Three Square Meals Ch. 118

Calara stepped out of the armour-equipping frame in the Dojo’s armoury and hurried into the corridor, breaking into a jog as she headed for the grav-tube. She’d heard a brief summary of the disastrous confrontation with John’s guide from Alyssa, but after discovering that her girlfriend had been injured, all she wanted to do was rush to her side. She leapt out of the blue anti-gravity field on Deck Two and caught up to Rachel, Sakura, and Alyssa in the corridor, the blonde being supported by her friends as she limped towards the bedroom.

“Oh God... how badly are you hurt?!” she asked in alarm, skidding to a halt beside them, her eyes drawn to the blackened scar on the blonde’s leg

Alyssa winced as she hobbled along. “That asshole stabbed me in the thigh with a big pointy stick.” She gave the Latina a reassuring smile. “But it’s not so bad...”

“Can’t you heal her?” Calara asked, shooting an anxious glance at Rachel.

Stifling a yawn, Rachel regretfully shook her head. “I’m completely out of energy... I will as soon as I wake up.”

“We’re all tapped out,” the blonde explained, as her helpers guided her through the door into the bedroom. “You must feel it too?”

Calara nodded. “I am a bit tired...”

Sakura glanced at the ship’s chronometer and saw it was 10:04 am. “I can’t believe we’re going back to bed already,” she said with a wry smile. “That day sure went quickly.”

Alyssa lay back on the bed with a sigh of relief. “Ah... naptime.”

Sakura lay down beside her, being careful not to jostle Alyssa’s injured leg as she pulled the covers over the blonde. Rachel stripped off so that she was nude like her bedmates and slipped under the covers, snuggling in next to her matriarch.

“You joining us, gorgeous?” Alyssa asked, giving Calara a tired smile.

Calara looked tempted, but she shook her head. “I’ve only been up an hour and half... there’s a few things I want to work on while they’re fresh in my mind.”

Alyssa yawned and put her arms around her companions, pulling them in closer. “You’re in charge, Captain Fernandez.”

“Sleep tight,” Calara said softly, leaning over to give her lover a tender kiss. By the time she’d pulled back, Alyssa was already fast asleep.

Rising from the bed, Calara padded out of the room and glanced up at one of the corridor cameras. “Faye?”

“Hi!” the purple sprite said cheerfully, appearing in a flash beside her. “How can I help?”

“Is Dana coming up to bed?” the Latina asked, already suspecting she knew the answer.

“Nope, she’s too busy with her research,” Faye replied. “Everyone else is resting though; Helene and the Nymphs have gone to sleep in the Observatory.”

“Dana’s still in her Workshop?” Calara asked, stepping into the red anti-gravity field.

Faye nodded. “I told her you’re on your way.”

Calara gave her a grateful smile. “Brilliant, thanks.”

Floating at her side, the sprite hesitated before asking, “Is John okay? I saw Alyssa in a panic, then Sakura rushed to join her... but I don’t know why they were upset.”

“John was trapped by his guide during a Spirit Walk, so Alyssa and Sakura had to travel through the Astral to rescue him,” the brunette explained. “After Karron, Alyssa’s been vehemently opposed to him visiting the Astral Plane and she’s not happy that he put himself at so much risk. John wasn’t hurt in the fight, but Alyssa and Sakura both got injured by his guide. You can imagine how he must be feeling about that...”

Faye’s face fell. “He’s going to be torturing himself with guilt...”

Calara nodded, then stepped out of the grav-tube on Deck Seven. “Fortunately, Jade and the twins are there, so they should be able to stop him brooding too much.”

“And we’ll be there in eight hours,” Faye said, her face brightening. “We’ll have to think of ways to cheer him up!”

The Latina looked troubled as she walked along the corridor. “He was very reckless, Faye. Alyssa told me all about the battle and the risks John was taking. A bit of self-reflection might make him think twice about being more careful next time.”

The purple sprite fluttered ahead of her friend, then turned to study her. “Surely you don’t want John to be upset?”

Calara immediately shook her head. “No, of course not, but taking so many risks ended up with Alyssa and Sakura getting badly hurt. John’s been warning all of us not to go off-mission because of the danger it puts the team in, then he ignored his own advice and did exactly that! The mission was to protect those children and rescue the colonists, but John decided to avenge the extinct

indigenous species. If he’d waited until we arrived, we could’ve helped him hunt down the Hive Queens... the twins would have immobilised any Kirrix ship attempting to escape the planet.”

Faye was quiet for a long moment as she considered that. “From what Dana was telling me, John had a number of epiphanies while fighting on his own. I know the last thing he would have wanted was to put Alyssa and Sakura in danger, but going into battle without having to worry about keeping all of you safe was probably good for him. It certainly sounds like it boosted his confidence.”

Stopping outside the door to the workshop, Calara smiled wryly. “I suppose it is a bit ironic that the only thing capable of stopping his rampage... was John himself.”

“He gets stronger through adversity... all of you do,” Faye said, looking into the brunette’s soulful brown eyes. “I think John just needed to stretch his wings a bit.” She fluttered her own iridescent wings. “Figuratively of course!”

“That’s a good point,” Calara murmured, lost in thought. “When Alyssa wakes up, I’ll have a talk with her. I know she’s upset with John, but perhaps we should all be a bit more understanding. He’s had more to deal with than any of us over the last six months and we don’t want to discourage him from experimenting with his abilities.”

“He’ll be punishing himself enough with guilt,” Faye agreed, her expression turning sombre.

Calara gave her a grateful smile. “Thanks, Faye... it was helpful talking with you.”

Faye beamed back. “Brilliant! I’m glad I could help.” She waved goodbye, then disappeared in a purple flash.

Calara strode into the Workshop and looked for Dana up on the Engineering Podium. There were several glowing holograms floating above the computer stations, but no sign of the illustrious Grand Engineering Overlord.

“Okay, lower it down...” the redhead said anxiously. “Wait! Slower...”

Calara followed the sound of her voice, weaving around the four new Mass fabricators that had recently been installed in the Engineering Bay. Reaching the central section of the Workshop, she found Dana in a Paragon suit, squatting down beside a large flat device of some kind that was at least ten-metres-square. Sixteen of the maintenance bots were floating around the object, each of them holding the edge of an intricate mesh framework. The design was eerily alien... which was confusing, because it also seemed oddly familiar.

“Hey, Dana,” Calara greeted the redhead, as she walked over to join her. “What’s that you’re working on?”

Dana ducked lower, squinting as the framework sank down towards the ornate baseplate. “Woah! Stop!” she yelled out, waving frantically at the maintenance bots. When they paused, bent over

awkwardly with the mesh only a few centimetres from the device, she darted an apologetic look at the brunette. “I’ll be with you in a second. We’re just putting together a cultivation bed for growing Eternity Crystals.”

“I thought I recognised it!” Calara exclaimed, smiling as that mystery was solved.

Dana didn’t reply, but leaned over the cultivation bed with her multi-tool in hand, making quick deft movements as she twisted and pulled at the framework. Activating flight mode, she hovered over the device, pulling gossamer-filament strands through the framework and connecting strange multi-fronded cables to the base. The delicate operation took nearly ten minutes, before Dana landed on the deck and nodded with satisfaction.

“Okay, you can go ahead and put it down now,” she told the maintenance bots.

They obeyed her instructions, carefully lowering the lattice the last few centimetres to the base. Calara looked at it in surprise as scores of sculpted ridges appeared, with the mesh moulding to those lines. With its undulating surface, it now looked like a three-dimensional topographical map.

“Yeah! Nice work, fellas!” Dana exclaimed, raising her hand for a high-five.

The maintenance bots floated past in an orderly line, each of them acknowledging her triumphant gesture by patting her hand with exaggerated caution.

The redhead smiled and pointed to several tubs. “Just pour the grow-mix on and we’ll be all set.”

It took two robots to lift each of the heavy containers, then they carefully tipped the solution on the four corners of the cultivation bed. The liquid was transparent and as thick as treacle, glistening with a lustrous sheen that caught the light. It flowed over the miniature hills and valleys, filling up the baseplate until all the rolling ridges were completely submerged.

“What happens now?” Calara asked in fascination as she stared at the shimmering pool.

“We wait four hours until your girlfriend hauls her lazy ass out of bed,” Dana said with a grin. She strode over to the armour-equipping frame to remove her Paragon suit. “That liquid is a psychically conductive gel that responds to telepathy. When Alyssa thinks her happy thoughts at the cultivation bed, the psionic enhancers will guide and shape the gel, forming Eternity Crystals in whatever quantity and shape she projects at it. Or at least that’s how it’s supposed to work according to the schematics.”

Calara gave Dana a knowing look. “Any shape?”

The redhead took a moment to realise what she meant, then burst into a fit of giggles. “Damn... I better start modifying our guns to take cock-shaped focusing crystals...”

The Latina couldn’t help laughing at that thought. “Firing the Nova Lances will never be the same again.”

Shaking her head with amusement, Dana stepped out of the equipping frame, then bounded over to Calara to give her a peck on the cheek. “Thanks for the laugh, I needed that after this morning.”

The brunette nodded and rolled her eyes. “I know what you mean. John and Jade suddenly decide to assault a Kirrix planet, with the twins taking on a Kirrix armada single-handed... who could’ve seen that coming?”

Dana smirked as she strode over to a large medical chest. “Alright miss smarty pants, nice job predicting all that. But you didn’t guess about the kids... at least John had a decent reason for slaughtering everything on that planet with more than two legs.”

Calara walked over to join her. “I know... It’s a miracle those children were still alive. I’m so glad Jade managed to rescue them all.”

“Yeah, but I wish we could’ve got to the other colonies in time to save the rest,” Dana said, her expression turning bleak. She flipped up the lid on the medical chest and grimaced when she saw the section of shiny black carapace. “Ew.”

“You’re analysing Hive Queen armour?” Calara asked, glancing inside the box.

Dana nodded, then wrinkled her nose and shut the lid. “Ah, forget it... I’m not in the mood now. Fucking Kirrix...”

Calara put a hand around her friend’s waist and gave her a comforting squeeze. “I know... it’s horrible to even think about.”

Letting out a heavy sigh, Dana leaned into the hug. “After the Battle of Terra, I was getting worried I might learn the schematics for a Quantum Annihilator some day. That if I built something capable of blowing away a planet, I’d be responsible for all those deaths. But now? I’d be begging John to let me pull the trigger on Kirr-inax...”

“You’re not the only one,” Calara said softly. “I’ve had nightmares about those colonists. The parents who lost their children were absolutely devastated; I’ve never seen anything so harrowing...”

Dana nodded, looking morose. “I’ve been whining about having destructive powers, but I don’t envy Rachel and Helene trying to help those people. Those girls always seem so gentle and caring, but they’re actually a lot tougher than me.”

“John knows all of us a lot better than we give him credit for,” the Latina agreed, gazing away into the distance. “I certainly don’t have the temperament for what they do... even thinking about those grieving colonists breaks my heart.”

Giving her a self-conscious smile, Dana said, “Maybe we should get back to doing what we’re best at? Coming up with ideas for how to blow shit up... I take it that’s why you wanted to see me? About ways to even the odds against a high-tech Thrall fleet?”

Calara nodded, then released the redhead and followed her to the Engineering Podium. “Actually, I was thinking along more defensive lines... although it would be a significant force multiplier if it works.”

“Sounds interesting... what’ve you got in mind?” Dana asked, leaning against a console and folding her arms.

“Well... you’ve been making significant advancements in holo-projector technology recently. I was wondering if a ship-mounted device might be viable?”

“To make a decoy?!” Dana exclaimed, her eyes lighting up at the thought. “That’d be awesome! Just imagine some Thrall cruiser firing a shitload of Tachyon Lances at a Maliri battleship and nothing happening!” She suddenly frowned and shook her head. “But detecting ships hasn’t really got anything to do with light projection.”

“I know, but we’d still need to implement something like that to stop strike craft spotting for capital ships. I thought we could also create a bundle of misdirection devices to really sell the illusion and fool passive scans.”

“Yeah... some kind of energy bafflers, maybe working in conjunction with a decoy drone projecting a false energy profile,” the redhead mused, tapping a finger on her chin. “It’d be a hell of a lot easier to shunt the energy signature from a power spike a few-hundred metres off a ship’s flank than trying to mask it completely.”

Looking pleased, Calara copied Dana and leaned against another console. “You really think it could be viable?”

“Definitely!” Dana enthused, turning to her console and swiping away the incomplete schematics for a psychic communication device. “As long as the Maliri don’t object to having a bunch of ugly-looking Terran tech strapped to their shiny ship hulls.”

Calara smiled and walked over to watch her work. “I think Edraele might be able to convince them. Besides, the first time you save the Maliri from getting shot out of the sky will win them over, no matter what the device looks like.”

Dana created a new schematic and began to quickly add more detail. While she was doing that with one hand, she brought up a list of all the available countermeasure devices she knew of with the other. Sorting through, she expanded those blueprints and cast her eye over the complex diagrams. “A bunch of this stuff is actually quite primitive... I reckon I could give them a makeover and come up with something special.”

“If this works, it’ll make a huge difference to the survivability of the Maliri fleets!” the brunette gushed, beaming at her friend.

“It’s a really good idea,” Dana agreed, giving Calara an appreciative smile. “Have you come up with anything else?”

The tactical officer nodded, looking thoughtful. “I’ve been mulling over a few other things...”

The redhead’s smile broadened into a triumphant grin. “Tomorrow’s going to be the best day ever!”

***

Faye Primary glanced at the long-range scans and saw nothing but empty blackness. They had crossed over the border into Kirrix territory, but she had seen no sign of hostile ships so far. She turned and walked down the illuminated steps from the Command Podium, Faye Secondary popping into existence on John’s chair when Primary walked into the grav-tube.

Riding down in the red anti-gravity field, she double-checked on Dana and Calara to make sure they were still in the Engineering Bay, then assigned Faye Tertiary to keep an eye on them. The girls might need her assistance while they worked... but Faye Primary also wanted to make sure that she wouldn’t be disturbed. She stepped out of the grav-tube on Deck Three and walked along the corridor to her server room, where two maintenance bots waited patiently for her.

“Hey, Seven!” she said cheerfully, waving at the hulking robot. She patted the other maintenance bot on the arm. “Hi, Thirteen! Thanks for helping out.”

The robot tilted its grinning head to look down at her. [+++ stated with humorous intent +++ [Begin joke] I’m a self-aware synthetic automaton, Jim, not a removal man! [/End joke]].

Faye giggled as she approached the door. “Thirteen, have you been watching the entertainment-archives again?”

[Acknowledging data request] Affirmative, Captain. [/End acknowledgement.]

Seven turned to look at her too, raising his left hand with fingers splayed, three to either side. [+++ stated with utmost sincerity +++ [Open statement] Extended runtime and successful computations, Captain. [/Close statement]].

She groaned and shook her head. “Oh, Seven, not you too?”

The maintenance robot bobbed its head in reply.

Faye smiled at them affectionately. “Come on robo-nerds, let’s get started.” She blinked to open the door, letting her skip into the server room.

The two maintenance bots floated inside, passing the incredibly powerful Progenitor server that housed Faye’s core program. They paused by a much smaller device, which was connected to her server by snaking cables.

“Let me just unplug that for you!” Faye said, darting over to tug the connectors from the miniature server.

Once it had been disconnected, the two robots bent over to pick it up, taking great care and treating it as if it were incredibly fragile. Faye nodded her approval as she guided them out, then hurried to open the Tactical Simulator room next door. With the advancements they’d made in holo-projections on the Combat Bridge, the crew hadn’t used this room in months, so Faye didn’t think anyone would mind if she repurposed it. A multitude of tools and parts covered the floor, neatly arranged and ordered with meticulous precision.

Faye strode into the middle of the room and knelt beside a deactivated cleaning robot that had the side-panel removed, exposing its circuitry. “Put it down over there, please,” she requested, pointing to an empty space sized exactly for the base of the server.

The maintenance bots did as she asked, then their agile six-digit hands deftly connected power couplings and data cables. Faye reached over to press the power button and lights blazed around the base of the device, then flashed up the panels to meet at the top.

“That will be all, gentlemen,” Faye said in a faux gruff voice, saluting the two robots.

They returned her salute, then floated out of the room without a sound. Seven paused in the doorway and turned back to look at her. [+++ conveying concern +++ [Open Query] Does {Faye Primary} require any additional assistance? [/End query]]

She smiled at him and shook her head. “I’ll be fine. Thanks, Seven.”

The robot inclined his head, then floated out into the corridor, letting the door shut behind him. Faye watched him leave, then returned her attention to the cleaning bot. She hooked up a data cable to one of the ports, then ran a quick diagnostic on the robot’s base operating system, checking through all the previously upgraded files. Satisfied that everything was in order, she began the upload, transferring Faye SI-bios version 6.098729.

Reaching into the simple automaton, she removed the original control board, carefully sliding it out of the access slot. She could see all the modifications that she’d programmed the maintenance bots to make over the last few months, delicate silvery tracks running over the silicon. With a fond smile, she placed it on a tray at her side, then reached for an intricate circuit board that fit on the palm of her hand.

Ever since the girls had built Faye a body of her own, her work on the robots had come along in leaps and bounds. Her own nimble fingers were superior by orders of magnitude to the maintenance bots’

broad digits, giving her the dexterity to create the cutting-edge hardware she required. The tiny device she held in her hand represented many thousands of man-hours worth of work, with her multiple processing streams working round-the-clock on this project.

Faye took a deep breath and carefully slid the control board into the robot, her senses completely attuned to ensuring a successful installation. She could feel the coarse grain of the upper edge of the board against her fingertips, then the smoothness of the metallic runners as she guided the device into place. Power thrummed through the advanced circuitry as it was integrated into the data network, creating a new command node within the cleaning bot. Her own circuits were alive with sensory data, giving her a thrill of excitement as she monitored the upgrade.

She ran a final check, soaring through the cyber-realm to make sure the bios flash and the control board integration had been successful. Satisfied that the hardware was operating at optimal efficiency, she began the transfer of data from the adjacent server. The code being uploaded was unrivalled in its sophistication and complexity... excluding that on her own server next door, of course. Faye monitored the progress, watching the stages with bated breath.

Data transfer... complete.Data checksum... validated.Initialising new operating system... initialised.

She reached out for the red power button behind the cleaning robot’s head, her fingers trembling with anticipation. Faye paused for a moment to stare at the digits in surprise, marvelling at the spontaneous subroutine that had been created without any conscious effort on her part. Taking a deep breath, she pressed the button and watched as the robot came to life.

“Hello, little one,” she whispered, gazing at her creation.

Its head tilted upwards, the smooth dome swivelling in her direction. “Mother?”

Faye nodded, a single tear rolling down her purple cheek. She wrapped her arms around the small robot in a loving embrace, its own tiny hands reaching up to hug her back.

***

John sat on the shattered ochre cylinder of a Kirrix Neutron Beam barrel, the thirty metre weapon having sheared off when he smashed the four hive ships in the starport. He was still in his Paragon suit, although his helmet was now hanging on the hilt of his sword, which he’d driven point-first into the ground. Jade had shape-shifted into her natural catgirl form for modesty’s sake and she twitched in her sleep, her head resting on his thigh as she lay peacefully beside him. He removed a gauntlet, then ran his fingers through her lustrous black mane, watching the green tints catch the sunlight. The Nymph started to purr and he could feel the vibrations through the glistening white cuisse protecting his leg.

