by Henry Vogel
Finding a trog tribe, which I’d expected to be difficult, was easy. Treb, the translator, led us directly to a tribe no more than an hour’s flight from his own desert camp. Despite working through a translator using sign language, negotiations sped along nicely once the trogs discovered Lady Death was present. The ceremony in my honor, though, took hours. Worse, the next three trog tribes we visited also insisted on bestowing similar honors on me.
The trogs’ veneration yielded one benefit—it impressed the heck out of Captain Dorrin and his men. The good captain offered no further arguments against my plan. That was a relief, as I doubted histrionics would work on him a second time.
When we finally found the Great One, he readily agreed to my plan. For centuries, the city–states waged a war of extermination against the trogs. He leapt at the chance to strike a blow against the largest and wealthiest among those city–states.
Then the true planning began. My plan had been simple—take a bunch of trogs into the tunnels, wipe out the tunnel rats and their odious king, then rescue David. Its simplicity horrified Captain Dorrin and his marine commander. After hearing the gist of the marine commander’s plan, the Great One was convinced to turn away from my smash–and–grab approach, as well.
I readily admit the marine commander’s plan was better than mine, but it was more complex. It required supplies and large–scale transportation and coordinated action. I came to hate the word ‘logistics’ long before the military leaders were satisfied with their plan.
David had been underground for days and days before we were ready to strike. At long last, though, it was almost time to act.
“What you see?” The Great One wouldn’t come within five feet of the Pauline’s railing. Who’d have thought the mighty leader of the trogs feared heights?
“I see a huge light spot where Beloren should be,” I said. “And I see a big dark spot where everything else should be. Maybe Nist can tell us what he sees?”
“Of course, Lady Death!”
Nist loved my new nickname and used it every chance he got. It did demonstrate a certain level of familiarity I’d wanted, so I strove for regal forbearance. I arched an eyebrow and waited for Nist to continue.
“The squadron is approaching the city from the north, as planned. The Beloren patrol ships haven’t spotted them yet, but they will within the minute.”
I leaned over the rail a bit, trying to see what Nist saw. Behind me, a soft moan slipped through the Great One’s lips. It was a good thing the rest of his band of warriors were below deck, unable to see and hear his fear!
I pointed toward a darker than normal blob outside Beloren. “Is that the naval squadron?”
“Uh, no Lady Death. That’s a herd of cattle. The squadron is over there.”
I followed Nist's pointing finger. It was just more darkness to me.
“I’ll take your word for it, Nist.”
“Ah ha! The squadron has been spotted and the Beloren patrol ships are moving to intercept!” Nist said. “Hang on, Lady Death. Our descent will be rapid.”
I turned to the Great One. “You may want to go below to...prepare your warriors.”
The Great One nodded and scrambled below.
Then the Pauline angled down and dove for the heart of Beloren!
Chapter 41
Callan
Milo sauntered to the bow of the Pauline. He was as comfortable on the sloping deck of the airship as he’d been in the palace and in the streets of Faroon. I meet people from all walks of life and with wide ranging abilities, but I’ve never met anyone quite like Milo. He truly is an amazing young man who impresses me more and more with each passing day. With the right training and education, I believe there is nothing Milo cannot do.
“What’s bothering His Greatness? Looking at him, I finally understand what people mean when they say someone is green around the gills.”
“As best I can tell, the smartest, mightiest, greatest trog warrior of all time is deathly afraid of heights.”
“We’ve got a solid deck beneath us.” The ship angled down some more and Milo grabbed a nearby stay. “Well, it’s mostly beneath us! What is he scared of?”
I’d grown up around and on airships and always felt at home on board them. But I also remembered falling from Martin’s airship at the trading post in the desert. Without David and a lot of luck, I’d have died that day.
“Have you ever been hurt in a long fall, Milo?”
“Nope. I’m too quick to have falls like that.”
“How about falling dreams? I’m told everyone has those.”
“Yeah, I’ve had those. They can be scary, but they’re just dreams. They can’t hurt you.”
“No, they can’t. But those dreams are so strong for some people that their minds recall them even when they are awake.”
“So, it’s like the Great One looks over the railing and can’t help seeing himself falling?”
The memory of plunging from the airship returned, unbidden, and I shuddered. “That’s the way it’s been with me since…”
Milo linked his arm through mine. “I won’t let you fall, Callan.”
I wrapped my hand around his arm, holding on more tightly than I’d intended. “Thank you, Milo.”
Rousing myself from my months–old memory, I changed the subject. “Can you see in this darkness? You’re the one who has to guide Nist to the drop–off point.”
“Oh, yeah– I mean, yes Your Highness! I found that sewer entrance David took when he rescued you from the tunnel rats and then scouted out the alley it’s in. It was easy to find the building you guys ran to after getting away last time you were here.”
“Are you sure you can find that building from the air and in the dark?”
“I’ve already found the building. It’s right over there, Your Highness.”
As usual, I saw nothing but varying depths of darkness.
“You called me Callan just a few seconds ago. Why have you suddenly gone all formal on me?”
