Space Brigade

Grand Martial Goor leant over the central holo-map table. Fogeek slammed his fist down in frustration.

“How can we mount a defence if the Emperor insists on cutting our forces. It is ridiculous to send one third of our siege-station force to observe the Network attack. And simply hand over our most advanced stealth ship is utterly ludicrous!”

“Cease this constant complaining Fogeek. We will have to simply make do with what resources we have.” Goor snapped back, and then addressed Lecc.

“Does Intel have anything on what we can expect from this Network task force?”

Lecc was busy at his computer, and did not turn from it as he answered.

“It appears the task force will include two dreadnought class starships. They carry an

armament of fifty-two neutron torpedoes, sixty cluster mines, and twenty quantum fusion missiles. Their onboard weaponry consists of several high-energy plasma lasers. Other than that, we do not know what else to expect.”

“Hardly a replacement for our siege-station!” Fogeek remarked quietly.

Goor heard and shot him a look of annoyance, but said nothing.

“What can we expect from the Quat-tar?” General Axxa inquired, turning from the communications terminal.

Lecc switched to his hand-held terminal and crossed to the table, saying.

“According to our latest reports, most of their heavy craft are out of their system. However, even without them, they can still mount a considerable size fleet to send against us. And if the heavy ships join them I cannot see us holding out for long.”

Goor paced round the table thinking. Lecc, Axxa, and Fogeek watched him closely. Finally he said.

“If the unthinkable happens and the Quat-tar breach our defences, could our ground forces drive them back?”

Axxa let out a long breath and slowly shook his head, saying.

“Only up to a point. As you are aware, since the construction of the defence shield we have not maintained a large land based army. Even using the Imperial Guard as line troops, I think we would be pushed to repel even the first wave.”

Goor placed his balled fists on the table and studied the holo-map.

“It would appear our situation is extremely bleak, but we must formulate a defensive to our best ability. I feel we must endeavour to stem any assault out in space. Anyone have any insight into Quat-tar attack tactics?”

Admiral Fogeek leant forward and activated the holo-maps three-dimensional schematic, and announced.

“I do.”

He had studied Quat-tar tactics as a hobby, and part of his training at Fort Ullann, he always prided himself on knowing his enemy.

“As Quat-tar is on a direct vector to Tanteee, I believe they will mount a full frontal attack. They will be confident in their ultimate victory, and will not expect much resistance. They are aware our main defence is our planetary shield, although they do not know our military strength. They are not likely to waste time splitting their forces to send ships to attack our rear.

I would expect them to face us full on, in the hope of destroying all our starships in one fatal blow. Then they will launch their landing craft and assault the planet in a pincer movement to engulf the Imperial City. Their first directive will be to take the palace and kill the Imperial family.”

As Fogeek spoke, small red dots, representing the Quat-tar fleet moved precisely to where Fogeek had indicated on the holo-map.

Goor studied the move then brought up the most direct route to Quat-tar. A thin green lance extended from the holographic projection of Tanteee to the smaller grey planetary image of Quat-tar. This pinpointed the precise point where they could expect the Quat-tar to drop from hyperspace.

Goor brushed his fingers along the beam of light, and then began issuing his commands.

“Axxa I want you to centre your ground forces here in the capital. Hopefully the Quat-tar will think the Emperor is still in residence at the palace. Use the first and second order of Imperial Guard to their best advantage, and only call on the Emperor’ Personal Guard as a last resort.

Every foot of soil must be paid for in Quat-tar lives. I realize you will be our last line of defence. It will be up to you to hold them back until I can evacuate the Emperor to Theeka.”

“The Emperor has all ready made his views clear on that subject. I believe he will stay no matter the consequences.” Lecc remarked.

Goor shrugged as he replied.

“The Emperor will see the best possible way to serve Tanteee is to stay alive, even in exile until we can again free our home-world.”

Then turning to Admiral Fogeek said.

”Position the remaining siege-stations at our North and South axis, from there they can be brought into aid any sector that needs them. I suggest you position our heavy cruisers inside the shield, and use our light craft to harass the Quat-tar before they bring down the shield, that way they might just cut down the size of their fleet, and allow us more time to ready the ground defence. Once the Network contingent arrives, they can join them to mount a space line.”

Fogeek nodded, admiring the older admiral’ strategy, then added.

