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The Chronicles of the

Children of Destiny



“Rimwalker”



By

Daniel Thomas Andrew Daly

© 2009

http://noahidebooks.angelfire.com





PART ONE



‘The Sigmorius Crown’





1



The dust fell to the floor as the tired and hungry adventurer whacked
his boots, carefully mind you, so as not to damage the valued assets
too much, against the side of his spacecraft, the Wolfklaw.  Rimwalker
was pleased; very pleased.  He could count the Arcturian credits
already, and visualised, amongst other riches, his time in the arms of
the tender, blue skinned Arcturian beauties that were always ever so
lavish in their adorations.  He patted his satchel which was hanging
from his shoulder, ever so careful with his prize.  For millennia the
Arcturian council had posted rewards for the return of their beloved
Sigmorius crown, the most revered of the ancient royal jewels of the
united kingdoms of Arcturia.  And Rimwalker had tracked it down,
strangely enough of all places which were his usual haunt, right out
on the edge of the galactic rim.  Draxian piracy had looted the crown
long ago and, tracing old records and rumours about the crown, he had
found information on Telos 17 that the Drax had an old lair on Karnak,
a mostly uninhabited desert planet on the edge of the rim.  Rimwalker
had spent days surveying the continents of the planet, going over
countless mounds of dirt with his scanners, looking for significant
manmade structures.  At the northern and southern poles of the planets
plant-life existed with a small number of native animal species, but
apparently the air was to thin on the planet for any more advanced
species to really want to inhabit the place.  Rimwalker had decided
that he would scan the desert regions first, before the more complex
greenery as there was not too much of that so he would leave it to
last.



Fortunately, one week into his scans by the galactic calendar he had
found a series of obviously manmade structures and had investigated.
It was an abandoned Drax lair alright and searching through the place
he found countless worthless coins, far out of date, from various
cultures, with not a sign of gold coinage or other precious metal
amongst them.  Any other type of currency seemed to have long faded.
But finally, after almost giving up, he looked under an old metal bunk
and found a small box containing his desired prize.  For whatever
reason the Drax had they had long ago given up on their prize and it
was now his to claim.



Putting it into his satchel he had climbed out of the ruins and was
now dusting off his boots, breathing carefully through his oxygen mask
as the air was too thin to breathe this far south from the northern
pole.



He pressed a button on his wristpad and the doors of the Wolfklaw on
the bottom deck opened up.  He came inside, closed the doors and took
his prize to the central station deck to look it over.



Sitting there he examined pictures he had of the original crown and
looked at his copy.  All things seemed correct.  It had the right
markings and looked practically identical apart from a little wear and
tear.  Yep, he had the crown alright.  The reward would be his.



He went to the wall of his command station, opened his safe, and
carefully placed his prize inside.  And now straight to Arcturia, a
billion Arcturian credits and the sexual pleasures of the most
decadent of Arcturian whores.







2



Rimwalker awoke.  Jan Kolby, alias the ‘Rimwalker’ was suddenly
awakened by a jolt to the ship.  He looked at the digiclock.  It was
still 3 hours to Arcturia and he was sure he would have slept the
distance apart from this disturbance.  Getting up quickly he ran to
the command deck.  The Wolfklaw’s command deck was a pretty basic
affair, not surprising given the age of the ship.  It was one of the
early star-solar ships of the human confederation of planets, now over
1500 years old, but still in reasonable shape considering the
distances it had travelled.  The Command deck was run mostly by audio
programmed computers, who you really only needed to speak commands
to.  There were in fact controls at the deck, which Rimwalker were
acquainted with and had used occasionally, but most things ran
themselves.  Fortunately the confederation had an ample supply of
dedicated tech-heads ever so happy to take a look at the ancient ship
and tinker with it whenever he was at a suitable port.  At the front
of the command deck were 3 main screens, a central one, and 2 smaller
ones on either side.  They were standard LCD screens as that was the
major technology at the beginning of the confederation being used, and
they worked well enough, but he had often thought about putting in
some of the more advanced holographons for a better 3D image.  But he
was usually too miserly as the LCD generally worked well enough.



‘Computer.  Please identify source of jolt.’  Various lights before
him whirred and spun and soon a female voice responded.

‘Greetings captain.  The source of the jolt was an unidentified
metallic missile.  Sensors read that there is some sort of attachment
to the ship currently.’

‘Analysis.’

‘A hostile alien boarding or capture seems statistically probable.
Though they may wish you no harm captain.  This sector has little
hostile activity in our current databanks and they may be simply
cautious.’

‘Give us a look then.’

The screen came alive and images of a large metal object, perhaps
magnetic, with a cable attached was shown.

‘Why magnetic?  Are they that primitive not to use gravitational
tractor beams?’

‘Quite possibly, Captain,’ replied the computer.

‘Mmm.  Interesting.  Can you see were that cable goes.’

‘Locating endsource of cable, captain,’ responded the computer.

Coming onto the screen, the computer enlarging the image, was a small
spaceship, about the size of the Wolfklaw, and about as primitive
looking.

‘Captain,’ began the computer.  ‘This appears to be a primitive tug-
ship.  We are being towed to its homebase.’

‘We’ll see about that,’ responded Rimwalker.  ‘Computer, prepare the
‘Cub’.  I am going to drop our friends a polite visit and let them
know this ship is spoken for.’

‘As you wish Captain.’



Coming into the ‘Cub’, the Wolfklaw’s tiny child as it were, Rimwalker
brought his phaser and translator.  He wanted to be careful and
polite, and sensed he wouldn’t have too much trouble, but caution was
needed as well.



Getting into the cub he piloted the ship out of the small dock and
headed towards his captor.





3



‘Look, Mr Kolby.  I am sorry, ok.  My scanners were clearly
malfunctioning when they detected no life-signs on board your ship.  I
had thought it another routine patrol droid we occasionally get out
here.  And some of the metals and other material you find on those
droids can come in very useful.  Arcturia sends them out this way a
lot to monitor things.  We pinch em, ok.  But they know we are here
and haven’t complained yet.  I think they feel guilty, really.  They
abandoned our colony years back and left us to fend for ourselves,
forbidding re-entry to Arcturia.’

‘And why is that,’ Rimwalker asked the blueskinned female Arcturian.

‘We were in the rebellion against the crown of Arcturia.  We wanted
democracy, not monarchy and they exiled us.’

‘Yeh, I have heard about that.  Arcturian’s talk about it from time to
time.  But, you know, times have changed on Arcturia.  It is
practically a democracy these days.  The crown is mostly a
figurehead.  Have you thought of going back?’

The Arcturian looked at Rimwalker, considering those words.

‘Go back.  Now.  No, I mean we couldn’t.  They shamed us, and we have
our pride.’ But despite the female’s words, Rimwalker could sense she
was considering the issue.

‘How many of you are there.  And where do you live.’

‘We are on a space-ark just outside of Arcturia minor.  It is a dead
planet, and we prefer living on the Ark.  We were exiled here
centuries ago.  The droids come in useful for various things.  And
like I said, Arcturia feels guilty.  They often place supplies, for no
real apparent reason, upon the droid ships.’

‘I think you have been forgiven, you know.  Perhaps it really is time
to go home.’

She looked at him, seemingly now convinced of his words.

‘Perhaps you are right.  Perhaps you are right.  I may speak to
Landoria and ask her.  There are about 50 of us on the ark, but she is
the most respected.  Perhaps she may find what you have to say
interesting.’

‘Then let us go speak to this Landoria.  I can transport you all if
you like.  The Wolfklaw will fit 50 Arcturian’s easily.  It would be
my pleasure.’

The Arcturian just nodded.

‘Well, do you have a name,’ asked Rimwalker.

‘Oh, yes.  Chance.  Chance Kibb’star.  An old Arcturian family.’

‘I’ll bet.  Well I’ll get back to my ship and set it to follow you.
And it was good to meet you Chance Kibb’star.’

‘Yes.  Good to meet you too, Captain Kolby.’





4



Landoria seemed, to Rimwalker, very sophisticated and wise, although
he hardly knew her.  Her manner bespoke an upbringing of the higher
class of society, which surprised him considering she was likely born
on the ark.  But not necessarily.  Arcturian’s had, apparently,
unpredictable life-spans and could go on for centuries so the story
went.  He decided to query her on the subject as they walked around
the upper levels of the ark were the food was made and stored.

‘So, Landoria.  Just how old are you?’

‘You are inquiring, perhaps, because you sense something within me not
like the others, dare I say it?’

‘Exactly.  Let me guess, you were in the original rebellion, right?’

‘It is as you say.  I was part of the original rebellion on Arcturia
against the new monarchy, the only surviving member here on the ark,
but I fear any at home would have perished.’

‘And your upbringing on Arcturia?’ quizzed Rimwalker.

‘Why ask you of such a thing.’

‘Because you don’t speak in the mannerisms of a commoner from
Arcturia, and I know them a little by now.’

‘Mmm,’ nodded Landoria, but seemingly unwilling to answer the
question.

‘This, Captain Kolby, is the main kitchen.  We prepare most of our
meals here.  Most of us take part in the communal meal, but we have a
few families who eat together by themselves.’

The kitchen was not really anything unusual.  Standard fare for a
spacecraft, and very Arcturian looking with its strong sense of
symmetry.

‘Yeh, it’s a great kitchen,’ replied Jan, not really interested in how
they prepared their meals.  ‘So, thanks for the tour and everything,
but really, if you are not going to take me up on my offer, I would
like to head off.’

Chance spoke up.  ‘Perhaps you could stay a few hours.  Sleep over.
It may give us time to consider your offer.  It is quite sudden, you
know.’

‘Chance speaks wisely,’ stated Landoria bluntly.  ‘Yes, Captain Kolby,
I am from the upper class of Arcturian society.  I was brought up in
the nobility, which is how I grew to disdain its lavish hypocrisy,’
stated Landoria, finally responding to Jan’s question.

‘Figures.  But you know what they say about biting the hand that feeds
you.’

‘An interesting analogy,’ responded Landoria.  ‘Human I take it?’

‘100% sweetheart.  Look, alright.  If you want me to stay a day or so,
I guess I can manage it.  But don’t keep me here too long.  There are
a billion credits waiting for me on Arcturia, and the arms of their
finest harlots beckon.’

‘And you seemed like such an intelligent human,’ said Landoria,
disdaining his promiscuity.

‘Hey, lady.  Not all of us are born with divine scruples.  I know you
Arcturian’s are still hung up on religion, but humanity got over most
of our fables years ago.’

‘From what I knew of humanity, many of you still confess faith in the
higher one.’

‘Hell, luv.  I think I even believe in God when I am shagging a lady.
Only God could make them so fine, you know.  But religion is dead,
sweetheart.  ‘Only the Pope in Rome really keeps the faith.’

‘Rome?’ questioned Landoria.  ‘Where is Rome?’

‘A city on Earth.  Home planet for us humans.  I even visited it
once.’

‘And who is this Pope you speak of?’

‘Ahh, fucking hell.  I hate religious discussions.  You know, the
Pope.  Head of the Church.  Or the Catholic thing, I think.  The
details are fuzzy.  Dad mentioned it a bit.’

‘And what does this church believe?’

‘Jesus fucking Christ sweetheart.  The son of the Almighty.’

‘Fascinating.  You must speak more of this.’

‘You know what I know.  Anyway, you were saying you had some place for
me to sleep.’

‘Yes, I was forgetting.  Chance, can you show Captain Kolby to one of
the vacant domiciles.  And see to any needs he has.’

‘Of course, Landoria.’

‘Captain Kolby, if you will follow me?’ said Chance, who started out
of the kitchen, Jan slowly following her, giving Landoria a final look
over.





5



The domicile was about all the Rimwalker expected.  Not overly large,
but not tiny either.  Adequate enough.  The bunk looked strong enough
and the mattress didn’t appear to have been slept on.  Chance spoke
up.

‘You must forgive Landoria if her ways are a bit off-putting to you.
She is quite religious, as you may have guessed, as many of us
Arcturian’s are.  It is a strong part of our culture.’

‘Was for humans too, once.  But we grew up.’