Milo fidgeted for a second before answering. “I was giving comfort to you, then. And that’s got to be personal, right?”
I leaned down and kissed Milo on the cheek. God, this boy was going to break a lot of hearts growing up. But the girl who captured his heart would be lucky, indeed!
“Yes, Milo, you’re absolutely right. And thank you for the personal touch. But that doesn’t explain your formal address.”
“We’re on the mission now. I’m using your title to show respect for you and your authority.”
“Which guard told you that?”
“Captain Hunter. He’s been training me some in his spare time.”
It seems David and I weren’t the only ones who recognized Milo’s potential. I made a mental note to thank Captain Hunter when we got home.
“I’ve got to guide Nist the rest of the way into the city. Will you be okay up here alone, Your Highness?”
“I will now, Milo. Go on back to Nist.”
Milo slipped off into the darkness. Murmured conversation rose from the pilot’s controls and, a couple of minutes later, Nist leveled off the Pauline. Seconds later, he settled over a building. As the airship slowed, the Great One and two dozen of his best warriors came on deck.
“We aren’t far from the entrance to the tunnels. With the exception of David—the Hand of Death, if you prefer—and Martin Bane, anyone you see down there is an enemy. If they run away, let them go. If they try to stop us, kill them.”
I swung my legs over the railing. “Now let’s go get my husband back!”
Interlude
David is Twenty–one
“David Eliot Rice, with highest honors.”
The faculty applauded politely, my family with more vigor. Dad’s piercing whistle rose over it all.
The light applause died down as I walked across the stage to accept my commission from the academy commander. And that’s when my sister added her two credits to the proceeding.
“Woo hoo! Now he’
s off to find his spacebabe!”
I gave Sandra props for impeccable timing. Her voice carried to every corner of the amphitheater. Laughter rippled through the crowd, even though few of them understood the comment. My handful of friends in the academy roared, though. I’m sure Sandra swelled in pride at their laughter.
“Congratulations, Scout Second Class Rice.” The commander shook my hand as he presented my commission.
“Thank you, Commander Gordon.”
“I thought I had heard it all, Rice, but ‘spacebabe’ is a new one on me.”
“It’s a private joke, sir.”
“And the young lady?”
“My little sister, sir.”
“You may not believe it now, but you’ll miss her once you’re Out There.”
“I am certain I will, sir, but please don’t tell her that.”
Commander Gordon laughed and released my hand. Back straight and eyes front, I left the stage.
Twenty minutes later, my family wrapped me in a big hug. Yes, even my little sister joined in.
Mom wiped away tears. “I’m so proud of you, honey!”
“We all are,” Dad added.
“Speak for yourself!” Sandra socked me in the arm. “Okay, yeah, I’m proud of you, too, big brother. Hey, did you hear me holler when that old guy gave you your commission?”
“Yes, O Annoying One, you yelled loud enough that I bet they heard you on Terra!”
“You think so?”
Sandra grinned so brightly I couldn’t help but grin back.
Mom caught my arm. “I stopped by the nursing home to visit Mr. Hart a couple of days ago. He’s just as proud of you as we are.”
“Really? How’s he doing?”
Mom bit her lip, telegraphing bad news. “Not well, son. The nurses think he’s holding on until your graduation. Are you going to visit him before leaving for your training mission?”
“You know I am, Mom. I was planning to go tomorrow.”
“As much as we want to celebrate with you, David, you should see him today. Tomorrow may be too late.”
Three hours later, the head nurse at Mr. Hart’s home smiled warmly as I entered her section.
“Hello, David. Don’t you look handsome in your dress uniform!” She nodded her head down the hall. “He’s waiting for you.”
It had only been three months since I’d last been here to visit Mr. Hart, but his condition shocked me. He looked so frail, just skin and bones. But his eyes lit up when he saw me.
I snapped off my best academy salute. “Scout Second Class David Rice reporting, sir!”
He laughed and it turned into a cough.
“It’s good to see you, David. Come over here and let me get a good look at you.”
I sat on the edge of the bed and fought to keep a smile on my face and tears from my eyes. Mr. Hart took my hand in both of his, patting it absently.
“I’m glad I got a chance to see you before I go, David.”
“I’m the one who’s going, Mr. Hart. I leave on my training mission in two days. I can’t wait to tell you all about it when I get back.”
“You do that, lad. Your parents will know where to find me.”
“Yeah, right here in this room!”
“Don’t kid yourself, David. I’ve had a good run, but now I’m run down. It’s about time to scout out what comes next.”
I blinked back the tears which suddenly filled my eyes. “At least you’ll be with Princess Audrey and good ol’ Roy.”
“There is that, lad. There is that.”
Mr. Hart’s eyes fluttered and closed. It wasn’t until the head nurse came that I realized my old friend had slipped away.
She left me alone with him for a few more minutes. When she returned, she handed a small box to me.
“Mr. Hart wanted you to have this after he passed. Your visits meant a lot to him, David. I wish all my patients had people like you.”
The box held Mr. Hart’s rank insignia and a short note.
