She explained how she contacted her superior and the Serian ruler via an untraceable frequency, how she obtained needed data from network computers from them, how Yakir surreptitiously entered the clues and facts she gathered, and how she had received Cypher. She revealed Yakir's motives for sending her and for not telling Phaedrig about her presence. She told him that Acharius was the son of the Avatar of Caguas and how they knew each other. "I hope my parents, friends, and his family understand and forgive me for what I was forced to do to protect our galaxy and others."
He grasped her hand and gave it a comforting and gentle squeeze. "I'm certain they will, Starla; or I should say, Bree-Kayah."
"We should not use each other's real names in private or we could make a slip when Dagan and Yana are in public. Now, tell me everything about you, my beloved. What is your real name?"
"I agree we should stick to Dagan and Yana at all times, but it's Curran Thaiter. I was bom, reared and trained on the capital planet of Gavas in Kalfa. I'm twenty-eight >^z7ig5 old. I'm seventy-five hapaxs tall and weigh two-twenty pedis. My hair is the shade of the sun and my eyes are aqua." He watched her try to imagine how he looked in his natural colorings.
He found her study and expression so arousing, he hurried on with his revelations before he was compelled to halt and make love to her. "My family was slain during a crime yings ago, but I'll relate that bitter story after I complete my history. I was a Seki for many yings before I was asked to join I-GAF. I use many disguises and identities during my assignments, but when I'm not on a particular mission, I live, work, and appear as Dagan Latu to keep that identity
well established for other missions. Dauld Phaedrig is my superior and I answer only to him."
He wasn't sure of how much she knew about I-GAF, so he skimmed over that subject to enlighten or refresh her. "Agents work alone, in small teams, or in large units according to the crime we're solving. We can go anywhere in the UFG and no one can interfere with our methods; we cannot be questioned, reprimanded, or punished for them. Our assignments are requested by rulers or planetary leaders, but how we resolve the trouble is up to us. It's rare for an agent to have contact with rulers or leaders during an assignment. Phaedrig selects the agent or team to carry out a mission, and no agent has been disloyal, disobedient, or been terminated for a crime or incompetence. If one goes bad, he will be hunted and eradicated by I-GAF alone. When an agent retires, crucial facts about I-GAF are erased from his memory. Although Rendelar prevents susceptibility to truth serum, elderly men with weakened bodies might not be able to resist revealing secrets during a torture session. As you know, Rendelar and Thorin are creations of Ryker Triloni and their formulas are known only by Trilabs. As with all Trilabs formulas, any attempt to analyze them results in initiating a self-destruct sequence; he was indeed a rare genius. The chemicals and dyes used for our tattoos have similar self-destruct tags in them."
He turned his body sideways to face her as he continued, and she did the same to listen. "Phaedrig has access to all known computer networks and he inserts the data needed for mission identities. There is one system which cannot be breached by anyone except Phaedrig and I-GAF agents; that is the one which contains our personnel and assignment records, so they will be safeguarded against traitor encroachment. All other networks have a cue inserted which alerts Phaedrig when one of his agents is investigated, but Yakir was too clever and fast to be traced when he checked on me. As to how Syrkin and Yakir's traitors retrieved data
on us, both are in positions of power, knowledge, and trust. We carr)/ no credentials to be found, and our hand insignias are made visible only by us when needed." He related the description of I-GAF headquarters and told her it was on a barren planetoid in Kalfa, but did not disclose its location.
"Back to my family," he said with a grimace. "I was on a mission three yings ago when villites faked a chemical hazard in the area where my family lived on Gavas. Inhabitants were to gather their most valuable possessions and flee in supplied crafts, since they couldn't return home until the contamination was cleared away. During the evacuation procedure, spacekis attacked two of the rescue vessels carrying the wealthiest and most prominent citizens; everyone aboard was murdered, including my family and many of my friends. That vicious nefariant took away my parents, my sister and her family, and my two brothers and one's family; they killed young and old, male and female, by blowing up the vessels after they robbed them. When the villites proved to be elusive, I resigned as a Seki to work full-time to use my wits, skills, and energy to track down those responsible: Tochar and his band. The fiendal thought he had eliminated all witnesses, but he failed to notice a surveillance monitor at the boarding point; that's why he's so adamant about their destruction during our raids."
