The Bug Wars by Robert Asprin

“Confirmed, Zur,” I replied. “The view-input units on your skimmer are inoperational.”

I noticed Tzu was trying to get my attention.

“What is it, Tzu?”

“With your permission, Commander, I’d like to communicate some instructions to Zome.”

“Certainly.”

I had no hesitation in yielding on this point. Zur had given me his assurances the situation was in hand. Details could wait until their return. For the time being, it was more important to let the Scientists proceed with their work.

“Zur,” I beamed, “pass your booster band to Zome.”

“Acknowledged, Commander.”

“Horc,” I said as I passed my booster band to Tzu, “a word with you?”

“Certainly, Commander.”

We retired to the far side of the dome to avoid distracting Tzu at her work.

“You made a comment just now I would like to have clarified.”

“About the cold-beams?”

“No, about the skimmers.”

“Oh, that. My apologies, Commander. It was an unforgivable outburst. I would ask that you recall we Technicians are unused to viewing combat firsthand.”

“Actually I was interested in your implied criticism of the design of the skimmers. I was under the impression the Technicians considered it a masterpiece.”

“You are confusing the Technicians as a caste with the individuals who compose it.”

I waited, but he did not continue. I fought a brief battle with myself over conduct befitting a Warrior, but this time curiosity won.

“Explain, Horc.”

“Commander?”

“The differences you referenced. I would like them clarified…for my information as Commander of this mission,” I added hastily.