O’Brine blinked. "Then why did they assign you? What’s your specialty?"

"Astrophysics."

"That might explain it. Second specialty?"

"Astrogation." He couldn’t resist adding, "That’s what scientists call

space navigation, Commander."

O’Brine started to retort, then apparently thought better of it. "I hope

you’ll be able to carry out your orders, Lieutenant," he said stiffly. "I

hope, but not much. I don’t think you can."