<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Hydian-way<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Hyperspace – (Five Parceps from Brentaal)<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->





Carson, glanced up from his solitary game of cards he was in the middle of, and watched the flowing stream of hyperspace as it flooded past the bridge of <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->, his thoughts elsewhere. This was his thirteenth shipment delivery for Vinda-Corp this week, and as such was due for leave, he couldn’t wait, this time tomorrow, he’d be checking out the action in the many various Clubs and Bars on Correllia.

Being a full-time Vinda-Corp employee certainly had its advantages, the whole week off, was paid leave. He’d been with them for over a year now, he had no reason to leave, Vinda-Corp offered a very stable future, as far as employment went.

He smirked as he thought of all the things he had planned…

A low-pitched alarm indicated the Ship was about to exit hyperspace, and bought him out of his daydreaming, sighing slightly he dragged himself from his chair , and made his way to the bridge’s cockpit. Flicking a few switches the ship lurched a little as it emerged back into Real-space.

Looking up through the view-port, Carson gripped the controls, as he checked how far he was from Brentaal..

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..ah..’bout 15 minutes..then I can get a damned drink…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Reaching for a small metal container he kept underneath the command console, Carson retrieved a small snack-bar , and after unravelling the foil wrapper, munched on it absently..

His chewing stopped rather abruptly as he noticed something, the scanner’s alert attracting his attention .His
eyes narrowing as he observed why…

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..what the?…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

A small flotilla of ships , about eight strong were heading straight for him, an intercept course…and gaining <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> fast<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Being an experienced pilot , he trusted his instincts.

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..Raiders!…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Hurriedly he activated Shields, and strapped himself in..

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> …something tells me this rides gonna get bumpy…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Switching on the Comm’s he hailed the advancing vessels..

“..this is the captain of the Vinda-Corp vessel , <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->…identify yourselves , I mean no threat to you or your ships, this is an unarmed vessel..please respond..”

A quick glance to the Comm’s unit in front of him , confirmed his suspicions, as the only reply he received was nothing but static..

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> They’re jamming me…no call for help then…..damn it..<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

The eight vessels had soon gained upon the Vinda-Corp ship, the flotilla broke-off into two squads, flanking it…

Carson was thrown forward, along with his deck of cards, as <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->’s rather optimistic attempt to escape was easily thwarted, by a tractor beam as it locked-on to the hapless Cargo-hauler.

Carson cursed underneath his breath , and tried to ram into the direction of one of the ships, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->’s hull responded with a loud complaint as it drived itself against one of the attackers..

It sent it reeling, backing off as if an injured animal, Carson couldn’t help but allow himself to smirk a little…

Though the smirk was faint-lived as a volley of laser-fire spread across the <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->’s hull, the ship rocked almost in defiance, Action VI’s were not exactly reknown for their speed or manouvrebility, but they were strong , and could take a hefty beating..

Carson glanced down towards the Navi-comp , trying to gauge how far <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Brentaal<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> actually was…if it was close he could try to ride it out until close enough to
raise the alarm..

A deafening crackle soon put an end to that thought too, as the console overloaded , from another wave of laser-fire that struck against the ship…Alarms seemed to be ringing everywhere..but one in particular worried Carson more than the others..

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..no, not shields damn it!…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


A voice came through over the Comm’s…it was cold , and ruthless sounding, it sent a chill down Carson’s spine…

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> .. Captain , stand-down , surrender your vessel…and prepare to be Boarded…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Carson, cursed again , as <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->’s engines gave-out , screaming under the pressure against the Invisible force pulling against them..

Soon enough the sound of a Boarding tube could be heard as it latched itself onto the Hull of the Transport…soon followed by the crackle and hisses of cutting torches…

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..son of a…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Carson’s thoughts were mouthed silently as he waited for them to puncture through the bulkhead…

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..ain’t gonna get me without a fight!…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->



..and as the cutting-torch sounds stopped…




…Carson reached for his Blaster….

