into a kiss, getting a small mouthful of that vanilla creme.

Max grinned crookedly, "Meeting adjourned."

---

Ambassador Crinx had Staverka police wake the Machii Courier Services Manager at his residence. The Manager was angry at first, then was given a brief face to face holo with Ambassador Crinx. He was advised that it was a matter of national security, and sanctioned by the Dynasty.

Having never been involved with any matter beyond his own bottom line, the Manager became extremely compliant. In fact this particular fellow seemed to delight in the mystery surrounding his vocation. The police gave him an escort to his office; there he met with the First Secretary of the Terran Embassy of Staverka.

He was aware of the attack on her Consulate, as was all of Staverka, and the ensuing mass arrests of Staverka government officials. The Manager set her up at his desk and after he logged in he slithered into the outer office with the police and waited for her to finish. If this Terran had the expressed consent from the Majestic Potentate, Who was he, a lowly Manager, to refuse.

Agatha absorbed every piece of data relevant to the missive in question. The process was expedient: Agatha could have, in theory, hacked into the Machii mainframe and simply stolen the information. Unfortunately, it did have rather robust defenses and without Samira or Astrid there to carry her into Cyber, she might not have been able to breach it without tripping alarms. This was an acceptable alternative as she could still access the information required.

Besides, Agatha enjoyed the manager's curiosity, he was thrilled to be involved in espionage, even if only tangentially.

After Agatha discovered the data her family required, She thanked the Manager for his time and started to leave.

The manager stopped her and asked, "Is this for the Blackdawn Investigation?"

Agatha tilted her head slightly, "I am sorry, I cannot comment on any investigation in progress."

She felt the Managers intrigue spike, "Oh yes, of course, it is Blackdawn though, isn't it?"

Agatha simply replied in a steady, pleasant voice, "I can neither confirm nor deny, thank you for your cooperation, good evening."

As Agatha walked away the two Staverka police officers slithered on her flanks like an honor guard. She was surprised the Machii Manager didn't pop right then and there from his excitement.

---

Paula sized up her Captain-wife. Max was an intimidating woman, broad shouldered and a foot taller than Paula's improved height and she was the first wife to give Paula a target for her learning of Hex.

Paula raised her hand at Max, her index and pinky fingers up and spread wide. Her middle and ring fingers down, her thumb divided those two. It had features of both the 'Mano Fico' and 'Mano Cornuto' as taught to her by her grandmother.

Paula felt the Hex land on Max and she watched as Max winced and swayed a moment.

Paula blinked, "You resisted it."

Max made a face, "I definitely felt something, I feel nauseous."

Paula tilted her head and removed the Hex, which she realized was far easier than casting it.

While Astrid and Samira were already into one of the large crates that held a Battle-drone, the rest of the family were gathered in the cargo hold and were lined up along the bay wall. Joon and Vika sat next to each other with three Hands of Agatha lined up beside them. Paula tried several more times, each time she felt Max resist the bulk of her Ability.

Max pouted, "Is it me?"

Paula glanced at Agatha, who raised an eyebrow.

Max could feel it when the Hex landed and when Paula took it away again.

"Why am I resisting it?" Max asked.

Paula thought about that, "Maybe you have a naturally high resistance to Abilities."

Max blinked, "Do I?"

Paula closed her eyes briefly, she studied the Fortune in the hold.

Every one of her wives were brimming with it, Max especially so. Paula opened her eyes, waved her hand pulling Fortune from her Captain-wife then threw her Hex again.

Max dropped like a rock.

For a split second no one reacted, then suddenly everyone rushed to Max. Joon and Vika joined Paula on their knees around Max's prone form.

Max was unconscious.

Paula's face was covered in concern and despair.

Joon turned her eyes to Paula, "Take it off."

Paula immediately did so.

Max's eyes fluttered open, "Whoa..."

Paula looked into Max's soft-brown eyes, "I am so sorry."

Max smiled, "Don't be... Holy shit, don't be!"

"This means you are one bad-ass Witch," Max nodded with enthusiasm.

Everyone giggled nervously as Max sat up.

"Let me get a breather before you do that again." Max inhaled.

Paula blinked, "You want me to do that again?"

Max nodded, "Oh yea, as of right now, you are our number one advantage in a fight."

"No blood, no bruises: just an unconscious adversary."

"But if they resist?" Paula started.

Max responded calmly, "How did you hit me with it?"

"I stripped away your Fortune." Paula replied.

Max nodded, "Apparently, that includes my resistance to Hex."

Paula nodded, "I see that now, a two step process."

Joon asked, "Did you strip away Nef's Fortune?"

Paula shook her head, "No, I didn't."

Max smirked, "Lets keep you practicing, then we'll see what you can do with multiple targets."

Paula restored Max's fortune and practiced on Max for another half an hour. She called out what she was doing everytime and began altering the amount of Fortune she pulled from Max. Everyone discussed the results of each throw. They discovered that Hex was versatile: depending on how much of it landed the effects graduated from feeling a little nauseous, to cramps and vertigo, to severe weakness and finally unconsciousness.

Whenever Paula removed the Hex, Max's recovery was almost instantaneous. Max and Joon were discussing multiple targets with Paula when Astrid and Samira walked over.

"Can I try something?" Samira asked.

Max and Joon looked at Paula.

"Of course you can." Paula replied.

Samira nodded. She walked to the spot Max had been returning to every Hex.

"Hit me." Samira requested.

"Just Hex..." Paula announced.

Samira nodded.

Paula cast her Hex but Samira didn't even wobble.

"Wow... completely resisted." Paula reported, astonished.

Samira nodded, her face neutral.

"Misfortune then Hex." Paula announced.

Paula stripped Samira of her Fortune, then threw the Hex.

Samira grunted loudly, and dropped to one knee, anguish showed on her face.

Somehow Samira remained conscious and viable.

Paula quickly removed the Hex, "How?"

Samira gasped when the Hex was lifted.

"Cyborg..." Samira panted, "You need to take that into account."

Everyone who witnessed the event nodded.

"Okay, let's try this." Samira stood, and took a deep breath, bringing up her Aegis.

Amber brilliance filled the hold, the glowing golden tattoos seen under transparent summer glory.

Paula blinked, "Okay."

