Phantom Regency
Chapter 20

Baslim Engine Works Debuts New Line of XL Nova Engines

Capital City, Ostia Dominion - Skydate 518.91 GE –

Today Del Baslim, CEO of Baslim Engine Works will host a press conference to announce the roll out of a new line of extra light nova engines. Using new alloys and lighter components B.E.W. engineers claim that the new engines will produce the same amount of power with barely half of the mass. In testing they claimed a 30% increase in acceleration and a 20% decrease in fuel rod decay.

Sky Admiral Zylar of the STARegency Skyforce had this to say, “We will put the claims of Baslim’s engineers to the test. If our ships can maneuver better and use up less fuel, we will begin using the engines in our new line of phantom warships.”

RNN had a private conference call with Del Baslim yesterday. “Our goal is always to push the envelope. The greatest enemy to the galaxy is stagnation. I for one will not accept things as they are. I refuse to label anything as impossible. Instead, Baslim Engine Works will always find new ways to make the production and use of energy more efficient and more effective,” was his comment.

Today’s ceremonies will usher in a new era in phantom travel. Faster, lighter and more powerful ships will open up new hope for increased trade and expansion.

-Garrus Thexlar, Regency Network News.

Eamor had a seven-day trip in the freighter pod. He spoke often to Sky Man about the future. It seemed incredible to him that he would lead a great number of people to an unknown planet, build a fleet of ships and stop a galactic war.

And yet, Sky Man was already making the way open. Xim had phantom cylinders for them, he was on his way to meet his grandfather who knew where the exiles were, and he had one of the finest tactical minds in the galaxy as well as one of the best engineers. And best of all, Sky Man had brought him the girl of his dreams. One day from their descendants would come the Liberator, the return of Yoshun.

He finished his reading in the Phantom Rites. He was struck by how strongly the old Thaxians believed in Sky Man’s involvement in their lives. Their religion was built around the idea that no phantom energy could operate without the direct involvement of Sky Man. So much so that each time they turned on an engine, navigated a ship, or fired a weapon they invoked his help. A Thaxian adept in the old days would perform a ritual and speak a blessing every time he would operate phantom cylinders. Eamor could see how it had quickly deteriorated into empty words and gestures.

But he also saw the principle at work. No one, even a Regent, fully understood the tremendous power available through each phantom vessel. At least the old Thaxians never totally took it for granted. Eamor saw it in his own life. He had used and manipulated phantom energy, but had no idea what he was doing; it was all instinct. He only knew that Sky Man was present in his life and helped him.

The freighter pod was unloaded onto Ostia. Shortly after it touched down Eamor could hear indistinct movements and voices outside. After a few minutes, the hatch began to open.

“Alright men, fan out, search the pod. Let’s find our stowaway,” a voice said.

Eamor hid behind some crates in the corner. He saw several men in uniforms enter the pod and begin looking around. His hand strayed to his nerve stick.

Wait, a voice said in his head.

Eamor let go of the nerve stick and waited. One of the men found him.

“Kneel on the ground, hands on the floor! Now!” he said.

Eamor obeyed.

“Lieutenant! I found him.”

The lieutenant rushed up with several men. He looked younger than Eamor, fresh faced and scared out of his wits. His nerve stick shook in his hand. He ordered his men to subdue the prisoner. They searched Eamor, took his weapon, and fitted him with a nerve collar. “Come with us,” the lieutenant ordered.

They marched Eamor out of the pod and across the sun-drenched field. The Ostian skyport was huge, with ships and buildings as far as the eye could see. Freighter pods were stacked three high in some areas. Some were emblazoned with the colorful logos of the merchant princes of Ostia, who ruled the major trade routes. Cargo was being loaded, unloaded and moved in vast quantities. He had heard that this planet was the nerve center of trade in the Ostia Dominion, and in the galaxy at large.

An older man in a similar uniform approached them. He had an ion gun slung in a fancy holster on his left hip. He had numerous patches on his uniform. The lieutenant and his men saluted him.

“Where are you taking this man?” he asked the lieutenant.

“He was a stowaway Colonel Jellal,” he replied, “I am taking him to the bunker.”

“No, you’re not, this one is mine,” he said with a sideways smile.

One of the men grabbed Eamor and marched him over to the colonel, who grabbed him by the arm and began marching away. The lieutenant and his men fell in behind them.

“I don’t need a troop of Regency Rangers babysitting me!” Colonel Jellal yelled.

“You are dismissed!”

“But, sir…” The lieutenant’s objection died on his lips when the colonel turned and glared at him.

