Snippet #963181

Cale was unfamiliar with The Great Gatsby, so he simply ignored Cristov's reference. As Cristov spoke, he only half-listened, glancing out of the corner of his eye at the digital clock hanging from the ceiling. Only ten more minutes to Orientation. Finally, his life as a scientist was about to begin, and he wasn't even fifteen! During his months of training, he had received college-level training without the social burden of college life. The Pioneer Program suited his lifestyle perfectly. Sure, his training was a little rushed, and he wouldn't get the same education that he would have back home, but he had a massive Library at his disposal and the rest of his life to study it. Cale couldn't wish for anything better.

"I've got a lot to work on. Do you think Dr. Zhao will take up our offer, though? I think we'd make a great team, Holmes."

He forced his attention back to Cristov. A team? When did they become partners in crime? Cristov had just happened to be there when Cale noticed America's absence; this was his moment of glory with Dr. Zhao, not theirs. Still...Cristov had played the role of the diplomat quite well, and his Recorder's mind complemented Cale's more analytical observations. And Cale had invited a sense of companionship by sitting with him. If he had to have a Watson, at least it was a good one.

"Hopefully he will. But in all honesty, what would he need us for? He's the Head Supervisor; he's already got eyes everywhere."

His thoughts drifted involuntarily to the fight the night before. At the time, Cale thought he had handled it quite well, but Dr. Zhao's admonishment left him with second thoughts. Had he ruined his reputation with the Head Supervisor on the first day?