by M. D. Cooper
“What do you mean by low?” Ed scratched Dex’s ears.
“Oh, you know. No embezzling scandals, no extortion attempts, no unexplained explosions.”
Ed pouted. “That was last year.”
“More like last month.” Reece raised an eyebrow at her.
“Was that that recent? Time flies. Anyway, fine, no scandals until you collect your little man here.”
Fitzmiller seemed torn between taking offense to being called a little man and being flattered by being the object of her attention.
Reece decided he was in good hands, and that the pair would get along just fine until she squared things away with Rexcare.
“Well,” she said, “you two have fun. I’ll contact you when it’s safe to come out of hiding.”
“Okay, but you still owe me a longer visit so we can have some fun.” Ed pointed at her in warning.
“Soon,” Reece promised, hoping she was telling the truth.
* * * * *
When she finally planted her feet on Akonwara’s surface, Reece felt so overwhelmed with relief that she weak-kneed.
“People won’t have a problem with Dex?” Trey asked as they walked toward the waiting taxi.
She could have summoned a Rexcare driver, but she wanted to give Schramm as little notice as possible.
“No. Akonwarans love animals. I bet he’ll be quite popular.” She looked at the monkey, with his tail curled around Trey’s neck and his little eyes bright with curiosity.
“Even at Rexcare? Maybe I settle him in a room before we go.”
“Nah, bring him,” she said. “After we work out this deal, you can negotiate a long-term contract that specifically addresses him.”
They got in the taxi, and Trey smiled at her. “So you’re okay with me being employed there long-term? It might mean being partnered with me again.”
Reece wrinkled her nose at him. “You’ve had your moments here and there. You even came in handy once. I could do worse.”
“Once?” he said in mock outrage.
“Maybe twice.”
“And what happens if we don’t make this deal happen?” he asked.
She imagined what it would be like to lose her job, her home, and her stability. “Not worth thinking about. We’re going to make this happen. For us, and for the doc, and for all the people that stand to benefit.”
Trey let out a slow breath. “You know, I actually thought this job was going to be simple. Track a dude down. Bring back some documents. No problem. How did it get so much more complicated?”
Reece looked at him, all joking aside. “Because the galaxy is complicated, and trouble rolls downhill.”
He smiled. “Where I come from, we say that a different way, but I get what you mean.”
With his synthetic eyes camouflaged, and his increasing familiarity with her way of life, she could almost forget he was from somewhere else. Until he said something like that. It was funny considering how alien he’d initially seemed to her.
“What are you smiling about?” he asked.
“I’m not.”
“Yes, you are,” he insisted.
“This is just how I look when I’m about to win.” She schooled her lips into a grim expression.
“Yeah, okay,” he agreed “Let’s go win, then.”
THE NEGOTIATION
DATE: 04.15.8948 (Adjusted Gregorian)
LOCATION: Ohiyo, Akonwara
REGION: Machete System, PED 4B, Orion Freedom Alliance
It was a tricky thing, to extort one’s employer. When Reece, Trey, and Schramm sat down in a large conference room at Rexcare headquarters, she was aware of the power imbalance, the danger to her livelihood, and the foolhardiness of what they were doing.
But she was also aware of the many planets in the Orion Freedom Alliance, and the mind-boggling number of people who lived on them. Most of those people weren’t like Schramm Matthews and the other execs who were so fancy that they needed two names.
Most of them were like her. And Trey. And even hairy little Dex, who was sitting on the conference table, happily eating a pile of peanuts while Schramm pretended not to notice him.
People like her did the majority of the living and dying in the OFA, so why shouldn’t they, every once in a while, get the chance to live just a little bit better?
Schramm listened carefully, expressing little, even when Reece arrived at that part about the patent.
“The research is safe, and ready to be returned to you in its entirety. In spite of everything, no other entity has gotten access to it. Trey and I haven’t even been able to access it, so the data is secure and the mission was entirely successful,” Reece concluded.
“That’s very good to hear,” Schramm said. “This was an unusually difficult assignment, but I’m impressed with how well you two did. Clearly, the partnership served us well.”
“Yup, we’re all fired up for our next mission,” Trey said, with gusto. “Before we do, though, there’s one tiny detail about Fitzmiller’s research that we should point out.”
Schramm looked from Trey to Reece. “And that is?”
Reece had carefully considered how to relay this part of the conversation. “In the course of our investigation, we visited a lovely little cottage industry farm. Pretty place, and not far from here. Anyway, Trey and I were really impressed with the farm and the tea we had, and we decided to invest in that farmer’s future. To become stakeholders, in a way.”
Schramm gave her the tiniest frown. “I don’t see how that’s relevant. Employee investments are none of Rexcare’s concern. We encourage creating a diverse portfolio.”
“It doesn’t pertain to our employment contracts,” Reece assured him. “Those were fulfilled in their entirety. Or will be, anyway, as soon as you download the research. But our side investment does mean we’ll have to draw up a licensing agreement between us and Rexcare, so it is tangentially related.”
“Explain.” Schramm’s frown deepened.
