Phule grinned. “You’d be surprised, Lieutenant. I didn’t say we were going to give her a super offer just something a bit fairer than what she’s already signed. If anything, it can be a real hoot negotiating a new contract with someone who’s already signed off on a bad deal, especially if they know that if they don’t agree to the new terms, the old deal stands. If you’d like, you can handle the first rounds on that discussion.”
“Thank you, sir!” The lieutenant beamed, and blew him a kiss, to boot.
“You know, Captain Jester,” Battleax said, “the more I hear about this, the more I find myself thinking about investing some of my own money in it, if there’s still openings for new backers. Perhaps we can discuss it over dinner-that and a few other things.”
“A few other things like what, Colonel?” Phule said warily.
Battleax hesitated, glanced at the lieutenants, then shrugged.
“I suppose there’s no harm in at least mentioning this in the current company.” She smiled. “After seeing your junior officers in action, I think it’s time we discussed their next promotion. If you agree with me, I think they’re just about ready for commands of their own.”
Startled by this unexpected turn in the conversation, the lieutenants exchanged glances.
“I … That really isn’t necessary, Colonel,” Rembrandt stammered. “I can’t speak for Lieutenant Armstrong, but I’m quite happy right where I am.”
“If given a choice, sir,” Armstrong said, “I’d prefer to continue my training under Captain Jester.”
“We’ll see,” the colonel said. “In the meantime …”