The Klindoran War

By Eric B. Thomasma

Prime is not the only life-supporting planet in the Solenty system. The third planet, Klindor, has a civilization dating back to before the Days of Slowdon, and in those ancient times, a Klindoran astronomer witnessed an event that gave rise to a new religion. The Light Of Jango grew in membership and influence, but when a subsequent event threatened their power, they plunged their society into centuries of war.

After the Days of Slowdon, Prime’s newly formed society grew and prospered—for a time. But when the population started receding without explanation, panic set in. No longer trusted by the people, the governing council was ignored and society fell to chaos. It was a time of darkness and violence, but record keeping gave way to survival, so little is known of those days of sorrow. Eventually, alliances formed and a tolerable coexistence was achieved, but it was a stagnant society, full of fear and suspicion. But one faction worked to restore governance as outlined in the Slowdon Scrolls. Progress was slow, but steady until the unthinkable happened—the Klindorans arrived.
Is their arrival fulfillment of prophesy? A visit from a friendly neighbor? A prelude to invasion? Find out in:
The Klindoran War - Book 5 in the SEAMS16 series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Eric B. Thomasma
• Release date: Jul 6, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370381371

Eric B. Thomasma

Born and raised in West Mitten, USA (Grand Rapids, MI), He still lives in the area in a house he built, (literally), with the help of his wife, Therese, and two sons, Eric Jr. and Nicholas, (and various other friends and relatives). The boys are grown and gone now, although they both live in the area. Eric and Therese have managed to get past the empty nest syndrome and currently only share their home with their dog, Tucker. For more information, visit Eric's website at http://ericbt.webs.com

Book preview

The Klindoran War

A SEAMS16 Novel

by Eric B. Thomasma

Smashwords Edition

Copyright (c) 2017 Eric B. Thomasma.

All rights reserved.

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

With thanks to my wife Therese, for her unfailing patience and feedback, my sister Patricia and her husband Carl, and my brother Lanin, for their assistance.

For more information about me and my writing, visit my website at

http://www.seams16.com

Table Of Contents

Copyright Page

The Klindoran War (Story)

About Eric B. Thomasma

Other titles by Eric B. Thomasma

Praise for previous SEAMS16 Novels

Chapter Guide

The Klindoran War

Book 5 in the SEAMS16 Series

by Eric B. Thomasma

Chapter 1

Ancient Klindor

Karn stared into the eyepiece of the telescope. Shan, come look at this. Tell me what you think.

Shan looked intently at the hand-drawn star chart in his hands. What is it?

Uh-uh, I want you to see it for yourself and give me your assessment.

Shan shifted his weight from his center leg to the outer legs, and the stone spheres held between the opposing claws of his feet. He gave a little push with his center leg and rolled over next to Karn. What?

Karn straightened and moved out of Shan’s way. Take a look.

Shan leaned over the eyepiece and adjusted the focus. What am I looking at?

Check the orientation.

Shan leaned back and looked at the settings of the various aiming controls. He looked over at Karn, then returned to the eyepiece. That doesn’t make sense. He checked the aiming controls again, then returned to the eyepiece. Something’s not right. That’s clearly not Jango. The controls must be in serious need of calibration again.

The controls are working fine. Reorient on Veep.

Shan turned the knobs for direction and elevation, then put his eye back to the eyepiece. He adjusted the focus some more, then looked up at Karn. Veep looks normal.

Karn nodded. Now return to Jango.

Shan reset the controls again. That can’t be Jango. There must be something in the way.

Positioned to look the same size and in the same location?

What if we increase the magnification? Shan moved his hand to the control. He tried to turn the knob but it held fast, so he took his eye away from the eyepiece and looked at it.

It’s already at maximum, Karn said calmly.

I see that. So you think that’s really Jango?

I asked for your assessment.

Shan looked back through the eyepiece. I think we need a bigger telescope. If that’s Jango, something cataclysmic is happening to it. When did you first notice?

Karn looked at the neatly polished claws at the end of his fingers. Yesterday.

Shan swung around. Yesterday? And you didn’t say anything?

I did. Just not to you.

Why not?

I wanted to register my observations first.

Were you the first?

Karn nodded. We have reservations at Black Creek tomorrow.

Shan turned back to the telescope again. That ought to be big enough.

Shan rolled up to the Black Creek Observatory the following evening and found Karn sitting by the main entrance, watching a pair of furry, six-legged animals known as Parteni chase each other around the courtyard.