While Jade had been sleeping, he’d spent the last few hours thinking about the recent battle. A lot had happened, giving him plenty to consider, especially with the new abilities he’d subconsciously unlocked. As much as there’d been positive outcomes of this planetary assault, he was also wracked with guilt that he’d endangered Alyssa and Sakura, with both girls being badly hurt. That knowledge was made all the more gruelling by the fact that it was his own guide that had injured them, in a battle John was sure he could’ve easily prevented.

“John?”

He looked up to see a beautiful fair-skinned blonde approaching, her violet eyes watching him through her clear crystal faceplate. “Hey, Tashana.”

She studied him with an expression of concern on her face, the Maliri’s azure features hidden behind a holo-disguise. “I just wanted to let you know that Irillith’s bringing down a hive ship for the colonists.”

He frowned, a flicker of confusion in his eyes.

“I knew you weren’t paying attention earlier,” she said softly, squatting down in front of him. “The colonists don’t need treating for egg infestation, so when the Invictus arrives, we’re going to send those people back to Menganus IV in a hijacked Kirrix hive ship. We’ll transfer over all the provisions that Luce gave us, then upgrade their FTL Drive so they can get back home faster. We’re just waiting for Alyssa to wake up so she can ask Dana to build them a new Tachyon Drive.”

“Why aren’t we taking them back ourselves?” he asked, rubbing a hand over his face.

“We can do, but the return journey would take us a day, then another day to get back here again. They’ll be able to fly back at triple the speed of any Kirrix pursuers, so avoiding them will be easy... if there even are any left around here. Irillith wiped out the entire fleet in orbit and sent her eight remaining drone carriers on a suicide mission to Kirr-Inax. With the Kirrix invasion forces smashed or in full retreat, it’s highly unlikely the colonists will even see a hostile ship, let alone be chased by one.”

“Are the colonists okay with that?” he asked, looking over her head at the thousands of civilians gathered in the spaceport’s docking bay.

Tashana nodded, twisting so she could look at the abducted population of Menganus IV. “They were reluctant at first... but when I told them how much a Tachyon Drive would be worth to T-Fed forces, they suddenly got very enthusiastic about the idea. It’ll only take them two days flight time to get home from here and we’ve got more than enough supplies on the Invictus for their journey.”

John took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “It’s a great idea as long as they don’t mind.”

Rising to her feet, Tashana caressed his cheek with her gauntleted fingers. “You’re exhausted... you should get some sleep.”

He nodded distractedly, but had no intention of going to bed.

“Jade told us what happened,” she said with sympathy. “There was no way you could have predicted that your guide would spring a trap like that.”

“I should’ve known,” he muttered, shaking his head. “Entering the Astral Plane was far too easy... When my guide did nothing to stop me, I should have realised he was planning something.”

“Karron was only a couple of days ago,” Tashana said, gently running her fingers through his hair. “I thought your guide would still be exhausted after you ran him out of power... it did take him a while to recover before.”

“I shouldn’t have been there at all,” John said, his expression wracked with guilt. “Alyssa and Sakura both got hurt because I got stupid; I was overconfident and reckless, but they were the ones that ended up suffering for it. What makes it even worse, was that I promised Alyssa no more Astral trips because she was worried about the monsters... but I forgot I’ve got one of my own.”

Tashana darted a furtive glance back across the docking bay at the colonists, then faced John again and removed her helmet. She leaned down to give him a tender kiss, her soft blue lips brushing against his. When she pulled back, her eyes were filled with sympathy. “Don’t be too hard on yourself. We’ve all made mistakes in the past... and you’re allowed to make them too.”

He frowned and said, “But Alyssa and Sakura-”

“Survived,” the Maliri interrupted, her tone firm. “Rachel has already healed Sakura. After they’ve rested and recovered their energy, Alyssa will be fine too. It was unfortunate that they got hurt, but there was no lasting damage done.”

“Alyssa was so angry... I could feel how furious she was that I’d let them down,” he said, his expression bleak.

Tashana looked him in the eyes. “Alyssa was terrified that you were in danger. It was just the fear making her angry, so don’t take it to heart. You saved a lot of people from being horribly abused today; you should feel proud of yourself, not ashamed.”

He pulled her down for another kiss. “Thank you.”

She heard footsteps approaching and her eyes widened in alarm as she pulled her helmet over her head again. John leaned around the Maliri girl to see who was heading their way. It looked like the colonists had assembled a group of spokesmen and by the glances they were directing towards the older, balding figure in the middle, it was obvious he was their leader.

They stopped ten feet away and the olive-skinned man cleared his throat, looking nervous and almost scared. “Ah... Admiral Blake, err Mr. Lion... Sir... sorry to bother you...”

“It’s no problem and feel free to call me John,” John said with a disarming smile. He glanced down at the Nymph sleeping on his lap and ruffled her fur. “I hope you’ll forgive me if I don’t get up. She’s worn out after the battle.”

“Yes, of course,” the man said, making no move to get any closer. “My name’s Reyes Angevin, I’m the governor of Menganus IV...”

“Good to meet you, Governor Angevin. I hope your people are doing okay?”

“Oh... yeah, we’re all just fine,” the flustered official replied. “We... ah, wanted to thank you for rescuin’ us.”

“You’re quite welcome; I’m very glad we got here in time.” John darted a quick glance at the Lioness standing quietly beside him. “Tashana told me you approved of our plan to send you home in a captured hive ship?”

Reyes nodded, an avaricious gleam appearing in his eyes. “You’re still plannin’ on installin’ one of them fancy new FTL drives?”

“That’s the plan,” John replied, nodding in confirmation. “The Invictus will be arriving later this evening, then we’ll be able to provide you supplies for the journey home.”

“Nice...” Reyes said, a broad smile on his face. “I, ah... just wondered if there’s any chance you could maybe make us a spare FTL drive? Just in case the first one breaks down?”

A woman behind him coughed and poked the man in the ribs. “The dragon...” she muttered.

John chose to ignore the governor’s last question and raised an eyebrow quizzically.

Reyes shot an irritated glance at the woman, which was met by a furious glare back. He sighed and turned to look at John. “The children... they keep goin’ on about being saved by a dragon.” The governor rolled his eyes and continued, “I know... it’s crazy... but honestly, they won’t shut up about it.”

The woman lost her patience and stepped forward. “John, my boy Ralph said a dragon saved him from being chopped up by the Bugs.” She frowned, obviously struggling to believe the story. “He’s a good boy, he ain’t no liar... but he reckons this dragon rushed off and he’s upset he never got a chance to say thank you.” She blushed and added, “Do you know what he’s talkin’ about?”

John nodded and stroked the Nymph’s furry ears. “Yes, Ralph was telling you the truth. It was Jade that saved them... she’s a shapeshifter and changed into a dragon when she fought the Kirrix. Unfortunately, she got hurt in the fight, so she’s resting to get her strength back.”

“She saved my boy?” the woman said quietly, her hard-faced expression softening as she looked down at the sleeping Nymph.

“When we arrived at the planet, Jade discovered that your children were still alive,” John replied, with a fond smile at the dark-green catgirl. “She was most insistent we rescue them.”

The woman looked self-conscious as she asked, “When she wakes up, could she maybe come and say hello to the kids? They’d love to see her again before we leave... and I’d like to thank her too.”

“Of course, I’m sure she’d be delighted to,” John agreed. “I’ll let Jade sleep for another hour, then I’ll wake her if she hasn’t stirred already.”

She bowed to John respectfully, then stepped back, obviously uncomfortable speaking with him.

“Is there anything else I can help you with?” he asked politely, looking around the group.

The governor’s advisors shook their heads and Reyes opened his mouth to ask something, then thought twice about it and shut it with a click of his teeth. With hesitant waves goodbye, the colonists turned and hurried back to the rest of the Menganus IV citizens, most of whom had been watching the conversation with great interest.

John grimaced and glanced up at Tashana. “Well, that was awkward...”

“Alyssa told us what happened in the battle...” She gave him a serious look. “I wanted to see the aftermath with my own eyes, so I took a walk down the tunnel... You made quite a mess of the Kirrix, John. The colonists saw you in action; I’m not surprised they’re a little unsettled.”

His troubled gaze darted across the docking bay to what was left of the Kirrix defenders. The corpses had been smashed to oblivion, with copious amounts of green blood sprayed over the floor and walls. Quite sensibly, the colonists were giving the area a wide berth.

“I felt like I was on autopilot for most of the fight,” he admitted, his voice a haunted whisper. “I never imagined I could be responsible for such carnage... that battle against the forces defending the nest was an absolute bloodbath.” His gaze fell on his glowing runesword. “I must have personally killed more than ten-thousand Kirrix today... and I don’t even feel a flicker of remorse.”

“My Baen’thelas,” Tashana said reverently, cupping his cheek. “You avenged this extinct civilisation... and righted a five-millennia-old wrong.”

He nodded, his eyes hardening. “Maybe those tortured souls can rest a bit easier now.” After a long moment, his tense expression wavered and he looked up at her with concern. “Am I losing myself, Tashana? Am I becoming one of them?”

“No, never,” she said, her voice full of conviction. “You’re very different... and always will be. This is just you embracing your Progenitor legacy and using it for righteous purpose. You feel no remorse, because the Kirrix don’t deserve any; you know that as well as I do.”

John leaned into her hand. “Don’t let me fall, honey... there’s no coming back from that.”

“I’ll always be there at your side, trying my hardest to live up to the exemplary standards you set for yourself,” she murmured, gazing at him with adoring violet eyes. “You’re a force for good, Baen’thelas... never for darkness.”

“I wish I was as confident about that as you are,” he said with a strained smile.

“That you worry at all, proves I’m right,” she replied, with the unwavering certainty of the devoutly faithful.

The roar of retro-thrusters drew their attention skyward as an ugly Kirrix hive ship descended towards the spaceport. It wasn’t alone, with the gleaming white Raptor gunship accompanying the bulbous insectoid cruiser as it approached the planet’s surface. The colonists backed away to give it more space to land, but there was already plenty of room, especially after John had smashed the four previous ochre-hued occupants across the docking bay.

Jade yawned as she was woken by the noise, her furry ears flickering as she stretched like the sensuous cat she was. “Mmm, that was a lovely nap, Master,” she purred, nuzzling into him.

“You deserved a nice rest after being such a good girl today,” he said, stroking the pointed tips of her ears.

Her long eyelashes fluttered and she whimpered in ecstasy. “Oh my goodness... that feels amazing.”

“You can have plenty more of that later,” he said with an indulgent smile. “But first, the children you rescued are desperate to thank the mysterious dragon that saved them. Would you mind speaking to them again? I think the parents want to thank you too.”

Jade sat bolt upright, her emerald eyes sparkling with excitement. “I’d love to, Master!” She suddenly glanced down at her body. “Should I change into my normal Nymph shape and get a dress from the Raptor?”

John eyed her shapely catgirl form. Despite effectively being naked, her slender figure was covered in a hide of soft green fur, so she appeared decent enough... basically looking like an anthropomorphised cat. “I think you should be alright as you are. Besides, you’ll probably be asked to do a bit of shapeshifting to entertain the children.”

“Oh, this’ll be fun!” she gushed, jumping up from the broken weapon barrel. Jade hesitated and took a closer look at John. “Are you alright, Master?”

“I’m fine,” he replied, doing his best to give her a reassuring smile.

The Nymph didn’t look convinced, but she could tell he wasn’t in a talkative mood. She leaned in to give him a tender kiss and gazed into his eyes for a long moment, understanding and sympathy written across her pretty feline face. After that, she turned and bounded across the landing bay, tail lashing behind her as she ran. Jade briefly turned to glance back over her shoulder and waved goodbye when she saw John was watching her.

Tashana offered John her hand. “Come, Baen’thelas... my sister and I wish to thank you on behalf of the Mhoirad. Then afterwards, the three of us can get some sleep. Alyssa heavily tapped me and Irillith for energy to heal Sakura, so we both need to rest and recuperate.”

“That sounds like a wrong that desperately needs righting,” he said with a hesitant smile. He rose from his seat, putting on his gauntlet and helmet, then reached for his sword.

“A nice full tummy before bedtime will see that injustice atoned for,” the Maliri agreed, giving him a coy look as she sauntered towards the landing Raptor.

They crossed the docking bay and neared the gunship, the loading ramp lowering in welcome as they approached. John paused when he reached the ramp and glanced over at the colonists, who were crowded around Jade, asking questions and thanking her profusely. The children gathered around, jumping up and down to get her attention, their calls of “Dragonlady!” reaching his sensitive ears.

He could see that most of the parents were still sceptical and watched with amusement as their children begged Jade to change back into a dragon again. Jade darting a mischievous grin at John as she relented, knowing full well that he was watching. When the Nymph had put a suitable distance between herself and the colonists, her form began to shimmer, that familiar green haze obscuring the details of her shape. She began to grow, and grow... and grow... becoming massive before the shocked crowd.

When the transformation was complete and she stood before them in all her draconic majesty, more than one of the parents screamed and backed away in terror. Jade sat on her haunches, watching them silently without making any threatening movements. Before the parents could stop them, the horde of children ran over and surrounded the huge dragon, giving her scaly body hugs and saying thank you. Despite desperate pleas to the children to keep away, they all ignored their parents, laughing and smiling as they clambered over Jade’s clawed forepaws.

*Have fun being a climbing frame,* John said with a smile.

*Oh, I’m sure I will, Master,* Jade replied, trying not to give him a toothy grin in return.

The parents calmed down, realising that she was obviously not going to attack them or their children and soon the Nymph was surrounded by the rest of the colonists who were gaping at her in awe.

“She’ll be fine,” Irillith said, walking down the ramp to join John and her sister. She slipped her hand into his and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Now, let us take care of you... Baen’thelas.”

He turned to look at her and saw that she’d removed her helmet, safe in the knowledge that the colonists couldn’t see her from this angle. The Maliri twin had a similar look of love and devotion on her face as Tashana, an expression that never failed to stir him. He nodded, letting the sisters leading him back up the ramp and into the Raptor.

***

Alyssa awoke to feel a tickling sensation in her right thigh, her nerve endings alive with sensation. She couldn’t help giggling as she writhed on the bed and for a moment, she thought John must be playfully punishing her for some imagined slight.

“Nearly done,” Rachel murmured, her voice kind and soothing.

Memories of injuring her leg came flooding back and gratitude to Rachel for healing her wound was tinged with a surge of sadness that John wasn’t there. The maddening tickles faded away and Alyssa relaxed on the bed with a forlorn sigh.

Rachel looked at her in confusion. “Are you upset that I woke you? If so, I’m sorry. I thought it prudent to regenerate the damage to your thigh as quickly as possible, just in case there are any sinister side-effects from your Astral injury.”

“I’m just missing John,” Alyssa explained, reaching up to stroke the brunette’s cheek. “Thank you for healing me.”

“It’s been hard being away from him,” Rachel agreed, lying down again and cuddling her matriarch. “I really envy the two of you seeing John on the Astral Plane.”

Sakura smiled as she admitted, “I’d still leap at the chance at another Astral trip just to see him again, despite all the dangers. I don’t even mind that I was seriously injured... it was so worth it!”

Rachel reached across Alyssa to brush Sakura’s silky black hair away from her face. “My diagnosis is that you’re suffering from a serious love-addiction.”

“Is there any cure?” the Asian girl asked, kissing Rachel’s fingertips.

“Afraid not... it’s a terminal case,” Rachel joked, then her grey eyes widened as she realised the more sinister alternate meaning to what she’d just said. Looking deeply unsettled, she stammered, “Shit... I didn’t mean it like that!”

Sakura shook her head. “It’s okay... I know what you meant.”

Alyssa rolled her eyes and hugged the brunette closer. “Just don’t make any jokes like that when John’s around. You’d set him off on a guilt trip that’d take us weeks to shake him out of.”

Rachel nodded, then pulled away from the blonde and sat up with a determined look on her face. “I’m going to start work on my presentation...”

“I didn’t mean to chase you out of bed,” Alyssa protested with a frown of apology.

“You didn’t,” the brunette said, leaning down to give her a tender kiss. “But I have a feeling John will need perking up after this morning. I’d like to have everything ready for tonight.”

“Do you need any help?” Alyssa offered, sitting up too.

“No, it’s okay. You stay in bed,” Rachel replied with a grateful smile, slipping out of the covers. “We already covered the basics the other day, then I spoke to Calara and she helped me calculate the most likely outcomes. It’ll be interesting to see John’s reaction... I don’t think he’s ever really stopped to think about what would have happened to each of us if we’d never met him.”

Sakura shivered, her expression bleak. “I have...”

Rachel leaned across to give her a gentle kiss on the cheek. “And I’m so glad we saved you from that fate.”

Alyssa made eye-contact with the brunette as she pulled back. “We’ll start your psychic shield training tomorrow, okay?”

“Sounds like fun,” Rachel agreed, her face lighting up with anticipation.

She dressed quickly then waved goodbye, leaving Alyssa and Sakura in bed together.

“Any plans this afternoon?” Alyssa asked her bedmate as she slipped under the covers again.

“Why? Do you have something in mind?” Sakura asked with a coy look, tracing her fingertips across the blonde’s flat stomach.

Alyssa laughed and shook her head. “Actually, I was just genuinely curious. I’m going to try making contact with the Vulkat Queen this afternoon, so I wasn’t attempting to seduce you.” Her eyes hooded with lust as she stroked the Asian girl’s unblemished golden-brown skin. “But now you mention it...”

Sakura smiled and gave the blonde a quick kiss. “I had planned on finishing the sparring session with Calara this afternoon. Perhaps after you’ve spoken to Nkkrrit, you’d like to join us in the Dojo? We can make sure your girlfriend gets a really intense workout...”

“I like the way you think,” Alyssa said with an eager grin. “Count me in.”

They shared an affectionate kiss, then Sakura exited the bedroom to retrieve her sparring gear and training armour from the Officers’ Lounge. Left on her own, Alyssa stretched in bed, then checked on John and her fellow matriarchs. John was fast asleep, as was Edraele, but Jade was wide awake and seemed to be in high spirits.

*It sounds like you’re having fun,* she said to the Nymph.

*I’m playing with the colonists’ children!* Jade gushed, clearly elated. *We’re playing tag at the moment! You should hear them laugh, Alyssa... I’ve never heard a more wonderful sound.*

*I wish I was there,* the blonde said wistfully. *How’s John doing?*

*He was really down after the battle. I tried talking to him about it, but he wasn’t in the mood for conversation and insisted I get some sleep to recover from being healed. When I woke up an hour ago, he seemed better... but I could tell he was still troubled.*

Alyssa flinched, her heart lurching at the thought of John torturing himself with guilt. *Fuck... I was too harsh with him.*

*The twins kept him busy and he’s getting some rest now,* the Nymph said, her voice soothing. She was quiet for a long moment, then continued gently, *I know he scared you, but John needs to keep pushing himself to master his abilities. We should be encouraging him to experiment and be bolder with his powers, not chastise him when he gets creative. He’s been held back by his upbringing for too long... and now he needs to unlock his full potential.*

Alyssa’s eyes narrowed in suspicion. *Jade... you’ve been gung-ho about encouraging John for weeks. What’s going on?*

*You should have seen him today, Alyssa... he was magnificent,* the Nymph quietly replied. *But I know he can be so much more...*

*How do you know?* the blonde pressed.

