World of Good - Chapter 12

Chapter 12

“...we lost the ship,”

“We didn’t!” shouted General Keagan, as he pounded his fist on the table. “The new experimental ship is gone?”

“Yes sir, it’s true. We lost all transmission from the Wayfarer1 at 1400," replied Colonel Hastings.

The colonel smiled weakly at the other staff members. “That doesn’t mean we lost the ship, it just may mean that communication has been interrupted.”

The general’s eyes glowed red. “If we lost another vessel on this deep space project, this whole project is as good as dead…and we’ll end up using the drones anyway, like I suggested a million times before.”

“General, come now, let’s be patient. It’s only been a few hours, since we lost contact. We have plenty of time to evaluate the next step,” the colonel said, as he light up his cigar.

“I know it has only been a few days since they left, but the Solar Wide News reporters are driving me nuts!” said the General, waving his arms in frustration. “And how did I get strapped with personal relations anyway?”

General Tobias wasn’t about to relieve him of his burden. But she had her own ideas. “Ahem,” she said, clearing her throat.

“Yes, General,” the colonel said, turning to the holographic view screen.

“I know I’m miles away on a barren moon, but I’m not far enough away to realize an opportunity when I see one.”

“Ma’am?” questioned the colonel.

“Listen, General, the colonel is right to be patient. We can turn this event into a positive. Remember that we retrieved data from the Wayfarer1 when it was propelled into light speed. Many experts have disputed its possibility in the first place. This is quite an achievement, and I believe if we can give the populous some information that would take their mind off of disasters, we could concentrate on investigating our second missing ship.” General Tobias tapped her fingertips together, waiting patiently for a reply.

General Keagan pushed his chair as he stood to speak. “Tobias, you should have been the P.R. Rep. instead of me,” he said pointing to the imager.

“Thank you General, but I have my own research right here to keep me busy.”

“Isn’t your son in stable condition?” he asked cautiously.

“Yes General, he is. What I’m referring to is the spatial discharge. We have some remarkable findings that may shed some more light on what happened and why. But we need more time to analyze it.”

“Do you really have something?” questioned the colonel.

“Yes, Colonel. There seems to have been an unexpected rip in space that appeared unpredictably; a wormhole, a small erratic black hole, or some other spatial anomaly. Whatever it is, it’s unpredictable and dangerous. However, I believe this issue on light speed has much more appeal and would relieve some of the stress off of this risky deep space program.”

The colonel pointed his cigar at her. “You have a good point ma’am. The light speed impasse has been plaguing the scientific community for too long. Releasing confidential information on this issue could pop the boil that financial contributors experience. It would also give researchers time to develop a theory for the Discharge. That will divert their attention and provide us a breather until we have more available data to report.”

After a pregnant pause, General Keagan conceded. “Okay! if you all want me to spread the good news about light speed, I’ll do it. But once you get a fix on the nature of the Discharge, you better back me up, Tobias.”

“Fine, General. You’ll be the first to know. And please relax...I can see your stress from here.”

The General slumped back down, and muttered to himself, as the Colonel stood to address the group. “Gentlemen and ma’am, unless an emergency meeting is called, we will resume the meeting at 1400, Friday.”

And with that, the meeting was adjourned, and the members went their way, trying to keep themselves in control of a disturbance in space they knew virtually nothing about, and two missing ships they knew even less.

***

The Wayfarer1’s velocity functioned well…too well. The calculations the computer had made were based on the curved space time continuum, but with the gravimetric system in place, curved space became a straight line and consequently, it overshot the estimated coordinates. As a result, it was drifting somewhere on the edge on opposite quadrant, in the Milky Way, near a long forgotten binary star. As the computer was diagnosing the position of the ship and providing the new coordinates for a return course. Major Larson was analyzing the effects of the light speed on him and his crew. So far no adverse affects were noted. Ensign Kourgi rotated the forward scoop in preparation for additional replenishment of hydrogen for fuel, while the Sergeant was inspecting the resulting effects on the structural and mechanical components. All went well. The crewmembers felt a little dizzy, but they made adjustments on the shielding of radiation and gravitational effects of passing intergalactic bodies. The Photonic Steradian collectors, laced throughout the vessels refractive metallic skin, were absorbing the solar power precisely as tests done in the Sun’s solar system.

The major did a double take on the information the computer was providing. “Computer, there must be a mistake. According to these coordinates we are approximately 35,000 light years from Earth, near MU Sagitarii in the Canis Major constellation. Could you re-examine the data?”

“You must have seen the coordinates when we jumped to light speed?” asked the Ensign.

“After we accelerated to light speed, we moved at such a rapid pace, I wanted to wait until we stopped to confirm the results.”

“Actually that is not correct,” said the computer’s baritone voice.

The major nodded. “I thought so. So what is the correct distance from Earth?”

“Based on astrometric placement, Wayfarer1 has traveled 32,616 light years from Earth, rounded to the nearest light year,” added the computer.

“I was thinking in terms of millions of miles. Is this a joke?”

“No, Major.”

“This can’t be,” the major said, checking the data again. He turned to the other crewmembers. “I don’t know whether to cheer and celebrate or stay in shock. I think we may—have—done it!! The major checked the data once more. “Do you know what this means?”

The others were stunned as well, but when the truth sunk in, they all grabbed one another in celebration.

“We’ve made history!” shouted Ensign Kourgi.

“My country will honor us,” said Sergeant Gandhi.

“Forget your country, the whole UCE will pay homage,” said Kourgi, slapping the sergeant on the back.

They hopped around the vessel, like kids inheriting a candy store. Something inside the major’s stomach struck intensely. The major realized that although they traveled an unbelievable distance in the galaxy, in such a short amount of time, they might have done it by accident. Otherwise they wouldn't have had the navigational error. It wasn’t a controlled flight, but more like a wild horse running through the plains, with no rider.

The major turned back to the computer to test his hypothesis. “Computer, take into consideration the last point of known location of the Sojourner5, and the assumed path that we were to follow based on all known data from the Discharge. Are we on that same course?”

“No,” said the computer without explanation.

The ensign and the sergeant stopped their celebration instantly and wobbled where they stood.

The major spoke slowly. “How much are we off, computer?”

“The Wayfarer1 is 15,000 light years off of its intended course.” All three looked like they just lost their best friend. They viewed the intended holographic course of the ship in galaxy relative to the actual one.

“You mean we don’t know how we got here? We’re dead,” said the sergeant, throwing his hands up in disgust.

“Couldn’t we just backtrack the way we came using the same coordinates?” questioned the Ensign to the computer.

