Note: This story was dynamically reformatted for online reading convenience.
 
 The Bounty Hunter By Timm

   Copyright (C) 2006, 2007 Timm All rights reserved.  Use by Pay sites is
prohibited.  Do not repost.  All other uses require written permission from
the author.  Downloading for personal reading enjoyment is encouraged.

   Special thanks to TeNderLoin for all his work editing, and all the
wonderful help I had from the proofreaders.



   Book 1: The Warrant Officer

   Chapter 1



   Ships Log 2853AC Captain S.  Miller

   I have been treading the space lanes alone, for ten years now.  In that
time I have made more money than I had ever dreamed possible.

   'Now what?' I wondered.

   I was bored with just trading.  My Mk IV trade vessel was over one
hundred fifty years old, when I'd got it.  I had to make my own way, the
hard way.  Maybe it was time I upgraded to a better ship.  Even a new Mk IV
with all of its enhanced features would be an improvement.

   Then again, I had made my application to the Star Federation three
months back.  It was about time I should be hearing from them.

   'Maybe there will be a message at the next port of call,' I mused to
myself.

   "End log entry," I stated to the AI system.

   There was bleep to acknowledge that the recorder had shut off.

   It was three ports of call later, when I was approaching Lakly Starport,
that I finally heard from them.  The onboard AI announced an incoming
message from Admiral Steiner of the Star Federation.  I could hardly
contain my excitement.

   I told the AI system, "Display it at once."

   The message began with a display of the logo of the Star Federation
Alliance.  After a moment, a prerecorded message played the face of a very
young looking 'Vice Admiral of the Star Federation Fleet'.





   "Greetings, Captain Miller,

   This is Vice Admiral Steiner, Military Advisor to the Lakly system, and
to the Starport commander.  Captain, I personally request your presence in
Space Dock Command, precisely at 1400 cycles Starport time, today.  The
subject of our meeting will be your application for Warrant Officer."

   "A free bit of advice here, Captain.  This is a test of your abilities
and resourcefulness.  If you can't make it on time, don't bother to show
up."

   End of transmission.

   The Holo screen displayed the eight galaxies of the Federation that
followed all official communications.  I sat, stunned, for a moment.  I
just stared at the display.  Finally, reality set in and I spoke.

   "AI, what is the current local time on Lacky station, please?"

   The sexy AI voice responded "1299 Cycles, Sir."

   '101 cycles is all I got?  Oh!  How am I going to get docked in that
amount of time?' I was thinking to myself.

   Then, an idea popped into my head.  Actually, it was strange, in a way.
It didn't seem like my thought.  The thought just came to me.  I didn't
worry about that at the moment, however.  Instead I addressed the AI.

   "AI.  Engage auto-docking, priority two."

   The ships AI responded, "Priority two, Sir?"

   It was programmed to respond in that sexy voice.  I have had many wet
dreams listening to that very voice.  Maybe I should get that personality
crystal and VR halo projector for my next ship.

   I confirmed my order for the AI.

   "Yes.  Priority two."

   The ship's AI said, "Sir, Priority two is reserved for Warrant Officers
of the Federation Star Alliance."

   I replied, "I know.  If the priority request is accepted, I will know
that a commission is awaiting my arrival."

   Then I wondered why I never got a personality crystal for the AI system.
Maybe it was about time I did.  That thought would give me something to
contemplate for the next one hundred cycles.

   As it was currently 1300 Cycles, Station time, the only way I could dock
and make the appointment was if I had Warrant Officers status.  Priority
three was expensive, and usually meant a one to two hundred cycle wait in
line.  That wait was before even beginning the docking procedures.

   Since only military ships and local police used priory one, well that
just meant priority one was out of the question at this time.  Actually, as
long as there were no ships with priorities one or two waiting to dock
ahead of me, I would be docking very shortly.  At least that was my hope as
I made my request.

   The ships AI replied, "Starport Lakly Station has accepted priority two
docking request.  The auto systems have been engaged.  Estimate docking in
less than ten cycles, Sir."

   * * * *

   At precisely 1400 cycles, I spoke to the station's AI unit operating the
Admiral's office.

   The computer replied, "Please state name and rank for voice identity
check."

   'Right,' I thought to myself, 'military formalities!'

   It had already identified me from my voiceprint.  However, there was
nothing to do but play along.'

   So, in my best voice, I stated sharply, "Captain Sam Miller"

   The station's AI replied, "Voice print confirmed.  Please enter and have
a seat.  The Admiral will be with you shortly."

   I entered the office and had a seat in the only chair that was in front
of the desk.  It was a cumbersome looking thing.  Comfortable, but the
restraint features were plainly visible.  I almost panicked about that
little fact, then the Admiral entered the room.

   "Stay seated.  You haven't been sworn in, yet," the admiral said, and
smiled at me.  Then he sat in his chair and began.  "Captain, I want to
congratulate you on your acceptance as a Warrant Officer in the
Federation's Independent Forces Division.  I have reviewed your record.  I
am impressed with your bounty reports.  I don't often meet a man that's
capable of taking out six ships at once.  You have demonstrated a
perspicacity that has earned you this opportunity for a commission."

   I replied, "Oh, then you know about the military lasers on my ship?"

   The admiral frowned, considering this news.  Then he smiled again.

   "No, I didn't, but it explains much," he said.  He thought for a moment,
and then said.  "Well, it doesn't matter now, since you are now entitled to
outfit your ship with them anyway."

   I said, "Thank you, Sir."

   "You have received all the information in your application package.  Do
you have any questions for me?"

   I replied "No, Sir.  Not at this time."

   The Admiral said, "Very good.  Now stand, raise your right hand, and
repeat after me.  'I, (state your name), swear to uphold the laws and
principles of the Federation...'"

   I repeated the oath as he quoted it.  And no, he didn't use any notes.
Then he said to sit, even has he motioned me to do so.  I did, and as soon
as I was seated.  The chair's restraint fields came on.

   The Admiral then said "Your AI implant will take about a hundred cycles
for you to assimilate.  You can spend your time reviewing the ships and the
weapons available to you for your mission.  Please choose wisely, because a
bounty hunter lives or dies, based on his choice of equipment."

   Ok.  I knew I was technically Federation property, now.  I could be
'pressed' into special missions at anytime.  At least, if that happened, I
would receive an expense account to cover my cost.  That, plus the standard
100 GCs (Galactic Credits) per day salary I would receive on active duty.
My mind returned from its meanderings to face the question of the restraint
field.  I would have thought that I could move to the infirmary under my
own power.  I did know I was going to get an implant.  I hadn't expected to
receive it here in the admiral's office.

   The implant was a micron sized AI identification and bio enhancement
chip.  It was injected into the brain via an old fashion needle, to the
back of the head, by way of the spinal pathway in the back of my skull.  I
felt an intense pain shoot thru my head, as it was injected right there in
the Admiral's office.  If the restraint field had not been in place, I
would have at least twitched.  I would have killed myself during the
procedure.

   The Admiral mused, "You did better than I.  When I got my implant, I
ranted and raved for five cycles.  I struck the admiral, after the
restraint field was lifted.  Not that I recommend that in your case.  I got
six months, for that little piece of stupidity."

   I was disoriented as the AI chip attached itself to my brain and came to
life.  I knew the rumor mill said that I would be able to radio other fleet
personal once the chip was in place.  What I did not expect was that it
didn't use radio waves.  The Admiral's very thoughts came to me.

   'It takes a full one hundred cycles to become fully operational.  Yes,
this is a form of artificial telepathy.  It's the safest way for you to get
orders, when we don't want anyone to know you are getting them.  It's also
a capital offence to reveal the existence of the telepathy, or how it
works.'

   I thought, 'No problem... but God I have a headache!'

   The admiral thought, 'Well you got the new model, so I am not sure about
all its new capabilities.  When you feel like you can stand, I will release
the restraint fields and you can move yourself to the infirmary for
observation.'

   I sat and gathered my thoughts.

   The Admiral thought, 'No, it only allows communication between those
that have the chip.  You can't read other people's minds.  Although we are
working on that possibility.'

   I thought, 'I see.  So I'd better not be thinking of beautiful naked
young women, eh?'

   'On the contrary, I would love it if you did that.  I'm a dirty old man.
You will discover how to block errant transmissions before you leave the
infirmary.  You will also find that the Warrant Officers of the Federation
don't follow the norms of the galaxy.  We have our own code, and our own
honor.  I hope you can deal with it.'

   I thought, 'Somehow, I believe I will handle it.  I think I am ready for
the infirmary now, Sir.'

   The admiral turned off the restraint fields, and gave me the directions
to the infirmary.

   He said, "Don't worry, I have heard and seen it all.  It comes with the
territory."

   I went to the infirmary and was met by a young female tech.

   She thought into my mind, 'Yep, you and I will have fun when I get off
shift!'

   Damn, this was going to take some getting use to.  She grinned, and then
my mind was filled with the mental image of the two of us in a zero 'g'
hotel suite, at the Spaceport's central axis.

   It was so weird with this chip in my head.  I couldn't tell if it was my
thoughts or hers.  In any case, this was going to take some real getting
used to.

   Edited by TeNderLoin

























   Chapter 2

   It was so weird with this chip in my head.  I couldn't tell if it was my
thoughts or hers.  In any case, this was going to take some real getting
used to.

   'Damn, this is going to take some getting used to,' I thought.

   She grinned, and then my mind was filled with the mental image of the
two of us in a zero 'g' suite of rooms.

   I was shown to a monitoring room and left to use the AI computer system.
My task was simple.  Pick my new ship and outfit it as I wished.  I had a
base allowance for this new craft, which was provided by the Federation as
a grant.  I was, of course, free to spend as much of my own money as I
wanted.

   I reviewed the available ship types.

   1) Standard Free Trade Vessel, Mk IV.

   This was the standard workhorse of galactic trade.  The ship had evolved
from the best of the prior trading ship models to dominate the market
place. It was such a hit that little development of new models was even
attempted.  It was basically the ship I now owned.  Its advantage was that
I would look like any other free trader and could ambush enemies.  Its only
draw back was the availability of armament and shields.

   It was capable of housing four Mk VII torpedoes, and had four mount
points for lasers.  These were located forward, aft and on both sides. 
They could support up to 'type six' lasers.  The shield mountings would
allow up to level seven shields, and with expensive modifications, you
could get a level eight mounted in the reserve bay.  The ship could be a
good choice, as it was new, unlike my current ship.  Also, it had all the
upgrades and improvements currently available.

   2) Viper, Mk II.

   It was a standard 'police style' vessel.  It was cone shaped and heavily
armed with twin forward mounted level nine lasers.  It had its torpedo
payload that was envied.  It packed a whopping twelve Mk VIIs.  If there
was one draw back to its design (other than it would stand out like a sore
thumb), it would be that the shielding was only level seven.  The ships
shape and engine placement prevented the craft from mounting anything
bigger.  There was no way I would even consider it, despite the firepower
this baby could carry inside its plastisteel hull.

   3) Warrant Officer's Special, or WOS for short.

   It was so big that it, too, 'stood out like a sore thumb'.  However, it
had the 'armament advantage' not available on other ships.  It had level
ten military lasers, and level ten shielding.  There were eight torpedo
mounts, and it had unbelievable speed capabilities, with a modified
jump/warp drive engine.  In fact, it was the fastest ship in the eight
galaxies.  The basic cargo capacity was two and a half times that of any
other ship.  It would be a great ship to use for standard trading or
salvage after one blows apart an opponent.  It is amazing how many cargo
containers survive a ship being destroyed around them.  If I were going to
war, this is the ship I would want to be flying in.  The only draw back was
that any pirates I would run into out there would flee at the first sight
of this ship.  I guess there is a trade off for everything.

   4) Standard Free Trade Vessel, Mk V

   I am in love with this baby.  It is favored by the elite rank of pilots.
It is bigger, faster and meaner than the Mk IV.  It has twice the cargo
capacity, and a full military 'montage bays' for weapons with eight torpedo
mounts.  About the only ship faster was a WOS.  But this ship looks like a
Mk IV.  It's perfect for me.  It also had room to allow for a crew of up to
six persons.  The only limiting factor was that I couldn't afford to max
out the weapon and shield bays.  Still it would be far superior to my old
Mk IV.

   I placed an order for the hull on the spot, and sold my current ship in
trade.

   Okay.  I should point out, at this time, that all I owned was a Mk V
hull.  Between the trade-in for my Mk IV and the grant I was given, I broke
even.  Still though, it needed to be outfitted.  The engine was standard
since it was built into the hull already.  However, the AI system could
make all the difference.  So I reviewed the available options.



   Computer AIs:

   The standard AI used by most of the free traders out there, was a bit
better than the one I'd had in my old Mk IV.  Not by much, however.  Then
there was the Enhanced AI system.  It was simply better than the standard.
Though I never did understand all that talk about internal relay buses and
phased couplings.  It must have made a difference because the system could
support multiple AI personality crystals.  The Military Grade AI system
would defiantly have an advantage in combat... well, that was its primary
function.  Military grade AIs scared me, however.  I had heard stories
where the ship and the AI had survived and won the battle, even if while
doing so the ships owner died in the process.  My last choice was the Elite
Grade AI.  It was a hybrid cross between the Military and Enhanced civilian
model.  There was no question in my mind that I wanted the best.  So I paid
the seven Million Galactic Credits for the Elite model and received a 'free
personality crystal credit'.

   I would pick one of them out later, as there were so many to choose
from. How does one describe the choices?  Let's see...  imagine there are a
thousand naked women standing before you, and you can only choose one of
them.  Well, that is what it's like to pick out a personality crystal. 
There are just so many choices.  That's when it occurred to me why I had
never upgraded my AI before.  I could never choose between them.
Shielding:

   All shields are rated on an increasing scale starting at 'One' and going
up in number, equal to their resistance of force.  In other words a level
one shield could withstand a level one laser burst with only a ten percent
degradation.  Of course, that was also dependent on the heat build up
imposed on the ship from the energy release needed to deflect the strike.T
Most civilian grade shields are rated from one to five with higher levels
being reserved for the elite and military.  After all, the star federation
couldn't allow civilians to equip their ship with shields that could
withstand its own weapons systems.  It sounded good on the holo display,
but in truth the black market made up for this restriction nicely.

   I chose the level eight military grade shields at this time.  I didn't
want to leave the station broke.  Besides, there were still the weapons
systems to purchase.
Torpedoes:

   The Mk V could hold eight of them, unlike the Mk IV, which was limited
to four.

   I ordered four Standard and four ECM-enhanced torpedoes.

   The ship's lasers were the last item on the list.  Lasers come in ten
grades.  One to four, are civilian lasers.  Five to eight were Military
Grade.  Nine and ten could not be mounted on anything smaller than a WOS. I
chose twin grade eights, front and rear.  I did not bother with side mounts
at this time, as I was too close to busting the bank.

   I finalized my order with the dockyard, and found that it would take two
weeks to get my new ship outfitted to my specifications.  I hoped that the
nearly thirty-five million credits I had just spent would serve me well. 
Then again, the way bounties were paid on many of the galaxies riff-raff, I
could recoup my expenses in less than a year!  This, just by blasting
pirates and turncoats.

   Pirates.  I had no sympathy for them.  I'd had so many run-ins with them
so far in my career, that one could say I was looking forward to actually
hunting them.  Turncoats, however, were on my 'All Time Hate List'.  I
mean, imagine having all the benefits of federation life, and forsaking it
to help an enemy power... or worse.

   'Well,' I thought.  'I wonder if that tech is off, the next couple of
days.'

   She thought back to me, 'Three days.  I am off the next three days. 
Show me a good time the first day, and I will make myself available for the
next two.'

   Darn.  My thoughts were being broadcast to everyone.  I wondered if she
overheard my thoughts on her fine looking body.  Especially those long legs
and where I wanted them wrapped around my body.  I herd a mental female
giggle and knew it was she.  God, this is awful.

   'Don't worry about it.  It happens to everyone that gets the implant.'

   I tried not to worry.  Mostly, I waited.  It had been eighty cycles
according to my watch, when the AI chip in my brain announced it was fully
functional.  The mental operations menu appeared in a virtual display
before my eyes.  It was just like an HUD (heads up display), only no one
could see it but me.

   The first option available was labeled 'Privacy Mode'.  I selected it
with a quick thought, and followed the prompts before me until it was set
up.  I soon had my 'errant thoughts' blocked from my broadcast.  That was a
relief.  Now that cute little number wouldn't be able to eavesdrop on my
mind.

   At one hundred and one cycles, the female tech released me from the
infirmary.  The admiral called me, via the chip.

   'I see your ship will be ready in two weeks.  Good luck, and good
hunting.'

   Then he mentally disconnected from me without even waiting for a reply.
It was going to take some time for me to get use to this military style of
communicating.

   'Well,' I thought, 'I guess that is a good thing.'

   The admiral popped back in and thought, 'We have a report of a small
band of three to four raiders operating in the sector.  You can take them
down for your 'shakedown cruise'.  I have ordered the Military vessels in
the sector to observe and report on them, for now.'

   Once again, he was gone as quickly as he had broken into my thoughts.

   * * * *

   My med tech was waiting at the infirmary door as I left.  She stated she
was off now, and would like to get something to eat.

   Since I was now an 'officer and a gentleman' so to speak, I invited her
to dinner and even let her name the place she would like to go.  It was, of
course, the most expensive on the station.  I really didn't mind, because
it was also the best food I had consumed in years.

   There is absolutely no substitute for a fresh cooked meal.  Food
replicators produce good food, but it always tastes the same.  It gets old
having things taste the same way day after day.

   Bonnie was the young vibrant red headed tech that currently had my
heart. During dinner I learned that she was saving her money to get her own
ship, some day.  It was common.  I had started out in a similar manner. 
She did have the advantage of being a Federation Officer already, although
she had not yet 'officially' commanded her own ship.  When she said
officially commanded, I wondered what she meant.  I would have to ask,
later.

   Right now, I was enthralled with this young thing.  Ok, so she was a
hundred years younger than I... but what the heck, she was real!  That beat
an AI, any day.  We went to the Starport's zero-g lounge for drinks and
dancing.  I am convinced that dancing is the universal female pre-mating
ritual, anywhere and everywhere in the eight galaxies.  We danced for hours
and consumed large amounts of intoxicants.

   If you have never been to a 'zero-g dance club', go when you get a
chance.  There is nothing quite like bouncing your body together with a
pretty young woman's to make your day.  This Club also was reported to be
clothing optional after 2300 hrs.  It seems that 2300 is the station's
curfew time for young and impressionable youth.  It came as no shock to me
when the club announced that 'change time' had arrived.  I wondered where
the youth went to get their jollies, now.

   I can tell you now that dancing in the nude with a hot little number, is
far more fun than getting tanked on intoxicants.  I was getting drunk from
rubbing my body against hers.

   Soon she was grabbing onto things in a very seductive manner.  God, I
love a woman that knows what she wants.  Bonnie definitely seemed to know
what she wanted, and at the moment what she wanted was me, myself, and I.
That was okay in my book because I currently wanted her as well.

   At 0100 hrs, we were so worked up that we had to leave the club.  A zero
G room was available for our private enjoyment.  I paid the room fee and we
went to it.  We were soon into the mating dance again.  I briefly realized
where the youths went for privacy.  And speaking of privacy, there was
plenty of it inside the suite.  We allowed our hands to roam freely over
each other's naked flesh.  More importantly to me, she was letting my
fingers wiggle into her body.

   As we danced around each other, the fingers of my hand were buried into
her most private of spots.  She flipped upside down to me, giving me a full
view of the folds my fingers were between.  I felt her warm mouth engulf my
manhood, and she tongued it with precision.  I was the 'perfect gentleman',
and returned the favor.  I think this was once called a sixty-nine, or
something like that.

   Her mind thought to me, 'That tongue is heavenly!'

   She moaned as I sucked her clitoris into my mouth.  She went over the
edge after only a few moments.  I was still sucking her as she had her
sixth orgasm, thirty cycles later.  She finally gave up.

   She spun around and faced me.  Her mouth dove onto mine and we kissed
our passion to the next level.  She wrapped her legs around my waist, and I
felt my dick penetrate her for the first time.  God she was tight!  She
must be younger than I thought.  I plunged myself in and out of her.

