A Nest of Stars (The Coalition Book 12) by Matt Novotny

Author:Matt Novotny [Novotny, Matt]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Theogony Books
Published: 2021-11-02T06:00:00+00:00

* * *

Merry Dreamer, Benth Orbital

“Peterson! Looks like we have a break. If we are going to do this, we should do it now,” Colonel Derrox said.

“Mac?” Rath asked.

“Ready,” Mac said.

“N’ront? Jerry?”

“We’re good, too.”

There were quick hugs all around. The friends knew this might be the last time they were together. Pride teared up as she hugged Jerry.

“You watch your ass, Yard Ape. You still owe me a dance, and I expect to collect.”

“Doesn’t matter who’s pulling the strings; they always need the yards to run,” Jerry said. “We’ll come through okay. Keep the Dreamer running. No one can fly better than Merry, and if Rath ever figures out how to shoot straight, you’ll be in fine shape. Hey, Rath, you take care of Stitches there. It’s about time you had someone on board to patch you up!”

Gretchen gave Jerry a look. “You’re going to pay for that, Jerry.”

“Time to go,” N’ront said.

Rath shook his hand. “Keep your head down. Bull in a china shop is my gig.”

“Sure, on account of my blending right in.” The big Yalteen laughed. “I still know a few tricks. I’ll contact you on the priority channel when I get the chance. Don’t expect anything soon; it’s going to take some time to dig in and see what’s what,” N’ront said.

Addo came over as N’ront and Rath split. “Thank you, Captain. It’s been brief, but eventful. Good luck on the run to the gate.”

“To you too, Addo,” Rath said.

“Captain, about the Votha. When you get to Vothan, you’ll want to talk to Director Jerdo before making any decisions. Your commitment to take care of them is a serious one in Votha culture.”

“Right now, I’m just trying to get them home,” Rath said. “But I’ll ask.” Addo bowed to Rath and shook his beak, then moved to join the others.

They watched from the cargo door as the group headed off down the bay. Rath closed up, then punched the comm. “Stations, everyone. Pride, dial the grav compensation up to eleven. With our passengers, we can’t use the tanks. Sergeant, you can stay with the tribune and Stitches, but I’d rather have you in the tail pod for the extra set of eyes. Can you handle Tail-End Charlie?”

The sergeant looked at Rath. “With a name like Gunnar? I can handle it. What’s the setup?”

“It’s a fishbowl with two quads. You can also spin the missile pods if you have to. The only thing you need to worry about is strays. With any luck, we’re too small to pay attention to,” Rath said.

“Got it,” Gunnar said. He headed toward the rear of the ship.

“Bocolocus and I will remain in our compartment so we’re not a distraction, Keeper. Jake has been teaching me the tactical systems, but I’m not proficient yet. I need more practice,” Peeps said.

“I can take ECM and stealth if that helps,” Catherine said. “Cassie has run me through some simulations, and it’s mostly monitoring and engaging systems when you tell me to.”

“Pride?” Rath asked.

“She checked out, Rath.

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