27 “What was that, Defector Three?” Ryker shook her head. “Say again, Tammer.” Lieutenant Dom “Tammer” Jax, her wingman flying an Interceptor in low orbit over Nesteel, paused. Since she’d returned to active flight status with an instructor flying along, Ryker had completed patrols with Jax by her side. She learned the man liked to shoot down freighters or blockade runners fleeing the doomed revolution without asking questions. During every patrol, he searched the stars for easy prey. “I thought I saw a flicker of energy on my sensors,” Jax said. “Sector Two Four from you. You’re in a better position. Can you verify?” She frowned. “Heading there now.” Captain Dapar grumbled from behind her in the Zahlian fighter designed for training. “Just check it out so he’ll shut up.” “Yes, sir

