The eels that had emerged farthest from the ash rimming the inland sea were stretched out taut. Their quarter-mile lengths were trapped within a multitude of Praetorian shields. Even so, their bodies continually spasmed in furious efforts to break free. Every tight breath shot puffs of flame across the fields by their heads.
Brodwyn said, “Proceed, Commander.”
Taunton said into his comm link, “On my signal. One, two, three, lift!”
Nine snared mouths snarled in futile rage as the beasts were raised from the ground. Dozens of transport pods surrounded them on every side—up, down, sides, front, and back. They made a bizarre yet stately procession as they crossed snow-dappled fields, a string of low hills, and a grove of winter-bare trees. The entire journey was punctuated by snarls and tight flame bursts. Sean’s platform held the lead position. When he looked back, he saw lips rippling with fury, revealing teeth as long as he was tall.
Their destination was a lake nestled deep within a steep, snow-covered valley. Sean had only seen pictures up to that point. He thought the setting was almost perfect. The lake was about half a mile wide, and its placid surface reflected the slate-grey sky.
Dillon spoke for the first time since the attack began. “This place is a beaut. Shame we’ve got to mess it up.”
Sean did not realize his brother had spoken in English until Brodwyn demanded, “What did he say?”
She gave a terse nod at Sean’s translation, then told Taunton, “Position the beasts, Commander.”
“Aye, ma’am.” At his orders, the nine fiends were stationed like writhing arrows around the lake’s outer perimeter. Their snouts were angled down, down, down to the lake. “They are all in place, General.”
“Give the order, Commander.”
He leaned forward so as to direct his smile at Sean. “It was the young man’s idea, General. Perhaps he should have the honor.”
Brodwyn ordered, “All transports are to move back behind the safety perimeter.”
They left the eels alone and reversed back another hundred meters.
Taunton said, “All transports in position, General.”
She handed the comm link to Sean. “Call it in.”
Sean exchanged an excited grin with his brother, then said, “Drop the bomb.”