Red Angel: Book II: Raiders
Date: 2016-04-23 02:54:34+00:00
Keywords: Science Fiction; Young Adult; Military Fiction; Mystery; Space; Fantasy; Space Opera; Military Science Fiction; Crime; Fiction
Description: Anna and her Naval Intelligence Agency, NIA, teammates have a new high-priority assignment: foreign raiders who are wreaking havoc within the United Alliance of Stars. They hit high value targets, have access to inside information, kill the security guards, and leave no witnesses. The NIA team soon discovers the raiders' system has been well thought out and has no weak links to exploit. The raiders prove arrogant, resourceful, and in no hurry to leave. So when the raiders discover the NIA team assigned to catch them broke the smuggler's organization, their solution's simple-kill them. With a W
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform

RED ANGEL

Book II: Raiders

By

C. R. Daems

The Red Angel: Book II: Raiders

Copyright © 2016 by C. R. Daems

No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from C. R. Daems.

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.

ISBN: 978-0-9863514-3-3

ISBN-10: 0986351431

Check out all my novels at:

crdaems.com
talonnovels.com

CHAPTER ONE

The Red God Cult

CHAPTER TWO

Raiders

CHAPTER THREE

Visit to Stone Ring

CHAPTER FOUR

Visit to Holy Star

CHAPTER FIVE

Visit to Eastar

CHAPTER SIX

Oxax: The next step

CHAPTER SEVEN

Oxax: One step closer

INTERLUDE

Oxax: A deal they can't refuse.

CHAPTER EIGHT

The Vulcan: Good days and bad days

CHAPTER NINE

The gamble

CHAPTER TEN

Awaiting the raiders’ next move

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Incident at Westar

The Cabiri: Captain Hargrove

The Lapis: Captain Thayer

The Vulcan: Captain MacLin

CHAPTER TWELVE

Decision time

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Incident at Safe Harbor

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Missing pieces

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Westar: NIA Headquarters.

Novels by C.R. Daems

CHAPTER ONE

The Red God Cult

When I entered my second floor office complex at the Naval Intelligence Agency, NIA, Adrian was at his desk as usual. His tan complexion, narrow face, and sharp features made him look intent, but he was an easy person to work with and always willing to help. He looked up from his desk and his face eased into a smile. He waved. "Hi, Anna. How did it go yesterday?"

"The only way that idiot could have sped up getting caught would have been to leave his navy ID at the scene of the crime. He wore a mask and black trench coat but had his navy uniform underneath. The clerk recognized his two unimpressive navy ribbons when the idiot reached for the money and the coat fell open. They were easy to identify: a marksmanship and a cruiser duty ribbon. Only one cruiser, the Hecate, is docked at the space station, so I spent less than ten minutes in the cruiser's personnel files identifying all the enlisted personnel with only those two service ribbons. There were only three individuals. It took another thirty minutes to establish two had alibis, which left Seaman Brent Mills the lone contender for thief of the day. I had the XO search his room, where he found several of the stolen items. They took him off to the brig, and I went home early," I said as I stored my service laser in my desk drawer and locked it.

"Good work, except now Commodore Stauffer has to find us another case to work on," Adrian said with amusement in his voice. "He's been struggling to keep us busy while the Naval Intelligence Agency waits for another high-profile case to surface."

Normally, they would have dissolved the team and reassigned us after we solved the smuggler case, but Admiral Rawls wanted to keep us together for when the next big problem surfaced. The problem was that at the rate we had been solving cases, Commodore Stauffer was having trouble keeping the rest of his section busy.

"Maybe he can give us the Red God case," Kris said as she bounced into the office area with a smile on her heart-shaped face. She had become close to me during the smuggler case, like an older sister I could rely on. "They managed to gain access to the Windon Medical Research Center and steal the three red-headed kraits kept there for Coaca Virus research." She gave me a hug, ignoring the red-headed krait that was curled around my neck with its head on my shoulder. "Hi, Red," she said to it, releasing me. "I wonder if they know you have one, Anna?"

"It's a hard secret to keep. It made the headlines and vids when they discovered red-headed kraits could keep the Coaca Virus in check. The hospital tried to keep my name out of it, but the news hounds smelled a prize-winning story—four-year-old child with a symbiotic krait that keeps the Coaca Virus in check. Since then, neither thieves nor a man who had the virus have had any trouble finding me."

"Civilian crimes aren't the NIA’s concern," Adrian said as he stood and came to join us. "But because Anna has one, Commodore Stauffer may consider it relevant."

Just then Stauffer strode into the room. "I do, and I've already talked to the Oxax Chief of Police. He says he would welcome our involvement." Stauffer was an average looking man—perfect for a spook, as he didn't stand out in a group. He was a good superior, and didn't try to micro-manage his people. "And it might keep you three busy for more than a day or two." He laughed but quickly sobered. "Besides, I think this Red God Cult poses a danger to Anna."

Kris shook her head. "Their antics would be funny if red-headed kraits weren't the potential cure for the Coaca Virus."

Adrian sighed. "That’s actually why they believe the kraits are gods and that it’s therefore their duty to free them. Of course, if the red-headed kraits were gods, then they wouldn't need help escaping. But little details like that are unlikely to deter zealots. I'm sure their leader has convinced his or her followers that it's a challenge the gods have set for the faithful to gain their favor—or some such rubbish."

"Find them and hopefully the kraits they stole. That's your team's priority," Stauffer said as he left.

"Let's convene in the conference room and decide how we should proceed," Adrian said, assuming his normal role as our project leader. Our area was semi-isolated from the rest of the floor by a wall that ran three-quarters the length of our space. Unlike the rest of the floor, we had no partitions for our four standard steel desks, but we had a dedicated conference room.

Kris and I smiled. Neither of us objected. Leadership involved a lot of administrative work, and Adrian was a good team leader.

"Any suggestions?" Adrian asked as we sat with our drinks.

"I could get news coverage on me having a Red God and then arrest them when they show up to steal Red," I said more as a joke than a serious idea and reached up and stroked Red, who not only kept me alive but had become a dear companion over the seventeen years he had been with me—night and day.

"They may be zealots, but I would be surprised if they didn't already know about him. This is the cult's forth theft of red-headed kraits. We can assume they're well funded and have done their research, since the facilities they hit were on three different planets. And in each case, the facility had reasonably good security because the kraits are worth close to one hundred thousand credits each on the black market. To make matters worse, they killed two people and injured several more in their quest for them." Adrian's face grew serious. "They're twice dangerous, Anna. They’ll kill you if necessary to acquire Red, and even if they didn’t, without Red your Coaca Virus would become active and you would die anyway."

"Adrian's right. They’re extremely dangerous and you should assume you’re next, since they're currently on Oxax." Kris leaned forward, concern in her voice.

"That solves one problem—"

"What?" Adrian and Kris blurted simultaneously.

"Finding them." I didn't smile. Whether it was thieves, or someone with the virus, or the Red God Cult, what was the difference? If even one of them succeeded, the result was the same—my eventual death. "I'm not making light of the threat. This isn’t a new problem, nor will it be the last time." Unless they succeed, I mused, feeling Adrian and Kris's deep concern through my connection with Red. I had no other way of explaining my ability to sense people's strong emotions.

"That's true, but I think it would be better if you found them first," Adrian said, frowning in thought. "I've put in a request for the police files for each of the four thefts. That might help us determine their likely approach—or better yet, the identity of the cult."

"Good idea. I would like to know if they keep the kraits or let them go." If it was the latter, I felt certain Red would find his way back to me. He had found me lying in the snow. Why would a cold-blooded reptile be wandering about in the winter and in snow? The only logical explanation was that he sought me out for some reason that remained a mystery. And he had returned to me after he had killed a man with the Coaca Virus who had stolen him. We both had the Coaca Virus, so why hadn't he stayed with him? Red knew the answer, but he wasn't sharing. I laughed, which snapped Adrian and Kris's heads in my direction. "Sorry. I was wishing Red could talk. Red may look like a red-headed krait, but he sure doesn't act like one."

"I'll vouch for that." Kris stared at Red, whose head was pointing in her direction. "He's had a hundred chances to bite me, but he hasn't."

"I'm afraid that if they knew that—which they might already—it would make Red a very attractive find, so I'm off to get those records."

* * *

"Mother, you need to be extra careful." I felt a growing concern. Alexa and I were sitting at the dining table eating and discussing our day's activities—a nightly ritual. Tonight it included the Red God Cult's activities.

"What about you, Daughter? You're the one threatened by this group of … fanatics."

"Anyone close to me is in danger." I had a growing feeling that I should move out of the house. It would break my heart, but I would die inside if Alexa were killed by the Red God fanatics while trying to protect me. Alexa had delivered me from a life of hell and given me a loving family. I couldn't repay her in a hundred lifetimes. A tear trickled down my cheek at the thought of her being hurt because of me.

She leaned over and wiped the tear away. "You're my daughter and the love of my life, Anna. If you’re in danger, then we join forces to eliminate it. We're stronger together than apart, so forget any ideas of moving out to protect me." She pulled me into a tight embrace, which I melted into feeling like a child again.

Reluctantly, I agreed.

* * *

When Adrian saw me walk into the office the next day, he waved Kris and me toward our conference room. Kris looked to have just arrived and was getting coffee, so I joined her and mixed up my favorite coffee-milk drink, which she had nicknamed moo-coffee. Together we made our way to the conference room. As we sat, Adrian slid a folder to Kris and one to me. "That's the reports I received from Eastar, Westar, and Oxax. Eastar had two break-ins, one at the Eastar Medical Research Center in New Hope and one at its Advanced Medical Research Center in Lex City. The break-in on Westar was at a private company, Norton BioGen, and the latest one on Oxax was at the Windon Medical Research Center. To date, the cult has stolen a total of thirteen kraits, which is the total number of red-headed kraits maintained at the various UAS research institutions. The only known captive krait they don’t have is yours, Anna."

"And we have to assume the cult knows it." Kris paled and looked at me with eyes widened. "My God … Anna, you need round-the-clock protection."

"That's also my impression." Adrian also looked worried. "They may have chosen the Windon facility first rather than Anna so as not to alert authorities as to their presence on Oxax until they had the three at Windon."

I was more concerned with their plans for the kraits—release or keep—and began reviewing the files for any clues. Eventually, Adrian and Kris also opened their folders, and the room descended into silence, except for the gentle hum of the air-conditioner and the rustle of turning pages.

After a while, I closed the file. "If they’re keeping the kraits, which I think they are, where are they being held—or are they traveling with them, and if they are, how?"

"What makes you think they’re keeping rather than releasing them?" Adrian asked.

"Because they’re fanatics. Releasing them would mean they could be caught again, so they would keep them to protect them. They would consider themselves saviors rather than jailors."

"That’s also my assessment," Kris said. "I think the size of the cult would determine where they keep them. If they have a substantial following, they might share them among the various groups."

"Like at a place of worship on each planet or in each major city with their followers." Adrian nodded, eyes downcast in thought.

"That would imply a leader or high priest. He or she has organized a group to steal the kraits, which would enhance his position and power," I said, aware that Red was lying on my forehead with his head pointing at the folder, and I felt a growing feeling of being right. Red agrees, I almost said, but decided against it. They both knew I thought Red was somehow more than a normal krait, especially Kris, but they put it down to the symbiotic relationship and years of companionship, not to any special abilities of Red.

"Anna, what if I move in with you for the next couple of weeks?" Kris asked.

"Thank you, but I don't want to put you in danger. I couldn't live with myself if you were hurt trying to defend me. Besides, at home I'm safe. Mother has a Safe Room we can retreat into if there’s trouble; otherwise, I would have moved out long ago. I'm a dangerous person to be around."

* * *

In truth, I was nervous about the Red God Cult. It wasn't surprising they were violent. Those convinced they do God's work don't feel subject to societies' laws. And this group seems very well organized for a small cult. It wouldn't be difficult to find out where red-headed kraits were being housed, but gaining access to the secured facilities couldn't be easy, even using force. From the reports Adrian had obtained, it appeared the thieves had inside information—and possibly help.

Suddenly, a skimmer was in my lane … no, I had drifted into his. I swerved back into mine, chastising myself for getting distracted while flying.

I was relieved to see the house after my near accident, but surprised to see a car parked out front. I wondered if Alexa was home early and had a guest. Knowing security monitored the property and would have verified their reason for being there, I set the skimmer down gently on the parking pad at the side of the house. The pad was placed near an acre of woods separating our house from our closest neighbors. I locked the skimmer and had only gone a few steps when three men and a woman appeared from around the front of the house.

I froze. I knew it had to be the Red God Cult even before the two athletic men drew their multifunctional weapons, Mfws. The third man was in his late twenties and wore dark blue slacks, a pale blue dress shirt, and a lab coat with a Windon Medical Research Center patch on the left side.

The woman was leading the group with long, muscular strides. She looked middle aged, but she was trim. She had a smile on her long, narrow face, and I sensed her excitement. "Anna, if you'll give us the Red God, no one will get hurt and we'll leave."

"I'll die. You don’t consider that being hurt?" I asked, positive she didn't care but stalling for time.

"You might survive the virus. Some do. But, my dear, the freedom of the Red God is more important than your petty needs. You may not be experimenting with the one you have like those medical centers were, but you've imprisoned him and made a god a slave to your needs." Her voice was soft and gentle to start but grew increasingly strident and loud. By the end of the tirade, her face was twisted in anger.

"He found me. I didn't catch him, and he's free to leave if he wants," I said, watching the men with the lasers while I debated my nonexistent options.

Their expressions hadn't changed while we talked, and I felt nothing from them—cold as ice. The man in the lab coat was nervous and wanted to leave.

The woman's emotions went from excitement to a coldness devoid of feeling to hate so strong it felt like a physical blow. "Liar! You feed him drugs so he can't leave!"

"I'll let him go if you want." I unwound Red from around my neck. He hung limp rather than wind around my arm as he usually did. She was either a wacko or a shrewd manipulator as many cult leaders were, but damn if Red didn't do things one easily interpreted as … intelligence.

"No! The Red God will only be safe with me … and his followers. Give him to me." She held out her hand and stepped closer, blocking the view of the two men with lasers.

Now or never resonated through me like a struck tuning fork. I spun around while holding Red's head to the back of my head with his body hanging down my spine and took off running toward the trees, hoping they would be afraid to shoot me for fear of hitting Red.

"Stop her!" The woman shouted, and then she screamed, "Careful not to shoot the krait!"

I smiled as I ran, but two steps later I heard the crack of a shard gun firing and pain shot through my right calf, causing me to stumble. Two lurching steps farther, pain like a hot poker burned across my legs and they gave way. As I fell forward, I used the momentum to fling Red like a javelin, arching into the forest. I landed face first on dead leaves and damp earth and lay there laughing hysterically between waves of pain.

I didn't know how they had managed to circumvent security, but the sound of that shard gun would activate the sensors around the property, so the police would be here in less than five minutes. This group would never get away. Red was free, and Mother wasn't scheduled to arrive for at least another twenty minutes. As I lay there with my face in the dirt and dead leaves, I saw the woman's feet next to my head.

"Fredric, find that krait. You two go back to the house. Her mother's due back soon. Make sure she doesn't call for help. Kill her if necessary," she shouted.

I lay there laughing, almost enjoying the waves of pain it caused.

"You stupid girl. If you had just given me the krait, we would have left. Now you’re going to bleed to death, and you'll have been responsible for your mother's death—because she's going to try and save you."

I continued my hysterical laughing, much to her annoyance because she kicked me in the ribs several times when I wouldn't stop. Police sirens stopped her kicking and my laughing. My head spun like a cyclone, and I felt myself being sucked into darkness. I would die happy, knowing those I loved were safe.

* * *

"She'll be all right, Magistrate Bellona," said a man's voice. "She's lost a lot of blood, but the wounds aren't life threatening. I've stopped the bleeding for now."

"And we've caught the four intruders—"

"Did they have a red-headed krait?" Alexa asked, sounding desperate.

"No, ma'am. No snake of any kind."

"Then she's not all right. She'll die—"

"Mother," I tried to shout, but it came out barely above a whisper. Somehow Alexa heard and leaned closer to me. "Mother, go sit in the trees. Red will come to you, and you can bring him to me," I managed between pauses as I fought to stay conscious.

"How? Are you sure?"

"Yes, Mother. Trust … Red," I managed before I was pulled into the void.

* * *

I woke to the familiar sounds of medical equipment, the smell of antiseptics, and the feeling of being tethered to tubes and wires like a marionette. The room was dark except for the dim light emanating from the equipment's monitors. Alexa lay with her head on my bed, holding my hand, and I felt the feather light touch of Red's tongue on my cheek. I sighed with relief and drifted back to sleep.

When I woke, even with my eyes closed I could tell it was morning, as the room was bathed in sunlight. I squeezed Alexa's hand.

"You're awake." She kissed my forehead. "You were right. I had been sitting on the ground less than an hour—which felt like a lifetime worrying whether he would come—when Red crawled onto my lap and then curled around my arm. Maybe that crazy woman's right, at least in Red's case, and he's a god. He sure isn't normal like the red-headed kraits the medical people have been examining."

"I know. Just say you found him where I threw him. If anyone knew of his strange behavior, the people wanting him would increase exponentially." The thought was enough to make me break out in a sweat.

"I agree. It's our secret." she nodded and touched Red. "The security people apologized for not checking out the intruders’ story. They had claimed they were from the Windon Medical Research center and wanted to consult with you. They said you had invited them to meet you at the house. And they had it timed to within minutes. You were only a few minutes from the house when they arrived. Ironically, the man who they talked to actually worked at Windon. That won't happen again." There was steel in her voice.

Doctor Renata arrived an hour later. "You look better, Anna. You really scared me when they brought you in without Red. Lucky your mother was able to find him. Your wounds were bad but not life threatening. You got hit with shards in the right leg, where I removed three pellets. And a laser cut across both your legs, which required twelve stiches. You’re going to require rehabilitation, but you should fully recover. Thank the space gods Red wasn't hit."

* * *

The next day, Adrian and Kris arrived. Kris came to the bed, sat on the edge, and squeezed my hand. "No more heroics, Anna. If there’s even a hint of trouble, you and I are going to be Siamese twins. I knew I should have stayed with you." She gave me a hug.

I silently thanked whoever might be listening that she hadn't been along. The thought of her being killed trying to save me made my chest ache.

"It looks like you single handedly cracked the Red God case," Adrian said. "With Ms. Kellum and Mr. Driscoll from the Windon Medical Research Center in custody, I think it will only be a matter of time before we identify everyone involved and recover the kraits. Although next time, Kris and I would like to help so you can skip the hospital stay."

Before being released, I spent three days in the hospital, another two in a special rehab unit to accelerate the healing, and another ten days in physical therapy. And I was only released then because Alexa rented the equipment I needed to continue my exercises at home. The cuts from the shards, laser, and surgery were healing. It was the damaged nerves that were taking the extra time.

* * *

"What do you think Admiral Rawls wants?" I asked as I finished putting on my dress whites.

"I think your team is going to get some kind of award for solving the Red God case," Alexa said, which felt true but somehow like an evasion. Strange, as Alexa never lied to me, and she knew I could sense her emotions.

I put it down to still being tired. Recovering had taken a lot of effort. I wanted not only to return to work as soon as I could, but also to be fit for duty when I did. That morning, I flew the skimmer for the first time since the shooting. It felt liberating. We arrived at the office a little before nine and were told to report to Admiral Rawls’s conference room.

Rawls walked in only a few minutes later. Although average in height, her wiry frame and long stride combined with a stern expression on her narrow face marked her as a no-nonsense person.

"Attention," her aide shouted as she entered, and we braced to attention.

"At ease." She stood silent, examining me before continuing. "The NIA's golden team has again solved a high profile case that has baffled the local and interplanetary police. And done it in record time. You not only have identified all of the people who participated in the thefts but have also enabled us to recover the thirteen stolen kraits. In recognition of your work, Lieutenant Commanders Adrian Shrader and Kristyn Sinclair, and Lieutenant Anna Paulus are each awarded their second Distinguished Service Metal. Congratulations. In addition, Lieutenant Paulus is awarded the Purple Heart—her third—for the injuries she suffered in the line of duty … and she's promoted to Lieutenant Commander. Congratulations, Anna."

Rawls stepped up to me and handed me a gold oak-leaf-cluster collar pin and my new shoulder boards with their trident and two twelve millimeter stripes separated by a six millimeter stripe.

I stood there with my mouth open, unable to speak.

She only smiled. "We wanted to give this to you two years ago, but you were too young and it would have caused too much controversy—for the navy and you. We also considered giving you time in grade from that date when you eventually were promoted; however, that idea was thought to set an unwanted precedent. Instead, when Fleet Admiral Webb added your name to this year's promotion list, he moved your date of promotion to one day earlier—meaning you outrank everyone on this year’s list. Congratulations."

She shook my hand with little concern for Red, who had his head on my shoulder.

Then she stopped and stared at Red. "If they found a cure for the Coaca Virus, what would you do with Red?" she asked, surprising me.

Everyone in the room turned toward me and the room seemed to get quieter even though no one had been talking. Although I remained silent for a long time, no one seemed to be pressuring me to answer.

"Ma'am, I'm not used to thinking about my future. I've always considered myself to be living on borrowed time, not knowing how long Red would live or if someone would steal him. I try to get the most out of each day. But after seventeen years, I think he's earned a home on me until one of us dies." I felt a flick of his tongue on my cheek.

"Dismissed." Rawls turned to Alexa. "That's some daughter you have, Alexa. I can understand why you adopted her. She's worth saving."

* * *

"How does it feel to be a Lieutenant Commander?" Adrian asked.

"And probably the youngest in the history of the UAS," Kris added.

Alexa had taken Adrian, Kris, and me to dinner at Aughoes, one of the oldest and most expensive restaurants on Oxax.

"Unreal. Like I'm dressed up in my mother's clothes." I found it hard to reconcile my rank with the real me. In many ways, I felt like a child—I still lived at home with my mother and had no intention of leaving anytime soon, and she managed all the financial matters. In addition, I wasn't looking for a husband or considering children and didn't even date.

"Anna, I hope you don't mind the team getting the credit," Adrian said after our drinks had been served.

I laughed. "You and Kris did all the work tracking down those involved and discovering where the kraits were kept while I lay around eating ice cream, and I got equal credit, so no. One for all ..." I raised my coffee-milk concoction.

Alexa smiled as Kris and Adrian raised their glasses.

"And all for one," we chanted in unison.

* * *

As I entered the office the next day in time for our standard ten hundred hours meeting, Adrian and Kris rose.

"Anna, Admiral Rawls has called for a meeting with us in her conference room. It sounds like we may have our next assignment." Adrian smiled.

"It's about time," Kris quipped while trying to look serious. "How are we supposed to stay on the Fast Track for commander if we're chasing petty criminals?"

"Careful what you wish for." Adrian's gaze looked far away—maybe back to almost getting killed by revengeful smugglers on our last assignment.

I put my laser in my desk, locked it, and rushed to catch up.

When we entered the conference room, Stauffer was already there, sitting with a cup of coffee and a stack of folders. He looked up from the one he was leafing through and then stood as Rawls walked in. "Attention!" he barked.

"At ease and sit. We, the NIA, have kept this team together for the next big project. Well, it's here. Two weeks ago an armed group broke into the Eastar Art Gallery and stole artifacts and paintings worth more than four hundred million credits. Normally that would be a matter for the Eastar police; however, that was the third major heist in the UAS in the last six months. Since the thefts have occurred on three different planets, the UAS Security Commission has concluded they're raiders and have tasked the navy with the responsibility of providing the planets protection." Rawls snorted. "A nice bit of passing the buck. Of course, Fleet Admiral Web knows it's impossible for the navy to protect fifteen planets, but he's in the hot seat whether it's possible or not. In a stroke of genius, he passed the responsibility for identifying the raiders to Vice Admiral Lultrel, who passed the problem to me, a Rear Admiral. And I'm passing it on to Commodore Stauffer, since he has the best bloodhounds in the UAS—you. I'll want a weekly progress report. Good hunting." She rose and walked out, smiling and leaving us sitting there in stunned silence.

Finally, Stauffer spoke. "Admiral Rawls wants to expand the team. She's suggested adding the primary NIA agent from each of the planets hit by the raiders. Although one of those agents outranks you, she has agreed to whoever you select among you being in charge of directing activities." He made eye contact with each of us to emphasize the point. "I know you well enough to know this team is … different. Consequently, I'm concerned Admiral Rawls or I could interfere with your unique style in our attempt to help you. Therefore, I've convinced Rawls to let you decide on how you want to proceed." He gave a wry smile. "Well, to suggest how you would like to proceed."

"Thank you, sir," Adrian said after receiving nods from Kris and me. "Give us a few days to review the material you've collected, and we'll get back to you with our proposal."

Stauffer stood and handed each of us a folder. "In these folders are copies of the incident reports from the police and our field NIA agents. When you’re ready, I would like to discuss your recommendation with you before I give them to Admiral Rawls." He rose and left.

"I suggest we each read the material separately and consider the approach you would take if you were in charge. Let's meet back in our conference room two days from now. I know the Admirals are under pressure to close down the raiders, but I suspect that’s going to take longer than it will for Kris to find a husband and have those kids … the ones Wilbur always joked about. I miss him and his sense of humor." Adrian's voice sounded sad, and I could feel his deep sense of loss.

CHAPTER TWO

Raiders

I arrived home around noon and after a quick snack retired to my office, a converted spare bedroom. I kept it Spartan, as I did everything in my life. I had never felt the need for knickknacks or non-essentials. The drapes were a plain light brown made of synthetic material, as was the beige rug. The walls were a creamy white. I had purchased a standard table computer, a small bookcase, and my only real luxuries—a reconditioned redwood desk and a comfortable padded chair.

In my bookcase were several language books from the Free People's Union, FPU, and the People’s Republic of Stars, PRS. Languages were a hobby I had pursued over the past two years. By now I could speak and read both of these languages moderately well.

To me, it was the most luxurious office in the entire galaxy and my own private sanctuary. I spent the afternoon reading the reports from each system, with Red lying on my head and appearing interested.

The first robbery had occurred on Stone Ring. There, the raiders had stolen a batch of advanced computer chips designed for the UAS's high-end computers, used primarily in research labs. The chips were estimated to be worth more than four hundred million credits in the PRS and FPU.

The second robbery occurred on Holy Star, where the raiders stole precious gemstones with an estimated market value of more than four and a half million credits.

The third robbery occurred on Eastar, where the raiders looted paintings and other artifacts from the Eastar Art Gallery worth more than four hundred million.

In each case, the raid was well planned and executed. The raiders left no witnesses and destroyed all the facilities' surveillance equipment. The raid on the capital of the UAS had elicited outrage, which was what had caused the government to get involved. They had demanded naval protection when they discovered there had been raids on Stone Ring and Holy Star and that the three thefts had a similar method of operation and had all been executed with military-like precision. The raiders were well organized and well informed: they knew the facility's security, what they were after, the best time to strike, and had an effective exit strategy off the planet.

As I sat there pondering the raids, I heard the front door close as Alexa came home, so I closed the folder and shut down my tablet in preparation for my evening meal with Alexa.

"You appear to have better working hours than bankers," Alexa quipped when I entered the dining room.

Scowling with mock indignation, I sniffed. "I object, Magistrate Bellona. I'm home early because it was an exhausting day. I went into the office at ten, had a chat with an admiral, and left before I became too tired to fly home."

"That was a tiring day for an NIA agent." She laughed. "So what did Rawls want?"

"There have been high-profile robberies on three different planets. When they hit Eastar a few weeks ago, it caused the UAS central government to get involved. Their investigation has concluded we've foreign raiders operating in UAS space and that it's the responsibility of Admiral Webb—"

"Who's pressuring Lultrel, who's pressuring Rawls, and so on," Alexa finished. "So the NIA's golden team now has its next big assignment. How do you feel about it?"

"Red's excited," I said, and then went on to explain what Stauffer had said. "The assignment sounds interesting, but I'm not sure about expanding the team."

"I can understand. Adrian, Kris, and you are very close, like family. And you never know how a new member will impact the team's dynamics. That's why Stauffer's concerned—will new members help or hinder your effectiveness? An interesting question, and the decision could determine whether you succeed or fail."

* * *

Adrian and Kris were already in the conference room when I arrived at work. I made my moo-coffee before joining them.

"Hi, Anna," Kris said as I entered the room. "Adrian and I were discussing the potential problems ... and advantages of adding new members. Any thoughts?"

"I would make a poor judge. I'm naturally scared of new environments and people, because I never know how they’ll react to me. I'm usually the youngest, and then there is Red, so their reactions tend to be more ..."

"Emotional," Kris said. "That’s understandable. You don't fit the mold, and that makes people uncomfortable. At first even I was concerned about your youth and didn't like the idea of a venomous snake." Kris snorted. "Sorry, Red."

Watching me, Adrian said, "And the fact that we’re in a military organization makes rank an issue. Admiral Rawls may appoint a lieutenant commander to be in charge, but that won’t sit well with a commander or even another lieutenant commander with an earlier date of rank. We aren't concerned about our feelings or our image, just that conflicts could interfere with us catching the bad guys. And we can't replace Wilbur, nor should we try."

I knew my teammates were concerned about my feelings, and I was touched. "Why don't we do what I always do?"

"What's that?" Adrian asked.

A small smile touched Kris's lips as if she could read my mind.

"Take each day as it comes," I said. It was a defense mechanism I had developed early in my life. "Trying to predict or control the future can be very stressful."

Adrian and Kris stared at me for a long time. Eventually, Adrian nodded. "Right. Anna wants to take each day as it comes, so we will."

"And I would like to visit each planet where a raid occurred," Kris said.

"And Kris wants to see the places were it happened, so we will." Adrian smiled. "I'll go tell Stauffer." With that, he left in the direction of the elevators to Stauffer's third floor office.

"Don't you just love our designated leader?" Kris smiled as she watched Adrian marching down the hallway.

I nodded. Alexa was right when she said the team was like a family.

* * *

Adrian returned sometime later. "Stauffer's okay with us visiting the various robbery sites and us waiting to make a decision; however, he wants to clear it with Admiral Rawls. Since the assignment came from Admiral Webb to Admiral Lultrel, she needs to be kept in the loop. He doesn't want her blindsided by Webb or Lultrel. Until then, all we can do is review the information in our folders and stay available.

* * *

"Any new developments in the raider case?" Alexa asked as we sat lounging on the couch. I cherished the time spent with Alexa. She was like having a mother, sister, and close friend rolled into one package.

"Kris wants to go see the sites the raiders hit, so Adrian asked Stauffer, who wanted to talk to Rawls."

"That's understandable. Rawls will want to check with Lultrel, who will probably want to check with Webb. This project came out of the parliament, so everyone will want to be up-to-date at all times and to be part of the decision-making process. Webb and Lultrel are good leaders, so I think they'll give you a lot of leeway to do what you want. My advice would be to go out of your way to ensure they're kept well informed. That will keep the admirals happy, and happy admirals are more likely to stay out of your hair. And if you keep in touch, you'll keep your mother happy."

"Happy mother, happy life," I quipped. In truth, there was nothing more important in my life than Alexa. If she hadn't adopted me, I would’ve been locked away in some government research institution. I gave her a hug—and to both her and my surprise, Red brushed her cheek with his tongue. Maybe the Red God Cult wasn't as crazy as we thought.

* * *

Two days later, I reported to Admiral Rawls’s office along with Adrian and Kris.

Stauffer was already there when we arrived. "Sit. I've talked with Admirals Lultrel and Webb. They like the idea of a larger team, but for now, you're the NIA's golden trio, so they're content to let you decide how to handle the investigation." She took a sip of her coffee as she appeared to evaluate each of us. "Admiral Webb has gone so far as to get you P1A authority again, and he's making a cruiser available to take you wherever you want."

I smiled to myself. Mother had been right.

* * *

Stauffer had asked us to stick around, as Rawls thought she would know in a couple of hours which cruiser would be made available and when we should be ready. Sure enough, she entered the office just after normal hours. "The Vulcan has been designated your chariot to roam UAS space. And it's still commanded by your old friend Captain MacLin. He's expecting you two days from today before noon."

Kris and I had particularly good feelings about MacLin. The Vulcan had been one of the three ships that had rescued the Tityus from being destroyed by the smugglers and had made our subsequent trips to Eastar, Oxax, and Oasis enjoyable.

When I told Alexa when we were leaving on our trip, she decided to take the next day off, as we wouldn't see each other for an extended period. The next day we spent shopping, eating out, and taking a surprise trip to a local firing range.

"I hope you never again have to draw you weapon, but it' will make your mother feel better if I know you can hit whatever you shoot at."

"Then we'll stay until you’re satisfied. After Oasis, it'll make Kris feel better, too. If you hadn’t insisted I qualify every year at the academy, I might have missed the lieutenant's arm with the gun and hit her." And he would have killed Red, I left unsaid.

"Afterward we can indulge ourselves in some fine dining at a good restaurant."

It was a wonderful day. I was excited about the upcoming trip and more time on a navy cruiser. Even so, saying goodbye to Alexa was painful. I would miss our evenings together.

* * *

When I arrived at the Vulcan the next day, I was directed to the captain's office, where Adrian and Kris were waiting.

"Congratulations, Lieutenant Commander Paulus. I would wager half my crew has whiplash from the second and third looks trying to reconcile your looks with your rank." MacLin laughed and then took a sip of his coffee. "I understand you again have P1A authority, and I'm your chauffeur for as long as you need me. Are you at liberty to tell me what you NIA-bloodhounds are chasing?"

"For now, the three of us are the NIA team assigned to find the raiders who have been operating in the UAS. They have hit sites on Stone Ring, Holy Star, and Eastar. We're going to start our investigation by visiting each of the robbery sites."

"I had heard rumors about a large robbery at Eastar but not the other two—and no hint they were raiders. You three are certainly exciting people to be around. I should probably assign you security before the raiders find out you're on their trail." Although a statement, it was more a question—do you want me to assign security?

Adrian looked at Kris, who looked doubtful, and then at me.

MacLin had a valid point. Unless the raiders were completely out of touch with events within the UAS—and they didn't appear to be, based on their raids—they would have read about the NIA team that broke the smuggler's ring. The questions then were 1) How long before they knew we had been assigned to find them, and 2) Would they consider us a threat to their operation.

"I think we’re safe on board the Vulcan. Planet-side, it will depend on their organization and its information network. If it’s as good as it looks, it’s possible the Vulcan may be as vulnerable as we are." In reality, I felt more concerned about those around me than myself.

"That's an interesting observation, Paulus. Since you’re chasing raiders, let's take reasonable precautions. You carry your weapons at all times. I'll assign each of you a single guard for now, and I'll instruct the crew to be on the alert for any suspicious activities."

"Thank you, Captain." Adrian looked relieved. "If not now, I think security will be necessary at some point. Our reputation is likely to make the raiders nervous in which case they might decide to eliminate us rather than chance us discovering them. Based on their previous thefts, they don't mind killing, and their operation has already netted well over a billion credits."

"Is your first stop still Stone Ring?" MacLin rose. When Adrian nodded, he continued. "Well then, I've a ship to get ready to depart. You're welcome on the Bridge anytime to use the communication station. You can also use my conference room if you want. I estimate the trip will take four days."

As MacLin departed for the Bridge, Kris and I followed Adrian to the captain's conference room, which could hold ten people easily and was not only spacious when compared to our quarters, but also far more comfortable.

"For someone who hates space submarines, I seem to be spending a lot of time on them." Kris snorted as she sank into one of the beige padded chairs.

"Is there anything we should be doing during the trip?" Adrian sat down, stretching out his legs. "Someone has to be communicating with the raiders; otherwise, how do they find out where to go and the details about the place they're going to rob? The past raids have been far too organized to be random targets of opportunity."

"I agree," Kris said. "Either via the WavCom or in person. And in person would mean by spacecraft."

"Both." I sat opposite them, curling my legs under me. "You can't send a WavCom message to a foreign ship. So you send it to someone who knows where and when the raider's ship is available and has the ability to go talk to them."

"What if it isn't a foreign ship but one registered in the UAS?" Kris asked.

"Then it would have to be only lightly armed to get registered. Probably unlikely for armed raiders, but we can't discount the possibility without some evidence," Adrian said.

I frowned as I considered the detailed planning which seemed to have gone into each raid. "Maybe a rather simple message asking for a meet at some stated time and location. They couldn't possibly include all the details of the heist in the message. The person who gathered the information would have to go over it with the raiders."

CHAPTER THREE

Visit to Stone Ring

We spent the next four days trying to determine how to search for the elusive messages. It could be as few as four among the tens of thousands that were sent during the weeks or possibly months prior to the actual raids. Red appeared to lose interest after the first day, and by the fourth, we all had cruiser-sized headaches. It was a relief when we boarded a shuttle at the Stone Ring space station with Major Pannell and three marines.

"Congratulations, Lieutenant Commander Paulus, on your promotion. Are you anticipating trouble on Stone Ring similar to Oasis?" the major asked. He had been responsible for my safety last time on and off the Vulcan and had been with us when I shot the lieutenant who had been holding Kris.

"No. Captain MacLin is just being cautious. I think the danger will be proportional to our success as our investigation proceeds."

He laughed. "Based on your previous success, I should plan on adding additional guards soon."

The rest of the ride was made in silence. We set down on a landing pad near the Stone Ring NIA office, a small two-story cement building. Inside, we were escorted to the second floor and into a conference room where several men and women waited.

"Good morning, I'm Commander Perry," said a broad shouldered man with a neatly trimmed goatee. "I assembled my team when I heard you were on the way down." He proceeded to introduce the junior lieutenants, two men and one woman, and the two full lieutenants, a man and a woman.

Adrian then introduced Major Pannell and us. The three marines had remained in the hallway.

"I understand, the NIA agents in charge of the robbery investigations on each planet will be joining the raider taskforce." Perry looked excited at the idea. Clearly, being on such a team would put him on the fast track for promotion—and maybe in charge as he would be the ranking Lieutenant Commander on the team.

"Expanding the team is a possibility. For now, however, we'll be reviewing the reports and talking with the facility personnel to determine the best approach," Adrian answered cautiously.

Perry frowned. His voice hardened to an intimidating tone, and his smile disappeared. "There are only three of you. Wouldn't making the people who have already investigated each robbery part of the taskforce expedite the investigation? I've heard Admiral Rawls is in favor of the idea."

Unfortunately for Perry, while Adrian was easygoing, he wasn't easy to intimidate. "Then I'm sure it will happen, but for now, we need to talk with you, with those of your team who were involved with the police in the initial investigation, and with the people at the facility."

"They've already told us everything they know," Perry persisted. I could feel his rising anger.

"Commander, because civilians were involved, at the time neither you nor your team had the authority to take charge of the investigation—"

"You don't, either!" Perry snapped his mouth closed when Adrian held up his P1A card.

"Commander, I would appreciate it if we could begin our review and not speculate on what Admiral Rawls will choose to do when we're finished. For now, we're proceeding with the approach she approved," Adrian said in his easygoing manner.

Perry reluctantly sat, having no other option. However, judging by his raging feelings of revenge, he hadn't given up.

"Lieutenant Rubin, why don't you start?" Perry's voice and face were now under control. His outburst had been a practical demonstration of one of the potential problems that could result when adding new players to the team.

The review took more than three hours. It turned out that the commander had overseen the investigation but had done very little of the actual work. Most of the material in the report had been the result of the local police investigation.

When we finished, Rubin recommended a café on the outskirts of town. The restaurant was small but the local country ambience and music were pleasant, and the three of us could hear each other talk.

"That was interesting," Kris said as we sat waiting for our dinner. "Perry saw this project as a fast track to full Commander, yet he did little except to sign the report."

Adrian shrugged. "Not unusual in the military. Lieutenant Rubin didn't do much either, except organize what the police had found. He didn't have the authority, but he also didn't appear interested in digging deeper. I don’t think I would want either one of them on our taskforce."

Kris bit her lip. "Perry's not a team player. He would be disruptive."

I nodded agreement.

* * *

The next morning, we were met by Junior Lieutenant Gannon and taken to the Nano Technology Industries building where the robbery occurred.

There, a police captain awaited us. "I'm Captain Coleman, in charge of the NTI robbery investigation. I understand from Commander Perry that you don't trust our work." He gave each of us a long evaluating look.

Adrian was silent for a moment, probably debating the best approach. "That's not true, Captain Coleman. We're the team assigned to see if this robbery has any connection to a series of other robberies."

"I let Commander Perry review our findings, but that was a courtesy since the navy has no jurisdiction in this case. That includes you." He smiled. At least I thought that was what his lips were trying to imitate. He felt excited and pleased.

Adrian nodded agreement, but I could feel his amusement. "You're right. Commander Perry did not have the authority to investigate the robbery, and the NIA appreciates you allowing him access. However ..." Adrian pulled out his P1A access badge and held it up for Coleman to see. "We do have the authority to review your investigation and to conduct our own. And like Commander Perry, we too would appreciate your cooperation and to hear your conclusions."

Coleman lost his smile, and I could feel his emotional rollercoaster from enjoyment to anger to resignation. "Our conclusion is that it's just a well planned robbery carried out by professionals, who have obviously been planning this for months."

"I think you're right, Captain."

Coleman’s tense stance relaxed a bit.

Adrian went on. "What the three of us need to determine is whether it looks like the same professionals or whether this robbery is unrelated to the others."

Coleman escorted us into the building, where a middle-aged man met us.

He looked like the typical executive: well dressed, somewhat overweight, and brown hair greying at the temples. "Commander Shrader, I'm Frank Hubbard, the CEO of NTI. I'm hoping the fact you've P1A authority means there’s a possibility of getting back the chips the thieves stole."

"That's certainly what we're hoping. Could you talk us through what you believe happened and show us the route the thieves took? Seeing the area will help us put the police report in perspective."

Hubbard nodded. "They hit the building during our security guard changeover. The two new guards arrived at two in the morning. When the inside guard opened the door, the thieves struck, killing all four guards. Using the guards’ access cards, they gained entrance to the elevator to the basement and the cleanroom where the chips are designed, made, and tested."

We followed him into the elevator, which delivered us into a room with racks full of white suits, similar to Hazmat outfits. We changed and then he led us through a series of showers where the suits were cleaned and any contaminants removed. We exited into a large room where the chips were manufactured, primarily by robots. A locked door in the back of the room led to a vault where the finished chips were stored. The room also had a self-contained computer system, which held the classified design drawings and specifications.

Hubbard went on to explain how the thieves had attempted to steal the storage disk with the chip designs, but had failed.

As he talked, Gannon sidled up to me where I was standing off to the side, looking around.

"Ma'am," he whispered. "I think they got the designs. They just made it look like they tried to get the storage disk."

"What makes you think that?"

"Commander Perry and Captain Coleman believe they botched the job because they didn't have the right tools and were in a rush to leave, but the raiders seem too organized for the clumsy attempt they made. I wanted access to the computer, but they said it was a waste of time."

"If you had access, could you determine if they managed to access the computer?" I asked, interested because I agreed with Gannon. The thieves were very organized at each robbery, so clumsy didn't fit.

He nodded.

I gestured for him to follow me as I walked over to Hubbard.

"Excuse me, Mister Hubbard. I would like for you to give Lieutenant Gannon access to your computer."

"Why? It has proprietary data on it." He frowned, eyes narrowed.

"Because I asked. You needn't give him the password, just log him on." I looked to Adrian and Kris, who smiled.

Adrian shrugged at Hubbard. "Commander Paulus wants Gannon to look, so he'll look. It may lead to nothing, or it may provide us with useful information which could lead to your stolen chips. We won't know until he looks."

Hubbard didn't look happy, but he sat down at the console and typed. He rose when the system acknowledged a valid password.

Gannon took the seat and began typing.

I moved next to him so I could look over his shoulder. As I did, Red slid out of my jacket and wound into my hair with his head lying on my forehead. I heard gasps behind me but ignored them. I knew Kris or Adrian would take care of any explanations.

"There was a logon during the time of the robbery," Gannon whispered loudly enough for me to hear as he continued examining various logs.

"Lieutenant," I whispered back, "not a word to anyone about what you find. I'll want a report from you with all the details. Send it to Lieutenant ... Commander Anna Paulus on the Vulcan." I turned back to the group who stood watching Gannon and me. "Who has the password for this machine?"

"Me obviously, and the team working on the new Blaster chips," Hubbard said.

"Can you get them here for a small conference?" I asked as Red wound himself around my neck with his head on my shoulder pointing in Hubbard and Coleman's direction.

Both men involuntarily leaned backward under his scrutiny.

Hubbard looked at Adrian, who nodded. "I think they’re all in the building." Hubbard typed something on his tablet and waited. Several minutes later he nodded. "They're assembling in the second floor conference room."

"Thank you, Mister Hubbard. I appreciate your cooperation. What I want shouldn't take long and maybe we can get the individual interviews out of the way and save time?" I looked to Adrian and Kris, who nodded after a few moments of silence. I felt my cheeks flush as I realized I had made a lot of decisions without consulting Adrian or Kris. We might all have the same rank, but I was definitely the junior member on the team.

Kris smiled and stood in front of me, blocking everyone's view. "Red made you do it?" she quipped and my cheeks felt on fire. "That's alright, he's a full member of the team and entitled to a say."

Hubbard led us to the elevator and took us to the second floor, which was exclusively administration: sales, marketing, planning, and data collection. Inside the conference room, two women and two men sat.

I pulled Adrian and Kris aside. "I would like to confiscate their tablets," I whispered.

"All right, but why?" Adrian asked, feeling amused.

"From what Gannon found, it was an inside job. Maybe whoever provided the raiders with the information was dumb enough to leave a message or ..." I didn't know what I was looking for and felt my cheeks heat again and reached up to touch Red, who was still on my shoulder.

"If you think it's worth doing, then we do it. I was just curious as to what you were after," Adrian said and then walked back to the table with Kris and I following.

I noticed Coleman watching Red and me.

"Mister Hubbard, introductions please," Adrian said nodding toward the four sitting at the conference room table.

"Of course. Miss Brewer's the design team leader." He nodded in the direction of a thin, middle-aged woman with a narrow face, who didn't look friendly. "Mister Abreu's the team's senior designer." The man was small with a round face that looked pale, and his hands were fidgeting. "And Misses Hoyle and Mister McCure are the other two designers." Both looked younger than Brewer and Abreu. Emotions were mixed and most negative. "These are the NIA agents from Oxax. They have P1A access and this company's full cooperation," he added before anyone could speak.