Eamor was led across the field for several minutes. He asked once where they were going but was quickly shushed. They passed a large stack of bright green pods with Cayman Daxler’s griffin logo and a familiar ship came into view. Eamor stifled his joy at the sight of the Sky Lady. His mind raced at how he could escape.

Wait, the voice echoed in his head again.

Eamor was shocked when the colonel led him straight for the ship and marched him up the ramp and on board.

The main hatched opened to reveal Swoop with shotgun drawn. The colonel shoved Eamor aside and drew his own weapon instinctively.

They stared each other down for several seconds. Swoop began to chuckle softly, soon joined by Colonel Jellal. They laughed louder and louder and re-holstered their weapons.

“Lefty, Lefty, Lefty….” Swoop said grinning. “It took you long enough.”

“Sorry, I had to wait for lieutenant baby face to do his job first.” Lefty beckoned for Eamor to follow him into the ship.

“Thanks a million Lefty, I owe you one,” Swoop said.

“Anytime,” he replied, “But I think I still owe you a few.”

Lefty removed the nerve collar, clapped Eamor on the back and headed back down the ramp.

“Swoop!” Eamor ran up and hugged the diminutive smuggler, actually lifting him off the ground. “Thank you.” Swoop had cut off his braid. His small shock of hair was now spiked straight up several inches above his head.

“I believe that evens up our score, Kid” Swoop said with a wink.

“Who’s your friend?” a female voice asked.

“Yeah, introduce us,” said another.

Eamor looked behind Swoop. Two identical women were walking up behind him. They were as tiny as Swoop but voluptuous. Every curve showed beneath the fabric of their tight, neon green jumpsuits.

“Girls, girls. Pray contain yourselves. This is Eamor. He is spoken for.”

“How quaint,” said one, “You’re not spoken for, are you Swoop honey.” They had walked up and draped themselves over each of his shoulders.

“Never! Eamor, these are the twins, Joella and Roella, my new bodyguards,” he said with a laugh.

“Bodyguards, hmmph,” said the computer voice of the Lady. “Welcome back Eamor.”

“Thanks,” Eamor said. “Swoop, how did you know I was on planet? I am supposed to meet Talon and my uncle here.”

“I am aware of it. Rylen is in town setting up your meeting. Musclehead is up in the cockpit.”

“Yes! So, where do you fit in? Joining us again?” Eamor grinned.

Swoop frowned. “Girls, be dears and go into town and get us a suite at the Platinum Sky for tonight.”

“Aye, aye, captain,” Joella said with a smirk. As they sauntered past Eamor, Roella ran a finger along his broad shoulder.

“Are they not amazing?” Swoop asked.

“I… well, I only have eyes for one… Swoop, do you really like living like this?”

Swoop struck a thoughtful pose. “I believe I do. Do Regents dole out relationship advice as part of their duties?”

“Sorry. Not my business. How did you meet up with Talon and Uncle Rylen?” Sᴇaʀ*ᴄh the FindNøvᴇl.nᴇt website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

“By my good fortune, I met them here yesterday. They said you were coming in and had no assurance of getting you out safely. Luckily your old compatriot Swoop Longleaf knows some people. This is my native planet. Many years I dwelt here before I built the Lady. I procured a fortune in engine development, grew tired of being chained to a rock, sold my business, and embarked on my present fantastic career,” he explained.

Talon walked into the room. “Eamor, how did it go?”

“It was amazing. I need to send an update to Ailan. Let’s go to the office and I’ll fill you in as I am writing.”

“I shall tag along,” Swoop added, “Whatever did you say to the high and mighty Regent? I must know.”

Eamor spent the next couple hours recounting his visit. The wheels in Talon’s tactical mind began racing immediately. How could they get past Freedom Fortress and steal 48 phantom cylinders? Even with help on the inside they would need a couple of capital ships. Sky Man would have to make a way.

That evening Swoop headed into town for some entertainment. Rylen returned. He looked worn and tired.

“Was it that rough?” Talon asked.

Rylen sighed. “I hadn’t seen him in almost twenty years. He is difficult to talk to. He blames me for the death of my brother-in-law, your father” he said turning to Eamor, “Thankfully, he wants an opportunity to convince you to turn from me and join him. He no longer trusts Sky Man and does not believe in our visions. He seeks a political solution for the exiles. He wants you to be a part of it Eamor.”

“But, we need him to join us. He must help us find the exile colony so we can lead them out of the Regency. Do you think I can convince him?” Eamor asked.

“Del Baslim is shrewd and wise. He is not persuaded by anyone. You will not be able to convince him of anything. You must trust Sky Man to lead you.”

“When will I see him?”