"Misfortune and Hex." She announced, "Casting."

Samira stood in her 'Castle' defensive stance, with a single archaic shield. Again she grunted, but not loudly, She remained up, and fully viable.

"Half of that was... Deflected?" Paula blinked.

Samira nodded, "My armor seems to have its own inherent resistance."

"Very good to know." Paula smiled, "Thank you, Sam."

The Witch removed what little of her Hex that stuck to the Paladin and restored her fortune. Samira's Aegis faded and Paula pulled her into a hug.

"My turn!" Astrid proclaimed.

Everyone looked at Astrid with surprise.

"What?" She asked, "I need to find out what my Barrier can do."

Everyone nodded.

Astrid went to the spot in the middle of the cargo bay, she turned and faced Paula.

Her face was anxious, "I want to feel how it works, first."

Paula raised an eyebrow, "Are you sure?"

Astrid nodded, biting her lip.

"Hex," Paula announced, "Casting."

Astrid gasped, she staggered, "Fuckmuffins, that's nasty!"

"You resisted about two thirds of it," Paula replied.

"Oh Fuck." Astrid swallowed, Paula pulled the Hex off and Astrid looked immediately better.

Paula shared a look with Astrid, "Are you ready for a full Hex?"

Astrid winced, "Yes?"

Paula paused, "You don't have to do this you know."

Astrid gathered her resolve, "I know, but I need to."

Paula nodded, "Misfortune and Hex."

"Casting." Paula gestured at Astrid, she crumpled to the floor.

Paula pulled the Hex off of Astrid immediately. Astrid awoke on the floor, her wives standing over her.

"You okay, Asa-chan?" Samira asked.

Astrid looked up, "Holy fucking shit!"

Everyone nodded.

Astrid slowly rose to her feet.

Paula pouted, "I'm sorry, Astrid."

"I needed to know, so thank you." Astrid smiled.

Everyone went back to spectator's row. Astrid raised both her hands on either side of her, palms up. A clear wet lavender bubble appeared around her.

"That looks so cool." Vika commented.

Everyone muttered agreement.

Astrid raised an eyebrow and said something, but no one heard her. The bubble faded, "No sound through the Barrier, or anything other than light so far." Astrid commented.

Everyone nodded. Astrid took a deep breath, and raised her hands again, the wet lavender sphere reappeared. Paula nodded to Astrid, she nodded back.

"Misfortune and Hex... Casting." Paula thrust out her hand in the gesture once more. Astrid crumpled again to the floor inside the bubble without a sound.

"Shit!" Paula rushed to Astrid.

Everyone followed.

But the lavender sphere was still up, and blocked all attempts to get to Astrid. Paula removed the Hex and Astrid blinked her eyes open and sat up groggily; she smiled and the bubble faded.

"Oh Astrid, I am so sorry." Paula started to tear up.

The rest of the family also looked forlorn at the lack of protection the Barrier had from Paula's Fortune and Hex.

Astrid looked confused. "What are you all sad about... This is awesome!" Astrid smiled broadly.

Everyone had blank expressions, except for Agatha who wore a soft smile.

Astrid explained, "My sweet wives, what if Paula was on the inside of the Barrier with her targets outside?"

Samira smiled, getting it, "She would be safe from any reprisals, great combo!"

Max beamed, "Oh nice, very nice."

Joon hadn't said much, but her staring at nothing got Max's attention.

"What's up beautiful?" Max asked softly.

Joon smiled, then changed her focus to Max. "I was thinking about combos." Joon said softly.

Samira raised an eyebrow, "Like what?"

"Well, nothing specific, yet." Joon began, "We all have some solid abilities, we need to see which combines well with what?"

Vika yawned. Samira nodded in agreement, then she yawned.

"It is getting late..." Max yawned also.

"Cantrip." Samira muttered.

Max blinked, "What?"

"Yawning... It's a cantrip, see someone yawn or even think about it..." Samira explained.

Astrid and Joon yawned and everyone giggled.

Nine members of Deirdre's crew who were sitting together on the deck of cargo bay slowly got up and dragged themselves to bed. They would arrive on Nethril soon but would most likely sit there for a number of hours resting while Agatha collected intel.

---

Ambassador Zess was incredibly excited, she was sitting in the co-pilot's chair as Nomissa flew. Agatha sat behind them enjoying the emotions from both of them. The flight wasn't too long, but long enough to amp up the anxiety so Agatha gently pushed calm into both of them.

It took a little time for Agatha to coordinate with the Daurazu and the Dauchazi but they soon decided that the protected subterranean grotto where Joon had performed was the safest place all parties could meet. The Samava Hive Queen elevated one of her young warriors to fulfill the role of a diplomat as the Queen herself was practically immobile.

She chose a young warrior for the flexibility needed to grow into the new role and, technically, the warrior could now be considered a Princess of the Hive. Not unlike Tizzy, the Dauchazi companion of Less, the Ambassador's sister.

Agatha offered her a name and title, both of which she gratefully accepted. Representative T'chi of the Dauchazi Hives. T'chi was learning at an accelerated rate and Agatha taught her what she needed to know.

Agatha was also learning how to install information into another, her first learning experience as the process required absolute cooperation and trust. She installed knowledge in the Daurazu Representative as well although Agatha was pretty sure Sepii had anticipated the process.

The two Representatives would be the voice of their respective peoples until they were solidly established into the Dau cybernet community. T'chi and Sepii's meeting was the first time in many millennia the two peoples had even seen one another.

Zess trusted Agatha to handle all of the arrangements.

Nomissa brought the small craft in close to the terrace carved from the rock of Jherish-Milas and the three disembarked the small Diplomatic Courier class shuttle: there was an identical one just ahead on the beach.

"Am I just fashionably late?" Zess inquired with humor.

Agatha giggled, "Precisely on time, your Excellency."

Nomissa put out her arm for Zess as they followed the Terran First Secretary into the opening. Agatha led them through the tunnel which was now softly illuminated with walk lights. It lent a sensation of walking through the night sky as the walls sparkled in the dim illumination.

Zess could feel the weight of this moment, she felt immensely honored.

The final guests arrived, as Zess and Nomissa turned the tunnel corner to see the soft glow of installed indirect lighting in the grotto. The Ambassador immediately recognized it from the concert, the broad flat rock just a little off the shore. Nomissa handed Zess off to Agatha, then found a comfortable place to sit, keeping watch as her position required.

