'Those who walk upon the rocks cannot understand
our love for her. For to them, she is only a thing of steel and glass
that carries us from place to place. But to us she is a gentle mother,
that keeps us safe and warm within her, protected from the darkness and
death that surrounds us.
57 We come joyously to her breasts to feed, and she fills us with her
goodness. When we are weary, we lie down by her beating heart to sleep,
knowing she will protect us. When danger threatens she reaches out with
fiery fingers to destroy that that would harm us.
58 When each of us leaves her we take a part of her with us and leave a
part of ourselves behind. And when she journeys to That Place where the
living cannot go, she will not go alone. For each station will be
filled by Those who loved her long ago, and They will boldly go out to
seek places yet unknown. May The Lord God bless and keep you all. '
Squadron Commander, out!"
59 Morn rose from his command chair and turned to look at North. For
the first time he noticed the bruises on his friend's face, and
scratches on one hand, and the realization fully struck him how close
to death his friend had come.
60 Doc Astra entered the command deck. "Sir," he announced, "casualty
report. There's two dying. There's nothing we can do for them. The rest
of the injuries are all minor, but I am recommending two month's shore
leave for all personnel that were with you!"
61 "I will forward that recommendation," agreed North. "Thank you,
Doctor."
62 "Now that my report is over," the Doctor commented, "I am invoking
medical privilege, sir, and ordering you to sick bay."
63 "Remember your place, Doctor," North snapped, "this is not your
vessel! You have no authority here."
64 "I give him what authority he needs," snapped