Chapter 9: Bounty

2 1 0
                                    

In the reaches of space, the humpback makes its way towards the planet Avos to resupply for the rest of the journey. Unbeknownst to them, a ship known as H3L1-C0PR helicoprion stalks the republic ship. The helicoprion is operated by a band of bounty hunters who take notice of the humpback.

"So that's our bounty huh?" Asks bounty hunter Jiran.

"Yep. It's bigger in person than in pictures. Lets follow it. Preferably without getting its attention." Says Tarrus, driving the helicoprion as close as possible.

The helicoprion follows the humpback closely, avoiding detection. The humpback, needing equipment and food for travel, lands on Avos to resupply. The helicoprion lands close to the humpback. The bounty hunters watch as the crew of the humpback leaves to get the supplies for the rest of the journey. With the crew out of the ship, the bounty hunters make their way inside the ship and into the captains quarters. They search all over for something, something of importance for their client. Just then, Farron walks into the captains quarters and sees the bounty hunters. Without hesitation, the bounty hunters point their guns at Captain Farron.

"Don't even try anything Captain!" Says Jiran, keeping his gun pointed at Farron.

"Brett. Oran. Go search for the files. The sooner we find them, the sooner we get paid." Ordered Tarrus.

Oran and Brett search through the quarters for the files. Eventually, Oran finds the files in Farrons desk. Oran looks through the files and finds mentions of the ancient technology. The bounty hunters also discover the plans for the ancient technology. With this knowledge, Jiran demands to know the specifics of this tech.

"You know. I was hoping to settle this matter civility instead of violence. But I see this is not a scenario that warrants civility. At least I can show you why I am the captain." Farron says as he grabs Jiran's and tarrus' guns and slammed the bounty hunters together, knocking them out instantly.

Farron takes the guns and shoots both Oran and Brett. Oran is hit and falls to the ground dropping the files. Brett dodges and tries to shoot back but is pinned down by the talons of Farron. The Captain grabs each of the bounty hunters and ties them up. Tarrus regains consciousness and tries to break free. He stops struggling upon noticing the gun pointed at his face.

"Here's how we'll settle this. You are going to tell me who your client is or I'll just leave your bodies in the vacuum of space. So start talking." Says Farron threatening the bounty hunters.

"Heh. Please. I know you republic types. There's no way in hell you'd actually go through with such a threat." Tarrus says, assuming Farron is bluffing.

"Care to flip that coin and find out?" Responds Farron.

Realizing the Captain is not bluffing, Tarrus tells Farron that the bounty hunters were hired by the federation. The federation had paid the bounty hunter to retrieve any information on the ancient technology and even the tech itself. With this info in hand, Farron takes the bounty hunter and dumps them on the grassy plains of Avos. Just then, the crew returns with fresh supplies for the rest of the journey. The bounty hunters watch helplessly as the resupplied humpback takes off and leaves the planet behind. Back in his quarters, Farron can't help but think about what Tarrus told him. The idea that the federation might also be after the tech scares Farron and leaves him worried about his crew. One thing's for certain, they need to get this tech back to Earth soon and make sure it doesn't fall into the hands of the federation.

Voyage: Journey to EarthWhere stories live. Discover now