"Thank you, Mister Hubbard. Our intent is the same as yours—to catch the robbers and to return your property. We're not interested in investigating the company or you. That being said, we would like to borrow your tablets. Hopefully, what we're looking for won't take long."

"No!" Brewer shouted and rose from her chair as she slammed her hand on the table. "You've no right—"

"Unless I'm wrong, your tablets are company tablets, not yours, and Mister Hubbard has already consented by pledging his full support. Not that it would matter. We've UAS authority to confiscate anything we deem relevant to our investigation. But let me emphasize again, we're looking for information related to this robbery—nothing else."

Reluctantly, each person handed his or her tablet to Kris or me, after having logged on.

Adrian then conducted a group interview, since none of them had been in the building when the robbery occurred. He inquired as to each person's whereabouts at the time of the robbery—all claimed to have been sleeping—and possible ways the thieves could have gained information about the new chips, which was a closely held company secret.

We learned little and returned to the NIA building just after normal quitting time.

"Well Anna, what now?" Adrian asked.

"I would like Lieutenant Gannon to examine each tablet, looking for things that were deleted and attempting to recover them. While he's doing that, we could review the emails for anything that looks strange ..." Of course I didn't know what we were looking for. I was just hoping the inside man wasn't a mastermind and had left something incriminating. "He or she had to communicate somehow with the raiders."

"That's good enough for me," Adrian said.

Kris nodded as she grabbed one of the tablets. "Gannon, do you understand what Commander Paulus wants?"

"Yes, ma’am." He smiled and grabbed a tablet and began typing.

Adrian had dinner brought in to the conference room so we wouldn't have to stop. It was near dawn when we each had finished inspecting all of the tablets.

"Gannon, what did you find if anything?" Adrian asked, sipping on a cup of hot coffee he had just brewed.

"McCure deleted one electronic message, but I couldn't retrieve it. What I found strange was that he had cleared his Internet search history. But again, there’s no way to retrieve the history."

"What about the cookies? Don't sites generally leave information on your tablet when you visit them?"

"Yes!" he yelped. He opened McCure's tablet and began typing. "They appear to be all here—more than two hundred."

"Print off a list of them, Gannon," Adrian said. "I found nothing of interest, well, not of interest to this case." He smiled. "Anna?"

"Nothing."

"Nothing," Kris said without being asked.

"Alright Gannon, once you have the list, send a copy to the Vulcan addressed to Lieutenant Commander Paulus. I'll return the tablets to Hubbard and let's meet back here tomorrow at eight hundred hours."

We stayed while Gannon sent the list to the Vulcan, then logged each tablet off and took them to NTI, where we gave them to Hubbard, and finally returned to the Vulcan around noon. I went straight to bed, rose for a late dinner from the fugenie, the ship’s automatic food dispenser, and returned to bed.

* * *

I woke several hours before the normal breakfast meal and sat reading a historical account of the early years of PRS colonization, printed in their language. I found that reading out loud helped to keep me fluent. Feeling Red lying on my head reminded me of the days when I used to point at the words and say them out loud for him. Even I thought it silly at the time, but since then, I'm no longer sure. I can't help but feel he understands—even more than I give him credit for.

When my tablet chimed to let me know the dining hall was open, I made my way there and found Adrian and Kris in the serving line. I retrieved scrambled eggs, sausage, toast, and milk and joined them at their table.

"Good morning," I said as I sat.

Adrian and Kris smiled but only nodded as they were chewing.

"What do you think of Gannon?" Adrian asked after a sip of his orange juice.

"Eager, smart, and inquisitive," I said without giving it much thought.

"He sent me a message early this morning. He spent the night reviewing McCure's list of cookies and identified two from sites on the Dark Web."

"Dark Web?" I asked, not really sure what he meant.

"A network of sites that's the exclusive domain of criminals. There, you can purchase anything—from assassins to drugs to stolen art, anything illegal."

"Adrian and I think he may be someone we could use on the taskforce," Kris said. "We're computer users, but we aren’t familiar with how the system works. And it appears we’re going to need someone who is."

"Gannon's undergraduate major was Computer Science, so he qualifies. And as you say, he's eager and inquisitive based on what we've seen so far," Adrian added, looking at his tablet. When Kris and I nodded, he continued. "I'll talk to him to see if he’s interested. If he is, we'll take him along to the next two planets on the list. If he works out, we can assign him to the taskforce." He looked to me. "You were right, Anna, when you suggested we take it one day at a time. Better to add people as we find we need them rather than try to guess who we'll need—or worse, just add bodies hoping that'll help."

"Adrian, Alexa suggests we keep everyone informed. She says that’ll keep them happy and out of our hair."

"Good suggestion. I'll send Stauffer an update of what we've found and explain we’re adding Gannon to the team temporarily and why."

* * *

"I don't like you using my people without consulting me, Shrader. I'm in charge of the NIA's Stone Ring office, not you." Perry stood with his arms crossed as we entered the office later that morning.

Adrian spoke in a normal conversational voice, but I could feel his growing frustration. "I'm confused, Commander Perry. You sent Lieutenant Gannon with us yesterday, and I'm grateful you did. He turned out to be very helpful."

"Well, now I have other priority work for him." Perry's voice was loud and angry.

"I'm afraid that work will have to wait. I need Lieutenant Gannon to continue on the work he's doing for me." Adrian was trying to keep his voice normal, but I could feel it wasn't easy.

"Stone Ring personnel are my responsibility, and I'll decide what my people work on—"

"Commander Perry, you're now actively interfering with a P1A investigation, which is a court martial offense. If you do not cease immediately, I'll have you relieved of your command and have Major Pannell arrest you pending Admiral Lultrel’s decision as to your disposition." Adrian pulled out his P1A badge, which was on a cord around his neck inside his shirt, and let it dangle in plain sight.

Perry stood there with his mouth open, shaking in rage while Pannell moved closer, indicating his intention to act if necessary. Perry's rage turned to fear as he realized he was on the verge of destroying not only his career but his life. His Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed and took a deep breath. "You're right, Commander Shrader. I'm afraid I've been thinking of this incident as a local matter. I apologize. You'll have my full cooperation." Although he hid it well, the anger had returned and simmered like burning embers.

"It may well turn out to be a local police matter, Commander Perry, but for now it's a P1A investigation." Adrian waved to Gannon as he headed to the conference room with us following. "Gannon, how would you like to accompany us to Holy Star and Eastar?" Adrian asked as soon as the conference room door had closed. "We could use your knowledge of computer systems."

"You bet." Gannon beamed with excitement. "Sir," he added quickly.

"Good, I'll clear it with Commander Perry. You're free to indicate that it wasn't your idea and you had no choice in the matter, if you feel it's necessary," Adrian said.

Gannon nodded but said nothing, although I could feel his relief.

"What can you tell us about those Dark Web sites?"

"Not much, sir. They're very closely guarded, and usually the only way you can find them is through an intermediary. I made no attempt to access the site until after I talked to you, as I can't be sure what kind of site it is."

"You can drop the sir or ma'am when we’re alone, Gannon. I'm glad you didn't access them. If it's a link to the raiders, we don't want them to know we found it, but I would like to find a way to determine whether it's a link to the raiders or just some illegal activity McCure was involved in, like drugs."

"If it's alright with you, I'll contact a few of my school friends and see if they can help," Gannon said while penning something on his tablet.

"Yes, but don't mention raiders. Just say it's a classified NIA project." Adrian looked to Kris and me. "Are you through on Stone Ring or do either of you want more time?"

"Not me. I've been and I've seen and I'm ready to leave." Kris laughed.

"Red and I are ready to go." As if agreeing, Red disappeared inside my jacket.

"Gannon, I'll expect you on the Vulcan in eight hours."

"Yes, sir." He saluted and hustled out of the room.

"He's like having a new puppy," Kris said to good-natured laughs.

CHAPTER FOUR

Visit to Holy Star

Commander Perry wasn't happy about Gannon when we left for the Vulcan, but he couldn't stop the assignment, although I wouldn't be surprised to hear he had complained to Stauffer and copied Rawls while lobbying to be put on the taskforce.

We reported to MacLin's office when we arrived back on the Vulcan.

"On to Holy Star?" MacLin asked after we gave him a condensed summary of our activities to date.

"Yes. We've added another member temporarily to the team, a Junior Lieutenant Gannon. I've given him eight hours, six now, to report to the Vulcan, but I would wager he'll be here several hours sooner." Adrian grinned and MacLin gave a snort.

"Junior Lieutenants do tend to be eager to please. All right, I'll prepare to depart as soon as possible after his six hours are up. Travel time should be just under three days. I assume you've notified the duty officer of his arrival?"

Adrian nodded.

We left MacLin's office and assembled in his conference room. True to Adrian's observation, Gannon reported to the Vulcan two hours later and was directed to the conference room.

"That was quick, Gannon. Any problems with Commander Perry?" Adrian asked when Gannon got settled with a cup of coffee.

"He wasn't happy ... I used your suggestion and claimed I had no choice."

"Good. What do you go by among friends?" Kris asked.

"Rich," Gannon said hesitantly.

"Well Rich, when we’re alone like now, I'm Kris, Commander Shrader is Adrian, Commander Paulus is Anna, and her red-headed companion is Red. Welcome aboard."

"Thank you ... Kris. I've talked with two of my school friends about the Dark Web. They say the best way would be to see if I could get connected to one of their bulletin boards. They gave me a few suggestions on how I might go about doing that. With your permission, I'll try when we get to Holy Star."

"Very good. Work with Kris and Anna," Adrian said as he rose. "Come, Rich. Let's get you a room assigned. It's a three day trip to Holy Star."

* * *

The second night out, MacLin invited us to dine with him, Commander Jordan his XO, and Major Pannell, which provided us a much needed break from having little to do except speculate how the raiders got their information.

"Well, Lieutenant Gannon. Is your home on Stone Ring?" MacLin asked when he was formally introduced to him.

"No, sir. I grew up on Sutan, but they have only three colleges and none of them offered much of a curriculum in Computer Science, so I applied to the Stone Ring Institute of Technology and was accepted. During my final year, I was recruited by the navy and accepted a position with NIA on Stone Ring. Chasing criminals sounded interesting and worthwhile." He felt excited as he talked. I couldn't blame him—he was on a war cruiser, dining with a captain, and on an important taskforce.

"You think these robberies are actually foreign raiders?" MacLin asked Adrian, who looked to Kris and me. As he did, Red appeared as if invited to participate and wound around my neck.

"I think they're military or ex-military," I blurted, then blushed. I was beginning to think Red was responsible and Red made me do it wasn't too far from the truth.

MacLin looked to Adrian and Kris for their reactions.

"Anna could be right. The raids were well planned and executed with military precision," Kris said, her eyes downcast in thought.

Adrian nodded. "We've no proof, but I agree."

MacLin laughed. "If I were the raiders, I would definitely target this group of bloodhounds." MacLin looked directly at Pannell, who acknowledged the implied warning with a nod.

"And their taxi, the Vulcan," Jordan added almost to himself.

"Do you do that often, Paulus?"

"You mean blurt things out without discussing it with my senior team members?" I asked, feeling the heat in my cheeks and seeing Kris nod.

"Actually, I meant having those leaps of intuition," MacLin said, but I felt no amusement.

"She does, and it's what makes her a valuable member of the team." Adrian gave a short laugh. "But unfortunately, not everyone likes her leaps of intuition."

"Yes, someone so young is easy to dismiss. Captain Sharat did so at her peril," MacLin said, referring—as was Adrian—to Sharat's refusal to take my warning that the smugglers were setting a trap for her on Shadows Rest. "Paulus, neither you nor your team have anything to prove on the Vulcan."

* * *

MacLin had his shuttle deliver us planet-side when we arrived at Holy Star spaceport. We landed at the Star City Airport, as the NIA office was in a populated area with no landing facilities close.

When we entered the airport terminal, a Lieutenant approached. He gave a brisk salute. "Good morning. I'm Lieutenant Palmer, the acting head of the Holy Star NIA office. Any of my resources are at your disposal."

"Thank you, Lieutenant. Let me introduce the team ... " Adrian went on to introduce each of us and to arrange to meet with the police captain in charge of the initial investigation, along with the executives of the Star Reserve Trust, SRT, where the robbery had taken place. We spent an hour at the small three-man office while Palmer set up the meeting.

At the SRT building, a young woman met us and took us to the third floor conference room, where three people waited.

"Mr. Gordon, this is the NIA team from Oxax," Palmer said, mentioning each of us by name, then stepped to the side.

"I've heard of you," Gordon said, rubbing his chin. He was a big man in height and girth and had a smile to match. He signaled an aide for drinks, and continued once we were settled. "You're the team that destroyed the smuggler's ring operating within the UAS. I'm Frank Gordon, the chairperson of the SRT. The gentleman seated across the table is Mr. Hilman, who's in charge of security, and the woman is Captain Talbart, who was in charge of the investigation. So what can we do for you, Commander Shrader?"

"I would like to hear what you know about the robbery and then to be walked through the route the thieves took and to see the actual rooms." Adrian looked from Gordon to Hilman, who nodded.

"The local merchants use the Trust to get an appraisal of their gems and as a depository. The Trust then acts like a broker and is paid a commission for selling the gems. Each merchant's gems are kept in a separate area, much like safety deposit boxes in a bank. Around one in the morning, the thieves disabled the alarm system and then forced their way in through an employee entrance." Hilman stood. "If you'll follow me, I'll show you."

We followed him through the first floor toward the back of the building to a steel door. "This door is unlocked during normal working hours. A security guard checks the IDs of those entering. The thieves proceeded down the hallway to the entrance to the basement, although they must have split up because they killed the guard patrolling the second floor and the one in the lobby. They also killed the guard at the entrance to the vaults, here." He stopped at the entrance to a small room. "You have to pass through this x-ray scanner to enter or leave the area."

We followed him through, one at a time, as the guard watched his monitor.

"The sensors can detect gems, weapons, and just about anything not flesh and bone. The thieves then disabled the locks and proceeded downstairs.

At the bottom were many small rooms, each with a filing cabinet, a table, and a chair. With the bars, they looked like jail cells.

"The door to each room can be controlled by the guard on duty after the merchant inserts his key in the lock."

"Did the thieves break into all of the rooms?" I asked as Red emerged from my jacket and lay along my shoulders. There appeared to be a very large number of rooms.

"No. There are more than a hundred rooms, so we think they didn't have enough time. They only opened twenty-three."

"How many were currently occupied?" Kris asked before I could.

"I'm not sure. I'm responsible only for the security of the area, not its contents."

"Mr. Gordon?" Adrian asked.

"I would have to check the records to be precise, maybe thirty-five, give or take a couple," he said after worrying his lower lip for a minute.

Adrian nodded his understanding. "Who has access to that information?"

"Only four people beside myself. That's confidential information."

"Can it be accessed from outside the Trust?" I knew Gannon would want to know but was reluctant to ask.

"No. Only from the computer here at the bank and only with the right clearance."

"Can you collect those individuals for us? We would like to ask them some questions," Adrian said.

While Gordon was talking on his communications device, I pulled Kris and Adrian aside. Gannon was already standing next to me.

"Adrian, we need their personal tablets and any they may have at home." I saw Gannon nod.

Adrian waved Captain Talbart over. "Captain, I'm going to need your support. We need to look at each individual's personal computing devices. To ensure we have them all, we'll need you to search each of their residences."

"I'll need a judge to issue—" she stopped when Adrian pulled out his P1A access card. "I'll call for additional manpower," she said, grinning.

"Adrian, let's send Gannon along with the captain. He'll know what we’re looking for," I said.

Gordon arranged for the four to meet us in the conference room on the first floor.

After introductions, Adrian got straight to the point. "We need to borrow each of your personal computing devices. Both those you may have on you and those where you live," he said to stunned faces, which soon turned hostile. Adrian continued before anyone could voice an objection. "We're only looking for information that relates to the recent robbery, nothing else."

"That's a violation of my rights," said a middle aged woman. "And I won't give you permission."

Several of the others nodded agreement. And although they didn't say anything, I could feel the flare of raw emotions: anger mostly but tinged with fear from more than one.

"I regret having to say it, but catching these thieves is more important than your rights. This investigation is being conducted under P1A authorization, which is equivalent to martial law. But I'll assure you that only the NIA team will examine your devices. We'll ignore everything except information relative to our investigation."

Captain Talbart kept the five individuals in the conference room while her detail and Gannon searched each residence. It was early evening before we finally returned to the Vulcan. With MacLin's permission, we had all the devices brought to his conference room, where Pannell posted a guard while we had dinner in the mess.

"Same procedure as before?" Adrian asked when we entered the conference room. Hearing no objections, he continued. "Gannon, you check for deletions and activity on the Dark Web while we review the emails."

I picked up the nearest tablet and began my review with Red perched on my head. After working my way through the five tablets and four home computers, it was obvious why the anger and fear. While I didn't follow up on the emails, I found hints of affairs, drugs, and even illegal money transfers and deposits. But there was one potentially interesting email, which I would have overlooked if Gannon hadn't stumbled across the use of the Dark Web on Stone Ring.

"Well, Gannon, what did you find?" Adrian asked early the next morning when everyone had finished reviewing each device.

"Ms. Simons's home computer has several visits to the Dark Web. Thanks to her Internet history, which she didn't erase, I have a specific site address and the site's cookie."

"Rich, can we access the site and make it look like it came from her computer?" I asked.

"With P1A authority, you bet ... Anna." He smiled and felt eager and itching to start.

"Anna, did you find anything?"

"Several emails on Ms. Simons's home computer may relate to the raiders. The activity on the Dark Web that Rich found confirms my initial suspicion. She recently set up a savings account with Blackwater Saving and Trust under her name and purchased a safety deposit box. And I found an email message which directs her to a suspicious website, user.sweeptakes.hsx"

"Yes, that's the site where the cookie I found originated." Rich smiled like he had won the lottery.

"I didn't see any messages to Blackwater." Kris frowned, looking around the table for Simons's home computer.

"That's because she deleted them and cleared her deleted files, but she didn't delete the messages in her Sent mailbox."

"And where did you find the message with the Dark Web site information?" Adrian asked.

"It was an entry form for a sweepstakes. That, combined with an inquiry into Certificates of Deposit from the Blackwater Saving and Trust, seemed too much of a coincidence to ignore."

Just then MacLin burst through the door. "Paulus! Five men just hijacked one of the Vulcan's shuttles on Holy Star and have entered Shuttle Bay N1. They're demanding you be handed over to them," he said between gasping breaths.

I stood frozen as my mind raced for solutions, but all I could envision was disasters. If they wanted me, it could only be because of Red. And if they were desperate enough to hijack a navy shuttle and force their way into a navy cruiser … they felt they had nothing to lose. I calmed as Red wound around my neck.

"Captain MacLin," I said, "I'm invoking my P1A authority. Notify all crew not to engage them. They have the Coaca Virus. The crew are to find places where they can lock or fortify themselves. That's an order," I said with a command presence that should have shocked me and normally would have at any other time. Just then Red's tongue brushed my neck, relieving me of any lingering doubts. I stood listening as MacLin spoke into his Personal Comm Devise, PCD.

"Bridge, connect me with all PCDs and the ship's loudspeakers." While he waited, his eyes never left mine. "Attention, this is Captain MacLin. Five men have hijacked a shuttle and have gained access to Bay N1. You are ordered not to engage them. They're infected with the Coaca Virus. Find secure shelter and stay there until further notice. I repeat, do not engage them."

"Captain, can you keep me up to date on their location ... I'll try and lead them to one of the shuttle bays, but I won't know which one until ... later. You're going to have to open it to space—"

Kris screamed.

I ignored her.

"Here, Anna." MacLin handed me a small ear device. "This will enable me to hear and talk to you."

I took it and put it in my ear. "If I ... if you must engage them, remember they’ll be contagious for two days after they die—and that flying blood or bodily fluids from wounds will infect you." I turned to face Adrian, Kris, and Gannon and pointed at Pannell. "Stay! You can't help and would just be in the way."

I turned and ran out of the conference room as I envisioned the layout of the cruiser. I was on the third level toward the front, whereas the intruders would be on the first level toward the rear. I needed to cut them off before they got too far—the farther they got, the more risk of encountering someone out to be a hero.

I raced down the forward steps three at a time, missed a step, and slammed head first into the second floor landing. I lay there dizzy and confused until Red wound himself into my hair. That seemed to jerk me back to my present dilemma, and I slowly rose onto my knees and then managed to stand.

Holding onto the railing, I continued down as fast as my dizziness would permit. I opened the door and looked out. The hallway was clear of human life—eerie, considering there were almost five hundred navy and marine personnel on board. The containment doors did prevent me seeing to the end of the ship, but … Then I realized bay N1 was on the port side and I was on the starboard.

"Captain, where are they?" I asked.

"They've exited Bay N1 and are heading up the hallway."

A tentative plan began to develop as I found the first connecting hallway to the port side and started running. I wanted to be the first person they saw. Their entire focus was on finding me –actually, Red—therefore they would ignore everyone else once they saw me. When I reached the Port hallway, I almost panicked when I didn't see them.

"Captain?"

"They just turned into the first connecting hallway to the starboard side."

I whistled several times and then shouted. "You looking for me?"

A minute later a man's head appeared and I could hear, "She's down at the end of the hallway." A minute after that, four other men appeared and started walking toward me, laughing and joking.

I idly wondered if Red would stay with one if I was killed or would kill one or all as he did last time—of course I wasn't dead last time. I walked fast toward them, hoping to reach the middle connecting hallway to the Port side before they did.

"Captain, I'm hoping to lead them to either Bay M1 or M2," I said as I watched the men's progress. So long as they didn't run, I would beat them.

I grabbed Red and he wrapped around my arm like it was the staff of Asclepius. That caused the men to begin running, which wasn't good because that meant they would reach the connecting hallway before me. I stopped and began backing up, which caused them to run faster. I didn't want to turn and run for fear they would shoot me, but I wasn't going to make the connecting hallway behind me before they caught me, so I stopped, which caused them to slow.

"Give us the snake, sweet thing, and we won't hurt you," said the one in the middle. His rugged unshaven face was filled with brown blisters, indicating stage three or maybe four Coaca. He was average height but broad and muscular. "If you’re sweet to us you don't have to die. We'll share the snake."

"Won't work," I said to stall while I considered a revised plan. "They tried that at the hospital. The krait can only support one person." I backed up as they began arguing.

Eventually, their speaker recovered. "She's lying—and getting away."

When they started running, I held my arm with Red to my chest, drew my laser, took aim, and shot the lead man in his right leg below the knee.

He collapsed, causing them all to get caught in the resulting flaying arms and feet.

I made the hallway just as the four regained their feet and started running again. I preferred not to shoot them, as their bodily fluids would make the area contagious. I had no choice, but I hoped to keep them mobile.

Waving Red in front of me, I backed down the hallway.

Several had drawn their weapons, shard guns.

"Nice weapons, shard guns. Hard to miss, but also hard to be precise." I waved my arm and Red across my body. "Those pellets will kill a snake as well as a human." I crouched as I backed up so I could also swing my arm across my legs.

This stalemate wasn't going to last forever. The five were pointing their guns in different directions, and sooner or later someone was going to take a shot.

I shot the one trying to get a headshot at me in the shoulder of his gun arm then ran sideways, crab-like, while shooting at the walls and floor around them and waving Red.

Someone fired at my feet.

Pain shot up through my calves.

I dropped to my knees and held Red to cover my head and chest and began firing, trying to avoid shots to the chest and head.

They staggered backward. Several tripped in the mad scramble, and they all went down.

I rose and hobbled backward to the starboard hallway and began a limping run toward the shuttle bays, leaving a trail of blood. My growing panic made the pain a secondary problem that I somehow all but ignored as I pushed myself, knowing I was in a life-or-death race.

"Captain, M2," I panted, "Tell me when they turn into the hallway."

"Understood," he said.

I continued hopping-limping-running as fast as my wobbly legs and light headiness would permit, expecting any moment to hear shots.

"Now!" MacLin shouted in my ear.

I turned sideways and fired several shots.

To my surprise, they fired back.

I realized my gun arm was pointing back toward them but Red was hidden from their view. I couldn't bring myself to turn Red toward them, for fear they would hit him in the heat of the moment. I ducked into the middle connecting hallway seconds after pellets from multiple shots hit me and a scorching pain exploded through my back and side.

I was going to die if I continued this silly game.

I took a deep breath, stuck my arm with Red on it out first, then swung out partially with my laser arm and began firing to kill. I hit one in the head and one in the chest before they retreated back into the connecting hallway. As soon as they did, I began a crab-like run holding Red in front of my head. One man lay dead in the hallway as I reached the door to shuttle bay M2. I felt weak as a baby and barely managed to get it open.

"Red, if you're hungry, you had better get it now before it all runs out," I think I said in jest. I felt dizzy and was having trouble concentrating, although I did manage to lock the door behind me. When I looked around the bay, a man in a spacesuit came toward me, holding another spacesuit.

"Anna, let me help you into the suit. We don't have much time," said a voice that sounded like Pannell’s.

I let him support me as he got my legs then arms into the suit. I knew we had to hurry, but I couldn't seem to help.

He finally zipped me up and locked the helmet in place. Then he dragged me backward. We were halfway to the shuttle when the three men broke through the door.

"Now!" Pannell said.

I heard the bay door open, and we were sucked out into space.

* * *

I felt Red lying between my still developing breasts, and a sense of wellbeing spread through me. I drifted back into the darkness. I felt hot and Red struck me in the neck, and I drifted back into the darkness. I felt Red curl around my neck and his tongue brush my cheek, and I became aware of the beeping machines, smell of antiseptics, and the feeling of wires attached to my chest and arms. I sighed in resignation.

"She's awake," Kris shouted. "That was the dumbest thing you've ever done. Don't pretend you can't hear me. The monitors show you're awake. Do you know Red got hit too?" She continued her rant, but I could feel her relief and affection.

My eyes flew open and I reached up to touch Red, running my hand along his body. Halfway along, I felt the wrap.

"Yes, and you had eight," she said as she hugged me, tears running down her cheeks onto mine. When I winced in pain, she released me but continued to hold my hand.

Just then, Alexa and MacLin entered the room. She walked to the side of the bed, took my free hand in hers, and laid her head next to mine.

"Mother, why are you here?" I asked reflexively, feeling guilty as I did.

"I’m here because the love of my life was fighting for her life."

"Thank you, Mother. I guess I was a bit reckless." I hated that I had caused her to worry.

"Yes, I would like to scream at you and send you to your room, forever, but putting the safety of others above your own is one of the many things that make you special." Alexa gave me a weak smile. "I owe Chief Ransom big time."

"I agree with your mother." MacLin moved closer to Alexa so I could see him without having to move. "And I also owe you big time. I've had a long talk with Doctor Renata, and I understand the potential disaster had I followed my instincts and sent marines to subdue the intruders. If you hadn’t invoked P1A authority, I doubt I would have listened to you. As it was, I almost ignored you anyway. Only that incident at Shadow's Rest made me decide to trust you."

"Doctor Renata?"

"Hi, Anna, you don't think I would let just anyone work on you and Red," Renata said as she stepped up next to Kris. "No one wants to operate on a red-headed krait. And before you ask, Red's fine. Both pellets missed his vertebrae."

I noticed she had started calling him Red and using male pronouns. "Thank you for coming. Red and I appreciate it. We trust you. How long have I been ... here?"

"Going on six days. Red complicated your treatment because he needs your blood, so we've had to be careful what we gave you. That’s why they called me."

"Hi, Anna." Adrian sounded concerned. "Kris and I understand now why you felt you had to do it by yourself, but we have to work out a better solution, because we don't want to lose you." He moved next to Kris and patted my arm—very brave considering Red's head was lying on my shoulder. "We did some checking at the hospital were those Coaca patients were being treated. Apparently, someone came to the hospital and spread the rumor that a navy commander on the Vulcan had a red-headed krait that could cure the virus. So ten of the victims left the hospital, robbed a gun store, and attacked the navy shuttle on a supply run. They lost two at the gun store and three taking the shuttle, which is why only five made it to the Vulcan. Captain MacLin, Kris, and I believe it was the raiders’ first attempt at getting rid of us. They had no idea you would take them on alone, preventing the ship from being infected. It would have been a good plan if you had only cooperated." He laughed and leaned closer—maybe Kris's experience with Red had emboldened him. "I almost choked when you invoked P1A authority and ordered MacLin around and again when he listened."

I smiled. "As you've said in the past, 'Kris wants, so Kris gets.' I thought I would try 'Anna wants' ..." In fact, I hadn't thought, just acted. The thought of people dying because of me had driven my actions, not logic.

* * *

I spent two more days in bed. MacLin assigned Alexa a room and she spent every waking moment with me. It was wonderful. The third day, I was released for light duty and that night MacLin asked Alexa and me to join him. When we arrived, we were directed to the captain's conference room, where everyone had assembled. Before anyone could say anything, Rawls’s aide appeared and called, "Attention" as Rawls and Stauffer entered.

"At ease," Rawls said, coming over to stand next to me. "Sit, Anna. You don't look in condition to stand. "Everyone get something to drink, and we'll make this informal." She went to the opposite side of the table and sat as her aide placed a cup in front of her. "First, here's your forth Purple Heart medal. Admiral Lultrel told me to tell you she's ordering you not to get any more." Rawls looked and sounded far too serious.

"Yes, ma'am, so noted," I responded, not sure what else to say.

"She also sends her congratulations. You've been awarded the Navy Cross for your actions on the Vulcan. The award recognizes not only your courage, but also your extreme compassion. You chose to risk your life to avoid a potential Coaca outbreak on the Vulcan." She slid a velvet box across the table to me: the medal, lying on white velvet, was a gold cross with a trident in a circle in the middle of the cross and was attached to a blue ribbon with a vertical white stripe down the middle.

I stared opened mouthed, not knowing what to say.

Fortunately, Rawls continued. "Admiral Lultrel and I decided to give you the award in private, since you don't need the publicity."

"Anna, do you want to continue or return to Oxax?" Stauffer asked, surprising me.

I stood and walked over to Alexa. "Mother?"

She hugged me for a long time without saying anything. "Every mother should have a daughter like you, Anna. You would give up everything you love doing so as not to hurt me. I owe you the same love. Your death would rip the life out of me, but trying to cage you would destroy us both. All I ask is that you stay in touch and take reasonable precautions." She kissed me on the forehead and whispered, "take care of her, Red," before stepping back.

I turned to where Kris, Adrian, and Gannon sat. "Are you continuing on?" I asked.

They nodded.

I returned to my seat. "Sir, the team's going, so I would like to go with them. I'm in no more danger than they are."

"All right then. Since we're all together, why don't you bring Admiral Rawls and me up to date?"

Kris and Gannon and I looked to Adrian, who smiled and spent the next hour detailing everything that had happened.

* * *

We decided to stop further investigation of Ms. Simons and the Blackwater Saving and Trust, hoping the raiders wouldn't know we had identified two of the individuals involved in the raids on the bank. The Vulcan was underway within hours of Rawls and Alexa disembarking. Doctor Renata managed to convince Rawls she should stay on the Vulcan in case I was hurt again.

CHAPTER FIVE

Visit to Eastar

"Come," I said when I had everyone in the captain's conference room. "Major Pannell has arranged for us to have time at the marines’ firing range. And before you argue, Mother told me to take reasonable precautions. Knowing you can hit the target—the one you’re aiming at—is a reasonable precaution. Besides, I wouldn't mind the practice with a multi-functional weapon."

"Commander Paulus is right. I'll have two marines with each of you from now on, but you could get separated or we could be overwhelmed," Pannell said.

For a moment, everyone hesitated.

"I agree," Adrian said while moving toward the door. "The threat is real, and I doubt the raiders are going to give up because this attempt didn't work. Nor are they likely to move on. These thefts are far too lucrative to abandon."

"This fast track stuff is really hard work," Kris quipped while doing her best to look disgusted. "Confined to space submarines for months on end and then having to qualify with weapons. What next, hand-to-hand combat lessons?"

"What a great idea," I quipped, but the idea did have some appeal.

Kris punched me on my shoulder as we exited the room. We took the elevator to the ground floor and Pannell led us to the range, where a Master Sergeant Gant, a short stocky man with short-cropped hair, explained the range rules and stood watching us, providing helpful instructions. Pannell stood behind me as I practiced with a small multi-functional weapon that was capable of delivering a laser beam, shards, or single projectiles.

"That was good shooting against those intruders, Paulus. Chief Ransom must have worked you hard," Pannell said as I stood reloading the weapon.

"He did. I had to learn to take each weapon apart before he would let me shoot it." I laughed, remembering the grizzly chief whose training had saved my life more than once now.

"Leave it to a chief to make sure you learned how it worked and how to care for it before he would let you use it." Pannell grinned as if remembering a similar experience. "Did you enjoy learning?"

"Only the sessions where I had to take the weapons apart and put them back together again. The chief had to change the silhouettes to bull's-eyes; otherwise, I probably would never have hit the target." I gave him a wry smile.

"I'm sure he would be pleased with his student." Pannell walked down the line, watching and occasionally giving advice.

"That was a wakeup call," Adrian said as we left the range. "I didn't realize how easy it is to lose the skill. I would have failed to qualify if I had taken the test today. Worse, I couldn't have defended myself even if I had remembered how to get the safety off." He gave an embarrassed laugh.

"I qualified just last year, but in truth, in an emergency I know my reactions would have been too slow." Rich shook his head. "Because I doubt raiders hesitate."

* * *

"Well, we know your prey is creative. Why attack a ship full of marines when you can get desperate people to do it for you for nothing?" MacLin said at the evening meal that night. "I doubt they expected them to actually kill you, just to infect the crew and maybe your team."

"That would have been a nightmare. Hundreds die or are wounded in an encounter with an enemy cruiser, but most of the wounded recover over time. Almost no one recovers from the Coaca Virus," Jordan said. "Whoever you’re chasing, they're evil."

"I'm increasing the team's security. There’s no doubt they know the current NIA agents are the same team that broke the smugglers ring, and they’re smart enough to see them as a threat," Pannell said. "So they'll try again."

"I agree. Tighten security on the ship as well. Consider us at war with the raiders." MacLin took a sip of wine as he evaluated each of us. "What are your plans, if you don't mind telling us?"

"We'll identify the person on Eastar who provided the raiders with the details and access they needed," said Adrian. "Then ... we need to establish how they communicated, and finally to find the link between the inside person and the raiders."

* * *

The shuttle delivered us to the Naval Headquarters complex on the outskirts of York City, the capital of Eastar and the central government of the United Alliance of Stars. There, we were escorted to NIA Headquarters and into a conference room, where we were served drinks while we waited.

After only a short wait, a commander and two lieutenants entered, followed by Admiral Lultrel.

"Attention," one of the lieutenants shouted, and we braced to attention.

"At ease and relax," Lultrel said as she came walking over to me. "Congratulations, Commander Paulus. I see you still haven't learned how to speak to captains." She laughed as she shook my hand. "I don't think anyone ever envisioned an NIA agent giving orders to the captain of a war cruiser. At least this time you won't get a letter of reprimand." She smiled and took the seat at the head of the table. "Sit. I'll let each of you introduce yourself and then I like to be brought up to date on your activities." She looked to the major who was standing toward the rear of the room against the wall.

"I'm Major Pannell. I've been assigned to provide the team's security, ma'am. The raiders don't appear to like them."

Lultrel sighed and I could feel her concern, almost panic. "You've my permission to stick to them like glue." She then nodded to the commander who sat to her right.

"I'm Commander Wright. I manage day-to-day activities at this office." He looked to his right and nodded.

"I'm Lieutenant Cooper. I worked on the robbery of the Eastar Art Gallery." She nodded to her right.

"I'm Lieutenant Vetter. I assisted on the Eastar Art robbery." He smiled at me where I sat across from him before nodding to Gannon, who sat next to me.

"I'm Lieutenant Gannon, temporarily assigned to the NIA team out of Oxax." He hurriedly looked to me with a feeling of relief.

"I'm Commander Paulus, a member of the NIA team out of Oxax," I said just as Red chose to make an appearance. The three from Eastar actually leaned forward for a better look. They had obviously been briefed on Red and me and had been expecting to see the krait.

"I can't imagine ..." Lieutenant Cooper began, but stopped.

I looked to Lultrel, who nodded.

"Red found me at age four and never leaves my person. That has earned him a name and recognition as a companion. He's now as familiar to me as your arms or legs are to you. He's venomous but lazy, so he isn't aggressive unless I'm being attacked." I looked to Kris.

"I'm Commander Sinclair, a member of the Oxax team." She looked to Adrian.

"I'm Commander Shrader, a member of the Oxax team," Adrian said and then when on to give Lultrel a detailed account of our activities from the day the project was assigned.

Lultrel was quiet for several minutes after the briefing. "Interesting, Commander Shrader. You list yourself as a member of the Oxax team but you seem to be the acknowledged leader." Lultrel appeared to be probing for something.

"My teammates let me assume the role because they don't like the administrative work. Someone has to do it and I don't mind. But we're equal members who bring different talents and interests to the team."

Lultrel snorted. "Rawls said you were ... different ... and the best bloodhounds in the NIA. So although I liked Admiral Rawls’s idea of expanding the team, I can see that forcing new members on you might actually be disruptive. All right, I'll leave you with Commander Wright to discuss the raid on the Art Gallery. You've done a good job of keeping me updated. If you want to keep me happy, continue doing so." She rose and exited the room.

"I agree with Admiral Lultrel. 'If it ain’t broke, don't fix it,' which I believe applies to your team. You've made excellent progress so far, better than we've here on Eastar. That's no reflection on Lieutenant Cooper. Without P1A authority, the Eastar robbery was a local police matter, in which they let us participate at Admiral Lultrel's request. Since Lieutenants Cooper and Vetter did all the work, I'll let them explain what they found and help you get whatever you need. Good hunting." He rose and left.

"What would you like?" Cooper asked.

"We would like to get the police captain and the gallery's manager to walk us through what they think happened. We've read the reports but find it's helpful to see the building, rooms, and meet the people involved," Adrian said. "One of those people provided the raiders with the details they needed."

* * *

Lieutenant Cooper had two company ground vehicles transport us to the gallery. I found the architecture interesting and unique. Eastar was the first planet colonized, and one of the most modern. The current population of York City, the capital, exceeded fifteen million, but it had few skyscrapers. The buildings were designed to be elegant, and consequently few were more than five stories; however, inside they had the latest technology.

The gallery was a three-story gold-veined white-marble structure that looked like it could have been ancient Greek architecture, with its massive columns, but the inside was ultra-modern. In the lobby to the right was a large gift shop, and to the left stood multiple voice-activated monitors providing information about the exhibits and painters along with directions to each display. In the center, a ticket counter provided an entrance into the main gallery. Cooper led us around the counter to a private elevator, which took us to the basement where paintings were cleaned and repaired, incoming articles inspected, and outgoing packed. The area also included several offices and a conference room.

When we arrived, an elderly lady and a stocky man in a police uniform where already there. They stood as we entered.

"Mrs. Vega, Captain Mitchel, this is the NIA team sent to investigate the robbery, Commanders Shrader, Sinclair, and Paulus, and Lieutenant Gannon," Cooper gestured to each of us as she said our names. "Mrs. Vega manages the Eastar Art Gallery and Captain Mitchel was in charge of the investigation."

"It's unusual for the navy to be investigating a civilian robbery," Mitchel said without any emotion I could feel. "I'm assuming that means this robbery is linked to others."

"Others?" Vega asked, surprise evident in her tone. "Other galleries?"

"That's correct, Captain Mitchel. There have been several major robberies, and they appear related, so the powers that be have asked the navy to look into it," Adrian said. "They weren't confined to art, but all were major thefts carried out by professionals."

"These were definitely professionals," Mitchel said. "They knew what they were looking for, how to bypass the alarms, and got in and out before we were aware the gallery had been robbed."

"Fortunately, they only took forty-two articles ... although they were some of our best exhibits," Vega said, and I felt her deep sense of loss.

"We'll need to see a list of all your exhibits and their values and locations." Kris looked to me.

"Who on your staff would have access to where those articles were in the gallery and their value?" I asked.

"Well ... me of course," Vega said, lips pursed and eyes down in thought. "And Mr. Kelly, Mrs. Atwood, and Ms. Sangler."

"Would you ask those people to join us?" Adrian said. We were served drinks while they were located.

"Is this really necessary?" Mitchel asked after pulling us aside. "The robbers could easily have found the location of each of the articles they stole through the information monitors in the lobby."

"That's true, Captain, but the other robberies had an inside person, so it's logical to assume this one’s no different," Adrian said.

I interrupted on a whim. "Adrian, can we have the devices brought here and hold everyone until we have a quick check?" I asked, not wanting to let the individuals free while we looked.

"Yes, but why?" he asked as Kris moved closer.

"Just a feeling. We know what we’re looking for, so we can probably identify the person within an hour or two. Then we can confront him or her immediately ... before the raiders can do anything."

Kris nodded. "I think we should interview each of them separately so we can keep the fact that we know who helped the raiders from leaking out, if we need to."

* * *

As each person's equipment was delivered to the gallery, we took the individual into a separate room while we looked at the emails and Internet activity. We got lucky. Atwood, a long-time employee who was responsible for cleaning, repairing, and moving the articles, hadn't attempted to destroy her emails or web activity—either because it was her home computer, or out of ignorance.

"Mrs. Atwood, we know you aided the robbers—" Adrian said, after he review the emails I had found and the dark web sites Gammon had discovered.

"No. I wouldn't do that," She protested weakly. "I've never been in trouble or done anything wrong."

"Mrs. Atwood, we've enough proof on your computer to send you to a penal colony for life. However, if you cooperate with us to help identify the thieves, the prosecutor may go easier on you. If you don't, he may be vindictive, since people were killed during the robbery. That makes you an accessory to murder. Since it's a UAS crime, he'll have a lot of discretion and could choose to consider your family also as accessories. He’ll have input into where and how long you're all incarcerated. Therefore, you've nothing to lose but much to gain by helping us," Adrian quietly explained, sounding like a helpful friend.

Atwood sat crying with her face in her hands, and I could feel the hopelessness she felt. It took a long time for her to calm down enough to start talking.

"It began with an ad I saw on the Internet, Help prevent crime and win millions. To qualify, you had to say the company you worked for, the value to potential robbers, and the information they would need to be effective. Then they wanted a user name, password, and an email address."

While she talked, Adrian had a snack and drinks brought in, which eased her tension somewhat. She seemed a meek person and the food and drinks probably gave her the illusion of talking to friends.

"Then I got an email saying I was a finalist and eligible to win ten million credits. All I had to do was to go to the website they indicated and sign in using a user ID and password they provided. When I did, I had to answer a bunch of questions about my position and my ability to access the information I claimed the robbers would need. I thought it strange, but they said it was to help the police determine a way to make the gallery safer as well as other similar facilities. I probably shouldn't have—but ten million credits ... and I didn't see the harm, as I wasn't giving them specific details." She stopped and ate a small snack while she awaited some feedback, judging by her increased tension.

"What happened next?" Adrian asked after she washed down the snack with several sips of coffee.

"I heard nothing for a couple of weeks and thought I hadn't qualified for the next round. Then I got the next email, telling me I had qualified for the final round and directing me to a new website. It asked for some very specific information about the gallery ... but nothing like specific paintings or their value or passwords or codes. More like how many alarms in the building but not where ..." She hesitated. "Nothing useful."

She was right: so far, everything she claimed to have given them could have been determined from a month of monitoring the gallery, which was open to the public.

"Then what?" Adrian asked.

"I was told to log on to another site in ten days to find out the results. When I did, I was notified I was one of two finalists. The last test would be a face-to-face interview, and I was given an address and time to meet." She stopped to pour more coffee and to drink before she continued. "When I arrived, a limo was waiting and I was driven out of town to an area where a tent was set up. Inside sat two men with masks on. They said I was eligible to receive ten million credits as soon as I delivered the information they wanted. As a show of good faith, they would pay the ten million in advance. All I had to do was get a safety deposit box. I gave them what they wanted ... I was afraid not to," she said between gasping sobs. "When I hesitated, they insinuated that the people putting up the money would be upset if I didn't provide the information they wanted and might inform the gallery, which would press charges, or my family could be harmed. Alternatively, I could give them the information and be ten million richer."

"Mrs. Atwood," said Adrian, "right now you are cooperating, and that will work to your benefit. Because the robbers may be watching, we're going to let you go home and come back to work tomorrow. Tell your co-workers we questioned you about gallery procedures and then sent you home. If you do anything foolish like contact the robbers or try to flee, you'll destroy yourself and your family."

We had discussed our options, and in the end, we decided to try and keep the raiders in the dark as long as possible, as we were a long way from identifying them. Neither Captain Mitchel nor his superiors liked it, but we had the authority to overrule them.

* * *

"Any ideas on how to proceed?" Adrian asked when we were back on the Vulcan.

"Can we find out who owns the website where the original ad appeared?" Kris asked.

"I tried." Gannon shook his head. "I traced the website to a server, but it turned out to be a dead end. They gave a fake name and address when they rented space on the server for a month, then shut it down. The guy who owns the server never saw the person who rented the space, because he paid with a credit chip, which Captain Mitchel said was a gift card bought with cash."

"The question is whether the intermediary who placed the original ad, and the one who interfaced with Atwood on the Dark Web, and the one she met in person are all the same party who dealt with McCure on Stone Ring and Ms. Simons on Holy Star?" Kris asked.

I hurriedly reviewed the three raids with Red's head lying on my forehead. "I believe ... no, I'm sure there are multiple parties acting as Controllers for the raiders," I said.

"How?" Adrian and Kris both blurted together.

"Look at the timing of the raids." I pointed to the folders, which they stared at but didn't pick up.

"One six months after the first, and the second three months later. I don't see it?" Adrian frowned.

"I made a couple of assumptions ... First that the raiders have a Controller who they drop on a planet to find the next target. Second, that he has to organize a local team: someone to set up the ad on a server and the Dark Web and someone to check out the potential client and their business. He then interviews the client, or maybe someone else interviews the client and gets the details. He then arranges for a meeting with the raiders." I stopped and waited for comments.

