Places were set for the new arrivals. Jebbson graciously accepted Darla’s invitation to sit at her side, and leftenant Ilanit sidled up on Jebbson’s other. The conversation soon turned to the work at hand. “So, major,” Ardon asked, “have you found bountiful pickings thus far, out in the wilderness?”
Jebbson nodded as he grappled with what appeared to be a piece of roasted beef, which was, in reality, reconstituted protein, fat, other nutrients and spices that had been molecularly altered to look like roasted beef. Before replying to Ardon’s question he commented, “Some things don’t change. No matter the army, the meat is tough, the bread is dry, and…” he picked up his knife, “these are dull.”
After receiving acknowledgment, he answered Ardon. “The resources of these outer colonies are truly abundant, too much so may I add. Indeed, my good major, it is for this very reason we had been dallying at our duty. As you may well know, what is not slated for removal must be destroyed. Our severe shortage of transports and convoy escorts crimps our ability to salvage more. It pains me deeply when I think of the great amount of priceless machinery and supplies I have ordered ruined.”
Jebbson cut another piece of his beef. As he munched, he remarked, “It does taste good.” He swallowed. “Time is fleeting and it is taking me far too long to make a thorough appraisal of matters. I’m being forced to alter our schedule a little. Leftenant Ilanit suggested we send the OjibSheannon and it escorts along with some transports north to the Tolkah Bay colonies. We will travel east toward the QuinStinre Basin, picking up the nearby colonies along the way. After turning north, we will reunite with the OjibSheannon and cut back through the center of the Trizentine, making contact with whatever remaining colonies that time permits.”
Ardon was surprised. Concerned, he asked, “Is it wise to make such a change of plan and also split our strength? I have heard that the Stasis have become increasingly bold, attacking escorted convoys, even raiding some of the larger towns in the outer colonies. There are also rumors that a powerful enemy fleet may be hiding just past the Frontier to our east, and some of the enemy’s ships have joined up with the Stasis raiding parties.”
Jebbson glanced at Darla and then back to Ardon. He picked up a crust of bread, smothered deep in buttery goo. As if talking to the bread, Jebbson replied, “Rumors are often fact hidden in doubt and uncertainty. What you say may well be true, but do not count our hand short or think us foolhardy.”
He paused a moment to make a closer examination of the bread. “The Shikkeron is an imperial brigantine, nearly of frigate class in firepower and defense. And it is not alone in this wilderness. In the vicinity are transport convoys protected by four cutters, two barks and a small host of the new Wolf Pack Class II Patrol Boats. It is true, our immediate defenses will be limited to the Shikkeron and its half dozen onboard fighters. Still, I doubt the Stasis have the stomach to take on a ship of this size.”
Jebbson took a chomp of the bread and, through his chewing, commented, “Besides, we have the ghosts of Christmas past haunting these waters. Their eyes are constantly searching our path and making the sea calm before us.”
Ilanit piped up. “What is a ‘ghosts of Christmas past’?”
Darla looked at Jebbson, giving him pause. Her eyes then swept the room before flashing him a hint of cold that no one else noticed.
Jebbson nonchalantly took another bite of his bread before answering. “It is a whisper of what was and yet is, but may never have been. It rides upon the back of wistfulness and gives hope where none exists.” He swallowed, lifted his head, smiled, and, slowly shaking it from side to side, exclaimed with relish, “Ahhhh!” then looked at Ilanit. “Home made bread… nothing like it.”
Ilanit asked again what the term meant. Jebbson replied, “You are a most inquisitive darling. Even your dreams are full of questions.” He cut another piece of meat and chewed it down. Then leaning close and lowering his voice, he cautioned her, “When one knows the night is close, the darkness presses them ever more.” He changed the subject to other matters.
Ardon was very confused about the whole discussion, but did understand enough to know there were other safeguards in place that were not common knowledge to the crew. Seeing his concern, Jebbson reassured him, “Captain Bedan and Colonel Adaya have been in council over this matter. Home fleet has also approved our decision.” Then he winked. “What’s wrong? With current plans, we’ll be in Exothepobole in eight days. Don’t you want to see your girl?”
When Ardon comprehended what Jebbson was telling them, his face lit up in a grin from ear to ear. Tashi! Oh how his heart had desired seeing her again! In fact, when he was informed of this assignment, his hope was to spend some time with the woman he was so fond of.
Jebbson reached across the table and patted Ardon’s arm. “Sustrepho’s colonies are spread across a vast landscape. I figured on making Exothepobole our home base while my team explores the other cites on the planet. If you can talk your colonel into getting some leave, you may have near a week to spend in your lady’s company.” Then he nodded toward Ardon. “The timing of our visit isn’t commonly known. Security and all that, you know.”
Ardon hurried with the remainder of his meal and then quietly excused himself. As he stood to leave, Darla touched his arm and nervously asked, “Major...” Her eyes pleaded, “you will have some time later?”
Ardon grasped her hand, smiling reassuringly. “I have a few duties that need attending to. I shall not be late…or forgetful.” He excused himself and offered parting salutations.