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Chapter 30

Subject: Staff Sergeant Power

Species: Human

They'd dropped us 20 miles from the gont base, which was about 10 miles more than necessary. Whatever, we'd already marched 12 miles so we'd be there soon. The humans on the squad are still looking fresh, like we're just out for a Sunday stroll. But that's because we were all gen-alts. Aliens could go through the program as well, but the benefits weren't as pronounced and the risks were greater.

Int, Yunk, and Brint are looking tired. The only reason they made it this far is because of their guardian suits. I think I should call a rest, we don't have much farther to go and we'll likely be better off if everybody is fresh.

ZZT ZZT ZZT

A familiar and unwelcome sound. The sound of a directed energy weapon hitting an energy shield.

"CONTACT RIGHT!"

"COVER YOUR SECTORS!" I shouted while aiming toward our right flank.

Everyone hit the deck facing the directions that we were supposed to. Even the boots. Good on them. I scanned for our target who was under the mistaken impression that we were their target. The terrain was mostly flat, but there were berms in the distance. Barely close enough for laser fire.

I increased my magnification and saw some rocks tumble down the berm. Bingo. I gestured toward the berm to apply a ping, letting the rest of the squad know where to look. Once I saw the waypoint, I checked the squad's vitals.