Date: Thu, 11 Jun 2009 11:48:58 -0400
From: Ron <wolfwalker2@verizon.net>
Subject: TEEP chapter 68

Aaron half lay his body over Pat, not moving his hard cock anymore as he
felt Pete Cum inside him, "Morning Loves," he called out to Brian and Tommy
as they entered the bedroom.  Brian captured Aaron's lips causing him to go
back to instant hardness, much to Pat's delight who started to rock back and
forth on him once more.

Reading Brian's intention from his body language, Aaron lubed up the hard
cock jutting from Brian's body as he started to thrust in and out of Pat,
causing him to moan in pleasure. Moving him around as he kissed him, Aaron
withdrew from Pat and replaced his hard cock with Brian's and grinned as he
reached between the taught butt cheeks and found that Brian had already
lubed himself in preparation. Slowly sinking all the way into Brian, Aaron
looked over at Tommy and saw he had Pete pinned to the mattress. Sending
Tommy an image of Pete on his back and underneath Pat so they could sixty
nine as Tommy re-entered his lover he smiled as Tommy slid out of Pete and
pulled him over into the position he suggested.

XX

He waited in front of the view screen for the connection to be established,
contemplating what they had observed so far. "I greet thee, Nest Mother,"
Tidov bowed his head. Watching, he noticed the view screen widen so he could
easily see the whole Ruling Council.

"What are your observations so far, Tidov," Tenef leaned forward slightly.

"So far we have examined two systems on route to the target system," Tidov
brought his notes up on the monitor, "In the first system we dispatched a
standard probe and within two point seven seconds of entering the system the
energy signature we are investigating activated. One point two seconds later
three hundred and ninety seven energy signatures of a higher order activated
enclosing the system in a globular fashion, and our probe was destroyed. It
was noted at the time that as the first energy signature went into standby
mode the new energy signatures did not."

Amidi was concerned as she looked at the data that was being transmitted on
a side channel, "This is troubling.  Sensors were unable to get a clear data
feed of what was used to destroy the probe."

"Agreed, and I ordered the Timur to enter warp and remove ourselves from the
system. During the week's travel to the second system we targeted we rebuilt
the probe to look like a standard piece of planetary debris," Tidov glanced
at his notes. "The probe did make it further in system before being
destroyed, and we received confirmation that this system has a life bearing
planet," making a adjustment to the recording, "This system went on alert
just like the first one, but allowed the probe to continue in the system for
an additional four point seven seconds before it was destroyed."

Rorab looked at the data, "Fascinating.  The defenses detected the
intrusion, and within seconds determined the object was not of natural
origin," pointing to the screen he looked around, "If this was a natural
object it would not have deviated from the initial trajectory as it did at
this point to continue towards the life bearing world."

Tidov was shocked and raised an eyebrow, "I had not taken that factor into
my calculations when I planned the probe's course."

"I find it disturbing that both probes were destroyed by unknown means,"
Tenef stared at the screen, "Were long range scanners proven ineffective?"

"Correct," Tidov brought the data up on the screen, "collected data would
allow for the theory that there is some type of masking generator around
these two planetary systems.  The probes and scanners detected a false set
of data until they breached the systems boundaries."

"And your conclusions so far about this second system and the readings?"
Amidi asked as she looked around to her fellow Guild Councilors.

"Definitive conclusions are not forthcoming, yet I find enough data supports
the theory of an active colonization project," Rorab slowly concluded.

"I agree," Tidov interjected before sending the data he had uncovered after
the second probe was launched, "It is further supported by the new data that
was received on the next system we would visit if our schedule is not
altered.  This next system has gone from the same type of simple energy
signals as the other two systems to energy outputs just under the danger
system."

XX

"Good morning Ichiro," Aaron kissed him as he beamed up at him. Reaching for
the offered picture Aaron wondered what surprising delight Ichiro had drawn
now.  His pictures were breathtaking and even his brother had agreed that
now that he was out from under the oppressive thumb of his old life his work
had gone to a whole new level.

Taking a look at the drawing Aaron was surprised at seeing a design of a
bracelet from several different angles, and what looked like a dragon
folding its wings protectively around a small boy who was kneeling with a
smile on his face. "This is fantastic," Aaron pulled him into a hug and
kissed him long enough to fully arouse him.  Kneeling in front of him, Aaron
quickly swallowed the hard cock and after a few minutes was rewarded with
his offering.  Holding the spent cock in his mouth Aaron watched as Ichiro
panted and slowly came back to earth.  Once he felt him start to go limp he
gave one last lick before standing up and kissing him again.  Pulling Ichiro
tight against him Aaron steered him towards the food line. Releasing him so
he could fill his plate, he waited until he had gone off with a smile on his
face.

"What did Ichiro do all on his own that you rewarded him," Mark grinned as
he handed Aaron an empty plate.

"He designed this for our children.  He was broadcasting as he approached me
this morning, afraid he had done something wrong by coming up with the
design without being asked," Aaron handed over the design so he could fill
his plate.

Mark looked at the design and his indrawn breath was loud enough to bring
Pete over to look over his shoulder.  Glancing at Pete he whispered, "Tell
me Pete.tell me you can get the replicators to do this justice."

"I think so." Pete sounded distracted as he looked at the picture before
spotting Derrick and gently taking the picture, "I'll be back in a little
bit."

Aaron watched Pete walk over and whisper to Derrick before both of them left
towards the replicator suite.  He would tease them later he decided as he
moved over to the table with the youngsters; all nine of them.  After
everyone had left last night only nine of the youngsters were left and they
were all the youngest ones.  Mostly they were around seven years old, along
with a few who were age eight. Setting his plate down at the table he smiled
at the shy and awed looks he was getting, "Good morning."

"Good morning, Prime," they chorused.

Shaking his head as he took a bite of his eggs, "I'm not going to yell at
you, but the only time you should address me as Prime is if we are in a
formal setting or asking me for something as the head of the Clan," smiling
as he watched them think about it he added, "Also the only time I should be
addressed as Majesty by any of you is if you are addressing me in court, or
asking me for something only the King can give you."

"What do we call you, Sir?"

"Aaron," grinning Aaron felt for their thoughts and found surprise and fear
there, "I promise no one will ever get into trouble for calling me by my
name.well unless they are doing that so they can curse me," he laughed
trying to put them at ease.

After a few minutes one of the youngsters looked up from his eggs, "What
happens to us now?"

