In Search of the Twin Suns

By Cecil Cory

Robert Artuso’s life had collapsed around him. Out of a job and looking for employment, he turned to his brother John. Their other brother Jack had received orders from a family nemesis, which would change their family’s lives. Convinced by Jack to return to work for the corporation, Robert and John are joined by their sister Kathy, who feels she needs closure over the loss of their parents in the Kuiper belt. They leave their home behind and try to hold their lives together finding love and death along the way. Bernard Gates was the grandsons of the founder of the corporation. His father had been removed from the board of directors. His holdings and wealth were vast and with his sudden death, Bernard Gates inherited it all. However, he wanted his family legacy back. With his boyhood friend, Bob Monroe, he found his chance. Bob Monroe did not want to rule the known universe just the space military. His hatred of the Artuso family boiled inside until he and his friend found the right moment for his revenge.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Sep 24, 2012
• ISBN: 9781300233404

Book preview

In Search of the Twin Suns

In Search of the Twin Suns

By

Cecil Ian Cory

Copyright

Version 1.3

Copyright © 2012 Cecil I Cory / Lulu Press

All rights reserved.

ISBN: 978-1-300-23340-4

This work is licensed under the Creative

Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported

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Acknowledgments

I wish to thank several people for their help and understanding.

First, to Eugene Fitzgerald for his help in proof reading this story for me. It has been a great help in completing it.

Next to my Mom and Dad for their support and belief that I could do almost anything I wanted to do.

Last, but not least to my wife Karen who has kept me going when I felt I could not go any longer.

Other Stories by Cecil I Cory

A Walk in the Sun

Escape from Regals Two

Transfer Station 261

Enherjar Warrior

The Raid on Sector Delta 34

Atlantis Conspiracy

Stories in the Twin Suns series

The Twin Suns

In Search of the Twin suns

One Last Battle for the Twin Suns

To Walk in our Fathers Footsteps

A meeting with the Federation

The New Worlds

Prologue

So far, I have only been able to give you part of this report. Other aspects need to be looked at so that a further understanding of the outcome can be obtained. In my opening statement to this report, I tried to explain how Robert and his family were pulled into this operation. I will try to give an accounting of the events that led up to the conflict

As you know the Ancients, sun went nova. All of their population had successfully relocated to the neighboring star system. All that was left was their last experiment. The experts had stored all of their knowledge into the great library buried deep in the bowels of their planet. If the experiment worked, they would be able to inhabit their home world again and retrieve their legacy. However, fate did not smile on them and the planet drifted off into space. Over time, it was captured by another stare system and was able to repopulate itself.

The Earth also had changed during this time. The humanoids that had roomed the great savannas of the African planes had spread out on to the surface of the planet. They grew and survived the tremendous upheavals in their own planetary history. The Earth had survived their Holy Wars, leaving the natural oil reserves depleted. The larger nations could no longer survive on what was left. The Great super powers of the world had gone bankrupt trying to stop the great Jihads that tried to destroy the planets wealthier nations. The United States of America and Canada joined their governments in a last attempt to keep their sovereign nations from being overrun by their creditors. The rest of world had exploited their manpower and resources until they were on the verge of collapse.

They looked towards space for their existence. Soon the colonization of the Moon and Mars was a fact. Again, the world’s economy prospered and again the factions started to cry out for another Holy War against the decadent east and west. The second Holy War started as the first, small with the poorer nations blaming the richer nations for their plight. The world waited until these nations attacked the United States and Canada and now China. The war profiteers of the world supplied the guns and ammunition to all who had the money to pay for it. This time it was not contained to just the earth. It spread out into the neighboring colonies of the Moon and Mars. The war threatened the very existence of mankind. In the end the nations of the solar system came to and understanding. The establishment of the United Nations on Earth as the controlling government of the planet, and the granting of independence to the Moon and Mars colonies left a vacuum for the control of space. With each planetary government, trying to control the space around them, chaos again began to rear its ugly head. One man stepped forward with a plan to keep war forever out of space.

His great, great grandfather had left the family billions. His great grandfathers had doubled that in war speculations. His grandfather had helped to develop the first space elevators and founded the interplanetary shuttle industry. He combined it all into one corporation and then convinced the United Nations, the Luna Council, and the Federation of Colonies on Mars that his corporation could control space better than anyone planet. So was founded, The Universal Science and Space Research Corporation.

The corporation became more powerful with each year. Most of the space research facilities on Earth were gobbled up along with the control of the elevators on all of the plaints. Soon trouble started again. This time it was between the Earth, Moon, and the other planets over the security of their resources being transported throughout the solar system. His grandfather convinced the Board that a Space Military was needed to protect corporate interests in the Solar system. The Space Rangers was formed to protect interplanetary commerce, and to control the shipping between the planetary systems. The Space Fleet was also established to man all interplanetary Vessels.

His grandfather soon felt that he had done enough and it was time for younger blood to take control. He retired from the Board of Directors letting his son become the next CEO. The Board of Directors soon replaced him as the CEO feeling that his direction was no longer in the best interest of the stockholders. His aggressive exploration into space was not returning as good of profits as he had promised. The only remaining deep space project still being funded was on Pluto, where they had found some sort of ancient ruins. Some of the first findings from Pluto had great potential so the exploration there was still being funded.

He was given an extensive severance package, his own private elevator on Starbuck Island and a large block of stock along with trillions of Credits. With this, he was able to keep in contact with certain people in high places. When he mysteriously died from a rare disease, his son inherited it all. However, that was not enough for Bernard Gates. He wanted back the control of the Corporation.

Bernard Gates went through school with another young man who also had large aspirations. His friend, Bob Monroe, did not want to rule the known universe just the space military. Monroe knew that the Corporation’s military controlled all of the research used in space.

