Hunters (Part One)

March 13 - Al Raqis

"Actions are visible, though motives are secret." - Samuel Johnson

-----


It was two days since Consulari Raghilda and I made our fly past of Ardra's heighliner. In the meantime, I had sent my report to the Colonel detailing my progress and making a request for information. I awaited his reply.

I now had some time to walk around. See the sights. Meet the people.

I had to be seen and to be seen leaving the planet.

-----

I began my day at the Citadel in the Splintered Rock settlement. It was a solid structure. I fancy that it could take some bombardment. I'd have an office here given the chance. I toured the different floors. Stood out on the front terrace and watched the Sun rising.

A loose stone in the rock face near the market opened up to a tunnel which in turn led to a gap in the hills that arced around behind the landing area to the Citadel itself. It would make a fine escape route from the Citadel as one can reach the path by hopping down from a low window.

Near the Al Raqis Medical Centre, I came across a pair of travellers new to the planet. They reminded me of Deputy Lily and I wondered how she was handling her grief at the loss of her daughter.

We exchanged pleasantries. Talked about the heat. I invited them back to the Auxilary Building for coffee and fruit from homeworld.

-----

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room.

The woman looked at her clumsy paws and muttered "Umm, hope do it right."

"So..." said the man as he stretched a bit "What you do in this huge sandbox, if I may ask?"

"Myself? or the House?" I asked.

"Umm.. the people who live here, ya," he clarified.

I explained how spice was mined in the desert, how it was refined and sold.

The woman sipped her coffee a bit and breathed in the aroma "Ummm, it tastes good."

"It's likely the spice," I added, "It gets into everything."

The man nodded. "Ahhh, good coffee is the base of the civilization," he snickered.

"And so where are you from?" I asked.

The woman looked at the man then answered, "Good question."

The man replied, "We travelled around and came from the outer Rim, ya knows?"

"Yes of course." I excused their answer, "I travel a great deal."

He continued, "Soo... we deal a bit here and there, ya knows and that brought us here too, I guess."

It was my turn to nod. "I hail from Zenobia myself... the planet Albion in the White Sun system."

I could see that made no sense.

"We are the core planet between Persephone and Ariel," I explained. "So yes, that makes us Alliance."

The man sipped his coffee until his cup was empty and put it back on the table.

The usual reaction, I thought. Alliance in the room? Drink and run.

"Well, I hope you enjoy your stay on Al Raqis," I added pleasantly, thinking we were done.

The man smiled, a bit nervous perhaps, but he didn't comment.

The woman was gracious. "By now is being amazing," she said.

"Yes, it's a nice place," the man added quickly.

I smiled warmly.

"So are you traders as well? or just travellers?" I inquired.

The woman smiled naughtily, but did not reply. Smugglers perhaps?

"...because there is good money to be made in selling water here," I added.

"Umm..." the man glanced over to the woman, "Traders wud be a fine term, ya. I am Fred and this is Bets, by the way." He offered me his hand, more of a paw actually.

Bets offered her paw too, "Sorry...I might intru-duce myself..."

Fred perked up his ears "Watah? suuuure..." he mused.

I extended my hand, "I'm Major Pepper Siamendes. Pleased to meet you both."

"...and you pay watah wiff spice I assume?" Fred canted his head to one side.

"Well some would," I delivered the punchline, "Zenobians tend to deal in gold and coffee."

"Not tuna, I fear?" he chuckled a bit.

"Our Consulari here....Jai Raghilda.... she would be the one to arrange any dealings with." I chuckled, "No tuna around here I am afraid. Myself, I'm interested in information."

Bets muttered, "Gold ........" She was a thoughtful one.

"Info?" asked Fred, "ummm.... like what for example?"

I began with the usual.

"I'm interested in any information concerning a person going by the name of Ardra..."

Bets repeated the name "Ardra..Ardra.....it doesn't tell me nothing...sorry."

I went on. "She is a suspect in the theft of some of our national treasures."

Bets shook her head, "I see..." It still meant nothing.

"To me neither," said Fred, "but we hafs sensitive ears, ya knows?" he smiled.

"And with some motivation even better," Bets added with a grin.

"Well if you do hear of anything, you can reach me through House Zenobia," I explained.

They agreed to do so and I thanked them.

"And for your trouble...is there something that you are looking for?" I inquired.

Fred turned to his companion, "Hmm... what do you say, babe? we need sumfink in particular?"

She smiled and shook her head, "No babe, we just came here to look for adventure, and we got it, that's enough for me"

Fred turned back to me. "So, gold always is interesting," he remarked, "It's SHINY, ya knows?"

Bets laughed "ya, shiny....."

I offered the couple a gold coin each. A Meletos Stamp Gold Slater.

