[IC] The diary of Duncan MacLeod
- Thread starter di6turbed
- Start date
10 JANUARY 3303, LALANDE 4141, CORTES REACH
The interior of the Cobra Mk3 looked as worn and old as its owner, Cmdr Jason Hazlewood. Small passenger cabin which served as an upgraded bedroom has seen its best days long time ago. We sat over a small oval table, surrounded by the never - retreating veil of smoke from a cigarette of my host. That was another thing about him - he would never, ever put it away or, for that matter - do anything without it. He just lighted new from the stub of the previous one.
"I tell ya, lad" - he said, looking at me with a faint smile - "those s are just ungrateful. I don't blame ya for being off and all. It takes time to show what you're worth, and PGMC are no different that any other corp out there. You may be running errands for them for months and still they will treat you as a low - level merc."
I sighed. We both landed at Cortes with fresh supply of basic medicines, as the port was still under quarantine so nobody could get in. We had to wait for automated cargo handling system to get to our ships, but we were given number 4 and 8 in the queue, which meant a few hours of waiting. So I happily accepted invitation onboard his ship and we continued to talk even after our holds were emptied. I shortly told him the story about Ian and my hope to find one of his killers within the ranks of PGMC - or at least to learn where he was. And I complained how long it took to gain their trust by running simple courier errands.
"Yet there is another way, if ye're not afraid to use the guns ya have installed on yer ship" - he paused, lighting up another cigarette, then inhaled deeply - "they get money on mining, right? And this is a dangerous business, let me tell ya. Extraction zones are a constant battlefield, and even though they deploy lots of security, they still loose ships every now and then. The list of people PGMC is after - those responsible for stealing their cargo, destroying their vessels and killing employees - is long, lad, mark my words. And they handsomely pay if you hand'em their heads. Very handsomely"
And he was right. I was mad at myself that I didn't think about it earlier. Install a Kill Warrant Scanner, upgrade the plating and shields, check where are the main or most problematic extraction sites and go. Plan for tomorrow. I guess trading can wait for now.
MacLeod out.
The interior of the Cobra Mk3 looked as worn and old as its owner, Cmdr Jason Hazlewood. Small passenger cabin which served as an upgraded bedroom has seen its best days long time ago. We sat over a small oval table, surrounded by the never - retreating veil of smoke from a cigarette of my host. That was another thing about him - he would never, ever put it away or, for that matter - do anything without it. He just lighted new from the stub of the previous one.
"I tell ya, lad" - he said, looking at me with a faint smile - "those s are just ungrateful. I don't blame ya for being off and all. It takes time to show what you're worth, and PGMC are no different that any other corp out there. You may be running errands for them for months and still they will treat you as a low - level merc."
I sighed. We both landed at Cortes with fresh supply of basic medicines, as the port was still under quarantine so nobody could get in. We had to wait for automated cargo handling system to get to our ships, but we were given number 4 and 8 in the queue, which meant a few hours of waiting. So I happily accepted invitation onboard his ship and we continued to talk even after our holds were emptied. I shortly told him the story about Ian and my hope to find one of his killers within the ranks of PGMC - or at least to learn where he was. And I complained how long it took to gain their trust by running simple courier errands.
"Yet there is another way, if ye're not afraid to use the guns ya have installed on yer ship" - he paused, lighting up another cigarette, then inhaled deeply - "they get money on mining, right? And this is a dangerous business, let me tell ya. Extraction zones are a constant battlefield, and even though they deploy lots of security, they still loose ships every now and then. The list of people PGMC is after - those responsible for stealing their cargo, destroying their vessels and killing employees - is long, lad, mark my words. And they handsomely pay if you hand'em their heads. Very handsomely"
And he was right. I was mad at myself that I didn't think about it earlier. Install a Kill Warrant Scanner, upgrade the plating and shields, check where are the main or most problematic extraction sites and go. Plan for tomorrow. I guess trading can wait for now.
MacLeod out.
11 JANUARY 3303 , WEITZ RAFINERY, LADON
The old man was right. Extraction Sites are like small war zones. The one I entered yesterday in Valtys System certainly looked the type. For each Pan Galactic Mining Corporation vessel that was drilling the asteroids, there were at least 2-3 security ships patrolling the area. And a few pirates trying to hit the miners, scoop anything they could and get away before police could react.
And PGMC sent some force to reckon with to oversee the mining operations. 3 Anacondas with several smaller fighters were making rounds at the fringe of the belt. Whenever trouble started, the small nimble ships would move in and engage the pirates, then lure them towards the Condas, who quickly finished the job. Only a handful of assailants managed to get away. Most were not so lucky.
It also turned out that they pay very handsomely for help in that area. I spent around 1 hour assisting security in fending off bandits and I received a handsome sum of almost 1 million credits. Not to mention that my ranking with the corporation skyrocketed immediately - and almost reached status of a "Friend". Almost. Yes, the old man was right.
When I got back to Olaskiw City in Valtys, I left my Viper in dry dock to patch up some minor damage it took. It did well during the fight, it is durable and resistant, but still quite clumsy. I don't really like flying it and decided I need a change. With that in mind I made my way to the local ship seller to have a look around.
"Looking for something in particular, handsome?" - nicely tanned brunette, wearing military outfit with lots of pockets and a definetely overpacked utility belt, materialised out of nowhere in front of me.
"Just looking around..though.. you wouldn't have a Cobra Mk4, would you?"
She looked at me in silence for a moment, then grinned.
"If you're asking, it means that you don't know. At the moment they are only sold to people with special vouchers. No voucher, no ship, dear. But..." - she raised her finger and smiled. She was pretty - "I have something better. Come with me".
She led me through the huge hangar, busy with people examining parked ships of at least 10 different types. Repair crews were busy readying some of them, others were being unloaded. We went to a corner where - with noticable pride - she has pointed to a large vessel, looking similar to Type 6, although more curvy and elegant.
"A Keelback, almost brand new" - she said - "Fully equipped with B and A class systems"
"I have a transport ship. Not interested".
"I haven't finished. This one is a perfect hybrid between the trader and combat craft. And it is the smallest ship that can carry fighters onboard. In fact, it has a hangar outfitted with Condor - class fighters. And I will throw an experienced pilot to go with it"
"OK... now you got me interested. A pilot?"
"She will tell you her story when she returns. But rest assured that she will be more than happy to stay with the ship".
"Is that so?" - I made a round around the vessel. Outcome of visual examination was very positive, it really was in good shape. And a fighter bay.. - "How much?"
"For you 5 million. With the pilot".
"Let me think about it some time" - it was an intriguing proposal. The pilot part was even more intriguing, apparently she was somehow connected to the ship.
"Sure honey. Just don't think for too long. May be gone when you return".
The old man was right. Extraction Sites are like small war zones. The one I entered yesterday in Valtys System certainly looked the type. For each Pan Galactic Mining Corporation vessel that was drilling the asteroids, there were at least 2-3 security ships patrolling the area. And a few pirates trying to hit the miners, scoop anything they could and get away before police could react.
And PGMC sent some force to reckon with to oversee the mining operations. 3 Anacondas with several smaller fighters were making rounds at the fringe of the belt. Whenever trouble started, the small nimble ships would move in and engage the pirates, then lure them towards the Condas, who quickly finished the job. Only a handful of assailants managed to get away. Most were not so lucky.
It also turned out that they pay very handsomely for help in that area. I spent around 1 hour assisting security in fending off bandits and I received a handsome sum of almost 1 million credits. Not to mention that my ranking with the corporation skyrocketed immediately - and almost reached status of a "Friend". Almost. Yes, the old man was right.
When I got back to Olaskiw City in Valtys, I left my Viper in dry dock to patch up some minor damage it took. It did well during the fight, it is durable and resistant, but still quite clumsy. I don't really like flying it and decided I need a change. With that in mind I made my way to the local ship seller to have a look around.
"Looking for something in particular, handsome?" - nicely tanned brunette, wearing military outfit with lots of pockets and a definetely overpacked utility belt, materialised out of nowhere in front of me.
"Just looking around..though.. you wouldn't have a Cobra Mk4, would you?"
She looked at me in silence for a moment, then grinned.
"If you're asking, it means that you don't know. At the moment they are only sold to people with special vouchers. No voucher, no ship, dear. But..." - she raised her finger and smiled. She was pretty - "I have something better. Come with me".
She led me through the huge hangar, busy with people examining parked ships of at least 10 different types. Repair crews were busy readying some of them, others were being unloaded. We went to a corner where - with noticable pride - she has pointed to a large vessel, looking similar to Type 6, although more curvy and elegant.
"A Keelback, almost brand new" - she said - "Fully equipped with B and A class systems"
"I have a transport ship. Not interested".
"I haven't finished. This one is a perfect hybrid between the trader and combat craft. And it is the smallest ship that can carry fighters onboard. In fact, it has a hangar outfitted with Condor - class fighters. And I will throw an experienced pilot to go with it"
"OK... now you got me interested. A pilot?"
"She will tell you her story when she returns. But rest assured that she will be more than happy to stay with the ship".
"Is that so?" - I made a round around the vessel. Outcome of visual examination was very positive, it really was in good shape. And a fighter bay.. - "How much?"
"For you 5 million. With the pilot".
"Let me think about it some time" - it was an intriguing proposal. The pilot part was even more intriguing, apparently she was somehow connected to the ship.
"Sure honey. Just don't think for too long. May be gone when you return".
12 JANUARY 3303, LALANDE 4141, CORTES REACH
She sipped some coffee from her cup and smiled faintly. Slim and rather tall, with shortly trimmed hair, dark complexion and brown eyes, she was wearing an indigo flight suit without any markings.
"Well, like it or not, it is my ship, commander".
"It WAS your ship, Lilian. I bought it, remember?"
"And I am not going to leave it. You'd have to kill me. We went a long way together, me and her, you know".
"I figured... long enough to get into trouble and big debts. How much did you own that merchant?"
"3.5 million. And now when you bought the ship I guess I owe it to you..."
'Listen, you don't owe me anything. I'll need your experience at the helm or in the fighter. If all goes well, I'll even cut you 6% of shares. How does that sound?"
"Sounds good, commander" - she smiled - "thanks".
