Chapter 2
Gazala
Kai stood out from Burukanß getting underway for Gazala. The lack of passengers and cargo made things feel strange. Then there is Kasakabe and Lori Sixteen.
It is two days into the jump. Lori is on the bridge with Kai. Kai puts the ship on full autopilot and starts to get up.
Lori sees this. "Who will pilot the ship if you leave?"
"It's okay. I'm going to get a snack and something to drink from the galley and I'll head back here. There isn't much that can happen while we're in jump. By the way, didn't Zan ask you to meet her in her cabin?"
"Oh, that is correct. She did. I almost forgot. Silly me." Lori giggles, putting her hands on her cheeks. She gets up grabbing a small, ornate box sitting on the console. "She is probably wondering where I am. I will go with you. That way I will not get lost."
Kai stares at her.
They enter the cargo bay. Kasakabe is practicing sword play. She whirls and sweeps in graceful moves hacking, slicing, and dicing the targets she set up. It is like a ballet with swords.
"Kasakabe is amazing with a sword" Kai says.
"I have never seen anyone better" Lori replies.
She sounds more grown up than usual to Kai. "So, what's in the box?"
"It is a surprise for Ikki and Zan. If you want you can stop by and try some."
"Maybe later."
They enter the crew section. Lori reaches Zan's cabin and knocks.
"Have fun with Zan and Ikki okay?" Kai turns and enters the galley.
Ikki is sitting on the lower bunk and Zan is seated at the desk beside it.
Lori sits down on the bunk rubbing up against Ikki.
Ikki chokes down wanting to squeal and tries, unsuccessfully, to wiggle away.
Lori looks demurely at Ikki. "Did you say something?"
Ikki purses her lips vigorously shaking her head "no."
Lori looks at Zan.
Zan gazes back. She shakes herself out of the trance. "Sorry, what were you saying Lori?"
"I thought you girls might like to try some of this. It is an expensive delicacy in the Imperium."
"Really?" Ikki reaches for a piece.
Zan takes a piece. "Thank you Lori."
"What is this?" Zan asks biting into her piece.
Ikki reaches for another piece. "Um, I love this!"
"It is called chocolate. Do you like it?"
Zan says, "Lori, can I ask you something personal?"
"Only if I can choose not to answer."
"Of course. Do you always dress so… provocatively?"
"Provocatively? Understood. You mean sexy. It is normal where I come from because we have to wear vac suits much of the time."
Zan and Ikki snicker.
"Really?" Ikki says. "I guess that would make sense, but you put on the sexy too."
Zan looks at Lori, avoiding direct eye contact. "Yea, you do more than a little of that."
Lori gives them the evil eye and sticks her tongue out. "If you are going to be that way no more chocolate for you." She pulls the box away.
"Well, if you're telling us the truth why don't you get a vac suit and show us?" Zan says.
"Understood. I will get mine." Lori playfully sticks the tip of her tongue out at them. She gets up and leaves.
Zan and Ikki grab the box of chocolate helping themselves to more.
Lori returns with a bright pink vac suit and helmet.
"Pink?" Zan says.
"I like that" Ikki adds. "Mine is ugly."
Lori kicks off her heels and in less than a minute is in the suit and ready to put the helmet on.
"Wow that's really kopa!"
"Okay you win. I believe you. But you still dress way too sexy" Zan says.
"I'd never be able to do that" Ikki adds.
"It is a necessity of life on my world so you get used to doing it."
Ikki looks enviously at Lori. "I mean dress the way you do."
"I do not understand. You have a nice figure from what I can tell."
Ikki turns bright red.
Zan sees Ikki's reaction. "Either of you know how to swim?"
"No, I never learned how" Ikki replies.
Lori looks confused. "Swim? What is swim?"
"You don't know what swimming is?" Zan asks.
"No, I do not know what swim or swimming is."
"It's something you do in water." Zan makes stroking motions with her arms and kicking her legs. "My home world is covered almost entirely by water so you have to learn how."
"Water is for drinking and bathing how do you swim in it?" Lori looks confused at Zan's flailing in her desk chair.
Ikki starts laughing.
Lori gives her another evil eye and tongue.
Zan tries to explain what swimming is and how you do it to Lori with Ikki's help.
Lori looks at Ikki. "How would you know Ikki if you cannot do it? How about this? You can teach me to swim. I will teach you how to put on a vac suit fast, if you want."
"I have three brothers. They're engineers and mechanics like me. It runs in our family. Everybody's a wrench turner" Ikki says. "My dad made me learn how, even though I'm a girl. Of course, I really wanted to anyway."
"That's not a bad thing," Zan replies. "You're a good mechanic."
"Women on Shanape, where I'm from, are supposed to be mothers and not much else. I hated that. That's why I left. I don't ever want to go back either." She crosses her arms, pouting.
Lori looks confused. "You did not perform your intended purpose and are an engineer instead?"
"It's not like that. Someday I'd like to have kids and a family but right now I want to be a chief engineer. I am sooo thankful to be right where I am." That brings a smile to her face.
"Here I am, a real Chief Engineer on a starship. I made it! I sent them a message before we left Varakanomu. It should be there by now. I know they're proud of me for reaching my dream."
Ikki shows Lori and Zan pictures of her family on a perscomm she pulls from a pocket of her coveralls.
Lori looks perplexed.
Zan watches her carefully. She reaches into a drawer on her desk and produces a perscomm bringing up pictures of her family. "Me? I'm an only child… Unless my parents haven't told me since I started space travel about what they've been up to."
Zan and Ikki giggle while Lori continues to look confused.
"Here are some pictures of my parents and me back on Abricot." Zan passes the perscomm to Ikki and Lori.
"So, what about you and Kasakabe, Lori?" Zan asks.
