“How much more time until D’s ready?”
Trent checked his wristwatch. “About forty minutes. I’m mostly done with the checkouts, so we’re just waiting on her to get fueled up. Then we can be on our way.”
Shawn nodded leisurely. “I want to give her one final inspection before we get underway,” he then reached up and placed a tired hand on Trent’s shoulder. “Stem to stern, if you catch my drift? Once were done with that, why don’t we head down to the officer’s bar and grab a drink?”
Trent looked to Shawn and smiled. “I’m going to need a drink or two before I get back into space with you at the controls.”
“Well, it so happens that we’ve got a few things to talk about, and I think you’re going to need at least two. I know I will.”
Trent, never one to turn down an offered drink, pulled his newly acquired cap off and swiped it in front of him, bowing in a grand gesture towards Shawn. “Lead the way, my good Captain. No matter where you go, there I’ll be.”
Shawn smiled, then reached out and put a firm hand on the mechanics shoulder. “You say that now, but I’m warning you: be very careful what you wish for.”
The two strode side by side back into the ship for one final inspection, the cargo ramp closing slowly behind them and blocking out every sound from the Rhea’s busy hangar.
About the Author
Born and raised in Southern California, Stephen A. Fender joined the Navy at the age of 18. During his last deployment in 1999, he decided to take up the keyboard and write his first story. Having spent 10 years of his professional life as a mechanic, he changed gears several years ago and now works as a software developer. During that time, he’s produced seven novels. Stephen lives in the Pacific Northwest with his wife, where he enjoys boating, hiking, and spending time with his wonderful family.
The Army of Light is his first published novel. The second installment of the Kestrel series is due out in early 2014.
The Army Of Light (Kestrel Saga) Page 26