Putting his fork down Aaron considered how to best tell them what they
wanted to know, "That is a very good question.  Today you will be scheduled
to take your placement tests so we know where you stand academically.  Over
the next week you have your bedrooms to decorate, making them reflect what
you want them to look like. Then, after living with us for a week, if you
want, we will become your fathers and you will become sons of the Clan." He
smiled sadly as he tasted their emotions and found he had not settled their
fear at all. "I want all of you to look at me, please," he told them gently,
"When we brought you here last night we were prepared to bring you into our
family forever.  There were thirty of you and we," Aaron waved his arm
behind him to his lovers, "all of us, were willing to bring every single one
of you into our family as our sons. Now some of you we brought home were
lucky enough to actually have family alive still, and they left us to be
with their families. And some of those left were searched out for the
Beastmaster clan, and they will have new lives and homes doing what they
love. All of you will have new homes with us; we are going to give you the
options of being our sons or joining us as a son of the Clan."

Aaron smiled as they tried to figure out what he meant, "Being a son of the
Clan is something different than just being raised as one of our sons.  We
will love you the same no matter what you decide, but being a son of the
Clan means we will change your DNA slightly.  DNA is the stuff that tells
your body what color hair you have, or how tall you grow." He tried to keep
it simple for now, "But either way you're going to be raised as part of our
family." Aaron relaxed slightly when he felt them relax even though they
were still confused; at least the fear went away.

Seeing most of them had finished what was on their plates, Aaron smiled,
"You can go up and get more.  We always make enough so you can eat until you
are full," Standing up with his empty plate he smiled again as they
hesitated, "Come on, you can get more. I'm going to get some more."

Aaron sighed internally as he watched them eye the steam table and quickly
look around to see that everyone was eating and that some of them had gone
up for seconds. Brushing up against their minds gently, Aaron surprised
them, "Mind to mind you can never lie.  Listen to me tell you, here and now,
you will always be able to eat as much as you want. You will never go hungry
again."

Taking in the wide eyed stares directed his way Aaron motioned for them to
follow him, and after he got to the steam table, he made a point of putting
eggs and sausage on each of their plates before nudging them down the line
towards the rest of the food.  A smile plastered on his face while inwardly
he wanted to cry with how they had been treated.

Feeling thin arms surround him from behind Aaron leaned back into the hug,
"Morning Kenny, I should have known you would pick up on how I'm feeling."

"Yep," Kenny held on and giggled when Aaron twirled him around and kissed
him.  His giggle turned into a moan as one of his lovers showed him his
love. Being let go he swayed for a moment as he looked down and saw how hard
he was, "Damn." he whispered as he moved away.

Grinning, Aaron moved back to the table with the youngsters, saw their
incredulous looks and chuckled, "You probably were raised that being around
someone without any clothes on was wrong, but you all are sitting here naked
without it bothering you. One of the things you will probably see is all of
us showing our love in a physical way from time to time.  At no time will
any of us ever touch you that way; you are going to be raised as our sons
and we will not have sex with our sons.  And, from time to time, you are
going to catch us having sex.  We will not yell at you for watching, but I
think, until you are older, you won't have any real need to sneak in and
watch us.  When you are older though you will know what to do from sneaking
in and watching us, "Aaron smiled, "How to be gentle lovers to you partners,
and what and how to show your love to that someone special."

Secure that they had taken to heart what he told them Aaron finished his
breakfast.  Once they had finished up he grinned at them, "Alright, we will
ease you into the house rules.  For the most part they are common sense.
Most of us take turns cooking each morning, except me.  I do most of the
dinners, though we do have Shoji, that would be Ichiro's brother, cook lunch
and dinner twice a week.  We all pitch in and help clean the kitchen. If you
watch the guys as they go in to wash their own dishes they grab any empty
steam table pans and wash it at the same time..lets go wash our dishes and
then I'll tell you some of the other rules as I show you the house." Aaron
stood and led them to the kitchen and kissed Brian as he passed him.

Showing them where to wash their dishes and put them to dry Aaron hugged
them and kissed each of their foreheads as they finished.  Moving to the
front Aaron led them out of the kitchen through the back door and down the
steps, "This is the gathering pit, it's a place we can relax or work on
joint projects, the large plasma has also been used to watch movies."
Pointing to the large arch across from the kitchen he smiled, "my bedroom is
right there.  You've probably already noticed that there are metal plates
near the door of your rooms; if that is the room you really want place you
hand on it and push it hard.  When the tingling stops you name will be on
the plate and that is now your room."

"I think all of your rooms look the same but it will be easy to make them
different, more of a reflection of what inspires you," Aaron grinned as he
led them into his bedroom. "Mine has this huge library at one end."

They had stopped and were staring at the biggest bed they had ever seen
before, "How many people can you get in that thing?"

Chuckling Aaron looked at the staring faces, "I think there has been a
couple nights that all of us ended up sleeping in the bed, "Aaron shrugged
and grinned evilly.  Moving over he picked up the closest youngster and set
him on top of the bed, "Give it a try".  Seeing him stiffen in fear, Aaron
grinned as he stepped up on the bed and grabbed on to him then start to jump
up and down.

The other youngsters stared at them in fear for several moment before they
jumped as they felt hands lift them from the floor and place them on the
bed.  Quickly looking around, they smiled shyly at seeing the rest of the
Clan grinning at them and motioning for them to join in the fun. After a few
tentative starts all nine of the youngsters were jumping up and down on the
bed grinning.  Jumping back Aaron sat down on several of the pillows and
watched them have fun. Once they got it out of their system Aaron looked at
them, "Your first step in having fun; no screams, no yells and no
punishment."

As they sat down and stared at him he lowered his voice, "Even if you would
happen to do something wrong we are not going to scream and yell at you, not
on purpose.  We might yell if you are going to do something that will hurt
you or others, but for simple things we will sit down with you and tell you
why what you did was wrong and work from there." Sliding off the side of the
bed Aaron motioned for them to follow him, "let's take a peek at some of the
other empty rooms so you can get an idea of what we can decorate your rooms
to look like."

Sipping his juice, Aaron watched the youngsters move over to the work
stations Foma had asked they build. He told them he thought in the
beginning, having the youngsters do their tutor work in a group setting
would be less of a reminder of how they used to be raised.  Seeing things
were well in hand he glanced at the clock and left the youngsters wing to go
back into the main house, mind turning over the way Foma seemed to shine
when he was taking care of the younger ones.  He would have to keep an eye
on him to see if he fit in just as well with the rest of his lovers, maybe
take him horseback riding one morning to get to know him better.

Spotting Aaron walk out of the children's wing Pete smiled and grabbed the
box where he had placed the new bracelets he and Derrick had designed.  One
style for the youngsters, and a special one Derrick had him create for
Ichiro.  Kissing Aaron when he got close he placed the box in his hands,
"Derrick had me create the second one.  He felt we should present it to
Ichiro, so he feels like he truly belongs to us."