“You know how it is,” Trey said. “You notice a business opportunity that no one else has spotted, and you jump on it before anyone else can. So, Reece and I registered a patent on one of the farm’s hybrids that we felt was going to really be something valuable. The creator, the woman who owns Fulton Farms, will receive seventy-five percent of any licensing of her unique invention. Reece and I will split the rest.”
“You and Reece,” Schramm repeated.
“Well, our scientific consultant will get a cut, too,” Trey said.
“Scientific consultant. I’m going to guess that his name is Fitzmiller. Is that right?” Schramm stared at Trey, unblinking.
“That’s right. He’s really good with all the science bits,” Trey said with great sincerity, and not even the slightest bit of humor.
After a long pause, Schramm said, “I see. Would it be correct to assume that when I receive Fitzmiller’s research, I’ll find that this patent you’ve registered involves a plant Rexcare will require to manufacture the appropriate treatment?”
Trey nodded. “Ah, so you’re really good at the science bits too.”
Reece fought hard not to smile at Trey’s deeply serious expression.
Schramm folded his hands together on the table. “No, for me it’s all about the business side of it.” He inclined his head toward them slightly. “Well played. Though I’d caution you to consider that your continuing employment with Rexcare could suffer if the price of licensing the trademark were to cost the company too dearly. We only have so much funding to go around.”
Reece smiled, feeling the familiar rush of impending negotiations. “Why don’t we settle on fair terms and pricing now, along with updating our employment contracts? The sooner that’s out of the way, the sooner we can start helping people.”
“Of course,” Schramm agreed. “Helping people is what we’re all about at Rexcare.”
Right. Of course it was.
Mentally, Reece cracked her knuckles, readying for the battle of wits and
wills, which would represent the unique corporate mix of congeniality and cutthroat ruthlessness.
Just the way she liked it.
* * * * *
In the privacy of her bedroom, Reece waited for Ed to answer her call. When her face appeared on the display, Reece had to smile.
“Getting ready for a performance?” she asked.
Ed wore a tall, flame-red hairdo that extended up to some point Reece couldn’t see.
“Just trying out a new act,” Ed said. “It’s not ready yet. We’re having trouble keeping the fire safely contained.”
“I guess burning customers is bad for business.”
“Definitely. So what’s the word? Did you wrap things up?”
“Yep. As soon as Fitzmiller delivers the research to Rexcare, he’s free to resume his life.”
“Want me to pass on the message, or do you want to talk to him yourself?” Ed asked.
“I sent him the details, so he probably already knows. But I wanted to tell you, and thank you for your help.”
Ed brightened. “Does this mean you’re coming for a visit soon? For some old-fashioned fun?”
Reece wasn’t sure what old-fashioned fun would entail, but with Ed, no doubt a good time would be had by all. “Yes. Just give me a few weeks, okay? I need a break from travel.”
“Yeah. Can’t blame you. I don’t sleep well unless I’m in my own bed. But no more than a month, okay?”
“I think I can manage that.”
Ed leaned closer to the screen. “Will the big guy with the little monkey still be around? He could come, too.”
“He will. He just signed a shiny new contract with Rexcare.”
“Well, that’s good. You two seemed to get along. Any chance you two might—” Ed made a gesture with her hands that Reece didn’t recognize, but didn’t want to think about too hard in case she figured it out.
“If you’re saying what I think you’re saying, no. No chance. But we’re going out tonight to celebrate his new contract.”
Ed gave her a knowing look.
Reece laughed. “I’m serious. We’re just friends, and colleagues.”
“Okay, fine. Tell him I said congrats on the contract, and I’ll see you guys soon.”
The holodisplay went dark. Reece set it aside and gave Rio an ear rub. A deep rumbling purr conveyed his appreciation.
“I’m going out for a bit, but I’ll see you in a few hours.” She ran her fingers through her hair, straightened her jacket and checked the time. If she didn’t walk too fast, she’d get to the Ringtoad just as Kippy was opening it.
Aunt Ruth had gone out, but she’d no doubt be watching game shows when Reece returned.
As Reece stepped out into the glaring light of Akonwara’s evening, the heat hit her like a furnace blast, and she immediately began to sweat. It felt good, though, to be home, roasting under the light of Akon’s two stars.
* * * * *
“You’re back.” Kippy grinned at Reece.
“I see you saved my seat for me.” She slid into it.
“Well, I just opened, and you’re the only person here…but yeah, sure, I saved it for you.”
She laughed.
“How’d it go? You were gone a while.” He poured her a whiskey and sat it in front of her, his eyes showing concern.
“It was one of my tougher jobs,” she admitted. “I’m glad to be home.”
“How did things go with that guy you were forced to work with? I bet you’re glad to be rid of him.”
She wrapped her hand around the glass. “Actually, he’s okay. And he’s sticking around, too. He should be here in about an hour.”
Kippy chuckled. “You made friends with him? After running out the back to ditch him?”
“Yep. He couldn’t resist my charm. Oh, and he picked up a mouse monkey on Iagentci, so he may or may not bring him in here.”
“A rodent in my bar?” Kippy grimaced.
