Farscape Fic - Frelling Wormholes - Ch. 3 (AU)
Sorry about the delay but it took longer than I expected to get everything finished and beta'd plus a holiday (which was great and helped get some of my other writing jump started)
Well Chapter 3 is finished and I haven't had to do any major rewrites (at least my beta hasn't made me :) ).
Chapter 4 is just finished but needs to finish beta and my beta is busy so it might take a little longer and Ch 5 & 6 are on their way to being finished but will take a little while to sort out.
Author: Valoki
Rating: G
Timeline: ‘Into the Lion’s Den’ (Part 2), AU during and after this.
Disclaimer: Plot idea is mine but nothing else.
Notes: Constructive criticism welcomed. Beta'd by Daisee Chain.
Chapter 3 - Time to spare
Aeryn, in the darkness of an unlit Command, concentrated on the sector display emanating from the burnished bronze display table. Stars, like a spray of distant multi-coloured pulse bursts, and nebulae, like erupting ship atmospheres, floated in a grand coloured swirl before her as she tried to plot the most likely course they would need. Aeryn thought for a moment and entered in the political and racial borders of the sector and considered the now complex play of lines and colours while she tried to think like her target. Frowning as she heard the sound of boots approaching she loaded the records into her data chip for later analysis.
Aeryn activated the lights and looked up as Crais strode into Command. “How is Talyn?”
“He is doing well.” He was showing one of his rare smiles - ample evidence of his mood. “His adjustments and the unpressured time with Moya have been of great assistance. Talyn appears to have recovered from his mental instability completely. There is every chance we can re-install his primary weapon system sooner than expected.”
“Excellent news. The further ahead we get the better for our plans.” Aeryn said thoughtfully.
“We have been monitoring high-level Peacekeeper communications and they appear to have discontinued all activities relating to wormholes. The loss of the carrier and Scorpius, along with the only known person to have successfully travelled one, means that they consider the research too dangerous and costly to pursue.” Crais looked satisfied.
“So our effort was sufficient to make them drop the entire project and in addition we gained Talyn’s new stability. What have they indicated, if anything, about Moya and her crew?”
“They appear to be discontinuing the search for Moya on the grounds that one escaped Leviathan and a few prisoners are not sufficient reason to expend precious resources which can be better utilised in holding off the Scarrans. Even Grayza’s argument, that we are inhibiting their attempts to create alliances in the uncharted territories, has been disregarded. High Command has declared the incident classified, closed and have sent orders to cancel all beacons issued by Scorpius and their reward offers.”
“So we’re really free of the Peacekeepers? At least as long as we avoid causing them difficulties.”
“It would appear so. They have even discontinued the attempt to track Talyn although I do not know whether that is because they think he was destroyed, the instability problems or some other reason.”
“So for all intents and purposes we are free and can make our way without expecting Wanted Beacons. In which case the question is now what do we do? I have an idea but I need to know what plans everyone else has first?”
Crais sighed. “Other than making sure Talyn was healed of his stability problems I had not really given it much thought. I did not expect to survive the attack on the carrier so I did not make any long-term plans. At the moment I am satisfied to keep Talyn building up his bond with Moya and his confidence so I will be staying with Moya for the time being. What did you have in mind?”
“As you know I had thought to join the renegade Peacekeepers and do some good with the skills I have. More like what the old ideal of the Peacekeepers.” And it had boundaries and rules I understood, she thought.
“I was aware of your decision but I thought you had turned away from that idea?”
Aeryn looked away as if seeing through the bulkhead. “Yes. I decided not to pursue it. Recent events have changed my perspective and I’ve decided that this too is not what I want.”
Crais looked at her thoughtfully. “And what is it that you’ve decided is a better course for you?”
“With yours, Talyn’s and Moya’s help we could take a different option. We could move around the Uncharted Territories transporting people and cargo, assisting the communities where possible to stand on their own without having to resort to aligning with the Scarrans or Peacekeepers. Encourage trade and communication between the peoples out here. It would be good if we can also build up some support, safe havens and maintenance sites, in the Territories for when we need to take any action.”
“An admirable goal, Officer Sun, but don’t you think the Peacekeepers will act against someone they perceive as interfering in their area of influence?
“Not if we do so quietly and carefully. If we act, even infrequently and carefully against the Scarrans, we’ll be less likely to be harassed by the Peacekeepers. This will also allow us to gather intelligence on events in and around the Uncharted Territories including John’s return and on the location of someone we need to find.”
“Who is that you want to find?” said Crais frowning.
“Furlow.” Aeryn snapped, crumpling the flimsy in her hand. “She is the only one who might be able to help get John back. The only one with enough practical wormhole knowledge to make it possible.”
“And you think she will still be in the Uncharted Territories?” said Crais thoughtfully studying her reactions.
“Yes. It’s what she knows and the Scarrans will assume that she will flee their retribution and Furlow being Furlow will go to ground and wait for the hunt go past her. And then start to rebuild her business perhaps by selling her knowledge of wormholes to the highest bidder or to the person who can most capably protect her from her enemies. I will find her and she will tell me all she knows about wormholes and then she will die for causing John’s death and killing Jack.”
“Agreed. Furlow will be executed after her usefulness is finished. Her knowledge cannot be allowed to get to the Scarrans or any one else. Certainly not after all the trouble we’ve just gone to. So what is your first choice on where to look for Furlow?”
“We should focus our search on an area at least two or three star systems out from Dam Ba Da, places where there are machine shops, repair facilities or space stations. Furlow can’t hide forever and I will get that knowledge.”
Crais nodded. “We will need to wait for the others to leave before we can implement this plan and get Pilot and Moya’s agreement. We will also require Talyn to re-grow his cannon system when we judge his stability has been in place long enough so that we have sufficient firepower to drive off any hostile forces that we may come across.”
