The ornate, double front doors were made of metal of some kind, so instead of barreling through them, Adam jumped and crashed through the thin glass transom window above the doors. His action took the seven remaining guards stationed outside by surprise. As he flew over them, they did their best to follow his movement with their weapons, but like most aliens, their shots came slow and several meters behind him.

Landing softly on the brick walkway leading to the entrance, Adam rolled once and came up on one knee. With the flash rifle married to his chin, he sent a stream of bolts into the guards, literally ripping them apart at their waists.

He then scanned the front of the building, his movements and those of his rifle acting as one. When he was satisfied there was no further movement in his direction, he slowly rose to his feet.

No one appeared to be left alive in the compound, or those who were chose to stay indoors and out of sight. It was a wise move.

Calmly, Adam Cain snugged down his boonie hat and shouldered his rifle. Then he turned and walked casually down the long driveway and through the open gates of the compound, his back illuminated by the flickering light from the now fully-involved fire, as it quickly consumed the building behind him…

Chapter Two

Adam drove the transport to the small spaceport located on the other side of Jaxas, about 150 klicks from Bundnet’s compound. Even though the gang leader was — had been — a criminal, he still had a lot of contacts and support within the local government, military and law enforcement. It was imperative for Adam to get off-planet as soon as possible, especially after the carnage he’d created over the past three hours.