（外文电子版资料）Tony Chandler - The Ostrich Race.pdfVIP

The Ostrich Race by Tony Chandler The ostrich was nervous , and Buck Brannan couldnt blame him. Shoot, he was nervous too. But it was the big bird that had the Mark VI Ram-Jets strapped snug around its feathered body. Still, the rocket pack would put them on an equal footing with the Drakan warrior and his swift six-winged mount. Buck rubbed the two-day stubble on his chin. He was standing on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon staring at the first auburn rays of the morning sun in a cloudless sky, dressed out in his protective suit complete with helmet. Strapped to his waist was his trusty blaster, the equal to the Drakans weapon. And of course, he had a water-gun. After all, the fate of planet Earth was in the balance. This is the third time this month, Buck said to Charles Hart, Leader of Section Three. And his Team Commander for the race. We must meet each challenge, Charles replied. Buck rolled his eyes. But why us? Why is it always Earth? Why cant it be Aurelias III, or Cygnus Prime? Or even little Xara Cita?! His eyes narrowed with anger. Is it our water they want? Or some rare and precious metal? Buck growled under his breath. But he knew the terrible answer even as Commander Hart spoke. Theres an acute and universal shortage of babes. You know that. Its bigger than just a single planets fate. The two men stared at each other. You must understand how serious this thing is, Charles said. Thats more responsibility than any one man should have on his shoulders, Buck shouted. Youre the best. Youre all we have. Buck looked away, moisture forming in his gray eyes. What if I fail? Its too terrible to even contemplate. Charles shook his head. Tell me, Buck whispered. Charles sighed deeply with the enormity of the tragic thought. Beautiful wives everywhere... gorgeous girl-friends. Leggy models. And especially young and stunning actresses ... and singers路. A somber pause filled the air. ...will be gone. Forever. You dont mean!!! Buck sho