“Yes, I got the report from Captain Flintlock a few hours ago." Charles replied soberly.

"Kirrix!" he exclaimed, "I didn't think we'd be seeing them any time soon. Not after the Last purge" he said vehemently.

“Maybe the Terran Federation needs to think about another?" John suggested bleakly.

"We're a bit tied up with the Kintark at the moment." Charles smiled.

“Speaking of which, we could do with a bit of good news. Would you be up for doing a fluff piece on the fight for the media? I'd really appreciate it."

“Sure, I'd be happy to help out." John agreed accommodatingly. "I was mainly calling about Commander Rupert Grant though. Have you executed him for treason yet?"

“I'm afraid not John. I ordered his arrest immediately after you gave me the information, but he had already fled." Charles said in annoyance.

“I've had data teams analysing all his private communications out of Port Heracles. Did you know he was selling civilian flight paths and military patrol routes to the pirates?” he said, still shocked at the depths of the man's betrayal.

“No wonder the pirates were able to remain undetected for so long.” John said, shaking his head.

“You must have a hell of a team to have sniffed out that base." Charles said appreciatively.

“The best I've ever served with!" John said honestly.

Charles raised his eyebrows in amusement at that.

“Except for my time under your command. That goes without saying of course." John said, grinning.

Charles Laughed good naturedly.

"Oh before I forget, I'm hauling more Tyrenium." John said nonchalantly.

"Oh really?" Charles said, his eyes suddenly sharp. "How much this time?"

"20 tons." John said.

Charles' face spread into a big lop sided grin.

“Drop by Olympus as soon as you can John, I'll throw you a warm welcome!" he said eagerly.

"We'll be there in approximately four days." John said, smiling at his old friend. excellent!" Charles replied.

“I'll see you then.”

“I'LL put you through to the Federation media if you can stay on the call." he offered expectantly.

"Sure. Any spin you want on the story?" John inquired.

“Its friendly media John. You can say what you Like." Charles said, with a wave goodbye.

John waited for a short while until the image of an attractive young woman appeared on the view screen,