The Adventures of Deacon Coombs Read Free Page A

these activities, one of our own, Travers of Revonna, was brought to trial. I know that I speak for all Aralians of how relieved we were when the charges against him were dismissed, as Travers hails from a respected house here on Aralia.”
    He sighed, portending unpleasant news. Leaning over and out of the pulpit, he strained to speak. “Now it bereaves me to inform you that new evidence has been uncovered to prove that the man that we love, admire, and respect, known as Travers, is indeed the foul perpetrator of crimes by the trade union.”
    The crowd erupted in disbelief, hurling angry shouts across the plaza. The viewing audience across the planet was equally offended. But Como continued undaunted, recognizing the uncomfortable task tonight. “Of all the Aralian traders, Travers is held in highest esteem by our people, serving as a hero to our youth who hope to one day journey into outer space in the name of peace, trade, and friendship. He has been honored on our planet and others for his accredited actions. He is without doubt the best-known Aralian in the worlds outside Aralia.”
    Como felt that he was losing his audience. “Silence! Please, I ask of you.” Como was known for his bluntness. “I know this is difficult to accept, my comrades, but… I have reviewed the evidence personally, and it is with a heavy heart that I stand before you tonight to declare that… Travers… of Aralia is guilty of smuggling, inciting conspiracy, promoting bribery… and even… abetting subversives.” Barely discernible, he theatrically said, “I am so ashamed.” The crowd was numb, deadened. The entire planet was shrouded in hush.
    Como painfully elaborated on each charge in length, and he then summated his speech. “Aralians have played the most vital role in the colonization of space, have forged the evolution of space trading, have conquered space travel through Vespering, and have formulated and executed laws for safe interplanetary migration. No Aralian has ever been implicated in such a scandal as Travers’s. Our record as Aralians was one to be proud of—until today.” Como bowed his head as each spectator contemplated the gravity of his remarks.
    “I pray as you do that Travers is found not guilty again, but the evidence speaks to another conclusion that will bring pain and shame to us all.” A moment of silence engulfed the planet.
    “Furthermore”—he waited for dramatic effect—“it is my sad duty to inform you that Vespering has proven impaired today, as the Ministry of Transportation and Vespering has informed me that the Aralian trade ship Sleigher has met with tragedy. The ship is now officially declared lost, as it never docked in our port today after dispatch from the Vesper station at Jabu. Its whereabouts are unknown. My sympathies rest with the bereaved families of the crewmen, who were contacted just before our assembly.
    “In conclusion, I sorrowfully say to you that everything possible is being done to find Travers and bring him to justice. The sadness in my heart has been shared with you tonight.” With that, he turned and disappeared.
    Como was tired. He shuffled back into the cool of the main chamber, where his political comrades were lined up to salute him—the normal custom after an official public address. Dreveney approached. “Brief but effective, Como. I know how disappointed you are in Travers, but this had to be done in the interest of sharing what will become public information soon.” Como nodded in agreement.
    “I am so tired, Dreveney. Please remain to discuss the repercussions of my address with our fellow comrades while I retreat down the hallway to the sanctity of my personal library. I am not willing to partake in conversation tonight.” Dreveney was about to place his arm on his friend, but Como turned and departed.
    His body ached. An uncomfortable light-headed feeling spun wildly in his head as he shuffled down the dimly lit hallway. Once inside his sanctuary,