Aikens half rose off the edge of the bunk, then sat down again. His face turned a mottled purphsh color.
“I’m sorry that it has to be this way,” Vorgens said, more gently, “but I can’t see any other way.”
“All right. Watchman,” Aikens said, after several moments’ silence, “I’ll resume command of the Mobile ForceI’ll pull your little carcass out of the fire … and when we’ve settled this business on Shinar, I’ll call for a court-martial so fast your head will swim.”
Vorgens nodded, “I’m sure a court of inquiry will be necessary to straighten out our differences. But, for the moment, let’s hope we can both rise above our personal feelings.”
“I’m a soldier, youngster; I know how to keep my feelings to myself when it’s for the good of the men. But don’t have any illusions. We’re poles apart, you and me, Now and always. Understand?”
“Perfectly.”
Vorgens walked back to the dreadnaught’s control center in silence. His face was immobile. He felt empty and drained of emotion.
It was a complete surprise to see Altai sitting at an ntended control desk. The trooper on watch said to Vorgens:
“She just showed up at one of the scoutcars on the perimeter and said she wanted to see you, sir. Wouldn’t talk to anyone else.”
The Watchman went to her. Altai’s face was outwardly calm, but Vorgens could sense the tenseness within her. Her dark eyes showed no trace of the tears she had been shedding.
“You wanted to see me?” he asked, sitting down next to her.
“I’ve left Merdon,” she said quietly. “Several squads of our fighters have decided to join you and fight against the Komani. They are waiting for your orders,”