I thought we were going to come together, Shan complained.

I thought you would be on time.

Well, since you decided not to wait, why aren’t you inside?

Karn looked through the colored glass entryway and sighed. They’re not ready yet.

Not ready? What do they have to do? Clean the lenses?

Karn sighed again. Apparently. It’s okay. It’ll be a little while until Jango clears the horizon anyway.

So why were you in such a hurry to get here?

I was hoping to get a chance to become familiar with the controls before it came into view, but apparently we don’t get to personally adjust the controls anyway. Only the staff are allowed to do that.

Shan openly gaped at his senior companion. You didn’t know that?

Karn dismissed his surprise. "The last time I spotted an event worth coming here for, you had to adjust your own."

That had to be at least six years ago.

Probably closer to eight.

I assumed you would have been an honored guest to the grand installation of the Geetar telescope.

I was invited.

Shan waited for him to continue, but apparently that was all Karn intended to say. But you’re the ‘Preeminent Astronomer on all of Klindor.’ Karn winced at the title, but Shan continued anyway. How could you pass up the chance to be one of the first to use ‘the ultimate telescope?’

"As I said, there was no event worth seeing, and as they saw no point in including me in the design phase of the instrument, I saw no point in making the celebration a priority. In spite of all the excitement at the time, this so-called ultimate telescope is only marginally stronger than the one they had before, and in time will be replaced with a newer, stronger, ultimate telescope."

But surely you appreciate tools that let us to do our work better.

Of course. That’s why we’re here now. But it is not tools that are worthy of celebration, but rather the discoveries made possible by them. And in this case, the improvements actually make discovery more difficult.

What do you mean?

Name one celestial discovery that originated with the Geetar telescope.

Shan searched his memory, sure that there must have been something, but came up blank. I can’t think of any.

Karn smiled. That’s because there hasn’t been one. Discoveries are made by astronomers using more maneuverable devices. Geetar designed a fine tool for adding more data regarding a previously identified body, but he is not an astronomer and doesn’t understand that there’s more to it than just magnification. Ease of use is equally important, as is understanding how the planets and stars act and interact with each other.

You speak almost as if they’re living, breathing beings.

Karn lost his smile and looked at his student. And I had such hope for you.

The door opened and a young attendant poked his head out. We’re ready for you now, Professor.

Karn immediately headed inside, but Shan hesitated, confused by Karn’s comment, then had to hurry to catch up.

Chapter 2

Trial

A fat man, dressed in brightly colored robes, sat comfortably in a highly padded chair behind a large table shaped in a semi-circle. On either side of him were similar chairs containing men of similar stature. These men were dressed in similar robes, but slightly less ornate. The table and chairs were on a platform raised well above the main floor, offering an unobstructed view of a single, unpadded chair and its occupant in the center of the room. On the opposite side of the room were several rows of benches, which under normal circumstances remained mostly unused, but today were filled to capacity with people of all shapes and sizes. The fat man wrapped his hand around a heavy metal ball, raised it several inches, then dropped it back into the cradle from which it came. This caused several bells to chime out and the room quickly quieted. Then he addressed the man seated in the chair in the middle of the room. Professor Karn. We asked you here today to give testimony regarding your—

With all due respect, Sovereign Panter, I was ordered to come here, not asked.

One of the other men at the table leaned forward. Need I remind you that you are in the presence of his most royal highness, the Sovereign Panter. You will show the proper respect and you will answer all questions this board of inquiry puts to you!

Karn glanced at him and then readdressed the sovereign. I have no intention of refusing to answer any questions. I simply want the record to accurately reflect that I am here against my will.

The other man rose from his seat to respond, but the sovereign raised his hand and the man sat back down without uttering a sound.

Very well. Let us begin again. Professor Karn, you have been ordered here today to give testimony regarding your involvement in the Jango catastrophe.

My involvement?

One of the other men in robes stood. Sovereign, if I may?

The sovereign nodded. Go ahead, Minister Haden.

He turned to Karn and held up a folder. According to the records from the Klindor Society of Astronomers, you registered sighting a change to the planet Jango seven years ago, wherein you state that until that time the planet was simply a lifeless rock, and that after witnessing what appeared to be an explosion on the planet surface it quickly became entirely engulfed in flames.

That is what I observed, yes.

Why?

Why? I’m an astronomer. That’s what we do.

A few chuckles came from the gallery, but a stern look from the sovereign silenced them.