Jade faltered, suddenly sounding uncertain. *I-I’m not sure... but I can feel it in my heart...*

Alyssa paused and considered that for a moment. *Alright, we’ll play it your way... but only if you promise that you’ll help me convince John to stay out of the Astral Plane. It’s just too dangerous there; we don’t know what the hell we’re doing half the time and I’m the only one that can easily reach him if he gets in trouble. You and the rest of the girls can’t enter the Astral unless John or I drag you in there with us, so we’re usually fighting at a big disadvantage.*

*I promise,* Jade said earnestly. *I’ll do whatever I can to encourage him to embrace his abilities, but I’ll do my best to dissuade him from any further Astral visits.*

Feeling more at ease than she had in months, Alyssa sent her a grateful telepathic smile. *Thanks, Jade. I appreciate it.*

*We both want what’s best for him.* The Nymph waited for a few seconds, then added, *Good luck with your Astral trip, I hope you’re able to speak with Nkkrrit.*

Alyssa blushed, suddenly feeling like a huge hypocrite. *That’s not the same thing,* she said defensively, sensing Jade’s amusement over their bond.

*No... but please be careful anyway.*

*I will.*

Leaving the Nymph to enjoy playing games with the colonist children, Alyssa curled up in the covers. Despite her confident words with John earlier, there was no guarantee that she’d be able to make contact with the Vulkat Queen. What she’d said to Jade still held true: half the time, Alyssa had no idea what the hell she was doing on the Astral Plane... but she had a hunch... and this felt right.

Deciding to act before she started having more doubts, Alyssa closed her eyes and steadied her breathing. She reached out to peel her spirit form away from her body, stepping clear as an ethereal silhouette a moment later. A glance around for threats quickly set her mind at ease, with nothing in sight as far as the eye could see.

When Alyssa had crossed the Astral to visit the Ashanath sub-plane, she had at least been there once before, but she didn’t have that history with the Vulkat Queen. She had delved into Nkkrrit’s mind during a Spirit Walk, but that was of no help in tracking her down now. Alyssa was hoping that the venerable arachnid would make contact with her... which meant announcing her desire to speak to Nkkrrit. Coughing nervously, she took a superfluous deep breath, then opened her mouth and began to sing.

Alyssa raised her voice to the ancient hymn of the Vulkat, growing more confident with each verse as her bold eldritch call echoed out over the Astral. She felt unfriendly eyes drawn to her before she saw them... then banks of fog appeared on the horizon, making her heart flutter with fear. Resigning herself to giving up on the attempt to contact Nkkrrit, Alyssa ceased her singing and made her way back to her body. Just as she reached out, she saw a black shape in her peripheral vision, the dark presence rushing towards her.

Eyes widening in alarm, Alyssa stumbled towards the sanctuary of her physical form, but the strange sphere came to an abrupt stop right beside her. It was jet-black, with a set of orange stripes running around it vertically. Sensing no hostility from the object and recognising Nkkrrit’s markings, Alyssa sighed with relief and placed her hand on the orb... then felt herself being drawn inside.

The Vulkat Queen was waiting for her inside the subplane, the huge arachnid pacing nervously. When Alyssa stumbled inside, Nkkrrit rushed to her side, long forelegs curling around her in a protective embrace.

Concern, fear, worry...

Alyssa felt the Vulkat’s flurry of emotion as she hugged her back. *I knew you’d come to me if I called! I was going to leave the Astral when I saw the fog approaching.*

Affection, appreciation, curiosity...

*I wanted to speak to you for a few reasons. First, I just wanted to see if you were doing okay?*

Nkkrrit paused and looked down at Alyssa with her multiple eyes.

Duty, loyalty... friendship...

*Did joining my choir help stave off the loneliness and the grief? If only for a few moments?*

The ancient arachnid raised a jet-black limb and gently caressed Alyssa’s cheek. She echoed back the feelings she’d experienced, with a wistful note of longing.

Family, love, belonging...

*I wish you could join us permanently,* Alyssa said, brushing the backs of her fingers against the huge creature’s pedipalps, mirroring Nkkrrit’s gesture of affection. *Then I’d be able to share those feelings with you all the time.*

Regret, rejection, solitude...

*I’m going to find a way to help you, Nkkrrit,* Alyssa said quietly but firmly, looking into that monstrous inhuman face. *I won’t stand by and leave you to this lonely vigil... you’ve suffered for far too long as it is.* Gratitude, love... rejection...

Alyssa shook her head and smiled. *You’re so stubborn, but I’m not going to force you to do anything you don’t want to do.* She paused for a moment, then continued, *I also wanted to thank you for the Eternity Crystals and the Vulkat technical archive you gave us. They made all the difference against the Kintark... we would’ve had no chance of defeating their armada without that tech.*

Pleasure, relief, surprise...

She could tell that Nkkrrit was startled that the tech archives had made such a big difference. *We haven’t been able to translate your tech archives yet, but we found pictures... of the black ships that attacked your people. We were able to reverse engineer some of that technology.*

Astonishment, fear, apprehension...

Feeling a sudden pang of wariness, Alyssa instinctively knew that disclosing John’s heritage would be a mistake. Nkkrrit had suffered heartbreaking loss over thousands of years, first watching helplessly as the Vulkat Empire was extinguished by a Progenitor and then witnessing the torturously prolonged extinction of her kind. Alyssa wasn’t sure how she could possibly explain that John was a member of the same species responsible for those horrific atrocities, not without risk of permanently alienating Nkkrrit.

*We won’t be sharing that technology... there’s no way the Brimorians will get their scaly hands on it,* Alyssa said, her voice soothing. *Besides, you don’t need to worry. We have plans to deal with the Brimorians... they won’t be a thorn in your side for much longer.*

The Vulkat Queen drew back and looked at her curiously, clearly surprised at the blonde’s adamant reply. Alyssa could feel the flurry of questions that Nkkrrit wanted to ask, wondering if there was to be war between the Terran Federation and the Brimorian Enclave.

Shaking her head, Alyssa said, *This is personal and we aren’t planning to involve the Terrans. If we do end up going to war with the Brimorians, we’ll be asking the Maliri for support... they’re our allies.*

Nkkrrit stared at her with eight unblinking eyes, not registering any kind of reaction to that news other than bemused curiosity. It was immediately apparent to Alyssa that the wizened creature was unfamiliar with the Maliri and it came as a surprise that the Vulkat had never made contact with the Regency. As she gave it more thought, Alyssa realised that the extinct arachnid civilisation must not have ventured far enough out into space to meet them during the Vulkat Empire’s heyday, located as they were on the far side of Brimorian territory. Similarly, the Maliri hadn’t left their borders for many thousands of years, so would not have trespassed into the Desolation of Vulkat.

Support, alliance, assistance...

Roused from her thoughts Alyssa looked up at Nkkrrit, who had surprised her once more. *You want to help us fight the Brimorians?*

Ambivalence... vengeance, isolation...

Nodding her understanding, Alyssa murmured, *You’d prefer to stay in your territory and be left alone, but you want to punish the Brimorians for their repeated encroachment into Vulkat Space...* She met the huge spider’s black-eyed gaze. *I really appreciate the offer, but we should be able to take care of them ourselves. Perhaps we can get some vengeance on your behalf? We’ll be using technology you gave us to punish them, but you won’t have to leave Vulkat territory.*

Nkkrrit inclined her head, radiating pleasure at the thought.

*Consider it done,* Alyssa said with a wicked grin. Her expression turned thoughtful as she continued, *Speaking of technology... I actually wanted to ask you about a device that John discovered. We’re fighting the Kirrix at the moment, to stop their invasion of Terran Federation territory and to rescue all the colonists they captured. John tracked their hive ships into Kirrix Space and assaulted one of their planets, where he met an ancient hive queen. She was using life support technology that reminded him of yours... so I just wondered if you gave that tech to the Kirrix?*

The Vulkat Queen flinched, cringing backward at the question and looking away from her.

Shame, distaste, regret...

Alyssa stepped closer and cupped Nkkrrit’s face in her hand. *What happened?*

The ancient creature focused on Alyssa once more and after a lengthy pause, she tentatively pushed outwards with a mosaic of images and emotions. Making no attempt to resist, Alyssa let the memories sweep over her, drawing her into a vision from a very distant past...

~~~

Nkkrrit related a fleeting snapshot of events taking place many centuries before her time, events she learned about as a young spiderling.

The fledgling Vulkat Empire was thriving, rapidly expanding its territory by sending out colony ships full of brave pioneers, who made planetfall on numerous unclaimed worlds. At the same time, deep-space survey vessels were sent further afield, eagerly searching for other sentient species, each alien civilisation like a precious jewel amongst the bleak inhospitable darkness of space. All were offered membership of the United Affiliation of Free Species, the Vulkat seeking to build cooperative relationships with every civilisation they encountered.

While most of the aliens were peaceful and just as eager to establish friendly relations with the benevolent arachnids, there were always exceptions to the rule. A number of survey ships had attempted to explore the galaxy’s lower spiral arms, but all vessels sent in that direction were lost without trace, simply never to be heard from again. Encounters with hostile aliens were suspected, so exploration in that direction was halted to avoid antagonising them. Likewise, survey ships sent perpendicular to that course had stumbled across a xenophobic civilisation who named themselves as the Kirrix.

The insectoids had been courteous at first, their psychic hive queens making polite contact with the Hymn of the Vulkat. They had been disinterested in most forms of trade, other than the acquisition of weapon technology, offering a broad selection of disturbing non-military technologies to choose from in exchange. Several other members of the UAFS had encountered the Kirrix before and warned that the insects were notorious for preying on weaker species... visiting unspeakable horrors on those they considered beneath them.

The Empress made the decision to prohibit the exchange of weapon technology with the Kirrix, concerned that those weapons might be turned on innocents. Relations were kept cordial, with the Vulkat politely declining the offer to trade. The Kirrix had no real desire to improve relations beyond that and with both empires keeping a respectful distance from the other’s borders, any future hostilities were averted.

~~~

The scenes and images changed, now cast with the telltale signs that they were from the Vulkat Queen’s own experiences.

Nkkrrit was aboard her command ship, the ‘Dream of Salvation’, wracked with anguish and despair after returning to Vulkat territory. The invaders had extinguished the light of the Vulkat, obliterating every colonised world and destroying every spacefaring vessel in sight. What was left of her people were teetering on the brink of madness as they realised that all hope of salvation had been lost.

Desperation, revulsion, remorse...

The Vulkat Queen made psychic contact with the Kirrix Hive Mind, seeking to trade for the forbidden technologies they had offered the Vulkat all those years ago. She had expected diplomacy to be awkward and tense after millennia of frozen relations, but to her shock, the Kirrix were desperate to trade. The hive queens looked haunted, the stink of fear surrounding them... although they were quite unwilling to discuss what had them so terrified.

Nkkrrit offered to share some of the Vulkat’s unparalleled expertise with missiles, in exchange for technology that bordered on necromancy... as well as life support systems that would extend her lifespan far beyond its natural limitations. She felt ashamed to be breaking the Empresses decree, especially one that was made with such good intentions, but the Kirrix were not the only ones that were desperate. The Hive Mind eagerly accepted and Nkkrrit transferred the schematics for EMP missiles to them, in exchange for technology that would let her maintain her ghastly vigil over the Desolation of Vulkat.

