SECTION 26
Ulnar rubs his jaw anxiously. His eyes are on the planning tank while his mind runs through calculations of strength and speed. Now that Larno’s garrison has been wiped out, Endymion stands helpless before the Ka’slaq assault. About half the alien fleet, as many as fifty ships or more, are closing fast on the planet. At maximum speed the Ninth Squadron might intervene in time to protect the planet, if they can evade the ships already rushing toward them at high speed. The safety of the colony is Ulnar’s highest priority right now.
“Open Fleetcomm to all ships,” Ulnar orders. “And patch it through to me.” As the communications technician complies with the order, Ulnar continues to study the tank. They’ll have to use Stealth mode, jamming ultrapulse scans to avoid detection while dodging the aliens detached to deal with the squadron. Given the advanced Ka’slaq technology, the tactic is risky at best, but it’s the only chance they have to save Endymion.
The technician finishes his task. “Fleetcomm open. Admiral,” he says.
Switching on the microphone on his console, Ulnar issues his orders.
“All ships, this is Flag,” he begins. “Prepare for battle. Set course for planetary flyby over Endymion.” He pauses, then continues with forced steadiness. “All vessels to adopt Stealth mode. We will evade the nearest enemy ships and engage the aliens over Endymion. Formation and battle orders to follow. Stand by.”
The die was cast. Now the Legion’s men and ships would test their mettle against the Ka’slaq.
Roll two dice and compare the result to the squadron’s Stealth rating.
If the roll is less than or equal to the rating, go to section 52.
If the roll is greater than the rating, go to section 62.