Lori hesitates. "I think Kasakabe should tell you about her personal life."
"That's fair. And you?"
There is a long silence.
"I kind of have three sisters…" She lets her voice trail off.
Ikki leans towards Lori and looks up into her eyes. "Like what? Different fathers or something?"
"Things are very different where I am from." Lori is rubbing her hands and avoiding eye contact.
"What do you mean?" Zan asks.
"Different."
"Do you have some pictures of them?" Ikki asks.
"No, sorry. I do not."
"Well, maybe we'll get a chance to meet them since it appears that we're going to take you and Kasakabe home" Zan says.
Lori does not answer and begins to take off the vac suit as quickly as she put it on.
"Ikki, let me show you how to do this." Lori is out of the suit and holding it for Ikki to put on.
Ikki looks at how tight fitting the suit is. "I'm not sure I can get into it with my coveralls."
"Then take your clothes off."
"No way! I'm not going to do that. Besides, I don't have the incredible figure you do. You look like a living doll."
Lori gives her an angry, shocked look. Without a word, she grabs the chocolate box, spilling pieces from it, and clutching her vac suit, turns fleeing the cabin, slamming the door on the way out. Ikki looks down at Lori's high heels surrounded by pieces of chocolate lying on the deck.
"What did I do? I wasn't trying to be mean or something. What did I say that upset her so much?"
"Obviously Lori doesn't like being called a doll for some reason. I suggest you apologize to her immediately. I think we need to avoid using that term around her in the future." Zan replays the incident in her mind.
As Lori emerges from the cabin she bumps into Kai who is coming out of the galley. Lori pushes past the Captain and heads into her and Kasakabe's cabin further up the passageway.
Kai knocks on Zan's cabin door and enters.
"Oh, Captain, what're you doing here?" Zan asks.
Kai frowns, pointing towards Lori's cabin. "What just happened with Lori?"
"We're not sure" Zan replies. "Ikki said something about Lori being beautiful and looking like a doll. She had a freak and left."
"That's strange."
"I think it was when I said she looked like a living doll." Ikki looks hurt. "I really didn't mean anything bad by it."
"Ikki, you need to apologize…"
"I will when I see her. I think I'll wait for her to cool off little. I really like Lori and I'm going to make sure I didn't hurt her."
Gazala
The Daichi Kaisu emerges from FTL in the Gazala system. They are out beyond the furthest planet in the system, the gas giant Tengeder, and are 115 AU from Gazala.
Kasakabe and Lori Sixteen came on the bridge a few minutes before, asking to see the arrival. Lori is sitting in the second pilot position.
Within minutes of arriving, the communications system comes alive. "Unidentified vessel entering Gazalan space respond with correct identity codes. Hold current position until your code is verified."
The sensors show two warships moving rapidly towards their location.
Kai looks at Lori and Kasakabe. "I don't have an identity code. Should I call them with our standard signal?"
Kasakabe thrusts out her hand. "Comm. No worry. Fix. Listen."
Kai stares at her slack jawed. "You have an identity code?"
She thumps her chest. "No. Better. Stoner owe big." Kasakabe stares at Kai. "Lori pilot."
"What? Does she even know how?" Kai stammers.
Kasakabe jabs her hand at Kai. "Best pilot ever. In trouble. Lori get out. You useless. Lori pilot. Fly calalli. Waste time. Lori pilot!"
Kai jumps to her feet. "I'm still the Captain of this ship!"
Kasakabe gives her a "you are going to die" look in return.
Calming a bit, Kai sits back down. "Okay. I'll let Lori pilot, but only because we're in serious trouble and I'm willing to try anything to get out of it. I'm taking over if I think for even a millisecond she's not capable of doing this. Are we clear?"
"Clear. No worry. Comm now!" Kasakabe jabs her hand back out. She turns to Lori. "Pilot. Keep ship busy until get answer."
"Understood."
Kai looks over at Lori. She looks as if she is in a trance. Several holo screens pop up. Lori's hands and fingers fly over the controls and holo displays. Kai is mesmerized.
"Comm!" Kasakabe repeats.
Kai is shaken out of staring. She reaches over to get the communication gear.
Kasakabe starts shouting into the pick-up. "This Murotsu Kasakabe, Durne. Owato Clan. Ral Ranta. Here see Rinpoche, High Holiness. Ask who am. Don't, on head big time. Check now you big trouble."
Kasakabe hands the comm set back to Kai with a big grin. "Go crazy now. Answer few minute. Board. Go Gazala."
The communication system goes silent.
Kai stares at her eyes wide, mouth hanging open. Kai notices Lori is somehow using the ship's maneuvering thrusters to throw off the Gazalan targeting systems the ship's sensors have been detecting. She forces herself to look away.
The Gazalan ships close rapidly. The communication system comes on. "LSP 25147 Daichi Kaisu prepare for boarding. A security party will board you to ensure the safety of your crew. Do not attempt any more thruster maneuvers. Signal that you understand and comply."
"Holding position Captain" Lori says.
Kai notes the ship is motionless. She stares at Kasakabe, then Lori. Shaking her head, Kai turns and opens a communications link. "Message received and understood. Dock to our starboard air lock please."
"Have all crew standing by with identity documents when we arrive."
"Bridge to First Officer and Engineer report to the crew lounge with your identity documents please."
When Zan and Ikki arrive, Kai says, "The Gazalans are going to board the ship and they want everyone present. Make sure you have your identity documents on you. Do and say nothing to set them off."
The Gazalan ships arrive taking up station off the Daichi Kaisu. One of the ships sends over a boat.
The Gazalan boat docks. The air lock hatch is released and opens. Eight armed and armored marines point military energy weapons at them.
A ninth man wearing a military uniform moves through them and comes aboard the ship. The marines move forward keeping their weapons trained on the crew. When they have boarded and formed a perimeter, a tenth man boards. He is in a civilian suit without rank insignia.
