2400 AD

The BHB Drone floated towards the bay doors silently. Its remote pilot, in a large room overlooking the aeroport, frantically checking the onboard systems, plotting the course and checking the weapon system. Once in flight, the drone would reach Xenocon Egoli in a matter of seconds.

Denizen 2, in Cape Town, deployed the second drone.

Denizen 3 - Nelson Mandela Bay.

Throughout the world, Denizen facilities released their BHB Drones:

Harare.

Nairobi.

USA.

Germany.

London.

Russia.

Australia.

Beijing.

Japan.

Singapore.

Canada.

All ready to strike at a moment’s notice.

***

Several elders whispered closely in the dim light of the hallway in Lillian’s home. Framed pictures of the lady in happier times hung on the walls.

Like Jacob, Thespian had disappeared. The elders had not heard from him and had no idea where to find him.

The last they had seen of him was at the target house.

The group had no idea how long Lillian would last, but if they could not find Thespian in the next few hours, she’d certainly pass.

One alternative remained. She’d have to choose someone else.