“This is a joke, right?” Forst asked after Lieutenant Regul had turned off the radio and turned away from the equipment to face his companion. It was no surprise to Regul that the Captain was in the room listening to the transmission as their latest orders were coming in. He’d invited him. The rest of their Swarm was supposed to be in the shop maintaining equipment.
Both Iidx were in the chamber of the cavern that had become their Operations Center. Lights had been added for proper illumination causing sparkles on the walls and ceiling. Plastic tarps were spread above the workstations to catch moisture dripping off the ceiling. The water seeping into the room accumulated on the floor and trickled along one wall where it found a hole and disappeared deeper into the mountain. Laminated maps of the island had been attached to one wall.
Forst glanced towards the room’s entrance to make sure no one had come up from the cavern depths. Then he paused, his antennae waving in disgust. This wasn’t a secret, need-to-know only, mission. Even if it was, everyone needed to know.
He turned back to the Lieutenant. “Command thinks we’ve got so much time on our hands that we’re bored, is that it?” he asked. “In their great wisdom they’ve decided it’s their job to solve that little problem for us. And this is how they’re doing it.”
“I don’t think this’s a joke,” replied Regul with his own disgusted wave of antennae. “And I don’t consider all the extra work this is going to create for us as a way to improve my morale.”
Forst took a deep breath and let it out. “Well, I guess it was just too much to hope that Command had finally developed a sense of humor,” he replied then gave a little shrug. “So where do we start?”
Before answering, Regul glanced down at the pad he’d been using to take notes during Swarm Master Zelof’s transmission. “Well, the first thing we have to do is find a suitable site for the Hive,” he replied then looked at his companion. “It’s fortunate that we only have two locations to evaluate since the Swarm Master anticipates the new Hive will be in one of the two caverns we’ve reported.”
The Lieutenant thought for a moment before he continued. “Since we’ve been in both places I think Stranstreen is our most likely choice. It’s the most secure although it’s the lease accessible.” He paused and chuckled. “It being so difficult to access is the main reason it’s the most secure.” Regul shrugged. “But who knows? With the priorities outlined by the Swarm Master maybe where we are right now will be the ideal site.”
Forst waved his antennae in agreement and Regul continued. “You heard that we don’t have much time didn’t you?” he asked. The Captain waved agreement again. “We have to have the site identified by the time the construction swarm arrives. They’ll be here in a month. Sooner if that’s possible so that’s our deadline.”
“Construction swarm!” snorted Forst. “You’re telling me that Command wants to smuggle another ten to twenty people across a strait that’s being watched all hours of the day. Then those people have to land on and cross an island controlled by our enemy. And if that isn’t hard enough, they have to move heavy equipment!”
The Lieutenant gave Forst an odd look then added a slow shake of his head. “Captain, I’m afraid you must have missed that part. Moving equipment through the jungle isn’t going to be a problem,” he announced.
“No,” groaned Forst, shaking his head in denial. “No, they can’t do this to us.” He began pacing about the room, gesturing with all four of his arms as he spoke. “I can understand the need to separate our remaining Queens. That’s the reasonable thing to do. But to place one here? That’s insane!” Forst stopped walking, looked at his companion and pointed at the cavern wall in the direction of the Kthpok base. “That base out there is crawling with Tails looking for us! Adding more people into the mix will just make it easier for them to find us.”
The Lieutenant left the radio station. “I don’t know why Zelof picked our island for a new hive and gave us our orders but he did,” he said and gave a shrug of his antennae. “So we’ll follow those instructions.” His antennae gave an amused dip. “Besides, you have to admit there is some poetic justice in this idea.”
Regul ignored Forst’s snort as the two Iidx moved through the room and into the passage heading for the deeper ways of the cavern they’d made their base. “We might as well let everyone know about our orders,” the Lieutenant announced. “They can help us start the evaluation here.” He gave a shrug of his antennae. “Who knows? Maybe we’ll get lucky and find a place that won’t need much work.”
That was met with another snort from Forst. “I’m sure everyone’s going to be as thrilled with the news as I am,” was the Captain’s reply.
Lieutenant Rian and Captain Forst stood at the edge of a rare clearing in the jungle and peered out. This open space which had been spotted in recent satellite photos seemed perfect for their need. It’d taken them less time than expected to identify the site for the new Hive - something like two weeks. To Forst’s surprise it wasn’t Stranstreen but the cavern they’d been living in. The next thing they had to do was get the construction swarm onto the island and into the cavern safely where the remodeling could begin in earnest. Their current assignment was to get to this particular clearing and use it if it was suitable for an observation post watching the western strait.
When the assignment had been given Regul had stressed that once the two observers had reached the clearing they were to find a place that was concealed from Kthpok eyes. The Tails couldn’t know the Iidx were on the island for the Swarm Master’s plan to succeed.
Captain Forst didn’t really need the Lieutenant’s warning. He was all for remaining concealed from someone who wanted to crack his shell. On the way here there’d been no sign of Kthpok patrols in the jungle. But they’d seen and heard patrolling aircraft so they had to be careful to avoid being observed from the air. In addition, their observation post had to be in line-of-sight with a secondary post established some distance away to the north-east.
Looking out from among the ferns that concealed him Forst saw the clearing had the usual grasses and bushes which could provide cover as they moved. But that wouldn’t be enough. They needed real concealment. From the saplings beginning to appear he estimated it wouldn’t be much longer, six months or so, before this clearing would disappear. But that was well outside the timeline given by Swarm Master Zelof. They needed something now; even if they had to climb a tree.
“Look!” the Captain hissed after a few minutes of studying the clearing and pointed upslope. Rian leaned out and looked where the Captain was indicating. “Up there! See that rock?”
The Lieutenant nodded to show he knew where Forst meant. Further uphill, on the crest of the ridge, almost covered by bushes, was a rock outcropping that could give a good view of the ocean to the west of the island. “Let’s check that out,” Forst said.
Taking advantage of the bushes and tall grass growing in the clearing the two Iidx made their way up the slope, their green shells blending in with their surroundings. Since landing on the island the two pilots had become as adept at moving through the jungle as others from their Swarm. Only a very alert Kthpok would’ve been able to spot the two. It took only a few minutes for the two Iidx to reach their objective.
“That’s convenient,” commented Rian as he peered through the bushes that were shielding the outcropping. “There’s a dip in there. The bushes and rock overshadowing the depression make this a perfect vantage point.” Then he glanced off to the north-east. “And we have the right secondary line-of-sight.”
“It’s almost like someone or something knew we were coming and prepared this for us,” agreed Captain Forst.
The faint roar of a jet engine caught their attention. Both Iidx turned to look; Forst saw the glint of sunlight on metal at high altitude miles away. Motioning for Rian to follow he pushed through the bushes and down into the depression. Once there he looked around to find he was in a leaf covered dome. Forst bobbed his head in approval. This should do nicely. Rian had followed close behind, making sure there were no broken or bent branches to reveal their presence to any Kthpok who might be wandering by.