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Bonadan<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Vinda-Corp Head-Quarters<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->




*Achinta moved swiftly through the corridors of VC-HQ , his long legs making short work of its many hallways, Mr Vinda had asked for him urgently, and he hadn’t sounded happy.

As he arrived outside Vinda’s office , he heard Vinda’s raised voice coming from inside, it*

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> …definitely not, in a good mood…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

*Shortly after, an Aide sheepishly emerged, clutching a wad of papers and sighing slightly, he noticed Achinta waiting outside and smiled nervously, as he stammered at him..*

“..h - he’s ready to see you now, Mr Vega…”

*As the aide stepped forward to leave , he paused, and used his hand to shield his voice, as he whispered to Achinta…*

“..don’t tell him any bad news , if I were you…”

*Achinta smiled back, nodding slightly, and entered the room, his footsteps echoing on the black marble floor. The long black leather coat he wore seemed to create the illusion of him almost gliding…
Bowing slightly, he awaited for Vinda to address him, as the entrepreneur poured himself a drink…*

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Bonadan<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> VC-HQ<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->





*Sipping a little from the drink he’d just poured, Vinda, sunk into his chair , and rubbed the back of his neck, sighing a little . The signs of stress were easily visble, calming down a little he looked up to Achinta, who had been waiting patiently with his hands behind his back, his voice sounded tired…yet seemed to lighten as he spoke to him…*

“..ah, prompt as usual Achinta, its good to see some things never change...I’d tell you to sit, but I know you prefer to stand…”

“..I’ll assume you’ve heard of the latest course of events, yes?…”

*Achinta responded with a simple, single , solemn nod …*

“..yes, of course you do, well, then you know why I have a headache ..”

*He slid a Data-pad towards Achinta , and carried on, as Achinta studied it closely..*

"..that transport was the sixth, this month!, and its rising, if this keeps up we'll be losing more than we are gaining, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> was carrying an expensive cargo of spice, I spent a lot of money negotiating that shipment..."

*His voice dropped a little..*

"..also, we lost a good pilot out there, Carson, he had been with us for about a year, and had been due for leave this week...a loss indeed, its hard to find good loyal employees these days, let alone experienced Pilots..."

*Rising from his chair, Vinda flicked a small switch on the conference table, the Conference Hall's Massive windows , overlooking Bonadan's biggest space-port , de-polarised, the sun began to shine though, chasing the dark into the corners of the hall..
Picking up his glass he looked out of the window, observing the sky-ways full of traffic...He continued speaking..*

"..Brentaal's authorities have expressed their condolences, both to us, and Carson's family, actually that reminds me, please could you remind Miles, to make sure his family receives the necessary benefits..."

*He took another sip as his eyes narrowed in response to the sharp sunlight...*

".. Brentaal's authorities have also pledged to aid us in our quest to bring to justice those who perpetrated this act upon us ..allthough, the truth of the matter is, they can barely look after their own affairs , let alone offer any support for ours ..which is precisely the problem... "

*he turned to face Achinta, sighing slightly..*

".. with no Empire, and no New Republican duristiction , the Brentaalian government is awash with corruption, to the point of the absurd , do you know they even sent us the bill of recovering <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->? ..can you believe that! after all the business we've provided for them..."

*his voice was filled with a kind of fake, incredulous tone, after all, he probably, in all honesty would have done the same thing...*

"..the only good thing to come from all of this, is as a direct result of these attacks the Brentalaalian authorities have expressed their interest in coming under the Vinda-Corp protectorate. They have agreed to all initial proceedings so far, I shall be there on thursday to close the deal , and iron out any minor qualms they might have, mainly formalities really..."

