Reed stroked the patch of stubble on his chin thoughtfully. "Number Two", he said, turning to his protégé, "get a message out to Space Fleet Command. Let them know
our situation."
"Aye-aye, sir", the lieutenant responded automatically.
"Commander", the science officer remarked un remarkably, "I'm getting some strange readings from those Wyzenhymer vessels."
"Strange odd, or strange ha-ha, Mr. Schultz", the commander inquired.
"Odd, sir", the Huckster replied. "The ships aren't giving off any bio
thermal radiation."
Reed was out of his chair immediately and leaning over the science officer's shoulder. "That's impossible!"
"Obviously not, sir", Schultz responded dryly, moving aside. "See for yourself. The data is clear."
Studying the display, Reed had to admit the numbers didn't lie. He sank into the Huckster's recently vacated chair. "Kamasutra Drones*", he muttered, paling noticeably.
"Mr. Schultz, starboard shields to full." He stood and returned to his station. "I need this like I need another hole in my head."
The door slid silently open, admitting Ensign VanTedly. "Hey, fellas", he shouted, waving happily, "how's it going?!?"
Proteau and Liz hastened in a few steps behind the Ensign, who had broken into a run when he realized where they were going.
"Sorry, sir", Proteau offered miserably. "He just got excited."
Reed gave no response, but sank deeper into his chair, his expression growing darker by the second.
Wincus cursed as he watched the rift between his control ship and the Drones expand. He calmed his nerves and reached out with his mind, embracing the dark, supernatural powers of his training. Soon
he began to sense a pattern to the chaotic pitch of his ship and maneuvered slightly, correcting the fighters movement. A sinister chuckle escaped his lips as he regained control and wheeled to rejoin the
fight. "Now, Commander Reed", he hissed through pointed teeth, "you will experience the true power of the Hooch."