Each Iidx had their assignments and went right to work. Forst slipped off his pack then reached in to pull out his magnifiers. Before putting his pack next to Forst’s Rian went to the west side of the depression where he created a hole in the concealing bushes to look out over the western strait. The view was impressive. Stepping past his companion the Captain moved up to the vantage point and peered out with the magnifiers.
“Captain, I know the construction swarm is supposed to be on its way to the island,” Rian said. He’d paused to look out over the jungle to the strait with his companion. “That’s why we’re here so how long do you think we’re going to be watching for the ships?”
“It shouldn’t be very long, Lieutenant,” replied Forst after glancing at his watch then returned to watching the strait. “Remember, as soon as we sight the ships we’re to let Lieutenant Regul know. After they acknowledge we can head for the rendezvous point to help unload and transport the goods the construction swarm brings.”
The Lieutenant looked over at Forst who was still peering through his magnifiers. “Captain, I’m not trying to get out of work but do you think Regul would mind if we stayed here a little longer?” he asked and shrugged his antennae. “Wouldn’t it be useful to see if and how the Kthpok respond to what’s coming?”
Forst lowered his magnifiers without disturbing the bushes and glanced over at his companion. “That’s a very good idea, Lieutenant,” he said with a slight bob from his head. The Captain noticed Rian’s antennae perk up at the praise. “Since we’re preparing a new hive we can expect the arrival of some very important people,” Forst commented. “It wouldn’t do to have our new arrivals greeted by the Kthpok if the decoys don’t work, now would it?”
Both Iidx chittered in laughter then the Captain waved his antennae at his companion. “We’d better get back to work,” he said. “We wouldn’t want Lieutenant Regul to think we’re slackers.” There was more laughter. “I’ll keep watch while you confirm our communications link. They’re expecting out call.”
“Yes sir,” replied Rian. As Forst turned back to watch the strait the Lieutenant walked over to clear another opening through the screening bushes. This hole would face the mountains to the north-east. When he was satisfied the opening was large enough the Lieutenant dug into his pack to get the signaling device. It was a simple high powered light that could be set on a tripod with a moveable assembly which fit over the lens.
Regul had assured them it would be almost impossible for the Kthpok to intercept any message they sent with this equipment. And, if by some small chance, the Tails did see the series of flashes they wouldn’t have any idea what it meant.
That hadn’t been very reassuring for Rian. While the Kthpok wouldn’t know what the message meant they’d have to know some Iidx were in the area and come looking. He wasn’t exactly thrilled about the idea of meeting ten or twenty armed Kthpok looking for antennae.
After placing the tripod’s legs firmly in the ground Rian set the light and shutter in place. Using a global positioning device from his pack the Lieutenant carefully checked the angle and direction of the light in conjunction with the hole in the bushes and the target for the message. After making a slight adjustment to the light he checked the GPS again. Satisfied it was pointed in the right direction he turned on the light then worked the shutter. It gave a flicker of light which was answered by a far off flicker about two-thirds the way up a mountain. The connection was confirmed.
Nodding at his work Rian closed the shutter but kept the light on. Then he turned back to Forst and reported, “Communications are set, Captain.”
“Good,” replied Forst as he kept watch on the strait.
“Why are the decoys following this particular course, Captain?” Rian wondered as he walked up next to Forst to look through the gap in the branches again. “It’s highly visible. In fact, it’s predictable. Won’t the Kthpok be suspicious it’s so obvious that they’ll think it’s a decoy and look elsewhere?”
“That’s possible,” Forst replied without lowering the magnifiers. "Don’t forget this is where the strait is the narrowest and has good beaches.” The sun was starting to touch the horizon giving the water’s surface a golden hue. He reached up with a false-hand and flipped down filters on his magnifiers then continued. “A successful landing on the island requires a quick transit of the strait with the least exposure. That would be this route! Having good beaches makes this route even more attractive for an infiltration attempt. With what’s been happening lately the Kthpok may think we’re concentrating elsewhere and won’t try a landing. This little charade is in case they’re being vigilant.”
He gave a slight shrug. “Our ships will be coming in fast, under emissions control and at dusk. It’ll appear as if they’re trying to sneak in assuming any watchers to be off guard. That way if the Kthpok are on guard it’ll be the type of approach they’re expecting which is what we’re counting on. The idea is for the Kthpok to have to work for it but eventually spot the decoys. If everything works they’ll miss the real force.
“The people we’re really expecting are coming on less visible ships, just after dusk and are taking a longer course for the north eastern coast. The beaches there aren’t very good so we hope the Kthpok will be distracted by the decoys and won’t be looking in that direction. We hope.”
Rian went to ask another question but Forst held up a false-hand to stop him while keeping the magnifiers to his eyes. “That’s one,” the Captain announced then moved the glasses to look in a slightly different direction. “Two.” Again a shift. “And three. That’s all of them.” Putting down the magnifiers Forst looked over at Rian. “Flash Lieutenant Regul,” he ordered. “Let him know the decoys have been sighted.”
Without a word Lieutenant Rian moved over to the light and began to work the shutter. A moment later he saw a series of answering flashes coming from the distant mountains. “They’ve been told,” he called, “and they acknowledge. Should I pack up?”
Forst paused for a minute to consider then shook his head. “No, your earlier idea is a good one,” he replied. “Let’s wait to see if or when the Kthpok respond. If they don’t the Lieutenant will need to know. The Kthpok may not be watching or aren’t taking the decoy. If they don’t respond like we want them to he may want to postpone the real drop.”
“Can he do that?” Rian wondered.
The Captain gave a wave from his antennae. “Who knows?” he replied. “All we can do is provide him with the best information available. You’d better let the Lieutenant know what we’re doing.”
Rian grunted his agreement and moved back to the light. He’d finished sending the message and was getting a confirmation when a deafening roar sounded overhead causing the ground to tremble. Surprised he and Forst glanced up through the concealing branches in time to see several shapes racing towards the channel. They hurried to look out at the strait and saw hordes of flying insects rising above the jungle, startled by the unnatural sound. Several aircraft were heading away from the observers. The noise diminished as the aircraft moved for the coast and the insects began to settle back into the jungle.
“They’re low,” commented the Lieutenant. “I could’ve hit ‘em with a rock.”
“It seems the Kthpok noticed our decoys,” Captain Forst said looking at the ocean through his magnifiers once more. “That was faster than I expected. They obviously had their antennae up.” He shook his head. “I just hope they aren’t this observant elsewhere. You’d better flash Lieutenant Regul that the Kthpok are after the decoys.”
