Murphy flipped a switch on the console and his voice was broadcast through the ship.

“This is the captain,” he announced. “Change of plans, we’re taking off now. If you’re not secured to something, you’d better get secured to something. Reggie, where the hell are you?”

“I’m here, sir.” The engineer slipped up behind the captain’s chair.

“Full vectored power, I need 120%.” Murphy kicked open the access panel below the dash and pointed. “Get to work.”

“120%? Sir, I can’t even get 80% ‘til the regulator circuit’s replaced!”

Murphy flushed. “Do I look like I am in the mood for your shit, Reggie? Get down there and make it work, improvise, stick a damn blaster in the intake if you have to, just get us the hell out of here!”

“Sir.” Reggie stooped meekly at the panel and swallowed hard.

Murphy addressed the crew again. “Nevin, stand by with medical relief. Violet, I need you in the turret. We’re not getting out of here without a fight.” He flipped the comm switch and reached, shaking, for the ignition.