Planet Wrecker

-44-

The new Senior Tribune of the Luna Missile Complex assured the Grand Admiral that the men could meet the timetable.

The new Senior Tribune kept glancing at dead Cato, who lay on a slab of metal in an underground garage. The moon-buggy was parked twenty feet away, with the bubble-canopy still open. The gore, congealed blood and brain tissue of the ruined head seemed to fascinate the new Tribune. He’d just learned about his promotion five minutes ago.

“This is critical,” said Cassius. “Are you listening?”

The new Senior Tribune tore his gaze from the dead Highborn, looking at Cassius. He nodded quickly.

“You must accelerate the work schedule, but sacrifice nothing in terms of perfection,” Cassius said. “Each missile must function to its full potential at the needed moment.”

“I understand, Your Excellency. It shall be done.”

“Words are unimpressive,” said Cassius. “Only deeds interest me.”

“I demand that you judge me by my deeds, Your Excellency.”

Cassius nodded. “There is no room in Higher Command for failure of any sort. We have five days until launching. Every missile must leave its pad, and each missile must carry its designated cargo, be it soldier or warhead.”

The new Senior Tribune saluted smartly. “Then with your permission, Grand Admiral, I must leave you and begin the accelerated work-schedule at once.”

“It appears I’ve chosen the right Highborn,” said Cassius.

“Excellence brings rewards,” the new Tribune said.

“Perfectly stated,” said Cassius. “Now before you leave, show me where I may find the commandoes.”

“Do you have a specific commando in mind, Your Excellency?”

“Maniple Leader Felix,” Cassius said.

“Do you know his unit number?”

“Troop Six, Battalion Fifty-Seven,” said Cassius.

The new Senior Tribune examined a scroll-pad. “It is a penal unit.” He sounded surprised.

“It appears you are not intimately familiar with the commandoes.”

“We have an infantry specialist, Your Excellency. He can tell you more than I can concerning the commandoes. I specialize….” The Senior Tribune grimaced. “I specialize in completing the assignments given me.”

“What was that designation again?” asked Cassius.

With a start, the Senior Tribune thrust the scroll-pad at Cassius. Cassius examined it, nodded and abruptly turned around, heading for his moon-buggy.