*Achinta nodded , with an expectant face, suspecting there was more to come...*

"..Because of this , I wish for you to go to Brentaal, and find out all you can about who is doing this, currently no-one is safe, even our good friends at Koensayr lost two shipments this past cycle.
We have been told, in a report issued from Brentaal's authorities that it is the work of Raiders, space-pirates...But I have reason to believe there is more to this than meets the eye.
I suspect that somebody somewhere is not thrilled with the idea of Brentaal falling under our wing. I for one would like to know why , and to see that this threat is vanished. Especially if we are going to now be responsible for what happens out there.."

*..He took another sip from the square-shaped glass he was holding, the liquid seemed to sparkle a bright golden shimmer as the sun-rays hit it...*

"..I took the liberty of assigning someone out there already, Mr Soom, (he reached into his desk drawer and handed Achinta another data-pad), you might know him from his invaluable efforts in taking down that swoop gang, a few years back , he has already proven himself to be a superb agent.."

*Achinta's eyes probed Mr Soom's resume in front of him..*

"..he has been out there now for about nine weeks and his reports , have been, so far , enlightening, but he has been unable to locate the group responsible.
I wish for this matter to be resolved as soon as possible, and I believe the two of you would make a good team...you are to aid him in anything he needs.."

*Achinta smiled slightly, (and Vinda noticed it, chuckling a little)*

"..yes... I thought you'd find this assignment <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> stimulating<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->..."

*His face soon grew serious again..*

"..I don't need to stress how serious this matter is, Brentaal, would be invaluable to us, its <!--EZCODE BOLD START--> the<!--EZCODE BOLD END--> trade nexus between the Permerlian trade spine, and the Hydian way, and the only planet that is.
The trade potential for us, is beyond reproach. I do not want <!--EZCODE BOLD START--> anything<!--EZCODE BOLD END--> to jepordise that...understood?.."

*Achinta, nodded, his answer simple and to the point..*

"..understood..."

*Vinda smiled , as he looked upon Achinta, he knew he wouldn't let him down, he was incapable of it, but it was still good to hear his response nonetheless...*

"..good, then I shall be expecting to hear from you soon, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> is currently dry-docked at Kyoto-Station for repairs, I suggest you examine it, in case the Brentaalian authorities missed anything...any questions?"

*Achinta shook his head, and bowed once more before taking his leave, his footsteps soon faded into the noise of the background , as Vinda turned to face the window once more..

His thoughts reflected onto what had been an eventful year, what with the many competitors had come and gone, the start of the downfall of huge militant groups, everything had happened at what seemed like a blindingly fast pace...events unforseen, the newly forged business agreement with the Capricians…

its true of what they say...*



<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ...everything happens at once...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Kyoto-Station<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Geo-Synchronus Orbit above Bonadan<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->






*Picking his way through the melee of various tourists , traders, and the usual crowds of space-vagrants , Achinta made his way to where <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> was docked, sealed off to only the highest level of security.

He always enjoyed these off-planet excursions, even if the events surrounding them were dubious. Being of a curious nature, he always relished observing the many mixes of species, and races that seemed to come from all over the known Galaxy . Kyoto-Station was the first stop, before touching down onto Bonadan, in the short time it had been operational, and despite its relatively small size, it had already become a very successful venture in its own right.

Most used it mainly as a fuelling stop , before entering deeper into the Corporate Sector, the many market-traders soon caught onto this fact, and as a result, Traders from all over the Corporate Sector seemed to have some kind of side-stall set-up somewhere on its commercial level. All baying for the traveller's spare Crystallyne Vertex .

Soon enough, he'd arrived in the secure area, placing his ID card into the security system , he typed in his personal clearance code, spoke into the voice analyser, verified both his finger-print , and his retinal scan, before being able to advance.
He shook his head, smirking slightly as the door finally slid aside

In contrast, apart from the few obligatory security officers patrolling the Dock itself, the large hanger was relatively quiet and free from the large gathering of crowds that inhabit the public areas .

Achinta looked up at <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Last-Chance<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->. and took his time to walk around and study the beleaguered and battered 125 meter long transport Vessel.
Observing the large gaping hole on its port-side , he noticed the marks left by what could only be industrial strength cutting torches. Studying it further he noted the blackened scarring, covering virtually its entire aft.

