Max Intel: Melinoe
Chapter 26 - Passage

The three Terrans were surrounded on all sides by Kiz Enclave Municipal Police in tactical gear. Paula, Vika and Agatha did not comply with their demands, they didn't move or separate as the Ornalith Police Officers screamed at them over leveled firearms.

They braced for assault.

The Terrans were Ambassadorial staff with diplomatic immunity and under most circumstances such immunity would have protected the Terrans from any confrontation with national authorities: unfortunately, that status had to be communicated via rational exchange precluding extreme physical engagement, authorized or not.

Astrid's thoughts suddenly entered Agatha's mind,

So Agatha did and a glossy lavender sphere formed around them. Four advancing Officers tried to seize them manually, only to be obstructed by the impenetrable barrier. Inside Astrid's bubble it was very quiet, with only the heavy breathing of acute stress so Agatha pushed calm into her wives.

"What the actual fuck?" Paula asked.

Vika looked at Paula, "We were set up."

Agatha nodded, "Logical conjecture, I agree."

Paula looked at Agatha, "Did you tell Max and Joon yet?"

Agatha surveyed the half-dozen confused and frustrated Police Officers testing the Barrier. "Indeed, I was instructed to prepare a full diplomatic response in case this escalates."

"How does this escalate?" Paula looked incredulous.

Vika replied, "They could start shooting at us."

Paula blinked, "Well, that's just mierda!"

Vika put her hand in Paula's, "We are safe, thanks to Asa-chan."

"I could drop them like I did those ruffians." Paula muttered with a growl.

Vika glanced at Agatha.

Agatha shared a tense look with Paula, "That would only exacerbate circumstances, making negotiations more difficult."

Vika nodded, "Yes."

"Time is in our favor, Leadership is nearly here." Agatha reported.

Paula nodded, "You're right, we can wait."

They did not need to wait long, Max and Joon's train soon slid into the station. The loud electronic noises had ceased, but the strobe effects persisted. A scattered crowd of curious civilian spectators had begun to gather along the perimeter, and was growing steadily.

Astrid and Samira used the crowd to cover their careful exit from the small park, meeting their senior wives at the transit station entrance. Astrid's face was streaked in tears and as Joon surveyed the scene she pulled Astrid into a hug.

"What do we do?" Joon asked.

Samira answered, "Nothing, Astrid's Barrier has changed circumstances dramatically."

Max raised an eyebrow, "Shouldn't we be contacting Nethril or Enclave leadership?"

Samira shook her head, "Only if you want to stay on Kiz for the next twelve hours. I am quite sure a Senior Police Official or Chief will dispatch someone qualified to assess the situation."

Max and Joon shared a look.

"Will that someone be of sufficient authority to negotiate with us?" Joon inquired.

Samira shrugged, "I don't know, but I bet they will be willing to avoid the mountain of datawork an international incident will create."

Joon was now intimately familiar with that particular summit and had no desire to climb it again.

The Police surrounding the wet lavender sphere held position with weapons trained on it. In just under eleven minutes a heavily armored municipal grav-vehicle came into view and descended close by.

Joon gasped at the size and shape of it.

"Fuckmuffins." Astrid stared wide eyed.

Crowds dispersed as Officers cleared space for the impressively wide vehicle.

It featured two front corner mounted armored ball turrets with heavy weapons, and a large top turret with some manner of artillery. The large vehicle grounded, a thick armored door opened, and three additional Police Officers deployed along with a ranking uniformed Police Official.

Joon looked up at Max anxiously and her Dame Captain nodded with conviction. Max raised an eyebrow at Samira and tilted her head indicating she join Max in parley with the authorities. Samira nodded then stepped up beside her towering wife.

Joon, Astrid and Agatha watched Max and Samira calmly approach the uniformed Police Official. The Ornalith Official wore the rank of Sergeant and turned to face the two approaching Terrans: immediately noting Max's tailored space-black uniform and Samira's cybernetic limbs.

Agatha could sense more confusion bloom.

"Hello, Sergeant, I am Dame Captain Max Anders," She began.

"The Terran Federation Ambassador would like to know the rationale behind the Kiz Enclave Municipal Police harassing her staff?"

The Police Sergeant stood stock-still for a moment, processing Max's words.

"Oh, shit." The Sergeant growled in a deep gravelly voice, then clicked a standard issue comms unit on his uniform rapidly, gaining the attention of every Police Officer on the scene.

The Ornalith glared at the Officers surrounding the Terrans in the lavender bubble. He waved them off with several very specific hand gestures, then pointed a heavy arm and digit into the sky and the dozen or so Ornalith Officers that surrounded the Terrans quickly moved to their vehicles. They turned off the flashing multicolored lights and one by one the seven type-3 Grav-Unit vehicles departed the scene.
The remaining Officers returned to the heavy armored vehicle, retaking stations within, giving their ranking Official privacy. The Sergeant slowly turned to Max and Samira, looking very tired.

"I'm going to say that this has been a terrible mistake," The Sergeant started. "I am unable to state publicly that this mistake was orchestrated by undesirables manipulating law enforcement."

Joon, Astrid and Agatha walked from the Transit station to the lavender sphere which quickly faded away and the crew started hugging. The Ornalith Sergeant noted the public display of affection then continued, "I'm hoping this incident doesn't go any further than us, because I'm already working on a crap day."

Max shook her head, "I don't think we need to pursue this."

The Ornalith nodded to Max, "I hope whoever the Ambassador's staff pissed off is now completely humiliated and has an even worse day."

The Sergeant looked at Max and Samira, "The call was 'Terran Terrorists' if you can believe that shit."

Samira nodded, "An emergency law enforcement response against a target victim under false pretenses."

The Sergeant gave Samira a measured look,"Were you ever on the Job?"

"Detective, U.C.P.D." Samira replied.

The Sergeant smirked, "Lucky Ambassador. I'm gonna give you my contact data, if anything 'happens' to you in Kiz, contact me and maybe we can prevent this kind of thing next time." The Sergeant raised an eye.

Max looked at Samira.

Samira nodded, "Appreciated, I'm Sam Bahjat, the Ambassador's Security Chief.

"Sergeant Budizawik Yaf, Special Operations K.E.M.P., or just... Bud." The Ornalith put out a thick three fingered hand to Samira.

Samira took Bud's offered hand.

Then so did Max.

---

"Swatted is a weird word," Astrid commented.

Joon and her 'staff' were jogging across the executive pad, Deirdre's cargo bay ramp had just lowered.

Samira grimaced, "It's also a nasty way to ruin someone's day."

Max nodded, "It was unfortunate, but we did make a new contact from the experience."

"Did we completely miss our window?" Joon asked, as she and her wives boarded the Terran Corvette they called home.

Paula paused for a moment, trying to sense the location of Hex she had placed on Rek.

"I don't think so, M'lady, I think Mr. Peu is still in the system."

Agatha thumbed the DNA lock on the cargo bay ramp and door and the entire crew felt Deirdre ascend as the tiny warship's thrusters spun them around.

Max, Joon, Vika, Samira and Paula went to the bridge while three hands of Agatha and Astrid went to change into BDU's. Agatha finally got clearance from Kiz ATC as they left the atmosphere and Deirdre departed the Enclave at an impressive velocity.

Agatha had been looking for a quiet corner in the Xi Piscium system to slip into stealth.

A difficult task in such a busy place.
The closest was a large type-C asteroid just outside shipping lanes. Without a fuss, Deirdre slipped close behind the six kilometer rock and Agatha activated the sensor-baffle suite: the Corvette effectively disappeared. The extremely sensitive passive sensors Deirdre employed were wide open, collecting data and tracking hundreds of ships.

Agatha pulled the ship back around , increasing velocity while keeping maximum stealth integrity. She looked over her shoulder at Max and nodded, "Ready, Captain."

Max smiled and turned her attention to Paula.

Paula swallowed and nodded.

Joon squeezed Paula's hand, "You got this."

Paula smiled nervously, took a deep breath then closed her eyes. She didn't try to force it, but she was under pressure to perform. Paula felt the Fortune on Deirdre, it was like trying to look out past a candle to see into darkness.

She eased her feelings past the brightness of her wives, she was then able to barely sense millions of tiny candles drifting in the void. Paula noticed a thin thread connecting herself to Rek: she studied it. "He's moving away," Paula said softly, "I can feel him, that direction."

Paula pointed at him, millions of miles away. Agatha swung the bow to follow that heading, Paula's arm moved with it, still with her eyes closed, she followed the thread pointing at Rek. Everyone watched on holo-screens as a dozen possible targets were highlighted as Agatha attempted to improve determination of the ship Rek was on by narrowing the gain on Deirdre's powerful passive sensors.

"I think he is on this one," Agatha brought up her feed on the central holographic display.

A bulk freighter, The Ghusmik Urr, appeared on it, nearing the edge of the system. It had a distinctive, three-sided Ornalith hull design.

Agatha calculated its heading, "Course suggests the destination is a nearby system."

"Zig zag..." Vika commented.

"Yes, precisely." Agatha set course to intercept the freighter. "I believe they will utilize that protocol to mask their intended destination." Agatha stated.

Paula now opened her eyes, "I don't know how far I can track him."

"Agatha, can we catch them?" Max inquired.

Just as Agatha was about to answer... The bulk freighter slipped away into hyper-warp.

"I'm afraid not, Captain."

Every human on the bridge felt disappointed. Astrid stepped onto the bridge now wearing BDU's and Samira patted the small space next to her. The Chief Engineer sat next to the Security Chief as everyone edged over to give her more room.

Agatha looked over her shoulder, "I have their course, I believe if we follow it, as we are faster in hyper-warp, we will pass them by. Then perhaps covertly rendezvous with them when they make their course change in the next system?" Agatha smiled, raising an eyebrow.

Max shared a look with Joon and they both looked at Agatha with a smile, "Let's do that, then." Max nodded.

Agatha brought Deirdre to the edge of the system and transitioned into hyper-warp. The target system was only sixteen minutes travel for Deirdre... Agatha updated her family. Most of Deirdre's crew left the bridge for a little while to do necessary things.

When it was just Max and Vika left on the command couch, Agatha gave them both a wink and turned back to her duties. Vika raised an eyebrow at Max then licked her lips and Max smiled softly, leaning back while her diminutive spouse took her turn in the queue.

Agatha at navigation bit her lip and closed her eyes, enjoying the lovely sensations from her wives. Vika unsealed Max's trousers, but did not try to remove them... She simply pulled the stiffening cock out from the gray boy-shorts style panties.

She quickly stuffed all of it into her mouth and Vika felt it grow and harden while lashing at it with her tongue and soon Vika bobbed quietly as the length teased the entrance to her throat. She took a deep breath and pushed her face all the way down.

Max let her climax through and came, what felt like half a gallon, down Vika's throat: the entire affair taking less than five minutes.

Afterwards Vika closed her eyes and gently laid her head in Max's lap after her tummy was filled with vanilla goodness: the softening cock still in Vika's mouth as she moaned softly. Max reveled in the vibrations. Max cupped Vika's small breast; she was curled up on the command couch next to her Captain-wife.

a familiar voice echoed through Max's mind.

Agatha glanced at Vika over a shoulder, her broad smile unmistakable. Max blinked at Agatha, pointing at Vika's head in her lap. Agatha nodded rapidly.

Max responded.

Vika sat up immediately, her mouth hung open, staring at Max.

Joon's thoughts rolled through.

Astrid mentally cheered.

Max and Vika shared a meaningful look.

Vika laid her head back down, She said as she slurped up the last of the lingering vanilla. Then the newly ascended telepath tucked her Captain-wife's penis back into her panties and resealed her trousers. Max and Vika cuddled together, enjoying the physical touch.

Soon the crew reassembled on the bridge and Vika got kisses when she announced to Samira and Paula that she was now in the family telepathic network. Paula held Vika on her lap in a hug and Samira and Paula shared a longing smile.

"And then there were two..." Paula smirked.

