Chapter 3 StarFleet Admiralty War Room, Earth.
The round table emitted a bluish light that illuminated the room and the faces gathered around. Above the table a holographic image of current convoys and patrols showed real-time activity of all vessels traveling in the Higgs Glebe, an energy field that exists everywhere in the universe.
"At ease, everyone," said High Admiral Aurora Stern.
The room became hushed, and Admiral Stern studied each face for a moment, matching the person with the information on each in her memory.
"Commander Promis, welcome to the mission," said the Admiral.
Captain Jose Promis, age 35 Earth years, moved his head in an acknowledgement. "Thank you. I look forward to serving under your command."
"I believe I have worked with everyone here, some of you for years. Everyone of you has earned my confidence. Commander Promis of the Prinz will lead your escort of the Star Line resupply convoy to Mu Arae, bringing up the number of your ships to thirteen. Does anyone have any questions about this mission?"
Captain Sorin Simme grinned, "Admiral, isn't 13 unlucky?"
"Commander Simme, I know you and your file and I know that you don't believe in any sort of those superstitions."
"Certainly, Admiral."
"So can it, please. Prepare your ships, Commanders. And one more thing . . . Fair winds and following seas."
As the group left the room, Admiral Stern studied the holographic image. Soon these ships would become more blips on the holograph. She felt uneasy, but she couldn't tell why she felt that way. Yes, it was true that the Prinz, the pride of the StarFleet, was on its maiden voyage. Perhaps it was just that same nervous feeling she felt before each one of her missions.
The door slid open. "Admiral Stern, an emergency message for you . . ."880Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2LKA8uJRqE
