Chapter 2

As they neared the Dominator they noticed a couple of shuttles disappearing into the distance. He couldn’t be sure, but he almost certain that one was from the Babylon. He shook his head and thought no more of it. As they docked Charles looked around. Everything seemed in place. Hargreaves came over to him smiling broadly.

“Welcome back Sir. Did you have a good evening?”

“I think so. How about you? Did you have a productive evening?”

“Oh yes Sir, very productive.” he replied, his grin getting wider by the minute.

“Is there anything I should know or be worried about?”

“No Sir, nothing at all.”

“Very good. Carry on, then.”

“Yes Sir” Hargreaves replied, saluting smartly.

As they made their way towards the bridge, Lieutenant Berkley turned to him.

“Now I’m really worried. What the hell has he done now? At least they can’t pin it on you, after all you were with the Admiral all evening.”

“Yes, well at least there is that to it. I’m sure we’ll find out in due course. To tell the truth I’m more concerned what that snake Piers-Lamont was up to. He’s going to try to get back at us for taking the crew with us.”

“Again I’m sure we’ll discover that as well in due course.”

“That we will Bob, that we will.”

They arrived at the bridge to find a somewhat stunned, bemused but ecstatic young midshipman sitting in his command chair.

“Captain on the bridge” one of the ratings called out as they entered.

Mr Forbes leapt to his feet. “C-Captain.” he stuttered as he stood there looking somewhat bemused

“Report Mr Forbes. What has been going on in my absence?”

The man stuttered and stammered not really knowing what to say.

“They have been installing my new battle computer. A very good job they have made of it as well. It’s one of the best I have ever come across.” Lola’s voice floated down from on high. “It works very well with the Nav-Com. No conflicts. The sensor array is first class as well. I feel like a new woman.”

Charles looked around at this. The men and women on the bridge just shrugged their shoulders and shook their heads. They had no idea what was going on, either.

“That’s wonderful news. I’m glad you approve of how the upgrades are coming along.

“Oh yes, Commodore, more than pleased,” she purred

“Very well, as everything seems to be under control I’ll say goodnight. Carry on, Mr Forbes.”

They all saluted. Charles and the others left the bridge.

“Where do you think they acquired the new battle comp?” asked Bob

“I neither know, or to be perfectly honest do I care. All I know is we have two weeks left before we are due to depart. I want to take her out on a shake down cruise before we depart for anywhere. Right now I’m tired and am going to bed. Good night, Bob.”

“Good night, Sir. That sounds like a good idea. I think I’ll turn in myself.”

It was 07.00 station time that the summons to see the Admiral arrived. Commodore Holstock was to report for 09.00.

He entered the anti room where there were several other men waiting. He spoke to the young woman at the desk.

“Commodore Holstock to see the Admiral”

“I’ll let him know you are here, Sir.” she smiled. She buzzed through on the intercom. “Commodore Holstock to see you, Sir.”