Everyone gathered in the hanger bay for the farewells.
D’Argo, looked down impassively from the ramp of Lo’la “I will meet you at the agreed co-ordinates in six monens or I will find you if it takes me a little longer to get back.”
Rygel paused before going up the ramp “I don’t expect I will encounter you again unless you come to Hyneria, I will try to remember who you are, although I expect to be very busy undoing the damage my cousin has done in my absence. Try not to get yourselves killed without me here to come up with ideas for you.”
Chiana wandered up to Aeryn. “Good luck Aeryn. I hope you find John or he finds you.” Turning to the others with a mischievous grin. “ I hope to see you all in six monens but if I don’t good luck, try not to do anything I wouldn’t do.”
Jool laughed, “Well that leaves a lot of room for trouble.”
Everyone started laughing.
Chiana smiled, turned and entered the pod with a last wave.
Sighing as the bay doors closed, Jool and Noranti wandered away into the ship “So got anything interesting to eat Noranti? I have a craving for something sweet.”
“Of course, Jaala root is just the thing. Shred it and it makes lovely cake, nice and sweet.”
Aeryn looked after them for a moment, then turned to Crais. “Well let’s give them a day and then we’ll tell them what we have planned and we can find out whether they want to remain on board.”
“Agreed. They could both be useful in their own ways to our mission. And it would not hurt to always have someone on Moya for security so there are no sudden surprises if we happen to be away at the wrong time. If we set up a shielded area with secure comms on Moya they should be able to remain concealed from sensors but still warn of any problems.”
Aeryn looked thoughtful. “A good idea. The more precautions we can take the less likely we are to be surprised by enemies. We should try to stock up on essential supplies as well. Not just food, fuel or parts but weapons, chakan refills and anything else we can think of. At least some of what we are going to do is going to involve combat and we need to be able to back that up.”
Crais looked at Aeryn thoughtfully. “Do you have a search pattern in mind to try and find Furlow’s location?”
“Not really. Given we don’t know which direction Furlow went from Dam Ba Da it’s anyone’s guess. I’ve picked a likely system Corponyl it’s 3.4 lights from Dam-Ba-Da and close to various other inhabited systems including the Tautor Cluster.”
“All right then. Let’s talk to Pilot and Moya and see whether they will go along with this.”
Striding through the tiers to Pilot’s den Aeryn thought about what John might be going through and hoped he hadn’t run into his usual trouble. And if Scorpius has caused any more damage to John then I’ll make sure his head is left on a jinka pole as an example, and perhaps I’ll do it anyway. We are all owed some peace and quiet and we won’t get it while he’s alive.
Entering through the hatchway they could see, across the bridge, Pilot carefully synchronising all of the great ships many systems with his usual deft touch and concern for Moya’s well being.
“Pilot, Crais and I need to talk to you and Moya about our plans.”
“Of course. Officer Sun, Captain Crais please go ahead.”
“We believe that we can establish ourselves in the Uncharted Territories and gain information to enable us to eventually locate Crichton when he returns. He will be findable if we have the right knowledge about wormholes and knowledge of what is happening in the sector. So we would like to undertake passenger and freight transport while we gather information and resources and given Moya’s capacity she would be ideal for such a task.”
“Also it will give Talyn a task to undertake which will initially be to protect his mother from attackers but also perhaps others who might decide to travel with us from time to time.” Added Crais.
Pilot considered for a moment. “What information could possibly lead to locating Commander Crichton?”
Aeryn’s face and voice hardened. “How much did Talyn tell you and Moya about Dam-Ba-Da?”
“Everything that he knew we also know. We wanted to understand what had happened.”
“So you know about Furlow, the mechanic, who lived there?”
“Of course. She is the one who initially fixed the module when we were first there. She produced a copy of the module and was using it to study and travel through wormholes. And she is the one who was co-operating with the Scarrans and betrayed you.”
“Exactly Pilot. We need to locate her and gain the wormhole knowledge she has so that we can track down Crichton and hopefully get him back. Without that knowledge we have no chance of assisting him.”
“So that’s it Pilot. Will you and Moya help us?”
“Moya feels this is acceptable, we enjoy being useful and assisting others. Moya agrees.”
“Thank you.”
“No, Officer Sun, thank you. We had thought you might all leave us and that we would need to find a new crew and purpose. We are pleased that this is not the case.” Said Pilot his gaze locking with Aeryn’s own.
“I was thinking of leaving but circumstances changed and I’ve changed with them. This way we’ll all gain.”
“Then, Officer Sun, I would suggest that you and the Captain Crais go to Command and pick our first system.”
“Of course, Pilot, could you request the presence of the others in Command.”
“Certainly, Officer Sun.”
Aeryn and Crais hearing the sound of footsteps turned from the Tactical table as Noranti and Jool wander into Command.
“We have a plan to put to you both. It’s about our next step. Now if you want to be dropped off somewhere or want to head back to your home world we can try and arrange that.” Aeryn said considering the two remaining crew.
“Hoever it would be helpful to have the two of you, your skills and knowledge. The plan we have in mind could involve some danger and will almost certainly involve some combat.” Said Crais.
“What exactly are you planning?” said Jool her hair shading to a brighter red.
“Nothing overt, at least nothing overt if we can avoid it.” Commented Crais with amusement.
Jool and Noranti listened as Aeryn repeated what they had already told Pilot.
Jool looked at Aeryn doubtfully. “Do you think you can actually find Crichton? He was the only one who really new about wormholes and even he admitted that wasn’t very much.”