Agatha escorted Zess to one side of the rock, in the opposite location across from her to her left was a towering Dauchazi warrior and upon the flat rock to her right appeared a shimmering bioluminescent Daurazu. Agatha's other Hand sat on the shore line between them, holding an offered chitinous leg and rubbery tentacle.

Zess nodded in understanding as the Hand that had brought her sat on the opposite side of the flat rock from her sister. The moment Zess sat down on the edge of the shore and held Agatha's hand, she found herself welcomed by two additional brilliant minds...

Eager to expand the horizons of their respective peoples.

---

Max was roused by someone straddling her and a familiar weight occupying her chest. Soft lips kissed her gently, Max's little friend softly thumped the already damp folds in close proximity. Max opened her eyes a sliver to see an elfin smile, as Joon's hand reached down to guide the hard cock inside her.

Max thought to Joon.

Joon eased herself onto Max's length,

The warm, wet and tight sensation was delicious to Max and, as the senior wives began to move slowly together, Max pulled her legs up to gain more leverage. Joon could now engage Max in a deep kiss, while her larger wife worked her from below.

Joon moaned into Max's mouth.

Max's tongue swirled with Joon's.

Joon eased back from the kiss, a look of concentration on her beautiful face.

Joon bit her lip as Max pistoned inside her.

Max smiled,

Max kissed the tip of Joon's cute little nose.

Joons eyes popped open, as another sensation suddenly flooded her senses as Agatha had quietly slipped between Max's upright legs and began to tongue Joon's rosebud. Joon took the steady thrusts from Max and the loving licks from Agatha for only a few minutes before she gasped and climaxed. The orgasm was soft and long causing her to shudder and buck on the stiff cock while Agatha kissed her little round asscheeks.

Joon moaned happily, pulling herself off the very lubricated shaft. Then in just moments someone found an equally warm and wet place for Max's little friend. Both Max and Joon could hear Paula moaning while Max let through her own climax, filling the brunette's mouth with delicious vanilla.

Max turned her head and Joon layed her cheek on her first wife's. They were now watching Samira pounding Astrid with the tool-belt, as Vika straddled the Engineer's face. Vika and Samira were embracing and in a deep kiss themselves.

Joon thought to everyone listening.

The thought's of Astrid answered.

Max smiled,

Astrid's mental enthusiasm was glowing.

Agatha responded happily.

Paula finished her morning smoothie and laid her head on Max's thigh, watching the actions of her other three loving wives. Samira slowed down after Astrid came on the inflatable phallus then Vika gingerly dismounted Astrid's glazed face before Samira took her time licking her clean.

Paula got a smooch from the diminutive redhead as she headed for the edge of the bed just before Samira gently pulled the strap-on out of Astrid; the Engineer gasped softly.

Joon carefully swung her leg over Paula then slid down to smooch her Administrative Assistant. Paula sighed happily then pushed herself up on her arms prior to Max sitting up and giving her a kiss. They shared a smile, both licking their lips.

Vika headed to the bathroom soon followed by the others.

Joon thought as she sat on the toilet next to Vika.

Agatha answered.

Joon finished and attended to hygienics,



said Joon to Agatha.

Agatha responded.

Paula sat down for her turn at biology and Joon raised her eyebrows as she stepped up on the fold-out with Vika.

Vika peered at Joon in the mirror.

"It's coming up on ten o'clock," Joon reported softly.

Vika's eyebrows also rose, "Agatha let us sleep in?"

Joon nodded, then inquired on another topic,



Max and Astrid walked in together taking their seats , followed by Samira.



Joon smiled and finished washing up while Vika dried her face on a hanging towel and hopped down, heading out. Samira sat down and sighed in relief. Agatha waited at the doorway for an open toilet.

Joon nodded to her, "Thank you for letting us sleep in."

Samira checked her wetware chronometer application: a feature she mostly despised as it set a digital display in her field of vision. "Oh... it's 09:53" Samira blinked.

Joon shared a smile with Agatha when Paula got up and flushed to give space to Agatha who took her place. Joon dried her face as Paula was having her wash and in just a few minutes the seven ladies were walking down into the cargo bay together. Agatha went to the aft of the bay and turned around.

Six women spread out in front of her with just enough room, considering the large crates and the morning kata began as it always did, with a bow. There was a sense of excitement during the routine inspired by the sense they were warming up for an exciting adventure.

Three rotations were performed with the most notable improvement coming from Paula. She had requested help in learning the kata from Agatha in the dream party so Agatha applied some of the techniques she was using to instill knowledge in the Dau Representatives.

It wasn't nearly as efficient with humans, but it did work.

The time was well spent, for Paula knew all of the stances, her form was still atrocious, but it was miles of progress. Paula received high praise from everyone as they went to the showers chatting about Abilities, Nethril and the adventures that awaited them.

The after kata shower became unexpectedly randy when Samira requested a vaginal scrub with Max's cock. Giggles echoed, but soon five wives were waiting for their own turn at a plunge as they lined the shower, Legs spread, ass up, the wives waited while holding the grab bar that encircled the room as Max eased into them.

She fucked them gently, just long enough to stretch them a bit but those six brief sessions under steamy showers left everyone with smiles.

Max did not seem terribly put upon, and took the added step in hygiene as good for morale: at least that's what she said out loud. It wasn't disputed, though giggles continued to echo.

---

Teffa was in between interviews so she was reading her datapad at the reception counter. She scrolled through her list again and noted she now had eleven solid picks. Most were looking to color resumes and boost their long-term career paths. Her list included a core of experienced clerical and public relations personnel and a pair of brilliant, young engineers eager to be Embassy staff.

Every one of them passed Agatha's personal scrutiny. Unfortunately there was a gap in Teffa's list, one she had mixed feelings about.

Agatha as Una had been a filling in as a pilot, she was more than capable; but a full time pilot would allow "Una" to fill the bodyguard role she preferred. Teffa considered contacting her former employer to get someone qualified as a licensed, experienced pilot would be a welcome addition.

Maybe someone who could fly an Embassy starship, not only atmospheric transports. Teffa looked up as the Embassy door opened...Her eyes grew large.