Monroe had not been one of the best students, but with the help of his best friend Gates, he was able to blackmail his way through most of his courses in school. When he graduated from school, he applied to the Ranger Academy. With Gates’s influence, he was accepted.

Those instructors he could not buy outright, he blackmailed. The ones he could not blackmail he added to his list for later retribution. Once he received his commission, he used the same proven methods until he had achieved his goals. He was now a General in the Space Rangers and in charge of space research.

The day of retribution was now at hand. Monroe and his friend Gates could now control the universe. Monroe’s first step was the revenge against the one family who stood in his way and had given him the biggest black mark on his record, Howard Smith and Karl Artuso.

Chapter One

The day was clear and the sun was hot. Pointing the car west, Robert engaged the auto-speed control and set back in his seat. He looked out the windows as the Channel Islands loomed in the distance to the South. The last large farm passed by as the Oxnard turn off went by. What a shame, he thought to himself, to let that one city dictate how this land is to be used. I have to get out of this area and find a new home. Oh, well only twenty miles to the county line at least Santa Barbara was somewhat smarter.

Looking down at the speedometer, he saw that the car was up to 145 kilometers per hour. Can't this thing go any faster? They sure ruined the fun of driving when they put the speed limits down to that speed. You would think with the computer doing all the work they could at least let the speed get back up to two hundred. Now it will take me three to four hours to get to Monterey. Let’s see John’s race isn’t until 1430 tomorrow. I ought to make it to Monterey by 1300 this afternoon. That should be enough time to look around and still get to Criso’s corner for dinner.

The car merged with other cars entering the freeway in Santa Barbara. One car whizzed by, just about clipping Robert’s front bumper and speed off weaving in and out of traffic.

What the Hell! Robert yelled out when his collision alarm sounded. He must have bypassed the maximum speed control. Where’s a cop when you need one he must be doing over 200 at least.

Robert settled down and watched the scenery go by. His eyelids got heavier and heavier until his eyes closed. There was a large bump and then the feeling of floating. Robert awoke with a start. The hazard buzzer and warning lights all sounding and flashing. Blinking he look around to find out what the trouble was. The heads-up display said,

"WARNING wake up this is not safe WARNING"

Okay, okay shut up! I’m awake all ready. He reached up on the dash and reset the warning system. I should not have stayed up so late last night. Oh, well at least the warning system works.

The rest of the drive up the coast was uneventful. He reached Monterey around 1330 and he did not have to meet his brother until 1730. He thought he would kill some time and drive around. He worked his way over to Canary Row. Look at all the people they cannot all be going to the races tomorrow. Ah, there are too many people here. I’ll go down along the Asilomar and see what is going on over there. He turned left, went up one block to Ocean View, and continued into Pacific Grove along the coast.

The ice plant was all in bloom in various shades of pinks and whites. He traveled west until he came to Lovers Point and then turned right to continue to the Point Pinos lighthouse. When he passed the golf course, he pulled the car off to the side of the road and got out.

The ocean tide was coming in and the waves were breaking over the outer rocks sending up showers of spray ten meters into the air. He climbed down to the rocks and sat. For the first time in many years, he finally felt good. All of the problems with the old job and his life seemed to wash out of his system with the spray. Look at the sea gulls floating up there they don’t have to worry about anything. He sat on the rocks watching the waves until almost 1730.

Looking at his watch, he jumped up. Shit! I’m supposed to meet John at 1730. He climbed back up and got back into the car. He pulled out, turned on to Lighthouse Ave, and then headed towards Monterey. He made his way across town, pulled up and parked in front of Criso’s Corner. His brother’s car was already parked out front of the restaurant just ahead of his. He walked inside and saw John sitting in one of the corner booths. The waitress walked up to him as he walked through the door.

One Sir? She asked.

No, I’m with him.

Very good Sir.

Robert walked over to the booth that John was sitting at.

John. Robert said.

Hay Robert, I didn’t know if you would make it or not. I was getting a little worried. John replied. Man, they’ve got the best pizza on three worlds here. They have been doing it for over hundred fifty years.

Great let’s eat. Robert replied.

I ordered two large with everything, but we have to wait for a bit. Jack is supposed to meet us here.

Okay, I haven’t seen Jack since I quit. How about I order a pitcher of beer?

Got it covered. Jack said walking up to the booth. Waitress, a pitcher of SA and three glasses please.

Hay Jack! John said

Who are your friends? Robert asked looking at the two men in dark glasses and black suits, standing behind him. I see you still hang out with the best, Captain Jack

Jack slid into the booth and sat down.

Yeah, and a good evening to you too Robert Jack replied.

The two bodyguards walked to the back of the dining room and sat with their backs to the wall.

So, Captain Jack, did you come up to help John too? Robert asked.

The waitress arrived with the pizza and a picture of beer and sat it in front of them.

I didn’t know that this place was still here. Jack said looking around Dad used to talk about it all the time.

Yeah, I remember that every time they would try to make anything Italian he would compare it to this place. John said as he garbed a piece of pizza. Therefore, when I got back, I had to find out what he was talking about and I haven’t regretted it yet. I stop in every time I come up here to race.

So, Robert, what have you been doing since you left us? Jack asked as he picked up his beer.

You know damned well what I have been doing. I have seen your goons every now and then. You guys make it kind of hard to find work, especially when you can’t put down what you have been working on, on your resume’. Robert said as he picked up his second piece of pizza.

Well, Robert, the General is willing to let bygones be bygones.

GENERAL! That asshole was promoted. He should have been dumped out of an airlock years ago. That son of a bitch, how in hell did he get promoted? Robert asked slamming his beer down.

Robert, tell us how you really feel. John said. Now don’t hold anything back.

