by Kevin Groh
They talked for a while and then they took a trip to Skymarket, where Terry could take a long carousel ride. Carter looked at the place where he kissed Kelly for the first time. »I know that look. You’re in love, aren’t you little brother?«
He looked at Zoe and his face revealed that she had caught him.
»I’m happy for you. I had always feared that your special interests and hobbies would make it hard for you to meet someone who would accept you. Apparently, recruitment has triggered more than just your new calling. When you get to know love, you have a different view of the world, don’t you?«
Carter raised an eyebrow: »I don’t know why everyone always says that. It doesn’t change anything. You feel that way, but from the outside, you only get to know a new part of life. Everything else remains the same. Obligations, interests, likes and dislikes, all that remains constant. Only one factor is added. A new point of view, different feelings, changed desires. A more positive view of everything. But from a purely rational standpoint, nothing else changes.«
»Just that rational and in love can never exist at the same moment.«, Zoe said wisely.
»You are a terribly cheesy romantic!«, Carter snorted amusedly.
»Guilty!«, his sister admitted. »But I know what you mean. I love Eddy and I love Terry, but I also love the feeling of controlling millions in my job and making decisions. Many people depend on me. Sometimes I have to be tough and it’s not always easy. But I love my job and there I act calculatingly and occasionally ice-coldly. The ability to switch emotional and rational thinking is priceless.«
Carter hugged Zoe. Even when they were little, she had understood him. He knew she would always support him no matter what. And he would do the same for her. He walked along the sidewalk with Terry to get ice cream so his parents could have a few moments to themselves. The kid kept pointing at things or people and making hissing noises. He pretended to be the genie of the Persian prince in the story. Most of the ladies around the boy came closer curiously and looked at him whispering. Carter wondered what women always had with children. There were moments when he found Terry quite cute, but there were also more than enough situations where he’d rather be back at the base. Armed with a large soft ice cream, the two of them slowly walked back to his parents. Carter was amused to find that Eddy was jealous of the ice cream. Zoe didn’t miss it and when Terry was fixated on something else, she grabbed it, licked it herself and held it out to her husband. Eddy and Carter were disgusted in sync: »Ewww!« She just laughed and ate the rest of it leisurely. They spent the evening comfortably in Magnus‹ house and talked. Zoe would fly back to Earth with her two men on Wednesday and Carter would be at the base. She told of what was happening on her homeworld and her time there. Eddy also reported some things that had happened.
»You know, it got much better. After the colony was successful here, there were several more waves of emigration that led here. After that, birth control was introduced for several decades to slow down the growth of mankind. Well, and for a while now everything is back on track. However, more than two children are still forbidden.«
Carter then talked about the training and how he and his group did team exercises that were not always pleasant. He unconsciously rubbed his chest where he had been reconstructed. Eddy seemed impressed by what he had experienced.
» It is hard to believe how much you recruits learn. Think about what this knowledge would cost if you wanted to acquire it in another way ... You receive skills that most people can never learn. And even if much of it has to do with killing, there is still something more valuable. Useful skills like flight training, sports units and close combat. Even if you’re not aware of it because it seems normal to you, you’ve become a very dangerous man by now.« With these words, Carter had to think for the first time about how he looked to an ordinary person like Eddy who hadn’t done any military service. With the skills he had learned, it wouldn’t be that easy to attack him on the street. His knowledge of events and conditions in the galaxy was also greater than average, even by the standards of the privileged. On Sunday, Carter could spend the morning with them before they took Magnus on a trip to New Vienna. He said goodbye to his sister and Eddy, while Terry didn’t appreciate him and looked at an action figure he had in his hands. He was still watching them being driven away by Michael. He hadn’t realized how much he missed having Zoe around. Her life on Earth and Magnus‹ work gave him the feeling that his comrades at the base were currently more of a family than the real ones.
Calling
The time at the base passed quickly as usual and none of the recruits noticed how long the training had already lasted and that they only had half a year to go. Soon the final exams would begin. At first, they were frightened when they heard that there would be exams, but they calmed down quickly when they were explained. As Annie had already said on the first day of class, all their training, including lessons, group exercises, and field exercises, was recorded by the bracelets they wore. These so-called ›exams‹ were only for the purpose of doing a realistic exercise or simulation.
But although some subjects ended, others remained, and even new courses were added. Nambur grumbled: »They’re seriously going to give us new subjects?«
He flinched when Jazzir stood next to him. The T’zun could move silently like a cat, which was probably because he was one.
»Well Mister Zobek, that has quite justified reasons. It’s clear to me that you’re all longing for the end of your apprenticeship and finally want to leave this base and have a halfway settled life. This is always the case for recruits in their second year of training around this time.«
He smiled and his pointed teeth sparkled in the light of Zelot. He seemed to be happy about something. When Banes was happy, it usually meant nothing good for them, but Jazzir had never enjoyed harassing them. They actually thought he was one of the best teachers. He folded his hands on his back.
