French Carrier Vauban, 35nm SSE of Sattahip
"Nice of the Siamese to send us a welcoming party," Capitaine de vaisseau Jean Delahaye commented aloud.
"I believe the name they're using these days is 'Thai', sir," Vauban's intelligence officer commented politely, without a hint of reproach in his voice.
"Yes, yes, Jacques-Yves; but when you're as old as I am, it's hard to break the habit," Delahaye replied. He stepped to the carrier's bridge rail. "Since we managed to be fashionably late to our rendezvous, let's at least render honours smartly."
The leading French destroyer, Albatros, drew abreast of the lead Thai ship, one of the modernized Chomburi-class destroyers, dipping her ensign; the sailors manning the rails saluted, and Captaine Delahaye nodded. Then Vauban slowly overtook the Thai ship, and repeated the performance. The process was repeated for the Thai flagship, Chakri Naruebet. The Thai vessels responded in turn.
"Professional sort," Delahaye mused. "They really ought to have some newer ships, though. Those old crates don't do them much justice." He glanced back at the lieutenant. "I know, I know, Jacques-Yves; I'll watch my outspoken opinions when we have visitors aboard."
"Yes sir," the lieutenant replied.
"Wipe that little grin off your face!" Delahaye said, but his light tone removed the rebuke. "You've been with me too long - you know me too well."