Andy Smillie’s short story The Kauyon, originally released as an audio drama, takes its name from one of the T’au Empire’s tactical philosophies, otherwise known as the Patient Hunter. A single T’au sniper, Kal’va, stands against an entire armoured column of Imperials, desperate to seek revenge for the deaths of his bonded teammates. In order to survive long enough to succeed, Kal’va must use his wits and the advanced technology of the T’au to manipulate his enemies to exactly where he wants them. As much as his rifle and the drones he commands, patience and planning are his most important weapons.
In just a few thousand words Smillie nails so much of what makes the T’au interesting – a heavy reliance on technology, for sure, but also a philosophy based on synergising technology with planning, preparation and teamwork. To that end we see elements of Kal’va’s relationship with his team woven into the main storyline, while the T’au’s preferred way of making war – at a distance – means there’s plenty of time to explore his thought processes as the story progresses. It’s a sharp, cleverly told story that shows the T’au at both micro and macro levels, and is ultimately just hugely enjoyable.
Check out The Kauyon on Amazon. If you’d prefer, the original audio drama is also available on Audible. Buying via these links will help support Track of Words!