Minister Haden continued, But why Jango? If Jango was, as you say, a lifeless rock, why were you observing it?

At the time, I wasn’t really observing it. I was using it to recalibrate the telescope.

Recalibrate?

Karn nodded. It was an old telescope and the workings were worn. Frequent recalibration was necessary to keep it accurate.

Was?

It has subsequently been replaced.

I see. Do you still have it?

No, in fact by that time I had passed it on to my former student, Shan. I had purchased a new one, but it broke and was in for repairs. That’s why I was using his.

And do you know if Shan still has it?

I have not seen Shan since shortly after that discovery, so I don’t know. He did take it with him when he left, though, so I presume so.

Can you tell us where Shan is now?

No, I lost track of him after he dropped out of the program.

Dropped out?

Yes.

Don’t you mean kicked out?

Karn scanned the faces of the men behind the table. No, I mean dropped out. He was a good student, but astronomy was not his passion.

But his leaving was at your suggestion.

I suppose so, but the decision was his.

So it had nothing to do with his involvement in your discovery.

He wasn’t involved. I registered my findings before he was even aware of it.

Did he not accompany you to the Black Creek Observatory?

He did. But only as a student accompanying his teacher. I was using the event as an instructional tool.

So you were using his telescope, and working with him through the discovery and expansion of the project, and yet you failed to even mention his name in any of the Klindor Society of Astronomers records.

Project? What are you talking about? There was no project. It was simply a discovery and observation. He was not mentioned because he did not discover it, I did. The owner of the telescope is irrelevant.

So you say. Minister Haden sat down.

The minister that had spoken out earlier stood and cleared his throat.

Sovereign Panter motioned with his hand to go ahead. Minister Klict.

Thank you, Your Majesty. He turned to Karn. So are you saying that you had no prior knowledge and that it was simply a matter of coincidence that you were looking at Jango at the time of the event?

Yes.

And are we to believe that it was coincidence that you were once again calibrating your telescope when you witnessed this most recent catastrophic change on Jango nine days ago?

No. This time I was observing, as I have every day since the event seven and a half years ago. But it was not what I would call a catastrophic change. It’s more like a neglected campfire reducing to embers. In my opinion, the fire simply burned itself out. Notable, yes, but hardly catastrophic.

Are you aware that there were over three hundred requests to register this most recent event?

No, but I’m not surprised. Jango has been under close scrutiny by the whole astronomer community since the original change.

Yes it has, so how is it that your observation was registered and not one of theirs?

Karn slowly shook his head. It wasn’t.

Minister Klict held up a folder similar to the one Minister Haden held earlier. Yes, it was. Your observation was registered three hours before any other report was made. In fact, based on the flood of reports that came into the society’s office that day, it appears that you registered it three hours before the event even occurred. How do you account for that?

Karn stared at the minister for several seconds. I don’t... I can’t. Until just now, I was not aware that my report was the first. In fact, I was sure that it wasn’t. It has been my experience that when you make a report to the K.S.A. you receive an acknowledgement. If you are the first, that acknowledgement includes a statement to that effect and advises that the report will not be officially registered until the information is verified. All subsequent reports are filed as supporting documentation to the first and act as that verification. The acknowledgement I received did not indicate that I was first to report.

Do you have any proof of that?

I’m sure the messenger could verify it.

Do you know the name of this messenger?

Well, no. But I assume the service has records—

Which messenger service are you referring to?

I don’t recall, now, but—

You offer up a messenger as your defense, but you can’t tell us his name or even the name of the service who supposedly sent him. Are we to just accept your word without verification?

Defense? Karn looked up to the sovereign. Your Majesty, I don’t understand what is going on here. I was taken from my home, paraded through the streets in restraints, and delivered to this room without explanation. These questions, despite the accusatory tone, are primarily about clerical issues only pertinent to a small collection of scientists. Even if I had falsified data— and let me be clear, I did not—but even if I had, wouldn’t it be meaningless unless I sought to acquire a grant for further research based on that data?

He paused for an answer, but the sovereign remained silent, so he continued, I haven’t sought any grants since receiving tenure over fifteen years ago. To my knowledge, the Jango catastrophe, as you call it, was a natural phenomenon that I have been fortunate enough to observe from the beginning. It has been a fascinating study, but it now appears to have run its course. What possible interest could it have to a criminal tribunal?

Minister Klict looked fit to be tied. You are here to answer questions, not ask them!

