Author's note: I took liberties with military policy. I doubt the exception that I created would work in the real world but it works in mine.
"Bridge to Captain Hudson." Lieutenant O'Neil's voice filled the com.
"On my way Lieutenant" replied Hudson, heading towards the bridge. He made it there in record time.
"What's going on Lieutenant?"
"Sir we have a UEO vessel requesting permission to dock- they say they're carrying new personnel."
"Damn." Hudson thought he'd have more time. "I'll meet them in the launch bay" he replied as he turned around and left the bridge for the second time in as many hours.
Weird thought Tim. First Doctor Krieg and now more mystery personnel? What is going on?
The captain reached the launch bay just as the hatch was opening. A man came through and saluted.
"Lieutenant Benjamin Krieg reporting for duty sir."
"At ease soldier." Ben dropped his salute and his signature grin spread across his face.
"Nice to see you again captain."
"I wish I could say the same. Now are you going to tell me what the hell is going on?"
"Well sir" began Ben "it seems the UEO thought your ship could use a bit more morale."
"I see." Hudson took a step closer. "And they decided to disregard the policy about relatives serving together."
"Ah no. Actually since Kati- I mean Doctor Krieg is adopted the policy doesn't actually apply – well it does, but there's the factor of my being divorced from her mother and a bunch of other loopholes that someone took the time to find." Or to make thought Ben devilishly. "I'm sure McGath would be happy to explain it to you. I myself am a bit confused about it." Confused… sure.
Hudson balked a bit at the mention of the secretary –general. He wasn't in the mood to fight with him right now. And it occurred to him that having the lieutenant on board might help with the loose cannon he had walking around. If Wolenczak could talk sense into Lieutenant Krieg on the iceberg, maybe Krieg could talk some sense into Wolenczak – and his daughter. The captain grinned.
"Welcome aboard lieutenant."