Achinta's face grew serious as he gazed upon it, he knew heavy laser-fire damage when he saw it, he winced a little , as he noted that it couldn't have stood a chance.

With this thought in mind, he also noted the irony of its name.

Eventually, he took the gantry up to its entrance, and opened the Air-lock, a slight hiss pierced the silence , as the pistons moved the door slowly open to reveal the very basic , functional interior.

The hours passed swiftly as Achinta scrutinised the ship, from top to bottom, being the articulate being he was, it didn't take him too long to find something that seemed out of place.

After viewing the security-Video logs onboard , (a standard security system that all Vinda-Corp ships have installed), he noticed something a little odd...
Pausing it on the frame in question, he caught a glimpse of the weapons, the "Raiders" all were carrying. The Latest Blastech Laser-Blasters, top of the line, and <!--EZCODE BOLD START--> expensive<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

..but that wasn’t the thing that bothered him the most, it was the fact they were Standard issue for the Corporate Sector Authority…

Achinta rewound the tape and observed the scene again, Carson , hadn't stood a chance, he'd managed to get a few shots off , right before they had blasted him straight between the eyes...

One shot , execution style, these men seemed well-trained ...the whole thing seemed to have been planned with military precision.

Not what you'd expect from a 'Rag-Tag' bunch of disorganised Pirates.

Achinta paused to reflect on these thoughts...*




<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..it seems , Mr Vinda, your instincts on this matter ,appear to be right....

....once again...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Brentaal<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> "The Pathline Tapcafe" Drinking Establishment

(morally ambiguous district)<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->





A Dark figure, silhouetted by the many street lights and Neon-signs that penetrated the night sky, stepped out of a Robo-hack, and after paying, looked up at the Bar he found himself outside of.

Straightening his coat, and hat , in an effort to prevent the pouring rain from its constant agenda to soak an individual to the perverbial skin.
The Flamboyant Vinda-Corp Agent walked briskly into the bar. Both his footsteps and his walking cane, could be heard tapping on the ground, above the slight hiss and murmur of the driving downpour.

As the Doors to the Bar slid open , many scents and sounds arrested, and teased the senses all at once. The thick smog of Cigarra smoke, hung low like a dense mist, obscuring the deepest corners of the establishment . The many voices of conversation and laughter filled its walls, as did the various raised shouts, arguments, and smashing of glasses.

Kaneda slowly studied the interior, his eyes swept across the room, gauging the various potential threats, until they stopped onto the Bar-keep.

Tipping his hat up slightly with the top of his cane, he smiled courteously and addressed the Bar man...

"..A sample of your finest beverage , dear sir!..."

The Bar-keep, who had, until that moment, been polishing some glasses (like all good Bar-keeps should), paused, and continued to stare towards Kaneda, with a somewhat confused, blank look upon his face...

Kaneda, sighed a little, and repeated his request, rephrasing it slightly...

"..gimmie a whiskey..."

A look of familiarity suddenly appeared to spread across the Bar-keeps face , diligently, he obliged , shaking his head as he walked away...

Turning his focus from the Bar itself, Kaneda's eyes continued to scan across the room, he pulled back his sleeve a little and glanced at his Chrono , sighing again...

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ...he's late...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Nodding to the Bar-keep in acknowledgement for the drink , he opened a small black Bantha-leather wallet and paid far more than what the drink was worth. Clutching the Glass in one hand and his cane in the other, he deftly negotiated his way through the many general bodies of the patrons.
Spying a table free in the corner, he manoeuvred over to it, and took a seat, making sure he was facing the door.

Supping his drink slowly, he waited patiently , and fifteen minutes later his patience was rewarded…

A Chiss approached the bar, asked the Bar-keep a couple of questions , and was dully pointed in the direction of Kaneda..who had not at this time made it clear he was looking at the man…but had been watching the proceedings nonetheless…

Soon enough the Chiss came over to him, and before he could speak, Kaneda spoke, his eyes obscured by the brim of his hat.

