"I understand, Colonel Hanno. By the way, one other matter, concerning the Sandbox. I cannot accept Bura's assurance that his gun crews are on 'stand down'." "What do you mean?" "I mean, Colonel Hanno, that I insist on an inspection of the Sandbox by members of my military staff so that I am certain the Sandbox's guns are not a threat to the safety of my fleet. I cannot continue to dissipate my capabilities by the need to keep the Sandbox under special surveillance throughout this operation. The Sandbox guns must be rendered inoperative and, frankly, I don't trust Bura to perform that service for me." "Lieutenant Bura," said Colonel Hanno, "I assume that you and other ships' Commanders have been listening in on this delightful exchange." "I have." "What do you say?" "You're the Zone Commander." "For the safety of your ship and the rest of us, I recommend you comply with their demand." "Yes, sir." "Admiral Drummer?" "Very good. Have the Sandbox stand by to receive boarders. This completes our discussion, Colonel Hanno. I'll get back to you if the situation calls for it." Chapter EIGHTEEN Brad studied the Sandbox on the utility's view screen. "I think you'd better have a look," he said to Kumiko as he twisted aside on the cramped flight deck. She peered over his shoulder. "Got a problem?" Scarf sneered, his bulk cramped the remaining space behind the flitter's pilot seat. He hunched forward trying to see around Kumiko. Brad ignored the question. He waited for Kumiko's assessment of the Sandbox, dead ahead. Drummer had given him the job. "I want this done," he told Brad, "in a way that will demonstrate to the UIPS that we're serious, and can back our words with actions. We've got to replace their image of us as misfits. They've got to see us as an organized military force that can defend its vital interests and, if necessary, impose its will." "What do you have in mind?" "I want to use Kumiko's expertise as a weapons officer familiar with Inner Region ordnance. I want both of you to board the Sandbox and check all installed armament that can be directed against our fleet. Avoid a scrap, but if you find the guns have not been deactivated, do it for them." He pointed at Brad to give emphasis to his words. "I don't want their weapons slipping back into operational status as soon as you leave their ship. Whatever it is you do, fix their armament controls so that it'll take them at least fifteen hours to get them back on line. We'll need that much time to finish our job here and return to base." Scarf joined them, listening. "I don't like it." His words were angry; his features petulant. Drummer looked at Scarf with open scorn. "Your likes and dislikes are the least of my concerns," he snorted and turned back to Brad. Scarf cut back in.