Deirdre slipped out of hyper-warp and Agatha immediately enveloped the corvette in the sensor-baffle suite.

Max raised her eyebrow, "Hey Ag's?"

Agatha looked over her shoulder and smiled, "Yes, Captain?"

"Do you know how to use the magnetic grapples?" Max inquired.

"Theoretically."

Max's eyebrows rose, "Think you can pull it off?"

"Yes, Captain... I am confident I can." Agatha smiled.

"What is the ETA for the freighter?" Joon inquired.

Agatha pursed her lips, "Thirty to Thirty-five minutes, Mistress."

"Oh, that long?" Joon asked rhetorically.

"I didn't realize Deirdre was so fast." Paula commented.

"She has all of the latest TFN upgrades... Many technologies are rumored to be provided by Admiral Blake." Astrid informed.

Paula's eyes grew.

Max nodded, then thought about her day so far, "I could just murder a cup of tea."

Joon beamed a smile at her first wife, "Seconded!"

---

The family sat at the Mess table enjoying afternoon tea and soon the conversation revolved around the expansion of the telepathic network and how long it might take for Samira and Paula to join it. Agatha predicted it would not take very long, as she was certain both of them were approaching the threshold and tweaked her assessments to include Max's increase of volume.

"My what now?" Max blinked.

Agatha smiled, "You have been steadily increasing the volume of your cum."

"I thought you were doing that." Max replied with surprise in her voice.

Agatha shook her head, "You have control of that, not me."

Joon raised an eyebrow at Max and bit her lip, "That's hot."

There were giggles.

Max nodded, "I see."

The Captain cleared her throat, "Alright, well, not to change the subject at an awkward moment. Agatha, what are we looking at in regard to this mission?"

Agatha smiled softly, "Deirdre can stay in stealth while inside the hyper-warp geometry of a larger ship. A visual inspection leading to our discovery is still theoretically possible, but highly unlikely."
Max sipped her tea.

Joon raised a finger, "How long do you think it will take to get to Freeport?"

Agatha shook her head, "I am sorry, Mistress, I have no idea."

Astrid turned to Joon. "If the freighter we are hitching a ride on is as slow as I think, it could be days, weeks, or longer." Astrid commented.

Agatha nodded in agreement with the Engineer.

Max sighed, "Weeks..."

Joon pouted momentarily, then smiled. "I would like Sam and Paula to please stay on top of the queue." Both Samira and Paula smiled. "And," Joon continued, "The entire family should use this time to practice and explore their Fantasy Class Abilities."

Everyone nodded.

"I still have a lot to do on my drones, but I want to understand my Barrier better." Astrid commented.

Paula pursed her lips, "Your Barrier is the only reason we endured that swatting without serious consequences."

Vika nodded.

"Though..." Paula continued, "It was getting stuffy inside it near the end."

Agatha nodded in agreement.

Astrid listened closely then thought about that.

Samira focused on Astrid. "I've never seen a 'takedown' so completely derailed before."

Astrid smiled at her tattooed spouse. "I hate to say it, but I was curious to see what they were planning to do with that tank." Astrid smirked with humor.

Vika responded curtly, "No."

Everyone giggled.

"Maybe someday I'll be able to test its limits." Astrid smiled at Vika.

"Hopefully without any of us inside." Paula replied.

Vika and Paula shared a smirk and a nod.

Joon sipped her tea.

Max pursed her lips,"After we have gotten Deirdre settled into playing a Remora, we can all work on that together."

Agatha tilted her head looking at Max, "You don't need to wait, I can handle the 'Remora' maneuver."

Max shared a meaningful look with Agatha. "Okay then, we'll start our Ability seminar forthwith," Max nodded.

Joon raised an eyebrow at Max, "After tea."

Max smirked, "Yes, of course, after tea."

Everyone smiled and sipped their beverages. Samira looked at Astrid's profile, her golden eyes half-lidded and Astrid, sensing her attention, glanced at her and saw the adoring look on Samira's face.

Joon smiled, "I like it when Max looks at me like that."

Samira bit her lip.
Astrid fanned herself, her cheeks bright red, "Does it ever stop feeling so good?"

Joon turned to look at Max, who was looking at her first wife in adoration. "Over ten years now, it's never stopped feeling magnificent." Joon winked at Max.

Paula pulled Vika into a gentle heartfelt kiss.

Agatha closed her eyes and smiled softly, enjoying the feast of lovely emotions.

Max cleared her throat, "Let's change into something appropriate for the seminar."

"You mean like nothing at all?" Joon raised her eyebrow and smiled suggestively.

Max's cheeks colored a little, "I suppose that is an option."

Vika stood up and pulled Paula up and out of her chair wearing a lascivious smile.

"Oh, I guess we're going to get naked now..." Paula managed to say as Vika led her out of the Mess.

There were giggles as the rest of the family soon followed Vika and Paula to the CQ. Paula carefully removed and hung up her dress grays; Vika was already nude. Max followed Paula's lead and began undressing and in moments there were seven completely nude women. Max's eyes drank in the various body types, every one of them looked incredibly sexy.

Joon smiled at Max, "Aren't they gorgeous?"

Max nodded, "Completely."

Joon waved her wives forward and led the way down to the cargo hold. Samira stopped outside the armory, Max raised her eyebrow as Samira unlocked then opened the heavy door. Max thought to the others,

Joon responded.

Max leaned in at the doorway and watched Samira crouch down in front of her weapons case; popping open the latches, Samira pulled out the long Nagamaki and two Wakizashi.

"What's up, Samira?" Max tilted her head.

Samira turned her head, "I'm going to test Astrid's Barrier."

Max nodded, "Y'know, that's a great idea." The nude Captain-wife walked deeper into the armory. Max pulled out a decent sized black polymer case, turned around and walked back to the armory door.

Samira raised her eyebrow, "What's that?"

"Another weapon to test the Barrier." Max smirked.

"Fair enough," Samira closed her case, then stood carrying her sheathed weapons.

The two women stepped out of the armory, Samira secured the door, and they both descended into the cargo hold. Joon, Astrid and Paula were sitting on spectator's row watching Agatha and Vika stretching out.

Max set the black case down and sat next to Joon. Joon eyed the case, "Oh, there's something I didn't expect to see."

Max nodded, "This mission may be the ideal time to use it."

Astrid and Paula glanced at the case. Joon explained, "It's a fancy hunting bow Max got as a gift and never used."

Max shrugged, "Hunting as entertainment doesn't appeal to me."

Joon smiled at her first wife, "I told her to hold onto it, just in case."

Max and Joon shared a brief kiss as Astrid looked at Samira's handful of weapons. "Why did you guys bring weapons down, I thought we were going to work on Abilities?"

Samira nodded, "I want to test your Barrier...Thoroughly."

"Oh!" Astrid blinked. "I've been thinking about that, or more accurately my wetware's been doing some calculations on it." Agatha and Vika knelt down in front of Astrid, now paying close attention.

Astrid looked at everyone, "Am I going first?"

Samira smiled, "Can you tell us what your marvelous mind has come up with?"

Astrid's cheeks colored, "Um, I get the impression that Barrier can be manipulated somewhat."

"I guess I will try messing with that here, though, I'm not sure how far I can push it."

Paula pursed her lips, "I noticed that every time you have used it, around yourself, and around others, it gets anchored on or in something."

Astrid made a face, "What do you mean?"

Max and Samira shared a look. "The bubble itself," Paula elaborated, "It's grounded on something."

Joon nodded, "Like the floor, the kitchen island, or the sidewalk."

Astrid thought about that and nodded, "Yea, okay, you're correct."

The ship shuddered ever so slightly but it was noticed by everyone and all eyes went to Agatha who nodded. "Deirdre has successfully attached to The Ghusmik Urr, I will do my best to calculate our ETA when the data becomes available." Agatha diligently reported.

Max nodded and smiled, "Well done, Ag's"

Joon returned her attention to Astrid, "Can you create a bubble that isn't touching anything?"

The sitting Engineer held one hand before her palm facing the opposite wall while Agatha and Vika moved to either side, out of Astrid's target view. Astrid lifted her other hand palm up and a wet lavender sphere appeared. The bubble hung in the air... Slowly drifting to the aft of the cargo bay.

"Oh, that's wild." Paula watched the sphere stop against the large cargo door.

Samira glanced at Astrid who was watching with the same enthusiasm as Paula, "Can you make another one?"

Astrid's forehead wrinkled in concentration and a second bubble came into existence. It, too floated slowly aftward, then touched gently on the first, and slowly moved to one side to settle next to the first against the door.

"Magic bubbles," Vika said softly.

Joon giggled, "I think you're right."

"Hmmm, let me try something." Astrid narrowed her eyes, she lifted her hands and grasped the air like she was holding two imaginary items. The Engineer moved her arms, and the two spheres smoothly moved to the center of the bay.

Everyone gasped. "Nice!" Joon beamed.

Paula's eyes were wide, "Can you change them? Alter their shape?"

"That's one of the things my wetware has been working on." Astrid's lips twisted slightly.

Astrid's face contorted in concentration... Her lavender eyes started to glow. Max noticed Astrid's eyes and she pointed it out to the other wives silently; everyone nodded in amazement.

The two lavender bubbles came together then slowly deformed into each other. Instead of combining into one bubble, they overlapped into a double bubble.

"Whoa." Max blinked at the double sphere.

Then Astrid smirked a slightly devious expression, the strange shape shifted and stretched into a torus.

"What is that?" Samira asked.

"It's a doughnut," Joon said softly.

The talented Engineer altered the shape further, into an elliptic torus as Max and Joon shared a proud look.

Vika nodded, "A tall, thin ring."

It was still an encapsulated shape, having an interior volume.

"That's amazing, Asa-chan." Agatha said softly with obvious pride.

Astrid smiled while still concentrating on her Barrier.

"Thank you, my wetware will help me remember this shape exactly." Astrid opened her hands suddenly, the wet lavender shape disappeared, the glow in her eyes faded. She stood and walked to the center of the bay.

The nude Engineer twisted her lips again, "So I can replicate it, like this..." Astrid smiled broadly as she raised her hands palm up. A fully formed glossy lavender elliptic torus appeared around Astrid. The upper and lower edges just cleared the floor and ceiling.

"What do you think?" Astrid smiled.

Her family cheered and applauded.

Paula enthusiastically asked, "Is it centered on you? Can you walk around with it?"

The Engineer walked in a small circle and the Barrier moved with her, "I have to kind of carry it, but it's not hard to do, it's like holding a datapad."

"That's fantastic!" Max exclaimed.

Everyone felt the transition into hyper-warp. Eyes turned to Agatha once again. Agatha looked at nothing, her head was tilted slightly. "Another step in the protocol...The target system is nearby, ETA forty-two minutes."

Max and Joon both nodded. Astrid let her Barrier fade, she sat back down with her best friends in the universe and Samira pulled her into a hug, "That was very impressive, Asa-chan."

Everyone agreed. Max shared a brief look with Samira then both of them smiled at Astrid. "May Max and I test a Barrier with our weapons?"

Astrid nodded, "Sure thing!"

"What would you like, and where would you like it?" The Engineer asked.

Samira shared a look and a shrug with Max. "I think a sphere should be okay." Max responded.

Samira added, "Can we have it anchored in the middle?"

Astrid smiled broadly, "It would be my pleasure!"

---

Zuki slithered closer to the Terran Consulate, the damp overcast sky felt cool and refreshing. She stopped and looked up at the precinct, the old, thick structure looked tired to Zuki's eyes.

The tumult that currently enveloped Staverka had supposedly started with this building. It wasn't that long ago that no one gave a single solitary thought about Terrans or their powerful but distant Federation. They had a dubious reputation, some of it was merited, but they seemed mostly okay to Zuki.

Every once in a while you'd see one, or trade with one, they were just people. The Terran language wasn't hard to learn, but could get you into trouble with its nuances if you weren't careful. Zuki had found herself wondering about how the Consulate sprung up so quickly. So, like any good prospective employee, Zuki did a holonet search. What she found both shocked and intimidated the hell out of her.