Opening the lid to the box Aaron saw the two different designs.  Taking the
one out that was exactly like the one Ichiro drew he was pleased with the
detail, "This is remarkable. That you were able to reproduce the detail just
like Ichiro put in his drawing is fantastic." Placing it back in the box he
thought about how to modify it so it was like the Clan medallions.  If the
youngsters were going to be true sons of the Clan then they would need to be
modified, replacing their mothers' DNA.

Picking up the one with a round medallion on top Aaron sucked his breath in
loudly.  Looking at his smiling lover he looked back at the bracelet; the
round medallion showed a teen who was aroused kneeling down on one knee
holding up a chain from the neck of his collar as if offering it to the
dragon he was kneeling in front of, "The symbolism.WOW.!"  Closing the box,
Aaron held onto the bracelet and ported the box to his desk before hugging
Pete and kissing him, "I think he will be very pleased with this."

Thinking about Xon he looked up at the second floor when he felt him in his
office, knowing Ichiro was in his room doing his tutor work.   Aaron
grinned, "I think we will interrupt Ichiro's tutor session," Aaron grinned
at Pete who was looking at him with a glint and grin, "Xon, would you please
meet me in Ichiro's room?"

Pete followed Aaron as he walked into Ichiro's room and, being the first
time he had gone in the room, saw the art studio on the other side of the
bed.  Aaron really did make each room special for each of them, just like
Damien's room had a music studio in the space behind his bed.

Xon walked in with a raised eyebrow about the time Ichiro noticed them and
placed his session on hold, "You have need of me Aaron?"

Aaron held the bracelet out so Xon could see the face and grinned as Xon's
eyebrows practically disappeared in surprise, "I think Ichiro has been
missing something, and it is time to remedy that." Smiling gently at the
nervous teen Aaron motioned him over, "Come here Ichiro, I promise it is
nothing bad.  I have a gift for you."

Once the nervous teen made it over Aaron had to reach out and lift his chin
gently so he would look at him, "Let me show you what you mean to us
Ichiro."  Showing him the face of the bracelet he noticed the confusion turn
to tears and all of them felt the longing when Ichiro realized what was on
that bracelet.  Leaning forward Aaron captured Ichiro's lips and kissed him
gently.  The gentleness turned to passion, then to lust, causing him to moan
out in pleasure as he went instantly hard and aroused. "Kneel before me
Ichiro. Kneel and receive the symbol that shows the universe you are ours,
for now and all time."

Dropping to his knee, like the image on the bracelet that had been burned
into his mind after seeing it for the first time, Ichiro held up his hands
as if offering a chain to Aaron, just like the symbol on the bracelet.

Smiling, Aaron nodded and snapped the bracelet around Ichiro's right wrist
before pulling Xon over and kissing him in a way to make him as horny as
possible.  After a minute of kissing Xon, putting everything he could into
the kiss Aaron stepped back and saw he was successful, Xon was not only
aroused but lost in the need to have sex. Hearing the snick of the lube
bottle being opened Aaron grinned as Pete went behind Xon and started to
lube Ichiro up.  Looking back at Ichiro, who was gazing at his wrist, Aaron
pulled him to his feet gently and kissed him again, as he felt Pete lube him
up before moving over to stretch Ichiro.

Once Ichiro was properly stretched Pete turned the moaning teen so he was
facing Xon and help guide Aaron inside him.  Once Aaron was thrusting in and
out Pete pushed Xon close and then put some pressure on his shoulders so he
was kneeling in front of Ichiro. He didn't have to guide Xon's head forward
as he quickly did his best to swallow all of Ichiro in one go.

Donny found them a few minutes later, as Ichiro loudly groaned out his
climax, and whispered to Pete, "Did I come at a bad time.though Aaron knew I
was coming over about now."

Laughing, Pete looked at Donny and noticed he had gone hard in his leather
and wondered if it hurt. "You know Ichiro is a submissive right?" seeing
Donny nod his head, "Derrick and I thought that Ichiro felt something was
missing in his life, so we came up with the design of the bracelet he is now
wearing. Aaron put it on a few minutes ago, if you want a closer look go for
it.why the hell aren't you in pain being so hard in that leather?"

Really wanting a closer look, Donny whispered out as he walked closer, "I
designed them to have flexibility in the crotch.  Got hard once in leather
and it hurt, so we played around with a lot of designs before getting it
right."  Catching sight of the bracelet on Ichiro's wrist he was stunned by
the image on the face of the bracelet's face and moved back as Aaron
stiffened slightly and softly moaned out that he was cumming.  Damn, he
really needed to get off now after seeing this.  Watching as Xon stood up
and Pete moved behind him to control how fast Xon entered into Ichiro, he
saw Xon slide inside Ichiro and felt a hand touch his leather pants and open
them up. Glancing back he noticed it was Aaron and leaned back into his
body.

Freeing Donny's hardness, Aaron whispered into his ear as he leaned into
him, "Go ahead and stroke until you cum."  Rubbing his face alongside
Donny's he was curious at how much he could cum.  After all, soon they would
be having sex and creating a son together to cement the new clan.  Grinning
as Donny's breathing became more erratic, Aaron watched as the first volley
shot from the end of a very hard cock and hit the floor several feet away.
Holding Donny tightly as he lost his balance as he saw Xon stiffen as Ichiro
filled Pete's mouth.

Waiting until Donny was steady on his feet, Aaron used the damp towel he had
ported over to gently clean Donny before placing him back inside his leather
pants and buttoning them up.  Steering Donny out of the bedroom, after using
the washcloth to clean himself up, Aaron led him into his bedroom and
started to get dressed. "So are we going to be porting all over the world in
a little while; and how many pups were you thinking of getting?"

Staring at Aaron as he dressed Donny realized he had been asked a question
and grinned as he picked up Aaron's over robes to hand to him and noticed
the shield generators built in like he had built into his clan's leather
outfits.  "No, I put the word out, several days ago actually, to several of
the big breeders that we were interested in buying pups, and maybe breeding
stock.  I told them we would port them and their dogs to Elswick.  As far as
how many; well, there are going to be several of the smaller toy breeds and
their breeders there.  I liked the idea of keeping the teams to three
species.  Plus I think it's time to get our own breeding stock, it will make
it easier on us."

"That it will," Aaron smiled as he placed the crown on his head before
taking the robes from Donny with thanks, "Alrighty, I'm ready.  So who from
your clan will be there?"

"All the new recruits, including those from last night that we took home
from here," Donny stood and accepted the kiss from Aaron to his check with a
grin. "All told, I think there will be about thirty seven looking for a pup;
Damien and Bruce should already be there, Ru and Matt are waiting for us out
in the garden, and Corry and Running Bear are bringing the recruits over."