A long, thin Slarmian slithered in, with sharp features and delicate fins. Teffa loved fins. The Slarmian gracefully slithered up to the counter and Teffa was mesmerized.

"Hello, my name is Zuki, Sam said I should stop by?"

Teffa gazed into the bright-yellow eyes of the visitor, "Oh, that's amazing."

Zuki smiled, "It's amazing that I'm here, or that Sam sent me?"

Teffa blinked rapidly and shook her head slightly, "Pardon me, let me see what we have for you." She tapped in the name, and it produced a very detailed file written by Agatha. There were notations regarding work history and cooperation in important matters on Depot 03.

Teffa looked back up at the enchanting visitor, noted the flight jacket and glanced again at those sexy fins. "Apparently, you impressed Sam." Teffa had not met her yet, but as one of the wives, Samira's opinion carried a lot of weight. The long thin Slarmian smiled softly, "I don't mean to be a bother, but Sam said I would be compensated for my trouble, and that's become important now."

Teffa tilted her head: she could read stress on Zuki's beautiful face.

"What's wrong?" The smallish Slarmian asked.

"Well..." Zuki began,"I was held at port for six hours on Depot 03, that meant I was behind schedule, and I never got caught up. So when I got back to Staverka, I was told my services were no longer required, and I have maintenance to do on my ship."

Teffa gasped, "Oh no, you were fired?"

Zuki shrugged, "Something like that, listen it's not a huge deal, but Machii paid very well and it was a pain to get in there. So if you don't mind, I would really like the credits Sam said I could get, I'm going to need them."

Teffa's brain suddenly clicked, "I am very sorry you lost your contract with Machii."

Zuki nodded, "Me too, maybe I'll find something better." The Slarmian pilot didn't sound very convinced of the truth of that statement.

Teffa tilted her head a little to the side, "I'm afraid, to get your compensation, you're going to have to answer a couple questions first."

Zuki blinked, "Oh? Like what?"

Teffa looked at Zuki's file, Agatha might have seen the pilot's work history, but nothing about..."Are you in a relationship?" Teffa asked casually.

Zuki did a double take, "Excuse me?"

"Just a standard question from the Embassy Major-domo." Teffa replied with a sigh like it was annoying to have to ask it.

"Oh...um, no, not really, I didn't have the time." Zuki answered.

Teffa bit her lip, then glanced again at Zuki's long thin lines: and those fins! Teffa looked up into those bright-yellow eyes, and asked very softly, "Are you lucky?"

Zuki smirked slowly, knowing the real meaning of the question, "I am... Very lucky. These don't sound like questions from the Major-domo, though."

Teffa inhaled, "Well, you are especially lucky today, because we happen to be looking for a pilot for the Embassy."

Zuki blinked, "Really?"

Teffa nodded.

"Oh wow! Um, do you know what the qualifications are?" Zuki asked.

Teffa smiled, looking at Zuki's sharp features and delicate fins, "Single and lucky."

Zuki paused, then smiled, "I don't think the Major-domo really cares about that."

Teffa smiled, "Oh, you'd be surprised what the Major-domo cares about."

Zuki nodded, "In that case, I would like to submit my resume."

"It just so happens... Sam forwarded your file to the Major-domo, and you are approved." Teffa tilted her head back, her slight smile making her look impish.

"Okay, now you're just messing with me." Zuki smiled back.

Teffa giggled, "Maybe I am, but I can definitely put in a good word for you."

Zuki looked enthusiastic, "That would be amazing! I would love to fly for an Embassy."

Teffa beamed, "How about you come back this afternoon, say about sixteen hundred?"

Zuki nodded, "Yea, I can definitely do that."

Teffa smiled, "Excellent, our Major-domo will see you then."

"Great, thank you! I really got lucky today." Zuki slithered backwards across the lobby, giving Teffa a wave.

Teffa waved back as Zuki went out through the lobby.

"You and me both, beautiful," Teffa quietly said to herself with a huge smile, "You and me both."

---

The crew of the Deirdre dressed for an early lunch, mostly BDUs, Samira just slipped on her tabard.

Agatha set out a hearty lunch, A cheese and broccoli soup, thick Reuben sandwiches topped with mustard, thinly sliced corned beef with crisp sauerkraut on delicious toasted rye bread.

The meal was tasty and filling.

Agatha set out shortbread with after lunch tea before she placed a datapad on the table and looked to her Captain-wife. Light conversation died down as the family waited for Max to start the pre-departure brief.

"Okay..." Max inhaled, "What do we have, and what do we need to do to find Freeport?" Max looked at Agatha sitting between Astrid and Joon.

Agatha stood, "The name attached to Missive 764-k87 is Bazzuc Lurko, a lawyer here in the Kiz Enclave in addition there was a security recording at the Machii location from four different angles. One of those recordings showed a very clear image of an Ornalith watching Mr. Lurko from outside the Machii location."

"An offspring of Rum's, Rek Peu."

She tapped open the datapad and brought up holos of both Ornalith on security footage. Everyone studied the images then nodded. "Rek Peu does not have an address on Kiz, I have scoured the local holonet with no solid fix on him though I have parsed three possible leads: The offices of Bazzuc Lurko Esq., The corporate headquarters of Kylex Group, "Astrid shared a smile with Samira, "and I have made an appointment to meet with Doctor Mel Peu."

Max pursed her lips, "Do you think Dr. Peu can help us?"

"I believe so," Agatha nodded, "Dr. Peu is most likely the best chance we have to find Freeport."

"You mean without hurting anyone?" Vika asked, her eyes narrowed.

Agatha smiled, "We might have to do that anyway, but we might as well try a polite route first."

Max nodded, "So... Should we split up into three groups?"

"We have three pairs and Agatha." Samira summarized.

Everyone nodded and Astrid beamed. "Astrid," Max saw and enjoyed her smile, "Think you can handle the Kylex Group, because, y'know, you own it?"

Everyone giggled.

"If Sam is with me, I can." Astrid shared a smile with Samira.

Samira slipped her hand into Astrid's with a soft smile.

Max looked at Joon and shrugged, "I don't have a preference."

Joon looked thoughtful, "A meeting with Dr. Peu sounds intriguing."

Vika looked at Paula, "Do you want to chat with the lawyer?"

