Shadowmind (Christopher Bulis) by Shadowmind (by Christopher Bulis) (html)

Author:Shadowmind (by Christopher Bulis) (html)
Language: eng
Format: epub

Chapter 17

Captain Kausama surveyed those gathered round the table, her smooth features creased by a serious frown. There was resolution behind her carefully chosen words.

‘My original orders were to make an approach to Arden by stages from the outer part of its system, gathering intelligence data by passive surveillance methods as we went. However, due to the information we have received and our discussions over the last few days, I have decided we cannot afford the time for such caution.’ She looked down the table. ‘This decision is partly influenced by the observation you made about the duplicates’ possible motives, Doctor, and the significance of the time factor involved.’ The Doctor inclined his head in acknowledgement. ‘I have communicated my decision to Fleetcomm and they have agreed to the change of plan. Therefore, I intend that we should make our re‐entry into normal space at a point only a few million kilometres ahead of Arden in its orbital path. From there we may be able to detect lower‐power surface transmissions on the planet, if there are any to be heard. Naturally, this increases the risk of our being detected, especially by the stolen ships, but I believe we have no other choice in the circumstances. Comments… Colonel Charters?’

‘I concur with your reasoning, Captain. Besides, my Marines are beginning to feel restless. They wouldn’t want the Navy to start thinking they were only here for the ride.’

The Captain smiled. ‘Any other comments?’ There were nods from around the table.

The Doctor looked unhappy. ‘Captain, if there is any chance of avoiding conflict, any possibility of negotiation, you will make the effort?’

‘As I understand it, Doctor, you already made one such attempt in the Command Room back on Tairngire. If we encounter the Adamant or the Atlas, my orders are to treat them as hostile.’ The Doctor nodded in a resigned manner.

Ace summed up the mood succinctly. ‘Let’s do it,’ she said. ‘Who knows, maybe they won’t expect us to jump in at the deep end.’

‘Thirty minutes to real space. Level two alert status is in force. Secure for combat manoeuvring. Pressure suits are to be worn. All fighter crews to stations. Power core to nominal, all reserve power cells to charge. Close all airtight hatches and ready secondary force curtains. Switch to independent lighting circuits. Ship’s gravity will power down to combat level of point two five of standard on a one minute count…’

For the thousandth time, Fran recalled the moment when the Skavenger ship rose over the ragged limb of the asteroid. She felt again the impact of its energy bolts on the shields of the old Farstar. She, a junior officer, momentarily frozen in shock – and then Captain Lang’s steady voice cutting through her panic, her hands moving across the controls once more, a tiny part of her mind wondering if she could ever remain as calm as he had seemed that day. Well, she was about to find out. She hoped she would do justice to her old Captain’s example.

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