Well, it was something about the Single Point Drive and the great management skills he had. Jack said with a smirk on his face.

That son of a bitch, is he taking credit for that project too? Management skills, Kathy has better skills than that and she can’t find her car keys half the time. John, that prick did everything he could to screw us at every turn in that project. He cut our budget, removed key personnel when we needed them the most, and then has the gall to take credit for the project.

Single Point Drive? John asked

Yeah, remember that cylinder thing we found in the cave, the one that we put on the sled.

That sled we launched Kathy’s doll into space on? John asked.

Yes, that’s one well.

Easy Robert, there’s ears around that don’t need to know. Jack Said.

Well, somebody should hear about it. Both of you know how they treated Mom and Dad after we found all of that stuff out there. It’s about time somebody found out about all that stuff out there, back here.

Cool down Robert. John said, They sent us back and paid for are schooling, even got Captain Jack into the academy. I’m doing okay with my racers. Even Kathy met Pat out there and she seems to be happy.

Good jobs! If you knew half of what his boss has put me through, and for him to get any credit is ludicrous. Look Jack, I would get just as far as I could from that asshole. Someday somebody is going to drop a house on him.

A phone quietly rang and one of the two men sitting in back reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell phone. In a low voice, he had a short conversation. He nodded to the other man as he stood up, replacing the phone back into his pocket. He walked over to Jack, bent down and in a low voice said.

Captain Artuso, sir everything is ready and in place.

Okay. Well, speaking of the General, Um Robert. Jack said reaching into his inside coat pocket. Ah you have been recalled, your GS status has been reinstated. He handed him the envelope.

And John, it’s time you pay for that education. He reached back into his pocket, came out with another envelope, and handed it to him.

BULL! SHIT! Robert yelled throwing down the paper.

Robert, John, you will have to come with me, we have a problem and you have been selected to fix it.

Robert turned, and looked at his younger brother Jack.

No, WE don't Jack. You have a problem, not me. I did my time out there. I have no desire ever going back, and it is a hell of a thing to send YOU to fetch me. What, the General hasn't the balls to come himself?

The General figured you would come if I talked to you.

Will, he figured wrong. Jack, I did my time, I have no desire to go back out there. You guys did not listen when I told you about the problem. Now you want me back to fix it. NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, I am not going. I'm going to go to work for John on his pit crew.

Come on Robert. Jack said as he grabbed Robert’s arm. Let’s go see the Old Man.

Robert pulled himself free.

No, Jack, I’m not going.

Robert, John, you are both coming with me to Vandenberg.

Two car carriers pulled up and started to load their cars onboard.

What the hell do you think you’re doing Jack? Those pricks have no right to recall me I did my time out there. What are they doing with my car? Robert said staring out of the window.

Jack! What’s going on? I have a race tomorrow. I can’t be running off right now. John said looking out the window. Jack? What kind of problem Jack?

Well, I can’t say anything here, but remember the caves we played in out there. Seems…

They didn’t try to start that damn thing up? John asked.

Yes John, years ago. Robert said, It didn’t work.

Well that’s not quite true. Jack replied. Everything will be explained later.

The waitress walked over with the bill.

"Will there be anything else gentleman.

No, No thanks. Pay the bill Jack. You aren’t going to get away with this Jack. Robert said as he pushed past him. Come on John we don’t have much of a choice yet.

I have a race tomorrow. What’s going on?

Just come along and it will all be explained to you at the appropriate time. Get the tip Robert. Jack said as he reached for the bill.

Yeah right Jack. What if I don’t want to go with you? Robert replied.

The two men in the back started forward.

No place to run to no place to hide. John said reading his orders.

A black limousine with corporate plates pulled up out front. Robert turned towards John

Jack! I have a race tomorrow. I spent years getting this racer ready for this one. John said

Don’t worry John, the thing will run fine tomorrow. You can watch the race on video. Come on, let’s go. Jack herded them out to the waiting car.

The black limousine pulled away from the curb on Fremont Street and headed south to highway 68. Seated in the back were the three Artuso brothers. The two bodyguards sat in the front seat.

Okay Jack what’s this all about? John asked.

Don’t worry everything will be made clear when we get to Vandenberg. Jack replied

Yeah, as clear as mud. Robert mumbled under his breath.

Okay. John said sitting back and looking out the window.

The limousine turned on to US 101 and headed south. The fields of lattice turned to rows of grapes then to the grassy hills of the coastal range.

Hay Robert, do you remember when we used to play catch in the hallway on the trip out? John asked with a grin.

Oh yeah, the good days, just you Kathy and me playing catch with Jack. It probably would have been safer if we had a ball thou. Robert said with a big grin

Yeah, but not as much fun, besides Jack bounced great.

Bull! Shit! I still have the scars on my head the time you threw me into the bulkhead. Jack said

No, it wasn’t a bulkhead it was a hatch, we weren’t playing catch that day, remember we were playing Jack ball and Robert had gone out for a long one. John said.

Would have caught you too if dad hadn’t open the hatch right then. You sure looked funny trying to stop Captain Jack. Robert said smirking.

Real funny, eight stitches real funny. Jack said

Yep dad kind of took all the fun out of the trip after that. John said.

However, Jack flew so good right up until then. Robert replied.

The driver and the other bodyguard tried to keep a straight face as they listened to them.

Hay Robert, what’s with that Single Point Drive you were talking about? John asked looking past Jack.

Hmm, well, you know that cylinder we found in the cave. Well they found a few more of them. Robert started to explain.

Ah Robert, that’s still classified. Jack said.

Anyway, they sent me one to do some research on it. They work on the same principle that the new power source for your racer works.

What a minute how did you know about that? I haven’t told anybody about how it works. John said looking stunned at Robert.

