Chapter 10: Mission One

“Ah, Miss Volante,” a voice said from behind.

Phoenix stopped dead in her tracks and glanced over her shoulder. There she met eyes with Director Killian, his business like smile plastered on his face. But this smile was giving her the creeps for some reason.

“Director Killian,” Phoenix said, smiling. She turned half way to meet her superior, trying to be as polite as she could. She hadn’t thought of him the same way after the recent information that Leif gave her.

“I’m glad I found you,” Killian said, resting a hand on her shoulder and gently nudging her to walk down the hall with him. “I needed to speak with you.”

“Sir?” Phoenix raised an eyebrow as they walked down the hall. She knew they were headed for his office. “What’s this about?”

“I have a mission for you,” Killian said smiling. “I’m sure ever since you’ve become a Commander you’ve been dieing to go out into the field.”

“Yes, that’s true, Sir,” Phoenix said.

Killian smiled and was silent the rest of the way to his office.

Once the two arrived, Killian sat behind his desk as Phoenix stood. She refused to sit down until she knew what was going on, which was a good idea.

“Do you know Commander Chalet’s family well, Miss Volante?”

Phoenix felt a lump form in her throat. She was surprised by the question, but not fully concerned it meant anything. “I guess you can say I do…”

Killian smiled. “Then I chose the right person for this.”

“Sir?” Phoenix cocked an eyebrow.

Killian’s smile faded and he looked to his computer screen. “The other day,” he began, “our contact with Commander Chalet’s team was lost…” Phoenix’s eyes grew wide. “It seems he’s missing…”

Phoenix grinned, knowing what Killian was about to ask. “You want me to give the news to his family, correct?”

Killian glanced over his glasses up at her. “You don’t have to do it if you don’t want to, Miss Volante. It’s just a request. I would be happy to send anyone else.”

“No…” Phoenix muttered, looking to the ground. “I’ll do it… But I have a request first.”

Killian sat back in his chair and crossed his legs. “And that would be?”

Phoenix looked up, serious. She’s been serious many times, but this seemed a bit different. Her expression was a bit fierce, different from other Commander’s.

“I request Commander Wyrick to escort me.”