Chance just nodded, but it was not a nod of agreement.

‘Do you want something to eat?  I can bring you various drinking
liquids and fruit and vegetables.’

‘You don’t have any fried chicken do you?’

‘We haven’t had animal food for a long time, Captain Kolby.  The droid
ship occasionally brings some, but most of us won’t eat meat.’

‘Veges, huh.’

‘Veges?  What do you mean?’

‘Vegetarians!  Don’t eat meat! Oh forget it.’

‘Yes, most of us would be vegetarians, as you put it.  But Landoria
often eats the meat the droid-ships contain.’

‘Well, some fruit-juice and whatever vegetables you have will be
fine.  As long as the veges are cooked, ok.’

‘That shouldn’t be a problem.’  She left him then, and he lay down on
the bunk, closing his eyes.  Damn his generosity, as it was taking up
time he could be spending in a fine harlots arms.  But deep down he
knew he was doing the right thing.



Chance soon returned with a flask of juice and a plate of steaming
vegetables.  She gave him some utensils and he sat up on his bunk,
trying them.  They were tasty enough, similar to what he had eaten on
Arcturia before.

‘Thanks Chance.  You know, if only you want to come, I will take you.
If nobody else is interested, I don’t mind of you tag along.  It will
give me someone to chat with before we arrive at Arcturia.

Chance looked at him, considering his words.  Eventually she spoke.

‘This Ark has been my home all my life Captain Kolby.  And these
people are my family.  But, yes, if they will not leave, I will come
with you.  I was not brought up in the monarchy.  I was not part of
the rebellion.  I think I have a right to make up my own mind.’

‘You sure have.  Well, I will give them till a few hours after I
wake.  If no decision, we leave.  Alright?  So gather your
belongings.’

‘Yes.  I will do that.  And thank you Captain Kolby.’

‘Don’t mention it.’





6



In the morning Landoria spoke with Rimwalker.  The community had
decided that they would not risk return at this stage.  But if Jan
would speak with the council on Arcturia on their behalf it would be
appreciated.



Rimwalker made his way to the dock, were Chance was waiting.  He
looked at her, all dressed up and ready to taste her new life.

‘A new beginning for you sweetheart.  I am sure you will fit right in
on Arcturia.  You look just like them,’ saying the last comment with
sarcasm.

‘Most funny, Captain Kolby.’

‘Hey, call me Jan.  Or Rimwalker.  It is my alias.’

‘Rimwalker?  Why Rimwalker.’

‘Because I travel the galactic rim.  Have circled it twice now.  It’s
more interesting out here.  Less formal – less developed.  I have been
to so many of the central galactic systems, and they all worship a
type of lifestyle that just don’t suit me.  So fucking politically
correct.  Always kissing each others ass.  Always diplomacy.  Uggh.
Give me the rim, were there is action, and even the odd war.  It is
the place for a real man.’

‘But is not Arcturia much like one of these central systems?’

‘In some ways.  But despite your religion you guys are generally
easygoing.  Not so legalistic with your legal system.  In the central
system it is fucking hell with all the protocols you need just to get
by.’

‘Interesting,’ said Chance, illuminated by this wisdom.

‘So you ready?  Said your farewells?’

‘I am ready,’ she said nodding.

‘Let’s go then sweetheart.’

They both boarded the Wolfklaw, and shortly it was leaving the
vicinity of the ark, headed for Arcturia.





7



‘So human mating rituals are quite similar to our own?’

‘Hey, sweetie.  I have done dozens of Arcturian harlots and they are
just like humans, only blue.  I think we are related someway, but that
is only a theory.’

Chance looked at him naively, looking at his body.  Chance was a
virgin, uncoupled on the ark, but was intending to mate if she could
on Arcturia.  But this human looked interesting.

‘You know, sweetheart.  Human woman come in differing shades like you
Arcturian’s.  We have deep browns, even blacks, and reddish and yellow
tinting, alongside my own shade.’

‘Arcturian’s come in differing shades?’ asked Chance, most interested.

‘You bet.  Mostly similar to your colour, but there are lighter and
darker blues, and even the odd greenish looking Arcturian’s.’

‘Fascinating.  Tell me, how long before we reach Arcturia?’

‘Computer, estimated time of arrival for Arcturia?’

‘37 minutes, Captain.’

She looked at him.  ‘How long is a human minute?’

‘This long,’ he said, pointing to the screen.  ‘Computer, show us
Arcturia.’

The computer proceeded to highlight the planetary body they were
approaching, magnifying and zooming in.

‘Computer, show us Zardray, the capital.’

‘As you wish, captain.’  The screen proceeded to magnify the image,
focusing on a sector of the planet, and zooming in.  Soon before their
eyes was a sprawling metropolis, distinctly Arcturian in nature.

Chance gazed at the picture, her heart fluttering at seeing home for
the first time.  ‘This is Zardray?  The capital?’

‘That it is.’

She sat there, looking at it for many moments, her mind a wonder at
the sight.  Eventually she spoke.  ‘Thank you, Jan Kolby.  Thank you
Rimwalker for taking me home.  I am forever in your debt.’

‘Better be careful, I might call in that debt one day.’

She looked at him, saw he wasn’t being serious, and smiled.



A few minutes later, as she continued to gaze at the screen, the
computer spoke.  ‘Captain, we are being hailed by Arcturia.  Would you
like to respond?’

‘Open the channel.’

‘As you wish captain.’

‘….yourselves.  I repeat, please identify yourselves.  You have
entered Arcturian space, and we require identification.’

‘Kolby.  Jan Kolby,’ responded Jan.  ‘And I think I have something you
guys will really thank me for.’

The channel went silent for a few moments as that information was
being processed.  Shortly the voice spoke again.

‘You are cleared for entry, Jan Kolby.  Please proceed on your current
course and you will be met by a craft which will escort you to our
capital and quarantine.  Thank you for visiting Arcturia.’  The voice
went silent.



‘Now what?’ asked Chance.

‘We sit pretty, sweetheart.  Don’t sweat it.  I have done this thing a
million times before.

She nodded, continuing to stare at the screen.





8



In the underground Draxian piracy network on Arcturia, Dak Bluddhook
had just been notified by one of his paid cronies in Arcturian defence
of the soon arrival of one certain ‘Jan Kolby’, the illustrious
‘Rimwalker’.

‘So the bastard is back,’ muttered Dak, as he made his way along the
corridor of the Zardrayan temple of Daranok, one of the lesser deities
of Arcturia, this particular temple a front for the Draxian pirates.



The Draxian pirates were not all Draxian – that is simply were the
piracy guild originated.  But it was widespread through the third
quadrant of the galaxy, mostly rim-wards were lawlessness was easier
to get away with



People joined the guild of piracy for many reasons.  Adventure,
intrigue, power.  But mostly to make a quick buck the old fashioned
way – robbery and plunder.  The guild had many fronts, even legitimate
businesses throughout their territories, but these were mostly ways of
laundering out goods obtained and selling other wares.  Dak Bluddhook
was officially a deacon of the priesthood of Daranok, but he simply
ran affairs for the guild in Zardray.  Strangely enough, Dak had run
into Jan a few times, as Jan occasionally had questionable goods of
his own which he needed disposing of as silently as possible.  They
gambled together from time to time, Dak hating his bastard opponent
for the small fortune won off him last time in port.  He would not be
so lucky next time, Dak had sworn.  But he wanted to catch up with
Jan, today if possible, for other reasons.  Jan had mumbled something
about going to look for the lost Sigmorius crown, and Dak suspected
the bastard had somehow claimed the prize.  That particular crown, so
Dak understood, was still hidden in a cooling off period.  The league
had obtained it originally, knew were it was hidden, but left it alone
for now.  One day a profitable sale to Arcturian renegade royalists or
other entrepreneurs could possibly be made, and as such it was a
hidden, but known of asset for the guild.  If Jan had found it Dak
wanted to know, and before anyone else.



Muttering to himself he came to the outer port and entered his
vehicle.  Programming in his destination, Regis Hotel were Jan usually
stayed, Dak planned just how to obtain the information he needed.





9



‘So do you like the room sweetheart?’

‘You are sure this was the only room available?  They do not have any
others?’

‘Only this double,’ said Jan, Lying.  But hey, he was hoping to get
lucky with Chance.

‘What will you do next?’ Chance asked Rimwalker.

‘I have a meeting with officials from the Monarchy scheduled.
Tomorrow afternoon Zardrayan time.  Business to take care of you see.
But for now we can rest a little and, if you like, we can see some of
my types of places this evening.’

‘Your types of places, she quizzed, her curiousity aroused.

‘You’ll find out soon enough, sweetie.  I wonder what’s on the
visuals.’  He picked up a remote control on the side of the bed
cupboard beside were he was sitting and pointed it at the large visual
screen.  After some button pushing an Arcturian sports match came on.
‘This should be perfect,’ said Jan.  ‘Hey sweetie.  Do you fancy
anything to eat?  I can order us some real nice Arcturian food.’

‘Oh, yes.  Alright then,’ said Chance, still a little nervous at being
home.  She was looking forward to going out that night with Jan to see
Zardray a bit more and get to know her new home.  And then, in the
morning, she could think about finding somewere to live.



Munching on some fried chicken, which the Arcturian’s had imported
from the human civilization and delighted in, Jan gazed at the behind
of Chance Kibb’star, lying on the bed in front of him, eating her
chicken, and watching the sports match.  It really was a fine ass, and
Chance was a fine figure of a woman.  He had been thinking on and off
about trying to score with her ever since leaving the Ark, and was
hopeful.  But the lass would probably find somewere to stay and
farewell him before he had the chance.  Still, that didn’t matter that
much.  With a Billion Arcturian credits he could afford the finest of
Arcturian harlots, something definitely to look forward to.

‘You liking your chicken?’

‘It is delicious,’ responded Chance.  ‘I never knew meat could be so
tasty.’

‘Hey, you have to live a little.  But watch your heart.  The
cholesterol in this stuff can kill you.’

‘I’ll be careful.’

‘So, what are your plans Chance?  Will you find somewere to stay in
the morning?  I guess I should have mentioned it before, but there
seems to be a well advanced welfare system on Arcturia.  If you start
there, they can give you somewere to live and an income for food.
Your young so you might want to consider getting a good education
after that and look for work.  I’m sure you will be alright.’

‘Yes,’ said Chance, hesitantly.  ‘I wasn’t really sure what I would do
next, but thanks for that knowledge.  If you can help me find a place
in the morning to get this welfare, I would really appreciate it.’

‘We’ll make that the morning’s activity.  You might have to disclose
your origin, but I personally don’t think that will be a problem.
Don’t sweat it, whatever you do.’

‘I won’t.’

They ate the chicken and as the evening passed, despite thinking he
might try it on with her, he thought better of it, and simply went to
bed looking forward to the billion credits he would hopefully receive
in the morning, deciding against introducing his new friend to the
nightlife of Zardray.





10



In the morning they were down in the breakfast bar of the Regis hotel
when one of Jan’s old adversaries came walking into the bar and,
spotting the two of them, came over to sit down.



‘Jan fucking Kolby.  Do you still have those credits you screwed me
for?’

‘Hey, a bet’s a bet, Dak.  Really, though, you should have seen it
coming.  I had been playing you all night.  If you had called my
bluff, I would be hassling you now.’

‘I’ll be more cautious next time, Kolby.  So tell me, who is your new
friend.  One of the ladies of the night I take it.’

‘Hardly.  Dak Bluddhook, meet Chance Kibb’star.  Brand new to
Arcturia.’

‘So you are from Charnay, I take it,’ asked Dak about the Arcturian’s
major colonial settlement of a nearby star system.

‘Uh, no,’ replied Chance.  ‘I am from the Ark.’

‘The Ark?  Now what exactly is that my dear?’

‘Home to me and my family’, responded Chance.

Dak gave her a quizzical look, but did not continue with the line of
questioning.

‘Anyway, Kolby.  Are you going to give me a chance to win my money
back?  Go on.  I know you want to.  You could never resist a good
gambling session.’

‘Maybe some other time,’ responded Rimwalker.  ‘I have business to
take care of at the moment.’

