“Aye, sir,” responded the Irish Commander, not even bothering to move from his own seat to Blackbird’s.  At one time, Burly would trip over his own feet in a rush to sit in the center seat.  Now, however, he didn’t even bother.  Yet another sign that USNF morale was at an all-time depression.

Reaching his quarters, Captain Blackbird flipped up his miniscule info center and submitted his security code.  Almost immediately the face of Captain Brungess appeared.

“Jim!  Jim Brungess!  What’s up, old man?”

Jim Brungess smiled back at the Captain.  “Captain Blackbird. Nice to see you in good health.”

“I could be better.  Something wrong?”  Obviously, he thought, or else he wouldn’t be sending a secure transmission.

“Nothing at all, Benson,” Brungess said.  “Just a request.  I was wondering if you’d like to accompany me on the shakedown cruise of the Stealthlon.

“That is an unusual request, Captain,” Blackbird responded, leaning back in his chair.  “May I ask why?”

“I have a few matters to discuss with you,” Brungess said, steepling his fingers.

“Matters?” asked Blackbird.  “What kind of matters?”

“Attend the shakedown and find out.”  Brungess quickly glanced off screen.  “I’m sure you’re well aware of the time and place.  As of now, I have stuff to attend to.  Good day, Captain.”
To Chapter Six