Paula shared a look with her shortest wife, "I think we can do that."

Joon turned to Agatha, "Would you like to join any of us?"

Agatha glanced at Paula.

Paula nodded, "Yes, please."

Agatha nodded, then looked around the table, "Would you each like a pair for security?"

Astrid shared a look with Samira who shrugged. "I don't think we need it..." Astrid replied, "Samira can protect me."

Paula's lips thinned, "I would like a Hand with us." Vika nodded in agreement.

Joon nodded to Agatha, "I'd like a pair of bodyguards, to keep up appearances."

Agatha smiled, "It would be my pleasure, Mistress."

Max nodded, "Okay then, please remember to try and keep things cordial, as we don't need to attract undue attention."

Paula looked at Vika who smiled and said, "I'll try very hard not to kill anyone."

"That would be appreciated." Paula smirked.

The crew changed into adventuring clothes. Two hands of Agatha wore 'Deadly Schoolgirl' for bodyguard duty but the third Hand going with Paula and Vika wore a plain black suit with a black tie and a smokey gray silk shirt.

Everyone stopped and stared at her in the new outfit. Agatha blinked at the Hand, she responded with, "What?... I got it on sale."

Everyone giggled.

The small bay that Deirdre was assigned was near the Kylex Group HQ. It was the only location that Agatha knew for certain they would be visiting.

The bay was spotless, with its own security. Max asked how much was landing here compared to the spaceport and Agatha assured them they were paying reasonable rates for the convenience.

Astrid and Samira didn't even need to use the public transportation, being well within walking distance of their destination. The rest of the family walked to the nearest Transit System Station.

The Station was immaculate, with a small park nearby, filled with local flora and a variety of seating. Kiz Enclave was covered in a web of public transit 'Trains' that made stops in district areas, and the major structures. Only emergency services and municipal authorities were normally allowed individual vehicle transport within Kiz Enclave.

Astrid's new status with Kylex Group allowed her access to any of the small Executive landing bay's in the financial district affording executives a way to avoid the congestion of Kiz Starport at the Enclave, which was substantial.

Xi Piscium was a very active system with scores of stations and platforms. Dr. Peu's address was in a huge residential complex about twenty minutes along the loop so Max, Joon and Agatha had a relatively straightforward course to follow.

Paula, Vika and Agatha however were in for a more arduous journey. The law office of Bazzuc Lurko was deep in the lowest rent district of the city. Called the Dictorum Modicum or 'little dick' it was the equivalent of the slum of the Enclave.

Ornalith living in little dick fell into three categories:

Blue collar workers, Students... And the kinds of people who preyed upon them. Little dick was in the opposite direction on the other side of Kiz so there at the station the family split again and traveled in different directions.

---

Astrid sort of led the way: she was holding one of Samira's hands as she walked. The Kylex Group had several floors of an office building. It was not the largest, tallest, or newest: the building itself seemed to cry out to be recognized for its history.

Astrid did just that, through the local holonet, sending tidbits of interesting data to Samira. Their unspoken rapid communication developed organically. Samira reciprocated with the recommended safety protocols she found on the building.

As they entered the lobby, Samira picked out every security device with a single, casual, visual sweep. Astrid had already found the route to the lift and knew to which floor they needed. The elevator opened and Astrid stepped out walking with a confidence that few could emulate.

Samira walked next to her, her tiny hooves ringing in step with Astrid. Astrid in dark-violet office attire and Samira in her gray embroidered tabard were a visually stunning pair.

They approached the reception desk at a measured pace. It was attended by a Nethrilla, Its prehensile tendrils tapping at the comdesk below its balloon-like body of various shades of red. A small cluster of vivid teal colored eyes looked up.

"Greeting's, welcome to Kylex Group, if you would please sign in here." The Nethrilla's voice was warm and expressive.

Astrid smiled softly at the Nethrilla while she wetware signed in through the wireless holonet connection.

The receptionist reviewed the log-in data and paled slightly.

"Ah, Ms. Komatzu, it is a pleasure to welcome you!" The Nethrilla greeted her again with only the slightest waver in their voice.

Astrid nodded, "I'm here to see Buznermic Ky."

"I'm afraid Mr. Ky is in a meeting, and may be unavailable for some time."

Astrid's expression didn't change, "That's fine, please inform him I have arrived, I will be waiting in his office." With that Astrid turned and walked past the reception desk, her wetware relaying the layout of the entire building, including the most direct route to Buznermic Ky's office. Samira followed behind her with a professional bearing, watching over Astrid.

No one stopped them as they strolled past dozens of employees who stared at them dumbfounded. Astrid waited briefly for Samira to open the door and check the office, following the protocols Samira specifically requested she follow.

Samira nodded as Astrid slipped past her.

There was no furniture present that would be comfortable for a Terran, so Astrid sat on the massive comdesk instead. She leaned back with her arms behind her in support and patiently waited. Samira stood off to the side of the door, as to not obstruct the view of Astrid lounging across the impressive desk.

In less than two minutes the door to the office swung open and a marble-skinned, rotund Ornalith briskly strode in.

"This is outrageous!" the Ornalith stood in front of the reclining Terran.

Astrid, still leaning back, smiled at the Kylex Group CEO. Samira smoothly walked behind the Ornalith and closed the door. The Ornalith spun around, only now seeing the second Terran. Samira folded one pair of cybernetic arms in front of her, then put her remaining two hands on her hips.

"You brought a fucking bodyguard into my office?" The Ornalith glared at Astrid.

This time, Astrid's eyes narrowed, she did not raise her voice, but lowered it.

"Samira is my wife...express a single additional comment in that tone and I will dismantle this company in twenty minutes...Do. You. Understand?"

It was obvious the Ornalith was unaccustomed to being spoken to in such a manner. However, he also wasn't stupid, he stood there and nodded instead of continuing with any further verbal abuse.

Astrid tilted her head, "Mr. Ky, I realize you must think me terribly rude, some annoying Terran buying your company out from under you."

"While you took advantage of the 'business on sale' tax exemption in Nethril corporate tax laws."