And that how I got my first ever crew member. With the ship.
Yes, I have decided to buy the Keelback, and Lilian Duncan (funny coincidence with the name, eh?) just happened to be on it. In fact, she used to own it until she was forced to hand it over to the girl I bought it from. I admit it is slow, it is not agile. But it has four turret - mounted weapons, strong shields and a fighter bay. It remains to be seen how we will fare in combat - so far, despite hauling two cargo holds filled to the brim with gold, we didn't have any trouble. We also did several runs for PGMC to Lalande 4141, bringing more medical supplies.
Oh, and yesterday I got an important message - the PGMC executive board has ranked my services high enough to upgrade my status. Guess that could open the doors for meeting with Cmdr Matzov! I will contact him as soon as I return to Snoquot.
MacLeod out.
She sipped some coffee from her cup and smiled faintly. Slim and rather tall, with shortly trimmed hair, dark complexion and brown eyes, she was wearing an indigo flight suit without any markings.
"Well, like it or not, it is my ship, commander".
"It WAS your ship, Lilian. I bought it, remember?"
"And I am not going to leave it. You'd have to kill me. We went a long way together, me and her, you know".
"I figured... long enough to get into trouble and big debts. How much did you own that merchant?"
"3.5 million. And now when you bought the ship I guess I owe it to you..."
'Listen, you don't owe me anything. I'll need your experience at the helm or in the fighter. If all goes well, I'll even cut you 6% of shares. How does that sound?"
"Sounds good, commander" - she smiled - "thanks".
And that how I got my first ever crew member. With the ship.
Yes, I have decided to buy the Keelback, and Lilian Duncan (funny coincidence with the name, eh?) just happened to be on it. In fact, she used to own it until she was forced to hand it over to the girl I bought it from. I admit it is slow, it is not agile. But it has four turret - mounted weapons, strong shields and a fighter bay. It remains to be seen how we will fare in combat - so far, despite hauling two cargo holds filled to the brim with gold, we didn't have any trouble. We also did several runs for PGMC to Lalande 4141, bringing more medical supplies.
Oh, and yesterday I got an important message - the PGMC executive board has ranked my services high enough to upgrade my status. Guess that could open the doors for meeting with Cmdr Matzov! I will contact him as soon as I return to Snoquot.
MacLeod out.
13 JANUARY 3303, LALANDE 4141, CORTES REACH
Logging in sitting alone in a severely damaged ship, with some of the alerts still ringing. Hull at 44%, many systems severely damaged. And Lila dead. She gave her life to save me.. or rather to save the ship she loved so much?
We received a distress signal, scanned it (danger level 2) and decided to investigate. Oddly enough we found a single ship there, an Eagle - which some time before threatened to take our cargo. Needless to say we destroyed him in a matter of seconds, and then I noticed three more contacts with weapons ready - Anaconda, Vulture and a Viper.
"Heads up, more company! Lila, get back here and dock, double time"! - I shouted to the commlink. She flew the Condor and launched as soon as we dropped out of FSD.
"No way I'm going to make it, Duncan. Fire up the hyperdrive, I'll lure them away and loose them, and when it is safe enable my distress beacon so you can pick me up".
That sounded like a plan. But it didn't work. The mass factor of an Anaconda made it difficult to break away, and the enemy split up - the big ship followed me, while the smaller ones we t after Lila.
I soon started taking hits. She did a good job fighting two larger vessels, but never made it. I saw her Condor explode just before I made a jump.
I am heading off to make the repairs. Perhaps I will get a smaller ship and go back trying to find an escape pod. Maybe she is still alive...
MacLeod out.
Logging in sitting alone in a severely damaged ship, with some of the alerts still ringing. Hull at 44%, many systems severely damaged. And Lila dead. She gave her life to save me.. or rather to save the ship she loved so much?
We received a distress signal, scanned it (danger level 2) and decided to investigate. Oddly enough we found a single ship there, an Eagle - which some time before threatened to take our cargo. Needless to say we destroyed him in a matter of seconds, and then I noticed three more contacts with weapons ready - Anaconda, Vulture and a Viper.
"Heads up, more company! Lila, get back here and dock, double time"! - I shouted to the commlink. She flew the Condor and launched as soon as we dropped out of FSD.
"No way I'm going to make it, Duncan. Fire up the hyperdrive, I'll lure them away and loose them, and when it is safe enable my distress beacon so you can pick me up".
That sounded like a plan. But it didn't work. The mass factor of an Anaconda made it difficult to break away, and the enemy split up - the big ship followed me, while the smaller ones we t after Lila.
I soon started taking hits. She did a good job fighting two larger vessels, but never made it. I saw her Condor explode just before I made a jump.
I am heading off to make the repairs. Perhaps I will get a smaller ship and go back trying to find an escape pod. Maybe she is still alive...
MacLeod out.
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14 JANUARY 3303, SNOQUOT SYSTEM, WRANGELL CITY
I had no luck finding Lila. If only she wasn't this stubborn and agreed to fly the fighter using the remote control system instead of jumping into the pit... she said she needs to feel it in order to fly properly.
Black Lotus is still in Lalande 4141 in dry dock. I bought an Eagle from a local merchant (judging by the outfit, it was used by the local security forces, then quickly repainted red before selling), spent almost full day checking USS's not far from where we were ambushed. Two wreckages of larger ships, but no escape pods. And quite a lot of pirates.
I decided to give up and return to Snoquot. I will lay low for a few days, perhaps contact Cmdr Matzov. I hope he can give me some new leads.
MacLeod out.
I had no luck finding Lila. If only she wasn't this stubborn and agreed to fly the fighter using the remote control system instead of jumping into the pit... she said she needs to feel it in order to fly properly.
Black Lotus is still in Lalande 4141 in dry dock. I bought an Eagle from a local merchant (judging by the outfit, it was used by the local security forces, then quickly repainted red before selling), spent almost full day checking USS's not far from where we were ambushed. Two wreckages of larger ships, but no escape pods. And quite a lot of pirates.
I decided to give up and return to Snoquot. I will lay low for a few days, perhaps contact Cmdr Matzov. I hope he can give me some new leads.
MacLeod out.
15 JANUARY 3303, SNOQUOT SYSTEM, WRANGELL CITY
I looked once again at my datapad and read the message for 100th time. Finally, I pressed "SEND" button.
I hope I made a right choice. I hope that Cmdr Matzov will get back to me and if he does, will have some news I could cling to and find the murderer of my brother.
Here is what I wrote...
Commander,
My name is Duncan MacLeod and I am contacting you with a request that you might find.. odd. Still, I trust that you will take the time to read this message and after that decide whether you will be willing to help me or not.
I have to admit, I learned about the Pan Galactic Mining Corporation during my investigation of murder of my beloved brother Ian. Ian died on 12 October 3301 in LHS 3447 system in what at first looked like a typical bar brawl. While with time I discovered that there was also a political side to it all, and possibly also involvement of Federal Secret Services, I hope it does not concern the part in which PGMC plays some role.
One of the murderers, Alex Benjamin, was in the LHS 3447 system on his way to Snoquot to start working for your organisation. I do not know what position he was supposed to take nor whether he got to his destination or not. But I do have evidence of his direct involvement of murder of my brother.
I would therefore ask whether you would be willing to help me in my investigation and help me locate Alex Benjamin. Was he ever employed by PGMC? If so, is he still working here? Is there anything you can tell me that would help me locate him? It may well be that he is now a high - ranking member in which case I doubt I will even hear from you, but I have to try.
I don't know if you know the feeling of loosing someone so close to you. If you do, then I am sure you will be willing to help my. From my side, I will go to hell and back to get Benjamin. So if you want me to do that in exchange for information, I will.
I am currently in Snoquot system, waiting for the repairs on my ships to be finished. Should you find some time to meet with me, I would be more than happy to do so.
Thank you, commander.
Duncan MacLeod
I looked once again at my datapad and read the message for 100th time. Finally, I pressed "SEND" button.
I hope I made a right choice. I hope that Cmdr Matzov will get back to me and if he does, will have some news I could cling to and find the murderer of my brother.
Here is what I wrote...
Commander,
My name is Duncan MacLeod and I am contacting you with a request that you might find.. odd. Still, I trust that you will take the time to read this message and after that decide whether you will be willing to help me or not.
I have to admit, I learned about the Pan Galactic Mining Corporation during my investigation of murder of my beloved brother Ian. Ian died on 12 October 3301 in LHS 3447 system in what at first looked like a typical bar brawl. While with time I discovered that there was also a political side to it all, and possibly also involvement of Federal Secret Services, I hope it does not concern the part in which PGMC plays some role.
One of the murderers, Alex Benjamin, was in the LHS 3447 system on his way to Snoquot to start working for your organisation. I do not know what position he was supposed to take nor whether he got to his destination or not. But I do have evidence of his direct involvement of murder of my brother.
I would therefore ask whether you would be willing to help me in my investigation and help me locate Alex Benjamin. Was he ever employed by PGMC? If so, is he still working here? Is there anything you can tell me that would help me locate him? It may well be that he is now a high - ranking member in which case I doubt I will even hear from you, but I have to try.
I don't know if you know the feeling of loosing someone so close to you. If you do, then I am sure you will be willing to help my. From my side, I will go to hell and back to get Benjamin. So if you want me to do that in exchange for information, I will.
I am currently in Snoquot system, waiting for the repairs on my ships to be finished. Should you find some time to meet with me, I would be more than happy to do so.
Thank you, commander.
Duncan MacLeod
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*with permission of thread author*
"What news Carpenter?" Matzov barked anxiously.
"Actually sir, there is news..." Carpenter paused for effect. "We've received a package, its in your ready-room." Matzov began to get up, but Carpenter went on, "And there is this" passing across a dataslate. "I would recommend you take a look at that first sir. I've taken the liberty of instructing Ben Gardner to begin an investigation."
"An investigation? Into what?" Matzov replied, betraying a moments panic on his quizzical face.
"Recruitment sir. Please read. Its from a Cmdr MacLeod, a recently hired contractor. But my initial attempts to answer his query led on to certain... questions... regarding Vauban."
Later.