"I am Garchin Ben Gania. Who is Murotsu Kasakabe?"
"That me." She thumps her chest.
Kai watches her carefully.
Garchin Gania bows deeply touching his forehead, then his chest, then extending his right hand. "The Rinpoche sends his blessings and wishes an audience with you, God willing." He waves his hands around at his men. "I and the servants of God will be accompanying you and your companions to Gazala. We were sent to ensure you have a safe passage, God willing. Have your bridge crew set course one two five by ninety two and get underway at one gee acceleration as soon as our boat is clear. Is the whole crew present?"
"No, our pilot's on the bridge." Kai points towards the hatch.
"Get him."
Kai goes to the hatch. "Lori put the ship on autopilot and come to the lounge."
When Lori walks in there is an obvious, almost stunned, reaction among the Gazalans.
The Garchin recovers quickly. "Ah, we were warned about the golem."
The Gazalan's are now looking very warily at Lori.
The Garchin continues. "This is the whole crew? No men on board?"
"No men. Crew here" Kasakabe says.
"All in keeping with the teachings of God. You are as wise as we have been told, Murotsu Kasakabe." He turns to the officer. "Check their documents. We know if there are any Daemons amongst them."
The officer touches his forehead and chest extending his right hand towards the Garchin, turns to the crew. "Identity documents out!"
He ignores Kasakabe and Lori, staying well clear of the later.
The Garchin turns to Lori. "The golem can return to the bridge its presence is not needed."
Lori turns and heads to the bridge. Kai can see in her eyes and expression that she is enraged.
Zan shows the officer her Mische Conglomerate passport and officer certificates.
Kai shows a combination of Ling and Miracru documents.
The officer gets to Ikki. She has her Imperial passport and Imperial Engineer certificate out.
He takes only the barest of glances. "Imperial Daemon!"
This brings the weapons of all eight marines to bear on Ikki. She starts to whimper and cry.
Kasakabe intervenes. She has her hand on the officer's pistol before he can get it out of the holster. In her other hand is a blade at the officer's throat.
His eyes are huge as he looks at the blade.
"This one no threat. Lock cabin. She nothing."
The Garchin looks stunned. His expression becomes serious and he nods. "That is acceptable so long as the Daemon stays out of sight locked in that cabin for the duration of your stay in Grand Duchy space."
"Agree." The blade disappears into her clothing.
I was right Kai thinks. She could kill every one of them if she wanted to.
The officer, two marines, and Zan take Ikki to Zan's cabin.
The ship gets underway for Gazala. Later, Zan uses the pretense of delivering the Captain's meal to meet with Kai.
"Have noticed how the Gazalans are letting Kasakabe have free run of the ship?" Kai asks.
"Yes. They seem in awe of her and terrified of Lori. They won't even acknowledge Lori's presence" Zan replies.
"I can see some of their reasons with Lori. Given her appearance, they're probably not too happy with her."
Kai nibbles a finger. "Something's up with those two. Kasakabe hasn't told us a thing about who she is. How can she be so well connected with some high ranked government official on Gazala? This bunch doesn't seem the sort to have casual relations with a pair like Kasakabe and Lori.
Then there was earlier on the bridge. I'm sure you noticed that Lori was piloting. Kasakabe asked, well demanded, I let her. That came as a total surprise."
"I saw that. Does she know how?" Zan asks.
"Yes. That girl can pilot far better than I can. What's weird though is that she's a totally different person doing it."
"What do mean? Different how?"
"She's incredibly focused. Her voice is… I don't know… mechanical? Everything she says is one word replies. Understood" Kai tries to mimic Lori's voice. "Watching her operate the controls was amazing. I've never seen anyone move across a ship's control panel like that. I watched her make these incredibly subtle moves that threw the Gazalan sensors off. They told us to knock it off. It's certainly something I couldn't have done."
Zan nods. "But, they did keep us from being arrested or killed. You saw what happened with Ikki. They were ready to space her until Kasakabe spoke up and got them to lock her in a cabin."
"This whole thing has me terrified" Kai replies. "I'm scared we've gotten into something way over our heads. What worries me is what happens when we reach Gazala."
Zan shakes her head. "I'm as scared as you are. And, you're right. We need to find out what's going to happen at Gazala."
"We need to get them to tell us who they really are. What did Kasakabe say earlier on the bridge…?" Kai chews her lip.
"I don't think I was there," Zan replies.
"Something about a clan. Wait! She was on the ship's comm system. The flight recorder will still have it." Kai turns to her computer terminal, tapping on the screen and key pad. It plays out Kasakabe's communications with the Gazalans. "There. She said 'Owato Clan' and mentions the Durne system, and Ral Ranta.
"
"Is there anything in the ship's database or the navigation files on that?" asks Zan.
"Already on it. This could take a bit."
"Maybe a good meal will loosen the Gazalans up. Why don't I see if the Garchin will let me cook one for them? I could assign them cabins on the passenger deck" Zan replies.
"That sounds like an excellent idea. See if they'll let you give Ikki a meal and check on her. I'll see what I can find on what Kasakabe said."
Kai looks up Ral Ranta. This is an empire of about two dozen systems in the Hinterworlds sector spinward from their location. It is listed as engaging in widespread questionable practices and intrigues, but nothing in specific is included. The database advises that travel there is not recommended as the whole empire is relatively lawless. There is a warning that Ral Rantans can be extremely violent even in casual social settings and to exercise caution. There is a list of common words in Ral Ranta along with other social and economic data.
Finding anything on Durne is harder. There is nothing on the Owato Clan. The database lists the Durne system as an amber zone along with some general information on the system and main world. It states that it is recommended that one avoid travel there without Ral Ranta official approval or prior arrangements with "…local business interests."