"That's a nice little loophole, that law was written to be exploited just so. It's also why Kylex Group has been for sale its entire two hundred year history, as are so very many corporations based on Nethril. I note most corporations in the ME have their HQ located here. It's no wonder there are slums in the second wealthiest economy in the Minor Empires. So now you see the drawback of your loophole, and guess what Buznermic?" Astrid smiled, "I have no compunction about paying taxes... None whatsoever."

The Ornalith absorbed everything Astrid said. "Why are you doing this to me?" The Ornalith softly asked.

Astrid smiled, "It isn't personal Buz, I can assure you...It's for a worthy cause. I would like to talk about Project G."

---

The Esoterika was a beautiful, expansive, luxury residential complex complete with every convenience imaginable. Along with its own transit station, it boasted dozens of specialty storefronts and many fine restaurants. It wasn't the very best Kiz Enclave had to offer but it was still very nice, however.

Max looked resplendent in her midnight-black uniform, her petite glamorous wife on her arm. Joon looked amazing in a surprisingly comfortable calf-length fern-green skirt, her ecru blouse and embroidered chestnut vest. She didn't know how much walking there would be, so she decided to play it safe with thick tall black socks and her hiking boots.

Agatha stayed in their wake, constantly scanning their progress through their environs. Agatha's thoughts filled Max and Joon's mind.

Agatha silently directed them to the access lobby leading to the residential floors above. Max replied.

Several Ornalith and Nethrilla security personnel watched the Terrans walk through the lobby. Agatha commented.

Max and Joon stepped up to a kiosk in the lobby, a Nethrilla greeted them as they presented their ME Identification. "Welcome, your Excellency, Dame Captain...Dr. Peu is expecting you."

The Nethrilla Indicated a clear glass elevator. There were several actually, the quartet of Terrans realized while they stepped into the first, each allowing for a spectacular view of the interior of the complex that Resembled a colossal atrium, the residential apartments lined the complex with dozens of levels.

Agatha tapped the appropriate floor, and the transparent doors closed and the Terrans rose to an impressive vista. The Esoterika was constructed like a hollow cylinder cut at an angle and several hundred luxury apartments had balconies with breathtaking views of the endless cloud formations.

The lift came to a stop about halfway up and the doors opened: Max, Joon and Agatha filed out.

Agatha stopped at one of the portals. After a few moments it spiraled open and a Nethrilla hung in the air in front of them. It had the crimson and scarlet textured skin of all Nethrilla, with a cluster of brilliant lime green eyes.

"Hello there, welcome your Excellency, please, everyone come inside." The Nethrilla's tendrils beckoned them forward.

Max and Joon shared a smile.

"My name is Voshi, Mel is in the living room..." Voshi seemed to babble a bit then...Mel, your company is here!" The Nethrilla shouted excitedly.

A tenor voice replied loudly, "No need to yell, Voshi."

Max, Joon and Agatha followed the excitable Nethrilla as the door spiraled shut. 'Una' remained outside the entrance. They entered a flowing living room dining room space, a single terran style 'love seat' was adjacent to a low coffee table and a saddle shaped chair commonly used by Ornaliths.

An Ornalith was using that saddle chair and came to its feet. The Nethrilla projected, "Allow me to introduce, Her Excellency, The Exquisite Lady Jooniper Smith, and her wife Dame Captain Max Anders. Your Excellency, Dame Captain, I present to you my partner, Doctor Mel Peu."

Voshi turned to Mel, "I hope I did that alright, I am so nervous!"

"It was wonderful darling, thank you so much." Dr. Peu's smile reflected the sentiment.

"Right, yes, can I get anyone anything?" Voshi asked.

"We're fine, thank you." Jooniper answered.

Voshi's eyes went right to Mel's, "I'm going to float and hide in the bedroom before I do anything too embarrassing."

The Nethrilla floated off down the opposing hallway. The Ornalith watched the Nethrilla go and sighed happily.

Agatha thought to Max and Joon.

"Hello and well met! My name is Mel, I am very honored to meet all of you." The Ornalith bowed, though it might have been a curtsy. "Please be seated, I hope this furniture will suit?" Dr. Peu indicated the love seat.

Joon smiled, "Unexpected and greatly appreciated."

Mel waited for his guests to be seated, but Agatha only took up station next to the small couch.

"Right, then." Dr. Peu settled into the saddle chair. "What can I do for you, Your Excellency?"

Joon smiled, "Firstly, please call me Joon, call her Max, and her Ag's." The Terran Diplomat pointed at her entourage in turn.

Mel nodded and smiled, looking a bit more relaxed.

"I have a number of questions, but please tell me about Voshi, she seems delightful." Joon asked with a gleam in her eye.

Mel smiled broadly. Dr. Peu proclaimed adoration for the excitable and very supportive Nethrilla. They had met at the University when Mel was accepted to teach, Voshi has about a dozen or so degrees and is the most tenured Professor on the faculty.

They fell for each other instantly, much to the dismay of the rest of the faculty. At the time Voshi was leading two different committees and had the favor of the student body. It was deemed appropriate by the majority that Professors were allowed to have relationships with each other, regardless of species.

Mel explained that it was becoming more common and socially acceptable for Nethrilla and Ornalith to have openly romantic relationships. Even if the two species did not share biology, they did have very similar reproductive methods. Both species reproduced by internal budding, with only slight differences.

That one connection opened up a plethora of commonalities.

The two species had similar expectations, hopes and dreams; finding affection in thoughts, words, and touch while also appreciating conversation, discussion of new ideas, and innovation.

Joon and Max soon found themselves holding hands.

Mel focused on Joon, "But this isn't why you contacted me."

Joon shook her head, "No... it isn't."

The Terran Ambassador explained the dire events that transpired with the Bract Galleon. How she offered her team's expertise and professionalism to the Manager of Depot 03. How during the investigation two infamous names came up, Freeport and Peu.

Mel was now somber, but completely understood, and was willing to help anyway he could. The Ornalith historian explained that Rek Peu was Rum's middle offspring. Starved for affection from his sire, Rek would do anything Rum directed him to do. It was more than likely that he was running Rum's errands. Travel to Freeport was beyond Mel's knowledge however. Mel did mention that Fud Peu's estate was now deeply in debt, and Rum was probably becoming even more desperate.

Joon smiled, "I do have one sliver of good news."

"Golamar is no longer listed under Fud Peu's assets."

Mel gasped, "That's wonderful! Though I don't know why anyone would want it."

