The trip to the Red Rose was quiet. The Dark Lord sat eyes closed in seemly silent contemplation while the Star Commander considered his extensive new duties. The trip seemed endless but in too short a time, they arrived.

An honour guard was drawn up waiting for them when they arrived was no surprise. Present were almost all the command crew of the armoured planetoid, however the news media was being kept at a discrete distance.

Whatever the Dark Lord thought, he kept to himself and the Star Commander was equally impassive. Both knew, of course the need for public display and were courteous to the assembled troops. The Dark Lord making Himself instantly popular by stating that due to the extra work that they were being put through because of Him, He was asking their commanders to give them the rest of the day period off if possible!

Retiring to the Star Commanders quarters with the command crew and other senior officers in attendance, the Dark Lord turned to Vis Vistricer.

“Perhaps Star Commander, now would be the best time to nominate your successor here?”

“I have given that some thought, sire. Admiral Wist is my choice, subject to Legion High Command approval of course.”

“You are Legion High Command.” Came the smiling reminder.

“Yes sire, I will have to remember that!”

“However bureaucracy must be satisfied, even I have to bow to that!” Turning to Admiral Wist he said, “Your appointment will be confirmed.” Then turning back to Vis Vistricer, “Your replacement as second in command to Grand Admiral Mont De Templer, will also have to be decided, so we must take care of that and you will have this and many other items to discuss with him, this we must do now.”

The assembled staff grew intensely curious now over what was to happen. Stories had been flowing around the ship of that powers of the Dark Lord. Stories that grew and changed by each passing period.

“Come, let us go.”

Vis Vistricer thought back to a similar experience he had had with the Circle of Ladies so his face held a smile as he followed the Dark Lord to the door. The Staff swivelled to watch them.

“Let us step through together.” The door slid open and the two stepped through and the door closed. Uncertain as to what to do next for a brief fraction, the staff stood and looked at each other. Finally Captain Liard stepped forward and opened the door. The staff outside stood up. He looked around, thought of asking, decided that it was better not to, stepped back and the door slid shut. He looked at Admiral Wist and the rest of the assembled officers and said. “Sirs, I will set a course for the invasion fleet. We’ll be ready to depart in one period. Excuse me.” He turned and left. Those left behind stood motionless for a fraction, then shook themselves and with a murmur of congratulations to Admiral Wist all left to their duties.

*********

Vos Nixda, Captain of the armoured planetoid White Lady jumped out of his chair along with most of the bridge staff as Star Commander Vis Vistricer and the Dark Lord stepped onto his bridge. He had just been given the message that the Red Rose had sent half a period ago.

“Sir … sir, I just …. message from Captain Liard.” He ground to a halt. Seldom was Vos Nixda caught without words, but this was extraordinary.

Stepping forward, the Star Commander took over. “You thought that I was on Trilla, you therefore are forgiven.” His voice changed. “Attention all, stand to honours!” came in the firm voice of command. He turned to where the Dark Lord stood. “Salute.” The Dark Lord stepped forward. His aura of command, power and authority sweeping the deck ahead of Him.

“Be at ease, I would not want any of you to fail at your post, please return to your duties.” Came gently but with emphasis. “Captain Vos Nixda, please announce the two of us to the Grand Admiral.”

The Captain managed to shut his mouth. Turning to his desk, he engaged the intercom. “The admiral’s stateroom at once, Captain Vos Nixda.”

“Captain, there is a problem?” The admiral’s voice came after an almost unbearable lag.

“Sir we have visitors.” He paused

“Yes?”

A deep breath, “It is the Dark Lord and the Star Commander, sir.”

There was silence at the other end. “I will be right there.” Followed.

It took just a hundredth of a period for the Grand Admiral to arrive, breaking all records. Catching his breath, he stood for a moment at attention. “I bid you welcome Sire. And congratulations to you Star Commander.”

Amused, Vis Vistricer noted with amusement that his friend had forgotten his uniform cap in the rush. Overlooking this was the only option. “Thank you Admiral.” The Dark Lord had not replied but had given a nod of acknowledgement. After a moment He spoke.

“You both have much to talk about and I have much to do as well. Therefore I will not retain either of you any longer. If you need me Star Commander, you will know how. It comes with the rank that you now hold.”

The two officers looked at the Dark Lord. “Yes sire.” Came from both of them.

“As for me, I am for Tihad, they will not be expecting me there so it should be interesting.” There was amusement in the Dark Lords voice although His face remained expressionless.

“Indeed sire, I am your servant. I will also head there as soon as I am finished here.” Vis Vistricer spoke.

“And I will await your arrival with interest.” And the Dark Lord turned, walked off the bridge and vanished from the ship.

Grand Admiral Mont De Templer looked at the newly minted Star Commander. Star Commander Vis Vistricer looked back at him. “Let’s go to your office.” He paused and laughed, “And do I have a story to tell you!” He sobered, “Including about Professor Denner Venkriller.

The Grand Admiral nodded somberly.