Chapter 100: Chapter 100

The captain stood at his usual position in his stateroom, looking out through the porthole, when a knock sounded at his door.

"Enter," he commanded, turning around to face the marine lieutenant as he walked in.

Though he had only been away for a few days, Marine Lieutenant Valerij Shvernik, or Robert Mills, looked visibly exhausted, his face gaunt as he approached the captain.

"You have some explaining to do, Lieutenant," stated Butackov without pleasantries. "Now what in God's name happened?" he demanded, raising his voice.

Valerij explained in detail all that had transpired since their landing in Owhiro Bay, including the attempted rescue of their prisoner less than an hour and a half ago.

"Chert, chert, chert!" cursed the captain as he rose from his chair and walked back to the porthole.

Valerij remained quiet, waiting for the questions that were sure to follow.

"How badly injured is your man?" snapped Butackov.