“I think if we can get the wormhole stabiliser and fit it to a pod we could then use the same wormhole as he did. He showed me how to activate a wormhole under the right conditions and with the stabiliser in place it should be safe enough to track at least some of the exits in case they left a beacon. In any case, assuming they were able to traverse safely and then find somewhere to land there is every possibility that he would try to return. While we are gathering resources and finding Furlow if he comes through we will make sure we have access to information about ships and people travelling through the region.”
“All right. I don’t think our chances are high but I’m willing to try.” Jool said, looking less than confidant. Her hair altering colour further to a brighter red.
“Well, Noranti?” Aeryn turned to the old woman.
“Oh happy to help. The Divine Eternal is in favour of those who assist others. I have plenty of remedies to offer the less fortunate and to help heal the sick.”
Crais looked surprised. “So you are a healer?”
“Of course. I ….”
“Why then were you in custody aboard the Command Carrier, they have plenty of med-techs aboard?”
“It was all a misunderstanding over a cure I offered to a local ruler. Very effective. Heals the mind and body both allowing the patient to examine what is wrong in their life balance and to learn from it. Unfortunately he didn’t seem to like what he learned. Accused me of poisoning him. Poisoning him indeed! I am a healer I wouldn’t dream….”
“All right enough. We understand. Since we are in agreement and Moya is ready we will proceed to Corponyl to begin our search. Pilot?”
“Yes Officer Sun?” Pilots face appeared on the clamshell and regarded them all.
“We have agreement please initiate course for Corponyl.”
“Certainly Officer Sun. We should be there in a weeken.”
“Thank you Pilot.”
Aeryn wandered back to her quarters listening to the living hum of Moya, glad that at least she and Pilot were spared from being chased and had a purpose that suited them. Thinking how frelled things had gotten. If she had just had some more time to work things out before meeting him again things might have been different or at least she hoped they would have been. Why did nothing ever work out for John and herself? All I have left then is this to make a purpose for myself, something that I am suited for making life better for others and the hope that I can find John and tell him why and what I’ve learnt….
Jool wandered up to Command and looked in seeing Aeryn leaning over the table. She’s different somehow she thought more forbidding, more Peacekeeper and shivered. “Aeryn?” Jool asked.
“Yes Jool.” Said Aeryn looking up from the tactical display.
“Why have you started dressing in uniform again and combat braiding your hair? I thought you were leaving that life behind.” Jool said studying her.
“Jool….”Aeryn stated coolly.
“No, I know what you’re going to say that it’s none of my business. But I think it is my business. What’s the point of saving Crichton if you’re just going to turn into a PK drone again. He would hate it.”
Aeryn sighed. “Jool, I am a Peacekeeper, I was born into it. To get John back I have to focus on the mission and I can do this most efficiently by relying on my training and experience. If you ask Crais he will tell you the same; that our background is what is most useful to us for what we are trying to achieve. Now please let me finish my analysis. I need to sort through these star charts to find Furlow’s most likely hiding spot and any other useful intel.”
“Fine, Aeryn. But if you get too much into being a Peacekeeper will John want you back?” Jool snapped back, irritated with her dismissal.
Aeryn felt tired. Sleep was difficult even though she knew she needed to be at her best. Too many dreams of John in trouble and what Scorpius might be doing to him kept intruding. Last night was the worst yet with John in the Aurora chair stripped of all he was his body not having realised he was dead yet. No. I will not dwell on that John is clever even for a primitive tech Erpman. He will find a way to keep Scorpius at arms length preferably further. She wondered how D’Argo, Chiana and Rygel were doing. She hoped they were managing to avoid trouble although somehow she doubted it. All of them were headed into situations which were guaranteed to get them noticed and on someone’s strike list. Strangely, of them all, she thought strangely D’Argo, a Luxan, was least likely to get into trouble….
Everyone looked up from the evening meal as Pilot appeared on the clamshell. “We will be entering the Corponyl system within the arn.”
“Thank you, Pilot.” Aeryn turned to the others. “All right everyone. Corponyl system contains two separate facilities, one is a transfer/repair station and the other slightly further out is a Commerce planet. The most likely place to find Furlow is actually the planet not the station, but we will be checking it anyway. We need to find out if they can do anything for Talyn’s main gun and get supplies. Jool you will be acting as our negotiator and Crais will be with you both for protection and because he can prompt you if anything is missed or something seems useful. Noranti, Furlow doesn’t know you either so you can wander the station, and see what information you can gather. I will be staying here for the most part but when some of you are back I will slip onto the station to search for her or information regarding her. Any questions?”
“But I’m no negotiator, Aeryn..” Jool whined.
“No but Rygel isn’t here and you like to shop and talk so you get to do it. And as an incentive, if you do well at it we will give you an allowance from the trading to buy something you like; clothes or knowledge filled data crystals probably.”
“Oh. Oh, okay I’ll do it.” Replied Jool with a distracted look.
Aeryn sighed and massaged her temples. “Pay attention Jool!” Jool jolted back to reality.
“Now in addition to supplies, information, and Furlow we will also be on the lookout for Scarran or Peacekeeper activities. We want to avoid PK entanglements and interfere with the Scarrans where we can but mostly we want to build up information on what they are doing and where they are doing it. In addition if you see an opportunity to make some funds or friends by arranging transport of people or goods let me or Crais know and we’ll consider it.”
The others nodded in agreement and headed off to get ready. Aeryn turned to Crais. “Would you be interested in a training session? I would like to get some serious close combat training and I thought you might like to also.”
“An excellent idea Aeryn, I will meet you in the training room in a quarter arn.”
“Officer Sun.”
Aeryn looked up from the exercise mat where Crais had just thrown her. “Yes Pilot?”
“We are nearing the transfer station and have been instructed to dock at Beta Ring Bay 9.”
“Thank you Pilot.” She turned to Crais. “We can finish this another time.”