Max responded, "Designating legitimate targets."

Dr. Peu blinked, "Oh... Oh my... You?"

Max nodded, "No ambiguity, no debate and no quarter."

Mel nodded in understanding, "You're going to wipe them all out."

Joon commented, "She really doesn't like pirates."

Dr. Mel Peu softly proclaimed, "If you sought my endorsement, you certainly have it."

"Please, remove this festering blight from the Minor Empires, its end is long overdue."

---

Paula watched the cityscape slide past on the magnetic transit train. It was becoming a long ride, with many stops. Eventually, the frequency of tastefully artistic buildings diminished while plain, unremarkable ones increased. It started gradually, then suddenly every structure seemed neglected, like the train carried them into a different, darker world.

There were few passengers, as it was the middle of the current work shift so it was easy for Agatha's hand to provide cover and lead them off the train at their stop. The neighborhood was dirty with bits of rubbish gathered in corners. It was almost exclusively Ornalith, with only a few Nethrilla.

The Terran trio walked down a thoroughfare and they felt the eyes of everyone they passed. Agatha led them down a narrow alley, leading them into an even less prosperous section. Vika and Paula shared a look.

Agatha stopped, "We are about to have a confrontational encounter."

Vika smirked.

Paula sighed, "We don't have time for this."

Agatha nodded as three barrel-like Ornalith stepped out of a doorway ahead of them in the narrow alley.

Vika glanced rearward and saw four more Ornalith had entered the alley behind them.

"You lost, hoomy?" The largest one yelled.

Vika growled, "No killing, but can I hurt them a little?"

The Ornalith formed up in front and behind the Terrans.

Paula glanced at Agatha, then looked at Vika, "We really don't have time for this." Paula began moving her arms, waving her hands around her, pulling Fortune from all seven Ornalith ruffians.

One of them laughed, "Yoo a wizard, hoomy?"

Paula stopped, raised her hands and gestured at the two seperate Ornalith fronts. The seven bulky Ornaliths fell to the ground simultaneously. Vika and Agatha nodded.

"Smartly done, Paula." Agatha smiled.

The Terrans stepped over the three unconscious Ornaliths who had barred their progress.

Vika beamed a smile at Paula, "Moya Zayka."

Paula leaned down for a smooch.

"Are you going to leave them that way?" Vika asked as a smile played across her lips.

Paula nodded, "For a little while, lessons taught, lessons learned."

They walked down another thoroughfare, they still felt eyes watching them. The trio traveled several more blocks without incident. Agatha led Paula and Vika to a five story building, it had a small storefront and a stairway entrance adjacent. A small sign in tradespeak was next to the entrance.

Vika read it out loud, "Lawyer upstairs."

Paula smirked, "Simple enough, but how far upstairs?"

Agatha looked up the stairs, "I can't tell, there's twenty-three people in this building.

Paula looked up and down the thoroughfare, she saw no one. She tilted her head: she could feel those Hexes still on the Ornalith ruffians. Paula waved her hand, removing the Ability from her targets.

Vika and Agatha had been watching.

"I could feel them, another interesting application." Paula smiled.

Vika smiled, "Nice."

They entered the stairway entrance, up to the second floor. The doors there had no signs or indication of commercial use so they continued up to the third floor where a small shingle was hung above the last door.

Agatha whispered, "There are two individuals in that office, neither are very happy.

Vika shared a look with her wives, "Give me a few minutes."

Paula and Agatha nodded. Vika knelt down and closed her eyes, ten seconds later. Wuff... Vika disappeared. Agatha reported that Vika was in the office so they waited in the stairwell for almost ten minutes.

Wuff... Vika reappeared, she smiled, "I seem to always find the storage closets."

Paula smirked, "Is it them?"

Vika nodded, "I recognized them from the security holo."

The diminutive redhead looked up at Paula, "Can you tag Rek with Hex through the walls?"

Paula blinked, "I have no idea, why?"

"Because he is leaving for Freeport in about two hours." Vika reported.

"And if we can find the ship he's using, I bet Deirdre can follow, or hitch a ride."

Agatha smiled softly.

"I will certainly try my hardest." The brunette Terran Witch promised. Paula closed her eyes and she examined the flow of Fortune in the building. She concentrated on the two figures in the law office. "Which one is Peu?" Paula asked quietly, her eyes still closed.

"The one standing in front of the desk." Vika answered.

Paula couldn't detect any desk, but she could sense one of them was standing. That one didn't have a lot of Fortune, and she didn't want to make him ill or worse so Paula gently filled his Fortune so she could just land the Hex on him with little effect. With her eyes still closed, she raised her hand and gestured.

She opened her eyes, "Got him."

The three Terrans descended the stairs. When they got to the street Vika and Agatha both looked at Paula.

She nodded, "Yea...I feel him."

---

Buznermic sat at his huge desk again; but, he was no longer in charge of his family's company. He was not, however, unemployed. The frightfully well informed Terran who rudely purchased his precious legacy, Kylex Group, said she had no intention of ousting him. But, she and her cyborg wife were going to make a few small changes.

Buz had never had a lot of dealings with Terrans because they had a bad reputation in the ME. Ruthless, uncompromising, deadly serious, and they just looked weird. Now, however, after a long discussion about 'Astrid's intentions', Buz felt quite a bit better.

Ms. Komatzu didn't seem quite that scary now, but Buz had no intention of upsetting the Terran either. When the two Terrans left, Buznermic Ky called in his Nethrilla secretary, Julisi, to help him get started on making those changes.

Astrid and Samira walked hand in hand down the corridor. While Astrid had been sitting on Mr. Ky's desk, her cybernetic interface above her butt, had snaked out and established a direct connection. With her telepathic connection to Agatha, her most exotic wife could access it directly, at cybernet speed and power.

Without the bottleneck of holonet wireless slowing the connection to a crawl, Agatha was able to essentially copy every byte of data in the Kylex Group servers. Now Agatha had all the data and Astrid's wetware could examine and correlate it at leisure.

Astrid and Samira quietly chatted through the wetware connection again. They walked out of Mr. Ky's office, through the Kylex Group cubicles, and to the elevator down to the ground floor where Samira wiggled her fingers goodbye to the receptionist.

