Three Good Guys

The People Of The Wind, VII.

As Admiral Cajal sits in the middle of the superdreadnaught, Valenderay, his chief executive captain relays:

"'...a report of initial hostilities from Vanguard Squadron Three. No details.'" (p. 515)

As Daniel Holm waits at home on Avalon, an Ythrian voice announces:

"'Contact with Terrans, about 12 a.u. out, direction of the Spears. Firing commenced on both sides, but seemingly no losses yet.'" (ibid.)

Poul Anderson gives us a glimpse of Avalon before advancing his war narrative. Holm looks out his window:

beautiful day;

autumn breeze;

salt odours;

glittering bay;

Laura and sky;

garden scents;

brilliant gardens;

distant hills;

blue haze;

skimming wings.

Holm does not notice. We should.

Ferune of Mistwood receives reports on his superdreadnaught flagship: 

combats; 

pincers from north and south; 

reserves approaching in the ecliptic.

Three good guys: one for Terra; two for Avalon. We will advance to a stage where good guys do not have to be on opposite sides - or we will not survive.