»During the last half-year, you will be confronted with all the fields of teaching you were not ready for before. These are advanced things and some ... let’s say ... more exotic things. Nothing you absolutely need, but all of it can help you.«
He paced up and down as he continued: »With me, you will learn what is probably the most exotic of all fields. People have often wanted to delete it from the curriculum, but the Lorgans are enthusiastic ritual melee fighters. That’s why I teach you how to handle retro weapons. This is antiquated and outdated weapon technology that is no longer state of the art. Why am I showing you this? Because in many ways it is wise to know old techniques. Your opponent doesn’t expect that. Most defense systems, guard robots, and droids, just like organic beings, are always anxious to know the latest attack options and to consider countermeasures. They completely neglect the old and proven methods, and that’s how you can beat them.«
Rod crossed his arms and Jazzir asked: »Skeptical?«
»Most buildings, vehicles ... even armor is made of metal or some ultra-strong alloy. I think it’s no wonder that defenses don’t care about attacking with a club.« Rod said critically. Jazzir giggled at what you could see on his shrugging shoulders.
»Do you think retro weapons haven’t been developed further? My people and also the Lorgans hold on to ancient traditions and rituals ... within certain limits of course. We are not savages.«
»The Lorgans are.«, it came from Jane and the others laughed.
»Oh, don’t be deceived. The Lorgans do space travel together with the Gumai for almost as long as the T’zun. Don’t let their wild appearance fool you. That’s pure tactics.«, Jazzir pointed out.
»Our customs have always included ritual battles in which one tests one’s strength and discipline. Even the weapons have never changed in principle.«
He pulled out something that looked like a long, narrow grip. It was made of dark metal and wrapped in black fabric. A short red cord dangled at the lower end. Suddenly a blade about three times the length came out. It was double-edged, pointed and
glowed bright silver in the sunlight. The surprised respiration of the group gave way to astonished murmur as Jazzir made the weapon swirl smoothly and incredibly fast. After he had finished his demonstration, they applauded, but he raised his hand to silence them.
»Martial arts are not something that is demonstrated for purposes of self-expression. This is a dak’tar. In your language, it would be called a folding blade. It can be quickly extended and retracted and still has higher durability than swords of earlier times. I would agree with Mr. Tindall that such a weapon has no chance against a mounted gun turret ...«, he said and cut a metal strut, which he had already provided, into two parts. »... but my people have mastered the art of making these weapons so that they can still be used effectively today.«
Tom said: »That was impressive!«
»I hadn’t expected that«, Urma followed.
Jazzir gave each of them a traditional, old, but above all blunt one-handed sword. It resembled the weapons that the ancient Romans once used. »Even if normal soldiers only receive the standard weaponry, it is important to master a few movements with a sword. Many of your military’s rifles can withstand and repel a sword, but you have to be able to do that.«
He demonstrated some simple movements to them. The only one who didn’t move was Carter. Jazzir strolled to him and asked if he had seen the movement correctly. He said to him: »I’m sorry, Jazzir, but at the moment it’s very difficult for me not to become arrogant.«
He raised the blade and whirled it almost exactly like Jazzir had done, albeit a little slower. The T’zun showed a slight smile. Without warning, he attacked Carter with a deliberately slow strike and he parried surprisingly fast and launched a skillful counterattack. Jazzir got involved and they had a brief duel before he pushed Carter’s blade aside and poked his own against his chest. »I’ve never seen a human recruit who could wield a sword before. Of course, your style is rough and slow, but it’s a rare pleasure. Where did you learn that?«, the T’zun asked interestedly, while the others stared at Carter with open mouths.
»Already as a child, I was fascinated by old weapons and martial arts. I taught myself a few things, but I had a few years of training in fighting with blank weapons. Swords, bows, staves and stuff like that.«
»Well, then you should be vigilant because very few people have the opportunity to learn the art of weaponry from a T’zun, even if it’s just the basics.«
While eating, they all sat excitedly near Carter to question him. Even in class with Kova and then with Willis, he kept noticing curious sideways glances. He was almost happy that they had flying lessons the following day. So he could fly around a little undisturbed. After the week was over, Clemm told them that it would soon be the retro week. Five days long only retro weapons and techniques with Jazzir. Apparently, the military command staff considered old weapon techniques unimportant, so they compressed everything into a single week. The next days of training would include another field exercise outside the base.
It was a day’s exercise that was supposed to be finished before dinner. Therefore there were only rations for lunch in the backpack. The large troop shuttle transported them towards the target area together with another group. They were all a little nervous. Although they already had some of these exercises behind them, it was a thrill every time. They didn’t know where to go, what the mission would be, who was in command, or what to expect in general. It was very realistic. Banes had, as usual, put on his winning smile when he could spread discomfort and fear. As always, Dunn was also in the game and looked as if she wanted to take part and kill someone. The other recruits seemed to be a bit older, according to Banes they were cadet officers. This meant that they had completed their three years of training and even half a year of additional schooling. They had much more field experience and Carter suspected that Banes was using his group only as moving targets for the young officers. Accordingly, the members of this team were arrogant. They looked at them condescendingly and spoke derogatorily while standing next to them.