"I've read Gardner's preliminary findings. We can't get too caught up in this Carpenter. The markets are in flux, there is uncertainty across the bubble, and we're in the middle of a difficult acquisition. This needs to be nipped in the bud." Matzov's brows were furrowed and he looked tired and drawn. "I want to know where Vauban is. And, whilst the daft beggar sending an apology and some Kamitra Cigars is a nice gesture, a gesture is all it is." Carpenter nodded in acquiescence. "Give this to MacLeod, and tell Gardner to come see me."
Dear MacLeod,
first of all, many thanks and congratulations on your excellent contractor work for Pan-Galactic. I can say that the whole management team appreciates your efforts.
To matters at hand; I read your request with deep interest, and express my condolences at your loss. As a result we launched an internal audit to review the employment record of Alex Benjamin and he indeed joined the Corp but was killed in an industrial accident a few months later. There were no suspicious circumstances, he was a good employee and a loss to the Corp.
We endeavoured to find out a little more about him, and in doing so uncovered that another man joined on the same day as Benjamin. I tell you this in confidence - He is still on the books, but he cannot be located, and no one seems to have ever known him or seen him. His name is Galloway, and my partner Vauban enrolled both men.
At the time, all registrations of employees were handled by Cmdr Vauban. The paperwork is in order, but not in order, so to speak. This, I am afraid to say, means we are required to conduct a root and branch review of internal processes. But that need not concern you.
The most troublesome aspect of this sorry state of affairs is that initial investigations seem to indicate that this man Galloway was involved in the same incident you speak of. We know nothing more at this stage on our end, but there is an opportunity to strike a mutually beneficial deal.
Vauban is the man you need to speak to as he did the on-boarding at the time, and its his signature on Galloway's registration. Clearly Pan-Galactic need to speak with him also. However, Vauban disappeared on Christmas Eve. This is not entirely strange, as he was prone to 'leave home' to go into the black, and indeed did it the Christmas before last to look for the Antares. He has always had an irrepressible wanderlust.
What is unusual is: he left no message this time, and he took an Eagle rather than his preferred T9, or his Cobra.
I have connections all over the galaxy, and any of my attempts to get a message to Vauban have failed. However, I do know that he was recently spotted in Deciat, and then just a few days ago in Frog.
I propose that you, MacLeod, go and find him. I would pay happily for information. I would very much like to speak with him. And at the least - if he has truly left us - I need his signature on some documents. You would be rewarded handsomely for this task if you agree to it, and the documents will be supplied to you in a sealed container. If you find Vauban, he will know the password. Have them signed, resealed, and then returned to Snoquot.
Bear in mind this dataslate is confidential, and any divulgence of its contents will result in prosecution with extreme prejudice. Please return the dataslate, with your answer, to my assistant Carpenter.
Regards
Matzov
"Evening Colonel".
"Gardner, come in. Close the door. Cigar?" Matzov pressed a concealed button and shutters began descending from the walls. Lockdown.
"What news Carpenter?" Matzov barked anxiously.
"Actually sir, there is news..." Carpenter paused for effect. "We've received a package, its in your ready-room." Matzov began to get up, but Carpenter went on, "And there is this" passing across a dataslate. "I would recommend you take a look at that first sir. I've taken the liberty of instructing Ben Gardner to begin an investigation."
"An investigation? Into what?" Matzov replied, betraying a moments panic on his quizzical face.
"Recruitment sir. Please read. Its from a Cmdr MacLeod, a recently hired contractor. But my initial attempts to answer his query led on to certain... questions... regarding Vauban."
Later.
"I've read Gardner's preliminary findings. We can't get too caught up in this Carpenter. The markets are in flux, there is uncertainty across the bubble, and we're in the middle of a difficult acquisition. This needs to be nipped in the bud." Matzov's brows were furrowed and he looked tired and drawn. "I want to know where Vauban is. And, whilst the daft beggar sending an apology and some Kamitra Cigars is a nice gesture, a gesture is all it is." Carpenter nodded in acquiescence. "Give this to MacLeod, and tell Gardner to come see me."
Dear MacLeod,
first of all, many thanks and congratulations on your excellent contractor work for Pan-Galactic. I can say that the whole management team appreciates your efforts.
To matters at hand; I read your request with deep interest, and express my condolences at your loss. As a result we launched an internal audit to review the employment record of Alex Benjamin and he indeed joined the Corp but was killed in an industrial accident a few months later. There were no suspicious circumstances, he was a good employee and a loss to the Corp.
We endeavoured to find out a little more about him, and in doing so uncovered that another man joined on the same day as Benjamin. I tell you this in confidence - He is still on the books, but he cannot be located, and no one seems to have ever known him or seen him. His name is Galloway, and my partner Vauban enrolled both men.
At the time, all registrations of employees were handled by Cmdr Vauban. The paperwork is in order, but not in order, so to speak. This, I am afraid to say, means we are required to conduct a root and branch review of internal processes. But that need not concern you.
The most troublesome aspect of this sorry state of affairs is that initial investigations seem to indicate that this man Galloway was involved in the same incident you speak of. We know nothing more at this stage on our end, but there is an opportunity to strike a mutually beneficial deal.
Vauban is the man you need to speak to as he did the on-boarding at the time, and its his signature on Galloway's registration. Clearly Pan-Galactic need to speak with him also. However, Vauban disappeared on Christmas Eve. This is not entirely strange, as he was prone to 'leave home' to go into the black, and indeed did it the Christmas before last to look for the Antares. He has always had an irrepressible wanderlust.
What is unusual is: he left no message this time, and he took an Eagle rather than his preferred T9, or his Cobra.
I have connections all over the galaxy, and any of my attempts to get a message to Vauban have failed. However, I do know that he was recently spotted in Deciat, and then just a few days ago in Frog.
I propose that you, MacLeod, go and find him. I would pay happily for information. I would very much like to speak with him. And at the least - if he has truly left us - I need his signature on some documents. You would be rewarded handsomely for this task if you agree to it, and the documents will be supplied to you in a sealed container. If you find Vauban, he will know the password. Have them signed, resealed, and then returned to Snoquot.
Bear in mind this dataslate is confidential, and any divulgence of its contents will result in prosecution with extreme prejudice. Please return the dataslate, with your answer, to my assistant Carpenter.
Regards
Matzov
"Evening Colonel".
"Gardner, come in. Close the door. Cigar?" Matzov pressed a concealed button and shutters began descending from the walls. Lockdown.
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18 JANUARY 3303, SNOQUOT SYSTEM, WRANGELL CITY
"I will give you 30 minutes to digest what you have just read, I understand that it must be a shock" - with these words the man that brought me the datapad turned around and left. I watched as the door close behind him and then I sat on the bunk, reading the message over and over again.
As a result we launched an internal audit to review the employment record of Alex Benjamin and he indeed joined the Corp but was killed in an industrial accident a few months later
It is hard to explain what I felt. On one hand, I was disappointed that I would not have an opportunity to speak to Alex Benjamin. Accident.. I guess there is some kind of justice in this galaxy...
...another man joined on the same day as Benjamin. I tell you this in confidence - He is still on the books, but he cannot be located, and no one seems to have ever known him or seen him. His name is Galloway
On the other hand, I felt exhilarated - Galloway was here as well! Another suspect, whom I thought I will never be able to track down, has just reappeared! I finally have a lead which I could use. And a person I need to find...
Vauban is the man you need to speak to as he did the on-boarding at the time, and its his signature on Galloway's registration.
Commander Vauban.. he enrolled both Benjamin and Galloway, possibly together. But the second one has never shown up for work. A dead soul? Unlikely in a huge corporation like this one. A cover? Possibly. But why would this Vauban be involved in this? Perhaps he works with the Federal Secret Services? Or he just made a clerical mistake? And then why would he leave in a small ship, without saying anything to anyone?
I do know that he was recently spotted in Deciat, and then just a few days ago in Frog.
I checked the galactic charts. Frog - 120.4 LY from Snoquot. Industrial system under control of Archon Delaine. Now that is interesting.. especially that I was recently contacted by somebody claiming to be working for him. Mental note: dig out that message from the datapad log. Long shot, but perhaps they could help me somehow?
The other system - Deciat - is 160 LY. I think I will start with Frog.
Gentle knocking at the door.
"30 minutes are up, commander" - the messenger entered my room and stopped at the door - "what message should I give to Cmd Matzov?"
"Tell him I will do it. I will find this Vauban. You can load the container onto my Keelback. I will be in touch if I learn anything"
"I understand. Thank you. The documents will be delivered to Black Lotus immediately" - he bowed his head and he left.
Black Lotus. That was the name given by Lila. But since she is no longer around, I guess I can change it now...
"I will give you 30 minutes to digest what you have just read, I understand that it must be a shock" - with these words the man that brought me the datapad turned around and left. I watched as the door close behind him and then I sat on the bunk, reading the message over and over again.
As a result we launched an internal audit to review the employment record of Alex Benjamin and he indeed joined the Corp but was killed in an industrial accident a few months later
It is hard to explain what I felt. On one hand, I was disappointed that I would not have an opportunity to speak to Alex Benjamin. Accident.. I guess there is some kind of justice in this galaxy...
...another man joined on the same day as Benjamin. I tell you this in confidence - He is still on the books, but he cannot be located, and no one seems to have ever known him or seen him. His name is Galloway
On the other hand, I felt exhilarated - Galloway was here as well! Another suspect, whom I thought I will never be able to track down, has just reappeared! I finally have a lead which I could use. And a person I need to find...
Vauban is the man you need to speak to as he did the on-boarding at the time, and its his signature on Galloway's registration.
Commander Vauban.. he enrolled both Benjamin and Galloway, possibly together. But the second one has never shown up for work. A dead soul? Unlikely in a huge corporation like this one. A cover? Possibly. But why would this Vauban be involved in this? Perhaps he works with the Federal Secret Services? Or he just made a clerical mistake? And then why would he leave in a small ship, without saying anything to anyone?
I do know that he was recently spotted in Deciat, and then just a few days ago in Frog.
I checked the galactic charts. Frog - 120.4 LY from Snoquot. Industrial system under control of Archon Delaine. Now that is interesting.. especially that I was recently contacted by somebody claiming to be working for him. Mental note: dig out that message from the datapad log. Long shot, but perhaps they could help me somehow?