‘And what business is that,’ asked Dak, carefully seeking the
information he needed.

‘Important business,’ was all that Kolby would reply.

‘So you are seeing the Royalists, huh?’

Kolby looked at him, a little suspicious, but decided to answer
anyway.

‘You could say that, Dak.  Imperial business, you see.’

‘So when are you meeting them,’ continued Dak, determined to get the
information he needed.

‘What concern is that of yours,’ asked Kolby, now annoyed.

‘Hey, take it easy buddy.  Just a friendly question.  It’s not
everybody who has royalist business.  I was just curious ok.’

‘Yeh, well curiousity killed the cat, Dak.’

‘What is a cat?’ asked Chance.

‘Small domestic animal.  Human’s love em.  Look, Dak.  I am afraid if
you are fishing for information for the guild, you can forget about
it.  While I may have royalist business, it is of no interest to the
guild.  I can assure you of that.’  He was lying, of course, but the
last thing Jan Kolby wanted was the guild of Draxian piracy snooping
into his business, especially with a Billion Arcturian credits at
stake.

‘Relax, Jan.  Don’t worry about it.  Just happy conversation, hey.
You know, just gabbing.’

‘Yeh, right,’ said Jan, eyeing his opponent suspiciously.  Deciding on
a tactic to lose his friend, Jan spoke up.  ‘Tell you what.  How about
we meet up tonight.  At ‘Rakkos’ in the city.  I will give you that
opportunity to win your money back that you are looking for.’

‘Sound’s good buddy.  I will see you there.’  Dak got up and
farewelled them, but he would wait outside in his vehicle.  He would
follow them and notify one of his fellow guildsmen.  If they had the
crown, the guild would recover it.  You could bet on that.



When Dak had left, Jan was pleased.  He had no intention of meeting
him at ‘Rakkos’.  It had been a ruse to get rid of him.  In fact,
thinking on it, as soon as he had converted most of the credits to
gold, he would leave Arcturia.  Perhaps not the best place to stay at
the moment with the guild snooping around.



He looked at Chance.  ‘You ready sweetheart?  We will go and find
welfare now, if you like.’

Chance looked at him, a little sad to be leaving her new friend, but
also happy to be starting her new life.

‘Let’s go.’



Making there way out of the hotel, Jan gave thought to Dak and
encouraged himself to be cautious.  It could be a dangerous ride
today, and he would probably need his wits about him.





11



In the vehicle they had rented, Kolby had programmed in the nearest
welfare office from the onboard directory, and they were cruising
through the streets, Chance carefully looking at all the sights of her
new home.

‘Zardray is amazing, isn’t it Jan?’ said Chance, ever so pleased at
the sights she was now seeing.

‘So you like the scrapers, huh.  Yeh, they always dazzle kids.’

She looked at him, uncertain what he meant, but looked back out the
window.

Having thought it over the night before, Jan decided to take the risk
on what he was about to say.

‘You know, Chance.  Jan Kolby, the fabulous Rimwalker, always works
alone.  Always have done and always will.  But, you know.  Sometimes I
get lonely.  Especially on long flights.  And, you know.  If you
want.  I mean, if you really want to, you could hang with me if you
like.  I don’t mind paying your bills and feeding ya.  Hell, you can
do that yourself.  But it would give me company and give you someone
to hang with for a while.  Well, whadda you say, kiddo.’

Chance continued staring out the window, but she had heard Jan’s
words.  After a while she turned to look at him.

‘That, that is a kind offer, Jan.  But I have a new home now.  My
home.  And I can’t leave it before I have really seen it, you know.  I
just can’t.’

‘Hell, of course I understand.  Don’t sweat it.’  But inside he was
disappointed.



When they reached the welfare office, and exited the vehicle, she
looked at him.  ‘Well, farewell Jan Kolby.  Rimwalker.  It has been
very exciting knowing you, but my life must begin.’  She looked at him
for a moment and then awkwardly came forward and gave him a hug.

‘Seeya sweetheart.  If I am ever in town, I will look you up.  Ok.’

‘Ok,’ she said, wiping a small tear from her eye.



She looked at him, gave one last wave, and turned to make her way
inside the welfare office.



He looked at the office for some time, and got into his vehicle.  She
had been a good friend in the time he had known her, and he was
disappointed to be leaving her.  But shit, life goes on.



As he was programming in a city diner, a knock came to the door.
Looking through the window Chance was standing there.  He opened the
door anxiously.

‘What is it sweetheart?  Did you forget something?’

She looked at him, and finally spoke.  ‘What is life without a bit of
adventure, hey Rimwalker.  Yes, I will come with you if you will take
care of me.  I guess why stop at Arcturia when I can see the galaxy.’

He looked at her, came forward and kissed her on the cheek.  ‘Why the
hell not, sweetheart.’



She got in and Jan finished programming the location for the diner.
He was pretty happy now.  She was a quiet gal, but suited to him.
Someone to enjoy spending time with.  Finishing the programming, the
vehicle zipped away, oblivious to a red vehicle now following them.





12



As they sat eating in the diner Jan usually frequented when he was in
Zardray, he couldn’t help but noticing an Arcturian, dressed in red,
glancing at him from time to time.  He didn’t know the guy, but
guessed he may be a guild crony.  They would have to be careful.



‘So what do you want to eat?’ Jan asked Chance.

‘Whatever is good.’

‘Hell, most of it is edible.  Take your pick.’  She surveyed the menu
and finally ordered an item, Jan also ordering some Arcturian beer
which the diner also served.



They sat eating and, after a while, the Arcturian dressed in red got
up, paid for his meal and giving Jan one last look, left.  That
couldn’t be good news, Jan thought to himself.  They could be waiting
outside.  Perhaps he should leave quickly.

‘Come on Chance.  Sorry, we have to go now.’  Chance continued eating
her meal, a little reluctant to leave, until Jan yelled ‘NOW!’  He
left some Arcturian credits on the counter and waved to the attendant
and grabbing Chance left the diner.



Out in the port he looked around carefully.  The guy in red was not
visible.  Mmm.  Perhaps he had not been guild pirate after all.
Still, they would need to be cautious.



‘Were to now,’ asked Chance.

‘Now my business.  May as well get it over with.’  They got into their
vehicle and Jan programmed in the Royalist sector of the city, were
most of the buildings the Royalists used as well as the palace was
located.



The vehicle was humming along when, suddenly, a huge crash brought it
spinning and over to the side of the road, colliding with the
barriers.  Jan was dazed, and so was Chance, and when the Arcturian in
red appeared, grabbed Jan’s satchel, and disappeared, he was still too
dazed to stop him.



Eventually they came to their senses and Jan, feeling for his missing
satchel, began swearing profusely.

‘Whatever is the matter,’ asked Chance.

‘The bastards stole it.  All that work and they fucking steal it
again.  Typical for the league, though.  Bloody typical.  Dak, that
bastard.  He was behind this, I just know it.’

‘Behind what,’ asked Chance.  ‘The crown.  The Sigmorius crown.  I was
about to return it and claim the bounty of a billion credits.’

‘Oh,’ she said.

‘Yeh, oh.  Fucking oh.’

‘Well, what now?’

He thought quickly.  ‘We will have to notify the rental yard.  I paid
full insurance, so that should cover the vehicle.  But for now we go
back to the Wolfklaw.  I think I have a plan, but I need some time to
think.’

‘Ok.  Whatever you say.’

Jan pushed an emergency button on the control panel and soon they were
greeted by sirens.  He gave his details to the Arcturian police and
they gave them a lift back to space-dock, were the Wolfklaw was
located.  Jan was pissed, but he had a plan.  He had a plan.





13



Coming back onto the Wolfklaw, Jan was like a caged cat.  He began
pacing through the command deck, anxiously thinking on his next move.
Chance sat down at the central station and just watched him.  She had
joined an adventurer, she knew that much.  So life, really, would
never be the same again.  She spoke up, carefully so as not to upset
him, ‘Well, what is your plan, Jan.’

Kolby looked at her momentarily, but said nothing and resumed his
pacing.  Eventually he spoke up.  ‘Ok, ok.  I know what we are going
to do.  As I recall from probable guild policy in a situation like
this, they will likely transfer the crown to Drax itself for a while.
For safekeeping.  But they may decide to sell it soon anyway as it has
been missing for so long.  But, either way, Drax is where we are
headed.  Drax is where we are headed.’

Chance Kibb’star looked at her new provider and, the question coming
to her mind, asked it.  ‘And why are we going to Drax?’

‘To join the league of piracy, sweetheart.  What else.’

She looked at him and nodded.  Life, it seemed, was about to get a
hell of a lot more complicated for Chance Kibb’star.





14





‘Those are Deimonian clouds.  They are a phenomenon particular this
side of Draxos.’

Chance looked at the gaseous bodies floating on the screen in front of
her.

‘They go on for millions of kilometres in this area of space,’
continued Jan.  They are not that common throughout the galaxy, but
you find them here and there.’

‘They are so bright,’ commented Chance, noting the almost illuminated
state of the clouds.

‘The elements within them react with solar light in a very positive
way, illuminating their body structures.  Harvesting the elements in
these clouds is practiced here and there.’

‘Mmm,’ nodded Chance, fascinated.



The two of them were closing in on Draxos, home of the Draxian pirate
guild. Not all Draxians were in the guild of course, the home in
general being a regular type of planet with its own intelligent home
species.  But Draxians were noteworthy for their ruffian ways, and you
could always guarantee a fight in a pub if Draxians were present.



‘So how do we join this guild,’ asked Chance innocently.

‘We will probably need a reference of some kind, but that might not be
a problem.  I will use the bastard himself, Dak Bluddhook.  I will
mention I have had dealings with him and we will see how we go.’

‘How will we find the guild.’

‘They will find us, sweetheart.  Don’t worry about that.’

She nodded, content with that information.



‘Computer. Place Draxos on screen.’  In reply the computer obediently
brought up a magnified picture of their planetary destination.

‘It looks like Arcturia,’ stated Chance, surprised.

‘Oh, it is a standard oxygen based planet, of similar size.  They all
look similar from space.  But usually they have their own distinct
array of plant and animal life.  Every planet is unique in that way.’

Chance nodded.



‘Computer, what is our estimated time of arrival to Draxos.’

‘16 minutes,’ responded the computer.

‘We should be hearing from Draxos space command shortly.



True to Kolby’s words Draxos soon hailed his ship and he was directed
to a spaceport on Draxos.  Like Arcturia, Quarantine was standard on
this planet, as well as a formal customs declaration, unlike the
Arcturian’s who didn’t really care what valuables you brought on
planet, as long as there were no quarantine problems.



They hired a standard Draxian vehicle near the port, having
transferred some gold to Draxian currency at the currency exchange at
the port.  Jan had visited Drax before, and was known to some of the
league members here, having had some minor dealings.  They would, so
his hunch went, seek him out once they were notified of his arrival,
perhaps expecting him with goods to trade in.  That was what he hoped
for anyway.





15



Sitting in a Draxian pub, not far from the spaceport, Jan looked
around the room seeing all sorts of galactic travellers of differing
races.  He even spotted a few humans and was thinking about saying
hello, but thought better of it.  Best to stay inconspicuous and let
the guild find him.



Chance was sipping on some Draxian ale, and enjoying the stuff
tremendously.  In fact, she was part way through her second draft and
was starting to feel the effects of the alcohol.  Looking at her Jan
felt she needed to lie down and instead of returning to the Wolfklaw
they would sleep it out in one of the vacant rooms of the pub.  He
purchased a room, and dragged Chance upstairs.



‘Yuu arr sho kinddd, Jannn.  Fank yu.’

‘Your pissed sweetheart.’

‘Thigs Allleee.  Itt was sho ghud.’

‘I’ll bet.’

He manoeuvred her into their room and placed her down on her bed.
Fortunately she was out almost instantly.  He thought about undressing
her to put her into her sleeping garments, but thought better of it.
Best to leave her as is.  He flicked on one of the visuals and,
searching through the channels, found some Draxian sport.  He usually
preferred sports to any news or drama items.  At least sports was
generally a universal language, whatever the game.