Karn did not acknowledge Klict’s outburst and continued to look at Sovereign Panter. He kept his demeanor inquisitive, careful not to appear defiant, as he waited for an answer.

The sovereign had kept his eyes on Karn since the beginning and looked back at him with a passive expression, revealing nothing of his thoughts. After several seconds, Minister Klict began to speak, but a simple hand motion from Sovereign Panter silenced him. The entire room sat enthralled, waiting for one of the two men to break the silence.

After what seemed an eternity, the corners of the sovereign’s lips curled up slightly. It is not incumbent on this court to answer questions.

Minister Klict sneered at Karn with a smug expression.

However, Sovereign Panter continued, causing Klict’s jaw to drop open as he jerked his head to look at the sovereign, we do not wish to be unfair. Are you aware of the organization known as The Light of Jango?

Vaguely, it’s some kind of cult, right?

The room exploded in anger. It came primarily from the people in the gallery, but even a few of the ministers on the court voiced their objection. Aside from Karn, only Sovereign Panter remained seated and calm. After a moment, the sovereign raised both arms to silence the crowd. It had no effect. Clearly annoyed, he put his arms down and reached for the ball, removing it from its cradle. This act caused the ministers on the court to return to their seats and compose themselves, but the gallery continued their shouting. He dropped the ball in the cradle, causing the bells to ring again. Most of the crowd immediately returned to their seats and quieted with fear on their faces, but a few seemed not to have heard and continued their shouting. As the chime of the last bell faded, guards stationed around the perimeter of the room drew their swords and slew the offenders, spilling blood on several of the spectators nearby. They quickly dragged the now lifeless corpses out a door at the side of the room and order was restored.

Forgive my poor choice of words, Your Majesty. I spend so much time in isolation that I often don’t know what’s going on in the world outside my research center. I did not mean to cause offense.

For this offense, forgiveness is not ours to extend. That is between you and the gods. The matter before this court is how that light became extinguished, and who is responsible.

Responsible? Your Majesty, I don’t understand. The flames simply burned themselves out.

So you said. To continue your analogy, a campfire takes hours to burn itself out, but pouring water on it extinguishes it instantly. It is the contention of The Light of Jango that the fires died too rapidly to have occurred naturally.

Karn paused to consider the implications of what the sovereign said. Clearly, from the behavior of the ministers, they believed it, and from the actions of the gallery, they wanted someone to blame. I hadn’t considered that, Your Majesty. As an astronomer, I observe without regard to political or religious implications. Now that you mention it, it seems that the flames did die down too fast to have been a natural occurrence. Surely, the hands of the gods are involved; for what mortal could effect such a change? I am honored to have witnessed the gods’ handiwork, but I assure you, I played no part in it.

And the three-hour discrepancy?

As I said, Your Majesty, I was not even aware of it. If I might be allowed to confer with my colleagues at the K.S.A. I’m sure we can find a simple explanation for the difference.

You mean manufacture an explanation! Minister Klict shouted, holding up the folder again. The records are clear! You obviously had prior knowledge and were too anxious to have your name listed first to realize your error!

Karn took his eyes off Sovereign Panter and locked them on Minister Klict. He spoke as if he were addressing one of his advanced students who had asked the most basic of questions. Minister Klict, are you suggesting that the Klindor Society of Astronomers would be willing to compromise the integrity of generations of collected records simply to implicate or cover up for a minor contributing member?

Minor? You are said to be the preeminent astronomer on all of Klindor.

Karn shrugged. An exaggerated claim the university uses to attract students. You’ll find that many of my colleagues at other universities hold the same dubious title. You will not find such a title in the Society’s records. While I have contributed many discoveries and observations during my career, I remain a minor member of the organization. I have not seen the records you hold in your hand, but I have seen the official log for Jango and I suspect that folder is nothing more than a prop to emphasize your argument. The Society is founded on the principles of the collection of factual information. Unintentional errors can happen in the best of circumstances, but to suggest that someone would alter that information for political purposes tells me that you are profoundly ignorant of the organization you would have us believe you hold in high esteem. I recommend that you take your seat lest you embarrass yourself further.

Klict, shocked into silence, absentmindedly did as Karn suggested.

Karn turned back to Sovereign Panter. Your Majesty, there could be many explanations for a discrepancy in the Society’s records. I’m simply asking for the opportunity to investigate them so I can provide the correct explanation.