“Agreed, and we’d best get cleaned up so we can finish up with the station as soon as possible.”
Aeryn and Crais jogged into Command. Aeryn moved to scan and Crais did a visual check out the display window. “Crais I’m not reading any PK or Scarran ships in orbit or dock.”
“No. It appears to be mostly old transports most of which are unarmed but there is an armed ship out there.” Crais stated as he regarded the dull silver metal of two diagonal rings and ovoid central core of the space station amongst which various ships were attached.
“Yes. It appears to be an old Telthras Avoc’ar class assault ship, but it looks like it’s seen better days and is in need of some decent maintenance downtime.”
“Nevertheless we’d better keep an eye on it and her crew just in case the Peacekeepers haven’t cancelled all the beacons yet. They could be mercenaries.”
“Yes, I’ll stay in Command and keep an eye on comms and scan. Mission time?” Aeryn raised and eyebrow looking at him.
“Three arns. That should be more than enough time to gather supplies and learn what we need to know.” Crais replied heading off to gather the others.
“… can you hear me, Aeryn? Are you there?” Noranti’s voice crackled through the comms.
Frell! So much for being alert. “What is it Noranti?”
“Crais and Jool are headed back to Moya. They are accompanying the supplies they have purchased or traded for. But that’s not the reason I’m comming you. Some of the crew of the assault ship are following them as they head back to Moya, although I don’t know why.”
“How many is some and are they armed?” Aeryn cursed under her breath.
“I’ve counted three and they don’t appear armed as the station has a ‘no weapons carry policy’.”
“All right. Get back aboard. I’ll take a point in the connecting passageway and provide cover in case they try to storm the ship.”
“On my way, Aeryn.”
Aeryn breathed a sigh of relief that she had thought to bring her weapons into command with her. “Pilot. Get ready to detach and leave for the Commerce planet as soon as the transaction is finished and the others are aboard.” Grabbing her squad support rifle she headed down toward the docking corridor.
“Of course, Officer Sun. Will we need to starburst?”
“We can’t Pilot. We need to check out the planet as well, otherwise we would just have to come back later.” Aeryn grimaced. “But ask Moya to ready herself just in case.”
“Certainly.”
Rushing into the connecting corridor Aeryn chose a point where she could cover the access way and storage room. As she made sure she couldn’t be seen she could hear Crais and Jool approaching as they discussed the planet and the items they hadn’t been able to get on the station. Staying still and quiet she watched as the transaction went off without any interruptions and as the station staff left Noranti slipped on board. “Pilot seal the access way and detach.”
“Already done, Officer Sun.”
“Fine. Head to the planet and keep a watch on the assault ship. Let me know if it comes after us.”
“They didn’t try anything.” Commented Crais as he strode up.
“No but they had people following you all the way back from the market to Moya. They are obviously interested in us.”
“Hmmm. Unfortunately the station didn’t have anything which could help Talyn re-enable his cannon although they thought the planet might.”
“How is Talyn doing?”
“He is staying in cover in the shadow of the nearest gas giant until it’s time to leave. He is impatient to be able to protect his mother and would prefer to be closer so he could render assistance.”
“No. We need him to be hidden for the time being. He is still our tactical surprise should anything go wrong.”
“Agreed. His value armed or unarmed is in the surprise he can generate in our opponents, allowing us to escape. We’ll soon see if these mercenaries are really interested in us.” Crais said as he headed towards command.
“Pilot, any sign of pursuit?” Asked Aeryn as she strode along with Crais.
“None, Officer Sun. They have not undocked.”
“Good. Thank you, Pilot. How long to planetary orbit?”
“We should make orbit in just over an arn.”
“So Crais. Any sign of Furlow?”
“No. There wasn’t any sign of her on the station but then her ability to hide in such a limited number of people would make her avoid the place.”
“True. It’s much more likely that she would be on the planet if here at all. Would you take command watch for the trip?”
“Of course. Where will you be?”
“Doing a full scanner check of the supplies I don’t want there to be any surprises like there were after the Depository. We can’t afford anything like that to happen again.”
“Agreed. Jool is still there with them. She can assist you. She surprised me today. I wasn’t expecting her to be as effective as Rygel, but she put on a very good front and was quite adept at getting the supplies we wanted for a reasonable price.”
“Amazing what some incentive can do. But you’re right - she will be very useful to us. Noranti too. If they continue to perform at this level we should have fewer difficulties than I anticipated.”
Somewhat over an arn later Aeryn groaned as she, Jool and Noranti finished putting the last of the supplies away having run the scanner over them all.
“Are you all right, Aeryn?” asked Noranti.
“Fine, now that these supplies are all dealt with and we can get on with our search. For now we’d better get up to command so we can go over the visit to the planet.”
Crais looked up as the three women walked into command. “Nothing unusual I take it?”
“No, not a thing. And now we have to stagger around a planet for several arns. Can’t we just do it tomorrow?” Jool moaned, slumping against the console.
“Better if we get it done now and get moving. That way we can avoid problems more easily.” Crais watched Jool. “Then everyone can relax for a while as we work out our next target.”
“Oh, all right. But this planet had better have some decent clothes as well. I remember the incentive and I intend to do some shopping while we’re down there.”
Aeryn turned “Jool, we don’t….”
Pilot appeared on the clamshell alarmed. “The assault ship has rounded the planet and is slipping into a matching orbit. They are comming us. What should we do? Starburst? Talyn wants to know if….”
“No, Pilot. Tell Talyn to stay where he is.” Crais commanded. “They’re here now. Let’s find out what they want. Open a channel.”
