Strong turned to his second-in-command. "Man all guns! Stand by to attack under plan S! We'll engage the enemy as soon as he's sighted!"
The young officer saluted and turned away quickly. But not before he saw the mist in Steve Strong's eyes.
Tom, Roger, and Astro watched the incredible scene taking place in front of them with unbelieving eyes. Seven men were standing at rigid attention on the control deck of the Avenger. Wallace, Russell, Attardi, Harris, Shelly, Martin, and Brooks. In front of them, standing equally rigid, Bull Coxine was addressing them in a low restrained voice.
"Raise your right hands and repeat after me."
The men raised their hands.
"I hereby pledge my life to Bull Coxine!"
"... I hereby pledge my life to Bull Coxine...." repeated the men in unison.
"To uphold his decisions, obey his orders, and fulfill his purpose of destroying the Solar Alliance and establishing a new governmental order!"
The seven men repeated the words slowly and hesitantly.