Why do you think you haven’t had any problems getting parts for it? Jack asked. Your entire race team has been funded by us.

Now wait a minute my sponsors are General Racing, United Space Research, and Holt Industries.

That’s right all of them are run by the United Science and Space Research. Robert said with a smirk on his face. Welcome to the real world.

The three of them sat in the back and watch the world go by the windows of the limousine.

The Vandenberg Space Center had only been in use for the last 15 years. Ever since hurricane, Pamela came on shore right into the Kennedy space center at Cape Canaveral leveling most of the launch facilities. Vandenberg was the only one able to step in and handle the Mars 11 resupply project and Oort Cloud 5 and 6 and had stayed the main support for all the following missions. Until the Space, elevators were fully established some years later. It now housed all of the command and control for the Universal Science and Space Research Corporation for North America.

The limousine pulled up to the main gate, the guard walked up to the window. The driver rolled down the window and pulled his ID card from his pocket the other bodyguard did the same. Jack reached into his pocket, pulled out his ID card, and showed it to the guard. He turned to Robert.

"Okay where’s your ID card?

Robert turned and looked at him with a mocking socked look on his face.

ID card, ID card, I don’t need no sticking ID card. Remember Jack I quit.

The gate guard reached down to the gun on his hip.

Gentleman you will have to report to security over there. he pointed with his other hand.

Okay. the driver said and pulled the car around the guard shack and into the lot in front of the security building. When the car stopped, it hooked itself up to be recharged. The two bodyguards stepped out of the car, looked all around, and then opened the back doors. John and Jack got out of the car while Robert just sat in the back seat.

Aren’t you coming Robert? Jack asked.

No, I’m fine right here, there is nothing in there that I want. Robert said not moving.

The bodyguard bent down and looked at Robert.

I believe the Captain would like you to accompany him inside Sir.

Robert looked up at the bodyguard shook his head no. The bodyguard opened his coat and exposing the 9mm inside.

Nice, did you get that in a box of Cracker Jacks? Okay. Robert said as he got out of the car and followed John and Jack into the building.

John and Jack walked up to the counter Robert stood in the back of the room facing the other direction looking at the pictures on the wall.

Hello Shelly. Jack said. You should have papers for a John Artuso and Robert Artuso.

Hi Captain Artuso. Shelly said cheerfully Let me see. Hmm ah here they are, okay who’s first?

Guess I am. John said looking around to find his brother standing in back looking at the wall.

Okay I need to see some ID and I need your signature here. She pointed to a pad on the counter. John handed her his driver’s license. This do?

That will be fine. She ran his license through the scanner Place your hand on the Id plate please. John reached up and placed his right hand on the Id plate. A blue line of light moved under his hand. Okay now the other one please. John reached up and placed his other hand on the plate. The blue line of light moved under his hand again. The screen she was looking at said it was a match.

Good. Okay Mister Artuso, go through that door and turn left. Go to room 815 and Susan will take care of you. John turned and started towards the door.

Run. Run away. Run away. Robert said still looking at the wall. John just kept on going.

Okay Robert. Get up here. Jack said

Oh, I thought you were finished here BOBBY? Shelly said coolly.

Um top of the morning to you too Shelly, I’ve been shanghaied by your friend there.

ID and palm. She snapped at him.

Robert handed her his ID and placed his right hand on the plate. When the light went out, he placed the other hand on the plate. A match came back on the screen.

This can’t be correct. This says that you are now fully reinstated as a GS13-10. Shelly turned and retrieved his file pulled his old ID card and handed it to him. Sign here, here, here and here initial here and here. Shelly said coldly pointing to the spots.

I see nothing has change in my absences. Robert mumbled as he signed in all of the places. Robert put the ID in his pocket. He turned and walked over to Jack as John walked back around the corner and up to Shelly.

They said I was to come back here and see you. John said

Yes, Mister Artuso. Sign here, here, here and here initial here and here. She said pleasantly to John.

Jack pulled Robert aside. What did you do to piss off Shelly?

I don’t know. Probably when I told her where she could put the ID cards when I quit. I don’t know. Hell, you know her better than I do. Robert said looking down at the ground. John walked over to where they were standing. Hay guys what’s a GS 12-5?

Your pay grade. Jack replied.

Ah Jack are we still on for tomorrow night? Shelly asked

Yeah about sevenish. Jack said smiling.

Okay, see you then.

You and Shelly? Robert asked.

Shut up. Jack said opening the door.

They left the building and headed back to the limousine. As they approached, the bodyguards opened the back doors and they slipped into the back seat. Once the doors were closed, the bodyguards got into the front seat. The bodyguard driving started the limousine and headed back to the gate. The driver rolled down the window and pulled his ID card from his pocket the other bodyguard did the same. Jack reached into his pocket, pulled out his ID card, and showed it to the guard. John and Robert then showed theirs. As they passed through the gate, the bodyguard said over his shoulder.

Captain the general wants to see you and Mister Artuso in his office.

Which Artuso? Jack asked.

Robert Artuso. The drive said. John Artuso is to accompany us to the outfitting area.

The limousine drove through the base until it reached the headquarters building. It pulled up in front and one of the bodyguards stepped out then opened the door next to Robert. Robert and then Jack got out and headed towards the entrance.

I keep telling you Jack that I don't want to speak to him. I quit this agency because of people like him. They just will not listen to anybody without a Ph.D. in basket weaving. I tried to explain to them what would happen, would they listen to me. NOOO. They called in a bunch of experts that have never left their classrooms and they say that I am wrong and that there is no problem to fix. Will now they have done it.

Take it easy Robert or you'll blow a fuse. Remember I'm on your side.

Sure, you are, you traitor, pulling me back here.