He watched it for a while, sipping on some ale, when a knock came to
the door.  Getting up and opening it, he was greeted by a male Draxian
in his middle years.  The Draxian spoke.  ‘You are Jan Kolby.  This is
correct?’

‘That is me.’  The Draxian looked relieved at that response.

‘Well, do you have any dealings with the guild while here on Draxos.
It is why we assume you have come.’

‘No transactions, but other matters.’

‘If you have no transactions, we have nothing to discuss.’  The
Draxian turned as if to leave, but Jan halted him.

‘My business is this.  Me and my partner want to join the League.  We
feel we can prove valuable members.’

The Draxian looked at him for a few moments, considering those words,
and then finally spoke.  ‘Very well then.  We will contact you here
tomorrow.  Be ready to leave in the morning.’

‘Will do.  And I have a friend – a contact in the leaguer.  Dak
Bluddhook from Arcturia.  We are old acquaintances.  He can vouch for
me, ok.’

The Draxian nodded, remembering the name, and left.



Jan returned to his bed.  So far so good.  The morning should prove
interesting.





16



Chance awoke to find Jan’s hand on her butt.  She pushed it off and
looked at him.  He was dead asleep.  She felt her head and grimaced.
Really, it was quite a hangover, one of the few she had experienced.
She shook Jan who grumbled, but eventually came to.  ‘What the fug is
the time, he asked.  She looked at the wristpad he had given her, and
said 11:24, having been taught how to read it.’  ‘Fuck.  Now let me
see, that is about mid-morning Draxon time as I recall.  Our man
should be here soon.’

‘You have contacted someone?’

‘Last night, while you were drowning in your sorrows.  A guild member
showed up inquiring if we had business.  He is returning this morning
some time.  So time to shower and shave, I guess.’



Jan got off, went to the Draxian bathroom and relieved himself, and
showered.  Fortunately a showering system seemed standard for most
galactic cultures he was aware of.  Most intelligent life was biped in
structure like humanity, and many very similar species to humankind
existed, especially in systems of earth’s quadrant.  But in the
opposing quadrant which he did not visit that frequently there were
indeed some bizarre alien cultures.



After they had cleaned up and were preparing to go downstairs, a knock
came at the door.  The Draxian from yesterday was standing there, with
another Draxian guild member.  He spoke up.  ‘Your story checks out.
You can come with us now and our head in this city will assess your
suitability for league membership.’



Jan and Chance gathered their backpacks and followed the Draxians.



The vehicle took them to a central city office block and coming into
the underground parking, they took elevators up to the 3rd floor.
Coming through the doors of the elevators they were in an office
environment with computers and people busily at work.  The Draxians
lead them to the main corner office of the building, knocked, and told
them to wait.  They left and Jan and Chance stood there, waiting.



After a few moments the doors opened, and they walked inside.  Sitting
behind the desk was a rather hefty Drax male, with a long scar down
his left cheek.  He had black hair, not that common for the Drax, as
they were pale green skinned, and usually had green or bluish hair,
but Jan had seen black occasionally.  The Draxian got up from his
desk, walked to a side cabinet, and poured a beverage into three
glasses.  He handed two glasses to Jan and Chance and spoke.  ‘If you
are league material, you will be very rich when we let you retire.
But we have a test.  Fail it and you don’t make the cut.  Pass it and
you become a full league member.’

‘What is the test?’ asked Jan.

The Drax smiled, pleased his new offerings were ready for the
challenge.   ‘Nearby to Drax is a competitor to the league, as it
were.  But we usually rob them blind.  Still, the Tekra have a
fortress high in the Drz’Kdl Mountains near the northern pole of Tek,
were they have much gold.  The test is this – steal at least a kilo of
Tekra gold, bring it here, and you are in the league.  But be warned,
many fail the task.  The Tekra fight hard often when challenged.

‘You’ll have your gold.’

‘We’ll see,’ said the Drax.  ‘We’ll see.’





17



‘What the hell are you doing,’ Chance said, perplexed at Jan’s
activities.

‘Trust me.  This is the best way into the complex.

‘But what is it?’

‘Parachutes.  I have always had them on board.  Never thought I would
need them, but now seems like a good opportunity.’

‘So what’s the plan fearless leader?’

‘If the blueprints Tarkan gave us are correct, the complex is guarded
on every side but the northern side which goes up to unclimbable
mountains.  If we land on the northern side, we can climb down and
infiltrate the complex.’

‘And how do we find the gold.’

‘I know the room it is located in.  And I have ways of getting around
security.  Don’t sweat it, sweetie.  Hey, trust me.’

‘Yes, trust you.  Where have I heard that before.’

Jan grinned at her sarcasm, but continued putting the parachute on
following the ancient instructions.  Helping her fit hers, he spoke.
‘Well, I will have the ship hover a few kilometres above the northern
slopes and then remote it back out to space.  It will come and get us
when we need it.’

‘Well, Chance Kibb’star.  Are  you ready?’

‘I guess.  You better hope this works.’

‘Hey, what’s life without a little adventure, huh.’  She grinned at
his reply.



After a few minutes the computer spoke signalling they were at the
desired range, and so Jan and Chance came to the side docks, opened it
up, and looked carefully downwards.  ‘Here goes,’ yelled Jan to
Chance, and jumped out.  Chance watched him descend slowly, made one
of her religious hand signs, and jumped out.



They shot downwards, ever so quickly, and Chance was shocked and a
little frightened at the speed they were descending.  Soon Jan pulled
his cord, and Chance, noting that, pulled hers.  They floated down the
final few hundred metres and, coming to a snowy ground, looked around
to gain their perspectives.  Jan touched a button on his wristpad,
which gave a directional pointer, indicating the direction they needed
to travel in.  ‘Come on sweetheart.  This way.  It should take us a
couple of hours, but we’ll get there.  Chance started after him and
they began the slow trudge downhill towards the Tekra complex.



18



Peering through his binoculars at the complex, Jan was satisfied.  All
the guards seemed to be on the other sides of the complex.  Perhaps
they wouldn’t have too many difficulties.  He motioned to Chance and
they slowly approached a wall, made of thick stone.

Chance looked at him.  ‘Well, how do we get in?’

Jan pulled out his phaser, adjusted the setting and pointed it at the
lower section of the wall.  After a few minutes cutting, a section had
been cut out of the wall, and Jan carefully moved away the stone.

‘You first, sweetie.  Don’t worry, there is nobody on the other side.
Motion sensors detect nothing, ok.’

‘If you say so,’ said Chance, reluctantly getting down on her knees to
climb through the hole.  Jan soon followed her and on the other side,
lighting his torch, they found themselves inside a small room filled
with various goods.

‘Tekra booty, I guess.’

‘What now?’ asked Chance.

Jan looked around, but sensing no great valuables inside the room, he
made his way to the door.  Turning it slowly, and looking outwards,
they had come to a long corridor, filled with doors.  There were steps
at the end of the corridor, going downwards.  ‘ Hey, we are in luck
sweetie.’  He pointed to the near end of the corridor from them.  ‘The
gold should be in that room.  It will have Tekran markings, so we
could never fool the guild with our own stuff.  They want the real
article to prove our skills, so Tarkan said.



They carefully walked the corridor, coming to the room which
apparently housed the gold.  Jan adjusted his phaser, and began work
on the door lock.  Soon the door was opened, and they came inside.
There were various piles of currency in this room, and some paintings
which may have been valuable.  But at the end of the room was a wall
safe.  ‘I guess the gold is in there,’ said Jan.  Chance nodded.



He looked at the safe and, deciding to try the old fashioned way, put
his ear against the safe and proceeded to pick the lock.  It took him
a while, and Chance stood at the doorway looking outwards, but
eventually he had picked the lock and opening the safe they came into
the safe interior and, to their gratitude, piles full of Tekran gold
were lying there.

‘Bingo!’, said Chance, happy enough.  But he was suspicious.  It had
been too easy so far.

Chance looked at him.  ‘How much do we need?

‘A kilo.  Three bars should be plenty.  He looked at the gold and
leaning down, picked up a bar.  Suddenly an alarm shot through the
building.

‘I wondered why it was so easy,’ said Jan.  He grabbed three bars of
gold, placed them in his backpack and they made a hasty retreat back
to the room they had come in from.  Closing the door he could hear
activity on the staircase and realized they had made it just in time.
‘Come on Chance.  And hurry for fuck’s sake.  They could be in here
any minute.



The two of them climbed through the hole in the wall, and Chance
turned to Jan.  ‘Signal the ship.  Get us out of here.’

‘Not yet.  We are too close to the complex.’  He looked around the
range before them and over to the left.  ‘There,’ he said pointing to
an outcrop of rock.  If we get to the side of the mountain, and climb
down a little, the ship will be protected from attack by the mountain.



As they rushed over to the outcrop, shots began ringing.  Jan looked
back and spied some Tekran’s shooting at him.  Taking aim with his
phaser, he shot back and hit the gun of one of the Tekran’s, who
dropped it instantly.

‘Run, Chance.  We haven’t got much time.’

‘Have you signalled the ship?’

‘It should be right below the outcropping.  I set it to quick rescue.’

As they came to the outcropping, unfortunately the Wolfklaw was
nowhere to be seen.

‘What next, bright eyes,’ asked Chance sarcastically to Jan, who was
looking everywhere for the ship.

‘I think, sweetheart, we are almost fucked.  They will be upon us
shortly.’  She looked at him, and nodded.  It had been a good life,
but if this was her time to die, then so be it.  Chance looked at Jan,
and spoke.

‘You know, Jan.  There is something I want to say to you.’  But as she
continued to speak, her voice was drowned out by the sudden arrival of
the Wolfklaw.  She turned, saw the ship, and silently thanked her
gods.  Jan yelled a command into his wristpad, and as the dock opened,
laser bolts were blasting into the side of the ship.



They hurried inside as quickly as they could, with the hull of the
ship being blasted continually, and Jan ran to the command deck.

‘Computer, get us the fuck out of here.  And make it now!’ he yelled
at the computer.

‘As you wish, Captain,’ replied the Computer.

‘The ship quickly turned and, speeding off, Jan looked at the screen
noting that the Tekran’s were now swarming over the mountain.’

‘Will they follow us,’ asked Chance nervously.

‘Perhaps.  But this ship has good camoflageing and cloaking devices.
We can hide and get out to space before they will catch us.’

‘Let us hope so,’ responded Chance.



As the Wolfklaw climbed the Tekran atmosphere, Jan looked at the
screen.  Still no sign of pursuit.  For now they were safe.  They had
done the deed and claimed  their prize.



19



Tarkan looked at the gold, carefully examined the markings and
smiled.  ‘Yes, this is Tekran gold alright.  And you have 3 bars so I
am sure it is at least a kilo.  I will do you the honour by not
weighing it.’

‘Thanks,’ said Jan sarcastically.  ‘So are we in.  Are we league
members.’

‘Yes, Jan Kolby.  You and Chance Kibb’star are now league members.  We
have contacted Dak Bluddhook to verify his knowledge of you.  He told
us frankly you were a contrary type of individual, but someone who
would make a good guild member.  So welcome to the guild of piracy,
scourge of the third quadrant.  For this little treasure you may have
a few weeks before we assign you some duties.  I will get some of my
servants to gain you some living quarters, and they can instruct you
on what you need to know.  I think, yes, Dalok.  He will make a good
instructor for yourself and Chance.’

Tarkan pushed a button, and spoke into a microphone.  ‘Jella.  Could
you contact Dalok.  We have new recruits for him to work with.’

‘Yes Tarkan,’ responded the voice.  ‘Dalok is currently in the bar
downstairs, so I will go down and fetch him.’

‘Thank you Jella.’



Later that afternoon, Dalok had instructed Jan and Chance on much of
the interior workings of the League of Piracy.  Much of it Jan was
already familiar with from his dealings with Dak, but inside knowledge
was always the best.  They had three weeks to settle into their
quarters on the northside of the city.  After that, they would have
some work, so Dalok told them, with the crew of the ‘Black Terror’,
running the spaceways further into the galaxy in the third quadrant.
‘Standard piracy business,’ Dalok informed them.  Hijacking ships and
stealing plunder.