The display activated to show a typical, if old Talthran, something of a cross between avian and mammalian with short dark fur, a flattened compact face and dark eyes making it hard to discern his expression. “You are Moyan crew. Weapons active for protection. We come across now.”
http://valoki.livejournal.com/2733.html
Well Chapter 3 is finished and I haven't had to do any major rewrites (at least my beta hasn't made me :) ).
Chapter 4 is just finished but needs to finish beta and my beta is busy so it might take a little longer and Ch 5 & 6 are on their way to being finished but will take a little while to sort out.
Author: Valoki
Rating: G
Timeline: ‘Into the Lion’s Den’ (Part 2), AU during and after this.
Disclaimer: Plot idea is mine but nothing else.
Notes: Constructive criticism welcomed. Beta'd by Daisee Chain.
Chapter 3 - Time to spare
Aeryn, in the darkness of an unlit Command, concentrated on the sector display emanating from the burnished bronze display table. Stars, like a spray of distant multi-coloured pulse bursts, and nebulae, like erupting ship atmospheres, floated in a grand coloured swirl before her as she tried to plot the most likely course they would need. Aeryn thought for a moment and entered in the political and racial borders of the sector and considered the now complex play of lines and colours while she tried to think like her target. Frowning as she heard the sound of boots approaching she loaded the records into her data chip for later analysis.
Aeryn activated the lights and looked up as Crais strode into Command. “How is Talyn?”
“He is doing well.” He was showing one of his rare smiles - ample evidence of his mood. “His adjustments and the unpressured time with Moya have been of great assistance. Talyn appears to have recovered from his mental instability completely. There is every chance we can re-install his primary weapon system sooner than expected.”
“Excellent news. The further ahead we get the better for our plans.” Aeryn said thoughtfully.
“We have been monitoring high-level Peacekeeper communications and they appear to have discontinued all activities relating to wormholes. The loss of the carrier and Scorpius, along with the only known person to have successfully travelled one, means that they consider the research too dangerous and costly to pursue.” Crais looked satisfied.
“So our effort was sufficient to make them drop the entire project and in addition we gained Talyn’s new stability. What have they indicated, if anything, about Moya and her crew?”
“They appear to be discontinuing the search for Moya on the grounds that one escaped Leviathan and a few prisoners are not sufficient reason to expend precious resources which can be better utilised in holding off the Scarrans. Even Grayza’s argument, that we are inhibiting their attempts to create alliances in the uncharted territories, has been disregarded. High Command has declared the incident classified, closed and have sent orders to cancel all beacons issued by Scorpius and their reward offers.”
“So we’re really free of the Peacekeepers? At least as long as we avoid causing them difficulties.”
“It would appear so. They have even discontinued the attempt to track Talyn although I do not know whether that is because they think he was destroyed, the instability problems or some other reason.”
“So for all intents and purposes we are free and can make our way without expecting Wanted Beacons. In which case the question is now what do we do? I have an idea but I need to know what plans everyone else has first?”
Crais sighed. “Other than making sure Talyn was healed of his stability problems I had not really given it much thought. I did not expect to survive the attack on the carrier so I did not make any long-term plans. At the moment I am satisfied to keep Talyn building up his bond with Moya and his confidence so I will be staying with Moya for the time being. What did you have in mind?”
“As you know I had thought to join the renegade Peacekeepers and do some good with the skills I have. More like what the old ideal of the Peacekeepers.” And it had boundaries and rules I understood, she thought.
“I was aware of your decision but I thought you had turned away from that idea?”
Aeryn looked away as if seeing through the bulkhead. “Yes. I decided not to pursue it. Recent events have changed my perspective and I’ve decided that this too is not what I want.”
Crais looked at her thoughtfully. “And what is it that you’ve decided is a better course for you?”
“With yours, Talyn’s and Moya’s help we could take a different option. We could move around the Uncharted Territories transporting people and cargo, assisting the communities where possible to stand on their own without having to resort to aligning with the Scarrans or Peacekeepers. Encourage trade and communication between the peoples out here. It would be good if we can also build up some support, safe havens and maintenance sites, in the Territories for when we need to take any action.”
“An admirable goal, Officer Sun, but don’t you think the Peacekeepers will act against someone they perceive as interfering in their area of influence?
“Not if we do so quietly and carefully. If we act, even infrequently and carefully against the Scarrans, we’ll be less likely to be harassed by the Peacekeepers. This will also allow us to gather intelligence on events in and around the Uncharted Territories including John’s return and on the location of someone we need to find.”
“Who is that you want to find?” said Crais frowning.
“Furlow.” Aeryn snapped, crumpling the flimsy in her hand. “She is the only one who might be able to help get John back. The only one with enough practical wormhole knowledge to make it possible.”
“And you think she will still be in the Uncharted Territories?” said Crais thoughtfully studying her reactions.
“Yes. It’s what she knows and the Scarrans will assume that she will flee their retribution and Furlow being Furlow will go to ground and wait for the hunt go past her. And then start to rebuild her business perhaps by selling her knowledge of wormholes to the highest bidder or to the person who can most capably protect her from her enemies. I will find her and she will tell me all she knows about wormholes and then she will die for causing John’s death and killing Jack.”
“Agreed. Furlow will be executed after her usefulness is finished. Her knowledge cannot be allowed to get to the Scarrans or any one else. Certainly not after all the trouble we’ve just gone to. So what is your first choice on where to look for Furlow?”
“We should focus our search on an area at least two or three star systems out from Dam Ba Da, places where there are machine shops, repair facilities or space stations. Furlow can’t hide forever and I will get that knowledge.”
Crais nodded. “We will need to wait for the others to leave before we can implement this plan and get Pilot and Moya’s agreement. We will also require Talyn to re-grow his cannon system when we judge his stability has been in place long enough so that we have sufficient firepower to drive off any hostile forces that we may come across.”