“..Your late..”

The Chiss snorted , and sat down opposite him..

“..I had to make a stop, be thankful I came at all…”

Kaneda continued..

“..I abhor lateness, it is the sign of an untidy and cluttered mind..”

The Chiss thumped his fist onto the table, and began to rise from his chair..
Kaneda continued still, unfazed..

“..if you want your money , you’ll sit down…”

The Chiss shifted awkwardly, before taking his seat once more, his annoyance clearly evident…

“..this had better be worth my time…”

Kaneda responded curtly..

“…the feelings mutual…friend..”

He raised his head to look the Chiss square in the eyes..

“..what do you have for me?..”

The Chiss snorted again…

“…oh no, first you pay then I spill…”

Kaneda, reached into his pocket, slowly, and retrieved a couple of wads of Credits, he slid one over to the Chiss..

“..half now, half later…”

The Chiss examined it, and relaxed into his chair…

“..well, deal is, yesterday I was in the Space-port, I got a message through the Comm’s, an associate of mine wanted to meet.. pleased as punch he was, he’d just got himself a shipment of Spice , a rare one, said some mean heavy-duty looking fellas sold it too him, no questions asked if you know what I mean.. he wanted to know where he could shift it, wanted to know if I knew anyone..”

Kaneda nodded as he the Chiss talked, and interrupted him..

“and do you?..”

The Chiss looked slightly taken aback with his comment..

“..Of course!, who do you think you’re talking to pal!?..I gots me connections everywhere…”

Kaneda smirked a little and carried on…

“..I need a name…”

The Chiss glanced down at the wad of Credits Kaneda was still holding, then scratched his chin in a fake gesture…

“..y’know I can’t seem to remember…”

Rolling his eyes Kaneda slid the rest over to the Chiss..

“..this help?..”

Snatching the wad of credits up, the Chiss nodded , smiling broadly..

“..you, know funnily enough, it just came to me…his name’s…”

Kaneda expectant look rapidly changed to a look of concern as the Chiss stopped abruptly, gurgled slightly, and slumped across the table, revealing two small darts embedded in his back, oozing blood… launching himself up from his chair, Kaneda shook him to see if he was still alive, and glanced around the Bar, searching for the unseen assailant..

A slender figure of a woman pushing her way through the crowd caught Kaneda’s sight, as he stepped forward to follow, the figure glanced back and started to quicken her pace…

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..gotcha…<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

Quickly making his way through the crowd to give chase, she broke into a run, barging a waitress into a wall, knocking the tray the waitress was carrying onto the floor. Deftly the fleeing attacker narrowly avoided tripping over it, as she slammed against the control pad for the door, and ran through it faster than the doors could fully open.

Kaneda , made short work of the bar too, but his path was blocked by an extremely large burly looking alien, who wasn’t too happy at the fact his pint of Correllian Ale had been spilt all over him. He Gabbled angrily towards Kaneda in a language even he couldn’t understand.
As he watched the woman slip out of the bar, he yelled at the giant creature out of sheer frustration …

“..get out of the Damn way ya great oversized Bantha!…”

Obviously taking this comment far too seriously, the alien gave Kaneda a practical demonstration , that he could <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> indeed<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> speak basic. Picking him up by the scruff of the neck he threw him across the bar, Drinks and glasses flew in all directions, as well as his various flaying limbs, before he found himself on the floor, in a middle of a Bar-brawl.

As he glanced around, he caught sight of the Bar-keep hiding alongside him, crouching behind the bar, he cut Kaneda a considerably unimpressed look, and spoke with a thick Brentaalian accent..

“..you’re not from around here are you?…”

Kaneda shot him a cold stare that could cut through solid diamond , and after deciding it was probably best not to answer that question Picked up his hat, and his cane and hopped over the Bar. As he landed, he ducked quickly , only just avoiding a glass that seemed to be heading straight for his head. Taking it as his cue for a quick exit , Kaneda followed in the direction of the woman..