That night Jan was alone with Chance and she asked him the crucial
question.  ‘Well Jan.  How are we going to get the crown back?  And
how will we do it without the league knowing?’

‘Now that we are in the league it should be easier to get inside
information from Dalok and the others.  If we are careful, we might
just find out were the crown is located.  And then, depending on the
challenge, we reclaim our prize.’

‘And if it is locked up tight?’

‘I know a specialist.  A Shadrachian thief who can get into anywhere.
We hire him and finish the job.’

‘You hope,’ replied Chance.

‘Hey, have a little faith, sweetheart.  Have I let you down yet?’

She smiled curtly back, but was silently pleased Jan seemed to have a
plan.





20



Settling into their upper level unit of a 3 storey complex of flats,
Jan in one room, chance in the other, Jan was sitting one day,
watching the visuals, familiarising himself with Draxian culture.
Chance was sitting over at the side of the room, looking into a mirror
and brushing her hair.  Jan felt it an opportune time to ask her some
questions which had been on his mind.



‘You know, sweetheart.  The last few weeks have been really kind of
hectic for you I guess.  I mean we are from one place to the next, and
we have never really had an opportunity to settle for long.
Fortunately we have some time now.  But one thing has been on my
mind.  You are young for an Arcturian, Chance.  Only 20 human years in
equivalent.  And you must be, I guess, eager to find a partner or a
mate to, you know.’

She looked at him.  ‘You know what?’

‘You know.  Mate.  Couple.  Have sex.’

She looked at him, a little shocked, but after a while nodded,
returning to look in the mirror.

‘Yes.  Yes, that is important to me Jan.  But I have lived my life
without a partner so far, and I can wait a while, I guess.  Besides, I
am with you now, and like you as a friend.’  She turned to him.  ‘In
fact, I am very happy tagging along with you Jan.’

‘That is good.  But don’t you get the desires.  I sure as hell do.’

‘Oh, yes.  Occasionally.  But believe me I can cope with them.  All
Arcturian’s can.  I will mate, in time.  But for now I am with you,
and am happy with that.  Please believe me.  You offer me something in
life which I really can’t get elsewhere.  Action, adventure, real
drama.  It is something I only read about in Arcturian stories growing
up.  But you are the real deal.  So don’t worry about me Jan.  When
the time comes for me to find a mate, I will let you know, ok.  So
don’t sweat it sweetie.’

Jan smiled at her last comment.  ‘Thanks Chance.  That is a load off
of my mind.’  And, silently, he was relieved.  He knew the girl would
need to mate one day, but the fact that she had chosen him as a living
companion for the time being was a solace to his somewhat lonely life.



And, as the week passed, he grew to know her, learning of her
upbringing on the Ark, and the mundane life she had grown accustomed
to, apart from capturing the droids which had always been something of
a thrill.  It seemed, despite his own very obvious flaws which he
occasionally rebuked himself for, that Jan Kolby, the fabulous
Rimwalker, may have been the best thing to happen so far in the life
of Chance Kibb’star.  And, whatever else, that was at least something
positive.





21



Dalok looked a bit suspicious at Jan’s question, but answered it
anyway.  ‘Well, if you must know, we store our most precious goods at
the guild hall in Retak, a city on the northernmost continent of
Draxos.  It is impenetrable.  Believe me, totally impenetrable.  We
have had some of the Galaxies finest security detailers design the
place, and it will never be broken into.  Of course, that is
important, because wealth is the most important thing for the guild.
Lavish, decadent wealth.  We are popular and attract new recruits
because of what we can offer them.  So don’t worry, our goods are
safe.  You can count on that.’

Jan nodded, pleased with that information.  He now assumed, given that
the guild likely had the Sigmorius crown, that it was located at the
guild hall in Retak.  Getting it back would not be easy, but he
already had a head-start.  As a guild member he may be able to
infiltrate further into the guild hall in Retak than he otherwise
might be able to.  That just, and just, might give him the edge.  If
he was to get the crown back, which had been his goal all along, and
joining the league being the way to achieve it, he would need any edge
he could get.



They sat drinking in the bar at the ground level of the guild hall,
were Dalok drank frequently.  Chance was over by the side of the bar,
playing a video game which she seemed to be becoming quite adroit at.
They had a small games console back at the flat which she was now
addicted to which did make Jan realize that she was still something of
a youth and had led a sheltered upbringing on the ark to some degree.
But good luck to her.  If she enjoyed these games, that was a
positive.  He felt it would teach her good eye-hand coordination if
nothing else, which could come in handy one day.



‘Well, Jan.  I have got to get going.  Business for Tarkan and the
guild tonight.  But I am enjoying our drinking sessions, and you
always ask the most interesting questions.  I shouldn’t answer half of
them but, heck, you are in the guild now.  I know I can trust you.’

‘You sure can,’ replied Jan, his insincerity lost on the mildly
intoxicated Dalok.



Dalok got up and left and Jan continued drinking his ale.  The league
had given him a reasonable income, and he would own the flat on the
northside of the city after a year if all things turned out well with
his work.  He had even considered simply staying with league anyway,
as its perks were actually quite good, and Draxon was starting to
become something of a home, Jan rarely staying anywhere long, now
getting used to the place.  But, no.  The crown was his prize.  And
the rim beckoned.  The rim – the galactic rim – home of the
illustrious Rimwalker.  He could never leave the life it offered, no
matter the prize.



Walking over to Chance, he looked down at the screen and yelled at her
to shoot one of the aliens, but she ignored him, having learnt the
game for herself.



The next two weeks passed and as Jan got to know Chance even better,
he learned more and more of the internal operations of the league.
When the time came for him to claim the crown, he would be ready.
Whatever else he would be ready.





22



Dalok introduced Jan to a Draxian pirate, well into his middle age,
dressed all in black.  ‘Jan, this is Kal Shandray, captain of the
‘Black Terror’.  You have been assigned to his command for standards
raids in sector G7 of the third quadrant.  He’s an ornery sort, so
watch what he says.’  Jan offered his hand, but Kal just looked at it.

‘So, tell me lad, how are you in a fight.  If things get sticky, can
we rely on you.’

‘I can handle myself.’

‘And your partner,’ inquired Kal, looking over Chance.

‘She’ll be fine.  She is a survivor, like myself.’

‘If you say so.  Well, we are leaving port tomorrow night, so best get
a good night’s sleep.  Meet us at the dock around mid-day and I will
introduce you to the crew.  Now, Dalok.  You still owe me a round you
dog.  Well, get to it.’  Dalok, obediently, signalled the waitress and
ordered a round of drinks.



Casually chatting to Kal Shandray, Jan was immediately struck by the
Captains bawdiness, even more so than his own.  He swore frequently,
and was very authoritarian, but he seemed sure of himself which would
have to be important.



Later that night, Kal and Dalok leaving in a vehicle, Jan came over to
were Chance was resting on the side of the bar, and gently woke her.
‘Time to go love.  We leave on our first mission tomorrow night, so we
will need a good night’s rest.  We could be away for a few months,
apparently, so get anything you need in the city tomorrow.  You might
want to visit that Arcturian shop again, see if there is anything you
want.  I will pay if you don’t have enough money.’

Chance nodded sleepily, and got to her feet following Jan to the
vehicle outside.  As they sped along back to their apartment, Jan
thought on his new life as a space pirate.  He would have to practice
with his phaser tomorrow morning to brush up somewhat.  He could be in
need of it shortly.  But, hopefully, from what Shandray was saying,
they usually robbed easy targets with little defence, so he may not
see any action.  But he would have to be ready just in case.



They arrived back at their apartment and Chance had fallen asleep in
the vehicle.  He didn’t want to wake her, so picking her up he came to
the security doors, punched in his code, and came to the elevators and
made his way up to their apartment.  Placing her on her bed when back
inside he looked her over.  Really, for an Arcturian female, she was
blossoming, and he felt a stir in his loins looking at her.  But he
controlled himself, put a blanket on her, and left the room.  When his
mission was over and he claimed his prize he could have all the
Arcturian female flesh he could possibly desire.





23

The following morning Chance came out onto the balcony, were Jan was
shooting his phaser at tin cans.  ‘What the hell are you doing Jan,’
she asked.  ‘Practicing.  I may have need of these skills on the
‘Black Terror’ if we are to board ships.  You never know when close
combat could be involved.’

‘Right,’ she said, yawning and sipping on a can of soft drink.  Jan
continued for half an hour, shooting at cans on low beam, mainly to
practice his aim.

‘Doesn’t that Phaser have an aiming mechanism.’

‘Yes, it does.  But it is unreliable.  You can program it carefully
and often it still fucks up.  Too many unpredictable variables for it
really to deal with.  Manual is the safest way to go, especially out
on the rim were the action can be intense.’  She nodded, taking in
that information.



Jan continued shooting at cans all that morning and when Chance had
arrived back from the city with a bag full of items, they were ready
to leave.



‘Remember Chance, we will be onboard the ship for months.  So you
won’t have clean air to breath most of the time.’

‘Hey, I was born on the Ark remember.  We only ever had recycled air.’

‘Yeh, I know.  But I figured you may have been getting used to life on
Draxos which won’t be like the ship.  Your body might need some time
to adjust.’

‘I’ll be fine.’

‘Just letting you know, ok.  Now, apparently there will be some
harlots for the men onboard the ship.  Shandray assures me you will be
fine, but also told me to keep my eye on you.  So be careful with the
men.  You’re attractive lass and they are pirates.  So keep  your wits
about you.’

‘Thanks for the compliment,’ replied Chance, smiling at him.

‘Think nothing of it.  Well, if you are ready, we best be going.  I
have put our luggage in the transporter, and we have to be at the dock
at mid-day according to Shandray’s instructions.  So if there is
nothing else.’

Chance followed him as they made their way down to the basement
parking were there transporter was located.



As they sped there way through the city heading for the spacedock Jan
thought on Chance and the male pirates onboard the ‘Black Terror’.
With a name like that they were probably not that friendly, especially
considering the nature of their captain.  He would have to keep his
eye on Chance, perhaps at every moment.





24



Chance looked at her sleeping quarters on the Black Terror.  She had
been assigned a bunk in the ‘ladies’ quarters, were the harlots
slept.  Apparently no male could go so long out at space without some
loving attention, and a Draxian as well as three other females from
various species met the males on the ships particular needs in that
area.



Chance, being religious, had scruples to a degree about promiscuity,
as reflected in Landoria’s strict upbringing in terms of morality by
the Ark’s inhabitants.  She knew Jan really had no such ideals but,
despite and perhaps because of that she felt attracted to him.  He was
rogue.  She knew that.  But she had grown to love him over the last
couple of months and would stick with him even in spite of his flaws.
Because of this she felt she would be alright bunking with daughters
of the night.  Perhaps she may rub off some good values onto them.



She returned to the main deck, were Jan was sitting at a table,
talking with Dalok who was about to leave.  Jan and Chances initiation
period had come to an end, and they were now expected to live the life
of the guild.  If they came back from this mission successful, they
would receive a portion of the goods taken, and be rested for their
next mission.  This was pretty much the life of a space pirate, so
Dalok maintained, apart from the odd special mission which the guild
visited upon more experienced members.  ‘You never know,’ said Dalok.
‘Prove a boon to the guild and you might get some tasty missions.  But
you will have to show your worth.’

As they pulled away from Draxos Chance looked at the screen showing
the disappearing planet.  In a strange way it had become home, and she
would miss it.  But that couldn’t be helped.  She was with Jan for
many reasons, but if they could reclaim the Sigmorius crown, the money
it would bring of which Jan had promised her a substantial cut could,
in the end, afford her a life on Arcturia which she could only have
dreamed about previously.  And so, despite the current circumstances,
she would grin and bear it and get on with her responsibilities.





