“Lieutenant, exquisite… as usual.” Admiral Colnquist said, wiping his mouth and leaning back in his chair. “I tell you, if you weren’t leaving so soon, I might try to convince you to stay again.” The blue skinned, bifurcated face of the Bolian leaning against the wall opposite the Admiral broke into a large smile. “I appreciate that, sir. But duty calls -” “-and we must obey the siren song of our calling.” the Admiral finished. “Really? Using my own words against me, Tor?” and he laughed. Standing up, he walked around the table and shook the heavy-set Lieutenant’s hand. “Milan really does want your recipe for those exceptional puff pastries you did for Jacob’s graduation.” he said with a broad grin. Tor shook his head and said “If only there was time. My shuttle leaves in a half hour. Sorry, Admiral. You’ll have to tell your wife she’ll have to catch me the next time I’m on Earth.” and both men laughed. His face settling into a more somber expression, Colnquist said “You’ll be missed, Kendric. Good luck.” “Thank you, sir.” was all Tor responded, his emotions threatening to get the better of him before he left his friend and mentor.

A few days later, a shuttle approached the USS Memorial. The pilot activated the comms. =/\= Memorial, this is shuttle Andromedon. Request permission to dock and transfer personnel. Orders transmitting… now. =/\= A few moments passed before a voice responded. =/\= Andromedon, permission granted. Please tell Lieutenant Tor to check in with Captain Zoarhi upon arrival. Memorial out. =/\= The pilot began his approach and said over his shoulder “Sir, did you hear that?” Tor, standing right behind him, smiled. “I sure did. Wow… look. At. Her.” he said as the Memorial came fully into view. A moment of silence passed and then the pilot said “Touching down in two minutes.” and Kendric moved to his seat. As the shuttle passed through the environmental containment field, Tor opened up his bag and pulled out a small plastic container. As the shuttle settled on the deck, Kendric stood and walked up to the pilot. “Here. A small thanks for bringing me out.” The pilot looked down at the small reddish-brown sausages. “Venison and bison smoked sausages. Hope you like them.” The pilot grinned and said “Thanks, Lieutenant. I’m sure I will.” and the door to the shuttle opened and Tor stepped out onto the Memorial.

Tor, CE