Albrekt grinned.
"Themis to flagship," called the loudspeaker, when silence greeted the query. "Shall we follow?"
"Flagship to Themis and all vessels. If you're that flush with fuel, how about passing some around? No pursuit authorized. All vessels take readings on By Jove!'s new orbit as long as it's in range. We'll alert the patrol to investigate when we're in radio range."
The ship's intercom buzzed.
"Albrekt!" It was the voice of Carrel, the captain.
"Yes?"
"We'll get to the reason for this damn fool stunt later. Right now, do you plan any further acceleration?"
"Later. I'll warn you in time to strap down."
"I should hope so. Those G's nearly killed Qoqol. This ship wasn't built for that sort of acceleration, you idiot. Half the seams are sprung and leaking air."
"Repair them, then," snapped Albrekt. "You'll have time."