Tapping it didn’t do anything useful, but it made him feel better. Zorro, perched on his shoulder, seemed to agree. “Still nothing,” he said. “It can’t connect with the satellite or any nearby computer systems. Almost two days! We have no idea what’s happening with anyone else.” Aluna swam next to him, taking one powerful kick of her tail for every dozen of his ineffectual leg spasms. Daphine, Anadar, and Prince Eekikee flanked them, looking similarly sleek and effortless in the water. Just below them, the bones of a vast ancient city slumbered in the sand. They’d been swimming through its broken towers and ruined buildings for hours, using the ruins to hide their presence. Hoku tried to estimate how many Humans had lived in the city, but got lost in the numbers. No matter how many times he did the math, the answer seemed impossibly large. He caught Aluna stealing glances, her gaze lingering on the faint structures of the citywreck. A year ago, exploring this old place would have been their grandest adventure.
