The Year is 1885 of the Imperial Calendar.  When the Imperial Flagship P.R.S. REAPER comes under attack, Major Derringer "Trick-Shot" Asus calls his bay handler to open his hanger so he can deploy in defense of the ship but is denied deployment.  Soon after the ships Commander gives him a new task.  Escort the Chalmayan Princess back to their home world of Primia.

The End of the Beginning: Imperial Shadows

The cockpit of the Ravenblade buzzed with faint activity as Asus keyed into the comm system, his fingers gliding over the glowing console. The sleek lines of the docking hub loomed ahead, the massive structure dotted with the activity of arriving and departing ships. He activated the outbound channel, his calm voice carrying through the static. 


"This is Ravenblade, designation TK-7, requesting permission to dock," Asus said, his tone steady as his helmeted head tilted toward the navigation display. "Requesting a vector and hangar assignment for refueling and temporary hold." 


The reply came almost immediately, the crisp voice of a station controller cutting through the comm. "Ravenblade, your request is acknowledged. Proceed to hangar 49-Delta. Designated approach vector is 217.62. Maintain speed under 100 KPH. Welcome to the hub." 


Asus tapped a quick acknowledgment on the console. "Copy that, Hangar Control. Adjusting course for hangar 49-Delta." 


Chapter XVII: Hub-Delta and the Mark of Dominion