Darting out into the soaked street outside, he glanced quickly in both directions, in the vein hope of catching whichever direction the female assailant had escaped in, but to no avail..
Sighing slightly, he Cursed loudly…


“..FRELL!…”

BAH!, BAH!, I tell you!


DELETE ME!

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Brentaal<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Cormond City - The Trade Hall - Landing-Bay Nine <!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->




*Vinda's private shuttle touched down with a slight jolt, and soon enough , he appeared, immaculately dressed, (as usual). Walking down the ramp he was greeted by an entourage of three Brentaalian senators, Vinda greeted each one in turn , and with the pleasantries dispensed , they retired into the large governmental building, which was the seat of power at Brentaal.*



<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Brentaalian Government Centre<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Trade hall<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->



*The hours passed , as the men negotiated, planned, and bartered the fate of Brentaal itself...

The Brentaalian Government, was made up of a kind of conglomerate of noble families and clans , all parties held a great deal of wealth and power, and all certainly seemed keen to become under Vinda-Corp’s Guardianship. However ,obviously there were reservations, Vinda skilfully negotiated through them all, carefully spelling out Vinda-Corp's plans for Brentaal.

Protection was their biggest agenda, that and the resources to help keep all of their investments intact .Safe from the hazards of Raiders , or space pirates, not to mention the other Hostile militant organisations that inhabit the galaxy.
The protection of the prosperous trade routes, were of paramount priority.

There were many other sticking points, such as taxes, trade laws, but these were relatively minor in the big scheme of things , nothing that could not be ironed out with time.

Brentaal's clan's representatives were also keen to become a part of the profitable Corporate Sector, and with Vinda-Corp , they had that opportunity.
Of course they were looking for as many golden handshakes as possible, and each clan or family, all wanted more power than the other, which made Vinda smile a little , Corruption come in many forms, large and small, but, you can't have the good without the bad.
Vinda was a realist at heart , a certain amount of corruption is inevitable, but there has to be balance. Better the devil you know... he reasoned...

Besides he could have his security personnel watch out for these ones, just in case...

A dry sarcastic thought ran through his mind, as he listened to what they wanted...*

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..welcome to the world of intergalactic politics...<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

*Asking for payoff's in return for control might seem a little unscrupulous to some, but to others its simply known as Politics. And Politics was something Vinda could handle...

On a more positive note, the Clans had issued a referendum on coming under the Vinda-Corp’s Protection , and the majority voted in favour, about eighty seven percent in favour... in fact.
It seems Vinda-Corp's efforts in remaining neutral had not gone unnoticed.

As the day drew to a close , so did the formalities, and as the sun set, painting its golden orange hue across the dimmed Brentaalian sky , Vinda emerged from the Trade hall, looking somewhat relieved..
Loosening his tie , he reached into his suit pocket , and produced a Cigarra, his eyes narrowed a little , as he lit it, plumes of smoke swirled around him.
An aide eagerly came to greet him..*

"..how did it go sir?..."

*Smiling broadly, Vinda paused before replying, as if reflecting on the days events...*

"..inform Mr Bayern that Vinda-Enterprises will be opening a new branch ..."

*Slowly but surely, as if savouring the last of the day, Vinda made his way back to his personal transport...*

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Brentaal<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Votrad City, Vortrad Independent Downport Cargo-Docks<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->




*Achinta, waited patiently after arriving a little early, by the entrance of the Cargo area. The noise of transports being loaded, and unloaded, seemed to drown out the general buzz of the teeming space-port. Various beeps and alarms echoed through the hangers as all kinds of heavy-lifting machinery and Cargo haulers operated.

He felt a tap on his shoulder from behind, swiftly turning around he grabbed what appeared to be a walking cane, attached to a small grinning man..he relaxed his grip and smiled wryly..*

"..Mr Soom I presume?.."

