Threshold of Annihilation (The Firebird Chronicles #3) - T.A. White Page 0,154

of the crowd and regarding the human calmly. "I always warned you your ambition and greed would lead you into disaster, but I never thought it would come so soon."

Kent sneered. "I've done what you weren't brave enough to do. The alliance brokered with the Haldeel only hampers our evolution. We cannot become what we were meant to be when another holds our leash. I'm simply rectifying the mistakes of you and the old guard."

"By working with an enemy who wants to drive us to extinction?" Himoto asked.

Kent drew himself up. "The Tsavitee’s methods are harsh, it's true, but sometimes you need to go through a crucible to achieve your true potential. Our race must become strong. Don’t forget, you’re the one who taught me that sometimes sacrifices need to be made for the greater good."

While he was speaking, Graydon sent several hand signals to his people, warning them to get ready.

Solal and Amila touched their sides where their en-blades were hidden. They watched intently for their moment, their stance defensive.

Himoto's expression was pained as he closed his eyes and shook his head. "You stupid boy. You had such promise."

There was pity in the way Himoto watched his fellow human. His gaze held a kind of ruthlessness that made it clear he wouldn't hesitate to sacrifice the other man, no matter their prior relationship.

Graydon and Torvald exchanged looks.

"What do you say we go a little wild today?" Torvald asked.

Very well. If the man wanted a little excitement in his life, who was Graydon to deny him.

"Leave the small fry to us,” Graydon instructed. “You concentrate on those ships.”

Torvald's bloodthirsty smile faded. "Why do I think you got the more interesting task?"

Despite his obvious disappointment with his task, Torvald was already moving to take care of those outside. His hands flowed swiftly through several runes.

Pressure built in the air. The molecules around them seemed to scream as with a clap Torvald finished his formation. He threw a hand toward the scene above. Dozens of lights arced up, spearing the approaching strigmor eels.

“I’ll take care of the trash,” Graydon said, starting toward the androids and the humans around them.

Kent’s face contorted at the destruction taking place above. He looked over his shoulder at an android. “Kill him.”

Graydon moved before he’d even finished speaking the order. His en-blade drawn in one second and the android’s head falling onto the ground in the next.

"What’s that you were saying?" Graydon asked. "I didn't quite get it the first time."

Kent snarled, backing away as the two remaining androids charged.

The bzzt of a zuipi split the air, killing the androids instantly.

Jace walked into the room. "Sorry I'm late. I got a bit hung up."

Torvald raised an eyebrow. "Why does that weapon seem familiar?"

"This?" Jace held up what looked to be a modified version of the zuipi, only smaller and much more compact. "It's an invention of Blue's; it’s the first of its kind. Raider passed me the schematics a few days ago. Isn't it fun?"

"That's one word for it," Graydon said, his predatory gaze turning to Kent.

The human stumbled back, fear and the self-preservation that had been missing earlier finally returning.

Too late now.

“What should we do with him?” Graydon asked.

“Take him into custody,” Himoto answered, no mercy on his face. “Death is too good for him after this betrayal. He should be given a trial, his rank stripped, and live in shame for the rest of his days.”

The words seemed to give Kent a backbone as he stopped and straightened. “I’m not the only one who believes the Haldeel are a threat as great as the Tsavitee.”

Himoto ignored the words, glancing at Graydon. “I also want the chance to interrogate him to root out the rest of his followers.”

Humor touched Graydon’s expression as Kent stiffened at the revelation.

“We can help,” Torvald said, peering over Graydon’s shoulder. “The Tuann have many interrogation methods.”

Himoto’s eyes gleamed. “I look forward to exploring the possibilities.” To his people, he said, “Take him into custody.”

They moved toward Kent. He didn’t resist as they reached for his arms.

“You are a disappointment who doesn’t deserve your rank,” Himoto told him as the humans secured his wrists behind his back.

The stamp of many sets of feet announced the arrival of reinforcements.

Anticipation and a ruthlessness twisted Kent’s expression.

Jace grimaced. "I thought I took care of those.”

“Looks like there were more,” Graydon told him.

“What are your orders?” Torvald asked.

"I’m up for killing them all,” Graydon said.

Then when they were done, they could address the betrayal by the