The leisurely pace of refit became a hectic rush. Repairs and adjustments were finished with careful haste. Titles and chain of command were settled. "There's room for only one captain on a ship. Folks get mighty confused otherwise," Galea pointed out. "For the duration of the cruise you will be Ms. Brass." Rose made no comment, accustomed as she was to military traditions and practicalities, and the ship's master continued, "Wish I had an experienced XO—ah, executive officer—but Mister Fancy Pants will have to do. No offense."