Bets reached for the coin and then bit it. Looking at Fred she reported, "It iz good babe....wow."

She smiled and said, "Thank you very much."

"Thank you both," I said politely.

Fred examined and sniffled at the coin and looks then at me once more, "But we cannot pay you info right know. so.." He put the coin on the counter.

The woman had other ideas.

She slid a paw inside a pocket and brought out a small bag. She put the coin into the bag and then slipped it back into her pocket again. "It will be safe there," she mused.

I smiled.

"So, we'll come back on this when we obtained the info you need," he tapped the coin.

"Thank you," I replied.

Bets looks at Fred and pouted. "Should I give her back my coin..?" she asked with a shrug.

"I don't want you to feel under obligation," I added hastily.

Fred did not reply. Instead he reached out for another coffee meowing content about the taste. When he replaced the cup, it hid his coin from view.

Finally, I gave the name of my unit.

"Like I said, you can reach me here..... Major Pepper Siamendes, Special Investigations Unit, Alliance Military."

Bets looked down, wiggling her tail, and slowly raised her head until she found my face and focused on it.

I smiled gently.

Fred wrapped a paw around his companion's hip and said, "Sooo... thank you for being such a good host. I fear we hold you off from important stuff and so we wud excuse ourselves,I thi'k'n."

Bets nodded at Fred and turned to me. "Thank you fo' your attention," she said with a smile.

I tapped my lips in thought, "I am also interesting in finding Ardra's father.... a scientist...."

"We keep the father in mind too," said Fred, "Just one question: you have any idea where we cud start searching?"

Bets rubbed her nose, "And.....how do they look Pepper? I mean if there are some characteristics that could help us to discover about them."

I began, "The father I do not know where he is...."

"Oki, that will find," answered Fred.

"...Ardra's ship was spotted in Splintered Rock but also over Vortex..."

"Okaaays, thatz a clue," he exclaimed.

"...Ardra has had mechanical modifications in Insilico..."

"Umm, Insilico," remarked Bets, "we know that place."

I nodded, "Be careful .. she is dangerous."

"Insilico, huh?" Fred turned to Bets "I wanted to go there with you also. Seems we can combine that," He turned back to me, "... aaaaaand it's about info, right? or you want her head?"

"Just info," I said firmly.

"So all is peachy," he smiled.

"Here is a photo. It is not great..." I handed them a copy of the picture of Ardra standing with her metal wings out spread, on top of my ship in orbit over Zenobia.

Bets turned to Fred and poked him "Her head?" she cried and she laughed at his bravado.

"She has had so many cybernetic modifications ...I'm not sure she has a head anymore," I explained truthfully. I shrugged and added, "Just be careful."

Fred snickered, "Makes it even easier to spot her."

"Good hunting to you," I said in closing.

Bets winked at me, "We will be in touch."

"Good," I replied with a smile.

Fred tipped two fingers at his forehead "Fanks, Major" and turns to the door. "You walk on safe paws too."

Bets followed him and shook her paw with energy, "Safe paths Major."

"Thank you," I said and watched them depart.

I had no idea if I would see the couple again. They might never come across Ardra or her father. They might have second thoughts about helping me. It didn't matter really. The money I offered was seed money. Sometimes it grows to fruition, sometimes it does not.

I began to clean up the coffee machine.

If they did find Ardra, information was all I wanted. I knew where Ardra's ship was here over Al Raqis. I wanted to know about her other haunts in case she left orbit anytime soon. The more folks I had watching the backdoor the better it was for my plans.

I quickly washed the woman's cup.

And, if they found Ardra's father then so much the better. It was a long shot though. He has been missing for years.

I moved the man's cup and stared at the empty counter. Fred had taken the other gold coin after all.

Mu Draconis (Part Three)

March 11 - Al Raqis

Dressed in my desert traveling clothes, I rejoined the Consulari Raghilda outside the main house. As comfortable as I am in my uniform, the hydrosuit was the only way to exist comfortably on this burning rock.

"All ready," I reported.

"This way, Major," she replied.

I followed her down some steps and across a pathway adjacent to the Al Raqis Medical Centre.

We came to a small street in the residential district. While no two houses were the same, a majority of them were of the style characteristic of this planet. We stopped in front of a simple two storey structure that looked vaguely like my place in the Hagga Settlement.

"This residence?" I asked.

She said yes.

"I love the windows," I remarked.

The Consulari pointed out a few features of the neighborhood in general.

"And these persons were spotted here?" I asked.

"People matching the description," she replied.

It was a charming little street actually. It needed something green though.

"Not much to see here," she added.

She was correct. There was nothing to indicate or deny that an Alliance team operated in the area.