“Highly unlikely, Ensign. Ability to get a fixed position in space above light speed has been distorted by the gravimetric propulsion.”

The sergeant’s voice firmed up. “Well then how in the universe are we going to get back? We’ve already, been out here two weeks. If we keep hop-scotching all over the galaxy, we might as well make it 50 years. I would like to think we can do better than that. We only have rations for a little over a year,”

The major didn’t want a mutiny even before the voyage started. “Hold on guys, let’s not loose perspective. Remember we have accomplished something great here, in spite of the situation.”

“Why doesn’t that make me feel warm and fuzzy?” replied the sergent.

The major turned his attention back to the computer. “Computer, other than the gravimetric distortions on the navigation, is there anything else that we need to be aware of.”

“Yes, the Wayfarer1 could not stop the force at which the vessel was propelled once achieving light speed and diverting curved space.”

“In other words—we coasted to far…and were blind as well,” said the Ensign.

“It looks like it,” said the major rubbing his chin. “Computer, can we compensate for the errors in trajectory to achieve a more accurate destination?”

The computer paused. “It is possible to realign the PhotoIonic Generators. It is possible to reverse polarize gravimetric distortions.”

“Does that mean we can put the breaks on this thing, Computer?” said the sergeant.

“I see the metaphor, Sergeant. Yes, put the brakes on. However, navigational disorientation is problematic, and will require anticipated tolerances based on your expectations.”

The major made a quick calculation. “I believe, due to the circumstances of the mission, only one to five light years variance and arrival in less than one earth year, would be acceptable.”

The computer paused to analyze the proposal and then responded calmly. “It will be highly unlikely that Wayfarer1 will be able to achieve an accurate tolerance of intended destination of less than 800 light years from Earth, in that allotted time.”

The sergeant kicked a cabinet. “What! 800 light years! My family will never see me again.”

The sergeant was correct, 800 light-years was as good as dead for the crew. With a contemporary spacecraft, it took several years just to get to Alpha Centauri. And although the Wayfarer can travel from Alpha Centauri inside a week, 800 light years from Earth would be out of the question. To try to replicate an accurate return trip was virtually impossible at this point. The crew knew all along that there was a strong possibility that something like this would occur, and only a remote chance of even finding the Sojouner5.

The major and the others continued to play what-if scenarios with the computer, hoping to come up with a resolution to their dilemma. Nevertheless, it seemed bleak. It was like shooting an arrow into the air toward a given target blind-folded, knowing the third set of feathers were missing, and guessing where it would land.

Finally after much discussion the crew decided on a very unglamorous plan. They were going to guide themselves back toward earth in jumps of 5,000 light year increments, making the necessary re-adjustments at those particular intervals. They knew that it would take days to get up to the speed that got them this far, and they would lose time experimenting in this fashion, but at least they would have the satisfaction of additional control over their flight path, within a respectable amount of time.

“With God’s help we may make it back to Earth within our lifetime,” said the major under his breath. “And it would not be particularly funny if Sojourner5 was waiting for us when we returned.” He turned and noticed his men staring at the holographic images.

“Don’t just sit there gaping, let’s prepare for launch,” enforced the major.

“Did you say lunch?” questioned the sergeant, not quite paying attention.

“NO! - LAUNCH!-” the major bellowed.

“Okay, Okay, I’m sorry sir,” said the sergeant with a snicker. “I just worked up an appetite with all this arguing.”

They mumbled a bit as they went back to their original work, gathering fuel and checking systems. After analyzing multiple solutions, based on the past, the computer offered the highest probable route for the first condensed light speed jump. After the major inspected the data, and discussed it with the crew, they agreed upon the course. The major set the vessel in launch mode and the crew settled back for the next take-off. The countdown to ignition was uneventful. As before, the ship started slowly and through time picked up speed. The major turned back to the sergeant as they proceeded,

“I’m sorry too, Sergeant. I guess I had too high of expectations for the Wayfarer. The sergeant received the apology with a nod. “As we head back, we can’t depend on the computer for all the information. As we approach light speed, I want each of you to monitor systems for any slight variation we might have missed previously."

“Yes, sir,” they said simultaneously.

The hours clicked by and the nervous crew couldn’t relax. They knew that it would be days before they reached light speed. Taking turns sleeping was difficult at best, but that was the least of their problems. Accuracy was everything. Finally, the jump to light speed was approaching and the men worked quickly to gather information, supplemental to the computer’s.

Light speed came...and went.

“All structural and mechanical systems look fine,” said the sergeant, after a couple hours into light speed.

“Propulsion systems are operating normally,” said the ensign.

“Navigational systems are within tolerances as well,” said the major. “Computer, are there any abnormal conditions, that we have missed.”

“No, Major. All systems are optimal.”

The major breathed deeply. “This is going to be a long few days.”

Days at light speed were passing without incident. Very little was said, and the Wayfarer1 moved on.

Finally, the major released the pressure. “Ensign, I believe now is as good as any to cut power to propulsion. Let’s find out where we are.”

The ensign shut down the forward power grid and initiated the braking procedures. The vessel eventually dropped below the light speed threshold and calculations were immediately conducted.

“Breaking procedures were successful,” said the sergeant with optimism in his words.

“True...true,” said the major, addressing the imager. “Computer, please analyze our current coordinates relative to the intended flight path.” The major half bit his lip, waiting for its response.

“The Wayfarer1 has traveled 8,759 light years from Bravo launch point and has strayed 3,750 light years from intended flight path,” said the computer, without compassion.

“What happened to the 5,000 light year destination?” said the Ensign.

The major rubbed his weary head. “I don’t know, I thought we would have more control than that. How are we going to help Sojourner5, if we can't help ourselves?”

This was not good news. The crew starred at the location of vessel and its trajectory on the imager, and then at each other in disbelief. They paced the room, softly kicked the side of cabinets, looked out the window with their hands on their waist…all without a word. They had virtually no control of the ship. It was like a ship without a rudder floating in the waters of the universe.

World of Good - Chapter 11

Chapter 11

“Plans for... Return”

The big day was here and we were anxious to see what our future held for us. My crew was gathered in front of an assorted group of scientific and governmental advisors for a discussion on strategies for a return trip to Earth. Although the voyage home seemed grim, the Vlancos seem to be a resourceful people and offered to do what ever they could to help us. Dale came in late and shuffled over to where the rest of us were sitting. He looked a little under the weather, so I leaned over to find out what was up.

“Where have you been?” I whispered to him. “You know I’m responsible for your actions.
“Oh, it’s alright. I’ll tell you later,” he nervously whispered back.