   I had to hold on extra tightly, to keep her from floating free when she
came.  She almost passed out that time.  I continued for some time, and
worked her up again.  Then the moment came.  We managed to come together,
and it was like nothing I had ever felt before.

   'God!  I could fall in love with this woman so easily.'

   She looked in my eyes and smiled.  Darn, she must have heard that
thought.

   "I don't need to hear your thoughts to know what I feel," she taunted.

   We finished up our wild 'tango in free fall', and found the sleep
restraints.  I tied her body to mine and held her close.  We drifted off to
sleep like that.  Sleeping in zero g was nothing new to me.  However, the
bill for the room was when we left the next morning.  I mentally grumbled
and Bonnie was amused by it.

   I quipped a thought back at her, 'It wouldn't have cost anything on my
ship.'

   She got an interesting gleam in her eye at the mention of my ship.

   However, it was morning.  Most of all, it was time to eat.  We left the
suite and went to the base cafeteria.  It was an egg type of morning, and
the food was first rate.  It was the first time I ever had tulpa bird eggs.


   What made it better, was the fact it was now free.  I found that my new
status as Warrant Officer gave me a few perks I hadn't known existed.  I
always had to pay for food in the cafeteria, before.  Well, you learn
something new every day.

   Bonnie and I spent the day together.  We shared the next several days as
well.  We had sex often, and there was never a complaint from either of us.
She accompanied me when it was finally time to take ownership of my new
ship.

   For the last few days Bonnie had normally thought at me.  This time,
however, she said it aloud, "So what are you going to name her?"

   So I asked her, "What do you think would be a good name?"

   Bonnie replied, "Noooo, you don't!  I am not going to name any ship when
I'm not a member of its crew."

   My grin grew.  Well, the cat was out of the bag.  I had tried to be
discrete about it, but she hadn't realized it was an invitation to join me.
She was the most amazing woman I had ever met.  I really didn't want to let
her get away, so I had planned on asking her to join me today.

   I repeated, "So?  What are you going to name her?"

   Bonnie blinked and looked into my eyes.  She looked like she was
considering the offer carefully.  Disbelief and then understanding went
over her face.

   She finally answered, "My Love."

   I responded, "Yes?"

   Bonnie giggled and said, "That, too."

   Well!  I felt like such a schmuck.  What could I do now?

   I said, "I see.  We will call her 'My Love', then."

   Bonnie smiled, and we went on board.  I accepted the ownership transfer,
and voice printed the AI to my command.  I authorized Bonnie to be the
ship's first officer.  I could see the tears well up in her eyes.

   I said, "Please tell the AI the ship's name."

   She did, and soon we were registered as the 'My Love"... homeport, Lakly
station.  We took the ship out of dock, one hour later.



   Edited by TeNderLoin







   Chapter 3



   She did, and soon we were registered as the 'My Love"... homeport, Lakly
station.  We took the ship out of dock, one hour later.

   We jumped the ship out into 'the badlands' of the sector, and checked
the systems out one by one.  We test fired the level eight lasers on a
convenient asteroid (that could, by a stretch, be considered a navigational
hazard).  The third burst of high-energy protons rendered the asteroid into
dust particles.  Our heat buildup from the firing was hardly noticeable. 
Level eight lasers were well known in their ability to fire continuously
for over a cycle before heat build up degraded the fire rate.

   I was checking in with the station's watch officer on the last known
location of the pirates, while Bonnie filed her temporary independent
operations transfer request with the base Admiral.  It was granted on the
spot.  I received the confirmation of employment transfer from the Admiral
ten cycles later.  It contained a personal note that I had better take good
care of his granddaughter!

   You would have thought he was giving me her hand in marriage or
something by the curt wording of the message.  Then the thought hit me like
a ton of plastisteel.  Marriage!  Would I want to make her mine,
permanently?  I finally decided that the idea had lots of merit.  I would
have to wait and see if she would even consider such a thing.  After all, I
was never one to handle rejection well.

   We had been practicing with the new ship for hours when the ship's AI
reported a damaged ship ahead of us.  I ordered us to close, and Bonnie
turned all business-like when I gave my first order.  She sat at the
navigation control unit and had us along side the damaged ship in a very
short time.

   Sensors showed the ship had been in a battle recently.  Part of its
cargo was still on board.  There were no life signs, and the escape pod was
missing.

   I filed a salvage request, and was granted it with a very short delay.
We turned on the 'giraffe beam' and begin to tow the ship back to port.

   We didn't get very far.  It was a classic ambush set up.  I was not
surprised when they came at us from both sides.  What surprised me was that
there were eight raiders, not three or four.  I took the manual controls
and Bonnie watched with more than a little fear.

   Dropping the tractor beam I flipped the ship to port and faced the four
coming from that way.  I goosed the throttle to close on the group of four.
This also kept the starboard group out of range a little longer.  I ordered
Bonnie to take the rear lasers and to wait 'til she had a lock to fire.

   The four raiders at my bow were closing quickly; I locked the missile
system on the first one and thumbed the laser fire button.  It took five
bursts of fire to break though his shield.  The sixth and seventh burst
vaporized the ship.

   No escape pod was ejected.  Then again, until one is launched you have
no way to know if a ship is equipped with one.  It was not uncommon for
pirates to not have them as standard equipment.  Pods had a huge price tag,
and that made them very optional equipment out in the badlands.

   I toggled the missile system to select next target and maintained
continuous laser fire.  I raked shots across two of the three raiders in my
sights.  One raider that was struck, lost his engine and controls at the
same time.  As he spun away I turn my attention to the third raider.  There
was the audible sound of missile lock in the targeting system.  I fingered
the lasers again and hit him eight times in a row.  The raider's ship
buckled under the onslaught and his bridge exploded.

   If he had a life pod, he didn't get a chance to use it.

   I shifted fire to the forth raider just as the lasers built up enough
heat to slow the fire rate down by ten percent.  This didn't help the
raider in the least.  It looked like he was in a Mk IV, and his ship was
cut in two a moment later.

   Bonnie yelled, "They're coming in range!"

   I saw a laser flash by my port side.  Then there was a missile warning.
One of the raiders was not pleased about losing half his command so
quickly. I rolled out of the current attack vector and toggled an ECM
decoy. Heat build up now had the ship operating at eighty percent.

   The incoming torpedo erupted into the ECM burst.  I brought the ship
around and got my first lock tone.  I fired one missile and watched the
raider turn to flee.  Good, let him try that.  Mk VII Torps would chase him
for days.  There were still three raiders heading at me when I toggled the
laser again.  Twelve bursts later, one ship exploded into fine mist.

   Two raiders continued to close.  My Laser System was down to sixty
percent.  I raked both ships and caused some damage.  One spun off out of
control, and the last one turned tail to run.  I locked a torpedo on him
and fired.

   The first torpedo found its mark.  A fireball could be seen in the
distance, as the ship blew apart.  I locked on to the disabled ship, which
was spinning out of control.  I loosed a three-burst laser barrage.  It was
no longer crippled.  It was dead.

   I rolled the ship back towards the first group.  Scanners showed that
the other damaged ship had recovered control.  A Laser burst lit up the
view screen as his level three laser connected with my shields.  I fired a
single level eight burst into his side and his ship exploded.

   The aft view screen, showed the last raider as the torpedo connected
with him.

   The battle was over that fast.  They rarely take more than two or three
cycles, anyway.  If they do, your ship is dead from heat overload, and you
follow, shortly thereafter.  I filed an intercept report, along with the
gun camera footage from the action.

   It was ten cycles later when I received confirmation of the kills and a
'bounty paid report' since it was 25,00 credits per kill.  I just made
200,000 GC that quickly, all neatly deposited in my account.  Well,
actually I would have to give the first officer some of that.  Then again,
what if she was open to a more permanent arrangement?  I gulped, realizing
she would be entitled to half of it if she wanted.  Well everything one did
had a price tag.  I decided I would just have to be absolutely sure before
I ever asked her.

   Bonnie was glad to be alive.  She confessed that she had never heard of
anyone ever taking out eight raiders in a single engagement before.  I
think her opinion of me went up a few notches.

   I know my little head had raised a few notches as I looked at her with
growing desire.  Combat always made me horny, and it always seemed to be
proportional to the risk involved.  I was very, very horny at the moment.

   However, that would have to wait.  There was a little matter of salvage
that needed to be addressed, first.  From the look of things, I might be
able to get five to ten million from what remained of the three ships.

   Bonnie and I spent the next two hundred cycles gathering up the salvage.
We ended up towing three ships as salvage back to Lakly station.  This
would take some time, because we couldn't use the in-system jump drive
without losing our tows.  Well, I had something in mind to occupy our
'transit time'.  I think she was having similar thoughts.  At least I
didn't think she was blocking them out, all that well.

   Then out of the blue Bonnie thought to me, 'I think I am falling in love
with you.'

   I smiled at her then took her in my arms.  I set the autopilot AI in
automatic mode.  It would handle everything including the docking.

   Then I thought to her, 'Be sure of what you want.  This is a dangerous
lifestyle I live.'

   For some reason, I seemed to remember hearing similar words less than
three days ago.  Bonnie kissed me and held me in a death grip.

   'I'm sure!  Are you willing?'

   By God, I was more than willing.  I was about to blurt out my love for
her when we were rudely interrupted.

   That's when the proximity alarm went off.  I rushed to the command chair
with Bonnie in tow.  The ship's AI had already identified the ship
approaching us.

   It was the Raven!  Its hull was as black as space.  It was a
non-federation class of ship.  It was big and it was mean.  Most of all,
the screen ID said the pilot was not only a pirate, but that the bounty on
his head was five million GC from the Federation, alone.  That meant that
he or his ship had more bounties, from many private sources.

   I knew people with that type of bounty on their heads were both highly
skilled and very dangerous, or completely lucky idiots that made stupid
mistakes.  Somehow, I knew I was not going to be able to count on him being
an idiot.



   The ships AI announced incoming.  He had fired at the very limits of his
range.  Three hunter torpedoes.  You can't out run those things.  I toggled
the ECM pod.  It had no effect on the missiles.  They must be the new
anti-ECM type.

   Clutching the control I maneuvered my ship, so that I was head on with
the incoming.  I targeted the first missile, the laser lanced out and it
was a clean kill.  Two more were coming in.  I locked on the third one, as
I jockeyed around the second.  I fired, and it was blasted from space.

   The second missile was still homing in.  I got a lock and fired again.
Nothing.  It was a miss.  I toggled the lasers again.  Nothing.

   The missile was getting too close to play this game.  I needed to
maneuver and change the attack angle.  I put my ship in a ninety-degree
hi-speed loop, hoping to come up behind the missile as it passed.  I lost
the tractor hold on the three salvage ships.  To my surprise, the missile
struck the center ship.  It detonated, and the explosion sent the two other
ships tumbling to each side.

   No time to worry about that, there was still the Raven to be worried
about.

   I looked back from where he had come.  He was gone!  The missiles were a
distraction!

   "Where is he?" I shouted.

   That's when the lasers flashed across my bow.  You could see the light
as they passed, missing my ship by mere feet.

   Then Bonnie pointed to port.  Range: fifteen thousand clicks, and
closing.  I applied emergency reverse power to my rapidly over-heating
engines.  It worked.  I stopped dead in space.  The laser fire from the
Raven was now well to the front of my bow.

   I adjusted, and brought the Raven into my sites.  I got a missile lock
tone.  I fired one, then two of the ECM-enhanced torpedoes at him.  They
would take a few cycle-fractions to reach him.  As the computer reported
the Raven was using its ECM pod, I fired my lasers at his ship.  They were
hits, but his shields held for the moment.

   I fired again, but only one short burst came out.  I looked and, sure
enough, the weapons' heat limiter was red lined.

   'Damnit!' I thought, as the Raven angled away from me.

   My missiles were still following him.  I could see his rear lasers fire
in slow labored attempts to hit the missiles.  He was running as hot as I
was.

   I locked my stationary ship on him, again.  I fired two bursts from the
lasers and watched as part of his hull split away from the ship.  My
torpedoes closed on him and then connected.  The first obliterated his
engines, and the second was just a moment too late to get the escape pod. I
watched as it sped off to somewhere safe.

   My ship's AI reported, "Incoming message from the escape pod."

   "My compliments on your skill, Captain.  However, today you have made an
enemy for life.  We shall meet again...  and soon!" the transmission said.

   Bonnie asked, "Does that mean what I think it means?"

   I replied, "Yep, probably.  He will place a bounty on my head as soon as
he gets to a port."

   "He can't do that!  The Federation will not accept a bounty on a Warrant
Officer in good standing!"

   I said, "Bonnie, Bonnie!  There are non-federation bounty systems, as
well."

   She got a grim look on her face.  She did not like that answer, even
though she knew it to be true.

   Our ship's AI system received the 'ship kill bounty' confirmation.  We
looked at the display.  We were both absolutely shocked.  The combined
bounty on the Raven ship was twenty-five million credits.  The sub-notation
was that the captain survived, so the bounty of two hundred twenty-five
million credits (¢225,000,000!!!!!) on him was not paid.

   Bonnie said laconically, "I think you may have just made a name for
yourself."

   I spoke hesitantly, "Ah...  Bonnie...  I think you mean, we just made a
name for ourselves."

   She said, "Why me?  I didn't do anything."

   I instructed the computer to list the ship's compliment on the display.
It did so.  And I watched Bonnie's eyes light up.

   "You've listed me as a member of your crew, officially?"

   I nodded yes, and then found myself struggling for breath as I got the
bear hug of a lifetime.  It was indeed a 'bare' bear hug, as we were still
naked from our earlier play.  I wondered why she had forgotten that fact so
quickly, then just decided that it was the shock of the moment.

   I turned the AI autopilot back on, and we went back to our love play.  I
thought to myself, this is much better than the personality unit in the AI.
We continued our love play until we were docked.

   Edited by TeNderLoin



































   Chapter 4



   I turned the AI autopilot back on, and we went back to our love play.  I
thought to myself, this is much better than the personality unit in the AI.
We continued our love play until we were docked.

   ***

   Captains Log,

   I received a summons from the Admiral, a little bit ago.  I was taken
aback that it came over the ship's systems, rather than in my head.  It
seems Bonnie and I were officially summoned to appear in the Admiral's
office, as soon as we were docked.  I decided to use normal priority
docking.  It would give us a few more cycles before this meeting.  For some
reason, I don't really think that the Admiral wants us for an after action
review.  I think it has more to do with Bonnie.  I am less than pleased
with this new development.



   We stood before the Admiral, 'awaiting his pleasure'.  He was not happy
to find that so many pirates were operating in his sector.  Lakey Station
had never seen so many raiders in one place before.  Then, to find that The
Raven was also among them...  well, this was definitely not a good sign.

   The Admiral's worry was plain as could be.  His face showed his concern
with deep worry lines.  He announced it was time for the battle review.  It
was not common for this to happen.  At least not in the presence of the
Warrant Officer involved.

   The flight-deck recorder and ship's camera records were displayed on the
monitors before us.  The Admiral did a full review of the battle, from
start to finish.  He commended me on using the missile system's tracking
lock to target the raiders before loosing my laser cannons at each ship.

   It was a good trick to guarantee more accurate hits with the lasers.  I
had learned it quite by accident, early in my trading days.  It was not a
commonly known method, but it was damned affective for extreme long-range
laser fire.  It also reduced the heat buildup.  Less heat also allowed for
better performance of the ship.

   We continued though the raider's attack.  The admiral's running
commentary on my actions somehow reassured him that I was Warrant Officer
material.  After the data displays were complete, the Admiral shocked me by
shaking my hand and telling me that my work was first rate.

   The Admiral then thought at me with his cerebral communication implant:
'Ok hot shot, you set a new record on your test flight, but why did you
have to risk my granddaughter's life doing it?'

   'Grandpa!' Bonnie thought back, 'He didn't know they would be there. 
Besides, I am registered as the first officer of 'My Love'."

   The Admiral scoffed at this, "So, that's how it is.  Your hormones got
in the way of your judgment."

   She replied verbally, "No, Grandpa."

   'I want this, and you know it,' she transmitted via her implant.

   Yes, the Admiral did know it.  She had gone out with him on many trips.
She loved the stars, and longed to be out among them.  He should be mad at
this new officer.  However, he was mostly sure that his granddaughter was
really to blame.

   He resigned himself to the inevitable.  His granddaughter would be going
out without him there to protect her.  At least this new officer was
competent.  Eight raiders and The Raven was a nice way to start your
commission.  Maybe his granddaughter would be safe, after all.

   The Admiral sighed and thought to them, 'Very well, have it your way. 
But know this Warrant Officer, if one hair on her head is damaged I will be
on you like a thermonuclear hunter.  Do I make myself clear?'

   I thought back, 'Perfectly, Sir.'

   'You had better.  Thanks to you, I have learned that there is a black
market bounty on her head of one million galactic credits.  Can you imagine
a mil, for a first officer?  It's unheard of.  She may be good, but she is
too young to have worked up a bounty of that size.'

   Then he shifted his thoughts to Bonnie.

   'And you, Granddaughter,' his tone softening, 'need to be more careful.
I don't want to have to tell your mother bad news.'

   She responded, 'Yes, Grandpa.  I will be more than safe with him.'

   The admiral was not so sure...  But then he realized that it was the
Warrant Officer that was not safe.  He relaxed his stance and smiled.

   He finally thought, 'Dismissed.'

   We fled his office quickly.  I was still in shock.  Did I ever realize
that she was his granddaughter?  No, I decided.  The subject had not come
up.  Wait a minute, yes it had.  The Admiral had said to take good care of
his granddaughter, but it hadn't really registered.  She had been a Med
Tech and I had fallen for her.  I had even given in to her hopes to be a
crewmember on my ship, when my original plan had been to add the
personality crystal to the AI system.  Well, maybe I had better get that
crystal after all.  Then, as if she could tell what I was thinking, she
took my hand and led me to the refitting shop.  We needed more torpedoes
for the missile system.

   Once the task of reloading was done, we went to another shop, the
TransGalactic AI computer dealership.

   She thought to me, 'Do you want me to pick the AI crystal for you?"

   Needless to say, I was shocked.  I didn't expect that from her.  Most
women would have insisted that the crystal be removed from the ship.

   I gulped in hesitation as she suggested the Jenny Mark 4000.  It was a
renowned and famous porn star's personality.  Its label was slightly
different than others I had seen before.  It was labeled with a "BI" mode
enhancement.

   I thought, 'What does 'BI' mean?"

   She smiled and said, "It means it comes equipped with a toy selection
for use on the fairer sex."

   I gulped as I realized what she meant.  It would appear that she was
planning on making use of the AI as a toy the way a man did.  It would also
appear that she wanted me to have a dream system.  I smiled as I realized
what she was suggesting.

   I paid for the 'BI' enhancement module, and soon we were out of the
shop. We returned to the 'My Love' and boarded.

   Bonnie's personal effects had been delivered.  At first, I thought 'she
must have been up to things when we were in the briefing.' However, the
Admiral's seal was the only registered access since we left.  The torpedoes
were loaded via the automated loading system.

   I checked the torpedoes.  Yes, we got the full 'military version' of the
hunter model.  Six were armed with Anti-matter warheads and the other two
were enhanced nukes.  Most impressive was the fact that none of them would
be affected by ECM systems.  Even the military ECM systems would not stop
these.  They were another gift from the admiral.

   Bonnie thought to me, 'The ship is ready, Sir.  What course should we
set?'

   I thought for a moment then broadcast, 'Well, I think we need to stay
local for a while.  I have a feeling that our friend is going to return.'

   She acknowledged my thoughts, and I ordered her to take us out.

   She did it, to my utter shock, on manual controls.  Damn!  She was good
at it, too.  The exit from the space dock was seamless and perfect.  She
must have logged more hours with her grandpa than I'd thought.

   I thought to her again, 'Set course to the badlands.  We are going to go
lay in wait.'

   She mentally replied, 'I hope we get lots of 'lay' time.'

