Appleton, Victor – Tom Swift Jr 04 – And His Giant Robot

“Thank goodness you made it safely, Tom. After Jones’ and Davis’ experience, I was worried.”

“Any more crows around?” his son asked.

“No, and I hope the capture of Flash Ludens has ended that trouble.”

Tom inquired about Raymond Turnbull. Mr. Swift shook his head, saying, “His brother has become moody over the situation. Robert has been keeping irregular hours, coming in at odd times and staying away from here for long stretches on and off.”

“Has it affected his work?” Tom questioned.

“I think not. But then everything is about ready for putting the pile into action.

Opening ceremonies will take place two days from now, providing your robot and the relotrol are in working order.”

TRIAL BY FIRE 191

“They are, Dad. Come and meet Ator and Ser-mek.”

He escorted his father into the Flying Lab’s hangar where the two giants stood, trussed with guy ropes to keep them from falling.

The sight of Ator and Sermek amazed even the seasoned inventor.

“It’s an achievement to be proud of, son,” he beamed. “I can hardly wait to see them in action. We’ll have a test early tomorrow.”

When the young inventor awoke the next morning in his bunk in the Sky Queen, the first rays of the desert sun were glinting into the cabin. Tom jumped up and went to make sure that Ator and Sermek were all right. Finding them still in position, he went to put on work clothes.

Directly after breakfast, the Citadel became a scene of excited anticipation.

Crews had moved the two giant robots to a position between the control house and the outdoor shaft that led to the pile’s tunnel entrance. A crowd of engineers had gathered to see them.