For it had been a disaster. The Federal artillery on Hill 541N was in action again, lobbing shells toward the Rep staging areas. Fighting still went on within the encampment, but an increasing volume of fire raked the eastern slope up which the Reps had carried their initial assault objectives.
The weapons which picked over the remnants of the Republican attacks were machine guns firing white tracers, standard Federal issue; and at least a dozen tribarreled powerguns. A platoon of Slammers' combat cars had entered the Federal encampment and was helping the defenders mop up. The relief force had finally arrived.
"In the morning . . ." Des Grieux muttered. He was as tired as he'd ever been in his life.
And he knew that he and his tank had just won a battle single-handedly.
Given the amount of damage to the landscape, there were surprisingly few bodies; but there were some.They sprawled,looking too small for their uniforms; and the flies had found them.
Half an hour before dawn,Des Grieux announced in clear, on both regimental and Federal frequencies, that
There was still a risk that somebody would open fire in panic. The tank was buttoned up against that possibility.
It was easier when everybody around you was an enemy. Then it was just a matter of who was quicker on the trigger. Des Grieux never minded playing
"Alpha One-six to Oyster Two commander," said a cold, bored voice in Des Grieux's helmet."Dismount and report to the CP as soon as you're through the minefields. Over."
"Oyster Two to One-six,"Des Grieux replied. Alpha One-six was the call sign of Major Joachim Steuben, Colonel Hammer's bodyguard. Steuben had no business being here, "Roger, as soon as we've parked the tank. Over."
"Alpha One-six to Oyster Two commander," the cold voice said. "I'll provide your driver with ground guides for parking, Sergeant. I suggest that this time, you obey orders. One-six out."
Des Grieux swallowed. He wasn't afraid of Steuben, exactly; any more than he was afraid of a spider. But he didn't like spiders either.