I changed the subject.

"Can you show me the Guild mooring?" I requested.

"Yes," she replied and turned to lead us back towards the marketplace.

I followed and called out to her, "And the Heighliner over Vortex.... similar markings? or are all there ships the same?"

"Identical," she answered, "They recognized it from the picture the Constable gave me."

I twisted my mouth in thought. "Yes..." I said aloud.

We trudged along the path, the Consulari out in front. The tread of our boots leaving patterns in the light coating of sand.

-----

She led us out into the desert near the Zenobian Quarter.

In contrast to Tillery's new car, the Consulari's craft was a humble affair of local origin. Angular in design, it's wings looked like they could flap during atmospheric flight. It reminded me of an insect.

We broke atmosphere and the tiny craft shuddered and whined like a petulant child complaining about leaving the secure environment of home. Consulari Raghilda worked at the controls and soon we were in silent flight speeding towards Ardra's ship.

It's funny how powerful an image is. Despite the Consulari's earlier description of the dimensions of the ship, I still expected to see a craft much like the one in the security camera capture. A dark tube, hovering above the clouds, marked by three luminous green circles joined center to center by two horizontal bars.

However as we approached the actual mooring of the heighliner, it soon became quite apparent.

The security camera had lied.

That wasn't Ardra's ship seen hovering in the clouds over Splintered Rock.

That was merely her shuttle craft.

Mu Draconis (Part Two)

March 11 - Al Raqis

The main building of of House Zenobia's holdings contained meeting areas and offices. A small hanger and private landing pad were situated on the roof.

The interior was decorated in a style popular to the arid regions of Zenobia's Southern Continent. Plush couches and low tables adorned with fruit and other refreshments. Art from the private collections of the ruling classes.

The main hall was divided by a central space flanked by pillars. At each end of the room were seating areas designed for conversation and deal making.

"My, this is pleasant!" I exclaimed.

"Please take a seat where you will be most comfortable," offered the Consulari, "Dame Baxton and Lord Sen have exquisite taste."

We settled to one side of the room, and Ms. Tereshchenko continued her remarks from outside, "Yes, I do have a good relationship with the Faiths. In fact, there is a contract pending with Faith Industries upon my completion of my training."

"Fascinating," remarked the Consulari, "As a spacer, the lives of UAP and Companions are equally mysterious to me. The amount of furniture Lord Sen keeps around is foreign to me as well."

Ms. Tereshchenko and I chuckled and smiled politely.

"And how long is the training of a Companion?" I asked.

"Typically two terms," she answered, "but I have been progressing faster than most.

"Are you from the Core?"

She nodded and smiled, "I am - Londinium."

"I went to school there," contributed the Consulari, "Good coffee."

"That is were I trained, of course," I added. "The academy."

Consulari Raghilda looked down, "'Scusey." She muttered something about being sentimental about coffee.

"Boarding schools before leaving for Sihnon," answered the Companion.

"I have a friend from there... wonderful chocolate...she used to smuggle it into school for us." I couldn't help but laugh at the wonderful memory.

"Mmm, the Siberian Chocolate? I have a source," teased the Consulari. "Sorry, go on."

Calina Tereshchenko grinned, "Sihnon chocolate... Hmmm... I wonder if that would make the coffee here drinkable."

"It's because they grind it too fine and overbrew it," declared the official.

"Oh, don't you fancy the spiced coffee?," I asked them both.

Consulari Raghilda had a flash of insight, "ZOHMYGOD, a percolator." She became so excited at her solution that she became tongue tied. "... perkalater...lator...I can't even say it."

Calina Tereshchenko shook her head answering my question, "No. It gives me a headache. Far too strong for my tastes."

"Oh I do enjoy it...." I confessed.

"You should try it from an Italian Moka Pot Brew," began the Consulari, "It keeps out the alkaloids that offend headache susceptible people. Coarse burr ground, pan fried instead of roasted, then Italian Moka Pot. Don't even have to add sweetener....I am sure it is what God intended."

Ms. Tereshchenko smiled, "You are a fount of coffee knowledge, Consulari. I will have to try it that way.... once I get the appropriate coffee pot."

"I will send one over to the Companion House," promised Ms. Raghilda, "Sorry, go on."

"So Ms. Tereshchenko," I asked "Are you training here in Al Raqis?"

She replied, "The Guild hosts regular events here on Al Raqis. We had class for the community earlier this week. The Training House is on Paquin, which is my formal residence at present."

"Paquin. I have been there," I remarked, "Paradise..."

"That's a long commute," contributed the Consurali, "Almost 300 AU."

"...how can you bear to leave?" I inquired.