"Sounds logical and consistent with what we've found out so far. But how does that lead you to your conclusion?"

"That couldn't possibly take place in less than six months, probably more. So the party on Stone Ring could not have made it to Holy Star and Eastar to organize those raids."

"Anna's right, which means they could have agents ... Controllers on many other UAS planets right now, fishing for the next big raid." Kris's voice rose with each word.

"And that could explain how the raiders set up that attack on Holy Star so quickly. They already had locals they could contact, maybe even a Controller on site at the time, working another client," Adrian said almost to himself. "I like it as a working theory. Any suggestions on how to proceed? We can't access the sites we've identified without potentially alerting the raiders. Even if we could, I doubt it would tell us anything. And the clients don't know anything about how they communicate." Adrian was clearly frustrated.

"If Anna is right, then they'll be running ads on other systems. If we could find one, then we could pose as potential clients," Gannon said into the silence.

"A meeting with Lultrel," I said. "We need to keep her from arresting the clients we've identified and to put the NIA on alert for the ads."

* * *

"We could lose these people if we pretend we don't know they’re involved. I'll bet they each have ten to twenty million sitting in their safety deposit boxes, and you're saying we shouldn't touch that either," Lultrel said after she had been briefed on our findings and conclusions.

"Ma'am, we're at a dead end unless we can find one of their ads and get a line on one of the people we’re calling a Controller."

"All right, tell me what you want me to authorize."

"First we need to put every NIA office on notice to watch for the ads and give them instructions on what to do and not to do. Second, don't arrest the three individuals we identified. Let everyone assume we failed to find anything. And third, put a ship on standby for us to use when an ad is identified," Adrian said, which was what we had decided prior to the meeting.

"All right, write up what the agents are to look for, what they should do when they find it, and what they should not do. I'll have Commander Wright get it out under my name."

* * *

"My orders say I'm to take you back to Oxax but to remain on station and available on twenty-four hour notice to transport you wherever you want to go. The rumors say you didn't find anything, but knowing you and based on my orders, I doubt that." MacLin leaned back in his office chair and took several drinks of his wine, awaiting a comment.

"Between us, we would prefer that everyone thought we were at a dead end and therefore returning home. What we're doing is waiting for the raiders to continue their operations. We just don't know where that will be," Adrian said.

"Think of it like a spider's web. We’re waiting for someone to touch one of the strings," I said.

"Good analogy, but it gives me the shivers," Kris said. "I would have preferred a bloodhound analogy."

"So, back to the kennels for a rest." MacLin laughed. "I estimate five days travel to Oxax."

CHAPTER SIX

Oxax: The next step

I dropped Adrian and Gannon at the office, as Adrian wanted to get Rich settled and arrange temporary quarters for him, and I dropped Kris at her condo. When I arrived home, Alexa greeted me at the door with a hug.

"When you joined the NIA, I hoped you were in a safe profession." She laughed. "You might be safer on a war cruiser."

"But then I wouldn't get home as often, and as much as I like cruiser duty, I love our home and being able to see you often." I returned her hug.

Red hung between us and brushed her cheek with his tongue.

Alexa chuckled. "If anyone would have told me I would become fond of a krait, I would have thought him crazy. Hi, Red. Are you home for long?" she asked, holding me by the shoulders and examining me. "You look recovered."

"I am, Mother. I don't know how long. We've identified a pattern to their raids, and now we wait and see where it emerges. Their approach is quite clever ..." I went on to explain what we' had discovered and what we were waiting for. That night I went to bed feeling loved and content.

* * *

I arrived early for our standard ten hundred hours conference. Adrian and Gannon were already there. Kris entered as I was locking up my new multifunctional handgun. Before I could say anything, my PCD buzzed and the screen said to report to Stauffer's conference room. As I looked around, everyone was looking at their PCD. I followed the others, hoping the raiders hadn't struck any new planets or created any new ads. I wanted—no, needed—time home to recuperate.

"I would like an update on what the plan is going forward," Stauffer said, getting straight to the issue.

"Let me start at the beginning. That way I can keep things in perspective ..." Adrian spent a good hour going over what we had found and ended with our discussion with Lultrel. "Every NIA field office as been notified and given instructions in the event they encounter an ad. Given what we know, we should be able to arrive before they provide our agent with the address to their Dark Web site."

Stauffer sat staring off into the distance for a long while. "Do you think it was a good idea to let those clients go free? After all, they have millions in their safety deposit boxes and could disappear, and they were complicit in the robbery and murders."

"Sir," I said when no one answered. "I believe they began by hoping to win millions playing some innocent game and then at some point the raiders used threats to get them to comply. It may not be a valid defense, but I know if someone threatened to kill my mother, I would give them anything."

"No you wouldn't." Kris snorted. "You would put your life on the line to stop them."

Stauffer nodded in agreement. "Sinclair is right, but I understand what you're saying, Anna."

Adrian added, "Besides, the clients don't know anything—"

"But they do!" I bolted to my feet with excitement.

"It was a one-way exchange. The clients talked and the raiders listened. And at the face-to-face meeting they wore masks," Adrian said to nodding heads.

"They know when the Controller sent notice to whoever was in contact with the raiders. And that message went through the WavCom." Red took the occasion to coil around my neck and lay his head on my ear, something he seldom did. I couldn't help but fantasize he was telling everyone to listen to me. I couldn't help a soft giggle. Whatever Red was or wasn't, I loved him and reached up and stroked him.

"Anna's right," Kris said. "We need to examine the messages from that time and for a day or two afterward."

Stauffer looked to me before speaking. "Anna, how do you feel about going along to one of the sites? There are three of you—well four, but Lieutenant Gannon isn't familiar with the equipment and doesn't have P1A authority."

"If I can go with Captain MacLin, I think I'll be alright. He doesn't mind that I still haven't learned adult speak," I said, and not in jest.

"Wouldn’t we be better off in twos, since I doubt the raiders have given up retiring us?" Kris said, and I knew she was thinking of protecting me, not herself.

"Let me talk to Admiral Rawls," Stauffer said. "I personally think using the Vulcan is like waving a red flag at the raiders. I'll get back to you. In the meantime, relax. You deserve some time off."

"Thanks, Kris." I gave her a hug. "For wanting to look after me."

"I ... guilty as charged. I wasn't sure how comfortable you would be on your own, and in truth, we work well as a team. And who knows when Red will need a nanny."

"You two belong together. You're both certifiable nuts, but my lips are sealed." Adrian slid his finger along his lips like closing a zipper and then grinned.

* * *

That night I sat curled up on one end of the couch with Alexa on the other end. "What do you think, Mother?"

"I like the idea of Kris being with you, not that I think you can't handle yourself alone, especially if you're with Captain MacLin. But as Stauffer has pointed out, the Vulcan may be a liability, and although you've grown a lot, I don't know if you’re ready for senior officers yet. They would see you as a young girl, which would threaten their egos. They're used to being in command and not questioned."

"Were you like that?" I asked out of idle curiosity.

"I would like to think I listened better than most, but when you’re in charge, you're responsible for the consequences. That tends to make you go with your gut—and hope you're right."

"I would love to have Kris with me, but in a way I'm ..."

"Afraid she'll be killed trying to defend you." Alexa leaned over and took my face in her hands. "She might, and you might be killed defending her. That's bad logic, like when you wanted to move out to protect me. Isn't it better that we found a solution which kept us together? Your presence could result in saving Kris's life versus her being killed if she were on her own. A glass of water can be half empty ... or half full. It's up to you."

* * *

Since Stauffer didn't call, I stayed away from the office. I did some shopping in town, stopped in to watch Magistrate Bellona work, spent a few hours on my language hobby, listened to music, and had several philosophical discussions with Alexa in the evenings. And at night in bed, I thanked whoever was listening for Alexa and all I had.

That ended on noon of the fourth day, when I received a message from Stauffer to report to the office immediately. I arrived last.

Stauffer wasted no time getting to the issue. "Admirals Rawls and Lultrel have discussed the issue with Admiral Webb. They’ve diverted two cruisers, one to take Commander Shrader and Lieutenant Gannon, and the other to take Commanders Sinclair and Paulus."

Kris nudged me.

I nudged her back.

Stauffer went on. "I leave it to you to decide who goes where. Your P1A authority remains in force for the foreseeable future. They want this case solved at any cost. Report back here tomorrow at noon. I'm told the cruisers will be here this evening, and the captains will be in Admiral Rawls’s conference room at noon." Stauffer stood. "We're obviously expecting miracles." He snorted a laugh and marched off in the direction of the elevators.

"You don't mind, Anna?" Kris asked.

"No, big sister, I love having you along. It's just I'm a dangerous person to be around," I said, being honest. "But Mother has convinced me there is strength in numbers, if we take reasonable precautions."

"Good. We definitely need to take reasonable precautions. I doubt the raiders want you dead any more than Adrian or me. Did you hear that, Adrian and Rich? Reasonable precautions!"

"Yes, Mother Sinclair. Rich and I are going to make sure we can hit what we aim at by the time we get to where we’re going." Adrian looked toward Gannon, who nodded. "By the way, who's going where?"

"Why don't you go to Holy Star and Anna and I will go to Stone Ring and Eastar. That will give you more time to bring Rich up to speed." Kris looked to me and I gave a nod.

"Okay, but keep me up to date on what you find and when you leave for ...?"

"I think we should take Eastar first, as it was the latest robbery," I said when Kris looked to me.

* * *

Saying goodbye to Alexa so soon was difficult for us both. Although the WavCom was expensive, I agreed to keep her up to date on my activities. I arrived at the office a half hour early and had no sooner put my gun away when Gannon arrived.

"Hi, Rich. What do you think about all this travel?"

"I love it. Never thought I would get time on a war cruiser, and I'm with the dream team on a super high-profile assignment. It feels like I've died and gone to heaven." His smile was ear-to-ear, and I could feel his excitement.

"Just don't forget this dream team has a wanted-dead reward on its head. The threat is real." I felt a slight damping of his mood.

"I won't. I won't let the team down," he said just as Adrian and Kris entered.

After storing their weapons, we made our way to Rawls’s conference room, where Stauffer sat. A few minutes later, three captains appeared, with Rawls behind them.

"At ease," she said as we braced to attention, although no one had called attention. "You know Captain MacLin, and you might remember Captains Hargrove ant Thayer. They were the captains who answered the NIA's request for help at Shadows Rest. And to complete the introductions, this is Commander Shrader the unofficial team leader and Lieutenant Gannon, who is on temporary assignment with them. Commander Shrader, have you decided who is going where?" Rawls sat, waving everyone to sit.

"Yes, ma'am. Commanders Sinclair and Paulus are going to Eastar and Stone Ring; Lieutenant Gannon and I are going to Holy Star. Where we go from there will depend on what we find or don't find."

"Thayer?" MacLin asked, surprising me.

"I'll take the ladies," she said as if this had already been discussed.

"In case you're wondering, we decided to assign a three cruiser pack to support this assignment. If raiders from another alliance like the PRS or FPU are involved and they’re military or ex-military, we’re going to need assigned cruisers so we don’t have to rely on cries for help," Rawls said, looking at each one of us. "Captain MacLin is the designated pack leader. For now, he’s going to New Zheng as a distraction in case the raiders are watching. If you even suspect trouble, let MacLin know—and regardless, keep him informed. Good hunting."

I was relieved to know it was a captain who knew Red and me, which should make the assignment a little less stressful. Kris and I stood as Thayer came around the table toward us.

"Yes, we discussed you before the meeting. Mac thought I could handle you and Red a bit better than Hargrove, as he likes tradition and you don't fit well. It's not that he doesn't admire what you've done; it's that he's ... uncomfortable with your approach."

I didn't know what to say, so I said nothing.

"Captain Thayer, if you’re uncomfortable with us, I'm sure Admiral Rawls could—" Kris was interrupted by a laugh from Thayer.

"Yes, I'm uncomfortable with you and Red because you two bring a new danger which is outside my experience. You've wanted-dead rewards on your heads, which could mean anything from hired assassins to raiders. Look at what happened on the Vulcan. And Red's worth enough credits to attract thieves and worth killing to someone with the virus. But we agree you're good snoops and worth any risk if you can find those damn raiders—and twice worth it if you can find me one of their cruisers. Come, let me introduce you to my staff and get you settled."

I used my skimmer to fly us to the shuttle, which delivered us to the Lapis. When we arrived, Thayer led us directly to her conference room, which was full.

"At ease," Thayer said as she entered the room. "For those of you who haven't met the NIA agents, this is Commander Sinclair and Commander Paulus. They're on the trail of the raiders who have taken up residence in the UAS. They have P1A authority and are authorized on the Bridge at any time and access to the Communications equipment. Being their taxi poses several problems. First, this is the team that destroyed the smuggling network."

Eyebrows went up all around the room.

Thayer nodded. "Yes, so the raiders wisely would like them retired and have already made one attempt. Since the raiders know the Vulcan has been the team’s taxi, the agents have been transferred to the Cabiri and here to the Lapis. Captain MacLin has loaned me Major Pannell and the ten marines who have been providing Commander Sinclair and Paulus their personal security. Secondly, Commander Paulus has a live Coaca Virus medical dispenser with her."

She paused, which I took as my cue to pull out Red, who wrapped himself around my neck and laid his head on my shoulder, scanning the room.

"A red-headed krait that keeps her virus in check. It's worth a small fortune on the black market and means life to anyone with the virus. The krait is nothing to worry about. Their relationship is symbiotic, and it never leaves her body. But don't touch. It's not a pet, and to you, it's poisonous."

Thayer allowed questions and we spent an hour talking about Red and the raiders while avoiding any mention of what we had found or what we were looking for.

After Thayer's staff had left, Pannell approached.

"You can't seem to get rid of us," Kris said, grinning.

"You're exciting people to be around and that's good. Being a marine on a cruiser can be extremely boring, especially in peacetime. And I too would like to see a raider's cruiser."

"I would rather stay home if we find one," Kris said. "I was never supposed to have cruiser duty, and I already have two battle ribbons. I would like to sit the next one out."

Pannell laughed. "Something to tell your grandchildren."

"If I can get off these space submarines long enough to find a husband to have the children that are going to have my grandchildren." She shook her head but had to laugh.

Pannell led us, along with two guards, to our rooms.

"Join me, Anna," Kris said, and I followed her into her room. "This looks like senior-level quarters. I hate cruisers, but I have to admit we're seeing the best of cruiser life: senior level quarters, access to the Bridge, dining with the captain, and the run of the ship. You don't usually get that until you make full Commander and have Bridge duty."

"So you're thinking about signing up?" I quipped.

"It's a good thing you've Red protecting you." She tried to look serious but couldn't help a laugh. "How long to Eastar?"

"Five days."

* * *

"So what's the plan?" Thayer asked as we sat having dinner with her and Commander Jackson, her XO.

"We believe the raiders have a person we're calling a Controller on many of our planets," Kris said. "He or she organizes a team and then finds a willing client or coerces someone into being a client, the person who provides the raiders with the inside information. When the Controller has a client and gets the information he needs, he must then communicate with someone who has access to the raiders. To do that, he has to send a message via the WavCom. We're starting in Eastar because Mrs. Atwood has confessed her role and the details, so we know the approximate time the Controller would have sent that message. We plan to search the WavCom looking for it."

"How? You won't know who sent it, it will probably be in code, and you don't know to whom he sent it," Jackson asked in disbelief.

Thayer seemed to agree by the way her lips were pursed and the frown on her face. "So you don’t plan on visiting the planet?"

Kris and I shook our heads.

"And if you find the message?" she asked.

"We move on to Stone Ring whether we find it or not," Kris said. "We need to confront Mr. McCure, since we need an approximate date to narrow our search. That along with whatever Commander Shrader finds will determine our next move."

"Sounds impossible," Thayer said barely above a whisper, and then louder, "Tell me if there’s anything we can do to help."

* * *

Kris sat at the Comm panel, shortly after the Lapis had exited the Wave. Her fingers flew over the keys. Sometime later, she sat back and frowned. "Three hundred and twelve messages in that forty-eight hour period, and another eighty-six in the next twelve hours, just in case. We could be here a long time."

"What if we go on to Stone Ring? It’s little more than a day away, and Captain Thayer could give her crew some time planet-side while we review the messages. In fact, it’s less likely we’ll be noticed if we don't leave the ship for several days." I saw no reason to stay in Eastar space. In fact I thought it might attract unneeded attention.

"Captain Thayer, we’re ready to leave for Stone Ring, unless you've a reason for staying," Kris said as she stood and stretched.

"Commander Delgado, set us a course for Stone Ring. Commanders Sinclair and Paulus are bored with Eastar already." She smiled and sat back.

"The Vector is on the monitor, ma'am. Estimated time, thirty-one hours."

"Helm, execute the vector."

* * *

How do you want to attack these messages?" Kris asked as we sat in the captain's conference room drinking coffee. I was becoming fond of my moo-coffee drink. Red had woven his way into my hair and had his red-head hanging on my forehead in a position to read—or whatever he did. I personally wouldn't bet he couldn't or didn't. I reached up and used my forefinger to stroke his small head and felt his tongue touch my thumb.

"Since we don't know what we’re looking for, maybe we should both read them and mark any we feel are suspicious. Then we can review those together. We're going to have to rely on luck, since we don’t know the sender or the receiver or the message content—that could be coded or simply a single word to put a prearranged plan in action."

Kris nodded and sat back with her tablet.

What seemed like only moments later, Pannell broke the silence. "Ladies, the mess is open. I think a break is in order. You've been at it for six hours. If not, I can send someone for whatever you would like."

"I imagine you need more of a break than we do. Guarding us must be really boring. We at least have a puzzle to solve," Kris said as Red left my head and coiled around my neck.

"That's it, Kris!" I shouted hurriedly, looking for a message I remembered dismissing.

"What?" Kris asked, staring at me in confusion. "Did you find something, or did you just wake up?" She laughed. "I'm not sure I remember the last several messages I read. Major Pannell is right. We need a break."

"Yes please, Major Pannell, bring us something to eat," I said while my eyes continued to search my tablet for the elusive message.

"What, Commander—"

"Anna, please. And anything."

"Call me Kris, Major. And get me whatever you get my doesn't-care-what-she-eats friend." She snorted.

"Paul," he replied and then spoke quietly to one of the marines, who immediately hustled out.

"There!" I shouted and sent the message to Kris.

"Why do you think this is the message?" she asked after staring at it for several minutes.

"What better way to send a complex message than in a puzzle? The WavCom is expensive and the puzzle could condense a complex message into only a few lines—and who would think they would post it online for everyone to read?" Somehow, I knew that was exactly what they did.

"I agree. I dismissed it immediately ... it would be an extremely clever way to hide the message in plain sight. But before we abandon our search of the other messages, why don't we check to see if they submitted other puzzles—and look at the solutions, if any," Kris said while still scanning the page, which contained seemingly random numbers and letters. A minute later she sent me the following draft message:

To Commander Shrader, UAS Cruiser Cabiri

Adrian, Anna believes the message from the Controller on Eastar is contained in A puzzle submitted to Master Puzzles, Incorporated and signed by Checky Fools. It's attached. Can you find out if it was published, the solution, and whether they get puzzles from Checky Fools often?"

Signed Commander Sinclair, UAS Cruiser Lapis.

"Perfect," I said after reading the message. "That will simplify what we’re looking for."

"You're positive, aren't you?" Kris asked as the marine entered with food for three and placed it on the table. To my surprise, Pannell joined us. I realized that while the marines had changed shifts a time or two, Pannell hadn't.

"I would hate to have you after me," he said as he picked up his knife and fork. "You've been at it nonstop for nine hours."

"Time flies when sniffing for the scent that will identify your opponent," Kris quipped.

"Yes, Red and I think this is the message." I slid my tablet with the puzzle across to Pannell.

"That's a message?" he said. "But if it's posted online ..."

"If I'm right, it's actually two messages ... maybe three. One is easy and meant for the general audience. The second identifies the system, and the third gives the details."

Kris frowned. "That would be very risky. What if someone broke the second code?"

She was right, but I was sure the raiders felt confident it couldn't be broken. "You're right, Kris, it sounds stupid. But I'm willing to wager that's the message we're looking for. Somehow, they feel confident the second code can't be broken."

"Maybe they aren't so confident." Pannell’s face turned serious. "Maybe that’s why they want you eliminated."

Kris's face turned pale and then she gave a wry smile. "Paul, if Anna is right—and I would never wager against her—life is about to get very exciting."

While we waited to leave the Wave to send a message to Adrian, we managed a six-hour nap and then finished reviewing the few remaining messages. Our subsequent comparison identified ten that Kris and I had both marked for further review and another eight that either Kris or I had marked as suspicious. When the Bridge announced we had arrived in Stone Ring space, I made my way to the Bridge.

"What's up, Paulus?" Thayer asked as I entered.

"I need to send a message to Commander Shrader."

"Commander Rodin, let Commander Paulus use the Comm panel." She nodded to me.

Feeling paranoid, I used my Crazy Number software to code the message, transferred it to the Comm panel, and hit send.

"Thank you, Commander Rodin," I said as I rose, but I stopped when Thayer raised her hand.

"We'll be docking at the Stone Ring spaceport in approximately six hours. Why don't you and Commander Sinclair join me in my office."

I nodded and hustled to get Kris. We found the door to Thayer's office open when we arrived at her conference room.

"Have a seat," she said when we entered with Pannell following. "I would like to know your plans, if they aren’t classified."

Kris shook her head no. "Not to you, Captain. We've decided to go see McCure, since we've managed to review all of the messages from Eastar. If we get those from Stone Ring and find any matches to those we've identified from Eastar, it may give us the break we need."

"Somewhat like facial recognition software, searching for markers that match," Thayer said quietly as if talking to herself.

"Very much like that." Kris smiled. "We have ten we suspect and another ten maybes."

"Ladies." Pannell interrupted. "I would like you and your security to leave with those the captain is going to allow on shore leave. That will delay knowledge of your arrival, at least until you reach the Nano Technology Industries facility. And that could reduce the risk of an incident."

"You're concerned, Major Pannell?" Thayer asked.

"Yes, ma'am. Watching these two work, I'm convinced the raiders have good reason to be concerned—and based on the incident at Holy Star, they know it."

"All right. Let's do it in stages. I'll release twenty to twenty-five at a time, staggered over an eight-hour period. We'll insert the security team in one of the first groups and the NIA agents in the middle somewhere." Thayer looked to Pannell, who nodded.

* * *

Captain Thayer notified the section chiefs that only twenty percent of the crew could be on shore duty and that passes were good for only twenty-four hours. Kris and I were issued petty officer uniforms to avoid notice. By the time we cleared local customs, our security detail had two ground vehicles waiting. Pannell had insisted that Kris and I take separate vehicles to the NTI facility. On arriving, Kris used her P1A card to get us to Mr. Hubbard's office.

"You've changed ... uniforms since last time," he said after the door closed. "Have you made any progress finding our chips?"

"Some. Can you call Mr. McCure to your office on some pretext or other? We need to speak to him, in private. He might have come in contact with one of the hired help the raiders used to case your facility. We're hoping he can help identify the individual." Kris cleverly avoided casting any suspicion on McCure.

I smiled to myself—adult speak.

Hubbard typed on his tablet, and a few minutes later McCure entered the office and froze.

"You remember Commanders Sinclair and Paulus," Hubbard said, waving toward a chair. "They're hoping you can help them." He nodded to Kris and left, closing the door behind him.

"Mr. McCure, we know you gave the raiders the inside information they used to rob the facility. Don't bother denying it. We've the proof we need to send you to a penal colony for life. If you'll take us through the sequence of events without being forced, it could mediate what happens to you." Kris held eye contact with him as she talked. "Given you cooperate, we won't arrest you until we find the raiders. Just don’t do anything stupid, or …"

More adult speak, I mused—you can have your freedom for now and maybe things won't be so bad if they catch the raiders and get the chips back. Unless you screw this up.

"I didn't have a choice—" he stopped when Kris shook her head. "I saw this ad ..." He went on to explain the events, which sounded exactly like Mrs. Atwood’s story.

"Good, Mr. McCure. Now all we need is the exact date that you delivered the details to your contact, and then you're free to go for now."

"That was a good lesson in adult-speak," I said after McCure had left and we were getting ready to leave.

"You mean playing with the truth or stretching it out of shape?" Kris gave a snort.

"I mean I'm glad you’re with me." I laughed and gave her a hug. We met Hubbard on the way out.

"Was he helpful?" he asked.

"He didn't remember much, but I think it may help," Kris said.

Pannell and two marines fell in behind us as we entered the elevator to the lobby. When we exited the elevator, Red suddenly appeared from out of my uniform and proceeded to coil around my neck. Reflexively, I knew something was wrong and grabbed Kris's arm to stop her.

"What?" she asked, looking around as I scanned the lobby.

Four men and two women were sitting in chairs scattered around the room, and two men were standing at the reception desk. One of the men who had been sitting stood and began shouting at the woman sitting across from him.

"You thieving bitch!" He pointed his finger at her.

Somehow I felt or sensed Red's head movement and knew the man was a distraction. I drew my multifunctional weapon—which was currently loaded with shards on a tight beam—and scanned away from the shouting man. The two men at the desk had thrown their coats back to reveal multifunctional weapons.

I jerked Kris behind me and fired between the two men, who were standing close together, hoping to at very least distract them, knowing Pannell and the marines would be quick to react.

Both men must have been hit, because they jerked apart, firing reflexively—pellets spraying the reception desk, floor, and walls.

I took aim but stopped when multiple shots rang out and the two were catapulted backward. Red moved again, and I tore my gaze back into the lobby.

The woman the man had screamed at was on the floor with her hands over her head while the two men who had been sitting together were running hunched over toward the exit. The other woman, the screaming man, and another man now had weapons coming into view.

I shot toward the woman as I stumbled backward into Kris, pushing her back into the protection of the hallway. One of our two-marine guards collapsed onto one knee but kept firing. He had been hit, and blood dripped onto the floor next to his foot, either from his side or arm.

I spun around as Red changed position and saw the door to the stairs slowly opening. I raised my gun and fired twice and was rewarded with a shout of pain as the door slammed shut.

Kris looked pale standing with her back against the wall but had her laser out and pointing at the door. She stepped away from the wall and assumed a shooting position like at the practice range with her face tightened in concentration.

I took careful aim at the crack where the door would open.

The door remained closed as I watched, while behind me it sounded like an old Chinese New Year's celebration. Then the door slid open a crack and the barrel of a weapon appeared.

Kris and I fired almost simultaneously.

The person in the doorway was thrown backward and his weapon fired reflexively, ripping through the ceiling above us and raining debris on our heads.

Pannell stepped past us, pulled open the door, flung something inside, slammed it shut, and dove in our direction. As he hit the floor, the door exploded outward, slamming into the opposite wall. He stood slowly and then smiled after scanning us and finding us unhurt.

"I think the party is over and it's time to go home." He gave a weak smile but his eyes looked concerned.

When I turned, two new marines were helping the two who had been escorting us to their feet. They had both been wounded and when I looked at Pannell, who had come up beside us, I noticed that the side of his jacket had a patch of wet blood.

"Come Kris, we need to get our security detail to the ship quickly."

She nodded and we double-timed to the ground vehicle. To my relief, we encountered no trouble on the way to the shuttle terminal. There, eight marines in combat gear and two combat shuttles with medics awaited. The ride to the Lapis was quiet as the medics worked on the injured marines. Kris and I exited the shuttle last, letting the medics and wounded go first.

Captain Thayer was waiting when we finally exited. "I understand you weren't hurt." She ignored our salute as her eyes scanned us from head to toe. "Come, I still want the doctor to look you over, maybe give you a sedative to help you relax. That had to have been a traumatic experience."

"I was scared when the shooting started, but then I got flaming mad and the fear faded. I never have liked guns, but I'm going to learn to hit anything I aim at." Kris sounded like she was taking an oath. "I'm going to live to have grandchildren, and so is Anna."

I doubted that, but I understood her rage. It was the way I felt about Alexa and Kris when people attacked me and they got involved.

"That's a very good idea, but first to the medical unit," Thayer said, smiling.

Doctor Renata was waiting when we arrived. She took me into one room while another doctor took Kris away. I stripped and she gave me a thorough examination.

"You and Red look in good condition, but how do you feel?"

"I'm actually getting used to people shooting at Red and me. Maybe it's not as traumatic for me as for someone who thinks he or she is going to live past a hundred. I've learned to get the most out of each day and not to think about the future." When I saw her eyes mist, I quickly added. "Don't feel sorry for me, Renata, I've a wonderful life, and when my time comes, I'll die happy."

"Snakes in captivity have been known to live thirty plus years, and I'll guarantee you Red gets the best medical treatment available," Renata said. I thought it was more to cheer her than me. I was happy and had long ago accepted that Red's lifespan, and by extension mine, was far shorter than the average person’s.

"You're a good friend who I love, and I appreciate your concern. You and Red have taken good care of me and I feel physically and mentally fit." On an impulse, I gave her a hug.

Slowly, she returned it. "That was ... amazing. How did you know?" she asked.

That Red wouldn't bite me, I finished.

"He's a person to me, Renata, whom I'm beginning to understand ... or, he's just lazy," I added.

Renata laughed long and hard. "Thank you, Anna. That was a hug I'll treasure for life."

I dressed and made my way back to my room, with my marine guard following—a young curly haired corporal. He looked alert as we passed intersections or people on the way.

"Are you expecting trouble, Corporal?" I asked half in jest when we reached my room.

"No, ma'am ... Major Pannell says he’ll space me if you get hurt, and I believe him," he said with such conviction it stifled my laugh.

"We wouldn't want that, Corporal," I said as I entered my room, leaving him in the corridor to guard my door. Suddenly tired, I undressed and fell into bed.

* * *

I woke to the chime of my PCD, indicating a message. With no windows, I didn't know if I had been sleeping ten minutes or ten hours. I rolled out of bed and tapped on the message icon and glanced at the time—nine hours had passed. Then the message appeared.

Meeting in the Captain’s office in one hour. Want to go to the mess for something to eat and an NIA meeting? Kris.

Yes, Give me ten minutes to shower and dress. Anna.

When I opened my door to leave, I had a new guard—an older broad shouldered sergeant. He nodded but said nothing.

Kris stood in the hallway talking to her guard, a young corporal. She waved. "Have a good sleep?" she asked while giving me a hug, which caused both guards’ eyes to go wide. They had obviously been told about Red.

"Yes, I guess the excitement finally caught up with me. You?"

"Off and on. I keep replaying the ... attempted assassination. I've come to two conclusions. One, the raiders don't like us. Two, they really do have a Wanted-Dead notice posted somewhere. I wonder if we’re worth as much dead as Red is alive."

"Kris—" I started to suggest she could ... what?

But she interrupted. "Anna, I'm past being scared. I'm somewhere around flaming mad and determined to see the whole bunch stuffed down an active volcano!" her voice rose with each word, and I heard a couple of restrained laughs behind us.

"Good, Red and I'll help," I said, locking my arm in hers as we marched to the mess hall.

We had a quick breakfast and hurried back to the conference room just as Captain Thayer appeared. She waved us into the room as three men stood: Jackson, Pannell, and Coleman, who was the civilian police captain who had investigated the initial robbery at NTI.

"At ease. I wanted to find out where we stood after yesterday's ... near disaster," she said as she sat.

"Well," said Pannell, "there’s no doubt the raiders want the NIA team stopped. They had six assassins waiting in and around the lobby for the agents to exit. Obviously they're well connected. They only had a couple of hours to prepare, because it's unlikely they knew the NIA agents were on Stone Ring before we reached the NTI offices. If it hadn't been for Commander Paulus, I'm afraid the result would have been far different. She got off the first shot."

Captain Coleman then spoke while looking at his tablet. "Your team killed four and left two critically wounded. The doctors thinks both will recover, so we might get some useful information eventually. Four have a long list of criminal activity and are suspects in other ongoing cases. Two have no record on Stone Ring, but we're checking the other systems because it involves a P1A investigation. Needless to say that will take time."

"Send the results to the NIA office on Oxax, attention Commodore Stauffer. He'll relay the results to us." Kris looked to me, which I took to be a question.

"He would have reason and opportunity," I said to her, referring to Mr. McCure.

"Captain Coleman, arrest Mr. McCure and charge him with treason, per my P1A authority. It's likely he contacted the assassins. And have his Safety Deposit box on Sutan opened and the contents held pending a trial."

"What now, agents?" Thayer asked.

Kris looked to me and I nodded. We had agreed at breakfast that it was probably best to return to Oxax and privately put what we had discovered together with whatever Adrian and Rich had found before deciding on a next move.

"Back to Oxax for now."

The Lapis departed eight hours later. We sent messages to Lultrel, Rawls, Stauffer, and Adrian updating them as to what had happened and informing them we were headed back to Oxax. And we stripped the WavCom of all the outgoing messages for forty-eight hours after and ninety-six hours before McCure stated he had his final meeting, in case he had lied—again.

* * *

"Well Anna, two hundred and thirty-three messages came through in the forty-eight hour window after the meeting date McCure gave us, and we've the three hundred and forty extra we collected to be on the safe side. Are we just really looking for a match to the puzzle message or failing that to the twenty we potentially identified?" Kris said as we sat eating dinner in the mess hall after an hour at the marine's shooting range. Kris had been serious about learning to hit what she was aiming at—the first time.

"Since we've five days before we reach Oxax, I suggest we review all two hundred and thirty-three and identify possible candidates. I wouldn't want to miss something because we assumed we knew the answer." Like Kris, I wanted to rush to verify what we thought we knew, but that might cause us to miss the real key to the solution. Every delay in finding the raiders gave them more time to kill more people. And it could cost one or more of us our lives.

"You're right, and we've nothing much else to do." She sounded resigned.

Several hours later, we heard the announcement that we had entered the Wave. By some silent agreement, we worked late into the night, had an early breakfast, and worked until almost the end of the lunch schedule, which Kris's PCD alert reminded us would end in fifteen minutes.

"Mercifully, I'm within sixty of finishing." Kris rose and stretched.

I looked at my tablet and saw I had finished one hundred and sixty-five.

"Sixty-eight. Red's bored, so it's taking me longer," I quipped. Actually, after finding the puzzle message Red had retired into my shirt.

Kris laughed. "What's funny is that I believe you. Come. Let's eat, and then we can take a break and you can help me master a multifunctional weapon."

* * *

"This gun isn't much heavier than a laser." Kris examined the weapon and held it in one hand to test the weight.

"That's because you haven't inserted a clip." I held up a standard shard clip for her to see.

"Clip?" She frowned.

"A multifunctional weapon, Mfw, can discharge a variety of things based on the clip you've loaded: a laser beam, shards, or pellets. The rifles the marines use already have several clips loaded which can be changed by voice command or by thumbing a switch. Here." I inserted a standard shard clip. "The screen on your gun shows a shard clip is currently loaded and the current spread of the shards at twenty meters. Using your finger, you can change the spread from ten centimeters—tight beam—to seventy-five centimeters—scatter.

"Why not just have one spread?"

"Depends on your needs at the time. Remember when that lieutenant was holding you captive, and I shot his gun hand? I had my gun set to tight beam. If it had been set to scatter—"

"Red and I would be dead," she finished, nodding.

We spent the next two hours inserting the various clips and trying different settings. "That was interesting, but I think I would be better off with a laser—less dangerous for those around me." She choked out a laugh. "Besides, by the time I figured out what clip and made the adjustment, I would either be dead or the danger would be over."

"It takes time for it to be automatic. Chief Ransom gave me private lessons several times a week every semester for my four years at the Naval Academy."

"I think I'll stick to my laser. For now, that's enough of a challenge."

* * *

"Finished," Kris said later that night and sat back with a sigh. "I found nine that look like they need further review; however, the only one that matched any of the Eastar ones was the message to Master Puzzles, Incorporated. But it was sent to Fire Rock, not Holy Cross."

"I singled out eight, but only the puzzle message matched any of those from Eastar, which makes it our prime candidate. But I suggest we set aside all those we identified from Eastar and Stone Ring in case the puzzle message turns out to be a dead end."

"I agree. I don't know about you, Anna, but I'm beat. I think I'll wait until tomorrow to have a go at the puzzle message."

"I won't be long," I said, feeling Red's interest ... or rather his presence on my forehead. As I watched Kris leave the conference room followed by a marine, I notice Pannell sitting off in the corner of the room. "How are you doing, Paul?"

"All right. I only caught a few shards in my side and arm, which my jacket degraded somewhat. Mostly I'm just a bit sore now that they've been removed." He smiled then turned serious. "How did you know the two at the counter were about to shoot us? If you hadn't fired and distracted them, they would have killed one or more of us. We had our attention on the man shouting."

"Luck." Named Red, flashed through my mind as I tried to dismiss the incident.

"And the woman? In retrospect, she would have been the last one we engaged—a male reflex—but she wasn't the last to draw her weapon."

"Probably my angle of sight," I said, weakly.

"And the stairs." He shook his head slowly in denial. "You're an interesting person to be around, Anna, and I can understand why the raiders fear you. You did more to protect us than we did to protect you. Thank you."

* * *

"Have you looked at the puzzle the Controller sent?" Kris asked as we made our way to the mess hall for breakfast the next morning.

"I looked at it, trying to decide if any part looked different from another, indicating two separate puzzles, but nothing jumped out at me. Well, we've two more days before we reach Oxax and nothing to do. Maybe Red will help. It'd be nice to know if these puzzles actually get published. If so, then they're probably two puzzles in one." I wished we're in Oxax, where I could find answers to that and other questions, like what Master Puzzles, Incorporated was.

"That seems very dangerous ... what if someone accidentally stumbled on the real message? Unless of course it's a very obscure message that would be meaningless to anyone except the intended contact."

We went through the food line and found an empty table. Our two guards stayed at the entrance to the officer's area while we ate.

"Guards seem unnecessary on the ship ... well, they weren’t last time, but this time we’re dealing with foreign raiders," Kris said, glancing in the direction of our guards.

"Pannell isn't taking any chances, and he's even more paranoid after the incident at NTI. And he's made sure his people know it, although that isn't necessary after two almost died."

Kris nodded then surprised me. "Doesn't Red ever get interested in what you’re eating?"

"No. He has never shown any interest in any food or liquid except my blood ... not even someone else's blood, not at Mercy Hospital when they first found me, nor since." My voice was barely above a whisper. Even I found that strange.

"He's definitely attached himself to you. The question is why?"

"I would love to find the answer to that question, but he isn't talking, and who am I to insist?" I laughed and began eating. It didn't matter. He kept me alive and I believed he was largely responsible for my success in life. Like the other day at NTI. Why hadn’t I been distracted by the man shouting? And how had I sensed the stairway door opening? Red, or the poison he injected in me, or something else? Maybe someday I would know, but not today. In the end, it didn't really matter.

We spent the rest of the day trying to break the puzzle code or to separate it into two sections. Red had shown some interest in the morning but disappeared into my shirt in the afternoon. I was having trouble concentrating, wondering whether McCure had been responsible for the attack and worrying whether Adrian and Rich had also been attacked. The raiders didn't just want Kris and me dead. They wanted the whole team killed.

"Found it!" Kris shouted, which snapped me out of my musing and even caused the guards to straighten. Kris pushed her tablet to me. It read: The Stallion named Mercury was a midnight black. And she had shaded in yellow the area where she found it.

"Clever. They have the contestant's message imbedded in the real message," I said, examining the position of the message Kris had decoded. It occupied about one-sixth of the page and was about a fifth of the way down from the first line.

"How do we know that isn't the message to the contact?" Kris asked. "It could contain key words the contact needs."

"We don't, and it could contain key words that would let the contact know what action to take, but I would wager there’s another more detailed message. I think this code is a lot more sophisticated than the one the smugglers used."

CHAPTER SEVEN

Oxax: One step closer

We docked at the Oxax Space Station early in the morning and before we had exited the Lapis, I had a message from Stauffer to report to the office.

"He didn't waste any time wanting an update," Kris said as we boarded the shuttle to the planet.

"Maybe there’s a new development," I said, and we both went silent. She must have had the same concern as me after the incident at Stone Ring. We were quiet on the ride down and in my skimmer to the office. When we entered the office, Adrian stood and Kris made a mad dash to him, grabbing him in a tight bear hug.

"Thanks, but what was that for?" he asked, smiling. I had also rushed over but was still cautious. I didn't think Red would bite him, but why take the chance? "Oh! Because of the attack you suffered on Stone Ring, you were worried that Rich and I might have had trouble on Holy Star. We didn't. Hi, Anna. I'll consider myself hugged." He grinned. "Ms. Simons was cooperative, and we collected the messages for forty-eight hours after the time she had the meeting with the Controller and were back in Oxax the next day."

"Hi, Kris, Anna," Gannon said hesitantly. He was still an outsider and rightly concerned about calling commanders by their first names. "I checked out Master Puzzles for you. The office in Truth Star did publish the puzzle you sent us and the solution was, The stallion named Mercury was a midnight black. Does that help?"

"Thanks, Rich. I'm not sure."

Kris shrugged and looked to me. "It certainly would have been better if it had gone to an individual or merchant."

"We did some more checking when we discovered that a similar message from Holy Star went to Master Puzzles on Fire Rock," Adrian said. "They have three offices: one on Fire Rock, one on Sutan, and one on Truth Star. Each office covers a district of five planets. They publish a monthly magazine with fifty puzzles. The Checky Fools have been instrumental in their success. They started submitting monthly puzzles several years ago and pay a hundred credits each to the first five people who submit the correct answer on each planet. That has boosted Master Puzzles’ sales by several hundred percent."

"That would be expensive, since I imagine they have to submit a puzzle every month whether it has content or not. That's more than seven thousand credits a month." Kris gave a short whistle.

"Also makes it hard to decode, since you never know which has content and which doesn’t. So the people buying the magazine are conditioned to look only for the short message they know is embedded on the page. That would also permit them to communicate regularly if ..." I mused, admiring the genius behind the system. "I wonder if they send each other separate puzzle messages."

"That would be clever and look like business men exchanging ideas—or fellow puzzle enthusiasts." Adrian's voice rose with excitement. "If they did and we could find those messages, we would have a major breakthrough."

"First we need to break the code." Kris laughed.

Just then Stauffer appeared.

"Welcome back. You two had us worried. Judging by the reports I've received, it's a miracle you weren't wounded or killed." He was silent as he looked Kris and I over as if to verify we weren't injured. "Admiral Rawls wants to see us in her conference room—now." His eyebrows rose and he grinned.

When we arrived, Rawls was already seated and drinking a cup of coffee.

"Help yourself to something to drink and a snack if you want. We may be here a while. Lieutenant Gannon, you might want to reconsider spending time with this team. They have a tendency to upset some very dangerous people, which explains their impressive collection of Purple Hearts." She shook her head slightly and I could feel her frustration. "You've been out of touch for five days and everyone wants an update, so update me." She relaxed back in her chair with her cup.

Adrian nodded to Kris.

"On Eastar we ..." Kris went on between interruptions to explain Atwood’s confession, what we found, McCure's arrest, the attack, and what Gannon had found about Master Puzzles. "Anna thinks the Controllers may be communicating among themselves via puzzles."

"I can understand why the raiders want you retired. You people are scary. I'm going to get you each assigned personal security and UAS authorization to carry a weapon anywhere. What next?"

"We haven't had time to discuss our findings among ourselves yet, but I think we’re going to want to check the message traffic between planets where we know Controllers were operating. We think there are three." Adrian looked to Kris and me.

We each nodded.

"Which might mean there are three enemy cruisers in UAS space. Oh, Admiral Webb is going to be furious—when he calms down." Rawls snorted. "I'll hold the Vulcan, Lapis, and Cabiri for whenever you’re ready. Stay seated." She rose and left the room.

"I'll let you determine your own work schedule, but try and get some rest and relaxation. The space gods know you deserve it." Stauffer turned to Pannell, who was sitting off to the side. "Major Pannell?"

"I've talked with Admiral Rawls. She's going to get me a permanent squad of marines to provide twenty-four-seven security for each member of the team."

Kris laughed, which drew attention to her and her cheeks blushed. "That's not going to help my search for a husband ... on the other hand, it'll keep me alive, along with the hope that I'll eventually find one."

We left the room smiling. Back in our area, we went directly to our conference room.

Adrian was first to speak. "If it's possible to be too good, I think we have, for better or worse, achieved that distinction. The admiralty's expecting us to catch them and their cruisers forthwith, and the raiders have us on their most wanted list. And that could make us attractive to some of our less honorable get-rich-quick cruiser mates." Adrian looked around the table, settling on Gannon. I noticed Pannell nod almost imperceptibly. "Rich, I agree with Admiral Rawls. You may want to reconsider your assignment with us."

"I chose the NIA to catch bad guys. I admit I didn't expect to be on anyone's hit list, but I like what you’re doing and think it's worth the risk, so I'll stay as long as you want me."

"Good. I suggest we meet every other day at ten hundred hours for a quick update. Rich, I'll help you get acquainted with our equipment if you aren't already and get you settled."

"I suggest we meet at some firing range instead of the conference room," Kris said, surprising me. "I love having marines shadowing me, but Anna has convinced me we should be ready to help if necessary."

Pannell nodded. "Normally, I discourage navy personnel from trying to help us, only because you’re not trained and could hinder more than you would help. But if you’re willing to practice regularly with the marines, I welcome the backup."

"Kris wants to meet at a firing range, so we will." Adrian tried to look serious but had to laugh when we did.

"One for all ... " I began, and everyone finished with, "and all for one."

"I'll arrange for something and let you know where," Adrian said as we began to leave.

Pannell joined me with two marines tailing. "Where are we off to?" he asked.

"My skimmer. I've room for you three, if you want. I'm going home."

"If you don't mind, I would like to accompany you, as I believe you're the one at the most risk, because of Red. I'll have to arrange for transportation and prepare schedules for my team, but I can do that from your house."

"I don't mind, and I know Mother won't either. In fact, I'll wager she would like to meet you." The conversation on the way home was mostly about my skimmer and living accommodations.

* * *

Alexa was not only home, but met us at the door. "Welcome home, my daughter." She gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheek. "Sorry Major, a mother needs the reassurance a hug gives that her daughter is alive—especially after hearing there was another attempt on her life."