Hadso, a demure spokesman of the advisors, stood up to greet us. “Salutation to you and your friends, Alex.” He moved toward the center of the room. The other Vlancos sat on one side of the room, we on the other. “I hope we have shown you hospitality, since you have been on Onos,” he said, pausing for a reaction.”

“Yes, thank you, we all have been very intrigued with your culture, and your gracious generosity,” I responded, politely.

“That is good to hear. While you and your crew spent time exploring our culture, we were able to repair your vessel’s navigational processor destroyed in the battle.”

“Thank you,” I replied. We smiled at each other—neither of us knew what the other was truly thinking.

“However, we have been debating options for your return trek,” Hadso said, rubbing his chin. “We have some difficulty with regard to your circumstances and are still deliberating how to proceed. There are ethical and scientific arguments to consider. This may take some time.”

I stood to address the Vlancos. “Before you continue, I need to say a few words. I realize this may be an impossible project for your scientists to overcome, and we are ready to accept the consequences. We arrived here by accident, and we don’t expect you to resolve all our problems for us.” I turned back to my crew briefly to see how they felt. The others slumped where they sat. Even before the meeting started, I sensed some apprehension, and my comments probably weren’t helping any.

“Alex, that is not what I meant.” said Hadso. “We believe we have the capability to develop a method to help you get back to your home planet. And yet, we have an ethical complication.”

I cocked my head. “I don’t understand.”

“Our technology is intertwined with our ethics, Alex. “Some of the technology has not been developed, because we have not found the benefits to our culture and in some cases found detriments in pursuing portions of technology. I would like to introduce, Spaest. He will indulge us in the scientific aspects of your dilemma.”

Chip leaned over. “He’s the scientist I was talking about.”

“Thank you, Hadso,” Spaest said with a bow. He stepped in the center, clasped his hands together, and paced a bit. He glanced back at his associates, then looked over at us. “The repercussions to develop certain technologies may actually create negativity. For example, to achieve deep space travel at the velocity needed to return you and your crew in an acceptable time period, would require withholding a considerable amount of economic value, which is used to support individuals on local planets and satellites to stabilize their survival. We have many concerns at this time that require our resources, such as the magnetic disturbance from a subtle shift in the Tri-Star rotation that has been a nuisance to us in the last year. One of the power sources we have investigated, may yield success for your return. But it is a very unstable source and experiments would require much sacrifice to achieve this cause. Ultimately, we do not consider it a viable endeavor at this time.”

I stood up. “So you have a source of energy, but it’s to costly to investigate. Does that mean we are going to be stranded here, or are there any other alternatives?”

Spaest sat down, as Hadso rose to speak. At this time Alex, we have not found a solution. It may be difficult to hear that we must evaluate how much of a sacrifice it would take for your return. To test such a project could require the death of a test pilot.”

“Well that is out of the question. If we work with you, I am sure a quicker solution could be found.” I doubted my own words.

Hadso glanced back to the other advisors, then dropped his head and shoulders, with a deep sigh.

“Thank you Alex for being considerate. It is admirable and optimistic of you, but only time will allow us to achieve those worthy goals and only the Creator knows how much time it would take. Would you accept finding a quick solution to leave, as well as a long one... and growing old with us?”

Wow that hit me like a bombshell! Until now, I and my crew thought that with their technology, it would be maybe weeks or months before they found a solution. To let go of the life we had on Earth was a whole other issue. I saw the life get sucked out of my crew as they dropped their heads.

I wasn’t ready to give up quite yet. “Do we have a choice? The only other suggestion I have is that we try to brainstorm on the prototype data that Earth was working on for deep space missions. It was the Hydrogen PhotoIonic Gravimetric system. Check our database and see if that may be an option.”

I was grasping for straws, but I really didn’t want my crew to fall apart and lose hope of returning.

“Alright, Alex. We will consider that option,” he said, with a smile. It didn’t light up my crew‘s faces, but it was a start. “We Vlancos never withdraw from a good challenge. And it seems as though we have one here.”

***

My crew and I decided to take a walk and discus thoughts about the dilemma we were in. We made our way to a green-area with plenty of aquatic creatures in the meandering waterways. Local fowl were perched in the trees above. In normal circumstances, it would have been beautiful and romantic, but under these conditions it was difficult to appreciate it.

“What are we going to do now?” asked Dale.

“We don’t have much choice, we work and wait,” Chip piped in nonchalantly.

“Well, I don’t plan on making this my permanent home,” Tom added firmly.

Tammy had to get her two cents in too. “Well, I know we can all fret and worry, but don’t discount an opportunity to enjoy ourselves on this planet too.”

Tom turned to her and said, “Oh yeah, that’s easy for you to say, you’ve got a new beau. But I don’t intend to leave my last surviving kin alone 25,000 light years away.” Tom’s eyes started to well up. He turned and kicked a lump of foliage emerging from the path. Shelby patted his left shoulder.

“Hey, maybe Earth sent out a rescue vessel to find us.” I said, trying to lighten up the mood. Everyone looked at me over their nose with a you’ve-got-to-be-kidding kind of look. “Okay, okay,” I said raising my hands in surrender. “It’s a long shot, but not impossible.”

They shook their heads and looked away. The stars were low in the sky and the evening was warm. There was a curious set of clouds that looked like a group of cumulus clouds with a hole in the center. Like benign tornadoes hovering in the sky. With the reddish hue from the stars, it really was a sight to see.

“You…are…beautiful,” Shelby spoke to the clouds.

“It’s nova!” said Dale.

We kicked some stones, waved to some Vlanco family’s walking through the path, and threw out ideas. All of the sudden I realized what it was like to be an alien. I was separated from my friends and family, only be to stranded in an unfamiliar world. Since I was a white American, I never experienced the exclusionary conditions that a foreigner would encounter. Even though they have greeted us warmly here and they welcome us like family, we still felt like outcasts. Maybe Tammy would understand, because her parents migrated from South America to the States, and maybe Tom would understand, because he was originally from Nigeria. In a way we are all aliens, not just in the physical way but in a moral way too. It’s like living with Mother Theresa—only millions of them. I even feel kind of dirty when I’m around the Vlancos...like they had a better-than-thou attitude. But that’s not true. The they just happen to be a very virtuous people.

“I don’t know if I could handle living with these people for very long,” said Dale, who seemed to be reading my thoughts.

“I wouldn’t mind it for awhile,” said Chip, “the research they have is a gold mind.”

“Yeah, but would you want to stay here for the rest of your life?” inquired Tom.