"That's going to have to do unless either of them says more. Hum… Maybe Lori could tell me something." Kai heads to the bridge. Lori is piloting with the same intense focus. A marine is outside the hatch.
"Captain on the bridge" Lori announces as Kai enters.
Kai looks dubiously at Lori as she sits down in the second pilot chair. "Any problems with the flight?"
"No Captain."
"Any issues with the controls or things I might help you out with?"
"No Captain."
"This looks like some pretty routine flying right now. I'll take the helm and you can relax until things get complicated" Kai says.
"Understood. You have the helm Captain. Course one-two-five by nine-two at one gee acceleration" Lori replies, without taking her eyes off the controls.
Kai continues to chat with Lori who after a few minutes becomes more talkative. "What's with the Gazalans and you? They keep calling you a 'golem' and won't get near you."
Lori looks uneasy and her expression says that she is incensed when Kai uses it. "I do not know. Maybe Kasakabe does."
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make it worse. I'll avoid that word and have the others do the same, okay?"
"Thank you, Captain."
After two very tense days, the Daichi Kaisu reaches Gazala. Kai escorts Lori back to the bridge. The planet Kai sees is the size of a large moon. Surrounding it are a half dozen huge space stations on tethers radiating out from the equator of the planet. These rotate with Gazala. The surface is covered with solar panels, large structures, and construction. It is as if the planet is one giant space station.
"Oh my, I've never seen anything even remotely like that" Kai says.
"Gazala is an amazing world graced by God" says the Garchin, entering the bridge.
"It pleases me that you find it so Captain. If you would, tell the golem to maneuver your ship to docking bay L Three, God willing."
"Lori, please identify and maneuver the ship to docking bay L Three."
"Understood."
"I see now why you and Kasakabe choose to use it. It is very efficient, although abhorrent. You will need to contact the flight controller and request a final approach to bay L Three."
Kai's jaw tightens. "Right. Gazala flight control this is LSP 25147 Daichi Kaisu on final to docking bay L Three. Relay approach and docking instructions."
"Did we get them Lori?" Kai asks.
"Data received."
"Your golem's piloting is excellent" the Garchin says. "I commend you on your selection even though you deviate from the True Path. I will pray for God to forgive you."
Kai's nails dig into her hand deeply.
The Daichi Kaisu enters the docking bay. The bay doors begin to close behind them.
Kai, sees this on the ship's cameras. She cringes. Looking out the bridge canopy she sees troops, like the marines aboard, heading for the ship. There are large numbers of workers and technicians too.
The Garchin speaks up. "We will begin servicing and refueling your ship immediately, God willing. We would be completely remiss in our religious duties if we allowed you to leave in anything less than pristine condition. Now, if you, Captain, and our most honored Kasakabe would please properly dress for your meeting with the Rinpoche we can get started with the arrangements, God willing."
Proper dress for Kai and Kasakabe is formal. Kai has on her best Ling Captain's uniform, a long double breasted frock coat and pants with heels and a pillbox cap with gold braid. The maroon color of the uniform and gold braid on the cuffs makes her look elegant.
Kasakabe is in a crimson, jeweled, Kimono-like dress with her hair up and heavy makeup.
Kai eyes her, mouth slack.
The Garchin nods approvingly at them. "It was decided that you alone will attend, God willing. The rest of your crew was deemed unworthy of such an honor. While we would have included your First Officer, she will be needed the unholy."
"The Daemon and the Golem are unclean and unfit to touch Gazalan soil. Captain, please instruct your First Officer to keep them confined to a locked cabin while our technicians are aboard. Guards will be provided to prevent mishaps. They cannot be subject to seeing such vermin. Your First Officer will handle all contacts. No mention of either is to be made to anyone other than the officer of the guard. Is this clear?"
"Your instructions are clear" Zan replies bowing. "I will have Lori join Ikki… the golem and daemon… to share a cabin for the duration of our stay, God willing. I would like permission to provide them with proper meals and such. No one, not even a golem or daemon deserves mistreatment at our hands least we suffer for it later." Zan gives the Garchin a salute touching her forehead, chest and then extending her hand.
"Your First Officer is as wise. God has blessed her. So it shall be, God willing. I'll personally instruct the guards for you." The Garchin returns Zan's salute.
Zan returns his, bowing.
Kai shakes her head, smiling at Zan.
The Garchin bows slightly to Kasakabe. "May God forgive this intrusion of your person, but you will have to leave all of your weapons here. I have been told you rarely go anywhere unarmed. This time it will be necessary. I do hope you understand."
Kasakabe without a word proceeds to pull two large blades, several large knives, numerous throwing stars, darts, and daggers from various places dumping them on a tray. The sheer number of weapons surprises Kai.
Kasakabe shakes a hand at Zan. "Zan, take cabin 'kay? Very careful. No touch blade. Touch, die."
Ikki and Lori are put in a high passage cabin.
Ikki sits on the bed trembling. "Lori, are they going to kill us?"
Lori gets up and goes to the wardrobe. She rummages inside, producing a raspberry pink automatic pistol. "Zan knows how to prep a room for guests properly. It will not be easy for the Gazalans if they come for us. I promise."
"I could just hug you forever!" Ikki has a huge smile and wiggles around on the bed.
Lori reaches back in and produces two bottles of Pinot Gris wine and two glasses.
Ikki starts clapping. "Zan is absolutely brilliant!"
Lori smiles. "She is good at this is she not?"
Lori rummages around some more and produces a tiny, colorful one-piece showing it to Ikki. "Would I look sexier in this?"
Ikki jumps up. "No way! You've embarrassed me way to many times! No, no, no!"
They sit together on the bed.
Lori puts her arm around Ikki. "Are you feeling better?"
"Yea. Can we have some wine?"