They entered the building and approached the security officer desk.

Yes, gentlemen can I help you. The guard said, putting down the romance novel he was reading.

He needs a visitor’s badge. Jack said.

Yes Sir. The man said and tossed the registration tablet on the counter.

Robert reached over and signed the Visitors registration tablet on the counter. The guard looked at the name and asked for some identification to verify the signature. Robert Pulled out his ID and handed it over to the guard.

What is the purpose of your visit here? The guard asked.

I'm not here to visit anybody. Robert growled and turned to leave. Jack grabbed his arm and said to the guard. He's here to see General Monroe.

The security guard handed a visitor's badge to Robert.

Yes Sir. Will you be escorting him to General Monroe’s office?

Yes. Jack replied.

The guard pushed a button under the counter and the doors buzzed. Jack grabbed the handle and Robert and Jack proceeded down the hall toward the Generals office.

Robert, now be nice in here. The General can still make life difficult for you. You know.

Can make life difficult? Shit, he's done that all ready. I haven't been able to find any work for the last six months because of him. Have you ever gone up in front of a potential employer and when he asks, ‘what have you been doing for the last ten years?’ and you have to tell him nothing. Because everything you have done is so classified that even you don’t know what you are working on. Everybody thinks I'm out of my mind.

They turned the corner and opened the door to the general’s anteroom. The Generals secretary looked up as they entered. She reached and pushed the button on the intercom.

General Monroe, Captain Artuso, and Mister Artuso are here.

Send them in. The box replied. Jack grabbed the handle on the door and opened it. He stood back and pushed his brother ahead of him into the general's office.

General Monroe I've got him. Jack said

The general looked up from his desk then stood. Coming around the desk, he extended his hand to Robert.

Bob I'm glad you decided to come.

Robert looked at the Generals hand and then shook it. I didn't come, I was kidnapped.

Sit down gentlemen. The General said motioning to some chair around a large conference table. Not paying any attention to what Robert had said.

Will Bob, I gauss you wonder why I sent for you?

No, I don't Sir. You listened to those asshole experts of yours and now everything is all screwed up.

Robert, take it easy. Jack whispered.

Humph ah well yes. I am invoking clause 145 of you contract. You will be given your GS 13 back. I need you on the next flight to…

Wait one minute. You’re doing what? NO. NO. NO. I quit remember. You can't shanghai me back. Robert got up and started to leave.

Sit Down! The General shouted. Robert stopped and turned around. He glared at the general and slumped back down in the chair. Look, there is nobody that knows that portion of space or the equipment like you do. You are either going or you are going to jail and believe me nobody will ever hear from you from the jail I am going to use. Now I want you on the next flight to space dock Alpha 385. You will transfer to the Flying Cloud from there. You have two hours to get him ready Captain.

You don’t need me! Jack or our brother John all know that part of space as well as I do.

You know the equipment they don’t. Monroe said getting up and walking back to his desk.

Jack grabbed Robert’s arm. Come on Robert. Jack said. Robert got up and headed towards the door.

Glade to have you back, Bob. The General said from behind his desk.

The feeling isn't mutual. Robert mumbled as they left the room.

Take it easy Robert. Jack said, Let’s get you some flight gear.

Captain will you wait a minute. Bob if you will wait outside. The general said pointing to the door. After Robert had left the room, the general continued.

Captain, here is their orders and yours. The general said handing a stack of envelopes to him from the top of his desk. You are to accompany them to the Flying Cloud. The envelopes are numbered and here’s the instruction I want you to follow in giving them to them. Here are some dispatches that you are to give personally to the Captain of the ship. He will give you further orders at that time. That is all.

Sir? Jack asked looking surprised.

You have a problem Captain?

No Sir. Captain Artuso saluted the general, turned, and left the room.

The driver turned the car towards the gate leading to the runway. He stopped at the checkpoint, rolled down his window, and then shoved his gate pass into the reader. The crossing arm rose up and he drove through.

Where are we going now? John asked

We’re going to Point Mugu first, then on to Mexico. From there to the Space Elevator then to the ship. Jack replied reading the instructions he had been given.

The staff car pulled up to the waiting helicopter. The two bodyguards were standing outside of it in flight suites.

Your friends are back, Jack. Robert said. Hay, if we’re going to Point Mugu I want to stop off at home and pick up some things.

Not possible. We won’t have time. Jack replied as he read his instructions.

We’ll see. Robert said. The car stopped alongside of the helicopter. The three of them got out of the car and loaded there issued equipment into the ship. Then they climbed into the helicopter and strapped themselves into their seats. The two bodyguards climbed into the cockpit. The one that had been driving the limousine was now in the copilot’s seat and the other one was in the pilot’s seat. Robert watched as the staff car pulled away, while the bodyguards proceeded with the checkout of the aircraft. They received clearance to taxi to the take off point, once there the helicopter rose up and headed west. It made a sharp bank to the left and shot off south. It rose to three kilometers heading south-southeast. The three men sat silently in the back and stared out the windows the entire flight.

The helicopter seemed to follow highway 101 all the way down the coast. Figures, Robert thought, they would probably get lost if they had to fly this thing some place without a road to follow. The helicopter received clearance to land and headed to the little terminal on Ronald Reagan Avenue where it finally settled down. Jack, Robert, and John climbed out of the helicopter and headed into the terminal. No sooner had they enter the terminal than a Hay Robert was heard above the din.

Hay Robert over here. A man yelled across the room. Robert looked in the direction of the man and recognized an old friend.

Jack I’ll be right back. Robert said as he broke away from their group.

Robert, Robert don’t get lost our ride should be here any minute. Jack yelled after him.

Hay Sam what are you doing here?

I was about to ask you the same thing. I’m on my way to work.