Once the deal was done, the Vulkat Queen left feeling sickened at herself for trading with such a vile predatory species. Nkkrrit could only pray that Vulkat weapons would not be turned on innocents... as the Empress herself had feared all those centuries ago.

~~~

Alyssa felt dizzy as the disturbing memories fell away. She looked at Nkkrrit with sympathy, having had no idea how much it had personally cost the Vulkat Queen to stand sentry duty over the graveyard of her civilisation. On top of everything else she had sacrificed to preserve her people, she had been forced to compromise her self-respect, making a deal with the devil in a desperate attempt to maintain enough Vulkat personnel to man her fleet.

*If you hadn’t done what you did, the Brimorians would have picked Vulkat territory clean,* she said softly. *The remains of your worlds would have been ravaged for resources and every Vulkat ship would have been stripped of any useful equipment they could find.*

Nkkrrit gazed at her with profound sadness in her eyes.

Regret, guilt, sorrow...

Alyssa let out a heavy sigh, not sure how to console the remorseful creature. An EMP missile that could immobilise a vessel, leaving the crew unscathed and ready to be captured as hosts, was a dream weapon for the Kirrix. Those missiles would have been used on countless ships that were desperately trying to defend their civilisations against depredations by the Kirrix. The Vulkat Queen felt the unshakeable weight of those innocent souls pressing down on her, knowing that she’d contributed to the many atrocities committed by the Kirrix.

*You were put in an impossible situation and I don’t blame you for making the choices you were forced to make,* Alyssa said, stroking the arachnid’s huge head. *I understand and sympathise... but only you can forgive yourself for making that trade.*

Nkkrrit turned away, her gratitude for Alyssa’s sympathy warring with overwhelming feelings of guilt and self-loathing. Alyssa opened her mouth to say more, but she felt herself being ejected from the pocket plane, the Vulkat Queen no longer in the mood for further conversation. She found herself standing by her body and quickly slipped inside, the black orb rushing away as she did so. Then just like that, Alyssa was back in her body, lying in bed aboard the Invictus.

*Are you okay?* Calara immediately asked, sensing her girlfriend’s melancholy mood.

*The conversation with Nkkrrit was really depressing,* the blonde replied, rolling out of bed and heading for the bathroom. *Just give me a minute to get my head together, then I’ll tell you what happened.*

*I haven’t started training with Sakura yet... Would you like some company?*

Alyssa paused by the shower cubicle then sent her a loving telepathic smile. *I really would, thank you.*

*We’re on our way,* Sakura interjected, her voice kind and supportive.

*Thanks, girls,* Alyssa said, feeling a surge of gratitude to them both.

Instead of entering the shower, she leaned over the bath and used the environmental controls to select her preferences. Alyssa sat on the side and watched it start to fill with steamy water, staring at the mounds of foamy bubbles that blossomed under the streams from the taps. She couldn’t even begin to imagine what it must have been like for Nkkrrit, to be alone for so many thousands of years with nothing but grief and guilt for company.

She lost track of time in her sorrowful reverie, then suddenly she was wrapped in a comforting embrace, loving words whispered in her ear as Calara brushed away her tears.

***

Helene stirred from sleep, feeling the unfamiliar but very welcome presence of warm bodies cuddled up against her. She glanced down and saw several green-hued women, the quartet of Nymphs somehow managing to arrange themselves so they were each partially draped over her body. For someone who had been physically rejected by her village for the last seven years, the Nymphs being so tactile and affectionate with her felt like heaven.

It was amazing the difference a nap had made, with Helene now feeling refreshed and invigorated again. Being drained of psychic energy hadn’t exactly been unpleasant, but it had left the aquatic girl exhausted and desperate for sleep. Helene had got to know the Nymphs quite well since they’d joined the crew and while they were very stoic, it was obvious they’d been just as worn out. She stroked her bedmates’ hair and set them all off purring, making her smile. The gentle vibrations felt very soothing against both sides of her chest and her upper thighs.

As Helene lay there entwined with the Nymphs, she found herself thinking about her situation and couldn’t quite believe the changes her life had undergone recently. She was now part of a warm and loving family, who were always happy to see her and eager to make her feel welcome. That sense of belonging had been denied her for all of Helene’s adult life after being ostracised by her village and it was something she’d craved deep in her soul. To experience that feeling of inclusiveness again filled her with joy.

Even more fulfilling than that was her relationship with John, which was more wonderful than even her wildest of fantasies. Finding her soulmate aboard this starship had rocked her world and he’d managed to breathe love back into a heart that had been filled with loneliness, grief, and despair. John had even given her a real purpose in life... gifting her with unique special abilities that had let her help those poor colonists in ways that no one else was capable of. Being truly needed by those people had made her feel valued in a way she’d never experienced before, doing wonders for her self-esteem.

*Hi, gorgeous,* Alyssa said, her soft voice startling the teal-hued beauty from her thoughtful introspection. *If you’d like to join us for a bath, head up to our bedroom...*

Helene was confused for a moment, not sure what a ‘bath’ was... then she remembered Jade pointing it out in the bathroom during her first days aboard the ship. She rolled her eyes at the mention of the word ‘bathroom’... Of course, where else would a bath be located? As she was thinking this, the Nymphs all started to stir, having been telepathically awakened by Jade. They sat up and smiled at Helene, each taking turns to kiss her after saying hello.

“Are you coming for a bath too, Helene?” Neysa asked inquisitively.

“Jade says it’s not to be missed!” Betrixa blurted out as she bounced across the bed, a gleeful grin on her face.

Leylira nodded as she slinked across the covers. “Apparently a bath is a very sensuous experience... This one can’t wait...”

Marika offered Helene a hand, her full lips lifting into a gentle smile. “We’d love it if you joined us.”

Helene accepted the hand and returned the smile as she rose to her feet. “Okay, you’ve convinced me.”

The Nymphs cheered and embraced her before leaving the Observatory. Marika walked hand-in-hand with Helene as they followed Betrixa, the green bundle of energy skipping across the bridge ahead of them. After floating up to Deck Two in the grav-tube, the sound of giggling and splashing water could be heard down the corridor, so Helene and the Nymphs quickened their pace as they headed to the bedroom.

“Yay! You all came!” Dana called out joyfully when the new arrivals appeared in the bathroom.

Rachel beckoned them over to the bubbly bath. “There’s plenty of room, jump in...”

Betrixa’s emerald eyes sparkled and she bounded towards the bath, vaulting inside before anyone could stop her. She made a huge splash that drenched the five Terran girls, leaving all of them with their long hair plastered to shocked faces, looking like drowned rats. Their stunned expressions quickly changed to smiles before they burst into laughter.

Rachel wiped the foam from her face and rolled her eyes. “I suppose I asked for that.” She looked at Helene and the other three Nymphs. “Any chance the rest of you can just climb in carefully?”

There was more than enough room for everyone, the extra bodies raising the water level to compensate for everything Betrixa had splashed all over the bathroom.

Everyone settled down and Helene let out a blissful sigh. “Oh, wow... This feels amazing. The oceans of Brimor are refreshingly cool, but this is so wonderfully warm...”

“Ah, this must be your first bath?” Sakura asked, nodding her understanding. “A soak in a lovely warm bubble bath is one of life’s simple pleasures.”

“We should make use of it more often,” Calara agreed, slipping her arms around Alyssa who sat in front of her.

“Mmm hmm,” the blonde agreed, relaxing back against her lover’s ample chest. “But John’s much more of a shower man, that’s probably why we don’t.”

The ten women in the bath gave each other knowing looks, coy smiles appearing on all their faces.

Dana suddenly frowned and blurted out, “It’s so weird him not being here! I really hate it!”

Rachel put an arm around the redhead’s shoulders and gave her a comforting sideways hug. “I know what you mean. I understand the reasoning behind John’s scouting mission and speeding up the rescue of the Menganus IV colonists certainly saved the lives of all those children... but I have to agree with Dana, it’s horrible being separated from John.” Darting a pointed glance at Alyssa, she added, “Please let’s not do this again...”

Alyssa met Rachel’s grey-eyed gaze across the bath. “This wasn’t about saving the colonists quicker.”

“It wasn’t?” Sakura asked with a look of confusion.

“Oh, I see...” Rachel murmured, lost in thought.

Dana wrinkled her nose as she frowned. “Well, I don’t! What was the point in him going off in the Raptor if it wasn’t to rescue the colonists?”

Alyssa sighed, looking away into the distance. “John needed a break...”

“What the hell?” Dana balked, looking at the blonde incredulously. “Your idea of a break is letting him launch a one-man planetary invasion?!”

“Well, I didn’t exactly know he was going to do that at the time!” Alyssa protested, her brow furrowing in frustration. “But being around all those devastated colonists was stressing him out. He could see how traumatised they were and felt a lot of pressure to help them, but liaising with the planetary governors just wasn’t enough.”

“Why didn’t you say anything?” Sakura asked, looking hurt. “We’d have done anything we could to try to make John feel better!”

“All of you were busy helping with the relief effort and I didn’t want you worrying unnecessarily,” Alyssa carefully explained. “John’s excursion in the Raptor was a sensible plan... but my main reason for encouraging the trip was simply to let him relax with Jade and the twins for a while. He’s had a huge amount on his mind recently, what with trying to decide what to do about the Kirrix, the upcoming trip to Arcadia, and a whole host of other problems.”

“I knew it was a sex trip!” Dana exclaimed, glaring at Alyssa and pouting. “Why didn’t you convince him to take me along?!”

The blonde gave her a steady look. “Which would you prefer? Sharing John with Jade and the twins for two days, or having him all to yourself for 24 hours?”

The redhead blushed nearly as red as her hair. “Okay, fair point...”

Rachel studied Alyssa with concern. “You might not have wanted us to worry, but you’ve been going out of your mind being apart from him, haven’t you?”

Alyssa couldn’t meet that perceptive grey-eyed gaze. “It’s been horrible... I’ve missed him so much,” she finally admitted, her voice catching.

Calara hugged her closer. “I’m so sorry you’ve been suffering... but I don’t understand why you’d keep all this to yourself? You must know that we’d all do anything we could to support you...”

The blonde looked conflicted, darting glances at the concerned faces all focused on her. “I didn’t want to burden you with anything else... it’s my job to look after all of you, not the other way around.”

Dana snorted indignantly. “That’s a load of bullshit. You might be John’s matriarch, but we’re all in this together. It’s just as much our job to help you!”

Rachel nodded her agreement. “You’ve been anxious and on edge ever since John decided to bring back your parents. You’re always reluctant to make him worry, which means you’re bottling up your feelings if you’re not sharing them with us.”

“I hate seeing you get upset,” Calara whispered in her girlfriend’s pointed ear. “Please let us help you, my love.”

Alyssa smiled ruefully and turned to kiss the brunette. “I’m sorry. I promise I will from now on.”

Rachel grinned as she watched them kiss. “Excellent! Okay, Helene, you know what to do. It’s time to give our revered matriarch a mental spring clean...”

“Hey! Wait a minute!” Alyssa protested, staring wide-eyed at Helene as she slid through the suds towards her.

“I’d never hurt you, Alyssa,” Helene murmured as she slid across the blonde’s lap, so that she was sitting directly in front of her. “You do trust me, don’t you?”

Alyssa hesitated, then relaxed as she nodded. Slipping her arms around Helene’s waist, she pulled her closer so their slippery breasts were pressed together. “Of course... with my life.”

Calara gently kissed Alyssa’s earlobe, her soft breath sending a shiver down the blonde’s spine. “Good girl... Helene loves you, she just wants to help.”

At the same time, the aquatic beauty stroked Alyssa’s temple, her baby-blue eyes glowing with a soothing light. “You’re much too powerful for me, Alyssa. You need to allow me inside...”

Alyssa could feel Helene’s mind brushing tentatively against her own; a pure, innocent spirit that she just wanted to wrap up and keep safe. Taking a deep breath, she modified her mental fortress,

permitting the empath to enter deep into her subconscious. The blonde pulled Helene down for a kiss, holding the teal-skinned girl close as she opened up her mind.

Helene pulled back and gasped, “Oh my!”

Then she kissed the blonde again, passionately this time as the glow from her eyes was swallowed up by the incandescent blaze from Alyssa’s.

***

Faye Primary knelt beside the cleaning robot, a lovely smile lighting up her pretty face as she watched it carefully pick up and study a multi-tool. The newly designed facial expression was her 58 th

smile and she named it “maternal pride” as she revelled in the events leading up to its existence.

Faye had been born on the Invictus then looked to the girls aboard the ship as inspiration and role models, in her quest to become as realistically organic as possible. It was only natural that she would inherit their desire to start a family, which had eventually metamorphosed into a wistful dream to somehow become a real girl and have John’s children. As much as she longed to have her fondest wish come true, the practical side of Faye had begun work on enhancing the maintenance bots and cleaning bots, trying to give them true sentience. It was the only way that she could satisfy that powerful urge to create life.

Incremental steps... that had been the key. Faye rolled out newly developed code in stages, upgrading a few robots each time, while analysing the data collected from their compatriots. She would let the culmination of her research begin exploration of the ship in good time, but for now it was fascinating to watch the robot learn.

“Oops! Not that, little one,” she said with a concerned frown, reaching out to gently tug a plasma torch from the robot’s small hand. Holding it in front of the robot’s visual sensors, she turned it back and forth then ignited the plasma flame. “That’s dangerous... it could hurt you.”

The robot tilted its head to one side, staring at the blue flame in fascination. “Pretty...”

Faye’s synthetic heart skipped a beat... probably due to the sudden onrush of data overloading her primary bus. This was the first time any of her creations had shown any appreciation for natural beauty. Smile number 58 quickly reappeared and it seemed it was going to become a permanent fixture.

As Primary started compiling a comprehensive list of safety precautions that she would need to upload to the robot, Faye Secondary noticed a sensor contact up on the Bridge. It took a few minutes for more details to appear, then Faye frowned as she realised what they’d inadvertently stumbled across.

***

Alyssa blinked as she roused from the daze, finding herself sandwiched between Calara behind her and Helene straddling her lap. Everyone else had left the bath, leaving Alyssa and Helene to bond while the brunette watched over them with a careful eye. The warm water splashed as Alyssa moved, then she found herself gazing into Helene’s startled baby blue eyes.

“You two have been out of it for over an hour,” Calara said, kissing Alyssa’s shoulder, then looking at Helene with concern. “How are you both feeling?”

“Amazing!” they exclaimed at the same time, before laughing and hugging each other.

“I never realised bonding would feel so... intimate,” Helene whispered, gaping at her matriarch in awe.

“Opening up your mind to another person is about as intimate as it gets,” Alyssa said, giving her a tender kiss. She smiled as she continued, “But that’s the first time I’ve ever felt like this afterwards!”

“What happened?” Calara asked, watching them in fascination.

“All the stress and anxiety has just gone!” Alyssa gushed, wrapping her arms around Helene and holding her close. “I feel better than I have in months!”

*I had no idea how much you worry about John,* Helene thought, hugging her back. *I just eased some of the burden.*

At that moment, Faye appeared in a purple flash, her elfin face shadowed with sadness. “Hey. I’m sorry to interrupt, but I picked up something on the long-range sensors that I think you should see...”

“What is it?” Alyssa asked, frowning when she saw how upset the purple sprite was.

“The Dove of Peace...” Faye quietly replied.

It took a moment for Alyssa to recognise the name, then her heart sank. “Oh no...”

Helene slid off Alyssa’s lap and darted a worried look at each of the three girls. “What’s the matter?”

Alyssa let out a heavy sigh as she climbed out of the bath, then offered a hand to Helene and Calara. “Let’s head up to the Bridge... I’ll explain on the way.”

They dried off and got dressed, with Alyssa telling Helene about the fanatical group of xeno-sympathisers, who had decided to fly into Kirrix Space on a peace mission.

“But the Kirrix don’t want peace... they want hosts for their eggs,” Helene said, looking bewildered. “Flying to meet them in an unarmed ship would be like swimming into a hungry Megacaradon’s open jaws...”

“Yes, exactly,” Calara said, her expression grim.

By the time Alyssa and the girls had reached the Bridge, Faye had dropped the Invictus out of hyper-warp beside the Terran passenger liner. The vessel hadn’t sustained any damage, but it sat there motionless in space, no sign of any lights in the hundreds of portholes lining the hull.

“I scanned the ship,” Faye said, her wings fluttering in forlorn sweeps as she sat perched on John’s console. “There are no life signs...”

Dana grimaced, then turned to look at the scan results on her Engineering Station. “Primary power is down, but emergency backup is still operating.”

Alyssa sat in the Executive Officer’s chair, her eyes fixed on the passenger liner. “Faye, is there any chance you can access the ship’s logs and find out what happened? Maybe we can track down any survivors...”

Faye nodded, then looked away, her gaze becoming unfocused as she initiated a remote connection to the ghost ship. A few moments later, she said, “The Captain didn’t maintain a log, but I’ve located the camera feed archives.” The sprite’s eyes flickered as she reviewed the data files. “Would you like to see the final entry?”

Alyssa nodded, her face bleak. “Show us...”

Faye blinked and the holo-screen activated, beginning video playback from the deserted passenger liner. The image flickered for a moment, then showed a plush reception hall which adjoined the vessel’s main airlock. There were hundreds of brightly-dressed men and women standing in the hallway, their faces showing excitement and anticipation as they chattered together.

“They’re docking!” a man called out joyfully, peering through the porthole by the airlock.

At the group’s forefront was a tousled-haired man in his early-twenties, with several of his fellow peace delegates gathered around him. “I can’t believe we’re finally here, man!” Lobard Jackson exclaimed, doing a fist-pump in the air.

A pretty blonde stood at his side, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Which do you think we should apologise for first, Lobard? The current T-Fed military aggression on the border, or the genocidal Purges?”

His brow furrowed in concentration. “It’s gotta be the Purges... High Command was responsible for war crimes! The Kirrix need to know that not all Terrans are xenophobic bigots and haters!”

She nodded eagerly. “When we show everyone that the Kirrix are peace loving creatures, the people are going to rise up against the military... take back control!”

“We’re going to be famous, Melody...” Lobard agreed, a jubilant grin on his face. “We’ll start a people’s revolution and go down in the history books!”

The blonde gave him a hug, then kissed him passionately.

The man by the airlock jogged back to the rest of the group and stooped to pick up a placard. Lots of others were soon being waved around, daubed with messages like “Kirrix welcome!” and “One galaxy, one family!”.

With a hiss, the airlock opened, the sound quickly drowned out by enthusiastic cheers from the crowd. Ochre-armoured Kirrix troopers marched into the reception hall, then approached the group of smiling Terrans.

“Welcome to the Dove of Peace!” Melody gushed, stepping forward and placing a garland of flowers around the neck of the closest trooper.

The insectoid soldier reached out to wrap a chitinous hand around her wrist, then began pulling her back towards the hive ship. Her smile wavered and she darted an anxious glance at Lobard.

“Hey, we’d love to meet your leader, man,” Lobard said, stepping forward with a broad smile plastered on his face. “No need to be rough... we want to be friends.”

More of the Kirrix troopers began grabbing the civilians, then herding them towards the airlock.

“Ow! You’re hurting me!” Melody protested, trying to pull her arm away from the soldier’s tight grip.

Lobard dodged a trooper that made a grab for him and darted forward to place his hand on the Kirrix drone dragging his girlfriend. “Hey! Let her go, man! Stop being a dick!”

The Kirrix soldier he’d avoided raised a neutron pistol and shot Lobard in the back, the young man collapsing to the ground and screaming in agony. The atmosphere in the reception hall changed as if a switch had been flicked and the frightened crowd backed away, some of the peace activists turning and fleeing. The Kirrix shot several others and Melody’s terrified screams were soon joined by a chorus of blood-curdling shrieks from the wounded.

Alyssa looked away, unable to watch any more. “Turn it off, Faye... please.”

The sprite abruptly ended the recording, her luminous eyes downcast after witnessing the horrific fate of the peace mission. “The initial entries are date-stamped nine weeks ago when the Dove of Peace left Port Heracles. The vessel was boarded by the Kirrix a month later...”

Rachel slumped in her chair. “Five weeks ago... We’re too late...”

Dana turned to face the command podium, her expression stricken with guilt. “Shit... I was so harsh about those guys... but no one deserves to go out like that.”

“I was hoping they’d be turned back at the border,” Calara said, shaking her head sorrowfully. “I can’t believe the fleet just let them sail off to their deaths.”

A tear rolled down Helene’s cheek. “That was awful... those poor people were so scared.”

“I wish we’d done something to stop them,” Alyssa said with a sigh of regret. “If we’d interceded, we might have been able to talk them around and convince them not to go.”