Rylen produced an identity bracelet and a set of business clothes. “You will travel to his office tomorrow at 0900. You have an appointment under the name Fraemin Dexman. He will only meet you alone. Talon and I will remain here and speak to Sky Man on your behalf. I am hoping tonight he will visit you with wisdom and guidance. Now, tell me about your visit with Xim.”

Eamor told his tale once again. Rylen wept at the mention of Zangor’s death.

“He was a great man. I met him once many years ago. We were at the Sky Temple on Yoshun. The Regent was in attendance that day, Xim’s father, I think. As I was leaving, I walked by the line of acolytes. Zangor was quite old even then. He stopped me and spoke words over me. I can never remember them exactly but he told me I was gifted and would be a servant of Sky Man all my life. Something awoke inside me that day. I...” He fell silent.

Eamor added, “We must speak to Sky Man of Xim often. He is there alone now. We arranged for me to send someone in a few days before the raid so he can help us from the inside. I have a prearranged shipping order using Zangor’s system. It may be a one-way mission for whoever we send.”

That night Rylen turned in early. He was spent emotionally and mentally. Talon and Eamor talked for a while about the inevitable raid on the Nexus. Eamor was impressed with Talon’s vast experience. Talon in turn was impressed with Eamor’s resolve. He seemed to have grown up over night. He was confident and sure of his future. He inspired all those around him. Talon found himself shifting from big brother to loyal follower.

Eamor stayed up half the night speaking to Sky Man. He was earnest in his desire to impact his grandfather. His heart went out to the thousands of exiles whose wait was almost over. He slept well but had no dreams.

In the morning, Rylen ordered a luxury hovercar to take Eamor to his meeting. At the last minute, Talon elected to accompany him. He would wait with the car until Eamor was done. He wanted to be sure Eamor had a friend close at hand.

They rode for several minutes into the heart of the city. Huge buildings soared overhead. They were both impressed at the architecture. Ostia was a rich world and its capital showed it. Many of the most remarkable structures in the galaxy were here.

The most awe-inspiring of all was Baslim Engine Works headquarters. The bulk of the building was a flattened spheroid several hundred feet in the air. It was supported on a tapering, needle-like column. Surrounding the column were seven beams of energy shooting from the ground up to the structure high above. They scintillated with different colors. Speculation was endless as to whether they helped stabilize the structure or were simply decorative.

Eamor got out, went into the lobby and introduced himself as instructed. He was sent up in a special elevator to the penthouse office. On the long ride up, he listened for any last word from Sky Man.

The elevator doors opened into what seemed like open air. In actuality, he was under a huge transparent dome about sixty feet across. It was impossible to define it as a garden, an office, or a lounge. It was all three at once. There were numerous plants and a couple of fountains. Several desks and sitting areas were dotted throughout. Holo-art was prevalent along with what appeared to be some real and extremely valuable works.

An impressive old man approached Eamor. His countenance was severe. He was richly dressed and had a thick mane of white hair. He was larger than average but by no means fat.

“Eamor, my boy. Let me have a look at you,” he said with genuine friendliness. “You were barely two the last time I laid eyes on you.”

He grabbed Eamor by each shoulder and studied his face for a moment.

“Grandfather, it is good to meet you. I did not even know of your existence until recently.”

The old man’s eyes flashed with anger. “That is Rylen’s doing. I did not want him to keep you from me. I could have saved you from much trouble. Is it true you were actually a pirate?”

“I was one of the Dread Knights for a few years,” Eamor replied.

Del Baslim’s face registered surprise for a brief moment at the mention of Dread, but quickly faded. He made a dismissive gesture with his hand. “None of that matters anymore. You have come back. Come, sit, and let me tell you a little about myself.”

Del proceeded to give Eamor a brief history of his life. He was born at the exile colony and worked for some years as a ship’s engineer. From what Eamor could understand the exile colony was nothing more than a vast number of ships moored together. One of the few contacts that knew of the exiles happened to be an entrepreneur from Ostia. He recruited Del to help him with a new business. The Rimworld Engine Works exploded on the scene and became one of the richest companies in the galaxy in no time. Some years later Del took over the company and renamed it after his assumed name, further removing himself from his past and heritage.

He still cared for his family and over the years sent much support back to the colony. In recent years, he had been working on a plan to somehow take advantage of the growing power vacuum in the galaxy and wrest control back from the Vlademors. He gave little detail but Eamor gathered that he was financing a group that was working in secret to build arms to intervene in the coming galactic breakdown.