To work I thought you worked in 353.

I do, but somebody screwed up one of the systems and I have to go out to the island and see if I can fix it. And you, I thought you had quit.

I had, but I got shanghaied for one more ride. Hay can I barrow your car? I need to go home and get my stuff. They kind of caught me a little unprepared. Sam reached into his pocket and tossed Robert his keys

Just park it in the lot and give Sally at the desk the keys. I have to go that’s my flight. Good seeing you again. I’ll see you when you get back. Sam headed off towards the door.

Thanks man. Robert said after him. Jack and John walked over to Robert.

Our flight won’t be here until 1300. Jack said.

Good that gives me about three hours to go home and take care of some business.

And how do you plan on doing that? John asked

I’ve got a ride. Robert said holding up the keys. I have got friends.

Hard to believe isn’t it. Jack replied.

Let’s go. John said

Wait a minute. Jack said, We can’t leave the terminal.

Why don’t you stay then little brother, let’s go Robert. John said.

Look Captain Jack, you drafted us. I live in Camarillo. I’m going home and getting some things that I need to do the job. Robert said heading towards the doors.

The Company will give you everything you need to do the job. Jack said tagging along behind.

Just like the old days Jack is still tagging along behind. John said.

Well Sam said his car was in the lot. Oh, there it is. Robert pointed to a twenty-year-old beat up pickup truck.

Shotgun! John yelled. You’re stuck in the middle again Jack.

Yeah, I am always stuck in the middle. Jack grumbled. Robert smiled as he started up the truck. He pulled out on to Reagan Avenue and headed towards the Los Posses gate.

The drive into town took about twenty minutes mostly through remaining fields. To the west, you could see the spiraling city of Oxnard, ever encroaching on the farmland.

Robert pulled the truck into his driveway and shut off the engine.

Home sweet home girls. He said.

It hasn’t changed much since the last time I was here. What was it six years ago? John asked.

Just a little over. Robert said.

No girlfriends, Robert? Jack asked.

Your General friend fixed that for me too. When you cannot tell anybody what you do and you have to disappear every little while for a year or so. It kind of pisses them off. Robert said opening the front door and headed down the hall.

Come on in, beer’s in the fridge. This will only take a few minutes to get my stuff. Robert yelled as he opened the door to the garage and went inside. He walked over to a locked closet and pushed in the code to open the door. Behind the closet door was stairs leading down. He walked down the steps.

Where are you at? John yelled stepping into the garage with a beer.

Down here, come on down. John went down the steps and found Robert at a keypad putting in some numbers. Robert hit enter and the wall slid back to reveal a large workshop.

Kind of a bit much don’t yeah think? John asked.

Wait it just get better. Robert grinned.

Where are you? Jack yelled.

Down here. I’m looking at Roberts’s toy shop. John replied.

Inside the room were three benches. The benches had various test equipment scattered about them. Robert walked over to the back wall and hit a button and this wall slid away. There was another room full of all types of weapons.

Umm Robert, you need to get some help. Jack said.

Jack, these are my tools of the trade. This is why I am still here and not floating somewhere out in space. John, look at that thing over on the bench and see what you think. Robert said.

John walked over and looked at a larger version of the generator he had built for his racer.

Where did you get this Robert?

You didn’t think that you work was a secret, did you? Robert said as he started putting some things into a transit container.

Robert what are you doing with this? Jack asked. This is classified stuff.

You don’t think I gave all of my work to the General did yeah. Hay John, check this out. Robert said as he tossed him a small object. John garbed the object and looked at it.

I haven’t seen one of these since the cave. You have not answered my question yet. What are you doing with my engine?

John. Jack said. We’ve known all about your work right from the beginning.

Why do you think you haven’t had any trouble getting the parts to build it? The Corporation has kept close tabs on all of us since we got back. Jack, go upstairs, and call your boss. Tell him we want Kathy to meet us at the elevator. Go, go and don’t take no for an answer.

But why? Jack asked.

Our ride is going to be the Flying Cloud. It is the only ship close enough to get us out in time. Right? Now GO! Robert said.

Yes, but how’d you know that? Jack said looking over his shoulder.

Space Dock Alpha 385, is and Company only dock, right? Besides I saw a copy of our orders in the secretary’s in box. Robert said as he put five more little rectangular boxes into the transit case. Run along Captain Jack go do your captain thing, and get her down there.

But why? She won’t be going with you. Jack said with a puzzled look upon his face.

Pats onboard the Flying Cloud. She might want to see him before we take him out with us for four years.

Oh yeah right, I’ll see what I can do. Jack hurried back up the stairs.

Okay so what is with the boxes like we got from mom and dad? John asked looking at one of the rectangular boxes that Robert had put in the transit case.

Star Track here we come. I wanted to call it a Phaser, but it doesn’t work that way. Here I’ll show you. Feel along the long side. Do you feel the indent?

Yes.

Push it.

Whoa. John said as the object glowed.

See that red dot aim it at the wall, and push again. John did as he was told. A white light hit the wall sending a shower of sparks. A small hole appeared where it had hit.

Cool. I want mine to do that. John said.

What’s cool? Jack said as he returned. Okay it all set she’ll meet us there. What’s that’s smell?

Nothing. Robert said, Good. Now take those four boxes upstairs and I’ll finish with this one.

John and Jack reached down and garbed the handles on the boxes. When they tried to lift them, they did not budge.

Shit Robert, how did you get them down here? John asked turning red.

Sorry. Turn the middle latch sideways. John turned the latch sideways and the box rose up off the floor.

Neat trick. John said. The box stopped at about one meter off the ground. John and Jack were able to move the box upstairs quite easily. They put it in the back of the pickup and returned for the rest of the boxes. By the time they had all five boxes in the truck, Robert had packed his flight bag and tossed it into the truck. He reached in and turned the latches until the bed of the truck started to sink. The boxes stuck out of the two-half meter bed by another meter.