Starting with Her Excellency, The Exquisite Lady Jooniper Smith. Her tribute to Staverka and the Slarmian people in the form of an incredible music holovid was currently the most popular song on the planet if not the nation. Zuki had totally missed it, working her delivery routes constantly for weeks at a time. But now, she was in the know... So, she didn't stop there, she kept digging.

Zuki saw a bootleg holovid of a Dauzakai concert that had to be seen to be believed. Then found the Ambassadorial Event Massacre, and elevation of Dame Captain Max Anders. The Slarmian pilot was now far more anxious to enter the building she had been inside just that morning. She was seriously reconsidering her earlier enthusiasm.

Zuki shook her head, she needed to be pragmatic, she couldn't afford to pass up this chance. The long thin Slarmian straightened her spine and opened the door to the Consulate. She slithered into the foyer where a Terran stood behind the counter leaning over a datapad, exactly where the lovely Slarmian Receptionist had been earlier.

Zuki was more than a little mad at herself for not getting that Slarmians name.

She was intelligent, adorable, obviously interested, and said she would put in a good word on Zuki's behalf. The Terran looked up and smiled. She looked familiar to Zuki, but couldn't place where from.

"Hello, can I help you?" The Terran asked in perfect Slarmian. Zuki blinked at the Terran's linguistic skill, then slithered up to the counter.

"Hi there, um, I was here this morning and the Receptionist said I should come back at sixteen hundred."

The Terran smiled again, "Ah, Zuki, yes, you are Teffa's last interview of the day."

Zuki blinked, "Is that the Major-domo?"

The Terran nodded, "Yes, the current meeting is running long, however, you are welcome to wait in reception until you can be seen."

"That sounds great, thank you..." Zuki paused, biting her lip.

"Una... Call me, Una." She smiled at Zuki, who still couldn't quite place where she'd seen the black furred Terran before.

"Thank you, Una." They shared a nod.

Zuki slithered back along the wall adjacent to the entrance and coiled down, she pulled out her old commercial grade datapad and started scrolling. The reception area had a little low table, some decorative plants, and a couple pieces of nice art on the wall. In about ten minutes a thick Slarmian slithered by without a word and went out through the lobby.

Zuki stared after them, wondering who they were. Maybe they were Teffa and would be back shortly? Another five minutes went by but the thick Slarmian did not return.

"Hi, Zuki." The smallish lovely Slarmian slithered into the reception area carrying a tray with an ornate tea service.

Zuki's bright-yellow eyes went wide, "Oh, hello... Again... Oh wow, tea."

The Receptionist set the tray on the low table. Zuki felt extremely awkward, unable to bring herself to ask the lovely Receptionist her name after departing without it earlier that morning. The smallish Slarmian coiled down next to Zuki with a smile.

The tea service was obviously antique and likely quite expensive. It was made of blue-green Slarmian glass with gold trim in an elegant, traditional design. Zuki was astounded that anyone would present her with such an honor.

"Oh, um, I'm so sorry, I may not be able to stay and enjoy this with you, as I have yet to see Major-domo Teffa." Zuki confessed with heartfelt concern in her eyes.

The small Slarmian stopped immediately and adopted a look of endearment.

"Of course... I wouldn't dream of keeping you from the interview," She said softly with a slight smile.

Zuki watched the lovely Receptionist proceed to make tea in traditional fashion, performed for centuries throughout the Grand Slarmian Dynasty. This specific social ceremony was reserved for important meetings, honored guests and... Dates.

The smallish Slarmian executed the ritual flawlessly.

Zuki swallowed nervously, she glanced at the Terran behind the counter. Una seemed to be busy on a datapad and ignored the two Slarmians in reception. The Receptionist moved with poise and placed the beautiful cups of aromatic tea before Zuki and herself.

They lifted teacups and inhaled the delicate fragrance together.

"Oh, that smells amazing, what is it?" Zuki asked, her expression curious.

The smallish Slarmian returned the smile, "It's called Wunai Moon tea, it's from Dau."

They both sipped and observed a quiet moment of contemplation.

Zuki gazed fondly at the lovely Receptionist, "Delicious... Is it hard to get?"

She smiled, "It's not too difficult, I know someone at the Dau Embassy..."

Zuki smiled softly, feeling the tea settle her nerves.

"So, you're from Boozi?" The Receptionist tilted her head, changing the subject.

Zuki smirked, "Yup, the one and only."

"It's so pretty there." The smallish Slarmian smiled.

Zuki nodded, "Yea, It's... A good place to be from..."

Boozi was a very popular resort town on Staverka, it had been that way forever. It was nestled between the largest freshwater lake and the smallest salty sea. A common destination for newlyweds and romantic rendezvous.

"You'd rather work in space?" The smallish Slarmian smiled.

Zuki giggled softly, "Definitely, Boozi is a great place to visit, but living there...Let's just say, jobs in Boozi are mostly public relations, and customer service."

The Receptionist smiled warmly at Zuki, "You just want to fly, don't you?"

The long thin Slarmian pilot nodded, hearing her own feelings said aloud.

Zuki was trying to think of some way, 'any' way of asking the bright adorable Receptionist her name without looking like an idiot. Her misgivings about working here seemed completely unreasonable and excessive now. Zuki felt oddly safe and cared for in this moment, it was a pleasant change from the frantic break-neck pace of a bonded courier.

"I'm starting to worry that the Major-domo will spoil this delightful tea and conversation." Zuki said softly, smiling hopefully at the lovely smallish Slarmian.

"You know, for a pilot, you can be surprisingly obtuse." The Receptionist replied with an impish grin.

Zuki blinked, "What?"

Una walked around the counter into the reception area, the smallish Slarmian looked up.

"Lakita is starting dinner, she wants to know if she should make extra?" Una asked the Receptionist.

She nodded, "I'm going to say: yes, please; though Zuki's 'interview' may result in tardiness."

Zuki blinked in confusion as Una nodded with a smirk, "I'll let her know. Do you require anything before I go upstairs?"

The Receptionist smiled, then leveled a sultry look at Zuki, "No, I've got everything I need."

Zuki glanced at Una then turned her attention to the sultry look and swallowed.

Una nodded, "Dinner should be ready in an hour or so."

The smallish lovely Slarmian looked up at the Terran and smiled.

"Thank you, Una."

The Terran curtsied.

"Your welcome, Teffa."

Zuki froze.

---

Max spun a carbon shaft between her fingers, the threaded field point slipped right into the alloy seat. Inside the open case were several dozen highly polished carbon shafts and the heavy field points. Astrid was examining the Bjornwerks Panzer compound bow and the switchblade style broadheads.

It wouldn't take too long for Max to get twenty of them ready to shoot. While she was assembling her arrows she watched Deirdre's Security Chief warming up to go full-bore on Astrid's Barrier.

Samira looked amazing, with her beautiful polearm. Her graceful movements made the difficult routine look easy. With her four hands she twirled the deadly weapon all around her and soon it was obvious she had a strong connection to her chosen weapons.

Samira completed her warm up, squaring up on the lavender bubble.

She started off with a simple strike with the Nagamaki to test the glossy surface of Astrid's Barrier. The slightly curved blade cut through the air, then stopped without a sound. It wasn't a sudden or jarring hit, the blade didn't rebound in any way. All of the kinetic energy was completely absorbed.

Samira tilted her head, she prodded the wet looking surface with the Nagamaki's chisel point. It didn't feel solid, the Barrier felt like gradually thickening layers of viscous liquid.

Samira glanced at Astrid and noted she was studying Max's cool looking bow. The cyborg returned her focus to the barrier in front of her which was still anchored to the center of the cargo bay floor.

Samira stepped back, then immediately attacked. Heavy strikes fell, four hands gripped the hilt wrap tsuka style handle of the Nagamaki.

Joon and Paula shared a look with raised eyebrows as Samira brutally ravaged Astrid's 'Magic Bubble'. Her strikes came hard and fast, the sustained assault lasting for almost ten minutes. Samira's relentless offensive garnered all of her wives attention.

Astrid blinked in surprise. Max turned to see Astrid's reaction and saw that the Engineer's eyes glowed lavender.

Max announced to the network.

Joon and Vika looked at Astrid.

Astrid replied.

Joon commented.

Everyone's attention returned to Samira as she slowed then stopped: she was panting. Samira glanced at her wives and she swallowed; standing with her mouth open, her tattooed flesh beaded with sweat. Her breathing came heavy, the beautiful ornate Nagamaki sagged down in her grip.

Samira looked down at the weapon. "I feel... I'm at the edge of something." Samira said breathlessly.

"What does it feel like?" Max inquired.

Samira shook her head.

"My Nagamaki..."

Samira walked over to Max, and knelt down.

"It feels wrong."

The Paladin handed the Nagamaki hilt first to the Warrior.

Max's eyes went wide.

"My dear, Captain-wife, please accept this weapon." Samira smiled.

Max nodded and accepted the offered Nagamaki. Samira stood up, picked up her paired Wakizashi and knelt in front of Vika.

Vika put a finger on Samira's lips. The redhead gently took the paired Wakizashi from Samira with a smile. Samira kissed Vika's cheek and stood again.
Max sheathed the Nagamaki after Agatha handed her the long scabbard and everyone's eyes were on Samira once again.

The tattooed cyborg Paladin went back to stand in front of the wet lavender bubble that was Astrid's Barrier. Samira took a deep breath, then closed her eyes. She let herself feel completely divested of her old weapons: there was now room for something new.

Samira opened her eyes... They were golden stars shining with inner light. A single right hand reached across her body to her left hip, Samira's tattoos shimmered to life. Her metal finger's sensor pads felt a pommel, and slowly moved around it. Samira's wives gasped softly in unison, within the Paladin's grip, a golden hilt coalesced into existence.

She slowly withdrew a golden longsword from thin air, as if from a scabbard, her tattoos blazing golden. Samira held the sword before herself, its design was ancient and ornate. It's appearance was a mythical apparition and it had no appreciable weight. The translucent golden blade glowed as tendrils of amber energy rose off its surface like steam.

Samira turned to her wives, her golden eyes still alight. "Behold... Durendal: Sword of the Paladin."

Samira's wives cheered for her and tears of joy began to appear unbidden from her wives. When the excitement and praise died down, Samira and Max shared a meaningful look reserved for recognizing a fellow warrior.

Max nodded, "Take your time... That's a magic sword, no telling what it can do."

Samira's eyes had never dimmed, they glowed with the same brightness Durendal did. She glanced at Astrid, then turned her attention back to the lavender Barrier. Astrid was absolutely focused on Samira. Vika and Paula held hands as Max and Joon shared a worried look.

Samira was going to take a swing at the Barrier, but then remembered what Max said. She held the glowing sword in front of her, then just pushed it forward.

Durendal went through the Barrier with almost no resistance.

Everyone gasped, Astrid had both her hands over her mouth, her eyes wide. Astrid immediately went to the Barrier, "Don't move!"

Samira froze. Astrid laid her hand on her Barrier, she locked eyes with Samira. Both of their eyes were glowing.

"I can feel your power, I can... Read the sword!" Astrid said excitedly.

Samira blinked, "You can 'read' it?"

Astrid gasped in shock, she stared at the sword.

"Fuckmuffins!"

"What's wrong?" Joon asked.

"Nothing's..." Astrid stopped and stared at where Durendal had pierced her Barrier.

"Oh, I have a lot of work to do." Astrid looked over the shocked faces of her family, "Sorry, I really need to get started." The brilliant nude Engineer walked away from the Barrier and out of the cargo bay.

Max and Joon shared a worried glance. Both Paula and Vika's expressions included open mouthed astonishment. Samira's sword dissipated, her face also showed concern.

"I'll keep an eye on her." Samira said as she ran after Astrid.

Max and Joon turned to look at Agatha.

Their most exotic wife smiled softly, "I believe Asa-chan is processing data."