Rian worked the light for several seconds. Once the message had been sent he dove for his pack. There was no waiting for a confirmation this time. He was not going to miss any part of the events out on the sea. After retrieving his own magnifiers Rian moved up next to the Captain who shifted to one side. The two observers watched as the flight of six Kthpok aircraft roared out over the Strait.
It was apparent to Forst that the incoming Iidx sea vessels were trying to use the setting sun to hide their approach. Besides coming from the west they were spread out in single file making for the island at their best speed with considerable distance between each vessel. To help make things difficult for the Tails each ship was heading for a different beach. And if their Captains were following the plan that’d been transmitted they were under emissions control.
A moment later the two Iidx saw the attacking flight split into three groups of two aircraft each. One pair peeled off while the remaining four continued out to sea. “They’re after the decoys all right,” confirmed Forst. Rian nodded his agreement.
As the Kthpok aircraft left the island they’d been picked up by passive sensors of the closest Iidx vessel. The Captain immediately ordered his ship to turn away from the island and radioed an alert to the other vessels but the action wouldn’t save his ship.
Forst saw laser pulses begin to track from the vessel and streak towards the attacking aircraft. In response, similar pulses and missiles left the two Kthpok craft. The pulsers fired by the Iidx caused the Kthpok to begin evasive maneuvers but the aircraft maintained their pulser fire.
When the pulses of concentrated light from the aircraft hit the water of the Strait erratic lines of steam explosions moved towards the vessel. Within seconds one line of pulses crossed over the bow and another moved over the stern blasting holes in armor. Metal shards were blown in all directions shredding any Iidx who were on deck. Electrical surges created by the pulses shot throughout the vessel causing equipment to explode killing more Iidx and setting fires. The computers in the Combat Information Center blew apart sending shrapnel throughout the room. Thorax, abdomen, limbs and heads were punctured and thrown in all directions. Ichor and fluids were splattered over the walls and floor. The power plant went into overload and shut down. SAM launchers and chain guns which were preparing to fire lost power and dropped out of sight.
The missiles launched by the aircraft arrived as the vessel began to slow. Two had been confused by electronics counter-measures or the sudden cut in speed and plunged into the sea to detonate sending plumes of water a hundred of feet into the air in front of the ship. A third missile smashed through the metal armor amidships reaching the magazine while the fourth penetrated to the power room. Two huge explosions obliterated the ship sending a roiling ball of smoke, flame and steam into the sky. Jagged fragments sprayed outward in a hail of metal creating a series of splashes.
The two attacking aircraft circled up and away from the carnage, looking for another target.
With the first ship destroyed Forst scanned the waters of the strait for the other two. The second ship was easy to find. It hadn’t been obliterated like the first but was engulfed in flames, dead in the water. A column of thick black smoke was beginning to ascend.
The remaining vessel had fared better than its companions. Since it had been last in line, further away from the island than the other two it’d been able to swing around and race for the main land. Before the two aircraft assigned to make the kill could reach attack range the ship was building up speed.
Forst watched the Kthpok close on their target as the sea vessel lifted up on its hydrofoils to get even more speed. But he knew the ship was doomed. Even at her best speed there was no way any seagoing vessel could outrun aircraft.
The aircraft began to fire their pulsers the moment they entered range, sending a line of explosions towards the fleeing ship. At the same time Forst saw several puffs of smoke appear on the ship that was swept away by the speed of the craft. An instant later puffs of smoke appeared above and ahead of the craft and its image grew hazy. The puffs of smoke continued to appear.
“Brilliant!” exclaimed the Captain to no one in particular as understanding came. His antennae went stiff in his excitement. “Using chaff packets as a defense against pulsers instead of missiles. Who’d’ve thought? That’s brilliant! Now, if it’s a thick enough cloud it might work.”
The line of pulse explosions reached the chaff cloud and climbed into the air. Explosions appeared one on top of another. At first Forst thought the chaff cloud hadn’t been dense enough, hadn’t worked and the last Iidx ship had been destroyed. Then the vessel appeared out of the cloud of explosions, sending a spray of water and foam into the sky.
“Go!” he muttered, urging the ship on to its escape. “Faster! You must go faster!” More chaff packets exploded above and ahead of the ship. The two Kthpok aircraft over ran their target, circled and came back. This time the Captain expected them to close so the targeting computers for their air-to-surface missiles would burn through the distortions caused by the metallic strips.
It appeared to the observers the target vessel had carried an excessive amount of chaff packets and its captain wasn’t stingy in their use. The launchers were on rapid-fire maintaining the cloud over the ship. Forst imagined the metallic strips made breathing difficult for any Iidx exposed on deck. Then without warning, the firing of chaff packets stopped and SAM launchers rose from the bow and stern of the Iidx ship.
At this point events moved in quick succession. The Kthpok aircraft fired their missiles and SAM’s erupted from the sea vessel. The instant the incoming missiles were detected several chain-guns on the bow and stern of the ship swiveled around, targeting the threats. A stream of projectiles erupted from the guns and spent brass casing littered the deck.
A black puff of smoke appeared a distance from the fleeing craft as an incoming missile was destroyed. Seconds later the two observers on the island heard a sharp report from the distant explosion.
Still watching the fight through his magnifiers Forst saw the attacking aircraft pull up and veer away. One went left while the other right. Decoys and flares were ejected as the aircraft began evasive maneuvers. Other puffs of black smoke appeared then explosions heard when the remaining Kthpok missiles were destroyed.
“I can’t believe what I just saw!” exclaimed Rian while watching the battle. “That ship survived two attacks!” His antennae reflected his amusement. “But it took the Kthpok forever to realize they’d been targeted. Is that the pilot’s fault? Or is it their equipment? Either way it’s sloppy on their part.”
Forst grunted his agreement but didn’t take his eyes off the battle. The two aircraft continued to fire decoys as they raced away from the missiles, swinging back and forth, alternating speed and altitude. While they struggled to break missile lock the sea-going vessel continued to race for safety.
At the last minute the Kthpok pilot who’d gone to the right extended drag fins, cut power to his drives and dove further to the right which let the aircraft fall like a rock. The missiles which had the craft targeted moved to respond but couldn’t react fast enough. They flew past and detonated.
The other Kthpok aircraft continued racing away, dropping chaff packets and infra-red decoys. But the Iidx missiles that had him targeted weren’t distracted. They flew past the decoys, followed the frantic pilot’s maneuvers and blotted the craft from the sky.
The surviving pilot powered back up to gain altitude then circle around for another shot at the Iidx ship. But before he could target the vessel his threat alert sounded: two more missiles had him targeted.
Once again the Kthpok tried every trick he knew to break lock but it wasn’t enough. The weapons were closing in. With the missiles a hundred yards away and closing fast the Kthpok reached down to pull the ejection lever. Explosive bolts blew away the cockpit canopy and rockets propelled the pilot out of the aircraft. An instant later missiles blew the aircraft apart. Shrapnel peppered the pilot’s ejection seat. A large piece of jagged metal slashed through the still firing propulsion units rupturing the fuel cell. A fireball engulfed the Kthpok still strapped in his seat.
