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Aside from combat, it would be the most effective career-builder in years.
    “No doubt,” Thomas agreed, “and I’m sure, sir, that the Research admiral is supervising it to the best of his ability.” Chandler shot him an appreciative smile. “But I’ve heard from the inside that things aren’t going well, and I think I might have a solution.”
    “I’d expect little else.” Chandler’s smile faded, but his bemused expression did not. “I always taught you to come, not with problems, but with solutions.”
    Thomas nodded. “The problem, sir, is the ship in question.” He lowered his voice conspiratorially. “The
Neil Armstrong
is missing a key element of her command team—the XO. They have a captain who’s been Research his whole career, a science officer who’s just recently been promoted from the ranks, and a cox’n close to retirement. They need a strong, capable XO to go in there, motivate the team, and get the research back on track.” He paused, then went in for the kill.
    “They have enough scientists on board already. In my opinion, this officer should be from Fleet, so he can instill some discipline. Ideally he’d have experience in their field of research, so he can effectively guide them despite his lack of scientific qualifications.”
    “And where, Thomas, would we find such an officer?” Chandler clasped his hands behind his back.
    “I respectfully submit my name, sir. I’m qualified, currently idle, and I have a personal interest in this. It was my technical submission to your staff back in Centauria that prompted the Dark Bomb mission—one which I personally commanded.”
    Chandler looked him over for a moment, his expression intensifying but still glinting with good humor.
    “You realize that the XO of an explorer-class Research ship usually holds the rank of commander?” he responded. “I doubt I could conjure up a promotion without causing some serious political ripples.”
    Thomas had anticipated this response. “Perhaps it could just be a temporary assignment, from
Rapier
. I’d keep my appointment to Lieutenant Commander, which would give me all the authority I need to take charge. When the research is moving well again, Astral HQ can decide whether to post me there permanently or assign a more qualified officer. Either way, we’ll have achieved our primary mission of getting the Dark Bomb research back on track.”
    Chandler glanced around again. “I’m impressed, Thomas, and you’re right. The program’s not off to a good start. The fat bastard who’s in charge of those eggheads has already started bragging about how Research is going to develop Terra’s newest weapon. He’s already calling it ‘the Peacemaker.’” He practically spat the word. “He’s trying to take control of the project, or at least take credit for it.”
    Thomas quickly searched his memory. The head of the Research Squadron was an Admiral Bush, and he was indeed somewhat overweight.
    “I’ve been able to secure the project director position for one of our people,” Chandler continued, “reporting directly to me, and I think I’ve been able to get at least one other member of your crew posted to
Armstrong
.”
    Katja?
Thomas’s heart tightened in his chest. “As XO, sir, I’d be able to ensure that Expeditionary Force 15 is fully recognized for our part in developing and deploying that weapon.”
    Chandler nodded. “I’ll get you out there. Don’t let those Research monkeys claim our discovery as their own. The Dark Bomb is our best defense against that Fleet Marshall Investigation.”
    Message received
, Thomas thought to himself. He was being used as a pawn for now, but Chandler had the power to make great things happen in the future. “Thank you, sir. I’m looking forward to it.”
    “Good.” Chandler nodded. “You’ll get your orders in the next day or two. Until then, go find that beautiful wife of yours.” With a hearty slap on the arm, he strode off.
    Thomas