Calina Tereshchenko explained, "The House is currently undergoing renovations... expanding the dorm complex to accommodate more students. I feel it is better to stay here and practice some of what I have learned until there is a place to sleep."

I laughed gently.

"But I saw a blueprint," she continued "I am very excited about the expansion - full kitchen, baths, a library."

"How long have you been coming here?"

"To Al Raqis?," she asked.

"Yes."

"Since the Guild opened its house here several months ago."

From where I sat I could see Consulari Raghilda scribbling a note to send proper coffee making equipment to the High Priestess of the Companion's Guild.

"My first visit was the dinner at which Bri tried to poison Lord Faith," said the Companion.

"Oh that must have been a terrible shock," I said sincerely.

"Quite an introduction to Al Raqis high society," interjected the Consulari.

I wondered if she employed poison sniffers herself.

"It was," agreed Ms. Tereshchenko, "A shame to lose a good Companion... and to use the Guild in such a way....to try to execute a personal vendetta. Pardon the pun." She smiled wrly.

"Lose a companion... do you mean BriAria?" I asked.

"Yes. She was expelled from the Guild."

I nodded, "She was fortunate that is all that happened."

Ms. Tereshchenko agreed. "Very much so. My understanding is that she is in hiding."

"Once you open a can of kanly, it is hard to close it," added the Consulari wisely.

Calina Tereshchenko smiled, "I keep telling Pluto that she could have used kanly in her defense... that it did not apply to her."

"And the General," I asked, "How is he now?"

"He is well as far as I know. I have not spoken to either he or the Commander since they sponsored a ball some time ago."

"What do you ... either of you ... know of the other Guilds here?" I asked.

"I know the Khayal Alramady is dedicated to protecting the native population," said the Companion, "Not exactly a Guild but... a faction nonetheless."

"I wondered about the Navigator's Guild," I clarified.

"I have not heard of it," said Ms. Tereshchenko.

I nodded and turned to the Consulari, hoping for better luck there.

"I have found the mooring of a Spacing Guild heighliner," she replied.

"Really?" I almost fell off my cushion.

"Four kilometers long, quarter of a kilometer in diameter."

"That's a mighty ship...." I said cautiously.

"It's shuttle is larger than our bulk cargo carrier," she went on, "They bring the shuttle down on occasion."

I shook my head as I contemplated the size of such a craft.

"There have been similar sighting on Vortex and Eriadu," she added.

"Go on," I prompted.

"The Guild Shuttle was spotted in Vortex Space. It refused comms. The NavGuild is quirky who they communicate with.... Apparently they speak with the Constable."

Calina Tereshchenko uncrossed her legs and stood slowly, "Consulari, thank you for your advice and hospitality. Major, a pleasure to meet you and if I may be of assistance, please feel free to contact me. I must return to the Guild House."

"Thank you for taking the time to speak with us." replied the Consulari graciously.

I rose and smiled gently, "It was a pleasure to meet you. Please contact me if I can be of any assistance."

I hoped that the talk of the powerful and mysterious NavGuild had not upset her.

"Be well," said the Consulari, "I trust the Major will handle this faux UAP business."

Calina Tereshchenko smiled, "Safe travels and thank you"

"May I offer you my card?" I asked.

"Yes please," she replied, extending her hand to take the card.

"Feel free to come here any time you need to," offered the Consulari.

The Companion offered a quick curtsey before leaving.

I bowed my head in respect.

Consulari Raghilda climbed off the furniture and joined me on the floor. I watched the Companion leave then turned to the official.

"Congratulations once again on your latest promotion," I smiled.

"Thank you."

"I'll have to find you a suitable gift..." I promised.

"I very much appreciated the last one," she replied, "I read it over several times."

"I'm glad," I said. I had sent her a copy of Machiavelli's confidential instructions to Raffaello Girolami on his appointment as ambassador to Emperor Charles V. I thought it seemed appropriate.

"The classics offer further illumination with each reading," she continued.

I agreed. "I find that to be quite true. Currently, I am reading Nikolai Fyodorov..."

"I will find out from the Constable where these faux UAP are based out of," she stated "I think I know. Want me to show you?"

"Okay," I said, "Let me change into my desert clothes."

"After so many years in an EVA suit, a stillsuit is not so hard to adjust to," the Consulari remarked.

"Do you have guest quarters for me?" I asked.

"Yes," she replied "Several in fact. I think the main house next door is available."

"Very good," I said. "I will be right back then."

"Mirra from Bihar, Doctor Qui from Albion and your ward Lynx are all in residence," she added as I stepped out the door.

I took note of the remark.

Mu Draconis (Part One)

March 11 - Al Raqis

"A good companion shortens the longest road." a proverb

-----

The landing pad at Splintered Rock was abuzz with activity. Several new ships were perched amid stacked cargo crates. People paced about with purpose.