"Mother, this is Major Pannell. He's providing the team's security for the foreseeable future. Major Pannell, my mother Magistrate Bellona, who is a retired naval captain." I used her captain rank rather than her retired commodore rank, as I knew she was more proud of having captained a cruiser.

"Alexa, please. Come in, Major. I'm sure you've lots of questions." She looked to the two marines, but Pannell shook his head.

"Take a walk around and acquaint yourself with the grounds, Corporal." He turned back to Alexa. "Paul, please. Not so many questions as rules for your daughter." He smiled at my open mouthed stare.

Alexa showed Pannell our panic room and gave him a tour of the house. The rules came down to ensuring I understood I was to go nowhere without two guards in tow and to keep them informed of any travel plans.

"Paul, you’ve made this mother feel a lot better. Anna is not only at greater risk because of Red, but she takes too many chances. As a mother, I would like to lock her away safe, but as an ex-captain, I know that would destroy her. Knowing she's added security is a tremendous relief."

"You're right, Anna is an exciting person to be around." To my embarrassment, he went on to explain the attack at NTI.

"I like him," Alexa said when he had left to see to organizing his new team. "He's not afraid to give credit to others even when it doesn't reflect well on him. That's a man I can trust. And after Stone Ring he has as many Purple Hearts as you do." She laughed, linked arms with me, and marched me upstairs to get ready for dinner.

* * *

After dinner I didn't feel like being alone, so I curled up at one end of the couch while Alexa sat at the other. I didn't want to talk, just have Alexa in sight—for her sake as much as mine. I felt like I had caused her a lot of strain lately. I knew I was right when I felt her contentment.

After opening my tablet, I checked for messages and found none, so one by one I clicked on the various puzzle messages from Stone Ring, Holy Star, and Eastar. For the next two hours I tried to determine how they were the same or different, and I concluded they were different yet similar—each a double spaced page full of what looked like random words, letters, and numbers. Even Red lost interest after about an hour.

When I put down my tablet in frustration, Alexa spoke.

"Red seems bored." She shook her head. "Now you have me convinced his actions aren't arbitrary. Why would he lay on your head when you're reading and why does he leave that spot when you're frustrated?"

"Or when he's frustrated because I can't figure out something he already has." We both started laughing.

"I'm glad you're home," she whispered.

"So am I. There's no place I would rather be."

* * *

The next several weeks were glorious—or horribly frustrating, depending on the time of day.

Dinner with Alexa and the hours afterward were wonderful. During meals we caught up on the day’s activities, and in the evening Alexa talked about her early days on various cruisers. I got a rare insight into my mother's early life from junior lieutenant to captain and got to hear firsthand about the life of a combat officer on a war cruiser. I felt warm and safe.

But in my home office, each day trying to break the raiders’ code was maddening. By the time the team met at the firing range for our first conference meeting, we had each deciphered the prize winning messages:

From Eastar: The stallion named Mercury was midnight black.

From Stone Ring: The rain in the hills caused mudslides.

From Holy Star: Jack had a dog who barked at everyone.

That had been our only success. By our fourth meeting, we were all frustrated.

"Well, if you’re right, Anna, then I understand why the raiders aren't worried about someone stumbling on their larger message. The four of us haven't managed to find even one random word in that mess of characters," Adrian said after no one had anything to report.

"I would like something to compare the puzzles that we—I—suspect contain a second message to the ones that are unlikely to contain a message. If we had a couple of back issues of the past several months’ puzzle magazines, it might help," I said, as frustrated as everyone else but positive the puzzle messages had a second and maybe third message embedded in the seemingly random characters.

"Anna, I know you're sure the puzzles are the keys, and I don't doubt you, but what if we split up and some of us look at the messages we marked as potentially suspicious? Just in case the puzzles don’t contain hidden messages or there’s other communication going on that contains the key to the puzzle messages?" Adrian looked around the table at each of us.

"I think that’s a reasonable strategy," Kris said, nodding.

I couldn't help a flash of betrayal and felt like screaming, I'm right, and it took a minute to dampen the anger, the hurt. "I would like to continue on the puzzle messages," I said, almost in tears.

"Anna, Adrian's right. We need to explore every possible lead. You and I will stay on the puzzle messages while the men check out the others," Kris said.

I almost cried with relief. "Sorry." I felt like a little girl who had been sulking. Adrian was right. I could be wrong and wasting the team's time.

"Anna, it doesn't matter whether you're right or wrong. You want to continue on the puzzle messages, so the team will continue working the puzzle messages. But we can't ignore other possible leads," Adrian said. "I'll request the last six months’ back issues of Master Puzzles publications. I'm confident that if another coded message exists in the puzzle, you and Kris will find it. Just don't gloat too much when you do."

As I prepared to leave, Rich came over to where I was sitting. "Anna, Adrian asked if you would help me with one of the deciphering programs. It keeps generating a set of numbers and symbols for each of the three puzzle messages, but they make no sense."

"Sure, why don't you show me the software you're running, what you input, and the output."

I followed him upstairs to where the NIA machines were kept and watched as he selected the deciphering software and input each of the puzzle messages. Each time, the program ran for more than ten minutes and produced what looked like garbage: sixteen to nineteen numbers and symbols that resembled what early comic strip writers used to designate curse words. Specifically, from Eastar: 9*151(3#44$20)5*1h, from Stone Ring: 6*24/5(23)34/4*3z, and from Holy Star: 11*215%1&32#39%5*8w.

"As far as I can see, Rich, you did everything right, but the result does appear to be random garbage. Let me think about it. Maybe I can figure out what we’re doing wrong. It would be nice if the program would have told us what it thought it found." I laughed.

* * *

Our next conference meeting was at the range again. Kris was making good progress.

Adrian gave Kris and I each a chip with Master Puzzle's back issues for the past nine months. "I hope this helps. I'm willing to admit the raiders are smarter than me if there is a hidden message in those puzzles." He shook his head in obvious frustration. "Oh, did you work out what Rich did wrong?"

"Nothing, as far as I can determine. Maybe that old saying applies: garbage in, garbage out." I shrugged. Or maybe that machine's software is like Red, I mused—knows the answer but can't or won't communicate with humans. I laughed. "Or maybe we're too stupid to see the answer."

On the way home, I couldn't help but feel there was something strange about the fact the software spat out a string of numbers and symbols for each puzzle. While trying to figure it out, I almost caused an accident by drifting into another flight lane. After that, I forced myself to concentrate on flying and even canceled the music I had playing. I had enough people trying to kill me without my help.

"Sorry," I said to the two marines, who had followed me in another skimmer. "I let work distract me. It won't happen again."

"We thought maybe you had fallen asleep," the marine sergeant said, smiling. "We were in the process of calling you when you pulled back into your lane."

Alexa hadn't arrived home yet, so I went directly to my office and brought up the three strings of numbers and symbols the X25 decipher program had generated. The X series of decipher programs had been developed to examine random appearing text, which the puzzle messages certainly qualified. Only the X25 program had generated anything, but why? I sat there pondering the problem until I heard Alexa entering the house.

I had a quick wash, changed into a dress, and went downstairs, ready for dinner. When you fly, fly, and when you eat, eat, I chided myself, not wanting to spoil my time with Alexa by being distracted. Life was too short, and there were people out there trying to shorten it even more.

"Hello, Mother," I said and gave her a hug before sitting down.

"You look tired," Alexa said. "Hard day?"

"The raiders are proving very innovative. They’ve let us find a box that contains a secret message, but we can't figure out how to open the box."

"Sort of like catching someone you know committed a criminal act but being unable to prove it." Alexa said as if remembering a specific case.

"Yes, and the longer it takes, the more lives will be lost and impacted."

"And that's what pressures you to rush," Alexa said, and I could feel her sympathy. "I understand. It's the same in war, the tendency to rush to engage the enemy, but that can be a mistake. Look at Captain Sharat. She almost got five-hundred crewmembers killed in her rush to engage the smugglers."

"You're right, Mother. If it hadn’t been for Captains MacLin, Thayer, and Hardgrave's intervention, the smugglers organization might never have been stopped." And Kris and I would be dead, I mused—and felt a flash of fear from Alexa as she had a similar thought. We both stood and embraced. "I'll be careful, Mother."

* * *

I spent the next several hours in the living room with Alexa, listening to music and talking about Lieutenant Gannon and Major Pannell. When Alexa retired, I decided to do the same, but those X25 strings drew me like a siren to my office, where I sat staring at them for a long time.

On a whim, I loaded the nine back issues of the Checky Fools' puzzles into the X25 program. The result was the same—except those resulting strings contained no asterisks. But the three messages from puzzles I suspected as valid did contain asterisks—and precisely in the same positions.

"Got it!" I shouted, and then put my hand over my mouth, hoping I hadn't woken Alexa.

But I had. A minute later she entered my office smiling.

"Sorry, Mother."

"Seeing that smile is worth it," she said, walking over to the desk.

I removed some of the garbage and held up the result. "Very clever. Now I'm off to bed."

She gave me a kiss on the forehead and left.

I immediately sent the team a message.

To: Lieutenant Commander Shrader, Lieutenant Commander Sinclair, Lieutenant Gannon

Can we meet at the office tomorrow? Gannon has proof the puzzles do contain hidden messages.

From: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

I hit send. "Space doss!" I mumbled and banged my head on the desk several times after looking at the clock. It was after two in the morning. Feeling terrible, I went to bed.

When I awoke, my tablet had a message from Adrian.

To: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

As you wish. Ten hundred hours.

From: Lieutenant Commander Shrader

My face was red when I entered the kitchen for breakfast.

Alexa laughed when she saw me. "Did you wake someone else last night?"

"I forgot what time it was and sent Adrian an urgent message ... sometime after two."

"I'm sure he and the others won't mind when they hear your news."

Feeling antsy, I said goodbye and left early for work. When I arrived, everyone was already there.

Adrian smiled. "Good morning, Anna, or is it afternoon by your clock?"

"Sorry. I woke my mother too." I felt my cheeks burning.

"Well, since we’re all here, why don't we adjourn to the conference room and hear your exciting news?"

"Anna, I don't have any proof of anything," Rich whispered as we entered the room.

I winked at him but said nothing. When everyone had sat, I began. "Rich ran our three puzzles against the X-series decipher programs, and X25 produced the following strings of what appear to be random numbers." I then displayed the results on the room monitor and sent them to their individual tablets.

Eastar: 9*151(3#44$20)5*1h

Stone Ring: 6*24/5(23)34/4*3z

Holy Star: 11*215%1&32#39%5*8w

"Last night I was wondering why and whether other puzzle messages would produce similar results. They did and they didn't." I then displayed and sent last night’s results.

Eastar:                                                        Stone Ring:                                          Holy Star:

6#231[3#24%20]5$1a                 1&175%1&82#9%5$3d              8!15$1&28(39)2&8m

6%14/5(23)34/4$3k       3$11(1#49%50)5*1f            7#81(3#12$20)3%1s

5$151(3#66$40)5&1w   4&51(5$14(80&2)8r            1&201(8#1#25)1$1o

"I understand the did but not the didn't part," Adrian said to nodding heads.

"Look closely." I waited more than twenty minutes while the team studied the strings of characters.

"Do you mean the asterisks?" Kris finally asked. "The messages we think are real have them, but the others don't. And they’re always at the beginning and end."

"Correct. That led me to assume the asterisks had a specific meaning and also signaled a meaningful string." I waited for comments but got none. "What if the asterisks are really periods?" I put up the new strings:

Eastar:               9.151(3#44$20)5.1h

Stone Ring:               6.24/5(23)34/4.3z

Holy Star:               11.215%1&32#39%5.8w

"That takes care of two symbols, but what about the others?" Rich asked the obvious question on everyone's mind.

"Since they appear random, I assumed they all stood for the same symbol." I waited and when I didn't hear any comment, I continued. "A space or simply a separator." I put up the modified strings:

Eastar: 9.151 3 44 20 5.1

Stone Ring: 6.24 5 23 34 4.3

Holy Star: 11.215 1 32 39 5.8

"That doesn't help!" Kris said in frustration. "Only Red knows what you’re getting at!" She quipped to general smiles.

"What if I add?" I then put up the strings with the words that went with them.

Eastar: 9.151 degrees 3 hour 44 minutes 20 seconds 5.1 astronomical units

Stone Ring: 6.24 degrees 5 hour 23 minutes 34 seconds 4.3 astronomical units

Holy Star: 11.215 degrees 1 hour 32 minutes 39 seconds 5.8 astronomical units

"They're the rendezvous coordinates!" Adrian and Kris screamed together.

"In h, Safe Harbor, z, Zespar, and w, Westar," Rich said after looking at his notes.

"So the Controller sends a puzzle with some details we haven't decoded yet to someone with a spacecraft to meet someone at the designated coordinates. Presumably for a meeting with the raiders to relay the message, which we can assume contains information about the target." Adrian diagrammed it on his tablet, which he linked to ours. "Obviously, we should tell Rawls and Stauffer, but before we do, does anyone have any suggestion as to our next step?"

"I vote for anything except going along in a space submarine to those coordinates," Kris said. "My future husband is not on one of those flying prisons."

"I think they’re going to want to see what's at those coordinates, and if there’s a WavCom near, I think they’ll want us to search it," Adrian said. "Great work, Anna. I think you’re the only one on the team with the background to recognize those numbers as vector and astronomical units. You too, Rich. You had the sense to recognize something wasn't right and bring it to the team's attention. That's important. The team needs to chase every lead or anomaly. They won't all turn out, but if we don't, we're liable to miss the one that could lead us to the raiders." Adrian rose. "Stand by while I update Stauffer."

"What you people do is scary. No wonder you caught the smugglers and the raiders want you dead," Rich said into the silence.

"Us dead. You just gave them reason to want you dead," Kris said. "If you hadn't run the X-series programs and hadn't the sense to know something wasn't right, Anna might never have found those coordinates. We work as a team, and there are no bad ideas, only ones that don't work out."

"Kris, if they want one of us to go to those coordinates, I could go and you could—"

"Go with you. We're the girl team." She laughed. "I don't like space submarines, but I have to admit they treat us like VIPs: dining with the captain, unrestricted access to the Bridge, senior officer's quarters, and the run of the ship. We're on the fast track, even if it's a bit slippery."

"Thank you." I knew she was doing it mostly for my sake. She already had enough awards to stay on the fast track to admiral: Navy Distinguished Service Medal, crew duty on a cruiser, battle ribbons, and Purple Hearts.

"Besides, who would look after Red if you upset some admiral or other?" Kris went on to tell the story of Sharat and me.

"Now I see what Adrian means about you two being ..."

"Insane? If we are, we're happy nuts," Kris said as Adrian appeared.

"Stauffer says for us to continue doing whatever we're doing. He needs to brief Rawls, who will undoubtedly want to pass it up the chain of command. I suggest we continue working on the messages, unless someone has a better idea."

No one did.

I decided to go home and continue working on the puzzle messages, because finding the coordinates had confirmed my feeling that another message was hidden in the puzzle. How else would the pirates know what the Controller wanted? I said my goodbyes and left with my marine security detail.

* * *

When I arrived for our normal scheduled conference, we were directed to Admiral Rawls’ conference room, where MacLin, Thayer, Hardgrave, and Pannell were waiting along with Rawls.

"You have everyone excited," Rawls began after we had taken seats. "Best case scenario, we'll find the raiders at those locations. Worst case, we're one step closer to finding them. Admiral Bell has directed the taskforce to check out each of those coordinates and would like someone from the NIA team to accompany them. He feels you might find the raiders, or it might trigger some hunch to pursue if no one is in the area. He has convinced the UAS Security Commission to make your P1A access permanent until the raiders are found and destroyed. Captain MacLin, when can you be ready to leave?"

"We could leave within twenty-four hours." MacLin received nods of agreement from his fellow captains.

"If you don't mind, Admiral Rawls, I would like to discuss it among my teammates," Adrian said.

"Alright. Although everyone is excited to know what’s at those coordinates, the raiders may be long gone, or it may be a permanent base. Either way, a few days won't matter. Let Captain MacLin know when you decide." Rawls rose, signaling the end of the meeting.

* * *

"Pros and cons as I see it," Adrian began after we had returned to our area, "together, we might see something one of us would miss like with Rich's X25 anomaly, but it would put us all at risk, with no one to continue the work if something happened. A new team would take years to come up to speed and might not have the insights we have developed. Of course, it's probably dangerous here on Oxax as well. The raiders certainly know where our home office is located." Adrian looked at each of us before continuing. "I'm sure you’ve given it some thought, so who would like to stay here?"

Adrian was right. I had given it a great deal of thought, as I was sure the others had. My biggest concern was leaving Alexa with the worry I caused her, but she wouldn't want me to stay home on her account—keeping in touch would be sufficient. And I loved being on a cruiser, being part of the team, and chasing the raiders—so I wanted to go.

When no one said anything, Adrian smiled.

"I guess we’re all going. The next decision is who goes on which cruisers?"

"I suggest we split up like before, just in case ..." Kris left off, the cruiser we're on gets destroyed. "And let MacLin decide."

"Alright, I'll let MacLin know and contact you with the details."

* * *

I reported to the Vulcan two days later. MacLin had decided Kris and I would start on the Vulcan but transfer to the Lapis if we decided to visit any planets. Adrian and Rich would stay on the Cabiri.

After showing my ID to the Lieutenant on duty, I entered the loading bay and found Major Pannell waiting for me.

"Good morning, Commander Paulus, I'm here to escort you to your assigned quarters. I understand Commander Sinclair is arriving on the next shuttle."

"Good morning, Major Pannell. You must be busy with your new security detail."

"Yes, I have forty-one marines: a detail of ten for each of the four of you and a lieutenant as my second-in-command. She's currently responsible for the two details on the Cabiri. I'm staying on the Vulcan with my exciting high-risk duet." He grinned.

"Hopefully for Kris's sake, it will be a boring cruise: we go to the coordinates, the raiders surrender, and we return home."

Pannell laughed. "What about for your sake?" He sounded genuinely interested.

"I've come to accept ... excitement as part of my destiny. What worries me is that the people I love are exposed to danger because of me."

"I'm here to minimize the excitement so that neither you nor anyone with you is harmed." He looked at the two corporals behind us. "The men and women guarding you know you're an extra high-risk person and to be alert at all times. In fact, one of the reasons you haven't seen much of me is because we’ve been undergoing some additional training by the UAS Secret Service on what to look for when guarding an individual." He stopped at a door in the hallway to the Bridge and nodded. "The Captain has taken very good care of you and your partner."

I put my hand against the hand plate, and the door slid open to reveal a spacious room by cruiser standards, with a single bed and a fresher, no doubt a full commander's quarters. My suitcase already stood against one wall.

I had just stored my things when my PCD displayed a message from MacLin to join him in his office. When I exited, Kris was just leaving her room next door.

"Going my way?" she quipped. "For all the time I'm getting on cruisers, I might as well have volunteered for cruiser duty."

"But then you would be in smaller quarters, never getting time on the Bridge or dining with the captain—and you wouldn’t be nanny to a red-headed krait."

"True. Hi, Red," she said as Red made his way out of my blouse and around my neck. "I would never have met you, and I wouldn’t be on the slippery slope they call the fast track." She laughed and linked her arm in mine.

The guard at MacLin's office opened the door when he saw us coming. Inside we braced to attention and saluted.

"Relax and get yourself something to drink. I understand that Commander Shrader wants to visit the coordinates in Safe Harbor first, then Westar, and Zespa last."

"Right, the coordinates were from the Controller in Eastar, which was the most recent raid," Kris said.

"What do you expect to find at these coordinates?"

"Nothing," I said, and I could feel my cheeks heat with embarrassment.

"Why not?" MacLin frowned.

"If it were a permanent base of operations, then the Controller wouldn't have to send the coordinates. He has to send them because it changes periodically, maybe after a delivery—or it might just be a drop-off point for the messenger. In either case, they’ll be long gone."

"Then why go?"

"I agree with Anna, but we have to follow every lead. Most will lead nowhere, but if we don't, we might miss the one that does lead to results," Kris interjected, to my relief.

"Or hope the raiders aren't as logical as you and we catch them sleeping." MacLin grinned. "Travel time should be two days to Safe Harbor, three to Westar, and six to Zespa."

* * *

"Sixteen days including the time back to Oxax!" Kris said as we sat in the captain's conference room examining the puzzle messages for some anomaly that would lead to breaking the code. "Sixteen days I could be searching the Oxax Officer's Club for the father of my children."

"Is that how you find a mate?" I wasn't sure if I ever would be, but it was good information for when I was ready.

"Yes and No. You frequent places where you’re comfortable and hope one of the men you meet will turn out to be the one. I'm not comfortable with the men one meets at bars or places where crews frequent on shore leave. Sometimes you can meet the right man at work, but I'm never there!" She gave an exaggerated sigh. "Instead, I'm on a cruiser with men who I refuse to consider because they're like gypsies."

"I wonder where someone with a permanently attached venomous snake goes to find a man." I had intended it as a joke, but it did hit home. I wasn't interested in looking right now, but what about when I was? I could feel Kris's deep sympathy as she struggled to come up with an answer.

"Red found you when you needed him, and the right man will find you when the time is right."

"Thanks, Kris. That's not only a comforting thought but no crazier than Red seeking me out in the snow." The thought actually cheered me up, and I turned back to reviewing the puzzle messages.

INTERLUDE

Oxax: A deal they can't refuse.

"Brett, how are you doing? Cody asked as they stood in the bathroom attached to a backroom in the High Roller's nightclub.

"The damn cards have turned to shit. I was ahead at least eighteen thousand but my cards have gone sour over the past hour and that last hand killed me. That friggin’ merchant from Holy Star went all-in and I had to give a twenty thousand marker to see him. I couldn't let him have the pot when ten thousand of it was my credits and I had a full house, queens over sevens. That was the best hand all evening. So I signed a twenty thousand credit marker. The bastard had kings over fives. Where in hades am I going to get twenty thousand credits? These guys aren't going to let me pay in installments." He choked out a laugh. "They would grow grey waiting for me to pay off that kind of money. I don't guess you’ve won enough to help pay it off?" He stood looking at his bloodshot eyes in the mirror. It had been a long night. They had been playing for more than twenty hours.

Cody laughed. "I've had to sign two ten thousand credit markers to keep playing. Like you, I knew I couldn't pay off the first marker so I signed the second, hoping to get lucky. When we were winning at the blackjack table, it seemed like a good idea to join the poker table for some real money."

"Too much free alcohol makes you feel invincible. If we could get back to the ship ..."

"I agree, brig time looks pretty good right now." Cody looked around the room, hoping for a window to freedom.

Solid walls stared back. The only door led into the card room, where certain catastrophe awaited. When they walked back in, the four other players had left and only the dealer and the three security men remained.

"I've paid off your markers, as the men were anxious to get back to their ship, which is due to leave in a few hours. So if you'll settle up, we can call it a night," the dealer said. He was a tall wiry man with space-cold eyes.

The security men didn't look like typical bouncers—big muscle-bound men with scarred faces. These men had athletic builds and each had a multifunctional gun at his waist. As marines, Brett and Cody recognized cold-blooded killers—men who enjoyed killing—when they saw them.

"We don't have it," Cody said, thinking it was better to get it out right away.

"Now that’s a shame," the dealer said. "I'm out forty thousand credits. That's a lot of money. I should let my men make you suffer like I'm going to suffer losing all that money, but that won't get me my forty thousand. Sorry, the only thing you have of value is your body parts, probably not worth forty thousand but maybe ten to fifteen each."

"It's there something else we could do ... smuggling, maybe?" Brett's face was pale and sweat stained his armpits. He wasn't afraid of dying in a fight where he had a chance, but knowing he was going to be butchered for body parts generated a fear he had never experienced before.

"What ship are you currently serving on?" the dealer asked, looking interested.

"The Vulcan," Brett said, feeling a slight glimmer of hope.

"Cody?"

"The Vulcan."

"We might be able to reach an agreement if you're clever, greedy, and risk takers."

"We're marines!" Cody said, thinking that would satisfy the dealer.

"I've a proposition for one or both of you. I want someone killed and could buy a couple of good assassins for forty thousand credits. In your case forty thousand plus your lives. But I personally don't know if I can trust you not to renege on our deal, thinking I couldn't or wouldn't chase you down and kill you."

"You can trust us," Cody said, willing to agree to anything that got them out of this room.

"That proves my point. You're too fast to agree without knowing who or where or when." He smiled. "Don't underestimate me. If we can't agree, I'll kill you painlessly and take your saleable body parts. If you agree and then renege, I'll spend whatever it takes to find you, but then I'll be in a bad mood and will kill everyone you hold dear before I brutally kill you. That's lots of body parts, which will make it worth the effort and expense."

Cody and Brett paled as the gravity of their situation struck home. Neither man had any doubts the dealer would carry out his threat. He meant it. He would do just what he said, and if there had been any doubt, one look at his security men erased it.

"Who?" Brett asked, feeling sick.

"Let me sweeten the pot, give you a reason to want to honor your oath to me—one million credits each. Half immediately as a token of good faith and the other half when you succeed." The dealer smiled as the two marines' expressions turned from fear to smiles. "Enough to leave the marines and live happily ever after ... or join us and get even richer."

"A half million each in advance?" Cody asked.

"Yes."

Cody looked at Brett, who nodded. "You have a deal. Who?"

"Two NIA agents are joining the Vulcan. You're to kill or permanently disable them. When you do, the other half million will be deposited into your account."

* * *

"I thought they would kill us," Brett said as they sat in an upscale nightclub later that night.

"That was an elaborate setup. They knew we were marines stationed on the Vulcan ten minutes after we walked into that nightclub." Cody picked up his glass, sniffed it, and then took a drink. "And greedy."

"True, but this is like dying and waking up in paradise. Until they call us back from shore leave, we have our choice of women, booze, and accommodations. And—"

"And if we live through the experience, a life of excesses." Cody took another drink from his glass and sighed with pleasure. "I never thought I could afford a glass of New Orkney Malt Scotch. The women we're used to don’t cost as much as this glass of whiskey. It’s brewed with the same formula and process as a famous Scotch whiskey brewed on old Earth a thousand years ago."

"Shore leave isn't going to last forever, so let’s find some high-class women to match your high-class whiskey."

* * *

"What have you learned?" Brett asked as they sat alone in their four-man room three days later.

"The dealer was right. Two Lieutenant Commanders came aboard yesterday. They're from the Oxax NIA office. The problem is that new group of marines under Major Pannell is their security. If they leave the ship, they have two marines guarding each one, and while on the Vulcan, they always have at least one marine each. They even have a guard at their door while they’re in their quarters," Cody said, rubbing his chin.

"Explains the reason he’s paying two million credits."

"The problem isn't going to be killing them. The problem is going to be getting away with it long enough to spend our hard-earned reward."

Brett nodded agreement. "Fortunately there’s no time limit. We need to establish their routine and then develop a workable plan, because not trying isn't an option. It's all or nothing." Brett held out his fist and Cody touched his to it.

"Rich or dead."

* * *

"I've come to the conclusion they don't have a schedule. They eat in the Mess usually but not always, use the firing range daily but at odd times, have access to the Bridge, and use the captain's conference room. That's probably the place they spend the most time," Brett said as he and Cody sat eating breakfast early one morning.

"That's the place where they’re together, only have two guards, and the area has the least traffic," Cody said.

"They’ll still have a guard outside the door and one inside. And sometimes Pannell stays with them in the conference room."

"Pannell would be a problem, but the outside guard isn't going to be suspicious if he’s approached by a marine ... with a message for someone. And if a marine opens the door, then the inside guard will hesitate long enough so we can kill him. I doubt the women carry their weapons into the conference room to work, but even if they do, the two of us should be faster than navy officers." Cody laughed. "They would need to stand, take a shooting position, and aim before firing. Anyway, we’ll be wearing vests in case they get lucky."

"All right, we just need to pick a time when Pannell is busy in the marine area."

CHAPTER EIGHT

The Vulcan: Good days and bad days

I sat on the Bridge with Kris as we approached the coordinates we had deciphered from the Eastar puzzle message.

"No sign of activity, Captain," said Lieutenant Commander Childs, the radar operator.

"Any suggestions?" MacLin asked, looking back to where we sat.

"How far are we from the nearest moon-sized object?" I asked out of curiosity.

"Radar?"

"There’s a small uninhabited planet about two light seconds away. According to Holy Star's directory, it's named Cobalt."

"Can we take a look?" I asked.

MacLin nodded. "Nav, plot a course to Cobalt."

"Vector on the Helm's board. Approximately two hours and five minutes at five hundred gravs."

"Helm, execute the vector at five hundred gravs." MacLin turned back to us. "Expect anything there?"

"No, sir. Just one of those stones we can't leave unturned without risking missing the one with the prize," Kris said, mimicking my thoughts.

"Comm, notify the Lapis and Cabiri we're going to inspect Cobalt."

The three cruisers circled the planet twice with all sensors active but found no sign of activity—just a cold pock-marked rock.

"Onto Westar?" MacLin asked.

"Yes, sir," Kris said after seeing me nod.

* * *

"Look at this." Kris slid her tablet in my direction.

I looked down at the screen and recognized a similar collection of what looked like random sets of two and three characters that I had found on one of my attempts.

"They must be using a different language." After a few minutes scanning the page, I leaned over and gave her a tight hug. "You're a genius! You've solved—" I shouted just as the conference room door opened.

Our inside guard's hand went toward his weapon but stopped when a marine uniform appeared. A scream stuck in my throat as a laser burned a line from his eye to his temple.

Panic surged through me as I twisted Kris out of the chair and onto the floor and struggled to get my gun free.

The chair saved us. A laser beam sliced through the padding and upper portion of the frame.

I had just gotten my shard gun free when a second marine came in holding the body of our outside guard. He slammed the door shut, disrupting the shooter, and dropped the body, which hit the floor with a sickening thud.

"The bitches are under the conference table on the left side," the first man said, sounding amused. He suddenly appeared from around the table, grinning as he searched for us.

I shot him in the chest. He recoiled backward into the wall. Surprisingly, he didn't collapse but rotated to the left and out of sight.

"They're wearing protective vests," I whispered to Kris who now had her laser out and pointing under the table toward the other side of the room. She fired twice when the other man crouched to look under the table. Unfortunately, there were too many chairs in the way for a clean shot.

"That second bitch has a laser," the other man screamed as he jerked back up and took several steps backward, looking at the laser burn on his sleeve.

"We haven't got time for this, Brett," the first one said, and I heard someone jump onto the table and move slowly toward us.

"Make a noise on the other side," I whispered to Kris as I thumbed the spread on my shard gun to medium and threw Red to her.

Kris nodded as she swept Red under her, swiveled on her side, and slashed out with a leg, kicking one of the chairs.

As she made contact, I rolled out until I could see the man standing on the table. He had reacted to the chair moving and was now facing away from me.

I shot just as he began to turn in my direction and then rolled again as I heard the humming of a laser discharging and smelled burning wood next to me. When I looked up, the man stood there rubbing blood out of his eyes. My wider spread had caught him in his unprotected face, neck, and arms, just as I had hoped. I thumbed the spread to tight-beam and shot at his head.

His laser discharged. The beam sliced just above my head as the man was propelled backward over the table, crashing onto the chairs.

"Cody!" Brett shouted, backing toward the door. He couldn't leave, as we knew his name. With Cody dead, this particular Brett would be easy to identify. I guess he decided his best chance—his only chance—was to kill us and make up some story about trying to stop his friend from killing us, because he bent down and began removing our marine guard's multifunctional weapon from his dead hand.

"Kris," I hissed, pointing under the table and making a kicking motion with my leg. She nodded and slid a little closer to the chair and looked to me.

Just then, Brett jumped onto the table and began spraying the table and chairs, laughing as he walked.

"I'm going to send you bitches back to whatever black god sent you. You owe me one million credits worth of pleasure. When I'm finished, your mothers won't recognize—"

I nodded to Kris and rolled to a kneeling position as a chair shot out the other side of the table.

Brett's weapon swept in the direction of the noise, shredding the chair.

I fired three shots in the direction of his head. The first shot spun him around and his weapon on automatic spewed pellets across the ceiling. The second caught him in the face and blood sprayed in a halo-effect as he continued to spin. My third shot missed, gouging out a piece of the wall.

He collapsed face down on the table. A deathly silence descended on the room.

Kris lay there, one hand holding Red to her side and her other arm over her eyes.

I knelt there not breathing, just listening with my gun frozen in my hand. I don't know how long it was before I realized I wasn't breathing and sucked in a deep breath.

"Kris, are you all right?"

"No. Are you?"

"No." I crawled over to Kris and put my arm around her.

"Aren't we safe anywhere?"

"Yes, with each other," I said, thankful I had met Kris and she had become like family—an older sister I could trust. I smiled as I felt Red enter my sleeve. I wasn't sure what relation Red was, but he was definitely family.

"Yes. We make a good team, little sister." She squeezed my arm.

I don't know how long we lay there—spent, exhausted, happy to be alive—when the door burst open. Neither of us moved. Either it was the troops to the rescue or we were going to die.

"Anna, Kris!" Pannell's voice seemed to echo off the walls after the long silence.

"Over here," Kris's voice was surprisingly normal.

A second later, Pannell pulled a chair aside and knelt near us. "Medics!" he shouted. "Have you been shot? Can you move?" His voice trembled with concern.

"No to both questions," Kris said, with a hint of amusement. "Just turn out the lights, I think we'll sleep here tonight."

"What happened?" MacLin roared from the doorway. "Are they dead?" His voice was closer this time.

"No. I don't know how, but I think they're unhurt, although emotionally exhausted," Pannell said.

MacLin knelt so he could see us. "Doesn't that krait bother you, Sinclair?" He sounded nervous.

When I looked, Red was lying with his head between us.

"No, I'm his nanny when Anna acts wild." She giggled, and I felt the pent up stress begin to ease. "Sorry for the mess we made, Captain. I'm afraid the party got out of hand."

"That's alright. I was getting tired of the gray walls, and the beige chairs were old." He stood. "Get Doctor Renata—and get stretchers to take these two to sick bay."

"Who are the dead marines, Pannell?"

"Two are the security guards assigned to watch Commanders Paulus and Sinclair. The other two are Cody Jaeger and Brett Trout, assigned to the Vulcan. Third tour marines. Cody was reduced in rank once. Brett was Cody's cohort."

"I want to know why, Paul. I don't care what you've to do to find out. Those two women are hot on the trail of those raiders, and right now catching them is number one on my to-do-before-I-die list."

"Yes, sir."

* * *

Doctor Renata examined both of us, gave us each a shot of something, and I don't remember anything after that. When I woke it was dark. Of course, that only meant the lights were off.

"Lights," I said, and the room lit. Then I remembered Kris was in the same room.

"Hi, Anna. I guess that wasn't a bad dream, since we're sleeping in the same room and it smells like sick bay."

"Good morning, ladies," Renata said as she opened the door to the room. "I see you're awake. How do you feel?"

"Like I want to go to the firing range," Kris said, and I didn't detect any amusement.

"You've had a very bad experience. You might want to talk with a professional."

"Talking won't help. I'm past worrying. I'm past being scared. I'm even past being angry. I'm into screaming mad. We're going to find those raiders and let MacLin, Thayer, and Hardgrove send them to perdition."

"I think I hear my favorite snoops," MacLin said as he approached the room, knocked, and opened the door after I indicated he could enter. "You find them and I'll take care of their transportation." He laughed.

Pannell entered just behind him. "Can you tell me what happened? From the look of the captain's conference room, it's a miracle you're alive."

"We were sitting in the conference room working on the puzzle messages. One guard had stayed in the hallway and one was in the room with us when ..." Kris went on to detail the events—between interruptions from Pannell with questions to me.

"I guess our two would-be assassins assumed two female NIA agents would be easy kills." Pannell shook his head. "I think we should keep the details a secret. No sense giving the raiders helpful information. The two men you killed each had just under a half million credits in an Oxax bank, obviously a down payment, judging by what you heard Brett say. So the contract was for two million, one million each."

"I'm not sure I like being worth more dead than Red is alive," Kris said, looking at me.

"You shouldn't. One hundred thousand credits attracted all sorts of professional criminals, but at least they had to be careful not to kill Red. These bounty hunters don't have that problem."

"Maybe you should wear a vest. It would protect you as well as Red." Pannell stood there looking thoughtful.

"Let's just catch the bastards," Kris said, and for a second she looked on the verge of tears.

"I know it's a little late, but I'm enlarging your security detail on board," Pannell said. "I'm afraid I thought the cruiser safe ... If you would feel better, I'll have your security guards' rooms—"

"No." I looked to Kris, who shook her head. "Two marines died protecting us. Let's not tarnish their deaths by questioning the other guards' honesty. I don't imagine you've anyone on your team who has a blemish of any kind on their record."

"Thank you. You're right, every one of your security guards has an outstanding service record." Pannell left, closing the door behind him.

"I'm starved. Let's get something to eat before we get back to work." Kris stood and began getting dressed.

When we left the room, four guards fell in behind us. The mess hall was not crowded, as it was close to closing time, but we got stares and heard whispered conversations from those who were there.

About halfway through our breakfast, Kris stopped eating.

"What did you mean when you said 'You're a genius!' just before ... we were interrupted?" Kris gave me a wry smile. "I've always thought I was, but you're the first to recognize it."

"You figured out the puzzle's code."

"I did?"

"You said it looked like they were using a different language. Take a look at this and tell me what you see. Take your time." I typed out a line and sent it to her tablet:

Lan( gua &ge di $ff ere #nt a) u-s *mu =st #th *ey.

"Looks like the garbage in the puzzle message," Kris said after playing with it for several minutes. "But if I remove the special characters ... and spaces, it becomes words ... a sentence if you read right to left!

Language different a use must they

"Correct. Except they didn't use UAS standard for the message, they used old-Latin. It was used in the Free Peoples Union in the early years. In fact, their current standard language is a derivation of old Latin. They used old-Latin, reversed the order, broke it into two and three letters, and then added non-Latin characters to further confuse the connection. For my example, I used special characters as non-meaningful ones, but they used G, J, U, W, and Y, which aren't part of the old-Latin alphabet."

"So you can decipher the message?"

"If I'm right, then yes." I was yanked out of my chair and dragged several steps before she stopped so suddenly I ran into her. "Where are we going?"

"I was heading for the conference room ..."

"All right with me. They must have made it functional by now." Except for all the holes, I mused.

"You're crazy." Her gaze went off into space.

"Adrian says we're both crazy." On reflection, I had to admit he might be right.

"I'm beginning to believe him. Okay." Her face stiffened in determination. "It will be worth it if we’ve cracked the code."

When we reached the conference room, a guard stood in front of the door.

"Commanders, Captain MacLin says you are welcome to use his office until the conference room is repaired." He walked down to MacLin's office door and opened it for us.

"Thank you, Sergeant," Kris said.

But before she could enter, one of the corporals in our security detail stepped inside, looked around, and then nodded for us to enter. Two guards stayed outside and two came in.

I made myself my moo-coffee drink and Kris poured a cup of regular coffee. "All right, let me watch so I understand."

I brought up one of the puzzle messages, removed all the non-Latin characters, removed all the spaces, then broke the string into meaningful Latin words and finally reversed the sentences to read left to right.

"There," I said when I had finished.

"Very funny," she punched me on the shoulder. "Or do I have to get physical to get a translation?"

"Red wouldn’t like that." I grinned. "All right, but just to keep our guards from having to report you for striking an officer." I noticed the guards trying to repress a laugh. I spent the next half hour translating the text. "This is a close approximation," I said and sent my translation to Kris's tablet.

Have contestant winner. Person identified fifty paintings and six admirers. Art worth ten each. Expect West courier post for two hundred 83.223.45.13 at 44.8217 -64.0054.

"That's still a bit obscure unless you know what you’re looking for," Kris said, studying the translation. "The Controller found a client and the prizes are paintings worth ten ... million each or five hundred million. Sender is expecting a courier at Westar to post what, where? A date or meeting place?"

"I think to post a date on the Eastar Internet using the protocol 83.223.45.13 for a rendezvous at latitude 44.8217 and longitude -64.0054 at two hundred hours."

"They're a cautious bunch and not taking any chances in case someone should decode the message. This method maintains everyone's secrecy. I suspect the courier, who takes the puzzle message to the raiders, doesn't know the message, sender, or the raiders. He's just a messenger. Conversely, I doubt he knows the code to determine the date or who the date message is for, since they’re using the Internet." Kris nodded. "We're a step or two closer but still several steps from catching them."

MacLin entered as we were discussing our next move. "How is the puzzle going?" he asked as he poured a glass of wine and smiled. "I'm off shift."

"We’ve decoded the puzzle, thanks to Anna. I think it confirms we aren't going to find anything at Westar or Zespar and should probably return to Oxax. We need to see if we can pinpoint their couriers while we wait for another raider ad."

"What does it say?" he asked, and I could feel his excitement.

Kris handed him her tablet with the translation.

He stood there with a far away look for a long time. "So if we get another puzzle message, we'll at a minimum know the area where they intend to land raiders and, therefore, the approximate location of the cruiser ... but not the date they’ll show up. And it seems likely they have three UAS merchants and three Free Peoples' cruisers involved."

"That's our current thinking," Kris said. "I think we should stop in Oxax and check in with Admiral Rawls and Commodore Stauffer."

I liked that idea, thinking a search for the courier would be more productive, and as a bonus, I would be home and causing Alexa less stress.

* * *

"That's great news," Rawls said on hearing we had cracked the raiders' puzzle code.

"It is, and it moves us one step closer to the raiders, but the translation only tells us how they operate. Unfortunately, we need another robbery ... well another ad, since we know their puzzle code," Adrian said, summarizing our team’s discussion prior to the meeting.

"Then I have good news for you. I received a message from the NIA office on New Zheng that they had identified a similar ad and had answered it—"

"Stop them!" I blurted and felt my cheeks burning. I knew I should apologize but wasn't sure what to say other than I thought it wasn't a good idea, now that we had broken their code.

"Why, Paulus?" Rawls asked, frowning at me. "It was what you asked them to do if they found a similar ad."

"Yes, ma'am. Before we broke the code it was our only option. But they obviously know we know about the ads, yet they’re still running them ... I think it's dangerous. They're well organized, sophisticated, and evil." I knew those weren't the right words to convey my concerns. I just knew it wasn't the smart thing to do, although I wasn't sure why.

"Anna, I think you’re reacting to your two previous attacks, and I don't blame you. Commander Whaley's a good man. You'll get your puzzle message, and he'll be able to catch the Controller and the thugs he has working with him. And no one will have to die, since the target won't be real."

I looked to Kris for support, but she shook her head almost imperceptibly. I wanted to scream and argue but remembered that same feeling with Captain Sharat—and the result. I didn't have the right words then or now. "Yes, ma'am," I mumbled, knowing I wasn't going to win an argument with an admiral. I shut my eyes and reached up and stroked Red.

"All right, Operation Winner's a go. I'll inform you when a puzzle message has been sent, and we'll continue to monitor the other systems. That was great work," Rawls said as she rose and exited the room.

Stauffer dismissed us shortly after saying we had earned a rest and should take the next two weeks off. Back in the office, I collected my weapon and was getting ready to leave when Kris came up to me and put her arm around my shoulder.

"Sorry, Anna. You did the right thing. There was nothing you or I could have said to change Rawls’s mind. She has decided to make the team's decisions, and it would have been Sharat all over again." Kris gave me a squeeze. "Adrian and I would have supported you. I think you're right. The raiders aren't stupid, and they're vindictive."

"I think I just learned adult speak, but I'm not sure I like it."

"All you can do is to give your superiors your best advice. The smart ones will listen, although they might not follow your suggestion. Like you, they have to follow their intuition. We can cross our fingers and hope she's right, or at least that no one is harmed."

"Thanks, Kris. I hope you make some progress finding the father of your future children."

"With the Vulcan, Lapis, and Cabiri on station, I think I need a vacation upcountry or back on Eastar to get away from officers who like space submarines and have a girl in every system." She laughed. "Unfortunately, you can't hunt down the right one. He has to find you."

I cheered up while flying, at the thought of being home—my refuge from thinking about the future. When I arrived, Alexa was already there, which meant she had left work early.

She said nothing when I entered the house, just grabbed me in a tight hug, tears streaming down her cheeks. "I know you said you weren't hurt, but ..."

"I'm sorry ... I could quit ..."

"No. I was meant to be a cruiser captain, and you were meant to chase evil people. I think that’s why you have Red," she said, surprising me.

It sounded both ridiculous and reasonable at the same time. Kraits don't seek out people in the snow—they hibernate. He not only keeps me alive; he won't leave me. And I was convinced he helped me learn and understand, allowed me to sense people's feelings, and warned me against danger.

She finally ended our hug, sniffling. "I don't want you to be someone else. These are tears of joy that you're well and home for awhile."

"Thank you, Mother. As much as I love flying on cruisers and chasing bad guys, being home with you is where I'm the most at peace. If I ever get married, you might have to put up with a husband and kids in the house." I laughed.

"Gladly," she said, hooking her arm in mine and dragging me into the living room. "I want to hear all the gory details."

"The trip to Safe Harbor was boring, if you don't count dining with the captain, having commander's quarters, and access to the Bridge ... " I continued the story through dinner and well into the evening. "I agree with you, Mother. Red's no accident, and he does look after me in many ways."

* * *

When I reported back to work two weeks later, it was like we hadn't seen each other for years.

"Anna, I missed your urgent messages at two hundred hours," Adrian said when we gathered in the conference room.

"I'm bored. Even my marine security detail is bored." I pushed out my lower lip and crunched up my eyes in a good imitation of sulking.

"Don't even joke about that," Kris said. "I've just managed to get my mind free of that image of us under the conference room table and that madman on the table destroying the room."

"After seeing the pictures of that conference room, Rich and I have been at the firing range every day. The only things those shooters missed were the two of you."

"Maybe we should put Chief Ransom on our team," I quipped. "I took him to lunch last week and thanked him a couple of hundred times."

Pannell, who was sitting off to the side, nodded.

He had been along and had given Ransom a detailed accounting of the attack in the lobby. And, of course I had to elaborate on the conference room shootout. Our get together had lasted to near dinnertime and when I called Alexa, she had joined us and taken Ransom, Pannell, and me to the Aughoes, one of the oldest and most expensive restaurants on Oxax. It was a wonderful day.