David, I’d be honored if you wore my insignia during your service. Thank you for spending time with an old man and listening to my stories. Every man has a princess waiting for him somewhere. May you find yours out among the stars.
I had to get the nurse to pin Mr. Hart’s insignia on my uniform. I couldn’t see through my tears. I stayed with him until the men from the morgue came to take his body away. I snapped to attention and held my salute until his body was out of sight. My heart heavy, I headed back to the academy.
Two days later, I began searching for my spacebabe.
Chapter 42
David
The sounds of shouting and banging grew louder outside the door to the tammar pit. The banging faded away as the shouting both grew louder and developed a cadence. The door made it impossible to understand what the men were shouting, but it sounded as if they were psyching themselves up to charge into the room and attack. Did they expect to fight tammars as well as a couple of scouts? I hoped so. In our current state—with Martin wounded and me tiring from swinging the hammer—the tunnel rats would definitely capture us or kill us unless we climbed out of the pit.
I made steady progress smashing through the new ceiling with the hammer, but would steady progress be enough? Should I Boost so soon after the last time or should I save it for the fight yet to come? Just as I concluded Boost was called for, the hammer broke through the new ceiling! Plaster rained to the floor below.
“Hey, give a guy some warning!” Martin squawked, scurrying out from under the plaster drop zone.
The hole was far too small for us to fit through, but it wouldn’t be for long. I smacked the ceiling from below, then hooked the hammer through the hole and pulled on the plaster from above. Alternating pounding and pulling created a network of cracks. Seconds later, a big chunk of ceiling crashed to the floor of the tammar pit.
Reaching through the hole, I grabbed the edge of the floor above and pulled myself up into the darkness.
“Bring the torch directly beneath the hole,” I called.
Enough light shone through the hole to give dim illumination in the room above the pit. It was just as I remembered, including stout ropes dangling from half a dozen pulleys. Grabbing the closest rope, I tied a loop at the end of it and lowered it to Martin. Tossing the torch up to me, he secured one foot in the loop and held onto the rope with his good hand. With a nod from Martin, I hauled on the rope. It slithered through the pulleys and began reeling him up.
Martin hung midway between the pit floor and the ceiling when I heard the door to the tammar pit fly open.
King Rat commanded, “Crossbowmen! Shoot that man hanging on the rope!”
Chapter 43
David
So much for using the pulley to gently and easily lift Martin! King Rat’s command dictated speed and brute strength. I hauled on the rope for all I was worth, but it seemed as if Martin barely moved. Working hand over hand was too slow, but what other option did I have? Then the first crossbow twanged and a quarrel flashed just beneath Martin’s feet.
“Faster would be better, David!”
Martin spoke too fast, his words sharp and clipped and seeming all the more urgent as a result. Martin must have Boosted, but I could not imagine what he hoped to gain.
Glancing through the hole, I watched Martin lean out from the rope as a quarrel flew through the space he’d just cleared. As quickly, he ducked under a second quarrel, which missed his head by inches! That answered my question. His Boost was buying me the extra couple of seconds I needed to pull Martin to safety!
Martin dodged two more quarrels and even kicked one aside with his free foot.
“Stop dodging or you won’t be able to come through this hole!” I called.
Putting the rope over my shoulder, I ran directly away from the hole. The pulleys squeaked and whined as the rope spun through them.
I heard Martin taunt the crossbowmen one last time, then he flew up through the jagged hole I’d created and stepped onto t
he floor.
Below, King Rat roared, “Imbeciles! How could all of you miss a man dangling right in front of you! If Rice and Bane escape, I’ll feed each of you to my tammars!”
King Rat must have been really focused on us not to have noticed the three dead tammars in the pit. Martin, considerate man that he is, took time to enlighten King Rat.
“Hey rat boy,” Martin yelled, “take a look at the pit floor. You should stop using the plural form of tammar!”
Silence fell below us, then an inarticulate roar of rage echoed around the pit and through the hole.
“I’m afraid we broke three of your toys. But don’t worry, you won’t live long enough to miss them!” Martin called. Flashing a grin my way, he said, “It’s the simple pleasures that make life worth living, David. Never forget that.”
Then we heard massed footsteps coming from the tunnel outside our room. King Rat had sent guards through the tunnels to block our escape!
Interlude
Callan is Twenty
Heat weighed down upon me, sapping my energy. Rob led eight men, all who remained of my full guard contingent, and me deeper into the desert. He set a fast pace, putting as much distance between us and our raider pursuers as possible. Sand swirled around us, working into our clothing and scratching and chafing our skin.
“There’s cover ahead, men!” Rob’s voice remained strong, calm, and clear, giving no indication of despair or fatigue.
I struggled to raise my head and look where Rob pointed. A jumble of rocks rose from the desert, the dark gray standing out in sharp contrast to the blinding white sand all around us.
I stumbled and would have sprawled into the sand had one of my guards not caught me. He wrapped an arm around my waist, keeping me on my feet.
“Lean on me, Your Highness.”
“Th–thank you, Hoskins.”
“It is my honor and my job, Your Highness.”
