“No tugs, Number One?” the Captain inquired with a definite inflection to his voice. “You’re well aware that I shall receive a complaint upon our return?”Drake shook his head. “I think not, sir. Even the Port Authority will have to admit that Princess Carla was merely showing her best. She has a fine backside and we owe it to her to show it off, now and again.”

“Raylene bit her bottom lip, but she couldn’t break the connection, not that she wanted to. “Do you really have to keep addressing me as Miss Capri, even out here?” He nodded, but didn’t hesitate to add, “The only place I can call you by your first name is in the privacy of a cabin.” Raylene’s eyes widened considerably, as she considered what her heart and mind collided to reply. With a nervous swallow, her voice became little. “Then I think we should proceed to your cabin, First Officer John Drake.”

“There is just one problem, Captain,” the President said quietly. “I can’t order you to undertake such a covert project. It’s dangerous, could get you court-martialed and is probably illegal.” “But you could ask me as a favor, Mr. President,” Brock replied. FDR grinned again, his signature broad smile putting a wonderful sparkle in his eye. “Would you do this for me, as a personal favor, young man?” Brock nodded emphatically. “Yes, sir. It would be an honor.”

“The universe said, “You’re almost there, just a few more steps.” I agreed and took those steps. However, my definition of the distance was measured in feet, while the universe meant miles.”

“I've had the immense pleasure of knowing Thaddeus for over 4 years now. In that time I have experienced his incredible powers of observation, his wisdom, and his wonderful sense of humor. Yet he is quick to remind me that he is a dragon and therefore is prone to look at things differently. Oh, and his appetite for ...300+ Krispy Kreme donuts every morning can be a bit trying at times.”

“Did I go out of my way looking for trouble, you ask. Well, not exactly. Perhaps it was the inner voice that warned me that someday I would write it all down, so it better be entertaining.”

“I have quite a story to tell you,” Parke said with a dramatic flair. “Sit back with that ‘coke’ and listen to the tale I’m about to spin. It’s a grand one, full of action, suspense, intrigue, violence, and even some juicy stuff. Just what a good story should have, don’t ya’ think?”