---

Samira trotted up the ramp to the main deck, then down the corridor, she could see a naked Astrid sitting on her shop stool. Astrid's long athletic body was hunched over her workbench. Samira walked to the doorway as she observed her very best friend. The Engineer was tapping at holo-screens, but also connected to the direct cyber interface.

Samira wasn't sure how Astrid was doing that, but she knew Astrid now functioned on a different level since receiving wetware. Her table-top fabricator was queued up and was already producing something.

The Security Chief went back to the CQ, slipped on her tabard and grabbed a set of Astrid's BDUs. Samira walked to Engineering again and noted Astrid hadn't moved.

"Asa-chan, pause for a few?" Samira requested politely.

Astrid blinked, she turned to face Samira. "Oh, hi Sam." The Engineer smiled.

Samira smirked, "Let's get some clothes on you before you catch a cold." Astrid nodded and complied, Samira suspected only a tiny part of the Engineer's mind was interacting with her.

"I don't think Agatha would let any of us get sick." Astrid mumbled. She briefly unplugged, slipped on the BDU blouse then reconnected her interface.

Samira looked into Astrid's eyes, "If there is anything I can do to help, please tell me."

Astrid smiled, "Thank you, Sam... If I think of something, I'll let you know."

The Engineer's eyes started to glow.

"You're glowing." Samira commented.

Astrid nodded, absently, "Max is beating on my Barrier."

"What do you do with that energy?" Samira asked, curious but also a little worried.

"I mostly just store it, I'm not sure where it is, but I have direct access to it." Astrid grinned.

Samira looked worried, "I hope it doesn't harm you."

Astrid pulled Samira into a kiss, "Agatha made this system... I suspect she is the reservoir."

Samira nodded, "That makes sense."

The Security Chief got a closer look at what Astrid was working on.

"Gatling-lasers and Laser Cannons?" Samira asked.

Astrid smirked, "Yes, I am running simulations on the data I got from your Durendal and my Barrier. Plus, I am using Deirdre's cyber-node."

Samira's eyebrows rose, "Can I see?"

Astrid looked at Samira, but her eyes were not focused. "Sure... You should probably use the dive chair though."

"Ah, Okay... see you in a minute." Samira kissed her wife and walked out.

---

Samira went after Astrid and Max got to her feet, the sheathed Nagamaki in her hand. Astrid's Barrier was still there.

Max thought.

Astrid's mental giggle filled Max's mind,

Vika looked at the paired Wakizashi, they were beautifully crafted. The short swords were quite a bit more weapon than she was used to carrying. But they did have a reassuring weight. Her Ca'tagri blades were shorter and designed to puncture rather than slash.

Paula raised an eyebrow at her, "You're going to use those?"

Vika nodded, "Yes."

Paula nodded, "They are very sexy."

Vika grinned.

Max looked over at Vika and they shared a smile knowing each wanted to try their gifts.

"Captain-wife first." Vika bowed her head.

Max nodded, then smiled, she pulled the polearm from its saya scabbard. The Nagamaki was not a sword, though it strongly resembled one. A long curved single-edged blade ending in a chisel point, designed for large sweeping and slicing strokes. Yet, the weapon was sturdy enough to use piercing techniques very effectively.

Historically used against cavalry, larger opponents, and small groups; from end to end it was just over six feet long, half of which was blade. Max held the weapon as Samira had, it felt...comfortable.

With the blade forward, her right hand acted as a fulcrum just behind the tsuba circular guard. Max's left hand at the other end of the long tsuka hilt applied effort for added leverage and power during a strike.

The Captain's two meter frame was perfectly suited for the large weapon. Max could feel her 'Maneuver' Ability within easy reach of her mind but she wanted to practice without it first, just to get a feel for the Nagamaki.

Max swung the weapon at the wet lavender bubble. She realized immediately why Samira chose this weapon. Using it effectively did not depend on arm strength, Max applied her whole body to wield it.

Max made another stroke adding more leg-sway and hip-swing, then again and again. She added pushing her right hand forward on the strike and pulling back with her left. Soon the Nagamaki was audibly slicing through the air; the sound was encouraging.

Max knew from Samira's earlier exhibition that Astrid's Barrier absorbed blows. It would take anything Max could dish out and not look worse for the experience.

Max paused and glanced at the spectator's row. Vika watched Max like a hawk, Paula and Joon paid close attention, and Agatha casually observed with her usual soft smile.

Max let slip her Maneuver and a familiar sepia tint colored everything and the universe slowed.

The tall nude woman started attacking the bubble again. She was able to make subtle adjustments to her stance, muscle efficiency and balance.

Vika's thoughts relayed.

Max inquired.



Vika's thought's didn't seem affected by Maneuver, the telepathy adjusted to it.

Max felt something else, something new...Not unlike how Maneuver would just wait at the edge of her mind. The additional something was definitely not there before, as if it required Maneuver. Max felt excited, but also suddenly very cautious.

There was no way Max wanted to put her family in danger adding yet another new parameter to learning the Nagamaki so Dame Captain Max Anders, under the Maneuver effect, continued practicing in the use of the deadly polearm.

She only observed the additional itch in her mind, trying to extract clues from it. Max reported to the network.

replied Astrid.

responded Agatha.

Joon inquired.

Max replied.

Joon asked.

Max answered.

Joon thought.

Vika instructed.

Max responded,

The tall martial artist wielding the polearm smoothly side-stepped while making strikes on the Barrier. When she managed to place the bubble between herself and her wives she gently pulled the second trigger.

The universe turned crimson.

---

Sami-faun coalesced into Deirdre's cyber-node. Samira stared... The space was now unrecognizable. Her avatar was in a massive warehouse, or hanger, or factory of some kind. Massive metal columns hundreds of feet tall held aloft stupendous trusses.

Sami-faun rotated slowly, eyes ranging up and down. When her eyes came back to level, Astriwyn was standing in front of her. Porcelain skin, pale gold hair, amethyst eyes... in a floor length, beautifully ornate, deep-violet robe.

"Hi, Sam." Astrid said, Astriwyn smiled softly.

Sami-faun tilted her head, "Holy shit, Astrid... This place is huge!" Samira exclaimed.

"I've made a few changes." Astrid giggled, Astriwyn hugged Sami-faun.

Samira couldn't ever remember hugging anyone in cyber, it was surreal.

"Okay, let me show you what I'm working on!" Astrid said excitedly.

Astriwyn laced her arm into one of Sami-faun's then... They moved. Samira couldn't follow quite how, they just appeared in another part of the facility.

Agatha requested.
Astrid immediately answered,

Agatha giggled.

Agatha coalesced next to them, She was in her cat-girl form, and was wearing a deadly schoolgirl uniform.

"You look great, Ag's!" Samira exclaimed.



Astriwyn put a fist under her chin while peering at Sami-faun.

"Would you mind if I altered Sami-faun's appearance?" Astrid asked.

Samira gasped, "I... I suppose so, I trust you."

Astriwyn began weaving her arms and Sami-faun's appearance began to shift, compound textures, subtle color grading and detailed graphics overlaid her form. In several long nano-seconds Sami-faun received a complete make-over.

Samira changed her perspective to look at Sami-faun..."Whoa... " Samira gasped, Astrid had fundamentally changed Sami-faun, she looked alive. "You even put in my IRL tattoos."
Astriwyn smiled broadly, "I also updated your weapons to current IRL."

"No way!" Sami-faun's golden eyes lit up as a translucent golden longsword and tower shield materialized... along with a full suit of matching archaic amber armor. "Asa-chan!" The joyful emotion in Samira's voice was as radiant as Sami-faun's new appearance.

Astriwyn curtsied to Sami-faun.

"You can thank me later, I want to show you what I've been working on." Astrid said softly.

Sami-faun nodded as her armament and armor dissipated, "Of course, Astrid, I will thank you as many times as you want me to."

They both giggled.

Astriwyn waved her hand to reveal the simulations... Hundreds of them. Exact digital replicas appeared of Security, Combat and Battle drones, each fitted with different variations of laser weapon technology.

"Why lasers?" Samira asked.

"Because Barrier doesn't impede them." Astrid responded.

"But, doesn't that leave you vulnerable to that same technology?"

Sami-faun turned to look at Astriwyn's profile.

"Oricalcum armor absorbs ninety-nine point nine percent of laser energy." Astrid replied. Astriwyn turned and met Sami-faun's gaze. "My coworkers will be very effective. I'm going to be very busy upgrading them, I could really use your help."

Sami-faun nodded, "Indeed..." Samira started to reply, but was interrupted.

Astrid said suddenly, "I want to cleanse Golamar of every murderous pirate."

The two cybernetic avatars stared at one another for a nanosecond.

"I'm fine with that, Astrid, I won't stop you." Samira clarified.

Astriwyn nodded, "I'm glad, I didn't want you to hate me." Astrid said softly.

"I could never hate you, be very concerned, yes, but never hate." Samira avowed.

Sami-faun pulled Astriwyn into one of those new surprisingly enjoyable cyberhugs.

---

Zuki quietly sipped her tea, her eyes wide in panic. Her mind spinning, she glanced at the Major-domo. Teffa sipped her tea as well, half-lidded eyes watched Zuki closely while Una walked past the reception desk and turned down the hallway leading deeper into the Embassy.

Zuki kept her eyes down, looking at the tea service. Teffa smirked, "I guess you heard that."

"Y-yes, ma'am." Zuki responded with proper deference.

Teffa pouted, "I don't want a docile applicant, I much prefer the independent pilot I met this morning."

Zuka swallowed, then shifted her eyes to Teffa's face.

"I am very new to this position, I am learning every single day." The small Major-domo confessed. "What I really need is a sharp-eyed, talented and dependable pilot for this Embassy. Beyond that, and only if you are actually interested, I would very much like to develop a connection with you."

Zuki blinked. "You want a relationship?" The pilot asked timidly.

Teffa smiled softly, "Yes... I do."

"What happens if we have an argument?" Zuki bit her lip.

Teffa nodded, "There will be clear lines, professional and personal."

Zuki swallowed, "How exactly would this relationship begin, is this my interview?"

Teffa smirked, "Please don't let this go to your head... I really want you to fuck my brains out."

Zuki's eyes went wide, her jaw went slack, the Major-domo did not vacillate.

Teffa giggled, "Afterwards I will insist on cuddles and objective conversation."

Zuki thought about that, and studied the very attractive petite Slarmian. "So... Truth to power?" Zuki raised her eyes.

"Yes, please." Teffa smiled.

Zuki swallowed, "I've heard that professional/personal relationships never work out."

Teffa nodded, "I have heard that too... But I have personally seen them work, and work very well."

Zuki blinked, "Really? Who?"

Teffa smiled, "My employer."

"Th-the Terran Ambassador?" Zuki asked in a whisper.

Teffa leaned close to Zuki, "She and her family are an inspiration... I want that so badly."

"Y-you want a family?" The Pilot's voice went up an octave.

Teffa smiled again, "Eventually, yes... But I want a partner first. Someone I can love with all of my hearts, who will love me the same way."

Zuki stared at nothing, her mind whirling...Growing up in Boozi was not the blissful dream many popular romantic stories depicted. Zuki was made painfully aware of her aesthetics at an early age.

Complimented inappropriately by strangers resulted in being guarded closely by family. As she matured, warnings increased, she became exceptionally cautious. Boozi's selection of employment was limited though. She worked in every kind of local industry and hated it.

Zuki made it her mission to leave Boozi as soon as possible so she intentionally directed her education towards piloting, avionics and business. It would be harder than she anticipated; she was constantly hounded by potential suitors. Quite a number desired her beauty and luck.

She happened to falter, becoming entangled in sexual exploration: the long thin pilot experienced only two serious relationships, though; neither ended well.

Both ex-lovers wanted to 'keep' her for themselves, Zuki blamed it on the town itself. It was an open secret that hundreds of kept paramours permanently lived in Boozi. Every one of them were either young or beautiful... Usually both.

