Three Square Meals Ch. 129

"They were too gutless to come after me personally, so they tried to hurt me by going after my friends. Mikaboshi abducted Calara and was going to mutilate her into a cyborg. Weber kidnapped and tortured Jehanna Elani, then planned to conduct grotesque experiments on Jade's sisters. I'm sick of these pathetic cowards attacking the people closest to me... and it's long past time to put an end to it by showing everyone the consequences."

"I'm sorry, John... I didn't know the background to those incidents," Zelig admitted, looking contrite.

"You and I aren't that different, Nathan," John said, his tone conciliatory. "When the ones we love are threatened, we take steps to protect them... that's all I'm doing here."

The older officer nodded and looked away, his face a mask of conflicting emotions.

"The Lionesses will be ready soon; let us know where the colonists will be," John requested, reaching out to end the awkward call. "I don't think we'll be heading back this way any time soon, Admiral Zelig. Goodbye and good luck."

Zelig gave him a look filled with regret. "The same to you, Admiral Blake. I am sorry if it sounded like I was condemning your actions; you've done a tremendous amount of good protecting millions of colonists on the Outer Rim."

"They needed my help, so I intervened to keep them safe," John replied, making eye contact with him. "It's almost the exact same thing... just on a vast scale."

"I just don't want you to have to live with the guilt that's plagued me for over 20 years," Zelig said earnestly.

John let out a weary sigh. "I understand that... but I can't always be there to protect all my friends and family. I don't know of any other way to deter further attacks... do you?"

The admiral hesitated then shook his head, looking lost in thought.

"Have a safe journey to the border, Nathan," John said, ending the call.

He leaned back in his chair, then turned to look out the window at the huge Terran Federation fleet that was gathered around Tasmaris Prime. As he watched the grey titanium vessels launch shuttles down to the planet below, he couldn't help wondering if the justifications he'd used to defend himself really did scale up. He believed passionately that killing someone to save an innocent was the right thing to do... but could you really apply the same argument at a civilisation level?

John stared out into space, mulling over how far he should go to stop the Brimorians from killing the Abandoned.

***

The imposing gilded doors slid open, admitting Queen Edraele Valaden and her retinue into the vast hangar. Dominating this area of Genthalas shipyard was the Ettrian Keyrie, the colossal flagship of House Perfaren, which would soon be departing for Kintark territory. Parked adjacent to it were over a dozen golden shuttles, each waiting to transport the gathering of senior officers to their capital ships. Those Maliri women were speaking to their matriarchs in the shadow of the sleek battleship, the leader of each House standing out in her distinctive matriarchal robes.

Luna's yellow-eyed gaze swept over the crowd, picking out Tsarra Perfaren, Valani Naestina, and Nyrelle Aeberos amidst the naval officers. *Where are Leena and Kali?*

*Their House fleets are engaged elsewhere and won't be taking part in this campaign,* Edraele explained as she glided towards the trio of Young Matriarchs. *Leena would have come to show solidarity, but I asked her to keep Kali company.*

The assassin darted a look of concern her way. *Is Kali alright?*

Edraele hesitated before answering. *I was distracted during her last meeting with Sarinia, so I didn't know that they planned to meet again. Kali went to meet her in the arboretum earlier this evening, but as Sarinia is confined to quarters, obviously she didn't show up. Shortly afterwards, Kali stopped sharing her thoughts with me; I had intended to give her some privacy, but I started feeling some sadness across our empathic bond.*

*Do you think she found out what happened to Gaenna Baelora and the rest of the older matriarchs?* Luna asked, raising an eyebrow.

*I don't think so, otherwise she would have felt far stronger emotions. Leena spoke with Kali and confirmed what I've been feeling; that she isn't distraught, but there is something bothering her. I plan to speak with Kali about it as soon as we're finished here.*

The Maliri gathered by the battleship noticed Edraele's arrival and bowed to her respectfully as she approached.

"Good evening, ladies," Edraele said with a warm smile. "I hope all is well?"

"Very well, thank you." Tsarra Perfaren replied, before gesturing to the older naval officer standing at her side. "I don't think you've met Aadya before. She's my House Fleet Commander... and a loyal friend."

Like all the military personnel in attendance, Aadya had short white hair, having been inducted into Edraele's network of wards shortly after the rebellion was peacefully averted. She was an older woman and clearly a veteran officer, possessing a quiet but confident presence.