“So, you see grandson, I am still looking out for you and our family. I have even hired and deployed a group of Evanthan battle cruisers to protect the exile fleet. I would like very much for you to go there. They need a banner to rally around. They need to have hope. I will soon have the power I need to restore our family to prominence. You could be the Regent with my backing. You could bring peace back to the galaxy.”

The old man’s words were persuasive. He had an overpowering personality. Eamor could see how he had built such a formidable business empire so quickly. He asked Sky Man in his heart to help him stay focused on his true destiny.

“Grandfather, I would very much like to visit the exiles at some point. My heart goes out to them. With the help of Sky Man, I will do all I can for them.”

“Sky Man!” the old man scoffed, “The sooner you stop believing those fairy tales the better. Eamor, our enemies are real. Your enemies are real. The M.S.P. and the Authority will never stop hunting you. With me at your side, you can be free. You will have the power to stop them. I will arrange a place for you here on Ostia. We can begin making plans right away.”

“I appreciate your offer. I can only follow my own destiny as it is opened to me. I…”

Del interrupted, “That is your uncle talking. Don’t you see he has brainwashed you? You are believing in falsehoods. Get away from the fanatics. Let’s get real here. I can provide you with the resources to fulfill your destiny. I know the location of the exile colony, six thousand loyal followers. I can give you ships and weapons. Weapons you can only dream of. I know the ins and outs of the Regency government. Join me and our family will control the Regency once again.”

A desire to agree arose in Eamor. Del’s voice was quite persuasive. Talon, Swoop and the Watchers seemed much weaker by comparison. Maybe Sky Man wanted grandfather to help him. He was family after all. His will continued to waver.

“Eamor, will you return to your family? Will you let me help you?”

Sky Man. Eamor quieted his thoughts. He felt a presence. He felt evil. He saw a scaly, reptilian face in his mind. Del was in league with the dragons! Eamor didn’t know how he knew, but he knew.

“I am sorry, grandfather. I will remember you always. I am not permitted to follow you now.”

“Eamor, I… Shouldn’t you… I mean…” He was strangely and suddenly at a loss for words. Del could not understand what was happening. He felt like his heart and mind were weighed down. He could no longer put two thoughts together. It felt like a presence or power in the room was pressing on him.

“Grandfather, give me the co-ordinates of the exile colony.” Eamor spoke softly but with great authority.

Without thinking, Del reached for the console beside him and produced a memory cube. He handed it to Eamor.

“Thank you Grandfather. Do not worry, I will visit the exiles. I will speak to Sky Man of you.” He arose and headed for the elevator. Del rose and followed.

“It was good to see you,” Eamor said.

Del’s wits were returning, “You too, grandson. Please keep in touch.”

“I will sir. Thank you for all that you have done for our family. I am sorry it took so long to meet you. I hope to see you again.”

They embraced briefly and Eamor left.

On the ride back, Eamor shared excitedly about how the power of Sky Man filled the room and allowed him to get what he came for. Eamor felt bad for his grandfather. He was so far removed from his legacy. Del could have had the gift of Yoshun, but never chose to believe and now was trapped in pride and greed. Eamor wondered if he would ever see the truth.

That evening Talon, Rylen and Eamor were discussing plans to somehow charter a ship to visit the exiles. They had some contacts on Sky’s End that they could trust but even getting back there was risky. Eamor could not travel under his true identity. Swoop barged into the conversation and offered to be Eamor’s private pilot for a season once again.

“Kid, I am to help you again for a while. If you asked me why, I am certain I could not tell you. Perhaps because I am flush with cash and doubtless need a new form of amusement.” He paused thoughtfully. The bravado drained from his voice. “I truly hope you fulfill your destiny. I do not yet trust in myths, but I believe in you.”

It was with great reluctance he agreed that the twins should remain on Ostia.

Rylen was okay with the idea. Talon was not sure. The magnitude of the secret was too great. They could not risk the life of thousands of exiles that had remained loyal to the old Thaxian line for generations.

In the end, it was agreed that Eamor would pilot the Sky Lady to the exiles and Swoop would not be told the location.

They left Ostia and headed for the zenith shift point to leave the system. Eamor was alone in the cockpit. They were halfway out from the planet when a ship shifted in just a few hundred miles ahead. It was illegal for ships to shift in so close to a major system. Eamor called the others and prepared for battle if needed.

As the other ship closed, their worst fears were realized. It was a SERPENT Authority capital ship. It was huge and bristled with weapons.

Talon entered the cockpit. “That’s a Dominator class ship. They aren’t playing games. We have to get away.”

Eamor began evasive maneuvers; Swoop and Rylen went to man the turrets.

A voice message came through. “This is Captain Drake Anslar of the Dominator. Is Talon Vasloch on board? I need with speak to him.”

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