I paused to watch the activity. It was somehow comforting to watch people simply going about with their lives.

Ardra's ship had been spotted here, and, while I couldn't be sure the craft was still in orbit, I had returned to Al Raqis to conduct a little reconnaissance.

I turned and made my way to the old town passing by the old ex-miner dozing lightly at the corner of the marketplace.

There have been some changes since my last visit to this system. In that short time, Zenobia was recognized by the government of Al Raqis as a Noble House. As a result, the ruling class of my homeworld was awarded the use of several buildings and warehousing facilities in exchange for active participation in local affairs. The modest embassy we had maintained up to this point was converted into guest houses for visiting dignitaries, diplomats, traders, scientists and the like.

Along with this sudden bounty, was a further dramatic rise to the corridors of power by a certain Jai Raghilda.

It made sense of course. Here was a woman whose drive and charisma single handedly spread the trade association network throughout the 34 Tauri system. No small wonder that she would be tapped first to be the Ambassador here, and then Consulari once our holdings here constituted a formal administrative district.

This would have been an agreeable selection for members on both sides of the Zenobian political spectrum. She was the darling of the Trading Bloc with a history of lucrative contracts that had padded the pockets of the Old Money families.

She made them rich.

And as for the Military Faction, it didn't matter that Ms. Raghilda had some loose associations with known Browncoat sympathizers. They would have recognized her talents as a strong negotiator who, once established in the Mu Draconis system, would help consolidate a diversification of the power base and serve any, shall we say, expansionist inclinations.

She made them powerful.

As Otto Von Bismarck put it, "Politics is not a science, as the professors are apt to suppose. It is an art." And Consulari Raghilda, who by her own admission was 'a better business woman' than a pilot, had an artistic touch.

When I arrived at the square in front of the holdings of House Zenobia, I came across a group of three people standing beside a shiny black car.

I approached them, admiring the vehicle even as I circled it.

"Hello, Major," greeted Tillery Woodhen.

"Major," said Consulari Raghilda.

I returned the greeting. "Hello Mr. Woodhen. Consulari Raghilda."

Turning towards the third person, a Companion, I nodded politely, "Ma'am."

"Major," began the Consulari, "have you met Calina Tereshchenko?"

Calina Tereshchenko bowed her head. "Major. A pleasure to meet you," offering a polite, kind smile.

"I have seen you once," I admitted, "in the crowd the night someone tried to bomb the CNS offices." I smiled warmly, a contrast to the events of that fateful night.

Consulari Raghilda made the formal introduction, "Major Pepper Siamendes, United Alliance of Planets Special Investigations Unit, this is Calina Tereshchenko of the Companions' Guild."

"My pleasure," I replied.

"Major," began the official, "Calina was telling me about some people claiming to be UAP were lurking in front of the Companion House during an event. Their manner did not sound like any of your people."

I frowned, "That's distressing..."

The Companion nodded, "Unfortunately, I did not get their names but could describe them. The man was the only one who spoke. Tall-ish, brown hair. Both were wearing masks...."

Ms. Tereshchenko went on to describe other pertinent details.

"Were they in uniform?" I asked.

"They were dressed all in black," she answered.

"Black," I repeated.

Calina Tereshchenko nodded.

"You would be able to identify them if you saw them again?" inquired the Consulari.

"Yes, I would," replied the Companion, "He was making all sorts of notes in a notebook. He knows who I am. When he questioned me, I offered to meet them here for a retinal scan but he declined."

Tillery excused himself, "I need to move on. Though I would like to hear about these people at another time."

We bid him farewell, with the Consulari promising to take a closer look at his new product, evidently the vehicle.

He climbed into the sleek, black machine. The engine purred to life and small clouds of fine particle sand swirled across the plaza as the car gentle rose into the air.

Once Tillery had departed, we resumed our conversation.

"You were saying?" I prompted.

The Companion continued, "Anyway, they were hanging around the Guild House during our recent class. Making notes of who attended, descriptions...."

"And they said they were UAP," I clarified.

"...The Priestess sent me out to offer them water," she finished.

"How odd..." I remarked. "We have no authority in Al Raqis."

"Yes," she said answering my question, "they said they were making the 'Verse safe..."

"Hmm, this is a bit past the 'Verse," declared the Consulari, "Bad geography."

"I'm sure the Magistrate will have issue with them," I said.

"To me," Calina offered her theory,"it reads more like a cover. They were trying to sound like a believer, someone who supports the actions of the UAP... but it was a cover. It did not feel right."

"What was the name of the fellow they were asking you about?" inquired Consulari Raghilda.

"Naib," answered the Companion.