The smile on Sovereign Panter’s face indicated his amusement by Karn’s ability to silence Minister Klict. You say there could be many explanations. Give us an example.

I will, Your Majesty, but you must understand that I’m not presenting this as proof of my innocence, but simply a possibility.

The sovereign nodded, so Karn continued, It could be as simple as the clerk who took the report writing an eight so that it looks like a five. Or clouds could have blocked other observatories and they had to wait for the sky to clear. Or the subsequent reports came from observatories that had to wait for Jango to clear the horizon.

The sovereign raised his hand. Enough. We will adjourn for the day and you may do your research. We will reconvene here tomorrow at the gathering hour and you can offer your explanation then.

Minister Haden cleared his throat. Your Majesty, I recommend that a representative from this court be assigned to accompany Professor Karn while he does his research.

Sovereign Panter nodded. Very well, you will accompany him.

With respect, Sovereign, Karn objected, both Minister Haden and Minister Klict have demonstrated a prejudice against me. Would it be possible to have a less biased member of the court serve as my chaperone?

The sovereign’s eyes narrowed and all amusement left his features. We can assign another minister, but finding one who is less biased than Minister Haden is beyond our ability.

Karn swallowed and quietly replied, Very well, Your Majesty, I welcome Minister Haden’s presence.

Chapter 3

The Klindor Society of Astronomers

The Central Log of the Klindor Society of Astronomers was a massive volume. It sat alone on a pedestal in the center of the great room of the K.S.A. building. The low fence that circled the pedestal served as a symbolic barrier to remind visitors to look at, but not touch, the delicate pages it contained. Guards, similar to the ones in the courtroom, standing beside the pedestal offered a more substantial deterrent. Around the perimeter of the room were massive shelves containing thousands of leather-bound volumes as well as old telescopes and paintings of the many observatories scattered around the globe. A domed ceiling was painted with a representation of the night sky as it had appeared in that location at the time the project was conceived.

Have you ever been here before, Minister Haden? Karn asked as they came through the main entrance into the great room.

The minister shook his head. I’ve had no reason to before now.

It is perhaps not the most impressive of buildings, but it serves the Society’s needs well. He pointed to the guarded pedestal at the center of the room. That is the official Central Log of the K.S.A.

Minister Haden looked shocked. All of the discoveries are noted in a single volume?

Every one since the society was formed nearly one hundred and sixty years ago.

That doesn’t seem possible... or practical.

Possible yes, but you’re right. It’s not practical. It’s called the Central Log because it contains a reference to every discovery recorded, but it is primarily symbolic. Some of the earliest pages are very brittle and great care is required to add the new discoveries to it, so it is only updated once a year in a very prestigious ceremony. You should attend sometime. It’s really quite impressive.

Perhaps I will. But if it’s so delicate, how can we find the information you’re looking for?

Karn smiled. Look around you. The Central Log is really only an index, a simple list of the discoveries. These volumes you see around the room contain the real log. Every discovery has its own volume that contains everything about it, every detail of the initial report and every subsequent report is included. It is in one of these volumes that we will find the truth of the matter.

So how do we find the correct volume?

A voice from behind them answered, That would be my job.

The two men turned to see a young man wearing a plain brown robe with a simple rope sash tied at the waist.

Ah, Professor Karn, I thought that was you. My name is Ben. What brings you to our halls today?

Karn looked the young man over, then studied his face. I’m sorry, do I know you?

Ben smiled. No, sir. I attended one of your lectures many years ago while contemplating which university to attend. I would have been honored to be one of your students, but my parents would not stand to have me so far away, so I ended up at Bordland.

I am sure Professor Sunguay is proud to have a former student holding such an esteemed position with the Society.

Ben bowed his head. Quite so. As he is quick to share with anyone who’ll listen. He looked back up, his smile even wider. What can I help you find?

Minister Haden answered, We are looking for the most recent information about Jango.

The young man’s smile disappeared as he looked from the minister to Karn. I’m sorry, Professor. The Jango volume is unavailable.

This is important. I’ve been accused of a rather serious action and I need access to those records to prove my innocence. If we can explain the situation to whoever is using them, I’m sure we can convince them to postpone their research for a while.

The expression on the young man’s face looked as if he were in physical pain. You don’t understand, Professor. The Jango volume is not in use. It is simply not available.

Perhaps I should introduce myself. I am Minister Hayden and under the authority granted to me by His Majesty, Sovereign Panter, you will grant access to whatever records Professor Karn requires.