Everyone gathered in the hanger bay for the farewells.
D’Argo, looked down impassively from the ramp of Lo’la “I will meet you at the agreed co-ordinates in six monens or I will find you if it takes me a little longer to get back.”
Rygel paused before going up the ramp “I don’t expect I will encounter you again unless you come to Hyneria, I will try to remember who you are, although I expect to be very busy undoing the damage my cousin has done in my absence. Try not to get yourselves killed without me here to come up with ideas for you.”
Chiana wandered up to Aeryn. “Good luck Aeryn. I hope you find John or he finds you.” Turning to the others with a mischievous grin. “ I hope to see you all in six monens but if I don’t good luck, try not to do anything I wouldn’t do.”
Jool laughed, “Well that leaves a lot of room for trouble.”
Everyone started laughing.
Chiana smiled, turned and entered the pod with a last wave.
Sighing as the bay doors closed, Jool and Noranti wandered away into the ship “So got anything interesting to eat Noranti? I have a craving for something sweet.”
“Of course, Jaala root is just the thing. Shred it and it makes lovely cake, nice and sweet.”
Aeryn looked after them for a moment, then turned to Crais. “Well let’s give them a day and then we’ll tell them what we have planned and we can find out whether they want to remain on board.”
“Agreed. They could both be useful in their own ways to our mission. And it would not hurt to always have someone on Moya for security so there are no sudden surprises if we happen to be away at the wrong time. If we set up a shielded area with secure comms on Moya they should be able to remain concealed from sensors but still warn of any problems.”
Aeryn looked thoughtful. “A good idea. The more precautions we can take the less likely we are to be surprised by enemies. We should try to stock up on essential supplies as well. Not just food, fuel or parts but weapons, chakan refills and anything else we can think of. At least some of what we are going to do is going to involve combat and we need to be able to back that up.”
Crais looked at Aeryn thoughtfully. “Do you have a search pattern in mind to try and find Furlow’s location?”
“Not really. Given we don’t know which direction Furlow went from Dam Ba Da it’s anyone’s guess. I’ve picked a likely system Corponyl it’s 3.4 lights from Dam-Ba-Da and close to various other inhabited systems including the Tautor Cluster.”
“All right then. Let’s talk to Pilot and Moya and see whether they will go along with this.”
Striding through the tiers to Pilot’s den Aeryn thought about what John might be going through and hoped he hadn’t run into his usual trouble. And if Scorpius has caused any more damage to John then I’ll make sure his head is left on a jinka pole as an example, and perhaps I’ll do it anyway. We are all owed some peace and quiet and we won’t get it while he’s alive.
Entering through the hatchway they could see, across the bridge, Pilot carefully synchronising all of the great ships many systems with his usual deft touch and concern for Moya’s well being.
“Pilot, Crais and I need to talk to you and Moya about our plans.”
“Of course. Officer Sun, Captain Crais please go ahead.”
“We believe that we can establish ourselves in the Uncharted Territories and gain information to enable us to eventually locate Crichton when he returns. He will be findable if we have the right knowledge about wormholes and knowledge of what is happening in the sector. So we would like to undertake passenger and freight transport while we gather information and resources and given Moya’s capacity she would be ideal for such a task.”
“Also it will give Talyn a task to undertake which will initially be to protect his mother from attackers but also perhaps others who might decide to travel with us from time to time.” Added Crais.
Pilot considered for a moment. “What information could possibly lead to locating Commander Crichton?”
Aeryn’s face and voice hardened. “How much did Talyn tell you and Moya about Dam-Ba-Da?”
“Everything that he knew we also know. We wanted to understand what had happened.”
“So you know about Furlow, the mechanic, who lived there?”
“Of course. She is the one who initially fixed the module when we were first there. She produced a copy of the module and was using it to study and travel through wormholes. And she is the one who was co-operating with the Scarrans and betrayed you.”
“Exactly Pilot. We need to locate her and gain the wormhole knowledge she has so that we can track down Crichton and hopefully get him back. Without that knowledge we have no chance of assisting him.”
“So that’s it Pilot. Will you and Moya help us?”
“Moya feels this is acceptable, we enjoy being useful and assisting others. Moya agrees.”
“Thank you.”
“No, Officer Sun, thank you. We had thought you might all leave us and that we would need to find a new crew and purpose. We are pleased that this is not the case.” Said Pilot his gaze locking with Aeryn’s own.
“I was thinking of leaving but circumstances changed and I’ve changed with them. This way we’ll all gain.”
“Then, Officer Sun, I would suggest that you and the Captain Crais go to Command and pick our first system.”
“Of course, Pilot, could you request the presence of the others in Command.”
“Certainly, Officer Sun.”
Aeryn and Crais hearing the sound of footsteps turned from the Tactical table as Noranti and Jool wander into Command.
“We have a plan to put to you both. It’s about our next step. Now if you want to be dropped off somewhere or want to head back to your home world we can try and arrange that.” Aeryn said considering the two remaining crew.
“Hoever it would be helpful to have the two of you, your skills and knowledge. The plan we have in mind could involve some danger and will almost certainly involve some combat.” Said Crais.
“What exactly are you planning?” said Jool her hair shading to a brighter red.
“Nothing overt, at least nothing overt if we can avoid it.” Commented Crais with amusement.
Jool and Noranti listened as Aeryn repeated what they had already told Pilot.
Jool looked at Aeryn doubtfully. “Do you think you can actually find Crichton? He was the only one who really new about wormholes and even he admitted that wasn’t very much.”
