Engineer studied the crippled ship. "She's
finished, sir," he announced, "it's a wonder she kept them alive! I
hate to do it, but she's got to be destroyed. She's a danger to any
ship coming near her. And if she explodes on her own account, she'll
scatter dangerous debris all through the system."
43 North nodded in agreement. "As soon as the bus is back on board
Helm, back off ...minimum firing range. Firing Control, all beams wide
angle. Her shields are so weak you won't need tight beams."
44 The Firing Control Officer responded. "Yes, sir," and began to set
his controls. A few moments later three circles with crosses in them
appeared on the main screen. Slowly they came together until all three
settled on the stricken scout. "Target at cross point, sir," announced
Firing Control."
45 "Bus on board, sir," announced Helm, "hatch secure. All personnel
accounted for. Medical reports nothing serious, but affected personnel
will be off duty for some time."
46 "Understood," ordered North, "acknowledged. Firing Control, you may
commence barrage."
47 Three times the Lord's Vengeance's powerful weapons pounded the
scout. The first time took away her shields, the second time she glowed
red hot. The third time she disappeared in a bright white flash.
"Target destroyed," sighed Firing Control. "Total vaporization."
48 "Very well,” ordered North, "Helm, get us out of here! Set course
for the nearest station that has suitable medical facilities. Our first
priority is to our injured. We can leap to a repair station later."
Navigation and Helm went quickly to work. "Number Two," continued
North, "take command. I'm going below to check on the injuries, and to
prepare my transmission to command."
49 A check with sick bay found the scout's crew resting comfortably,
the Doctor pleased at their condition.