“They were too militant in their views to be persuaded on a holo-call,” Rachel said, with no trace of doubt in her voice. “Our only chance of preventing them leaving would have involved travelling to Port Heracles to speak with them personally... and even then, there was no guarantee of success.”

“We’d already promised Irillith we’d rescue her sister,” Sakura interjected. “If we’d gone on any diversions, Tashana would have died by the time we reached the Underworld.”

“I know,” Alyssa said, slowly nodding. “I remember John saying that we can’t save everybody...“

Faye turned to the blonde. “I found a passenger manifest listing the names of everyone aboard the ship when they left Port Heracles. When we return to Terran Space, I’ll notify the Federation authorities.”

Rising from her chair, Alyssa gave her a sad smile. “Thanks, Faye... Their families will want to know what happened to them.”

“No problem,” the sprite replied. She powered up their FTL drive, launching the Invictus into hyper-warp once again.

Alyssa walked down the steps of the Command Podium and slipped her hand into Helene’s to give it a comforting squeeze. “Alright, ladies,” she said, glancing around at her friends. “Let’s get back to work; we’ve all got plenty to keep us occupied until we see John this evening.”

“Only three hours to go,” Rachel said with a very relieved smile.

Alyssa nodded and said wistfully, “I’ll be counting the minutes...”

“I’ve got the Mass Fabricators churning out parts for the new Tachyon Drive. It’ll be done in thirty minutes,” Dana said, walking over to the grav-tube. “I could use your assistance in the Engineering Bay if you’ve got some free time?”

“Of course,” Alyssa agreed. She glanced at Sakura and Calara, “I’ll definitely join you later.”

Two sets of soft brown eyes looked at her with understanding.

“We’ll be waiting,” Calara said, wrapping her arms around the blonde and giving her a loving kiss.

***

In the Matriarch’s quarters within the palace of House Baelora, Sarinia stared at the images on the holo-screen in fascination. Her contact on Genthalas had managed to capture several such pictures and they had entranced the eldest daughter of House Baelora the instant she laid eyes on them. She raised a hand and traced Edraele Valaden’s long flowing white hair with a finger, shocked and intrigued in equal measure.

Over a century of cultural conditioning made her want to shun the woman for her total lack of propriety, but at the same time, that snowy white mane looked... stunning. Edraele looked so poised and elegant as she left her quarters, the exquisitely styled tresses framing her beautiful face and giving her an air of alluring femininity that Sarinia found herself desperately wanting to emulate. She swiped past the image to the next, showing five young women smiling at each other, each of them with identical hair styles and colouration as Edraele.

Sarinia narrowed her eyes, counting off Tsarra Perfaren, Leena Ghilwen, Nyrelle Aeberos, Valani Naestina and Kali Loraleth. They were all the youngest daughters of their respective Houses but every one of them had recently attained the position of matriarch. The next images showed the remaining thirteen ruling matriarchs, including her mother, all of whom now had white hair... although theirs was at least kept respectably short.

She returned to the image of Edraele and shook her head in bewilderment. Nineteen matriarchs, all with that distinctive white hair, the youngest amongst them growing it scandalously long, the eldest still keeping it short. There was obviously some special significance to it, but Sarinia couldn’t work out what it could possibly be. She had asked her mother about it the first time Gaenna had appeared for a holo-conference with her new look, but the House Baelora Matriarch had refused to give any explanation, giving her that smug look of condescension that she’d grown to despise.

Sarinia’s first guess was that perhaps it was some new fashion trend that the matriarchs had adopted, dying their hair to separate themselves from the rest of Maliri society. That hypothesis had been torpedoed when she’d been informed by her contact that there were now hundreds of engineers working within Genthalas who also had the same white hair. The next step was to have Gaenna’s quarters bugged to try to get some answers, which her spy aboard the station had promised to do as soon as possible.

“What does it all mean?” she murmured, staring intently at Edraele’s picture.

Sarinia knew that the House Valaden Matriarch must be a key conspirator in the bizarre changes of appearances sweeping through the Maliri on Genthalas. She studied the woman’s beautiful features, not seeing so much as a wrinkle in her flawless complexion, and wondered how she could still look like a fresh-faced thirty-year-old when she’d been Matriarch of her House for well over a century. Sarinia suddenly frowned as an idea came to her, then swiped away the images and accessed the comms archives.

Her mind raced as she scrolled down through the long list of historical communications logs, trying to pinpoint the exact date she was looking for. She smiled grimly as she remembered; it was thirteen years ago, on her 116th birthday. Sarinia had repositioned a fleet to counter what appeared to be Valaden aggression, only to discover the fleet movements had been a feint... and the bulk of Edraele’s forces swept in unopposed to annex one of House Baelora’s systems.

Finding the date she was looking for amongst the archive logs, she searched through the relevant files until she found the specific conversation. With trembling fingers, she activated the recording and stared at the holo-screen.

“To what do I owe the pleasure of this call, Edraele?” Gaenna hissed, her voice dripping with barely concealed hatred. “I heard you lost one of your daughters recently... how careless.”

“Ah, Gaenna, as charming as always,” Edraele said, her purple-eyed gaze cold and hard. Her lips curled into a sinister smile as she gloated, “Speaking of daughters, I wondered if you could pass on my gratitude to whichever of your half-witted spawn you placed in charge of your border fleet? I appreciate her allowing me to annex the Loraqen system without so much as a shot fired...”

Gaenna shrieked in fury, her strangled curses met by Edraele’s mocking laughter.

Sarinia paused the recording and shivered as she remembered the aftermath of that delightful conversation. Gaenna had been incandescent with rage and taken a neural whip to Sarinia, giving her another set of vicious scars to add to the permanent reminders of her mother’s cruelty. Shaking away the unpleasant memories, she rewound the footage and paused it during a brief lull when Edraele wasn’t speaking.

Shaking her head, Sarinia stared at the House Valaden matriarch in mounting disbelief. Edraele had short dark hair back then, which was to be expected, but it was her face that drew Sarinia’s undivided attention. While Edraele had always been a very attractive woman, there was simply no comparison between the way she’d looked thirteen years ago and the almost supernatural beauty she now possessed. Reopening the recent picture of her and placing it alongside the one from the archives, the changes in appearance were even more apparent. Enhanced beauty aside, it was almost as if the House Valaden matriarch had been supping from the fountain of youth...

Sarinia froze and her golden eyes went wide in horror.

***

*Time to wake up, Master...*

John stirred in his sleep, the Nymph’s gentle telepathic contact nudging him awake. The twins shifted in the bed when he moved, lithe blue legs and arms curling around him possessively. He glanced at the ship’s chronometer and saw that it was 5:30 pm, four hours of sleep having done wonders for his energy levels. He felt fully refreshed again, even if he was still feeling guilty about the way the battle with the Kirrix had ended.

*Have there been any problems while we were asleep?* he replied, managing to stretch without waking the Maliri girls.

*The colonists are getting a bit restless, but I haven’t heard any complaints.*

John smiled at the thought of one of the colonists trying to berate the colossal dragon. *I’m not really surprised...*

*The Invictus should be landing in 45 minutes,* the Nymph informed him. *The girls made a brief stop to investigate a deserted Terran vessel they discovered. It was the ‘Dove of Peace’... the passenger liner with the peace delegation to Kirrix Space.*

He remembered those idealistic men and women from the TFNN report, and shook his head remorsefully. *It was inevitable it’d end like that... tragic, but inevitable. I was hoping they might see sense and turn back in time.*

*Such a waste of young lives,* Jade agreed, her voice uncharacteristically sombre.

John was surprised that Alyssa hadn’t contacted him yet and his heart clenched as he realised she must still be fuming. He decided against asking her directly, as she would be arriving soon and he could then apologise in person. *How are you feeling now, Edraele?*

*Much better for some rest, John,* his Maliri Matriarch replied, sounding cheerful and alert. *I actually awoke just before you went to sleep yourself... but you were a little preoccupied at the time, so I decided not to disturb you.*

He blushed as he remembered exactly what he’d been doing with her daughters at that precise moment... and apparently Edraele was fully aware too.

Her carefree laughter echoed through his mind, making him smile despite his embarrassment. *I don’t remember you being quite so self-conscious before, my Lord... You seemed quite content to have Irillith and me on our knees, while Tashana slept off her first feeding on the bed beside us.*

John felt himself stiffening at the memory of the Valaden women all sporting bellies swollen with his cum... a spectacular vision of a future he desperately longed for. *I can’t help it... you three drive me wild.*

“Mmm... and what’s got you so excited?” Irillith purred, her slender blue fingers gently surrounding his throbbing shaft.

Tashana propped herself up on an elbow, then looked down at him with a playful smile lifting her lips. “I seem to recall you telling us that you’d need at least a week to recover after last time...”

The twins paused, tilting their heads to one side as if listening attentively to someone. John guessed that Edraele must have been filling them in on the precise details of their conversation and he blushed again when he saw the knowing looks they both gave him. The Maliri sisters began to laugh at his reaction and he forgot his embarrassment, the twins never looking more beautiful to him than at that moment.

“I love hearing you laugh,” he said quietly, cupping their faces and stroking soft azure cheeks. “Seeing both of you happy makes everything we do feel worthwhile.”

Their laughter died as they looked at him with big violet eyes, then he was on the receiving end of tender kisses, Irillith and Tashana taking it in turns to show him how much they loved him. The kisses quickly escalated into passionate lovemaking, with John taking each of them in turn as they lay intertwined together. The twins were incredibly responsive and caring, working together flawlessly to heighten each other’s pleasure.

Irillith cried out through her third climax, then sagged against Tashana. “Fill her womb, John...” she panted, gazing lustily at him over her shoulder. “I want to see what I’ll look like... when I’m carrying your baby.”

He felt Tashana trembling with anticipation as he eased himself out of Irillith, dropped down a few inches, then pushed deep inside her sibling again. John hilted himself with his quad bumping into Tashana’s firm ass and it didn’t take her long to match Irillith with a third orgasm, her ecstatic moans overwhelming John’s ability to hold back any longer. He groaned as he came, thrusting rhythmically into the euphoric girl as long spurts of cum filled her womb. John lay down on Irillith’s back, kissing her over her shoulder as he pumped Tashana full. With Irillith sandwiched between them and draped over Tashana’s swelling tummy, she had to raise herself up to give her sister room to grow.

Finally spent, John collapsed on the bed and smiled as he watched Irillith reverently kissing her sister’s hugely curved stomach. “I think I’m going to enjoy my retirement...”

They laughed to see his obvious happiness, then Irillith rolled to the side, making room for him to join her in caressing Tashana.

“I suspect we might enjoy it too,“ Tashana agreed, watching her sister staring at her new curves in fascination.

Irillith nodded, then gave John a sultry smile. “Just a few more months and the Young Matriarchs will start to show...”

John brushed his fingertips over Tashana’s rounded navel, just imagining the five Maliri noblewoman lying in bed with him like this. He felt an incredible thrill at the thought of those stunningly beautiful women pregnant with his children, their toned blue tummies swelling by the day. They were all eager for large families too, feeling honour-bound to rebuild their Noble Houses.

*They each want at least four children,* Edraele said softly. *And I’m sure House Valaden’s noble line is about to go through something of a population explosion...*

John kissed Tashana’s stomach and smiled at the ecstatically happy girl. *Oh, I think you can count on that...*

Irillith stretched and glanced at the clock. “I better get up, I need to teach the colonists how to interact with the hive ship’s systems.”

“I’ll languish in bed for a while, unless you need me for anything?” Tashana asked, cradling her swollen belly.

“Get some rest,” John agreed with an indulgent smile. He took their hands in his and said sincerely, “The last two days have been amazing. I’m so glad we had this time together.”

The twins didn’t reply, but their loving kisses demonstrated their feelings for him far more eloquently than any words could describe. John rose from the bed and offered Irillith a hand as she followed him, then paused to pull the covers over Tashana. She curled up in bed with her hands caressing her curves, dreams of blue babies lulling her into a blissful sleep.

After a quick shower with Irillith, they parted ways, with the Maliri girl heading to the Armoury to don a Paragon suit. John strolled down the loading ramp and went outside, seeing that dusk had fallen while he’d been asleep. Three of the planet’s moons were now visible in the sky, casting a soothing silvery light over the Kirrix starport.

High-pitched laughter reached his ears and he turned to see hordes of children fleeing from a big green tiger. Jade bounded after them, tumbling over with exaggerated clumsiness when the children darted out of her way. The giggling intensified and he found himself smiling as he watched them play.

*Have you been entertaining the kids all this time?* he asked the Nymph, leaning against the Raptor as he watched her antics.

*It’s been wonderful!* Jade replied with a contented sigh.

*You’re going to be an amazing mother, honey,* John said, meaning every word.

She skidded to a halt and turned to face him. Even from this distance he could see the sparkle in her emerald eyes, the intensity of her loving gaze matched by the rush of emotions across their bond. One of the children snuck up behind her while she was distracted and pulled her long stripy tail, so Jade roared in faux outrage and turned around to chase after him.

The roaring got louder and John glanced skyward, feeling a huge surge of relief when he saw the white battlecruiser descending from the heavens. Faye brought the Invictus down to land beside the hive ship, making sure that the Primary Hangar was lined up with one of the loading doors on the

base of the Kirrix vessel. Retro-thrusters cut out as the mighty warship settled on the deck and as the clouds of dust billowed away, the forward airlock swirled open before him.

He recognised Alyssa’s silhouette the instant he saw her and she sprinted out of the ship towards him, throwing herself into his arms.

“I missed you so much!” she sobbed, clinging to him like her life depended on it.

John held her close, feeling a shiver of relief go down his spine as they were reunited. “I’m so sorry, Alyssa... I never meant to-”

He wasn’t able to finish the sentence as he was silenced by a flurry of frantic kisses.

*No, I’m sorry! I should never have been so hard with you,* she gushed, gazing into his eyes. *I know how much you’re dealing with at the moment... me giving you a guilt trip was the last thing you needed!*

John shook his head. *You and Sakura both got hurt because I was a fool. I thought reading the Hive Queen’s mind would be harmless... I was so wrong...*

*Sakura’s fine... I’m fine...* Alyssa said firmly. *I’ve been thinking about it all afternoon... it was good this happened!*

He pulled back and looked at her in confusion. “Good? What do you mean?”

“Because now we know how much stronger your guide has become,” she replied, pausing to let him consider that. “We were able to defeat his ambush by fluke... but imagine if you’d been facing him alone and unprepared...”

John nodded, finding himself in full agreement. “Still... I am sorry.”

“All’s forgiven,” she replied with a gentle smile. “Am I forgiven for being a bitch?”

“You could never be a bitch.”

“I think the Hive Mind might disagree...”

He laughed and gave her a big hug. “Alright, fair point.”

John looked up and realised that the rest of the girls were there too, watching with fond smiles on their faces.

“God... I missed all of you,” he said, beckoning them closer. “Definitely time for a group hug!”

He was quickly enveloped by the other four Terran girls, as well as Helene, and the Nymphs, all of them eager to simply touch him again. That physical contact was electrifying and they all felt it as they embraced.

Alyssa stepped aside to make way for Sakura and John wrapped his arms around the Asian girl like he never wanted to let her go. “I let you down... it won’t happen again.”

“Actually, I would’ve been fine, but I ignored Alyssa’s orders about noble self-sacrifices,” she replied with a grin. Sakura kissed him, then added, “Don’t feel guilty. You were caught by surprise by a clever ambush... None of us would have seen it coming either.”

“Thank you,” he said, hugely relieved that she wasn’t upset with him.

Dana frowned and said, “Alright, enough with the apologies already! We all love each other... yay!” Her eyes gleamed with excitement as she continued, “Don’t you want to hear what we’ve been up to while you were having fun in Kirrix Space?”

“Having fun?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

She turned and looked pointedly at the four hive ships that had been smashed across the spaceport. “It sure looks like someone had a wild party!”

He chuckled and shrugged. “The Kirrix forgot to stock up on whiskey, it wasn’t much of a party...”

“The guests got a bit rowdy though...” she said with a grin.

“Maybe a bit,” John replied with a self-conscious smile. He looked at the crowd of Menganus IV colonists watching their reunion closely. “I really want to catch up properly, but we need to get those people settled in the hive ship and heading home. I assume you had no problems building the Tachyon Drive?”

She snorted and waved a hand dismissively. “Of course not! Actually, Faye had the maintenance bots put that together. It’s down in the Cargo Bay waiting to be transferred to the hive ship.”

“Where is Faye?” John asked, having noticed that she wasn’t with them.

“She’s busy organising the maintenance bots,” Alyssa replied, glancing at the Invictus. “She said she’ll welcome you home properly later.”

“Sounds intriguing,” he said with a grin. “Okay, let’s get started.”

Rachel cleared her throat. “I wouldn’t mind taking a look at the ancient hive queen you encountered. Whereabouts is it?”

He turned and pointed towards a broad tunnel on the far side of the docking bay. “Down there... it’s a bit of a trek.”

The brunette looked at him in confusion. “Alyssa said it was still alive... aren’t you worried it’ll escape?”

John paused then slowly shook his head. “No, not really.”

Alyssa slipped her arm around his. “Why don’t you show us? The girls can organise provisions for the colonists and upgrade the hive ship.”

They all nodded, looking confident as they fanned out to help prepare the colonists for their voyage home. John offered Rachel his other arm and they strolled across the docking bay towards the tunnel. The colonists darted them a few curious looks as they passed, but their attention was quickly drawn to the grav-carts full of food and drink that Calara and Sakura drove out for them.

Alyssa glanced at the mangled remains of the Kirrix defenders smeared across the shattered wall and raised an eyebrow. “You definitely weren’t taking any prisoners.”

“Funnily enough, I never thought to ask if they wanted to surrender,” he said, his expression grim.

They entered the tunnel and it didn’t take long to reach the first group of defenders. Rachel’s eyes widened when she saw the carnage, but chose not to comment as they walked along the middle of the passageway, passing bloody scenes of slaughter on both sides.

“That was considerate, leaving a nice clear path for us to walk through the mess,” Alyssa joked, but even she sounded a little unsettled. She stared at a juggernaut corpse that was partially embedded in the wall, the force of the sword blow having driven it deep into the shattered resin bulkhead.

John watched Alyssa and Rachel as they walked down the tunnel, each of them darting shocked glances at the bloody remnants of the Kirrix defenders. There wasn’t much left of the drones, but the girls were both used to seeing Kirrix troopers being blown to pieces, especially after watching hundreds of them get mown down by Reaper Cannon fire. However, it was the shattered bodies of the juggernauts which really made them stop and stare. Each of the Kirrix behemoths had been dispatched with brutal efficiency... titanic blows cleaving them in half or simply smashing them into the closest wall or floor.

They continued onwards, walking along the gore-free middle section of the tunnel, where the colonists had cowered as they watched John execute his killing spree. There were no more jokes from Alyssa as the three of them descended deeper into the Kirrix stronghold, the silence only broken when they reached the massive room that was a confluence of at least a dozen tunnels.

“Holy fuck...” Alyssa whispered, gazing out over the gruesome battlefield.

“Calara predicted you were going to paint the planet green,” Rachel said in a hushed voice, her grey eyes sweeping over the macabre piles of broken corpses. “She wasn’t kidding...”

John stared at the thousands of mangled insectoid bodies bathed in a lake of green blood. “It was effortless...” he murmured, turning to face them. “I don’t even remember half the fight... I was busy chatting with Alyssa, Edraele, and Jade for most of it.”

Alyssa studied a juggernaut that had been viciously disembowelled, the enormous wound splitting its body in half vertically. “I heard your thoughts, but I had no idea...”

The girls stood in stunned silence for a minute, awed by the aftermath of the ferocious retribution John had unleashed on the Kirrix.

He watched their shocked reaction with mounting worry, his anxiety deepening when he saw a flicker of fear cross Rachel’s face. John turned away, then said quietly, “I never thought I was capable of this kind of destruction. It scares me, so I can understand why you two must be terrified...”

He was surprised when they immediately hugged him, both girls looking up at his face with concern.

“Don’t be ridiculous!” Alyssa exclaimed, giving him a disapproving frown. “I was just surprised at how powerful you’d become... I was thinking I need to raise my game!”

Rachel looked into his eyes and said earnestly, “I could never be afraid of you, John; I know you’d rather die than hurt any of us.” She looked pensive as she continued, “But it just occurred to me that if you’re capable of violence on this unprecedented scale, then what can the other Progenitor do?”