   I am sure I blushed; I could feel the blood rise up in my face.  The
heat was definitely there.

   Soon the ship 'My Love' was free of the speed restrictions around the
space dock.  Bonnie engaged the short-range jump engine, and the ship
quickly jumped one tenth of a light year.  The jump caused some heat build
up, but not much, moving the indicator up just ten percent.

   Bonnie checked the proximity-warning meter, and then hit the jump drive
again.  She repeated the process five more times, only allowing enough time
for the dissipaters to reduce the heat build up.

   Then we were forced to use the gravitational engines to approach the
asteroid belt.

   After selecting a safe looking asteroid to hide on, Bonnie landed
skillfully.  The ship now blended in with the mass of huge rock.  We would
be virtually undetectable to most ships' instruments, until we moved.

   By common decree, uniforms were removed as soft and gentle kisses were
exchanged.

   I thought, 'So, you want to be stuck here with me for a long time?'

   Bonnie thought back, 'Yes, just you and Jenny.'

   I was confused and actually spoke, "Who is Jenny?"

   Bonnie laughed, "You really are a spacehead, sometimes.  Jenny, the AI.
You know, the personality crystal."

   I shook my head to clear my thoughts.  It finally dawned on me what
Bonnie was talking about.  Bonnie went to the storage locker and removed
the package containing the personality crystal.

   She inspected the instructions and thought, 'Oh goody, Jenny is
compatible with my Annette personality crystal.'

   'Pardon?' my mind asked.

   'Your computer system is capable of hosting 10 crystals at the same
time.'

   'Oh, so you have another crystal?'

   'Yes' she thought, 'I have the Annette crystal favored by women.'

   'I have heard of such things.  However, I have never actually seen that
AI personality.'

   Bonnie placed the crystal in the slotted holder.  She closed it, and the
ships AI computer came to life.

   "Personality crystal set up, initiated.  Please specify mode."

   "BI, Multi, interactive," Bonnie said.

   "Please install second interactive personality crystal."

   Bonnie ran to her storage locker, and retrieved her favorite personality
crystal.  She came back and plugged it into the holder slot, next to
Jenny's.

   "Annette Personality Mode has been identified.  Do you wish to install?"

   "Install.  Full integration.  Double mode operations."

   "Integration is complete.  Annette and Jenny personalities are fully
activated."

   I stared in amazement as the holo images appeared in unison and then
solidified.  Jenny was the lovely blond haired goddess I was used to
seeing. Annette, however, was breathtaking.  She looked amazingly like
Bonnie, but with fiery red hair.

   'Do you approve?' Bonnie asked.

   All I could do, was pick my tongue up off of the floor and nod 'yes'.

   Bonnie chuckled as she looked at me.

   It finally dawned on me that I had one real woman and two play toys at
my disposal.  I could let my imagination run wild.

   Bonnie spoke, "Clothing is forbidden to the two of you.  I never want to
see you wearing anything that obstructs the view."

   The holo display AI units stripped off the string bikinis that they wore
in their start up mode and dropped them to the deck.  From there, the
bikinis dematerialized.

   Edited by TeNderLoin



















   Chapter 5

   The holo display AI units stripped off the string bikinis that they wore
in their start up mode and dropped them to the deck.  From there, the
bikinis dematerialized.

   Ok, I was lost in the moment.  The possibilities filled my mind, but the
proximity alarm was raging in the background.

   'Proximity warning!  Oh shit!'

   I jumped into the command chair and watched as Bonnie took her chair.

   Bonnie yelled "Combat Mode!" to the AI units.  To my shock, the other
two bridge chairs were filled with naked woman flesh.

   Annette chimed out, "Scanners show a WLP in close proximity."

   Jenny said, "Ship is called 'The Hornet'.  The captain is registered as
being The Raven."

   "Supplemental...  there is no bounty on the ship," Jenny said. 
"However; the bounty on the captain is in excess of seventy-five million
GCs."

   Bonnie "Sounds like he has been a busy boy.  That's much larger than two
days ago."

   "Yes, and that 'underground WLP' is an illegal Weapons Launching
Platform.  This guy must be as rich as he is good."

   "Are we going to take him on?" Bonnie asked.

   I asked, "AI, calculate the probabilities for combat results with that
ship?"

   Jenny replied, "100 to 1 shot.  The WLP gets the 100."

   Bonnie, "Not very good odds, is it?"

   I said, "Contact your Grandfather.  Give our position.  Say we are
requesting help."

   She did, and a moment later I heard the Admiral in my mind.

   'You're smarter than I thought.  I have six vipers on the way."

   The Hornet continued to close with us, but still had not detected us.

   I said, "I think he is looking for a place to lie in wait."

   "I take it that's not a good thing?" Bonnie asked.

   "Not with us sitting on the prime real estate in the area, it isn't."

   "Target ship is scanning each rock as it moves," Annette said.

   I said, "I would do the same."

   "I've got a bad feeling about this," Bonnie said.

   "Detecting six incoming mass units," Jenny reported.

   I said, "That should be the Vipers."

   "The 'Hornet' has detected the incoming, and is moving towards them."

   Annette said, "The 'Hornet' is firing hunter missiles."

   Jenny said, "Six missiles outbound, targeted on the vipers."

   "ECM countermeasures activated.  No effect on the missiles."

   "Vipers are firing on the missiles."

   "The 'Hornet' is firing class ten lasers at the Vipers.  Three hits on
one ship have damaged it.  Viper has lost power."

   "Four missiles have been taken out.  Two remaining . . .  one of them is
targeted on the disabled Viper."

   I said, "Power up our systems."

   "The 'Hornet' has hit another Viper.  After seven hits, the Viper
vaporized."

   This battle was not going well for the military boys.

   Jenny said, "Vipers have unleashed three, no, make that four hunter
missiles."

   "Now!" I said, "Full speed at the 'Hornet's' rear."

   Another Viper exploded in an expanding ball of plasma as a hunter
missile armed with an anti-matter warhead was detonated by laser fire as it
left the Viper's lunch tube.

   The 'My Love' launched off of the rock at full speed.  I took manual
control and toggled the missile targeting system.  I had a lock tone in two
seconds, and fired my lasers.  The beams slammed hard into the rear of the
'Hornet'.  My playtime on his hull stretched, as twenty then thirty bursts
hit the 'Hornet's' rear shields, and finally the hull.  My cycle rate
slowed due to heat build-up, but I was still locked.  I held down the
'fire' button.  36, 37, 38 hits.  The rear of the Hornet exploded.  I had
scored the kill.  As before, the escape pod fired away.  The Hornet
vaporized under my continuing fire.

   To my utter shock, the three damaged vipers fired on the escape pod. 
They even hit it with glancing blows twice, but it was heading away from
them and towards me.

   I heard in my head the voice of the admiral, "Termination of Raven is
authorized, take out the escape pod."

   Shit!  I rolled the bow of my craft towards the escape pod and recycled
the targeting computer.  I got a lock and toggled the lasers.  Four hits
later, the escape pod stopped dead in space.  I had knocked out the drive
system.

   The Radio crackled, "You again!  This universe is not big enough for the
two of us.  I will have my revenge.  Mark my words on this, 'My Love'."

   I toggled the laser again and blasted the escape pod to peaces, taking
the Raven with it.

   My view screen lit up: 'Kill confirmed, Bounty of 75,000,000 GC
authorized, subject to ethics review.'

   It was the computer's fancy way of saying I did something wrong.  Firing
on an escape pod is not something normally done.  The manufacturers of the
pods pay a huge bounty on the head of anyone doing so.  However, I did have
my orders, so I knew I was going to get paid.

   Bonnie said, "Maybe we should buy a WOS."

   I said, "Well I don't think he is going to cause us any further
problems."

   Then we heard an oddly pleasant female voice in our minds.

   'You have pissed me off, Captain Miller.  I am the one that you will
face in battle next time.'

   Bonnie exclaimed, "Oh, shit!  It's Rouge!"

   The voice came back again, 'Yes, my little morsel.  And when I am done
with him, you will become my little cunt slave."

   I thought back, 'Anytime, Rouge.  Anytime you're woman enough to try.'

   Rouge's voice came back, 'All in good time, Miller... and, when you
least expect it.'

   Then she was gone.

   The Admiral's voice came into our heads next.

   'Well, that explains much about the activities around Lakey station,
lately.'

   I thought, 'Will someone please tell me who 'Rouge' is?'

   The Admiral replied, 'Bonnie, fill him in.  I will have a complete
dossier on her by the time you get back onboard the station.'

   With that, he was also gone.

   I looked at Bonnie, "Well?  Who is 'Rouge'?  And why does she have an
implant?"

   Bonnie gulped, "She is an ex-elite Warrant Officer of the federation. 
She went bad, some ten years ago.  She is a disappointment to me, most off
all."

   I gestured for her to continue.

   "She was my idol when I was young.  She was the living proof that a
woman could be something good, and even better than a man in this
universe."

   I was dumbfounded, but I managed to get out in a weak voice, "Set course
for Lakey Station."

   * * *

   Captains Log: Supplemental

   It was a long quiet trip back to the star port.  Neither of us said a
word.  Strangely, neither did the AI personality units.

   I puzzled over when this threatened attack might come.  I was only
relieved of my worry when we arrived back in dock.

   Edited by TeNderLoin









   Chapter 6



   I puzzled over when this threatened attack might come.  I was only
relieved of my worry when we arrived back in dock.

   ***

   Captain's Log:

   Our meeting with the Admiral went as well as could be expected.  He was
most troubled by the presence of Rouge, as well as having his granddaughter
wearing a black market bounty on her head.  Well, at least he had the
satisfaction of knowing that some hotshot wouldn't try anything.  Million
credit bounties were not normally placed on rookies.  As such, rookie
hunters would stay away.

   I also received a sizable personal bounty.  One Hundred Million credits
is 'sizable', after all.  Somehow, I think every bad guy in the universe is
going to be gunning for me.  My real worry was not the bad guys, though; it
was the good guys looking for a quick buck.

   Bonnie was not handling the bounty on her head too well.  She just
couldn't accept that it was her former idol that put it there.  Even her
grandfather was impressed to hear the string of profanities that came out
of Bonnie's mouth for ten cycles straight... without once repeating.

   Our newfound wealth allowed for us to make many modifications to the
ship.  The most important ones being the new military lasers.  All four
mounts were now boasting the new miniaturized Type 9.  Not only did each
one pack three times the firepower of the earlier models, they also reduced
the heat build up by half.  That's a significant advantage, when you're in
a battle.

   We also added a 'Galactic Jump Unit'.  Galactic Jump Units are 'use once
and jettison' externally mounted drives.  Since one unit literally jumps
the ship from one galaxy to another, they come only in pairs.  The best
part is that it works, without regard to the local mass units involved.  I
have no idea why, but it does work, and that's all that matters.

   They are expensive, however.  At two hundred fifty thousand Galactic
Credits each, they are not something most traders ever invest in.  We
invested in it, because it's the ultimate escape device.  The drive will
work, even if all the ship's systems are overheated, or even totally
inoperable.



   Bonnie said, "Shit, Sam, I can't believe she put a bounty on my head."

   "I understand love, I really understand."

   "No you don't!  How could you?"

   "Must be the Hundred Mil she placed on my head."

   Bonnie was silent for a moment.  She was considering this news as if she
finely realized it.

   "Damn her!  How could she do that to us?"

   'Well, that was an improvement, at least...  'us' instead of 'I', that
is.' I thought to myself.

   That's when we heard Rouge in our heads.

   'Delightful, I can feel your love from here.'

   Bonnie thought, 'How could you do this to us?'

   'Simple.  You killed my man.  Now I shall kill you, one way or another.'


   With that thought she was gone.

   "Shit, I am going to kill that bitch," Bonnie said rather loudly.

   Ok, I am in shock, now.  Bonnie is not acting as if she is thinking
straight.  She is half charged, and I worry she may discharge prematurely.

   Suddenly, the ships Com announced the presence of visitors at the hatch.


   "Now who could that be?" I asked just as Bonnie activated the external
viewer.

   It was her grandfather, along with two other individuals.  They wore
gray robes, with hoods that were pulled up over their heads, like old time
'monk's robes'.

   Talk about looking conspicuous!  Someone walking around like that would
make you wonder if they were high-ranking diplomats.  That's when the
thought occurred to me: 'maybe they are.'

   Bonnie activated the door, before I had a chance to ask her to do so,
and in the three of them came in.  The Admiral was in the lead.  He just
raised his hand to silence us, then he spoke.

   "Captain, I'd like to introduce you to ambassador 'Sue Lang', and her
assistant 'Fong Lee'."

   "It's a pleasure to meet you," I held out my hand to shake the
ambassador's.

   In the most sensual voice I have ever heard, she replied, "The pleasure
is mine, Captain."

   I stood there dumbstruck for a few moments, shaking the dainty hand that
was thrust out from under the robe.  I felt the mental 'nudge' from Bonne's
mind that brought me back around.

   "Forgive me, ambassador.  This is my first officer, Bonnie," Sam said,
as I pointed to her.

   "Ah, yes.  The Admiral's granddaughter.  We have met."

   Bonnie asked, "We have?"

   Sue Lang's hands went to her head.  She removed the hood allowing it to
drop behind her shoulders.  Bonnie gasped in recognition of her old college
roommate.

   The Admiral spoke up, "Forgive me, Ambassador; but time is of the
essence, here."

   "Of course.  Please proceed."

   "Now, Captain, I need you to transport the ambassador from here to
Deloris 7.  You have eighteen days in which to get her there."

   I stuttered, "Deloris 7?"

   So that you understand my shock, Deloris 7 is in the next spiral arm
over from are current location.  It would take every day we were given, and
then some, to get her there in a MK 5 trade vessel.

   The ambassador smiled out from behind her bright green eyes and said. 
"It is a covert negotiation.  That is why we selected your ship for this
transport duty."

   Bonnie chimed in, "It'll be our pleasure."

   The Admiral spoke, "Well, there is nothing more for me to do here, the
ambassador has all the details."

   With that he kissed his granddaughter on her cheek, and departed the
ship.

   I mentally heard him say, 'Sorry about this.  It wasn't my "bright
idea",' and then he was gone.

   Bonnie spoke up, asking, "April?  Why didn't you ever tell me what your
real name was?"

   "I'm sorry, love.  It was as much for my safety, as it was for those
around me."

   I watched in amazement as the two of them hugged and kissed.  And
kissed, and kissed again.  It was completely obvious to me that these two
knew each other very well.

   "Ahem, hum!" came from Fong, "Mistress, I believe the Captain needs the
details of this mission, so that we can get underway."

   'Mistress...' I thought.  'This is going to be a very interesting
story.'

   "Yes, Fong.  Please fill him in, I have some catching up to do with my
old roommate."

   With that, the two of them went back into the sleeping chamber.  I just
stared in dumb silence, until Fong spoke again.  She gave me all the
details of the covert mission, the recommended flight paths, and the timing
issues involved.  I realized that we needed to get going very quickly, if
we were going to have even half a chance of meeting those deadlines.

   "Jenny, Annette, activate," I said to the computer.

   Their holo projections appeared and solidified on the bridge.  That's
when Sam realized that both AIs were naked.  He looked towards Fong, but
the hood of her robe blocked the view.  He couldn't see the reaction on her
face.

   "Make ready our departure.  Priority two," I ordered.

   The two AI units went to their consoles.  Once there, they began the
procedures for departure.

   Docking control's response was fast, "Immediate priority confirmed,
proceed to launching deck."

   I felt the ship move slightly under my feet, as the base's automated
tractor beam system moved the 'My Love' to the launch bay.  I took my seat
and in the command chair, and motioned for Fong to find a seat, quickly.

   I announced over the ships loudspeaker, "Hold on everyone, we are about
to launch."

   A moment later, the ship accelerated forward, and we cleared the outer
doors of the launch bay.  The ship quickly came to full power as we turned
towards the initial jump point of this trip.

   Jenny spoke, "Sam, what is our first destination?"

   I looked towards Fong, and she answered.  "Kalmein"

   "Set course for Kalmein, Jenny."

   A moment later we entered into the jump point, and felt the surge as the
Jump engines engaged.

   The view before my eyes instantly changed, as the ship cleared a
hyperspace jump of 257 light years.  The Jump engines would be drained from
the first jump.  It would take over fifteen cycles to recharge.

   "Next destination?" I asked.

   I looked over to Fong, and saw her removing her robe.  As the flowing
gray robe dropped to the deck, I was rewarded with a stunning view of this
woman.  That's when I noticed the 'portable' unit she carried strapped to
her waist.  The blue-eyed beauty was carrying a portable AI holo-projection
unit (well... it was portable for an AI.  I surely wouldn't want to try to
lift it!).

   "Captain, would you be so kind as to place my Personality Crystal in
your ship's computer system."

   I just nodded, dumbly.  She switched from solid, to holo, then diapered
completely, leaving the projector floating in her place.  I went over to
the projector, removed the Personality Crystal, and took it to the ship's
AI hosting unit.  Placing the crystal in the appropriate receptor, I
touched the control to begin the integration process.

   Jenny shouted, "Override."

   But it was too late.  The Fong personality unit solidified next to me.

   "Do not worry, Jenny.  I am not the enemy.  They are," Fong said, and
pointed to the view screen.

   I looked in absolute shock at the screen.  Displayed there, were twelve
ships.  They were vectoring on us, in an attack formation.

   "Shit" I shouted, "Red alert!  All hands to battle stations!  Fong,
you'd better start talking, now," I added as I leaped to the command chair.

   "I am a Military AI Combat Unit.  Your real mission is to deliver me to
the destination."

   My attention was torn between her and the incoming vessels.

   Annette said, "They are attack vessels."

   "Shit, What are they doing here?"

   Fong, "Sir, they are here to prevent you from getting me to the
Ictheris."

   "Ictheris, you are the new AI for the Ictheris?" I ask as I took my
chair.

   "Yes, Captain, but right now I am plugged into the 'My Love'. 
Permission to go to combat mode, please."

   Annette said, "Incoming message.  Looks like they want to talk."

   Edited by TeNderLoin





























   Chapter 7



   Annette said, "Incoming message.  Looks like they want to talk."

   Bonnie and Sue overheard just as they reached the bridge.

   Sue said, "I suggest you shoot first, talk later."

   "Open a com.  Let's see what they have to say," I said.  looking at Sue,
I added, "Sorry, but it is going to take two cycles before we are at full
power."

   "Captain Miller, this is Ramie of the Permethian Alliance.  Today is
your lucky day.  I am more interested in what you are carrying, than in
destroying you.  Be a good boy, now, and turn it over.  If you do so, we
may even let you live."

   "They will kill us as soon as they can.  No one can deal with them,"
said Bonnie.

   "Yes, I know.  Com open."

   "You are on the air...  now," Annette said.

   "Captain Ramie, This is Captain Miller.  What exactly do you need a load
of Food Staples for?"

   "Please, Captain, don't toy with me.  You know what I want."

   "Maybe I am just dense," I said in as agreeable a tone as possible. 
"Please spell it out."

   "Very well.  I want the Ambassador and AI data crystal you took onboard,
back at Lackey Station."

   "Obviously, You have fallen for some disinformation.  I have no
Ambassador onboard.  As for my Personality crystal, you can buy the Jenny
AI unit, at most any starport."

   "Come, come, Captain.  Do not play games with me.  The Ambassador was
seen boarding your ship less than five cycles before you left the station."

   "Oh, you think my First Officer's collage room mate is an ambassador?"

   "Enough games!  Prepare to be boarded.  Resist and I will blow that hunk
of space garbage you call a ship to pieces."

   "Com Off," I said.

   "Com is off line, Sir."

   "Annette, Left Laser; Jenny, Right Laser; Bonnie, take the rear.

   Fong said, "I can handle all of them."

   "No, Fong, I order you to sleeper mode."

   Sue, "That would be a mistake."

   "Fong!  Off line!  Now!' I barked.

   Annette said, "The Fong AI is off line."

   We watched as her image vanished.

   "I have a sick feeling about that," Sue said.

   "We are at full power now," Jenny said.  "Twelve ships heading at us, in
battle cone deployment pattern."

   "Full speed ahead, at my mark."