The Consulari knew whom she meant. "Heavily robed chap, all in white."

Ms. Tereshchenko returned to the manner in which she had been treated. "He went so far as to imply that I was hindering his investigation by not providing more than the name."

"Well," I said "I know of no such operation in this area." Of course, I would not discuss the matter even if I did.

"I had other reports of supposed UAP hassling people," added the official. "Sounds like the same people."

Calina Tereshchenko nodded her head thoughtfully.

I did not reply.

Consurali Raghilda continued, "I will get a chance to speak with Constable Werribee tomorrow. Coffee jogs his memory...."

Ms. Tereshchenko chuckled in a good natured way.

"...and my willingness to take actions that reduce his paperwork," finished the official.

Ms. Tereshchenko contributed, "The Priestess did speak with him about the incident... do not know what came of the conversation, though."

"Thank you for informing me," I said with some closure. "I will pass the information on to my superiors."

"I will be able to find out where they stay locally," remarked the Consulari. "Let people with bonafides do the rest."

I nodded and glanced around at the buildings. I changed the subject. "It would seem House Zenobia has expanded its holdings here since I was here last..."

"We try to keep busy," she replied. "We are using this as our transhipment point to the outer systems."

"Excellent," I smiled. Tomorrow, the stars.

She listed off a number of systems and worlds. "Deshima, Eriadu, Dechau, Delphi, Pulse... New Zion. I have been to New Zion, but I have not looked for the Faith Holdings."

"A powerful family," I added.

"One of the more expanding groups," she said and then listed some of the big players. "Tri-V, Faith, Pod, CNS."

The Companion chipped in, "They will be difficult to find any one office in that complex. It is very sterile... easy to get lost." She spoke of New Zion.

"I have met Commander Faith and his sister," I began, "but have yet to meet the General himself."

"Sedrick," said the Consulari.

"Yes," I confirmed.

She continued, "I met him at the Trader's Ball briefly. Commander Faith goes there frequently, more so than home to Persephone I think."

"I would think," I said. William took a risk every time he returned to the Core.

"As the Commander has mentioned to me, Persephone is his father's home... not his," remarked the Companion.

"Calina has a friendly relationship with the Commander," explained Consulari Raghilda.

I smiled and nodded, "Very nice. I know his wife." I delicately avoided the topic of my investigation of her friend.

"Is the assault on Captain Rhea one of your files?" asked the official.

I raised an eyebrow. "I couldn't say at this point," I remarked noncommittally.

"I understand that." she replied. "In a related topic, do you have police powers inside of the embassy itself?"

"Well," I said, "Zenobia is Alliance ...so in that sense, yes... but my understanding is that the Aegis would be handling security as such."

I noticed the heat.

"Might we head indoors?" I said suddenly, "I usually dress for the desert when I am here." I felt conscious of the water loss.

"I will speak with the Chief Magistrate and get clarification," said the Consulari as she turned to lead us to shelter from the heat.

"Thank you," I replied and we headed towards the main building.

Alliances

March 3 - MacLaren's Drift

"If you listen carefully to what he says and do all that I say, I will be an enemy to your enemies and will oppose those who oppose you." Exodus 23:22

-----

The windows, stained and broken. The yard in front, empty except for some garbage that had collected in the corner.

A lot has happened since the last time I entered this bar. Last time I was making a simple arrest.

I stopped at the door and scanned the room.

The crowd was smaller this time. Three people I knew. Brooke, Dex Argent, and Cody Winterwolf. And three people I did not know, a man and two women.

This was where Brooke's crew hung out. The last time I saw her, she asked me to stop the investigation of William Faith. Tonight, we would talk. But not about that.

And this time I wouldn't be arresting anyone. Not even Cody.

Someone noticed me because as I approached the group I heard the woman in a black dress speak.

"Wrong people Brooke?" she asked.

Another woman, this one in green, turned to glance in my direction then turned back to the others. As I walked to the center of the room, she nodded in a polite way. "Ma'am."

"Evening Major," greeted Dex.

Cody Winterwolf simply eyed me and said nothing.

"Good evening," I called, addressing the crowd.

"Pepper..." said Brooke.

"Hello Brooke," I replied.

She smiled a bit. "It's been a long time. How's the Core? Still making us out to be bloodlusting criminals?"

The Woman in Green muttered, "We ain't?"

I was non-committal. "Well, the Core is still there... I've been far afield though."

Cody Winterwolf cocked his head.

Brooke Rhea nodded. "I'd like to talk to you about a few things. Would you like to sit?"

The Woman in Green nonchalantly took a few steps to the side uncertainly, blocking my line of sight to the other woman. This one was brave, protective of others. Make a note of that.

"That would be good," I said answering Brooke.

