Read Online Ronin (The Pike Chronicles Book 3) by G. P. Hudson - Free Book Online

pleaded.
    “I will,” said Jon.
    His father looked at the boys, “They are your responsibility. See that they keep up,” the scowl returning to his face.
    “Yes, Father,” said Jon. “Thank you.”

Chapter 11
     
    Colonel Bast sat in the small interrogation room studying the Diakan sitting across from him. General Tallos had his hands and feet bound, though he posed little threat. He would have no hope against Colonel Bast’s augmented abilities. No, the restraints were intended to perform a psychological function. They reinforced the dynamics of their relationship and reminded Tallos that he was no General here. Bast wondered if it had any effect on Tallos. Surely Tallos had performed his fair share of interrogations and knew the process.
    “I am surprised that Captain Pike has not yet come to visit,” said Tallos, his face expressionless, the sarcasm clear.
    “You think highly of yourself,” said Bast. “I am surprised you haven’t adjusted that perception.”
    “Yes, well it seems you still hold my wisdom in high regard, Colonel.”
    Bast ignored the remark. “What can you tell me about Captain Pike?”
    “Colonel, I am sure you already know everything you need to know. I know you gained access to his military record when the Hermes project was compromised.”
    “Much of the information was missing.”
    “I’m not sure what else I can add.”
    Bast sighed. “General, you are lying to me. You know as well as I do that things can become very uncomfortable for you. I will eventually get the information I want. Isn’t it better to avoid all that unpleasantness?”
    Tallos stared back at Bast with large, unblinking eyes, then seemed to make a decision. “I think we can develop a relationship, Colonel. One where we both benefit.”
    “Really? What do you imagine something like that would look like?” said Bast, not trusting the Diakan in the slightest.
    “I have already told you. I can facilitate your return home.”
    “This ship is my home.”
    “I’m referring to Earth.”
    “I cannot return. None of us can. Our brain chips do not allow it.”
    “Perhaps, but what if you find Doctor Ellerbeck? What if she can remove the chips? Would you return then?”
    “We would not be welcome. No human on Earth would accept us. We’re better off out here.”
    “Not if you were to return as heroes. I can make that happen for you.”
    Tallos had offered this before. Bast didn’t want to give in to the Diakan, even if the thought of returning to Earth was tantalizing. If things turned out the way the Diakan said and Tallos could make it so his crew were welcomed, that might be worth pursuing. He could also just as easily brand them as criminals and have them executed for treason. On Earth the roles would be reversed and Tallos would hold all the power. Bast didn’t like how that sounded. It would be wisest to string Tallos along, while keeping all options open.
    “I am prepared to establish a tentative agreement with you, General. Tell me what you know, continue providing assistance when needed, and if you prove useful I will return to Earth.”
    “This is progress. I can agree to these terms.”
    “Very well. Tell me about Captain Pike.”
    “The information about Captain Pike was removed because he is an assassin. He performed numerous ‘black operations’ for Space Force and Diakus.”
    “I see. I assume he is good at what he does?”
    “Captain Pike is not just good, Colonel. He is the best.”
    “Why give someone like that command of a starship? Was the Hermes involved in some elaborate Black Op?”
    “Captain Pike was not Space Force’s choice to Captain the Hermes. It was Diakus that requested he be given command.”
    Bast sat back in his chair, feeling confused. “That doesn’t make any sense. Why would Diakus do something like that?”
    “Because, Captain Pike is not just an assassin. He is also a Diakan experiment.”
    “Experiment? What did you do to him?”
    “I can assure you,