Arm across Donny's shoulders as they left the living area Aaron smiled and
waved at Matt and Ru, "How about the cat side of things?  We will need to
get some more at some point.  Are you going to stick to panthers or go for
something else?" Pulling Ru and Matt into a hug and kissing their cheeks,
Aaron ported all of them and their pups to Centauri station as Donny
answered.

"We were thinking; well,  is it possible to create a new type of cat?  One
that is more to what we want and need, like a hybrid?  The panthers are
okay, but even the teams working with them would prefer something a little
more intelligent and less hostile to others.  That's why, out of the fifteen
people that want to work with cats, we only have two that actually have
them; and only the one we brought with us last night is really safe to be
around others without watching him every second.  It is probably because he
is so young," Donny explained as they appeared in Aaron's office on Sol
Station.

Looking at Donny Aaron ported them to the Elswick security office.  Letting
go he went to the refrigerator and pulled two of the donuts out of the
container and munched on one, "If I remember correctly we did not alter them
much except to make them easier to control.  Let's let those teams go do
some genetic mapping on the species of cats available and we'll see what we
can do.  Have them get a list of the traits the cats need to have, and what
traits in the ones they are working with right now are unacceptable.  Maybe
we can do something without having to build an entire new species from the
ground up."  Leading the way out of the security office Aaron spied
Friedrich gesturing to several people and grinned, he had not been spotted
yet, "So Donny, where is this viewing going to happen?"

"On the soccer field between the brig and the playground," Donny spotted the
head of Aaron's security and grinned, "You're not going to tell him you're
here, are you?"

Chuckling softly Aaron changed direction so they were going around the old
naval hospital from the other side, "Nope, let him find me if he wants to
mother hen me."

Laughing, Donny grinned at Ru and Matt as he sent Dante ahead of them to
check that the coast was clear.



Aaron spotted the group of breeders with Newfoundlands off to the side and
watched them for a moment as they seemed confused at why no one was
approaching them.  Walking over he smiled, "Hello," catching out the corner
of his eye several of the recruits moving towards him, they wanted him to go
first it seemed. Hiding his sigh, he nodded as they looked at him in shock
before bowing and curtseying.

"Begging your pardon, your Majesty, but we be slightly confused.  None of
the lads seem to want to look at our pups," one of the breeders finally got
the courage up to ask.

Chuckling, Aaron sat down after stepping over the side of the pen, "That is
because of the mistaken belief I should have first pick," seeing their
shocked and pleased looks Aaron motioned the others to come in. "Alight you
guys, come on in and sit down like I am.  I'm going to show you a trick in
helping pick out the right pup, so spread out."  Seeing that everyone had
done as he asked, he looked up to the quizzical faces of the breeders,
"We're telepathic and choosing a proper pup is slightly different for us."
Glancing around and noticing the hopeful stares from the recruits Aaron
grinned.

"First thing you want to do is to sit down like we are.  Then, as the pups
are gathered in one area, you want to send your mind out as if you were
searching for contact with someone you know, but this time don't picture
anything in your mind.  Just think of finding a friend and the pups will do
the rest.  Once one comes to you then link with their mind, otherwise you
might end up with more than one," Seeing one of the recruits scrunching up
his face he smiled, "Above all relax."

Seeing them relax Aaron motioned for the breeders to release the pups and
let his own mind search for connections, grinning as several of the pups
took off running and tackling recruits. Going back to searching with his
mind, thinking about protecting the youngsters as he did so, Aaron was
pleased when several of the adult dogs moved towards him along with four
pups.  Grinning as he was surrounded by eager pups and three adults who
curled up around him, Aaron laughed as he heard a "Hey now." from behind him
and laughed as one of the recruits was tackled by one of the pups from the
other areas."

Hearing the angry shouts from behind him Aaron stood up and, as one, the
seven Newfie's that had bonded with him growled out in warning, freezing
everyone around as they barred their teeth.  Glaring at the man who
practically fell over trying to stop, Aaron skimmed his mind as Donny ran up
while every bonded Beastmaster dog suddenly encircled the man with teeth
exposed, daring him to move.

"A man that would so easily abuse the animals in his care would garner a
further look at his treatment of his children."  From his prompt Aaron found
the thought of the man's son being locked up in the kennel back at his farm,
and the seven Newfie's growled in anger again as they picked up on Aaron
anger, shocking the breeders. Looking at Donny, Aaron stood up as the two
alpha females ducked so their heads were under his hands as they stood up,
"Beastmaster.take a team and rescue the boy that man locked in a cage so he
could come here this morning, and rescue his animals also."  Eyes moving to
Friedrich, "Turn it over to the locals for prosecution.  If they do not, or
will not prosecute him, then he is ours."

Donny, hearing the anger in Aaron's voice, looked at the man before wading
through the dogs and grabbed the information from his mind, not being
gentle, digging deep.  Finding horrors hidden in there, Donny acted as if he
was going to pick something up off the ground and using all of his body and
kinetics hit the man under the chin, sending him flying through the air to
land on his back.  "Prime.this one falls under our jurisdiction for his
crimes against humanity and his son."

Aaron looked at the man before nodding at the information Donny sent his
way, "Friedrich!" he said as he took the imager out of his pocket with one
of the crystals.

Looking at the man, Friedrich snapped to attention as he saw what was in
Aaron's hand, "Right away, your Majesty.Bruce, assemble a five man squad to
go with the Beastmasters."  Calming down once Friedrich removed the man, he
got butted from behind, "Hey now." laughing Aaron turned back to pay
attention to the large male and linked his mind with his lightly and got the
picture of another female, "Does this one have a mate near whelping?"

Scratching him between the ears Aaron smiled at the woman who moved forward
with a curious expression on her face.

"Yes, your Majesty, I'm not sure how you know." her eyes widened as she put
the clues together. "Glory be, I always said they were smarter than we gave
them credit for," she whispered as she looked between the dog and his
majesty.  "I wish I had your abilities it must be grand."

"Yes they are, and can be . He is wanting his mate; and it is not so much
words or concepts we share as images.  It is up to me to figure out their
meaning," Aaron smiled as he moved over.  "All seven of these, of course,
will be paid for by my clan.  The others will be paid for by the Beastmaster
clan."

"Of course, your Majesty.  His mate was near whelping, probably in the next
day or two, and I did not want to upset her.  She is the last I need to find
a good home for as I am getting on in years, and without my husband to help
out, I'm just going to keep my old lady Brandi around to keep me company in
our declining years." She smiled, "I suspect I have found her home then."

"You have, and Damien will help retrieve her shortly as our way of travel
shouldn't upset her at all," Aaron smiled as he laid a hand on Titus's head
and told him to search out Damien and Lady and herd them back.  Laughing as
Titus launched himself over the small fence he motioned Running Bear over
and explained a different way for the recruits to search for their future
bonded while he finished up by signing the chits from the excited breeders,
"The security office of course will exchange these for cash, I hope you were
told that?"

