The Queen's Hammer: Pirates of the Badlands Series Book 5 by Sean Benjamin

Author:Sean Benjamin [Benjamin, Sean]
Language: eng
Format: azw3, epub
Published: 2017-08-15T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 28

Blue Squadron approached Lorelei at battle stations. Dietrich didn’t expect trouble, but it was best to take precautions. He stood next to Admiral Hochstadt in the back of the flag bridge.

“Ships in orbit?” he asked sensors.

“Thirty-three, sir,” came the immediate reply. “Five are identified as warships and none are pirate ships. The Commonwealth squadron is on the edge of sensors departing.”

“Very well.” Dietrich gave the rote reply. He spoke over the command net to his squadron. “We’ll do a standard orbit with divisions in trail.”

His squadron would divide into two identical parts with a battlecruiser heading each. The second division would fall in behind the first division while in orbit. This provided mutual support while allowing for room to maneuver. Dietrich concludes his orders with one last command. “All ships will go to modified general quarters for the duration of our time here.” He received acknowledgments from all ships and turned to Hochstadt. “The Commonwealth squadron being here may account for lack of pirate ships. Predator may be hiding nearby even if none of the others are around. They also could be off doing something.”

“Do you think Hawkins is not even here but just did this to distract us?” Hochstadt asked.

Dietrich shook his head. “Distracting one squadron hardly seems worth it, and our patrol area is being covered by other ships while we are here. I think he is down there regardless of where his ship is. No idea who is with him, but he’s there.” He paused in thought and then continued. “His ships are doing something. Perhaps routine raiding, but I suspect more than that. Predator would be here unless something not routine required her presence elsewhere.” He looked directly at Hochstadt. “I think it is very possible Hawkins will tell you himself. If he does, it means you can’t do anything about it.”

The Goth contingent arrived on time at Destiny’s. Eight officers, led by Admiral of the Fleet Cynthia Hochstadt walked into the main entrance. Destiny Flores stood in the middle of the lobby and nodded to the party. Admiral Hochstadt nodded in return and evaluated her hostess as she moved toward her.

Hochstadt had to admit the briefing on Destiny Flores did not seem to fit the woman, at least not the part of her being a threat. Destiny was of middle age but it would be difficult to put a number to that. She was small and slim and was dressed in practical attire of no particular style. Her hair was worn straight and parted in the middle to curve down each side of her face. She had on no jewelry but did wear old fashioned, wire-rimmed glasses and, at this particular moment, a warm smile. Destiny extended her hand and Admiral Hochstadt took it to complete the handshake.

“Welcome to Destiny’s, Admiral.”

“Thank you, Ms. Flores.”

“Please, call me Destiny.”

“Thank you, Destiny. I have heard many fine things about your establishment. It is a pleasure to finally see it in person.”

“Thank you, Admiral. I hope you enjoy the visit.

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