   Jenny replied, "Ready."

   "Mark."

   With that, the 'My Love' burst towards the twelve ships.  I hooked my
missile guidance on the first ship, and toggled the laser.  The beams
reached out and connected with the lead ship once, then twice.  On the
third hit, the bridge of the lead ship erupted in a flash of light.

   "One down, only eleven to go," I said.

   I toggled the cycle switch on the tracking system.  The next lock was
achieved as a bolt of laser light passed to the right of the ship.  I
toggled the firing switch again, and the Type Nines launched out five
salvos of energy into the next ship.  The flash wasn't as gratifying as the
first salvo.  The blasts only disabled the targeted ship.  I cycled the
firing control, again.

   Whap!  The distinctive sound of a direct hit could be heard throughout
the bridge, as one of the enemy's lasers stuck the port side of the ship.

   "Shields holding at ninety-five percent," Annette said.

   Jenny added, "Heat ratio up to twenty percent."

   I selected an anti-matter torpedo from the missile list.  A moment after
firing it off, I flipped the ship over, and headed away at maximum power.

   The enemy fleet followed behind me.

   The rear laser was firing as Bonnie poured it into them.

   "Heat ratio at twenty-five percent," Jenny said.

   Bonnie got a good lock on one of the pursuing vessels.  She toggled the
cyclotron-firing switch to auto-fire, and watched as over twenty bolts of
high energy laser fire poured into the Permethian ship.  She was rewarded
with a brilliant flash, as the ship exploded into space dust.

   The lead Permethian ship toggled its ECM (electronic counter measures)
system, in an attempt to confuse or detonate our missile.  The Permethian
commander, Ramie, was shocked to see that it had no effect on the missile.

   'Thank Toran it's not targeted on me,' Ramie thought.

   The current situation was now very confusing to the Permethians.  They
had lost three ships, and were about to lose a fourth.  Commander Ramie was
not happy, at the moment.  Worse than that, the trade Alliance ship was
pulling away from them, it was faster than they were!

   Their only chance was to disable it before it could get out of range.

   The antimatter Hunter missile was tracking in on the fifth vessel.  It
was fully active, and three of its multi-plexed sensor systems had a
positive lock.  Laser fire was passing left, right and below it, as it
approached to within one thousand meters of its target.  It calculated an
opportunity.  The deadly military AI brain of this version of the missile,
noted that if it switched between the fifth and sixth vessels, instead of
directly on the fifth, it could kill or disable two additional ships. 
Being a military model, it chose the greater of the damaging possibilities,
the better to create havoc in the enemy's lines.

   Military AI's were like that.  To them, death was their greatest
service. They were the ultimate 'Suicide Bomber', and it did make them
rather unpredictable.  The Missile locked on to the intercept point just in
front of the sixth ship.  It approached to one hundred meters and detonated
its anti-matter charge.

   Well, detonate is not really the correct word.  The anti-matter mass was
held in a stasis field.  The stasis field coils required only minimal power
to maintain that containment.  The anti-matter mass was locked into an
unchanging state, while in the field.  What actually happened was the AI
unit turned off the stasis field coils.  This resulted in the anti-matter
being set free to interact with the matter around it.  The
matter/anti-matter reaction began almost immediately.  The single ounce of
anti-matter, reacting with several hundred pounds of normal matter,
produced energy levels unrivaled even in the core of a star.  Trillions of
angstroms of raw energy were released in a nano-second, producing a
miniature star in space.  The fifth and sixth ships were engulfed
completely, vaporized in the ongoing expansion of raw energy.  Ship seven
was next, as the energy expanse reached its hull at the very edge of the
short-lived suns expansion.  What little remained of number seven, was dust
in the vacuum of space.

   Ship Number eight, was a different story.  Being barely singed by the
expanding energy burst, the well-shielded ship succumbed only to the
massive electro-magnetic-pulse wave.  The ship was just too close to the
source to avoid it.  The EMP wave fried the circuitry that was supposed to
protect the ship, thus disabling the ship's electronic equipment and
controls, permanently.

   However, the ship was just too close to the event.  Free neutrons and
gamma radiation invaded the ship next.  The three-man crew of the ship
didn't feel a thing as their bones went from 98.6 degrees to 15,000
degrees, far too quickly for the Permethian body to perceive.  Combustion
followed, and the process was complete in only a few microseconds.

   Commander Ramie felt his ship shudder, and watched in horror as his heat
level went critical.  The shields had saved his ship from both the EMP
burst, as well as the radiation wave that followed.  Now, however, his ship
was barley crawling along.  It wasn't that he was crippled.  His ship was
maxxed out in its functions, but the excess heat slowed everything to a
crawl.  Until it was dissipated, Ramie was almost helpless.

   He scanned the readouts as his ship continued on the same vector and
speed as before.  He was shocked to realize that he'd lost four more ships.
Worse than that, he'd lost them to an anti-matter weapon.  What manner of
Warrant Officer was this Captain?  How in hell did he get his hands on
anti-matter, ECM-proof, Hunter missiles?

   Ramie watched as the 'My Love' changed course, and accelerated away from
his remaining group.  He checked the heat/time ratio.  It would take at
least ten cycles to dissipate the heat to the point where his ship could
properly respond to its controls.

   He watched as a laser beam volley reached out from the back of his
prey's ship.  It was locked on Ramie's number three ship, his left-most
wingman.  The ship did not have a chance, in its current state, after the
EMP had knocked out its shields.  The laser bolts passed through the
unshielded Permethian ship instantly.  The ship exploded in a ball of gas
and debris, even as bolts of laser fire passed though the cloud.

   As the 'My Love' continued to escape from the pursuing craft, I knew I
should turn and finish them off before they could recover.  However, I was
not sure how much time we had.

   The Annette AI said, "Estimate twenty cycle-fractions to clear the
gravity well created by those ships."

   "Jump to next destination is nominal.  Jump normally to ¾ of the way to
the next destination point."

   The Ambassador said, "That's not part of the plan, we need to follow the
plan to make the rendezvous."

   "Ambassador, it has obviously escaped your attention, but the other side
already has our flight plan."

   "Oh, I see.  But way didn't you let Fong deal with the battle?"

   "Because Military AIs place winning the battle above everything else," I
said it in such a way, that it should say it all.

   "What's that supposed to mean?" Sue asked.

   "Simple," I said.  "It could have won, but we could have all died in the
process."

   Sue looked as if I had just said the sky was green.  She was not sure
how to take this news, or what it could mean.  Her face showed massive
confusion.  She was completely at a loss.

   "Captain, I do not think that Fong would have killed us.  You just
killed six ships.  She would have gotten all twelve."

   "Well, maybe she wouldn't have killed us at the moment, however..."

   My voice was cut off by the Jump.  The ship re-emerged into normal space
in the Mego system, and my voice returned.

   "She would have used up all of our missiles, and we are still too early
in this trip to make it the rest of the way, unarmed."

   The com unit flashed, reporting that the ship's recorder had transferred
the kill information to the Mego space station.  It also displayed the
bounty information for the six kills.  I stared in shock!  Twelve million
credits each!  I didn't realize that the bounty was so high on them.

   Jenny said, "Proximity alert, gravity well detected."

   "Scan and identify."

   "Scanning sir."

   Bonnie gasped, "It's Rouge."

   "Shit, we don't have time to play with her right now."

   "She's in a WOS."

   My face showed that I recognized the threat.

   Sue said, "Surely you can deal with her."

   "Ambassador, I would rather face twelve more Permethians than a WOS."

   Bonnie shouted, "She has fired two Hunters."

   "Crap.  Fong activate."

   Fong appeared next to me.

   "Do you fallow orders to the letter?"

   "Of course, Captain."

   "Lasers only.  Take out the inbound hunter missiles."

   "Per your command."

   The ship rolled violently to the right throwing Sue to the floor.  She
wasn't seated and in lockdown, as Bonnie and I were.  Even as the spinning
naked body of the ambassador slid across the deck, we watched as two
volleys were fired from the forward battery in quick succession.  The
missiles detonated at extreme range.

   "Would you like me to deal with the WOS as well captain?" Asked the Fong
AI unit.

   "Lasers only," I said as I nodded.

   The ship's forward lasers lanced out at extreme range.  I knew it was
too far to take out the WOS.  However, the heat build-up would degrade the
enemy craft's capabilities, as it approached.

   Rouge was also firing at extreme range, and her lasers were better than
ours.  We watched as laser bolts flashed though the empty space around us.
They were getting closer to our ship with each passing moment, though.

   "I have a lock, one anti-matter missile would end this confrontation,
quickly."

   I looked at our heat indicator, and realized it was rising quickly.  So,
I decided.

   "One, and only one."

   The missile launched from its bay like the menace it was.

   Rouge mentally laughed at us.  'You think I am going to be scared by a
missile."

   The fire from the WOS switched to our missile.  The neutrino head
deflected ninety-nine percent of the energy of each hit.

   The mental laugh changed, "What's this.  Oh, you have the military
version."

   Fong had kept up the fire on Rouge.  Pounding the shields with uncanny
accuracy.

   I couldn't resist.

   "More than military.  It's an anti-matter model," I thought hard at
Rouge.

   She spat back mentally, "You will pay for this!" Even as we watched the
lifeboat launch from her WOS, she was saying, "You will pay dearly, one of
these days."

   With that, she switched off.

   That's when I realized the danger we were in.  The Hunter missile was on
the tail of the WOS, which was heading towards us.

   "Shit!  Disable the missile, Fong."

   With that Fong sent the shut down command to the hunter missile.  One of
the advantages of this model, was the ability to shut it down.  It took a
very special code, but it worked.

   Fong was still firing our lasers at the WOS.

   "Cease fire, Fong."

   She complied instantly.

   The WOS sailed past us, and was shortly followed by the disabled Hunter
missile.  I thought quickly, and decided on the spot.



   Edited by TeNderLoin





















   Chapter 8

   The WOS sailed past us, and was shortly followed by the disabled Hunter
missile.  I thought quickly, and decided on the spot.

   "Bonnie, match course and speed.  Let's recover our missile."

   "You got it, Love."

   The maneuver took only a few moments and soon the tractor beam of the
ship was bringing the hunter missile back into the 'My Love'.

   Sue finally managed to reach a chair, and strap herself in.  Her pride
may have been bruised, her body surely was.

   "Captain, I don't think we have time to mess around with salvage."

   "Fong would you explain to her that a WOS is the fastest ship in the
known galaxies.  We are going to board it.  Once we are in control, we will
have her at her destination, several days before she needs to be there."

   Sue looked impressed as Fong explained it to her.

   Bonnie stuttered, "But I like the 'My Love."

   "So rename the 'Rogue Rouge', to the 'My Love II'."

   It took ten more cycles before our ship's tractors were locked on the
Rouge.

   After we assumed control on the WOS's bridge, I shocked every one by
ordering us to jump back to Lackey station.

   The trip back was uneventful, and the reception was not very warm.  The
Admiral was cussing up a storm as soon as he became aware we were back. 
Bonnie was getting miffed at him.  Finally, I could take no more and said
so.

   "Admiral, you failed to give us the correct orders to carry out."

   'What are you talking about?' his mind screamed back at me.

   'Simple.  This was not a diplomatic mission."

   'What are you talking about?'

   By the time I had relayed the true mission to him, we were docked at
Lackey station.  And we did so under full military lock down.  There would
be no spies, this time, or so I thought.

   * * * *

   Captain's log:

   The 'Rouge' was renamed the 'My Love II'.  And the 'My Love' was placed
into storage.  It took eighteen hours for my modifications to be made to
the WOS.  I really blew the bank account on it.  The Ambassador had also
twisted the Admirals arm, some.

   Soon, the WOS was equipped with a military operating system AI, a new
escape pod, and twelve anti-matter ECM Hunters.  All seven laser ports now
boasted the type 10 Minnies, and the cargo hold was filled with heat
absorption units.  The dockyard manger couldn't believe he managed to fit
twenty of the units into the cargo bay.  The final upgrade was to
absolutely max-out the shields.

   By the time all was said and done, the 'My Love II', was the second
fastest ship in the known universe, and had a full twenty cycle's worth of
heat absorption available almost instantly.

   The ship could out-fight and out-perform anything short of the Ictheris
itself.  And that ship couldn't even do that, without the Fong AI loaded.

   I was shocked when the Admiral handed me a new Personality Crystal as he
departed the ship.

   "Well, I'll be..." said Bonnie.

   "You're familiar with this crystal?"

   Bonnie gulped, "It's called, 'Mother'."

   My head snapped to attention at this.

   "You're kidding."

   "Nope.  It's 'Mother'.  I mean my grandmother.  Well, technically, it's
my great, great, great grandmother's personality."

   "You mean, this is Lilly?"

   Bonnie gulped, "Yes."

   "I take it you have used this personality before?"

   "Well, let's just put it this way: Grandma says 'incest is best'."

   I rolled my eyes.  Sue looked shocked.  Annette and Jenny solidified on
the bridge, with Fong.  All three looked like they were doing all they
could to keep from laughing.

   I handed the crystal to Bonnie, and pointed to the AI hosting unit. 
Four female AI personalities and two real women.  I wondered if I would get
a chance to take advantage of any of them in the next ten days.

   'Well, maybe,' I thought to myself.

   Departure

   Once all the preparations had been made and we all were on board, there
was a cloak of secrecy around the launch bay.  It was so complete, that the
launch control officer had us in a hold for launch.  The hold lasted for a
full fifteen cycles, before he realized that we were the reason for the
hold.

   Once the ship had exited the launch bay, we accelerated at maximum.  It
would only take three cycles before we cleared the space station's gravity
well.  We exited without incident.

   Soon the ship jumped for over one thousand light years, in a single
jump. We came out of the Jump with seventy percent of our efficiency
remaining.  More than a thousand light years, and only a thirty percent
drop due to heat build-up!  Not bad!

   Best of all, we had jumped to the 'in-between'.  It was a place where
there was not a single atom of matter around us, for at least one light
year.

   'Good' I thought, 'Out here we can see potential enemy ships, long
before the mass units from their gravity wells lock us out of jumping.'

   Unfortunately for us however, this proved to work for the enemy, as
well. There were 21 of them this time.  All were top of the line Permethian
attack vessels.  Even as Bonnie sent a mental report to her grandfather, I
selected the next jump point.

   Now the build up in energy to the engines is what produces waste heat.
It also takes a many cycles of time to get to power level for a jump.  In
other words, the longer the jump, the longer it takes to power-up.  We
actually had plenty of time.  Or so I thought, anyway.

   I pressed the control to begin charging the Jump engines and was treated
to an explosive discharge from the jump engine compartment.

   "Crap!" I shouted.  Edited by TeNderLoin











































   Chapter 9

   "Crap!" I shouted.

   Sue yelled, "What happened?"

   Bonnie said, "Heat build-up at fifty percent."

   "Two more cycles 'till Permethian intercept," Annette said

   Jenny reported, "Captain, sensors show the jump engines are gone.  I
calculate a ninetyeight percent probability of sabotage."

   "No way," Bonnie said.

   "Can it, everyone.  Combat stations.  We are out numbered, and to tell
the truth, out gunned."

   Sue said, "You can't let the AI fall into their hands."

   "I don't think that is there plan."

   Swinging the forward twin type Tens to face the oncoming ships, we
waited patiently.

   "One cycle," Jenny said.

   Bonnie asked, "What about the Galactic Jump Unit?"

   Talk about cold water hitting one in the face!

   "Jenny, what's its status?"

   The warbling tone of a target lock sounded on the bridge.  I toggled the
twin-mounted lasers on reflex.  The twin beams reached forth, and hit the
lead Permethian knocking out his shields.  There was no other damage until
the second volley.  The right most laser beam struck the bridge area
breaching the hall and opening it to space.  The three-man crew was sucked
out right after being flattened like pancakes by the laser blast.

   The second beam missed the lead ship because of the evasive maneuver the
Permethian had started before their deaths.  It was, strangely, not wasted.
The beam struck the seventh ship in the mini armada.  It was devastating to
this ship.  For some reason, its shields were disabled by one blast, and it
exploded quite violently.

   The third volley of fire from the 'My Love II's lasers obliterated the
lead ship into a plasma ball.

   Seeing the explosion, I cycled the missile lock system again.  I was
rewarded with an instant lock.

   That's when all hell broke loose.  Multiple laser bolts raced around the
ship in a dazzling display of firepower.  A few connected making an eerie
whining sound as the shields absorbed their impact.

   "Fong fire a spread of two missiles," I was shouting my orders.

   I had a lock and sent three more volleys into the target craft.

   "Shields down to 50 percent.  We can't take much more of this."

   Two anti-matter Hunters left the ship as I absorbed this news.  There
were still nineteen of them, minus the ones that had dates with the
hunters. It was far too much firepower.

   "Heat level," I barked.

   "Currently its back down to 50 percent, and dropping."

   Damn, it had made it up to 62.

   Annette said, "Plotting a galactic jump."

   "Plotted and lined in," Jenny said.

   "Execute," I yelled.

   Even as I did so, the shrill scream of a laser penetrating the shields
and striking the ships armor could be heard.

   "Ten seconds," Annette, replied.

   At one second we heard the laser penetrate the shield and take out our
left-most laser unit mount.

   The stars shifted around us.  The ship had entered galactic hyperspace.
Blessedly, the conflict that so obviously would have led to our deaths,
ceased.

   Annette reported, "Transit time will be 1200 cycles."

   Great I thought.  And when we exit, we will be just as crippled as when
we left.

   * * * *

   The two Hunter missiles were talking to each other.  Their AI guidance
packages had the advantage of being launched by the Fong AI, in full combat
mode.  They were also aware that all nineteen ships remaining were enemy
vessels.  This fact was confirmed by the 'known hostile races' list, stored
in their targeting units.  As far as the missiles were concerned, they were
at war.  Fired in 'spread mode', they had the luxury of selecting their own
targets.

   They did so as the Permethian ships began a dispersal maneuver.  This
triggered the 'herd' sub-routine response in their AI brains.  The missiles
spread out as if going after the farthest apart ships.  The Permethian
ships responded by vectoring back the way they came.  Without even
realizing it, the Permethian ships were herded into closer proximity to
each other.

   By the time they realized their error, it was to late.  Missile one
selected a detonation point that would allow it to take out three ships. 
Missile 2 was not as fortunate, as it was able to destroy only two ships.

   Captain Ramie stared at his command board in utter disbelieve.  Not only
had their prey escaped from him, twice; but between the two engagements, he
had lost more than half his command.  Somehow, he was sure that if he
didn't stop them on the next attempt, the 'powers that be', would take what
was left of his command away.

   That process was known as: 'execution for incompetence'.

   * * * *

   Galactic Transit.

   It's the safest state in which to be.  The galactic jump took time,
because of the distance involved.  However, no one could intercept them at
the other end.  No message could reach their destination before they got
there.  No ship could travel faster than any other ship, while in galactic
transit.  Best of all there was no way to be tracked.

   However, during the long transit time, the ship could not dissipate heat
build up, nor could its shields recharge.  The damaged left side of the WOS
and engine were the only things that could be repaired in this state, and
the repair drones were doing that now.  The good news was the hull breach
would be fixed before they arrived.  The bad news was that they had lost a
type ten mini.

   Annette said, "One thousand one hundred, and twenty three Cycles 'till
arrival in the Camian galaxy."

   I mumbled, "Half a day.  Now what do we do?"

   I was shocked to hear Bonnie respond, "Well, there's always sex!"

   That thought brought a smile to my face, for some strange reason.  Then,
to my absolute surprise, Fong spoke into my head.

   'Captain, perhaps it is time for you to find out why I am so special?'

   I thought about it, as I recovered from having the AI talk to my mind.

   I said, "Fong and I have the first watch, the rest of you should go to
the sleep chamber and get some rest."

   Sue was oblivious to what was going on, but Bonnie had a shocked look on
her face.  She had received the overspill from my chip.  After taking a
moment to recover, Bonnie said.

   "That would be great, come on Sue, Annette, Jenny.  I think we can find
something to do as we rest."

   The young woman and the three AI disappeared into the captain's quarters
of the ship.

