Heat Seeker: Jake Mudd Adventures

By Scot Morgan

Jake's flying with a crew now, but he's still getting used to the idea.

 

Taking a questionable cargo job to bring in some credits, Jake, Tiffin, and Dewey find themselves tested well beyond their comfort as the dangerous cargo gets loose, Jake gets kidnapped, and Tiffin and Dewey are left to track down the thugs who took their captain.

 

The pieces start to come together for Jake. He suspects he knows who's making his life hell, once again.

 

When he realizes nothing's going to free him from his worst enemy's deadly pursuit, he decides it's time to stop running.

 

To bargain for a deal that takes himself and his ship forever off the hit list, Jake and his intrepid crew head toward a set of coordinates in an inhospitable part of the galaxy. He's determined to settle the matter once and for all.

 

Trouble is, his enemy knows he's coming, and peace negotiations are the last thing on his adversary's mind.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Inka Press
• Release date: May 2, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223811336

Book preview

1

Jake's knuckles whitened as he held his grip tightly, leaning back and mustering every ounce of strength to pull. Sweat dripped from his brow, landing on the gash on his wrist. But still, he kept up the struggle. Finally, after nearly a minute, the bolt loosened, and the wrench came back toward him.

He wasn't prepared for it to give way so quickly. He tumbled back, landing on his crumpled brown leather jacket, as his head struck the cold metal wall with a thud. He'd been meaning to deal with the breakdown in the air filtration system of the secondary cargo hold for a while.

Maintenance is worse than getting shot at.

Are you okay, Jake? Sarah asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Yeah, I'm fine, he grunted, pushing himself back up and taking hold of the second bolt with the heavy two-foot wrench. You know, for an advanced ship, some of this system's design has a lot of room for improvement.

You talk like I made it, Sarah said, a touch of amusement in her tone.

Don't get me wrong, He glanced toward the ceiling, his expression softening. I didn't mean anything by it, other than it looks like the designers could have done a better job on some of these basic elements.

There's always upgrades, Sarah suggested.

Jake tipped his head up at the camera on the ceiling through which he knew she was watching him. We barely pull in enough to keep things going the way they are. Unless we can land another decent job, I think upgrades are going to stay at the bottom of the list for the time being.

Suit yourself, Sarah said with a hint of a shrug in her voice. You're the one banging your head down there.

Appreciate the sympathy, Jake grumbled. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to get this finished. Why don't you check on our guests?

You mean your new crew, Tiffin and Dewey?

His eyebrows furrowed as he sent a pointed glance in her direction. I still haven't decided how permanent this arrangement is going to be.

Well, Tiffin seems to think the matter is settled.

What does she know? Jake shook his head a little, dismissing the thought. She's just a kid.

Maybe, but she managed to save your tail on Eon.

I had things under control, he insisted.

Sarah's voice carried a note of skepticism. Is that what you call it? That's not the way I heard it.

Jake was giving another pull on the wrench, working to loosen the second bolt. The ring of the wrench slipped off and struck his knee which was bent up in front of him. Son of a—

I'll check on the others now, Sarah said, cutting him off.

He nodded without looking up at the camera, and set to work again on opening the casing of the air filtration system.

2

The ship's lounge emanated coziness with its low, light wood slatted ceilings. Five distinct seating areas, each defined by soft couches and rounded-edge chairs atop large decorative rugs, invited relaxation. Green marbled tiles, threaded with delicate white veins, covered the remaining floor space. No harsh overhead lighting marred the ambiance; instead, a soft glow emanated from single lights suspended above each seating area.

Tiffin and Dewey sat nearest the curved crystal glass wall, which offered a breathtaking view of the ever-changing starscape. Dewey, now wearing dull dark blue and beige clothes from unclaimed freight, seemed a shade lighter against his new shirt. Tiffin declined Jake's offer for new clothes, remaining in her green shorts and vest.

As Tiffin lounged on the couch, her boots rested on the ottoman between them. Dewey, on the other hand, sat upright in a chair, exuding discipline ingrained from years working in Eon's city administration.

What do you think about it? she asked.

About what? he replied.

Tiffin gestured around the room, then nodded at the panoramic view. This! Isn't it just awesome?

It's something, Dewey said, glancing around. Different.

Her face alight with excitement, Tiffin mused, Where do you think we're going? She imagined the possibilities.

That's a good question, Dewey said. Mr. Mudd's not the most forthcoming about his plans. Though he did promise to find a suitable place. I would've known sooner Eon wasn't for me if my visions of the future didn't come in such uncontrollable and unexpected spurts.

So, it's true. You see the future?

All of my people do. But it's usually distressing and unpredictable. When I need it, the visions aren't there.

Tiffin offered, Maybe the future isn't always there yet for you to see. Until people decide what to do, how could anyone know the future? Did you know you were going to leave Eon, for example?

I'd wanted to leave Eon for a long time. Trouble was I never knew where I'd go or what I'd do if I left. I think that's why I never tried before.

