D-Day

[Cassie Granger 0]

New Topeka Colony

Base OPS

Office of the Battalion Commander

D-Day

It was definitely a slow news day. Base OPS was pretty laid-back, most taking their time to grab a cup and wander down the hall. It was the best status barometer they had. Sprint meant bad news; wander meant fairly even, status quo, or nothing going on at all - which was rare. There didn’t seem to be an in-between, which made it pretty bad for anyone whose gears needed oil.

At precisely 0915, Warrant Officer Cassie Granger planted herself at attention in front of Battalion Commander Lt Colonel Beckert’s desk, ignoring the terrified stare of his aide, Lance Corporal Kidren.

“Morning, Gunner,” said Beckert as he turned to greet her, using the familiar term for Marine Warrant Officers. “Stand easy. It’s too early for that. Looks like you had a good climb the other day. You hike all the way out?”

The extra color she’d gotten from the hike must be showing. Taking an easy parade rest, Cassie could feel Kidren’s tension grow, even with her eyes-front. “Morning, Sir. Yes, sir. Nice day. Hiked the fifty first. Climbed the night. Arrived in time for sunrise.”

“Can’t beat it for view.” He glanced out the window with a sigh. “This time of year the eagles should be nesting. Should have taken your suggestion, Gunner. Should have done the climb with you. Never know what you’re goin’ to see up there. You okay?”

He turned to Kidren, who had begun to cough to cover his oh ###### look. His face paled even more and he looked like he might faint. “Yes, sir. Just....” He coughed again, this time more of a choke.

“Take a break, Corporal. I can take it from here.”

With a cursory thanks, he was gone like a shot.

Beckert eyed the door for a minute after it closed. “Damn, that kid’s been acting strange for a few days. Must be the season.”

Cassie reserved comment.

“Anyway, your secure creds.” He handed her a datacrystal after she pressed her thumb onto his PADD, confirming receipt. “Keep it close - but you know that. ‘Creek’s waiting for you. Report within the hour, and good hunting.”

“Thank you, sir. Hunting’s always good.”

After his grinning nod and firm handshake she came to attention, spun on her heel and left. In the corridor, she passed Kidren, hanging over the water fountain, wetting his forehead.

She said not a word.

 

[Crash Calestorm 0]

Seems the Lance Corporal has himself a problem. If the Lt. Colonel ever finds out about his daughter, I can only hope that Kidren's transferred to the 'Creek; some service time in the outer frontier sectors will school the boy right quick, I'm sure.

 

Nice log!