The other system - Deciat - is 160 LY. I think I will start with Frog.
Gentle knocking at the door.
"30 minutes are up, commander" - the messenger entered my room and stopped at the door - "what message should I give to Cmd Matzov?"
"Tell him I will do it. I will find this Vauban. You can load the container onto my Keelback. I will be in touch if I learn anything"
"I understand. Thank you. The documents will be delivered to Black Lotus immediately" - he bowed his head and he left.
Black Lotus. That was the name given by Lila. But since she is no longer around, I guess I can change it now...
19 January 3301, LTT 9665 System, Narbeth Station
Early in the afternoon I finally received information that my Keelback was repaired and good to go. I had a very active morning, first negotiating the price for the Eagle (I figured I won't need it for the next weeks to come and more cash on the account is always handy), then looking for someone to enlist for a trip. As I spent last few days mainly in the bars around the starport, I happened to find someone fit for the job - an Imperial pilot by the name Bill Leonard, with experience of several years flying Imperial Eagles and Condors under his belt. Not a very talkative type, which suits me well. We've agreed for 55 000 up front and then 6% of shares in my profits. Hope he is worth the price.
We took off loaded with mineral extractors and made a first stop on the way at Pudwill Gorie Orbital. From there I planned to fly directly towards Frog, but going through a bulletin board I found two good runs to Hedetet system that could net me almost 500 000 credits. I took them and made a small diversion from my original plan - an uneventful trip on all accounts, hauling Palladium and Hydrogen Fuel.
Then I set course on LTT 9665, but on my way through Vandemo I encountered several PGMC security vessels chasing two pirates. Eager to test my newly installed turrets and Leonard's skills I joined the fray, but the fight was quickly over. Still, I have to admit that both having a turreted lasers and a fighter at my disposal is really handy. And Bill uses the Lotus' onboard control terminal, so hopefully he won't leave me as quickly as Lila did...
We finished the day in LTT 9665 system and docked at Narbeth Station, a tiny Federal refinery. We will eat something, refuel and then be on our way in search of commander Vauban...
Early in the afternoon I finally received information that my Keelback was repaired and good to go. I had a very active morning, first negotiating the price for the Eagle (I figured I won't need it for the next weeks to come and more cash on the account is always handy), then looking for someone to enlist for a trip. As I spent last few days mainly in the bars around the starport, I happened to find someone fit for the job - an Imperial pilot by the name Bill Leonard, with experience of several years flying Imperial Eagles and Condors under his belt. Not a very talkative type, which suits me well. We've agreed for 55 000 up front and then 6% of shares in my profits. Hope he is worth the price.
We took off loaded with mineral extractors and made a first stop on the way at Pudwill Gorie Orbital. From there I planned to fly directly towards Frog, but going through a bulletin board I found two good runs to Hedetet system that could net me almost 500 000 credits. I took them and made a small diversion from my original plan - an uneventful trip on all accounts, hauling Palladium and Hydrogen Fuel.
Then I set course on LTT 9665, but on my way through Vandemo I encountered several PGMC security vessels chasing two pirates. Eager to test my newly installed turrets and Leonard's skills I joined the fray, but the fight was quickly over. Still, I have to admit that both having a turreted lasers and a fighter at my disposal is really handy. And Bill uses the Lotus' onboard control terminal, so hopefully he won't leave me as quickly as Lila did...
We finished the day in LTT 9665 system and docked at Narbeth Station, a tiny Federal refinery. We will eat something, refuel and then be on our way in search of commander Vauban...
20 January 3303, Frog System, Kempston Hardwick
I made it to Frog system. Funny name, that, but even my onboard galactic map, which rarely says anything about any system, admits that it was given by mistake. Largest local spaceport orbits around a beautiful Earth- like planet named Thea, and is ran by a corporation called Frog Commodities.
As soon as I landed I started to make inquiries in starport bars and cantinas. Nothing - nobody has seen neither Vauban nor Galloway. I also went to local security station, but also they didn't have anything for me. I checked the bulletin board and decided to have a look around, in nearby systems. I scanned each and every Eagle that I have met along the way - to no avail.
Frog is not the safest of places - we have been interdicted several times while hauling gold and silver from the nearby Ngaru system. But with two burst lasers, two auto cannons and a fighter (and my Imperial pilot is really proving his skill) all the fights we had were rather short and one - sided...
MecLeod out
I made it to Frog system. Funny name, that, but even my onboard galactic map, which rarely says anything about any system, admits that it was given by mistake. Largest local spaceport orbits around a beautiful Earth- like planet named Thea, and is ran by a corporation called Frog Commodities.
As soon as I landed I started to make inquiries in starport bars and cantinas. Nothing - nobody has seen neither Vauban nor Galloway. I also went to local security station, but also they didn't have anything for me. I checked the bulletin board and decided to have a look around, in nearby systems. I scanned each and every Eagle that I have met along the way - to no avail.
Frog is not the safest of places - we have been interdicted several times while hauling gold and silver from the nearby Ngaru system. But with two burst lasers, two auto cannons and a fighter (and my Imperial pilot is really proving his skill) all the fights we had were rather short and one - sided...
MecLeod out
21 January 3303, Undisclosed Location...
Encrypted communication incoming...
CMDR Vauban, I am taking a tremendous risk by breaking radio silence but I'm afraid there has been some unforeseen developments that you need to be aware of.
A certain CMDR MacLeod, one of our newest recruit, has been asking questions about our old friend Galloway... and judging by my last conversation with the Colonel, it would seem that MacLeod has left Wrangell City just a few days ago to investigate the Frog System.
There's only so much I can keep under wrap given the situation, so I strongly recommend you do not return to Frog and Rasch Dock for the time being. We cannot afford to have anyone finding out about your current assignment and I also cannot stress enough how vital it is for the Colonel to be kept in the dark.
I'm counting on you to do what you must if you ever were to come across this Duncan MacLeod.
General Counsel Ben Gardner, over and out.
Encrypted communication incoming...
CMDR Vauban, I am taking a tremendous risk by breaking radio silence but I'm afraid there has been some unforeseen developments that you need to be aware of.
A certain CMDR MacLeod, one of our newest recruit, has been asking questions about our old friend Galloway... and judging by my last conversation with the Colonel, it would seem that MacLeod has left Wrangell City just a few days ago to investigate the Frog System.
There's only so much I can keep under wrap given the situation, so I strongly recommend you do not return to Frog and Rasch Dock for the time being. We cannot afford to have anyone finding out about your current assignment and I also cannot stress enough how vital it is for the Colonel to be kept in the dark.
I'm counting on you to do what you must if you ever were to come across this Duncan MacLeod.
General Counsel Ben Gardner, over and out.
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21 JANUARY 3303, FROG SYSTEM, KEMPSTON HARDWICK
The lights in the bar were dimmed. The place looked deserted - it might have been because of its location, in the remote area of the station, near waste disposal and water purification plant. Or it might have been due to its spartan interior. Or due to the type of crowd usually hanging out in this place - the type normal people would steer clear of. "City of Angels" was probably the most inadequate name for the favourite bar of Frog Jet Brotherhood, local group of pirates, criminals and scum.
"Good job MacLeod, you created just the kind of disruption we needed to get our boys out" - said Spanner, my main contact in the group. He was dark - skinned, with dreadlocks and tatoos on both cheeks- "you did really well. The agreed sum has already been transfered to your account. When will you strike the second target?"
"Tomorrow" - I opened my datapad and checked if 700 000c indeed made it to my back. Spanner didn't lie, it did. - "I thought I'd lay low for some time after the last strike"
"As you want MacLeod. Keep up the good work and perhaps the boss will want to help you with your little investigation. Perhaps."
Perhaps. Better than nothing. Since my arrival in Frog I ran errands for all the local groups in hope that somebody in return might do me a favour and provide some info on Vauban. But even though they seemed grateful, they didn't. Frog Commodities, corporation running the show and responsible for security in the system, must have the logs and cargo manifests for all the ships entering Frog, but they only confirmed that Taylor Vauban was here a couple of weeks ago - and refused to tell me anything more. Desperate, I also took a few harmless hauls for Frog Jet Brotherhood - thinking that they probably have their eyes and ears everywhere and could have heard something.
Then they asked me if I wouldn't mind doing another job for them. Two of their guys were, as they put it, "stuck" in one of small settlements in Xi-2 Caproconi system and the group needed some kind of distraction in order to get them out. I was to go down there and destroy the power generator, then wait near my ship for their extraction team to bring their comrades onboard, and finally get them back safey to Frog. The remote outpost was supposed to be undefended, but to minimise the risk I hovered 20 kilometres away from it and used a fighter for recon. Only after I verified it indeed had no turrets or sentries, I used Scarab to get in there, blew up the generator and returned to my ship. 4 people arrived in a small SRV 15 minutes later and we safely took off and then quickly jumped back to Frog.
I have one similar operation ahead of me. I don't mind as long as innocent people do not get hurt. Though there might come a day when they ask a different type of favour... one that involves killing civilians. What will I do then? If it brings me one step closer to catching Galloway.. who knows...
MacLeod out
The lights in the bar were dimmed. The place looked deserted - it might have been because of its location, in the remote area of the station, near waste disposal and water purification plant. Or it might have been due to its spartan interior. Or due to the type of crowd usually hanging out in this place - the type normal people would steer clear of. "City of Angels" was probably the most inadequate name for the favourite bar of Frog Jet Brotherhood, local group of pirates, criminals and scum.
"Good job MacLeod, you created just the kind of disruption we needed to get our boys out" - said Spanner, my main contact in the group. He was dark - skinned, with dreadlocks and tatoos on both cheeks- "you did really well. The agreed sum has already been transfered to your account. When will you strike the second target?"
"Tomorrow" - I opened my datapad and checked if 700 000c indeed made it to my back. Spanner didn't lie, it did. - "I thought I'd lay low for some time after the last strike"
"As you want MacLeod. Keep up the good work and perhaps the boss will want to help you with your little investigation. Perhaps."
