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Tara turned to Descamps.  “You’re a diplomat?” “Absolutely.  And I demand that my personal possessions be returned!”  Descamps did not quite raise his voice. “If he’s a diplomat,” Sykes said, “ he is forbidden to possess eavesdropping devices, remote digital … Continue reading →

“And you’re  Spencer’s older son, aren’t you?” Radnor asked. “Yes, Sir,” Travis answered. “I’m Travis.  We did the surveying.  That funny star is one end of a flying machine.  We could see it through my theodolite.  Winston got a good … Continue reading →

Of course, we do have the ability to build starships, Chelan answered.  The detail simply has been overlooked. We do Where? Beta drives historically optimized for efficiency not FTL speed.  They are still not that efficient. Why bother when you … Continue reading →

* * * * * Later in the afternoon, Travis appeared at the Sheriff’s office. “Winston,” Travis said, “I did the calculations, and Elaine checked them. She’s smarter than me, and more careful.  I also brought a map.  We need … Continue reading →

“Indeed,” Elaine said, “we delayed the flight of the Mighty Hauler 2 in case you had any final questions about its patent issues.” “Caution is always wise.”  Tzoltzin nodded.  “However, my final inspection, last visit, is legally binding, so your … Continue reading →

“You’re sketching something through that telescope,” she answered.  “Looks like no airplane I’ve ever seen.” “Yes, and it’s a poor sketch,” Winston confessed. “May I?”  She put on a  warm smile.  “My job is hurry up and wait, so during … Continue reading →

“Indeed, you have.  Time for my instruments to run my tests,” Tzoltzin nodded appreciatively.  “You are attesting that this is the root drive on the alpha drive patent tree?” “We so attest.  We hope it is the true first drive,” … Continue reading →

“Of course, Dad,” Travis said.  Twenty minutes later, Winston and Travis stood at the edge of town. Further out were several corrals with a few horses. The blue star was clearly in sight. “Calm day,” Travis said.  “Cool for once, … Continue reading →

“I eagerly endorse this proposal of transport,” Tzoltzin said.  “And, while it may surprise you, one of the things I do wish to experience, before I return home, is a polar blizzard.  While safe, of course, behind heavy window panes.  … Continue reading →

“If it might explain what happened…I knew some of the people who vanished…I’m happy to help,” Spencer said firmly.  “I have a stack of people who want me, pronto, to resurvey for the new rail line.  There are patches where … Continue reading →