The Reunion

“Summers, welcome,” said the admiral. “To what do we owe the pleasure of this visit?”

Summers smiled in return. He hoped his own displeasure at being so close to his old academy adversary didn’t show as easily as Kingston’s did.

“I stepped over to pay my respects, Sir, and to wish you and your party a Happy New Year. I also see an acquaintance among your guests I wanted to pay my respects.”

Kingston raised an eyebrow, but before he could respond a voice from behind him said, in Japanese, “I am pleased to see you again Jon. You look well.”

Summers bowed slightly responding in Japanese, “As do you, Toshio. I wished to pay my respects and see if this visit to my country is more pleasant than the last time we met.”

Toshio laughed, “Much better. Thank you for asking. Your admiral doesn’t seem happy to see you.”

“We’ve had our differences.”

“I can understand why,” replied Toshio, smiling.

“We must still practice restraint, my friend. We may still have to serve together in the future.”

Toshio laughed, turning to Kingston. He spoke to the admiral in English. “My apologies, Admiral Kingston. Captain Summers and I met in Washington a few months back when he saved me from being attacked by some drunken soldiers. I found out then he speaks excellent Japanese.”

“Captain Summers seems to always be saving someone. Always the hero.”