They got plenty of stares from all the people they passed but soon they were going out the front lobby of the building. When they turned on to the thoroughfare heading back to The Deirdre, Astrid stopped. She looked up at the building they had just left, it seemed taller now.

Samira put her arm around her wife, standing beside her also looking up. "I was pretending to be Ingrid back there." Astrid said out loud.

Samira pursed her lips, "So confident, domineering and egotistical?"

Astrid nodded, "I didn't like it very much."

Samira hugged Astrid, "You were just pretending, and you accomplished what you needed."

"But, that isn't really who I am." Astrid said softly.

"I know, but sometimes playing a part is necessary, just don't get stuck in it."

Samira turned and looked up into Astrid's eyes, they looked amazing under the orange and pink clouds of Nethril.

Astrid looked down into Samira's eyes.

"I love you." They both said at the same time.

"Jinx!" they both said.

"Double jinx!" they both said.

Then they kissed deeply for a long time outside the Araku Building, Kiz Enclave, Nethril.

---

Dr. Mel Peu stood at the open door of the residence with Professor Voshi's tendrils lovingly wrapped around an arm. They both bid farewell to Joon, Max, and Agatha; wishing them good luck and good hunting. The door spiraled closed and the Terrans walked back to the delicate looking elevator.

Joon thought.

Max and Joon shared a look.

Max responded.

Agatha asked both of her senior wives.

Joon linked arms with 'Una'.

Max added,

They rode the glass lift down.

As they walked out of the lobby of the residential section, Joon started veering towards the storefronts.

Max inquired to get a gauge how much time they had.



Agatha faithfully reported.

Max glanced at Agatha.

Agatha smiled,

Max shared a smile with Joon and let herself be led to a brightly colored shop.

Max queried.



Joon showed Max a well made satchel like handbag with lots of straps and buckles. Max nodded her approval; a pretty green color was a sure way to get Joon's attention.

Max asked.

Joon now carried her newly purchased satchel who's straps allowed it to be carried like an oversized purse or a small backpack.

Agatha explained.

Joon was now looking at some Ornalith footwear. Max didn't think she would buy them, but Joon intently studied their design and construction. One of the many things she loved about Joon, the woman saw beauty in everything.



Agatha nodded to Max with a smile,

---

They had to take a longer, more circumspect route to the transit station, but they made it easily enough. Agatha was able to keep her wives from any unnecessary delays, unfortunately there were a couple of necessary ones.

Paula pouted, "I'm sorry, I didn't think we would be so far away from a lavatory."

Vika blinked, "Do you want me to find you a quiet corner?"

Agatha was unsure what to say. Vika asked a passing Ornalith about public facilities, they said the nearest was the transit station so Paula had to make the last part of her journey in extreme discomfort.

She also really didn't want to piss herself.

After a harrowing five minute speed walk, Paula found herself in a round stall, holding onto two of three grab bars hovering over a grated sluice. Vika waited just outside the stall, and Paula moaned in relief.

Agatha shared a smile with Vika.

When Paula was done emptying her bladder she looked a thousand times happier. The trio went up to the platform and waited for the next transit.

Vika noticed a Nethrilla observing them.

That in of itself was not unusual, everyone stared or did a double take when they walked by. This area was, after all, very far from the 'tourist' areas. What made this different was the Nethrilla wasn't staring, they were observing.

Apparently, they had acquired a tail.

"Did you notice we are being followed?" Vika asked in Largatta.

Paula raised an eyebrow at the language switch.

Agatha peered at Vika, then replied in the same guttural language. "Ah... No I hadn't, but now that you mention it, they do taste very curious about us."

"Sinister intentions?" Vika inquired in the same tongue.

Agatha shook her head, "No, not at all... though the curiosity seems oddly clinical."

Vika peered curiously at Agatha, "Clinical?"

"Maybe, professional." Agatha clarified in Largatta.

Paula stared off at nothing, waiting for them to let her in on whatever they were discussing.

"Journalist?" Vika asked.

Agatha nodded, "Possibly."

The transit train came sliding in, being gravtech, it was fairly quiet. Agatha, Paula and Vika climbed aboard, and found a nice little corner to gather in where Vika quickly whispered to Paula what she and Agatha had been conversing about.

The tail had also boarded the train.

Paula blinked. "Huh... That's interesting. I take it, you are monitoring them?" Paula raised an eyebrow at Agatha.

Agatha nodded, then tapped her visor, "I even have holo of them."

Paula pursed her lips, "I don't think being nosey is illegal, not here at least."

Vika giggled, "Just knowing will help us if something should occur."

The ride was just as long getting back to the Financial District as it was traveling to 'Little Dick.' Agatha was coordinating the rendezvous between all away teams providing Joon time to scratch her shopping itch, and she indulged happily.

Astrid and Samira were enjoying each other's company at the small park adjacent to the Transit Station. They found a Terran usable bench and sat together holding hands. Astrid and Samira had a full view of both the Station and the Executive Pad entrance.

At approximately the time she calculated it would take to travel back to The Deirdre, Agatha gently encouraged her Mistress to conclude her glorious commercial consumption. If everything went according to plan they would be 'wheels up' in thirty minutes.

Joon was a little reluctant to depart but Max was now carrying two shopping bags filled with purchases. Vika and Paula would arrive at the Financial Station a little sooner than Max and Joon while Astrid and Samira were blissfully occupied and really didn't care.

Paula shared a smile with Vika as the train was finally arriving at their stop. Agatha led them off the platform and the trio started walking towards the Executive Pad. Ten meters in front of the Pad entrance, Paula, Vika and Agatha were suddenly besieged by a plethora of flashing multi-colored strobe lights and extremely loud jarring electronic noises.

Seven Kiz Enclave type-3 Grav-Unit Police vehicles swooped in all around them. Paula, Vika and Agatha froze in place, not wanting to escalate the situation further when fourteen Ornalith Police Officers in full tactical gear scrambled from the Grav-Units, weapons drawn.

Three phrases were yelled over and over by the armored officers brandishing deadly weapons.

"Get on the ground!"

"Right fucking now!"

"Down on the ground!"

Forty meters away, Astrid shrieked, her hands covering her mouth. Samira's gold eyes were wide in shock... She had seen this exact scenario many times before. It never ended well for the suspects.

---