Well, I'm glad you did, she said. I think we all are going to make a great team.

I'm not cut out for wandering around in space, he said. I'm looking for safe passage to somewhere... well, somewhere safe. But not like Eon. Adventure's never been my thing.

You could've fooled me, Tiffin smiled.

What do you mean?

The way you raced in to find us. Well, to find Jake. Realizing the implication, she looked away.

Oh, that.

Yes, oh that. That was brave.

Dewey seemed to shrink into his seat. I think you're confusing desperation for bravery.

No, she said. I don't think so. Pretty brave. She slapped her hand on Dewey's knee, making him visibly uncomfortable.

I hope I'm not interrupting, Sarah said through the speaker on the ceiling.

Not at all, Tiffin replied, looking up. How are you?

I'm fine. Thank you, Sarah said. I wanted to see how you two are getting settled in. I know Jake isn't the best at making people feel at home. He's not used to having anyone around.

Except you, you mean, Tiffin said. You're great company.

Thank you, Tiffin, Sarah said. We get along, Jake and I. And you, Dewey? We're glad to have you aboard, as well.

Thank you, Dewey said, pausing. Sarah. He spoke her name awkwardly.

It was clear to Tiffin that Dewey wasn't as accustomed to talking to an AI as she was. Tiffin chimed in to steer the conversation. What is Jake up to, anyway?

Jake? Sarah said. Oh, he's busy with some maintenance. We've had a few areas of the ship in need of repair for a while. I've been asking him to look into them for weeks, but honestly, I think he's chosen to do that now to avoid... well, to avoid too much conversation.

It must be hard on you both sometimes, Tiffin said, flying from one place to the next, not having any place to call home. Oh, I'm sorry. That was thoughtless of me. This ship—you, I mean. This is home for you and Jake. Isn't it?

For as long as I can remember, Sarah said.

How long has that been? Dewey asked.

Jake and I have been together as far back as my memories go, Sarah said.

Tiffin noticed Sarah's voice change as she spoke her recollection. Tiffin shot a glance at Dewey.

What? he said.

Oh. I just talked to Jake, Sarah said. He wants you two to meet him in the dining hall. Do you remember the way?

I… I think so, Dewey appeared to be running through his memory of the ship’s layout.

Oh, I do, Tiffin said. Tell him we'll be there in ten minutes.

I will, Sarah said. If you don't mind, I'm going to leave you two now. I have a few other things to attend to.

Sure. No problem, Tiffin waved at Sarah’s camera.

For a few moments, Tiffin and Dewey sat in silence.

What? she asked, finally.

Dewey glanced up at the speaker. I don't know if I can get used to having her around… always.

Why? Tiffin asked. Sarah's great.

She seems fine. I don't mean anything by it. It's just that… well, working on Eon, it was… His brow furrowed, and Tiffin could see tension squeezing his shoulders.

He must’ve really hated working for the city.

She leaned her head down a little to catch his gaze, which had sunk. Don't worry. She's not like that. Now, come on. I'll show you the way to the dining hall.

They both stood up.

And how do you know this, already? Dewey asked.

Easy. While you were in the med bay, I wandered around the ship. This place is so cool! You wouldn’t believe some of the stuff I found. Come on. Our captain’s waiting. She headed for the door.

Dewey followed her.

3

Jake mentally prepared himself as he walked down the corridor to meet Dewey and Tiffin. Memories of concise briefings from his mercenary days resurfaced—blunt words exchanged without sentiment, always with the understanding that each conversation could serve as a final farewell. The faint echo of his boots resonated in the hall, and he could feel his pulse quicken, the adrenaline coursing through his veins as he neared his new crew members.

Ugh, he muttered under his breath.

Upon entering the dining hall, Jake looked disheveled and weary. Black electrical tape encircled his right wrist, hiding most of the lengthy cut he had sustained while wrestling with the bolts and metal casing of the secondary cargo hold's air filtration system. Oblivious to the smear of black grease matting his hair on the left side, he scanned the room and spotted his new company.

Good, he said, his voice tense. You two are here.

Tiffin and Dewey sat opposite each other near the end of the long metal table, designed to accommodate up to twenty-two people—the ship's maximum crew capacity. Jake had grown accustomed to having the place to himself, save for his beloved and feisty AI, Sarah. The ship could hold hundreds more people, but most of the space was occupied by cargo and the massive system used for long-haul space travel.

What did you want to see us about? Tiffin inquired, her petite frame barely rising above the tabletop. Her elbows rested on the surface, causing her shoulders to elevate slightly.

Jake observed the striking contrast between Dewey's and Tiffin's expressions. She appeared excited, while Dewey seemed anxious, almost nauseated. Jake decided to generously describe Dewey's expression as unsettled. He didn't blame him, though. He respected Dewey for taking a leap into the unknown. For a moment, he considered Tiffin's leap to be more naiveté than bravery, but he reminded himself of their shared experience on Eon.