They supposedly lived idyllic lives, enjoying the finest Boozi had to offer. Selling their youth, beauty and affection... Until one of them faded.

Most belonged to rich nobles and powerful figures in government. Visiting their pretty things when schedules permit.

Zuki wanted none of that, she desired value that wasn't ephemeral. She wanted to live her life on her own terms, with purpose beyond sexual gratification. It was difficult to find anyone to ignore her looks and just let her fly. Zuki didn't want to join the Navy, but her choices were growing thin.

Then Machii hired her: they only cared about her dedication, reliability and piloting skills. Zuki took on the massive commitment of a 'rent to own' repurposed frigate. That was ten years ago... Last year she finished paying off the ship.

She was the owner/operator of Boozi Tryst. However, losing her Machii contract also meant she lost the Machii free maintenance. An Embassy would be able to afford the upkeep on her frigate. Would she have to pay for it in kind, like an even trade? Was agreeing to be Teffa's partner the same as being a kept lover?

Zuki looked at the small adorable Slarmian, she was nothing like those ex-lovers. Teffa was arguably just as attractive as Zuki, but in a different way. Zuki was definitely attracted to her physically and she also appreciated her sly sense of humor.

The tiny Major-domo wanted a partner, someone to share her life with. Not a pretty thing in a gilded cage, only for her pleasure. This partnership could be exactly the kind of life she wanted, meaningful... Significant. Zuki locked eyes with Teffa, "Full partner in private, respected employee professionally, you pay for my maintenance and fuel."

Teffa's calm facade broke, she nodded, "Oh yes, yes, I agree completely."

Zuki blinked, Teffa suddenly appeared very young to her eyes.

"How old are you?" Zuki asked.

Teffa smiled, "Twenty-four."

Zuki's jaw dropped, "I'm eight years older than you."

Teffa bit her lip, "Is that okay?"

Zuki blinked rapidly, "I suppose... I've never been with someone younger, though."

"I'm not very experienced," Teffa said softly.

Zuki bit her lip, then nodded, "I think we'll be okay."

Teffa and Zuki shared a loving look for the first time. The two Slarmians lost themselves in each other's eyes. Their snouts gently touched, then slowly rubbed along each other. Heart rates increased, hand's came together, others gave soft caress.

"Would... would you like to see my room?" Teffa asked, emotion heavy in her voice.

Zuki nodded, then moaned softly at Teffa's touch, "Definitely."

---

The crimson was like the sepia tint, it didn't do anything itself but showed something was active. Max continued to swing on Astrid's Barrier. The swings were many times faster, as if Max were not under the effects of Maneuver. After twenty swings the crimson wash faded leaving the sepia tint again.

Max inquired of the network.

Vika thought.

Joon added.

Max stopped, her mind presented her with a single word: Haste.

She let Maneuver fade, walking over to spectator's row.

"Max!" Paula exclaimed, "You were moving so fast, I couldn't even see your weapon!"

Agatha handed Max the saya scabbard again. The towering Captain-wife sheathed her Nagamaki, and gave Paula an endearing smile. Paula blinked, then looked around at the smiles of everyone there.

"I really need to get into this network, I'm missing all the good chat," Paula pouted.

Joon and Vika hugged Paula as Max shared a look with Joon who shrugged. Paula saw the exchange and raised an eyebrow at Max. The Captain-wife of the Deirdre stepped over to where Paula was sitting. Paula looked at Joon, her Ambassador giving her a wink. Lieutenant Gonzalez sat up then got to her knees, reaching out, pulling Max closer. Max barely had time to get her penis hard as Paula tongued it into her mouth.

Paula cupped Max's asscheeks in her hands, and Vika was all beaming smiles. Max placed both hands on the bulkhead above Paula and the voluptuous brunette applied impressive suction to her wife's cock.

Her head began bobbing on the now very erect member. Joon on one side and Vika on the other watched closely, noting Paula's tongue slipping out under the shaft as she took Max deeply into her mouth; her tongue reaching Max's clitoral hood.

Max gasped, then moaned, letting her vanilla climax surge forward.

Paula's eyes crossed as the intense flavor flooded her senses. She started swallowing, and did so for quite a while. It was much more than she expected and some vanilla goodness escaped her soft lips. Vika stared at the creamy white dribbles from Paula's mouth dripping down. Joon saw the same, and the two ladies' lips came together at Paula's chin.

Max witnessed the convergence of beautiful faces, the erotic scene greatly increased her climax and some of the delicious treat overflowed Paula's lips. Joon and Vika's tongues licked Paula's throat and face, adding even more to Max's reaction. Soft moans punctuated with quiet grunts made the erotic quartet's sweet music.

Agatha sat leaning against the bulkhead, eyes closed, wearing a soft smile as she enjoyed the delicious sounds and emotions. Agatha's own fingers had found purchase between her legs, rubbing gently.

Everyone on Deirdre felt the transition from hyper-warp to normal space.

While her four wives continued their intimate moments, Agatha collected and correlated data from Deirdre's sensors. The bulk freighter was realigning and Agatha quickly defined its projected course as she extrapolated their destination.

A dim system stripped of easily harvestable resources over a hundred seventy years earlier. The system had no name, its red dwarf star only a numeric designation. Agatha estimated a thirty-eight hour transition if the freighter's hyper-warp was consistent.

The Ghusmik Urr was laid down in the Hyshi shipyards of Nethril. Agatha knew the freighter was over a century old; she even knew how many times it was upgraded and when. How often it received maintenance and how many credits it cost to refuel. Agatha even knew about every Ornalith who had ever registered to serve on the freighter including everything about the current crew and its Captain.

Agatha didn't need to hack into the freighter, she already possessed the information. The Ghusmik Urr was built by Kylex Group expressly for the Golamar run. Its range was immense, the capacity was exceptional... It was not particularly swift, however. All of this information was obtained through Astrid's visit to the Kylex Group Headquarters.

Along with many interesting statistics, Agatha had specific details on a quiet arrangement initiated as a response to Fud Peu's purchase of Golamar. Project G. was a loophole cutout subcontract protecting Kylex Group from any criminal liability. The independent Captain who actually made the journey to Golamar, however, was completely culpable. It was a high risk high reward proposition that attracted a number of ethically questionable individuals.

The reprobate currently taking advantage of Project G. was Captain Finnizik Virt; an Ornalith of dubious origins and the previous Captain's first mate: Virt ran the simple, surreptitious route from Nethril to Golamar with needed supplies.

The route went from Golamar to Depot 03 with materials produced by the platform for wholesale by Nef then back to Nethril with other products to fulfill Kylex Group's contracts. The illicit metal ingots were a personal cache of treasure, Nef's share of the take.

Agatha knew the metal outlet on Depot 03 had the capabilities to smelt and reform most metals and, as it turned out, it was a costly misstep for Nef to forgo reshaping Astrid's purchase.

The Ambassador's staff discovered two paths to the same conclusion.

Agatha smiled, her beautiful wives were progressing brilliantly.

---

Max, Joon, Vika, Paula and Agatha lathered up in the steamy confines of the CQ showers. "Haste," Joon stated looking at Max, "Let's you be super quick at anything?"

Max nodded, then clarified, "It seems to let me move as quickly as my perception permits under Maneuver."

"How long?" Vika asked.

Max shook her head, "Not long at all, about three seconds."

"How often can you do it?" Paula asked.

A blank expression followed by a shrug was Max's answer.

Vika nodded, "We must find out."

After the shower the ladies dried then redressed in BDU's Agatha had advised everyone of the thirty-eight hour travel time as well as dinner.

"How far beyond Trankaran borders is this system?" Paula asked.

Joon responded, "Not far, this freighter is just slow."

Agatha nodded, "The Ghusmik Urr was not built for speed, but endurance and capacity."

They walked together to the Mess.

Max raised an eye, "Are Astrid and Samira joining us?"
Agatha nodded, "They are on their way, Astrid was briefing Samira on her production plans in cyber-space.

Max sat in her seat next to Joon, "That sounds ominous."

Agatha shook her head, "I am not going to spoil it, you'll have to wait for Astrid to tell you."

"What am I telling?" Astrid said, as she and Samira walked into the Mess.

"Us about your deadly drone forces." Joon replied.

Astrid and Samira took their seats. The Dronemancer looked at Max and Joon with a frightening grin, "It's going to be awesome!"

Samira nodded her agreement.

"I've only just started, but with Samira's help, I think we can make some real progress." Astrid continued, "The goal is to upgrade all the drones Ambassador Zess gave me."

Max nodded, "If you need any additional support, just ask."

At that moment Agatha brought out dinner... Pesto Chicken Rotini along with an Avocado Salad, with Cherry Tomatoes and Crisp Cucumber slices.
The family ate quietly, with appreciative, happy noises and compliments which were music to Agatha's ears. Afterwards Agatha removed the ruins of dinner and laid out tea and coffee with cinnamon twists.

"What does Durendal mean?" Joon asked, as she raised an eyebrow at Samira.

"Enduring Brand." Samira replied, then took a sip of coffee.

Joon narrowed her eyes, obviously needing more information.

Samira put down her coffee mug, "Durendal was the sword of Roland, a knight of Charlemagne's court and supposedly the first Paladin."

"There were twelve Paladins altogether, but Durendal came to be owned by Roland."

"According to legend, the sword was capable of cutting through giant boulders of stone with a single strike, and was indestructible."

Joon blinked, "Wow... That sounds amazing."

Samira smiled, "I doubt my Durendal is quite that powerful, but the symbolism still translates, Enduring Brand... Eternal Sword."

"The 'holy blade' of a Paladin is a standard in the Fantasy genre."

Joon pursed her lips in thought, "Holy."

Samira nodded.

"Does the Fantasy Priest Class have something like that?" Joon asked.

Samira smiled and nodded, "Yea... Themselves."

Joon blinked, "What do you mean?"

Samira smirked, "In the Fantasy genre, a Priest can become an Avatar of their Deity."

Eyes wide, Joon looked shocked.

Samira nodded, "It's a big deal, high level Paladins can do it too, but Priests and Clerics get that Ability pretty early on.

Joon sipped her tea, her eyes unfocused, deep in thought. Samira shared a look with Max making sure her Dame Captain understood. "I understand you also made a Discovery?" The Paladin's statement became a question with her eyebrow raised.

Max nodded, "It's a step up in Maneuver, called Haste."

Samira beamed, "That is fantastic, Haste is really powerful."

Max shrugged, "I need to practice, but yea, I can definitely see why it is powerful."

Vika and Paula shared a smile, having witnessed the effect and Samira tilted her head, "How fast does Haste let you go?"

"The same speed as I perceive in Maneuver, about four times faster." Max replied. So my perceptions and body movements are reacting in real time during their activations.

"You said you get about three seconds of Haste, so twelve seconds while in Maneuver." Samira postulated.

Max nodded, "Yea, about that, I could swing the Nagamaki twenty times."

"Whoa." Samira said, "Twenty swings of a six foot polearm in three seconds."

"That sounds fucking scary, Boss." Samira grinned.

Max blinked.

Dame Captain Max Anders thought about what Samira just said. It did sound scary, maybe Haste was just the sort of Ability Max needed in melee combat.

"I will work with Max tonight." Vika proclaimed while studying Max's face.

Max shared a look with Vika, then nodded, "That sounds good."

Joon looked at Paula, who raised her eyebrows at the look. "I would like your help with something in the office." Joon requested.

"Yes, M'lady." Paula smiled, then sipped her tea.

Joon put her hand on Max's, "Sweetheart, I'm going to do some Priest research."

Joon and Samira shared a look of confirmation and Samira smiled, "I just forwarded a copy of my big Fantasy Gaming folder to your inbox."

"Oh, goodness... I hope it isn't too much for my little inbox!" Joon winked at Samira.

Everyone giggled.

---

Max locked eyes with her tiny opponent. Vika was wielding the two short batons that she had helped Samira make to simulate wakizashi while Max held the long length of conduit that represented a nagamaki. The weights and shapes of the batons were off, but they were close enough to practice with.