“Perhaps we should position two ships out of sight behind the second moon. Should you manage to convince the Emperor to evacuate, he will have need of them. I could have them positioned in such a way as to be able to receive the Emperor and jump to hyperspace in minutes.”

Goor smiled, for once Fogeek had put the safety of the Emperor before his own petty ambitions.

“Agreed. For once Fogeek you are thinking of the overall picture and not just the pre-emptive battle!”

Lecc retrieved a small disk from his console and passed it to Goor, saying.

“This is all we have on the Quat-tar. It is not much more than we all ready know. However, it does give us particulars of their ship-shielding configuration. Perhaps we can formulate a sonic wave to lower their shields before we engage.”

”Mmm, possible. Have sciences get to work on it, and have our deep-space outposts inform us as soon as the Network ships enter sensor range. We would not want to fire on them by mistake!” Goor stated as Fogeek answered a hail.

“Admiral Kaf is awaiting your orders Grand Martial. The Tykan is ready to depart, and General Xel is aboard the Firebird.” Fogeek announced.

“Instruct Xel to proceed to the rendezvous point. He is to place the Firebird, and himself at the Network commander’s disposal. Have Admiral Kaf take the Tykan to the Quat-tar frontier, he is to wait and observe the assault on Secunda.

He is not to intervene under any circumstances unless it looks as if the strike is in danger of total failure. Then and only then is he to use his discretion, remembering Colonel Lal is with the retrieval force, and may all ready have solved our security problem.

Kaf must be sure Colonel Lal has failed, and the operation is in immanent danger of collapse before committing the Tykan to any action. If Lal is successful, the Tykan can slip back to Tanteee without the Network ever knowing they were there.”

Goor did not want to reveal the Tykan to the Network unless it was necessary.

“What difference will it make if they know of the Tykan’ presents anyway? Once we have aligned ourselves with them, all our technology will be open to them!” Lecc remarked.

“Not all Lecc, not all.” Goor responded.

“Grand Martial, if you have no objections, I will return to the admiralty to formulate a contingency plan with the line commanders should we need to make a speedy withdrawal and regroup.” Fogeek asked.

Goor nodded in acknowledgment and continued to study the holo-map.

“And I should get to Ullann!” Axxa stated.

Once Fogeek and Axxa had departed, Lecc approached the holo-map table. Goor looked extremely worried. Lecc stood opposite him and watched him closely

“I think our days are numbered my friend.” Goor said solemnly, then added.

“We are out numbered and out shipped. Even with the Network craft, we do not stand much of a chance of survival. The first order of Imperial Guard is well trained in combat, but the second order is less equipped to handle the likes of the Quat-tar.

Axxa will be extremely pushed to get them to perform well in front of the invaders, even the first order have not tasted battle. And the Emperor’ Personal Guard, well they are not line material. I think I am expecting too much of Axxa.”

Lecc did not need telling how unseasoned Axxa’ forces were, he realized as well as Goor, if the Quat-tar landed troops on the planet, then all would be lost.

“We have no other option. We will fight to the death, I cannot contemplate surrender.” Goor said adamantly.

Lecc paced round the table and stopped close to his commander. Looking him straight in the eyes, and keeping his voice low, said.

“There is another option!”

He paused, waiting for Goor to respond. When he did not, he continued.

“I have been to the Nor-trell vaults, I know what they conceal!”

Goor’ face became stern. He thought carefully before answering, picking his next words carefully, he said.

“Then you know we can never use what they hold.”

“Why?”

Goor shook his head.

“If you truly know what they conceal, then you should know why.”

“I am not privy to Nor-trell reasoning. I only know that the means are held in the vaults that can end this threat. I cannot reason why there should be any problem. Is it because the Emperor has no knowledge of its existence?”

Goor perched on the corner of the table and glanced down at his feet as if pondering whether to answer.

“Or is it that the Nor-trell hold more power than the Emperor?” Lecc remarked arrogantly.

Goor responded in a casual manner.

“The religious order of the Nor-trell is the Tanteee conscience. What is held in their vaults is our dreadful past, a past that was rejected long ago, and stricken from all records.

Yes, it is true the Emperor is ignorant of its existence; his father commanded it be this way at the Emperor’ birth. The secret has been kept from him ever since. Emperor Volis did not want the burden of such a machine of destruction to be available to the whim of a young and inexperienced successor.”

