"We were never allowed to speak to newspapers." Major Maquios grumbled. The Russian was struggling with his thick orange gloves. He was the outsider here at the Cape, considering it was his failing satellite that they were going to rescue!

Outside, reporters clambered to catch a glimpse of the six man crew as they prepared for their historic mission. Columbia held them at bay but her ears were tuned to the conversations inside and she had very good hearing.

"Ah, it's nothing to worry about Major." She said cheerfully over the commlink. "I've done it a hundred times. All they're looking for is a quote."

"But what should I say?" Maquois asked as he finally managed to pull on his right glove.

"Well, if they ask you how you feel, say you're excited to be part of the team." She replied, shooting a glare at one overeager reporter who tried to slip past her. "If its about the mission, you have every confidence it's gonna be a success. Your wife's behind you a hundred and ten percent." She smirked as the reporter backed off. "You pray the Good Lord's looking after ya and you're proud to be an American."

"But, I am Russian." The Major protested.

Columbia knew that but in the light of the recently ended Cold War, she couldn't resist a little ribbing for old times' sake. "Da." She smirked.

Of course the commander had to ruin her fun. "Columbia, is that you?" Bull growled. "Quit harassing the major and keep those reporters back!"