Vika's intimidating glare still impressed Max. No matter how imposing Max thought herself, she was still only a fraction of a Largath. Max nodded and smiled, ceding the aggressive test of wills to Vika. The tiny redhead, raised on Larga, smirked and started her dance. Max felt Maneuver color her perception, and the universe slowed.

Agatha sat in her spot against the bulkhead, she was very interested in the match. Her wives circled each other, it was obvious that Max was under the effects of Maneuver. Agatha could feel Vika's apprehension, even though she was in many ways a more effective combatant.

The tiny rogue suddenly came in, Max used her advantages of height, reach and Maneuver ruthlessly.

It did not seem to matter.

Vika Shadowstepped repeatedly in rapid succession, appearing seemingly at random around Max: left, right, front, back, above or below, Vika struck from everywhere. Strikes to legs, arms and back left Max frustrated...

Then suddenly, circumstances changed.

Max became a blur, every time Vika teleported, her towering opponent reset to reacquire her target and struck out.

Haste rebalanced the contest...

Vika's Shadowstep allowed her to strike from anywhere, however it did not enhance her speed or perception. Max could use Haste to gain advantage, but only intermittently.

The ebb and flow of the contest ranged all around the hold: one moment Max was barely defending against relentless strikes from any direction and the next Vika repeatedly Shadowstepped away in desperation from a monstrous assault.

After nearly twenty solid minutes of this exceptional melee, the pair came to a stop. Batons dropped to the ground as Max and Vika both collapsed together, panting, they laid on the shock-lite covered deck, grinning broadly.

"Ten seconds." Vika huffed out between breaths.

Max nodded, "Feels like... An eternity."

Vika scoffed, "To you, it's forty."

"Yea..." Max panted, "But when I am Hastened."

"Devastating." Vika finished.

"I lost count of hits." Max confessed.

Vika giggled, "Me too."

Agatha pushed herself up to her feet, then walked over to the two prone women. They were both naked, covered in sweat and smiled at Agatha standing over them. "Seventy-eight for Max, Two hundred six for Vika." Agatha smiled at their reaction. "That was an extremely impressive display," Agatha praised her wives.

She almost felt sorry for the pirates...

Almost.

---

Samira watched mesmerized as Astrid crafted drone armor before her eyes with Sorcery. The process in an odd sort of way reminded Samira of knitting.

She held the drone in question carefully with four cybernetic hands and the Sorceress somehow extruded dozens of threads simultaneously: she held a sizable chunk of the metal in her off hand.

Astrid's manual dexterity wove those Oricalcum threads into a dazzling pattern. The pattern was sandwiched between thin Sorcery crafted plates of deep-violet. Astrid had memorized the layout of every drone, so every armor plate clicked into place.

She had also used the time during fabrication of components for scaled down and refined versions of TFed ship weapons to upgrade her coworkers along with Oricalcum armor. The tiny one-fifteenth scale versions of laser cannons that would be installed in her Security drones packed a powerful punch; increasing the combat effectiveness of the small drones exponentially.

They retained the impressive optical and sensor packages of the Dauzakai base configuration so the added armor would turn a cursory combatant into an efficient, lethal, and near indestructible soldier.

Astrid had considered trying to make a one tenth scale gatling laser for the Security drones but decided accuracy and stopping power was more important in their role. Samira knew this was only the first of many steps in Astrid's plan as this ambitious Dronemancer was strengthening all of her power base.

The heavier combat drones were the ones getting a pair of redesigned one quarter scale gatling lasers as that type of weapon was designed to saturate an area with direct fire; making them perfect for the fire support and anti-personnel roles in drone doctrine.

Then there were the Battle drones, Samira knew Astrid had a lot in mind for them. The Hoverbike sized interceptors had already been stripped of their standard armament and were no longer armed with anti-ship suicide charges. Astrid was redefining their role and she intended them to fill a more defensive niche as an armored unit.

The Battle drones would boast the maximum offensive weapons Astrid could manage. A half sized gatling laser paired with a quarter sized laser cannon. There was literally no room left for another weapon. The two Battle drones were now Astrid's primary vanguard units, offensively and defensively.

Astrid was only able to make these improvements because of the properties Oricalcum possessed. She could shape or apply it with Sorcery based on the scale she could perceive, with optical enhancement she could even make circuitry.

Samira was astounded how much detail went into just upgrading the drone armor. "Say... Astrid?" Samira started.

Astrid didn't drop a stitch, "Mmm?"

"How hard would it be to improve my limbs with Oricalcum like this?" Samira asked.

Astrid's focus didn't change, she seemed to be mulling over an answer. "I would need to consult with Agatha, but I think it would be relatively straightforward."

Samira liked that answer. "Perhaps we could look into it after we deal with Freeport?" Samira inquired.

Astrid stopped and looked into Samira's eyes, "Yea, that sounds good."

They shared a smile, then Astrid continued with her armoring. Samira couldn't help but feel blessed, her best friend and wife was a sexy, brilliant, Sorcerous-Engineer. How lucky could a cyborg get?

---

Jooniper Smith frowned.

The Terran Federation Special Envoy to the Minor Empires, Licensed and Accredited Medical Practitioner and moderately popular holo-net celebrity was stuck. She went over the list four times, she kept getting tripped up over the deities spheres of influence.

One word really... Chaste.

Athena was a 'chaste' goddess, the text said a priest following her had to be as well. Joon found the concept unacceptable, it was a deal breaker. For as long as she and Max had been together Joon realized she was a sexual creature. Additionally, having a wide variety of exceptionally attractive wives had Joon resolved she could never be chaste.

Athena's lack of musical influence was also concerning, but the deity that had been suggested for her did have some excellent aspects. Joon had to admit, though, it was by no means a good fit.

Jooniper Smith frowned.

"If you're not careful you'll get stuck like that, M'lady." Paula said softly.

Paula had also been reading over the data Samira had sent. The two wives shared a meaningful look. Joon sighed, "I can't help it, Athena just isn't my deity."

Paula nodded, "Yea, I noticed the chaste thing.

Joon whimpered, it was adorable. The voluptuous First Lieutenant shifted in her comfortable office chair. "There are over a three hundred deities in this list, there has to be someone who works for you."

Joon tilted her head, "You're right, I can't just expect everything to just fall into place, I need to work at it."

She went to the beginning of the list, something told her to just look at goddesses. Soon Joon worked her way through a variety of the 'A's' then stopped on a symbol: three interlocking circles within a triangle, the symbol of Angharradh an elven goddess.

Joon gasped, when something clicked in her brain.

Paula looked over at what made Joon react, she noted it, then brought up the same file and began reading. Joon and Paula read through the description and shared a knowing look of affirmation.

Angharradh was the Triune Goddess, her spheres of influence were many. Knowledge, life, war and peace, she was the primary deity of elvish women and within her three aspects everything important to Joon could be found: Health, music, diplomacy and romance. This was no chaste deity, this was a goddess who represented all aspects of women. Joon swallowed, she nodded to Paula.

Paula studied Joon's face.

"Yes..." was all that Joon was able to get out before tears began to fall.

Paula got up and knelt next to her petite senior wife pulling her into a comforting embrace.

"It makes perfect sense, you're our 'elvish Lady' after all."

They stayed in that hug for quite a while. Joon realized that a connection had been made in her mind, one that hadn't formed with Athena. Still embraced with Paula, Joon sent a soft thought to Agatha.

Joon inquired.



Joon thought about that,

Paula pulled back from the hug, "It's getting late, M'lady."

Joon smiled softly, "Yea, but I am glad we did this."

"Me too, finding just the right place is very important." Paula related.

Joon raised an eyebrow at the Witch, "Do you feel comfortable with us now?"

Paula nodded, "I definitely do, the cottage deep in the woods is my cozy little home now."

They both giggled softly, stood up and headed to bed.

---

Seven beautiful naked women were stretched out on the triple sized pedestal bed. They had discussed what they did after dinner and everyone was impressed with Max and Vika and the family cheered Joon for finding her Fantasy Deity.

Paula apologized to Samira for jumping the queue but Samira just smiled and asked if Paula wanted to make up for it and in answer, Paula shared a naughty smile with Samira all the way across the huge bed.

Samira positioned Paula on her back with her head between Max's knees before the cyborg gently straddled her Captain-wife's legs, easing her pussy onto Paula's mouth.

Max enjoyed Samira's expressions as Paula sucked on satin swallowtail lips.

Samira carefully ground her wet vulva onto Paula's tongue. The Security Chief eyed her Captain-wife through half-lids, leaning over to kiss Max's member while enjoying her ride. Max had Joon in her usual spot, cuddled up on her left side, Agatha was in the same spot on the right with Vika spooned in behind Joon and Astrid spooned in behind Agatha.

They watched Samira bathe Max's cock with her tongue as she continued to ride Paula's face. It was an erotic display that everyone also found comforting. Soon, Samira climaxed in Paula's loving mouth and that is when Max filled Samira.

Max was amazed that Samira took it all.

After a quick wash, Paula cuddled in behind Vika and Samira did likewise with Astrid. The seven drifted off one by one. Agatha was waiting for them, she went to work instilling a complete data briefing on Golamar to ensure her wives would understand the layout, size and scale of the platform.

---

Teffa's empty stomach was pitching a fit, so she opened her eyes. She was entwined with the most beautiful creature she had ever seen.

The smallish Major-domo watched the enchanting Slarmian Pilot slumber. The two lovers had gone to Teffa's room and spent twelve hours together. They'd occupied themselves in a myriad of ways in Teffa's bedroom and bath.

Teffa heard and felt her tummy growl again and it was then she realized they had both been absent from dinner the previous night.

Teffa was suddenly worried she had insulted Agatha and her stomach lodged another complaint. Teffa gently unwound from around Zuki, slipping onto the floor. The Embassy's newest employee didn't rouse.

Teffa smiled, she quickly pulled on her housecoat and slithered through her apartment, past the common room and into the kitchen: her morning routine of making coffee and tea took shape. She noticed a note on the counter, it was in flowing Slarmian script and addressed to her. --There is Megu in the fridge, Lakita made a lot more than she intended to. Please help yourself, feed Zuki. I hope you enjoyed yourselves. I am so happy for both of you. ~Ags--

Teffa's little chin trembled, Agatha was not insulted, not in the least. The smallish Major-domo peeked inside the refrigerator and saw a massive stack of giant blintz like wraps. One of them was as big as Teffa's head.

Teffa smiled and turned on the oven.

She and Zuki were going to share a glorious breakfast. Teffa checked the time, it was earlier that she thought it was so she took a few moments to prepare a large baking sheet. Teffa slid a 'Megu' onto the sheet, then on the rack in the preheated oven. She figured a low heat might have the thick wrap warmed up in about twenty minutes without burning it.

Teffa then spent that time setting up a breakfast tray, putting together some utensils, tea, and juice.

After twenty minutes she checked the massive wrap, the outside was just starting to brown. Teffa sunk her kitchen thermometer into the Megu's center... it was quite hot: she didn't know what was inside, but it was cooked. Teffa blew the thermometer cool, then popped it into her mouth and tasted flavorful meat, vegetables and sauce. Satisfied it would serve for a delicious morning meal, she sliced the wrap in half.

Teffa quickly turned off the oven, washed the baking sheet, knife and thermometer, then gently arranged the Megu on her breakfast tray presentation.

She was giddy in anticipation, not knowing what was going to happen next.

Teffa scanned the kitchen, a full pot of coffee was the only sign that she had been there. The smallish Major-domo slithered her way back through the common area to her apartment, she was having the time of her life.

---

Max yawned awake. She blinked and lifted her head off the pillow, she looked around her to see her wives were all cuddled up close, they all seemed to have snuggled to the center of the bed.

Agatha was the first to look up next to her and her steel-gray gilded in silver eyes gazed fondly into Max's. Agatha's thoughts conveyed her joy.

Max replied.