“I think if we can get the wormhole stabiliser and fit it to a pod we could then use the same wormhole as he did. He showed me how to activate a wormhole under the right conditions and with the stabiliser in place it should be safe enough to track at least some of the exits in case they left a beacon. In any case, assuming they were able to traverse safely and then find somewhere to land there is every possibility that he would try to return. While we are gathering resources and finding Furlow if he comes through we will make sure we have access to information about ships and people travelling through the region.”
“All right. I don’t think our chances are high but I’m willing to try.” Jool said, looking less than confidant. Her hair altering colour further to a brighter red.
“Well, Noranti?” Aeryn turned to the old woman.
“Oh happy to help. The Divine Eternal is in favour of those who assist others. I have plenty of remedies to offer the less fortunate and to help heal the sick.”
Crais looked surprised. “So you are a healer?”
“Of course. I ….”
“Why then were you in custody aboard the Command Carrier, they have plenty of med-techs aboard?”
“It was all a misunderstanding over a cure I offered to a local ruler. Very effective. Heals the mind and body both allowing the patient to examine what is wrong in their life balance and to learn from it. Unfortunately he didn’t seem to like what he learned. Accused me of poisoning him. Poisoning him indeed! I am a healer I wouldn’t dream….”
“All right enough. We understand. Since we are in agreement and Moya is ready we will proceed to Corponyl to begin our search. Pilot?”
“Yes Officer Sun?” Pilots face appeared on the clamshell and regarded them all.
“We have agreement please initiate course for Corponyl.”
“Certainly Officer Sun. We should be there in a weeken.”
“Thank you Pilot.”
Aeryn wandered back to her quarters listening to the living hum of Moya, glad that at least she and Pilot were spared from being chased and had a purpose that suited them. Thinking how frelled things had gotten. If she had just had some more time to work things out before meeting him again things might have been different or at least she hoped they would have been. Why did nothing ever work out for John and herself? All I have left then is this to make a purpose for myself, something that I am suited for making life better for others and the hope that I can find John and tell him why and what I’ve learnt….
Jool wandered up to Command and looked in seeing Aeryn leaning over the table. She’s different somehow she thought more forbidding, more Peacekeeper and shivered. “Aeryn?” Jool asked.
“Yes Jool.” Said Aeryn looking up from the tactical display.
“Why have you started dressing in uniform again and combat braiding your hair? I thought you were leaving that life behind.” Jool said studying her.
“Jool….”Aeryn stated coolly.
“No, I know what you’re going to say that it’s none of my business. But I think it is my business. What’s the point of saving Crichton if you’re just going to turn into a PK drone again. He would hate it.”
Aeryn sighed. “Jool, I am a Peacekeeper, I was born into it. To get John back I have to focus on the mission and I can do this most efficiently by relying on my training and experience. If you ask Crais he will tell you the same; that our background is what is most useful to us for what we are trying to achieve. Now please let me finish my analysis. I need to sort through these star charts to find Furlow’s most likely hiding spot and any other useful intel.”
“Fine, Aeryn. But if you get too much into being a Peacekeeper will John want you back?” Jool snapped back, irritated with her dismissal.
Aeryn felt tired. Sleep was difficult even though she knew she needed to be at her best. Too many dreams of John in trouble and what Scorpius might be doing to him kept intruding. Last night was the worst yet with John in the Aurora chair stripped of all he was his body not having realised he was dead yet. No. I will not dwell on that John is clever even for a primitive tech Erpman. He will find a way to keep Scorpius at arms length preferably further. She wondered how D’Argo, Chiana and Rygel were doing. She hoped they were managing to avoid trouble although somehow she doubted it. All of them were headed into situations which were guaranteed to get them noticed and on someone’s strike list. Strangely, of them all, she thought strangely D’Argo, a Luxan, was least likely to get into trouble….
Everyone looked up from the evening meal as Pilot appeared on the clamshell. “We will be entering the Corponyl system within the arn.”
“Thank you, Pilot.” Aeryn turned to the others. “All right everyone. Corponyl system contains two separate facilities, one is a transfer/repair station and the other slightly further out is a Commerce planet. The most likely place to find Furlow is actually the planet not the station, but we will be checking it anyway. We need to find out if they can do anything for Talyn’s main gun and get supplies. Jool you will be acting as our negotiator and Crais will be with you both for protection and because he can prompt you if anything is missed or something seems useful. Noranti, Furlow doesn’t know you either so you can wander the station, and see what information you can gather. I will be staying here for the most part but when some of you are back I will slip onto the station to search for her or information regarding her. Any questions?”
“But I’m no negotiator, Aeryn..” Jool whined.
“No but Rygel isn’t here and you like to shop and talk so you get to do it. And as an incentive, if you do well at it we will give you an allowance from the trading to buy something you like; clothes or knowledge filled data crystals probably.”
“Oh. Oh, okay I’ll do it.” Replied Jool with a distracted look.
Aeryn sighed and massaged her temples. “Pay attention Jool!” Jool jolted back to reality.
“Now in addition to supplies, information, and Furlow we will also be on the lookout for Scarran or Peacekeeper activities. We want to avoid PK entanglements and interfere with the Scarrans where we can but mostly we want to build up information on what they are doing and where they are doing it. In addition if you see an opportunity to make some funds or friends by arranging transport of people or goods let me or Crais know and we’ll consider it.”
The others nodded in agreement and headed off to get ready. Aeryn turned to Crais. “Would you be interested in a training session? I would like to get some serious close combat training and I thought you might like to also.”
“An excellent idea Aeryn, I will meet you in the training room in a quarter arn.”
“Officer Sun.”
Aeryn looked up from the exercise mat where Crais had just thrown her. “Yes Pilot?”
“We are nearing the transfer station and have been instructed to dock at Beta Ring Bay 9.”
“Thank you Pilot.” She turned to Crais. “We can finish this another time.”
“Agreed, and we’d best get cleaned up so we can finish up with the station as soon as possible.”