Laughing at the unspoken question Aaron nodded, "Yes, you can frame the
chits so that people know I bought some of your pups." Moving so he could
let his seven out of the pen, Aaron moved around chatting with some of the
other breeders, and the families and siblings of some of the patients, who
were thrilled to be around the puppies.  In fact several of the people were
making arrangements to buy some of the left over pups.

Giggling as he was being escorted over to Aaron, Damien pointed to Titus who
was holding his robe in his mouth as he pranced back, "You called, Love?"
Leaning forward, he whispered after kissing Aaron, "You better make sure
they know not to lead us around by the dangling bit being nudists and all."

Laughing, Aaron scratched Titus and mentally praised him.  "I'm sure they
won't do that to you.  I would like you to go over and bring back Titus's
mate.  He can lead you to the woman who is selling them to us, she needs to
be ported back to the compound. She is nearing whelping so she was not
brought with him as a candidate, though the breeder does want to sell her as
she is getting on in years and wants to make sure her dogs go to good
homes."



Donny and Matt looked around as they appeared near the outskirts of a small
town.  He motioned for Dante to search as he lightly linked and realized
there were a lot more animals than just dogs on this small farm.  Walking
closer to the kennels they heard sounds of banging and then several
surprised cuss words over the loud barking and hurried over as their guards
fanned out.

Backing away from the two dogs he looked over at the place where he set his
vet bag down and cringed. He should have kept it closer, but after seeing
the boy locked in the cage with the dog humping him he was frantic to get
the lock off.  Now seeing the two large pups snarling silently at him he
backed up and saw another one enter the kennel.  Before he could not back
away any further, hands searching for a weapon to defend himself with, he
was surprised when he heard a whistle and all three dogs sat down and
stopped moving.  Spotting two strapping young lads wearing some weird
leather clothing he sighed, "Please, we need to get the padlock off the
kennel before that brute gets around to raping the boy again.Who are you?"

Staring at the man a moment Donny used kinetics to break the lock and, as
soon as he started to open the door, the dog in the kennel rushed towards
him.  Ooljee sprang, intercepting him and snapping the dog's neck with one
well practiced shake.  Sighing in regret Donny called out, "Bruce, you need
to come in here. Ooljee was forced to take a life and he needs comforting"
Motioning for Matt to see to the injured teen Donny skimmed the man's mind
and found out he was the local vet, a new vet and this was his first day.

"I am Donny Scram.Leader of the Beastmaster clan, from the Empire of
Altare.Dante return," Donny said as he held out a hand and linked lightly
with Dante showing him how pleased he was with him.

"Donny, he needs a trauma station," Matt looked up as he called Spike back
to him. Spike tried to lick the teen's face to wake him up, whining when he
did not get any reaction.

Nodding, Donny watched the team port out as Bruce knelt next to Ooljee and
linked to him with his mind.  What to do with all the animals?  Some of them
were beyond salvaging it felt like.  Glancing at the vet who was still
backed up in the corner he smiled, "Sorry about that.  It is more than safe
for you to come out. Dante won't hurt you.  We met the teen's father at
Elswick.  He had brought several pups with him for our consideration and did
something stupid which brought him to our attention.  I suspect by now he
has been executed for his crimes," Donny shrugged.

Sighing as he looked in the pens, he shook his head saddened by what he was
seeing, "Most of these dogs will have to be put down." Moving to several
pens with pups in them he shuddered at their conditions, "You see we decided
if someone would treat their animals as badly as he did at the showing, they
might just treat their children as bad.  So we dug into his mind and found a
cesspool.  We'll have to find new homes for the rest of the animals out
there.  If it was not for the fact he trained the dogs here to be mean and
aggressive we would take them in ourselves; luckily some are salvageable."

"This is going to be a nightmare.  I don't think I have enough drugs with me
to ease their passing," Mike sighed, "this is not the way I wanted my first
day to go.  All I wanted was to join one of the colonies but they don't want
untried veterinarians."

Donny looked up and noticed how young he looked, "Why not?  Are you telling
me they turned you down?  Something is wrong with that; I don't think Aaron
would do something like that."

"Nah, it was my proctors; well that and the government who hired me," Mike
sighed as he looked at the growling animals.  He did not have enough drugs
with him; he would have to call in for backup.  They probably would shoot
the dogs, and more than likely they would die suffering.

"You're wrong on many counts," Donny looked at the young man and asked "Are
you gay? Or at least not unwilling to be around gay people?  If so I could
recommend you for several spots; the one I am thinking of though needs a gay
person to fill."

Mike blinked before stepping back in shock, "Well I."

"I'm not trying to put you on the spot here," Donny looked at Bruce who had
finally stood up, "We're going to have to give grace to all the males in
here, and half the females are in bad shape and it might be better if they
were given grace also.they're suffering, Bruce, and I don't think healing
them will help."

Bruce looked around the kennels and sighed as he felt the pain and suffering
and the rage coming from the animals, "I'll get my people in here to do it;
that way the teams are not around as they are put down."  Moving to the
cages with the pups and females in them he sighed, "This is no way to treat
any creature, let alone a whelping female;  there is not enough room in
those cages. How the hell did he get invited to Elswick anyway?"

"I expect bribes.  I found out he had not had an inspection in years when I
took over the route, and when I heard he was going to be gone today I
planned on a surprise inspection," Mike moved over to his bag and closed it
up, "To tell the truth I am not sure if I'm gay or not, I've not put much
thought into it.  I had one disastrous experience when I was younger and
locked that part away.  In school, well, since I was there under a
scholarship, I did not have time to do anything but study.  I daren't taken
the chance of losing the scholarship for poor grades."

Motioning the vet out of the barn Donny pulled out the scanner, "Do you mind
if I run a scan on you?  If you're interested in one of the colonies, or
maybe something more challenging, the scan will let me tell you your
options."

Intrigued by the device Mike shrugged, "Go right ahead, it does not look
invasive.  Do I have to do something." stopping after putting his bag into
the truck Mike looked at Donny and the leather outfit, "Wait a minute.you
introduced yourself as coming from the Beastmaster clan; what and who are
Beastmasters?  Is that anything like the movies?"

Activating the scanner Donny grinned, "Yes, just like the movies; the
Beastmaster clan does search and rescue, exploration, animal conservation
and restocking of species by use of artificial wombs because of our ability
to make embryos, and a lot more.  I'm looking for a couple of vets actually
that would be willing to join my clan; if not join then at least work for
us, but I prefer them to be part of my clan."