*The Vinda-Corp Agent nodded..*
"..you presume right..I received your communiqué, very good detective work Mr Vega, I must say I share your views on the subject.."

*Achinta nodded back..*

"..thank you, what have you discovered.."

*A slight frown appeared above Kaneda's brow as he shook his head..*

"..not much I'm afraid, the last lead I had , kind of died on me... (so to speak)..although I have come across a few curious individuals who expressed an interest, once I let it be known I was interested in procuring some rare Spice...I also happened to let slip , I heard through the Grape-vine, that Vinda-Corp would be delivering another shipment.."

*As Kaneda spoke, Achinta tried to place his accent, it was one he had never heard before, exotic sounding, he cocked his head slightly , suspecting Mr Soom had an idea ...*

"...what do you have in mind?..."

*A sharp dry smile formed upon Kaneda's face ..*

"...walk with me..."

*As the the two men talked and walked further into the throng that surrounded the Space-port, they seemed to disappear into the populous almost instantly..*

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Hydian Way<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Hyperspace-Four Parceps from Brentaal – Three days later<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->



<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ..this had better Frellin work!...this is not my thing, I'm just a Pilot dammit!..<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->


Gnomm, shifted on his seat nervously,. When he joined Vinda-Corp, this wasn't what he signed up for..He reached for his Blaster, feeling it by his side reassured him...

He glanced up to see the Hyper-space reversion alarm, he'd be entering Real-space any minute now.

With a slight shudder, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Loyalist<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> emerged from Hyperspace... sure enough, as if fulfilling Gnomm's worst fears , the proximity alarm sounded...

Eight unidentified vessels were bearing down fast, upon the transport , Gnomm straightened up quickly, raising the shields... he patched a message over the comms to the fast-gaining ships...

"...This is the captain of the Vinda-Corp vessel <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Loyalist<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> , please identify yourselves, this is an unarmed vessel, repeat identify yourselves.."

A flurry of shots lanced across the aft , almost as if in reply, Gnomm cursed under his breath...

Checking how close they were , he cursed again, as he caught sight of what they were, eight Etti-Lighters, he winced as they bore down upon him..

"..not yet...dammit..."

..and again...

"..closer you pieces of Kriff!..."

Once all eight ships flanked the Vinda-Corp vessel, he smiled a little...

"now!.."

he activated a special comm's alert signal, one that had been specifically designed to overcome the powerful jamming systems the enemy vessels seemed to be using...

Another flurry of Laser-fire caused Gnomm to scream out loud..

"..well!?..where the hell are ya?..for Kriffs sake!?..."

In what seemed to be in response to Gnomm's call for help , Vinda-corp five Hapes Nova Cruisers suddenly emerged from hyperspace all firing a volley of fire towards the small but agile ships. They had been waiting in preparation, just out of reach of scanners. the Raiders clearly surprised and caught off-guard as the High-energy weapons blasted into them...

Five were destroyed instantly, in a sudden brutal wave that decimated them after having ample opportunity to target them precisely. The other three veered off in a bid to escape, but was thwarted as the Cruisers manoeuvred to cut them off.

Suddenly another two Vinda-Corp vessels emerged from Hyperspace, <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Nostromo<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->, and <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Victory<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->, in an instant they had locked their tractor beams onto the vessels , and had begun to reel them in.

Achinta and Kaneda observed the events from the bridge of <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> The Nostromo<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> , pleased at the success of their mission so far , but their smiles soon faded , as without warning , the 3 remaining vessels suddenly exploded , sending fragments hurtling into space..

Both Achinta and Kaneda winced at the sight of destruction, then glanced at each other...
Kaneda spoke, somewhat confused...

"..what happened?..I thought I said we wanted survivors!?..."

An officer gestured for attention, as he replied..

"..it seems as though they self-destructed , sir..."

Achinta frowned at the fact that their plan hadn't <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> quite<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> gone as it had supposed to.

