Before Tom could answer, there was a sharp warning from the captain.
"Eight o'clock, Corbett!"
Tom ripped open the envelope containing the sealed orders. "Congratulations," he read. "You are in command of the defenders. You have under your command, Squadrons A—B—C—D—E—F. Squadrons G and H are your enemies, and at this moment are on their way to attack Luna City. It is your job to protect it and destroy the enemy fleet. Spaceman's luck! Walters, Commander Space Academy, Senior Officer Solar Guard."
"Roger," yelled Tom, "we've been selected as flagship for the defenders! Get me a course to Luna City!"
"Good for us, spaceboy. I'll give you that course in a jiffy!"
" ... Capella to Polaris—am standing by for your orders...." Tony Richards' voice crackled over the teleceiver. One by one the twenty-three ships that made up the defender's fleet checked in for orders.
"Astro," shouted Tom, "stand by for maneuver—and be prepared to give me every ounce of thrust you can get!"
"Ready, willing and able, Tom," replied Astro. "Just be sure those other space jockeys can keep up with me, that's all!"
Tom turned to Captain Strong.
"What do you think of approaching—"