The Iidx vessel continued to race for safety and resumed firing chaff packets.
While their Pack mates were losing the fight for their lives the remaining four Kthpok aircraft arrived. Forming a line all four bored in for the fleeing ship loosing decoys and employing ECM at full power. The death of their comrades had warned them this would not be easy prey. They closed until their targeting scanners burned through the distortions caused by the chaff cloud over the vessel and a flight of eight missiles was volleyed off.
Once again the chaff stopped being fired by the fleeing vessel and SAM’s were launched at the aircraft. The Kthpok peeled away to evade the missiles targeted on them.
After launching their SAM’s the Iidx on the sea vessel resumed firing chaff packets and boosted power to their ECM. Chain-guns spewed projectiles at the incoming missiles killing two, then a third. Three of the five remaining missiles were lured off target by the ships ECM and dove into the water. Geysers of water erupted around the ship then cascaded down onto the deck. Two missiles struck an instant later. They pierced the ships thin armor and exploded. A huge explosion sent a cloud of fire, smoke and steam into the sky. Once again jagged metal fragments were sprayed in all directions, peppering the ocean surface.
His antennae drooping, Forst lowered his magnifiers. It wasn’t necessary to see if any of the SAM’s killed an aircraft. “It’s over,” he announced and looked at his companion. “The Kthpok killed all three vessels and I didn’t see any survivors. There were a lot of good people lost with those ships. I hope their deaths weren’t wasted.”
Rian lowered his own magnifiers but still looked out at the columns of smoke rising in the distance. Glints of light and specks of dark indicated the movement of the Kthpok aircraft. The appearance of a flash of light followed by a deep boom seconds later indicated the death of an aircraft. “For a minute there it looked like that last one’d get away,” he said then glanced back at the Captain. “I was hoping they’d get away.” The Lieutenant shrugged his antennae. “At least they got three Kthpok.
“So, what do we do now?”
By this time Forst had walked over to his pack and was putting his magnifiers away. He glanced up at his companion. “We do what was planned,” he announced. “There’s still a little daylight so we start back now. Tomorrow we can meet up with Regul and help transfer any equipment the new people brought to the new hive.” The Captain looked down as he tied his pack shut. “There’s a lot of work to be done and not much time to do it in so we’d better get going.”
Queen Krissen sat in the passenger cabin of her ground effect vehicle and stared out the left window without anything registering. The terrain which flashed by had changed from an arid, mountain desert to a vast expanse of prairie grass.
Finally, she glanced away from the view and down at the small computer placed on the seat next to her. Her Swarm Master, Sesum, had given her the device when the journey began so she could track their progress. A small dot of green light indicated their location along the red line of their anticipated route. Mountain ranges, grasslands, rivers, lakes and other terrain features were shown. Tonight, or possibly in the morning, they’d reach mountains and the alpine forests. Beyond that were the coast and a dense rain forest.
Krissen gave a sigh and glanced out at the prairie again. The sun had reached the western horizon starting to paint the clouds gold. From past experience and the time of day she knew they’d be making camp soon.
The young Queen wanted the safety and concealment of the jungles but ached for the comforting stone walls of Refuge. Since leaving to establish her new hive the small convoy had been forced to hide from Kthpok raiders on several occasions. The first time they couldn’t avoid contact, all three aircraft in the attack had been destroyed without the Iidx experiencing any casualties. Then they had to hide for several days to avoid being spotted by follow up flights of Kthpok searching for the killers of their comrades. Her people were able to destroy the second flight that found them as well although the convoy lost one vehicle with its six occupants.
The computer beside her chimed, breaking into her thoughts, and she jerked around to look at the screen. She’d programmed it to sound an alert when the convoy approached a suitable city. Taking a deep breath of anticipation she picked up the device to work its keyboard. A second later her immense antennae started to quiver when the details appeared and she began to read. The city they were nearing wasn’t large but it would have food and a place to sleep along with the other amenities that were due her regal position. She was getting very tired of military rations and sleeping in a tent.
Although her ‘escort’… Krissen paused. Escort wasn’t quite the right word she wanted. Perhaps, ‘jailer’ was a better description.
She gave a slight shake of her head. Over the years she’d learned that it was important for a Queen to be honest with herself. So, even with all the trials and tribulations she’d been forced to endure, she had to admit that Sesum and his people were trying to make this journey as pleasant as possible. She shrugged her antennae. Despite all their efforts it wasn’t what she’d become accustomed to as a Regional Queen. Or as a City Queen for that matter.
A slight jolt took her attention away from the computer and back to the windows. The sun was disappearing on the western horizon turning the clouds in the sky a brilliant red and orange. She realized they’d left the main prairie thoroughfare, turning away from that city and were following a dirt road heading for a canyon in nearby hills. Minutes later they reached the hills and trees and bushes began to appear on the hillsides. After ten minutes more travelling a cliff appeared in the eastern window. While she was admiring the view another jolt told her the vehicle had stopped then her compartment door opened.
At her drivers invitation Krissen stepped down out of the vehicle to look around. She found the convoy had halted at a fairly large, level area of the valley they were in. A waterfall was coming off the eastern cliff and dropping into a pool. At the opposite end of the fall a stream bordered by trees left the pool and headed down the canyon. Creatures could be heard chirping and rustling in nearby bushes.
The Queen turned from the picturesque scene to see Iidx moving about. Some were carrying boxes while others were starting to set up tents. The vehicles of the convoy had lined the road while, a short distance away, in the middle of the level area Sesum stood surrounded by Iidx. As Krissen watched one officer broke from the huddle to hurry off while another quickly took his place. The Queen walked off to one side and watched while the Swarm Master continued giving instructions to the officers who remained.
After enduring several minutes of seeing Iidx come and go, the Queen decided she’d had enough. She was a Queen, after all, and shouldn’t have to wait! Two or three (she wasn’t sure which) of those officers had already looked in her direction so she knew they knew she was waiting. In fact, she had the feeling Sesum was ignoring her and that couldn’t be allowed to stand.
Krissen walked over and joined the circle. “Why are we stopping here?” she asked interrupting Sesum’s conference. The Queen ignored the respectful poses of the other Iidx but pointed up the canyon. “Surely you know that a small population center called Soa is just a short distance away; on the other side of this range in fact.” She gestured with a false-hand. “We should go back to the main road and continue on. Once at Soa, we can requisition fuel and supplies and rest in comfort.”
Sesum kept a respectful silence as the Queen spoke. When she finished he nodded as he replied. “Yes, your Majesty, we do know of Soa. However, our instructions from Swarm Master Zelof are to avoid cities.” His antennae waved with amusement. “As you’re aware the success of our mission depends on our ability to stay unnoticed by the Kthpok.”