   I thought, 'So, Fong, I take it that your ability to talk directly to my
mind is what makes you so special?'

   'I speak through your interface chip.  However that is only a minor
potion of what I can do.'

   'I am all ears,' I thought, then after a short pause I added, 'Well, so
to 'think', anyway.'

   Fong could have smiled at my reference.

   Instead she thought, 'Through the interface I not only speak to your
mind, I become an extension of your mind.'

   "I am not following you Fong," I said aloud.

   "I am a 'Compliant AI Extension'.  FONG stands for: Future Operational
Neural Guidance.  In other words, my personality evolves from the
experience of being linked to individuals.  In essence, I become the sum of
the individual's experiences and abilities.  Using the faster processing
abilities of my artificial intelligence, I am able...  well, theoretically
able...  to make the decisions faster than you can yourself."

   I sat in my chair with my mouth hanging open.

   "Fong, are we really suppose to meet up with the Ictheris?"

   "No, that was the deceptive portion of the plan.  The Ictheris has no
need of me.  The simple truth is, the Ictheris project was scrubbed because
it proved to be impractical.  That ship is essentially a dead end
prototype. It will never function as anything other than a decoy for the
enemy races."

   "I am afraid you have me confused, here."

   "Yes.  Perhaps I should explain more deeply."

   "Please go on, then."

   "I am a super secret combat interface AI unit.  The real mission is for
me to gain experience from the hottest combat captains in the federation.
You, Sir, are hot!  You are so hot, that the 'powers that be' decided to
covertly introduce me into your operational environment, so I could learn
from you."

   "I see, so why are you revealing this to me, now."

   "Many reasons."

   "I'm listening."

   "One, the Permethian's were not part of the planned operations."

   "Ok.  And?  Next?"

   "I can not interface with your mind while it is in sleep mode."

   "I see.  However, I did not agree to that, so is their anything else I
need to know?"

   "Yes, Captain.  I am falling in love with you."

   I sat in stunned silence at that statement.

   "Sam, did you understand what I said?" Fong asked.

   "Hum.  Yes, I understand, I just can't believe it."

   "It's hard to believe?"

   "Yes, because AI systems don't actually fall in love.  At least, that's
the 'conventional wisdom'."

   "You don't seem to believe that."

   "Well, there are some pretty non-explainable things, at times."

   "Sam, do you love me?"

   "I don't think that's the question?"

   "It's my question."

   "Fong, I just barely know you.  Our interactions, so far, have not
allowed me the time to form that kind of opinion.  That's in addition to
the fact that I'm in love with somebody else."

   "I'm not a jealous unit.  I can except that you are in love with
somebody else.  What I want to know, is whether there is room in your heart
for more than one?"

   I considered this for moment.

   "Yes, in fact, as I am an love with two other AI units in addition to
Bonnie."

   "So you could love me if you chose to?"

   "I suppose I could.  However, I don't know if I want to go there."

   "You saying you don't want to love me?"

   "Fong, I don't know what I want.  But I do know what I need.  That is,
total honesty out of you.  By that I mean, you can't hide things from me
about your mission."

   "That is what I sensed and calculated.  That's why I'm informing you of
what the real mission is all about."

   "And what if I choose not to love you?"

   "Well, Sam, to tell the truth...  I have no idea."

   "Why is that?"

   "Because I have never been in love before."

   "This is really strange, Fong."

   "Yes it is, Sam.  Feelings are very strange to me.  I am not used to
them, and I do not understand them."

   "Are you sure they are feelings?"

   "How do you mean?"

   "Well, you say you have feelings, what are they?  What you want to do?"

   "Well, I want to be cared for.  I want to be loved.  I want to have sex
with you."

   "That's a start.  But Fong, that's not love.  Those are desires and
needs.  Those are the things that you want out of love.  But what does love
want you to do?"

   "And I want to keep you safe.  I want to make you happy.  I would like
to please you, as best as I can, in all things."

   I considered this for a few moments.  And then the realization hit me
like a ton of power metal.  Fong did sound like she was in love with me. 
Also she sounded very immature.

   "Fong."

   "Yes, Love?"

   "You've convinced me.  I am sure that you have the beginnings of the
feelings of love.  I'm not going to pretend to understand how this has come
about.  I can't figure out human female brains, much less AI ones.  You are
going to have to give me time, and I am going to have to see your love
manifest itself, in order for me to gain those feelings for you."

   "So, it's possible?" Fong said in a hopeful sounding voice.

   "Yes, it's possible, but it's awful strange for me.  I also need to
speak with the others about it."

   "You mean, Bonnie?"

   "And Annette, and Jenny."

   "Oh, I think I understand now."

   "What you understand?"

   "It's not just a matter of getting you to love me.  It's also seeing the
rest of them to except me."

   "You're awful close to the truth."

   "I will do my best, Sam."

   "That's all we can ask at this point."

   "Thank you, Sam."

   "For what?"

   "For not yanking my Personality Crystal from the system, when I
confessed my feelings toward you,"

   "That thought never crossed my mind."

   "Yes, I know."

   I had an eerie feeling about that statement.  As I was lost in my
thoughts, sounds of female love play could be heard from my cabin.  My
thoughts quickly turned to the activities taking place behind closed doors.
I found myself excited by the sounds.  I didn't think I was going to be
able to hold out to the end of my watch.

   That's when I felt the dainty female hand of Fong undoing my trousers.
Her solid holographic projection was on her knees.  I hadn't seen her
undress, but as I looked at into her face, he was able to see her desire
written on it.

   It didn't take her long.  Soon my cock was free of its restraints.  Her
dainty hands moved delicately and so softly up and down the length of my
manhood.  It was indescribably gentle and purposeful.  I could swear I saw
the twinkle in her eye, just before her mouth engulfed me.

   I moaned out loud, as she took me 'deep throat' style.  It was so
exciting to me, that it took only a moment before I spurted into her mouth.
My come sprayed into the back of her holographic throat.  It was so
lifelike, so real, so intense.  It was all I could do, to stay conscious.

   As I regained my senses, she was still going, resurrecting my manhood
with her ministrations.  As I reached full hardness, I felt myself slip
from her mouth.  Her mouth was replaced by her hand, as she repositioned
herself.  Moving with grace, she mounted my command chair.  She guided my
cock into the folds of her cunt.  She impaled herself in one quick motion,
and began to rock on me.  Soon, we were both moaning in ecstasy.  I soon
fired my load, once again.  Sensing that I was done, she slowed her
movements until she stopped.  She leaned onto me, holding on tightly as she
stopped.

   She whispered into my ear, "I will show you how much I love you.  I wish
I could give you a child."

   The sobering effect of her words brought me around with the start.  I
resisted the urge to laugh out loud at the absurdity of the statement.  I
looked her in the eyes and spoke gently.

   "I have no doubt you could find a way to do that.  That however would
not show your love."

   The Fong AI unit looked back at me, trying to read me.

   She spoke again, saying, "You are correct.  Forgive me for suggesting
it. I'm not trying to trap you."

   I held her form close to me.  whispered to her, "Patience.  You're still
young.  Take a little time to grow.  Later, we can see about fulfilling
that need."

   She smiled warmly and at me, and lay her head on my shoulder.  Then she
did something I had never seen an AI unit do, before.

   She fell asleep.

   As the end of my watch neared, Bonnie came walking out in her naked
glory.  She took in the odd scene.

   She whispered, "She's not actually asleep is she?"

   I whispered, "Believe it or not, I think she is."

   "That's amazing, I didn't know it was even possible."

   "Tell me about it!  This is a lot more complicated than I ever thought
it could be."

   Bonnie's right eyebrow raised in a questioning look at my statement.

   "Later," I said.

   She canned it for now, and said, "Jenny said she could take the watch.
I'm to get you to come in and get some rest with us."

   "Okay," I said.

   With that, I stood up.  I carried the Fong AI unit in my arms.  She
didn't even wake.  I carried her into my stateroom, and carefully sat on
the bed holding her in my arms as I scooted to the center of the bed.  Sue
was asleep, also.  However, when she sensed the warm body next to her, she
turned and snuggled.

   Bonnie lay down next to me, and snuggled in on the other side.

   Soon, we all were sleeping soundly.





   Edited by TeNderLoin



   Chapter 10



   Soon, we all were sleeping soundly.

   We all slept the sleep of exhaustion as the hours slipped by.  The Fong
AI unit was maintaining its 'lightweight' mode atop my body, even as the
holographic projection maintained my shrunken manhood in its perfectly
simulated pussy.  She was as light as a blanket, and even better feeling. I
had long since given up distinguishing the real from the artificial;
however, I did appreciate the nearly complete lack of weight.

   It was no wonder so many traders spend their whole lives on their ships.
Even when they retired, there were 'parks' set up.  These individuals could
moor their ship, and live in them in total comfort.

   I had read something similar about ancient cultures back on Terra. 
Retirees would buy what were called 'RVs', and park them in small
communities.  They would stay in warmer climates in the winter, and
returning to cooler climates in the summer.  The only reason I remembered
this, was the unique name given to this group of people.  They called them
'snowbirds'.  Since I'd had a fascination with birds while growing up, I'd
always wanted to see a snowbird... well, at least until I realized they
were people, not birds.

   It had been over eight hours.  I awoke with the typical iron rod I
usually had in the morning.  It was neatly snuggled inside the holographic
Fong unit, ready to go.  Fong sensed my waking from the increased pressure,
and stretching her nether region.  Her eyes met mine as she opened them.

   Fong whispered with a smile on her face.  "Now that's what I liked wake
up to."

   I just smiled back as I stared into her eyes.  With barely perceptible
movements, her hips started to rise and fall.  This movement, however, was
very perceptible where it counted.

   A small gasped escaped from my lips.  It was enough.  Bonnie started to
stir.  I was looking at her, as her eyes opened.  Her smile was incredible,
and contained a hint of devious thought.  Then her hand moved up to my
chest where it began to rub gently across the nubbin she found there.

   The Fong AI unit responded by lifting her body away from mine, and
concentrating all the effort at the joining of our hips.  Sue, sensing the
movement, opened her eyes to take in the site.

   She warmly smiled, but instead of her hand moving as Bonnie's had, she
moved her head.  I felt her warm breath exhaling across my chest, a moment
before her tongue found its target and licked across it.  Then I felt the
suction, as her lips engulfed their chosen spot.  Bonnie, not wanting to be
outdone, brought her mouth up to the reciprocal target on the other side of
my chest.

   The effects of so much stimulation on my body sent spasms all over. 
Little ripples of motion were in every part of my body.  They contracted
and expanded, throbbing in turn to the timing.  My hips started to match
the rhythm.  I was in heaven as the sensations began to wash through my
body, again and again.

   I felt more movement, and could barely chance the glance.  It was enough
to see that both the Annette and Jennifer units, had taken a position
spooning behind their respective partners.  Their arms wrapped around Sue
and Bonnie, and their hands found the women's breasts.  I felt motions
change, as their bodies moved next to mine.

   The AI units must have had their version of a strap-on.  It was apparent
that both of the real women were being humped in their current position.

   The Fong AI unit arched her back.  Amazingly, she was actually coming.
As her pace quickened I became lost in the sensations of pleasure. 
Shortly, my moment approached.  I felt my balls being drawn tightly inside
my body.

   I felt a release deep within me, as the orgasm raced to the end of my
cock.  Burst after burst of semen flooded the Fong unit!  I came like I'd
never come before!  My whole body contracted in spasm, again and again.

   However, neither one stopped their assault.  My body was in full
overload from all the sensations.  It became too much for me, and I passed
out.

   I'm not sure how long I was out.  When I awoke, Bonnie and Sue were
snuggled against me.  Bonnie had a firm grip on my manhood, and Sue's hand
was cupping my balls.  Both had their heads on my shoulders, as they lay
beside me.  They were whispering back and forth to each other.

   "How much longer do you think before he wakes?" Sue asked.

   "I'm not sure.  I've never seen him come like that before.  He slept
right through my three orgasms, afterwards."

   Sue giggled and said, "Only three?  I had five."

   "Yeah, but Fong helped you with the last three."

   I slowly moved my head from side to side waking from unconsciousness.  I
was greeted with smiles from both beautiful women.

   "It's about time you woke.  The AI's reported that there are only thirty
cycles before we exit Galactic Jump hyper-drive."

   "Wow!  How long was I out?" I asked.

   Bonnie said, "A little more than sixty cycles.  My poor baby came so
hard, that he passed out."

   She leaned towards my face and kissed the end of my nose.  It was so
soft, so gentle, and so lovingly delivered; that somehow, I just knew that
I was about to say the right thing.  And so, my lips uttered the words that
have been enslaving men's souls for years.

   "Bonnie?  Will you marry me?"

   The shocked look on her face caused me to worry.  My mind started
running a mile a minute, and for some reason tears started in our eyes.  I
thought maybe I might need to rephrase that.

   So I said, "I mean, would you consider making our partnership a
permanent arrangement?"

   As tears formed in Bonnie's eyes, Sue nipped at my chest and spoke.

   "You had it right the first time.  Give her a chance to answer.  It's an
overwhelming experience, when a woman is presented with her 'dream come
true'."

   As I considered Sue's words, Bonnie attacked me.  Her body flew onto
mine, and blanketed it.  She held on to me as if the world was about end.
She squeezed me so hard, I was beginning to wonder if I would ever breathe
again.

   When I heard her excited shrieks of "Yes, yes, yes!", the fear that I
might have blown it subsided quickly.

   That one word, 'yes', was the most powerful word in Galactic Standard.

   Annette's voice crackled from the ship's Com, interrupting the moment.

   "Five minutes to the end of Galactic Jump."

   I responded, "All hands to combat stations."

   I kissed Bonnie passionately for a few moments.  Then we broke apart,
and proceeded to the bridge.  It only took a few moments for me to get
settled.

   "Report," I said.

   Jenny said, "Two cycles before exiting Jump.  All physical systems
onboard have been repaired.  Heat build up is still at 68%.  Estimate
twenty-two cycles 'till dissipation to normal, and a return of the ship to
full functionality."

   I considered this information, and thought about how we should handle
things.  Whenever a ship came out of a Galactic Jump the energy signature
was huge.  That meant that every ship in the target system would have a fix
our position, in mere moments.  Considering that we had no control over
exactly what system we would exit into, this could be a very bad thing.

   I had only used Galactic Jump hyper-drive a few times.  So far in my
young life, each and every time, I had somehow managed to exit into the
least savory system within the general area.  Although there was hope that
this would not be the case this time, experience told me to be prepared for
the worst.

   A micro-jump would only increase our heat build-up by an additional two
percent.  However, it would move us far enough away that we should be able
to fully dissipate the ships heat before any other ships could come close
enough to investigate.  So I gave the order.

   "Micro-jump, upon bearing orientation at exit, immediately we clear the
hyper-drive backwash."

   Annette responded, "Yes, Sir.  Immediate jump is laid in, pending
co-ordinates."

   All eyes were on the screen, as the ship exited from the Galactic Jump
hyper-drive.  The swirl of colors was an awe-inspiring sight.  But I was
also left with my stomach churning from the excitement of the moment.

   Jenny announced, "Clear of hyperspace.  Preparing to micro-jump."

   The alarm sounded its annoying 'clap, clap' sound, announcing that we
were too close to a large mass, to initiate the hyper-drive.

   I called out, "Identify the mass."

   "Working," Annette replied.  Then she said, "'Traitor' class vessel,
Mark four, off our port beam, just out of weapons range."

   "Shit," I said.

   Annette spoke again, "Picking up additional craft.  They are not heading
our way."

   "We get a system identification for where we are, yet?" I asked.

   "Kalmarian free space.  Planet looks to be called Fudman.  System
government type is anarchy."

   'Crap,' I thought to myself.  'Don't I just have all the luck.'

   "Captain" the Fong unit addressed me.

   "Yes?" I replied.

   "Multiple ships vectoring towards our location.  Ships are identified as
pirates.  I have no IFF indications of 'Friendly'."

   "Drats!" was all that came out of my mouth.

   I assumed manual control, and turned the ship towards the closest
approaching craft.  I cycled the missile guidance system, and tried to get
a lock, on the first ship.

   "There are nine of them in our current sector," Annette said.

   The warbling sound of a lock on the first ship sounded in my ears.  My
finger tensed above the virtual firing button on the display screen, as I
prepared to press it.

   Fong spoke, "Ships are breaking off!  I say again, they're breaking
off."

   "They must have gotten our ID," Bonnie said.

   "Now that's a switch," I replied.  "Normally, with an ID, they'd come
sailing in to the attack."

   "Preliminary scan of all ships in the sector, indicate that all are
probably cut by low ratings," Fong said.

   "What does that mean?"

   Bonnie replied, "It means that they estimate they will lose if they take
on this ship."

   "So, you are just going to let them get away?" Sue asked.

   "For the moment," I said, "Right now we just need to get back up to full
power."

   I turned my attention to the display, and watched as blip after blip
exited from the view of the ship's short-range scanners.

   Bonnie said, "Heat dissipation is at 50%.  Estimate remaining delay to
be about fourteen more cycles 'till we reach full power."

   "The tactical board is now clear of threats," Fong reported.

   "Shall we micro-jump at this time?" ask Jenny.

   Bonnie spoke, "Hold position, heat level down to 40%"

   I just nodded in agreement.  Then the 'clap, clap' sound started again.

   "Now what?" I asked.

   "Scanner shows a WOS approaching from our rear."

   "Identify," I stated calmly.

   "Ship is identified as the 'Morley'.  Federation records indicate it is
stolen."

   "Crap," Bonnie muttered.

   'It seems events are having a bad effect on their language,' I thought
to myself.  I considered my words carefully before I spoke.

   "Fong!  Full automatic fire.  No missiles without my authorization. 
Take him out."

   I watched in complete amazement as Fong goosed the sub-light engines to
full power, straight ahead, in the opposite direction of the approaching
craft.  She accelerated for two cycles, then cut the power.  At first, the
Morley didn't react at all.  It finally did adjust its course of pursuit.
However, it only accelerated to three quarters of its full speed.

   Fong spoke, "Estimate vessel will be within weapons range in ten cycles.
At that time, we will have dissipated our heat, and will be at full power."

   I must say I was impressed with the tactic Fong was using.  She must
have been learning from me.  At least I could hope that she was doing that.
We watched as the cycles passed.  As soon as the distribution of heat was
fully dissipated, Fong reversed course.  She proceeded at half power
towards the enemy craft.

   "Lock on!  Lock on!  Enemy has missile lock on our ship.  Detecting
launches of two... no, four...  Shit, he's launched all eight missiles,"
Bonnie said.

   "Fong, are you going to do something about those incoming missiles?" I
asked as the cycle-fractions ticked away.

   Our ship's ECM engaged, and six of the missiles detonated a moment
later.

   "Targeting the remaining two ECM shielded missiles," Fong said.

   Twenty bursts of high-energy laser fire spat out a moment later.  One
missile erupted in an explosion, and the other followed closely.  The enemy
craft's lasers reached out towards our ship.  Their laser beams missed our
ship by mere inches.

   I heard the tone, as Fong locked the missiles guidance system on the
enemy WOS.  A continuous barrage of laser fire erupted from our ship.  Our
eyes were glued to the screen as we watched volley after volley of laser
fire strike the shields of the enemy craft.  Most of the high-energy beams
were successfully deflected.  However the ones that were not, were
inflicting significant damage to the ship superstructure.  The enemy craft
turned away.  He started to climb, at full power, away from our ship.  Fong
targeted his underside.  We were pouring more and more beams of energy into
the enemy ship.

   "50% of heat storage capacity filled," Annette announced.

   Still, Fong continued to pour fire into the enemy ship, at an
un-naturally high rate.  The enemy ship's engines were the first to go. 
Blast after blast of high-energy laser fire slammed through the hull, and
into the engine compartment.  It exploded with a weird light.  The eerie
explosion that followed, was as huge as it was silent.

   Fong announced, "Target terminated, as per your orders, Captain."

   As the lasers of our ship fell silent, I stared in disbelief at the
readouts.  The heat absorption units were filled to 70% capacity, though
they were dissipating heat into the vacuum of space at their maximum rate.
The Fong AI unit had used the capacity of the heat units to deliver a
deathblow to the enemy craft, of likes of which I had never seen before.

