What Judgments Come

Marshaling her increasing strength, she reached with her mind toward the distant stars, seeking any of her people who might come forward to act during this most grievous challenge without question. To anyone who might be listening, she put forth her plea.

There was no answer.

Not yet. For now, the Wanderer would be patient, continuing to broadcast her entreaties while fueled by comforting thoughts of final, merciless retribution.

38

When the door to Cervantes Qui

“What the hell do you want?” Qui

“Mister Qui

Qui

“Current station time is 0954 hours,” T’Pry

Blinking several times, Qui

T’Pry

“No,” Qui

“And now?”

Shrugging, Qui

“I did not say anything,” T’Pry

That seemed to register with Qui

T’Pry

“Really?” Qui

Glancing in both directions to ensure they were alone in the corridor, she said, “We believe we have located a possible source for the Mirdonyae Artifacts. At the very least, it is possible it is a repository for such artifacts, and may contain other Tkon technology or clues which may prove useful as defenses against the Shedai. You are one of a very small group of people with any exposure to these objects, and one of even fewer people who have interacted directly with a representative of the Shedai. Your knowledge and expertise might prove valuable on the forthcoming reco

In truth, she had doubts about Qui

Judging by his reaction, T’Pry

“I was sorry to hear about Commander McLellan, Mister Qui

The look of anger on Qui

It was a waste, she decided—an illogical squandering of a useful resource, which was precisely what Cervantes Qui

She discarded the notion. In his present state, there would be no persuading Qui

“So be it, Mister Qui

“You look tired, Admiral.”

Standing before the viewscreen in his office, his arms folded across his chest, Nogura released a sigh that he figured would serve only to confirm the observations of his visitor. Turning from the screen, upon which were displayed several status reports—none containing anything he might consider positive or heartening updates—Nogura directed his attention to Daniel Okagawa, presently a captain without a ship to command.