"Tochar and his band murdered your family and others . . ." she repeated in horror. "He's worse than I imagined. You must hate him terribly."
He nodded. "I was able to capture or terminate all of them except for Tochar, Auken, Sach, and Moig; but their faces and names were seared into my memory. For a strange reason, they always managed to evade me. I suspected my closest superior was involved in the fiendal 's good luck; that explained why the case was impeded, why clues I gathered were lost or ignored or dismissed, and why I was ordered to abandon my 'futile obsession' and was shifted to another investigation, which compelled me to resign to work
on my own. My prowess and persistence seized the attention of I-GAF and that's why I was asked to join the Force. I accepted because I needed distraction from my losses and I needed to have stimulating adventures and challenges to keep me going and to sharpen my wits and skills. I also believed it would get me within range of Tochar. My appearance was changed to conceal my identity and Curran Thaiter was reported slain. Phaedrig inserted a fake record about Dagan Latu, and I created a reputation for him as an adventurer, bijoni, and dashing rogue who barely eluded arrest numerous time for shady incidents. Dagan is said to live for pleasure, money, and excitement, and is fiercely loyal to his leader. Perhaps you'll understand my suspicions about my past Seki superior when I tell you it was Syrkin." He noted her reaction and said, "That's right, the same Syrkin involved in this mission. He was probably Tochar's accomplice for yings. At least he's been dealt with by now and is off my mental list. When this trouble came up, Phaedrig assigned me, even knowing my past connections to the fiendals and my hunger for revenge, for justice. He was confident I wouldn't allow my personal feelings to sway my judgment and behavior, and I couldn't be recognized as Curran."
This time, she gave his hand a comforting squeeze. "That's terrible, Dagan. We'll find a way to punish them for slaying your family and to prevent them from doing more evil."
"We'll do our best, my love. Now tell me, how did you destroy those stolen crystals? That is what you told me while you were Yana, right?"
She nodded, then explained what she had done and why that same procedure would not work against the Destruc-toids, how getting near them was impossible, lethal for one person to attempt. She listened as he related the reason for suggesting the raid at Sion, for coaxing Auken to attack the medical supply vessel, and for repairing Tochar's ship: tricks
to evoke trust in him and to lure Tochar oif Noy and into a trap. She revealed everything she had learned and all she had done since starting her assignment. Dagan told her what he planned to report to Phaedrig about her: the truth.
"He'll be angry with Raz Yakir, Thaine, and me for our secrecy."
"Miffed for a while perhaps, but he's intelligent, and victory is what matters, so he'll understand and forgive their little deception."
"Will he resist Yana helping you defeat Tochar?" she asked. "Will he order me to leave? If he does, do I have to obey him?"
"How can he resist after all you've accomplished and with the skills you possess? You're as qualified on this matter as I am, more so, since you're the one who's gathered all the useful facts and thwarted Tochar in many ways. But if he did order you to leave, you would be for
ced to obey."
"Forced?" she echoed in astonishment. "How so?"
"By insisting your superior recall you, and Sanger would comply."
"I'm not deserting you in the face of danger. If they attempt to order me away, I will resign and they'll have no authority over my actions."
"Even a private citizen must submit to I-GAF requests and commands. Phaedrig would have your Kadim summon you home; and since your ruler is no longer a family member, he would honor Phaedrig's request."
"But my brother is on the Supreme Council; Galen would help me."
"Would you risk dishonoring yourself, the Saars, your superior, and your ruler for selfish reasons? If I'm left alone, I'll be fine; I promise."