“The Emperor is no longer an inexperienced youth. He has the right to know of this, and order its use if necessary.” Lecc interrupted.

“That is not your responsibility, nor is it mine!”

“Then who is responsible?”

Goor sighed, glanced at the holo-map, and then answered.

“Lord Morka.”

“If that is so then we are truly lost. Cannot any other Nor-trell suffice?”

“No, only Morka can activate the machine. So your suggestion has been answered.

Now, I forbid you to ever speak of this again. The machine must remain concealed; its evil ingenuity must remain forever dormant.

The destructive past of this race has been eradicated over generations, only the Nor-trell document its existence for posterity, they have been sworn never to reveal their secrets not even to the Emperor. You have been unfortunate in your discovery, I ask you for your oath to never speak of this to anyone else.”

“Even if it means the destruction of our species?”

“Even if it means the death of every Tanteee in existence. If another species less civilized than us obtained the Nor-trell machine, they would have the power for universal domination.

If Tanteee falls to the Quat-tar, then the Nor-trell will seal the vaults under tons of rock before it can fall into enemy hands.”

Lecc shook his head in wonder.

“If this machine is so powerful, why keep it intact if not to use it in a time of need. I cannot believe the Nor-trell would deny us the means to save our race!”

Goor stood and walked over to the COMM station and sat down.

“The Nor-trell believe there is another machine in existence, somewhere on another planet. The sacred scrolls tell of the crashed machine, but do not give the location or name of the planet.

The Nor-trell has been searching for generations; yet it has eluded them. They have kept the machine intact should some other species find the other craft and activate it. No other ship in existence could stand against the Hassi machine, none except another Hassi.”

After a few minutes silence, Goor said in his most authoritative voice.

“You have more pressing things to worry about Lecc. Forget you ever heard of the Hassi machine, or it will end in your untimely demise.”

“A threat?” Lecc asked pulling himself defiantly to his full height.

“No my friend, a warning.”

Ambassador Morka lay still, staring up at dazzlingly bright lights. He could not turn his head; a type of mechanical brace was holding his arms and legs. He could hear the muffled chatter of several Quat-tar, but could not see how many. He was surprised he was not in any pain. From the corner of his eye, he saw a Quat-tar approach, wearing a white overall.

“The subject is awake!” The Quat-tar said as he checked Morka’ vital signs.

Two more joined him, and watched Morka for a while, and then one said.

“The mind sifter is useless. He must have the ability to block. We’ll proceed using more stringent methods.”

“I don’t care what methods you use, just get the information!” The third Quat-tar shouted.

This one was the older of the three, and obviously of higher rank. His dress was more refined, and he held himself with a stance of authority. He continued speaking.

“Chief Mautur has commanded he has the shield codes within the next twenty hours. I suggest you comply with his command, or it will be you who will suffer more strenuous methods. Now get the information!”

The officer practically screamed his last words then disappeared from Morka’ limited view. He heard the recognizable swish of the door and presumed the officer had gone.

“We’ll start with a level four pain inducement to his central nervous system. Bring over the inducer.” The white coat ordered.

A floating facial mask appeared above Morka. The other Quat-tar spoke.

“Commandant Loutar is in a foul mood today.”

The white coat replied while placing the inducer over Morka’ face.

“I think he’s been put under sentence of death if we fail. He wishes he wasn’t commandant at the moment!”

“Perhaps without Loutar in the way, you could become commandant.” The orderly suggested.

The white coat laughed loudly and answered.

“Ha, Commandant Zatch. I think not. I’m quite content being the Chief Inquisitor thank you.”

Once the inducer was in place, Morka heard the head brace being removed.

“Cranial probe, number three.”

Morka could not see who was speaking, but recognized the voice as belonging to the white coat called Zatch. He suddenly felt a burning sensation at the back of his head. Hotter and hotter it became until turning to a searing heat. Morka tried to block his pain receptors mentally.

“Well my Tanteee friend, I wonder just how much pain you can withstand. What you are feeling now is only the beginning, just a pathway for the inducer to work its wonders.” Zatch announced into Morka’ ear.

Morka settled into his Nor-trell trance, hoping this would be enough to sustain him through his ordeal. He could not imagine what the Quat-tar beasts would put him through, only that it would be extremely painful. Hopefully he would not reveal his planets precious shield codes; hopefully he would die first.