Perhaps. Better than nothing. Since my arrival in Frog I ran errands for all the local groups in hope that somebody in return might do me a favour and provide some info on Vauban. But even though they seemed grateful, they didn't. Frog Commodities, corporation running the show and responsible for security in the system, must have the logs and cargo manifests for all the ships entering Frog, but they only confirmed that Taylor Vauban was here a couple of weeks ago - and refused to tell me anything more. Desperate, I also took a few harmless hauls for Frog Jet Brotherhood - thinking that they probably have their eyes and ears everywhere and could have heard something.
Then they asked me if I wouldn't mind doing another job for them. Two of their guys were, as they put it, "stuck" in one of small settlements in Xi-2 Caproconi system and the group needed some kind of distraction in order to get them out. I was to go down there and destroy the power generator, then wait near my ship for their extraction team to bring their comrades onboard, and finally get them back safey to Frog. The remote outpost was supposed to be undefended, but to minimise the risk I hovered 20 kilometres away from it and used a fighter for recon. Only after I verified it indeed had no turrets or sentries, I used Scarab to get in there, blew up the generator and returned to my ship. 4 people arrived in a small SRV 15 minutes later and we safely took off and then quickly jumped back to Frog.
I have one similar operation ahead of me. I don't mind as long as innocent people do not get hurt. Though there might come a day when they ask a different type of favour... one that involves killing civilians. What will I do then? If it brings me one step closer to catching Galloway.. who knows...
MacLeod out
22 JANUARY 3303, MIKINN SYSTEM, HEISENBERG REACH
Today's job for Frog Jet Brotherhood definitely was not as easy nor as straightforward as the last one. The objective was similar - to disrupt the power supply to one of the settlements in VVO 19 system - but it has proven to be rather complicated this time...
***
"City of Angels" looked much more crowded than during my visit here the day before. Spanner sat in front of me with a cigar, half - hidden in the veil of smoke. He dropped the datapad onto the low, glass table and pushed it my way.
'Have a look, MacLeod. This are the details. We want you to install a passenger cabin, as you will have 7 people onboard. Once you get it, deliver this message' - he put a small chip next to the datapad - 'to Tamira Kruger from VVO19 Purple Council, you will find her on Kaku Station. Wait until she brings our strike team onboard, the papers will say these are Aid Workers. Next go to Knight Escape, destroy the generator, drop them off near the entrance and wait for them to return. Once they are back, get the hell out of there and fly them together with data they will have wherever Tamira tells you to get them. Is everything clear MacLeod?'
I studied the datapad and mission details. Kaku Station was 12 800Ls from the Nav Beacon, quite a long run both ways. I'd have to find a modular passenger cabin somewhere, as I was pretty certain they didn't have any at Kempston. The target was tagged as "low security', just like the one from yesterday, so the final part looked like a piece of cake.
'No, no questions. I will be on my way. Expect me here tomorrow'
'Good, MacLeod. Good'.
***
I was lucky - VVO 19 lives of agriculture and of tourism, and in such systems passenger cabins are a common commodity. I found an Economy Class one able to carry up to 8 people and had in installed in just under 2 hours in Leavitt Port. I set Kaku Station as my next destination and spent the time necessary to traverse almost 13 000 Ls on studying information about the planet I was going to land on. Icy with very low gravity - rather difficult to navigate, so I will have to land pretty close to my destination.
Tamira Kruger was not a talkative type. She took the data chip from me, told me to wait, and was back with a group of seven people - five men and two women. Aid workers. Yeah, right. If this group came to my aid, I'd try to run away from them as fast and as far as I could.
With them on board I set my course to Knight Escape and soon hovered over icy ground 10 kilometers away from my target...
***
'I'll keep her in the spot, boss, don't worry' - my first officer was at the helm of Keelback as I went to the remote control console for the fighters.
'Rog, I'll have a quick look around before we go in' - I said, launching the Condor. Few moments later I was already over the outpost - several small buildings, one tower and.. one occupied landing pad, with Cobra Mk.III sitting on it.
'Heads up, Bill, we have a Cobra here. Federal Security. '
'Not good, boss. No way you will make it past her in the Scarab. If you want to get down there, we should destroy her now, while she is still on the pad'
'Copy. OK, you take control over the Condor, I'll get the Lotus' - I terminated the link as soon as Bill informed me that he has the fighter.
'Right, on my mark' - as I approached the landing pad, I saw the glow of the engines - 'he is starting up, fire at will'.
All four turrets spat beams and bullets towards the enemy ship. The pilot apparently was at the end of the engine start sequence, as Cobra darted up into the air almost instantly, trying to evade incoming fire. Still, we had advantage, and soon it was over.
"7500 credits fine". Sweet.
'OK, land as close to the outpost as possible, no more time for playing around. We'll get in and out as soon as we can' - with that I ran towards the landing bay and into the Scarab. All seven "aid workers" were already strapped in in the back with their 0-G suits on.
'Let's roll!' - I gave the vehicle full power and sped towards the installation. Three red dots appeared on my scanners and soon after three turrets which I failed to notice, focusing on the Cobra, opened fire. I kept the SRV at almost maximum speed driving around the complex, shooting back and after a minute or so the defences went silent. I turned sharply and moved up the ramp, gestured to the mercenaries to get out and take position outside the main entrance. Once they were ready, I moved forward and destroyed the power generator with a few well placed shots. I opened up the commlink:
'Bill, give me picture'
'Clean, no contacts'
'Yeah, copy' - I watched as the team opened the main gate and disappeared inside - 'OK, our aid workers just got in'
After maybe 4 minutes of waiting my comms went live again: 'OK, we got what we wanted, wait for us at the entrance. 2 minutes'. Indeed, 120 seconds later all 7 people ran out of the building, carrying a small metal chest.
'Go,go,go!'- shouted their leader as soon as last of his team members got onboard. I accelerated and went towards the silhouette of my Keelback, clearly visible against the icy surface of the planet. After maybe 20 seconds we docked and a minute later I was already making my way to the pit.
'OK everyone, strap in, we're departing' - I shouted to internal microphone, set four pips to engine, took off and then slammed the throttles all the way forward. As soon as blue "MASS LOCKED" light disappeared, I jumped to Stha 181 system.
This bounty on my head better be worth something for Jet Frog Brotherhood...
MacLeod out.
Today's job for Frog Jet Brotherhood definitely was not as easy nor as straightforward as the last one. The objective was similar - to disrupt the power supply to one of the settlements in VVO 19 system - but it has proven to be rather complicated this time...
***
"City of Angels" looked much more crowded than during my visit here the day before. Spanner sat in front of me with a cigar, half - hidden in the veil of smoke. He dropped the datapad onto the low, glass table and pushed it my way.
'Have a look, MacLeod. This are the details. We want you to install a passenger cabin, as you will have 7 people onboard. Once you get it, deliver this message' - he put a small chip next to the datapad - 'to Tamira Kruger from VVO19 Purple Council, you will find her on Kaku Station. Wait until she brings our strike team onboard, the papers will say these are Aid Workers. Next go to Knight Escape, destroy the generator, drop them off near the entrance and wait for them to return. Once they are back, get the hell out of there and fly them together with data they will have wherever Tamira tells you to get them. Is everything clear MacLeod?'
I studied the datapad and mission details. Kaku Station was 12 800Ls from the Nav Beacon, quite a long run both ways. I'd have to find a modular passenger cabin somewhere, as I was pretty certain they didn't have any at Kempston. The target was tagged as "low security', just like the one from yesterday, so the final part looked like a piece of cake.
'No, no questions. I will be on my way. Expect me here tomorrow'
'Good, MacLeod. Good'.
***
I was lucky - VVO 19 lives of agriculture and of tourism, and in such systems passenger cabins are a common commodity. I found an Economy Class one able to carry up to 8 people and had in installed in just under 2 hours in Leavitt Port. I set Kaku Station as my next destination and spent the time necessary to traverse almost 13 000 Ls on studying information about the planet I was going to land on. Icy with very low gravity - rather difficult to navigate, so I will have to land pretty close to my destination.
Tamira Kruger was not a talkative type. She took the data chip from me, told me to wait, and was back with a group of seven people - five men and two women. Aid workers. Yeah, right. If this group came to my aid, I'd try to run away from them as fast and as far as I could.
With them on board I set my course to Knight Escape and soon hovered over icy ground 10 kilometers away from my target...
***
'I'll keep her in the spot, boss, don't worry' - my first officer was at the helm of Keelback as I went to the remote control console for the fighters.
'Rog, I'll have a quick look around before we go in' - I said, launching the Condor. Few moments later I was already over the outpost - several small buildings, one tower and.. one occupied landing pad, with Cobra Mk.III sitting on it.
'Heads up, Bill, we have a Cobra here. Federal Security. '
'Not good, boss. No way you will make it past her in the Scarab. If you want to get down there, we should destroy her now, while she is still on the pad'
'Copy. OK, you take control over the Condor, I'll get the Lotus' - I terminated the link as soon as Bill informed me that he has the fighter.
'Right, on my mark' - as I approached the landing pad, I saw the glow of the engines - 'he is starting up, fire at will'.
All four turrets spat beams and bullets towards the enemy ship. The pilot apparently was at the end of the engine start sequence, as Cobra darted up into the air almost instantly, trying to evade incoming fire. Still, we had advantage, and soon it was over.
"7500 credits fine". Sweet.
'OK, land as close to the outpost as possible, no more time for playing around. We'll get in and out as soon as we can' - with that I ran towards the landing bay and into the Scarab. All seven "aid workers" were already strapped in in the back with their 0-G suits on.
'Let's roll!' - I gave the vehicle full power and sped towards the installation. Three red dots appeared on my scanners and soon after three turrets which I failed to notice, focusing on the Cobra, opened fire. I kept the SRV at almost maximum speed driving around the complex, shooting back and after a minute or so the defences went silent. I turned sharply and moved up the ramp, gestured to the mercenaries to get out and take position outside the main entrance. Once they were ready, I moved forward and destroyed the power generator with a few well placed shots. I opened up the commlink:
'Bill, give me picture'
'Clean, no contacts'
'Yeah, copy' - I watched as the team opened the main gate and disappeared inside - 'OK, our aid workers just got in'
After maybe 4 minutes of waiting my comms went live again: 'OK, we got what we wanted, wait for us at the entrance. 2 minutes'. Indeed, 120 seconds later all 7 people ran out of the building, carrying a small metal chest.
