Clay looked startled, but said only, “Aye, sir.”
I keyed for a general announcement. “This is the Captain,” I said. “Action station, all hands in loose acceleration harness. We’re going after Big Brother. You’re in action against the enemy now, and from this point on I’m remembering. You men have been having a big time letting off steam; that’s over now. All sections report.”
One by one the sections reported in, all but Med. and Admin. Well, I could spare them for the present. The pressure was building now, as we blasted around in a hairpin curve, our acceleration picking up fast.
I ordered Joyce to lock his radar on target, and switch over to autopilot control. Then I called Power Section.
“I’m taking over all power control from the bridge,” I said. “All personnel out of the power chamber and control chamber.”
The men were still under control, but that might not last long. I had to have the entire disposition of the ship’s power, control, and armament under my personal direction for a few hours at least.
Missile Section reported all missiles armed and locked on target. I acknowledged and ordered the section evacuated. Then I turned to Clay and Joyce. Both were plenty nervous now; they didn’t know what was brewing.
“Lieutenant Clay,” I said. “Report to your quarters; Joyce, you too. I want to congratulate both of you on a soldierly performance these last few hours.”
They left without protest. I was aware that they didn’t want to be too closely identified with the Captain when things broke loose.