Jak Phoenix

  ***

  “Sir, they started a course toward the moon just before we passed around the dark side and lost tracking on them.”

  “Brilliant,” said Murdock. “Have you got a reading on that ship yet?” He could have checked himself since he had all the systems at hand, but he needed to challenge the crew.

  “The Galactic Guard databank shows that ship belonging to someone named Dodge Stonewall.”

  The crew turned to look at Murdock after no response was given for an extended length of time. They heard nothing but could clearly see his eyes watering. He massaged his moustache as he contemplated his next move.

  “Sir, are you aware of him?”

  So the friends of Jak Phoenix had decided to chase after him. It was pathetic really. Their attempts at a recovery of the crates of valuables would be unsuccessful and would now possibly result in a loss of life. How unfortunate.

  “Drop eight deactivated magneto mines here and move out of their range.”

  “Aye, sir.”

  “Once clear, turn the ship around to face the area. I want the engines running in full reverse to defeat the orbit. We shall wait and observe the results.”

  “Magneto mines have been dispersed, sir.”

  The crew moved the ship to Murdock’s requested position and activated the thrusters, keeping the ship stationary in the perpetual orbit of the moon.

  “In position now, sir.”

  “Charge all weapons and prepare to activate the mines.”