'Go,go,go!'- shouted their leader as soon as last of his team members got onboard. I accelerated and went towards the silhouette of my Keelback, clearly visible against the icy surface of the planet. After maybe 20 seconds we docked and a minute later I was already making my way to the pit.
'OK everyone, strap in, we're departing' - I shouted to internal microphone, set four pips to engine, took off and then slammed the throttles all the way forward. As soon as blue "MASS LOCKED" light disappeared, I jumped to Stha 181 system.
This bounty on my head better be worth something for Jet Frog Brotherhood...
MacLeod out.
24 January 3303, Vuldr System, Gibson Orbital
I screwed up.
If I was close to getting something out from Frog Jet Brotherhood, I am light years away now.
I took two jobs - one quick delivery of Survival Equipment to a nearby system. The other one.. the other one was quite big and paid pretty well.
https://flic.kr/p/QiAsiv
They said that they trust me well enough to take one of the group's leaders, accompanied by several people, to visit three different systems. On surface it was supposed to look like a leisure trip, but I was told I would get details on the way - and no doubts some secret meetings were planned, as the places mentioned upfront were quite remote. I took the job. And it was a mistake.
I asked Ms Hubbard if she wouldn't mind to have a small detour in order to deliver Jet's survival equipment to a planetary outpost on our way. She agreed, so I quickly set the course to Mannodava system. They did tell me to watch out as security services might be on a lookout for her, but I didn't think she would be wanted in an independent, remote settlement. I was wrong.
When Betty warned me that scan was detected, I almost immediately had one of her bodyguards in the pit.
'What the hell is it you think you are doing? This was supposed to be a covert trip. No scans! Which of these two words you did not understand?! I will...'
'We have problems..' - I cut him off and without waiting for further bursts of anger, I pressed the control to shut the cockpit door. Then I fired up the comms.
'Bill, launch the fighter, now!'
'Negative, we are too low'
'!' - I watched two security eagles coming at me from both sides. They opened fire without any warning.
'We're out of here! Hang tight!' - I put all pips on engine and boosted away from the outpost. Enemy lasers quickly cut through the shields and started to tear into the hull.
'Commander? What do you think you are doing?! Get us out of here you idiot!!!' - it was my VIP on internal comm channel. I cut her off too.
Lotus shook violently as more and more beams connected.
'Power Plant failure. Insufficient energy. Shutting off several systems". Betty again. Quick glance to my right - the plant was at 10% integrity. Hull at 30%. I immediately reacted by retracting the hard points.
Hull at 20%.
"Power Plant Active". Thanks Makers!
OK jump, jump you big fat cow..
"Frameshift Drive charging"
Hull at 10%. Sparks and smoke in the pit. Banging on the door behind me, shouts and swearing.
4...3...2..1..
Hull at 1%.
And then we jumped.
The shouting stopped for the moment, I guess the people outside weren't strapped. I didn't care. Only when we got back to Frog I forced myself to open the door. Ms Hubbard immediately stormed in.
'I will have you gutted. I will have you killed. You will never ever come back to Frog or do anything for Jet. I will tell our pilots to shoot you on sight! Now land this piece of junk anywhere and let me out!'
I got her back to Kempston Hardwick, dumping the Survival Equipment which I did not deliver in the end. Needles to say, my rating with Frog Jet Brotherhood went from almost friendly to neutral (glad it didn't go lower than that - probably because she survived after all...)
While waiting for extensive repairs to be completed, I started to think what should I do next. I need to disappear from Frog, that is for sure. At least for some time. But what next? This was my last lead.. I took the datapad and opened the message given to me in Wrangell by Matzov associate, what was his name... Carpenter? The systems where Vauban was last seen... Frog and Deciat. Hmm...
Pondering, I started absent-mindedly to play with a small box of cigars. Where did it come from? Ah yes, Carpenter gave it to me together with the message, said it was a gift from Vauban to Matzov. Wait wait... I looked at the box again. Kamitra Cigars. Somebody told me about this brand before... maybe even Ian? Or HellRazor? These could only be bought in one system. And if Matzov got them from Vauban, there is a chance (not a big one, I know) that Vauban was in Kamitra and bought them there.
It won't hurt to check it out. Can't stay here any longer anyway... and I've always wanted to visit the Empire. So, why not?
And as if I needed some more encouragement, I got an encrypted message from Cmd HellRazor. He said that his contacts found some new information about Galloways background and it looked dangerous. He asked me to leave Frog saying that I might be in danger and promised to meet in a few days in some remote system.
Then it is clear. I am out of Frog and going towards Kamitra. At least until Frog Jet Brotherhood gets over Ms Hubbard's rage.
MacLeod out.
I screwed up.
If I was close to getting something out from Frog Jet Brotherhood, I am light years away now.
I took two jobs - one quick delivery of Survival Equipment to a nearby system. The other one.. the other one was quite big and paid pretty well.
https://flic.kr/p/QiAsivThey said that they trust me well enough to take one of the group's leaders, accompanied by several people, to visit three different systems. On surface it was supposed to look like a leisure trip, but I was told I would get details on the way - and no doubts some secret meetings were planned, as the places mentioned upfront were quite remote. I took the job. And it was a mistake.
I asked Ms Hubbard if she wouldn't mind to have a small detour in order to deliver Jet's survival equipment to a planetary outpost on our way. She agreed, so I quickly set the course to Mannodava system. They did tell me to watch out as security services might be on a lookout for her, but I didn't think she would be wanted in an independent, remote settlement. I was wrong.
When Betty warned me that scan was detected, I almost immediately had one of her bodyguards in the pit.
'What the hell is it you think you are doing? This was supposed to be a covert trip. No scans! Which of these two words you did not understand?! I will...'
'We have problems..' - I cut him off and without waiting for further bursts of anger, I pressed the control to shut the cockpit door. Then I fired up the comms.
'Bill, launch the fighter, now!'
'Negative, we are too low'
'!' - I watched two security eagles coming at me from both sides. They opened fire without any warning.
'We're out of here! Hang tight!' - I put all pips on engine and boosted away from the outpost. Enemy lasers quickly cut through the shields and started to tear into the hull.
'Commander? What do you think you are doing?! Get us out of here you idiot!!!' - it was my VIP on internal comm channel. I cut her off too.
Lotus shook violently as more and more beams connected.
'Power Plant failure. Insufficient energy. Shutting off several systems". Betty again. Quick glance to my right - the plant was at 10% integrity. Hull at 30%. I immediately reacted by retracting the hard points.
Hull at 20%.
"Power Plant Active". Thanks Makers!
OK jump, jump you big fat cow..
"Frameshift Drive charging"
Hull at 10%. Sparks and smoke in the pit. Banging on the door behind me, shouts and swearing.
4...3...2..1..
Hull at 1%.
And then we jumped.
The shouting stopped for the moment, I guess the people outside weren't strapped. I didn't care. Only when we got back to Frog I forced myself to open the door. Ms Hubbard immediately stormed in.
'I will have you gutted. I will have you killed. You will never ever come back to Frog or do anything for Jet. I will tell our pilots to shoot you on sight! Now land this piece of junk anywhere and let me out!'
I got her back to Kempston Hardwick, dumping the Survival Equipment which I did not deliver in the end. Needles to say, my rating with Frog Jet Brotherhood went from almost friendly to neutral (glad it didn't go lower than that - probably because she survived after all...)
While waiting for extensive repairs to be completed, I started to think what should I do next. I need to disappear from Frog, that is for sure. At least for some time. But what next? This was my last lead.. I took the datapad and opened the message given to me in Wrangell by Matzov associate, what was his name... Carpenter? The systems where Vauban was last seen... Frog and Deciat. Hmm...
Pondering, I started absent-mindedly to play with a small box of cigars. Where did it come from? Ah yes, Carpenter gave it to me together with the message, said it was a gift from Vauban to Matzov. Wait wait... I looked at the box again. Kamitra Cigars. Somebody told me about this brand before... maybe even Ian? Or HellRazor? These could only be bought in one system. And if Matzov got them from Vauban, there is a chance (not a big one, I know) that Vauban was in Kamitra and bought them there.
It won't hurt to check it out. Can't stay here any longer anyway... and I've always wanted to visit the Empire. So, why not?
And as if I needed some more encouragement, I got an encrypted message from Cmd HellRazor. He said that his contacts found some new information about Galloways background and it looked dangerous. He asked me to leave Frog saying that I might be in danger and promised to meet in a few days in some remote system.
Then it is clear. I am out of Frog and going towards Kamitra. At least until Frog Jet Brotherhood gets over Ms Hubbard's rage.
MacLeod out.
Well over a year has passed since I last heard from Duncan. When I did a bit of checking it appeared that he had got into a major fight near to a planet surface, and had disappeared without trace. I was unable to find out anything further. You can imagine my surprise when I recently had a long distant communication from him! It seems that he came under attack, his Cobra took damage, hit the ground hard, and was buried in the rubble (so he could not escape). He did the only thing he could do; got into the escape pod, and prayed. Eventually his prayers were answered, and he was found over a standard year later. He is OK, and flying again (while continuing with his search for the reasons behind Ians’ death). It took me a bit of time to get over the shock, and then I got in touch. We agreed to meet up in the FROG system, but not a date as to when. I headed over in The Curious Cricket, and started wandering around, doing a little sightseeing, and checked out a few USS points. What I found worried me. Every USS I dropped in to appeared to be a trap. The first had some minor wreckage, but then a Cobra MkIII dropped in, and attacked. Fortunately I was able to deal with the situation. The next USS did the same, but the vessel was a Python (so I left by low wake), and the last USS dropped an Anaconda on me. I left the system, concerned that this system was trying to snare something or somebody.
A few days later I managed to get hold of Duncan again. I asked how his investigation was going, but I asked him not to mention RGs' name (for reasons I will go into). Unfortunately I did not make this clear enough. He told me that there were still a couple of people to track down; somebody called Taylor Vauban, and then (to my horror) he said Galloway. I explained a little to him what I had found out, enough (I hope) to get him clear of the FROG system and find a hole to hid in. We agreed to meet up somewhere quiet to discuss things further.