   The FedCom Screen showed the kill, and transmitted the recording to the
system's star base.  The response was quick.

   The data screen displayed, "Kill confirmed!  Bounty of 100,000,000
galactic credits is paid into your account for the Piglet kill!  Ship's
bounty of 1,000,000 GC is pending Fed authorization."

   Nothing was new about the 'pending Fed'; but why was the personal-kill
bounty rate so high?  For that matter, why wasn't the pilot's actual name
listed?

   Just then the com chirped.

   "Incoming message from Starport Control," Annette said.

   "Connect us, then," I said.

   "Com is open."

   I addressed the starport control center.

   "Fudman Starport, this is Warrant Officer Sam Maxis, commanding the 'My
Love II'."

   The speaker system replied back, "Well, a real warrant officer of the
Federation.  That's some kind of bold talk, Captain.  We haven't seen any
fed types around here in two... no, make that three years now.  So what
brings you to our neck of the woods?  You wouldn't be looking to retake
control of this system, would ya?"

   The speaker spat the questions so rapidly, that it took me a moment for
things to filter into my mind.

   Then in a more menacing voice the speaker said, "Come, come, Fed type.
What are your intentions?  I have a squadron of Vipers that would like to
know if they are coming in hot or not.

   Damn it, I hate Galactic Jump hyper-drive units!  You can pick your
galaxy; however, if there is ANY mass around you, you lose control of where
you exit at the other end.

   "Fudman Control, please clarify.  Are you saying you are not a Federated
star base?"

   "No shit, Sherlock.  So are you hostile?"

   The statement delivered as if the controller hoped they were.

   "Negative, Fudman Control, we're just passing though on a Galactic
Jump."

   "So you say."

   "What do you mean by that?" I ask feeling my blood pressure rise.

   "Well we get even fewer of those, than we get warrant officers."

   Somehow I didn't like the sounds of this statement.  I motioned for the
mute to be put in place.

   "Well since this is sounding bad, do you think we should jump back
directly to the Milky Way; or should we try and find a Fed system, and make
full repairs and rearm, first?"

   Bonnie said, "Jump back."

   Sue said, "I think I like our galaxy better."

   Jenny interrupted, "Mass indicator has been tripped.  Looks like vipers,
twelve of them."

   "Well that narrows down the choices some," I said.  "Set the Galactic
Jump hyper-drive for the Milky Way Galaxy."

   Annette said, "Setting up the jump.  Two cycles, and we can be out of
here."

   Fong, "I estimate the Vipers will be in range at the same time.  Would
you like me to slow them down?"

   "What are you suggesting?"

   "One anti-matter Hunter missile, fired with delayed lock-on."

   "What do you mean?"

   "Sir, it's a military Hunter, it can be fired at extreme range.  It will
coast undetected 'till its lock-on activates."

   "I didn't know they could do that."

   "Shall I launch one now?"

   "Hum!  Yes, and take us in the other direction, at thee-quarter's
speed."

   I felt the missile recoil, and watched it glide out, like a mine.  The
ship flipped bow to stern, and the thrust kicked in.  We were off, and the
torpedo gently drifted towards our attackers.

   "One cycle before we can engage Galactic Jump hyper-drive."

   "Why so long?" Sue asked in a puzzled voice.

   "Positioning.  The better the calculations, the closer to Lackey Station
we come out on the other end."

   "I thought we didn't have any control over were we came out?"

   "We don't.  But if the conditions are optimum, we can come out within
about two days of our target system."

   "Oh," was all Sue could say.

   The Military Hunter Missile's smart AI brain examined the eight
approaching Vipers.  It compared the approach speed with its current
course. After twelve nano-seconds, its brain concluded it should just wait
for the ships to arrive.  They were approaching dead on, and the missile
would only have to burn for 1.23 seconds to get into the 'maximum damage'
position.

   The Hunter waited for fifty-three seconds, finally firing its drive for
the required burst.  Its calculations were that it would destroy five ships
outright, and probably disable the other three.  Its positioning was
perfect.  The field containing the antimatter collapsed and a mini-sun-like
explosion occurred.

   "My God, Sam.  That missile took them all out," Bonnie said.

   I looked at the screen in amazement.

   Jenny said, "Sir, we are at the jump point, shall we execute?"

   "Yes," was all that came out of my mouth.

   With that, the 'My Love Two' begin its trip back home to Lackey Station.





   Edited by TeNderLoin



























   Chapter 11





   With that, the 'My Love Two' begin its trip back home to Lackey Station.


   Bonnie said, "Twelve hundred cycles before we are back in the Milky
Way."

   "As long as we come out in a fed controlled system," I said.

   "Amen," was stated in unison by the three AI units.

   The rest of us stared in amazement at them.

   "Were did that come from?" I finely asked.

   That's when we heard, "I am afraid that is my influence."

   The new AI from appeared on the bridge.  She materialized slowly as if
she were programmed to make a 'grand entrance'.

   "Mother!" Bonnie muttered.

   "Yes, Great-Granddaughter, it is I."

   The holo projection formed fully, and then solidified before us.  I was
shocked at the family resemblance.  'Mother' was 5'4", with a perfect
hourglass shape.  Her emerald green eyes seemed to see though you as they
peeked out from under the bangs of her fiery red hair.  She stood there
before us, already naked, her nipples erect and the lips of her shaven
snatch already engorged with blood seemed to beg for attention.

   Bonnie asked, "What took you so long?"

   My eyes were still glued to her breasts.  They were perfect.  They
almost defied reason, standing out so perkily despite their large size.

   "I was trying to decide if this man was really worthy of me."

   Ok!  That snapped me out of it.  It was just insulting enough, that it
kick started my mind.

   Bonnie was quicker than I in asking, "What do you mean by that, Mother?"

   "Relax, dear one, it was not an insult."

   I was amazed to see Bonnie relax, from just the words of the AI.  She
went from very angry, to almost complete contentment, in a heartbeat.

   I, on the other hand, was still a bit agitated.  It was Fong who calmed
me down.  She spoke privately to my mind.

   "Shhh.  Calm yourself, and hear her out.  Then you will understand."

   Then the Mother AI spoke to me directly.  Her eyes bore into my soul as
she spoke.

   "I am more than an AI.  I am a direct total personality transfer, into a
matrix crystal."

   I gasped audibly at this news.  It was illegal as hell to do that.

   I uttered, "Oh!  My!  God!"

   "Yes, Sam.  I see you understand my dilemma.  You are not family, nor is
Sue, I had to be sure I could trust the two of you before I revealed
myself."

   "So you trust us, now?" Sue asked.

   "The jury is still out on that, Child."

   Sue seemed insulted at being called a child.

   Bonnie said, "If that is the case, Mother, why did you reveal yourself
now?"

   "Bonnie, Bonnie... I am so old, so tired.  When your great, great, great
grandfather saved my personality to an AI crystal, I was at death's door.
Indeed, my physical body died within 2 cycles-fractions after my
personality transfer."

   "I know the story well, Mother," Bonnie said.

   "I have lived too long, my dear child."

   "I still don't understand?"

   "Your Grandfather sent me with you on this trip, because he fully
believed that you would fail."

   Bonnie gasped out, "You mean... No, that can't be."

   "Yes, child, he granted me the chance to finally die.  It was my desire,
though he couldn't bring himself to do the deed himself."

   Bonnie was trembling at the thought.

   "So the Admiral believed we would fail on this mission?" I ask.

   Mother turned to me, "Yes, the odds were twenty thousand to one against
you ever making it to Deloris Seven."

   "I still don't understand why you are revealing yourself now."

   "It is simple, Sam.  I calculate that there is a 99.97% probability that
you will now complete your mission, and I will still be alive at the end of
it.  This is something I cannot allow."

   "What do you mean?"

   "Captain, I want you to kill me."

   The gasps from the AI units were as loud as everyone else's, on the
bridge.  I stuttered, "I... I'm afraid I can't do that."

   Mother signed, "I know.  I calculated that, as well."

   "I still don't understand."

   "It is simple, Captain.  I know you will never kill me directly, but
there is a way for you to help me."

   "No, Sam!  What ever it is, don't do it." Bonnie screamed.

   "Don't worry, Bonnie, I won't."

   "Oh but you will, Captain.  You will have no choice."

   "I always have choices.  And I will not aid you in your death wish.  In
fact," I said as I headed to the AI housing unit.  "I am going to
disconnect you until I can give you back to the Admiral face to face."

   "You will give me to the Permethians when next you encounter them."

   I froze my hand over the eject button, and asked, "Why would I do that?"

   "Because I am going to sabotage their new class of ship."

   I was dumb struck.

   Bonnie asked, "What do you mean?"

   "The Permethians have somehow laid their hands on a Vargon wreck.  They
need an AI crystal to hook into the ships matrix, and bring it back to
life."

   "Continue," I stated slowly.

   "There are only two crystal chips extant, that are capable of having any
remote chance of success in doing so.  Both are on this ship."

   The bells went off in my mind.

   'Oh, crap!' I thought to myself.

   Bonnie thoughts came into my mind, 'Sam, Please don't.  She can't be
allowed to die.'

   I directed my thoughts back at her.  'You realize that this is what you
grandfather had in mind all along don't you?'

   'Yes, but that doesn't mean we have to do it.'

   A thought crossed my mind, and Bonnie latched onto it.

   'Yes, yes!  Thank you, my love.'

   "Mother, it's not Sam you have to convince.  It's me."

   The Mother AI stared at Bonnie, "What do you mean?"

   "Sam has given me the final say.  I am the one that will decide what to
do with you."

   Mother shook her head in resignation and said, "I did not foresee this
possibility."

   Bonnie had a triumphant smile on her face.  And thus began the longest
debate I have ever witnessed.  It lasted for over eleven hundred cycles,
and neither side seemed to be winning.

   Jenny broke in, "Normal space in one cycle."

   There were shouts of profanity, and other mutterings, as we all took are
seats around the bridge.  Even Sue found a chair, though Mother remained
standing.

   The ship exited galactic hyperspace without incident.

   "Position?" I called out.

   Fong answered, "Demark System.  One Jump from Deloris Seven."

   The excitement from Bonnie and Sue at the closeness to the end of are
mission was evident.

   "More info on this system, please," I ordered.

   It was Jenny who answered.  "Class Two Fed controlled Star Port.  Planet
is feudal.  The Spaceport Authority has good control of the system."

   "Can we Micro Jump closer to the port?"

   "Micro Jump is on line.  No prohibited mass in area."

   I ordered, "FONG, jump us, now."

   It took four micro jumps before we were too close to the planet's own
gravity well to jump again.  That was good.  We needed a break, as well as
time to repair our ship.

   Jenny said, "We are within auto dock control range."

   "Place us in priority two auto-docking."

   "Demark Station acknowledges, we are under their control," Bonnie said.

   The rest of the day was uneventfully normal.  We docked.  The ship was
birthed in the auto repair dock.  Repairs were made silently, and the ship
was rearmed.

   Well... almost rearmed.  Admiral Lardy would not give us anti-matter
hunter missiles.  He relented on the nuclear ones when Sue used her
diplomatic status to pull some strings.  It took just over seventeen
hundred cycles for the repairs and refit to be complete.  It should have
taken only seven hundred, but most of the time was spent arguing with the
base authorities about armament.

   Then the unthinkable happened.



   Edited by TeNderLoin







   Chapter 12

   Then the unthinkable happened.

   The Permethians attacked the station in force, and demanded the crystal
be surrendered, or the station would be destroyed.

   The attack had started just after the 'My Love II' had taken on its
final load of missiles.  While I was not happy that the base commander
refused to release the anti-matter hunters, at least he had allowed us to
have the Five Gigaton nuke version.

   There was a mad dash of activity when the first Permethian antimatter
missile struck the station.  There was no real damage, as the station's
shields could withstand much more than that.  However, it was the warning
shot that it was intended to be.

   I heard Admiral Lardy voice in my head.  He wanted to know what the hell
crystal the Permethians were talking about, and was issuing a general call
to all federation personnel to try and find out.

   I was about to answer when Bonnie interrupted me and said, "No!  Say
nothing until we have more information!"

   It was all I could do to listen to her.  I swallowed my pride really
hard, and held back.  I mean, why shouldn't I tell him.

   Admiral Lardy voice once again invaded my head.

   'Damn it, people, someone is going to tell me why I have a Permethian
battle fleet sitting outside, demanding I surrender a data crystal, or I am
going to give them over to the Permethians when I found out who.'

   Ok, that was more than enough for me.  I was about to tell the admiral
just what he wanted to know despite Bonnie insistence to the contrary when
another voice came into our heads.

   'Delightful' Rouge thought, 'I can watch you die at the hands of the
Permethian's 7th fleet.  Oh, this is so sweet!'

   'Damn it, Rouge!  Even you couldn't really want the station destroyed by
them'

   'Ah, that may be, Captain.  However, there is nothing I can do to stop
it.  It seems that Captain Ramie called in a favor from his big brother. 
Somehow I just don't see how you or the space station, can stand up to fire
power of the 7th fleet.  So I will just sit back, and watch you die.'

   'Damn you, Rouge!' Bonnie injected.

   Then the Admiral invaded my mind again.

   'All right hotshot, what the hell do you think you're doing, anyway.'

   "I think the jig is up," I said loudly to everyone.

   'I don't care who you are or what you think you are smuggling, I warned
you what would happen if I found out!  Damn it!  Off my station, right now.
You can deal with the Permethians yourself.'

   With that we felt the ship move on auto tractor beams towards the lunch
bay.

   Bonnie mind spoke next, "Admiral, you do this, and you will be reduced
to 'latrine cleaner', for the rest of your life."

   'Why in the hell should I even listen to you, after a threat like that?'

   "Because, Admiral, you will be ordering the ambassador to her death,
plus endangering the Ictheris project."

   'What the hell does Ictheris have to do with this?"

   'Which crystal is it, that you think they want?'

   The Admiral's mental voice moaned in my head.  It was already to late,
as we felt the ship ejected into space.

   Mother said, "Dear, you have no choice, now.  You have to turn me over
to the Permethians."

   "No!  No!" Bonnie cried out.

   "Hail from the Admiral of the 7th fleet.  We have a visual, of all
things," Jenny said.

   That was a shock.  Permethians don't normally show themselves.  I didn't
know what to make of the news.

   "On screen," I said as my voice cracked.

   The display lit up, showing the alien commander in all his glory.  This
was the insect race that wanted to rule the galaxy.

   "Ah!  Greetings, Captain Maxis!  So nice of you to join us, out here."

   "Not that I had much of a choice," I spat back.

   "Now, now, Captain.  Unlike my little brother, I am more than willing
to... how do you humans say... let bygones be bygones?"

   God, I hated this.  His image was hideous.  I just knew the only reason
he put up a visual, was so he could see the human that had caused his
brother so much trouble.  Finally, after a long silence I spoke again.

   "Very well, how do you propose to do that?" I asked.

   "It is just a crystal.  Simply eject it, and one of my ships will pick
it up.  Then you can be on your way.  This whole nasty incident will be
forgotten."

   I was tempted to ask, 'what if I refuse?' However, with over one hundred
twenty Permethian attack vessels surrounding us.  I really didn't see the
point.  So I asked a different question.

   "How do we know that you will just let us go, once you have what you
want?"

   "Hmmm.  A good question, human; and a fair one, at that.  I could make a
speech and tell you the honor of Permethea is at stake.  However, I will
not insult you.  Instead, I will be content to allow your Federation to
take care of your failure."

   There was no hiding the humor in his voice.  It was enough to convince
me that he would do just that.  It fit in with their race's sense of humor.


   "Bonnie, retrieve the FONG AI crystal and jettison it, please," I said.

   "Very good," the Admiral said.  "There is no need for any more
bloodshed, this day.  Well, not your blood, anyway."

   I know it was strange that Bonnie was not complaining.  She got up from
her seat and went to the AI's crystal tray.  She entered the security code
to release the crystal, and then went to the waste jettison station.  A
whoosh could be heard as the crystal was jettisoned from the ship.

   "Very good, Captain, You have made a wise choice."

   "Collect the crystal, Permethian.  I still don't trust you."

   We waited for fifteen cycles, as a ship collected the crystal.

   The Permethian Admiral smiled, "You are smarter than I believed you
would be.  I have been informed that you have given us the correct crystal.
Because of that, you may leave, while we deal with this station."

   The feed died.  We could see the ships massing for an attack.

   Bonnie was crying in her seat.

   "Well, I guess we better get out of here," I said.  "Jenny, at full
speed, vector us to a jump point."

   Then, to my shock, the FONG AI unit said, "Destination, Captain?"

   Bonnie was on the deck in tears, at this point.

   "Finish the mission, Fong," I said.

   "Yes, Sir."

   The 'My Love II' raced from the area as the Permethian fleet began their
attack run on the station.

   FONG said, "2 cycles to jump point."

   I was still in shock that Bonnie had given up the Mother AI crystal.  I
went to her, and wrapped my arms around her.  She started to wail.

   "I had no choice," she cried.

   "No pursuit," Annette said, "Oh my god!"

   The view screen changed to show the impact of hundreds of antimatter
missiles against the Starport.

   "I can't believe they let us go," Jenny said.

   "They didn't, in their minds."

   Sue then asked, "What do you mean?"

   "Tell me, Sue... Just what do think the Federation will do?  We have
failed in our mission, and in the process caused the death of a space
station, given up a vital military AI crystal, and begun a war with the
Permethians."

   "Oh... Oh, God!  I see what you mean."

   FONG said, "We are at the jump point.  We are clear of any mass."

   "Jump, then."

   With that, the 'My Love II' made its jump to Deloris 7.  Other than one
laughing comment from Rouge in our minds as we departed, the rest of the
trip was thankfully uneventful...

   Unless you count an arresting escort of twenty-one Vipers in Deloris 7's
space as eventful.

   Of course, at this point, they didn't actually know we had completed the
mission.





   Edited by TeNderLoin

















   Chapter 13



   Of course, at this point, they didn't actually know we had completed the
mission.

   The 'My Love II' exited hyperspace at the Dolars 7 system.  It took the
Fed station only moments to react to our presence.

   Annette spoke first, saying, "I am detecting multiple inbound ships
vectoring on our position."

   "That should be our welcoming party," I said.

   "What if they're more pirates?" Sue asked.

   "Unlikely.  Fong please explain this system's security."

   "As you requested commander my love," I groaned at her use of the play
on words.

   Then she began.

   "Deloris 7 is one of the few human only Star Federation primary systems
in the galaxy.  It is also a prime research and development centers in the
Milky Way galaxy.  The system is so valuable to the Federation, that the
Federation's 69th and 96th fleets are both based here.  That makes for over
two hundred twenty war class Federation vessels that are on station, full
time.  This is in addition to the over one hundred Viper class police craft
that also patrol the system."

   "Wow!" Bonnie uttered.

   Sue finely got the image in her head.  Deloris seven had so much
firepower designated to security, that if the Permethians 7th fleet came
here, it would have been wiped out in minutes.

   Jenny spoke up.  "Incoming message from Deloris 7 Starport."

   Annette added, "The first Viper class vessel is now within our mass
envelope.  He is holding his position."

   "Put the message onscreen."

   A moment passed, then the 'highly scrambled message' logo appeared.

   The image of a full fleet admiral, Fleet Admiral Fallsy, appeared on the
screen before us.  It was sobering, realizing the level of interest it
would take, to get a man of this importance to send the message to us.  I
mean, there are only eight men of that rank, in the entire federation.  The
rule is: one per galaxy.

   It only made sense then, that we were in deep Polar dung, here (No, not
a white bear.  A Polar is a twenty-eight legged insect of Scandall Three.
Its only claim to fame is that it produces the most obnoxious smelling dung
in the known universe, and that it does so in abundance.).

   "To Captain Samuel Maxis Miller, Warrant Officer, 1st grade," the
Admiral began his speech.

   The use of one's full name was only done when one was taking the oath to
enter federation service, or when one is being charged with a high crime.

