I studied the pairings, now visible in the screens as the skimmers faced each other.
The Scientist, Zome, and Kor shared one skimmer. Because the Scientist was inexperienced, Kor would probably be controlling both the steering and the weapons. Well, if any Tzen could do it, Kor could.
Zur and Hif were teamed in the second skimmer. I supposed Hif’s color-sighted ability made her a logical choice over the more experienced Vahr. Also, if they weren’t included on assignments, how would the new Warriors gain experience?
“The team reports nothing unusual in the appearance of the boulder, Commander,” came Zur’s message. “It seems to be a rock; nothing more.”
It occurred to me that if indeed our target turned out to be a rock and nothing more, we might be indulging in one of the most massive overkills in the records of the Warriors. If it wasn’t, however…
“Proceed with the investigation, Zur.”
“Acknowledged, Commander.”
The skimmers were moving now. The craft with Zome and Kor moved to a position forty meters from the boulder and settled facing it. Good! They would act as a fixed position covering the other craft. Not having to control its movements, Kor could devote her full attention to handling the weapons. When Kor concentrated on weapons, I was confident she could handle two boulders, unknown or not.
Zur’s craft, probably with Hif piloting, moved off to a distance of some hundred meters. It waited until Kor was in position, then darted forward. Taking care not to pass between the boulder and Kor’s guns, it swept past the target at top speed, almost brushing it as it passed. Carrying by, they turned the skimmer and swept by the target again.