Lori opens a bottle and pours some into the glasses that Ikki holds. They take a sip.
"What should we do next?" Lori asks.
"I don't know."
"I know, pillow fight!" Lori grabs one off the bed swinging it at Ikki.
"You're such a nut!" Ikki dodges the pillow. "But no, I'm getting too old for that sort of thing."
Lori looks hurt. "What if, I give you a manicure?"
Ikki looks at her short clipped nails with bits of oily dirt in them. "Okay. That sounds like something fun I really never get to have."
"Understood. I will get my kit."
"You have a manicure kit too?"
Lori looks skeptically at Ikki. "Yes. You do not expect to go without good personal hygiene and appearance do you? Well, maybe you do."
"That's mean." Ikki punches Lori's arm.
They laugh. Ikki falls back on the bed. Lori starts to do her nails.
"Lori, why'd they put you in here and not Zan too?"
"They say I am a golem and you are a daemon. Zan is considered acceptable so she has been ordered to keep an eye on us so the Gazalans will not become contaminated."
"Contaminated?"
"Do not try and figure it out, I am not. This will end and the Captain, Zan, and Kasakabe will protect us. I have my pistol and I will not let them hurt you. I would never let one of my friends get hurt by… people like that."
They continue to drink wine and as Lori finishes Ikki's nails she leans against her, gives her a hug, then a kiss on the cheek.
Ikki does not resist. The hairs on the back of her neck rise and a chill goes through her. She makes a little noise choking down a scream.
"You are not on Shanape Ikki" Lori whispers in her ear poking her gently with a polished nail on the forehead. "Open this to the possibilities you now have."
Kai and Kasakabe leave the ship with the Garchin headed across the hanger with an escort of soldiers. A small army of technicians and service personnel are moving around the ship. As they pass, the technicians turn and bow.
Approaching one of the hanger entrances, they are directed to several large black grav vehicles that have the look and feel of ones for officials and dignitaries. Kasakabe, Kai, and the Garchin get into one vehicle. Soldiers and officers get into the others. They head into the city world of Gazala.
Kai sees everyone in sight is in some sort of uniform. Everywhere she looks there are flags, posters, symbols, and other trappings of patriotic devotion to the planet's leader and the Grand Duke. Religion is omnipresent and construction is going on everywhere.
"We're headed to the central cathedral" the Garchin says. "I've never had the privilege of being inside such a holy place. But, someday God willing, may I rise to such occasion as to warrant a visit as you have."
The broad walkways alongside the streets are busy. A transit system using small maglev trolleys pass frequently, packed with passengers. Few vehicles occupy the streets. As the convoy passes people turn and bow. Some make the forehead, chest, hand salute. They pass open spaces like parks occupied by groups of uniformed people drilling in ranks, exercising, and doing group activities.
Kai sees a man whipping himself. A pair of policemen watch. His back is bloody from previous strikes, yet he continues to flog himself energetically.
The Garchin sees Kai's interest. "A scourging. He has done some slight in the eyes of God, Captain. It is common practice to correct those who stray from the Holy Path. Once he demonstrates his zeal and piousness have been restored he'll be on his way once more to paradise. It's all part of God's plan."
"So he has to punish himself?" Kai asks.
"Why of course. He committed the sin. It would be a sin for someone else to punish him. A public display of penance lets all know that you accept your faults and are working hard to correct them in the eyes of society and God."
Kai turns to the Garchin. "Gazala is wondrous. Is the whole planet like it is here?"
"Yes. I'm pleased you're impressed with our home. We try our hardest to make everything the best we can to show God we are dedicated to His way. Would you do less for God than give your very best?"
"Of course not. Only your best effort would be fully satisfying." Kai looks out the vehicle's window, away from the Garchin.
After traveling many kilometers they approach the cathedral. Large ornate spires can be seen in the distance. Getting closer, the crowds thin to a few, then to nothing. The vehicles pull up at a large gate manned by immaculately uniformed guards.
The Garchin gets out. He approaches the officer in charge. They exchange salutes and the officer hurries off.
The guards that came with them get out forming up on both sides of the vehicle. Another guard detail attired like the ones at the gate appears with a man in a uniform similar to the Garchin's. They form ranks next to the vehicles.
Garchin Gania reenters the vehicle with Kai and Kasakabe. "Captain Hao, you will emerge after I your humble servant does, and then our most honored guest Miss Kasakabe if you will please follow Captain Hao."
"Garchin Zoghbi I present the good Captain Kai Lei Hao who has brought us our most honored guest. God be with her." Garchin Ben Gania says.
Garchin Zoghbi gently motions Kai to a position beside him.
Kasakabe emerges. "Garchin Zoghbi, our most honored guest Miss Murotsu Kasakabe of Durne who has done our world the greatest of acts. May God bless her."
The Garchins bow deeply to Kasakabe. Garchin Zoghbi directs her to a position at his right side. The procession falls in behind Garchin Zoghbi and they enter the cathedral.
Inside are hanging gardens using anti-grav technology and water features. Bird and other animal calls can be heard. A group of small herbivores graze in an open area.
The party proceeds a short distance before halting. Garchin Zoghbi, looks pained. "I most humbly apologize. May God forgive me. It is my duty to protect His Holiness and the Rinpoche that reside here. I have the most distasteful task to ask we be allowed to search you for weapons. I ask your forgiveness and give you an oath before God that your person will not be violated. If you will please."
Two guards approach the group with hand held devices. They scan Kai and Kasakabe at close range, going over Kasakabe several times. The guards show the Garchin the results on Kasakabe.
"Miss Kasakabe your reputation for carrying weapons is well deserved. I must humbly ask that you turn over the two blades you have concealed in your clothing."
Kai glances at Kasakabe.