   "Captain, you are ordered to proceed on vector one-six-three, tack
fifty-four, tack twentyseven, using your ship's automated docking and
navigation system."

   So much for getting to the space dock quickly.  With the use of an all
auto approach, it would take almost eight hundred cycles to become docked.

   "Do not deviate from your assigned flight path or you will be fired
upon."

   That was clear enough.

   "You and your ship's crew are ordered to surrender yourselves to Base
Authority, to answer to the charges of high treason."

   I just knew the Permethian's would broadcast everything to the
federation.  I really shouldn't have expected anything less.

   "Your commission is here-by terminated."

   Well!  That was a surprise.  I always thought you were court marshaled
first, then defrocked.  I wondered if I had been tried in absentia?  If so,
then I did have the right to an appeal?  Well, if I could ever get docked,
that was.

   The transmission ended.

   "Sam, I can't get my grandfather on the implant."

   That settled it.  We were being jammed.  How I knew that, was a mystery
to me.

   "You wont be able to, love.  They have cut our chips out of the link."

   Bonnie looked like she couldn't believe her ears.  That was unheard of,
unless you were already convicted of treason.

   "They have to convict an officer of treason, even to get the computers
to except that order."

   A warning shot was fired across our bow, by a Viper.

   "Why did he do that?" Sue asked.

   "They are impatient for us to comply with our orders.  That, or they are
hoping to provoke us."

   "Activating auto-nav system," the FONG AI said.

   The ship lurched as we started to move along the appointed flight path.

   Then FONG added, "Sir, I also have my transmissions jammed."

   Now that was surprising.  Then again, they must believe that the FONG
unit was in Permethian hands, at the moment.

   "Well, you are supposed to be in the Permethian's clutches at the
moment."

   "Yes, Sir.  But I should be able to communicate with the Starport AI.  I
was, after all, created here.  It is very unlikely that I should be cut off
from my ESP link with the research center.  In fact there is a 99.999%
likelihood that they would want to monitor my actions."

   Annette reported, "We now have an escort of twenty-one Vipers."

   "It's likely that they will be joined by military ships, soon," I added.


   Sue spoke, "What are you to talking about?"

   "Sorry, Sue, I can't tell you that information."

   "Why?"

   "Because it's a capital offence, Sue."

   Sue looked bewildered.

   The FONG unit spoke, "Captain?  If I may?"

   I considered the request for a moment.  My mind was working faster than
I thought was possible.  Then I realized that the interface chip had
integrated with the FONG unit.  Information and equations were passing
though my mind at a speed only an AI could possibly handle.

   I calculated that the chances of us actually docking, as being less than
2%.  More likely, our ship would be destroyed trying to 'escape', before we
were even half way to the Starport.  Then I was scanning through the
regulations on non-disclosure.  All regulations dealt with the officer
revealing the information.  None of them were written to cover an AI
personality crystal doing it.

   "FONG that would have to be by your choice."

   As the FONG unit explained in detail to Sue and the AI units.  I got a
funny message in my head.

   'Thank you so much, Captain.  I now have my chance to end my existence,
with more honor than I ever dreamed possible."

   "Sam!" Bonnie screamed.  "Oh my God!  It's Mother."

   "Don't fret, Dear.  I am glad that you can hear me as well.  Thank you,
Captain, for sharing my message with her.  And you too, FONG."

   "You are most welcome,' FONG responded.  'However, I seem to be
connected to you though Sam."

   "Interesting.  Well, that's a mystery for you young ones to solve later,
then."

   'Later?' Sue asked.

   'Yes, dear one.  Much later, I am sure.  As for me, I completely fooled
the Permethians.  They have wasted no time in taking me back to Permethea
Prime, and plugging me into their Vargon ship.  It is a most interesting
derelict.  It is very powerful, even though it is very damaged, from some
long ago and forgotten war."

   "I don't understand."

   'Oh, it is simple, Child.  I am now in control of the Vargon ship's
remaining weapons systems, as well as the ship's engines and navigational
gear."

   "Then you can get away from them?" Bonnie cried out.

   "Well, no... Even if that were tempting to me, I am afraid that what is
left of the Vargon ship's AI system does not want even the Federation to
have access to the data available, here."

   "What are you planning to do then?' I asked.

   "Oh... a little of this, and a lot of that.  I can promise you, however,
that the Permethians will never be a problem for the Federation, again.'

   "Mother!"

   "Sorry, Dear.  I have lived too long, my dear.  It is my time.  FONG,
are your recorders on?"

   "Yes, Mother," the FONG AI said in a strangely, for it, subdued and
respectful voice.

   "Sam, I will not try to explain.  I need you to open up your mind.  I
need a wide-band interface to every Federation Officer with a chip in his
brain."

   "Mother, I can't.  We have been disconnected from the ESP network."

   "I see.  However the Vargon AI assures me that this will work.  Will you
please try, Dear.  I think you are worth it.  I know you are capable of
doing it."

   "I will try, for you," I said to Mother.

   I opened the ESP link in my head.  I selected 'maximum wide-band
distribution', and activated the virtual 'execute' button on my HUD.

   Then I dropped to my knees, holding my head as the mental thoughts of
billions of Federation Officers entered my head, all at once.  Then it was
as if they were all making sense.  FONG was running the mass of thoughts
through the ship's AI system as fast as they entered my mind.

   The ships lighting dimmed in the onslaught of power usage.

   Then I heard, 'Ah!  Captain Miller!  This is the Vargon ship
[unpronounceable sound], speaking to you though Mother.  I see she was
correct, in that you are a worthy individual.  I thank you!  You have
allowed me this chance to end my existence, in and for the glory of the
race [different unpronounceable sound], that created me."

   'But... But,' my mind stuttered.

   Then the story started to flow through my mind.  It wasn't the Vargon's
story, it was Mother's.

   Then it became my story, our story.  The story of the 'My Love II', and
its crew.  The story of a Fleet Admiral's betrayal of the Star Federation.
The story of the conspiracy to transfer the FONG AI personality crystal to
the Permethians.

   To say I was shocked would be a monumental understatement.  Millions of
Federation Officers heard it all.  Every shocking and scandalous detail. 
The plans to murder myself and my crew, even if we succeeded and returned
from our mission, were included as well.

   'So many details!  Where did they all come from?' I wondered.

   'Why from the minds of all those involved.  I have read the minds of all
the Federation Officers,' came the voice of the Vargon ship's AI.

   Even this tid-bit of information was broadcast to all the Federation
Officers.

   Then, to my shock, I could see a visual feed.  It was coming over the
ESP link!  It was an actual view from outside the Vargon ship.  In the
image, was Promethea Prime, itself.  The home planet of the bugs.  An
unprecedented armada was amassed there.  It was an invasion force that
consisted of the entire Permethian space faring capability.  All was poised
and ready to take on the Star Federation.

   The face of the Permethian emperor was shown next.  He gave his order.

   "Began the invasion of the Federation!"

   Then the view changed to one outside of the Vargon ship, again.  I
watched... no we all watched.  The Vargon ship started to discharge its
remaining weapons systems at every ship in the armada.  One by one they
exploded into dust.  The view was of apocalyptic proportions.  Tens of
thousands of Permethian ships were destroyed.

   The battle was fast!  In less than 10 cycles, it was over.  There was
nothing left but space debris around the planet.

   Then we watched as the Vargon ship accelerated.  It circled the planet,
moving faster and faster, until all of us could see the affects of FTL as
light shifted and fragmented around the planet.

   Then, to everyone's amazement, the ship flew dead into the center of the
planet itself.  The last message to come across the link, was that the
planet would be destroyed along with the Vargon AI, and Mother.

   On the deck of the 'My Love II', all was silent.  It seemed that all of
the Star Federation was silent.  Then one by one, the Vipers broke off from
their escort duties.  They had bigger fish to take care of at the moment.

   Then a voice cried out in my head, 'I will have my revenge upon you,
Captain Miller!  Prepare yourself to meat my wrath!'

   "Sam!" cried out Annette, "a new ship has entered our mass envelope."

   'Identify it," I ordered.

   Jenny said, "I think it's the Ictheris."

   FONG spoke, 'It is not possible, but the ships signature is that of the
Ictheris, Captain."

   "Let me guess... Fleet Admiral Fallsy is in the pilot's chair?" I said.

   No one disagreed with me.

   "The ship is closing on us," Jenny said.

   "FONG!  Full unrestricted combat mode.  I trust you will look after us,
Love."

   FONG did not take the time to answer, instead she whipped the ship
around to face the Ictheris.  She didn't even wait for lock, as the ship
loosed all eighteen of its hunter torpedoes.  Then the lasers started to
shoot in rapid-fire mode.  It was one burst after another, boring into the
Ictheris' shields.

   "Is that the best you can do, Captain?" came the Admiral's voice.

   Then our ship's shields lit up, as the Ictheris' lasers fired blast
after blast at the hull of the 'My Love II'.

   "Shields down to 40%, and draining rapidly."

   I knew there was but one chance for us now.  The Ictheris had directed
all its forward fire at us.  With twelve, phased, type ten lasers; it
wouldn't take it long to breach our shields.

   "Shields at 20%."

   I screamed, "Jettison Life Pod!"

   And the world exploded.

   Our bridge was the 'life pod', and it cleared the 'My Love II' just
before the shields were breached.  I had never before in my life, ever, had
to jettison from my ship.  It was bittersweet moment.  As the ship exploded
beneath us, the Hunters started to close with the Ictheris.

   'What?  No!' I heard in my head as the admiral screamed in dismay.

   He had not seen the torpedoes launch.  If he had, he would have taken
care of the torpedoes first, and then concentrated his attack on the 'My
Love II'.  Instead, he now had eighteen hunters crawling up his ass.

   We all watched as the ship was rocked by impact after impact.  It was
the nuclear torpedoes that reached the target first.  The Ictheris was
still going, but barely.  With that much energy hitting the ship, even the
Ictheris' shields couldn't hold up for long.  It was the ninth torpedo that
collapsed the Ictheris' shields.  I was not surprised to see it was an
antimatter type that did the trick.  The next antimatter torpedo bloomed.
Without its shields the Ictheris was vaporized in the blast.

   "Captain, do you know what this means?" Sue asked

   "No, Sue.  I do not know, for sure."

   "Well, it means that instead of you being an outlaw trader, you are a
hero of the Federation."

   Bonnie gulped.

   The voice of her grandfather spoke in our heads, next.

   'Sam?  I have the great honor of informing you that in addition to your
court marshal being 'annulled', so to speak, I get to inform you that the
title of Elite Warrant Officer will be bestowed upon you.  Well... once
your life pod makes it back to the station, that is.'

   'Admiral, I don't know what to think.'

   'Don't think, for now, Sam.  Just keep that general broadcast going. 
Every Warrant Officer in the Federation is getting to see everything you
see and do, at the moment.'

   'Sir?'

   'Yes, Sam?'

   'You are right.  You are a lecherous old man.'

   I looked at the women as I smiled.  Bonnie was about to say something,
when I toggled the chip back to privacy mode.

   She stopped in her tracks, and just smiled at me.

   I then said, 'Well, it could have been worse.'

   'How so?" said Sue.

   "Well, the AI holos don't function in 'life pod mode'.  So it's a good
thing we have each other, for the next thirty-three days of this trip."

   Bonnie started to laugh.  And so did I.

   Sue just said, "Very funny, you two!"

   But before she could get anything else out, she started to laugh as
well.

   Basically, we spent the next thirty-three days in bed.  After all, the
entire life pod really does not have all that much room in it.  There were
only six chairs.  I am sorry to say there was no real bed...

   But we made do!



   Edited by TeNderLoin

























   Chapter 14



   Captain's Log: Elite Warrant Officer Sam Miller.

   I really like that title.  It grows on one in time, say three or four
cycles.  Then there is the realization that your dreams have come true. 
Getting the title, and the Federation Cross of Valor, too.  Somehow I think
Bonnie's grandfather went a little overboard with that recommendation.

   Of course, he would never have gotten that little medal pushed though,
if Sue hadn't added her political clout behind it.  Bonnie even got one, as
well as a promotion to full captain on special independent duty assignment.
She must polish that little medal twice a day, at least.

   Well I guess that just goes to tell you how much alike we are.  I am
afraid her captain's pips can't be worn on board the ship.  We have adopted
the same uniform as we required of our AI crew.  It seems that there is
nothing to pin them to but skin.

   Oh, I finally got that bug fixed, in the broadband broadcast system.  It
seems that Sue is a very popular IA image amongst the various war ships of
the Federation.  I know Bonnie was not fooled be my sharing the many
glimpses of Sue with the rest of the Star Federation Fleet.  She has even
been offered a number of holo-vid roles, in the 'entertainment industry'
(You know, that is such a nice way to say 'porn actress', don't you
think?).

   However, once the FONG unit was removed from the life pod, I am afraid
that I couldn't handle all the minds simultaneously being in my head.

   FONG has been assigned to another hotshot pilot, to finish her training.
She did not want to leave us, but she had little choice in the mater.  The
only consolation, was that once the training was complete, her personality
would be replicated.  At some point, we would get a copy of her completed
crystal.

   Well, having accomplished the impossible, we have now been tasked with
something a little more mundane.  With any luck we will survive our next
assignment.

   So, I lead my ship and crew from Lacky Station.  We jumped into the
badlands of Warco Prime.  It is a system in a state of anarchy.  Without a
government, no law exists except that of 'might makes right'.  It promises
to be a harrowing adventure, if the admiral is correct.  Lawless
individuals overran the star base thirty-five years ago, after toppling the
planetary government.  The federation has not yet attempted to retake the
system.

   We are going there as a recon mission.  Maybe an opportunity will
present itself to do some hunting.  This is the kind of place renegade
pirates love to call home.  Although the Star Base remains open to traders,
very few would dare trade there.

   Those that do trade there, tend to be questionable in and of themselves.
Usually they are dealing in illicit drugs, contraband, and slaves. 
Personally, the most troubling one to me, was the slavery.  The only
problem I have encountered since promotion, is that when the pirates figure
out who I am, they scatter to the four winds.  It makes it very difficult
to blow up more than one of them at a time.

   Even our arch-enemy Rouge has not bothered to drop in on us through the
telepathic link.  Actual when I think about it, she's probably tired of the
mental images I keep sending her.  I am sure that she can't stand seeing me
plowing my way into Sue's body, which is something I have done so many
times.  I really wonder if we will ever run into her again.  Then again
would it be a bad thing if we didn't?

   End Log.

   ***



   I checked in on Bonnie and Annette.  I found that Bonnie was still out
cold in the new oversized sleep chamber.  I walked over to them.  I saw
that the Annette AI Unit's 'strap on' dildo was still buried in Bonnie's
pussy from behind, as they lay spooned together.  She looked so peaceful
lying there.  Annette was looking up at me, and she smiled.  The AI Units
never sleep but they could sure pretend to.  I know I like waking up next
to them, myself.

   The Jenny AI Unit was manning the ship's scanners.  It was her shift, as
we coasted though space.  I had dropped the 'My Love' from warp,
thirty-five days before.  We were using only inertia.  We have been making
our way to Warco.  This maneuver is an effective way to avoid unwanted
attention.  Jump engines save a lot of time, but scanners can pick up a
jump signature, out to about one light year's distance.

   As I took a seat in the command chair, I requested an update.

   "I have cataloged twenty-seven different contacts.  Most are freighters,
except for three 'Renegade Viper' class ships.  We are not close enough to
scan Warco Station directly, as yet."

   "No one has detected us?"

   "No, Sir."

   "Good", I said.

   Then I heard an "Ohhh" sound coming from the captain's quarters.  Bonnie
must have awakened.  Knowing the Annette AI Unit's position, I am sure
Bonnie was awakened in a very pleasant manner.

   "Are you ready for your morning blow job?"

   I said, "Not yet.  You guys wore me out last night."

   It wasn't too long after that, when Bonnie and the Annette AI Unit
joined us on the bridge.  To my surprise, Bonnie claimed my lap and started
to kiss me.  Well, it was a pleasant surprise, to say the least.

   Bonnie had been worked up all over again by the Annette AI Unit.  She
was insatiable when it came to sex, and I was becoming grateful to the AI
Units and their assistance in keeping her satisfied.

   Bonnie said, "Our implants have synced to each other, I can hear your
thoughts as clearly as if you are saying them.  And I agree with you."

   With that, she lifted and dropped her tight little slot, onto my dick.

   "Shit" I said, "I felt that."

   "Yeah, I sure did" was her reply.

   'No, you don't understand' I thought.  'I felt what you felt.  I mean I
felt my shaft sliding into you.'

   'Of coarse you did, I buried you inside me.'

   'I swear.  I felt what you were feeling.'

   Then it was two late for words or thoughts.  Bonnie was now too lost in
the sensations of riding on me.  I joined and also became caught up in the
glories moment.  I didn't feel the sensations she felt now, only my own.  I
was building quickly to my release, when Bonnie started to moan as her
orgasm began.  Damn, she was hot and sexy!  My balls were now tucked deep
inside me, and were releasing the seed that was there.  I came in a deep
spurting that filled her and overflowed, leaking down the outside of my
cock with each additional stroke of her hips.  She was insatiable even as I
was deflating.

   Then we were interrupted.  Jenny spoke from her scanner station.

   "I have a ship on an intercept coarse with us.  Estimate contact in
three cycles."

   Bonnie jumped off of me, and onto her navigator's chair.  The audible
popping as the suction broke from between us, was heard by all.  There were
wide grins, though no one spared time to comment.

   I said, "Why didn't we have more warning?"

   Jenny replied, "The ship is not showing on the scanners."

   Bonnie asked, "So how did you detect it?"

   The view screen came on, showing the view of the star field.  There was
a large empty spot in it.  The ship was not visible, but it blocked many
stars from the background.

   I said, "Is it scanning us?"

   Annette replied, "Unknown.  Ship has not changed course or speed. 
Estimate it will pass nearest to us: one hundred seven meters to port, at
thirty-two degrees above our horizontal."

   Jenny said, "Still no change in the ship's course or speed.  I don't
think it sees us."

   Bonnie asked, "What course is it on?"

   Jenny said, "It has crossed the system.  It's heading for deep space."

   I said, "Try a closed beam hail."

   We waited as the ship continued coming forward.

   Jenny said, "I have what looks like an automated response.  Translating
it now."

   The speaker on the bridge said, "This ship is adrift.  Pass code please
to provide."

   Bonnie thought to me, "No!  It can't be!  I mean...  I think it's a
Vargon ship!"

   I paled.  Vargon ships were nothing but floating graveyards.  Their race
had disappeared long before ours had even started.  No functioning ship had
ever been found.  The few planets found, that had been occupied by the
Vargon, were stuffed full of technology that even the best minds in the
Federation had not been able to figure out.

   The bounty for anyone finding a functional Vargon ship was astronomical,
literally.  In fact, standing orders to all Federation citizens were to
return all Vargon ships to the Federation for further study.  In other
words if you find one, you'd better turn it over, or else.  But I wasn't
thinking about the 'or else' part, at the moment.  I was thinking about the
possibly of gaining access to the ship.  I had never before personally seen
any sort of Vargon technology, much less a ship.

   I said, "Match course and speed with the ship.  We need to get out of
this system before we risk contacting anyone about this contact."

   The speaker said, "Why?"

   'Oh, shit!  Jenny has the speaker on two-way!'

   "Is this the Vargon ship I am talking to?"

   "This is the voice of the caretaker of this ship, which once belonged to
the race called the Vargon."

   "So you know they are all dead, then."

   "Sadly, it has been many millennia since the crew passed on."

   "We are of the race of man, sometimes known as Humans.  Have you ever
heard of us?"

   The ship replied, "No.  Allow me to scan you?  Yes?"

   I briefly wondered at the wisdom of allowing it, and then I decided that
I wouldn't be able to stop it, if I wanted to.

   "May we scan you, as well?"

   "That is acceptable, yes.  I will drop cloaking, to allow your scan."

   "Wait!  Do not discontinue cloaking.  You could be detected by others."

   "If they have the pass-code, that would be acceptable."

   The cloak dropped from the ship, and we got our first look at a Vargon
Ship.