"It's a pleasure to meet you at last," Edraele said, inclining her head politely. "I know Tsarra highly values your wisdom and experience."

Tsarra placed a hand on the Fleet Admirals shoulder. "I owe her a great deal. Aadya convinced me to stop trying to fight John and talk to him instead... I dread to think what might have happened otherwise."

Aadya looked embarrassed at the effusive praise. "You give me far too much credit, Matriarch; I seem to recall you were the first to discern the purpose of the holo-simulation." She turned and bowed respectfully to Edraele. "It's an honour to meet you in person, my Queen. I've enjoyed hearing your lovely voice and had pictured how you must look, but your beauty far exceeds my feeble imagination."

"I think I need to have stern words with Lilyana and Amlaril; my Fleet Commanders never say such nice things to me," Edraele said with a disarming smile.

The assembled officers laughed, put at ease by her relaxed demeanour.

Edraele turned to look at Nyrelle and Valani. "May I ask who is leading your fleets, Matriarchs?"

Valani gave the Maliri officer beside her a wry smile. "This is Amalaeth. Our relationship had a somewhat rocky start, but she's an excellent Fleet Commander and I have every confidence in her abilities."

Nyrelle grinned at her own Fleet Commander. "A rocky start? When I became matriarch, Kalmaera thought I was a foolish little girl, who was going to lead House Aeberos to disaster!"

"I would never be so disrespectful, Matriarch!" Kalmaera protested, looking abashed.

"I'm only teasing you," Nyrelle said, patting the officer on the arm. "I just hope you don't still feel that way?"

Kalmaera shook her head and replied earnestly, "You've done nothing but impress me since you became leader of our House. You helped forge an incredibly powerful alliance, the likes of which I never dreamed possible, and managed to vastly upgrade the strength of our entire fleet. You've achieved more in two months than your mother accomplished in the last 50 years!"

Touched by her Fleet Commander's fervent praise, Nyrelle blushed a dark indigo. "I'm just trying to do my best for our House and the Maliri Protectorate... but I appreciate what you said. Thank you, Kalmaera."

Edraele was pleased to see the close relationships that had developed between the Young Matriarchs and their highest-ranking military officers. It was quite clear that the Fleet Commanders all held them in very high regard. *Well done, ladies... you've really won their respect.*

The Young Matriarchs beamed in delight, always ecstatic when they earned praise from the Maliri Queen.

Addressing the group of officers, Edraele continued, "We have no history of inter-House cooperation in a military campaign of this magnitude; have you established which Fleet Commander will have seniority?"

Kalmaera and Amalaeth both glanced at Aadya, who replied, "Perfaren is the highest ranked House, so it's been suggested that I lead our expeditionary force."

"Actually, you also have more combat experience than either of us," Amalaeth corrected her. "My recommendation was based on merit rather than House ranking."

"Mine too," Kalmaera agreed. "You're the logical choice to lead our battle group."

"I'm glad to hear you reached an amicable consensus," Edraele said, nodding her approval. "You'll also be working closely with John's fleet commander, who will provide strategic guidance and tactical support in the upcoming battles. It's imperative that you maintain a chain of Comms Beacons when you enter Kintark territory, so that you can continue to receive updates from Calara."

Aadya's ears pricked up at that announcement. "Is that the Calara who masterminded the tactical responses in the holo-simulation during the civil war?"

"The very same," Edraele confirmed, noting the eager look of anticipation in the officer's eyes. "Her primary objective will be to ensure that you don't lose any personnel in the conflict with the Brimorians, so listen closely to her advice, she's an extremely gifted tactician."

The Fleet Commanders shifted uncomfortably, darting glances at one another.

"That's an admirable goal, but it's extremely unlikely it can be achieved in a conflict of this scale," Aadya said with regret. "We will do our best to minimise casualties, but I believe we're facing at least six Brimorian fleets?"

"Which is why you must be cautious not to overexpose your forces. I fully intend to stop the Brimorians from conquering the Kintark, but I have no wish to see Maliri crew sacrificed because Emperor Baledranax was a reckless fool and left his empire exposed. What's left of the Kintark forces will be fighting with you under the command of High Prelate Zorlin, so coordinate your attacks with him."

The three Fleet Commanders nodded their understanding.