“I could be persuaded to stay. As long as they left me alone, and didn’t pester me with their dogma,” retorted Chip.

“Oh speaking of dogs,” said Dale, “that reminds me of the cartoon with this family of dogs driving a hovercar with the bumper sticker that said ‘have you licked your kids today?”

Shelby chuckled and the rest of us stood there and groaned.

Chip scowled at Dale and snapped back. “What does that have to do with anything?”

“I don’t know, it just came to me when you said dogma,” Dale said, meekly.

We all just stared at each other for a moment and then burst out laughing. I grabbed Dale and gave him a nooggie. “You’re great, buddy, I’m glad we have you along, even though you go off the deep end sometimes.”

I turned back to Chip and Tom with regained concern for our situation. “Chip, with the research you have done on Earth and what you have gathered here, do think it is possible that we could come up with something that the Vlancos have missed?”

“Highly unlikely, Alex. Their computers communicate with one another like you and I do right now, the only thing left out is the human error and ethics,” said Chip, bluntly.

“Yes, but could their ethical constraints, which are superimposed on the computers, affect the way their computers come to conclusions?” I added.

“Good thinking, Alex. Their high moral standards could be infringing on results that would not necessarily be of a concern on Earth. Bbut we can’t ask them to change their computer program boundaries to fit our needs...or could we?” I could see Chip’s mind whirling, always up for a new challenge. “They don’t have to know that we uploaded relevant data pertinent to space travel from their computer to our ship’s computer. It’s always better halving two teams working the same problem.”

“Not bad, Chip. We wouldn’t have to ask the Vlancos to violate their ethics, and it may give us an option they would normally overlook.” The atmosphere seemed a little brighter.

Tom grunted. “I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but our computer has only so much storage. The volume of data needed to digest could be too much to handle.”

“It will be tricky,” said Chip. He shifted into instruction mode. “However, the information that is uploaded to our ship could be scrutinized and dissected. Irrelevant information could be discarded, allowing new information to be uploaded and evaluated. Unimportant data that is already on file but not needed—such as historical data—could be removed. If push comes to shove, I could add more memory to our systems, but I may have to get the Vlancos to share certain equipment to do it.”

“Sounds good to me,” I said, trying to keep the emotional momentum on the upswing.

Shelby squirmed a bit. “But shouldn’t we tell them what we are going to do first?”

I set my hand on her shoulder. “Shelby, I think due to the circumstances, we should take advantage of a ‘what they don’t know wont hurt them’ approach. It may be the only hope we have.”

“But what if they put a stop to it for some ethical reason?” pressed Shelby.

“We’ll deal with that bridge when we get to it. I don’t intend on surrendering to staying here the rest of my life. But I won’t approve of this unless we are all in agreement. Are we? How about a show of hands…for those in agreement?”

Everyone raised their hands quickly except for Shelby. She sighed, then slowly crept her hand up with a squeamish expression on her face.

I sighed with relief. “Okay, then it’s agreed. Let’s figure out how to implement this beast of a plan. We got here in the blink of an eye, why not the reverse? ”

“It may even take years before we could come up with something viable,” added Chip.

“Oh, thanks Chip for putting a depression on my excitement,” said Tammy, “you sounded so confident a minute ago.”

Chip was indignant. “I didn’t say I couldn’t find a solution. What I meant was that it may take years before we could...”

“Hold it!” I said cutting off Chip. “This is only a start guys. We have to begin somewhere and unless you have a better idea, this is our best option.”

There was an agreeable murmur from the crew. I extended out my hand to the group. One by one, everyone smacked it with earnest agreement.

“Nova!“ Dale whispered loudly, staring back up at the sky.

“Those clouds are starting to look a little spooky,” said Tom nervously.

Sure enough, the clouds were haunting. They glowed deep red, with a turquoise sky behind. In the center they were pitch black. The sight brought shivers up my spine.

Then without warning, the wind began to pick up and musical sirens flooded the area with sound. A few people ran past us, and some people in the distance were waving to us to come. Before we knew what was happening, dust was swirling about and the beautiful tornado group was starting to touch down. The air became thick and our vision became obscure. Before we knew it, the cloud had overtaken us and we could barely see one another.

A bright laser beam shot out from a structure, I assumed it was a beacon. I motioned for my crew to follow me and we directed ourselves toward the source. It was becoming increasingly difficult to keep our balance and cover our faces at the same time. Dust particles had whipped up in all directions as we fought our way to the light.

Chip was directly behind me. I yelled for him to pass on that they grab the wrist of one another for stability and to keep a connection while we worked our way to safety. I felt like a teacher with school children playing a game of snake through the playground. Our bodies rippled in the tornadic wind. A large object knocked Tammy’s feet from under her and Shelby lost her grip. Dale was on the end and struggled to use both hands so as not to lose her. The freight train sound that normally accompanies a tornado didn’t compare to the harmony that several tornadoes made. It was deafening and absolutely frightening.

By this time we were on all fours, just trying to stay upright. The beacon of light ws now directly overus. It grew in intensity and covered us like a cocoon. So much so, that the wind whipping around us—abruptly stopped. We collapsed forward to the ground on our faces. From upheaval to calmness in an instant. We rolled over, still coughing out the dust. I looked up at the torrent above us while we recovered in this cocoon of serenity. It was more like a tunnel that extended forward toward the light. I turned back to see if everyone was accounted for…Dale and Tammy were missing.

I called out into the darkness, “Dale! Tammy!” Nothing except a low rumble outside the protective tunnel.

Chip reached up to touch the wall of light. “It looks like some type of energy field distributed from that structure. I assume to act as a shield from the storm.”

“No doubt.” I coughed a few times. “Where is Tammy and Dale? Are the rest of you okay?”

While gathering ourselves and checking for injuries, five Vlancos approached us at a good trot.

They were young male Vlancos, with the usual good disposition. “Allow us to help you, Earth people,” said the one in front.

“We seem to be okay, but two of my crew are missing,” I said, worried. “The rest of you stay here, me and a couple of the Vlancos—.

Before I could finish organizing a rescue operation, I heard a shuffle at the opposite end of the light tunnel from where the energy beam came. Out of the darkness staggard Dale with his arm around Tammy’s waist.

“Whew, that was fun,” Dale said caustically. He let one of the Vlancos take hold of Tammy, while another checked her health. Dale bent over with his hands on his knees and coughed up dirt.

Tammy had a big bruise and blood oozed out of her leg. The Vlancos opened a medical kit and began to work on her. A big Vlanco picked her up and walked back toward the light. The rest of us hobbled back to the structure still coughing and snorting. Once inside the building, the field was de-energized.