Queen Krissen struck a regal pose. “I understand those instructions very well Swarm Master but as your Queen I am countermanding them,” she announced. “We will not stop here for the night but continue on until we reach Soa. Once there we will find appropriate accommodations for the night. Tomorrow we can refuel and obtain more supplies. The day after that we can resume our journey for the new hive.” Her tone and set of antennae indicated that she didn’t expect to continue on but would remain there.
Sesum gave an acknowledging bob of his head and turned from the Queen to address the officers who’d stayed silent during the exchange. “Let’s get camp set up,” he ordered, “and remind everyone we’re still on a black out regime.”
After the officers saluted and left to follow his instructions the Swarm Master turned back to Krissen. “I apologize for the interruption, your Highness,” he said. “We do have to get our camp in order before it gets too dark to see and there’s a lot of work to be done. As I’m sure you’re aware night comes fast at this latitude. Now, how may I help you?”
The Queen glared at Sesum, her antennae quivering. “How dare you!” She cried. Her voice shook from barely suppressed anger. “How dare you ignore my instructions! I ordered this convoy to continue to Soa!”
Several soldiers who were walking nearby paused to look at the Queen when they heard her shout. Noticing their interest Sesum gestured for them to go about their business. By this time the sun had set and the sky was turning dark blue shading to purple shading to black. Stars were beginning to appear in the east. A silver sliver of one of the moons was just appearing over the eastern hills.
“Would you walk with me, your Highness, while I explain?” he asked. Without waiting for a reply he grasped one of the Queen’s arms and started to walk.
Becoming even more furious at this males impudence, she wrenched her arm out of his grasp and swung around to confront him. “I don’t know if you corrupted the Swarm Master or he you,” she said. “But when we make contact with Refuge and Queen Dahoni learns of the indignities you have subjected me to…” She paused long enough to take a breath so she could continue. “Your limbs will be removed one after another and your shell cracked. Your actions and demise will be recorded to provide future generations with an example of how not to treat a Queen!
“Now I have given you an order. Will you pass the order to the Swarm to continue on to Soa or must I?” She struck an adamant pose with true-arms folded and fluffy antennae stiff, waiting to see the Swarm Master’s response. When Sesum motioned to two soldiers who were walking nearby she bobbed her head as if to say, ‘it’s about time!” Responding to the summons both Iidx hurried over, came to attention and saluted. By this time darkness had fallen but there were no lights shown by the busy Iidx. The only light came from the stars and rising moon.
Sesum returned the salute then gestured at Krissen. “I’m pulling you from your current duties to escort Queen Krissen back to her vehicle,” he announced. “You are to keep her inside that vehicle until I come to escort her to her quarters and evening meal.” The Swarm Master glanced down at his watch before continuing. “That'll probably take an hour maybe two.”
He turned back to Krissen and gave a slight bow. “Now, your Highness, with your permission, I must go and make sure our camp is ready for the evening.”
“What?” exclaimed Krissen. “We’re not…”
“You may order and threaten as much as you desire, your Highness,” Sesum interrupted. He straightened and gestured at the shapes of soldiers moving around them. “But all these Iidx know their duty is to preserve our species, not indulge the whims of a pampered female.”
Krissen reared back on her four legs in a mixture of surprise, rage and indignation all directed at the Swarm Master. “How dare you!”
“For our people to survive I dare much, your Highness,” replied Sesum. “My orders stand.” Without giving her a chance to respond he whirled around and walked away. “Carry out my orders!” he called back to the two soldiers.
Queen Krissen glared at the form of the departing Swarm Master shown by the light of the rising moon as he walked away. Then she turned on one of her escorts. “I want the camp moved,” she ordered. “We will continue on to Soa.” The two Iidx stared at her without saying a word. “I am your Queen!” she shouted. “I must be obeyed!”
The soldier Krissen addressed gestured at the royal vehicle which was outlined by a slivery sheen of moonlight. “This way your Highness,” he said. “You heard the Swarm Master. You are to return to your vehicle.” He paused for a moment to see if the Queen would cooperate. When Krissen just looked at him for several seconds he said, “We can do this the fun way or the easy way, your Highness. It’s up to you.” The Queen didn’t move or speak. It appeared she was stunned with the idea that males weren’t instantly obeying a Queen. At last, the soldier gave a decisive bob of his head which was answered by his companion. “The fun way,” he decided.
With Krissen sputtering in rage and disbelief the two Iidx slung their weapons over their abdomen, carefully picked up the Queen, carried her to the vehicle then stuffed her inside. They shut and locked the door then took up guard position on either side of the door, weapons held at the ready.
Hidden by shadows a short distance away Sesum watched Krissen’s failed attempt to sway her guards. Without turning he spoke to Captain Sinemata, his Second, who was standing nearby. “I envy those two,” he said waving his antennae in the direction of the Queen’s vehicle. The gesture was lost in the darkness but Sesum continued. “I’ve always wanted to do something like that but never had the nerve to try or thought I’d get away with it. Now those two get to disobey a Queen and claim they’re simply following my orders.”
He gave a soft chittering laugh then gestured at the Iidx moving around in the moonlight. “We’d better make sure everything’s ready soon or she’ll really get angry.”
By the time the camp set up was complete it was two hours after sunset and the smaller moon had fully risen to bathe the countryside in a silvery glow. The two Swarm leaders had finished their final inspection of the campsite and paused to look around. Sinemata gestured at the ethereal countryside. The moonlight glinted off the spray from the water fall. “You picked a beautiful place to camp, Swarm Master,” he said.
Sesum looked up at the sky and nodded. Above them a myriad of stars in the cloudless night added to the beauty of the landscape. Creatures in nearby bushes continued their calls. Without city lights masking them the stars were brilliant. “That was one of the reasons why I stopped here,” he replied then nodded at his Second. “Since camp’s up we’d better see to Queen Krissen. By this time she’s probably ready to chew her way out of her vehicle.”
Using the moons light the two Iidx moved back through the camp. No lights were seen which could expose their position to the Kthpok. Strains of music or snatches of talking could be heard coming from the tents where Iidx were settling in for the night after having completed their assignments. The Swarm Master didn’t have to ask to know his people were listening to broadcasts from Soa.
After sending Sinemata off to get his own meal Sesum arrived at the Queen’s vehicle. He returned the two guards salute then rapped on the door and keyed it open. “Your Highness,” he called into the dark interior. “Your accommodations are ready.”
The outline of the Queen appeared in the doorway. Without saying a word Krissen stepped down out of the vehicle and followed the Swarm Master as he led the way through the camp. Her two guards trailed several feet behind, weapons held at the ready. Their destination was the Royal Tent placed in the center of the camp where the Queen would have the most protection. Several times as they walked through the jumble of tents Sesum tried to begin a conversation with the Queen but she remained silent, her anger at her mistreatment unabated. Greetings were called out of the darkness by other Iidx moving about. Sesum always responded but the Queen kept her silence.
