IceFlight

by Casey Lea

Gull Snowbeak sat crosslegged on his cabin floor above a hologram of Blossom as seen from space. He appeared to hover over the planet and gazed down at it with hooded eyes. He always enjoyed using his floor as a window. It reminded him that he was part of the Royal Fleet and that once again he had a new world at his feet. Gull smiled, and at that moment words fell into his meditating mind like stones into a pool. His scalp tightened against their ripples.

  Report.

  Gull sat up even straighter. Is that you, Mightiness?

  Certain-sure, his Arck replied. Raptor follows my orders otherwheres and I also wished to make this contact.

  I’m honored, sire, but have little to report. All continues as was.

  Silence briefly returned and Gull was alone with his thoughts, but not for long.

  I hoped you would fail to answer.

  Apologies, sire, but targeting all three is a challenge. Since your order came, there is all times one missing. Even the cousins are ever apart. They seem to avoid each other.

  Can you not destroy the whole ship?

  Indeed, Mightiness, but that would not claim all three targets. We’re in orbit and they move often between the planet and the ship. Even the old vulture has made planet fall. There is most urgent news also, Sire.

  Tell.

  The exile has a mate who is with child.

  His child?

  Certain-sure, Sire.

  This is heavy news, old friend. I needs must consider a moment.

  Gull made no response and returned to his rapt contemplation of the planet below. Some minutes passed before his master’s mind disturbed him again. You’ve given me a choice that would burden any kres.

  Indeed, Mightiness.

  My heart aches to order it, but the child must also die.

  I feared such.

  Can you kill all four?

  Easy-as, Sire. They’re all to gather soon for a wedding.

  There was another moment of silence and Sharpeye’s reply seemed faint and tired. Let them have their chance to celebrate. Give them the first dance before striking. Wait ‘til that is done and then make it quick, so they suffer not and need never know.

  Gull hunched forward until all he could see was the gold and cream of Blossom. His hands trembled, so he pressed them flat against the floor.

  It will happen as you desire, Magnificence. Your enemies will die. Farewell.

  51

  Wedding Day Jitters