“We are truly sorrowful we did not inform you of the suddenness of the storms in this area,” said one of the advisors in the facility. “Can you forgive us.”

“Oh yeah, we’ve had worse,” said Tom. I’m sure he was recalling one of his many near death experiences.

As Tammy was being carried away, she called back in a raspy voice. “Speak for yourself, Tom.”

The tornadoes continued to kick up debris for awhile. But we watched from the safety of the building. Within minutes, the chaos and destruction turned into peace and tranquility. Again the sky was beautiful. The horizon was a deep red as the three major stars started setting. I was hoping this mission wasn’t going to be a series of events with serenity and turmoil, but as usual, my wishes rarely come true.

***

A day later, back at the ship, Chip and Tammy went to work transferring data from his compad to Sojourner’s main database, while the rest of us brainstormed on theoretical concepts.

“What are you doing, Mr. Wizard?” said Tammy, as Chip strapped a small square tab to the side of his forehead.

“I’m connecting my compad to the ship’s computer,” he said, without looking up. He gave a brief glance and a wink to Tammy.

Her eyes narrowed. “Are you using your Davis Chip neural-connection?”

“Why of course, my dear, I can sort things much quicker this way.”

“And I bet you think your memory can truly hold all that information.” Chip ignored her and kept working. “Even if it could, Chip, the repercussions...” Chip rolled his eyes as she lectured. Tammy stopped and put her hands on her hip, like a big sister. “You know what I’m talking about. Those studies that have indicated serious side effects on people that use the mind-computer links.

“Tammy, those studies have not been conclusive. And besides, until there is a law banning it, I have the liberty to use it as I see fit. Even if it means I’ll only be able to retain 5% of the information. Additionally, I’ve modified my compad a bit. It can store almost half of what the ship’s computer can. I’ve got to admit, it's truly revolutionary.”

Tammy crossed her arms. “Really, how?”

“Eh, I just tweaked it here and there, that’s all. I know I should have let Alex know about it, but since it’s primarily experimental, I haven’t been able to fully test it out. So far, my newest upgrades have been quite successful.”

“Fine. I don’t care.” Tammy tried not to look interested. “As long as it’s in our best interest.” She stopped for a minute, then remembered something. “It is in our best interest, right?”

Chip tilted his head. " You sure are frisky, after getting a punctured leg."

She rubbed the bandage on her leg. “This isn’t that hybrid bioelectronic memory that the Mars colony was working on, is it?”

“Yes...it is.” said Chip meekly.

“Chip, you idiot! If that virus breaks out like it did on the Mars colony, we’re as good as dead. I can’t believe you Chip! If its new and different, you have to be the first one to use it! Err!” she said through gritted teeth. She gave the floor one good stomp with her foot, then checked the aft passageway for eavesdroppers.

“Calm down, Tammy. I have isolated those problems and there are no contaminants of any kind.”

“You better be right mister. Because when I leave this planet, I plan on being alive and in one piece!” Tammy shook her head. “I’m warning you. If I even see a hint, of a glimmer, of a subatomic complication, I’m going to shove this compad right up your—”

Chip gave her a smirk. “Don’t worry, Tammy. If there are any problems, I will personally hand you the compad myself.”

World of Good - Chapter 10

Chapter 10

“...opportunity at hand.”

During the time V was incarcerated, he was ecstatic at the chance meeting of Dale Tinker. After two days with Dale, V found a space to be alone and tapped on the side of his head until he heard his superior’s voice in his ear. He kept his mind focused. “High commander, I have made contact with one of the Aliens and he has agreed to pay heed to a dialogue. I have found that they are from Earth, a planet many light years away.”

“Light years? How many?” asked the high commander.

“I was told, the other side of the galaxy.”

A Negritee commander’s survives on thorough details. “They must have highly advanced propulsion technology. Before we continue, V, I must ask if you are using discretion with the communications link?”

“Yes sir, the implant is working quite well. The Vlanco’s think I am in prayer,” he said with a chuckle.

“Very well. “I am on the Carpusian with the armada. We will be entering the Vlanco system in twenty five Ono days. Learn as much as you can about the Earth aliens and any Vlanco defensive configurations. Inform me at the next cycle.”

“Yes, High Commander.”

“Do not use this channel but for essential information. The Vlancos will intercept this if we are not careful.”

“Yes, High Commander, I will take every precaution to be invisible.”

“I am sure you will. Your life depends on it.”

The transmission terminated. V did not like the fact that to fail this mission meant it would be his last. Nevertheless, high risk missions have been very profitable in the past. Why would this one be so different? Besides, life is short and death is permanent. One must live it to the maximum, his father always told him.

***

The high commander quickly sent a transmission to the 3rd Premier. He straightened his uniform when the viewing screen came alive. “3rd Premier, we have good news. I have made contact with our emissary in the Vlanco system.”

Disguman, the 3^rd Premier, gave an unimpressed sigh. He folded his favorite cape around him. “Explain.”

“My emissary has made contact with one of the Aliens from a planet called Earth. He will continue to gain the alien’s favor. My emissary believes they may possess an advanced propulsion technology, as this Earth is thousands of light years away.”

Disguman nodded with interest. “We may have lost an opportunity, when we did not apprehend the alien vessel earlier. This may be another one. Can we sway this Earth alien?”

“It is too early to tell at this time, sir. My emissary will continue to gain and deliver information at each cycle. As you know, we are still vulnerable to the Vlancos defensive systems. Unless we develop a strategy to cause havoc in their defenses prior to our attack, we are risking much.”

“I will worry on that. If we can coordinate the attack with efficiency, the Vlanco system could be a glorious prize. We must turn the Earth beings into willing allies. They are not Vlancos and may see our view. If failure presents itself, there will be much time to retreat from the advance if necessary.

“Yes, 3^rd Premier.”

“Commander,” Disguman, said through his teeth. “We must not fail at this. I have additional forces from every corner of the sector. They are ready to converge with your fleet at the proper time. Continue to look for weaknesses in the Vlanco defenses and report to me your progress. If you are successful here, you will be in succession for a prominent Premier position.”

The high commander bowed. “Yes, 3rd Premier, your request is my directive.”

“We must sway the Earth alien. Inside assistance can be a far greater aid than external might.” The transmission terminated and the picture went dark.