Rod was terribly upset and Kelly stared at them sinisterly. Carter ignored them, but Leena was just not the type of person to put up with anything. She stepped up to the loudest of the guys making fun of her and said:
»I would suggest you show some manners. You’ll soon be officers and that means a lot of responsibility. If you behave as you do, you’re definitely not going to be given a command.«
One guy came up to her and said self-absorbed: »You better respect the authorities, sweetheart! Soon you must carry out my orders.«
Contrary to all expectations, Leena replied: »That may well be so. But one thing people like you like to forget: you are depending on us. If you don’t show respect and treat your subordinates badly, they won’t listen to you anymore. Either there will be resistance or you will be sacrificed at the first opportunity. In battle, you have to be able to rely on your comrades. That means you have to be one of them, otherwise, you won’t be respected. In the face of danger, you will quickly realize how superior you are when your people are not by your side. Apparently, you didn’t learn anything at all.«
The guy still smiled arrogantly, but he seemed to have no answer.
»That’s what I thought.« She added and came back to them.
Carter said to her: »Damn, you got balls!«
Leena replied with a smile: »Someone must have some here.«
Even Banes, who had listened to everything, had to smile.
They approached a large dome made of metal struts, which were framed by triangular glass panes. A round opening served as an entrance zone. Inside, an old city had been recreated, as it existed in hot regions on Earth. The buildings were built on two slopes and there was a dusty street at the lowest point right in the middle of the complex. The houses all had light brown or sand colors with small square holes as windows. Flat roofs gave the whole scenery a strangely ordered appearance. The alleys between the buildings were narrow and it was probably difficult to move around because you could hardly see anything until it was too late. Since all the houses were similar, orientation was also difficult. Apart from himself, only two others had had no command so far and something told him that it was his turn today.
The ship landed on the street in the middle and they all got off. Besides the two teams, Banes and Dunn, two normal soldiers had come along from the base. They were waiting for the rules to be explained to them.
»Well, let’s do this.«, the major said and rubbed his hands.
»As you’ve already noticed, today’s exercise is an officer candidate fight against recruits. I assume that you recruits will fail. But so far you’ve shown more talent than anyone would have expected. What we are practicing today is a hostage scenario. Each team will take posts on one side of town. Both will receive a prisoner to keep an eye on, that’s the two here.« He pointed to the soldiers from the base.
»The task is to free the other team’s prisoner and not release your own hostage. If you lose them, you should try to take out the enemy team. The winner is the one who frees his hostage and protects his own, or eliminates the enemy.«
Dunn led the recruits to their base and Banes took over the contenders. After climbing up through the narrow streets, they entered one of the buildings through a wooden door. It had two floors and several corridors. The soldier had his hands tied behind his back and sat down on a chair. Dunn looked into the faces of the recruits.
»I miss that kind of action ... fuckin‹ hell, I’d love to join in! But you rookies have already shown several times that you have a lot of talent. This time Sanders will be in charge and I’m very excited about how you’re doing.«, she addressed him. »Don’t forget: Protect your hostage and save the other one. Good luck ...« Carter already suspected he was in charge. The others looked at him and wondered what he was thinking. He folded his rifle and attached it to his back. Then he pulled the pistol and unlocked it. He had learned enough to make a solid plan quickly, and his inexplicable instinct told him what was best. U
nlike before, he was now capable enough to trust that impulse.
»All right. The most logical way is to divide into two teams. Me, Rod, Urma, Tim, Tom and Henry go out and find the hostage. The rest of you will stay here and protect our guest. The man is tied to the chair, so you don’t have to stand next to him and wait for someone to attack. Gina and Leena, you get on the roof. You are our eyes and pay attention to everything that approaches. When you go to the edge, you should be able to see everything along the main paths despite the narrow alleys and high roofs. Be sure to lie down, because if anyone sees you, they will know which building is the right one. You’d also be easy targets.
Kelly, you and Nambur will patrol the street. Kelly in the back, Nambur in the front. You’re not supposed to defend anything while you’re alone. Raise the alarm and assemble before you attack! Don’t just run around the building, but go round and round other buildings. We want to make it as hard as possible for the enemy to find the right house.«
The referred people nodded and went to their posts. Carter ordered Jane and Jimbo to stay inside and peek out the windows. He thought it was nonsense to leave someone with the hostage. If a team really entered the building, they were very likely inferior and would lose to the attackers. The two of them should keep an eye on everything from above. A high walkway, which ran through the entire upper floor, was visible in the large entrance room as a balcony above the room with the hostage. The railing was closed brickwork so that it was easy to use as cover.
»If they really come in here and look for the hostage, don’t let them see you. They’ll also send a team of four and you’ll hardly have a chance against that. Wait until they get the hostage out. Two will have to support the person and then you can take out the two guards. If you’re fast, you can even take them all out. Up there they won’t notice you until it’s too late.«
Jimbo asked: »What if they search upstairs?«