The small party was just reaching the royal tent when a brilliant flash lit the sky from behind the hills to the east. Sesum raised his arms to shield his eyes until they could adjust. Krissen and her guards did likewise. Two more flashes followed within seconds. The tents and vehicles stood out in stark relief as the night was driven away. Then the glow began to fade letting the darkness return and the camp fell into silence.
“What was that?” asked Krissen staring in the direction of the fading light.
Still looking at the horizon Sesum could see three balls of roiling, dying flame just appearing above the hills. Moments later, as darkness completely reclaimed the night, the Swarm Master replied. His voice was barely above a whisper and full of anguish. “That was the Kthpok, your Highness. They just obliterated Soa. The place you wanted to spend the night.”
Swarm Master Zelof moved onto the mat and assumed the beginning stance. He took a deep breath then began to move. His steps, jumps swoops and dips took him through an exercise routine that was designed clear his mind as well as work his body. He concentrated on what he was doing and ignored what was happening nearby. Two Iidx were sparing with cushioned poles on the next mat. Beyond that were several more Iidx practicing hand-to-hand combat techniques. He’d known the entertainment area of Refuge would be crowded at this time of day but came anyway. He needed the respite.
Without warning the attention tone sounded over the room’s intercom system. Everyone in the room paused what they were doing and turned to look at the speakers. Then the message began. “Swarm Master to the Command Deck. Swarm Master to the Command Deck.”
Groaning, Zelof left the mat where he’d been standing and headed for a wall communications unit, skirting the Iidx with the poles. It seemed that every time he tried to get some rest or entertainment an emergency of some kind was declared. Rather than scuttle through the base only to find that whatever the emergency was it wasn’t life threatening, the Swarm Master reached the nearest wall set and called the Command Deck. “Swarm Master here,” he announced. “What’s happening?”
“Lieutenant Chattan here Swarm Master,” the officer-on-duty announced. “Scanning has observed the Kthpok Space Swarm moving, sir.”
“Moving?” the Swarm Master asked. “Where are they going? Are they leaving orbit, heading out system?” Zelof didn’t think the Kthpok’d quit the system now that the Iidx Space Swarm had been obliterated and they had the orbitals but he had this sudden stroke of irrational optimism.
“No Sir,” replied the officer. “The Kthpok are not leaving orbit they’re dispersing, spreading out over the planet.”
“I’m on my way,” said Zelof and cut the link before Chattan could respond.
Moments later the hatch to the Command Deck slid open and the Swarm Master walked in. Lieutenant Chattan, the OOD, had been watching for Zelof and moved out of the command position, came to attention then saluted. “Status of the Kthpok?” Zelof asked as he returned the salute.
“Most of the Kthpok Swarm has changed position, sir,” reported Chattan. “The three colony ships with a couple of screening destroyers remain in stationary orbit over their island. The rest of their Swarm has taken up orbits over the eastern portion of the main continent.” The Swarm Master nodded his thanks then motioned his dismissal of the Lieutenant. Chattan saluted again before moving to find his own duty station.
After the Lieutenant had left for his post at Communications Zelof turned to stare at the Plot. “Why would the Kthpok move now?” he wondered as he looked at the lights representing the Kthpok Swarm in the Battle Plot. “Is this an escalation, an invasion?”
He shook his head. That didn’t make sense. They’d be overwhelmed. The Tails hadn’t reduced the Iidx population nearly enough to mount a successful invasion. Zelof bent over the Plot controls, his fingers keyed in the sequence to call up a map overlay of the main continent. The light dots of the Kthpok ships marked their positions over the continent. He examined the display for a moment then turned towards communications. “Get the commanding officer of the Cotec garrison on the link now!” he called.
After acknowledging to order, Ensign Chattan worked his equipment for a moment then turned back to face Zelof. “Contact with Cotec established, Swarm Master,” he reported. “They’ve sent for Colonel Parrax. He’s out inspecting the base Power Center.”
“I want to speak with him. Put him on as soon as he arrives,” instructed Zelof and resumed his comparison of the tactical plot with a surface map. It appeared the Kthpok ships had shifted positions to threaten cities and bases.
A few minutes later Chattan announced, “Cotec Garrison Commander, Colonel Parrax is on the link, Swarm Master.”
“Thank you, Ensign. Put it to my screen here,” replied Zelof.
The Ensign acknowledged and made more adjustments to his console. “It’s on your screen now, sir.”
Zelof swung around to see an Iidx framed in a screen on his console. “Colonel,” the Swarm Master acknowledged.
“Swarm Master,” replied Parrax, “what can I do for you?”
“The Kthpok have shifted the orbits of most of their ships, Colonel,” Zelof announced. “One of which is positioned directly over your facility. We don’t know why.”
Parrax waved his antennae in understanding. “We may not know the exact reason why, Swarm Master,” he said, “but we can guess the Kthpok aren’t doing it for our continuing good health.”
Zelof nodded his agreement and continued. “The bases they attacked earlier were hit with fighters that came from orbit,” he said. “That’s in the reports we sent out earlier. From the position they’re in the Kthpok ships can attack with missiles or those fighters. So you have to be ready for anything. The craft we’ve seen appear to be drones or are computer controlled. That gives them the ability to perform extreme maneuvers. They’re very difficult targets to hit.”
“Understood,” said Parrax, nodding his head. “I’ll have…” The Iidx disappeared in a glare of light and the screen blanked.
“What was that?” barked Zelof looking towards the communications suite. “What happened? Get the Colonel back!”
Lieutenant Chattan’s fingers flashed over his equipment trying to re-establish the connection. After a few moments of trying several ways to restore communications he turned back to the Swarm Master. “I’m sorry, sir,” the Ensign said. “I cannot make the connection to Cotec. All systems here are functioning within specifications.” As proof of his statement a tone sounded. Someone else was trying to reach them. Ignoring the incoming call Chattan continued. “The disruption has to be at Cotec, not here.”
After sending the Ensign back to his equipment and the incoming call the Swarm Master turned to glare at the Plot. “What happened to Cotec?” he muttered.
Just as the latest call had been answered stopping the irritating noise another call came in. The Ensign completed the first call and tied in the next. But this time the alert tone didn’t cut off. It seemed to grow more insistent.
The ongoing noise brought Zelof from his pondering and he turned to look at Chattan. Other Iidx in the room also noticed the unusual activity at Communications. They stopped what they were doing to watch the Ensign’s frantic efforts to answer the calls. Although the Swarm Master for the entire Iidx Swarm was posted at Refuge it was odd for more than one oncoming transmission to be directed to this remote base at a time. Now, communications was being inundated. Before Zelof could issue an order his new Swarm Second, Rayel, called in Chattan’s relief to help.