The exotic alien was as close to Max as anyone had ever been. She and Joon shared Max's heart, and the other wives were catching up quickly. Agatha laid her head gently on Max's breast, tasting her emotions.

Agatha asked.

Max looked at the top of Agatha's head, her long black hair in a loose braid. Max answered. Then Max asked,

Agatha nodded slightly,

Max blinked,

At that moment, Samira sat up and smiled at Max, gently tapping her tattooed temple with a cybernetic finger. Max beamed a smile, then thought to Samira

Samira beamed a smile right back, her thoughts humorous,

Max felt Joon move next to her, so she turned her head to look at her first wife. She was met with unearthly eyes, softly glowing green pupils with silvery white frosting.

Max gasped, astonished.

Joon raised her eyebrow,

Max stared unblinking,

Joon smirked,

Max nodded, then noticed something else.

Joon giggled out loud, Samira turned her way.

Max studied Joon's ears... They were long and dagger shaped.

"Are they going to change your popularity?" Max asked.

Joon shook her head, "I don't care... Besides, I'm not alone."

Astrid sat up next to Agatha... Max glanced at her and did a double take.

The Engineer's lavender eyes glowed softly, and her ears were easily twice the length of Joon's. Where Joon's ears pointed up, Astrid's were swept back, but they both looked Elvish, just in different ways.

"Oh... Wow..." Max stared in amazement.

She wasn't the only one, and Samira did the same thing to Astrid as the Engineer had once done to her. "OhmyfuckinggodAstridyouaresohot!" Samira grabbed Astrid and started kissing her, nibbling her long ears.

Astrid giggled and enjoyed every moment.

Max turned back to Joon, who shared a smile with her. "My Exquisite Elven Lady." Max said with reverence.

Vika and Paula sat up together, both watching the antics occurring on the other side of the bed.

"Oh." Paula said, "Nice ears, Astrid."

Astrid managed to say "Thank you." in between kisses.

Vika glanced at Joon, then moved to inspect her Lady-wife's new ears and then eyes when she saw them. "So pretty!" Vika said softly to Joon.

Joon gave the redhead a smooch, "Thank you, cute stuff."

Paula noticed Joon's ears and she nodded with approval. "Perfect fit, M'lady."

Joon and Paula shared a smile: they had been looking at elves together. "You're up in the queue." Joon informed her Administrative Assistant.

"It's all Paula's queue now..." Samira paused momentarily then gave Astrid a deep kiss.

Samira finished her thought in the family telepathic network.


Paula pulled down the comforter across her Captain-wife's torso and she immediately wrapped her lips around what she was seeking.

"You can put it anywhere now, you know," Max lovingly caressed Paula's chocolate brown tresses.

Paula paused for a moment and said, "But I can't taste it everywhere, and I really like vanilla."

Everyone giggled.

Astrid and Samira finally settled down enough to cuddle again.

Max let her climax through and Paula moaned as she swallowed it all down. Agatha closed her eyes: her slight smile an indication she was basking in the emotions as Max smooched her most exotic wife, Agatha did her purrmeow.

While Paula guzzled down Max's cum, the family discussed what was on the agenda for the day.

Samira wanted to make a longsword length conduit baton and get in a few rounds in with Vika and Max while Astrid was going to try and knock out the rest of her Security drones and see how far she could get with the Combat drones, with Samira's help.

Joon wanted to see what effect her bless had on the melee combatants. Vika was thinking about exploring the Ghusmik Urr and Max and Joon immediately shared a look. Vika noticed the reaction of the leadership, then raised her eyebrow.

Max thought about it, Joon did too. "Do we need intel on them?" Max asked no one in particular.

Agatha was the one who answered, "I have access to Ghusmik Urr's systems, I have also walked the dreams of her crew and Captain Virt."

"I'm afraid there is no pressing need to explore the freighter." Agatha reported.

Vika nodded, "Oh kaaay... I'll save my sneaky urges for Freeport."

Max winked and nodded to Vika.

Joon and Astrid inspected their new features with a critical eye. The petite XO stood on the fold out step with the Chief Engineer standing next to her. They were both very pleased with the results and proud to represent 'elf' interests in the family.

Everyone got up and did the family morning routine: morning wash, kata, shower, dress, breakfast, then started their different projects. Agatha participated where she was needed, lending help here or there.

She mostly just observed and kept close tabs on emotions: Agatha was continually amazed how any being with emotional-dysgeusia can navigate relationships without killing each other, though she supposed they did that sometimes, too.

Agatha would never let her family become so dysfunctional: she would be there to keep them happy and healthy.

By lunch time everyone was ready for a break.

Max and Vika had sparred all morning, Joon and Paula tried many different combos on the combatants. Bless, in most cases, alleviated the symptoms of Hex with only Paula's most severe application of Hex overwhelmimg Joon's Bless.

Hex could render someone unconscious, but Bless would still heal them. It was useful to know that they did not cancel each other out. Also: Bless lasted about an hour... It did not 'stack' like Image did. Much to Joon's surprise, she could not remove Bless once she cast it.

Before lunch Paula got another tummy full of vanilla goodness and she wanted to express her appreciation to Max for the treat so Paula joined Max and Vika in the shower after the morning bouts. The Lieutenant requested her Captain stand over her while sitting on a corner bench so Max stood with her legs spread wide so Paula could bring her to a dual climax.

Paula's manual skills had much improved since she joined the family and both parties were very satisfied with the results, Vika beamed with pride.

Samira studied Joon and Astrid sitting next to each other during lunch. The Elvish features they displayed were absolutely glorious, luckily they still mostly resembled Terrans whereas Samira mostly didn't, her four arms and faun legs set her apart from her wives.

She didn't mind in the least as it was the appearance she had dreamed of for many years.

Joon raised an eyebrow at the Paladin, "If we start making out, will you climax?"

Everyone giggled.

Samira smiled, "Sorry for staring, you two look so good next to each other."

Astrid beamed, "I love it, I always wanted to be a high-elf."

Max looked at her two Elven wives, "Astrid is a high-elf and Joon is a sylvan-elf, is there a difference other than the ears?"

Astrid nodded to Max then looked at Samira.

"In Fantasy lore high-elves are taller, are more metropolitan and have a penchant for arcane magic." Samira began.

"Sylvan-elves are more in tune with spiritual magic, nature, and are slight of stature. The cultures are slightly different, but still compatible... Lore wise they have much more in common that not."

Joon smiled softly at Astrid, "So really, we are indicative of our respective elf-ness.

Astrid and Samira giggled then nodded in agreement.

Joon smiled, "I am glad my persona came together so well, I feel very comfortable with it.

Samira nodded, "As do I, though mine had been a long time in development.

Astrid glanced at Vika who was listening intently with a wistful look on her cute freckled face. Astrid smiled at Vika, "I wonder if Cha'Vika Firehair will make an appearance."

Paula tilted her head to Vika, "What's this now?"

Vika smiled, "It's my Fantasy name... I had originally pictured a sneaky Dwarven Shaman."

Paula blinked, "Dwarven, huh?"

Vika shrugged, "Why not, we have Elves."

"Are you going to grow a beard?" Paula asked with a smirk.

Vika blinked, then glanced at Agatha, who smiled softly.

"Maybe..." Vika then stared into thin air, her eyebrows raised, "Maybe, something pretty?"

Max and Joon shared a look, Samira and Astrid shared a smile Paula pursed her lips, her eyes narrowed slightly, "No mustache, I don't like fuzzy kisses."

Everyone giggled.

"No fuzzy kisses." Vika nodded, "Understood."

Max looked to Astrid, "Can we get another Barrier in the hold?"

Astrid nodded, "Sure thing."

---

That afternoon Astrid and Samira finished the Security drones and started in with the larger Combat drones. They had about three times the armor material requirement but Astrid kept an impressively steady pace; she was methodical and thorough.

Samira noticed Astrid used a lot more Oricalcum on the Combat drones, crafting a more robust version of what she did on the smaller ones. Samira was worried the Oricalcum would run out before they could complete the Battle drones.

Down in the hold, Max practiced with her BjornWerks hunting bow. From an engineering standpoint the compound bow was superior for singular aimed shots and Astrid's Barrier bubble was the best target she had ever shot at. The powerful shots were arrested with no fuss, they just hung there momentarily then slowly slid down the bubble by themselves then fell to the deck with absolutely no damage to any part of the arrow.

Max swapped out the field points for the switchblade broadheads. The edged surfaces did not deploy making the practice with them easy, without wear and tear on the mechanics.

Just about everything on the Panzer was adjustable, even the draw weight. Max had initially started it at a fifty pound draw, but eventually increased it to seventy-five. She now had it maxed out at one hundred, driving the broadhead tipped carbon shafts into the Barrier.

Then Vika covered the surface of the bubble in feather-like blades. She peppered the barrier in twos and threes and Vika felt so confident with Astrid's Barrier she emptied her vest of Wind-blades.

Max and Vika shared a smile, they felt good with their prowess.

Joon and Paula were back into Fantasy lore, they were connecting dots between the classes and roles found in their family. After hours of study Joon leaned back and rubbed her eyes. "Y'know..."

Paula blinked and turned her attention to her Ambassador.

"Our little family group is really nicely balanced." Joon ruminated, "I have to wonder if Agatha planned it that way, or it just happened organically."

Paula smirked, "You're the Priest, wouldn't it come down to a higher power?"

Joon tapped her chin, and pursed her lips.

"Y'know..." Joon began, "I'm a lousy Priest."

They both giggled.

"Seriously though... from what I have read we cover all the bases." Joon commented.

Paula blinked, "Uh oh..."

Joon looked at Paula, "What?"

Paula shook her head, "I hope you didn't just jinx us."

Joon clenched her eyes, "Oh shit."

"Bless yourself, maybe you can cleanse the jinx away!" Paula nodded sagely.

They both giggled... but they still gave each other a nervous glance.

Then Jooniper Smith, the Exquisite Lady, the Terran Federation Special Envoy to the Minor Empires...

Blessed herself.

---

Zuki tapped in her new destination and waited for clearance. There were an additional couple of steps to go through than her normal ATC request since she had requested a flight path from the public-access citizen-free ship-parking pads at the western city limits to the Terran Embassy of Staverka.

'They' needed to give permission for ATC to clear it. And by 'They' Zuki now pictured in her mind the erotic sounds and visage of her adorable new partner. Zuki smirked crookedly, it was a vivid collection of memories, the sights, sounds, tastes and smells from the night before was far and away the best first night she'd ever spent with anyone and probably the best night period.

There was no power play, no need to define boundaries, Teffa treated her with absolute respect and made sure Zuki received as well as she gave. The gradual build between them wasn't rushed, it was a gentle yet exciting discovery.

Yet: in just a few hours the level of comfort between them felt timeless. They enjoyed many many sessions, each one better than the last, in between personal anecdotes and exchanged perspectives. Finding out Teffa was also a Pilot had won a place in Zuki's soul, she knew there was no way she would let her go now: she would fly this ship no matter where it went.
Eventually they tired themselves out completely.

Then this morning Zuki burst into tears when Teffa came in with breakfast on a big tray...She had heard of it of course, in every single sappy, romantic story about Boozi: 'Breakfast in Bed' after an incredible night of discovery and delicate passion. But Zuki didn't for one moment believe it was something people ever did in reality.

The look in Teffa eyes... The feelings between them seemed to reverberate, like echoes in an empty hanger.

Zuki couldn't explain it, she'd never felt so... So fucking loved.

Moisture escaped her bright-yellow eyes again...It bothered the Pilot a little... She was afraid it was a fluke, but she needed to find out. Zuki had to know if this experience was just a once in a lifetime night of passion: or the beginning of that magical life she had always dreamt of.

ATC signaled Boozi Tryst the flight path clearance was granted. Zuki tapped in her acknowledgment and brought her ship's air breathing turbines up to power. Like every other Bazaar Parking Authority Frigate, Boozi Tryst was designed to handle the damp soupy atmosphere of Staverka.

