The arrogant cadet was not
smiling any longer. He was staring straight ahead. Before him on the
desk, Tom could see a green slip. So he had failed too, thought Tom
grimly. It was poor solace for the misery he felt.
Dr. Dale stepped forward again.
"Will the cadets holding green slips return to their quarters. Those
with red slips will remain in their seats," she announced.
Tom found himself moving with difficulty. As he walked through the door,
Astro joined him. A look more eloquent than words passed between them
and they made their way silently up the slidestairs back to their
quarters.
Lying in his bunk, hands under his head, eyes staring into space, Tom
asked, "What happens now?"
Sprawled on his bunk, Astro didn't answer right away. He merely gulped
and swallowed hard.
"I--I don't know," he finally stammered. "I just don't know."
"What'll you do?"
"It's back to the hold of a Venusport freighter, I guess. I don't know."
Astro paused and looked at Tom. "What'll you do?"
"Go home," said Tom simply. "Go home and--and find a job."
"Ever think about the enlisted Solar Guard? Look at McKenny--"
"Yeah--but--"
"I know how you feel," sighed Astro. "Being in the enlisted section--is
like--well, being a passenger--almost."
The door was suddenly flung open.
"Haul off them bunks, you blasted Earthworms!"
McKenny stood in the doorway in his usual aggressive pose, and Tom and
Astro hit the floor together to stand at attention.
Pages:
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40