The private nodded. "Yes, sir. An official telecast was just issued over the diaphragm. It is a Gogean attack."
"A Gogean—?"
"Well, not exactly an attack, sir ... yet. Because the force barrier prevents their entering Khundru. But a mighty army of the cursed Darksiders has been spotted by our observation posts. They number in the tens of thousands. They have been seen at every gate. Apparently their army has completely encircled Khundru."
"Good!" said Lark. "I mean ... er ... very good, soldier. Report to your post as ordered. Oh, what is your post?"
"Main control tower, sir. The ultrawave cannon."
"Indeed?" Lark's eyes lighted sharply. "And where lies this tower?"
"Why, at the lowest level, of course, sir—" began the tramir ... then stopped abruptly, suspicion darkening his gaze. His voice changed tone and one hand crept furtively toward the sidearm holstered at his side. "But—but how is it that you a kraedar, do not know—"
"That," said Lark softly, "is a question you must ask your ancestors, tramir." And his hand, too, streaked to his belt. Before the startled warrior could draw, a shaft of orange lightning seared the life from his body. It was a charred carcass when it hit the floor.
Gary said regretfully, "Poor devil! He was only doing his duty as he saw it."