Almost ten minutes later the chiming became intermittent enough for Chattan to let his companion to take the load. After setting his equipment to standby he turned to face Zelof. “Swarm Master, Swarm Master Sesum has broken radio silence,” the comm tech announced. “He reports that his convoy is camped in the hills outside Soa and witnessed the city being destroyed by not less than three nuclear explosions. He suspects the missiles were fired from orbit.
“A similar report came in from a patrol near Stor.”
Zelof nodded as he recalled that Stor was a minor base on the main continents north eastern coast. It was a punishment posting just like Wartten was originally intended to be for him so it wasn’t very important. The Swarm Master gave a soft snort. It was important enough for the Kthpok to destroy. He brought himself back as the report from the communications officer was continuing.
“The patrol said their base was hit by nuclear weapons and destroyed. They are requesting orders.”
Ensign Chattan continued to detail the bases and cities which had been vaporized. The reports he’d received indicated that all that remained of any of those locations was blackened, fused soil. But the Kthpok weren’t hitting every city. The larger cities with manufacturing centers remained untouched - for now.
“I want the plot updated to show the hit zones in conjunction with the Kthpok ships,” the Swarm Master called out. “Any more reports of Kthpok strikes are to be reflected on the plot. The survivors are to go to ground and wait. When we’ve assessed the situation additional orders will be issued.”
After the communications tech and Combat Information Specialist acknowledged their orders Zelof looked over at Rayel. “Get Queen Dahoni up here,” he ordered. “Now!” Then he turned his attention back to the Plot.
The Second acknowledged the order then nodded at an Iidx standing nearby who hurried off.
As the Swarm Master watched the image on the Plot shifted to reflect a map of the main continent. All the cities and bases on the land mass were shown. Zelof glanced at the Plot’s legend. The cities that hadn’t been attacked were indicated in blue while those that had become radioactive wastelands appeared in red. Reports continued to come in but at a more manageable rate and blue marks changed red. As he watched it wasn’t hard to spot a pattern. The Kthpok were orbiting Main Hive from east to west, following the sun’s route, dropping missiles as targets were brought into range. A realization came and he began to curse.
“Lieutenant Chattan!” he called, “contact all surviving bases and cities. Tell them on my authority they are to evacuate immediately. Our people are to go to ground in the wilderness and wait for further instructions. Anyone still in rural areas is not to go into cities. Repeat, they are not to go into cities. They are to disperse into the jungles and forests.”
Zelof turned to Rayel and continued his orders. “Get everyone out of Wartten now! They’re to salvage what equipment and supplies they can and bring them to Refuge but they’re not to waste any time doing it. Particular attention is to be paid to food stuffs. Remind our people to use the tunnels to avoid alerting the Kthpok to the existence of this facility.” He paused to check the position of the Kthpok then finished. “Tell them to hurry! They don’t have much more than an hour to get out of there.”
While the Swarm Master was finishing his instructions Queen Dahoni entered the Command Deck and paused just inside the hatch to look around. As she scanned the room her fluffy antennae began to quiver. The tension in the air was palpable. After she located the Swarm Master the Queen crossed the room, dodging scurrying officers and weaving around stations until she stood next to Zelof. “What is going on?” Dahoni demanded in icy tones. “Why was I ordered here?”
The Swarm Master gestured at the plot as another blue spot turned red. “The Kthpok have changed their procedure with a vengeance, your Highness. They’re erasing our cities and bases with nuclear weapons.”
The Queen’s antennae stiffened in surprise. “But the damage to the environment!” she protested. “Nuclear weapons… the radiation’ll damage the planet! This is the place you say they want to possess.”
Before the Swarm Master could reply Rayel walked over to the two Iidx and saluted. “Swarm Master, the evacuation order has gone out,” he reported. “Wartten will be empty within the hour.”
Zelof dismissed his Second and turned back to the Queen. He explained how the Battle Plot worked and what the colors meant. The two watched in silence as calls continued to come in and the red lights crept west. One or two blue light remained but were surrounded by red. Occasionally, the Swarm Master would glance at a clock then over at his Second. Minutes before the deadline for Wartten’s evacuation was up the Comm officer called.
“I’m sorry for the interruption, sir,” Lieutenant Chattan apologized. “But I’m receiving a general broadcast with a high government header on all frequencies. It’s marked as highest priority. All audio and visual bands are covered.”
Zelof glanced over at Rayel who shrugged his ignorance. “Put the visual of the broadcast up on the main screen, Ensign,” ordered Zelof and turned to the screen. Queen Dahoni stepped up beside him to watch. The rest of the command staff paused what they were doing to see what was happening.
A moment later an Iidx with a large fluffy antennae appeared on the monitor. A stir went through the Command Deck as the Iidx saw the Queen. “This message is for S’Cinf, Run Point of the Kthpok Swarm attacking Main Hive,” the Queen said then paused and bowed her head. It was a gesture of submission.
“That’s Geddon!” exclaimed Queen Dahoni. “She’s the most junior queen on the Council. She was inducted onto the Council just a few months ago.”
“I thought you and Krissen were the only remaining Queens of the Council,” said Zelof.
“As far as I know we were the only ones who left the capital,” the Queen replied with a shrug. “But from this,” she gestured at the screen, “Geddon wasn’t in the Council Building when it was destroyed.” She went to say something more but the Swarm Master motioned for her to be quiet so he could listen to the rest of the message.
“I am Geddon, Presiding Queen for the Consolidated Hives.” The Queen looked into the camera as she introduced herself. “We…acknowledge the supremacy of your forces. With that…”
The mountain seemed to turn upside down and inside out. All at once. It was like being on the Command Deck of a ship taking hits. Because they weren’t restrained Iidx were thrown from their positions and bounced around. Equipment shifted, sparked and smoked. A fire started in the Damage Control console sending a stream of acrid smoke into the air. Queen Dahoni was thrown from her feet, slammed against a nearby console then fell in a crumpled heap. Thunder boomed, reverberated. Lights dimmed, blinked off, came back on then went out.
After what seemed an eternity the shaking and thunder stopped. The only sounds heard in the command deck were groans from injured people and the sparking of equipment. Emergency lights came on adding to the flickering light provided by fires.
Zelof slowly climbed to his feet checking with each movement to see if he might be injured. When he was on his feet and satisfied he wasn’t hurt he turned to business. “Get those fires out,” the Swarm Master called. “Let medical know what casualties we have. Damage Control is to begin repairs immediately. Let’s get our lighting back on. I need to know the extent of our damage, casualties and what happened.”
The swarm members that could began scurrying around. Some went to put out fires while others tended the wounded. Still others began examining equipment. A quick look around by the Swarm Master confirmed things were starting to happen then he saw the crumpled heap that was Queen Dahoni. His middle heart threatened to fall out of his thorax and the head heart pounded. Ignoring the cracks in the floor, sparking equipment and dust falling from the ceiling he scuttled over to the fallen female. They couldn’t lose the Queen! There were only two. Well… three, he corrected, with Geddon.