Yes, sir. I would if I could. But...

Are you saying that the Jango volume isn’t here?

The young man was near tears. I’m sorry, Professor. All I was told was that if anyone asked for the Jango volume, to tell them it’s not available.

Karn put his hand on Ben’s shoulder. I see. Who told you to do this?

The director himself.

And where is the director now?

He’s not here. He gave me those instructions just before he left.

Did he take the volume with him?

Surprise stopped the tears. Removing a volume from the premises is forbidden.

Yes, I know. But could he have taken it anyway?

The young man’s eyes lost focus for a moment. I don’t think so... No, the Jango volume is too large for him to have been hiding it in his robes. I’m sure he didn’t have it with him when he left.

Then it must be here somewhere. Take us to the Director’s office.

I- I can’t. That section’s restricted. Only authorized personnel—

Minister Hayden interrupted. There is no authority greater than Sovereign Panter.

Oh, yes. I just meant... He stopped to take a breath and calm himself. Of course, follow me.

He headed for a large archway to a corridor that led off at a ninety-degree angle from the front entrance. On either side of the archway stood guards like the ones by the Official Log Book. They stepped in front of the archway as the three men approached.

Ben spoke to the guards, This is Minister Hayden representing Sovereign Panter, here on official business.

The guards ignored him and stood their ground.

Didn’t you hear me? You have to let us pass.

It is as the young man said. I am Minister Hayden and we require access to the director’s office. On the authority granted to me by Sovereign Panter, I order you to step aside.

The stern veneer of the guards’ faces cracked a little as they looked sideways at each other. One tilted his head slightly and the other responded with an almost imperceptible shake of the head. The first raised his eyebrows then stepped out of the way. With a slight sag of the shoulders, the other also moved, allowing them passage.

The corridor seemed longer than it looked from the outside. Doors were spaced evenly along both sides, and beside each one, a name plate identified the purpose of the room it led to. The young man hurried past the first few doors without a glance but further down the hall he began checking the name plates until he found the one labeled ‘Director’.

Here it is. He stood by the door, but made no effort to open it.

Minister Heyden didn’t hesitate. He reached for the knob, gave it a twist, and opened the door wide, however he did not step through. I expect you will recognize the correct volume when you see it?

The young man nodded as Karn said, I have seen it many times over the past few years.

Then, by all means, begin your search.

The look on Ben’s face told Karn he was reluctant to be the first to breach his superior’s office, so Karn took the lead. The room was smaller than expected, but it did not seem at all crowded. A moderate-sized but rather simple desk was in the center, with an old, worn leather chair situated to face the door. Behind the chair was a window, heavy curtains covered the lower half, allowing plenty of light into the room while still blocking the view of whatever might be outside. The side walls were covered from floor to ceiling with bookcases, but there were very few actual books. Most of the shelves were empty, but a few held what at another time Karn would have considered curiosities. A bowl of brightly colored stones, a stone chalice, even a few plants, but nothing that seemed to indicate that the office belonged to the head of such an esteemed facility.

But now was not the time to wonder at curiosities. On the desk were three volumes bound in similar fashion as the books in the great room. Only one of them appeared to be large enough to be the one they were looking for, and Karn’s disappointment grew as he drew closer to it. The casing didn’t look right and the binding didn’t appear to have enough wear. Nonetheless, he sat at the desk and pulled the cover open. The first page identified it as the Jango log. The first few following pages looked like he remembered so he jumped right to the back. Each page followed the same format. The top line simply said ‘Jango’, then the name of the person making the report along with the date and time. Next came a brief description of the event being reported followed by detailed notes on the subject. At the bottom of the page were some initials followed by a ten-digit number. He flipped backwards through the pages, a few pages at a time, until he got to the first report for the day.

There was his name.

He checked the time on the report and compared it to the next page. Nearly a three-hour difference, and both entries were clear and legible. He read through the description and details. The information was as he remembered sending.

Ben had been observing over Karn’s left shoulder and Minister Hayden was doing the same over his right.

The calm in Minister Hayden’s voice seemed almost menacing. It would appear that the information the court was given is correct.

Karn sighed. It does look that way, but why wouldn’t I have been told that mine was the first?

What do you mean? Ben asked.

When I received my acknowledgement, there was no mention of my being the first to report the event.

Ben held out his hands. May I?