"They are quite cunningly concealed. No doubt a God given gift that helps you his Holy Work." He holds out his hand to take the blades.
Kasakabe smiles slightly. "Habit." She produces the two blades.
"Very careful. No touch blade. Touch blade die." Kasakabe shakes a hand at them.
Garchin Zoghbi looks surprised as he pulls his hand back.
One of the guards very gingerly takes the two blades by the very ends of the pommels. He shows them to the Garchin.
"Exquisite. These were crafted by someone inspired by God. I would expect no less of our honored guest. The utmost care will be taken with them and they shall be returned to your ship."
Garchin Zoghbi leans close to Kasakabe. "I was told you'd have far more weapons than that Miss Kasakabe."
She leans in, staring into his eyes. "Two enough."
"Yes, yes. Given your achievements. Your hand is guided by God."
They enter the cathedral. The vaulted ceiling of the main hall towers over their heads. The walls and ceiling are decorated with ornate paintings and sculptures. Light filters through colorfully decorated stained glass windows. Their footsteps echo in the silence filling the hall.
They go to a rectory off the main hall. It too towers over them.
An average height, middle-aged man in a golden gown trimmed in jewels and matching tall head dress enters the room from a side door. "Ah, our heroine has finally arrived. I pray God has blessed your journey."
The guards and officers, bowing deeply, depart.
"I am Rinpoche Angelus." He bows deeply to Kasakabe. "Your humble servant and servant of God."
"Your holiness, may I present Murotsu Kasakabe and the Captain of the ship she arrived on, Kai Lei Hao. May God bless them both" Garchin Zoghbi says, bowing.
The Rinpoche directs them towards another room. "We were surprised, to say the least, at your arrival Miss Kasakabe. But then, God does work in mysterious ways He often does not reveal to us. I thank you Captain Hao for delivering Miss Kasakabe safely to us. I'm sure God watched over your voyage."
There are cushions and they sit at a low table. The Rinpoche claps loudly. Servants appear carrying trays of delicacies and drinks.
"Please, enjoy the small bounty that God has so graciously provided" the Rinpoche says. He and the Garchin clasp their hands, bow, and begin uttering a prayer.
To Kai's utter and total surprise Kasakabe stands. She bows her head, closes her eyes, and softly claps her hands twice then puts them together followed by saying aloud several foreign words. She reseats herself.
Kai can see that impressed the Gazalans.
"Miss Kasakabe, if I might be so bold as to ask, why has God brought you here? Did you come for payment?" The Rinpoche takes a sip from his chalice.
"No. Payment go clan. That arrange. You, me no wish anger clan. Come security Captain Hao ship. Take home."
"Well, now I'm puzzled." The Rinpoche rests his chin on his clasp hands. "If you didn't come for payment and Captain Hao was taking you home, how pray tell did you end up here? Was it simply God's providence that brought you?"
"Miss Kasakabe came because of me" Kai replies.
The Rinpoche looks at her. "Really? How wonderful! You must tell me the details. It sounds as if God guided you here personally."
Kai recounts the events at Mariposa, how she narrowly avoided being taken by pirates at Orlain, and how that made her detour to Burukanß. She gives the details of her mission for Ling Standard Products and Miracru. Finally, she tells them how she met and 'hired' Kasakabe and Lori Sixteen.
"A truly wonderful tale." The Rinpoche claps, smiling at Kai. "God has smiled upon you Kai Lei Hao."
"So, you're here for trade?" The Rinpoche shakes his head. "Miracru is involved too?"
He gets up walking to a desk. He signals someone. A servant comes, carrying a tray with papers on it.
He turns and shows them to Kai. They are ornate documents.
"These Captain Hao are Holy Writs. There is one for your company, Ling Standard Products, and one for Miracru. They allow your employers to bring one ship each per month to Gazala under the conditions listed. He signs and seals the documents.
He takes a third document off the tray. The servant bows deeply, turns, and leaves.
"This document allows your ship and crew safe passage through the Grand Duchy to the system Grand Endeavor. It's the least I can do for that wonderful and enlightening tale, and for bringing Miss Kasakabe to us.
There is one last thing I can do for my guests. I must then depart you, as I have matters of state and religious duties I must perform, God willing. Garchin Zoghbi will tend to your needs in my absence. You are invited to spend the evening here as there'll be a parade and celebration at which you're honored guests tomorrow. God willing."
The Rinpoche snaps his fingers beckoning several servants. Each carries a tray with a small pile of slivers. Kai has a hard time concealing her shock.
"A small token of our gratitude Miss Kasakabe. Consider it a bonus for coming and for bringing the wonderful Captain Hao. We will have these along with your daggers and the writs delivered to your ship. Now, if you'll excuse me, God be with you both."
Garchin Zoghbi rises. "If you'll come with me I'll show you to your quarters."
They leave the chamber and re-cross the main hall. They are taken to a suite of rooms.
"All your needs will be tended to. Ask for whatever you might need."
"Need practice, nothing more" Kasakabe says.
Garchin Zoghbi turns to Kai. "Captain Hao, would you honor me with a walk in the gardens?"
Kai and the Garchin enter the cathedral gardens.
He looks at her. "I enjoyed your tale as much as the Rinpoche. I commend you for reaffirming that God guides our lives."
"I'm not sure I had any role in Kasakabe's success. I hired her and Lori-Sixteen…"
"Ah, the golem. It is best if you do not speak of it."
Kai struggles to remain calm. "I hired them on Burukanß to perform security for me, nothing more."
"It sounds to me as if your actions were guided by God. If not for the pirates at Orlain you wouldn't have gone to Burukanß. If not for your engineer's contacts you wouldn't have met Kasakabe. Despite your reservations you hired her. All of that has resulted in your own good fortune here, and ours as well."