Kaneda shouted to one of the officer below,

"recover everything you can , every piece of debris..."

Cursing underneath his breath he took Achinta to one side..

"..this is a problem, we'll have no chance of finding out whose behind all of this now..."

Achinta nodded , his face thoughtful..

"..true..but be thankful we have dealt with one part of it, at least the immediate threat has been vanquished, besides something tells me , we'll learn more soon enough..."

Kaneda sighed , agreeing, as he looked out at the vastness of space before them...

"..thats what I'm afraid of..."

Achinta , simply turned to face Kaneda then back out to the space…
Kaneda frowned a little…


“…so whose gonna tell Vinda then?…”

<!--EZCODE BOLD START--> Hydian Way<!--EZCODE BOLD END-->

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> Hyperspace-Four Parceps from Brentaal<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->



*Achinta had gotten Kaneda’s subtle hint, and a small wry smile appeared as he replied to the Vinda-Corp agent*

“…I will..inform him of the situation…”

*With that, he turned around in a flurry of black leather, and made his way to the Comm’s station. Gesturing for attention, he spoke to the comm’s officer…*

“…patch me through to VC-HQ, secure channel…”

*As the officer duly obliged, the room was suddenly illuminated by the blue hue of the Holo-net transceiver, a familiar figure seated at his desk, faced Achinta, flickering slightly…*

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”…yes?…”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

“…the set-up worked, however, the ships were rigged to explode upon capture. We are combing the area for any debris now, as we speak..but I doubt that we will find anything of use…”

(the figure in front of him grunted a little at the mixture of news Achinta had bought before him…)

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”..unfortunate…do you not have any idea at all?…”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

(Achinta paused for a moment before continuing)

“…well, these weren’t raiders, that was merely a front, whoever these people are , they are extremely well funded, the equipment they had alone would have cost thousands… They also appeared to be utilising standard CSA weaponary, and ships.
It all seems to point to the CSA, as even the known smuggling rings seem to be in the dark about it, and that’s <!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> very<!--EZCODE ITALIC END--> unusual, but in the absence of anything concrete, the evidence is circumstancial…nothing conclusive…”

(a loud sigh eminated from the seated figure…)

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”..CSA eh?…hmm…. I think its time we tried to find out for sure, is Mr Soom, still with you?..”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

(Achinta nodded, glancing over to where the Vinda-Corp agent was standing, the two met eyes as the figure talked)

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”…then inform him, he has a new assignment…”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

(Kaneda stepped forward as heard the words spoken, and replied…)

“..what do you need of me? Mr Vinda…”

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”…ah..Mr Soom, pack your things, you are going to Orron III, we have arranged a contact to meet you at 0900 hours two days from now, your mission profile shall be given to you , en route….”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

(Kaneda’s eyes widened a little as he realised what was being asked of him…)

“..the Data-center! You want me to infiltrate the data-center!…but that could take months!”

(Vinda’s voice was simple and to the point…)

<!--EZCODE ITALIC START--> ”…correct, Mr Soom, but it is time we took action, I must know for sure whether this is the CSA’s work or not…
I do not feel comfortable sitting here doing nothing while forces somewhere are conspiring against us. If it is indeed them, I want to know, and preferably, <!--EZCODE BOLD START--> before<!--EZCODE BOLD END--> they park an invasion fleet on our doorstep.

I expect you shall find out a great deal, but for now, if you would be so kind as to excuse me, I have a business client to meet….so, take care, and , Good job Mr Soom…”<!--EZCODE ITALIC END-->

*As Vinda signed off, Kaneda, seemed quiet , as if still realising the task set before him… Achinta , smirking a little, patted him on the back, and as he walked away he threw a glancing comment towards the Vinda-Corp agent…*


“…something tells me… I’ve got the easy job…”


The small Vinda-Corp armada of ships , retrieved what they could of the former Raider's vessels, then made the jump to Hyperspace...


Destination,



Bonadan...