"I know you're highly skilled and experienced, Dagan, but Tochar is evil incarnate; he's invincible at this point; you would be trapped here without me and my ship to supply an emergency escape if needed, and I can provide safe
communications and other things you might require in your task. If you're . . . slain, this mission would be defeated instead of Tochar. At least Yana would be here to take over, to perhaps help another agent infiltrate his band. How is that being selfish?"
"Your reasoning is superior, my love, and I will repeat it to Phaedrig. I doubt he will ask you to leave. As for me, I wish you would depart, but I'm certain I could not convince you to do so." He chuckled as he stood. "We have been doing so much talking, we need to wet our throats," he said, as he entered the other area to pour them another drink.
Starla watched him with an adoring gaze. She was elated by the realization that her lover was the kind of man she could introduce to her family and friends with pride. He deserved their respect, admiration, and acceptance. There was no problem with him being a Kalfan, a race compatible in the biological and physiological areas, and comparable in appearances. It would not matter to them that her social status was higher than his, or that his authoritative rank was higher than hers. Though her family's wealth was enormous and her bloodline's achievements v/ere almost matchless and legendary in the UFG, that would not make a difference to her or to her family or to a confident male like Curran Thaiter.
After he joined her on the seata, she told him that since his family was dead, the Saars would become his family in all ways. "The only two things that will concern them are if you love me and are worthy of me; both are true, pirate of my heart. We'll have a wonderful future as mates; we can work together, or retire and do something new and different."
"We'll make our choices and plans later, after we defeat Tochar and get away from this awful place."
"What if we can't defeat him since he has those Destruc-toids? " The thought preyed on her mind.
"We'll find a way to eliminate him and those weapons. We have your ship for communications and escape if necessary, and Cypher for assistance and protection. With the three of us teamed up, how can we fail?"
"We'll make mission plans later; you'll be leaving soon with Auken and Sach and we'll be separated for a long time. Cypher and I will shadow you while cloaked to protect you and record evidence. Cypher will make you a disk to wear on your belt so we can hear everything said and you can request help if needed. At least I'll be able to hear your voice and be there if needed. Right now, I want you and need you to fill my storage bays for a long haul since you'll be unable to supply me with daily nourishment."
At that stimulating hint, flames of desire leapt through Dagan's body and flickered brightly in his eyes. As Starla pressed close to him, it was as if he could detect a tangible matching blaze of fiery passion within her. He wanted, needed, and loved her so much that his potent emotions ahnost stole his breath. He willingly followed her to the sleeper and paused beside it. He didn't assist when she undressed first him, then stripped off her own garments. He was enspelled by the way her mouth made several sensuous and erotic treks over his face and chest. Soon, her questing and experienced fingers and mouth had him squirming and moaning in exquisite delight as she tantalized, pleasured, and sated him in one way, only to reheat and cool him again in another.
Dagan had not realized he could become aroused and slaked so many times in one afternoon; he was enchanted i by her provocative and generous actions. He pulled her | body into place atop his so he could kiss her and reward her in like kind for the hora of rapture. His fingers kneaded her soft but firm buttocks. His mouth drifted down her neck, nibbled at her collarbone, and fastened to one of the smoldering peaks which dangled down and enticed him to capture it.
Starla was elated to be in his arms. Bliss filled her as he heightened her hungers. She pushed aside thoughts and worries about the perils looming before them; all she wanted to know and feel was the glorious splendor of this occasion and this man. Musky scents teased at her nostrils, increasing her eagerness to have him. She was rolled to her back to give him freedom to roam her body from end to end, and to explore every beckoning region between those two locations. Pleasured into a near mindless state, she thrashed upon the firm surface beneath her as he drove her wild with anticipation, then gave her sweet release.
Dagan received sublime pleasure at each passionate encounter and was slaked thoroughly; yet, he couldn't get enough of her and always wanted, craved, more. His feelings and needs went beyond sexual ones; he loved her with all his heart and being, and she filled his life in so many areas. She was unique, magical; she was his.
Starla writhed and moaned as his titillating tongue caused colorftil lights to dance before her closed eyes as ecstasy shook her to her core. She could not imagine her life without him, on and off a sleeper. He stirred her blood and wits and emotions. When he entered her welcoming body, her legs enclosed his hips and held him clamped against her. His kisses were pervasive, delicious, fervent.