"I'm thankful for the marine security," Adrian said, "but there’s no doubt we need to be capable of helping if necessary. By the way, Rich has been assigned to the Oxax office and is part of the team for the foreseeable future."

"Congratulations, Rich." Kris and I said together.

"I'll put you on my two hundred hours urgent message speed dial," I added.

"Thanks, Anna."

"I talked to Stauffer," Adrian continued. "He doesn't want to put us on anything while we await the outcome of Operation Winner. I told him we want to look at the merchants' itineraries to see if we can generate a list of potential raider's couriers. He agreed. I just received the last of my queries yesterday." He slid a flash-drive to each of us. "These contain all the merchants' activities from the date of the first puzzle message from Holy Star until one week ago."

"I guess I'm no longer bored." I was looking forward to analyzing the data.

"Keep in touch, and let's meet back here once each week."

* * *

I decided to leave the merchant problem until tomorrow and enjoy dinner and the evening relaxing with Alexa. The problem wasn't going to be solved in a few hours. There were four hundred and thirty merchants who made between forty and sixty stops a year, and we were looking at close to a year's activity. The best we could hope for was to narrow the list to twenty or thirty candidates.

After seeing Alexa off to work the next morning, I went into my home office and sat thinking. I had to narrow the list—almost twenty-one thousand visits—to something manageable, so I made a few assumptions:

1. There were three couriers—one in each of Master Puzzle's publication areas.

2. They were UAS registered merchants.

3. The ship had to be in its Master Puzzles area within a week of the monthly publication.

4. The ship had to stop at the raided planet between the publication date and one month afterward.

5. The ship spent seventy-five percent of its time in the Master Puzzles publication area.

That decided, I began my search of the Eastar Master Puzzle's area. Assumption one didn't eliminate anyone. It just focused the search within the five planets in that area. Assumption two only eliminated twenty-eight merchants and fourteen hundred entries. Assumption three, however, eliminated three hundred eighteen merchants and more than fourteen thousand entries, leaving only seventy-four merchants. Assumption four eliminated sixty-four merchants and almost four thousand entries. And I was pleased when assumption five left only three merchants: Star Trader, Easy Explorer, and Storm Runner. Then I realized I hadn't checked to see if any of the three had visited Safe Harbor, the indicated system for the coordinates. Only two, Star Trader and Easy Explorer, had during the thirty days after publication. That became the sixth assumption.

The next day, my assumptions generated similar results for the Holy Star area—two merchants—and Stone Ring area—three merchants. When I finished, I sent the team a message stating what I had found and the assumptions I had made and finished in time to wash and join Alexa for dinner.

"You look pleased with yourself," Alexa said as we took our places at the table.

"I managed to narrow the list of potential merchants working with the raiders to two or three in each of the Master Puzzle's publication areas. Once we get a puzzle message, I think our odds of identifying the specific merchant are high."

"No wonder the raiders fear you and your team. You really are like human bloodhounds." She laughed. "Pretty soon all the criminals are going to move to the FPU and PRS, because it isn't safe to operate in the UAS."

* * *

Three days before our third weekly meeting, I received a message from Adrian to report to the office the next day, which was a relief since I was getting bored even though the time home was wonderful. When I reported to work the next day, everyone was there and as anxious as I was to know the news.

"Stauffer asked me to call the team back early. Apparently, Admiral Rawls has received news from New Zheng. We're to meet with her at ten this morning," Adrian said as we sat. "Whatever it is, they're keeping it a secret."

"Rawls seems to have taken over the investigation." Kris frowned.

"I think she's like a shark that smells raider blood in the water. Catching the raiders certainly would be a major coup." Adrian gave a small grin.

I didn't say anything but I thought it wasn't blood but chum—bait for attracting sharks.

An hour later we assembled in Rawls’s conference room, and several minutes after that she appeared smiling.

"At ease, and take your seats. I just received word from Commander Whaley that he's been notified that he's a winner. It shouldn't be long before he gets to meet with the Controller," she said, and I could feel her excitement. "In addition, I've the puzzle message they sent yesterday—"

"They’re going to kill Whaley," I mumbled to myself, but my emotions overwhelmed me and it was loud enough to be heard by everyone.

"Paulus, I don't like being interrupted, and what's this nonsense about killing Whaley? He's not a child." She paused and looked away for a moment and the room seemed to contain only her and me. "I know you've been under unbelievable stress recently and it's beginning to affect your judgment. You need a well deserved rest." She looked to Stauffer. "Commodore, I would like you to put Commander Paulus on extended leave until she's cleared by our medical staff."

"Ma'am," Stauffer began but stopped when Rawls raised her hand.

"That's an order. This is not a punishment. I'm doing it for her sake."

"Ma'am, if you'll excuse me, since I'm obviously not fit for duty," I said at just about a whisper. Tears filled my eyes and memories of Doctor Browder flashed through my mind.

Rawls looked to be about to say something but changed her mind and just nodded.

I saluted—actually a farewell gesture because I wasn't coming back—and left. I went to our conference room, pulled out my tablet, and began typing. After making a couple of corrections, I sent it to the printer. The team had just entered the area when I collected my letter and signed it.

As they approached, I handed my letter to Adrian. "Adrian, as our team leader, I'm giving you my letter of resignation."

"You can't, Anna," Kris screamed. "I guess if you're unstable, I need to resign too, because I agree with you. Whaley's in danger. I just would have said it differently. Your observation hit a nerve. Rawls made the decision to go with Operation Winner and doesn't want to be told she's wrong or that it could cause Whaley's death."

"Anna, I also agree with you," said Adrian, "but resigning isn't the answer. The team won't be the same without you. Take some time off and go see the doctor. They'll see you're normal and you'll be back in no time."

"No, they’ll see what they want to see, like Doctor Browder did. They’ll spend months trying to convince me Rawls is right, that I have to be unstable because raiders are trying to kill me. Well, although I love being on the team, I won't submit to that for anyone. Besides, they would never trust me after that. They would always think they were right." I gave Kris a hug. "I love you." I turned and left.

* * *

I hadn't been home for more than an hour when Alexa arrived. To my surprise, she was smiling when she entered the living room where I was sitting, listening to music.

"I heard from Stauffer and Rawls and wouldn't be surprised to hear from Lultrel before the day is out."

"Do you think I'm unstable, Mother?" I asked, knowing I had made the right decision but feeling sorry for myself.

"The world should be so unstable." She sat and put her arm around me and pulled me close. I felt her unconditional love and relaxed. "Rawls wanted me to convince you to see the doctors 'for your sake'. I told her I thought you had made the right decision, that if she didn't trust you, then it was best for you to leave." She grinned.

Hearing that, all my pent up emotions faded, and I must have fallen asleep because when I woke the room was turning dark. Alexa still held me in her embrace and I felt at peace.

* * *

The next day the text messages began coming in. The first was from Rawls.

Rawls: Report to the office immediately.

Me: I'm no longer in the military. I resigned.

Rawls: You're still in the military. I haven't approved your resignation.

Me: Per your orders I can't return to work until the medical unit says I'm fit for duty.

Then later that morning from Stauffer.

Stauffer: Anna, we have the puzzle message.

Me: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair knows how to decode it.

Stauffer: She doesn't know how to translate it.

Me: I'm sure there are people at the Eteos University who can translate it.

Stauffer: Rawls doesn't want outsiders having access to the information.

Me: I can't. Admiral Rawls has declared me unfit for duty.

Stauffer: She was only thinking of your welfare.

Me: Then it's best I wait until the medical unit evaluates me.

Then it was Adrian.

Adrian: We miss you and believe you are right. Kris is considering putting in for a transfer. I would hate to see the team broken up, but I understand why you’re upset and I support you.

Me: Thank you, Adrian. I'm sorry, but Rawls gave me no choice. The shrinks would destroy me. Right now I'm at least a happy nut.

Then it was Kris's turn.

Kris: Little sister, how about lunch somewhere? I miss you.

Me: Love to.

We arranged to meet at a small restaurant on the outskirts of Eteos, close to where Kris had her condo. Kris picked a time after the normal lunch hour so it wouldn't be too crowded and we could talk. When I arrived, I found her already at a table. We hugged.

"It feels like when we lost Wilbur. No. Although I hate to admit it, it feels worse. I don't think any of us realized how close we've become," Kris said. "Sorry, It's not your fault. Adrian and I believe you're right to be worried, and wouldn't wager Commander Whaley wasn't in serious danger. But Rawls feels she's in charge ... well she is because she's our superior, but ..."

"I was wrong to say that. I didn't mean for it to, but I can see now that my comment threatened her ... judgment. The same as with Sharat. So maybe in a sense she's right: I'm unfit for the military."

"You're right for our team and you'll be right for the military as soon as you make admiral and don't have to worry about hurting people's feelings." She laughed.

Just then the waiter came over and we ordered. During lunch, Kris entertained me with stories about her trip back to Eastar to visit her family.

During dessert, I finally asked, "Would you like me to look at the puzzle message?"

"No, Rawls made the mess, let her clean it up. Actually, we know there’s nothing to translate, but we've kept it a secret within the team. The coordinates don't have the double asterisks, so there’s no message to deliver." She gave me an evil grin.

* * *

It was midafternoon and I was in my home office wondering what life after the NIA would be like when my tablet buzzed, indicating an urgent message. It was from Adrian.

Adrian: Commander Whaley and his three agents were killed. Office destroyed.

I sat there numb. Being right somehow didn't make the situation feel any less tragic. Lives needlessly wasted for what? Fame? Glory? The Fast Track? While I sat there numb, I heard Alexa enter the house.

"Anna?" she shouted.

"Upstairs, Mother," I answered, but stayed seated.

She looked flushed when she entered my office. "By the look of you, you've heard the news." She sat, awaiting my reaction.

"Yes. It's not much of a surprise. Their strategy for dealing with threats is to eliminate them—security guards at the robbery sites, the Oxax NIA team who were assigned to find them, and any others who interfere—like the New Zheng NIA office."

"Admiral Rawls came to see me today. She wanted me to convince you to talk with her. I told her it was your decision and I wouldn't interfere."

"Did she say what she wanted?" I was curious in spite of my anger.

"Rawls isn't a bad person. I believe she was genuinely concerned about you, but I'm afraid her rank, your age, and her eagerness to catch the raiders overcame her good judgment. It's what always concerned me about you dealing with senior officers. We're all fallible, Anna."

"Then you think I should talk to her?"

"I think you were right to refuse being examined by the psychiatric department. They would have seen you as the catch of the century and never let you go. You were right to resign. Besides, I love you. If you choose to talk with her, I'll accompany you if you want, but I'll support any decision you make."

* * *

The next morning I sent Rawls a message stating I would talk to her, but I wanted my mother present. She agreed. When Alexa and I arrived, Stauffer, Adrian, and Kris were already in her office.

"Thank you for coming, Anna. I did you and your team a great disservice and felt I owed you an apology and an explanation. You and your team have exceeded all of our expectations, and I thought you had the raiders all but caught. And rather than work with you to develop a strategy, I chose to take over and go for the kill." She paused as if considering her next words.

I couldn't help but interrupt, appropriate or not.

"Ma'am, I'm aware I do things that aren't correct military behavior and expect to be held accountable. If I deserve a reprimand or letter in my file, I'll understand. But I'll not submit to a medical evaluation by psychologists. I would be the prize of the century, given Red and all the attacks on my life. They would never let me go. They would destroy my life."

"Anna, I've talked with Sinclair and Shrader several times since then and realize your team is unique: you've no official team leader; you follow up on anything one of you wants; you consider everyone equal in rank and talent; and you’re sensitive to each other's needs. For example, your outbursts. They've pointed out that those are almost always sudden insights which you can't control and which they pay attention to because they lead to breakthroughs. So in a sense, the whole team is unstable by normal navy standards. And yet, you've become the go-to team when we need the best in the UAS, like now. I've come to the conclusion that if I want the best out of you, I'll need to work with you differently. I also had a long conversation with Doctor Renata, who's qualified as a psychologist. She assures me you're surprisingly stable considering everything that has happened to you over the years and recently. So what if I make her your psychologist when a situation arises that requires you to see one?" She smiled.

"Yes, ma'am. Doctor Renata has always treated me as a person and not a freak to be studied. Thank you, ma'am." I felt a huge relief and felt myself relax.

She sighed. "Anna, if you still want to resign, I'll sign your resignation."

I looked to Kris and Adrian, who were shaking their heads. Just then Red made an appearance, wrapping himself around my neck and brushing my cheek with his tongue. I guessed that was his way of agreeing. "No, ma'am, I would like to stay, and I'll report to Doctor Renata for my evaluation."

Rawls laughed. "No need, she has already certified you fit for duty. Therefore, you need to give me a recommendation as to what we should do next. Adrian?"

"Ma'am, we need to discuss it—" Adrian paled for a brief moment.

"Stauffer, have Lieutenant Gannon report to the conference room. If you don't object, I would like to stay and observe. I would like to see the team in action. That may help me understand you better."

* * *

While we waited for Rich to arrive, Rawls moved her chair back against the wall next to Alexa and Pannell and sat. Rich arrived shortly afterward, nervous and out of breath, and sat when Adrian gestured at a chair.

"All right, any suggestions on what we do next?" Adrian asked. When no one said anything, he turned to Gannon. "Rich, how did you do with that program I asked you to create?"

"It's done, and it produces interesting results. Wait, I'll show you."

He played with his tablet and the room monitors came on. My six assumptions were displayed with a box after each plus an additional box titled Raided System.

"Adrian asked me to create a program which would allow us to enter different values for each item. Currently the search is for the raid on Eastar. Notice the boxes currently have the values that Anna used, and the result produces the Star Trader and Easy Explorer. But as I decrease the times for questions four and six, only the Star Trader meets the assumptions. And depending upon the assumptions for Holy Star and Stone Ring, we can narrow the search to one merchant each—Cloud Chaser and Good Deal."

"That's great, Rich. Saves hours of doing manual searches, and I think the reduced windows are reasonable assumptions," I said.

"Yes, but what do we want to do with the results? The courier doesn't know the contents of the message, and we don't know if he's delivering it to another merchant or a cruiser." Adrian looked to each of us.

"If our assumptions are correct, we could shut down their operation, but for how long? And it wouldn't help catch the raiders." Kris shrugged in frustration.

"And when they started back up again, they would have a new system, and we would be back at ground zero." I hesitated. "A lot depends on whether the merchant is meeting another merchant or a cruiser ... I think my second assumption is wrong."

"Why?" Adrian asked, looking back at the monitor.

"We're assuming that the merchant delivering the message to the raiders is also the one delivering the date of the raid. If that’s correct, I doubt that information is available when he delivers the message. They have to decide which cruiser is available, who is going, how long to get there, etc. Therefore, someone has to contact the merchant at a later date." I felt certain ... well almost … that the contact had to be a foreign merchant. "Rich, we need another variable. One that looks for foreign merchants who are in the same system as our collaborating UAS merchants within the subsequent five to ten days."

"You're thinking the UAS merchant meets with a foreign merchant on the given coordinates. The foreign merchant then goes to the current location of one or more of the raider cruisers. They decide which cruiser or cruisers are going and which date. The foreign merchant takes this information to a predetermined system, where the UAS merchant is waiting. The merchant then takes the date, which is probably in coded form, to the appropriate system and posts it to the URL he's given."

"We need to wait for the raiders’ next target. That message should enable us to confirm the UAS merchant working with the raiders and give us their intended target and the approximate location we can expect the raider's cruiser," Kris said. "Of course, that will only get us one of the raider cruisers and alert them that we know their system."

"Unless … we can convince them we stumbled on their cruiser by accident." I knew that wasn't a total solution, as it would only work once.

"How do you suggest we do that?" Adrian asked.

"What if the navy advertises they’re setting up a permanent patrol around New Zheng and several other systems with high-value targets?" I said.

"You think they’ll actually try something on New Zhang?" Adrian asked, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Yes, as a test if nothing else. They aren't going home, because we're chasing them. They'll probe and adapt. Their targets are too lucrative to abandon."

"That's our recommendation then—set up patrols and wait for the next puzzle message with information for the next raid?" Adrian asked and looked to each of us.

"Thank you," said Rawls, "that was interesting. After hearing your logic, I agree and will brief Admirals Lultrel and Webb and let you know their decision."

CHAPTER NINE

The gamble

At our next weekly meeting, Stauffer notified Adrian that Webb had approved the patrols in eight of the UAS systems. At our suggestion, they would be somewhat random—no more than three or four times a week—and yet somewhat predictable.

While we waited, we worked on identifying the foreign merchants. With help from Rich's program, we identified three foreign merchants who met our search criteria: showed up in a system with the UAS merchant we believed had carried the original message and subsequently delivered the date to the system initiating the message. They were the Lost Trader, Free Traveler, and the Hobo. Now we waited for the next ad winner, who would generate the puzzle message that should enable us to confirm our suspicions and give us a chance to destroy one of the raider cruisers.

"Well, let's see if you were right about the raiders. I've the latest puzzle from New Zheng. They just pulled it off the WavCom," Stauffer said as he entered our conference room, smiling.

"Forward it to Rich, Commodore," Adrian said. Stauffer typed on his tablet, then looked up and nodded. "Rich, run the X25 software against it."

Rich typed on his tablet and several minutes later smiled. "It's real."

"That's ... clever," said Stauffer. "I see you take your 'One for all, and all for one' very seriously. I too thought sending Anna for a medical evaluation wasn't right, but then I've known her for many years. Admiral Rawls truly thought it would be in Anna’s best interest. After talking with Doctor Renata, she realizes how dangerous that would have been. I'm pleased—not only that it was resolved, but also that all parties did the right thing: Anna resigned, and Admiral Rawls took the time to understand why, which is rare for a person of her rank. She's a top notch officer. So let's get to work and make her look as good as she is." He fetched a cup of coffee and sat.

When I looked at my tablet, the new puzzle message was in my inbox.

Rich gave me a thumbs up and a grin.

I spent the next fifteen minutes working on discarding the non-meaningful characters and separating out the old-Latin words and then performing a translation. When I finished, I sent it to everyone and put it on the room monitor:

Have new winner. Found cheap drugs and five regulars. Large shipment of four hundred. New courier three posts for one hundred on 65.023.35.11 at 40.6212 -84.0224. Ho will know right post.

"That looks like the Zuno Pharmaceutical Company," Adrian said after several minutes of silently searching the NIA database.

"Found a client who works at Zuno Pharmaceutical who can help us steal drugs ready for shipment worth four hundred million credits," Kris translated. "There are five security guards. Post three dates on the New Zheng Internet at URL 65.023.35.11 and we'll select one and give it to the Hobo. That will avoid the UAS patrols. Meet at one hundred hours at GPS: 40.6212 -84.0224." Kris forwarded her translation to everyone's tablet and the room's monitors.

"Clever." Stauffer nodded. "Arrogant. As you predicted, they aren't giving up just because we're chasing them."

"There is a potential problem." I realized as I thought about the message. "They could change the GPS location."

"But they ... Yes," said Kris. "The Controller can change the GPS location when he gives the Hobo the date."

"You need to discuss your part in this next phase," said Stauffer. "Rawls will want to know your recommendation. You could wait to hear what happens or you could go along. If the latter who, why, and with whom." Stauffer rose to leave. "I'll leave you to think about it."

"He's twice right," Adrian said as Stauffer left the area. "First, can we add value if we go along, or conversely is there anything the captain can't handle? And secondly, is it worth the risk? I don't think anyone would blame us—particularly Anna or you, Kris—for never wanting to leave Oxax ever again."

The room became so quiet I thought I could hear my heart beating. Ironically, all I was concerned about was leaving Alexa again and the stress I caused her. The thought brought tears to my eyes. As I sat there in my misery, Red exited my blouse and wrapped himself around my neck with his head lying on my shoulder. I didn't know why, but I had the feeling he was reminding me of my duty—something Alexa would understand and approve of.

"I'll go."

"Why, Anna?" Adrian said.

"Because I'm the only one who understands old-Latin, which could prove helpful interpreting the post for the date and a possible change in coordinates." I scanned each face. Adrian looked like he wanted to say no but knew I was right. Rich sat thinking. He wanted to go but didn't have a reason why he should.

Kris's mouth hung open, wanting to scream as her opposing emotions cosmically collided. They were dominated by fear so strong I could feel it, but her fear of going warred with fear of letting me go alone. Before I could say anything, she spoke.

"Anna's right, and I'll go with her." Her voice was just about a whisper.

"Why, Kris? I understand Anna, but why you?" Concern was obvious in Adrian's voice. "Rich or I could go."

"Anna and I are a team." Her voice was louder this time. "And which of you could protect Red when Anna acts wild?"

That caused Adrian and Rich's mouths to drop open as they thought about our story of the conference room and how I slid Red to Kris before I rolled out to expose myself.

I got up and motioned for Kris to follow me to the other end of the room, where we could whisper without being heard. "Kris, I appreciate what you’re doing and love you for volunteering to go, but why—"

"Why risk two of us?" Kris said. "Because I remember lying under the conference room table whining, aren't we safe anywhere, and you saying yes, with each other. So, if you go, I go."

"Thank you, Kris." I gave her a tight hug with tears in my eyes and felt Red brush her neck. Apparently, we were talking loud enough that Adrian heard after all.

"Kris, when Admiral Rawls sends you along with Anna for a psychological evaluation, I had request Doctor Renata. She's the only one who might understand." He shook his head. "You're right, and quite frankly, Rich and I would like to go with you two certifiable nutcases, but it would be irresponsible to risk the entire team without an overwhelming reason, which we don't have. Anna may be of help with the post ... and the two of you do make a good team." Adrian stood. "I'll let Stauffer know our recommendation.

* * *

For the next several days we monitored the traffic in Master Puzzle's Suton distribution area, with special attention to the Merchant ship Good Deal, which Rich's program had isolated as the most logical carrier to the Suton distribution area, and the Hobo, which we had identified as the FPU merchant's ship that would deliver the dates.

Three days later, the Good Deal left Zespa. A day and a half after that, it entered Amend, the system the message coordinates specified. We immediately notified Stauffer, thinking whoever was going should be leaving within three to five days, because it was a two-day trip to New Zheng.

We had decided a seven-day window would be safe: the Hobo had to rendezvous with the raider, determine three dates, and return to meet the Good Deal—which had to return to New Zheng and post the date. Then the Controller had to pick a date and give it to the Good Deal to take back to the Hobo, which would notify the raiders ...

We were told that Rawls would coordinate with Lultrel and maybe Bell and would notify us when and where to report.

Alexa took off the next several days and we did some shopping, ate out twice, and spent the evenings talking and listening to music. We were cherishing the time together, not knowing how long I would be gone.

On the afternoon of the fourth day, my tablet buzzed with an urgent message:

To: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair, Lieutenant Commander Paulus

Report to the UAS Cruiser Janus tomorrow by fifteen hundred hours. Captain Dixon is your transportation to New Zheng and then wherever you need to go next.

From: Commodore Stauffer

The next day I picked Kris up at her condo and we arrived at the spaceport's shuttle just before noon and were delivered to the station at two fifteen in the afternoon. There was no line when we reached where the Janus was docked. A lieutenant commander stood waiting. Kris handed him her ID, which he checked, and then held out his hand for mine.

"The captain said he wanted to speak with both of you immediately upon your arrival. He didn't sound in a good mood, so I would be careful." He waved us into the bay, where a petty officer waited. He gave us a quick salute.

"Commanders, if you'll follow me, I'll take you to the captain's office." He then turned and began a double time walk.

"Petty Officer, stop," Kris shouted. "Slow down. We've luggage, and we can't leave until our security team has been checked in. An extra couple of minutes isn't going to matter."

"Ma'am, something has upset Captain Dixon and he's ... not in a good mood, and he said he wanted to see you immediately upon your arrival." His voice just above a whisper.

"Petty officer, you can run if you want and let him know we’re on the way, but we're going to walk. Unfortunately, we know the way." Kris looked to me and shrugged in puzzlement at the petty officer's nervousness.

"Yes, ma'am," he responded and slowed but kept checking over his shoulder to make sure we were still behind him.

When we arrived at the captain's office, Major Pannell was there waiting. The guard knocked, peeked in, and then opened the door for us. Kris and I stepped in, braced to attention, and saluted. I noticed Pannell had also entered.

The captain frowned at him but turned his gaze back to us.

"About damn time you arrived. I've been ordered to transport you to New Zheng. I don't like it. Especially Paulus. You ruined a good officer's career and should have been court martialed. Instead, you only received a slap on the hand. Well, on this ship you've no access to the Bridge ..." His eyes flew open as Red decided to make a entrance, sliding out of my sleeve and working his way to my neck, where he laid his head on my shoulder facing the captain. "And that foul pet of yours will remain in a cage—"

"Kris, I'm leaving," I said. "He's hurt Red's feelings." I didn’t care if it constituted behavior unbecoming an officer or was insubordination.

Kris nodded. "I agree."

Dixon's face was red with rage. "Get back here or I'll see you court martialed!" he shouted, and when we didn't stop, he said, "Corporal, arrest those two."

As the corporal began to raise his weapon in our direction, two of our security guards—slammed him against the bulkhead and removed his weapon.

When I looked back, Pannell had his gun pointing at the captain.

"Captain, if you draw that gun out of that draw your hand is in, I'll shoot to kill. You're about to step over the line into a prison sentence for interfering with NIA officers in the performance of their duties."

"Major, I'll see you court martialed along with them. I command the Janus. Here, my authority is absolute."

"Sergeant," said Pannell, "I've called the team here. You're to see the commanders safely off the Janus and to wherever they wish to go. I'll remain here with Corporals Dobbs and Lowe to make sure the captain doesn't interfere. Inform me when you're off the Janus. You're authorized to use deadly force if necessary."

"Yes, sir," said the sergeant as the drumming of footsteps could be heard approaching from down the hallway.

Kris and I followed the group of marines through the ship and out into the space station. Using our P1A authorization, we were put on the next shuttle to the planet, and from there we were escorted back to the NIA office.

"What happened?" Adrian asked as we entered the room, but before I could answer Stauffer entered.

"Rawls has been getting calls from the Janus, the space station, and Major Pannell. You appear to have upset a few people." Stauffer looked concerned.

Since I caused the problem, I spoke before Kris could. "I felt threatened by Captain Dixon, so I left. Kris had no choice but to follow," I said, not wanting Kris involved. Red lay on my shoulder watching Stauffer. I idly wondered if Red appeared and lay there because he wanted fresh air and liked my shoulder or whether he was interested and wanted to see the person or to be in a position to protect me. I smiled to myself—maybe all three.

"I left with Anna because Captain Dixon's behavior was out of control and he was issuing unlawful orders," Kris said, moving closer to me." She went on to give a concise recap of our encounter from the moment we arrived on the Janus.

Stauffer just shook his head, and I could feel his overwhelming worry. I felt sorry for him. He had the team, the project, and Rawls to contend with—all with conflicting interests.

"Stay close," he said. "I don't imagine this is going to take long to resolve, since the raiders aren't going to wait while we settle the issue." He left the office, probably to await word from Rawls.

"You did the right thing," Adrian said after Stauffer had left.

"Ah, but does that mean everyone will see it that way? Last time, Sharat wasn’t charged and Anna got a letter of reprimand," Kris said, referring to the inquiry into the confrontation between Captain Sharat and then-Lieutenant Paulus.

"Mother says a few more reprimands like that, and I'll be on the fast track to admiral."

"That's not the point." Kris looked ready to stamp her foot for emphasis.

"I agree with Stauffer. Rawls has to resolve this quickly," Adrian said, and we fell into silence.

* * *

Two hours later, we were called to Rawls’s conference room. Rawls, MacLin, Thayer, Hardgrove, and Pannell where there when we arrived.

"Sit," Rawls said when we entered. "We have a problem. In a way, I feel responsible for not having had Captain Dixon here where I could've had him meet Paulus and Sinclair and explain the mission and ... Red. On the other hand, I doubt it would have helped, because of his close relationship with Captain Sharat. He was her XO for four years and feels she got him his promotion to captain. Fortunately, he set up a camera to record his initial meeting with Paulus and was stupid enough to bring it to me as proof you and the major should be court martialed." She shook her head in disbelief. "I've ordered him back to Eastar to report to Admiral Bell with the camera’s chip, which I sealed in a pouch used for classified material." She looked to me. "Paulus, do you want to press charges against Captain Dixon? His conduct certainly constituted conduct unbecoming an officer, at the very least."

"No, ma'am. I don't want the captain punished, but I would have been afraid to travel with him."

"And rightfully so. Good. But that doesn't solve our immediate problem, which is the raid on New Zheng. We need you and Sinclair in New Zheng, but we no longer have a ride for you."

"We could ride with Captain MacLin or Captain Thayer," I offered. "If necessary, they could transfer us to another ship at New Zheng."

"MacLin?" Rawls asked.

"I don't see a problem. To be safe, however, we should transfer them to another cruiser in New Zheng. If another cruiser isn't immediately available, maybe whoever is on patrol could pick them up until their ride shows up."

"Sinclair, Paulus?" Rawls asked.

Kris looked to me and I nodded, crossing my fingers we didn't encounter another Dixon.

"Major Pannell," said Rawls, "I'm going to ask General Alfaro to issue you P1A authority, too. You were on very thin ice with Captain Dixon. Even though you did the right thing, he could have told Colonel Tarver to send his Janus marines to arrest you. The situation could have escalated out of control. These agents are the key to stopping the raiders, so there is no higher priority."

"Yes, ma'am, I understand," Pannell said. I could sense his determination and a hint of nervousness. Past events had demonstrated that nowhere could be assumed safe.

* * *

MacLin had Kris, the marines, and me taken to the Vulcan and assigned quarters while he prepared the ship to depart. Two hours after departing the Oxax space station, he asked to see us in his office.

"You two have had more than your share of excitement on this assignment," he said after we had drinks and were seated.

"If I were you, Captain, I don't think I would want us on my ship." Kris grinned. "We do seem to attract trouble."

"You two are very brave. I think most people in your positions would have resigned by now, or at very least refused to leave the office." He took a sip of his coffee. "What do you have to do in New Zheng?"

"We have to monitor the local Internet, hoping to find three things: the exact date the raiders are going to make contact with the Controller, the date of the raid, and hopefully ensure the GPS coordinates are correct."

"You're thinking they might change the meeting location?"

"We're assuming the Controller is watching the patrols for a pattern before he decides on the date, and if he can, he’ll discern the area the patrol is least likely to check. I would, and they aren't stupid."

"When we get to New Zheng, you can check the WavCom for any messages from Admiral Rawls. You're welcome on the Bridge at any time and to use my new…" He smiled. "…conference room. I would welcome you to stay on the Vulcan, but you'll need to be at the space station to monitor the local Internet, and the Vulcan may see action if you're successful in locating the raider's ship."

* * *

"Captain, Admiral Rawls sent you a message," Kris said as she finished searching the WavCom shortly after entering New Zheng. "I've forwarded it to your tablet."

Kris held out her tablet so I could read it over her shoulder.

To: Captain MacLin

Copy: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair, Lieutenant Commander Paulus, Major Pannell.

No cruiser immediately available. The Bacchus will meet you tomorrow, its next scheduled patrol date, at one hundred hours at 2.70 degrees, 2 hours 10 minutes 13 seconds, and 1.8 astronomical units for the transfer. The Hermes is en route and scheduled to arrive the following day. They can make the transfer at the space station. Major Pannell has been promoted to Lieutenant Colonel and his P1A authority is attached.

From: Admiral Rawls

"Nav," said MacLin, "when we reach New Zheng, set a course for 2.70 degrees, 2 hours 10 minutes 13 seconds, and 1.8 astronomical units."

* * *

"Good morning, Commanders," said a tall middle-aged lieutenant commander as we exited the Vulcan shuttle inside the Bacchus shuttle bay. "Captain Moore sends his apologies, but we're in the middle of our mandated patrol. If you wouldn't mind waiting to meet him until we've finished, he would appreciate it. He would like to invite you to join him for breakfast tomorrow at eight in his dining room, if that's convenient for you."

"Tell the captain we'll see him then," Kris said.

"Good, I'll see you to your quarters, and someone will come get you when it's time. Colonel, Gunny will see to your detail." He took us to the officers’ quarters and gave us a two-person room with a fresher. "Sorry, but it was short notice, and you'll probably be leaving us tomorrow."

"This is more than adequate, Commander," Kris said, looking around the room.

He nodded and left.

"I'm starting to feel like crew," Kris told me. "We’ve been on four cruisers, and tomorrow it'll be five."

"Think of it as looking really good on your service record. It's the price of being on the fast track."

"More like a run-away train," She quipped as she got ready for bed. "With our luck, Bacchus will probably run into the raiders tonight."

"Then we'll get one more battle ribbon."

Kris threw her pillow at me.

* * *

We woke at oh six-thirty hours, washed, and dressed in time for our escort, a petty officer, to take us to the captain's dining room.

He was standing along with another woman when we entered.

"Good morning, Commanders. I'm Captain Moore and this is my XO, Commander Diaz," Moore said. He was an average looking middle-aged man with a stocky build and a round face, which looked friendly. Diaz was by contrast a tall lean woman with curly red hair and an angular face, which was studying me.

"I'm NIA agent Sinclair and my companion is NIA agent Paulus," Kris said.

"My understanding is that the Hermes is en route and should arrive tomorrow morning, and at that time we're to transfer you to the Hermes. The timing is good, as there will be no patrol tonight. If it isn't classified, can I ask why?"

"We're here to determine the date, time, and location that the raider's cruiser is scheduled to meet their contact on New Zheng for the raid on the Zuno Pharmaceutical Company," Kris said.

"So these patrols weren't intended to locate the raiders," Diaz said more as a statement than a question.

"No. We want the raiders to think we stumbled upon them by accident. Otherwise, they'll realize we understand their current methodology, and they'll change it in which case we might lose them."

"Makes sense. My orders wanted the patrols performed randomly on three consecutive days but not on the fourth. Seemed odd at the time, but orders are orders." He shrugged. "Help yourself to breakfast while it's still hot."

"I understand you've a venomous snake." Diaz’s gaze never left me.

As if he knew he was wanted, Red emerged from my jacket and wrapped around my neck with his head facing Diaz.

"I've the Coaca virus. It turns out the poison from a red-headed krait can keep the virus in check. It's not dangerous, since it never leaves me. Our relationship is symbiotic."

"So how are you going to find the date and time for us?" Moore asked, changing the subject as we found seats.

"I need access to the local Internet. We know the site that will have the post we’re looking for."

"You’re welcome to use the Bridge communications. That'll provide you the access you need. Are you expecting it to happen soon?"

"No. They have a complex method of communicating, so my guess is that we've a week or more. And I assume the Controller has been watching your patrols, so the date will be one of the days you don't normally patrol."

"If you need anything, just let us know."

The discussion turned to our security and a recap of our most recent incidents.

Moore laughed. "I'm the captain of a war cruiser and you've seen more action than I have. Well, if you find me that raider ship, I'll put you on my Christmas card list."

Careful what you wish for, I mused, thinking about Sharat and her rush to engage the smugglers, which almost resulted in the destruction of her ship and its crew.

Moore took us to the Bridge, introduced us to the crew, and got us a connection to the local Internet. Kris let me take charge. I created a new user account with a local provider, then logged on to the website we would be monitoring. It turned out to be a chat room for people interested in Master Puzzles publications. Not knowing where the Good Deal was at the present time, I selected all entries from the estimated meeting date with the Hobo—one hundred twelve entries.

"Thank you, Captain. I know the post shouldn't occur until the Good Deal arrives in New Zheng, but I thought it wouldn't hurt for us to look at what constitutes typical posts."

"Anna, let's get lunch and then we can review the posts while we wait for the Bacchus," Kris said. We had a quick lunch and then retired to our quarters.

"Flaming balls of dose!" Kris screamed, jumping to her feet. "The Good Deal has already posted the dates, and the Controller's responded. They were under Miscellaneous Posts."

My tablet buzzed and two posts appeared:

Holly, I'll bet you cannot solve the last puzzle in four days starting tomorrow. Goodman.

Goodman, You're on. I will start today but I will give you 40, no 44 days that's how sure i am you can't. Holly.

Kris was right. The first message was from the Good Deal, not Goodman, and it was intended for the Controller, not Holly. Holly identified the Hobo as the merchant that would carry the Controller's response to the raiders. The second message was from the Controller designating today as the day of the raid and also changing the location from 40.6212 –84.0224 to 44.6212 -84.0224.

"That means the raider's cruiser is already in New Zheng's space," I said as I rose. "We need to check on the location of the Good Deal and the Hobo just to verify the message."

We exited the room and double-timed for the Bridge, where we found Commander Diaz on duty.

"Commander Diaz, you need to contact the captain and do whatever is necessary to prepare the ship for a patrol tonight," Kris said between gasps.

"Tonight is a down night."

"We believe the raid is tonight. Commander Paulus needs the Comm panel to verify it," Kris said.

When Diaz nodded, I slid into the communications officer’s seat and used my NIA authorization to check the arrivals and departures for the past forty-eight hours. Ten minutes later I found the two ships.

"Captain on the Bridge!" someone shouted as Moore entered looking excited, with Pannell only a few steps behind him.

"Commanders?" Moore’s glance went from me to Kris.

"It's confirmed, Captain. The Good Deal arrived two days ago and left yesterday. The Hobo arrived yesterday and left a few hours ago. We've confirmed the messages we found are valid. The raid is tonight," I said with mixed emotions—we were on the wrong ship.

"We have to get you off this ship," Moore said, mirroring my thoughts.

Kris looked pale. "Paulus and I have rewards on our heads, and the Controller here will have hired help to watch your ship," Kris said hesitantly. I knew she didn't want to be on this ship if it were going to war, but that duty compelled her to stay if going would jeopardize the mission. "If they identify us, they'll know it's a trap and who knows the consequences. Best we stay if the Bacchus doesn't arrive before you need to leave the station."

After a long silence, Moore nodded. "XO, cancel all shore leaves ... on the pretext we have been asked to return to Eastar. The Bacchus is en route to replace us."

Diaz nodded and exited the Bridge at a run while talking on her PCD.

"Can either of you operate the Comm panel?" Moore asked.

I raised my hand.

"Good. Send a message to the Vulcan, letting them know it's tonight."

I sat and typed the following message:

To: Captain MacLin on the Vulcan

The raid is scheduled for tonight at one hundred hours. The location has changed from 40.6212 –84.0224 to 44.6212 -84.0224. Good hunting.

From: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

I then sent the message to Moore's tablet.

"Send it. I estimate it will take us approximately four hours to reach that GPS location," he said after several minutes on his PCD. "We’ll need to leave around nineteen hundred hours, which will give us a couple of hours to find them, hopefully before they dispatch the raider team to Zuno Pharmaceutical. Unfortunately, according to my last information that is several hours before the Bacchus is scheduled to arrive. They were delayed in leaving due to an accident." He stood worrying his lip. "I suggest you stay on the Bridge. It's probably the safest place on the ship. Report back here after we depart from the space station."

"I've enough battle ribbons," Kris said as we exited the Bridge for our quarters.

"The cost of staying on the fast track," I said, trying to lighten her mood.

"I would rather take a few extra years to make Commodore." She gave me a wry smile. "Besides, I already have more awards than most of the officers on crew duty. I don't need another Purple Heart."

"Shouldn't be too bad. We've four ships to their one."

"Their one’s not a merchant ship. They aren't going to just throw up their hands and say, 'We give up' because we outnumber them." Her voice rose in frustration.

I conceded she had a valid point, and we would be the first to engage them, so I switched thoughts. "Think how good that star is going to look on your collar."

"You're incorrigible." Kris put her arm through mine. "Let go eat, and see if we can figure out how to get rid of the raiders so I can find the father of my future children."

* * *

"Nothing, Captain," said the radar operator. We had just finished a pass over the GPS coordinates at forty thousand kilometers. "But the passive sensors would have trouble detecting a ship on minimum power."

"True, but no sense advertising we know they’re in the vicinity. Helm, reverse course and lower us to thirty-five thousand. Tactical, keep the weapon system ready but offline for now."

We waited as the agonizing minutes ticked by. The captain's search pattern took fifteen minutes to complete one way before reversing course and dropping another five thousand kilometers for the next pass. Forty-five minutes had passed when the stony silence was shattered by the ECM operator.

"Four incoming—!"

Just then, the ship seemed to be slammed by a giant sledgehammer, and we were thrown violently sideways.

"All systems active!" Moore shouted.

"Foreign cruiser moving away at two hundred gravities. Distance three hundred kilometers," The radar operated choked out along with blood.

"Tac. Fire all tubes when ready." Moore’s speech was slurred, and I noticed blood trickling from his nose. When I looked at Kris, her nose was bleeding, and when I licked my lips, I tasted blood. A glance at the damage monitor had reports streaming in from every department.

At three hundred kilometers, the ECM operator would have had less than two seconds to respond. In fact, the missiles wouldn't have had time to reach maximum velocity, but they were still clustered together, increasing the impact and damage by a factor of two or three. I concluded we were lucky to be alive.

"Fired, three away. Two tubes are inoperative," the Tac operator shouted, his left arm hanging by his side.

"Three hits!" the radar operator shouted only seconds later. And then … "I've three cruisers on the radar ... it's the Vulcan, Lapis, and Cabiri."

"Helm, half speed. That raider isn't getting away. We're better served looking after our dead and wounded. Comm, send stand down from battle stations."

* * *

It took six hours to get back to the space station. During that time, essential repairs were made, wounded treated, and the dead identified and collected. Four direct hits had opened several sections of the ship and caused fifty-two deaths. Eighty-three crewmembers had been seriously wounded from being thrown against equipment and walls or getting hit by objects that broke loose.

Kris and I could do little other than stay out of the way, although I manned the Comm station to free up the Comm officer to help elsewhere.

"Colonel Pannell, how did your detail fair?" Kris asked when he returned an hour later.

"One dead, one serious, and two with minor injuries." He scanned Kris and me as if double-checking we were all right. "What are you and Commander Paulus planning now?"

"Anna, what do you think?"

"If we or the police go to Zuno Pharmaceutical, it may alert the Controller that the Hermes didn't stumble on the raider cruiser by accident. Actually, it may be interesting to see if he attempts a second try. That would tell us a lot. Since the Bacchus is replacing the Hermes, maybe—"

"We could wait and see—"

"I could wait. I know you—"

"You stay, I stay!" Kris said, but I could feel her frustration. "Anna, you're right, as much as I hate to admit it. At least the Bacchus isn't planning on fighting anyone." She gave a choked laugh. "I just managed to get that image out of my mind of us under the conference room table with that madman on top of the conference room table shooting at us. It's going to take another month to shake that feeling of being slammed by an asteroid. I thought we were going to die."

"You're not alone, Agent Sinclair. None of us ever want to be that close to another cruiser in a battle. They can't miss, and ECM is worthless that close," Moore said. "I'm told the Bacchus is in system and should dock within the next six hours. We can work out a transfer at that time."

"We should inform Stauffer," I said, and when Kris nodded I typed the following message and transferred it to Kris's tablet.

To Commodore Stauffer, NIA office, Oxax

Copy: Lieutenant Commander Shrader, NIA office, Oxax

Transferring to the Bacchus to wait and see what Controller decides to do.

From: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair and Lieutenant Commander Paulus

Kris nodded and I sent it.

* * *

"We've been on more cruisers—the Bacchus will be the sixth—than most career officers who elect cruiser duty," Kris said as she, our security, and I made our way to the next berth, where the Bacchus was docked. "I'm supposed to be a sleuth with a permanent desk."

"You obviously didn't read the fine print when you signed your contract." I had trouble suppressing a grin.

"What fine print?"

"See! You missed it," I quipped.

She slapped my shoulder. "It must have said, 'Join the navy and enjoy free rides on cruisers, front row seats to missile fights with foreign ships of war, target practice with assassins, and learning to care for a venomous red-headed krait.' That fine print?" She actually stopped and looked serious, but her lip did twitch toward the end. I had to admit she had a right to be upset. NIA service should have been a routine career with plenty of leisure time in which to find a husband and have kids. "I guess my crazy NIA partner does compensate ... somewhat." She linked her arm in mine and we continued down the corridor.

At the Bacchus, there was no line and we were quickly admitted.

Inside, a petty officer was waiting. He saluted. "Commanders, Captain Aguilar would like to see you in his office. If you'll follow me, I'll take you there."

When Kris nodded, he proceeded out of the bay with us following. At the captain's door we were ushered in.

Aguilar was young for a captain, tall, and lean. His eyes evaluated us as he returned our salute. "At ease, Commanders, and have a seat. I understand our delay arriving almost caused a disaster. We had a gas leak, which sent two sailors to the hospital and took several hours to fix. Now that I'm here, what’s the plan?" He felt a bit nervous, although he didn't look it. I would wager he had taken a lot of grief over the delay and now had two P1A agents to contend with.

"The rumor is that you’re replacing the Hermes in order to continue routine patrols of New Zheng. We would like you to take that responsibility. We want to see what the Controller—the raiders’ man on the planet—will do. We're hoping he believes the raider ship sent to rob Zuno Pharmaceutical was discovered by accident. Hopefully we’ll know by what he does over the next two weeks. Make your patrol days and times random." Kris said.

"You know who he is?"

"No. But we know how he communicates with the raiders, so we’ll be monitoring the WavCom each day and will need access to the Bridge and Comm panel."

Red appeared out of my jacket and wrapped himself around my neck with his head facing the captain.

Aguilar's mouth dropped open. "Commander Paulus, what—"

"Red is a red-headed krait. He's venomous but never leaves my person. Hence, you always know where he is." I couldn't help feeling amused. I could imagine people in the same room as me constantly scanning the floor and furniture. "Our relationship is symbiotic. He feeds on my blood, and his venom keeps my Coaca Virus from becoming active."

"Never?" he asked, frowning.

"Not since he showed up when I was four-years-old."

"All right, let me introduce you to my staff and the Bridge crew so they know you’re authorized on the Bridge—and about the krait. I've assigned you senior-level quarters. If you need anything, let me or my XO know."

* * *

The next eight days were busy but boring. Being confined to the ship without an assignment meant an excessive amount of free time. We did strip the WavCom daily and spent hours looking for any suspicious correspondence that might be from or to the Controller on New Zheng. We also monitored the merchant ship traffic and the Master Puzzle bulletin board.