25



They spent three weeks travelling from dock to dock, occasionally
staying overnight, but usually to gather food and information from
various guild outposts.  When they had gotten some useful information
from Gartonias 6 in sector G5, Kal ordered a change to their original
destination, as a new lead looked promising.  A nearby system was
having a great celebration to mark Unification Day when three of the
major powers of the system united to form the greatest alliance the
planet had known.  And apparently there would be busy space-faring
around this time to import various items for the celebration.  ‘We may
not get much gold,’ commented Captain Shandray, ‘but I have a hunch
they may have something the guild will find very useful.  If they are
importing the stuff for the festivals.’  But he would not say more
than that.



A few days later they hijacked their first ship, which was enroute to
Telkonias, the home of the festival.  Jan and Chance were both in the
boarding party and Jan managed to shoot, set on stun, one of the
guardsmen of the ship when they had docked abruptly and boarded it.
Fortunately, checking for life signs, the guard was only stunned, Jan
reluctant to kill on this mission.  But the other pirates had no such
convictions, and the ships three other guardsmen were killed.  The
captain did not know the guardsman was only stunned, so congratulated
Jan on his kill.  Jan did not pretend otherwise, but locked the
guard’s body in a holding cell when he had the chance, in case he
woke.



The captain was pleased with the haul.  As he had suspected, the ship
contained, amongst many other celebratory items, the powdered element
Curantia, which was commonly known to humans as ‘Paradise’, for the
extremely powerful ecstatic effects it had when mixed with other basic
drugs.  Curantia was one of the rarest elements in the galaxy, and it
was prized.  Every culture liked ‘Paradise’ and the captain was
overjoyed to find a supply being shipped to the festival on Telkonias.



‘Well done men,’ he praised, when everyone was back on board the Black
Terror.  You have done well.  And Jan, Chance.  You both showed
aptitude.  The guild will be well pleased with you.’  Jan nodded.  He
had been lucky this time, to get away with his blunder, but it had
worked out for the best.  But he would have to be ready next time, as
they were not heading home yet, but were continuing to there original
mission.



Later that night he sat with Chance, and they both enjoyed the small
amount of Paradise mixed with some Draxian liquid they had been
given.  Jan lay on his bed, totally zonked, staring at the ceiling.
He was high alright, and as the night passed, dreams of naked
Arcturian women filled his head.





26



Out in sector G7, were the Black Terror was headed, the spacecraft
Ravensclaw was sending out a distress signal.  But to no avail.  The
final member of the Ravensclaw tasted bitter death, and the entity
which was an emissary of its homeplanet on the other side of the
Galaxy, took control of the ship, and plotted in the co-ordinates for
a nearby system to gather some supplies before heading home.  The
entity was a Dronganite – an electricity based life-form, which had
the ability to become solid when necessary.  It was almost like living
light in some ways.  They were, usually, not given over to the darker
side of life Dronganians, but there were renegade elements in that
society, some of which were seeking galactic conquest.  They lived on
a system near Drongan, an early colony which had been abandoned due to
the planets harsh climate.  But the renegade Dronganians, whose cultic
leader assured them of their destiny to rule the galaxy, had been
populating madly and were settling some of the uninhabited planets of
the first quadrant.  Nobody really payed much attention to the
apparent threat of the Dronganians, but they were passionately
pursuing their agenda, and believed one day they would rule the
universe.  Presently a number of operatives were working in the third
quadrant in work similar to the guild of piracy – slowly acquiring
wealth.  With money their leader assured them they would rule.  It
bought loyalties, and land and other assets when necessary.  However
they achieved their goal, money was necessary.  So in this phase of
the renegade Dronganian society, raid and plunder abounded.



Unfortunately, for Jan Kolby and Chance Kibb’star, they were headed
for a rendezvous with this particular Dronganian which would cause
something of a setback in their own plans.  Quite a setback.





27



Chance sat with Trim Wannabe on the edge of her bunk, chatting about
life.  Trim was the Draxian harlot, used by half a dozen of the crew
to satisfy sexual urges.  And did she have some tales to tell.

‘Ohh, Chance.  You really must taste man-flesh.  You will realize the
hypocrisy of your religion when engaged in what life is all about.
Believe me my dear.’

Chance had heard the persuasions of Trim to give up her virginity
before, but had ignored them.

‘But don’t you feel dirty?  Used?  Landoria tells me that is how all
harlots feel deep inside.’

‘Oh, Chance.  The religious always say things like that.  But they
don’t know what it is like to take a man’s organ into their mouth and
delight when he comes.’

Chance blushed.  Trim often talked quite brazenly.

‘You know your partner, Jan.  You should offer yourself to him.  I
have seen the way he looks at you.  He won’t say no, sweetie.  Believe
me.’

‘Jan!  I don’t think so.’

‘What is wrong with him?’

‘He is a human for beginners.’

‘Oh, from what I know your species are compatible.  I have even met
offspring of Humans and Arcturian’s.’

Chance looked at him, surprised.  ‘Really?  We can mate?’

‘You produce pale greenish children when you do.’

Chance nodded, finding that most interesting.  ‘But no, I couldn’t.
Not Jan.  He looks after me.  It wouldn’t be right.’

‘Never say never, sweetie.’



In the main command deck, Captain Kal Shandray was steadily consuming
some Draxian ale, boasting of all his grand achievements.  He had
claimed Jan as his prize to tell all his tales to and Jan, still
somewhat sober, sat listening to all his fabulous tales of his 30
years in the league of piracy.



Kal had been an orphan; problematic since his youth, in and out of
jail, and when the league had beckoned he had taken his opportunity
with open arms.  And in the 30 years he had been in the league he had
lived a life of pure rebellion, a renegade in a job perfectly suited
to him.  He was currently recalling his last adventure in space were,
supposedly, despite Jan thinking it a fiction, he blasted his way
through 2 gigantic dragon-like creatures, breathing fire, to claim the
egg they were hiding, a prized delicacy.  Jan really felt the story
more fiction than fact, but it was fascinating anyway.



Later on, as Kal was becoming increasingly drunk, he recalled details
from that encounter in reference again, but with strangely differing
details which led Jan to conclude on his assumption that Kal Shandray
was a fabulous storyteller, which in fact he was.



They eventually claimed sleep and, as the night passed, the ship
steadily entered sector G7 and its destiny.





28



‘It should do.’ Commented Kal Shandray, in response to the space-
cruiser on their screen.  ‘It seems to be going solo, so we should
have no problems from any other backup ships.  Get ready to dock.’



The Black Terror, with its extremely hi-tech tractor beam, a long part
of guild piracy tradition, put a hold on the ship the ‘Ravensclaw’
and, lining up docks, began their terror activities.



Coming inside, though, they found nobody present, which was extremely
alarming.  After a quick search for the ship Captain Shandray made the
statement that the ship was likely on automatic, and that any plunder
it had would be theirs.  Surveying the holding docks they were in
luck.  About 50 bars of Gold, various currencies and some minor
jewels.  Quite a catch.  Kal looked at Jan and Chance.  ‘Ok, you two.
You want to prove yourselves.  You stay on board this ship, and we
will maintain tractor beam hold and tug you back to Draxon.  The ship
itself could come in useful for the league.  It looks pretty advanced
and is the kind of ship we use.’

Jan nodded.  An opportunity to prove himself he thought.



The crew returned to the ‘Black Terror’ and Jan and Chance remained
onboard the ‘Ravensclaw’.  The ‘Black Terror’ fixed its tractor beam
hold and they started to make their way back to Draxon.



‘Well, this was easy,’ said Chance.  ‘We have hardly seen any action,
and we already have goods to bring back to the guild.  They will think
favourably of us, don’t you think Jan?’

Jan nodded and opened a can of beer.  ‘Let’s hope so.’



As the ships sped along approaching light speed, suddenly, without
warning, there was a huge jolt, and the hold of the tractor beam was
shattered.  Then surges of electricity pulsated through the
Ravensclaw, it slowed down, turned around, and shot of back in its
original direction.  And, without warning, shot to Warp 8 Light Speed
to lose the Black Terror for good.



Chance looked at Jan, but all he would say was ‘Fuck!’  What had they
gotten themselves into?





29



The Dronganian surveyed its new hosts.  Human and Arcturian by the
looks of it.  It could kill them – that would be easy.  But, perhaps,
no.  Perhaps it would simply enjoy the pleasure of their company on
the trip home, and kill them then.  He could entertain himself
watching their primitive behaviours.



Jan looked at Chance, signalling defeat, and she responded with a
frustrated look of her own.  Initially they had tried Contacting the
‘Black Terror’ but none of the communication instruments seemed to
work.  And then they found out that nothing really worked on the
control deck and that they were now hostages to a ship which somehow
ran itself.  But why the oxygen? Queried Jan constantly.  And why the
seats?  Why would an automated ship need these things?



After 3 days of endless travel and finally conceding defeat, they had
both concluded that they were likely headed somewere and would do
something when they arrived.  For now they would simply sit it out and
wait.



They found food and drink supplies as well as bathroom facilities and
mostly kept themselves busy playing the various card games Jan had
acquired in a lifetimes pursuit of gambling.



When they hit Warp 17, which Jan assured Chance was about as fast as
any solar-star ship had ever travelled, noting the shuddering of the
ship, Chance asked Jan wether the ship would hold together.  Jan
informed her that at the current speed they could make the other side
of the galaxy within a few weeks and that unless they were headed for
Andromeda or some other galaxy, the ship should last the distance.



Assured of her safety, Chance spent a lot of time watching the screens
as the various star systems whizzed by from time to time.  Wherever
they were headed, she had time to learn something of space travel, and
inquired into Jan’s knowledge of the Galaxy and how ships got around.
She found out that in the more central systems of the galaxy travel
could become very complicated with the higher level of traffic and the
great sense of diplomacy and protocol.  Apparently inner systems felt
themselves the true representatives of the galaxy and the systems
right near the centre often called themselves galactic royalty.  But
nobody rim-wards really cared.  Paths between them did not cross that
much and life went on regardless.



However, as the star systems came and went and, according to Jan, they
neared the centre of the galaxy were the stars were a lot thicker,
Chance wondered what it would be like to meet some of the inner
citizens of the galaxy.



Humans had a colony on a central planet of the galaxy, which a
confederation corporation had paid for at an exorbitant price to
establish a physical presence in the humdrum of galactic life.
Technically it was still owned by the corporation, yet thousands of
shareholders and other interested parties had purchased land there to
live the high life of the galaxy, and ‘New Terra’ as it was called was
gradually becoming humanities most envied location for living.  Jan
had been once, sussed it out, and left impressed with the sheer
quality it offered.  It was the upper of upper class planets, and he
now well understood why it was sought after so much.



As the weeks passed Chance grew in more and more knowledge of galactic
life, Jan telling her all he knew, and as they passed the centre,
heading into Quadrant One, they both sensed that perhaps now they were
nearing their location.  The wait should be over soon.





30



Chance was the first to notice as the ship gradually slowed down from
Warp 17, gradually coming right down to Warp 1 and soon into impulse
power.  Jan looked at the screen.  ‘We are well into Quadrant 1 by the
looks of it – about two thirds from the centre rim-wards.  But don’t
ask me were exactly – its an enormous galaxy.’

‘How many planets are there in the galaxy, anyway?’ asked Chance.

‘Various estimates.  There are a heck of a lot of uncharted ones.  But
we know of about 1,000 intelligent species who are now space-faring
and around 100,000 oxygen based planets, most of which are now settled
or colonized.  But there are millions, probably billions of dead
planets.  Some of them are mined, but there are a number of terra-
forming operations going on many of them to gradually make them
habitable.  Back in Earths solar system Mars is now completely
liveable on, but it was a dead planet to start with.’



As the days passed, they saw coming onto the screen a planet in the
system they had entered.  Gradually they drew closer and closer to the
planet and, finally, Jan announced, which Chance had already assumed,
that they had reached their destination.



And, suddenly, they were in orbit of the planet, sitting there for 3
days.  On the fourth day they noticed a ship approaching and when it
had docked, and the doors were opened.  3 creatures, humanoid in
shape, looking as if there bodies were made of light, came on board.
Jan and Chance stared at them, but the creatures ignored them.  One of
the creatures spoke and shortly afterwards electricity surged from the
control panel of the Ravensclaw and another of the creatures now stood
before them.