Karn pushed the book over in front of Ben and he studied the page more closely. He then flipped to the next page, and the next, and the next, then jumped through several more pages. Then, while keeping his finger on the page with Karn’s name on it, he closed the book and picked it up, examining the cover and binding. He frowned.

Karn nodded. I noticed that too.

What? Minister Hayden asked.

Ben put the volume back on the desk. Still keeping his finger in the page, he used his other hand to point. There used to be a small tear here. And this edge was more faded and worn.

Karn pointed at the front cover. And there was a stain here.

Minister Hayden looked doubtful. Are you suggesting this is a fake?

Ben flipped it back open to the page his finger marked. No, but it has been rebound since the last time I saw it.

Is that unusual?

Very, Karn replied. But not unheard of, if a cover gets badly worn or damaged. It’s been several weeks since I last saw the Jango log, but it was nowhere near being in need of replacement then.

Ben added, Nor when I saw it just a week ago.

Well, perhaps something happened to it.

Karn looked up at the minister. Perhaps, but don’t you think the timing is suspicious?

Perhaps.

Ben stared at the open page. I don’t understand why the director didn’t just tell me it was being rebound. It looks like it’s ready to go back on the shelf now so it must have been unavailable almost since I last saw it. It usually takes days to rebind a volume.

There’s something else, Karn added. These pages all look the same.

Aren’t they supposed to? Minister Hayden asked.

Well, yes, but what I mean is that none of them look old or worn. These pages at the front should be a lot older than the ones in the back, but they all look the same. As if they were all written at the same time.

Ben flipped through several pages. And look. These are supposed to be the initials of the one who entered the information. The initials are different on different pages, but the handwriting is all the same.

Minister Hayden stroked his chin, then went around to the other side of the desk, surveying the room on the way. So what you’re saying is that it isn’t just rebound, it’s a whole new copy.

Exactly, Karn replied. We need to find the original. I’m sure it will show that I was not the first.

Ben looked up from the book. If you don’t mind me asking, what is it you’ve been accused of?

By now you’ve heard that the fires of Jango have gone out?

Yes.

I’ve been accused of causing it.

Ben blinked twice, then smiled. Surely you must be joking.

Minister Hayden leaned over the desk. I assure you, young man, that this is a very serious charge. The Light of Jango has put forth a compelling case that the recent events are not of natural origin, and the evidence so far implicates Professor Karn’s involvement.

But—

Karn put his hand on Ben’s arm. Careful son, you don’t want to say something you’ll regret. The court is taking this very seriously, and so am I.

Ben looked at Karn, then at Minister Hayden. I only meant to say that Professor Karn is well respected and I have trouble believing that he would be involved in any criminal activity.

Minister Hayden straightened back up. Yes, well, the court will determine if that respect is warranted.

An angry voice came from the door, What is going on here? How dare you invade my office?

Karn immediately stood, keenly aware that he had been sitting in the director’s seat. Ben bowed his head and shuffled back to stand behind Karn. Minister Hayden, however, stepped forward to block the director’s path. I am Minister Hayden and I represent His Majesty, Sovereign Panter.

The director seemed unimpressed. I didn’t ask who you are. I asked what you’re doing here! I am the director of this facility and this is my office. You have no business coming in here while I’m out!

As a representative of the Sovereign on official court business, I have the right to go wherever, whenever I choose. Whether you are present or not!

The two men glared at each other for several seconds.

Karn spoke softly. I’m sorry, Director Binney, but time is of the essence and you were not available.

The director broke eye contact with the minister to look at him. Karn?

Karn nodded.

He stepped around Minister Hayden without another glance. His anger turned to confusion. What are you... Then the open volume on the desk caught his eye and he lowered his voice. You shouldn’t be looking at that!

Do you know where the original is?

The director glanced at Minister Hayden then turned back to Karn. He took a deep breath and replied, I don’t know what you mean.

Karn put his hand on the log. I mean, this is not the Jango volume that I have reviewed countless times over the years. It is a copy, and I believe an inaccurate one at that. I need access to the original, and I need it now. My life is on the line.

You... He again glanced back at Minister Hayden then whispered, I’m sorry. In a louder voice he said, This is the Jango log.

Ben stepped out from behind Karn, anger overcoming his fear. That’s a lie! This is a copy! Why are you saying it’s not?

A look of panic crossed the director’s face for a moment, then he spoke sternly, If you value your position here, you will hold your tongue.

If I can’t believe in the integrity of the people I work for, the position has no value!