“Monkeys aren’t rodents. Jeez, read a book every now and then.”
“You calling me dumb?”
“Yes,” she said.
“Ah, okay. Just making sure. Anyway, how did you do out there? With your space phobia thing? Did you scream a lot?”
She snorted. “No. I didn’t always sleep well, and FTL was…horrible. But there was no screaming at all.”
“Come on,” he prodded. “Not even once? You’re lying.”
“I’m not. I was really preoccupied. Like I said, it was a tough one.”
“Well, I’m glad you’re back. I bet Rio and Aunt Ruth are too.”
“Rio is. Aunt Ruth will be, when she gets home. I left her a note.” She sipped her whiskey. “You know, I helped some people with this job.”
“You mean you helped some execs get even richer?” He shrugged.
“No, not execs. I mean people.” She reached across the bar and gripped his forearm, gently turning it over and running her thumb over the unnatural bend where it had once broken. “People like us.”
She wished she could tell him all the details, but part of her deal with Schramm had included a nondisclosure agreement about the job, Fitzmiller’s research, and the treatment that would come of it.
Kippy brought his other hand over to catch and hold Reece’s. “That’s good. So why do you look sad when you say that?”
“I don’t know. I guess I’m sad that people like us need help.”
He gave her hand a gentle squeeze. “A lot of us will help ourselves. We did. And if you can help others along the way too, then I’d say you’re doing great.”
“Yeah?”
“Yeah.” He patted her hand, then let go. He always made her feel better. “So! There’s been a group of five cargo haulers coming here the last couple nights. If they come tonight, I bet I could pick a fight for you.”
Reece grinned and downed her whiskey. “I’ve had enough fighting for a little while.” She thought for a moment. “Maybe tomorrow.”
They were laughing by the time Trey arrived.
“I hear you’re sticking around for a while.” Kippy sat a whiskey in front of him. “Here’s one on the house for not getting my girl killed out there.”
Trey shrugged, then tossed back the liquid in one gulp.
“Next one will cost you, though,” Kippy said with a grin. “I’m not running a charity, and I hear you’re gainfully employed now.”
“Until your girl gets me killed. Because I’m pretty sure she will.” Trey looked Kippy right in the eye as he said it.
Kippy looked surprised, then uncertain. Then he burst out laughing. “I guess we’ll see what happens. Between you and me, she’s always tended to attract trouble. Almost like it’s magnetically drawn to her.”
Trey frowned at her, looking serious. “This doesn’t bode well for me, does it?”
Reece grinned, reached for the second whiskey Kippy poured for Trey—the one that wasn’t free—and tossed it back. “Here’s to finding out.”
THE END
* * * * *
Pick up book to and follow the further adventures of Reece and Trey (not to mention Dex) as they investigate something very personal: a violent attack on her favorite whiskey distillery.
Pre-order Gunning for Trouble (coming May 2018) on Amazon.
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THE BOOKS OF AEON 14
Keep up to date with what is releasing in Aeon 14 with the free Aeon 14 Reading Guide.
The Intrepid Saga (The Age of Terra)
- Book 1: Outsystem
- Book 2: A Path in the Darkness
- Book 3: Building Victoria
- The Intrepid Saga Omnibus – Also contains Destiny Lost, book 1 of the Orion War series
&nb
sp; - Destiny Rising – Special Author’s Extended Edition comprised of both Outsystem and A Path in the Darkness with over 100 pages of new content.
The Orion War
- Book 1: Destiny Lost
- Book 2: New Canaan
- Book 3: Orion Rising
- Book 4: The Scipio Alliance
- Book 5: Attack on Thebes
- Book 6: War on a Thousand Fronts (May 2018)
- Book 7: Fallen Empire (2018)
- Book 8: Airtha Ascendancy (2018)
- Book 9: The Orion Front (2018)
- Book 10: Starfire (2019)
- Book 11: Race Across Time (2019)
- Book 12: Return to Sol (2019)
Tales of the Orion War
- Book 1: Set the Galaxy on Fire
- Book 2: Ignite the Stars
- Book 3: Burn the Galaxy to Ash (2018)
Perilous Alliance (Age of the Orion War - with Chris J. Pike)
- Book 1: Close Proximity
- Book 2: Strike Vector
- Book 3: Collision Course
- Book 4: Impact Imminent (April 2018)
Rika’s Marauders (Age of the Orion War)
- Prequel: Rika Mechanized
- Book 1: Rika Outcast
- Book 2: Rika Redeemed
- Book 3: Rika Triumphant
- Book 4: Rika Commander (April 2018)
- Book 5: Rika Unleashed (2018)
- Book 6: Rika Infiltrator (2018)
- Book 7: Rika Conqueror (2019)
Perseus Gate (Age of the Orion War)
Season 1: Orion Space
- Episode 1: The Gate at the Grey Wolf Star
- Episode 2: The World at the Edge of Space
- Episode 3: The Dance on the Moons of Serenity
- Episode 4: The Last Bastion of Star City
- Episode 5: The Toll Road Between the Stars
- Episode 6: The Final Stroll on Perseus’s Arm
