Introduction

[Fel]

"Excuse me, sir?"

"You read it correctly, lieutenant."

"Well, I..." Tiberius Fel paused. "Surely there's someone more qualified. Tirion from Omicron Squadron, perhaps."

"While he is certainly the more qualified pilot, his profile makes him rather conspicuous. Think about how it would look if he suddenly fell off the scanner." Rear Admiral Argus Junon spoke slowly, with a bemused smile on his face, as he leaned back in his chair.

Admiral Junon's office was relatively spartan, but had items of trimming here and there that indicated the high rank of its owner.

"You have a point, sir." Fel smiled. "But seriously, I am somewhat astounded that you have picked me for this assignment."

"You meet all the criteria, lieutenant. This is the sort of assignment for which we require someone who is pretty flexible and capable in all categories, rather than a superstar in any particular one."

"I appreciate the compliment, admiral."

Junon paused. "I can't think of any more dangerous assignment than this one. Going undercover with Imperial Intelligence to infiltrate a Rebellion task force."

Fel smiled. "It's the kind of mission that can make a career."

"I presume I don't get to choose my staff."

"Of course not. Imperial Intelligence would never allow that," Junon said, "but I'm sure you'll meet your staff in short order."

Fel looked over the list of officers he'd been assigned. "Ah, I get Sapan? Wonderful."

"The Nemesis will miss him, as I imagine most ships will miss the officers you've been assigned. Your full mission briefing is enclosed. Any further questions, lieutenant?"

"No, sir."

"Very good then. Lieutenant. Dismissed."

"Thank you, sir." Fel turned to exit the room.

"And, lieutenant..." Junon's words halted Fel's exit. "This will go either very well, or very, very badly. Make sure it is not the latter..."