Choice of the Gallant - Paradox Equation I by Sharon L Reddy

  ****

  Clete raised an eyebrow at Lane, but he just smiled. He hoped he was right. Dutch was getting very irritated with the Chair of the Planetary Assembly.

  "I think the fact we're here is reference enough! If we couldn't get through the blockade, we'd be space dust!"

  "Dutch, calm down. I don't think the chairman meant it quite that way. He doesn't know who we are. It's a little hard to trust strangers who drop in and say, 'Give us your secrets to carry,' in the middle of a war."

  "You're right, Lane. Being a fleet officer spoiled me. I got used to people knowing I was loyal, dependable, trustworthy, and well-trained as soon as they saw the uniform."

  "You were a Federation Fleet officer?"

  "We all were, Gen. Lane decided you needed help, then he decided we should help too. We're here. Now let us help."

  "I shall make arrangements for you to begin immediately. Please, accept our hospitality. Quarters will be assigned until we have a mission for you."

  "Thank you, Gen."

  As soon as they left the council hall, Lane started to laugh. Dutch grinned.

  "Nothing like telling an old lady you're a Boy Scout to convince her to let you carry her packages. Now, let's find where they keep the pretty ladies on this world."

  Clete burst into laughter too. Dutch thought it sounded wonderful and his grin widened. He left them leaning against a wall laughing. They'd catch up.