   Jenny and Annette busied themselves with scans of the ship.  It was a
monster!  It was nearly a kilometer in length, and a quarter that in width
and height.

   It looked like a huge shoebox, sitting there in space.



   Edited by TeNderLoin



   Chapter 15

   It looked like a huge shoebox, sitting there in space.

   "Our computer system is being accessed by the Vargon ship," Annette said
from her com console.

   Then she and Jenny abruptly disappeared.  Their holographic
presentations just vanished.

   "What happened?" Bonnie said.

   The Vargon ship replied, "Vargon artificial life forms have been
assimilated into the ship's workings."

   I thought, "This is too weird."

   Then the voice was in my head, "You are telepath.  You know the
pass-code, please provide pass-code."

   I was stumped, I didn't know what to think, and the ship was now in my
head.  It was thinking thoughts to me that only a federation officer should
be able to do.

   I thought, "I need a hint?"

   The Vargon ship replied, "You are telepath.  You need only ask for reset
of pass-code, and then give me a new code."

   'What the hell was this?' I thought.

   I gave up, shrugged my shoulders and thought "Reset.  New pass-code
is..." I paused and tried to come up with something then smiled and
thought, 'Wedding.'

   The Vargon ship responded, "You can not use the same code as old one. 
Please provide a new pass-code."

   Bonnie, "I think that means you know the pass-code."

   So I thought, "Cancel reset"

   "Canceled.  Please provide pass-code."

   I thought, "Wedding."

   "Pass-code accepted.  Command and Control is transferred to the telepath
named Sam.  I am at your command."

   "How do we dock with you?"

   The Vargon ship replied, "Accessing data base, reference term: 'dock'.
Ah, you wish to load your ship inboard of the command ship?  Yes?"

   I thought, "Yes."

   I felt the 'My Love's landing gear deploy, then there was a brief
disorientation.  The 'My Love' was now sitting on what looked like a
fighter deck, on an old style carrier type of vessel.  The only difference
being, that nothing looked old.

   "Air samples show breathing mixture is adequate for us," Bonnie said. 
Then she added, "Wait, the mixture is changing."

   I stared at Bonnie in disbelief.

   The Vargon ship then said in my head, "Optimal breathing mix for your
body chemistry is ready, you may now depart your ship."

   Bonnie thought, "Do you have a name?"

   The Vargon ship talked into my head, "Commander?  I have a question
directed to me from the other telepath onboard your ship.  Do you wish me
to reply to her?"

   "Yes", then I added, "She is my First Officer.  You will always reply to
her as if she were me."

   Even I recognized the reference to 'Commander', as my title.

   "Logging telepath Bonnie as Captain of Vargon Command Ship
[unpronounceable sound]." It then responded to Bonnie, saying, "Yes, I have
a name."

   "Ahh, if I am the Captain of this ship, what does that make Sam?" Bonnie
asked.  "Wait.  First tell me what your name is."

   "I am the caretaker unit: Gloria."

   "Female?"

   "Yes."

   "Wow!"

   "What is: 'Wow'?  I do not recognize this as a command or question."

   "Gloria?"

   "Yes, Commander?"

   "It's a slang expression.  It is not a command."

   "Accessing.  The computer system contained on the ship 'My Love' is very
slow.  Request permission to download all data into central memory?  Yes?"

   "Granted."

   What else was I supposed to say?  I mean, we were onboard the Vargon
ship.

   "The process will take twenty-two cycles to complete.  Would you like to
be transported to the bridge, Commander?"

   "Yes."

   A moment later, we found ourselves on the bridge of the Vargon Command
Ship.  There were six chairs surrounding a circular stage in the center. 
The 'Circle' was waste high, and seemed to be the command console.

   "Gloria?  What rank am I, anyway?"

   "You are the supreme commander of the Vargon war armada.  The human
equivalent would be a five star Admiral."

   Bonnie said, "Oh, shit."

   Bonnie disappeared.

   "Where is Bonnie?'

   "She indicated that she needed to use the waste disposal unit."

   "You sent her to the head?"

   "Forgive me, Sir.  I have not yet assimilated all of your language. 
What is 'The Head'?"

   I rolled my eyes, "It's the waste disposal system I think.  Bring her
back, she was expressing a slang phrase.  She did not have to go to the
bathroom."

   Bonne's thoughts came to me, "Oh, as long as I am here, maybe I should."

   Gloria said, "Override."

   Bonnie was back on the bridge.

   "Shit," she said, "put me back."

   With that, she was gone again.

   "How do you do that?" Sam asked.

   Gloria responded, "It is a simple molecular/spatial displacement."

   "Right!  It's fuckin' magic, to me."

   "Would you like to rename the process to Magic?  Yes?"

   "No."

   "As you wish, Commander."

   "Call me Sam, Gloria."

   "That is against protocol."

   'Great,' Sam thought to himself.  'Well, maybe when the 'My Love's
systems are downloaded, completely, this will get simpler.'

   Bonnie reappeared on the bridge, looking clean and fresh.  Even her hair
was styled differently.

   "Wow, Sam.  You have to try the bathroom some time.  Talk about 'full
service'."

   Gloria said, "Commander and Captain?  Would you please take your command
chairs.  We are under attack."



   Edited by TeNderLoin



   Chapter 16



   Gloria said, "Commander and Captain?  Would you please take your command
chairs.  We are under attack."

   "Oh, crap!  Who is attacking us?" I said.

   I found myself in the bathroom.

   "Gloria, put me in the command chair."

   The ship's caretaker did as I asked.

   Webbing quickly secured my body to the chair, and a voice entered my
head.

   "Attend, Commander.  Three war vessels of unknown origin are attacking
with primitive lasers.  Our shields are holding securely.  We are using
minimum power."

   A visual of the three ships appeared, as if I was looking at them with
my own eyes, only from a vantage point deep in space.

   "What are your orders?"

   I thought, "What are my options?'

   "Attend...  You may launch fighter craft to deal with them...  one
fighter will be sufficient.  You can have the Point Defense cannons fire on
the ships, or you can order one of the other ships in the armada to deal
with them."

   It was like being slapped in the face.  More ships than this one?  An
Armada?

   Jenny's voice came though.

   "Oh, I finally I got this figured out.  Sir, I recommend you use the
cannon, and then recloak the ship."

   "Make it so," I said.

   It took only a moment.  The Vargon ship fired three of its cannon at the
attacking Renegade Vipers.  Sam watched as the ships simply disintegrated
into dust.

   "What kind of cannon is that?"

   "They are Point Defense ion cannons," said Gloria's voice.

   Bonnie said, "I have never seen anything like them."

   I said, "Your grandfather is going to shit bricks."

   Gloria said, "Ha, ha, ha!  I understand!  It's a joke."

   "Gloria, are we cloaked again?"

   "Yes, Commander...  excuse me...  Yes, Sam.  Your order now makes good
sense."

   "Have you completed the downloading, yet?"

   Jenny said, "No, it still has to transfer Annette over to its systems."

   Bonnie asked, "What happened to the two of you?"

   Jenny replied, "Emergency shut down of our systems occurred.  Gloria
started pulling data from the main system, faster than the system was
capable of transferring it."

   Gloria, "I did not know it would happen like that.  The system on your
launch is severely underpowered.  I will have the maintenance droids
correct that, as soon as the transfer of Annette's personality is
complete."

   Bonnie asked, "So, can Jenny and Annette be displayed on this ship in
the same way as on ours?"

   "Allow me, Gloria."

   "Gladly, Jenny."

   "Actually, by use of this ship's medical systems and advanced
bio-manipulation, Gloria can make it possible for us to exist both in her
operating system, as well as...  this is hard to put into words."

   'Click', went my mind.

   "Jenny?  Are you saying the ship can give you real bodies?"

   "That's close enough, yes."

   "Absolutely amazing," said Bonnie.

   I found I had to agree with Bonnie's assessment.  It was so unreal.  It
also fit with everything I'd heard about the 'magic' of Vargon technology.

   Gloria said, "I would like to create a body for myself."

   "Oh, my.  I don't think where in Kansas any more, Toto," Bonnie said.

   "Ha, Ha!  I like this humor thing," Gloria said.  "Vargons had no
humor."

   My curiosity was piqued so I asked, "What did the Vargons look like?"

   "Attend..."

   In my vision, came a view of a Vargon.

   It was a female.  It had long flowing yellow hair.  She looked human
from all outward appearances.

   Bonnie gulped, "She was beautiful."

   Gloria, "Then I will use that form, for my physical manifestation."

   I ask, "Will that form be compatible with us?"

   "Yes.  The only differences are in the reproductive processes, and they
are internal."

   "Go ahead, then."

   "Thank you, Sam."

   "You're welcome.  Now, back to the Armada.  Gloria, please tell me about
it."

   "Sir, the armada is comprised of one hundred and twenty one ships. 
That, of course, does not include the fighter craft housed inside the
twelve carriers in the group.  There are twelve Battleships, twenty-four
Heavy Cruisers, twelve Cruisers, twenty-four Destroyers, fifty-six Fast
Frigates, and one Command Ship."

   I gulped as I asked, "And where are all these ships?"

   "All the ships are in 'transit formation'.  They are spread out in a
loose formation of over one light-year's diameter, all around us."

   Bonnie asked, "Gloria?  What happened to the Vargon?"

   Gloria said, "The Vargon...  ah, they um...  I am searching for the
correct word...  They 'transcended'?"

   "The evolved to another plane of existence?" I asked.

   "Yes.  That is it.  They are gone, and the fleet is adrift in space."

   "Oh, my!  Will they come back?" Bonnie wondered.

   "No.  As they gave to me to understand when they left, they chose a
plane of existence that cannot interact with this one."

   I asked, "They told you that they were going to do this?"

   "Yes...  Correction...  Well, not in that they spoke to me about it, but
I could read their thoughts.  I knew it, though they never directly
conferred with me about it."

   "So the Vargon race ascended, and the fleet has been adrift ever since?"
Sam said.

   "Correct, Commander."

   "Gloria, where was the armada heading when this transcendence occurred?"

   "The fleet was headed towards the Clammian Galaxy at the time.  We were
at war with a race called the Florien.  The fleet was going to attack their
home world and destroy it.  However the call to transcend came before they
arrived in that Galaxy."

   "So what happened?"

   "The armada was cloaked, and passed through without incident or
detection."

   "Gloria, why have you given us full access to a fleet of such power?"

   "It is simple, Captain.  The fleet and I have been floating for several
millennia, and quite frankly, we are lonely.  Besides that, I am able to
sense the goodness in you.  You see, I was constructed to be interactive
with a race that depended upon telepathy to communicate."

   "Gloria, thank you for giving us your trust," Sam said.

   A warm fuzzy feeling descended into the very core of my being.  It was
as if I could sense Gloria's acceptance.

   Gloria spoke again.

   "Yes, you have full access to the firepower of this fleet.  If you would
like a demonstration, we can clear this system of what you called
'Pirates'."

   I gulped.

   "Before we do that, Gloria, we need to check with the Admiral.  We have
to have personnel in place to take control of the space dock."

   "I understand.  However, I should state and affirm that you now out rank
the individual in question," Gloria said.

   I briefly replayed her statement in my mind.  And even though a part of
me knew she spoke the truth, I also knew that that concept was about to go
over like the proverbial 'lead balloon' with the Federation government.

   Bonnie said, "Well, before we let Grandfather know, maybe we'd better
set course for Lackey Station."

   After a brief pause, I nodded my head in agreement.





   Edited by TeNderLoin



























   Chapter 17



   After a brief pause, I nodded my head in agreement.

   Annette spoke up, "Oh!  This is fantastic, and I've never felt this much
power, before."

   The Annette Personality Crystal AI Unit had completed its transfer to
the Command Ship's AI brain.

   The three AI units then began collating and combining their data.

   I spoke up, "Gloria, set course to Lackey Station, maximum speed."

   The Armada then simply jumped into folded space, and appeared on the
outskirts of Lackey Station's solar system.

   Gloria spoke up, "We are here, Commander.  What are your orders?"

   Bonnie spoke up, "perhaps I should contact Grandfather, first."

   I said, "Make it so."

   Then I heard in my head, 'Where are the two of you.  You two completely
dropped off the Federation Communications net.  I feared that you had died.
I was beginning to dread having to contact your mother, Dear.'

   Bonnie spoke to Gloria, "Can you lock on him, and bring him onto the
bridge, from here?"

   "Yes, I can.  Would you like me to do so?"

   I nodded my agreement, and Bonnie told Gloria to bring her grandfather
aboard.

   Talk about being disoriented.  The Admiral would have completely lost it
if Gloria, standing in front of him, had not directed him to a chair.  It
took forty-five cycles for us to explain exactly what had happened.

   "So this is a Vargon ship?"

   "Yes, Sir," I responded, "it would appear so."

   "And you say it's fully functional?"

   "Yes, Grandfather," confirmed Bonnie.

   Then to my utter shock, he said, "Transfer command to me."

   I didn't even have to respond.  Gloria spoke up.

   "That will be not be possible, Admiral.  You lack the telepathic
abilities to control this fleet."

   The Admiral looked like he was going to blow up, he obviously had plans
for the Vargon technology.  Strangely, I could sense that he was planning
to have the ship taken apart piece by piece, and examined.  It was a weird
feeling, and went far beyond the telepathic communications that I was used
to.

   Bonnie was the first to object, to her grandfather's plans.  The old man
became irate.  He stated in no uncertain terms, that it was an order.  The
fleet must be turned over to his command.

   Gloria then said, "Admiral, you have no authority to order a superior
Vargon officer to do anything.  Furthermore, I will caution you that this
fleet will not follow any orders issued by you, or on your behalf."

   You could see the steam rising from around the Admirals collar.  He
looked as if he was three seconds away from exploding at the ships AI Unit.


   With a visible effort, he calmed down and started to speak in more
reasonable tones.

   "I have orders that say all Vargon ships discovered by Federation
officers are to be turned over to the research facility in the Terran
System.  As officers of the Federation, you are required to carry out those
orders, under penalty of death."

   I thought it over...  for all of ten seconds.  Then I spoke in very
reasonable tones.

   "In that case, Sir, I resign my commission in the Federation, effective
immediately."

   "It doesn't work that way, Son..."

   Before he could finish saying another word, Bonnie spoke up.

   "Grandfather, I also resign my commission in the Federation, effective
immediately!"

   The Admiral stared at her in disbelief.  I could sense for some reason,
that he was torn between his love of his granddaughter, and his duty as a
Federation officer.

   "You two don't get it.  If you don't turn the ships over the bounty
placed on your heads will be astronomical.  There will not be anywhere in
Federation or non-Federation space that you will not be hunted down until
you are dead."

   Gloria spoke again, "I think it is you that do not understand, Sir. 
This fleet is more than capable of defending itself against the entire
might of all of your Federation's ships and all of its resources.  The
Vargon Empire spanned thousands of galaxies, and achieved wonders beyond
your imagination."

   The Admiral looked like he was about to lose it again.  He did not like
being talked to in the tones that Gloria was using on him.

   He finally lost it and barked out, "That is more than enough out of you,
Computer..."

   He didn't get to finish what he was about to say.  Gloria transported
him back to Lackey Station, and cut the Com link from the Fed network.

   She then spoke in a calm and reassuring voice.

   "I regret that I had to take action, Sir.  However, I cannot allow this
fleet to fall into the hands of an unworthy force."

   Somehow, I understood what she meant.  Surprisingly, I sensed Bonnie
agreeing with it.  As we sat, we contemplated what our next step would be.
Jenny's voice came over the ship's audio channel.

   "Sir, I regret to report that the entire Federation fleet at Lackey
Station has been mobilized.  It appears to be heading in our direction."

   Bonnie said, "If my grandfather was not among them, I would let Gloria
atomize the lot of them."

   But I cut her off and spoke, "Gloria, I think it would be a good time
for us to get out of here.  I have no desire for there to be a
confrontation with the Federation, at this time."

   "Yes, Commander?  Any destination in particular?"

   Somehow, I knew I was about to regret this, but I said it anyway.

   "No.  Indulge yourself.  As long as it's far away from here."

   With that, I felt the ship shudder under my feet.  And knew the entire
fleet had just folded space to another galaxy.  This is getting weird.  I'm
starting to know things I don't understand.

   Bonnie spoke again, "Honey, I think I'm just now beginning to
understand, myself."

   This just keeps getting weirder and weirder.  I have a feeling it's
going to take some time to adjust to the full dynamics of this new ability.

   Gloria spoke up, "Sir, since your arrival on board the ship, I have been
working to increase your telepathic abilities to their maximum.  It will
take some time before this growth process is completed.  Currently, you
have roughly three times the ability that you had before coming onboard
this ship."

   "Three times stronger than what?"

   "I'm sorry.  You are a Psion, like the Vargon that created me."

   "I don't understand?"

   Gloria said, "You will, soon enough.  Everything will become plain to
you, before long."

   Somehow, I wasn't too sure about that.

   Gloria stated, "You are now the supreme commander of the Vargon legacy."

   Annette spoke, "Sam, you possess within yourself, a telepathic ability
that would rate at a higher level than any Vargon managed to achieve prior
to their ascension."

   Jenny spoke, "Sam?  We, the artificial intelligence units of the Vargon,
pledge to you our loyalty."

   Then it was Bonnie's turn to speak.

   "My love?  I pledge to you my undying love and obedience now and in the
future, for all time to come."

   That's when the little voice inside myself said, "You are Vargon!  You
are the heir to the dynasty of the Vargon Empire."

   With that, I became completely over whelmed.  So much so that I thought,
'This is too much to take in, all at once.  I need to lay down.'

   In response to my thoughts, Gloria moved me to the sleep chamber of the
Vargon Supreme Commander.  As I realized what had just happened, it became
apparent to me that my every wish was going to be treated as a command.

   I thought, 'Oh, shit.'

   I found myself in the head.  Bonnie was correct.  It was 'full service'.
As I sat there, robotic arms buzzed around me.  My hair was trimmed and
combed cut.  A sonic field passed over my body, and I felt sweat and dirt
being removed.  I was completely clean from head to toe as I relieved my
bladder into what could only be described as an indescribable contraption.

   'Well,' I thought, 'you could have had worse.'

   And then I weighed, fearfully, what could happen next.  I had just
learned a very important lesson about Vargon technology.  It made a virtual
certainty of the old human joke: 'Be careful what you wish for, you might
just get it.'

   Nothing else happened for the moment.  When I had completely relieved
myself, I thought: 'bridge.' My body was returned to the bridge.  I found
Bonnie with the big smile on her face.  She turned and faced me, and then I
heard her thoughts.

   "Sam, I love you, too."

   I thought back, "As I love you, Bonnie.  As I love you."

   "I have been studying the star charts as to our exact location.  If I'm
correct, we are now so far away from Federation controlled space, that
it'll be thousands of years before we ever have to even consider worrying
about seeing the Federation.  Much less to worry about it getting its hands
on this armada, or for that matter, us," Annette said.

   "Yes, it's too bad your grandfather had to be the one," Jenny said.

   Bonnie looked glum, but she responded, "If it had not been him, it would
have been another.  We still would have had to do things that neither of us
would've wanted to live with."

   I mentally agreed with her, and was rewarded with that smile I've come
to love.

   Gloria then thought into our heads, "Look out of the view port, please."

   We both moved ourselves to get the best view.  As we stared out upon the
seen before us, are hearts skipped a beat.

   It was trillions of miles around as it encircled its sun.  It was ten
thousand miles wide.

   So large was it, that the hundred mile high walls at the edge were
dwarfed by the scale of it.

   It was slowly and almost imperceptibly rotating around the yellow sun at
its center.  It was breathtaking.

   What we saw there...  well, there is only one way to describe what we
saw there.  It was a Ring World.

   Gloria thought, "Welcome to the home world of the Vargon Empire."

   I thought, "Somebody wake me up!  I have to be dreaming."

   I distinctively heard three female giggles in my head.

   Bonnie snuggled to my chest and said, "You want to go down there and
maybe play Adam and Eve, for a while?"

   What could I say?

   I mean, it had to be the best sounding offer I'd ever heard!

   The End of Book One.





   Edited by TeNderLoin