Watching the sixth cluster line turn green Donny grinned, "Well, we're not
finished yet but I think I would be safe offering you a spot in my clan if
you want it.  So far you are at least bi and the scan is not over yet.  If
you've seen anything on the television about our medical technology you will
love how the technology is just as advanced for our veterinary services;
and if you like working with animals you will love how we can do things only
dreamed off in those shows."  Seeing seven of eight lines green and the scan
was over Donny smiled, "I am willing to give you an offer to become part of
our people and gain our abilities; or you can move to one of the colony
worlds and be a vet, it's up to you."

Donny turned to face the barn with sadness as several crates of dogs and
their pups were brought out for transport before Bruce and Ooljee came out
as the rest of the security team moved in.  He knew the dogs in there were
about to be given grace.

Bowing his head as Bruce stopped next to them he sang softly.

Hear our humble song, as we give grace, for our four footed friends.
Especially for those who are suffering;

for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry;

for all that must be given the final grace that is death.

Mike stopped to listen to the words softly chanted as he realized what the
young man meant now when he said they would have to be given grace.  Hearing
the barking still he started for the barn, but was stopped by a hand on his
arm by the older guy.

"They felt no pain; my men placed them in a deep sleep and then stopped
their hearts quickly and painlessly using our gifts."  Bruce sighed as Donny
finished and he placed a hand on the lad's shoulder, "Beastmaster, we are
finished here for now.  When the teen is healed we can come back and get any
of his belongings he wants." Tilting his head to the side as he looked up
Bruce nodded, "Aaron has ordered us to go home.  Well he wants you to stop
by the compound first before going home, I think he wants to make sure your
okay."

Donny nodded as Dante butted his leg and he reached down and scratched his
ears.  Sighing as he gave one last look at the barn and the cages that were
being ported out, he stood straight and looked at Mike, "Mike, if you want
to join us say so;  if you want to join the colonies I'll make it happen.If
you need time to think about it?"

Shaking his head, "No I don't need time.  I am more than willing to jump at
this chance," Mike looked at the animals, "I will need several days before I
am ready; to pack and to let my boss know I'm leaving."

"Bruce, would you give Mike the contact information he will need so he can
get his stuff ported out?" Removing a card from his pocket Donny handed it
to Mike, "This is how you can get a hold of me and my clan.  Let me know
when you are ready and I'll make sure we come get you. and thank you.  I
think you will enjoy the challenge you are about to undertake," Smiling
Donny waved and ported up to Sol Station leaving Bruce to finish.

Fifteen minutes later Donny was sobbing in Aaron's arms as he wept for the
cruelty he saw and experienced.  Lightly linking with Donny, Aaron slowly
solidified the link and helped the young man deal with what he had seen and
had to do. "You did good, Donny," Aaron finally told him after breaking the
link and then he kissed his forehead gently.

Donny smiled and hugged Aaron back; catching movement out of the corner of
his eye he noticed one of the dogs Aaron had picked out strolling into the
med bay, "That's strange."

Grinning, Aaron looked where Donny was, "Not really; that's Titus the alpha
male.  His mate is in the med bay, and she's due to deliver sometime
tomorrow afternoon according to the scans.  I developed a new way to alter
the dogs;  it takes a little longer as they spend the night sleeping on the
special bio-beds on the floor.  It probably adds about a full day to the
treatment to alter them but in the long run it is better for them as Titus's
mate is so close to whelping."

"I think I found a vet," Donny moved over to where Dante lay watching the
sun move across the ground. "He agreed to join us after I scanned him and
found he has seven of the eight clusters, but if you would do the
resequencing personally, I think there might be something medically wrong
with his genetics.  He says he has no drive; whether that is from the bad
experience or not, I didn't want to dig to deep, but he seems excited about
joining us.Oh, and he said something about the Canadian government saying
who can and can't apply for immigration to one of the colonies.  He was told
he couldn't apply because he did not have enough experience as a vet and was
shunted into a government job."

"I'll have Victoria look into it.  Even though they have their own
government they still look to the crown for guidance.  She should be the one
to slap them down," Aaron made a mental note to send her an email.

Donny stared at Aaron for a moment, "Back at Elswick when you got angry all
the dogs responded to your emotions.  The seven new dogs especially, the
ones you brought here for your Clan.is there.I mean can you.?"

"There is a simple answer to that, Donny. I'm a prime, and I was lightly
linked with the Newfie's when I picked up on the hostility coming from that
man and his intentions.  They picked up on the image I picked up in his
brain of him hurting his son; they are extremely protective of children.
If I had not controlled them they probably would have ripped his throat
out."  Aaron looked at Donny, "I think you will agree that Dante is more
than when you first got him.  All the linking the two of you are doing mind
to mind is increasing his intelligence.  If we used the old sci-fi
intelligence scale, with us being at the top with a rating of ten, the dogs
before we altered them would be around a five.  After we modified them, and
you've worked with them, they are going to be around an eight.  I have a
feeling they will evolve from there over time.  It stands to reason they
would."

Gazing at Dante Donny decided Aaron was probably right, "I should get back
so the others know what happened to me."  Grinning Donny moved over and
kissed Aaron's cheek one more time, "I will get with the clan and we will
design on paper the perfect cat for our teams, then I'll stop by so you can
see what we have to do to get there.  It might take a week or so until we
get all the scans and genetic mapping done."

"Whenever you're ready Donny, don't rush it.  We have time," Aaron smiled as
Donny ported out. Turning he glanced at the time and he still had several
hours before he had to think about supper, a trip to Pete's moon base should
take up the time he thought as he moved over to the gestalt point and ported
out.

Looking around the command center after arriving Aaron noticed Pete had been
busy.  The old center had become just a gestalt point, it opened up to what
looked like Joe and Chris's office area and off the other side a big sign
had been erected.  He chuckled as he read the Warning:

WARNING

ENTERING RESTRICTED AREA

SUSPEND YOUR BELIEF

LEAVE REALITY AT THE DOOR

UBER GEEKS AT WORK

Walking through the arch he spotted Richard and Andrew sitting across from
Pete and Xon.  "I have to know who put the sign above your door; it is way
too funny," Aaron laughed.

Giggling Pete motioned Aaron over, "Chris did that.  He came in here once to
ask me something.  After seeing the experiment I was working on he mumbled
something, after turning pale, and the next thing I knew that was above the
door.he said something about full disclosure was needed for people that came
and visited me."

Laughing Aaron moved over to the table with a grin on his face.  Glancing
down at the display built into the table the laughter stopped and the grin
left his face, "When did this come in?"

A little taken aback at the sudden mood shift Pete looked at the terminal
and pointed to the time stamps, "The second one came in last night; the
first one five days ago.  I thought it was a glitch in the system that I
needed to track down and fix.what's wrong?"

