An Excerpt from "The Hunt"

“I assssssume you were not followed?” Kliff snorts scornfully. “As if any of those
brainless fools could follow me without my knowing it.” Algol grunts. “Maybe not.” He growls.
“But I’d rather be sssssssure.” After a long pause in which Kliff shifts uncomfortably under the
alien’s gaze, Algol gives the Prextarian his instructions. “The Council.” He hisses, referring to
Scythe’s group of advisors. “Dessssssstroy them.” Kliff tilts his head curiously. “I thought Tyr
and Garth wanted to wait until the Council and Scythe were in one place.” He says slowly,
naming the other two Triumvirs. Algol looks away. “They’re taking too long.” The Serpentine
have a notorious lack of patience, as is currently evident to Kliff. He refrains from further
inquiry, however, knowing the Mercenaries Code requires him to accept assignments with no
questions. Kliff eyes Algol uncertainly, uneager to see Algol’s reaction to his next sentence. “I’m
going to need a transport.” He asks hesitantly. Sure enough, the Serpentine lashes his tail
angrily. “What happened to the Ssssssingularity?” He demands. “It, uh, exploded.” Now Algol
practically trembles with rage. “SSSSAY THAT AGAIN.”