Tales from the Empire
Operation: Dark Skies
By Robert C. Moore
February 8, 1997

Episode 2:
The Waiting Game
Stardate: 2411.3.1

The planet Kore was the training ground for the Mesmolites. It was one of the most hospitable planet in any galaxy. Mainly covered with snow and ice, and average temperature around -30 degrees below zero.

A few miles above the planet, a meeting is taking place. It consists of high ranking officials and their leader, Lord John Garrison.

"Are you sure what you are telling me is correct?," Lord Garrison asked the Lt. On the video screen.

"Yes. We believe that is boy is the starchild." The Lt. Showed the picture of the boy on the monitor. "As I've as said, my lord. This, without a doubt, must be the starchild."

"This is excellent news." Malcolm's face was full of joy. He is second in command to Lord Garrison. "I need you to find out exactly from Dr. Lightspeed, what her conclusions are. When you have them, let us know."

"I Will my Lord." The Lt. said before fading off.

The room fell silent. The four men around the table- Lt. Darkens, First General Hawkins, Gen. Malcolm Dexter and Lord Garrison-were all pondering what would be their next move.

This boy could be our key to the future. Lord Garrison thought. We can crush all enemies, and destroy the rebels. Nah, too risky. In fact, too dangerous. But I know Malcolm would use him any way he can. He'll use the boy against me. I can't let that happen.

Malcolm was too anxious to "get the show on the road." "Why don't we grab the boy now," Malcolm explained to the group. "Besides what are we waiting for? For the day to come when he will find out who he is. By then he will be of no use to us."

"Malcolm, Malcolm," Lord Garrison calming his anxiety attack. "What if he is not the one foretold? Then we have kidnapped him for no good reason. I need the proof from Dr. Lightspeed in order for us to move to stage 2 of our operations." Lord Garrison walked around the table, reaffirming his position. "Besides the troops are not ready for war."

"I agree with you 100% (percent), Lord Garrison." Gen. Hawkins said. "It will be at least 2 more months before they are good enough to fight. By time the results come back, we should get a better picture of where we stand."

"Good, meeting adjourned." Lord Garrison dismissed the staff members. "Wait a minute, Malcolm." Malcolm was about to leave, and turned around to face his boss. "I am looking out for the best interest of the people. Besides, I don't want another fuck-up like Orion IV."

"I just don't understand you." Malcolm sneered at Lord Garrison. "We were so close to winning at Orion. Then you get scared. Next thing I know we let the resistance win, and I am the fallguy. I think you're getting a little soft around the edges."

"That's enough!! I do not want to hear anymore out of you. I will tell you what to do because I'm still in control. Next time you have an outburst, I'll consider you fired. Good day."

What was Malcolm to do? Would Malcolm strike out against the leader?