The flight characteristics were not just spry, they were down right aggressive. It actually flew better on airfoils and turbines than it did on thrusters and sub-light engines. The BPA Frigates were 'Pilots ships', and once the design had settled, half a century ago, there was almost no variation to them at all.

There was little wonder why the BPA had thousands of them, they were a pure joy to fly, and until last night, Zuki had always thought flying the 'Tryst was better than sex. Zuki's Frigate snarled up, she let 'Tryst slip into the flight path just slightly louder than was considered polite.

It was just a projection of how amazing Zuki felt today.

---

By dinner time Astrid and Samira had almost completed the first Combat drone: Samira was pleasantly surprised, actually Astrid just knocked it out.
The Sorceress Engineer with her newly acquired Elvish features did interesting things to Samira's Cyborg Pala-faun insides.

Agatha let everyone know dinner was served through the network, though Astrid and Samira could have been contacted a couple different ways. They walked hand in hand to the Mess.
Max and Vika were wearing BDU's as the ranged weapon practice wasn't nearly as aerobic as melee, so they just left their weapons and went to dinner.
Vika lifted her arms and smiled. Max blinked then assumed an endearing expression: she lifted the much smaller woman to her hip, then put an arm under her little butt. Max slowly made her way up the ramp, letting Vika enjoy the ride as long as possible.

"A beard huh?" Max glanced at Vika, who looked up at her.

Vika snarked a short giggle, "Yea... Something cute, like long silky sideburns."

Max nodded, "I can see that, though, I didn't think you'd be into facial hair."

Vika shrugged, "I will reserve final judgment until I see it and wear it for a few days."

Max smirked and nodded, "I look forward to seeing what you end up with."

"Me too." Vika smiled as Max walked into the Mess.

In Medical Joon twisted up her lips in thought. Joon tilted her head at Paula, "I am curious about something."

The voluptuous Lieutenant was doing some kind of datawork, it was like there was a never ending fountain of that horrid stuff. Paula replied, without looking up from her screen. "I'm sorry, M'lady, I have no desire to be an Elf."

They shared a giggle.

"No, not that, I noticed you haven't said anything about still being a Lieutenant even after I got promoted." Joon looked concerned.

Paula smiled, turning her head, "It's pretty simple, I don't care about that... I care about this family, this mission and doing my job well."

"If me being a First Lieutenant reflects poorly on you and the Embassy, then I will worry about it. Besides, I joined the navy to hide from my old family, and being 'just' a Lieutenant made it much easier." Paula smiled softly.

"Well..." Joon raised an eyebrow, "Don't be surprised if you wake up one morning with a higher rank. Because you work constantly, and I've never heard you complain once, and I don't think you know how to slack off." The Ambassador crossed her arms under her bust, daring Paula to argue with her.

Paula blushed prettily, smiled then nodded, "Yes, M'lady."

Joon blinked, "Oh... Dinner."

The Ambassador and her Attache' got up from their desks and headed down to the Mess.

---

Teffa slithered up the ramp well to the third floor, she smelled something delicious. As she made her way to the common room, Lakita and Zuki were sharing the massive reinforced couch watching the holonet together.

Teffa saw the table was set for seven, then pursed her lips. She hadn't yet broached the subject of Agatha with Zuki. Teffa wasn't really worried, but at the same time, she didn't want anyone to get upset. Just at that moment Zuki turned her head and beamed a smile at her.

Teffa's heart melted.

Lakita smiled broadly, large incisors showing, "Hi Teffa."

"Hey, Lakita... How are you?" Teffa asked politely.

"I am very good." Lakita said in excellent Slarmian, "Zuki and I introduced ourselves earlier and I helped her with some of her stuff."

Teffa blinked.

Zuki's eyes went wide, "Oh shit, was I not supposed to?" Teffa immediately waved four hands in a calming gesture, "You were!, I mean it's wonderful! I just hadn't heard it said outside of my own brain, and... It sounded amazing."

Lakita made a goofy grin.

Zuki sighed in relief, "Okay good... I don't want to screw anything up."

At that moment four Hands of Agatha brought out dinner, it was a veritable feast. Teffa saw the dishes and of course recognized them... It was a Slarmian welcoming/housewarming feast. She had made most of those dishes for Paula, Vika and Agatha. There were even Blintzes and Cannoli... Teffa started tearing up, recognizing Agatha was welcoming Zuki intoTeffa's life as well as her own.

The First Secretary of the Terran Embassy smiled at Teffa, then gave her a hug. "You did very well, Teffa... Good job." Agatha smiled.

The Embassy family gathered around the table and started on the feast. Teffa glanced at each Hand at the table.

Agatha smiled knowingly, "I brought Zuki up to speed on my nature and my duties to the Ambassador."

"Oh, oh good." Teffa replied, still a little nervous.

Teffa and Zuki shared a look and Zuki nodded, "Once Agatha explained, I remembered where I had first seen her and it all made sense."

Teffa smiled, she was relieved, "You know that information isn't for public consumption?"

Zuki nodded, "Don't worry, Teffa, I know how to keep my mouth shut."

Agatha nodded, "That was essentially why she lost her job with Machii."

Teffa blinked, "What?"

"Samira had requested Zuki not mention the conversation they had on Depot03, and she didn't, not at all." Agatha explained. "The Machii manager asked her what happened, she wouldn't elaborate, so he fired her."

Teffa stared at Zuki, "Oh, that was cruel of him."

Zuki shrugged, "I think I got the better side of that exchange, after all was said and done."

Teffa smiled, she bit her lip, "So do I."

The feast was delicious, everyone had plenty to eat, and Zuki and Teffa were now sharing an apartment, Agatha was not a secret to Zuki and everyone was content. "Oh... Zuki, I'm going to need you to fly one of my Hands to Dau." Agatha informed politely.

Teffa looked at Agatha with surprise.

Agatha smiled, "Just a little... Redistribution."

---

The family finished another of Agatha's magnificent dinners.

Tonight Max insisted on doing the dishes, it had been forever since she'd done them and the simple task felt comforting. Max could just feel the edge of combat stress creeping into her body. From what Agatha had projected, they were about twelve hours out from Freeport.

Max was going over scenarios in her head, trying to take it all into account. They would need to recon and surveil the hell out of Golamar before they did any kind of offensive operation. Both Vika and Agatha would have their work cut out for them. Even Samira would be needed to get Agatha into the small but important cyber-net that had been retro-fitted into the platform at some point.

Agatha had all the structural and electronic schematics, and projected the entire platform layout into all of their memories. Everyone now knew a version of Golamar as well as they did Deirdre. There was a running conversation as to what they might find and what the likely actions should be.

But like someone once said centuries ago, "Everyone has a plan, until they get hit in the face."

They were going to have to deal with what they found after they found it.

Going into Freeport with too many restrictive protocols might hurt the operation instead of focusing it.

The objective was simple: kill the pirates.

They didn't know who was a pirate or how many there were. Agatha was going to have to find out for them. That meant at least one sleep cycle, and Agatha would need to go through every one of them.

So what did they do with non-pirate residents of Freeport?
They were still working on that.

Max had finished the dishes in the Galley just as she felt a pair of arms wrap around her waist. "I don't want to interrupt your KP, but Joon was rather insistent I stay on top of the queue." Paula said quietly.

Max turned around in her arms, then smiled, "Yes, I understand, she is very tenacious."

Paula smiled up at her Captain-wife.

"What would you like?" Paula asked.

Max nodded, "I want to turn in early and get a good night's rest, tomorrow will be busy."

Paula smiled, "That sounds like a great idea."

The brunette led Max past everyone still sitting and chatting at the Mess and then to the CQ. They both stripped off and climbed into bed. This time Paula laid Max on her side, resting her head on her inner thigh. The fellatio was gentle but still insistent and Paula was rewarded with sweet creamy vanilla dessert: Max and Paula cuddled up together.

Astrid and Samira returned to Engineering as they wanted to get at least one Combat drone finished before they went to bed. Joon and Vika, however, made their way onto the huge bed; they too cuddled together. Three Hands of Agatha crawled into bed with them.
Hours later Astrid and Samira washed up quietly then flopped on the bed passing out. They had finished the first and put a substantial dent into the second Combat drone. Agatha gathered them all together into the now expected shared dream experience.

---

Paula awoke to lovely soft voices having a pleasant conversation in her mind. For a split second she thought someone was watching a show on the holo-net except she recognized every voice...Paula was now a part of the family telepathic network!

Paula thought to everyone. She was immediately celebrated by her family in grand telepathic fashion and Paula was soon overwhelmed with mental kisses and hugs. She sat up, her generous breasts swayed as she turned to look at Vika next to her. Joon and Vika lay next to her, facial expressions indicated they were having a telepathic conversation.

Vika was turned away from her, but Paula could see the side of her face. The tiny redhead now had long sideburns, they were the same bright-coppery color of her dreads.

Vika turned her head and smiled at Paula. Those sideburns went halfway down the edge of her jaw, leaving her chin bare, they blended in nicely with her complexion. Paula nodded her approval, Vika's sideburns looked really good on her, it didn't make her look any less feminine.

Vika bit her lip staring into Paula's eyes.

Paula needed to check if the kisses would be fuzz free. So she did: Paula and Vika kissed, then deeply so. The voluptuous brunette wrapped herself around her short muscular wife.
Paula thought to her passionately.

Vika answered as the kiss continued.

Joon was now being spooned by Max as they watched Vika and Paula. Astrid and Samira rolled out of bed and headed to the bathroom and Agatha went after them. Max and Joon soon followed.

Paula and Vika did follow... But not immediately.

The morning routine continued but there was a palpable level of anxiety in the air. Max tried very hard to let the stress leave her during the kata, but it wasn't easy. Agatha did her best to keep everyone on an even keel, pushing calm into her family. That and the hot showers did wonders for relaxing the crew and no one was feeling inclined to anything amorous.

Uniform of the day was battle dress, even Samira wore a set of Agatha's BDU's. Breakfast was light but nutritional, a vegetable and sausage scramble with fruit juice. With an ETA of thirty minutes, the crew of the Deirdre sat in the Mess with tea and coffee.
Agatha gave last minute updates on the feelings of the Captain and crew of the freighter. Then as one unit, Deirdre's crew ascended to the Bridge. Max gave Vika a brief mental query, she only responded with a sigh and a head shake.

Within minutes of Agatha's ETA the bulk-freighter Ghusmik Urr dropped out of hyper-warp.

---

The system was just as bare as Agatha had described, only a ring of rocks around a red dwarf star. Those rocks had already been scoured by Golamar more than a century earlier. Deirdre's sensitive passive sensors picked out the massive transteller strip-mining platform immediately. Everyone on Deirdre's bridge knew exactly how big Golamar was, but seeing it on sensors made it more impressive and real.

The Ornalith three hull design formed a hollow prism shape. Golamar's primary hull was twelve kilometers in length, two kilometers wide and a quarter of a kilometer thick. It contained a massive stepped loading dock capable of accommodating twenty bulk-freighters and included two separate habitation complexes for workers with commercial space in between with Luxury resort accommodations for management and visiting executives.

The two industrial hulls were individually only slightly less in dimension than the primary. They contained the colossal industrial complex that was the heart of the project. The hollow core of the platform allowed waste material and unrefined rock to exit the slowly moving structure. Astrid explained the use of tractor beams and mining lasers, while rock-tug's would pull smaller asteroids into Golamar's maw.
Joon mentioned a basking shark, everyone saw the similarity after a quick image search. Then Deirdre's alarms flashed as Golamar scanned the incoming bulk-freighter. Readings indicated a penetrating scan that was more powerful than anything used in the TFN.

"Fuckmuffins" Astrid cursed, "That is one beast of an active sensor array."

Agatha reminded all of them that Golamar was designed to find and extract the riches of entire systems.

Max raised an eyebrow, "Could that sensor find Deirdre?"

Agatha and Astrid shared a look.

"I don't think so," Astrid replied.

Max nodded, her lips thin.

Astrid swallowed, "But, let's not test that theory if we don't have to."

---