“All right,” he said, raising his eyes to look at them directly. “We’ll tentatively figure you both for undercover volunteers. I’m going to want to see a demonstration of this hair and makeup thing, though. Shall we say, tomorrow afternoon?”
“No problem, sir … and thank you, sir.”
The two women rose and saluted, turning toward the door only after their salute was returned.
“Just one more thing … Super Gnat?”
The little Legionnaire paused at the doorway at the commander’s words.
“Sir?”
“Have you discussed this with Tusk-anini? I don’t mean to meddle, but he’s very devoted to you.”
At the mention of her partner, the Gnat’s usual easy self-confidence wavered.
“I … I know, sir … And no, I haven’t. I wanted to see if you figured I was acceptable first … I’ll go talk to him now. I think he’ll understand. He may be devoted to me, but he practically worships you. You were the one who called for volunteers, and I’d be willing to bet he’d put his hand into a fire up to his elbow if you asked him to. He might not like my volunteering, but it’ll be mostly because he can’t volunteer himself. Give him some time and he’ll get over it … but even if he doesn’t, he won’t let it interfere with his performance.”
Rather than being reassured, Phule again felt the pangs of discomfort at this testimonial.
“All right, Gnat. I’ll leave it to you. Just let me know if-“
“Say, Captain … Excuse me, Gnat.”
Brandy had just poked her head in the door, interrupting the conversation.
“What is it, Top?”
“I was thinking about what you were saying-about being thin on cadre for normal duty. Anyway, it occurred to me that you might want to give Moustache a try as acting sergeant.”