Peace Army by Steven L. Hawk Read Free Book Online

air.
    “Colonel Mouse,” Grant bellowed, careful to use the pilot’s rank in front of the other men and women. “You need to walk it off. The air’s not down there on the ground. You’ll catch your breath quicker if you keep your head up and walk around.”
    “Yeah… you… you always say that,” Mouse replied between breaths. “But… I do just fine lying here. Not everyone… has those legs you have.”
    “Suit yourself. I’m just glad none of your pilots are here to see you. I don’t think they’d be too impressed with their commanding officer.”
    That got Mouse’s attention, as Grant knew it would. If there was one thing Mouse strove for, it was to set a good example for those around him and for those who reported to him. It was one of the traits that made him a good leader. His ability to push through pain and work tirelessly also made him a role model for his subordinates. The gold teeth, on the other hand… well, Grant knew that no one was perfect. And it wasn’t difficult to overlook Mouse’s minor bow to vanity when the results had proven to be so great. The smile was unique on Earth and Grant suspected it was a major factor in Mouse’s growing popularity.
    Since helping defeat the Minith forces, Mouse had become something of a celebrity—not only with the pilots he commanded, but with just about everyone who came into contact with him. A sense of awe and mystery surrounded the tall black man. He had an easy way with people and a good-willed sense of humor that Grant often lacked. When issues arose with the Leadership Council that required a more tactful, political response, Grant often relied on Mouse to represent the armed forces. The fact that he was the best pilot on the planet and an excellent commander of Earth’s newly formed air force contributed to his notoriety. All of these things combined to make him an excellent choice for Grant’s number two in command.
    “Aah!” Mouse rolled over and pushed himself up. His face squeezed with pain. Grant knew what the pilot was feeling.
    A good run plants a sharp throbbing pain in your legs, chest, and back. For those who run often, the throb can signify accomplishment, and often leaves the runner with a sense of pleasant contentment. For those who don’t run regularly, the insistent throb of a long run can be nothing more than a nerve-wrenching pain—one to be avoided at all costs. Grant knew Mouse fell into the latter category.
    The pilot stood, but remained slightly bent. He took slow, tender steps with his hands planted firmly on his hips.
    “Happy now?”
    “Only if you are, Colonel,” Grant teased his friend.
    The stragglers continued to cross the finish line and Grant welcomed each with a pat on the back, a nod, or an encouraging comment. He checked his watch and saw that this unit had improved their overall group time since the last timed run. He was pleased and made a mental note to formally commend the company leader in front of his unit and his peers the next time they assembled.
    “General Justice, sir!”
    Grant saw one of the civilian support staffers give a wave from across the field. The man, who was slightly overweight, jogged tiredly toward the general. His gray jumpsuit showed sweat stains spreading from under his arms. Sucking in ragged breaths as he gasped for air, the man looked about to collapse. Grant wondered briefly if he should require the support forces to begin some type of physical training as well.
    Mouse joined Grant as he moved to meet the man.
    “That’s what you looked like five minutes ago, Mouse,” Grant jibed smartly. He tapped his friend on the shoulder. “Except you were lying on the ground.”
    Mouse had no time to offer a reply. The look on the staffer’s face as they reached him indicated something serious was up.
    “Sir! We’ve…” The man panted, still trying to catch his breath. “We have… been looking for you…”
    “Yes, man, what is it?”
    “It’s the… the ship.”
    Grant