Krushkov smiled and opened his hand towards the prone Captain.
‘Don’t even consider trying to escape,’ he continued. ‘I have given the order to my men to shoot on sight. And if you are bold enough to think you’ll take that risk, remember that we have all your PSIs. We’ll be watching, and we’ll track you down.’
Everyone in the restaurant was transfixed on Krushkov.
‘Now, there are some key people whose services we require – all senior, security, engineering and tech staff. Come to the front. We have the crew roster so we know your names. Don’t make us read them out.’
Zak watched as the crew members made their way to the front. The Captain struggled to his feet. Herbet trudged forward, head bowed. Geremi emerged, head held high, staring at Krushkov with contempt. All were ushered out of the restaurant by two of the hijackers at gunpoint. Zak realised that these staff were the ones who knew the ship and how it functioned.
When they were gone, Krushkov continued his speech.
‘Now, thanks to the efforts of your excellent Security team, we’ve had to conduct this operation a little earlier than planned, which means you’re all going to have to spend the next few days in this restaurant.’
A few suppressed groans could be heard.
‘But there is some good news,’ he said jovially. ‘You’ll be eating here for free!’
Krushkov paused, as if expecting a grateful response. Instead, there was total silence.
Zak stared intensely at Krushkov, with growing anger about the whole situation. He was angry at the hijackers, and angry with Herbet who hadn’t taken him seriously. Herbet had allowed a small problem to become a big one.
If it really was a robbery, then maybe the safest course of action would be to co-operate. But he was certain there was more to this than Krushkov admitted. Romero had said in the lifeboat room that they couldn’t allow witnesses to escape. The MMM were blowing ships up to destroy evidence. Zak felt a responsibility, even a willingness, to act.