I glanced around the room for a table then followed Brooke to the L-shaped sofa. It was worn and soft like an old leather shoe. I sat down heavily and sank into the couch.

The Woman in the Black Dress stood quietly, trying to blend with the scenery.

Cody Winterwolf frowned then grumbled, "I need some air..."

"Cody ..." Brooke started then let him leave.

She turned to me, "You ever thought about wearing something other than your uniform? Get people a bit riled up..." She just looked at me and stayed standing.

I exhaled with a smile. "Then how would people recognize me?"

Brooke smiled a little. "Your pretty face?"

I chuckled.

The Woman in Green however muttered something under her breath that sounded like 'the stench.'

"Anyway," began Brooke, "heard some rumors... some I think you should hear."

"Go on," I prompted.

Dex paid close attention.

Brooke sighed. "Well, there's been some rumors that the refugees from the recent attacks, well. That they disappeared."

The Woman in Green arched an eyebrow, but remained silent.

"I've heard that too," I said. Something I had read in CNS a couple of months ago. "Anything of substance?"

Brooke continued. "Seems that there are a few that believe they were taken by some factions of the Alliance. Not the .... official parts of course."

The Woman in Green frowned. "Loyalists?" The word burst from her like a curse.

I thought otherwise and said as much.

"Either way," mediated Brooke "Some have been sold for slaves, others for experiments. I have a source who has been trying to track them all down ... but ... he needs help."

I nodded.

"You have your ways ..." added Brooke.

The Woman in Green scowled darkly, looking away, her brow knitted in anger.

"Tell your source to contact me," I offered, "or he or she can go through you."

Brooke looked at the others. My presence was clearly not adding to the general comfort level of the environment.

"I'll do that," she said "I want to help those people..." She gave a little smile then glanced at the Woman in Green. "I know you can trust us to do what we can to help you, as long as you help us."

Dex Argent looked cool and relaxed.

The Woman in Green shook her head at apparently nothing. The Woman in the Black Dress glanced at her.

"Any idea how many missing?" I asked.

"The number is an estimate," answered Brooke, "From a couple hundred to a couple thousand. No one really knows. Many lost their families, so no one is looking for them."

The man I did not know, a new crewman it seemed, crossed his arms and listened along.

"All from Shadow?" I asked.

"Some from Caliban a few from other worlds," replied Brooke.

"What worlds?" interrupted the Woman in Green.

Brooke continued, "There are even rumors this has been going on long enough some are from Blackburne."

"That was no rumour..." I stated.

There was a growl from the Woman in Green. Her eyes flared open.

"I found the evidence," I continued. "I've been after who was responsible for months."

Brooke frowned. "Then you have an idea?"

The Woman in Green spoke, "Name, pur...Ma'am? I just need a name."

I turned to her, "I can't pin it to one person...but I'd say it was likely an organized ring."

"Well," said Brooke, "if you need any help from us.. . we're here. Unofficially of course."

I nodded and gave a tight little smile. "It may come to that," I said.

The Woman in Green's gaze jumps back and forth between Brooke and me. "Lemme know what I can do t' help." Her words were very clear and enunciated, even with her dialect.

I gave them more. "There is a ring of organ harvesters..."

Brooke winced. "What? I .... My god. People no, no limit."

Dex took a step back and nearly fell as he tripped on a shoelace. He caught himself with difficulty and asked, "Organ harvesters?"

"...Ardra Aurotharius is one name that keeps cropping up... but I can't prove it." I continued.

"I can see if any of my contacts have heard of him," said Brooke "This Ardra... what circles he run in?"

"Blackburne's.... was... my home," the Woman in Green frowned.

"Well that's the thing about Ardra," I replied, "She seems to run solo."

"Mu Draconis, isn't it?" It was Dex.

I looked at him.

"Yes Dex.... how did you know?" I asked.

He shrugged. "I have business in Al Raqis. The rumor mill runs smoothly there. This so-called person has a presence there."

Brooke blinked. "You mean there's a organ harvester on Al Raqis?"

The Woman in Green signaled to Brooke, nodded to the others and walked from the building, her anger swelling to rage.

"Aurotharius is there," said Dex "Dunno if it... he deals in body parts."

Brooke shivered. "Not sure what's worse .. being a slave or being body parts for some rich bastard who spiced himself almost to death."

"Ardra is in the transshipment business at least," I continued. "Also keep your ears open for the name Mercedes Celestalis...."

"Yeah," replied Dex, "Heard that one, too."

"...she works for the Umbrella Corporation," I finished.

"Mercedes," mused Brooke, "heard the name I think ...." she shook her head. "Though not sure where. Umbrella... what do they do?"

"Well, on paper it's called research." I said nothing of the reanimation experiments.