Jake? Tiffin prompted, snapping him out of his reverie.

Realizing his mind had wandered, he apologized. Sorry, he said. There are a few things we need to discuss. He walked to the end of the table and sat down, placing his hands on the brushed metal surface.

Dewey leaned forward, looking eager. Jake knew he wanted news about their destination, having asked for updates on more than one occasion.

You two may have noticed I've been busy the past couple of days, Jake began.

That's okay, Tiffin said, glancing around the room. This place is enormous. I'm sure you've had a lot to do.

Sarah mostly runs herself, Jake explained, but I've been doing a few repairs.

Tiffin gestured toward the black tape wrapped around Jake's wrist. I can see that. She grinned and raised her eyebrows in a mild judgment of his competence.

Jake examined the makeshift bandage covering the cut, acknowledging her point. The sting from the gash returned as he focused on it. He shrugged slightly. Yeah, well, I seem to be better at breaking things than fixing them.

Tiffin sat up straight. I can help.

You’d think I was handing out credits…or candy.

Jake stared at her for a moment, weighing her offer. Eventually, he nodded. Yes, that's what I wanted to talk to you two about.

Dewey shifted in his seat, fidgeting with his fingers. It's not that I don't want to help, but I have no experience working on a ship or doing any kind of repair work.

Don't worry, Dewey. I didn't peg you as the mechanical type, Jake reassured him. You, on the other hand, Tiffin...

Tiffin beamed with anticipation.

I don't know where we're headed yet, Jake admitted. It may be a few days before we reach our destination. I don't want you two sitting around with nothing to do.

Dewey's expression eased. Very considerate of you, Mr. Mudd.

Jake's face remained tense. It's been my experience that people without a job or orders to keep them occupied eventually cause trouble.

Jake studied Dewey, gauging his reaction. Sure, Dewey had helped him when they were leaving Eon, and he had been a decent enough guy before the arena battle, but how well did Jake really know him?

So, it's only men that cause trouble? Tiffin teased, raising her eyebrows and suppressing a grin.

Jake looked at her and felt the tension in his shoulders. He exhaled, attempting to relax. I'm sure you can be just as much trouble as anyone. He smiled.

What did I get myself into?

I'm only kidding, Tiffin said. I won't be any trouble at all. But, she glanced at Jake's bandaged arm, I think you could use some help fixing things around here.

Jake observed his wrist and the reddish-brown stain seeping through the black electrical tape. He chuckled. Yes. Probably a good idea. Like I said, that's why I came to talk to you two. I'm assigning you jobs, at least for now. Tiffin—

Yes? She practically vibrated with enthusiasm.

Jake braced himself. You are the ship's new mechanic.

Yes! Tiffin leaped up, accidentally knocking her chair back. Oh. Sorry. She retrieved her chair and sat down.

Jake exhaled, trying to drain the tension he thought he had already released. He turned to Dewey. As for you—

If you think I can be of use there, Dewey interjected.

What? Jake said, confused. I didn't finish.

Dewey's eyes darted around for a moment. I'm sorry. I lost track of the moment. You were walking me into the ship's bridge. I got mixed up. Sometimes, when I see the glimpses in my mind, I forget where I am.

Yes, Jake agreed. I was going to suggest you join me on the bridge. I can see your glimpses of the near future are going to take some getting used to.

I apologize, Dewey said.

No need, Jake assured him. That's one of the reasons I think you could be useful on the bridge. Especially if things get...

Get what? Dewey asked.

Jake glanced at the two of them. Messy.

He gestured for Dewey and Tiffin to stand. Come on. I know I've had you confined to your quarters, the lounge, and here so far. Sorry about that. I'll give you a quick tour of the rest of the ship. He stepped toward the door before glancing back at them. Well, most of the ship. There are a few areas that are off-limits. Not that they're interesting. More for your safety and cargo security. You understand.

Tiffin, Dewey said, I thought you said you'd been all over this ship.

Tiffin elbowed Dewey in his ribs, causing him to emit a yelp.

Jake stopped in his tracks but didn't turn around. He drew a deep breath and exhaled. Then he continued out of the room.

Dewey and Tiffin followed.

4

The three of them walked down the ship's central corridor, the dim overhead lights casting long shadows on the metal walls. Jake explained the basic layout of the ship as they passed the unoccupied crew quarters. There were sixteen rooms in total, with ten private quarters for the captain and crew.

As they approached Jake's room, he pointed to the door. That one's mine, he warned, looking Tiffin and Dewey squarely in the eyes. Off limits. Got it?

Yes, Dewey replied, nodding. Of course.

You got it, Captain, Tiffin said, grinning mischievously.

Jake shook his head. Jake. Just call me Jake.

Okay, Tiffin agreed.

Sarah can point you to some of the projects on the ship that need to be done, Jake told Tiffin. Just stay out of the second cargo bay, the engine room, and the ship's core-containment facility.

Of course, Tiffin responded.