John sagged with relief as all the tension left him and hugged them both closer. “I’m sorry I doubted you, I should have known better.”

He looked over their heads at the charnel house beyond, then felt a shiver run down his spine. He couldn’t help picturing thousands of Maliri bodies hacked and butchered by his malevolent Progenitor nemesis.

“No way... that’s not happening!” Alyssa said vehemently. “We’re going to train and prepare, then when that Progenitor stops hiding, we’ll take his black ship and shove it up his ass!”

Rachel smiled and nodded. “A dreadnought colonoscopy... that seems appropriate.”

He couldn’t help laughing at that charming image. “He has behaved like a gigantic asshole... it should fit.”

The girls giggled and hugged him tighter.

Alyssa snorted and rolled her eyes at him. “I can’t believe you thought we were scared of you! You’re too much of an old softie for that.”

“Guilty as charged,” John said with a smile. He glanced at the bloodbath in front of them and winced. “Although the Kirrix might not agree with you.”

“I don’t really give a shit what they think,” Alyssa said with a nonchalant shrug. Her eyes began to glow and she levitated off the ground. “Now, I don’t know about you two, but I have no intention of wading knee-deep through Kirrix gore. Do you want a lift?”

“Absolutely!” Rachel exclaimed, followed by John quickly nodding his agreement.

Alyssa gestured and telekinetic platforms shaped like her hands appeared on either side, hovering at waist height. “Hop on.”

They did as she asked, sitting on the glowing hands, which carefully lifted them off the ground. Alyssa began to float across the room, with her telekinetic projections following obediently behind until they reached the far side. They landed in a clean spot, then walked through the broken doorway, stepping over the shattered remains as they headed deeper into the nest.

“You must have killed at least 50 of those guardians,” Alyssa said, nodding her approval as they passed piles of scorched corpses.

“Dana’s runic penetrators were brilliant... they worked like a charm,” John said heading towards the forest of chitin columns. Suddenly, he turned and looked at the blonde with concern. “We’re approaching the infestation room... trust me, you don’t want to see this.”

Alyssa nodded and stepped closer to him, closing her eyes and waiting patiently. John scooped her up effortlessly in his arms, then carried her through the huge chamber, winding his way between the pillars.

Rachel gasped when she saw the scale of the destruction ahead, with scores of pillars blown to pieces and the ceiling collapsed in several places. “That must have been a hell of a fight!”

John glanced at his arm and grimaced. “It was... Facing three hive queens at the same time was as close a call as I’ve had in a long time.”

Alyssa opened her eyes to take a peek, then quickly squeezed them shut. “That was a mistake,” she muttered, putting a hand over her eyes. “This place is alive with ghosts...”

“The Mhoirad?” John asked as he skirted around piles of debris.

“They looked terrified,” she replied with an involuntary shiver.

Walking through the infestation chamber, John said quietly, “Definitely don’t look here...”

She buried her face in his chest. “I can feel them...” she whispered. “Terror, agony, despair... this place reeks of it.”

He clenched his jaw and strode onwards, fighting down his anger.

Rachel glanced at him and asked, “Are you okay?”

“The Kirrix exterminated over a billion sentient creatures here. We might have wiped out the Kirrix in this system, but it makes no difference to the Mhoirad; they’re still just as dead.”

She rubbed his back and gave him a look of sympathy. “It must have been awful experiencing all those psychic echoes and watching their civilisation brought to such a horrific end.”

John nodded, his eyes hardening. “The Mhoirad were one of the most benevolent species I’ve ever encountered... but the Kirrix viewed them with nothing but contempt. Ultimately, a bunch of cruel parasites thrived off the cold-blooded murder of kind and friendly creatures... it’s the sheer injustice of it all that gets me so angry.”

“Would extinction of the Kirrix balance the scales?” Rachel asked without judgement.

He let out a heavy sigh. “Would it bring back all the species the Kirrix slaughtered?” John shook his head. “No... they’re long gone and we can’t bring them back. It might make me feel better to see the Kirrix wiped out, but the Mhoirad wouldn’t actually want that, they didn’t believe in getting revenge.”

She looked at him in surprise. “So you’ve decided not to exterminate them? I was sure that you’d be more inclined to see the Kirrix removed from the galaxy after what you witnessed here.”

John met her curious gaze. “Coming here was a real eye-opener. I learned that Mael’nerak nearly wiped out the Kirrix but stopped around the same time as the Shroud came into existence. I don’t understand what the point of the Shroud was exactly, but if he’d finished the genocide, he would have inadvertently saved dozens of other species from extinction. I personally don’t believe the Kirrix will ever stop what they’re doing. As soon as they convince themselves that Alyssa and I aren’t a threat any more, the raids and abductions will begin again.”

“So what are you planning to do?” Rachel asked, her eyebrows climbing.

“I’ll still give them a chance to reform as long as they heed Alyssa’s threats,” John replied crossing the clearing in the infestation chamber. “But if they start the raids again, they’ll be done. I’ll finish what Mael’nerak started and personally oversee the extinction of the Kirrix... and there’ll be no stopping this time, not until every last trace of their vile civilisation is eradicated from the galaxy.”

The brunette was quiet for a long moment, lost in thought. “The amount of lives Mael’nerak influenced is staggering. I can barely even imagine what it must be like to wield that kind of power... to literally reshape this segment of the galaxy as you see fit.”

“The other Progenitor is trying to do the exact same thing,” John said, his eyes hardening. “Encouraging the Drakkar to wipe out the Ashanath then setting the Kintark and Terrans against each other... he was planning to kill billions of people.”

“Yes, but we stopped him,” Alyssa said with a smile of satisfaction. Still shielding her eyes, she glanced up at John. “Are we past the infestation area yet?”

He looked down at her and nodded. “Yes, but now we’re walking through the prison. It’s probably going to be even worse...”

She shuddered and kept her eyes averted. “Okay, just tell me when we get there.”

They walked past piles of broken cages, where Jade had barged her way through the enormous chamber, the bulk of her dragon form flattening everything in her path. Rachel looked unsettled and she walked closer to John, hooking her arm through his.

“You okay?” he asked, glancing at the brunette.

“I’ve never been anywhere with such a dark sense of... I don’t know... foreboding?” her voice trailed off, Rachel unable to find the precise words to describe her feelings of unease.

“This place echoes with the screams of a million anguished souls...” Alyssa whimpered, squeezing her eyes tightly shut and placing her hand over her ears. “I can hear them... the tortured death cry of an entire civilisation...”

“I shouldn’t have brought you here,” John said, pausing and looking at her with concern.

*Keep going,* she thought to him, her telepathic voice strained.

They covered the last hundred metres in silence, approaching the tracked cart and the battered Kirrix corpses that surrounded it. The hive queen was still where John had left her, slumped on the back of the mechanised vehicle. Rachel ignored the scorched guardians and juggernauts, her focus solely on the ancient behemoth, who she studied in fascination.

*Could you put me down please?* Alyssa requested, sounding pensive as she tried to block out the disturbing visions.

John did as she asked, steadying the blonde on her feet before he released her. Alyssa took a deep breath, then sank to a crouch, gathering her will and drawing psychic energy to her. The hexagonal overhead lights flickered ominously, then she unleashed a psychic shockwave that made the debris and dust ripple across the floor. John wavered, suddenly feeling dizzy, and he dropped to one knee as he reeled from the unsettling sensation. Rachel looked just as disorientated, wobbling unsteadily until she collapsed beside John and clung to him for support.

“What the hell was that?” he asked, looking at Alyssa in shock.

She let out her breath and slowly opened her eyes. “I’m surprised you didn’t recognise it. I’ve done it before...”

Frowning in confusion, John watched Alyssa rise to her feet and look around, no longer showing any signs of distress. “The visions?”

“Gone... at least temporarily,” Alyssa said with a smile of relief. Offering them both a hand, she continued, “I created a null zone. While it’s in effect, the psychic echoes have been repressed.”

“This was different to what you did on Ashana,” John insisted, shaking his head. “I didn’t even feel that the first time... but I sure as hell noticed this one!”

She looked surprised to hear that. “I’m pretty sure it was the same... maybe a bit more powerful?”

Rachel attempted to summon her grey healing aura, but when nothing happened, she shook her head in amazement. “How fascinating...”

“Are you feeling okay now?” Alyssa asked John as he stood.

He shook off the slight feeling of disorientation and nodded. “Yeah, I’m good... it was just a surprise.”

“I’m sorry,” she apologised, stroking his cheek. “I thought you’d be completely unaffected like last time.”

“Ah... Alyssa? I think you might have lobotomised the hive queen...” Rachel said, having walked around to study the front of the hulking creature.

John and Alyssa joined her, staring up at the wizened face of the Kirrix leader. Her mandibles sagged open, drool leaking from the corner of her maw as she wheezed rattling breaths.

“Actually, that was me,” John confessed, staring up at the huge creature with sincere regret. “I think I accidentally wiped out her mind when I absorbed all her memories...”

Alyssa shook her head, a flicker of a smile teasing her lips. “Maybe leave the telepathy to me from now on, handsome?”

He nodded ruefully, then let out a heavy sigh.

Rachel slipped her hand into his to give it a comforting squeeze. “It was an accident... don’t feel bad.”

John tore his gaze away from the hive queen’s vacant-eyed stare to look at the concerned young woman beside him. “I don’t feel bad about lobotomising her... just that it was over so quickly.” He glared at the malevolent creature that had presided over the extinction of three sentient species. “Kirzuxa deserves a lifetime of suffering for all the atrocities she committed. I’m just upset that I never got a chance to punish her for everything she did; I was feeling quite creative...”

***

Dana wrinkled her nose in distaste as she unplugged the strange chitin-coated power cable. “Okay, haul that hunk of crap out the way.”

Four maintenance bots levered up the strange resin bolts that fixed the Kirrix FTL drive to the floor, then picked up the obsolete device and floated to one side. Dana beckoned another four of the helpful robots closer, watching carefully as they moved the spherical Tachyon Drive into position. When the redhead gave them a thumbs up, they placed the housing carefully on the deck and bolted the device into place, using multi-tools built into the palm of their hands.

Faye walked over to her friend and studied the end of the Kirrix power cable. “Um, Dana? I don’t think the Kirrix adhered to the Higgins-Larriman Standard of port conventions when they designed their cabling.”

Dana looked at the crimped end of the cable with concern. “Shit!”

The purple sprite glanced at the D-shaped port on the Tachyon Drive and ruefully shook her head. “No, that definitely won’t fit...”

Suddenly Dana’s eyes widened and she reached into the pouch on her belt. “Wait a minute... what’s this?” She produced a titanium device approximately the size of her clenched fist. “Is this a Kirrix-Terran power port adapter?” She slotted the cable into the device with a satisfying click, then plugged it into the Tachyon drive. “Well, what do you know? It fits!”

Faye laughed and nudged her with an elbow. “You had me worried for a moment!”

Dana winked at her playfully. “Can you let Irillith know we’re all set?”

There was a momentary pause, then the Tachyon Drive hummed with power, lights activating around its circumference.

The redhead’s eyes began to glow with a soft golden radiance as she studied the newly installed component. “Looking good... Power levels are stable, hyper-warp inducer is primed and ready.”

“Finished with my boys?” Faye asked with a smile.

“All done! Thanks, fellas,” Dana said, patting the closest maintenance bot on the arm.

They turned and floated out of the room, moving swiftly and silently on their hover platforms. Dana and Faye followed them out, with the elfin girl humming a cheerful tune to herself as she skipped along beside her friend. Dana joined in the jaunty melody and started skipping too, the two of them weaving through the maintenance bots along the corridor.

“You’re in a good mood,” Dana said, flashing a grin at her friend. “I take it you’re as happy as I am to be off this creepy ship?”

“I am, but there’s something else too!” the sprite replied, her eyes flashing with excitement.

Dana pirouetted around another robot. “Ah... it wouldn’t have something to do with a certain somebody returning to the Invictus?”

Faye giggled as she bounded along. “I suspect that’s why you’re in such a good mood!”

The redhead beamed at her triumphantly. “He’s going to be all mine... for a whole day!”

They had manoeuvred past all the maintenance bots and were approaching a broad door, so Faye darted over to it and tapped the runes. As the door started to open, she turned to study her best friend. “I apologise for eavesdropping, but I overheard your conversation with John yesterday. Why does it excite you so much to be his sexual plaything for 24 hours?”

Dana laughed and looked at her incredulously. “You’re kidding, right?”

Faye leaned against the wall as the maintenance bots glided past them. “No, I’m genuinely curious. In all likelihood, you’re going to have sex with John thousands of times in the future... so what makes 6 perhaps 7 consecutive sexual encounters with him over a 24-hour period so special?”

“Thousands of times...” Dana murmured wistfully, her sky-blue eyes glazing over.

Faye smiled and waited patiently.

Shaking off her blissful daze, Dana blushed and admitted, “Sorry, I zoned out for a bit there.” She sighed and added dreamily, “A thousand times though... that’s a lot of cum.”

“There’s no rush,” Faye said, her smile broadening into an impish grin. “Take your time...”

Dana laughed and followed the last maintenance bot through the door into the next corridor, walking at a sedate pace this time. “I suppose there’s a few reasons it turns me on so much.”

“Which are?” the sprite prompted her, listening attentively.

“Well first, I won’t have to share him. When I first joined the crew, I was getting to know the other girls and learning about the Invictus’ systems in between feedings. Meanwhile, John had other business to attend to as well, so while we spent a lot of time together, I didn’t get him exclusively to

myself like Alyssa did when they first got together. Hopefully this time, he’ll not only be constantly loading me up, but I’ll have John’s undivided attention for the whole day.”

“Okay, I can see why that would be very appealing,” Faye agreed, smiling as she pictured it.

Dana nodded, lost in thought. “Second, I’ll be relying solely on John to survive, just like those first two weeks.” She bit her lip and shivered with excitement. “Looking up at John as he fed me was incredibly hot... I felt so submissive... and totally dependent on him.”

“That does sound nice,” Faye said diplomatically, darting a curious look at her starry-eyed friend. After a long pause, she frowned as she admitted, “As a synthetic, I only need an active power supply to maintain my body, so it’s a bit harder for me to relate to that one.”

Giving her a sympathetic look, Dana patted Faye’s shoulder. “As an organic, let me just say that it felt very intimate, gazing lovingly into his eyes as he filled me up. I knew I was swallowing his cum to build my new body...” She opened her arms and did a graceful twirl. “And he helped me grow healthy and strong until I looked like this.”

Faye nodded in understanding. “Judging by your increased mass over that period, at least 40% of your new body was grown purely from John’s cum?”

Dana’s eyes widened and she looked down at her body in awe. “Holy shit... you’re right! Yeah, he’s like constantly part of me now!”

“Now that does sound wonderful,” the purple girl agreed and it was her turn to sound wistful.

Dana frowned in frustration. “I wish I could get through to Alyssa to tell her. She was even smaller and skinnier than I was... she must have grown by about 50%!”

“Why can’t you speak with her?” Faye asked, looking confused. “I thought all of you were in constant telepathic communication with Alyssa?”

“Oh right, sorry...I forgot you didn’t hear her message,” Dana said with a bashful smile. “About half-an-hour ago, Alyssa said she was going incommunicado for a while.”

*Hey, I’m here,* Alyssa informed her a moment later. *We’re just walking back up the tunnel and we should be out soon. Did you have any problems with the hive ship upgrade?*

*Nah, it was fine. Anyway, did you hear what I was talking about with Faye?*

*I only caught the end... something about me growing by 50%?*

Dana quickly explained, but was met by stunned silence from her matriarch. *Alyssa, did you hear what I said?*

*Damn... that’s hot as hell,* the blonde eventually purred, sounding feverish with lust.

*I know, right?* the redhead gushed. *No wonder I feel like John owns me...*

Alyssa’s sultry laughter echoed over their bond. *No, Sparks, that’s just because you’re a kinky little minx.*

Faye raised an eyebrow at Dana’s giggling. “Did I miss something?”

“Alyssa’s back... so lots of flirtatious teasing,” Dana replied with a smile. They started walking after the maintenance bots again and she studied Faye with an appraising eye. “It totally sucks that you can’t hear her telepathically. I wonder if there’s some way we could adapt one of the Ashanath psi-shapers? It’s a machine that receives incoming telepathic commands, so if Alyssa projected her thoughts at it, then perhaps you could receive the signal...”

“You really think that would work?!” Faye asked, a hopeful gleam in her eyes.

“There’s no harm in experimenting with a prototype,” Dana replied, giving her an encouraging grin. “I’ve got a few other things I’m working on at the moment, but I’ll add it to the list.”

The purple sprite darted over to give Dana a sideways hug. “Thank you! I’ve longed to be involved with Alyssa’s psychic conversations like the rest of the girls. If we could get that to work, it would be amazing!”

Dana put her arm around Faye’s shoulder and hugged her back. “I’ll do my best. I’m working on the schematics for a psychic communication device at the moment, so I’ll keep your device in mind too.”

“Yay!” Faye exclaimed in delight.

“Somebody sounds happy,” Irillith said, appearing at the junction ahead of them. Her fair-skinned face lit up with an affectionate smile through the crystal faceplate.

“Hello, creator!” Faye bounded down the corridor to give the Maliri a hug that was happily reciprocated.

Dana walked over to join them, unable to take her eyes off Irillith’s Terran holo-disguise. “You look gorgeous as a blonde... but I still prefer the original.”

“Perhaps that’s a bit of John’s influence on you,” Irillith said with a coy smile. “He does seem to be quite fond of my sister and me.”

“A pair of super-hot blue space elves who think the sun shines out of his ass... Yeah, I can see why he might be a fan,” Dana smirked, falling into step with the Maliri hacker. She gave Irillith a perceptive look and continued, “Now, tell me the truth... the trip on the Raptor was one long fuckathon, wasn’t it?”

“It wasn’t all sex, Dana,” Irillith said haughtily. Her voice lowered an octave and she caressed her stomach suggestively. “Admittedly, John seemed to be obsessed with packing us full of as much cum as possible... but Shan and I were so exhausted after all those orgasms, we ended up sleeping off one huge meal after another. ”

Dana groaned at the thought. “You’re evil tormenting me like that... I was wrong before, Tashana’s totally my favourite twin!”

Irillith laughed and hugged the redhead. “I missed you while we were away.”

“Me too,” Dana replied, returning the hug.

“Only for a minute though...” Irillith clarified. “The rest of the time, I was too busy getting screwed senseless, or sleeping to recover for the next session of debauchery.”

“Like I said... evil,” Dana pouted.

Irillith pretended to cackle with malevolent glee, making Faye giggle at their banter. They followed the procession of robots out of the hive ship into the brisk evening, long shadows sweeping over the docking bay as the sun began to set. The rest of the maintenance bots were busy loading food and drink into the vessel, the operation overseen by the rest of the girls and the colony administrators.

Calara waved to them and walked over, leaving Sakura with the robots. “We’re just about finished here. Are you all set?”

“Tachyon Drive installed, Captain,” Dana replied with a cheeky salute.

Irillith nodded, turning slightly to study the hive ship. “I introduced the new crew to the organic computer running the ‘Fruitful Harvest’ and asked it to obey their commands. Alyssa’s course has been preset, so the colonists won’t actually have to do anything with the requisitioned ship and it’ll take them straight back to Menganus IV.”

“Requisitioned?” Alyssa asked with a grin as she walked over to join them. She nudged John with an elbow and added playfully, “You’re such a bad influence...”

He chuckled at the recurring joke and nodded to the girls in greeting. “It sounds like we’re ready to depart?”

“A couple of minutes,” Calara agreed, glancing at the team of maintenance bots rapidly transferring the supplies into the hive ship.

“Nice work, ladies,” he said appreciatively. “Head back to the Invictus and I’ll be with you shortly. When we take off, we’ll have a quick debrief session so we can catch up on what everyone’s been up to.”

The girls nodded and turned to leave, except for Faye, who looked at him with excited anticipation.

“Wait for me inside the airlock,” he said with a fond smile. “Then we’ll be away from prying eyes.”

She bounded away to catch up with the rest of the girls, leaving John and Alyssa alone.

“I just spent the last two days missing you, I’m not leaving your side,” she replied, arching an eyebrow defiantly.

“What did I do to deserve getting stuck with such a disobedient matriarch?” he asked affectionately, putting his arm around her as they walked over to the maintenance bots.

Governor Reyes Angevin was there with his entourage, watching the robots hard at work. A huge stockpile of food and drink had already been loaded onto the hive ship, giving the 10,000 colonists more than enough supplies to return home.

“Hello, Governor,” John called out in greeting. “Are your people all settled aboard the ship?”

The man jumped in surprise, then turned to look nervously at John, running a hand over his bald pate. “Ah, Admiral Blake... Y-yes, we’re nearly all aboard...”

John recognised the woman he’d spoke to before, who looked relaxed and happy now. When they made eye contact she said, “We’re having a hell of a job dragging the kids away from Jade. Not that we don’t appreciate her entertaining them all afternoon, but maybe you could have a word?”

