Jeiel Vernier was late arriving at the Zehemerata homestead. A military problem at an outpost on his home planet, Azor, had taken priority over returning to Ulstra to deliver the special parcel he held for Kaanig Altair, for this particular occasion. He had no wish to disappoint his closest friend or disobey a direct order, so he sacrificed his personal time to journey back to Ulstra. Thank the Mighty Source that the Valtorian ga’lif facilitated travel throughout all dimensions of their galaxy.

He quietly entered the Zehemerata farmhouse, although no one seemed to notice him because of the noise, hustle, and bustle of the festivities going on. The gaiety and...