“You sound like a Uni-Galacta lecture! Are you through marching arm in arm into the misty future?”
Orne took a deep breath. “Why’s a freshman like me being tossed into this dish?”
“You’d still be on the Delphinus master lists as an R&R field man. That’s important if you’re masquerading.”
“Am I the only one? I know I’m a recent convert, but—”
“You want out?”
“I didn’t say that. I just want to know why I’m—”
“Because the bigdomes fed a set of requirements into one of their iron monsters. Your card popped out. They were looking for somebody capable, dependable ... and ... expendable!”
“Hey!”
“That’s why I’m down here briefing you instead of sitting back on a flagship. I got you into the I-A. Now, you listen carefully: If you push the panic button on this one without cause, I will personally flay you alive. We both know the advantages of an alien contact. But if you get into a hot spot, and call for help, I’ll dive this cruiser into that city to get you out!”
Orne swallowed. “Thanks, Stet. I’m—”