Some time back Boots got given control of an unusual Navy unit that installed very clever security systems at high security bases. I remember being interviewed by a vetting team, giving them a lot of information about him (I knew it was for something different, but not what). I made it clear that he worked best at NCO level, that he should not be promoted, and that when he got on with things the job got done, and done well. Obviously the vetting went well, and he got the position. Technically he was not in charge (an NCO cannot command a major unit), but the Captain placed ‘in charge’ knew the score. He was there to keep things ‘legal’ and to get things done that an NCO didn’t have the rank for. The Captain was a good sort, and he and Boots got on really well. The downside was that, for months at a time, Boots was incommunicado (secure bases do not like idle chitchat over their secure communication links, or uncontrolled communication systems). However, their data communication lines were very fast and efficient (and Boots was happy to use them when he was allowed to). Fortunately, because I had made it clear that the name ‘Roger Galloway‘ was red flagged and (then some) Boots was very careful. This means that he is still alive, but badly shaken up.
On the occasion in question the team was at a VERY secure base (the sort where nobody can go unless invited. It would take me at least a month to get clearance, if ever). Although the base was secure, the access to the computers was not (mind you, as the base WAS secure, it was felt the computers were as well). While Boots was running a complex diagnostics routine (the sort that takes hours to run, but is very thorough) he nipped into another office, and started a search for information on Roger Galloway. As he was familiar with the computers it only took him a few moments to see that there seemed to be a momentary delay on the computer he was using (as though it was doing more than it should). This felt wrong, so he shut down the computer, wiped it clean, and got back on with his official tasks. What happened next told him (and, when we met up, me) how protected Roger Galloway was.
About an hour later some suits turned up at the base. Although nobody on the base recognised them, they had clearance for full access to the base, and everybody had to give them complete co-operation. One of the first things they did was to go to the offices in question and seize all of the computers there (and the one Boots had used for the search was grabbed first). Everybody on the base was questioned. What made this incident even more scary was that replacement computers arrived within a day. As these were custom built, bleeding edge technology (with a long lead time), somebody with a lot of clout was involved. Not only that, they also had the right software installed (and that was custom written). Clearly whoever had got this organised wanted to keep things quiet, minimise disruption (possibly so that it didn’t trigger official investigations), and (possibly) scare off whoever was snooping after Roger Galloway.
When I met up with Boots a month ago he was still jittery about the experience. He told me he would (if I asked) continue with his investigation, but he asked me not to. After what had happened I could not ask.
I am going to have to tell Duncan all this, but somewhere that we will not be overheard. Fortunately I know of a strange system that is hard to get to, and over 1,000 light years away. We should be safe there. I hope so.
A few days later I managed to get hold of Duncan again. I asked how his investigation was going, but I asked him not to mention RGs' name (for reasons I will go into). Unfortunately I did not make this clear enough. He told me that there were still a couple of people to track down; somebody called Taylor Vauban, and then (to my horror) he said Galloway. I explained a little to him what I had found out, enough (I hope) to get him clear of the FROG system and find a hole to hid in. We agreed to meet up somewhere quiet to discuss things further.
Some time back Boots got given control of an unusual Navy unit that installed very clever security systems at high security bases. I remember being interviewed by a vetting team, giving them a lot of information about him (I knew it was for something different, but not what). I made it clear that he worked best at NCO level, that he should not be promoted, and that when he got on with things the job got done, and done well. Obviously the vetting went well, and he got the position. Technically he was not in charge (an NCO cannot command a major unit), but the Captain placed ‘in charge’ knew the score. He was there to keep things ‘legal’ and to get things done that an NCO didn’t have the rank for. The Captain was a good sort, and he and Boots got on really well. The downside was that, for months at a time, Boots was incommunicado (secure bases do not like idle chitchat over their secure communication links, or uncontrolled communication systems). However, their data communication lines were very fast and efficient (and Boots was happy to use them when he was allowed to). Fortunately, because I had made it clear that the name ‘Roger Galloway‘ was red flagged and (then some) Boots was very careful. This means that he is still alive, but badly shaken up.
On the occasion in question the team was at a VERY secure base (the sort where nobody can go unless invited. It would take me at least a month to get clearance, if ever). Although the base was secure, the access to the computers was not (mind you, as the base WAS secure, it was felt the computers were as well). While Boots was running a complex diagnostics routine (the sort that takes hours to run, but is very thorough) he nipped into another office, and started a search for information on Roger Galloway. As he was familiar with the computers it only took him a few moments to see that there seemed to be a momentary delay on the computer he was using (as though it was doing more than it should). This felt wrong, so he shut down the computer, wiped it clean, and got back on with his official tasks. What happened next told him (and, when we met up, me) how protected Roger Galloway was.
About an hour later some suits turned up at the base. Although nobody on the base recognised them, they had clearance for full access to the base, and everybody had to give them complete co-operation. One of the first things they did was to go to the offices in question and seize all of the computers there (and the one Boots had used for the search was grabbed first). Everybody on the base was questioned. What made this incident even more scary was that replacement computers arrived within a day. As these were custom built, bleeding edge technology (with a long lead time), somebody with a lot of clout was involved. Not only that, they also had the right software installed (and that was custom written). Clearly whoever had got this organised wanted to keep things quiet, minimise disruption (possibly so that it didn’t trigger official investigations), and (possibly) scare off whoever was snooping after Roger Galloway.
When I met up with Boots a month ago he was still jittery about the experience. He told me he would (if I asked) continue with his investigation, but he asked me not to. After what had happened I could not ask.
I am going to have to tell Duncan all this, but somewhere that we will not be overheard. Fortunately I know of a strange system that is hard to get to, and over 1,000 light years away. We should be safe there. I hope so.
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25 January 3303, Kamitra System, Hammel Terminal
Overseer Shane Stanley
"Good evening, Sir.
Oh my... That is quite a beat up Keelback you have here, but fear not... We can get it fixed up in no time.
Well, when I say no time, it actually might take us a good couple of days. Her hull is in quite a sorry state, to be honest, but it shouldn't cost you more than 10.000cr.
You might want to leave it to us and take the time to visit Hammel Terminal for the time being, no better starport around, no doubt.
Of course if you need to, we can provide with a replacement ship. There's this Eagle MkII right here... free of charge...
Don't let the battered look of it fool you, Commander, it is quite a capable ship.
Let me check the data I have on it...
... Seems it was originally a Federation Fighter, and although those Feds don't have the acquired taste of our kind, they surely can build a practical ship... mmh, Seems it was then sold to an independent mining Corp... PGMC, you can barely read the brand on what's left of the paint, but yes, it was converted into a System Security Ship... Wrangell City, according to the logs... Not much else, I'm afraid.
I wouldn't say that the previous owner took good care of it, that's for sure... a scruffy old bag, if I remember well... We shipped some of the modules to Thadakha, but the core equipment is running like clockwork.
I'll get the paperwork ready right away if it's ok with you... What did you say your name was again? CMDR Macleod, right?
So, friend, should I transfer the ship to a docking bay or were you planning on sticking around for a while?
I tell you what, you bring the ship back to me whenever your done and I just might knock off 5.000cr on your ship's repair bill too. What do you say?"
Overseer Shane Stanley
"Good evening, Sir.
Oh my... That is quite a beat up Keelback you have here, but fear not... We can get it fixed up in no time.
Well, when I say no time, it actually might take us a good couple of days. Her hull is in quite a sorry state, to be honest, but it shouldn't cost you more than 10.000cr.
You might want to leave it to us and take the time to visit Hammel Terminal for the time being, no better starport around, no doubt.
Of course if you need to, we can provide with a replacement ship. There's this Eagle MkII right here... free of charge...
Don't let the battered look of it fool you, Commander, it is quite a capable ship.
Let me check the data I have on it...
... Seems it was originally a Federation Fighter, and although those Feds don't have the acquired taste of our kind, they surely can build a practical ship... mmh, Seems it was then sold to an independent mining Corp... PGMC, you can barely read the brand on what's left of the paint, but yes, it was converted into a System Security Ship... Wrangell City, according to the logs... Not much else, I'm afraid.
I wouldn't say that the previous owner took good care of it, that's for sure... a scruffy old bag, if I remember well... We shipped some of the modules to Thadakha, but the core equipment is running like clockwork.
I'll get the paperwork ready right away if it's ok with you... What did you say your name was again? CMDR Macleod, right?
So, friend, should I transfer the ship to a docking bay or were you planning on sticking around for a while?
I tell you what, you bring the ship back to me whenever your done and I just might knock off 5.000cr on your ship's repair bill too. What do you say?"
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26 January 3303, Kamitra System, Hammel Terminal
I made it to Hammel Terminal in Kamitra yesterday, although the journey was not pleasant...
My FSD drive stopped working at least four times, dropping me out of super cruise. Fortunately it DID work during the hyperjumps, but I spent the last two on praying. It seems that Kempston Hardwick technicians didn't fix it properly, either because they were lazy.. or because somebody told them to? Nah, I think I am getting paranoid.
Anyway, upon the arrival I was forced to leave Lotus at the dry dock. Local overseer Shawn Stanley was nice enough to provide me with a substitute ship for the time being, a battered Eagle with some history. He even gave me a file, but I didn't bother to read it, just skimmed through it - I stopped at the part telling that it was used by the Federal military.
It is a replacement ship after all. It has two good things - grade A power plant and military alloys for protection, but the rest of the systems is barely C Grade. So I guess I will have to invest a little if I am to fly it for the next week or so, until the Keelback is repaired.
The main question is: what next? How to track down Vauban? Where to start? Probably system authorities. I'll first run a few jobs for them, though, make some friends... and then ask questions.
MacLeod out.
I made it to Hammel Terminal in Kamitra yesterday, although the journey was not pleasant...
My FSD drive stopped working at least four times, dropping me out of super cruise. Fortunately it DID work during the hyperjumps, but I spent the last two on praying. It seems that Kempston Hardwick technicians didn't fix it properly, either because they were lazy.. or because somebody told them to? Nah, I think I am getting paranoid.
