Floodplane 1 | Page 42

Reko was lumbering around complaining of a headache - no wonder with that bump - probably the result of the commander’s stick finding its mark when Reko did not move with sufficient speed to satisfy him. Kip was groaning and rubbing his back (the commander’s stick again perhaps?) but then Kip had always been a moaner, it might just as easily be the hard floor that bothered him. Mordon was twitching, but still seemed able to sleep through the groans of the others. He had some nasty wounds. Nestor, who was looking rather

dazed, didn’t look too badly hurt but was complaining of hunger rather than pain. Gabry was already nibbling on something he had secreted in his pocket, unaware that Balph had noticed. ‘Where did he get that from?’ Balph wondered. Prago seemed to be in shock, his face and hands were lacerated but the blood had dried. He sat rocking back and forth, his eyes focussed on something the others could not see and humming a strange little ditty about the ant that ate a horse. What a sorry sight they were and he probably looked no better Balph thought ruefully. He went over to Kade who was nearest to him and swallowing his dislike of the man asked: “Seen the Commander?”

“How could I when I’ve just woken up?” Kade responded irritably.

Balph took a deep breath, “I’m going to find him, come if you want.”

Kade gave him a curious look, then answered with obvious delight: “You’re

scared!”

“Gorn’s dead.” Balph managed at last. He hated this man, why was he talking to him, let alone inviting him to come with him?

The pleasure of seeing Kade’s eyes widen and glimmer with fear in his turn somewhat mollified Balph. Of all of them, Gorn had always seemed the strongest and most able, if he could die, any of them could.

Eventually Kade muttered: “Ok, let’s go.”

Only Kip and Gabry showed any interest in where they were going, but hearing the purpose of the excursion, Kip lost interest. Gabry however claimed to know the Commander’s whereabouts. Given Gabry’s capacity for obtaining information he was not meant to have, Balph challenged: “Oh yeah, and where would that be?”