From: James O'Gilvie To: Gateway Reporting Facility Subj: Reporting for Employment "Kensington, this is Belgian, requesting permission to dock."
"Roger, Belgian. You are clear to dock at Moor 4. Welcome aboard."
The Shire maneuvered slowly but with precision onto the mooring point. Connections were made, and the green light over the airlock lit. Once the crewman was sure they had a good seal, he stepped back. A hover chair glided silently forward, and the intercom came to life. "Belgian, departing!"
A small lift of one corner of the mouth was the only display of emotion on the otherwise still face.
Captain O'Gilvie paused, looking up at the woman walking a pace behind the chair. "Get us restocked, Elizabet. I don't know how long this is going to take, but I expect they'll put us to work ASAP. Let's show them that we're worth our salaries.
Oh, shore leave for half the crew at a time as soon as stores onload is finished, but everyone leaves with a talkie."
The XO looked down at O'Gilvie and nodded. "I'll see to it, sir. You get us straight, and we'll be ready."
There was a quiet rumble of assent from the crew. It was a difference from the military that James was still getting used to. Setting the chair in motion, he headed down the passageway to find Gateway's offices.