***

Disguman turned away from the communication consol and walked over to the astronomical grid that indicated where the Negritee forces were located. The bulk of the forces were aligned with the high commander. The remaining military forces were scattered in all directions around the Vlanco system. If properly implemented, nearly all of the Negritee space vessels could converge in Vlanco space in about twenty sleep cycles. If the Latent Energy device was on board the flagship Carpusian, Disguman calculated he could become more powerful than even the 1st Premier. If the 2nd Premier plans to eliminate the 1st Premier, Disguman would be one step away from full command of the Negritee.

“Captain!” Disguman shouted into the com port. “Come to my quarters.”

“Yes, sir!” came the response.

The Captain arrived at his quarters, out of breath. He stood at attention. “Yes, 3rd Premier.”

“Captain, I need your fastest ship with your best pilot, we need to overtake the Carpusian. I need to deliver a special package.”

“Yes, 3rd Premier. When will you need it?”

“Now!” said Disguman, firmly.

Within the hour the fastest vessel in the fleet and its pilot were ready. It was well known that the force-field that the Vlancos energized around the planets in their system was highly effective in warding off invaders. However, Disguman was banking on something new. He wanted to personally make sure his weapon was on board. It was time for the Negritee to lay siege and conquer. Disguman sat back with a smile and expectations that this would be the greatest of victories. A victory even greater than the Great Battle 400 years ago.

***

While Disguman was making plans for war, V had used every diplomatic trick he could think of to be released from incarceration. Yet after a week of Vlanco hospitality, their politeness was beginning to take a toll on him. He had managed to worm his way into Dale’s mind, but success was far from guaranteed.

V turned around just as Dale appeared in the room. “Ah! My friend. You have returned.”

Dale walked up to V, glancing around. “Friend? I did as you asked. This is the last thing you can expect from me,” Dale said reluctantly.

“You have more wisdom than I thought. And yet, staying away from me would have been sensible. I am a nasty sort, and would be a terrible influence on you,” said V, with a sarcastic sneer.

“Yeah, well if the commander knew I was visiting with you, he’d go nuts. I really don’t have much choice about much of anything anyway,” said Dale, with frustration written all over his nervous face.

“Do not let the honor to your commander be such a difficulty for you,” V enticed.

“What do you mean?”

“For one’s Freedom, there is always a price to pay.”

“Listen, I have already told you enough about us, V. I just wanted to say I wasn’t interested. You’re on your own.”

Dale turned to leave, when V grabbed his hand and thrust a small metallic strip with writing on it.

“What’s this,” said Dale.

“It is a small something for you if you change your mind.”

Dale looked down at his hand, up at V, and then walked a fast walk out of the containment area. V cackled with knowing glee. Later that day, V received a note saying, The meeting at your coordinates are agreed upon, if you can make it by tomorrow at sunrise. “Ha! Earth aliens are greedy too. Very well, Earth human. I will be there.

That evening V waited patiently for his evening meal, when his server set the plate down on the table. It was just the two of them. V had managed to preserve a long thin wire in his clothing, in case of an emergency. It was a universal tool used by Negritee welders for making emergency holes in structures. It needed a small power source and the Negritee are very resourceful for finding alternatives to difficult situations. As his food server turned to leave, V jumped him, slit his throat, and virtually dismembered his head, all before the server knew what hit him.

“That was a precious extermination. I really must do this more often,” he muttered with glee. V dragged the body to the outside wall. To harness power, V inserted two probes into the body of the Vlanco and attached the other end of the device to the wall. The energy from the body combined with a chemical reaction provided enough power and force for the cutting tool. Soon, there was a hole in the wall, big enough for V to escape through. As he was leaving, he looked back at the shriveled Vlanco body, “Yes, for freedom there is always a price to pay,” he snickered, then laughed maniacally, as he ran into the night.

V knew he must stay clear of the Vlanco people until his next meeting. He lurked through the night and kept company with the dark shadows. When he found the rendezvous point, he settled in and waited.... As dawn approached, V grew nervous. The alien may not come. He just began to abandon the meeting when his accomplice came forward.

“Ah, Earth person. It was most wise of you to come. I have many opportunities for you.”

“Last time you said I shouldn’t do business with you,” whispered Dale.

“Now is the time you should.”

The two debated their self-interests for a moment. Then distant alarms sounded out from the direction of the quarantine center. V knew that Vlanco security personnel would be combing the area and it would only be a matter of time before he was captured again. After some arguing and disputing of the issues a contract was finally agreed upon and the two hurriedly went their separate ways.

V needed to contact the high commander and at the same time elude security. V was a master of deception, with a plethora of gimmicks. His favorite was the body mask, which gave him the ability to blend in to his surroundings, much like a chameleon. But that was removed from him during incarceration. He was fortunate that he still had the newest of the transmitting devices in the star systems planted in his head. However, it takes a great deal of concentration and forces him to find a location where he wouldn’t be disturbed.

Nevertheless, it was vital that he send his message before the Vlancos arrived. He found a small structure in a public park and ducked in. Vlancos conveniently leave their access doors unlocked in most structures, and this one was no different. He sat down inside with legs and arms crossed, then closed his eyes and concentrated. Within seconds he was in contact with the Carpusian.

“Did you make any progress, V?” asked the high commander.

“Yes, High Commander, all is well,” said V. The commander’s on-board computer translated the message into verbal format. “I am being hunted and do not have much time. I will upload the contract with the Earth Human. If the contract is to your approval send the standard signal as soon as possible.”

“Very well, V—transmission terminating.”

V opened his eyes to see the access panel open. He sprang up half-way when a beam of blue light spread around him. V froze like a statue when the neural paralyzer hit him. The security guards holstered their weapon and walked around to V’s back. They scanned the tag that was implanted on his neck under the skin.

“Yes, this is the one,” said the security personnel, as he read the scanner.

“He has caused much trouble,” replied the second Vlanco, “He will unquestionably be sent to Transo for containment.”

“Why do they cause so much pain for themselves,” said the first.

“Reason has no place among these people. We must lift these people up in our thoughts, for they need compassion.” said the second.

“For now, he needs a lift into the pod,” the first security guard said with a smile.

***

Disguman leaned toward the monitor on his desk. “I hope you have some progress to give me.”

The high commander nodded from within the screen. “Yes, 3rd Premier. The Earth alien accepted our contract. We are sending you the details for your approval. But I must send a message back confirming your approval before we proceed.

Disguman looked down to his desk where another monitor showed the incoming data. “It has arrived. I will evaluate the data and respond shortly. Additionally, I will be arriving at the Carpusian vessel to observe the attack.” The high commander paused and didn’t respond. “Commander, did you hear me?”

