Although the sky was a cloudless and bright silver-green, the sun had not yet cleared the higher peaks of the barrier range to the east of the compound, and the courtyard remained shadowed. He had barely left the senior officers’ quarters before Captain Fhentyl approached. “Good morning, sir.” Fhentyl inclined his head. “Is there anything ... ?” “There is.” Dainyl smiled. “Fit one of the pteridons in first squad with a second saddle.” “Yes, sir.” Fhentyl’s eyes dropped to the gear bag Dainyl carried. “Would you like that stowed on that pteridon?” Dainyl couldn’t help grinning. “That would be helpful. Has anyone else figured it out?” “No, sir. Well... if they have, no one’s saying.” Fhentyl took the gear bag. “Good.” “Sir? Can you tell me ... ?” “Not yet. We still have an inspection to carry out. After the inspection, hold everyone in formation, and I’ll brief you and the squad leaders. Then we’ll lift off.” “Right then?” Dainyl nodded.
