reer once. Gossip was Ollery’s specialty. But if you ever wondered why he’s got only two stars at his age and why he’s commanding Fleet’s only nonoperational battle platform, there’s a damn good reason. I’ve seen Commander Sassinak’s files, and it’s true she doesn’t always fight an engagement by the book. But she’s come out clean from encounters that cost other commanders ships. The only regulations she bends are those that interfere with accomplishing the mission. She’s fer more a stickler for ship discipline than anyone on this ship was.”

Now Panis looked as if he’d been dipped in boiling water.

“Sorry, sir. But he’d said if I ever did end up serving with one of her officers, look out. That she had a following, but more loyal to her than to Fleet.”

“I don’t suppose he told you about the promotion party he gave himself? And nobody came? It’s useless to tell you, Panis. Youll have to decide for yourself. She’s popular, but she’s also smart and a good commander. As for regulations, I felt that my duties entitled me to bend a few on her ship and she straightened me out in short order.”