“Yes 3rd Premier. You wish to supervise my procedures?” he said like the air was going out of him.

“Not supervise…be present.”

“We will prepare for your arrival with the best accommodations,” the commander mechanically spouted out.

“Then I will see you in two weeks—transmission terminating.”

Disguman clasped his hands together and breathed deeply. “Victory is close. I can smell it. Very close.

***

V woke from his sleep, only to find himself in the hands of Vlanco Security. Not containment again, thought V. How do I tolerate this Vlanco kindness?”

From outside V’s cell, footsteps could be heard down the hallway, coming his way. A guard stood to the side of the cell to let an advisor speak to V.

The advisor stood several feet away and wore a sad frown. “V, I have the duty to inform you that you will be tried for the crime of murder—in two days. All Vlanco resources are available to you from this moment and up to the trial. I suggest you work on a strong defense.”

“What hypocrites!” He yelled. “This is justice? Less than two days to prepare! HA! Idiots!”

“We have no ulterior motives, V. We will present the truth, and if you can explain some hidden factors we may not have addressed, we suggest you spend more of your time with your case and less time with your anger.”

“Aah! My anger. Here is a sample of it.” V threw his dinner plate at the Advisor.

The magnetic force grid deflected the plate back toward V. The advisor barely flinched and stood firm. “I see.”

“You people are so clever with your mental activities. You want everyone to be calm with solace,” he said, glaring at the Advisor.

“Save your energy, V. You must use it wisely and effectively for your trial,” the advisor stated calmly.

“Shut up! Leave me, you Jathoir slime!” V pulled away from the Advisor and covered his ears.

“As you wish.” The advisor bowed and turned to leave.

“Give my regards to the parents of my old server! Ha, Ha!” V yelled back.

The Advisor paused then continued down the passage with the security guard.

V felt a buzzing sensation in his head that indicated the commander was paging him. He settled down at the far corner of the room and concentrated but the field around the building distorted the communications link. Eventually, V made contact, but it felt like he was on a Negritee intoxicants.

“Commander?”

“Yes, V it is I. What is it?”

“I have been imprisoned and their perimeter protection distorts communications.”

“I will make this quick, V. The 3rd Premier agrees to the conditions with the alien. You must find a way to pass this on. We will make an effort to release you. Is there anything else I need to know at this time?”

“No.”

“Very well—transmission terminating.”

V’s head was spinning from the implant distortion. He had to conjure up a way to get a message to the Earth human. As he was pondering his dilemma, the access panel abruptly opened and a security guard stood poised.

“I normally would not say this, V, but I do hope we interrupted your conversation.”

V put on an innocent face. “What ever do you mean, my friend?”

“You Negritee have many advanced communications tools. So do we.”

The security guard lifted a paralyzing weapon and shot it at V. He and a second guard picked up V and transferred him to the medical facility for a thorough evaluation and eventual implant removal. Two days later, the trial against V for murder was complete and sentencing was next.

One of the judges stood to address V. “Ventfoprof, with the evidence presented from all known sources, we judges of the Planet Onos have confirmed that you took a Vlanco’s life with assumed malice and no remorse. Therefore, you will serve the rest of your life on the satellite, Transo. There, you will have ample time to reassess your actions and motives. If at any time, during the scheduled evaluation periods, it is determined that you have redeemed yourself, you will be released into the appropriate transitioning curriculum.” V yawned, eyes searching the ceiling for clues to an unlikely escape. “It is our hope that you have time to understand whom the Creator is, and that he becomes real to you, as he has to us.” V stared back at the judge, rolled his eyes and shook his head. “Is there anything else you would like to say, before you are transported?”

“Yes. Judge this!” V spat at the panel of judges.

They moved back slightly, then ordered V to be escorted out of the courtroom and out to prison.

World of Good - Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Alex’s Story

Responsibility hung heavy on me as my crew climbed into their pods and departed. I reflected for a moment to consider if I had made the right decision to let them venture out into an unknown culture. Was I was insane dividing up my crew like this or being practical by expanding our ability to explore and research? Up to this point the Vlancos have given no indication of any ulterior motives and were constantly proving themselves kind and gentle. However, the thing that disturbed me the most wasn’t my fear of the Vlanco people. But rather the unsettling notion that me and my crew’s primitive ethical standards were beneath theirs.

After the crew members had chronicled their events, it was my turn to divulge what I had learned. I slowly paced the room while the others sat back sipping on a cool drink.

“I arrived at the center of the Justice system on Onos, hoping to compare Earth’s advances in government. What I had come to learn is that our system of government, relative to the Vlancos, is independent and unstable. I examined their process of justice and it seemed to me that they operated with philanthropy rather than fairness. They allowed me freedom to browse their archives for historical information. I found it dovetails with what we heard from Tammy. Their governmental system several hundred years ago was not unlike present day Earth’s. They had the governing continents with a democratic republic. Each Continent had to get agreement from their countries on local issues, but on world issues, they still had to submit proposals to the rest of the continents and planets for final approval. That included trade, environmental concerns, human rights, space travel and so on. However, after the Great Battle, as Tammy and Shelby have pointed out, a new spirituality caused a shift in government policies. I first discussed this with Govert, the Advisor at the archives.

“‘Govert, you really have a system Karl Marx would have liked. At least our Democratic system has checks and balances to keep tyranny from usurping.’”

“The Advisor calmly and demurely responded to my remark. ‘Alex, although your own United Continents of the Earth have agreed to use a Democratic system of government, it is effective only because Earth people are suspicious and selfish and need these checks and balances to keep order.’”

“I could feel my muscles tighten. ‘You better explain what you mean by that.’”

“‘Using your own founding fathers words...’ He turned his attention to the console and scanned the Earth database, which, by this time, had been distributed throughout Onos. ‘Here it is. A Thomas Jefferson wrote ... We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or abolish it and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Thus, as we have become stronger in our integrity and closer to our Creator, Alex, your own founding fathers understood that Government must change to fit the needs of the people. For us it was one in which includes a communal aspect.’”

“‘Who are you? How could you get to this information so quickly, let alone understand it?’ I felt totally overwhelmed and ashamed of how much I had forgotten.”

“‘Bear with me Alex. I have an acclaimed ability to absorb massive amounts of data. Since I have spent my lifetime studying real and hypothetical political institutions, this comes quite easily to me. May I continue, Alex?’”

“‘Sure, why not. I leaned forward, hoping to get into a good debate with him.’”