Chance quickly made the connection.  ‘He was piloting our ship.
Wasn’t he?’ she asked Jan, who simply nodded and said probably.  He
picked up his translator and turned it on and suddenly the
conversation between the creatures came alive.



‘…..has good supplies, and some good gold.  I felt it worthy booty for
the sector and should prove a good boon for our goals.’  The creature
who had been aboard their ship seemed to be the one speaking as far as
Jan could tell.



‘And these two,’ said one of the creatures, pointing at Chance and
Jan.  ‘Why did you bring them?’

‘Entertainment.  Nothing more.’

The creature looked at Jan and Chance, surveying them.  ‘Mmm.  They
might come in useful.  We can always use new slaves.  These two look
strong.  Some of the families might want them.  Bring them.’



Without warning Jan and Chance were shoved into the holding bays of
the Ravensclaw.  Shortly afterwards the ship was guided downwards to
the planet and about 2 hours later they had been brought into a large
complex near were they docked on the planet.  Jan still had the
translator turned on and nobody seemed to be trying to take it from
him, so he listened intently.



After a conversation between two of the creatures in the building they
had been taken to, one of the creatures looked at the translator and
then spoke to Jan.  ‘Human, aren’t you?’

Jan nodded.

‘You two are slaves now.  It will be a life of servitude, but we will
feed you for your work.  Occasionally, if slaves work hard, they are
freed.  We are not barbaric you see.  Just fit to rule.’  Jan looked
at Chance.  They had been reduced to slaves.  Things it seemed could
not get much worse.



31



They began their life of slavery for the house of Jak’takr, one of the
official families of Trago, the home planet of the new house of
Drongan, so they were dutifully informed.  The Royal house of Sha’kar,
which was the settling house of their first Emporer, who claimed the
vision for the new house of Drongan to conquer the galaxy, ruled the
other houses, and all paid tribute to them.  Apart from the Royal
house and the officially recognized families were a number of other
drone families who usually served the official and royal family as
servants.  But the lowest class of all were the foreign slaves of
which class Jan and Chance were now members.  Somehow the two of them
had been mistaken for man and wife, which was an important part of
Drongan culture, and they had been sent everywhere together, even
given the same living quarters.



The house of Jak’takr were one of the more senior of the official
houses, having a great deal of contact with the Royal house of
Sha’kar.  Jan and Chance soon found out that, as they were a leading
house, like the Royal house especially, all news centred around their
growing empire was treasured.  They had settled 107 dead planets
within their sector and were gradually terra-forming them.  But the
real deal, so the Royal family maintained was the day of liberation
when, having amassed as much galactic wealth as they could, they would
engage in war with other sentient galactic communities in the overall
goal of New Drongan culture – galactic conquest.



As the weeks passed, though, and despite the official front the house
of Sha’kar maintained, from Jan’s observations it seemed very few,
apart from the Royal house, really believed in the conquest of the
galaxy which had once been a dream amongst the community in its
formative years.  Firstly, most realized that conquering every other
species, some of which were just as potentially warlike as their own,
would be extremely difficult.  And secondly, as their empire had
grown, and through the wealth they had amassed, many were now
seemingly content.  It had been a vision once, but had diminished.
New Drongans were generally satisfied, now, with their lot.



Occasionally, also, they received news from Drongan itself, which was
a far older community.  Drongan had an empire of around a dozen
settled planets, and were far more passive than the renegades who had
left them.  But apparently, so he was told, Drongan’s looked fondly on
their offspring these days, and as time had passed, so some of the
members of the house of Sha’kar told him, unification with old Drongan
seemed to gradually be becoming a reality.  And unofficially Jan and
Chances house of Sha’kar pursued that aim, with the occasional
diplomat guest from old Drongan.



Their lives as slaves were, fortunately, quite basic.  Chance had been
assigned to the kitchen and cooked food and occasionally served.  Jan
worked in the stables were horse like creatures were kept and also had
to cut wood with a primitive axe from time to time, in keeping with
Drongan tradition.  When Drongans materialized in hard light form,
their bodies took on properties similar to other cultures and they
were sensitive to things like food and pain, heat and cold.  They did
not really go to the toilet like other species, but often exuded waste
material from their outer shell, or burned it totally when going into
electric form.  Although they did not do this unless they had too as
it could be tiring unless near a source of electricity to recharge
them.



As an official house, the Sha’kar dressed lavishly and after one years
service in the kitchen, Chance was promoted to handmaiden to one of
the senior ladies of the Sha’kar.  As that work progressed, Jan and
Chance started assuming that they would likely be in the service of
the Drongans for the rest of their lives and settled down to life
together, seemingly as husband and wife.  But despite them sharing the
same room, they were yet to mate.  Jan respected Chance, and Chance
was waiting.  Soon, though, she might approach him.  She had grown to
love him now, quite strongly.  And he was a cornerstone in her life
she really needed in this exile.  The Drongan’s themselves treated
them well but it was still made certain they were slaves and nothing
more.  But Jan was like her, in the same situation, and as the second
year passed and the third began Chance began to think she had found
her life-mate.





32



Chance found Jan piling up wood.  Most of the day had passed, and
evening had descended.  He would be free to do what he wanted soon,
and Chance’s lady was away for a few weeks, not having called upon her
assistance.  Finishing his work, Jan came over to her and gave her a
peck on the cheek.  Chance smiled.

‘Come on, Jan.  We are eating in our room tonight.’

‘Why not the kitchen.’

‘Oh, you’ll see.’



Jan followed her inside, past the kitchen, to their slave quarters.
They had been moved recently to a better quality of room, mainly
because, so they had been told, they had faithfully served and were
proving useful slaves.  Their new quarters were quite a bit larger
with nice decorations and a good large bed which they both shared.



As they ate a special meal which Chance had prepared, Jan caught her
looking at him often.  Eventually he queried what was on her mind, but
all she would say was ‘Just wait.’



When they retired for the evening Chance came to Jan’s side of the bed
and helped him with his boots.  But she did not stop there, which was
the norm, but proceeded to unbutton his shirt, all the time looking
into his eyes.  Jan was not a stupid man.  After a while he knew what
was on her mind and concluded something.  Perhaps this was her time.
Apparently she had chosen him as worthy and he himself loved her now,
knowing no other for so long.



They were both passionate that night – extremely passionate.  And in
the morning, Chance resting in Jan’s arms, she knew she had made the
right choice.  Jan had been sensitive at times, but dominant when he
needed to be.  Really, for her first time, he had been the perfect
lover.  And lying there, resting in his arms as he dozed, she felt she
had found the love of her life.  And, in spite of their captivity,
things felt right in the world for Chance Kibb’star.





33



In a very real way, Jan and Chance were now married.  They’d had a
long time together before sexual relations, and had grown to respect
each other because of it.  But Chance, who now fussed over Jan even
more than before, whispered from time to time that they should make
their togetherness official.  Jan was a little reluctant as, despite
his captivity, he was still somewhat used to his roguish ‘Rimwalking’
ways.  But, if love was ever to come into his life, he would perhaps,
having gotten to know her, not chosen many other than Chance
Kibb’star.  She was still quite gentle, rather than naïve in how the
world worked and he found in her a feminine quality sometimes absent
from some of the tougher female humans he had known.  Really, she
could perhaps make the perfect wife.  And then when, in discussion
about Arcturia, she mentioned that the pale green skinned Arcturian’s
Jan talked about were likely the result of Humans mating with
Arcturian’s, as she had been informed by Trim Wannabe onboard the
Black Terror, Jan concluded that if they were compatible for mating,
marriage was reasonable.



And so, in a private ceremony, and before a figure Chance had made to
represent the higher power who they took their oaths before, promising
to be loving and faithful to the other, Jan and Chance wed and became,
officially, man and wife.



From then on Jan was a little more cautious about Chance.  Careful to
respect her properly and show her love.  He brought her flowers often,
a strongly human tradition, and caressed her when they were together.
And, as the fourth year of their activity commenced, Chance had an
announcement.  As far as she could tell, with the growing bulge in her
stomach which Jan had also noticed, she felt she was pregnant.



Later that night Jan laughed.  ‘A father.  A freaking father.  Still,
his own dad had been one, so perhaps it was not that unexpected.  And,
looking to the heavens, thinking on that higher power, he grinned a
little and gave a silent prayer of thanks.  Perhaps life was not so
bad after all.





34



About 7 months after Chances announcement, with a Drongan maid to help
deliver the child, Chance gave birth to their first child, a son.
They spent 3 weeks deliberating names until in a naming ceremony they
named the child Kalan Rance Kolby, named after both their fathers.
Jan loved Kalan, a great deal.  He felt, often he saw his father or
younger brother in his looks, and Chance commented that he was
definitely of her own family.  As the child grew over the next two
years, to Jan’s 35th birthday, it became apparent that Kalan was in
the mould of his father.  Roguish but with a good heart.



At four years of age Kalan would be excused from work till he turned
7, when he would be given minor duties.  Until then he was free, and
wondered around the ground of the Jak’takr homestead often, the
Drongan’s themselves unbothered by the young child.  Once he fell down
the main well of the homestead, and Jan and Chance were up all night
looking for him until Jan heard faint yelling coming from the well
when he passed by it.  The child had trod water for hours, and was
exhausted, but had survived clinging to the side of the well.



After that, Chance was ever so careful with him, fretting over his
every move, but Jan just said Kalan was a Kolby, and trouble would be
expected.  But this did not dampen Chances concerns.



And then came the announcement.  The Emporer would be visiting the
Jak’takr homestead soon, to take part in the official four yearly new
Drongan sporting games taking part in the city nearby the Jak’takr
homestead that year.  This was the major sporting event for New
Drongan, and the Emporer had decided to make the Jak’takr homestead
his home while the games were being run.



With that announcement Jan and Chance were informed that they would be
kept very busy in the weeks ahead, and that Kalan needed to be kept
under wraps.



The Emporer arrived one sunny afternoon in the middle of summer, and
despite the fuss made over him, he seemed a very down-to-earth and
casual sort of a Drongan.  Very relaxed, it seemed, and in touch with
his rulership.



The Emporer liked the outdoors and Jan helped him often mount the
steeds the homestead kept.  The Emporer began asking Jan questions
about humanity and his origins, ever anxious to increase his
knowledge, so he commented to Jan.  And during the three weeks before
the games started, Jan, despite himself, found himself coming to like
the man.



And then the games started and the Emporer was kept busy each day,
while Jan and Chance went about their daily routine.





35





In the fourth and final week of the planetary games, Jan was summoned
by the Emporer to an event, a shooting event, on the outskirts of the
city.  The competitors had been using something similar to the phaser
Jan had owned, but Jan honestly felt that he could shoot more
accurately than any of them.  And having commented as such to the
Emporer, the Emporer decided to put him to the test.  When the event
was over, the winner was brought forth and targets were set up.  Jan
would compete with the victor in the best of three shots with a
standard Drongan phaser, and a new winner would be declared.



Jan found the phaser difficult to use at first and lost the first
round.  The Emporer eyed him, but was interested still in the
outcome.  And then, getting used to the phaser, his old dead eye
returned, and he shot the next target from 300 metres directly in the
centre – a bullseye.  He was lucky with the third shot, and then had
been declared by all the winner.



Being presented before the Emporer, the man looked at Jan and said
‘What prize could we possibly give a slave,’ to his entourage.  There
were various comments and then, the Emporer stepping forward, looked
at Jan.  ‘Jan Kolby.  You are a man’s man.  I grant you your freedom
for your heroic display.  You and your consort are free to remain here
in New Drongan, but may leave if you wish.  Well done brave warrior.’
Jan nodded, smiled and picking up the phaser walked over to the
shooting ground.  ‘Freedom’ he thought to himself.  It was almost
something he thought he would never taste again.  He had been on New
Drongan for 7 years now and it had become his home.  To be free – to
be free again to follow his own destiny – he was almost not sure what
he would do with it.



Later that day, when the Emporer excused him, giving him a letter with
his official seal to present to his house, Jan returned home and
presented the letter.



And so, gathering Chance and Kalan and some possessions they had
acquired, they made their way to the spacedock and, entering the ship
they had been given and with a number of gold bars they had also been
given, they took to the heavens.



