***Hub, ANAD operates most efficiently in loose configuration…processor operation is optimized…effectors and actuators primed for action…requesting permission to delay containment until all functions can be fully checked***
Winger had to smile at that. ANAD sometimes sounded like a five-year old. And what five-year old didn’t balk when told it was bedtime?
“ANAD…configure for containment…return to base immediately…that’s an order.”
The faint mist flared for a moment, as if the bot were angrily breaking even more atomic bonds, then slowly issued and drifted back toward Winger’s shoulder capsule.
Menendez’ voice came over the speaker. “Fuel is bingo, Lieutenant. We’re at no-go position in five minutes—“
“Copy that,” Winger replied. “Get a vector to Mahe International. Best speed to Delta Victor, Divert Site One.” He turned to Nguyen, who had his eyes practically glued to the QPOD panel. “Any sign of the surveillance element?”
Nguyen took a deep breath and nodded. “Affirmative, Skipper. I was worried for a moment. But from the deco signature, I’d say ANAD’s little gang is right now being absorbed into the bigger swarm…deco wakes have spiked just like I thought they would. And…we’ve got a good track.”
“I’ll let Table Top know, so the satellites can follow Symborg to wherever he’s headed. For now, we need fuel. And some provisions.”
“I can taste the mangos already,” boasted Deeno D’Nunzio.
The lifter wheeled about and headed south, toward the turquoise atolls of Mahe Island and the blazing white capital city of Victoria.