“You still haven't told me why you want to go up there,” Diamond said.

“The ammo,” Nori stated plainly. “We’re hoping to find some leftover alien scraps so we can make more of them.”

“What if you can’t?”

Nori gave him a steady look. “Then we’ll figure something else out. In the meantime, stay safe. We’ll try to come back with more ammo as soon as possible.”

The man nodded gravely and offered his hand. “Good luck, kids. I’ve got a feeling you’re going to need it.”

***

The guards looked up as their leader came out of the spaceship. A moment later, the ship shuddered to life then rose up slowly. It remained hovering for a few seconds then shot out, like a bullet, disappearing behind the hill’s curve.

Noah shook his head admiringly. “Those guys are something else.” He looked up at Diamond. “Think they’ll be able to deliver, boss?”

Diamond’s expression was grim as he watched the horizon. “I really hope so, son. For all of our sakes.”

12 - Detour

The ship entered the city, flying several meters above the damaged buildings.

“So tell me,” Bulco said to the others on the bridge. “How did it go in the shelter last night?”

“We gave them the ammo,” Lana replied. “They seemed happy about it and excited at the chance to get even more.”

“The boys still have no idea about the Broodmother?”

“No,” Nori said. “I’m not sure I agree with Diamond’s decision to hide her existence. It might spread panic, but we’re risking people getting caught unaware if the Warped launch a sudden attack.”

“He knows what he’s doing, and his people respect him. People used to come to him to settle disagreements ...” Bulco shook his head as if trying to rid himself of burdensome memories. “Anyway, how are we looking?”

“We’ll arrive at your base in a few minutes,” Nori said as she gently twisted her fingers, guiding the ship on its course. “Hopefully your men have finished preparing the Hummer.”

“They should. They know their stuff.”

They touched down a few minutes later in front of the old library. Nori went back to the cargo hold with Bulco and they lowered the main hatch. The Hummer was waiting for them. The previously black vehicle had undergone a massive change. The heavy bulkiness was replaced with smooth curving lines that gave the Hummer a distinctly alien vibe. The chassis had been lowered and the wheels had been extended further out and were protected by thick plates.

Two men stood on either side of the vehicle.

Lucas, Level 2, Runner

D’Angelo, Level 2, Technician

“What the hell is this?” Bulco asked as he walked down the ramp.