In the dim, flickering light Zelof bent down to see if Dahoni was dead, injured or unconscious. But before he could do anything several chunks of rock and concrete had to be moved off the female. After that he used his true-hands, running them up and down the Queen’s limbs, to check for anything broken. As he was performing the examination his antennae were shivering from anxiety and nervousness.
Without warning the main lights came on. Crying out, he reared back, trying to shield his eyes from the unexpected light. Other cries and curses were heard throughout the room.
When his eyesight had adapted to the brighter light Swarm Master Zelof looked around to see smoking equipment, blasted consoles, rubble strewn floor, cracks in the floor, ceiling and wall and casualties. A layer of smoke was accumulating along the ceiling. Turning back to the Queen Zelof noted that Dahoni hadn’t reacted to the sudden light. That wasn’t good. Straightening up he called, “I need a doctor over here. The Queen’s been injured.”
“Medical people were on their way,” Rayel replied from across the room.
Satisfied, the Swarm Master bent over the Queen again. He made sure her breathing tubes were clear and finished pushing rubble away. In the better light he could see none of her eight limbs were broken. Closer examination revealed her shell wasn’t cracked either. But she wasn’t waking!
Since there wasn’t anything else he could do for the Queen, Zelof stood and looked around the room to gauge the damage. Some of his people had gotten into the rooms equipment storage and were replacing damaged modules. Others were clearing rubble while still more were helping the injured. The smoke and dust in the air was starting to clear now that the ventilation system was operating. Someone had been able to force open the room’s entrance to the main corridor beyond.
Just then several Iidx carrying cases hurried through the main hatch and paused. Zelof noticed the new arrivals and the insignia on their cases. “Here!” he called. “Over here! The Queen’s been injured.”
One of the new Iidx, the insignia of a chief surgeon painted on his shell, looked over at the Swarm Master. He waved his acknowledgement, finished giving instructions to the others then started towards Zelof. The rest of the medical people scattered throughout the room to treat the other injured Iidx.
Doctor Talax, the Chief Medical Officer for Refuge, moved through the room, skirting damaged equipment and dodging Iidx making repairs. When he reached the Swarm Master he settled down next to the prone Queen, opened his case and took out a scanner. A low hum was heard as he swept the device back and forth over Dahoni. Occasionally, he’d pause to check the readings shown on a small gauge.
While the doctor examined the injured Queen the Swarm Master moved closer to watch. Zelof was so anxious and got so close that he actually brushed the doctor’s antennas. At that Talax swung around to glare at Zelof. “I don’t need a second opinion,” the doctor growled, “or someone bending my antennae. Go find something useful to do in this mess.” He made shooing motions with his true-hands. “Go on, I’ll take care of her. You go make sure our mountain’s still standing when I’m done.” When the Swarm Master stood up and moved back a few steps Talax nodded then returned to the stricken Queen.
Zelof looked around the busy Command Deck and decided the doctor was right. While he couldn’t help the Queen there were other things he could be doing. With his decision made Zelof hurried through the room to where Rayel was working. “What’s our status?” he asked.
The Second reported without hesitation. “We’ve sustained some minor damage in the upper portions of the base, sir. The damaged equipment in the command deck is being replaced from stores although we’ll want to replenish our inventory as soon as possible. Casualties consist mostly of broken limbs and cracked shells. Nothing the Medical people can’t heal.” Rayel glanced down at the pad he’d been holding before continuing. “There were two fatalities that we know of, sir. An Iidx in the power room was electrocuted by his equipment when a power surge came through. The other was in the tunnel leaving Wartten and was crushed by a falling rock. We have five people unaccounted for.”
“What about Refuge? How sound is the structure?” Zelof didn’t want to abandon the mountain.
“The construction teams were very thorough and competent,” reported Rayel. He gestured at the cracks in the room. “Damage control reports that despite the shaking most areas had little or no damage, just cracks. A few areas in the lower portion of the mountain, the Command Deck included, were harder hit where parts of the ceiling collapsed.” He gave a shrug of his antennae. “Our refuge is as safe as nature and hardening can make it, Swarm Master. Damage Control Swarms will have repairs completed within 24 hours.”
The Swarm Master gave a nod of approval. “A concise report,” he announced and saw Rayel’s antennae give a slight quiver at the praise. “Now, what caused the quake?” he asked. “I know that when Wartten was commissioned geologists examined the surrounding area. They found no fault lines which would explain the tremor.”
“It wasn’t a ground shift like the ones we know, Swarm Master” replied Commander Shunshin who’d just walked up. “What we felt was artificially produced.”
“The Kthpok?” asked Zelof, his antennae drooping.
The Commander nodded and started entering commands in a nearby console that had been repaired. “This is what the exterior surveillance recordings show,” Shunshin said and glanced around. He nodded at an undamaged screen. “I’ll bring the recordings there.”
Zelof turned to watch as the indicated screen flashed and stabilized to show a landscape. There was no need to have the Commander provide narration because the Swarm Master immediately recognized Wartten as viewed from the mountainside. He’d seen it in person a number of times before the current emergency. From the time showing on clocks and the light he realized it was late afternoon outside. As he watched a dark shape streaked down from the sky. An instant later there was an eye-searing flash and the image flashed out.
The Swarm Master turned away from the monitor. “The evacuation?” he asked.
“Most of our people were able to make it through the tunnels before the missile hit,” Rayel replied. “Some were caught in the connecting tunnels when they collapsed. As was mentioned earlier we show one person dead and five are missing. Rescue operations are under way to see if we can find them.”
“That missile must’ve been nuclear to shake us around like that,” Zelof said. “How are the radiation levels?”
“They’re well within tolerances,” the Commander replied. “The mountain will shield us from any residual radiation and the prevailing winds will quickly disperse the airborne particles.” He gave a slight shrug. “We won’t be able to make a surface approach to Wartten for several decades though.”
At that point the Swarm Master’s attention was drawn to movement across the room. The doctor had been able to get Queen Dahoni to her feet. An almost overwhelming sense of relief flooded through all three body segments. Turning back to his staff he called, “All right people; let’s finish repairs and make sure our wounded are treated. The Kthpok don’t know we’re here or they’d’ve dropped something really heavy directly on us. So, as planned, this place is secure. It’s also the place where we coordinate our efforts to repulse the Kthpok from our planet.” He looked at his officers gathered around. “To do that I need to know what’s happening on the rest of Main Hive.”
As the officers moved to get the base back into the fight Zelof turned to the Plot and the images shown there. Yes, the Swarm Master thought, I do want to know what’s happening to the rest of the world. But it would be interesting to know what Queen Geddon’s message to the Kthpok was.