Hands tracing commands on the terminal Aaron pulled up real time video from
the first system, and went backwards from the time the intrusion defense
went online.  "The system defenses would not have become active if this had
come into the system alone," Aaron pointed at the obvious manufactured
probe.

Xon reached out and stopped Aaron from moving, touched the image and tapped
it several times increasing the magnification, "This is a blend of both
Kathat and Ophikoch designs."

Andrew stared at the terminal for a moment before picking up a rod from some
weird project Pete had been working on.  Placing it on the table, he lined
up the first system with the second and zoomed out so a star map of the
empire was shown on the table top.

Watching Andrew intently Aaron was slightly curious on why Andrew put a
straight edge on the table, and then, as he saw the map blink out so he
could see all his holdings, he saw what he was thinking.  If the ship, if it
was the same ship, stayed true to a course to Earth they would pass two more
systems, before reaching earth and only one of them was empty at the moment.
"Xon, those RS series ships; if you paired them up how quickly could they
build a step off station?"

Xon, eyes not leaving the terminal display, entered the coordinates of
Katha'.  A blinking red light was added to the map at a point past Andrew's
rod, and it was in line with the intrusions. "It will take two of them
thirty hours to complete a step off station.  If this dimensions Kathat are
at the same technological level as the ones from the dimension you rescued
me from then warp three point four is their maximum capacity."

Placing a finger on Sigma Alpha Seven Aaron looked at Xon, "I want all four
of the RS ships here.  Once the station is built and functional spilt them
up, and I want a station at every outer system of our empire.  Then work
your way back; follow the trail the unknowns left.  That way we have a
gestalt path to travel easily."

Thinking out loud, "Ophikoch and Kathat hybrid; those two cultures were at
opposite ends of each other, at least those in the movies.  But if they
merged."  Aaron sighed as he traced a command on the terminal, "Joe, Chris I
need both of you in Pete's lab please."  Changing the display so it showed
Xon's shipyard, Aaron stared at the display for a moment.  The four ships he
was building had been moved to the upper repair docks and new keels were
halfway finished in the bottom four spaces.  "How quickly can you get those
four vessels finished if you use the RS series ships?"

Xon pulled up the data on the progress, not sure what Aaron was thinking, "I
could have each of those finished in four hours."

Hearing the sounds of running Aaron glanced over his shoulder and saw not
only the two he called but Otto and Master Zheng, the Shaolin in charge of
their security forces rush in.  "Xon, if you would get those four vessels
finished as quickly as you can then send the RS ships to Sigma Alpha Seven.
If the unidentified vessel shows up as expected," glancing at the distances
between stars he quickly calculated, "in six days, I want a command step off
station in place.  Then go with my original request of building the
stations. We have more than enough people to man them, I think."

Feeling Xon's unease Aaron smiled, "All we have so far is a visual of a
hybrid design that you recognize as Ophikoch and Kathat.  That does not mean
that it is the Kathat or Ophikoch that created it in this dimension.  All it
means is it is a hybrid from an unknown source."  Sensing Xon was feeling
more assured he smiled, "That is where those ships come in;  I want them
finished and crewed.  Three of them will be patrolling Sigma Alpha Seven, in
case our unknown visitor stops by; the other one will be escorting you on
one of Pete's Star Scouts so you can quietly visit the Kathat home system
and download their database, specifically their history."

Looking at Pete, "Which brings me to you my wonderful sexy geek.  How many
of those Star Scouts have you finished and where are they hiding?"  Aaron
smiled as he saw the concern overriding Pete's excitement.

untitled2.bmp

"Um." Pete brought up the moon docks and the cavern he built to hold the
finished scouts, "I have twenty three finished and ready to be crewed, and
they are coming off the line at the rate of one every six hours now.But I
only programmed the system to build forty eight of them."

"Don't stop building them, remove the limitation of forty eight from the
system, if we end up with too many we can always recycle them." Aaron looked
at Chris and Joe, "I am hoping for a peaceful first contact, but I am
preparing for the worst.  If the invaders happen to be another race that
subjugated the Kathat then we need to be prepared." Aaron stared at Joe and
Chris, "Crews, gentleman! All twenty three of those ships need to be crewed,
and on their way to each of our systems to check on them until the stations
have been built in the patrolled system.  Start with the furthest ones in
the empire and move in as each ship comes off the line.  If you don't have
enough crews then park an empty one in the center of the system and tie them
into the system defense net and port a crew to the vessel if the system
defenses go live."

Looking up at the plasma of the shipyards Aaron smiled as the last of the RS
ships showed up and hovered above the almost completed ships. "Xon, I want
you to take one of the scouts and your new cruiser as soon as it is
finished.  Andrew, I want you to be on that cruiser as a representative of
the Clan." Sensing the shock, fear and pride coming from Andrew he smiled,
"this is a simple in and out mission.  Go in, take the data as quickly as
you can, and get out.  If they are Kathat then they can detect warp drive
signatures so don't take any chances.  In fact keep those wonderful new
shields of Xon's up at all times.  I think they will mask all energy
signatures if I read the report right, and make sure you go in black."

"If the computers are like the ones you are used to how long will it take to
do a dump to our systems?" Aaron looked at Xon as he asked while Otto was
talking quietly in over his communicator.

"To get their history and tech base for their ships?  Four hours if I wish
to remain undetected," Xon thought about the best way to do what was being
asked.

"So if the ships are done in four hours," Aaron thought out loud, "and we
load both ships heavy on gestalt teams it will take at the most an hour to
get there, four hours and then the four or five ports back, which gets you
back by morning." Aaron looked at Xon and then Andrew, "You both will leave
after supper, so that means around seven tonight.  Once you are at the
Kathat system you have no more than four hours before you leave, no matter
what you have or have not copied," Aaron stared at Xon until he nodded and
then Andrew who was already nodding.

Hugging Xon, Aaron smiled, "If we find the Kathat in this dimension are
close enough to those who you spent all those years with we will make first
contact with that ship as it gets to Sigma Alpha Seven.  I will rely on you,
Xon, to tell me how comfortable you are with the differences between the
two.  Now if the ship we think is intruding in our area of space is not
Kathat we will revisit the situation.  For now I don't want to create too
much trouble over a perceived possible threat."

"Any questions?" Aaron was pleased by the silence, and to tell the truth
slightly excited over first contact.  He just hoped it was the Kathat and
they were like the books and movies, and mostly peaceful.

"Can we shadow the unknown vessel just to make sure it is going where we
think it is?" Otto asked as he moved back to the table, "it only makes sense
to keep an eye on the ship."