Cap Beeta sat with his feet up on the desk during Raga’ informal briefing while the Phoenix made headway to Torok, all the usual officers were present including Pala, Lieutenant Kolx, Qwerti, and a new recruit fresh out of the academy, including a fresh lieutenant named Adams; a young baby-faced kid with the look of eagerness in his eyes.

Colonel Raga walked in, and was accompanied by another different face.

“Take a seat Major.” Raga said as he sat next to Cap.

Cap moved his feet and leant back casually in his chair. Pala joined them after helping himself to a beverage.

“Right, Secunda. As you’re all aware the entrance isn’t locatable by scanners. So we’ll have to rely on the scouts to find it. We do have an approximate location, and will be landing some two kilometres out.”

Raga stopped talking as he poured himself a small drink from the jug on the table, offering the major one as well. The major refused with a shake of his hand.

“We’ll recon in three groups. Cap, you’ll head one. Pala another, and I’ll take the third. Lieutenant Kolx, you’ll be with Cap. Qwerti.”

Raga scanned the room looking for the ever-illusive Chief of Lithian scouts. His translucent form making him blend in with any surroundings he met.

“I’m here Colonel!” Qwerti whistled from the corner.

“Qwerti you’ll come with me.” He finally remarked when he saw the Lithian.

“Who’s my scout Jim?” Pala inquired.

“I’ve assigned Sergeant Tela. She’s one of Qwerti’ newest scouts, but I’ve his assurances she’s top line.”

Qwerti winked at Pala. Pala shook his head in response. It was one of Qwerti’ passions to try out his raw scouts at Pala’ expense. However, Pala had long since learnt to trust the Lithians recommendations.

“Lieutenant Adams, you get to go with Captain Toms. Listen to him, and do exactly as he tells you; your life may depend on following his instructions to the letter.” Raga stated with earnest.

“Yes sir.” The fresh faces lieutenant snapped back eagerly.

“Major you’ll tag along with me.”

The major acknowledged with a nod.

“Sir will we be using terrain hoppers?” Lieutenant Adams asked.

Raga looked at him with embarrassment. He had approved Adams appointment to Pierce Force as a favour to his father. Raga had served with him in the marines earlier in his career. Originally he had asked Adams father to transfer to Pierce Force, but he had declined, and asked for a position for his son, who was eager for some action.

At first Raga had refused point blank, not wanting to lumber his men with an untried academy freshman. But moreover, he did not want the responsibility for the life of one of his closest friends youngest son.

However, after being reminded he owed major Adams quite a few favours, Raga conceded and now the young lieutenant was officially Pierce Force, for good or bad.

Raga had deliberately assigned him to Pala knowing he would keep an eye on him, something the others would not of bothered with. He was determined Adams was one kid that was not going to end up as a pile of blood and guts sprayed across some distant alien landscape.

Lieutenant Adams waited patiently for an answer, his grey-green eyes shining with eagerness, an eagerness to please, to fight, and to do well. As with all first time out recruits, he believed he could take on anyone and win. Death did not enter his action hungry mind.

“Sir?” Adams said when Raga did not respond.

Raga suddenly realized he had not responded. He had fallen into a trance-like daydream. He cleared his throat with a cough, and said.

“Err, no Lieutenant we’ll be going in on foot as the terrain will be high density vegetation.”

Cap let out a muffled snigger. Raga threw him a look of disapproval. Adams should of known they could not use terrain hoppers on such a delicate operation, the noise of their engines would of announced their arrival long before they reached the target.

Raga decided to cut the fresh Lieutenant some slack and not pull him up on the obviously stupid question.

Pala leant forward, resting his arms on the table and asked.

“Any idea on weather conditions?”

“It’s Secunda’ second spring term, so it shouldn’t be too bad. But your guess is as good as mine. Meteorological cartography assures us it will be fine weather, but you know how reliable they are from experience. So we’ll pack all weather gear to be on the safe side.”

“This two kilometre distance we’ll have to cover. It’s a damn long way to cut our way through without getting detected.” Lieutenant Kolx stated as he shifted in his seat.

“Maybe, but that’s the best we can hope for. As it is, it’s going to be one hell of a trek, so keep your eyes open for any land surveillance devises.”

“Yeah, what about surveillance. What can we expect?” Cap asked quickly.