Karn put his hand out, as if to hold Ben back while he studied the director’s face. Perhaps you should do as Director Binney says, Ben.

But it’s wrong. This is a copy, and he’s saying it’s not, and you’re going to—

Karn turned to Ben and grabbed him by his shoulders, forcing him to look into his eyes. You’ve been a big help and I appreciate it. I’m sure Director Binney understands that you were forced to help us and that you shouldn’t be held responsible for your actions, but with the director here now to assist, you should be able to return to your other duties. He kept hold of Ben, but turned to Director Binney. Isn’t that right Director?

Yes, Ben, return to your station and resume your other duties.

Ben stared long and hard at Karn. Then sighed, Very well, and started to leave, but Minister Hayden blocked his path.

You will remain.

Ben went back to Karn’s side as the minister turned his attention to the director. I’d like you to explain why you are insisting that this is the Jango log while these two are convinced that it’s not.

Director Binney looked at Minister Hayden with disbelief, then with confusion. I, um. I don’t understand.

I think it’s clear enough. These two men have identified several discrepancies that have convinced them that this is not the original Jango log. Your insistence that it is suggests that you are lying. I’d like to know why.

"I’ve not lied. I never said it was the original, only that it is the Jango log."

Then where is the original?

Again, it looked like Director Binney couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Um, It... You already know the answer.

I assure you, I do not.

Director Binney stared at Minister Hayden for several seconds, then turned to Karn. Do you trust this man?

Karn looked at the minister. Trust? I don’t know. He was the first to speak against me at court, and he’s here because he believes I might try to get you or others to lie on my behalf. It’s clear he doesn’t trust me. But he has done nothing to impede my investigation, and in fact has used his authority to help it along. I believe he genuinely wants to know the truth, even if it proves him wrong about me.

My interest is not in being proven right or wrong. It is in the service of justice and justice can only be served with the truth.

The director kept his eyes on Karn. The original was destroyed by order of the Sovereign.

This time it was Minister Hayden’s face displaying disbelief. The Sovereign has great respect for the sciences and understands the need for accuracy in data. He would not make such an order.

The director turned and took a step toward the minister to stand face to face. Four days ago one of you ministers walked in here with another man and a half dozen armed guards and demanded everything we have on the planet Jango. I, of course complied by giving him the log, but when he wanted to leave with it, I insisted that the volume must remain on the premises as our charter requires. He didn’t take it well, but since I was accompanied by my entire security force which outnumbered his own two to one, he opted not to challenge me on it, but instead requested that they be provided a room in which to do research. We have many rooms reserved just for that purpose so I complied. He took the Jango volume into the assigned room along with most of his guards. After a few minutes, he and the other man left, leaving the guards. They came back later with a third man and more guards. I was not here at the time, but I was told the two men with him carried a closed crate. From reports, they never left the room through the night and into the next day. At the end of the day they emerged and he handed me this. He pointed at the volume on the desk. An obvious forgery.

It took these men several minutes to determine this was a copy. What made it so obvious to you?

The pristine condition of the leather, the pages showing no signs of age, and most importantly, the binding is wrong. We use a special process that preserves and protects the existing pages from damage when new pages are added. This volume is well bound, and I suspect performed by an expert, but it was not done using our process and therefore cannot be the original.

I see. Since you noticed the difference right away, did you confront the minister?

I did. I demanded he return the original. He pretended he didn’t know what I was talking about. I asked him about the crate they’d brought in and he claimed it was simply fuel for the fireplace. He went to the desk and picked up a small wooden box. He opened the lid and held it out. I found this in the fireplace and I can only assume it’s what’s left of the original.

All three other men leaned in to get a look inside the box. Inside was the charred corner of a hard leather binding.

Minister Hayden straightened up. Who was this minister?

He never said, but he was dressed like you and the guards that were with him wore the royal seal, and almost every sentence he uttered was prefaced with the words ‘by order of the Sovereign’ or ‘with the authority granted by Sovereign Panter’ or something of that nature.

You would recognize him if you saw him again?

Director Binney nodded.

Minister Hayden turned to Ben. Did you witness any of this?

No, Minister, I was away on an errand. I only returned today.

He turned back to the director. I would like to speak to any members of your staff who were here at the time.

The guards down the hall were there. Ask them anything you want.

"I will, but for the moment I will accept your account. Can you verify that the information in this volume is incorrect and if so, can you specify in