How about something to eat? Robert asked as he set the alarm on the house.

Sounds good to me, I haven’t had anything since last night. John said.

We have to be getting back. The plane will be there by now. Jack said.

Lighten up Captain Jack. They’re not going to leave without us. What do you want? Robert asked as he started the engine

Food. John said.

Robert pulled out of the driveway and headed toward Los Posses. He turned on Daily and turned into the parking lot. He found a parking spot in front of ‘EGG N THINGS’.

Here we go. Robert said as he slid out of the truck. The restaurant was packed as usual. The hostess walked over and asked. How many?

Three. Robert said.

Booth or table? She asked.

Doesn’t matter. John replied. They were seated and looked at the menu.

What will it be dears. The waitresses asked.

Mushroom Sausage and cheese omelet, with the cottage potatoes and sourdough toast. Robert said without looking at the menu.

Sounds good to me. I’ll have coffee. John said.

Club sandwich, fruit instead of French fries and Ice tea. Jack said.

And to drink Sir? she asked Robert.

Oh. Ice tea. Robert said as he looked around. Seated in the corner were the two bodyguards they had left back at Point Mugu.

Don’t look now, but your friends are back, Jack.

Hum? Jack said looking around Must be a good place to eat than. He said as he sipped his tea. The conversation slowed when the food came. The three men sat and eat their food, when they had finished Robert looked around for the guards.

Hay Jack, your friends are gone.

No there not, they’re outside waiting. John said

Okay that’s enough. Robert said. Pay the bill Jack. John put some money on the table and handed the bill to Jack. John and Robert headed towards the truck while Jack paid the bill. He joined them at the truck.

When is it your turn to pay? Jack said.

Shut up and get in. John said and climbing in after him.

Robert started the truck and headed back towards Point Mugu. The bodyguards got into a black limousine and followed them.

How long are we going to keep your pets Jack? Robert asked looking in the rearview mirror at the limousine following them.

As far as I know just to the space dock, they’re supposed to bring me back. Jack said.

You’re not going with us? John asked looking at him.

No, no just to the dock, the General just wants me to make sure that you make it to the Ship. Then I’m to return back to Vandenberg.

That figures. Robert said. We should have thrown him harder John.

The Aircraft had pulled up to the parking apron by the terminal. Robert pulled up to the back of the C130’s loading ramp. They got out and stacked the boxes on the ground. Robert turned the latch to the off position and climbed back into the truck. He pulled the truck back over to the parking lot in the same spot that Sam had park in before. He brought the keys to the terminal and gave them to Sally, at the check in counter. The two bodyguards were waiting for him inside the terminal then followed him out to the airplane.

Captain Jack, don’t you think you could have gotten a newer ride? This thing has got to be a hundred years old by now. Robert said as he walked up to where they were standing behind the aircraft.

Remember great Grandpa used to talk about them when he worked here. John said looking at the old airplane.

You know the Air Force if it ain’t broke you can’t fix it. Jack said.

Using a forklift, the Loadmaster placed the five containers inside the aircraft. The Crew Chief walked over to Jack, saluted. Sir, is this all of your personnel? He asked.

Yes. Jack said looking for the bodyguards.

Sir we have loaded all of your equipment on to the aircraft. The Pilot would like to talk to you Sir. Gentlemen if you will follow me onboard the aircraft and we’ll get you strapped in.

All six of them proceeded up the ramp into the aircraft with the bodyguards bringing up the rear. Jack followed the Crew Chief up to the cockpit. They talked for few minutes, Jack reached into his binder and pulled out an envelope and handed it to the airplane captain.

BULL SHIT! We’ll see about this. The airplane captain said as she came storming out of the cockpit. Nobody flies this plane, but me. Follow me Captain. Jack followed the Major out of the aircraft, and back into the terminal. She went to a phone and called her headquarters.

Yes Sir, but, Yes Sir, but Sir this is my aircraft, Yes Sir. No Sir. The Major said as she hung up the phone. All right captain, where are these pilots?

On board Sir. Jack replied.

When they had returned to the aircraft, the Copilot was outside with the Crew Chief and Loadmaster.

Major. The Copilot said. A couple of yahoo’s come in and kicked us out of the aircraft. We’ve called for security.

It’s Okay. The Major said. Captain Artuso has brought his own pilots with him. Seems were just along for the ride this time. Get back onboard and let’s get button up.

As the crew started up the ramp as it started to lift. The starboard engine started up then the port engine. The aircraft turned and started down the apron towards the run up pits. The crew strapped themselves in across from the Artuso brothers.

Robert had watched the commotion between the bodyguards and the ship’s crew with some amusement. Now the bodyguard that had sat in the copilot seat on the helicopter was in the pilot’s seat.

Ah Jack. Where did you get these guys? Robert asked.

Corporate issue. Don’t blame me. I’m just following orders. Speaking of which, here are yours. Jack said reaching into his binder and pulling out two envelopes. He handed the envelopes to Robert and John. I was instructed to give them to you now. Robert and John opened them and read the orders.

Universal Science and Space Research

Date: 06-10-59

Order No. 35887816

To:      Robert A Artuso

You are here by ordered to report to Captain Huntington of the United Space and Science Ship Flying Cloud.

You are to travel by corporate conveyance to the space elevators in Mexico.

You will then proceed to Space Dock Alpha 385 where you will rendezvous with the USSR Flying Cloud.

Signed General: B. J. Monroe

John’s orders were the same.

Yep, it looks just like the ones I saw in the in box. Robert said. Care to explain this Jack?

