When the shuttle arrived at the underground hangar, Ves returned to the Barracuda. Upon entry, Gavin expressed surprise at his swift arrival.
"It's only been a moment. I thought you would have stayed with Master Olson longer."
Ves smiled ruefully. "The news will go out soon, but I guess you better learn it now. As of today, I am no longer Master Olson's apprentice. I've 'graduated' from her care. I'm no longer a member of the Clifford Society either. I basically have no formal ties to the Friday Coalition anymore."
That stunned his assistant. "Why? I thought you mech designers loved to maintain relations with each other!"
"Let me explain, Benny."
As Ves gave instructions for Captain Silvestra to lift off into orbit, he described the reasons that led to this outcome. His lack of closeness to Master Olson and Gloriana's shenanigans both compelled him to cut ties.