Anyway, upon the arrival I was forced to leave Lotus at the dry dock. Local overseer Shawn Stanley was nice enough to provide me with a substitute ship for the time being, a battered Eagle with some history. He even gave me a file, but I didn't bother to read it, just skimmed through it - I stopped at the part telling that it was used by the Federal military.
Overseer Shawn Stanley, datalog 14.44.3303, Eagle Mk 2, TYG 445.
Notepad: Checked the brief history of the ship after buying. Seems it was originally a Federation Fighter, and although those Feds don't have the acquired taste of our kind, they surely can build a practical ship... mmh, Seems it was then sold to an independent mining Corp... PGMC, you can barely read the brand on what's left of the paint, but yes, it was converted into a System Security Ship... Wrangell City, according to the logs... Not much else, I'm afraid.
Notepad: Checked the brief history of the ship after buying. Seems it was originally a Federation Fighter, and although those Feds don't have the acquired taste of our kind, they surely can build a practical ship... mmh, Seems it was then sold to an independent mining Corp... PGMC, you can barely read the brand on what's left of the paint, but yes, it was converted into a System Security Ship... Wrangell City, according to the logs... Not much else, I'm afraid.
It is a replacement ship after all. It has two good things - grade A power plant and military alloys for protection, but the rest of the systems is barely C Grade. So I guess I will have to invest a little if I am to fly it for the next week or so, until the Keelback is repaired.
The main question is: what next? How to track down Vauban? Where to start? Probably system authorities. I'll first run a few jobs for them, though, make some friends... and then ask questions.
MacLeod out.
26 January 3303, HIP 115888 System, Pilyugin Landing
Having nothing better to do and with a very limited cargo hold of my newly acquired Eagle, I decided to do only one sensible thing under such circumstances: play the role of a bounty hunter. Apart from the fact that it could provide me with several thousand credits, it will also help me hone my skills (and I admit I got a little rusty on that front flying Keelback). And on top of that, it should make me more visible with the system authorities and perhaps they would get friendly enough one day to provide me with some good intel on Vauban.
My first destination was a local extraction site. Places like this always attract pirates and are also often patrolled by security vessels. Besides, I think a link with PGMC played a role here too.. by the way, I think I saw company logo somewhere after my arrival in Kamitra, but where was it... ah, can't remember.
Anyway, after few hours of patrolling the area, I managed to return to local outpost with around 100 000 credits worth of bonds. Soon after I landed my messaging system went live, and I received an interesting offer from the local authorities:
I accepted it of course and almost immediately took off and went to HIP 115888. I felt pretty confident - Eagle may be small, but it is nimble and once you get on bandit's six he won't be able to shake you, unless it is a big ship equipped with turrets. Looking at the proposed bounty I doubted Donna Hampton would be flying anything bigger than Diamondback...
I arrived in the system too early, so I spent almost an hour on patrolling and chasing down wanted pilots. Finally my scanners found the target...
Bingo. I followed her and pulled her off the supercruise. Then used the moment of confusion to use the kill warrant scanner and check if she was a legitimate target. She was.
'What the hell? You'll regret you was ever born, scumbag!' - definitely not a very nice lady. I switched the comms off and deployed my hardpoints.
Hampton tried to jump on me with everything she had, but she only managed to scratch the first layer of shields. I boosted past her, disabled flight assist and soon was on her back. From them the whole battle was a pretty one sided affair. Her Cobra was not able to outmaneuver the Eagle. In the end she tried to enable her frameshift drive, but never managed to use it...
I have to say, I really enjoy flying the Eagle. I am even toying with the thought of keeping it once my Keelback is repaired. I'll have to think about a proper name though. Perhaps I'll check under what name it was registered with the Navy before. Mental note - remember to look in the logs.
MacLeod out.
Having nothing better to do and with a very limited cargo hold of my newly acquired Eagle, I decided to do only one sensible thing under such circumstances: play the role of a bounty hunter. Apart from the fact that it could provide me with several thousand credits, it will also help me hone my skills (and I admit I got a little rusty on that front flying Keelback). And on top of that, it should make me more visible with the system authorities and perhaps they would get friendly enough one day to provide me with some good intel on Vauban.
My first destination was a local extraction site. Places like this always attract pirates and are also often patrolled by security vessels. Besides, I think a link with PGMC played a role here too.. by the way, I think I saw company logo somewhere after my arrival in Kamitra, but where was it... ah, can't remember.
Anyway, after few hours of patrolling the area, I managed to return to local outpost with around 100 000 credits worth of bonds. Soon after I landed my messaging system went live, and I received an interesting offer from the local authorities:
I accepted it of course and almost immediately took off and went to HIP 115888. I felt pretty confident - Eagle may be small, but it is nimble and once you get on bandit's six he won't be able to shake you, unless it is a big ship equipped with turrets. Looking at the proposed bounty I doubted Donna Hampton would be flying anything bigger than Diamondback...
I arrived in the system too early, so I spent almost an hour on patrolling and chasing down wanted pilots. Finally my scanners found the target...
Bingo. I followed her and pulled her off the supercruise. Then used the moment of confusion to use the kill warrant scanner and check if she was a legitimate target. She was.
'What the hell? You'll regret you was ever born, scumbag!' - definitely not a very nice lady. I switched the comms off and deployed my hardpoints.
Hampton tried to jump on me with everything she had, but she only managed to scratch the first layer of shields. I boosted past her, disabled flight assist and soon was on her back. From them the whole battle was a pretty one sided affair. Her Cobra was not able to outmaneuver the Eagle. In the end she tried to enable her frameshift drive, but never managed to use it...
I have to say, I really enjoy flying the Eagle. I am even toying with the thought of keeping it once my Keelback is repaired. I'll have to think about a proper name though. Perhaps I'll check under what name it was registered with the Navy before. Mental note - remember to look in the logs.
MacLeod out.
28 January 3303, Mavul System, Urkovic City
Spent two last days in Hamell Terminal, not feeling too good. I left the ship in the bay and rented a room in a nearby motel, feeling that a good night sleep and some rest from the cockpit would serve me well. Yes, I know there are those who went to Saggitarius and back and spent a good part of year alone in the void. Well, I guess such an adventure would not be for me...
An incoming call on my datapad woke me up. It was Executive Saunders from HIP 115888 Transport INC, quite a big corporation operating in several nearby systems.
'MacLeod, I saw in the books that you haven't left Kamitra yet. Good, I have a well paid job for you. Interested?'
'Always' - I tried not to sound as if I was just woken up from sleep, which - frankly - I was.
'Good. I am sending you data now. We have some agricultural stuff that needs to be moved quickly to our research team at Urkovic City. Experimental specimens, tightly sealed. We'll pay good money if you get them to destination within the next 20 hours'.
'Load them up, I will send you remote access code. Will be in my ship in 10'
'Excellent. Oh, while you're at it.. we also lost contact with one of our data panels on the surface of Mavul 5. Perhaps you want to check that one as well?'
'Sure, why not... though I don't have a Scarab on my Eagle. But I guess I can get one in Urkovic after I deliver your specimens.'
'Great. I knew you would take it. See you when you return'
'Yeah, see ya'
I checked the details once they arrived on my mail and almost spit out a coffee I was drinking. Almost 900 000c for 8 units of fish and tea? These must be experimental indeed...
I quickly took off and made several jumps needed to get to Mavul, with one refuelling along the way. The trip was completely uneventful and within one hours I was approaching my destination...
After unloading the cargo - and the welcome committee was already waiting for me, two guys looking like sciencists, four armed guards and two guys to operate the transporting pod - I went to local module sellers, checking how much would it take rent a planetary landing module and scarab, which I would install instead of cargo rack. It didn't cost a lot - around 5k - so I did the swap.
I checked my mail for any updates from Saunders - and indeed there were some...
I will go planetside as soon as everything is installed and ready.
By the way.. I am still thinking what kind of tea can be worth so much to transport. I bet on my Keelback that it was not tea that I had in my hold. At least not the kind that we are all used to drinking... but asking too many questions could easily get me into trouble.
MacLeod out.
Spent two last days in Hamell Terminal, not feeling too good. I left the ship in the bay and rented a room in a nearby motel, feeling that a good night sleep and some rest from the cockpit would serve me well. Yes, I know there are those who went to Saggitarius and back and spent a good part of year alone in the void. Well, I guess such an adventure would not be for me...
An incoming call on my datapad woke me up. It was Executive Saunders from HIP 115888 Transport INC, quite a big corporation operating in several nearby systems.
'MacLeod, I saw in the books that you haven't left Kamitra yet. Good, I have a well paid job for you. Interested?'
'Always' - I tried not to sound as if I was just woken up from sleep, which - frankly - I was.
'Good. I am sending you data now. We have some agricultural stuff that needs to be moved quickly to our research team at Urkovic City. Experimental specimens, tightly sealed. We'll pay good money if you get them to destination within the next 20 hours'.
'Load them up, I will send you remote access code. Will be in my ship in 10'
'Excellent. Oh, while you're at it.. we also lost contact with one of our data panels on the surface of Mavul 5. Perhaps you want to check that one as well?'
'Sure, why not... though I don't have a Scarab on my Eagle. But I guess I can get one in Urkovic after I deliver your specimens.'
'Great. I knew you would take it. See you when you return'
'Yeah, see ya'
I checked the details once they arrived on my mail and almost spit out a coffee I was drinking. Almost 900 000c for 8 units of fish and tea? These must be experimental indeed...
I quickly took off and made several jumps needed to get to Mavul, with one refuelling along the way. The trip was completely uneventful and within one hours I was approaching my destination...
After unloading the cargo - and the welcome committee was already waiting for me, two guys looking like sciencists, four armed guards and two guys to operate the transporting pod - I went to local module sellers, checking how much would it take rent a planetary landing module and scarab, which I would install instead of cargo rack. It didn't cost a lot - around 5k - so I did the swap.
I checked my mail for any updates from Saunders - and indeed there were some...
I will go planetside as soon as everything is installed and ready.
By the way.. I am still thinking what kind of tea can be worth so much to transport. I bet on my Keelback that it was not tea that I had in my hold. At least not the kind that we are all used to drinking... but asking too many questions could easily get me into trouble.
MacLeod out.