Aeryn and Crais jogged into Command. Aeryn moved to scan and Crais did a visual check out the display window. “Crais I’m not reading any PK or Scarran ships in orbit or dock.”
“No. It appears to be mostly old transports most of which are unarmed but there is an armed ship out there.” Crais stated as he regarded the dull silver metal of two diagonal rings and ovoid central core of the space station amongst which various ships were attached.
“Yes. It appears to be an old Telthras Avoc’ar class assault ship, but it looks like it’s seen better days and is in need of some decent maintenance downtime.”
“Nevertheless we’d better keep an eye on it and her crew just in case the Peacekeepers haven’t cancelled all the beacons yet. They could be mercenaries.”
“Yes, I’ll stay in Command and keep an eye on comms and scan. Mission time?” Aeryn raised and eyebrow looking at him.
“Three arns. That should be more than enough time to gather supplies and learn what we need to know.” Crais replied heading off to gather the others.
“… can you hear me, Aeryn? Are you there?” Noranti’s voice crackled through the comms.
Frell! So much for being alert. “What is it Noranti?”
“Crais and Jool are headed back to Moya. They are accompanying the supplies they have purchased or traded for. But that’s not the reason I’m comming you. Some of the crew of the assault ship are following them as they head back to Moya, although I don’t know why.”
“How many is some and are they armed?” Aeryn cursed under her breath.
“I’ve counted three and they don’t appear armed as the station has a ‘no weapons carry policy’.”
“All right. Get back aboard. I’ll take a point in the connecting passageway and provide cover in case they try to storm the ship.”
“On my way, Aeryn.”
Aeryn breathed a sigh of relief that she had thought to bring her weapons into command with her. “Pilot. Get ready to detach and leave for the Commerce planet as soon as the transaction is finished and the others are aboard.” Grabbing her squad support rifle she headed down toward the docking corridor.
“Of course, Officer Sun. Will we need to starburst?”
“We can’t Pilot. We need to check out the planet as well, otherwise we would just have to come back later.” Aeryn grimaced. “But ask Moya to ready herself just in case.”
“Certainly.”
Rushing into the connecting corridor Aeryn chose a point where she could cover the access way and storage room. As she made sure she couldn’t be seen she could hear Crais and Jool approaching as they discussed the planet and the items they hadn’t been able to get on the station. Staying still and quiet she watched as the transaction went off without any interruptions and as the station staff left Noranti slipped on board. “Pilot seal the access way and detach.”
“Already done, Officer Sun.”
“Fine. Head to the planet and keep a watch on the assault ship. Let me know if it comes after us.”
“They didn’t try anything.” Commented Crais as he strode up.
“No but they had people following you all the way back from the market to Moya. They are obviously interested in us.”
“Hmmm. Unfortunately the station didn’t have anything which could help Talyn re-enable his cannon although they thought the planet might.”
“How is Talyn doing?”
“He is staying in cover in the shadow of the nearest gas giant until it’s time to leave. He is impatient to be able to protect his mother and would prefer to be closer so he could render assistance.”
“No. We need him to be hidden for the time being. He is still our tactical surprise should anything go wrong.”
“Agreed. His value armed or unarmed is in the surprise he can generate in our opponents, allowing us to escape. We’ll soon see if these mercenaries are really interested in us.” Crais said as he headed towards command.
“Pilot, any sign of pursuit?” Asked Aeryn as she strode along with Crais.
“None, Officer Sun. They have not undocked.”
“Good. Thank you, Pilot. How long to planetary orbit?”
“We should make orbit in just over an arn.”
“So Crais. Any sign of Furlow?”
“No. There wasn’t any sign of her on the station but then her ability to hide in such a limited number of people would make her avoid the place.”
“True. It’s much more likely that she would be on the planet if here at all. Would you take command watch for the trip?”
“Of course. Where will you be?”
“Doing a full scanner check of the supplies I don’t want there to be any surprises like there were after the Depository. We can’t afford anything like that to happen again.”
“Agreed. Jool is still there with them. She can assist you. She surprised me today. I wasn’t expecting her to be as effective as Rygel, but she put on a very good front and was quite adept at getting the supplies we wanted for a reasonable price.”
“Amazing what some incentive can do. But you’re right - she will be very useful to us. Noranti too. If they continue to perform at this level we should have fewer difficulties than I anticipated.”
Somewhat over an arn later Aeryn groaned as she, Jool and Noranti finished putting the last of the supplies away having run the scanner over them all.
“Are you all right, Aeryn?” asked Noranti.
“Fine, now that these supplies are all dealt with and we can get on with our search. For now we’d better get up to command so we can go over the visit to the planet.”
Crais looked up as the three women walked into command. “Nothing unusual I take it?”
“No, not a thing. And now we have to stagger around a planet for several arns. Can’t we just do it tomorrow?” Jool moaned, slumping against the console.
“Better if we get it done now and get moving. That way we can avoid problems more easily.” Crais watched Jool. “Then everyone can relax for a while as we work out our next target.”
“Oh, all right. But this planet had better have some decent clothes as well. I remember the incentive and I intend to do some shopping while we’re down there.”
Aeryn turned “Jool, we don’t….”
Pilot appeared on the clamshell alarmed. “The assault ship has rounded the planet and is slipping into a matching orbit. They are comming us. What should we do? Starburst? Talyn wants to know if….”
“No, Pilot. Tell Talyn to stay where he is.” Crais commanded. “They’re here now. Let’s find out what they want. Open a channel.”
The display activated to show a typical, if old Talthran, something of a cross between avian and mammalian with short dark fur, a flattened compact face and dark eyes making it hard to discern his expression. “You are Moyan crew. Weapons active for protection. We come across now.”
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