‘OK, so we can’t take out all of them,’ I say, trying to connect my thoughts, like a map. ‘But the difference with them this time is that their physical and mental qualities seem to be separate. My mum was well and strong in her body, but she didn’t go creepy until the XGen was turned off. So if we can turn it back on, we might be able to press pause on the hive mind.’

Ade nods. ‘It won’t get rid of the spores, but it will give us time to find a long-term solution.’

‘So we’ve got to get back to the university,’ 254 Karim groans. ‘Even though it’s heavily guarded and full of horrifying things.’

‘And that disgusting pukey smell,’ says Kat.

Mak peers around the table. ‘We can get out through the Lookout door, or the concealed exit in the Tail, but how are we going to get past Chets?’

‘I’ve been thinking about that,’ I say. ‘And I don’t think we can all get past him, but if I keep him busy, the rest of you can get out.’ And I’m not surprised when they all look mad and say ‘no way’ at the same time. ‘Someone’s got to stay behind, and it’s going to be me.’

‘Why should it automatically be you?’ Ade asks.

‘Yeah, we should at least Geek, Robot, Overlord for it,’ says Mak.

‘Because we need Ade’s speed and smarts, Kat’s climbing skills, Mak’s survival info and strength, and Karim’s knowledge of the university and XGen. I’m the least useful in this situation.’ And I’m not saying it for sympathy, or to come across like the tragic hero. It’s fact.

‘Na-ah,’ Kat says. ‘We can’t do it without you. You work out all the tactics.’

‘And you think the most clearly under pressure,’ says Ade. 255

‘Plus, you’re a ballsy son of a gun.’ Karim whacks me on the shoulder.

‘Every group of survivors needs a leader,’ says Mak. ‘And you’re ours.’

‘You are our greatest treasure, and must be protected at all costs,’ Karim says.

‘That’s it,’ I say. ‘That’s what it means! The bug-eyes have a leader who they will protect at all costs. Their Sith Master. Their Palpatine. Keeping their queen alive will come before anything and everything else.’ I grin. ‘I know how we’re getting out of here.’

22

The Swarm

I go through the plan as quickly and quietly as I can. We need everyone on board if it’s going to work, but I don’t even need to question whether they’re with me or not, because they always, always have my back. Of course it’s risky as hell, but we’re running out of time and options, and sometimes risky is necessary.