"Captain Hao, if I might, you should thank God, for the good fortune He has bestowed on you. You have truly been blessed. You may believe this is nothing more than luck or chance. My experience over a lifetime is that God guides us to these things." He stops at a beautiful little glade dotted with benches.
The Garchin seats himself motioning Kai to sit. "You were raised in the Imperial Church weren't you?"
He smiles at her. "Don't worry, I won't report you for an honest answer. That wouldn't be in keeping with God's intentions. I'm sure you're aware of how we feel about the Imperium."
Kai sighs. "Actually, yes. I rarely went beyond my childhood. I couldn't see participating. My parents did, but they did it for political and business reasons."
"Yet here you are a welcome guest on a world that is as anti-Imperial as any in known space. We believe, fervently and faithfully, in that same God. The only difference is that we haven't strayed as the Imperial Church has. Captain, do you know the history of the Imperium for the last millennia or so?"
"Not particularly I'm afraid. I didn't take history at university. I studied business."
"Of course." Garchin Zoghbi smiles. "After all, you are a merchant, and your family are merchants. Then you know little about The Suppressions or how those ended?" he says.
"I'm afraid not. I don't recall hearing about that."
The Garchin nods. "I thought as much.
We believe that grand things, like you coming here with Kasakabe, are acts of God. I think you need some time to reflect on how God has brought you, your crew, and Kasakabe together. I suspect it is for some grand purpose God has yet to reveal.
I'll leave you to meditate on that and your place in God's universe, as I have prayers to attend. God is still writing your story Kai Lei Hao. I'll pray for you, then return to escort you back to your quarters. Wait here in the meantime, please." Garchin Zoghbi gets up, leaving.
A short time later he returns. "Captain, I see you have indeed made good use of your time. God has looked upon you favorably." He smiles. "Allow me to escort you back to your quarters."
On the way, Garchin Zoghbi brings up a new subject. "Captain, in a few days you'll be heading to Grand Endeavor, God willing. Miracru Tradecorp has offices there as they have been dealing with us for some time."
The Garchin looks Kai in the eyes. "I think Captain you have had a revelation about what kind of company Miracru is. Although the Rinpoche has granted them a writ, I suspect Miracru will be unable to live up to its terms. From what we know of your company, I think your employer will do much better with us. God willing."
"Ah, here we are, your quarters. Kai Lei Hao it has been a pleasure talking with you. God meant for you and Kasakabe to meet. Of that, I harbor no doubt."
"I will pray for you and your crew in dealing with Miracru. Watch yourself with them Captain. They are not to be trusted."
"I can't begin to thank you for the hospitality and kindness you've shown us. Thank you for the advice Garchin Zoghbi. I enjoyed today." Kai bows.
Smiling, the Garchin turns to leave. "Spoken like a diplomat. God has graced you. Good night Captain Hao. May God bless you and grant you serene dreams."
Kai gets together with Kasakabe at dinner. She puts down her fork and stares hard at Kasakabe. "I think it's time you told me what you did to deserve all this. You're not armed so don't threaten me with that. If you won't give me an explanation, I'm leaving you and Lori here on Gazala."
A knife appears in Kasakabe's hand like magic. She doesn't take her eyes of Kai as she throws it at a wall where it buries itself. Her eyes narrow. Her face hardens. "Kill tell. Tell no one. Ever!"
She leans close to Kai. "Tell no one."
Kai nods, swallowing hard. She hoarsely whispers, "I give you my word as an officer. I won't say a thing. Not to the crew, to no one. I need to know what's going on. The Garchin says Miracru, can't be trusted. I need to know what your role in this is."
"Owato Clan. You know." Kasakabe goes back to eating. "Clan assassin, spy." She taps herself on the chest. "Master assassin. Best in 'verse."
"Kill Duke of Ley for Stoner. Hate Duke." She smacks one hand against the other. "Die. Never there. Pay Clan seventy five million. Hero Stoner." Kasakabe looks at Kai with a Cheshire cat smile.
Kai stares at Kasakabe, her mouth hanging open.
Kasakabe shrugs and continues eating. "That it."
Later, Kai stares at the ceiling unable to sleep.
The next day Kasakabe and Kai are taken to a huge arena. They are ushered onto a dais where top civilian and military officials are seated. They all seem to know who she is, congratulating her as she and Kai move to their seats.
Zan grows worried that neither returned the previous day. A vehicle and guard detail shows up. They make Zan open the Captain's cabin and place two beautifully decorated cases in it. They post a guard telling Zan that no one will be allowed to enter the cabin until Captain Hao and Kasakabe return.
When Zan brings Lori and Ikki their breakfast she lets them know what is going on.
"Do not worry Zan. Everything will be fine" Lori says.
At the rally everything has a religious or military overtone to it. The wreckage of a Ling ship and its surviving crew are paraded into the arena. They are presented to the crowd as "Imperial spies." The crowd goes insane with rage.
Kai looks carefully at the prisoners. That's Captain Doulatov. I met him back on Varakanomu. It looks like he was assigned another ship, like mine, to come here. Just how many ships were sent?
A high ranking officer sitting near Kai and Kasakabe leans over. "The spies will be imprisoned and do penance for their crimes, God willing."
A Garchin adds, "After many years of penance they may be found worthy of release. God willing."
Kai shudders.
Kasakabe turns to the Garchin with a sneer in her voice. "Good warrior, criminal. Know already dead. Death possible. Part of job. Not dead. Very sloppy. Failure."
The rally ends and Kai and Kasakabe return to the ship. Garchin Gania is waiting to meet them. "You will be permitted to leave in the morning for Urmek, God willing. When you arrive there you are to refuel from a gas giant. A military escort will meet you for your protection. After refueling you will jump for Grand Endeavor."