Chance, looking at the screen of New Drongan as it disappeared behind
them, looked at her husband.  ‘Were to now, brave adventurer.’

‘We will see.  We will see.  But I have an idea of our first port of
call.’



And so, the Ravensclaw which had been returned to them, sped onwards,
heading slowly for the centre of the galaxy.





36



Kalan looked at the screen and yelled ‘home’.  Chance smiled and Jan
nodded to Kalan.  ‘Perhaps, son.  For a little while.’



On the screen in front of them, as Jan had informed Chance in the
preceding weeks, was coming into view ‘New Terra’, humanities most
prestigious centre of wealth and the current destination for the
Kolby’s.  It was home to wealth – great wealth.  And, perhaps, in the
fortunes of the Kolby’s, their ticket to a new and better life.



The gold they had been given would feed them for a few years at a
stretch, but Jan had let Chance know he had an idea in mind for
gaining some wealth on New Terra and, if that failed, their final
alternative.



When the landed on New Terra and came to the home of Radnick
Darkthorn, who was something of an uncle to Jan, not so much blood,
but close to his father, Jan informed his family that Darkthorn may be
able to help them out.  He was a wealthy businessman working for the
corporation who owned New Terra and had been his father’s best friends
in their early years.



When they arrived Radnick welcomed them and, hearing their dilemma,
asked Jan if he wanted to work a regular job and provide for his
family that way.  He could find him work in the corporation if he was
interested.



Jan and Chance talked it over and thinking of Kalan and his future
agreed to Radnick’s idea.  Radnick had just divorced, and while his
children visited him often, he was presently living alone.  As such,
and to help the Kolby’s start their new life, he suggested they live
with him for a while.  The Kolby’s agreed to this and, after a few
weeks settling in, Jan began his new work in the corporation.



He started low, but when he turned 37, he had risen to a mid-level
position in the corporation, mostly involved with imports to New Terra
from other systems.  Jan could handle the work without too many
difficulties and now that Kalan was in school it looked as if the
bravest adventurer of all, the fabulous ‘Rimwalker’ had been
domesticated.  This did not bother Chance, who enjoyed the settled and
stable life of luxury on New Terra, but Jan had the itch in his genes
and, finally, at 38 spoke privately with Chance.



‘The Sigmorius Crown!’ she exclaimed.  ‘You cannot be serious.  Do you
know how much trouble chasing that thing got us into?’  He looked at
her and smiled.  ‘Hey sweetheart.  What is life without a bit of
adventure?’



And so, reluctantly, and having heard Jan’s plan, Chance agreed to
follow him back to Draxon for one year at most in an attempt to
reclaim the prize they had originally sought.  They felt it best to
leave Kalan with Darkthorn, who had grown used to him, but Chance, who
loved Jan and knew what he really was, needed to be with her husband
and knew it no place for a child.



And so, a few months after Jan turned 38, they took the Ravensclaw,
full of provisions and began their trek.  Out to the rim again.  And
back to the life of adventure.





37



Yelt Trandolin was anything but a typical Shadrachian.  Natives of
Shadrach were, if anything, noteworthy for their sense of honour.  But
Yelt was a different type of Shadrachian, one in the rogue class of
Jan Kolby.  Yelt had worked in his younger years in security divisions
of various galactic corporations and had risen to be one of the top
workers in the field, especially with his acute mind.  But, when
offered a contract by the league of piracy, he had slowly and
inevitably turned to a life of crime, as dividends were so much
higher.



Jan had met him in his mid-twenties and they had struck up a
friendship.  Jan’s work in those early years had been traditional
bounty hunting and otherwise treasure seeking.  He had not really been
a thief by trade, but ran in circles which encountered such
characters.  And through someone who he had been bringing in on a
bounty, he gained an introduction to Yelt Trandolin.



It was Yelt, so Jan believed, who would be the key person to help him
crack the security details on Draxon were the league would have stored
the Sigmorius crown.  Yelt would undoubtedly give him insight and
clues and, if he could be hired for the windfall when it arrived, he
would go a long way to ensuring success.



Chance found Yelt a smooth-mannered and polite Shadrachian and Yelt,
despite Jan’s proclamation that he and Chance were attached, came onto
Chance often.  Eventually Chance let Yelt know her and Jan were sort
of married with a child and Yelt backed off.  But he remained charming
and Chance found herself liking the fellow.



The plan was this.  When they got back to Draxon, Yelt would hire a
room in a hotel on the northern city on the continent of Draxon were
the guild hall in which the crown was located.  He would monitor the
complex and with the information that Jan could provide once he,
hopefully, became re-established with the league, they would go from
there.  Like Chance, Yelt gave Jan one year to finish the job.  Jan
promised both of them that a year should be more than enough – but was
worried anyway.  They would have to be careful, perhaps even more so
than before, because their disappearance on the Ravensclaw would
certainly be remembered and look suspicious.  But Jan felt, as bizarre
as it may sound, a story something akin to the truth might just work.
Chance had pictures of Kalan, and using them as evidence, they might
just re-enter league hierarchy without too many problems.



And so, as the Ravensclaw drew closer to Draxon, the mood was good
onboard that, if they were successful, the galaxies greatest riches
would be theirs.





38



‘Believe me Tarkan, it was hell.  If all those years under Drongan
slavery taught me anything it was to value freedom.  And the freedom
of the League of Piracy is what I missed most, so now I am back.’

Tarkan eyed Jan Kolby, still a little suspicious, but when one of his
drones handed a printout containing various details of the New Drongan
Empire taken from their planet-wide data-network, Tarkan concluded
that as bizarre as it sounded the story seemed to check out.

‘And this Kalan,’ began Tarkan.  ‘Where is he?’

‘With his uncle on New Terra.  And here are some photos,’ said Chance,
handing Tarkan some photos of Kalan Kolby.

Tarkan took them, looked them over for a minute or so and compared
them to Jan and Chance before him.  After a while he spoke up.

‘Yes, he does look like both of you.  And he is pale green skinned,
indicating human and Arcturian parents.  So, I guess your story seems
to check out.  We had concerns, you know.  From memory Shandray told
me that he didn’t think you would have been able to break the tractor
beam like you did and that some other party may have been involved.
So, considering that, yes, I guess you can have your guild places
back.  But you will be again starting low – you’ll have to earn your
place.’

‘No probs,’ responded Jan.  ‘Tell me, can we have our old
accommodation back?’

‘Shouldn’t be a problem.  Actually, your stuff is probably still
there.  We have a great number of places around the city which we only
use occasionally.  Oh, and the Wolfklaw.  It is still in spacedock.  I
felt you might want to know.  We have had no real use for it, but felt
we would hold it for the time being.’

Jan grinned.  The  Wolfklaw.  Now that brought back memories.

‘Ok,’ said Tarkan.  ‘Settle in.  Get used to life here again.  Do
those things you need to do.  We will assign you some work soon
enough.  Oh, and finally, glad to see you back.  You always seemed a
promising recruit.’

Jan smiled, nodded and left, Chance following.



Strangely enough it was still Dalok who accompanied them to their old
apartment and, funnily enough, all of their belongings which they had
not taken aboard the Black Terror were still there.



Jan spent an afternoon out at the ‘Wolfklaw’, taking it for a
successful short flight, and reminisced about old times.  It was good
to fly her again.



Settling back into life, Jan gained more information he needed and
sent Yelt to live in Retak on the Northern most Draxon continent of
Stuxal.  From reports Yelt sent him regularly, Jan found out that Yelt
had made a number of surveys of the guild hall, analysed the diagrams
Jan had managed to obtain carefully from his new connections in the
guild, and had begun formulating a plan.



After three months back on Draxon, with only Jan sent on a minor
raiding mission which lasted one week, they were ready, so they felt,
to go for it.



Yelt had gotten all the information he could from Jan and from his own
detective work about the interior set up of the guild.  It was really,
now, a one man job.  If Jan, with his guild identity, could gain
access to the guildhall and enter the interior of the building and
then find some time alone, he may just successfully, with Yelt’s
planning, claim the prize – if it was still there.



They planned carefully, as carefully as they could and then got
lucky.  On the second mission Jan was sent on they claimed another
Imperial prize – a set of royal goblets from a star system which were
deemed of great value.  So much so that they were ordered to Retak and
Jan, as casually as he could, asked if he might join the party to
Retak to simply visit the city as he had never been.  Tarkan seemed a
little suspicious, but agreed nonetheless.  And so it was now or
never.  To avoid suspicion, Chance would remain home, but when he
could Jan would meet up with Yelt in Retak and then would get to their
business.





39



With Dalok who had been assigned to transport the goblets to the guild
hall, they got to the city and Jan asked if they could taste some
local food before going to the guild hall.  Dalok was a bit reluctant,
but agreed nevertheless.  They found a pub, and through Jan’s constant
persuasions, stayed late into the day so that Dalok agreed to spend
the night in the pub and visit the hall sober in the morning.



During the night Jan met with Yelt.  They went over all the details
both were aware of, confirming the exact layout as best they could of
the hall.  The real key to success was the cloaking device which Yelt
had supplied for Jan.  Theoretically, he really should not be visible,
but rather a vague sort of shadowy light, which would not be
immediately obvious.  If he got inside the guild hall with Dalok, and
found some time alone, with the other tools available to him, he
should be able to enter the main storage area and hopefully find his
prize.



The following day Dalok was hung-over and said they would spend the
night at the guild hall.  Jan had been given a lucky break.



The security, indeed, on the outskirts of the hall was incredibly
tight, motion cameras and all sorts of other technology everywhere.
But, inside, no real problems.  There were the occasional guard
stationed here and there but, for Jan, it seemed that if you actually
got inside the hall you were assumed to be a league member and thus
deemed no actual threat.



That night, Dalok snoozing, he took to his long awaited task.  He
still remembered what the crown looked like and if it was here and
could be found, he would find it.



He spent about 2 hours wearing the cloaking device, investigating the
large complex until he came to large steel doors which seemed to be
were the main goods of storage were held.  Strangely enough they were
closed by simply a turning wheel and, turning it slowly, he opened the
doors and closed them behind him.  And then, bingo.



The room he found himself in, seemingly, housed every possible
treasure known to galactic civilization.  Gold, jewellery, precious
metals, currencies and artwork from all the major civilizations.  And
various other important commodities seemed to be present.  He was
almost persuaded to simply grab what looked most valuable and have
done with it, but no.  The Sigmorius crown would likely be one of the
most prized items.



He glanced over the room and spied, right up the back a small hallway
in the centre of the wall.  Walking over to it, his torch lit up,
there were several drawers which, when opened, seemed to contain
particular items which, perhaps, were deemed the most valuable of
prizes.  After 10 minutes of searching through them he was about to
give up when, suddenly, looking in a drawer he had already looked in
just to re-check, he picked up an object which, looking at it, seemed
very much like his prize.



But it was covered in grime, as if it had been used a lot.  Spending a
few minutes cleaning it off, and then looking at it in the light, he
smiled.  Oh yeh.  It was the Sigmorius crown alright.  He had found
his prize.  Praise the gods.



Placing it in his satchel, and returning things the way they were as
best he could, he retraced his steps and, upon returning to the
sleeping Dalok, silently thanked the gods again.  Twice in one night –
Chance would be pleased.



He contacted Yelt on his mobile call-phone, confirmed the capture of
the item, and laid in bed that night, happier, perhaps, than he had
ever been.



They spent much of the following day at the hall, talking about this
and that, when finally, leaving, and Jan breathing a sigh of relief,
started their journey back.



When he got home he came to Chance, smiled, and pulled out the crown
from his satchel.  ‘Sweetheart, we’re rich.  Bloody rich.’  Chance
looked at the crown, grinned and hugged him.

‘And now?’ she asked.

‘Now, as carefully as we can, we ditch the league and head for
Arcturia.  I have a long delayed appointment with certain royals.  And
then, if the reward still holds, one Billion Arcturian credits, and a
lifetimes wealth.’



Jan held the crown, grinning, and Chance again hugged him.



 For Parts 2 to 5, FREE to read online, visit http://noahidebooks.angelfire.com