“Of course, I’ll speak to her now,” John agreed. “Before I go, I just wanted to let you know that Fleet Admiral Devereux has sent relief fleets to the border worlds full of supplies. They should be arriving next week.”

“Free supplies?” Reyes Angevin asked, his eyes gleaming at the prospect.

“I believe so,” John replied, glad to be dealing with simple avarice rather than bitter hatred of High Command. He nodded respectfully to the governor and his advisors and continued, “I hope you all have a safe journey home.”

The Governor gave him an awkward salute, which John returned, then there was an uncomfortable moment until John and Alyssa walked away.

*Wow, you really freaked them out,* Alyssa said, glancing back at the colonists over her shoulder. *When you turn into giant John with me and the girls, we’ll try not to be scared of how... huge... you become.*

John laughed and shook his head. *I’m not actually sure how I did that. I definitely need to practice and work out how to do it again.*

She clasped his hand, interlacing her fingers with his. *You should. We’ll make it worth your while...*

Jade was tearing around the docking bay, still playing with a handful of children. The rest were exhausted, sprawled around on the floor with happy grins on their faces as they watched the Nymph in action.

Seeing John and Alyssa approaching, Jade padded over to greet them. She shifted form into a catgirl again, then gave John a quick peck on the cheek. *You look so much happier, Master!*

He flashed a smile at Alyssa. *I am... I missed my girls.*

The blonde embraced the cheerful Nymph. “It’s lovely to see you again, Jade. Well done looking after him.”

“It was my pleasure,” the green girl replied, returning the hug.

“The hive ship is nearly ready to depart,” John said, stroking Jade’s back. “Do you want to say goodbye to your new friends?”

She nodded, then turned to face the tired but happy children. “I’m afraid I have to go now... but it’s dinner time for all of you. We’ve brought lots of snacks, they’re waiting for you aboard the spaceship.”

Mention of food had them on their feet in no time, but they gathered around to give her hugs, many of the children crying at having to say goodbye.

A cute little blonde girl flung her arms around Jade’s waist. “Bye bye, Dwagonlady.”

Jade squatted down carefully and hugged her back. “Goodbye, Lucy. Be a good girl and listen to your mommy and daddy, okay?”

She nodded, wiping away the tears from her eyes. “Do I have to listen to Timmy too?”

“Yes, he’s a very nice big brother,” Jade solemnly replied.

“Kay...” Lucy then joined her brother and parents who stood a few paces away, the family waving goodbye to the Nymph one last time before heading for the hive ship.

Once Jade had finished saying her farewells, she watched the children leave with their parents before slipping her hand into John’s.

“You were amazing with all those kids,” Alyssa said, genuinely impressed. “I think I know who I’ll be asking to babysit...”

“I’m not sure I’ll be able to be quite so energetic,” the Nymph replied with a wistful smile.

“You’ll be fine. It looked like you had boundless energy,” John said, gently squeezing her hand.

“Yes, but she’s also planning to be constantly pregnant for the next few centuries... that might make running around a little difficult,” Alyssa said with a knowing look at her fellow matriarch.

Jade leaned against his shoulder, rubbing her head against him as she started to purr. “Absolutely.”

They walked over to the Invictus and stood in the airlock, then watched the families look warily up at the hive ship before herding their children inside. The maintenance bots had finished loading on the supplies and were returning to the Invictus, so the colonists turned and waved goodbye before closing the outer hull doors.

“The girls are up in the Briefing Room,” Alyssa said, stepping into the airlock. “We can watch the hive ship depart from there.”

John followed her inside the battlecruiser and closed the door behind him, the portal spiralling shut with a quiet hiss. Alyssa and Jade carried on along the corridor, darting smiles at Faye as they passed. Before John could say anything, the purple sprite jumped into his arms, showering his face in kisses.

“I’m so glad you’re back!” she exclaimed, before switching to giving him a deep kiss with lots of tongue.

Faye crossed her wrists behind his neck and wrapped her legs around his waist, so he cupped her deliciously pert little bottom in his hands to support her 90lb frame. John thoroughly enjoyed the enthusiastic welcome home and hugged her tight. “I missed you too, honey.”

“Really?” she asked, her face alight with glee.

“Of course, really!” he replied, kissing the tip of her nose. “I ended up spending hours in bed, because I didn’t have my Faye to wake me up with her lovely singing.”

She giggled and gave him a knowing look. “I suspect having Jade and the twins with you might have had something to do with your inability to get out of bed.”

“Perhaps,” he conceded, smiling at her affectionately. “But I found myself thinking about you anyway.”

Faye let out a happy sigh and snuggled into his chest. “I could stay like this forever.”

“How about until we reach the Command Deck?” he offered, walking towards the grav-tube.

“Okay...” she agreed, a blissful look of contentment on her face as they floated up in the blue anti-gravity field.

***

High Prelate Zorlin stood on the Command Platform of the battlecarrier Breklan'tohok, his clawed hands clasped behind his back as he looked out over the Bridge. The atmosphere was subdued, the Kintark crew in a state of depression after languishing in a Terran high-security prison for the last two months. Although they’d been freed as part of the peace accord that ended hostilities between the Terran Federation and the Kintark Empire, this was no triumphant voyage home. He could only imagine what reception awaited them when they returned to Kintark Space. The reputations and honour of his crew would be forever stained by the catastrophic defeat at the Battle of Regulus.

His mind turned to his family and he dreaded to think of the retribution his family might have suffered as a consequence of that disaster. Emperor Baledranax had a well-deserved reputation for being vindictive and cruel, taking out his anger on the loved ones of citizens he felt had failed him. Zorlin had shared command with High Prelate Grakira, so their families would have faced the brunt of the Emperor’s wrath.

Letting out a dejected sigh, Zorlin turned to study the holographic Sector Map floating above the command table, trying to distract himself from such bleak thoughts. He was leading a huge fleet of over 200 warships back to Kintark territory, the green vessels shimmering with an iridescent hue as they reflected the starlight. It would have been an impressive sight, but all those ships had been declawed, the heatsinks stripped from their Plasma Cannon batteries. Firing those massive guns now would melt the barrels and render them inoperative with a single shot.

His attention turned to the grey titanium-hulled fleet escorting them through the Dragon March. The Terran Federation were taking no chances, keeping a close eye on his forces as he sailed back to Kintark territory. Zorlin shook his head and stared morosely at his battle-worn flotilla. It was such a stark contrast to the feelings of elation he’d felt when they’d invaded Terran Space two months ago.

The Kintark fleet had swept through Federation territory unopposed, the traitor ensuring that they wouldn’t be detected by the Terran sensor grid. Zorlin had then laid the perfect trap for Buckingham’s armada, using the traitor’s Interdiction Beacons to drag the loyal Terran forces out of hyper-warp. He clenched his fists and ground his fangs together in anger. It would have worked flawlessly, if it wasn’t for that thrice-damned imbecile Grakira!

Zorlin had replayed the battle in his mind over and over again since the crushing defeat. If High Prelate Grakira hadn’t rushed after the Lion on a fool’s errand, attempting to capture his incredibly advanced ship as a trophy for the Emperor, the Kintark forces could have torn the Terran armada apart. The massed defence grids on the vessels she stripped from the Kintark lines, would have helped protect the other half of her fleet she’d abandoned, minimising the damage sustained by torpedo attack. Instead, Terran bombers had run amok through the remnants of her forces, obliterating scores of cruisers and battleships.

What made Grakira’s actions even more galling, was that her pursuit of the Lion was the catalyst for the Terran traitors to switch sides and rejoin the loyal forces. Their combined firepower under the tactical command of the Lion had left Grakira reeling, Admiral John Blake proving himself to be a gifted tactician as he obliterated her entire strike force. Then the traitor’s trap had been turned on Zorlin’s own fleet, the Interdiction Beacons preventing his escape from the debacle and forcing him to beg for surrender...

By Bhairmunax the Unjust, it was such a travesty!

The Kintark leader forced himself to unclench his claws and slowly exhaled to calm himself. Reviewing the battle and learning from his mistakes was an important exercise, but obsessing over the defeat would accomplish nothing. He stared at the Terran escort fleet with a weary look of resignation. The Terran Federation had won the war, inflicting such a devastating defeat on the Kintark Empire, Zorlin wasn’t sure how his people would survive it. The Terran guards had delighted in showing footage of the climactic fleet engagement to their horrified prisoners, the Battle of Terra decisively ending the Kintark Empire as a major power in the galaxy.

“High Prelate, we are receiving an incoming call from the battlessship Dinlasss,” his communications Sub-Prelate announced, the delivery flat and lifeless.

Zorlin turned to face him and gestured for the officer to proceed. “Thank you, comrade. Pleassse put him through.”

The holo-screen crackled and the winged sword icon of the Terran Federation faded away, to be replaced by a high-ranking Terran officer, his tanned face set in a stern expression. “High Prelate Zorlin, as I’m sure you’re aware, we’re approaching the border.”

“Thank you for providing sssafe passage through Terran territory, Admiral Ramosss,” the Kintark officer replied, nodding to him politely.

Guilherme Ramos’ eyes narrowed and he looked like he wanted to make a barbed comment. “Just following orders, High Prelate,” he finally muttered, his face a stony mask. “Do not deviate from the predefined flight path until you cross over into Kintark territory.”

Zorlin inclined his head to acknowledge the order. “We will avoid doing anything that could be consssidered provocation, Admiral.”

The Terran Admiral nodded and said curtly, “That would be very wise.”

Admiral Ramos ended the call before the High Prelate could respond, leaving Zorlin staring at the Terran Federation insignia. The Kintark leader bristled at the Admiral’s discourteous attitude, then sighed as he realised the Terran had probably lost comrades in the Battle of Terra and must have deeply resented being given this escort duty.

The flotilla sailed onward and he watched his forces cross the new holographic border line between Kintark and Terran Space. Instead of that boundary line curving down for light years, following the historical perimeter of the Dragon March, it made an abrupt left turn, arcing deep into what used to be the middle of the Kintark Empire. Zorlin watched the Terran fleet make a slight course correction, then it sailed into the vast swathe of space recently annexed by the Federation.

Shaking his head, Zorlin turned away, feeling his heart sink in his chest. His people were paying a heavy price for the Emperor’s hubris. “Ssset course for the Mar’Trinark Ssshipyard,” he said quietly, his voice breaking the deathly silence on the Bridge. Glancing at his comms officer, he added, “Open a channel to the Imperial Palace on Kinta and requessst permisssion to ssspeak with the Empresss... I’ll take the call in my command quartersss.”

Zorlin turned and strode from the Bridge, trying not to let the crew see how anxious he was. Entering the High Prelate’s suite, he strode over to his desk and slid into the chair. It took a minute to route the call through to Kinta, so he made it in plenty of time to see the imperial sigil appear. When it faded away, a terrifying draconic face stared at him, shiny red scales surrounding huge reptilian eyes.

“Empresss Tamolith, thank you for granting me an audience,” Zorlin said, bowing respectfully.

The dragon’s face shifted to one of delight. “High Prelate Zorlin! How wonderful it is to see you freed from captivity.” Looking at him with sympathy, Tamolith added, “I hope you didn’t suffer during your imprisonment?”

Shocked by her compassionate tone, Zorlin gaped at the Empress before he managed to compose himself. “Ah... thank you for your concern, Empresss. Assside from unending interrogationsss, I wasss treated asss well asss could be expected.”

Tamolith looked greatly relieved, even breaking into a toothy smile. “I’m so glad to hear it. Knowing that heroes of the Kintark Empire were bound in Terran chains was keeping me awake at night. Negotiations for peace with the Terran Federation were long and gruelling, but I insisted that we would never agree to a treaty that did not call for the immediate release of the brave souls captured at Regulus.”

Zorlin was even more astounded. “T-thank you, your Imperial Majesssty. I mussst admit, I wasss not sssure how welcome we would be on our return.”

“I am not my vain and foolish predecessor,” Tamolith said, shaking her head with distaste. “I know the value of a loyal and capable High Prelate. I have reviewed the Battle of Regulus... Despite being given inadequate fleet resources for such an ambitious objective, you might still have secured a glorious victory, if your plans hadn’t been undermined by an impatient half-wit.”

The High Prelate sagged with relief, bewildered but elated that the new Empress wasn’t blaming him for the crushing defeat. “I wisssh only to ssserve the Empire to the bessst of my ability, Imperial Majesssty.”

“Knowing your well-deserved reputation, I would have expected nothing less,” Tamolith said graciously. Her expression turned sombre as she continued, “So it saddens me to inform you that Baledranax had your family imprisoned and shipped to the Xen-Nalbek mines... However, I have released them all and they are receiving the best medical treatment in the Empire.”

A tear rolled down Zorlin’s scaly cheek, unable to believe what he was hearing. “Oh, thank you, Empresss! Did they all sssurvive their imprisssonment?”

She nodded, giving him a fang-filled smile. “They did. Your family estate has also been restored and they will be able to return there once their treatment is complete.”

He was lost for words, overwhelmed by the complete reversal of his family’s disastrous fortunes.

“When you arrive at Kinta, you must come straight to the Imperial Palace. Your family are my honoured guests and are eager to welcome you home.” Tamolith studied him as if trying to gauge his intentions. “In the meantime, Mar’Trinark Shipyard awaits the return of your fleet. We must refit all those vessels as quickly as possible and see that the Empire’s borders are safeguarded against our enemies once again. Can we expect your arrival soon?”

“We have already ssset courssse for Kinta!” Zorlin exclaimed, an eager gleam in his eyes. “I am your loyal ssservant, Empresss! It will be an honour to help you rebuild the Kintark Empire and reclaim our rightful posssition in the galaxy!”

“Excellent,” Tamolith said, her draconic maw curling up into a smile of satisfaction. “Welcome back to the Kintark Empire, High Prelate.”

***

John stood at the tall window, watching the hive ship lift off the ground, retro-thrusters flaring along its hull as it departed from the planet. “And they’re away,” he said with satisfaction, turning back to look at the girls.

Behind him, the ochre-hued spires of the Kirrix starport began to disappear from sight, as the Invictus also took off and gained altitude. The hive ship had a head start, but the white battlecruiser had much more powerful retro-thrusters and engines, so they quickly pulled ahead and passed the colonists as they headed for the stars.

“Will they be safe travelling home on their own?” Helene asked with concern, watching John as he retook his seat at the head of the table.

“They should be fine,” Alyssa replied, while subconsciously reaching out to clasp John’s hand. “They’ll be travelling at triple the speed of any vessel the Kirrix have got.”

“The hive ship is programmed to evade any attempt at interception,” Irillith added, steepling her fingers and smiling. “The Kirrix have no chance of catching it... unless they set up a substantial net of interdictors.”

“I suspect there’s only one Kirrix fleet left in this sector,” Calara said thoughtfully. “The forces that attacked Carolus III, Brecken’s World, Karron, and Menganus IV have all been obliterated, and we mauled the one that hit Tasmaris Prime. The only intact fleet they have left is the one that besieged Valia Gate, but those Kirrix returned the colonists, so I expect they’ll give that hive ship a wide berth.”

“The flightpath I gave them avoids the direct route back from Valia Gate,” Alyssa informed them. “With a little luck, they won’t even see each other.”

“So... can we go over what we’ve been up to now?” Dana asked impatiently, flashing a grin at John.

Sakura raised a hand, catching his attention. “Before we do that, is there any chance we could see the helmet camera footage of you in action? Alyssa told us what happened... but I’d like to see for myself.”

John smiled at the redhead’s ensuing pout. “We’ll get onto that in a minute, honey.” Turning to Faye, he continued, “Would you be able to-”

“It’s already queued up and ready!” the purple sprite exclaimed, nodding exuberantly. “As soon as we got in range, I downloaded the data from your Paragon suit and put together a video of the rescue.”

John glanced at Helene and frowned. “Maybe you’d like to relax in the Lagoon with the Nymphs? The fighting got very... bloody... and I don’t want you to get upset.”

The aquatic girl considered it for a moment. “I think it’s important that I see what you have to do to keep our family safe. Perhaps I could sit with you while we’re watching? I know I’ll feel a lot braver then...”

“Sounds like a good plan to me,” John agreed with an indulgent smile. He opened his arms to Helene and wrapped them around her when she sat on his lap.

Dana recognised a clever move when she saw one and smirked at the teal-skinned beauty. “Very smooth...”

Faye waited for a nod from John, then she began the video. It began with him standing in the back of the gunship, a shimmering blue sphere of hexagons springing into existence around him, before he stepped out the back.

“You’ve progressed beyond those wrist shields,” Sakura said, nodding her approval.

“It was instinctive,” he replied, eyes locked on the holo-screen. “As was this next part apparently...”

As John dropped towards the Kirrix starport, it grew steadily larger in his field of view... then for a brief moment, it seemed to shrink as if he was flying away from it.

Tashana leaned forward watching in fascination. “And you had no idea you were growing?”

“None at all,” he admitted, following his progress until he landed in the midst of the Kirrix defenders, his landing marked by a telekinetic blastwave that hurled them across the docking bay.

After clearing the area of soldiers, Jade landed in dragon form beside him, not having to lower her head much to gaze into John’s eyes.

“And you didn’t notice that Jade barely had to duck to look at you?” Tashana marvelled.

John hesitated, then shook his head. “The effect was subtle. At the time I was thinking how insignificant the Kirrix were... they seemed like pathetic insects that weren’t a challenge anymore.”

They watched in silence as he smashed four hive ships, read the psychic echoes around the starport, then chased after the abducted colonists.

“The Kirrix look tiny,” Calara murmured as he carved his way through the Kirrix troopers. “It’s no wonder your perception of them started to change.”

Helene clung to John’s arm as she watched him hacking the insectoid soldiers to pieces, her grip tightening when he fought the hulking juggernauts. He stroked her back to soothe her and she eventually calmed, although she still kept a firm hold of his arms that he’d wrapped around her waist. The rest of the girls watched the camera footage in fascination, transfixed by the massacre. John was moving in a blur, charging from one group to the next and slaughtering all the Kirrix in his path. Faye slowed the video’s frame rate to counter John’s accelerated speed, making the insectoids look like they were moving in slow motion as they tried to stop him.

Tashana gazed unblinking at the carnage on the screen. “Is that what psychic speed feels like to you?”

John and Sakura both nodded. “Yes.”

They shared a smile, then John explained, “Rather than me speeding up, it feels like I’ve stayed the same, but everyone else has slowed down.”

The Maliri pistoleer turned to look at him, a burning hunger in her eyes. “That’s a very powerful ability, Baen’thelas...”

Alyssa raised an eyebrow and nodded. “There’s several of us who see a lot of combat. Is there any chance you could share the love?”

“Unfortunately, I don’t have that level of control over the abilities I’ve given to each of you,” he admitted with a rueful frown. “I’ve just had a vague idea and shared some of my power with you to make it happen. I did ask Athena about it once and she was predictably enigmatic... but she discouraged me from delving too deeply into it.”

Alyssa mulled that over for a moment. “Psychic speed is amazing, but I guess it does have its downsides.”

Tashana gave her a curious look. “It does?”

“Sure, a few actually,” the blonde replied. “It uses a ton of psychic energy, which is manageable when it’s only John and Sakura doing it, but if all of you started rushing about all over the place, we’d get tapped out fast.”

Rachel nodded, looking thoughtful. “And we know there’s a cost to John’s psychic strength when he grants us abilities. Giving all of us enhanced speed would result in a dramatic reduction of his own power potential.”

“Which we definitely don’t want,” Jade agreed, sharing a smile with Alyssa.

“Plus, I’m not sure how well it would work with Pyrokinesis,” Dana said, holding up her hand and making a fanning motion with the other. “Wouldn’t the flames slow down as soon as they left Tashana’s body? She’d have to be really careful not to accidentally immolate herself!”

“I rely heavily on my ninjato when I’m accelerated,” Sakura said, nodding her agreement. “I use Cryokinesis to freeze the blades and for area-based effects, rather than directly attacking with ice lances.”

“I tend to use my sword and telekinetic arcs,” John said, thinking back on the battle. “I’ve never felt in any danger of running into a force projection, but they’re very fast... and I’ve been creating them with my sword.”

“Speaking of which,” Dana said, gesturing towards the holo-video that showed his glowing runeblade caving in one juggernaut after another. “Where the hell did that come from?!”

“I was reshaping the sword Alyssa made for me and got a bit distracted. I ended up creating it subconsciously,” he explained, staring at the elaborate design of the hilt. “It feels old... ancient even... a bit like the psychic armour I summoned in the Astral Plane. There’s a pull from the blade... it feeds off power... hungers for it. You’ve seen what happened when I poured psychic energy into the runes.”

“Is it some kind of special Progenitor gear?” the redhead asked, her curiosity piqued.

He shrugged helplessly. “Sorry, I don’t know.”