Dagan relished the way she imprisoned him within her arms and legs, her mouth feverishly working upon his. When she reached the brink of release, he thrust rapidly to help push her over that precipice. Moments after she arched her back and moaned in glorious fulfillment his body erupted in a molten frenzy that resulted in glorious appeasement.
With sweet victory obtained, they cuddled and kissed, serene and exhausted. Yet, each was worried about the other's safety and survival. Within reach was the one person who fulfilled their yearnings and destiny. Beyond this cozy
chamber was the one threat which could tear them apart forever, which could create chaos across the Universe.
Dagan feared she wasn't safe without him or with him, as Tochar's unknown sources could track her down wherever she went and slay her. The Jiendal he wanted to defeat was responsible for the deaths of his family and for many other innocents and, if he wasn't cautious and smarter, that evil force could take from him his newfound love and joy. How could he protect her if she remained at his side, he fretted, even as Yana? Yet, where could he hide her from Tochar, who might have another contact in Kalfa and/or Maffei? What would he have to say and/or do to force her to leave him if matters worsened when she was determined to stay?
Starla's troubled thoughts journeyed along a similar course: if Tochar discovered who and what Dagan was, her love would be tortured and killed. If she didn't stay nearby, she and C3^her could not protect him, could not help him carry out this vital mission. She wished there were no such things as Tochar, moonbeams, and perilous missions; but all three existed.
For the remainder of that deega, they talked, made love twice, ate a late meal, and fell asleep nestled together.
The following morning, Dagan was summoned by Tochar to do a task for him with Auken and Sach, saying only one deega was required and he would return to Yana's side by dusk. Before he left his chamber, he insisted she shapeshift into Yana and remain there during his absence. He observed the transformation in amazement, and was relieved the process was not painful. As he embraced her and brushed his lips over hers, he murmured, "I feel deceitful kissing and hugging Yana, though it is you within her. This is a strange experience and it near dazes my wits."
She laughed as she viewe
d his playful expression and jested, "Perhaps I should welcome you back tonight with
this sexy body. Yana is more endowed than I am," she said, as she rubbed her breasts against him. "With this magical secret, you can have two eager women as your love slaves."
Dagan chuckled. "I only have enough stamina to sate one women, as my prized treasure is most demanding and greedy."
"Your mating appetite will increase greatly if I splash on that irresistible scent," she murmured in a seductive tone.
"As beautiful as you are as Yana, I love Starla. She tempts, arouses, and sates me as no other female could. She is the one who captured my heart and enflames my body. Now, if I don't leave fast, I might be compelled to overlook this image and be late meeting the others."
Yana watched her lover leave and stepped backward for the door to close. Earlier she had shared a long and sensuous shower with Dagan and dressed when he did. She reminded herself she needed to signal Cypher to teleport certain items to her, including a meal so she would not have to leave his chamber. She started to retrieve her neck ring from the privacy room where she'd left it last night so sounds of their passionate lovemaking would not singe the android's "ears," though she had forgotten about its presence earlier when passion stole their wits in the bathing cubicle.
When the exterior door swished open, she halted and turned expecting to see her beloved returning to retrieve a forgotten item, but saw instead two of Tochar's Enforcers entering. She tensed in alarm. "What do you want here? Dagan has left."
"Tochar wishes to speak with you," one said. "Come with us."
Yana stared at the black-clad men. "I do not understand. I—"
A low-energy beam stunned Yana into silence and darkness.
When she awakened, she was strapped to the oblong
table in the testing room at Tochar's dwelling and the flen-dal was leaning over her imprisoned body. Without the transmitter in her neck ring, she could not alert Cypher to her peril, and—^with it hanging in the bath chamber—^he was ignorant of all aspects of her abduction. She hoped Tochar did not keep her there for more than ten horas, as surely that was the span of time remaining in her transmutation scheduled . . .
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