A lone combitractor--a very new model--hoists a hydraulic breaker
and hammmers away at a steep 45 degree descending angle. It app-
ears to be digging itself into an inescapable pit, with the heat
and sulfur stench nearly unbearable in the area.
The tractor does not speak, but it listens and is affronted by an
interruption. It prints vulgar, questioning messages on its view
screen, taunting and threatening any who impede its progress.
Continually interrupted, it is prone to fits of rage, and is much
faster and nimbler than any stock tractor on the market.
It is near to its goal: the Plain of Fire. Beyond another 10 ft.
of stone, a 40 ft. drop to the smouldering expanse. When opened,
the sleeping machines recieve their awaited commands and begin
their approach.