“Mi Hancy’ spoken to me at great length on that very subject. So far intelligence hasn’t come up with anything tangible, his info on Secunda is somewhat sketchy. All I can advise is that you keep your eyes open at all times, and be prepared for anything.”

Raga quickly glanced at his timepiece, and then added.

“OK anything else?”

When no one spoke, he continued.

“All right, we have a little over two hours before we reach Torok. Use this time to bring your men up to speed. Run checks and re-checks on the equipment, I don’t want any foul ups on this one.”

As the others made their way to the exit, Cap and Pala remained behind. Once they were alone, Cap asked.

“OK Jim who’s the major?”

Raga looked at him amused. He knew they would want to know who the new face was, and knew it would be only a matter of time before they approached him.

“Oh, you mean Major Tantis.”

“You know damn well who we mean!” Pala remarked as he perched on the corner of the table.

“Major Tantis is on temporary loan from Jurass Analytical. He’s our computer expert, and he’s going to get us into the prison without alerting the guards.”

“So what’s wrong with O’cara?” Cap inquired.

“Nothing, only O’cara’ not as good as Tantis. He was recommended by the Chief of Staff of Jurass, so Torre assigned him to us.”

Chief Medical Officer Ferl Collona was going over the troop medical reports when her office door chimed.

“Come.”

The door swished aside and in walked Chief Engineer Malic.

“Yes Chief, what can I do for you?” Ferl inquired as she pushed the reports aside, thankful for the interruption.

Malic plonked his rather portly frame down opposite the doctor. The slightly balding, thirty-two year old engineering whiz kid looked worried. Chief Malic is a starship Chief Engineer of the highest calibre, graduating from the illustrious Scientific and Technological Engineering Academy on Ventek, with a string of honours and citations.

Malic had served as Chief on the Phoenix for the last five years, getting them out of many a sticky situation with his bright ingenuity.

“We have a problem Doc. One of the main power cells of the mobile hospital has leaked. And part of the landing gear has failed!”

Ferl raised her eyebrows; she knew the mobile hospital would most definitely be required.

“How long before she’s fully operational? Torre’ expressed concern over its upkeep.”

“Unfortunately Doc, she won’t be able to make planet-fall. The landing gear’s no problem to sort out, but the power cell leakage ate into one of the hydraulic module couplings. I’ve checked with stores, and we’re out of that particular module. I sent a sub-space request to Torok, to have a replacement ready, but they haven’t received any spares from ordinance for months.”

Ferl brushed her long auburn hair back from her forehead.

“Is there any way you can use a different type of module?”

Her voice showed concern; they needed the hospital on the surface, not stuck on the Phoenix.

Malic slowly shook his head.

“Sorry Doc, that’s just not possible. I’ll kill that bloody incompetent stores liaison officer when we get bacl thl thl thl thl thl thl thl th you should be made aware of the situation before I make my report to the admiral.”

Ferl brushed her thin nimble fingers across her brow in thought, and then said.

“That won’t be necessary Chief. The admiral gave me responsibility for all medical equipment to be functioning and ready for the off. I should’ve checked with you before we left orbit. I’ll tell him, and I’ll take the fallout.”

She pulled an unpleasant expression at her last remark. She did not relish giving Torre the distressing news. As an after thought, she added.

“It might help though, if we could come up with some kind of alternative to the hospital!”

The door chimed again.

“OK Chief, leave it with me.”

Malic stood and moved towards the door. As he neared, it slid open and in stepped Doctor Zear.

“Hello Ram, I hope you haven’t any bad news as well.” Ferl inquired as Zear nodded to Malic.

He rested himself on the corner of her desk, and announced.

“On the contrary Ferl. I’m pleased to report all medical teams, and medi-labs operational, and blood-banks are adequately stocked.”

“Well I’m thankful something’s gone right. All we have to do now is to find a way of getting the casualties to the Phoenix.”

Zear gave her a look of puzzlement.

“Err, have I missed something? I was under the impression we were to use the mobile hospital, that we would be going to the casualties, not the other way round.”

“Yes, yes you’re quite correct in your assumption, only the damn hospital isn’t going anywhere. Malic’ just informed me it won’t make planet-fall. Any ideas?”

Ferl looked at Zear with pleading eyes, hopeful he would come up with something. Zear put his hand to his pointed chin and mulled the predicament over in his mind, then announced.

“Not at the moment, but I’ll endeavour to think of something on our way.”

