It might be of interesting historical note to some that use of the expression “hookers” as a designation for prostitutes originated during the Old Earth American Civil War. At that time, General Hooker maintained an entourage of “soiled doves” who accompanied him on his campaigns. If anyone visiting his encampment happened to ask one of the soldiers who these “ladies” were, they were simply informed, “They’re Hooker’s,” and the phrase took root.
Realizing this, it should come as no surprise that when the Legionnaires under my employer’s command roamed the streets of the settlement, they were explained by the locals by the simple expression “They’re Phule’s”-a nickname that was to follow them for some time.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Journal #122
While I have noted that my employer is not immune to surprises, it should be mentioned that upon occasions, he has also been known to outsmart himself. Though normally he excels at dealing with the media, it is his particular love of coverage that more often than not leaves him vulnerable.
A marked air of nervousness hung over the Legionnaires as they waited in full company formation for the arrival of the shuttlecraft. Though they were officially “at ease,” meaning they could move one foot and talk with their neighbor, there was no conversation at all. Rather, they stood fidgeting anxiously in silence, each individual lost in his or her own thoughts.
“Are you sure this is such a good idea, Captain?”
The officers of the company were able to wander freely, though Phule forced himself to remain in front of the formation, trying to set a good example for the company by projecting calm rather than yielding to his natural desire to pace. He welcomed Lieutenant Rembrandt’s soft question, however, as it gave him something to focus his attention on.