In the hallway of the Expeditionary Forces Headquarters, Captain Simmons walked with Admiral Pierce’s chief of staff, Commander Kraus, to discuss the admiral’s schedule. Forces command was hectic in the last few days since the terrorist attack on Tauron that directly affected Sagittarians. They had lost an effective leader who had managed to keep the traditionally fractured Colony together since the last crisis.
Some fractions on Sagittaron was already taking advantage of the vacuum of power until a new leader was established. One of the posts on the far side of the planet operated by the CEF or Colonial Expeditionary Forces was attacked by rocket fire. Such things were routine several years ago, but not recently. Expeditionary Forces were on alert as a result. The military could only stand by while the diplomatic corps worked to settle things.
“It’s impossible for the Admiral to attend the memorial services on Tauron,” the commander told Jilleen.
“Then I should notify Gladius Cross, sir?” she asked. Gladius Cross, Tauron was not only the city which hosted the Colony’s military academy but Tauron’s fleet headquarters as well.
“Inform them that we will send a representative.”
Jilleen open the cover flap to her electronic tablet while they continued down the hall to meet a delegation from the capital that had come to meet with the admiral. “Sir may I ask who will represent the Admiral?” She was going to jot the person’s name down.
“You are,”
“Me?”
“Don’t sound so shock, Jill. The admiral thinks highly of you and knows you are most capable of diplomacy on behalf of this command. Besides the leadership of Tauron knows your family,” said the chief of staff with a change of tone in the last sentence hinting of mild disproval. Commander Kraus was a proud Caprican officer. “You know their traditions.”
She nodded without giving away her excitement for this opportunity to prove herself. It was true. She did know the Tauron ways. As a cadet from the military academy at Gladius Cross she embraced the culture and traditions as much as she could as an outsider from Aerilon. It was the only way she thought that she could achieve her goal to become the cadet commander in her final year. It was easier that her home colony was once a part of the formal Taurus Empire and traditionally allied.
“You and the admiral can count on me, sir.” They stopped before the double door open automatically.
“Good, brief the other aides and arrange for your transportation. Further orders will be sent to you when you arrive to Tauron. We want regular reports during your time over there.” The other officer paused for a moment. “Advise your brother of the situation here, we may need his support for grain rations.”
As always been the case during times of conflict on Sagittaron, local agriculture work was disrupted. The Colony had barely enough to supply itself in times of peace. Aerilon was not as wealthy as Caprica and Tauron but it had a good amount of influence as the Colonies’ bread basket in times of need.
Jill was dismissed to make her arrangements. She understood that her connections were useful to the Admiral and did not feel used because of it. It was the way of things and could only bring her awards in kind.
After a couple of hours of finalizing her transportation and packing for the trip she sent emails.
James,
Kick your room mate out, I’m staying with you on Avalon for a day or two. If you don't mind the company husband. I just received orders to Tauron for the memorial.
Jill
Blake,
Hey girl, I’m coming to visit your ship tomorrow. I hope all is well.