Advance Agent

Dan Redman never imagined his next assignment would start with a strange reflection in a mirror—a body that looks nothing like his own, yet he must wear it like a costume. Summoned to the sleek offices of A Section, he is briefed on subspace travel and the concept of null‑points, a shortcut that could link Earth directly to a distant water‑covered world called Porcys. The planet’s endless seas are rich in edible seafood, and a powerful corporation hopes to tap that bounty for huge profit.

But the Porcyns who dominate the planet have a tiny landmass, sophisticated technology, and a puzzling habit of cycling between their home world, a hot mining planet, and a mysterious “Vacation Planet” said to offer rejuvenation. Dan’s job quickly turns from simple trade negotiations to deciphering why the alien civilization refuses to expand, and whether their secret could bring unforeseen trouble. With rival outfits sniffing around, he must decide how far to push the deal without stepping into a diplomatic quagmire.