Kris went to the Officers’ Club several times and received lots of attention but didn't make any dates, although she had many offers. That turned out to be amusing, since her lack of interest made the men try harder. I managed to talk several senior officers into giving me a tour of their sections. We also spent time on the Bridge when the Bacchus made its nightly patrol.

"Anna, the Controller sent a puzzle," Kris said, rising from the Comm panel. "This should be interesting."

"You can use the conference room," Aguilar said, looking and feeling excited, since he knew from our discussions that the puzzle message could mean a raid.

Pannell and one guard followed us into the conference room. Kris slid her chair closer to mine and sat watching as I deleted non-meaningful characters and then separated the resulting strings into old-Latin words.

"There," I said, and sat back without smiling.

"Well what does it say, my not so amusing little sister?" Kris grabbed my arm and shook it, which caused Red to slip over my shoulder and hang with his head looking down at Kris's hand. "Red also wants to know." She laughed, but I wasn't so sure how funny it was. I wouldn't have been surprised if he had been able to read it. Maybe someday I'll know what he is, but for now I'm positive he's not just your usual krait. "This is a close approximation:

Art still available. Appears a random encounter. You pick date publish plus ten. We will be at 31.4178 -24.1054.

"So they're going to try again. They're one tough bunch." Kris shook her head. "Harder to stop this time, no date or time and impossible to make it look like an accidental encounter."

"We can't let them know we've deciphered their puzzle code or we'll be back to ground zero. And this proves they aren't easily discouraged."

"What's the alternative? You aren't suggesting we let them carry out the robbery?" Kris stared hard at me, and I could feel her conflicting emotions—not wanting people killed but also not wanting to alert the raiders.

"No. What if we thwart the robbery?" I asked as Red wound his way into my hair and lay his head on mine as if wanting to join the conversation. I idly wondered if his head on mine somehow ... I shook my head so hard in disbelief it almost dislodged Red and his head hung on my ear and his tongue lightly touched it.

"If we do, it'll alert the raiders we know." Kris ignored Red hanging by my ear.

"What will they know? Only that we discovered why they were here, not how. It could have been something on the destroyed cruiser, or a crew member who survived, or ..."

"You’re right, if we make no attempt to engage their cruiser." Kris laughed. "I like it, but what about the contest winner?"

"They never make contact with them again. So if we make him disappear, they won't know anything is wrong. In fact, he could have collected his money and ran."

Just then, the door opened partway and one of the security guards announced Aguilar.

"Is all this security necessary on a UAS cruiser?" he asked as he entered.

"Yes, Captain, it is. They've been attacked four times on UAS cruisers. Last time their two security guards were killed. They’re worth two million credits dead."

"The raiders must really fear you." He stared at us like he had never seen us before. "Can you tell me what the message says and your plans?"

"They plan another raid on Zuno Pharmaceutical."

"Then we can destroy another cruiser." He grinned with obvious excitement at the thought he could be involved.

I wanted to scream, fifty-two died to get that last raider, and we were lucky. But what good would it do? They considered that part of their profession, and it was, but I couldn't help but feel the loss and all the lives it impacted. I forced myself to speak calmly. "No. Not this time. Even if we do run across it by accident, we'll pretend we didn't."

"You can't. I'm not letting a raider—" Aguilar's voice was loud and angry. He stopped midsentence when Kris stood with her P1A badge in her hand.

"That's an order, Captain, not a request. We want those raiders worse than you do, but engaging the one that comes could cause us to lose the pack that's operating in the UAS."

"We need to send a message to Stauffer and Rawls, letting them know what we intend to do," I said, thinking the conversation was over.

"I'm going to contact Naval operations. We don't let the enemy—"

"No you won't. Captain, I'm ordering you not to contact anyone concerning our plans. Ignoring my order will end your naval career and may result in prison time. So hate us if you want, but don't jeopardize your career by ignoring a legal order." Kris held his glare.

After a long silence, he turned and stalked out of the room.

"Anna, let's get that memo to Stauffer and Rawls. I agree with you, but maybe Rawls or Lultrel or Bell won’t."

I laughed mentally. If I understood P1A authority, the UAS committee authorized it and Bell couldn't overrule it. Of course, our careers would be finished afterward. Getting Rawls and whoever to at least agree would be wise.

To Admiral Rawls, Commodore Stauffer, Oxax NIA headquarters

Controller on New Zheng is setting up another raid on Zuno Pharmaceutical. We recommend no attempt to engage the raider's cruiser since it would alert them that we can decode their puzzle messages. Instead, we suggest we stop the robbery. The raiders know we're aware of their presence. many factors could have led to us discovering a potential raid on Zuno Pharmaceutical.

From: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair and Lieutenant Commander Paulus aboard the Bacchus

I sent the message to Kris's tablet.

She nodded as she read. "Good, send it."

I made my way to the Bridge and under Aguilar's stony stare was granted access to the Comm panel. Feeling paranoid, I ran the message through crazy numbers before sending it, which converted it into a jumbled string of upper and lower case letters and numbers. I knew Stauffer had the software to decipher it and that no one else would be able to read it. Two million credits was a powerful incentive.

* * *

Over the next three nights, the Bacchus conducted the routine nightly surveillances, and I wondered what Aguilar would do if he did happen to run across a raider's ship. I didn't blame him for wanting to destroy an invading raider, but the hostility toward Kris and me seemed unwarranted. We also wanted to capture or destroy the raiders—all of them. Maybe it was taking orders from women or from Lieutenant Commanders, or both. Consequently, we spent most of our time in our rooms except to eat and search the WavCom.

The next day, we received a crazy numbers coded message from Stauffer.

To: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair and Lieutenant Commander Paulus

Your plan is approved by Admiral Bell. Keep us advised.

From: Commodore Stauffer

"Wow," Kris said while looking at her tablet. "Talk about pressure."

"What do you mean?" I asked, thinking Bell's approval a good thing.

"If we screw it up or something goes wrong and we disappoint Stauffer, that’s one thing. If we disappoint Bell ..." She left the consequences hanging.

"It would give you plenty of time to look for a husband and to have kids." I managed not to smile.

She laughed. "My today sister. You're right, let’s focus on what we need to do today and forget about all the things that could go wrong." She walked over to Pannell, who was standing next to the entrance hatch. "Colonel, I think we’ll need you and the Bacchus's marine commander and ... Captain Aguilar, you should also attend so you’ll know what’s going on and be able to help develop the plan," Kris said.

I thought it an example of Adult Speak—getting the captain involved.

* * *

An hour later, Kris and I sat in the conference room with Pannell, Aguilar and his XO, Commander Sprigg, Colonel Ruiz and his gunny, Guzman.

Kris stood. "The raiders are going to make another attempt to rob Zuno Pharmaceutical. We hoped we convinced them we found their ship by accident. Apparently, we did, since they intend to try again. Why not try finding their ship by accident again? Because we believe they would deduce we had broken their coded messages and methodology. That would just cause them to invent another system, and it could be years and many raids before we discovered their base of operations. Instead, we propose ignoring the cruiser but stopping the raid on Zuno Pharmaceutical."

"Won't that also alert the raiders that you understand their system?" Aguilar asked, obviously still reluctant to let the raider cruiser get away.

"There's a risk, but we think it small, since there are many ways that information could have been attained. We understand our approach is controversial, so we pushed it up the chain of command. It's a go with Admiral Bell's approval." Kris stopped to let the side conversations quit. "We would like your help in developing a plan. Here's what needs to be accomplished. First, Commander Paulus and I need to get into Zuno Pharmaceutical unseen and make contact with the person in charge. Then we need to collect all personal communication equipment including those at their homes and examine it. That will enable us to determine the leak. We'll remove that person and set up marine security to engage the raiders when they attempt the robbery."

"Do we know when they’ll attempt the robbery?" Colonel Ruiz asked, a predatory look in his eyes.

"The Master Puzzle publication for this month's edition is tomorrow. Because of our patrols, they have left the date of the raid open—anytime within ten days after the publication date."

"So," Pannell said, "the first order of business is to get you and Commander Paulus into Zuno Pharmaceutical without being noticed …"

The discussions lasted most of the day as various ideas were discussed, and then tentative schedules, manpower, and timing were arranged.

* * *

Using his P1A authority, Pannell got the New Zheng Government to arrange a meeting with Mr. Schmidt, the Director of Zuno Pharmaceutical. Dressed in civilian pantsuits and accompanied by Pannell also in a suit, we entered the lobby of the sprawling two-story brown-cement building. The lobby was open to the second level ceiling's large skylights, which gave the area an outdoor feeling. A semi-circular white-marble counter sat in the middle of the room only a short distance from the entrance. A young woman and an armed security guard stood behind the counter.

"May I help you?" the young woman asked, her voice eager and cheerful.

"Yes, I'm Mr. Clarkson. My colleagues and I have an appointment with Mr. Schmidt," Pannell said, drawing the attention to him.

She turned to her monitor and tapped it a few times and then smiled. "Yes, sir. If you would please wear these visitor badges at all times." She handed Pannell three badges. "The escalator to your right will take you to the second floor, where Mr. Schmidt’s secretary is waiting to escort you to his office." She smiled and pointed to the right side of the lobby.

The guard scanned each of us as we passed.

The escalator made a semi-circle from the middle right of the lobby to the second floor landing at the back of the lobby and then continued round and back down on the left side. The landing was actually two separate platforms for getting off and getting on.

At the top, a young man waited. "Good morning, Mr. Clarkson, ladies. If you'll follow me, I'll take you to Mr. Schmidt."

We followed him down a long hallway with what looked like large office areas to the left and right. At the end, we were led into a circular room with three secretaries and behind them three doors.

"Mary, this is Mr. Clarkson and his colleagues."

"Mr. Schmidt's ready to see you." She rose and opened the door into a spacious office. The back wall was floor to ceiling glass, which looked toward a heavily treed manicured lawn.

A tall gray-haired man rose and came walking around his glass-topped desk, which looked to be a complex monitor, judging from what I could see of the top.

"Mr. Clarkson, ladies, welcome to Zuno Pharmaceutical. Representative Soto indicated you had urgent business that concerns my company. I'm intrigued."

"Mr. Schmidt, I'm Lieutenant Commander Sinclair and my partner is Lieutenant Commander Paulus. We're operating with P1A authority. I don't know if you’ve heard about the raids on Eastar, Stone Ring, or Holy Star?"

"Yes, the robbery of the Art Gallery on Eastar."

"The robberies are being conducted by raiders from one of the other alliances. We've information that Zuno Pharmaceutical will be next."

"I heard they killed all the guards, six or eight I believe."

"Yes, they've never left anyone alive. We believe they're military or ex-military, well armed and informed, and thorough."

"Well informed?"

"Yes, employees provide the information they need to retrieve the highest valued product and be gone within an hour."

"I can't believe—"

"How much is your current inventory worth?"

Schmidt returned to his desk and tapped on it in several places before answering. "In total our finished products are worth in the neighborhood of six hundred million, but it would take a day and a couple of trucks—"

"What could they collect and move in two hours?" Kris interrupted.

Schmidt returned to his desktop, but this time he was there for a long while.

"Four hundred million." He shook his head in disbelief.

"So giving someone ten million for the information is an excellent deal for both the employee and the raiders," Kris said.

Schmidt sat, his eyes wide and face pale in shock. "When?"

"We don't know exactly, but within a week or so. What we need to do now is to identify the person who gave the raiders the information. We want you to sit and think about what you just did to identify those products worth four hundred million and then think about who would have access to that information."

Schmidt had coffee brought in and then spent the next hour deciding the records that would provide the information and then who had the authority to access those files. When he finally looked up he looked tired. "I have five names, but I can't believe any of them would ... betray the company."

"It'll be easy to prove. Are all five individuals at work today?" Kris asked. When Schmidt nodded, she continued. "Set up a meeting with them in your conference room. Say Representative Soto has informed you of some new requirements under consideration that may impact the company."

Schmidt immediately typed on the desktop for several minutes, arranging the meeting. Finally, he looked up. "It's set, in an hour."

"Now we need home addresses for you and the five individuals."

Schmidt looked up in shock and I could feel anger, but it quickly left and he nodded in understanding.

"We need to keep the real reason a secret," I said. "So I'm going to say that some software hackers have inserted malware into several major companies’ systems, as our excuse for examining their equipment."

* * *

Three women and two men were waiting when we entered the conference room an hour later.

"This is Mr. Clarkson and his associates, Miss Katlin and Miss Anders," he said, nodding to each of us in turn. "My staff includes Mrs. Tarcell, who is in charge of drug development, Mr. Peters, who is in charge of drug production, Mrs. Lopez, who is in charge of scheduling, Mr. Watts, who is in charge of operations, and Miss Becker, who is the director of our data systems," he said, going around the table from left to right. "I'll let Mr. Clarkson explain why they're here."

"Thank you, Mr. Schmidt. I apologize for the secrecy, but the problem potentially impacts every major industry in the UAS," Pannell said, then looked to Kris. "I'll let Katlin give you the details.

"Thank you, Mr. Clarkson." Kris stepped forward and I could feel her amusement. "Some very clever people have developed malware to infiltrate a company's systems and over time build a profile of the company's assets, schedules, and security. They've successfully used this information to subsequently rob the company—"

"That's impossible. I would know if malware had infected our system. Besides, it's a closed system, so it would be impossible for them to get their malware on it," Miss. Lopez said, shaking her head. She was a large middle-aged woman, and her bulldog expression said that was the end of the discussion.

"You all have tablets, which I assume are linked to the system. That, by the way, is the usual weak link." I interjected.

"Our tablets have excellent anti-malware software and, in any event, it couldn't get past our firewall," Lopez insisted.

"We hope you're correct, but we've been tasked with inspecting several businesses on New Zheng. Before you protest, it isn't optional. We'll need to collect your tablets and any equipment you have at home capable of connecting to your tablets and the passwords for each device—"

"And what if I refuse?" Mr. Peters asked, smiling. "My equipment at home doesn't belong to the company. That's my personal property. I'm sure the courts will agree."

"There are two UAS officers outside. If you refuse to cooperate with our investigation, which is a UAS investigation under P1A authority, you'll go directly from this building to a ship which will deliver you to the UAS maximum security prison on Eastar." Pannell held up his hand. "Let me assure all of you, we're not interested in your personal life or any questionable activities you may be involved in. Our mandate is to find if any of the businesses we've been assigned have been infested with the malware. Let us do our job, and we’ll be gone by tomorrow."

That didn't make anyone happy, but it did squelch the I won't cooperate discussions. We sequestered the group and Kris and I began looking through their tablets. As expected, we didn't find anything suspicious. By the time we had finished, their personal equipment began being delivered, and we started in on that.

"I sure wish Adrian and Rich were here to help," Kris said hours later. "Most of this material isn't even titillating. I'm tired and bored." She rose, stretching and yawning. "Paul, do you think you could find us some food? I know it's late, but maybe food would help me focus, or at least give me something interesting to do."

"Food coming right up," he said as he got on his PCD.

"I have a winner," I said, looking up at the clock on the wall. It was close to midnight.

"Who?" Kris asked.

"Mr. Watts. He didn't even try to clean up his correspondence. Probably thought no one would look at his home tablet or that he would have time to destroy it if necessary."

"That was the last batch of home devices. Want to let the others go?"

"Sure. What if we give each individual their device separately and then give them a story about finding the virus on one of the home devices? Schmidt can tell them tomorrow it was Watts, and that he’s working with us to determine how the malware got on his home equipment."

* * *

Over the next two hours, we called in each individual, returned their equipment, and gave them our cover story.

Watts was the last to be called. "Well, did you find the virus?" he asked when he entered. He didn't look nervous, but I could feel his apprehension.

"Yes, it was on your home tablet," Kris said.

My mouth dropped open, until I realized this was an easy way to get him out of the building without a fuss while supporting the story we had been telling everyone.

"Can't be."

"You probably got it while on the Internet. It's very sophisticated software. We're going to need you to help us figure out possible ways the malware could have been introduced."

"Certainly, I would be glad to help," he said after some hesitation during which I could feel his shifting emotions: fear, confusion, and finally relief. "Did it get into Zuno's system?"

"We don't think so, but that will take more time to determine. It's possible," Kris said. I could tell he didn't know what we had found, but whatever it was, he thought it had gotten him off the hook. "We'll need you to accompany us to our cruiser, where we have systems to analyze the virus and to trace possible sites where you might have picked it up. Mr. Schmidt is aware we may need you for a day or two."

"Any way, I can help," he said, but I could feel his apprehension had returned.

While we were leaving, we asked him questions about the type of sites he generally visited, downloads he had made, and other miscellaneous questions, which had the effect of relaxing him. When we reached the ship, he was taken to the brig, and we went to bed.

* * *

"What now?" Ruiz asked the next morning after we had finished detailing the events of yesterday.

"We’ll question Mr. Watts about what information he gave the raiders, but we pretty much know the sequence of events that led him to cooperate. His sentence will depend upon his cooperation and how much was coercion and how much greed. Until the stipulated beginning date five days from now, we’ll do nothing about the robbery. The night before that date we need to brief the current guards and put the marines in place. Things need to look normal, both to the outside world and to the employees."

"I think you and Commander Paulus should brief the guards before we enter. You've the P1A authority and may want to evaluate their reaction prior to us arriving," Ruiz said.

I nodded when Kris looked to me. The guards would have to be aware of what was going on so they could ensure everything looked normal.

When everyone left, we had Watts brought in.

"I didn't know the virus was on my tablet," he said as soon as he entered the room and saw us.

"Mr. Watts, get something to drink and have a seat. It's going to be a long day and you should get comfortable," Kris said and I could feel her amusement.

He walked over and poured a cup of coffee, and sat opposite us.

Two guards took up positions behind his chair.

"Mr. Watts, we know you gave the raiders information about Zuno Pharmaceutical." I held up my hand to stop him responding. "We know because the raiders have used the same technique on three other robberies. What happens to you will depend largely on how well you cooperate with us. You can start by telling us how you became involved."

Watts sat silently for several minutes as he debated whether to tell the truth or lie. He finally decided more or less on the truth. "I saw this contest to help the police and answered it ..."

The story followed the others, except he claimed to have refused to cooperate until they threatened to kill his colleagues and eventually him, and he left out the ten million he had been paid. But we learned he had given them the entry codes into the building, and the guards' numbers, positions, and schedules.

"Thank you, Mr. Watts. The good news is you won't be charged as an accessory to murder, since the guards won't be murdered. The bad news is that story won't fly, and you’ll be in prison for a long time."

* * *

The night before the target date, I arrived at Zuno Pharmaceutical an hour before closing time with Pannell and two marine guards. We had dressed in civilian clothes and were escorted to Schmidt's conference room, where he had assembled all of the night shift guards. Six men and two women were sitting around the table when we arrived.

"Good evening," Kris said as Pannell closed the door. "We're NIA agents chasing some thieves who have been operating in the UAS. We’ve received a credible tip that says this facility will be robbed sometime over the next week, and we need your cooperation."

"Who?"

"How do you know?"

"When?"

The questions came spilling out.

"We'll answer all your questions, but first you need to understand that everything we ask you to do is under P1A authorization. Our first instruction to you is if you tell anyone we’re on to the robbery, you'll spend the rest of your life in prison. Clear?" Kris looked at each individual and received a nod or mumbled yes. "You'll report for duty at your scheduled times but will be replaced by marines."

"Why? We're armed and can handle robbers, especially now that we know they’re coming."

"It's for your protection. These robbers are ex-military, have military grade weapons, and have killed all the guards at each of their previous robberies. Consider yourselves backup if the robbers overcome or get past your replacements." She went on to explain that each evening they would report for duty as normal, lock up the building, and then two hours later be replaced by marines. Each morning, they would replace the marines two hours before shift change and be there to unlock the doors. We'p-md determined that those four hours were safe based on the raiders’ previous robberies. The marines would enter tomorrow in ones and twos in civilian clothes and be given an unused portion of the building to stay.

"What do you think?" Kris asked after the guards left for their duties.

"I just hope the raiders strike soon. I'll bet the Controller has someone watching this facility, so the longer it takes, the more of a chance some well-meaning guard will let something slip."

* * *

Ruiz had also rented a house only a few minutes from the facility, were ten more marines were stationed as backup and to ensure that any raiders acting as lookouts or as part of a getaway plan were neutralized.

We continued to monitor the Master Puzzle bulletin board and the WavCom, although we didn't expect or find any suspicious posts.

On the fourth night, we were informed the raiders had struck while the Bacchus was performing its nightly surveillance run, about the time it was on the backside of New Zheng. We requested a debriefing that afternoon.

"You were right," Ruiz said, looking toward Kris and me. "Eight raiders broke into Zuno Pharmaceutical just after two in the morning. They were well armed with military grade weapons and body armor. Civilian guards wouldn't have stood a chance against them. Even though we were prepared, they killed two of my inside men and wounded two more, one seriously. Gunny Guzman said they looked like they were military trained. They also had four raiders outside with their three vehicles."

"I've had word from Captain MacLin. He and his pack had taken up positions at one and three light seconds from the planet and one light second from the Wave entry. They detected a cruiser leaving the planet’s orbit at seven hundred hours and approaching the Wave at fourteen hundred hours," Aguilar said, sounding disgusted at having let the raider ship leave unmolested.

"Colonel Ruiz, the four men outside. Were they all dressed alike?" I asked.

"What do you mean?"

"We can't be sure, but we assume those that attacked the facility are from the raider's cruiser. However, we suspect the Controller on New Zheng would leave with the raiders on their ship after the robbery. If we're right, he might choose to go with the raiders to the robbery, or he could wait at the shuttle for their return. If he went with them to the robbery, his clothing might be different from the others, since he’s been living on the planet for months." I wondered if it made a difference to our deception.

"They were all the same ... but someone did mention a car leaving the area as my team prepared to leave after having been notified the raid had begun."

"Probably the Controller," Kris said almost to herself. "Although also a raider, he probably wouldn't be part of the raiding team, just there to guide them to the facility and observe the results for future operations. I would have preferred it if they didn't know marines were waiting for them, but I'm not sure it matters. Time will tell whether it worked or not."

* * *

We were transferred to the Vulcan the next day and escorted to MacLin's office.

"Well, ladies, where would you like to go?" MacLin asked after we had fetched something to drink and sat. "Captain Aguilar was upset with you for letting that raider's cruiser escape."

"A bird in the hand versus two in the bush dilemma," I said.

"We captains tend to be a bird in the hand group, while admirals are more birds in the bush commanders. Each has its time and place," MacLin said and took a sip of his coffee.

"The two in the bush are always a gamble." Red chose to emerge just then and to lie on my shoulder. "But even if we lose the cruiser, it’s a small loss in the scheme of things."

MacLin laughed. "The raiders have good reason for wanting you and Sinclair dead. You’re in their heads playing with their minds."

"Back to Oxax, Captain. We need to see if they continue with the same communication system or they change, and we won't know that until they identify a new target."

CHAPTER TEN

Awaiting the raiders’ next move

As it was early when we arrived at the Oxax space station, Stauffer asked us to stop at the office before leaving for home. We arrived around ten hundred hours and found Adrian and Rich in the conference room with Stauffer.

"Good morning, ladies. You deserve time off after your latest adventure, but I wanted an update before you go. Rawls will want to know where we stand," Stauffer said when we entered the room.

"As you probably know, there was nothing salvageable on the destroyed cruiser." Kris paused and waited for Stauffer to nod. "The marines stopped the raid on Zuno Pharmaceutical. They killed twelve raiders, but one may have escaped. Someone was seen leaving as soon as the firefight began. That might have been the Controller. If so, he knows it was a trap. The question is whether he concludes we discovered Zuno Pharmaceutical was the target by deciphering the puzzle or by some other method. And that we won't know until the next winner or raid."

"Given they don't conclude we’ve deciphered their puzzle code, any ideas on how we stop them?" Stauffer asked.

Kris shrugged. "I think we should continue to identify the UAS and foreign merchants supporting the raiders. Even if that information doesn't lead us to eliminating the raider cruisers, it gives us the ability to close down their operations for years. It might even encourage them to give up operations in the UAS."

After Stauffer left, Adrian was first to speak. "What would you like Rich and I to work on while you take your two weeks off?"

"We need to identify the Controllers. Kris is right. Arresting the merchants would certainly disrupt their operation, but if the Controllers aren't caught, they would be back in business before long. I suspect the Controllers are the ones who organize all of the raiders’ activities."

"Rich and I will work on it," Adrian grinned. "And I'll send you any data I collect in case you get bored sitting around doing nothing."

"I won't be bored. I'll be trying to find the father of my future children. I've got to hurry before Anna gets us another assignment on those space submarines she and Red love."

"I'm just trying to help keep you on the fast track to Commodore. You got another battle ribbon in New Zheng."

* * *

"What are you going to do today, Daughter?" Alexa asked as she got ready to leave for work. "I thought next week I had take a few days off and we could have some mother-daughter time—shop, eat out, and maybe go to the theater."

"I would love that. I thought I would visit one of the firing ranges and practice." I immediately regretted saying that when I saw Alexa's smile disappear. I had caused her enough pain without reminding her people were hunting me.

She hugged me. "That's an excellent idea. Until you catch the raiders, you have to assume there could ... will be more attempts on your life, so you need to take reasonable precautions. Your marine security guard is a good start." She paused and smiled, although her eyes looked sad. "Being able to defend yourself in an emergency is not only smart but makes your mother feel less nervous." She kissed me on the forehead and left.

I decided to go to the Navy Academy, and notified my security. As a graduate, I had no trouble gaining entrance to the base or the firing range. I was surprised to find Pannell there when I arrived.

"Good morning, Anna," he said, as I was in civilian clothes. "I thought I would watch. Anything specific you want to work on?"

"Hi, Paul. Yes. I would like to learn to shoot from the waist, if that's practical."

"Why?"

"I just thought since it takes a few more seconds to raise the weapon into a normal shooting position, it would be far faster to make the first couple of shots as soon as you have it out of the holster."

He nodded. "You don't need a gun for that. That would be a waste of ammo." He left me standing with my mouth open as he walked back and talked to the range officer. When he returned, he had a gun-like weapon in his hand. "When you press the trigger mechanism, a laser beam is activated. What I want you to do is draw the weapon, aim, depress the trigger, and then determine where a projectile would have hit had it been a real weapon."

I spent the next two hours under the watchful eyes of Pannell. By the time we quit, I could at least hit the target with the laser beam, if not consistently in the kill zone. I had graduated to targets with the silhouette of a man.

"Tomorrow?" he asked as I got ready to go.

"Yes. Mother says I can expect to be attacked again, and she feels practice is a reasonable precaution."

* * *

For the rest of the week, Pannell met me every morning and worked with me using a laser, shards, and pellets. By the end of the week, I could hit the target every time, and most of the time in the general area I intended.

"Your security detail has pronounced you safe to be around," Pannell said, grinning on the last day of the week. "Hopefully, you won't have to draw your weapon, but if you do, I think you’ll hit what you’re aiming at."

"Thank you, Paul. You've been a great help. I've told Mother all you’ve been doing, and she's grateful."

The second week, Mother took off several days and as she proposed, we spent them shopping, eating out, and attending a couple of shows. It was a glorious week and I managed to ignore any thoughts of raiders.

Two days before my vacation time was up, I opened my tablet and scanned the messages from Adrian and Rich. Nothing much had happened. They had been tracking the three UAS and three FPU merchants and reviewing the police investigations of the thugs that had tried to kill us at Nano Technology Industries on Stone Ring and the dead raider bodies at Zeno Pharmaceutical on New Zheng. I spent the last day reviewing the material but could find nothing of significance. We needed a strategy for when the next raid was scheduled, but I didn’t have a clue what that should be.

* * *

I left for work right after Alexa did, feeling energized. When I landed at the NIA headquarters’ landing pad, I waited for my two-man security to catch up before proceeding toward the building. As I approached the entrance, I saw six Marine Military Police, MPs, and idly wondered if there was a problem. As I neared the two glass doors, the ranking corporal on my security guard held the door open.

"Ma'am, we'll be in our shuttle until shift change. Let us know if you intend to leave the building." He waited until I had entered. In the lobby, I selected the leftmost of the three checkpoint lanes. After I presented my ID, the guard verified I was authorized to carry a weapon, and I was allowed through. As I passed the guard, I noticed the six MPs entering the far right lane, and another six stood waiting near the elevators.

Red suddenly appeared, hissing as he wrapped around my neck with his head near my ear. Something was wrong—but what? Red continued to hiss as I approached the elevators. When I came even with the door to the stairs, which was ten meters from the elevator where the MPs stood watching me, I yanked the door open and hurriedly stepped inside and raced up the stairs, taking the steps two at a time. I had just reached the half-way landing when I heard two men enter.

"Kill her!" shouted a base voice. "Before she sounds an alarm."

I spun around drawing my multifunctional weapon, thumbed the switch to medium spread, and fired at the scarred face of the tall man as he raised his standard marine Mfw in my direction.

Blood sprayed as several shards tore through flesh. He stumbled backward into the second man.

I didn't wait and sprang toward the second set of stairs leading to the door to the second floor offices. I flung the door open and screamed as I ran down the hallway toward our office area.

"Kris, Adrian, Rich, get your lasers. Raiders dressed as MPs are on their way up." I stopped at the end of the hallway, where I could hide partly shielded by the wall, and waited. "Hurry, they’re seconds behind me."

Just then, the elevator opened and two men came rushing out.

I thumbed a tight beam and fired twice before they could get their bearings. One fell backward dead, and the other screamed as he stumbled back into the elevator.

Just then, the door to the stairs opened and a short stocky man stepped into the hallway with his Mfw on automatic, ripping through the hallway wall and into the open room as his weapon swept from left to right.

Fortunately, I ducked back before the spray reached where I had been standing, partly exposed. I heard others shouting as they entered the hallway and more gunfire erupted, shredding partitions, chairs, and desks in the open room as well as shattering the conference room's glass partition and then the outside windows.

On a whim, I dropped to my knees, then lurched forward into a prone position with my gun and head barely peeking out into the hallway and fired knee-high several times.

Two men stumbled in mid stride as shards ripped through knees and the anterior parts of legs. Seconds later, laser fire came from the far right—my team's office area—as Kris, Adrian, and Rich began firing, scoring direct hits to two of the downed men.

I scrambled back and to my feet. "Hold them, I think Stauffer and Rawls may be in danger," I shouted as I raced to the back stairs along with several others who had been in the area to the left. They were pushing and shoving and heading down to the lobby. Fortunately, I was headed up. As I opened the door to the third floor, I saw two MPs coming out of the elevator at the other end of the hallway. I fired as I ran toward Stauffer's office, hoping to keep them inside the elevator.

They began returning fire just as I entered Stauffer's office.

"Anna ... " Stauffer said, rising from his desk, his eyes darting from me to the hallway.

"Let Rawls know raiders dressed as MPs are in the building and probably hunting her!" I shouted as I peeked out the door and fired a couple shots, hoping to keep them pinned down. Pellets sprayed in my direction, shattering office windows as they neared.

It took Stauffer several seconds before he picked up the phone and dialed. "Tell Rawls there are armed raiders in MP uniforms in the building. She could be a target."

He left the phone off the hook—a good move, since they would be able to hear the gunfire.

"Sir, head for the back stairs. I'll cover you."

He nodded as he checked his gun and joined me at the door.

When I saw he was ready, I nodded and stepped partway out and began firing from my waist at the two men advancing down the hallway, crouching and hugging the wall.

One scrambled into an office; the other I shot in the head. He screamed, dropping his weapon as he spun around crashing into the wall and collapsing.

I shot several times at the doorway to the office where the other man had disappeared, while backing down the hallway to the stairway. Stauffer had the door open, and I slipped inside and began running up. Fortunately, no one was in the stairway. I pulled open the door to the fourth-floor hallway just in time to see three MPs exchanging fire with Rawls’s marine guard, who looked to have been wounded. I sent several shots at the knees of two men who had decided to rush the marine.

The lead man went down, which tripped the second man.

Rawls’s marine and I finished the two with headshots. I heard the elevator close and a ghostly silence descended on the building. Then, just as suddenly, life returned and sobbing and muffled conversations could be heard. I spun around and headed down the stairs three at a time toward the second floor.

When I opened the door, Adrian, Kris, and Rich where kneeling behind desks facing the hallway to the elevators. They looked alive. I took a deep breath in relief as I reached inside my shirt for Red. I laughed as I felt him leave my back and slide to the front and coil around my wrist.

"That was clever, Red." I felt relieved until I saw blood on my arm and hand as I pulled him free. Tears ran down my face as I turned my arms back and forward, looking to see where he had been hit. Then I realized he hadn't—I had. I felt weak and collapsed onto my knees as Kris came sliding next to me.

"She needs a medic. Medic!" she screamed.

"So do you." I choked out a laugh, seeing blood on her jacket and leg, and hugged her in relief—she and the others were alive.

Adrian and Rich joined us a few minutes later. They both looked to have been wounded but appeared functional. We sat there smiling—happy we all had survived.

The medics arrived a short time later and made temporary repairs as they waited for the more seriously wounded to be transported first. We had just been loaded onto stretchers when Pannell and a large group of marines entered the area. He didn't say anything, but I noticed two marines followed each of us as we were wheeled away into the elevator, out the lobby, and into ambulances.

* * *

I woke confused, barely sure who I was, where I was, or why. I closed my eyes and tried to focus, listening. People were talking far off, machines humming and beeping. Taking a deep breath, I smelled antiseptics, and I knew I was in a hospital. Slowly the encounter with the raiders breached my foggy mind.

Just then someone squeezed my hand and I opened my eyes.

"Mother ... Sorry," I muttered, feeling guilty at the stress I must have caused her—again.

She wiped a tear from my cheek. "All that matters is you're alive. You had several shards in you which required surgery to remove, but they say you’ll recover fully. I'm adopting your philosophy—enjoy today—and today I've a daughter I love and life is wonderful." She kissed my forehead. "Rest now. You can tell me the gory details later."

I found out later that day that Adrian, Kris, and Rich had been taken to the Eteos City Hospital. Rich had received the most serious wounds, but even Adrian and Kris required surgery and hospitalization for several days. As usual, I had been flown to Mercy Hospital and was under Doctor Renata's gentle care.

"You’ll be happy to hear Red wasn't injured," Renata said as she entered the room.

"He learned his lesson from last time and managed to stay out of harm's way." I smiled thinking about the way he had retreated to my lower back and the way he had changed locations as I fought. Good thing, because I had panicked and wasn't thinking about Red's whereabouts as I raced to alert everyone to the danger.

"Good. In your case he's a vital organ." She proceeded to check the monitors and waved the inside marine out so she could examine me. "I don't think Colonel Pannell’s going to let you go anywhere without a squad of marines. He can't believe you were attacked inside the NIA building. He's very fond of you, Anna."

* * *

The next day, Renata finally permitted visitors—besides my mother. The first was Pannell. He looked shy ... embarrassed as he entered.

"I apologize ... how are you doing, Commander Paulus?" he asked quietly.

"Anna, and I'm doing well. Our raiders have lots of money and are creative, which makes them doubly dangerous."

"From what we’ve been able to ascertain from the two we found alive, they were promised ten million credits and given a five million credit advance and provided uniforms and identification. Commodore Stauffer and Admiral Rawls were on the list to be assassinated. There’s no question that your team's regular workouts at the firing range saved their lives. I'm trying to make it sound like NIA security thwarted the attack, but I doubt the raiders are going to buy that story. I'm afraid it's going to make them more determined."

"I agree. The only way to stop them is to shut down their operation."

"You could quit the NIA," he said rather forcefully.

Alexa snorted. "No more than you could stop being who you are, Colonel. Anna was meant to chase evil men just as you were meant to be a marine. She's in their heads, so if you keep her alive, she'll find and destroy them," Alexa said from the corner where she sat.

"Alright. We'll no longer consider any place safe, Anna."

Admiral Rawls and Commodore Stauffer were next to visit. They stood staring at me for a long time before Rawls spoke.

"Thank you, Anna. You saved a lot of lives. There’s no telling how many would have died if you hadn't interrupted them and warned us—your team, Carl, and I, and others who got in the way—few were armed or had access to a weapon." She paused, not waiting on a response but to inspect me. "The raiders got past building security because they had real uniforms, good quality fake identifications, and an excellent cover story—a credible threat to NIA. So how did you know they were assassins?"

"They chased me when I chose to use the stairs instead of the elevator." I didn't think Red warned me was a good answer.

"One of your insights?" Stauffer gave a snort.

I nodded. "It didn't feel right."

"It's no wonder the raiders want you and the others ... retired." Rawls said, shaking her head. "I won't blame you or the others if you want off the raider investigation. I don't want an answer now, but I'll want to discuss the team's recommendation when everyone is well enough to return to work. Carl, I'll leave it to you to let me know when the time is right."

* * *

"Kris, Adrian!" I shouted as they entered my hospital room. I knew they had survived, but it was still a relief to see them. Kris had her arm in a sling and Adrian had a cane and walked with a slight limp. "What are you doing here? You should be resting."

"We're here for a team meeting," Adrian said as the two approached the side of my bed. Kris ignored Red and kissed me on the cheek; Adrian squeezed my hand. "You don't have to leave ... Alexa," he said when Alexa rose.

"It's alright. I need to stretch my legs, and I think I'll get a bite to eat. Would you like anything from the cafeteria?" When Kris and Adrian shook their heads, she left.

"How's Rich doing?" I asked.

"He got hit several times. A couple of shards hit his lung and kidney. He'll fully recover, but it'll take a couple of weeks before he's fit to work," Adrian said. "Stauffer wants our recommendation for what should be done next, including whether we’re staying on. He says Rawls will make sure we get good assignments if we want out."

"Do you?" Kris asked me.

"I think we should first decide what we think should be done next, before we decide whether to stay or go." I felt Red emerge from my dressing gown and lie along my shoulders as if ready to participate.

"We could close down their operation by arresting the three UAS and three foreign merchants we've identified as having supported the raider's operation," Adrian said. "If we did, they might choose to leave."

"Or stay and reorganize while they eliminate the NIA team which caused their problem." Kris sounded resigned.

They both looked to me, waiting for my opinion or maybe hoping for one of my spontaneous insights.

"I believe the raiders will pursue us regardless if we stay in the NIA working the case or not. If we stay, we’re a problem to be eliminated; if we leave, they'll want revenge. If the former, we've the strength of numbers and a chance to destroy them. If the latter, we’ll be on our own, isolated and vulnerable, and the raiders will continue operating in the UAS," I said, thinking out loud and ironically coming to a conclusion in the process—or was it a Red insight? Because he disappeared into my dressing gown when I finished talking.

"Anna's right. They won't be satisfied just to see us leave, especially if our leaving causes them an interruption in their operation. They’ll want revenge. If we stay, they’ll want us retired so we don't interrupt their operation," Kris said, and I could feel her frustration turn stubborn. "The girls’ team is staying."

"Since the girls’ team hates paperwork, I guess I'll have to stay. And after my talk with Rich this morning, I think he will also." Adrian's smile faded. "Rawls will want our recommendation on what to do next. Any ideas?"

"I doubt arresting the merchants will cause them to leave, but it'll definitely cause them to revise their methodology. In that case, we might be doing them a favor, because it'll put us back to ground zero," Kris said.

"What if we concentrate on finding the Controllers?" We couldn't do much until we determined the raider's next move—would they continue with the same methodology and communications? Until we knew, why not use the time to look for the Controllers.

"How?" Adrian asked.

"Let's make some assumptions about the Controllers and then collect information that may identify one or more of them," I said.

"Like there are three of them," Kris said.

"They've been here for at least a year prior to the first raid," I said.

"They use local criminals," Adrian said.

Kris nodded. "They each work in a separate Master Puzzle publication area."

"They move after each raid," I said. "And they're picked up and dropped off by a UAS merchant."

"That's our recommendation then. Concentrate on finding the Controllers while we wait to see if the raiders continue business as usual or change methodology," Adrian summarized and received nods from Kris and me.

* * *

Mother gave a soft laugh. "I hear Admiral Bell went ballistic when he heard you had been attacked in the NIA facility—and again when he learned this was your fifth Purple Heart. He summoned Colonel Pannell to Eastar—"

"He wasn't to blame," I blurted.

"I think the admiral wanted a face-to-face briefing so he could hear the specific details and get Pannell's recommendations. I understand Pannell now has a fifty-man detail and military shuttles to transport you wherever you need to go and very lenient rules of engagement on top of his P1A authority."

"That's not going to help Kris find a husband." I felt sorry for her. Not only was she spending months on cruisers, but now she'll be followed by armed marines. It was almost as bad as having the Coaca Virus and carrying around a venomous snake—a real date turnoff.

"No, but hopefully it'll let her live long enough to eventfully find him. You and your team are at war with the raiders. Admiral Bell is making sure you stay alive to find and destroy them."

* * *

Stauffer arranged a meeting with Rawls after determining that Adrian, Kris, and I had received our doctors’ reluctant fit-for-duty recommendation. We met the next day in Rawls’s conference room.

"At ease, and sit. I appreciate you agreeing to return to work so quickly. You're certainly entitled to several weeks of convalescent leave—and a month with a shrink." She laughed. "I talked to Doctor Renata. She says you’re all crazy but stable and therefore fit for duty. I agree. You should be seeking new identification and relocation, not continuing with this assignment." She stopped for a look at her notes. "Lieutenant Commanders Shrader, Sinclair, and Paulus, you each are hereby awarded another Purple Heart. In addition, Lieutenant Commanders Shrader and Sinclair are awarded the Silver Star for your action against the raiders in the NIA facility. Lieutenant Commander Sinclair is also awarded another battle ribbon for your action on the UAS Bacchus. Congratulations." She pushed several velvet boxes and documents to Adrian and Kris. "Commander Paulus, Admiral Lultrel did mention that you disobeyed a direct order." Rawls held my gaze.

"What—" I said in panic until I sensed her amusement.

"She ordered you not to get anymore Purple Hearts. She said you had reached your limit for one career." Rawls gave me a wry smile. "Lieutenant Commander Paulus, you are awarded a battle ribbon for the action on the Bacchus, and a Purple Heart and the Navy Cross for your actions at the NIA facility where you saved many lives at the risk of your own. Congratulations."

They all clapped and I felt my cheeks burning. "One for all ..." I said quietly.

"And all for one," Adrian and Kris repeated.

"All right. I understand you're recommending we pursue identifying the Controllers while we wait to see what the raiders do next." She looked to each of us, and seeing nods, continued. "I approve." She rose and we all braced to attention. "Oh, Admiral Bell has placed each of you on the next promotion list to full commander, and Rich Gannon is promoted immediately to full lieutenant." She left smiling.

"Slippery but fast," Kris said. "Of course, if we're alive by the time the promotion list comes out, we'll have earned it."

"That's the good news." Adrian's far-off gaze looked thoughtful.

"What's the bad news?" Kris asked, frowning.

"We’ll probably be given our own NIA offices to manage."

"You're right. They aren't going to let three full commanders sit around waiting for the next big project."

That's a tomorrow problem, I mused, but said nothing.

* * *

"Good evening, Daughter. Hard day at work? You look deep in thought," Alexa said as I joined her for dinner.

"In a way. Admiral Rawls informs us we’re all on the next list for Commander." I managed a weak smile.

"Congratulations, Anna. Why’s that a problem?" she asked, her eyes wide in surprise.

"Adrian says it means we’ll each be given an NIA office to manage."

"And you don't feel ready?"

"I'm not ready to leave home," I whined.

Alexa grabbed me in a hug. "My poor daughter. Home has become your sanctuary and the only place you feel safe. Nobody can blame you. Your life has been very traumatic." She smiled. "You and I will always find a solution. We did for the thieves breaking into our home, and we'll continue to do so in the future. So, let's enjoy today and face tomorrow when it comes."

"Thank you, Mother. You're right." I felt Red's tongue brush my neck and laughed. "It's scary when I start worrying about the future. Today is wonderful."

Instead of retiring when Alexa said good night, I decided to give some thought to the Controllers and made my way to my home office. Red curled into my hair, obviously interested in assisting as I began making notes.

1. There are three Controllers, each in their own area defined by a Master Puzzle publication area.

2. They have a contact to get them what they need: thugs, Internet, and the coordinates for the UAS Merchant to deliver the puzzle to the raiders.

3. They have to be transported from one planet to another via a UAS merchant.

I sat back looking at my short list. Then it hit me—the Controller on New Zheng knew we had set a trap at Zeno Pharmaceutical and came directly to Oxax seeking revenge. That would explain how they knew we had returned so quickly. The Fire Rock Controller had to be on Oxax because that would explain how they managed to arrange for the attack on the NIA office so fast. If I was right, that meant a UAS Merchant would have been on New Zheng and then gone to Oxax. To my surprise, my search of the Oxax space station's records revealed that none of the three UAS Merchants who we had identified as supporting the raiders had been to Oxax recently. I quickly typed a message to Adrian.

To: Lieutenant Commander Shrader

Adrian, I need the Holy Star's merchant arrivals and departures for the day of the raid and the subsequent ten days. Urgent.

From: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

When I looked at the clock, it was nearly four in the morning, so I changed the delivery time from immediate to eight hundred hours.

* * *

"That was very considerate, Anna, although I do miss your early morning urgent messages," Adrian said as I waved good morning. "I noticed you delayed delivery."

"When I get involved in a problem, I lose track of time."

"I've sent off your request. We should have an answer this afternoon. What are you looking for?"

"I think the Controller on New Zheng left after the botched raid on Zeno Pharmaceutical and came here to Oxax. If I'm right, I'm hoping to find a UAS Merchant that left New Zheng with a passenger and came to Oxax in the right time frame. If so, we might have the identity the Controller is using and his picture and maybe a lead on how to find the others—but our theory they're passengers on one of the three UAS merchants supporting the raiders may be wrong."

"That would explain the raid on the NIA office, but how did he get everything organized so quickly ... unless the other Controller was on Oxax!" Kris's voice rose with excitement.

"That's what I think."

The time dragged by while we waited. When we got the results, it confirmed none of the three UAS Merchants, we had identified as supporting the raiders, had been on New Zheng during the critical time frame. An hour later we identified the Gypsy as the only possibility.