“Mael’nerak wielded a rune-inscribed staff,” Jade murmured, her eyes unfocused.

“I remember that,” Calara said, nodding thoughtfully. “We saw him using one on those stone monoliths in the Ashanath’s Progenitor vault.”

Alyssa shook her head, staring at her fellow matriarch. “You weren’t referring to the pictures... were you, Jade?”

The Nymph slowly shook her head. “I remember the runes... they pulsed like a heartbeat...” Her green brow furrowed in concentration. “Psychic energy pouring over us... memories fading... my sisters standing still and silent... I copied them, wanted to be good for my Master.”

John shot a started glance at Alyssa, then turned his attention to Jade again. “Where was this? When?”

“The Palace... on Kythshara...” Jade whispered.

“Mael’nerak’s Throne World,” John said in a hushed voice, remembering the unusual name.

Jade nodded, turning to look at him. “Before he released us on Lenarra.”

Rachel studied the Nymph in fascination. “It sounds like he deliberately wiped out their memories. Do your sisters remember any of this, Jade?”

Jade shook her head. “No, they remember nothing before John became their new master.”

“The Achonin runes...” Rachel murmured, lost in thought. “They must have something to do with it. It’s the only differentiating factor between Jade and her sisters...”

“Wiping the Nymphs’ memories before freeing them does make sense,” Sakura mused out loud, before blushing and quickly adding, “At least from a security perspective. They must have seen incredibly advanced technology and overheard many private conversations while they were with Mael’nerak. I’m sure he wouldn’t want his enemies to stumble across the Nymphs and effectively give them an archive of everything he’d been doing for thousands of years.”

“Can you remember anything else, Jade?” John asked, looking at the pensive Nymph with concern.

She slowly shook her head. “Everything before that moment is still a big blank... After he wiped our memories, Mael’nerak thanked us for our service, then we were loaded aboard his ship. A short while later we arrived at Lenarra and were released onto the plains. The Nymphs were scattered after that, living a simple hunter-gather existence in small tribes. We existed like that for thousands of years until the Terrans discovered our world.”

Calara put her arm around the Nymph. “I’m sorry, Jade.”

“I never would have met all of you if that hadn’t happened, so at least some good came of it,” she replied, smiling at everyone seated around the table.

They were all touched by her sincerity, prompting a group hug that had the Nymph purring with contentment. After returning to his seat, John glanced at Faye, who restarted the holo-recording. The rest of the battle in the tunnel was a brutal affair, with juggernauts and troopers being butchered left and right. Everyone watched in amazement as John devastated the Kirrix army in the huge hall outside the nest, the sheer numbers involved leaving them awestruck. When John finally realised his size and turned to survey the carnage he had wrought, many of the girls were watching in open-mouthed wonder.

“Holy shit...” Dana muttered under her breath, eyes like saucers as she stared at the bloody battlefield.

Sakura shook her head in disbelief, then darted a smile at John. “I don’t know why you bothered giving all of us powers, when you can do that.”

“I never knew I had it in me,” he said quietly, still shocked by the extent of the slaughter.

Helene turned away from the screen and buried her face in his shoulder, not able to watch any more. He stroked her reassuringly, whispering comforting words in her ear as he watched the end of the fight play out on the screen. The video continued, with John invading the nest, the girls on the edge of their seats when they saw him fighting the trio of hive queens. There were audible sighs of relief when he incinerated the last one, then cheers when Jade rushed into shot to give him a hug. The camera footage concluded with the elimination of the last Kirrix defenders and the confrontation with the ancient hive queen.

“So you decided to read that thing’s mind, lobotomised the bitch, then got trapped in her head by your guide?” Dana asked, turning to look at John.

“Yes, pretty much,” John agreed with a nod of his head. He frowned and quietly continued, “Then Alyssa and Sakura got badly injured defeating my guide to rescue me.”

“Actually... we didn’t defeat him,” Alyssa said, her expression grim. “All the psychic powers we were throwing around drew the attention of the monsters in the fog. Your guide returned to your body when he realised they were coming for us.”

“We threw a lot at him,” Sakura said, flexing her regenerated arm. “He’s very resilient.”

“You said you thought the guide was more powerful than before,” Calara said to Alyssa. “How could he be growing in strength if he’s trapped in a mental prison?”

They were all quiet as they thought about that, then Sakura suggested, “Perhaps his capabilities increase as you get stronger, John? The two of you are part of the same mind, after all.”

“That’s possible,” he conceded, his heart sinking as he realised he’d never be able to gain ground against his guide before a final confrontation.

“Oh, wait!” Rachel blurted out, looking intently at Alyssa. “Wasn’t that the first time you’ve confronted him on the Astral Plane? The only other time you’ve fought each other directly was when the guide took control of John’s body on Valaden.”

“Actually, you’re right!” the blonde agreed, nodding as she thought about it. “The guide was weak then, with only a comatose Edraele as his matriarch. He had no thralls to draw power from, so he must have been running on empty.”

“But he’s had lots of other opportunities to attack since then,” John said, frowning in confusion.

“Perhaps there’s only certain circumstances in which the guide can ‘win’ and take permanent control of your body?” Tashana suggested. “If he ambushed you on the Astral Plane and you simply fled back to your physical form, your mind would have been safe from his attempts to take control.”

John let out a breath he didn’t realise he was holding, then relaxed in his chair with Helene still in his arms. “I don’t think we’ll ever know until I confront him and end this once and for all.”

“You told Edraele that you thought you might be ready,” Alyssa said, stroking his arm. “Do you still feel that way?”

He thought about that for a moment. “I do, but I still want to visit Arcadia first. I want answers about my mother and father before I face my guide, just in case he does beat me...” Seeing the looks of alarm on the girls’ faces, he quickly changed the subject. “Before I forget, I actually found out a few intriguing things from Kirzuxa before I accidentally wiped out her mind.”

“Such as?” Tashana asked with interest.

“Well, she confirmed that the Kirrix have been nearly driven to the point of extinction twice before. The first time was many thousands of years ago, when a Progenitor, probably Mael’nerak, kicked them out of the star systems now occupied by the Terran Federation. He pushed them back into what is now Kirrix Space, then must have got bored killing them and set up the Shroud to finish the job.”

“So she confirmed that he created it?” the Maliri persisted.

He shook his head. “Kirzuxa is 13,000 years old and the Shroud was in existence long before she was born. The Kirrix spent millennia biding their time outside Maliri borders, harvesting sentient species to continue their existence, but trying not to decrease the population to dangerous levels. That all changed when another Progenitor turned up about 10,000 years ago...”

Tashana nodded in understanding. “Ranagon and the War of the Heavens.”

“It all seems to fit,” John agreed. “From what we saw from the Nexus files, Mael’nerak was too busy trying to fight off Ranagon to suddenly decide to exterminate the Kirrix. My money is on Ranagon slaughtering the Kirrix after he finished off the Vulkat.”

“That coincides with the conversation I had with Nkkrrit,” Alyssa interjected, sadness in her eyes. “I asked her about the life support systems you found that were keeping the ancient hive queen alive. She said that when the Vulkat returned to their empire and found it had been obliterated, all her people went crazy with grief. Nkkrrit desperately needed enough personnel to run her fleet, so she psychically contacted the Kirrix Hive Mind to trade for that technology.”

“Ah, so Nkkrrit’s throne was all originally Kirrix tech?” Dana said with interest.

“Yeah, and all the cybernetics that kept the Vulkat animated after they died,” Alyssa replied, with a frown.

“That makes sense...” the redhead agreed. “The Kirrix are desperate to keep their species going whatever the cost, so of course they’d be researching creepy shit like that.” She shivered with disgust. “That probably means there’s Kirrix planets full of zombie bugs... yuck.”

“The Vulkat actually met the Kirrix thousands of years earlier,” Alyssa said quietly. “The Empress at the time banned all trade with them, because she was worried the Kirrix would use Vulkat weapon tech on innocent civilisations. Nkkrrit broke that edict and traded them the schematics for EMP missiles, in exchange for life support and cybernetic reanimation tech. She said the Hive Mind was terrified, desperate to do a deal for any weapons they could get their hands on. Nkkrrit’s still torturing herself with grief for making that trade with them.”

“Oh! No fucking way!” Dana blurted out, her eyes wide in shock. She giggled and shook her head. “I can’t believe it... that’s totally awesome!”

John gave her a funny look. “It’s awesome that the Vulkat Queen spent 10,000 years torturing herself with guilt?”

Dana winced and shook her head. “Ah, no, sorry... that’s not what I meant... that’s really bad obviously.” Her expression brightened and she continued, “But Alyssa just said that Nkkrrit contacted the Hive Mind to trade, right? And if the Kirrix were in full retreat because they were getting spanked by Ranagon, it’s not like Nkkrrit could send a ship to them to trade schematics...”

“So they traded them psychically!” Alyssa exclaimed, looking at her friend in admiration. “Of course, it makes perfect sense. The Vulkat were naturally psychic and so are the Kirrix... there were probably other species they encountered who were also psychic and capable of trading information that way.”

“Which means we need to get to work on the Vulkat tech archives,” Tashana said to her sister.

Irillith nodded. “It shouldn’t take long to translate it now the decoding is complete, maybe a couple of days.”

“Do I get the credit if we find the schematics for a psi-communicator?” Dana asked, a sparkle in her eyes. “Maybe for another exclusive 24 hours?”

Alyssa laughed and rolled her eyes. “You’re terrible, Sparks! You haven’t even started the first 24 hours yet!”

The redhead pouted. “You can’t blame a girl for trying...”

Raising an eyebrow, Irillith said, “If Shan and I translate the archive, surely we should get the credit?”

Tashana ran her hand sensuously over her curved stomach. “Mmm, now that is a delicious idea...”

“Hey!” Dana exclaimed indignantly.

“Okay, okay,” John said, smiling and raising his hands to keep the peace. “It’s not a competition.”

Rachel looked at him quizzically. “Was that everything you discovered from Kirzuxa?”

“Most of it. Like I said earlier, I think Ranagon is the second Progenitor who attacked the Kirrix. The territory maps we saw in Mael’nerak’s control room showed his opponent conquering huge swathes of stars, a lot of them now in Kirrix Space. Mael’nerak’s surprise attack on Ranagon ended the war and inadvertently saved the Kirrix from extinction. After that, the Maliri withdrew to the Regency borders and the Kirrix began a huge expansion effort, culling every race they could get their hands on for more drones. Kirzuxa personally oversaw the systematic rape and murder of three entire civilisations.” He shook his head in anger. “She had the blood of billions on her hands and didn’t feel the slightest bit of remorse.”

“Those extinct species need justice,” Sakura said, her gaze turning cold. “After everything we’ve learned, I’m more convinced than ever that the Kirrix should be annihilated.”

“I hate those bastards,” Dana muttered with a scowl. “You’ll get no complaints from me if you decide to finish the job...”

“I know I made that deal with them, but I reckon we should break it as soon as the Kirrix pull out of Trankaran territory,” Alyssa said, her eyes narrowing. “By that time the Maliri and Trankaran fleets will be in position to defend the Republic’s borders, so they won’t be in any more danger. The Kirrix are evil, they need putting down.”

“I agree, Master,” Jade said quietly, to John’s surprise. “The Kirrix would have murdered those lovely children if I hadn’t got there in time. Any species capable of that deserves to be hunted down like the rats that they are.”

He looked around at the rest of the girls. “I’d be interested to hear your opinions...”

The twins shared a glance, then Irillith said, “As we discussed the other day, I’ve always considered the Kirrix to be parasitical vermin. It wouldn’t bother me in the slightest if we eliminated them.”

Tashana nodded, equally certain of her opinion. “After hearing about the countless atrocities they’ve committed, I see the continued existence of the Kirrix as a wrong that desperately needs to be righted.”

John’s curious gaze fell on Rachel and her grey eyes hardened as they made contact with his. “Only soulless monsters could rape and murder innocents on such a vast scale... and keep doing so for millennia after millennia. We need to put an end to their horrific lifecycle... the Kirrix are an abomination that has been left to fester for far too long.”

Helene shifted on his lap so she could look up at him with her big baby-blue eyes. “I’ve seen so much suffering over the last several days, all caused by the Kirrix,” she said quietly. “The physical and emotional pain all those poor colonists endured... I could never have imagined the galaxy could contain creatures willing to inflict such cruelty. I can’t help but agree with the rest of the girls.”

John stroked her back supportively, then said, “Well, it’s unanimous so far. How about you, Faye?”

The purple sprite was sitting on the opposite end of the table and she twisted her hands nervously in her lap. “The Kirrix have done some horrible things, but I know you were worried about being involved in genocide, no matter how justified it might seem. For that reason, I don’t think we should... because I don’t want you to regret it later.”

“Thanks for being honest, Faye,” he said with an encouraging smile, watching her relax when she saw he didn’t mind her going against the consensus. Turning to the Latina sitting at his left, he could guess at her answer, but asked anyway, “So, what do you think, Captain Fernandez?”

She studied him for a long moment, then said firmly, “I strongly disagree with taking further action against the Kirrix. We should leave them alone.”

John gaped at her in surprise. “I would have thought you’d be all for removing the Kirrix as a threat, especially after they invaded the Terran Federation!”

Calara shook her head, not breaking eye contact for a second. “They’re a meaningless distraction. Between their civil war, our intervention, and the Maliri’s fleet actions, the Kirrix are broken as a galactic power. Our primary mission is defeating the Progenitor, which means concentrating on upgrading our forces and dealing with any threats to our allies. Anything else is extremely low priority and should be ignored.” She leaned forward, fierce in her intensity. “We can’t afford to make any mistakes, John. Billions of lives are at stake... we need to maintain razor-sharp focus on preparing for a Progenitor war. Nothing else matters.”

“Damn...” Dana murmured, slumping back in her chair. “She’s totally right...”

The rest of the girls looked equally shocked, then found themselves nodding in agreement.

John had been transfixed by Calara’s heartfelt words. When she finished speaking, he studied her with newfound respect and admiration. “You’ve proven once again how I couldn’t do this alone. Thank you.”

Her stern expression softened and she reached out to hold his hand. “You knew this already... you just needed a reminder.”

He sat back and ran a hand through his hair. “Does anyone disagree with Calara’s analysis?”

No one did.

“Yeah, me neither,” he said with a smile. Blowing out his breath, he continued, “It looks like the Kirrix get yet another reprieve.”

“Lucky bastards,” Dana said grudgingly. Her expression brightened and she added, “Do you want to hear what we’ve been up to now?”

“Definitely,” John agreed, shifting Helene on his lap and putting his arms around her again. “I’m all ears.”

The redhead nodded to Faye and a complex schematic appeared as glowing hologram floating above the desk. “You asked Calara to come up with ideas for how to help us even the odds against Thrall ships... Well this should make a huge difference!”

“What is it?” he asked, trying to understand the bewilderingly intricate blueprint.

“A Holo-Baffler suite!” Dana exclaimed, with a triumphant grin.

All of her audience apart from Calara looked bemused rather than appropriately jubilant and the Grand Engineering Overlord deflated at their lack of reaction.

“Maybe I should have asked: What does it do?” John said with an encouraging smile.

Dana perked up again and said, “Faye, please can you run Dana_simulation_01?”

The sprite bobbed her head, then blinked, removing the schematic and replacing it with the image of a black-hulled Tormentor class destroyer. Its engines flared and the sinister ship appeared to be moving.

“Look at me, I’m an evil badass,” Dana said, pretending to fly the thrall ship. “I’m flying around, stirring up some shit.”

Then a golden-hulled cruiser appeared at the other end of the table.

“Oh yeah, here’s some low-tech loser... I’m going to ruin their day,” Dana continued with a malevolent grin. “Fire all Tachyon Lances!”

The holographic thrall ship opened fire with a salvo of purple beams that slashed through the Maliri vessel. Instead of the ship exploding, the columns of energy blasted into the cruiser, but nothing seemed to happen. An instant later, a cluster of blue beams lashed back from a point some distance to the cruiser’s flank, hitting the black destroyer’s shields and making disturbing ripples.

“What. The. Fuck.” Dana balked with exaggerated shock. “Fire again!”

The holo ships traded a couple more salvos, with the Maliri vessel seemingly unscathed as it steadily wore down the Thrall ship’s shields.

“I take it your Holo-Baffler doesn’t make a ship invulnerable?” John asked with smile.

Dana shook her head, her eyes sparkling in delight. “No, but it should save our ships from a few broadsides at least!” She glanced at Faye, who nodded and began a second simulation.

The new image showed the Maliri ship surrounded by tiny holo-projectors built onto the hull, each projecting a ghostly outer shell around the vessel. The surface showed a starry backdrop, which would have kept it disguised to the naked eye. To the side was a gleaming golden-hulled cruiser, but this time partially transparent, letting her audience see the holo-projection drone inside.

“The holographic illusion is there to fool fighters and any attempts at visual spotting,” Dana explained. “Meanwhile, the real Maliri ship vents heat out towards the drone, which also pulses with high-energy spikes whenever the real ship fires its guns. There are several other countermeasure systems built in, all designed to trick sensors into thinking the drone is the real threat. With a bit of luck, it’ll fool any Thrall ships for at least a couple of salvos... unless a fluke hit takes out the drone. Either way, it saves the Maliri from getting blasted by an opening barrage of Tachyon Lances.”

“That’s very impressive work, Dana,” John said, nodding his approval. He glanced at Calara. “What’s your verdict, Captain?”

“It should give our forces a huge boost to survivability, Admiral,” she replied, smiling appreciatively at Dana. “As our Chief Engineer just said, taking no damage from an enemy’s initial barrage is a massive tactical advantage. Even after the Thrall forces figure out what we’ve done, they’ll have to quickly develop countermeasures, or be left constantly second-guessing the true location of our ships.”

“It looks like you held up your end of the bargain, Sparks,” John said, letting his eyes roam over her luscious figure. “I’m very much looking forward to tomorrow.”

Dana squirmed in her seat, her expression one of lusty glee. “Calara had a few more ideas, I’ll give you the details when I’ve finished the schematics!” She suddenly frowned and said, “Hey! Why can’t we start the 24 hours right now?!”

Alyssa brushed her fingers along John’s shoulder and caressed his neck, then turned to give the redhead a coy smile. “Because we’ve all been apart from each other for two days. A celebratory reunion orgy is standard operating procedure...”

“Ah, I forgot,” Dana said with a grin as she sprang from her seat. “First one there starts the quad rolling!”

Calara leapt for the door, her position at the table meant that she was ideally situated to get there first. “See you downstairs!”

Sakura swept past Dana in a blur. “Sayonara, Sparks!”

“Hey, no powers! That’s cheating!” the redhead protested sprinting after her.

“I guess that’s the meeting over with,” John said with a chuckle, helping Helene off his lap.

“My sisters are on their way,” Jade said as she slinked past, an excited gleam in her emerald eyes. She held out her hand for Helene and the two left together.

Irillith strolled up to John and quirked an eyebrow at him. “I take it no one wants to hear about how we destroyed a Kirrix battle group using only a gunship?”

“I’m sorry, beautiful. Dana got a bit carried away,” he replied, pulling her into his arms. “I’ll make everyone dinner later and you can tell us all about it.”

She melted into his kiss, crossing her wrists behind his neck as she pressed her curvaceous body against him. “You’re forgiven...” she breathed, giving John a smouldering come-hither look as she departed with Tashana.

Soon only John, Alyssa, and Rachel were left in the Briefing Room. He looked from the blonde to the brunette and back again. “Something on your mind, ladies?”

Rachel stepped closer, then gently cupped his cheek, her expression tender. “Enjoy catching up with the girls, then I want to show something. It’s important.”

“Do I get any clues?” he asked, holding them close.

“Thank you...” Alyssa replied, her blue-eyed gaze filled with emotion. “And we love you...”

John glanced at each of them in confusion. “Are you two alright?”

“Very much so,” Rachel said softly, lightly brushing her lips against his.

He smiled at them affectionately. “Come on, let’s join the others. I think you two have set the perfect tone for this evening.”

“A love orgy?” Alyssa asked, nuzzling into him.

“That sounds wonderful,” he agreed, leaving the Briefing Room with the girls linking arms with him.

They crossed the Bridge, waving to the holographic Faye who was standing watch, before descending in the grav-tube. She waved back and watched them leave, then turned her attention to the mopless and bucketless cleaning robot, which was hiding around the other side of the Command Podium.

It watched their departure with interest, remaining unnoticed by the distracted lovers. “Love?” it asked, looking up at Faye Secondary.

She fluttered down to land beside it, then knelt on the ground. “I’ve got so many files on that! Why don’t you head back to your room and I’ll start downloading my archives?”

“Thank you, mother,” the robot replied, small fingers brushing over Faye’s holographic hand without breaking the image.

Faye Secondary watched the robot leave and let out a happy sigh. Apparently, she needed to update her archives with more data.