The Eternal Fortress (Star Legions Book 6) by Thomas Michael G

Author:Thomas, Michael G. [Thomas, Michael G.]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Publisher: Swordworks
Published: 2014-08-06T16:00:00+00:00

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Trade Galleon ‘Paradiso’, Phrygian Convoy, Shattered Systems

Xenophon stepped out of the small captured raider and was astounded by what he could see. He had imagined a grand entrance with guards and artwork, much as would be found on his own Bactrian warship. But there were no dignitaries to greet them, just a triple layered precinct filled with open trading malls, market places, and facilities selling a great manner of wares.

“Incredible,” he said.

Lady Artemas was right next to him and looked about before stepping off the ramp. She walked as though expecting the ground to burn her feet.

“Is this not what you expected?” she asked.

Glaucon pushed between them.

“Hell no, this is not what I thought we’d find. According to the data spreading through the fleet, there are another four ships like this one in the trade fleet. We are going to be busy here, very busy.”

Xenophon tried to take his mind away from the exotic wares for sale and glanced back to their raider. In comparison to the garish lighting and signage, the ship appeared old and crude. He looked specifically at the painted imagery on its flank. He saw that Glaucon was now right beside him, and with his customary pulse cannon resting on his shoulder.

“Was that really necessary?”

Glaucon’s eyes were not on the raider, though. He was staring right ahead at the others that had already landing in the cavernous trade deck, as it was known on the ship. In front stood Kallinos, along with her modest escort of mercenaries, as well as Dukas Timasion and six of his own personal guard.

“Dukas, it is good to see you again. I take it you found my contacts satisfactory?”

There was something about the way he spoke that implied something unsavoury. Xenophon tried to imagine what it might be, then shook his head as he shuddered in discomfort.

“And you, Dukas.”

Glaucon pointed upwards, and Xenophon followed the direction to see another dromon dropping down inside the ship. This one was much more heavily armoured, and bore the lambda symbol used on all Laconian craft and armour. Xenophon shook his head in frustration.

Chirisophus.

He beckoned for Artemas to stay close.

“There are too many here already. We need to stay focussed.”

Artemas was heading towards those that had arrived, and Xenophon took three steps to catch up. As she performed the customary greetings, she looked directly at Timasion.

“As the man that made first contact, perhaps you should take command of the trade operation for the supplies and prisoners. The prices for captives have been agreed, but not the exact price on food, fuel, and supplies.”

Timasion and Xenophon were equally surprised, but Xenophon could tell she was up to something. Normally, he would have kept quiet, but it was already obvious to him this was her way of keeping the man out of their way.

Good work, play to his ego.

“Lady Artemas, what are you doing? We agreed the prices, and it should be us...”

“No,” said Timasion, enjoying the irritation on Xenophon’s face, “I would be honoured to conclude the arrangements with Cassandra’s trade delegation.

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