GALAXY AT WAR - Book 2 - Probing Anthera

CHAPTER FIFTEEN - September 2172 - Anthera - 1 day to go

"That's decided then. We go in tomorrow. Full-scale assault," said John Stillson. "Are you sure about taking Dowdneer alive?"

"Oh, I'm sure. He can stand before the emperor and admit what he's done," said General Zemorphoride.

"Right. Call in the squad leaders. It's time to prepare for tomorrow," said John.

"Are you sure that 2nd Lt Bolgon should be going if you want Dowdneer alive?" asked Captain Xenorphide.

"Of course. He's a professional soldier. He follows orders and will not kill Dowdneer unless he has to," replied John.

"Okay, send for them," said General Zemorphoride.

Ten minutes later, Neil walked in with the other four chosen squad leaders. John Lyderattle was conspicuous by his absence. Had he still been alive he would have been one of them. Once they were settled, John addressed them.

"First of all, Neil. How are you feeling?"

"Fine, sir."

"We need to know your state of mind before you'll be allowed to lead any soldiers on a mission."

"Sir. Just because I've lost my wife and my best friend, it doesn't mean I've lost my resolve. I'll do my job. You can count on it."

"One of the mission parameters is to take him alive. Can you handle that, Officer Bolgon?" asked General Zemorphoride.

Neil leaned forward in his seat. "Unless one of my squad is about to die by his hand, I'll let him surrender."

"I'm not convinced," said Captain Xenorphide.

Neil ignored him. "When do we go in?"

"Tomorrow. A full-scale assault from both sides," said John. "The tunnel team has reported a break through."

"I'm sorry. Did you say full-scale?" asked Neil.

"Yes, why?" asked John.

"It doesn't matter. Carry on," said Neil.

After the meeting had finished Neil went straight to Andrew's room. He'd left Tanya there under Andrew and Kelly's care. Andrew let him in, and Kelly handed Tanya over. Neil cradled her in his arms and sat down opposite them.

"Andy, we have to come up with our own plan. They're planning a full-scale assault tomorrow..."

"Should I be listening to this?" interrupted Kelly.

"You're all right, Kelly. I trust you," said Neil.

"That's not what I meant."

"Yes. What I'm telling Andrew is top secret, but I'm not supposed to tell him either."

"Oh, okay," Kelly shrugged and continued to listen.

"If we go in like that, we'll lose the hostages for sure. So, whatever we're going to do needs to be done tonight."

"What do you have in mind?" asked Andrew.

"You can't be serious. You'll both be court-marshalled if you disobey direct orders," said Kelly.

Neil looked at her. "If they throw me out of the Space Federation, I'll be able to look after Tanya myself." He turned his attention back to Andrew. "We need four soldiers to assist me. Another pilot to cover the canyon exit and one to take over my seat. You can cover Mourneer's Cave to make sure no one escapes that way."

"Guy and Laura," said Andrew.

"Yeah, they're two of the best."

"Plus, Keith can cover for us here to give us some extra time."