The Swarm Master paused to see the affects of his words before continuing. Antennae began to rise and postures lift. He could tell the aura of defeat was lifting. Then Zelof spoke again. “Everyone here needs to realize this will take time and a lot of hard work. We must get our people organized and train them in the techniques of survival. They must work to endure the harsh life of guerillas. After our people are prepared and when our enemy thinks they’ve succeeded we begin.” He glared around the table. “And when we begin we don’t stop until the Kthpok are dead. Not just off planet, not fleeing. I want them dead!”
With his instructions given Zelof sent his officers out to begin designing training programs for the civilians. He knew that his people were entering a time of darkness that could last for decades. But all nights had to end. So would this.
After the door slid shut he took a deep breath and let it out in a long sigh. Zelof straightened his harness and took a last look at the image frozen on the screen. The Kthpok would be defeated. Their betrayal of the Iidx people would have justice. He turned off the viewer and headed for the door with that vow burning in his mind. It was time to begin the long, hard road back.
Betrayal Page 56
