Phantom Duel

"Phantom Duel" by Ford McCormack is a science fiction story set in the Vega system, where pilot Will Archer faces incredible odds on the hostile planet Vega VII. The narrative jumps into high gear when Archer and his crew stumble upon a derelict ship in need of rescue. Things quickly escalate with the discovery of Farian jade, an alluring crystal rumored to hold the secrets of life itself, but its true nature drives people to madness and violence in their relentless pursuit of it. The crew's loyalty is tested as they deal with internal betrayal, forcing Archer to navigate a web of deceit that will push his survival skills to the limits against both the greed of mankind and the threats of the alien world. The book explores themes of greed and hidden agendas, painting a picture of the hazards of space and the dark corners of the human heart.