Expedition of Equality by Paul R. Strickler

Author:Paul R. Strickler
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-6624-5917-7
Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc
Published: 2022-01-06T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 14

Weapons Test

During the one-month stay aboard RO Space Station, Captain Jake found everyone aboard the research station to be very pleasant yet secretive. Even up to the day of the weapons test, Captain Jake didn’t know exactly what it was that they were testing. This was one of the topics of conversation that took place at the officers’ meeting while Equality traveled to the weapons test site.

Captain Jake asked Calvin, “Are all requested security measures in place?”

Calvin answered, “Yes, sir. There will be a blackout of all communication devices aboard Equality during the weapons test. The only comm lines open will be between us on the bridge, Captain Marshall on Eagle Two, Dr. Stevens in his observation ship, and then Jesus on Serenity.”

Frank added, “Don’t forget about all the jet arms patrolling. Wouldn’t do much good for them to spot trouble and not be able to warn us about it.”

Calvin said, “Yes, them too.”

Frank looked at Captain Jake and said, “As head of security, I should be a part of this link, and security personnel should be aboard Serenity for the test firing.”

Captain Jake replied, “I agree with you, Frank. Unfortunately, it’s not up to me. I wish I knew what all the secrecy was about.”

Stacy stated, “It’s your ship, Jake. Make Dr. Stevens tell you.”

Davinie explained, “We tried asking Dr. Stevens. Once he realized it wasn’t a joke, he showed us his NDA [non-disclosure agreement]. It’s the strictest document I have ever read. Dr. Stevens literally can’t talk to anyone about the project except with the other scientists on the project. Even then, they are forced to talk in code. Anyone caught breaking the rules before the weapons test successful forfeits millions in FP bonuses.”

Calvin said, “So if the weapons test is successful, we get to know what it is. If it fails, do we have to stick around and wait for another test?”

Harry said, “They are more than confident that the test will go off without a hitch. Scientists back at RO are packing their things as we speak.”

Frank said, “I will at least be the guard Dr. Stevens requested be placed outside Equality’s bridge, should anything happen.”

Captain Jake asked, “Thirteen, any ideas on what they are testing?”

Thirteen, while typing on his W2, replied, “I cannot say.”

“Thirteen’s as useless as ever” came Rex’s voice from behind Jake, startling him.

Frank angrily said, “Rex! How many times do I have to tell you that you can’t be here during officers’ meetings?”

Stacy said, “Sorry, Rex, but you really shouldn’t be in here this time. Where’s Timmy?”

Rex answered, “He’s locked himself in his room. Says he has to help Michael prep for some magic trick.”

Davinie said, “Speaking of Michael, adoption papers came in for that man of yours, Stacy. Once this mission is over, he can sign the papers, and Timmy will legally be his son.”

Dr. Helix stated, “That’s wonderful. Just watching those two together, you’d never know they just met a month ago.”

Frank scoffed. “Great idea! Let’s train the greatest terrorist in history how to deceive people.

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