Book 2 of Shadow Gods Saga from Stefan Vučak
In an effort to expand their political influence within the Serrll Combine, the Sargon Directorate and the Palean Union are working to merge.
To gain an extra seat in the ruling Executive Council, Sargon and the Paleans need to increase the total number of star systems they now occupy. Pizgor’s five systems are the prize, but it is resisting all overtures to force it to join. In retaliation, the Palean Union establishes a clandestine base near Pizgor space and engages marauding raiders to prey on its commerce. Pizgor petitions the Serrll General Assembly to destroy the raiders, accusing Sargon and the Paleans of piracy and political intimidation.
Second Scout Terrllss-rr is tasked to locate the raider base in an attempt to link its activities to the Palean Union, unmasking the merger plot. Despite support from the Serrll Scout Fleet, Terr is dubious that his effort would succeed, but he has his orders.
While escorting a supply ship, Terr feigns drive problems and falls back, leaving the supply ship unprotected—a lure for any prowling raider. A renegade Palean First Scout commanding a Fleet warship and an armed merchant auxiliary, is lying in wait. He detects Terr’s ship and attacks, forcing Terr to flee toward a nearby gas giant. The renegade cannot allow the knowledge that the raiders are using a Fleet vessel to become known and pursues.
Terr survives, and an elaborate trap brings a confrontation with the renegade Fleet officer.
Check out Stefan Vučak’s other books in the Shadow Gods Saga.
