Ancient history! This story was written in 1999 by myself and Isegrim as part of a collaborative fiction project. The project was named Galaxy Corps - the Blade of Fire, and this story was part of the 'Tinheart Insurrection' storyline.

This first chunk was written by myself...

‘So good to hear from you again, Ms Francis. I trust you are well?’

‘Very well, thank you. And yourself?’

‘Our last venture proved very profitable. It’s always a pleasure working with you.’

A slender vessel drifted lazily between the stars, deathly quiet but for the hum of it’s engines and the minute sounds of automated systems performing their duties. The 'Avaricious heart' was a beautiful ship, a swan poised ready to take to the air. Deep within, it’s owner, Diana Francis, was about her business.

‘I have a little errand you might find worthwhile. A hardware pick-up.’

‘If it’s a simple pick-up, why aren’t you using your usual channels?’

Diana laughed. ‘This calls for your... special skills, my old friend. You never turned down a challenge before.’

‘We both know that’s not entirely true.’

The chamber was dark, save for the soft glow of a high-definition com-screen. Diana reclined in a voluptuous leather chair and examined her nails.

After a moment’s pause, the face on the screen spoke. ‘I need details before I take the job, Diana.’

‘Of course, of course. It’s come to our attention that the Fenrir are utilising some rather special hardware.’

‘I’m sure I wouldn’t know about that, Diana. I’m hardly on good terms with the Fenrir.’

‘Not a problem. I want you to steal a sample.’ She brushed a fingertip over the screen. ‘I’m sending you details now.’

As the face on the screen glanced aside to study the data, Diana continued talking. ‘It’s a mek. We only need one, but we’ll pay for as many as you can obtain.’

‘What of the pilots?’

Diana raised an eyebrow, then shrugged, disinterested. ‘By all means, bring me a live one if you can, but don't go out of your way.’ She smiled expansively. ‘I’m sure they’re not worth the effort.’

‘If you say so.’ The other’s voice was deliberately deadpan. ‘The target’s location?’

‘A squad is being assigned to the vendorian defense station as we speak. Do you think you could be a dear and go fetch one for me?’

‘Security is tight. Getting them off the station is going to be difficult, Diana.’

Diana almost purred. ‘I’m sure you’ll think of something.’

‘I’m sure I will.’ A pause. ‘Let’s talk numbers.’

Chapters...