Yeah Jack. John said looking at him. And while you’re at it. Why am I going? I have never worked for these people

I don’t know anymore. I’m just carrying a bunch of orders. The last of which is for the Captain of the Flying Cloud. Honestly that’s all I know.

The aircraft started down the runway, at V2 it pointed it nose to the sky and climb. At ten kilometers, it leveled off and headed south. Robert unhooked himself from the seat. He looked out the window and saw the old dirt road underneath the aircraft. Yup, they still need a road to find their way. He grabbed his bag shoved it into the webbing then stretched out in the webbing they had been sitting in. Yesterday started out so good. I was just going to work for John. Now I am on my way back out there. His thoughts drifted off into dreams. His breathing was smooth and steady and he was out.

Chapter Two

The landing gear lowered with a whirring noise then a thump when it locked into place. Robert awoke with a startling and puzzled look. It took a few seconds for him to remember where he was. He could see, out of the window, the vast complex surrounding the space elevator. The long cable stretched from its anchor point to the last space dock in orbit around earth. Multiple cars were going up and down to the different stations along the way. As one car would ascend, another would descend. There were multiple larger cars in the center to carry cargo.

Robert watched all of the activity as the C130 banked and came into alignment with the runway. The wheels touched with a squeak, and then an increased rumble reverberated throughout the airframe as the brakes were applied. Robert looked at his brothers. John was looking out the window as he had been doing. While Jack faced straight-ahead clutching the seat just as hard as he could, his face was drained of all color. The aircraft slowed and turned on to the taxiway. It made another turn and proceeded parallel with the runway until it was three quarters the way down it. At this point, it turned again and headed for large hangars. It turned one last time almost all the way around and came to a halt in front of one of the hangars.

The Major and her crew were starting to unstrap from the seats then stood up and stretched. Robert and John were doing the same thing. The Loadmaster and the Crew Chief were heading towards the tail of the plain when the two bodyguards appeared.

Major, if you would call your crew back please. We request that you do not leave the aircraft while it is at this location. One of the bodyguards said.

Chief, Sergeant Crane, come here. The two men returned to where the Major was standing.

Lady and gentlemen, we request that you stay forward in the aircraft until we get it unloaded. We have a crew that will handle everything. Your cooperation has been greatly appreciated. Major, you have been very understanding. You have a good ship and a fine crew. The bodyguards turned and headed towards the tail ramp. The second bodyguard lowered the ramp. The other bodyguard rode it down and continued into the hangar. The hangar door opened halfway and the bodyguard came out driving a flatbed carryall and pulled up to the ramp. The other bodyguard walked over to Robert who walking down to the ramp.

Sir, if you will show me how to levitate the containers I will get them loaded on to the carryall. The bodyguard said pointing to his five containers.

Robert walked over to the first container and turned the latch ¼ turn. The container pushed against its restraining harness. Robert then turned the latch back off.

Thank you, Sir. He said as he was un-strapping the loads.

The Major and her crew were standing up front talking amongst themselves as John and Jack joined Robert by the cargo ramp.

Well Jack, you look better than you did a few minutes ago. Robert said

Yeah, I don’t mind flying I just hate the landings, especially in one of these things.

The bodyguard had unbuckled the containers that Robert had brought with him. He reached down and turned the latch until the container had risen about one meter off the deck. He grabbed the handle and pulled it to the waiting carryall. Robert heard a noise behind him. Turning around he could see the Loadmaster standing with the rest of the crew pointing. His mouth hanging open as the container floated off the aircraft.

Robert smiled. Isn’t science marvelous? He said as he garbed hold of one of the handles of the transit cases. Lend a hand Jack?

Jack bent down and garbed the other handle. They carried it out and placed it on the carryall. John walked down the ramp pulling one of the large containers and stowed it on the carryall.

I have got to get some of these for the race team. John said.

This process continued until all of the equipment that Robert had plus the rest of the equipment was transferred on to the carryall. Robert, John, and Jack stood next to his carryall until the second bodyguard got back into the driver’s seat and drove the carryall back into the hangar. The other bodyguard went back into the aircraft. He talked to the pilot for a few minutes and then bodyguard turned and left. The aircraft started up and was moving by the time that the ramp was secure. Within a few minutes, it was on the taxiway headed away from the hangar. By the time the airplane had turned on to the main taxiway, the other bodyguard pulled up in another black limousine.

Jack, where do they keep coming up with these limousines? John asked.

I don’t know. The general uses these guys all the time for things. Jack said.

Gentlemen if you please. The bodyguard said as he held opened the limousine door.

The Artuso brothers slid in to the limousine Jack in the middle again. The limousine pulled out on to the parkway and headed towards the elevator. After going a few kilometers, the limousine turned in the Mars embassy’s driveway. The passenger bodyguard turned to Captain Jack.

Sir, you are requested to meet with the ambassador’s attaché. Gentlemen your sister will meet with you tonight at the hotel. The bodyguard got out and opened the door.

John and Jack got out.

Sir, if you will wait here in the limousine. After you Sir. He said pointing towards the entrance.

Wonder what that’s all about? John asked.

Don’t know. Robert replied.

This is one weird trip so far. John said watching Jack walk into the embassy.

Not too bad yet, I have been on a far worse. Robert said looking around.

It took about an hour before Jack returned. He and the bodyguard were carrying several large bags with them to the limousine. The trunk lid opened and they put the bags into the trunk.

So? Robert asked as Jack climbed back inside.

I don’t know. They said that everything is ready except that the Flying Cloud would not be here until tomorrow. I am now the mailman for the Fling Cloud. Also, our things are waiting for us at the hotel.

What things? John asked.

Jack just shrugged his shoulders and shook his head.

The limousine pulled out of the embassy parking lot and headed towards the