CassaStar (38 page)

Clenching his fists, Byron slowly pivoted. The men had surged forward and now crowded around the stage. Feeling incredibly humble, he took a deep breath and searched the crowd for a familiar face. Locating his squadron, Byron finally permitted a smile to cross his lips. Their antics far surpassed that of the other officers.

Those closest to the stairs gestured for him to descend. Feeling apprehensive, Byron rejoined the crowd. He was buffeted with congratulations and words of praise and thanks. Every man had to touch the newly decorated pilot, as if to verify he was real. It was almost ten minutes before Hannar reached him and pulled Byron to safety.

With good food and drink available, the men reveled in their celebrations. Someone brought Byron a plate of food, but he had little opportunity to consume it, as those nearby asked endless questions. Still in shock, he answered in as few words as possible. When entering the fleet, Byron had wanted to be the best pilot. He’d envisioned great glory and standing proud before his peers. Now that he held that honor, he felt only humility.

After a while, Byron needed a break from the attention. Edging toward a side door, he informed Ernx he’d return in a moment. Before anyone could stop him, Byron darted into the hallway and entered the nearest telepod. He could not vanish for long, but he desperately needed a few moments to clear his head. Contemplating his destination, Byron selected the last place his friends would consider.

Exiting the telepod, he was pleased to discover the corridor empty. Moving with haste, Byron slipped unnoticed into the hydroponics bay. Strolling down the familiar, winding path, he came upon the bench where he and Bassa had shared many moments. Taking a seat at one end of the bench, he leaned forward. The silence was peaceful and he felt the confusion in his mind recede.

Glancing at his chest, Byron reached for the medal. His fingers brushed the ribbon, the material silky to the touch. He held it up for inspection and determined the medal was indeed real. Byron considered the honor and wondered what he could possibly do to top this achievement. He had nothing left to prove as a fighter pilot.

Officer Byron?

Startled by the voice in his head, Byron released the medal and glanced down the path. The commander watched from a curve in the path and Byron rose to his feet at once. Kernen smiled as he approached.

“
At ease, son,” he instructed, gesturing for Byron to return to his seat. “May I join you for a moment?”

“
Yes, sir, of course!” Byron replied.

Leaning back, Kernen smiled at Byron and cocked one eyebrow. “You do realize that ceremony will be repeated again on Cassa with our high commander?”

Byron grimaced, “Yes, sir, I suspected as much,” he conceded, clasping his hands together. “And sir? Thank you. I still can’t believe it.”

“
The moment the news came through regarding the cease-fire, I contacted our high commander,” Kernen informed him. “He recommend the Five Star Medal before I even made the suggestion. You earned that honor, Byron.”

Glancing again at his medal, Byron considered his response with care. “I didn’t earn it by myself, sir.”

Raising his gaze, Byron met Kernen’s eyes and saw quiet understanding. He felt his chest tighten as he contemplated Bassa’s numerous sacrifices. His friend had worked so hard to get Byron to this point. Bassa deserved the medal even more.

“
You brought him peace, Byron.”

The commander’s gentle but affirming words tugged at his heart. Byron managed a weak smile.

Draping an arm across the back of the bench, Kernen cleared his throat. “What are your plans, Officer Byron? Will you remain on the Sorenthia or seek other opportunities? There’s not a commander in the fleet that would turn away a fighter pilot with your qualifications.”

“
Sir, I …” began Byron. Leaning further forward, he closed his eyes. “Sir, I’m going to request a reassignment to Exploration.”

“
Exploration?”

“
Yes, sir. Exploration was Bassa’s dream. The night before he died, I told him when the war ended, we’d pursue a career in Exploration instead. Now that the war’s over, I intend to keep my promise.”

“
Son,” the commander began in a patient voice, “don’t do it just because of an obligation.”

Byron leaned back and lifted his chin. “Sir, I’m not flying with anyone else. I can’t. I thought I wanted the glory and prestige that goes with being a fighter pilot, but it’s lost its appeal now. I’ve nothing left to prove, especially to myself.

“
I want to do this for Bassa, and more importantly, for me. I’m ready to live my own life now.”

Kernen continued to gaze at Byron, as if contemplating his words. A smile crept across his face and the commander inclined his head.

“
The choice is yours, Byron. And I have no doubt you will achieve great success in the endeavor.”

“
Thank you, sir.”

Rising to his feet, the commander straightened his jacket. Byron stood up as well, his body at attention.

“
I hope you will rejoin the celebration, Officer Byron,” said Kernen, eyeing the young man expectantly.

“
Yes, sir, I will return momentarily.”

Satisfied with his response, the commander departed. Alone once more, Byron closed his eyes and allowed the peaceful silence fill his mind. The stillness reflected the serenity in his heart. He’d made the right decision.

He turned to leave, but paused after taking a few steps. Byron’s gaze returned to the bench and he envisioned Bassa residing in the spot the commander had just vacated. His friend’s smiling face and thoughts of understanding and acceptance toward his troublesome pilot brought comfort and filled him with hope. He would hold on to that sensation as long as he lived, too.

“
You knew all along,” he whispered. “I will be all right, my brother.”

Taking a deep breath, Byron turned to rejoin the celebration.

About The Author

Alex J. Cavanaugh has a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and works in web design and graphics. He is experienced in technical editing and worked with an adult literacy program for several years. A fan of all things science fiction, his interests range from books and movies to music and games. Currently the author lives in the Carolinas with his wife.

http://alexjcavanaugh.blogspot.com