"Good work, Anna. I'll put in a request for the Gypsy's itinerary for the last three years. Until we get the data, I suggest we work on trying to identify the Controller from New Zheng who was working the Suton publication area." Adrian strode off to see Stauffer.

* * *

Over the next week we collected all the information the space station had, including a video where our mystery man was caught walking from the Gypsy to get a shuttle planet-side. Then we established the hotel he booked in at and reviewed the hotel's video, which showed him meeting a man in the lobby. We were in the process of trying to identify him when we received the records on the Gypsy.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Incident at Westar

"We have new Puzzles, three of them," Adrian said as he entered our office area. "Stauffer just received them. Rich, I've sent them to your tablet. Run them against the X25 program and let's see if we’re still in business."

I wondered if the raiders still believed their communications protocol was viable, or whether they had changed or were in the process of changing—and if their failed attempt to kill us had impacted their decision. They certainly had time on their side. Of course, they were also greedy and arrogant and wouldn't like us delaying a very profitable business.

Rich interrupted my musing. "Looks like we've got a winner! Anna, I've transferred the puzzle to your tablet," he shouted as he came running back into the room. He was like a new puppy: eager, excited, and happy all at the same time.

I looked at the new puzzle and found the double asterisks in the right location: 8*115%1&52#30%6*8w. Then I removed the non-Latin letters and performed a translation of the relevant string and sent it to everyone's tablet:

Have winner. Ten carrying precious metals in four days from post at one at 14.7812 -54.1242. Prize five hundred. If problem courier post 83.223.45.13.

"That must be the Stella Mining Corporation," Adrian said after a few minutes on his tablet. "They mine heavy metals unique to Westar. Periodically they transfer their processed ore to the Westar Space station for sale around the UAS."

"So the raid is set for four days from today, which is the date it was posted, at one hundred hours. The GPS coordinates are 14.7812 -54.1242. However, if something changes, the Controller will post the change on the Master Puzzle's chat room under miscellaneous posts," Kris said as she deciphered the cryptic message. "Which means the fine print has bitten me again."

"Fine print?" Adrian asked, frowning.

"Yes, on my enlistment contract, join the navy and enjoy free rides on cruisers, front row seats to missile fights with foreign cruisers, target practice with assassins, and learning to care for a venomous red-headed krait."

Adrian laughed. "I think Rich and I had better read our contracts. I'm hoping it doesn't have that care for venomous red-headed krait clause." He rose. "I'll inform Stauffer. He and Rawls don't have a lot of time to decide."

"Kris, I could go—"

"No. We're the girl team, and where you go, I go ... and Pannell and a horde of marines." She gave a good-hearted laugh. "I'm glad Dr. Renata is our psychologist, because nobody else would understand."

"Thank you, Kris. I would gladly go alone, but I do love having you with me. I still don't feel like an adult." The only bad part was that it put her at risk. I might lose a few years if we were killed, but Kris would lose sixty or seventy. The thought made bile rise in my throat.

"Attention," Adrian said as he entered our area with Admiral Rawls and Commodore Stauffer.

"At ease. Conference room. We don't have much time." She waited until we were all settled. "The first question is how do you recommend we handle this current raid?"

"Ma'am, we discussed the issue and believe we're out of options." Adrian looked at each of us in turn. When we each nodded, he continued. "They aren't going to believe we stumbled on their cruiser again, and besides, we don't currently have a patrol on Westar. Our current thinking is to destroy the cruiser then arrest the six merchants and the Controllers. We know two and might have identified the third, who we believe is currently on Safe Harbor. That would leave only one cruiser remaining, with no contacts."

"I concur. That does appear to be our best option. I understand it might be an advantage to have Anna on Westar, since the time and place might change. Are you sure you want to go, Anna? No one would blame you if you didn't. We could have the NIA office on Westar check the website."

"Yes, ma'am, I'm sure. None of us is safe until we destroy the raiders, so in a sense, I'm in no more danger going than staying. I hope going helps us get one step closer to destroying them."

After a short silence, Rawls nodded. "What about you, Kris?"

"Anna and I are a team, so if she goes, I want to go, and I agree with her logic. I'm at no more risk there than here. Besides, the faster we destroy the raiders, the faster I can find the father of my future children."

Rawls smiled. "There are lots of eligible men on cruisers."

"Not Sinclair-eligible ones, ma'am. I want a husband who’s home at night, not away on a cruiser somewhere in space."

Just then Captain MacLin entered the room, followed by Pannell. "Admiral, I've Captains Thayer and Hargrove getting their ships ready to depart for Westar, since you’ve indicated we needed to get to Westar yesterday."

"Have a seat, gentlemen," said Rawls. "We've received a communication from the raiders that indicates they're preparing a raid on Westar in four days’ time. Since I'm informed it will take three days to reach Westar and the raider will be in place at one hundred hours on the fourth day, we don't have any time to lose, and we want Commanders Sinclair and Paulus there, as the time and place could change. Unfortunately, there are no cruisers available in the area, nor any capable of getting there in time to transfer them."

"And you want the raider's cruiser destroyed this time?" MacLin remained silent for a long while after Rawls nodded. "I could take them on the Vulcan and let the Lapis and Cabiri be the primary find-and-destroy cruisers. I'll be backup in the event they needed help."

Rawls looked to Kris and me. "Alright. Afterward, they'll coordinate with Adrian and direct you and your squadron to find and detain or destroy specific merchants. We're planning to close down the raiders’ current operation."

* * *

The next four hours were a mad rush. I called Alexa to let her know I was on my way to Westar. She offered to help me pack, so I had the marine shuttle picked her up at work, which meant we could have a few hours to say goodbye. Later, on the way to the spaceport shuttle depot, they picked up Kris and her detail. She was quiet on the ride to the shuttles and to the space station.

"Seven!" she said as we marched down the space station hallway on our way to the Vulcan. "This is the seventh space submarine I've been on. I was never supposed to serve on one. I'm never going to sign a contract again until I have a team of lawyers read it first." She scowled then gave a small choked laugh. "The work is far more exciting and satisfying than I could have imagined—that is, when I'm not terrified of dying or frustrated about being on a cruiser with gorgeous men I won't consider marrying." She linked her arm through mine as we marched along. "And I found a crazy friend I love like a sister."

"Yes, life can be cruel and wonderful. Right now I feel like I'm in the wonderful stage. I have a loving mother, the work is exciting, and I've discovered an amazing person who feels like an older sister I can trust. So, today is wonderful. Nothing else matters."

"A good philosophy, Anna, as the future's difficult to predict. We're both great examples of how unpredictable it can be." She lapsed into silence.

Onboard the Vulcan, we were assigned commander quarters and told the captain was in his office and would like to see us. When we arrived, the marine on duty opened the captain's office door when he saw us coming. Inside, we braced to attention and saluted.

"At ease, get something to drink and have a seat, Commanders." MacLin waited as we got settled. "Unless you object, I would like you on the Bridge anytime there may be trouble. I'm going to let the Cabiri and Lapis engage the raiders, but if they get in trouble, I'll have to intervene." He sat watching us for our reaction.

"Captain, we appreciate you holding back for our sake and understand that can't be easy. If and when to help is your decision," Kris said, mirroring my thoughts. Captains lived to engage the enemy.

He smiled. "Yes, the thought of engaging the enemy of the UAS is exciting. On the Bridge it becomes a game where we too often forget human lives are at stake. Let's hope this time, we catch them unaware."

* * *

"Well, how was the date?" I asked the next morning at breakfast. We had both gone to the Officers’ Club that night. I had been asked to join another female lieutenant commander, and we were soon joined by several others. They had been interested in Red, and it had turned out to be a fun evening. I had managed to get them to talk about their lives aboard a war cruiser. Kris, on the other hand, had a date with a young male lieutenant commander.

"That's what’s so frustrating. He seemed like the kind of man I could get interested in, but he loves cruiser duty, and I refuse to marry someone who’s going to be away over half his career. At home, I would have to do my job as well as his." She laughed. "Maybe it's best we aren't always on the same ship so I don't see the same men. Wouldn't want to get interested by accident. What about you?"

"I'm living the life of a cruiser officer by proxy—listening to others’ lives aboard the various ships we’re on," I said, and we lapsed into silence, each in our own thoughts.

* * *

"Commanders, I thought you might want to query the WavCom when we exited the Wave," MacLin said in his normal cheerful tone as we entered the Bridge.

"Thank you, Captain. It'll give us something to do, and who knows what we might find," Kris said.

And keep her from worrying, I mused, because we weren't looking for anything relative to the raiders.

Wave exit went smoothly and Kris queried the WavCom as soon as MacLin declared the area safe. Then we returned to our quarters.

"What are we looking for?" Kris asked with a smile.

"Our next assignment," I quipped.

"As much as I would hate to see the team disbanded, I could use a little less excitement. What about you, Anna?"

"I'm a today person, because I feel I'm living on borrowed time," I said. "I could do with fewer hospital stays, but that doesn't bother me as much as putting people I love in danger. Except for that, I love what we’re doing and don't mind the risk."

"They could find a cure for the virus any day," Kris said. I could feel her concern.

"Don't feel sorry for me, Kris. Today, life is wonderful, and that's all that matters."

* * *

"Have a seat, Commanders. We're starting the show early." MacLin said as we entered the Bridge. "The Cabiri and Lapis are moving into position early and will lie in wait at minimum power for the raiders. That will give us the advantage this time. We'll remain well back also at minimum power so they won't detect us as they approach. With luck, we can give the Cabiri and Lapis advance notice of their arrival. I'm hoping this is going to be quick and—"

"Captain, missiles fired ... four missiles ... unidentified cruiser ... the Cabiri is trailing debris," shouted Commander Childs, the radar officer. Then several seconds later, "Another unidentified cruiser just fired on the Lapis. Four hits."

* * *

The Cabiri: Captain Hargrove

"Captain, we're approaching the search area for the GPS coordinates we were given," said the Nav officer. "Three minutes."

"Comm, establish a tight-beam connection to the Lapis." Hargrove felt his excitement rising with every passing minute.

"Captain, Captain Thayer on monitor one."

"Elaine, time to cut back to minimum power and go passive, unless you want to give the raiders a handicap."

"Then it wouldn't be a surprise party, Harry."

Thayer's face was smiling ear to ear. "True. All right, party hats on—"

"Shit—" the Radar officer shouted as the Cabiri was slammed with multiple explosions.

The Comm officer, who hadn't buckled in, was thrown from his chair, bounced off the Nav officer, and hit the back wall. The Nav officer lay unconscious, slumped over in his seat. Hargrove and the other officers on the Bridge had an assortment of injuries from the violence of the impact: arms and hands striking panels or chair arms.

"Unidentified cruiser is accelerating away," said the Radar officer, coughing blood. "Damn! The Lapis is under attack ... four hits."

"Helm, maximum acceleration after that raider. Tac, prepare to fire, max load." Hargrove sat with his eyes glued to the hologram showing the two raider cruisers moving away.

"Two hundred gravities and increasing at one grav per second. Definitely military grade engines," said the Radar operator as he watched his panel between coughs.

"Weapons ready, Captain," shouted the Tac officer with one arm in his lap, covered in blood.

"Fire!"

"Six missiles away."

"Five hits on unidentified cruiser," the Radar operator said, a slight grin on his lips.

Less than a minute later, "Four incoming," shouted the Radar officer, and the ECM operator's fingers flew over his bloody panel.

"Chaff away, laser defense active—"

The Cabiri bucked as three missiles stayed on course and got past the lasers.

Hargrove watched the damage monitor as the reports began coming in: they had lost two missile tubes, two fighter bays had been destroyed, six areas had been opened to space, and every area seemed to have some level of damage.

"Tac, fire when ready."

"Four away. Ten seconds to impact."

"They're increasing their lead; we've lost one engine."

"Tac, keep firing as long as they stay in range," Hargrove said, hoping one of the missiles would get lucky and disable the raider.

"Four incoming, no, eight. Both cruisers are firing on us."

"Tac, stay with our raider," Hargrave said as seven missiles slammed into the Cabiri.

* * *

The Lapis: Captain Thayer

Thayer's jaw dropped as the monitor showed Hargrove thrown violently sideways into the arm of his chair and his head shaking like a bubble doll’s.

"Captain—" the Radar officer shouted.

Four missiles slammed into the Lapis before he could finish the warning, and a ripple of explosions sent aftershocks through the ship.

"Tac, fire when ready," Thayer said in a voice of steel as her eyes watched the damage monitor. It wasn't good: more than a hundred had been killed as the ship was breached in three different areas. The good news, such as it was: they had full power, all their missile tubes, and ECM survived intact.

"Unidentified cruisers accelerating away, Cabiri chasing one."

"Helm, max power, keep our raider in missile range." Thayer said, looking around the Bridge and finding everyone functional.

"Six missiles away," the Tac officer said, "Time to impact, ten seconds."

"Six hits," the Radar officer said several seconds later, smiling.

"Four incoming." The ECM officer's face was a mask of determination as he worked in vain to stop them.

The cruisers were too close, and the distance was covered in seconds. Four explosions rocked the Lapis, taking out a bank of two missile tubes, a bank of lasers, and causing additional damage to the Environmental section.

"The raiders are both firing on the Cabiri. It's lost power," the Radar officer said, slamming his fist into his panel. Then softly, "Bastards."

"Mac's on the way. Don’t let that raider escape."

* * *

The Vulcan: Captain MacLin

"The raiders are accelerating away yet continuing their attack on the Cabiri and Lapis," Childs said, eyes glued to his radar panel.

"Nav, an intercept vector." MacLin's voice was space-cold as his eyes studied the hologram with the four cruisers. "Radar, tag Hargrove's raider red-one and Thayer's red-two.

"Vector on the helm's board, Captain."

"Helm, execute vector at max velocity. Tac, three and three on red-one and red-two when ready."

"Six away. Time to impact, red-two fifteen and red-one sixteen seconds," said O'toole the Tac officer with a predatory grin.

"They're combining their fire on the Cabiri," Childs said harshly, and then softly a moment later, "She's lost power.

"Nav, a vector a thousand kilometers in front of the two raiders." MacLin sat, eyes narrowed and lips pursed.

"Vector on Helm's board, Captain."

MacLin said nothing and the Bridge seemed suspended in time as he sat silent.

"Three hits on red-two; two hits on red-one," Childs’s words shattered the silence.

"Helm, execute a one second skip on the vector on your board." MacLin’s voice cracked like a whip. "Tac, ready a full load. Execute on whichever raider you acquire first."

The Bridge faded in and out almost too fast to notice, except for the eerie icy-cold sensation the skip produced in me. Silence again descended on the Bridge as everyone awaited the Tac officer.

"Six away on red-two," O'toole said. "Time to impact ... now." He laughed.

"Red-two lost power. Red-one skipped," Childs said, watching his panel. "I've lost Red-one. They must have cut all power."

"Comm, connect me to Commander Bitter and Colonel Graves."

"Connected," Jimenez said, and their faces each appeared in a split screen on monitor one.

"Colonel Graves, send one shuttle to inspect the Cabiri for survivors and two shuttles of your marines to inspect that crippled raider. Commander Bitter, scramble your fighters to support Colonel Graves's boarding action."

"Yes, sir," they replied in unison.

* * *

Fifty members of the Cabiri had managed to get into escape pods before the systems completely shut down. The raider ship, Rottweiler, had no survivors. The system computer had been destroyed, leaving no clue as to the location of their base. The Lapis had sustained substantial damage and lost one hundred fifty-six crew. Another forty-three were wounded.

"Well, Commanders, what now?" MacLin asked late the following day after the Vulcan and Lapis had docked at the Westar space station. The survivors of the Cabiri and the wounded from the Lapis had been transported to Westar hospitals. MacLin had been unusually subdued, as had Kris, who was feeling guilty that our information had led to an ambush. I felt the loss of so many humans but not personally guilty.

"I would like to wait and see what action they take next—"

"What! After this?" Kris blurted, clearly distraught.

"This just confirms what we already knew—they're vicious, vindictive, and more importantly not planning to leave the UAS."

"But if we close down the merchants and Controllers …" Kris said, implying they would have to leave.

"Or would they attack different targets, like merchants?"

"I kind of like Paulus's reasoning. Rounding up merchants doesn't seem as satisfying as destroying a raider's cruiser. No one is blaming the NIA. You told us where they would be, not when, and an engagement with two cruisers is always going to be costly."

"Alright, I'll get off a message to Adrian with our recommendation," Kris said reluctantly.

* * *

Early the next morning, Adrian replied.

To: Lieutenant Commander Sinclair and Lieutenant Commanders Paulus

Copy: Captain MacLin.

Return to Oxax when Captain MacLin is ready. Admiral Rawls is considering your recommendation in light of the ambush at Westar.

From: Lieutenant Commander Shrader

"I have to admit, I feel guilt over the ambush. I thought MacLin and Thayer would consider us to blame," Kris said. "But it would be like blaming Colonel Pannell for not having marines guarding us in the NIA building when the raider thugs attacked. We have to accept we're in a war with the raiders and the only rule is winning."

"I talked with MacLin earlier. He's planning on leaving tomorrow morning. He's anxious to get his bloodhounds back on the scent." I hooked my arm in Kris's when she smiled. "Let's go eat."

CHAPTER TWELVE

Decision time

On docking at the Oxax space station, Kris and I caught a shuttle to the planet and then a marine shuttle flew us to the NIA office. When we entered, Stauffer was in the conference room with Adrian and Rich.

"Welcome back, ladies. I appreciate you stopping into the office straight from the Vulcan. One question and then you can go. Why do you recommend we not round up the merchants and Controllers?"

"In truth, I thought we should." Kris grinned and punched me on the shoulder.

Red made no effort to move although he could have easily struck her if he had wanted. I understood. If nothing else, it would keep her off cruisers and give her time to search for that elusive husband.

"Adrian favors that approach too," said Stauffer, "so why is the team recommending we not?"

"A team member wants to wait, so she gets us to wait," Kris said.

"Isn't that rather ... capricious?"

"Tradition. When we started the Smuggler's Project, I wanted to see the merchant ship that smuggled the red-headed krait. Adrian went along with my whim and Anna found the fake missile and that led to closing down the smugglers," Kris explained.

"Yes, a good example of why arbitrarily adding members to this team wouldn't work. Most senior officers would fight that policy—Anna wants so Anna gets. Why, Anna?"

"I don't believe rounding up the merchants and Controllers will stop the remaining raider or maybe raiders. So, I would like to know how they're going to change or not change their current methodology. If we can't figure it out, we still have the option of shutting them down." I wanted to ensure the solution wasn't only a temporary fix.

"I'll run it by Rawls. In the meantime, take some time off while we wait to see what they do. But don't relax your security." Stauffer looked to the ever present Pannell, who nodded agreement.

* * *

"I hear the Vulcan destroyed one of the raiders without getting hit even once, a unique situation. You'll receive a battle ribbon without having to endure the usual trauma," Alexa said as she entered my home office. I had retired there when I went home early—to think, not work. I knew the raiders were going to change their methodology, the question was—what were their options? They could try another code, but that seemed risky given we had cracked the current one. They could involve the merchants more, but that would mean exposing their agents, the Controllers, who they had been scrupulous about keeping anonymous. Of course, they could decide to kill us first.

"That's true, Mother. Kris says her uniform’s beginning to look like it belongs to a retired Admiral."

Alexa laughed. "You two have certainly earned more meaningful medals than most officers earn in their naval careers. Are you getting closer to catching them?" Concern was evident in her voice.

"I think it’ll depend on what they do or don't do next. They still have one and maybe two cruisers in UAS space, and I don't think they’re ready to leave. The credits are well worth the risk. We have to wait for the next Master Puzzle edition to find out."

"Good, that means you'll be home for a while."

* * *

I spent the next couple of days reviewing merchant activity for the last five years. It soon became obvious that the Controllers did not use the Cloud Chaser, Star Trader, or Good Deal merchants to and from their assignments. So I started over, looking for any merchant that was in system a week after each raid. It took two days but I finally eliminated everyone except for the merchant ship Gypsy. It had been in position to relocate each Controller after the raid. I was convinced I had the right merchant when I verified the Gypsy had subsequently traveled to the systems where we presently thought the Controllers now resided: Stone Ring to New Zheng, Easter to Safe Harbor, and Holy Star to Oxax.

Then I looked at the Gypsy's activity over the past five years. Unlike the three messenger merchants, the Gypsy didn't confine its principle activity to a publication area. At the three-year mark, I did notice more activity at the raided sites. Given I was right about the Gypsy, the passenger logs identified the Controller at Stone Ring as Leo Massey, at Eastar as George Bernal, and at Holy Star as Ken Finch.

And according to the latest movements, Ken Finch had moved to Oxax and then to Westar to set up the ambush. Leo Massey had moved from Stone Ring to New Zheng and then to Oxax to arrange the ambush at the NIA office. George Bernal had moved to Safe Harbor.

It was late when I finally finished, and I sat back and considered what I had found. Not so much the Controllers' locations or why they moved, but how it affected their methodology. The three UAS merchants knew how to determine if the puzzle AU was valid, but I now knew they didn't know the Controllers—only the Gypsy knew them. The other three merchants were messengers paid to deliver the puzzle publications to ... who? Certainly not the FPU cruisers, given how careful the raiders had been to shelter the Controllers. Since there were several FPU and PRS merchants in UAS space at any one time, I concluded the hand off was to one or more foreign merchants working with the raiders.

So the UAS merchant meets a FPU merchant and gives the puzzle publication to him. Then I presume the FPU merchant delivers it to the raiders. But would the raiders give the FPU merchants their hiding place—very unlikely. So where were the three cruisers hiding? Was it just one place or one per publication area? And what was the Gypsy's part in this?

My head spun with unanswered questions and felt like hundreds of tiny men were banging on the inside of my skull to get out. That was probably the reason Red had disappeared into my nightdress—or else he was just disgusted that I couldn't deduce the answers. Frustrated, I sent Adrian my findings.

Several days later, I was notified that we had received three puzzles from the Checky Fools.

* * *

When I arrived at the office, Adrian, Kris, and Rich were already in the conference room looking deflated.

"Good morning, from the look on your faces the puzzles weren't real," I said as I sat with my cup of moo-coffee.

"All three are supposedly real. Each puzzle's AU had the double asterisks. But when I removed the non-Latin characters, I didn't see any of the words in the previous valid messages," Kris said.

"I sent them to your tablet, Anna." Adrian's voice had a hint of optimism.

I turned on my tablet and went through my normal procedure as a double check and then scanned the resulting strings. The same four words were in each puzzle.

"There is a message, and it's the same in all three puzzles. Your end of days."

Adrian and Kris paled; Rich sat with his mouth hanging open. It was a message meant for the four of us, and an acknowledgement that they knew we had deciphered their previous code. But that raised interesting questions—how were they now communicating, and did they have a current winner or three. Because all three AUs contain the two asterisks indicating they were real, I checked each AU and found each in an out of the way location in the appropriate system as indicated by the last letter in the string.

"This means they know we can decipher their previous code, still don't like us, and the messages are fake." Adrian shrugged in defeat.

"I don't think so. The merchants don’t know what the puzzle message says, only that there’s a valid AU coordinate; therefore they'll report to the designated area."

"But if they know we can decipher the message ... another trap? Do they expect us to follow the merchants?" Kris asked. "Well, at least MacLin doesn't need us to do that." She croaked out a laugh.

"Which is why it probably isn't a trap. I think they want us more than a cruiser. Besides, I don't believe they think they can fool the cruiser captains so easily again. They didn't fare well in the exchange." I had a feeling that one of the three messages was real. "If my assumptions about the Gypsy and the Controllers are right, then only Safe Harbor can be a valid target ... whether that puzzle message is valid or not."

Everyone grabbed their tablets and began reading my message to Adrian. After a long silence, Adrian and Kris looked up and nodded.

Eventually, Rich looked up and smiled. "Because none of them except the Controller on Safe Harbor has been there long enough to identify a target and a winner."

"But how does the FPU merchant and or the FPU cruiser know it’s a fake?" Kris asked.

"More importantly, if it isn't a fake, who's the target?" Adrian asked, clearly frustrated. "I should tell Stauffer what we suspect," he said as he rose.

Kris nodded. "Best to keep them informed as to what we surmise. If Safe Harbor turns out to be a target, they would be rightfully upset if they weren't notified, even though it's only conjecture at this time."

* * *

Rawls called for a meeting after Stauffer informed her of our conclusion.

"As I understand it, you believe Safe Harbor's the next target, but you don't know who or when," Rawls said, getting straight to the point. "Still think we shouldn't arrest the UAS merchants and FPU Controllers?"

Everyone looked to me and I felt my cheeks burning. I was close to capitulating when Red appeared and wound into my hair and draped his head on my forehead. For no reason I could determine, I felt he agreed with me and we shouldn't back down.

"Yes, ma'am. Their last message is clear—they aren't leaving until they're ready, and they want the NIA team dead. Rounding up the Controllers and the UAS merchants won't cause them to leave or to stop hunting us. Consequently, it might take years to discover their new methodology, whether they kill us or not."

Rawls sat deadly still staring at me for a long time, and it became so quiet I could hear people breathing in the silence that followed. "That's a persuasive argument, Anna. I'm sure Admirals Lultrel and Bell will agree that protecting this team's the priority. I concur with your recommendation. Good hunting."

"Well, what can or should we do now?" Adrian asked after Rawls and Stauffer had left.

"Spend more time at the firing range," Rich quipped, but I felt he was partly serious.

Adrian and Kris nodded almost imperceptibly.

"Wait for the next raid," I said. "I would like to go to Safe Harbor after the raid to see if they used the same procedure—and if they did, to identify the client they found."

"Seems rather heartless waiting to go until after the raid, but I agree. What else can we do without knowing who?" Kris looked resigned.

"Let's take the time to rest, as I agree with Anna. We’ll be off to Safe Harbor soon enough," Adrian said. "Meet here same day next week for an update."

* * *

The week passed slowly but I didn't mind. It was great being home. During the day I pondered the complex system the raiders had developed and hoped that if we could figure it out, we could destroy their operation. We were missing some critical pieces.

We knew, or I thought I knew, the Gypsy was used to set up a system for the raiders’ Controller and to deliver him to the system. The Controller initiated the ad and filtered the contestants until he found a winner. He then constructed a puzzle with the information the raiders would need ... but ... how did he know the coordinates for the UAS merchant to hand off the puzzle? It wasn't a constant because I checked—neither the system nor the AU remained constant. So where did he get the information?

The UAS merchant reviewed the puzzle publication each month and delivered the publication to the designated area when the AU had two asterisks. I was guessing to a foreign merchant, who then delivered it to a raider cruiser. But how did the foreign merchant know where the cruiser would be? They were careful, so I doubted the merchant knew the actual location. They met at some designated location, but was it static or did it change, and if it changed, how did the FPU merchant get the information?

I concluded a major piece of the puzzle to their methodology was how they communicated the location information. The system had been carefully thought out and designed to make sure that no one merchant's capture could expose the Controllers or the raider cruisers.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

Incident at Safe Harbor

"Are you making any progress on ferreting out the raider's methodology?" Alexa asked as we sat in the living room after dinner.

"I'm missing a key piece. How do they get their rendezvous location with the raider cruiser? Because I doubt it's a static location. I think it varies in case a merchant is arrested or decides to betray the raiders. That way the link is broken."

"Another puzzle—" Alexa began.

"Yes. You're a genius, Mother," I blurted, giving her a quick hug and opening my tablet to search the file containing the previous Master Puzzle publications. "I think they're using another puzzle to designate the location." For the rest of the evening, I sat scanning through the latest publications, looking at the answers for the previous month's puzzles. Early the next morning, I decided I was going about the search backward and sent Adrian a message.

To Lieutenant Commander Shrader

Can you query all three Master Puzzle subsidiaries? I would like to know all the puzzles individuals pay to put in the monthly publication.

From: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

The next morning I received a surprise call from Kris. "Pack your bags, we're headed for Safe Harbor. You were right. They raided the Star Mining Company processing plant and made off with rare gems and metals worth more than three hundred and fifty million credits."

"Kris, you don't have to go—"

"Stop! I don't like space submarines or space battles or being shot at, but I like working with you. We make a great team. Besides, are you going to trust Red with Adrian or Rich?"

"I would feel so bad ... if you got hurt, I would never forgive myself," I whined, feeling guilty and afraid. I did seem to attract trouble.

"I feel the same about you, so let's make sure we watch each other’s back. See you on the Vulcan by twenty-two hundred hours." She cut the connection, forestalling any further argument.

"Mother, I'm off to Safe Harbor," I shouted, as Alexa was upstairs dressing for work.

"When do you have to be at the space station?" she asked from the head of the stairs.

"Tonight. Twenty-two hundred hours."

"If you like, I'll take the day off and we can spend it together."

"I would love that."

* * *

The shuttle arrived at the space station at twenty hundred hours, and I was at the entrance to the Vulcan fifteen minutes later. A tall Lieutenant was at the bay checking IDs.

"Permission to come aboard, sir," I said as I reached him.

The poor man stood with his lips moving but no sound as he tried to reconcile me to my dress uniform with its lieutenant commander stripes, battle and award ribbons, and the two fully armed marines standing behind me. Finally, after checking my ID against me several times, he managed to speak.

"Permission granted, ma'am," he finally said, delivering a reasonably good salute. "Ma'am, petty officer Jackson will take you to your quarters."

Just then a short stocky man stepped forward. "Ma'am, if you'll follow me, I'll take you to your quarters. The captain would like to see you and Commander Sinclair when you are settled. She's in the room next to yours."

"We'll have to wait for my security to clear the OOD," I said, nodding to the two marines having their IDs checked. When they did, he led me to my quarters.

While I was putting my clothes away, I heard a knock at the door and opened it to find Kris smiling at me.

"About time you got here." She gave me a hug. "Hi, Red. Remember me?" she quipped when Red appeared from inside my jacket.

"Been here long?"

"About an hour. If you're ready, we should go see MacLin. He'll probably want to know if we’re chasing cruisers." She laughed.

We made our way to MacLin's office and were admitted immediately. Colonel Pannell was already there when we entered.

"Well commanders, what's the game plan?" MacLin asked after returning our salutes.

"As you probably know, the raiders hit the Star Mining Company. We're going to try and determine the inside person, whether their methodology has changed, and if so how."

"Any possibility of another surprise encounter?" he asked.

"You would certainly be a prime target, as you've two of NIA's raider-team members on board, and they could reasonably assume we would come to Safe Harbor to investigate the robbery. The question is whether they want to take on a UAS cruiser or wait for us to debark." I immediately regretted saying so, as Kris's face turned pale. Not that it wasn't true, but for the sake of Kris's feelings.

She shrugged. "Here or on Oxax. What's the difference? I know how to shoot, we've a marine squad tailing us, and we've Red for backup. I would say those are reasonable precautions." She gave a sharp nod for effect. "Too bad we can't send them a reply to their message—the raiders’ end-of-days is coming."

MacLin laughed. "I almost feel sorry for the raiders, having you two bloodhounds on their trail."

* * *

The three days to Safe Harbor seemed to drag with nothing to do, so Kris and I spent several hours at the marines’ firing range. Kris had improved over the months and could consistently hit the kill zone. I also felt good about my ability to shoot without having to take careful aim.

When we exited the Wave into Safe Harbor, I did query the WavCom for all the messages to and from the merchant Star Trader.

"What are you hoping to find?" Kris asked.

"Not sure, but unless my logic is wrong, we’re missing some form of communication between the raiders and the foreign merchants, because I don't think the cruisers would give away their location. Somehow it's arranged each time."

"Transfer what you have and I'll scan them. We have at least six hours before we dock at the space station," Kris said, opening her tablet.

"Ready?" I asked as I felt Red work himself into my hair and lay his head on my forehead.

"That's creepy." Kris shook her head. "More so now that Red lets me hold him when you’re in a bad mood."

"He could just be bored," I said, and we lapsed into silence. First, I eliminated all the messages prior to publication date in the month of the raid and twenty days after the publication date. That left only seven messages. One immediately jumped out at me.

To: Star Trader

Tell your mate it measures 11 by 31221.

From: Gypsy

"Damn, you were right—or was it Red." Kris's voice elevated with excitement. "Gypsy."

"I agree. Somehow that identifies the rendezvous location. One step closer to giving you time to find that elusive father of your children."

"I hope he's not gray—or worse, bald—by the time I find him."

* * *

"Commanders Sinclair and Paulus, this is Lieutenant Wheeler," Pannell said when he entered the conference room with a tall sandy-haired man in his early thirties. "He's in charge of the Safe Harbor NIA office. The commanders are from the Oxax office."

"Please to meet you, commanders. Lieutenant Clark was the primary interface with the Safe Harbor police investigating the robbery," Wheeler said, nodding toward an average looking man in his early twenties. "Colonel Pannell says you want to review our findings. You understand it was rightly the local police's jurisdiction, and they conducted the investigation. They allowed us access only because Admiral Rawls requested it."

"Please sit. Commander Paulus and I are part of the team assigned to investigate a series of robberies across the UAS. We've P1A authority, and this robbery is now part of that investigation." Kris waited for Wheeler to nod understanding. "After we review what you know, we would like you to set up a meeting with the senior person at the Star Mining Processing facility and the police chief in charge of the investigation."

"May I ask why? The police were very thorough."

"Did they identify the inside person?"

"There was no inside help. A group of six to eight men strong armed their way into the facility, killing the five guards."

"Unless this robbery isn't related to the other robberies, there was inside help. We're here to find him or her," Kris said. "If anyone gives you a hard time, the investigation of this robbery is being conducted under P1A authority."

Our subsequent review of the police report indicated the robbers had hit the facility a little after two in the morning and killed the five security guards and two other men who had been processing a special order before they could raise an alarm. The robbers then broke into several rooms which contained rare gems and metals and were gone before the morning shift arrived. The police concluded the thieves hadn't left the planet.

It was late when we finished, so Kris asked Wheeler to wait until morning to set up the meeting with the Police Chief and the person in charge. We didn't want to give either too much lead-time.

* * *

The Star Mining Processing facility had three large buildings: two processing buildings with metal exteriors and the main building, constructed of a blue-gray steel with narrow glass windows. We arrived early the next day thirteen strong: four marines stayed with the shuttle while Kris, Wheeler, Clark, Pannell, four marines, and I entered the main building. Inside the building was a modern lobby with comfortable chairs, couches, and tables, a metal and glass reception booth, and monitors running videos of various aspects of the mining and processing operations. A security guard, looking very attentive, stood near the elevators and another behind the reception booth.

"Hello, Susan. We've an appointment with Mr. Graham," Wheeler said as he reached the reception booth.

"Hi, Jerry. Go right up. He and Chief Holland are in his conference room." The petite redhead gave him an award winning smile.

We followed him into the elevator and then down a long hallway to a glassed-in room where two men stood talking: a broad shouldered man with close-cut brown hair in a police-chief uniform, and a short stocky gray-haired man in a dark-blue suit and white shirt open at the neck.

"Mr. Graham, Chief Holland, this is Commander Sinclair and Commander Paulus of the Oxax NIA office. Commanders, Mr. Graham is in charge of the SMC Processing operation, and Chief Holland is the Chief of Police of Star County, where this facility is located."

"Lieutenant Wheeler did explain the reason for this meeting and indicated you had P1A authorization. What do you expect to find that Chief Holland didn't?" Graham asked, sounding irritated.

"Commander Paulus and I are part of the team investigating a series of robberies perpetrated by foreign raiders. This appears to be their fifth raid. We're here to determine if it is and if it is, whether or not they used the same methodology."

"Their method was simple. They used brute force to enter, plundered, and then left. We'll catch them eventually when they try to leave the planet." Holland sneered.

Kris ignored his bravado and the sneer. "Mr. Graham, what was stolen that was worth more than three hundred million credits?"

"We don't normally accumulate that much at one time, but we hit a particularly rich vein of high quality industrial diamonds and also had a large special order for a metal used on war ships." He shook his head. "Just bad luck they hit when they did. Five more days, and both orders would have been shipped."

"Who would have had access to that information, Mr. Graham?" I asked.

"None of my staff would have helped the robbers."

"Humor us, Mr. Graham," Kris said with a smile. "Who?"

"Well ... the plant manager Mr. Byrd, the sales manager Mr. Wallace, and Ms. Weller the processing manager, and of course me."

"Can you call them here for a meeting, please?" Kris said.

"Is that necessary? They aren't criminals," Graham said.

"We aren't accusing anyone, just attempting to eliminate possible leaks. The raiders used software to get their information."

Graham shrugged and tapped on his tablet for several minutes. "They’ll be here shortly."

"A snake!" Holland shouted while drawing his gun.

But before it cleared his holster, Pannell and the two inside marines had their weapons pointing at him. Pannell walked over and removed the gun, ejected the pellet clip, and then handed the gun back to him.

"The snake's not dangerous. Commander Paulus has the Coaca virus, and the krait keeps it from becoming active. Their relationship is symbiotic. But the commanders already have a several Purple Hearts each on this assignment, so you can understand that guns make me nervous."

The chief looked indignant at first, which turned to open-mouthed shock. He nodded.

Just then a large woman entered, and with her eyes locked on Red, took a seat at the far end of the table from me. Minutes later two men entered, one a tall older man with dark skin and the other a middle-aged freckle-face redheaded man.

"If I could have your tablets and the passwords, please." I walked to where they sat.

"No!" Was the unanimous response.

"It's not a request. I'm invoking P1A authority." I held up my P1A badge. "We’re looking for software that may have infiltrated your devices," I said, continuing the subterfuge Kris used—adult speak. "Yours too, Mr. Graham. Chief Holland, I'll also need you to visit each of their homes and collect any devices that can be connected to the Internet."

"That's illegal without a warrant," Holland said before anyone else could.

Two of the three smiled.

"What would be illegal and land one in jail would be to refuse to cooperate with a P1A request. You may if you wish complain to the courts afterward, but you must comply now," Kris said.

Holland didn't like it, but he left to comply, while Kris and I began examining the tablets. Feeling paranoid after one of our last visits, Pannell insisted the four remain sequestered.

Just as the home units were appearing, Kris and I had each finished examining the tablets. Also feeling paranoid, we decided to keep the tablets until we had finished. We didn't want anyone communicating with the outside.

"What did you find?" Kris asked, smiling.

"The Controller took a different approach, if I'm not mistaken," I said, reviewing the correspondence I had found on Mr. Graham's home tablet. "I think somehow they found Graham was involved in some minor illegal transactions and either through intimidation or greed got him to provide the information they needed. I'll bet we find ten million in the new bank account he opened on Shadow’s Rest."

Kris nodded. "What now?"

I sat back and closed my eyes. I doubted raiders cared if we caught the inside man or not. He didn't know anything that we didn't already know.

"Arrest him, but I would like to know the date he gave them the final information."

"Why? How will knowing the date help? We already know what the Controller does with the information."

"Not really sure, but we’re missing a critical piece to the puzzle, so I'm grasping at straws, as the saying goes."

Over the next hour, we returned the equipment and let everyone go except Graham, on the pretext of needing additional information. Within an hour we had the whole story. They had somehow found out he was illegally selling small quantities of processed gems and had used that to convince him it was jail or free with ten million credits.

The police chief was quiet as he took Graham into custody, and we proceeded out of the conference room and down the hallway to the elevator. I could feel Graham's nervousness increase as we entered the elevator and again downstairs as we approached the doors. When I looked back, his eyes were darting from side to side and he felt ready to explode.

"Kris." I grabbed her arm as we walked. "Something isn't right," I said, looking around.

Holland was directly behind us with Graham, with the two marines trailing them. Pannell was walking beside us, and two marines were in front of us. Red had wound around my neck, and he hissed as the two marines opened the doors for us. Outside, I could see the military shuttle about twenty-five meters to the side, and the four marines left to guard it. All four were close together talking.

When we reached the doors to go outside, Red hissed again. I drew by Mfw, thumbed a narrow spread, and fired as two of the marines stepped back opening the circle, their weapons rising. Shooting from the waist, I aimed chest high—in case I was mistakenly shooting at our marine security. One was thrown back against the shuttle and another dropped his weapon as my second shot was a bit wide, hitting him in his gun arm. At the same time, I pushed Kris back through the doors.

"Anna, those are your marine security—" Pannell began, but he stopped as the other two marines in the group by the shuttle began firing.

"Sir, those aren't our men," one of the lead marines shouted as he returned fire while trying to drag his wounded partner back into the building.

Red seemed to change direction and I spun in time to see four men in suits but with automatic rifles emerge from inside the reception booth. Our two trailing marines were looking toward the front doors, covering our retreat.

"Behind you!" I shouted while thumbing a wide spread and firing several shots from my waist, aiming chest high. My practice had paid off and each blast was close to where I aimed, tearing through arms, necks, and faces. The shards had the desired effect of alerting the marines to the danger behind them and temporarily disrupting the men's attack.

My shards had caused the lead man to stumble and crash face first onto the floor. As he attempted to push himself to his knees, Kris's laser pulsed and he was hit twice in the head.

The man just behind him to the left had been hit in his gun arm and shoulder and lost control of his weapon. Before he could recover, one of the marines shot him several times in the chest.

One man to the lead man's right kept charging even though his face and arm were bleeding. The blood must have been obscuring his view because his aim was high, tearing through the wall just above Kris and me.

Pannell, I think, shot him several times, including two to the head. His momentum carried him to within two steps of me.

The fourth man I missed, as he dove behind a couch.

At the same time, the chief spun, drawing his gun only to find it wasn't loaded. As he dove for cover, Graham bolted toward the back of the lobby. The man behind the couch shot him before he was halfway to the reception booth.

It was mayhem, with us caught in the open and taking fire from two directions. I pushed Kris to the right where tables and padded chairs provided some protection. When I looked around, Pannell and the one functional marine had managed to close the doors and had found partial cover. They were busy defending the doors from the thugs trying to enter.

Only one of the two tailing marines remained functional. He had found cover to the left and was exchanging periodic fire with the remaining gunman behind a couch.

"Cover me," Kris said with steel in her voice and began moving to the right.

I rose slightly, aimed toward the edge of the couch, rested my hand on the arm of the chair I was behind for support, and waited.

A few seconds later, Kris kicked one of the tables, which made a scraping sound on the floor.

The man behind the couch rose up with his weapon swiveling toward the noise.

I shot twice, missing because he had a cushion in front of him, and ducked down quickly after my first shot.

He surprised me by rising up almost immediately and firing in my direction, missing only because his first two shots were hurried. If I hadn't dropped at the sound of his first shot, he would have killed me as his third shot ripped through the top of the cushion where my head had been. A scream followed and then an eerie silence—as if everyone had left the building.

"I got him," Kris shouted. "You alright?"

"Yes, grab a couple of their weapons. The marines will need help holding the door."

The chief was quick to jump up and retrieve the weapon from the thug on his side of the room. Moments later Kris slid in behind me and handed me a marine-like Mfw. I switched it to projectiles and automatic. The next several minutes were deathly quiet like standing in the eye of a hurricane.

"Kris, watch the lobby. There's undoubtedly a back door into this place." I tried to think what I would do in similar circumstances. Red changed position just as I heard Kris fire.

Four men had entered from the back of the lobby. The chief, the marine, Kris, and I fired as they ran into the room shooting. Two went down before they reached the booth and the other two took cover. Simultaneously, several men burst in through the front doors. But without support from the men entering from the back, the entrance was relatively easy for Pannell and the marine to defend and three went down before the other two retreated.

I couldn't hear what was being said, but I could hear one of the men in the back talking on a communications device, as was the chief. The question was which group would get support first. I doubted Pannell or the two standing marines could last long based on the blood on their uniforms and the floor. Then I thought I heard a shuttle's engines and saw the two in the back of the lobby make a dash for the back door.

I thought it safe and ran to where Pannell and the marine lay. Surveying both, I decided the marine was in worse shape. The chief, Kris, and I spent the next half hour providing first aid to stop the bleeding. Chief Holland's troops arrived shortly afterward and the wounded were taken to the hospital. Kris and I were taken to the shuttle port, where twenty marines waited to escort us to the Vulcan.

* * *

"They really don't like you," MacLin said that night at dinner. "It's a miracle neither of you were injured. Paulus, I'm told you were the first to recognize it was a trap." It was more a question than a statement—how?

"I guess my paranoia is on high alert. Besides, I think Admiral Lultrel will court martial me if I get another Purple Heart," I added to change the subject. What could I say, Red warned me? I think even Doctor Renata would have trouble with that concept. "Kris saved me."

"Days and days at the firing range helped. When I joined the navy, I thought the sidearm was symbolic because I was an officer. Now I feel like a marine recruit." She snorted and took a drink of her wine.

"The marines I talked to have a new respect for the navy. They credit you two with saving their lives. What now?"

Kris shrugged. "I would like to find a husband and have a couple of kids. No offense, but no line officers. However, I suspect we have to destroy the raider organization first. Anna, what do you think?"

"I think we have the pieces to the puzzle of how to find the raider cruisers, we just have to put it together." I felt that we were close. I just needed time to sort through the information we had collected. "Back to Oxax. We need to put our heads together."

"To putting the puzzle together and sending the foreign cruisers to perdition." MacLin raised his glass to us.

* * *

Kris and I walked down to sickbay to see Pannell and the surviving marines and found them awake.

"How are you doing, Paul?" Kris asked.

"Better, thank you. How did you know, Anna? I thought you had gone crazy when you started shooting at the four men in marine uniforms," Pannell said.

"I think Graham warned me. He seemed increasingly nervous as we approached the door. And ... the marines didn't look right." I knew how strange that must sound but the truth would send me to the psych ward—forever.

"That was a gutsy move shooting on a ... hunch." Pannell gave me an appraising look.

"I did shoot toward their chests, since they had vests on, just in case I was wrong."

Pannell laughed and immediately winced with pain. I noticed the other two marines had a similar reaction.

To my relief, Renata entered. "Since you’re both here, I wonder if I could have a word with you?" She motioned toward the door.

Kris and I nodded and followed her to one of the offices.

Inside, she closed the door. "Sit. Now that you've had time to relax, I was wondering how you felt?"

"Thankful to be alive," Kris said and gave a small snort of a laugh. "And although I killed my first human ... it was an easy choice. He was trying to kill Anna." She reached over and squeezed my arm only centimeters from Red, whose tongue flicked in response but he made no attempt to move.