"Because of the presence of the Golem and Daemon, no passengers will be permitted and there will be no cargo to prevent any contamination. I humbly apologize, as we are aware you are a merchant and would prefer to perform the duties that God intended for you."
Kai bites on her tongue hard.
Garchin Gania leaves, and Kai and Kasakabe go to Kai's cabin. They divide up the items the Gazalans brought aboard. Kasakabe comes out taking a case to the cargo bay where she puts it in one of the containers she and Lori brought aboard at Burukanß.
Zan sees this. "What's in those cases Captain? Can you fill me in?
Kai shakes her head. "Leave it alone for now, okay? It can wait until we're out of Duchy space."
Lori and Ikki are released from confinement. Ikki gets the plant up and running. Lori pilots the ship away from Gazala to the FTL event horizon. They jump for Urmek.
With a week in FTL, things aboard the Daichi Kaisu return to a more normal state.
"What's the matter Ikki?" Kai finds her sulking in the crew lounge sipping a cup of kava. "Nothing to fix?"
"The Gazalans fixed everything. I'm bored."
Kai laughs. "I'd think you'd be happy about that?"
"It's just so wrong." Ikki frowns. "Sand Crabs aren't supposed to be that good."
Kai sighs, then smiles. "I'm sure you'll get over it."
Two days into the FTL transit Ikki and Zan are in Zan's cabin.
"Thanks for making sure we had lots of stuff in that stateroom Zan. It made things really kopa."
Zan looks confused. "Stuff?"
"You know, the wine, Lori's pistol, the make-up and manicure kits, that stuff."
"Oh, of course. That was me being a first class stewardess. Think nothing of it."
"That's what Lori said." Ikki replies. "She said you thought of everything. It made being locked up so much easier."
"So, you and Lori had a good time did you? I'm happy I could help make that happen."
"It was so shiny! Lori wanted to pillow fight. That was so silly it took the fear away. I'm so glad she was there. Look, she did my nails." Ikki shows Zan her hands. "I bet she'd do yours too."
"She's so lucky!" "Eats whatever she wants and doesn't gain a gram. Looks incredible. Zan, I really like her. She's like a sister I never had growing up."
"I guess she's lucky that way."
"I'm still a little jealous" Ikki says. "But, I really like Lori.
The next day Zan and Kai meet in Kai's cabin.
"As your First Officer I think I need to know what our schedule is, and if you can, maybe fill me in on what you and Kasakabe did on Gazala, Captain."
"I didn't hear what Kasakabe did for Stoner" Kai replies. "It must have been pretty major since they gave me the trade agreements I wanted." She produces the Holy Writs out of a drawer in her desk.
"This one gives us safe passage to Grand Endeavor. There's more." Kai reaches into a drawer producing several slivers. "We were given a pile of these." She pushes them towards Zan. "Do you know what those are?"
Zan stares at the slivers and Writs. "Those are slivers aren't they? They're worth thousands of credits or more each if I recall."
"That's right" Kai replies. "We got paid about a million credits, if not more. I haven't counted out our share. I'll be giving you and Ikki a bonus once I do. Don't tell Ikki though. I want to surprise her."
Zan shakes her head. "What could Kasakabe possibly have done to warrant this? All she seems to know how to do is kill people."
Kai bites her lip. "I don't know. I do know what would have happened if we went there without her."
"They took us to this rally. I watched another crew, just like us…" Kai starts to cry. "I watched them brought in in chains with the wreckage of their ship. I was told they'd be sent to some horror of a prison camp for what the Gazalans called penance. Zan, I recognized the Captain. It was Doulatov. He's a Ling officer, like me. I know him. I saw what they consider punishment for minor crimes. They make you flog yourself bloody with a whip." Kai is sobbing.
"My God!" Zan covers her mouth with her hand. "So the stories we heard on Burukanß were true. It must have been horrible."
"I don't know what to think." Kai looks at the desk and rubbing her hands together. "The Gazalans were incredibly nice to me. I'm really haunted by some of the things a Garchin named Zoghbi told me.
What really bothers me is, did Ling know any of this? Did Ling send me, us, into this knowing what would happen? What's worse, their partner Miracru Tradecorp, did. Garchin Zoghbi made that clear to me."
"We succeeded only by luck. If we hadn't been attacked by pirates at Orlain and forced to go to Burukanß…"
Zan nods. "Our ancestors were looking out for us…"
"Oh please Zan!" Kai holds her hands up. "Not you too. I've had my fill of religious piety to last a lifetime."
There is a brief silence as they let their emotions calm down.
"So, what now?" Zan asks. "Do we keep Kasakabe and Lori on board? They did save us."
"I don't know Zan. They're potentially dangerous and we know little about them."
"I'm actually more concerned about Lori than Kasakabe" Zan replies.
"Lori? "
"Yes. She's far smarter than she lets on. She is not the dumb teenager she acts like."
"So you think that her behavior is an act?" Kai looks askance at Zan. "I'll admit she's an incredible pilot. We've both seen that. But beyond that what makes you think she's dangerous or lying?"
"I was talking to Ikki yesterday. She told me that Lori stocked the stateroom they were in with weapons, liquor from the ship's bar, personal items, and perscomms. It was as if she knew which stateroom they would be in and exactly how long they'd be there. On a couple of occasions when I was allowed to check on them she knew exactly what was going on and what would happen."
"Really? I didn't know that" Kai says.
"It's as if she were an esper."
"Esper?"
"You'd call her psionic. In the Mische Conglomerate we refer to such people as espers. For all I know maybe Kasakabe's one too."
A chill goes up Kai's spine. "I'll have to think about that." Kai rubs her forehead. "Right now let's get to Grand Endeavor, deliver those writs, and get paid. We can decide what to do about them afterwards."
Zan nods. "Right Captain. But, I'm going to keep my eye on them and I'd advise you to do the same."
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