"The one that Lily and Kitten were all heated up about," said Dex.

"You think that's where the bodies are going?" asked Brooke.

"A link in the chain." That was safe to say.

Brooke raised an eyebrow. "They make kitten..." she then made a little circle by her temple.

"Kitten is... special," added Dex.

"Tell me about Kitten," I began.

From outside, standing near a window, Cody Winterwolf growled.

"Nothing about Kitten," said Dex "She just gets all excited about things she hears."

Brooke looked at Cody's window then back at me. "It's ... yeah."

I pulled a face, "Right. Then why did Winterwolf growl?"

Brooke just gave a little nod. "Uhm, right, he was clearing his throat." She then shook her head. "Let it go Pepper."

I let it go.

She rubbed the back of her neck. "How is the investigation against Faith going?"

"Well I have some good news for you and your crew," I said.

Brooke smiled. "We could use good news..."

"It seems the story checked out about the obsidian. Your people are in the clear."

I didn't tell her that it was Sentry's testimony that cleared her crew or the fact that the father of her children was now implicated in trying to frame them.

Brooke let out a sigh of relief. "Well, that's good. Though you knew it all along. I'm not into drugs, neither are any of my crew. We wouldn't do that..."

There were smiles all around this time. Relieved, the new crewman wandered off to check on the ship.

Once he had left Brooke sighed and said, "There is one more thing. We ... uhm well there was a group. They said they were from the Alliance. Someone, called himself Wind. He decided to arrest me. Worked me over pretty good too...."

"I've heard of him," I said, "Claims to be connected with Intel."

Brooke nodded. "Though with their lack of uniforms and manners, I'd be surprised. We both know Sanders was Intel.... he never went around taking hammers to knees...."

"He seems to think he can get 'Intel' by working over women," said Dex.

"Yes, that's not Intel," I had to agree.

Dex nodded. "That's assault, plain and simple."

Cody muttered from his window, "Huen dahn..."

Brooke Rhea nodded. "Just wanting to make sure he had no 'official' premise. So I'd be self defense to shoot the bastard next time."

"Just in case he runs afoul of someone he can't handle, if you know what I mean," added Dex.

"He's no Alliance that I know of," I said. Not part of my command chain at least.

Brooke smiled. "Thanks..." She gave a nod. "I'd say drop by sometime and see the twins .. but ... " She just shrugged.

"But what?" I asked. Was there something she wasn't telling me? Were the children okay?

"But... no." said Dex.

Brooke Rhea looks back at Dex. "We should have a meeting at Eavesdown. I ... I'll be sure to let my contact know how to get a hold of you."

"How are the little ones?" I asked delicately.

Brooke Rhea smiled a bit. "They're fine. Cute lovable monsters."

I smiled in response. They're okay then.

"Dex is wonderful with them..." she added. "Couldn't ask for a better Daddy."

Dex Argent looked at her and then smiled. I smiled at them both. Lots of smiles tonight.

I got up from the sofa, a little stiff.

"So, you okay?" asked Brooke noticing the movement. "Haven't had any problems ...?"

"I'm okay... a little sore," I admitted.

"You get in a fight?" she asked.

"No, just a little problem in transit." I brushed off the question.

Brooke raised an eyebrow. "What kind of problem?" she pressed.

Instead I answered, "I've been out in the Halo looking for someone..."

Brooke tilted her head. "Anyone I know?" A pilot of her calibre, I wish she had been with me.

"A research vessel from Albion....missing a while back."

Suddenly, I had a thought. "There might be some salvage there," I suggested, "for a good crew."

Brooke raised an eyebrow then nodded towards Cody's window. "Cody is our salvage expert."

"Oh?" I asked "Much experience?"

"He has lots." Brooke smiled. "All legal of course," she added.

"Hey, it's salvage..." I said with a shrug. Would that life was so simple that the worst thing I had to deal with was illegal salvage.

"Well, you all stay safe," I said.

"Thank you, Pepper..." replied Brooke.

Dex nodded. "We try. Uphill battle, sometimes, but we try."

"And you take care of yourself," added Brooke, "Keep me informed."

"Tell your contact to get in touch... or like I said pass the info through you if they are skittish." I added in an undertone, "Nasty business, slavers."

Brooke Rhea nodded a bit. "I understand. And I will take care of it..."

Dex grumbled something unintelligible.

"Did they give you anything that might help me get started on it?" I inquired.

Brooke shook her head. "I'm afraid not. Just that they have camps on various planets. But once I have more direct info.. I'll pass it along."

"Good," I said with some finality, "Okay ... see you later."

"Fly safe, Major." said Dex.

"Thank you Dex," I replied and I made my way out the door.