"Red doesn't bother you?"

"No. Anna says he's lazy, but I believe he knows friend from foe."

"Red has been an anomaly right from the beginning. It's like he adopted Anna." Renata sat staring at Red as if awaiting a response. "Anna, how do you feel?"

"Sad that people are being hurt because of me."

'It's not your fault, and they're after your teammates as well, not just you."

"True, but Kris is only here to look after me ..." I whined.

Renata looked to Kris.

"Not true. You, Red, and me are a team. Who else is going to care for Red when you’re in a bad mood?" Kris went on to explain to Renata the incident with Captain Sharat.

"That's unbelievable. He definitely demonstrates a level of intelligence." Renata laughed. "Even I think of Red as he rather than it. Every person who has attacked Anna or attempted to take him away from her, he's struck—even a man who had the Coaca virus. It's the reason I don't consider her strange for giving him a name and considering him ... more than just a medical dispenser."

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Missing pieces

"I don't know what to do with you people. You don't appear safe anywhere," Rawls said at an early morning briefing the day after we returned from Safe Harbor. "We would like to give you new identities and move you to other systems. But the realities are that we need you. So we're going to wrap each of you in a cocoon of marines, who I hear are quite impressed with you." She slowly sipped on her coffee while appearing to study each of us. "Where are we after your visit to Safe Harbor?"

"The raiders' system has been designed to ensure no merchant, whether UAS or FPU, nor any Controller can give away the location of the cruisers," Adrian said, assuming his unofficial role as leader. "As a consequence, Commanders Sinclair and Paulus believe after their Safe Harbor visit that the raiders made only minor changes to that system. They believe we're close to discovering the missing pieces." Adrian's comments summarized the group's earlier discussions.

"Right now there is no higher priority in the UAS. You've an unlimited credit account. What you want, you'll get," Rawls said, rising while waving for us to keep our seats.

"Anna, I have that request in to Master Puzzles. When I get it, I'll forward it to everyone. You think they're using another puzzle to designate the coordinates for what?" Adrian asked.

"I think the UAS merchant that gets a valid AU takes it to the designated coordinates and hands off the puzzle to a FPU merchant. That handoff contains the coordinates to meet a raider cruiser. I believe those coordinates are contained in one of the puzzles."

"What about the details?"

"I don't know. Even if I'm right, we again will have to wait for the raiders’ next target, which could be a couple of months off." I had ideas but nothing concrete.

"Let's keep each other informed and meet back here each week."

* * *

"Every time you return home you've more marine security," Alexa said when she arrived home. "Which I'm in favor of if it keeps you safe. I talked to Colonel Pannell. He claims you prevented a potential disaster. How, Daughter?"

"A warning from Red," I said, knowing she wouldn't think me crazy.

"I believe you, but I wouldn't tell anyone else. I'm not sure what Red is or isn't, but I love him for keeping you alive. If that includes warning you, so much the better." She gave me a hug. "Let me get changed and then you can tell me all the gory details."

I followed her upstairs and washed for dinner. I had just arrived downstairs when Alexa joined me.

"Getting any closer?" she asked.

"I think so. The raiders are not only vicious and greedy but also arrogant. I think that will be their downfall. They believe their system's so good they can just correct the part we discovered without changing the other parts."

"Maybe they're just lazy."

"I think if they were lazy, their system would be much simpler. It's designed to have few if any weak links. That's why I think they feel confident to just fix the link that broke."

"Let's hope that's leads to their destruction. I like you being home."

"Me too."

* * *

While I waited for the information from the Master Puzzle subsidiaries, I pondered the problem of how they had given the raiders the information about the SMC processing plant. I felt positive that the raiders were arrogant, which meant they were using the same system, so I spent hours with Red lying on my forehead examining the puzzle message from the Truth Star publication area.

Late that third night I saw it, a single word—Star—in old-Russian, the native language of the first settlers of the PRS. That caused me to spend the night reviewing my books on the language.

"Looks like you discovered something," Alexa said. I realized it must be morning, since she was dressed for work.

"Arrogant and lazy," I said. "They just changed the language from old-Latin to old-Russian."

"In a war, arrogance is an exploitable weakness. See you tonight, Daughter." She waved as she left.

I proceeded to remove the non-Russian letters, J, Q, and W, and then searched the resulting strings. They had changed the message position—from the upper half to the lower half—and distributed it on every other line:

Eight watch four hundred Star gems and metal. Must collect seven days from post at one at 25.2801 -44.0222.

Since the weekly meeting was tomorrow, I decided to wait to tell them I had managed to crack their new code and staggered off to bed.

* * *

When I arrived at work, everyone was there preparing for our meeting. I noticed no one locked their weapon in their desk drawer even though there was a roomful of marines.

"Good morning, Commander Paulus," Pannell said as he neared me. He had a slight limp and looked a bit thinner in the face.

"Colonel Pannell, how are you feeling?"

"Not bad, thanks to you. They were very clever putting on marine uniforms. It should have given them the element of surprise and several seconds’ advantage. That's the second time you helped prevent a disaster." He laughed. "Your security detail loves you."

"I just wish people didn't have to get hurt and ... killed protecting me. I would quit, but I'm afraid it wouldn't stop the raiders. I think it's personal now."

I was feeling sorry for Pannell, marine security, and me. As I walked toward the conference room, I opened my tablet and pressed Send, which sent the translation to the team, addressed Urgent. Adrian, Kris, and Rich stopped in midstride as I passed them into the room.

"Where did you find it?" Adrian asked as everyone got seated.

"As I told my mother, they're arrogant. They think their system's too well designed for us to find them, so when one part fails they just replace it. In this case they switched languages."

"In a way, it was clever. Except for you and Red, who would think they would continue to use the puzzle messages?" Kris grinned.

"What language?" Adrian asked.

"Old-Russian. It was the original language of the PRS when it was settled, and their current standard language is a derivation of it."

"We finally got the response from the third Master Puzzle subsidiary. Only someone using the name Archimedes pays to ensure his puzzle is included each month in each publication area. Master Puzzle long ago stopped charging the Checky Fools, as they have significantly increased sales," Rich said, obviously pleased judging by his smile.

"Thanks, I think that’s the missing piece. I believe his puzzles contain the coordinates for the foreign merchant to meet with the raiders and that the key is in the message: tell your mate it measures 11 by 31221."

"Then that's everyone's homework—find how they pass on the coordinates to meet with the raider cruiser," Adrian said.

* * *

Every month, each Master Puzzle publication had an Archimedes puzzle. It consisted of a twelve by eight matrix about a third filled with numbers and the remaining parts blank. The object was to fill in the blanks with a number so that the row with twelve equaled a given number, for example sixty-five, and the eight down equaled another given number, for example forty-two.

Ignoring all but the publication that contained the information on the raid at the Star Mining Company, I began solving the puzzle. It wasn't difficult, just time consuming, and I had it solved in less than two hours; however the number 11 by 31221 wasn't one of the twelve numbers solutions across or in the eight numbers down. Even Red seemed stumped, as he didn't leave my forehead. Even more puzzling was the fact that the number should be longer if it were an AU.

I pondered the problem for the next week, sure that I had the key and that one of the numbers was the rendezvous AU. Finally I zeroed in on the only one of the twelve numbers that began with 11. Then Red saw it, because he moved his head back and forth. Eventually, I saw it: the number 110251122461.

11 indicated the winning string and the first number, so 11 and a period.

3 indicated three numbers, so 11.025 degrees

1 indicated one number, 2 two numbers, and 2 two more numbers, so 1 hour 12 minutes 24 seconds.

And 1 indicated one number, so 6.1 astronomical units.

I sat back and reached up, and he wrapped around my arm. I kissed his head and got a flick of his tongue on my nose. "We did it, Red."

I then sent Adrian and the team a message:

To: Lieutenant Commander Shrader, Lieutenant Commander Sinclair, Lieutenant Gannon

The number is 110251122461 and the AU was 11.025 degrees, 1 hour, 12 minutes, and 24 seconds, and 6.1 astronomical units.

From: Lieutenant Commander Paulus

* * *

The next morning while having breakfast with Alexa, I had a call from Adrian, which I put on speaker.

"Good work, Anna. I told Commodore Stauffer, who briefed Admiral Rawls, and she wants a meeting at ten hundred hours. Unless of course you're otherwise engaged," he said sounding serious, but I would wager he had an ear-to-ear grin.

"Ten you say? I think I can squeeze it in if she doesn't talk too much," I said, and heard him choke on whatever he was drinking. "Tell her not to be late." I cut the connection.

"You and your team are very close," Alexa said, smiling. "And you sound like you’ve had your dessert and someone else's beside."

"I finally have all the pieces ... well nearly. I understand their system and know where their cruisers will be. And I maybe know who their leader is, but I'm not positive."

"No wonder Rawls wants a meeting. I'll bet she's told Lultrel and Bell."

"I hope not."

"Why?"

"If this information gets leaked, the raiders will be lost for years."

* * *

Adrian, Kris, and Rich were already there when I arrived and looked to be having an informal party.

"You did it, Anna." Kris gave me a hug. "Maybe I can find that father of my future children before he and I are gray and retired."

"You'll have a bigger pool of candidates to choose from then, since retired line officers will be eligible," I said, trying to look thoughtful.

She hit me on the shoulder. "Even Red agrees that's nasty." She laughed.

"I think we should go up. Given the news, Admiral Rawls will probably be early, and it wouldn't look good if we were on time." Adrian stood, smiling. We obviously all agreed, because we all started moving toward the elevators.

Sure enough, Rawls was coming out of her office as we entered her conference room.

"At ease," she said as she entered the room. "I understand you cracked their system and can locate their cruisers," Rawls said even before she sat.

"We've broken their communications system, but that doesn’t mean we know how many cruisers they have or where they park when not active. They're very cautious." Adrian looked to me. "Anna?"

"Here’s what we think we know. The merchant ship Gypsy is the one who drops off the Controllers and who ferries them to another system after a raid. We think the Gypsy probably is the one who arranges for criminal support prior to each Controller arriving. The Gypsy is also the one who determines the coordinates for the rendezvous with the foreign merchant and the cruiser," I said, deciding not to wonder out loud whether the Gypsy took orders from someone else. "The Controller's task is to find someone who will provide details about a business worth the raider's efforts. When he does, he codes his monthly puzzle in a special way, which lets one of three UAS merchants know that it's intended to be delivered and gives them the location. The UAS merchant takes it to the designated location along with a key he received via the WavCom and hands it over to a foreign merchant. The foreign merchant deciphers a second puzzle using the key and takes the information to that location, where he meets with a raider cruiser. The raider deciphers the puzzle and shows up at the time and place designated. The question is whether the cruiser or a foreign merchant takes the merchandise to the FPU or PRS for sale."

"That's a very careful operation. So if we wait for the next target, we can bag a cruiser, the Gypsy, three Controllers, a foreign merchant, and three UAS merchants and crush their current operation; however, we wouldn't know if we got all the cruisers. Is that an accurate assessment?"

"Yes, ma'am. Ma'am, I assume you'll be briefing Admirals Lultrel and Bell." I paused until she hesitantly nodded. "I wonder if you could ask them to restrict who they inform."

"Why, Paulus?"

"Maybe it's my paranoia, but if the raiders even thought we knew their system, I suspect they would disappear until they had a completely new system, new Controllers, and new merchants. They would also eliminate this team."

"Do you suspect anything you haven't told me?"

"No ma'am, but it's possible the Gypsy takes direction from someone or has a high-level information source."

"All right, I'll ask," she said and smiled. "Adrian, I would like this team’s recommendation soon ... actually I want it now, so you're already late."

"Later today," he said, and then looked to each of us before saying, "Ma'am."

* * *

"Admiral Rawls wants a recommendation, so Admiral Rawls gets one." Adrian laughed and was joined by everyone. "Who wants to start?"

"I think Rawls summed it up nicely. We’re only going to bag one cruiser, so wait for the next scheduled raid, get the cruiser, foreign merchants, and then take out the Controllers and the UAS merchants," Kris said, but I could feel her nervousness as she looked to me. "Anna?"

I hated not agreeing because I knew Kris wanted an end to this project, but I still couldn't shake the feeling the Gypsy had help in one form or another.

"Let's put a close watch on the Gypsy starting now, and then take out the foreign merchant and the cruiser that shows for the rendezvous but not round up the UAS merchants or the Controllers."

"Why leave the merchants and Controllers free?" Adrian asked.

"So we can see what the Gypsy does or who he contacts. I think the Gypsy knows where the cruisers hide or he knows someone who does."

Kris nodded and her face had a look of determination. "Anna's right. Let's not leave one of those cruisers alive. Maybe that will convince other thieves that UAS space isn't a good place to raid."

"Rich?"

"Sounds good to me."

"I'll give Stauffer our recommendation. I guess we're off until we get a valid puzzle from the raiders."

* * *

The next publication date didn't produce a valid AU, to everyone's disappointment, although it should have been expected—it took time to set up a target. I didn't mind, since it gave me time with Alexa. The team arranged to meet at the firing range once a week and have lunch afterward.

I was surprised when I got a call after the next month's publication date. I had thought it was going to take the Controllers longer to identify a target.

"Anna, I'm sending you the Master Puzzle's publication for this month. Rich has run it against the X25 program and it produced a valid AU. Well actually, it produced a valid AU for all three publications. I've briefed Stauffer, but he's going to hold off telling Admiral Rawls until you've reviewed them." Adrian sounded harassed. Stauffer would be pressuring him to get the information to him so he could brief Rawls in time for her to brief Lultrel and Bell. The team could recommend an action, but the Admirals would decide what action they would take.

"Shouldn't take long, Adrian," I said and cut the connection. Two hours later I had the answers:

Truth Star: In old-Latin:

> Your end of days is soon.

Suton: In old-Latin:

> Your end of days is soon.

Fire Rock: In old-Latin:

> Your end of days is soon.

And in the bottom half in old-Russian:

> Eight watch new missile design four hundred Polaris Design Lab at two at 31.2128 -65.4224

Feeling paranoid, which I did a lot lately, I called Adrian. "Adrian, we need a team meeting. I can be there within an hour."

"Alright, Anna. I'll call everyone. I don't think that will be a problem."

I changed into my uniform, sent Alexa a note that I was off to the office, and collected my marine guards, who transported me in a military shuttle to the NIA offices. When I arrived, everyone was there waiting. Their expressions were priceless, and I could feel their excitement mixed with apprehension, as all three appeared valid. I said nothing and went straight to the conference room.

"We're all going to have heart failure if you don't say something soon," Kris said with a mental stomp of her foot.

"Hi," I said and could barely restrain a laugh. "Sorry, I couldn't resist. As Rich indicated, all three puzzles are valid and all three had the message." I tapped on my send-one icon, which sent the three messages to their tablets. "Obviously, they don't like us and want to make sure we don't forget. It reinforces that they're vengeful and arrogant because they included the following message at the bottom of the Fire Rock publication." I tapped on the message-two icon and sent the second message.

"Do you think it's a trap or the real thing?" Adrian asked.

I took it as a team question and not just for me.

"I agree with Anna," Kris said. "I think they're arrogant and believe they don’t have to change anything except the broken piece. I think it's real. The Controller who went to Eastar to set up the ambush was on Oxax long enough to identify a target and get it set up."

"They don’t know we’ve broken their new code, because we didn't stop the raid on Safe Harbor," Rich said, beginning to sound like a real member of the team.

"I agree. Mother says arrogance is a weakness that can be exploited. If we're lucky, they're arrogant enough not to deduce why they lost the cruiser they send to retrieve the puzzle message."

"Or that they only have one cruiser left," Adrian said.

"From your lips to the space gods," Kris said.

Adrian stood. "I'm off to see Stauffer with our recommendation—take out the foreign merchant and the cruiser it's scheduled to meet and leave the Controllers and UAS merchants."

"I think we should wait in case Admiral Rawls has questions for us," Kris said, which was highly probable.

We spent the time talking about what we had been doing with our time off.

"I've never read so much in my life. Can't really expect to find a mate with four marines following me into nightclubs. The Officer's Club isn't too bad. There, they tend to give me a little more room, an extra half meter. Actually I meet the most men at the firing range." She snorted. "Not that I'm complaining. Better I'm alive to find my mate, even if he's gray and wrinkled."

"Actually, having marine security isn't a turn off to quite a few women. Might even be a turn on to some, but not the ones my mother would like me to bring home." Rich gave a lopsided grin. "And Etos city has a lot of things to do and see."

"I'm still a little girl at heart and love being home. My mother is like a very interesting much older sister. And she likes the marine security following me." I laughed.

Just then to everyone's surprise, Rawls entered the room and we shot up and not quite braced to attention. MacLin and Stauffer followed in her wake.

"Relax. I've asked Captain MacLin to join us. As I understand it, one of you will have to go along to strip the WavCom of the message for ...?"

"The Cloud Chaser," I said.

"Cloud Chaser and to compute the subsequent rendezvous of the foreign merchant with the raider cruiser. Two more UAS cruisers will be here tomorrow to join Captain MacLin's taskforce. The taskforce will engage the raider cruiser and foreign merchant. It would be nice to capture both, but in no case should either escape. The UAS merchant is not to be interfered with." Rawls looked around the table and received nods from each of us. "The Gypsy is being discretely monitored in each system it enters and leaves, during times between systems, and for its activity in system."

"I would like to get with whoever is going to work out the details," MacLin said. "I assume whoever is going has P1A authority and will be responsible for the operation."

"Anna and I need to go, because Anna has the best understanding of their new code and knows how to find the rendezvous AU." I felt Kris's resignation at being on another cruiser. She looked to me and shook her head and then smiled. "Besides, she broke the code and loves space submarines."

I decided not to argue when I felt the affection behind the gesture.

MacLin laughed. "You make an interesting team. What kind of a time frame are we looking at?"

"The Master Puzzle edition for this month was published yesterday, so the Cloud Chaser will be leaving for the rendezvous today or tomorrow. It's currently located in Fire Rock, which is a three-day trip from Oxax. We won't know the AU for the cruiser until the Cloud Chaser gets the message from Gypsy via the WavCom," Kris said.

"So there is no way to get to the rendezvous location before the foreign merchant," MacLin said, but it was more a question—is there a way to beat the merchant to the location?

"No. We'll just have to hope the Gypsy sends the message to the Cloud Chaser a day before they arrive in Oxax space."

"Yes!" I blurted, and then put my hand over my mouth. "Sorry."

"What is it, Anna?" Adrian asked.

"Rich, do you think there’s a way we could delay the Gypsy getting the message from the WavCom? Or shut the WavCom down, or ..."

"With the proper authority ... a temporary malfunction or ... delayed delivery."

"I'll take care of it," Rawls said. "How much time do you need, Captain?"

"A full day would be ideal. Otherwise, eight hours. I would like to leave within the next eight hours if you two can get ready."

I looked to Kris, who nodded. Since the last attack, we were being transported by military shuttles, so it was merely the time to get home, pack, and then the two-hour trip to the space station.

"I'll plan our departure for eight hours from now. The Lapis is on station, and the Ares and Demeter are due shortly. I'll hold them at the Wave exit. It’ll save time."

* * *

"It's scary. I'm starting to feel comfortable aboard these space submarines," Kris said as we sat in the navy dining bay eating an early breakfast. We were due on the Bridge shortly to query the WavCom. "Hopefully, this is the last time—find the raiders, destroy them, and get assigned a quiet NIA office somewhere, oh, and find that father of my future children."

"I want to see the end to the raiders, but I have to admit I love working with you and the team, riding on space submarines, and chasing bad guys."

"Reassignment is the one bad part to destroying the raiders, but I can't see them keeping three full commanders together waiting for something bad to happen. Especially not when they can just reassign us, which is what they did for our first project. Maybe they’ll put you in charge of the Oxax office."

We finished our meal in silence, each in our own thoughts, but I could feel Kris's sympathy for me. I would miss her. Afterward, we made our way to the Bridge and were admitted without any trouble.

Kris went immediately to the Comm panel and began the search. "We have it, Anna."

The message appeared on my tablet as Red worked his way onto my shoulder and wrapped around my neck.

To: Cloud Chaser

The client has 45 items weighing 311211 each.

From: Gypsy

I had solved the Archimedes' puzzle earlier and used the key to locate the only number starting with 45, which was an eight digit number: 454615530.

"Captain, the coordinate is: 45.185 degrees, 4 hours, 6 minutes, 15 seconds, and 5.3 astronomical units," I said as Red wove into my hair and laid his head on my forehead pointing toward my tablet.

"Paulus, send the coordinates to the Navigator's panel. Nav, compute a vector for those coordinates. I want to begin deceleration two light seconds prior to reaching our target. All systems to remain passive." MacLin's voice was in a business as usual tone.

"Captain, the vector is on the Helm's board. Time to target, twenty-eight hours, fifteen minutes, and 10 seconds."

"Comm, connect me with the Lapis, Demeter, and Ares."

"Captain," I interrupted, suddenly having a feeling something wasn't right.

"Connected," Jimenez said and the faces of Captains Thayer, Austin, and Klein appeared on the four-way split screen of monitor one.

"Commander Paulus, you've something to say?" MacLin asked and felt genuinely interested.

"Sir, I would like you to leave one cruiser here with Commander Sinclair." I couldn't help but shake the feeling this was too easy.

"Anna." Kris came close enough to speak privately. "This isn't necessary and could jeopardize—"

"Paulus, why?"

"It's too easy. Giving us a good three days to get set. They could send another key two days from now, well before the Cloud Chaser is due."

"Are you invoking P1A authority?" he asked in a normal voice, and I felt a slight sense of defiance.

"Anna," said Kris, "I'll support whatever decision you make."

"Thank you," I turned toward her and whispered, then turned back to MacLin. "No, Captain. It's my recommendation based solely on a feeling about the raiders. If I'm wrong you'll be one cruiser short at the meeting. If I'm right, you'll miss the meeting."

MacLin laughed. "I'll send you the coordinates we have, Captain Thayer. I would start decelerating about two light-seconds from the target and stay in passive mode. You'll have time to get in position if that turns out to be the real meeting. If we discover the meeting changes, I'll tight beam a message to you with the new coordinates."

"Don't hog all the action, Mac," Thayer said and cut the connection.

"Commander Dowell, you have the watch," MacLin said as he rose. "Commanders Paulus, Sinclair, would you like to join me in my office?"

"Yes, sir," we both said and followed him to his office.

MacLin nodded when Pannell paused at the door before entering. "Anna, your logic is valid, and it did appear too convenient even to me. You suspect a leak at a high level, don't you?"

"Yes, sir. I've a feeling that the Gypsy gets its information from someone who has access to information about our activities. The Gypsy clearly has direct access to the raiders and may be their leader, but ..."

"But you don't think so." MacLin said, smiling. "Sinclair?"

"I would always back Anna's ... insights. Not just because we're teammates but because she has good instincts."

I noticed Pannell nod.

"Even your security agrees," MacLin said, then gave a snort. "And the raiders."

* * *

The waiting was nerve racking, wondering whether I had made the right call. It was possible that was because the meeting was a trap. But that would mean I had significantly misjudged their numbers—they would need five or six cruisers to take on four UAS cruisers. If I made a mistake, I hoped three cruisers were enough to handle one of theirs and a well-armed merchant. I laughed mentally. At least it would save Kris from being involved in another space battle. I had already indirectly dragged her into too many.

"You were right, Anna," Kris said as she rose from the Comm panel.

I looked to see a new message from the Gypsy:

To: Cloud Chaser

The client made mistake. He has 41 items weighing 311211 each.

From: Gypsy

I checked my table and found the only number with 41 and then separated them. "Captain, the new coordinate is: 41.115 degrees, 2 hours, 8 minutes, and 11 seconds, and 5.0 astronomical units."

"Paulus, transfer that coordinate to Nav. Nav, compute us a vector to that position," MacLin said. I could feel his satisfaction, and Kris's rising apprehension.

"Captain, estimated time at five hundred fifty gravs to new coordinates is eight hours ten minutes."

"And the time for the Lapis, Ares, and Demeter to reach the new target?" Maclin sat lightly tapping his fingers on the arm of his seat.

"Captain, approximately twenty-five hours."

"Sounds about right. Clever bastards. They have us separated far enough apart that it's going to be impossible to join up in time. Comm, send the coordinates to the Lapis with the message, 'Hurry, or you'll be late for the party.'" He sat back, eyes closed for several minutes. "Helm, execute the vector on your monitor at max acceleration. Nav, given we begin decelerating at two light seconds from the target, how long to reach the rendezvous?"

"Approximately seventeen hours and fifteen minutes. Begin deceleration in four hours five minutes."

"Perfect. Given the Cloud Chaser arrives on schedule, they should pass us and arrive at the target an hour before us, which will cover our approach. All systems passive. Wouldn't want to spoil the surprise." He sat back with a sigh of contentment.

Kris on the other hand was pale.

I stood and touched her arm. "Let's go get something to eat. Maybe get some popcorn for the show."

"You're incorrigible. Aren't you afraid?" she asked as we marched down the hallway toward the navy mess facility.

"I've learned to get as much out of today as I can. I can't change tomorrow, so it's best not to ruin today worrying about it."

"I understand why, but I can't imagine the kind of life that made that necessary." Kris put her arm around my shoulders. "Although it's probably a good attitude to have—like me worrying about finding a husband. That does kind of put a damper on enjoying today. But what about today? How do you enjoy this?"

"I'm with a sister I love and we're ridding the world of evil men. That's a good day."

Kris laughed. "This today thing is going to take some working on."

Kris did seem better during our meal and talked about some of her experiences in college. I kept her talking and she had relaxed by the time we finished. I made a detour to the medical unit, were Renata gave Kris something to help her sleep.

"What about you, Anna?" Renata asked.

Kris laughed. "She’ll probably sleep like a baby. Anna considers today a good day because she's with her adopted sister and chasing evil men."

"Yes, Anna has learned how to get the most out of each day. We could all learn something from that. We tend to worry about what will happen tomorrow and lose the good things happening today."

* * *

"Captain, the Cloud Chaser is passing us at a hundred thousand kilometers to our port," said Childs, the radar operator. "Speed, four hundred gravs."

"Nav?" MacLin queried.

"They should arrive an hour and twenty minutes before us."

"Thayer is going to be upset at missing the party," MacLin said almost to himself but loud enough to be heard the short distance away where we sat.

Kris leaned closer to me. "The good news is we have front row seats; the bad is that the seats are on a cruiser going to war."

"You forgot the really good news—MacLin is the captain," I said loud enough to be heard, which produced smiles and good-natured snorts and even Kris smiled. "And they aren't expecting us."

"It's obvious how you survived your early years," Kris said. "Alright, you win. We're together, chasing bad guys, and have front row seats." She laughed. "You're contagious."

"Captain, a cruiser just went active. It looks like a PRS warship, but I can't be sure at this distance. We're still about a light second away, but it looks like they have shuttles going between the two," Childs said while studying his radar panel.

MacLin swiveled his chair around to look at Sinclair and me. "What do you think?"

"They could be transferring loot from one of the robberies to the merchant to take back to the PRS for sale or rotating people," I said.

Kris nodded.

"Comm, declare battle stations but keep all systems passive. Radar, keep me updated."

The minutes ticked by as we continued to close the distance from ten billion kilometers, to eight, to six.

"Tac, prepare to fire four missiles at the cruiser and two at the merchant," MacLin said. He was watching the hologram, although it lacked detail it would have had in active mode.

"One half light-second," Childs reported.

"All systems active. Tac, fire when ready."

"Six away. Time to impact, twenty seconds," said O'Toole, the tactical officer.

"The unknown cruiser's weapons just came online," Childs said. "Four hits on the cruiser and two on the merchant."

"The merchant is armed, weapons active."

"Six incoming from the cruiser, time to impact, twenty seconds," Higgs said as his fingers danced on the ECM panel.

Chaff caused two to go off course, the automatic lasers killed two, and two slammed into the Vulcan. The damage being reported was minor, which didn't mean people weren't injured or killed.

"Two incoming from the merchant," Higgs said as he worked to stop them. "Got 'em. They're an older version and not that smart."

"Tac, six against the cruiser, when ready."

"Six away. Time to impact, eighteen seconds," O’Toole said, and I could feel the excitement on the Bridge except from MacLin, who felt at ease.

"The cruiser is beginning to accelerate away at sixty degrees to our starboard and the merchant is following."

"Tac, continuous fire, max load at the cruiser. Nav, an intercept vector on the cruiser." MacLin sat relaxed, stroking his beard.

"Four hits on the cruiser," Childs reported.

"Six, no, eight incoming," Higgs said, determination written on his face as he contended with the incoming missiles. He diverted five, but the Vulcan shuddered as three slammed into her. Battle armor held one, but the other ripped through the marine shuttle bay, destroying two shuttles and killing six, and the third caused minor damage to the environmental section, killing four.

"Captain, vector on the Helm's monitor," said Dowell, the navigator.

"Helm, execute vector but maintain this distance."

"Cruiser accelerating at three hundred twenty-five gravs," Childs reported. "The merchant is staying with it."

"Four hits on the cruiser."

"Tac, continuous fire when ready."

"Six fired," O'Toole said as he prepared the next load.

"Eight incoming," Higgs said, and I could hear the strain in his voice. Maintaining the current distance between ships meant he had less than twenty seconds to deflect or destroy the incoming missiles, and a couple were getting through. Of course, the unknown cruiser had the same problem and for the moment, Higgs had the better record. Two more rocked the Vulcan, opening bays and sections to space and killing an additional fifteen.

"Three hits on the cruiser," Childs said, and after a moment, "It's still functional."

"The cruiser's approaching at five hundred gravs and the merchant is beginning to slowly fall behind."

"Tac, split your fire three and three." MacLin said almost conversationally.

"Six missiles away, three at the cruiser and three at the merchant."

"Eight incoming," Childs said, and I could feel his mounting concern as two opened another area to space and killed ten. So far, the hits hadn't disabled anything that would decrease our operational capability.

"One hit on the cruiser and two on the merchant. Both look functional," Childs reported, and the damage monitor continued to show the mounting destruction and casualties.

"The merchant is breaking away at a seventy degree angle."

"Tac, maintain three and three."

"Six missiles away, three at the cruiser and three at the merchant."

"Eight incoming." Childs said, and several moments later the Vulcan rocked with multiple explosions as two missiles scored direct hits and tore through weakened metal. That ripped open more compartments to space, killing twenty more and wounding another twelve.

"The merchant lost power," Childs said with relief evident. "Two hits on the cruiser. It's trailing debris but appears functional."

"Six incoming ..." Childs said as the battle raged on, each captain hoping to score a hit that would prove the winning blow. The unknown cruiser was now at five hundred fifty grav but couldn't shake the Vulcan, which was keeping the separation constant.

"Helm, on my command, a two second jump on this vector. Tac, hold your fire. I want full load as soon after we skip as you acquire the unknown cruiser's position," MacLin said, and I felt his predatory surge, like an eagle as it plunged toward earth and its prey, talons extended for the kill. In the silence that followed, I thought I could hear hearts beating.

"Six incoming—"

"Execute skip," MacLin’s voice cracked like a whip, and the Bridge faded then cleared seconds later.

"Six away," Otoole said with relief. "Five seconds to—"

"Five hits. Multiple explosions, but still functional."

"Three incoming …"

"Helm, execute one second skip." The Bridge faded in and out.

"Tac, continuous six when ready."

"Six away."

"Three incoming."

"Four hits," Childs said. "It's lost power."

"Damn," Higgs cursed as one of the three hit the Vulcan, destroying two of the missile tubes and opening the parts section to space and killing fifteen.

"Comm, connect me with Commander Warner and Colonel Cross."

"Connected," said Comm Officer Jiminez a minute later.

"Colonel Cross, send two shuttles of marines to the unknown cruiser and make sure it's not functional and collect what you can. Commander Warner, support the marines' boarding action." After hearing acknowledgements, he cut the connection. "Nav. Give me a vector to the unknown merchant."

I leaned toward Kris and gave her a hug. "Another battle ribbon, another step closer to admiral."

"Well that cleared the image of that madman on the conference room table shooting at us out of my mind. Now, it's missiles slowly dismantling the ship I’m in."

* * *

Twelve hours had passed and the wounded had been treated and essential repairs completed when MacLin invited Kris and me to dine with him and his XO.

"Thank you for filling in on the Bridge. As you know, the Lapis, Demeter, and Ares will be in the area within four hours. When they arrive, I plan to let them finish cleaning up and examining the two ships while we return to Oxax for repairs," MacLin said. "What's next for you?"

I closed my eyes as Red made his entrance, weaving into my hair and laying his head on my forehead. Probably my overactive imagination, but I would have sworn he wanted attention—not to-be-noticed attention but for me to pay attention.

"I'm not sure," Kris said. "I would like to roll up the merchants and Controllers and be done, but Anna wants to see what the Gypsy does when it discovers the robbery didn’t take place."

"Not Oxax," I said, shaking my head, not realizing I had said it out loud until I saw everyone staring at me. "I want to go to Eastar. Maybe Adrian and Rich could meet us there."

"After we get repairs—"

"No, I want to go now. Maybe Captain Thayer or someone else could take ... me. Kris, I don't know if you or the others should go, now that I think of it."

"If you go, I go," Kris said. "And if whatever you’re contemplating is controversial, then the team's action is controversial. I think Adrian and Rich will want to be involved."

"Jordan, if we transfer the wounded and dead and have eight to twelve hours to make repairs, can we make it to Eastar? I don't think I want to miss whatever NIA agent Paulus and Sinclair are planning."

Jordan closed his eyes for several minutes before speaking. "Yes sir, it'll be close with the environmental system only fifty percent. The old girl isn't pretty but she's still functional."

"What about this, Commander Paulus," MacLin said, acknowledging I had P1A authority and could use it if I wished. "We wait for the taskforce to arrive, transfer the dead and wounded to one ship, send another to pick up the rest of your team, and we can proceed to Eastar."

"Yes, sir. That short delay won't matter."

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

Westar: NIA Headquarters.

"All right, Anna, what are ... we planning?" Kris asked as she closed the door to her quarters.

"I believe the Gypsy merchant is the person who came up with the idea. He then put together a core team, people with contacts in each area: foreign raiders, local criminals, and the navy—"

"By the space gods ... Lultrel?"

"I suspect someone on her staff, not Lultrel, but she should be included, since I think someone in that chain of command is involved."

"Maybe we won't get our own NIA offices after all." she choked out a laugh.

"Kris—"

"We're a team. If I disagreed, that would be different, but I agree you may be right, so it's a rock we need to look under. It certainly is suspicious that they sent Cloud Chaser two keys."

"That's what also makes me think we got the last of the original cruisers."

"Original?"

"If you were the raiders and you lost two of your cruisers, it seems to me you would either pack up and leave or recruit more. These raids have certainly been lucrative enough to attract other potential raiders."

"If you don't mind being hanged or killed." Kris shook her head. "I’ll sure be glad when this is over. I think I would rather be court martialed than participate in another space shootout."

"Court-martials can be ... fun if you don't care about the outcome."

"I don't know what Red injects you with, but would you like to share? It must be good stuff since you think space battles and court-martials are fun."

* * *

I had the Lapis pick up Adrian and Rich without informing Stauffer or Rawls, using my P1A authority. I reasoned Stauffer would tell Rawls, who would tell Lultrel and insist we not go, or ... Kris agreed or at least didn't object.

The trip to Eastar took five days. MacLin was in a good mood and had dinner with us each night, which helped to break up the monotony. Kris had a couple of dates at the Officers’ Club, and I managed to get several tours of the various sections. I knew it would be the last opportunity on a war cruiser and wanted to enjoy every minute. The tours turned out to be very informative as I got to see the damage a space battle causes and the repair teams in action.

When we docked at the Eastar space station, Adrian and Rich joined us on the Vulcan for a conference. Kris and I sat while Adrian and Rich carried drinks to the table.

Finally Adrian sat and asked, "Are you two going to let us know why we’re here on Eastar? Is it because the Gypsy is here?"

"No. Our teammate has decided to question Lultrel—the same Vice Admiral who's Rear Admiral Rawls’s superior—and thought the team should be here."

"You're joking ... No, you're not. Why?"

"I think someone on her staff is providing the raiders information about the NIA investigation and the navy. I don't mind if none of you want to be involved ..."

"A team member wants, so the team member gets." Adrian grinned. "Although I have to admit that I never thought it would come to questioning a vice admiral. Rich, I think in this case you’re free to stay out of it."

"I would like to stay involved and help any way I can." Rich looked and felt excited at the prospect.

"Anna?"

"I think we're going to need the Eastar police involved. I'll want each person's residence searched and any communication equipment confiscated. And since the Gypsy is here, we might as well start by impounding it," I said, thinking out loud. "Colonel Pannell, can you arrange to get marines to board the ship without notice?"

"If you're invoking P1A authority, I'm sure Colonel Cross would enjoy the opportunity to exercise his marines."

Adrian nodded and I could feel his rising amusement. "All right, Colonel. You've the team's P1A authority to authorize Colonel Cross to board and secure the Gypsy, which conveniently is parked at this station. Kris, Anna, and Rich can explore the Gypsy while I make arrangements with the local police chief."

Pannell hurried out and several minutes later appeared with Colonel Cross.

"I understand that you are invoking P1A authority and want me to use force if necessary to enter the merchant ship Gypsy and secure it and its crew. Is that correct?"

"That's correct. I'm Lieutenant Commander Shrader and here is my P1A authorization. Lieutenant Commanders Sinclair and Paulus also have P1A authority and will want to search the ship after it's secure."

Cross unclipped his personal communication device. "Gunny, it's a go," he said, and smiled. "The team's on the way to the Gypsy. It should be secure by the time we get there."

"You think the Gypsy is involved with the raiders?" Cross asked as we used the sealed high-speed monorail to descend to the platform where the Gypsy was parked.

As Cross had predicted, a gunny stood outside the entrance bay with a slight twitch of a smile. He saluted. "All secure, sir. A lot of whining but no trouble."

Inside, forty men and several women were sitting on the floor guarded by ten armed marines.

A man cautiously rose and waved to get our attention. "I demand to know by what authority you've seized my ship," he said in a relatively normal if slightly louder voice.

"UAS P1A authority. For now you and your crew are being held for aiding foreign raiders. Don't bother to protest. You'll be given a trial and have an opportunity to state your case," Kris said.

As he opened his mouth to protest, I snapped, "Captain, I need the passwords for your system computer and any tablets,"

"No!"

"You've an interesting dilemma. I'm asking with P1A authority, so refusing will automatically sentence you to prison whether there is anything incriminating or not on those devices."

"No!"

I turned away. "Colonel Cross, this man is no longer under arrest. He's now a convicted criminal for refusing to comply with a P1A request."

Cross nodded.

"Anna, where do you want to start?"

"Let Rich and me start on the Bridge." I looked at Rich and he nodded.

"Good, I'll start in the captain's office and quarters."

The Bridge on a merchant ship wasn't the magical place it was on a war cruiser, but the Gypsy had a well-equipped suite, including missiles and lasers. I operated each panel on the off chance something looked wrong. I was most interested in the Comm panel, and surprised when the two messages to the Cloud Chaser were still on the system and even more surprised to find the following message prior to the second to Cloud Chaser:

To: Gypsy

Urgent. Client unhappy with delivery location. send new location to him in forty-six hours.

"I'm afraid I couldn't get much from the system computer," said Rich, "but I'll bet there’s information to find, because I found several locked files. One I'm sure you’ll be interested in. It's titled Puzzles."

* * *

When we got back to the Vulcan, Adrian was there with a short stocky man with gray hair. Judging by the insignia and stars on his dark blue uniform, he was a senior officer.

"This gentleman is Mr. Kinard, the police commissioner for Eastar City. Commissioner, these are Commanders Sinclair and Paulus, and Lieutenant Gannon is the other member of the team," Adrian said.

"I understand you've the authority, but I'm still uncomfortable with the process. The admiral is not going to be happy."

"She'll be unhappy with us, and she knows you've no choice in the matter," Kris said.

"That usually doesn't stop people at that level from shooting the help." Kinard snorted. "What will be the procedure?"

* * *

We got Admiral Lultrel's attention by sending a message that we had urgent information relating to the raiders. When she arrived, we bolted to attention.

"At ease. So what is this urgent information?" Lultrel asked as she took the seat at the head of the conference room table.

"Ma'am." I remained standing, hoping to be the center of attention and divert attention away from Kris and Adrian. "Who are the people you told MacLin's task force was going to intercept the raider's cruiser?"

"People I trust." Her face showed no emotion but I could feel her anger.

"Ma'am, I'm requesting those names under P1A authority."

"Who do you think you are? I gave you that authority and I now revoke it."

Adrian stood. "Ma'am, you didn't give Commander Paulus P1A authority. The UAS council did, and only they can revoke it. You may, of course, have an inquiry into our conduct, but you must comply or destroy your career and do prison time."

"So you and Sinclair support Paulus's actions?" Her voice rang cold as space.

"Yes, ma'am," Kris said. "We've reason to believe the rendezvous with the cruiser was leaked. As a result, many navy personnel and marines were killed."

Lultrel laughed. "All right, let see what you’ve risked your careers for."

She had told only two officers. The commander in charge of the Eastar NIA office, Commander Wright, and her aide de camp, Lieutenant Commander Spalding. At our orders, the two were brought into the conference room along with Commissioner Kinard.

"This is a P1A investigation. I require all of your communication devices, and the passwords to those devices both here at work and at your residence."

I was met with stony silence.

"Ma'am, that includes you—"

"Paulus!" Lultrel stood and Pannell drew his weapon. "It's no wonder the raiders are trying to kill you. You're more dangerous than that red-headed krait who has just made its grand entrance." She sat shaking her head.

* * *

Having little choice, the three complied. While their residences were searched, we went through their communication devices at work.

I began with Commander Wright's tablet and started my search with sent messages on the assumption he would have deleted any incriminating messages and found it almost immediately—the word-for-word message to the Gypsy. I continued searching but found nothing further. When I was through, I gave it to Rich. I said nothing about what I found. There could be more to be found and disclosing what I found could stop or bias the investigation.

"I suggest we each keep our findings to ourselves until we’re all finished," I said, wanting to ensure we didn't bias each other and didn't leave any stones unturned.

Everyone nodded.

* * *

"Ma'am, we have evidence that Commander Wright's the leak," Adrian said as she and the team sat in her office late that evening. "We discovered a message on the Gypsy that warned their captain of a trap and told him to send a second key to the coordinates. We found that same message to the Gypsy on Commander Wright's tablet."

"I wouldn't have believed it." She sat back and took a large gulp of wine, which she had poured when she entered the office with us, stating she needed it after a day like this. "I had some evil thoughts about you. But you were right, and I was wrong, even in thinking I shouldn't be included. What is your recommendation now?"

"We believe the cruiser Captain MacLin destroyed was the last remaining one. In addition, we believe the raider organization has been destroyed and it only remains to round up the three UAS merchants that acted as messengers, and the three Controllers," Adrian said as our spokesman.

"I'll talk to Admiral Bell and update Admiral Rawls, as I doubt you told her what you intended to do." She shook her head. "I'll arrange rooms for you, as I want you to stay in Eastar until Admiral Bell has declared the project ended."

* * *

Two weeks later, we were called to Naval Headquarters for a meeting with Admiral Bell. I was surprised to find Lultrel, Rawls, Stauffer, MacLin, and Thayer also there.

Bell rose when we entered. "At ease. It's a pleasure to finally meet you in person. You're without a doubt the most decorated NIA officers in our history. NIA personnel seldom get Purple Hearts and never get battle ribbons or cruiser time … and never, ever submit the head of NIA to an investigation." He nodded to his aide de camp, who came forth with a bunch of velvet boxes.

"Lieutenant Gannon, you are awarded the Silver Star for your participation on the Raider Project Team. Congratulations, Lieutenant.

"Lieutenant Commander Shrader, you are awarded the Navy Cross and promoted immediately to Full Commander. Congratulations, Commander.

"Lieutenant Commander Sinclair, you are awarded the Navy Cross and promoted immediately to Full Commander. You also get another battle ribbon. Congratulations, Commander.

"And finally Lieutenant Commander Paulus," Bell said and stopped when Red decided to make an entrance, wrapping around my neck and laying his head on my shoulder. "Your medical dispenser, I'm told."

"And friend," I blurted, and was tempted to cover my mouth. "He adopted me when I was four, sir."

"Yes, that would make ... him a very dear friend. But he stops you from crew duty," he said, but it felt like a question.

"True, sir. I've loved every minute of my time on the various cruisers, but I would miss seeing my mother, and I love chasing bad guys."

"Lieutenant Commander Paulus, you are awarded the Navy Cross and promoted immediately to Full Commander. You also get another battle ribbon. Congratulations, Commander."

After several hours of small talk about our lives, Bell left and Rawls tapped a glass with a spoon, for attention.

"This is the team the NIA will always call on in the event of another major crime wave. Admiral Lultrel describes you as a cross between a bloodhound and a pit bull. I'm sure the smugglers and the raiders would agree. But ... NIA can't have three full commanders sitting around doing lieutenant work waiting on another major crime organization. Since right now you've almost unlimited credit, I'm going to give you a list of NIA offices and let you decide among you which you would like. Anna, you also have a choice, but Admiral Lultrel would like you to consider the Eastar office."

But that's another story.

Novels by C.R. Daems
crdaems.com
talonnovels.com

SCIENCE FICTION:

The Riss Series:

- Book I: The Riss Gamble

- Book II: The Riss Proposal

- Book III: The Riss Survival

- Book IV: The Riss Accession

- Book V: The Riss Challenge

The Red Angel Series

- Book I: Smugglers

- Book II: Raiders

The Black Guard Series

- Book I: Least Favorite Child

- Book II: Evolution

FANTASY: EPIC

The Shadow Sisters Series

- Book I: The Shadow Ryana

- Book II: The Shadow Gypsy

Zara the Wolf

The Seer Renee

Talon of the Unnamed Goddess

Women of Power

Scales of Justice

URBAN FANTASY / ADVENTURE

Kazak Guardians Series:

- Book I: Lynn's Rules

- Book II: The Unthinkable

ZAP Agent Mathis

SUPERNATURAL/HORROR

Laughing Hounds

Guardians of Evil