“‘In the last few hundred years, we have allowed Life, Liberty and Happiness to be not an individual issue, but rather one of community. We Vlancos do enjoy individual liberties. However, by supporting the community, the individual is cared for indirectly and we flourish exponentially as the community grows. I believe your system of government had the best intentions. And yet it would seem that as time passed on, the needs of the individual were not being met. Opportunities for isolation and selfishness kept your people from graduating to a more suitable form of government—’ I raised my hand to cut off the Advisor.”

“‘Are you saying we would have been better off with Communism? Because, that has been tried on Earth and the standard of living and human rights were seriously damaged, with the exception of a select minority of the people.’”

“‘No Alex. On the contrary, there would have been more problems if that had occurred. From what I understand about Communism it would not be fitting, given that the integrity of your representatives and their supporters is not intact so as to meet the needs of the community. Your Democratic Republic form of Government is suitable, based on the existing amount of your people’s compassion for others. Until your people change your inner hosts, you cannot change your existing form of Government. Does that not make sense?’”

“‘If by host you mean heart, then I agree that we can’t be phony and expect to have highly effective politicians with our best interests in mind. I’m just having a hard time connecting spirituality with government. We on Earth have always tried to keep the two essentially separate so people had the freedom to choose the religion that was in their best interest. Government should be able to operate without the interference of religion.’”

“‘I agree, Alex, your form of government does not contain one specific form of spirituality, and therefore, what you currently have is the best system for your people. I would recommend, your people do not consider changing your government for the sake of change, but be more concerned about getting close to the Creator. Even your founding fathers understood how important it was to acknowledge his assistance to guide them in decisions of government, as noted by the use of His name in those documents. Government and spirituality are inseparable. You can not remove an individual‘s true beliefs from his actions. You may have many laws, but an individual will manage government with the level of evil and good that lurks inside.’”

“I was thoroughly amazed at how quick he was able to understand the obstacles of Earth’s government…not that I agreed with him. It was the religion issue that kept nagging at me. Why did he focus so much on spirituality? Religion and politics always made unfriendly bedfellows.”

“‘Hold on Govert. You mean to tell me that unless our people take on the same religion, the Earth cannot have a cohesive form of government?’”

“‘That is very well put, Alex. I think you understand me.’”

“‘I may understand what you said, but I don’t agree with you!’

“‘Alex, it was not my intention to persuade you of my opinions, but rather to inform you of the truth.’ Govert said, poised and confident.”

“This guy was either the epitome of arrogance or I was just not catching what he was pitching to me. I know that ethics play a crucial aspect in government. But to say one particular form is the best, really grated on me. I had to keep reminding myself that I had to be diplomatic.”

“‘Okay, Govert. I agree that one world religion would help your form of government work more effectively, but that doesn't mean that it is the only correct form of religion.’”

“‘Alex, I would have to say yes and no to that. Religion is not actually what I was referring to. It has no effect on how government policy is made. I was referring to the result of one’s relationship with the Creator—which is the only form of spirituality that there is. Religion is a method of living your life and an extension of your theological concepts. A oneness with the Creator is the essential catalyst that guides your decisions. In other words, the less the people believe and follow what the Messenger and the Creator have conveyed to us, the less government will be effective, no matter which form of religion or government exists. The more you follow the Creator the more effective the government will be.’”

“When he added this Messenger into the equation it felt like he dumped a new spice to the soup before I had a chance to take in the first part.’”

“’Wait a minute! Who is this messenger and how does he fit in to this whole thing?’ I almost wished I hadn’t asked. I knew we were going to get off on some odd tangent.”

“‘Alex, the Messenger gives total balance to our lives. He keeps us close and guides us toward perfection. Without Him and His guidance, errors infect ourselves as individuals, which ultimately is costly to our community.’”

“‘Ah. So this messenger guy is more than just one of your founding fathers.’”

“‘Definitely so Alex. He is one with the Creator. We have documentation on His teachings. I suggest you investigate His life so you can understand more about ours.’”

“‘Thanks Govert, maybe later.’ I really didn’t want to go head first into a spiritual digression. Nevertheless, he definitely peaked my curiosity about their religion. It further confirmed that the Vlanco religion wasn’t just a time set aside for recognizing their god, but rather a part of their culture that is weaved heavily into their daily activities.”

Shelby politely raised her hand to get a question in. “Alex, could you explain how the local authorities operate. Considering the fact that the people are so kind, what do the police do if there isn’t anyone to protect the public from?”

“Good question, Shelby. I was wondering the same thing. There really isn’t a police force.” I looked out at a group of frowns. “What I mean, is that when the local security force has no dangerous criminals to deal with, they become more like a of health and safety officer. They resemble fire and rescue teams than law enforcers. As you can imagine, without the criminals around to convict there is little need for prosecutors, judges, prisons, and so on.”

“That’s not what I experienced,” said Dale, looking down at his shoe as he kicked the ground.

“Dale, they are very versatile. They have learned to take on multifunctional roles. Attorney’s for example, spend time assisting families with legal issues like wills and property, while advising and educating people on the operation of the governmental process from the local to planetary level.”

Chip shook his head. “Well all I know, is that they can really be annoying, spending so much time on sanctimonious topics. I’d like to know how they all seem to be in on it in the first place. Do they brainwash the kids at an early age?”

I scratched the back of my head. “I really don’t know how they can all be in agreement with this one sacred belief. Maybe Shelby could look into it some more, considering she is more in tune to it than the rest of us.” I said, hopefully.

Shelby looked up and rocked her head back and forth, as if to weigh out pros and cons. “Sure, I could do that. In fact, I would enjoy investigating that issue. I think these people are fascinating.”

“Thanks, Shelby.” I turned my attention to a necklace around my neck.

Dale caught my eye direction. “What’s that?”

I took it off and held it out. “This? It’s a symbol to remind them of their core beliefs.” I passed it down to Dale, and he examined it with interest.

“I forgot to mention that not everyone is in total agreement with the Vlanco way of life. A few derelicts get through the system, either because they are mentally disabled or some just never accept the philosophy of the Vlancos. They could end up committing suicide, live as hermits, or possibly even deserting to the Negritee system.”

Tammy rung out her hand. “Ouch! Now that doesn’t sound fun.”

“Nevertheless, the Vlanco’s seem to have a very efficient form of government. With little crime to address, it allows them to focus their energies on research and development. In many ways, we could learn a lot from these people.”

That concluded my report to the crew. We compared notes awhile longer before turning in for the night. Although we had some heated moments, we were all at peace with one another by the morning. The only tension brewing was that we now had to meet with the council of top Advisors. They wanted to discuss our situation here on the planet and what to do with us.