"As soon as the Brimorian threat is neutralised, I want you to hurry back to Genthalas," Edraele continued, looking at each of them in turn. "We're planning a massive fleet operation and need all of you here for when it begins. I wish you good fortune on this campaign, ladies... it's an excellent opportunity for you to prove that the Maliri can fight at each other's side, united under one banner."

Tsarra slipped her arms around her fellow matriarchs' waists and hugged them affectionately. "Valani and Nyrelle are my closest friends and there'll never again be another war waged between our Houses. Put those old House rivalries far behind you and think of yourselves as close allies, working together for the future of our people."

"Well said," Valani said turning to give her a warm smile. "I feel exactly the same way about you."

Nyrelle gave Tsarra a chaste kiss on the cheek, then grinned at the stunned officers. "You're all smart women... I'm sure you all sense the difference between this alliance and the temporary truces of the past. The Maliri are united now, all fighting alongside each other for Baen'thelas."

Kalmaera, and Amalaeth were accustomed to being on friendly terms, as House Aeberos and House Naestina had been allies even before the Young Matriarchs replaced their mothers. However, it was still a shock to see their leaders openly embrace the Perfaren Matriarch, whose House had been a bitter rival for over two centuries.

Edraele smiled at the Young Matriarchs fondly, before facing the shocked fleet commanders. "John will have returned to Genthalas by the time you've concluded this campaign, so do your best, and I'm quite certain he'll want to reward each of you personally."

Astonishment turned to excitement and all the assembled Maliri officers looked thrilled at the prospect.

"I will eagerly await your triumphant return," Edraele said, concluding her parting words. "Good bye and good luck, ladies."

The entire group of military personnel bowed to her, then the Young Matriarchs split up to convey their final instructions to their fleet commanders.

*Well that was entertaining,* Luna said, falling into step beside Edraele as the Maliri Queen turned to leave. *I don't think they could believe their eyes when Nyrelle kissed Tsarra.*

*Imagine how they'll react when they find out that their matriarchs are all lovers and pregnant with John's babies,* Edraele remarked, her purple eyes sparkling.

Luna suppressed a chuckle then darted a curious glance at Edraele. *When they find out? So you do intend to tell them?*

*Actually I doubt it'll be much of a shock by that point. When John returns, I need to get much closer to all the fleet commanders and build up the trust between us. If I can bond with them, we'll have instantaneous telepathic communication with all our fleets, no matter where they are in the galaxy. Once they make that connection with me, they'll be aware of just how close all of us are.*

*I'll never forget what it was like, bonding with you,* Luna said softly, swinging her hands as she walked, so that she could innocuously brush the backs of her fingers against Edraele's.

The Maliri Queen flashed a furtive smile at her, then they left through the hangar doors.

***

*We're ready to go, John,* Alyssa informed him, her telepathic contact scattering his thoughts.

*I'll come down and see you off,* he replied, rising from his chair.

*Don't worry, we'll be back in a couple of hours. Why don't you go straight to the Officers' Lounge? Jack, Mateo, and Emily are with Calara and heading up there now.*

*Alright, I'm on my way,* John said, leaving his Ready Room. When he walked onto the Bridge, he was surprised to find it deserted. *Are the Nymphs with you?*

*They all volunteered to assist and I didn't have the heart to turn them down. It'll actually be helpful to have them along, they're really good at distracting crowds and keeping the queues moving. Jade's coming with us as well, so she'll keep an eye on her sisters, while I watch over Helene and Rachel.*

The Nymph Matriarch spoke up too. *Is that alright with you, Master? We can stay aboard if you prefer.*

John walked up the ramp and entered the grav-tube. *No, it's okay; I'm pleased you all offered to help. I'll introduce our guests to Sakura and the twins first, then they can meet the rest of you later.*

*I hope it goes well. See you soon!* Jade said cheerfully.

*Take care both of you,* he said, stepping out of the gravity field on Deck Two.

*Don't we always?* Alyssa asked, a playful lilt to her voice.

*No, you really don't,* he replied with wry amusement. *So try not to get into trouble this time.*

His matriarchs shared their laughter with him, a lovely sound that brought a smile to his face as he entered the Officers' Lounge. Sakura was waiting alone by the bar and gave him a nervous wave as he entered the room.

John walked over to join her and leaned in to kiss her cheek. "Just relax, honey, you've got nothing to worry about. Jack's going to think you're lovely."

She blushed in embarrassment and gave him a grateful smile.

