Banishment by Raymond L Weil

Author:Raymond L Weil [Weil, Raymond L]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Raymond L. Weil Publications LLC
Published: 2020-02-21T22:00:00+00:00

Chapter Thirteen

The Themis approached the Ridge Star Cluster, notorious for being the home to pirates and numerous other illegal activities. Most civilized races stayed far away from the cluster, as it was very dangerous to approach.

“Why here?” asked Captain Fulmar, gazing at the viewscreen showing the star cluster. He had heard many stories about the cluster. None of them were good. Too many ships had vanished in this region, most falling victim to pirates.

“Supplies,” replied Admiral Cleemorl. “The trip to Earth is a long one, and we don’t have its exact coordinates. I only know its general location.” He did have some old maps in his quarters which he needed to go over. He was hoping the location might be on one of them.

-

The small fleet finally dropped out of hyperspace in a system filled with small and large asteroids. On several of the larger asteroids were huge domed cities, housing the races deemed refuse from Human space as well as thousands from other worlds. The asteroids were heavily armed with small patrol ships, scanning all the approaches. A massive black market operated in this system. If one had the credits, it was possible to buy anything one could imagine.

-

“Order the Rhys to remain here with our escorts. We’ll take the Themis in and see if we can dock to take on supplies.”

Captain Fulmar shook his head. “I don’t like this. We’re talking about pirates, who won’t hesitate to betray us. What do we do if the Druins come here? They’re bound to be looking for us.”

“That’s why we’re not staying long,” replied Cleemorl. “I have the names of a few contacts who might help us. While we’re gone, the rest of the fleet will remain hidden behind one of the larger uninhabited asteroids.”

Captain Fulmar watched on the tactical display, as the Themis separated from the fleet and moved toward the largest inhabited asteroid. The rest of the fleet moved behind another asteroid that should shield it from detection.

-

As the Themis approached the inhabited asteroid, Admiral Cleemorl stepped near the communications console. “When we get closer, we’ll probably be contacted. Inform them we’re here to do business with Cheryl Bannon.”

“Cheryl Bannon!” exclaimed Captain Fulmar, his eyes opening wide in concern. “She’s rumored to be one of the most dangerous pirates out here.”

Admiral Cleemorl laughed. “I met this dangerous pirate a number of years back. I can promise you that she’s nothing like you imagine.”

“We’re being contacted,” reported the communications officer. “I told them we’re here to see Cheryl Bannon. They want to know who we are.”

“Tell them, Dylan Cleemorl. Don’t mention my military rank.”

The communications officer continued to speak over his comm and then turned toward the admiral. “We’re to dock at bay fourteen. We’ll be charged a fee of 15,000 credits per day for each day we’re docked to Highland Station.”

“Highland Station,” mused Captain Fulmar. “Interesting name for a pirate base.”

“You’ll be surprised,” replied Cleemorl. “Take us in to dock. I don’t want any of the crew leaving the ship.

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