“On our way? On our way where?”

“On our way to update the admiral. I believe that’s your next duty. I’ll come along to lend support, besides I’m quite interested in just how he’s going to react.”

“Thanks very much Ram. I was hoping to put that little pleasure off for awhile, have a little breathing space, find the right time and way of approaching the subject.” Ferl replied as Zear took hold of her arm and helped her up.

“Yes well there’s no time like now. Sooner you do it, sooner it’ll be over. Better now than when we reach Secunda.” Zear replied as he edged her towards the door.

“Huh, and the sooner I become a vet on some lousy forgotten planet at the back end of the Galaxy; Torre’ going to go interstellar over this!”

Collona and Zear took an unusually long time to cover the short distance from Ferl’ office to the command bridge. Ferl stopped at every opportunity and talked to anyone she came across, trying to make the walk last as long as possible.

Eventually, Zear managed to cajole her into entering the bridge. Torre swung round in his command chair and acknowledged their arrival.

“Ah Collona, Zear. I trust all’s well in medical?”

Ferl’ mouth became parched as she struggled to find words.

“Err, well, ah, not quite Admiral!”

She was not forthcoming with any explanation at that moment. She found it increasingly difficult to find the right wording, her stomach turned constantly. Zear gently prodded her in the small of her back, trying to coax her into offering an explanation.

Torre grew impatient and was not of the ilk that gained pleasure from watching a fellow officer squirm. He leant forward and quietly said.

“I take it you’re here to report the untimely failure of the mobile hospital?”

His voice remained flat, and did not divulge any emotion. Ferl could not tell if he was annoyed or not. She licked her lips, swallowed, and opened her mouth to speak. Torre held up his hand before she could say anything.

“Chief Malic has all ready updated me as to the situation of the mobile hospital, and I’ve all ready agreed to his alternative suggestion.”

Ferl stared at Torre, her mouth hanging open. Zear came to his senses first, and inquired.

“Excuse me admiral, but may I inquire as to what alternative suggestion that might be?”

“Of course Doctor. Malic suggested we use all of our available shuttles, and five dropships to ferry any casualties back to the Phoenix.

He’s all ready making alterations and modifications to the craft, adding the necessary medical equipment, and any supplies they might need.

The space ambulances, his words not mine, should be operational before we reach Secunda.”

The two stunned doctors glanced at each other, not knowing what to say.

“Is there anything else?” Torre asked.

Ferl forced a smile, while mentally thanking Malic for saving her hide.

“No sir.” She finally answered sheepishly.

“Well?”

They looked at each other again, then back to the admiral.

“Well get the hell off my bridge and get on with what every good doctor should be getting on with, before I reconsider the situation, and have you both thrown into the brig for negligence.” Torre barked stony faced.

“Yes sir.” Both doctors snapped back simultaneously, and hurried towards the exit.

Admiral Torre smiled as the both pushed through the door. As it swished shut behind them, he turned to Captain Mittvn.

“ETA to Torok?”

His voice held a more professional military tone, as he once again set his mind to the task before him.

“One hour fifty-two minutes Admiral.” Mittvn replied, not turning from his station.

“Run a weapons check, we don’t want to have half our armaments fail on this one. And run a second level diagnostic on the targeting computers, several torpedoes went astray during the Sentec mission, I want it right this time. I’ll be in my quarters, call me when we reach Torokian space.”

Once inside his cabin, Torre laid out on the couch. He had gained himself a pounding headache, and was extremely apprehensive at having to rely on an alien craft that he had no knowledge of to transport his pathfinder teams onto Secunda, and especially one that he would have no control over.

The Tanteee had insisted their ship be included, and that Colonel Lal be present during the assault on the prison; he had only learnt of Lal’ directive after they had left Agar.

He would have to call Lal to the bridge when they reached Torok to identify the Tanteee ship; nobody in the Network had ever seen one of their military craft before.

For now though he tried to put all that at the back of his mind. He could do no more at present to guarantee the success of the mission. Captain Mittvn would call him as soon as they entered Torokian space, or if he was needed.

The operation was proceeding as per schedule, although with the few minor mishaps such as the failure of the mobile hospital.

He closed his eyes and let his mind drift back to the days when he was with his wife and children, of a more pleasant time. He slowly slipped into a peaceful sleep, something he had not managed for several days.