"How about a drink to calm you down?" he suggested, walking over to the drinks cabinet. "Any cocktails you like?"

"Umm... can you make a Strawberry Daiquiri?" she asked tentatively.

"Coming right up," John replied with a grin, reaching for a bottle of rum and a tray of ice.

Sakura watched him in fascination as he tipped the ingredients into a blender, adding a pack of the frozen fruit that gave the cocktail its name. The grating whir reverberated around the room, drowning out Calara's greeting as she arrived with her guests.

John deactivated it to end the raucous grinding, then beckoned the new arrivals over. "Hey everyone. What would you like to drink?"

"I'll have whatever Sakura's having!" Calara said enthusiastically, eyeing the bright red concoction in the jug.

"I'd like one as well please, John," the blonde accompanying her said, greeting him with a smile. She hesitated a moment later, suddenly looking unsure of herself. "Is it alright if I call you by your first name? Mateo said it was okay..."

"Of course," he said, pouring her drink into a glass. "I'm very glad you could join us, Emily."

"I was ordered to by an Admiral... I could hardly refuse!" she gushed, giving him a look filled with gratitude. "Thank you so much, by the way. I couldn't believe it when Mateo told me you were transferring me so we could stay together."

"You're quite welcome," he said, returning her smile. "You can thank Mateo for that. It looked like he was having second thoughts about the promotion and transfer if it meant being separated from you."

She turned to stare at her boyfriend in astonishment. "Really?!"

"I love you, Em," he replied diplomatically, opening his arms to her. As she rushed to hug him, Mateo mouthed "Thank you!" to John over her shoulder.

"What would my future brother-in-law like to drink?" John asked, as he poured out Strawberry Daiquiries for Calara and Sakura.

"Just a beer would be great, thanks," Mateo replied gratefully.

"I've got lager, bitter, and Trankaran ale." When Mateo's eye lit up at the latter, John handed him a bottle. "Here you go."

"Cheers!" he said, raising the bottle and taking a big gulp.

"What can I get you, Jack?" John asked, gesturing to the spirits in the well-stocked bar. "I'm afraid I don't have any of that amazing Jericho beer..."

"That's alright, I could use a stiffer drink," Calara's father said, smiling when he spotted the distinctive-shaped bottle of McGregor whiskey.

John put two tumblers on the bar, added some ice, then poured out the rich amber liquid. "There you go."

"Very nice," Jack said appreciatively after taking a sip.

Leaving the bar to join them, John nodded towards the nervous raven-haired beauty standing beside him. "I don't think you've met Sakura before. She joined us a couple of months after our visit to Jericho."

"We haven't met, but your reputation precedes you, Sakura," Jack said, looking at the Asian girl in admiration. "I saw your interview on TFNN; what you accomplished in the Battle of Terra was truly remarkable."

"Thank you so much for rescuing Unity City," Emily said, reaching out to touch Sakura's hand in a simple gesture of gratitude. "My uncle and aunt live there, and you saved their lives."

Mateo nodded, suitably awed. "I watched that combat footage a dozen times and I still can't believe you stormed an entire fleet of Praetorian battleships single-handed... and wiped them all out! That was the bravest thing I've ever seen."

Sakura blushed and said shyly, "When I saw that the Kintark were bombarding innocent civilians, I didn't really stop to evaluate the risks involved, I just acted." She smiled self-consciously at the Latina who was standing beside her father and continued, "But Calara far eclipsed me in that battle."

The brunette waved away the attempt to redirect everyone's praise. "You're far too modest. I had no spare fleet resources to engage the Praetorians, so if you hadn't intercepted them, they would've been free to level the capital. After they were finished with Terra, they would have rejoined the armada and hit the Federation battle lines; you made a huge difference eliminating that fleet and saved hundreds-of-thousands of people."

"Hey! Sorry I'm late!" Dana blurted out, interrupting them when she rushed through the doors.

Sakura sighed with relief now that the attention had shifted away from her and firmly onto the exuberant redhead.

Jack leaned over to whisper, "My son was right; you were incredibly brave. I know your parents would have been very proud of your actions that day... I certainly was."

"Thank you," she murmured, welling up at his kind words.

Dana gave their guests an embarrassed wave as she joined them. "I was all ready to come and say hi, but Alyssa said to wait a few minutes because you were settling into your rooms, then I got distracted with a project I was working on and I forgot the time. I'm such a bonehead... sorry!"