"Can I help you?" Charles looked at the self-proclaimed border guard before him—Norden Wright.
The sailor before him looked to be only eighteen or nineteen, his bulging muscles stretching the uniform taut.
"I have three years of experience in naval combat! I'm strong and fit, and I am applying to join the Governor's Exploration Ship!" Norden's voice was so loud that all the dockworkers turned to look.
This sudden development caught Charles by surprise.
Before he could speak, the grim-faced James beside him spoke first. "Soldier! What is your assignment today? Leaving your post without permission is dereliction of duty."
"Director! Today is my day off, so I am not derelict in my duty! And even if I were, I'm not one of your police officers, so you have no right to interfere! Governor! Please let me join the Exploration Ship!" At his final plea, a blazing light burned in Norden Wright's eyes.
