‘You think our aircraft just carry spare capacity?’ he said. ‘Every ounce is a burden, affecting speed and range. You intend to tuck yourself into a corner? What happens when the craft sees combat? You will be nothing more than a smear on the inner hull, assuming your broken body doesn’t strike the actual pilot. It is out of the question.’

‘What about the Valkyrie?’

He glared at me. ‘What about it?’

‘I understand it has a significant transport capacity? From what I can see the squad embarking is under-strength. Perhaps there is room for one more?’

He stared at me. His expression shifted. Maybe it was respect? More likely suspicion.

‘And how do you know this?’ he asked.

‘I have eyes outside,’ I said, for Mizar was intent on the soon-to-be-departing aircraft. Ground crew were undertaking final weapons checks, whilst beside the vessel Flight Commander Gradeolous stood rigid, hands clasped behind his back. He threw a crisp salute, wielding his hand as deftly as a swordsman’s blade. His back was to the craft, and I could not see to whom he directed his salute. Possibly he was practising form, for he repeated the gesture with subtle inflections.

‘Do you have any idea where those soldiers are going?’ Prospherous asked. ‘What they will face? The probability they will return?’

‘No,’ I replied. ‘And I do not need to. I just wish to see those loyal servants of the Imperium in action. I am happy for you to review the footage, erase anything you feel compromises the war effort. All I desire is the opportunity to show the bravery and skill of your soldiers.’

‘You have no idea of the dangers involved.’

‘That is true, sir,’ I said, nodding. ‘But, if it is as awful as you suggest, I will likely be dissuaded from requesting anything further from you. And if I die you need no longer cater to my whims.’

‘Indeed?’ he said with a slight smile. ‘Because if Governor Zanwich finds out I was responsible for–’

‘I will sign an oath confirming I used his authority to take the assignment, and accept full responsibility for any consequences. Including, but not limited to, my untimely death.’

As I spoke, Governor Dolos leaned in.

‘We need to consider this,’ she said. ‘Mr Simlex’s work is vital, but I do not think Governor Zanwich would want to risk his life.’

Wing Commander Prospherous did not reply. His brow was furrowed, and he seemed to be weighing his options.

‘You will take full responsibility if anything untoward occurs?’

‘Yes, sir.’

‘And whatever footage you capture, I can review and censor as I deem fit?’

‘That’s right, sir.’

‘And if you die this all goes away?’

‘Yes, sir,’ I nodded. ‘Though I have faith in Flight Commander Gradeolous’ skills.’

‘Be that as it may, it is not a…’ He trailed off, the frown sinking deeper into his face. ‘Did you say Flight Commander Gradeolous?’ he asked.