"If you can do it undetected I don't see why not.  If you are detected, or
they stop, contact me immediately and I'll have Xon port over so he can make
first contact in their native language.  Unless, of course, they are not
Kathat.I'm making some pretty big assumptions here," Aaron pointed out.
"Master Zhen, have one of your people take charge of the scout Otto wants to
send out.  I want calm and cool minds in charge.  Make sure the people you
choose are all class two paths."

Seeing Otto was going to say something Aaron shook his head, "Sorry Otto but
I want your people to man those command ships Xon built.  The scouts are
just that, scouts; in and out quickly.  Those command cruisers are warships
and that is where I want my military people."  Getting a nod back from the
man Aaron looked at Joe, "The Reliant is really not doing anything in earth
orbit; not that one of the scouts can't do just as well.  I want the Reliant
to visit Banard for now."  Finger paused over the flashing square that would
post this to the system so all his people could see what had happened, Aaron
smiled. "This is exciting and yet terrifying.  It could be the peaceful
contact we wish or it could be bumpy but I think we have all the bases
covered." Finger touching the blinking light the past half hour was
transferred to the system so everyone could watch.



Aaron smiled as Richard hugged Andrew a little longer than the others.  He
heard him whisper, "I expect you back to wake me in the morning,
Love.Don't.Don't take any chances!"

Moving over Aaron hugged Richard close, "They will be fine.  At the first
sign of trouble they can port out.  I think you and Ichiro will be spending
the night with me."  Glancing at Andrew and Xon who had hugged and kissed
everyone including the curious youngsters, he waited until they were
standing in front of him once more. "I expect both of you to be crawling
into my bed in six hours from now.Ride like the winds, Loves, and don't get
hurt!" Accepting one last kiss, Aaron moved Richard towards the recreations
pit and sat down.  "For now we can watch what happens on the plasmas.  If
everything is going smoothly I'll shag your arse until you pass out in
pleasure; to pass the time, of course."

Giggling, Richard sat back against Aaron's chest and looked at the screen;
he knew eventually the day would come where Andrew did something dangerous.
He had hoped he would be ready by then, but now, facing it, he thought he
was not really ready if the butterflies in his stomach were anything to
judge by.

It had taken twenty five minutes to make it into orbit around Katha'.  Xon
contemplated once more the differences between Alteran technology and the
Confederation he grew up around.  He imagined Aaron could make the trip in
one port, and if truth be told, now that they had a sentinel watching the
outer system they could make the trip in three ports, just under ten
minutes.  With Confederation technology it would take almost two weeks at
high warp.  Nodding to no one in particular he ported the SE110 to the
planet's surface and directed it to the research section of the Kathat
science guild hall. So far the visual feed was showing a familiar script
that he had little trouble reading.

Finding an unused station at the research center Xon directed the SE110 to
hover under the desk, spliced it into the data stream of the Kathat network
and logged in under an older set of security protocols without trouble.
Setting the controls to download a complete mainframe backup he smiled as he
found he could do so in under three hours.  Glancing at the pickup, "I'm
in.We can be gone in three hours time unless something happens to change the
schedule.  I'm initiating the secondary SE110 and directing it to the Guild
Council chambers to monitor the happenings there."

After a careful insertion Xon looked around the chambers and saw several of
the Ruling Councilors hard at work.  Listening in he translated their
conversation.

"Logic tells me that the Timur should not approach the next system as
planned, but should instead divert to the target system as soon as possible
with utmost caution," Tenef looked up from his contemplations.

"Elucidate your findings, Tenef," Amidi looked up as she turned her chair so
she could see his face.

"After further study, and long range astrometry, I have concluded from the
available data that our intrusion is known.  Whether it is by an automatic
defense system, or there is an intelligence behind it is unknown at this
time.  Continued intrusions into what the data conveys as colony, or
probable colony sites, could be taken as hostile." Tenef waited for Amidi to
make further comment.

"We cannot afford a conflict with a race that has this type of technology,
even through misunderstanding," Amidi finally admitted, "What are the
recommendations we should consider?"

"We should send an ambassador to the Timur and prepare for first contact.
Until the ambassador meets with the Timur it should halt its advance. The
Talvath can transport Ambassador Sesek to the Timur. Once Sesek is on board
it can continue on its mission.  The Talvath can meet with the Timur in four
days at warp four point nine," Tenef concluded.

Xon was surprised as the female pulled up a star map that accurately
identified each of their systems; he was curious on how they found them and
then noticed it, "Somehow they are able to trace the energy signatures our
fusion generators give off.  As they have no idea we are in orbit, or near
the system, the shields must work correctly in masking the signature.  The
question is, do we mask all our installations? If we do so they will make
the logical conclusion we have tapped their communications and take steps."

"Logic dictates when security urges caution and diplomacy we should not
ignore the warning.  Send the message to have the Timur halt all forward
progress.  Also have them stop all long range scans and wait for the Talvath
to transfer Sesek before continuing," Amidi finally decided.

Xon concentrated on getting the co-ordinates of where the Timur would hold
station waiting for the Talvath, knowing Aaron he would want to institute
first contact there.  Having recorded the co-ordinates he sat back as the
Talvath received its orders, and Sesek acknowledged the request to depart.
Checking the data stream he nodded as it was proceeding faster than
expected, and realized he had tapped into the normal daily system backup.
They would be out of here shortly.  Gazing up at the plasma Xon smiled at
Andrew, "Soon, Love.  I tapped the system at the best time; during its daily
backup.  We shall be able to return to Prime before Aaron has a chance to
tire Richard out, and we shall have our chance to help him out."

Andrew smiled at Xon's message.  As he looked around the command deck he was
relieved that everything seemed to be going quietly so far.

Aaron grinned as he looked at the youngsters who were staring in excitement
at the plasma at seeing real live living and breathing Kathat.  "I know for
the most part I plan to let you set your own bedtimes, but I think as soon
as Xon and Andrew start back you might want to go to bed.  After all, as
long as you do well in your studies, I will leave bedtimes and such totally
up to you.  But right now it is later than you are normally still up."

Getting nods of agreement and pleased expressions back, Aaron turned to face
the plasma once more before pulling his communicator down and activating it,
"Joe, are you still up.?" Laughing as he shook his head, "I didn't think you
would leave the office to tell the truth.  Xon was right in thinking he will
be making first contact Friday.  I want to set up a show of force where the
Kathat are waiting to meet the Talvath.  We'll send all four cruiser to the
area along with a dozen or so scouts.  Once the two ships meet we will port
the Reliant in and make first contact, or Xon will.  If things go smoothly
he can escort them to Tau Ceti Station and we will sit down for a meeting.
Right, talk to you tomorrow then." Looking back at the plasma Aaron grinned
as he noticed the scout appear next to Andrew's ship before both of them
ported back towards home.