World Space Organization

CHAPTER 1

THE FATEFUL DECISION

WASHINGTON DC, NORTH AMERICAN UNION, 2028

          Spread over the rooftops and boulevards, the mob clung like a plague of locusts to the Capital city. Thousands surrounded the barricaded Union Defence Headquarters, while countless multitudes picketed the main avenues. Public transport across the continent was paralysed, striking unions and millions of peace protesters had brought North America to a standstill. The centre of that chaos was Capitol Hill in Washington D.C. The city's central core was effectively besieged by the angry public. Posters and banners demanding withdrawal from the scandalized East African theatre of war were draped over the many heads like flags over a medieval army.

In the back seat of a chequered taxi, Colonel Arthur Terreborn was on edge. Tension caused his stomach to flutter, and his hands to sweat. The taxi was idle, and he grimly watched the sign carrying masses, knowing he must walk soon, or arrive late. So much for my long awaited and officially promised vacation, he thought. Week two was abruptly cut short for this interview at Central Command. Having to navigate hostile crowds was simply aggravating him further.

Facing his rampant emotions with a soldier's stubborn discipline, Arthur paid the driver in crisp bills, stepping among the buzz of thousands. Straightening his formal Special Operations tunic, and checking that his ribbons and medals were securely fastened, Colonel Terreborn straightened his maroon beret over his short cropped hair. He clenched his jaw and glared at the faces, many curiously watching the soldier amidst them.

After eight long years of war, the army was near disgraced, and many soldiers were too embarrassed to wear their uniform in public. Arthur would not be one of them, even if he had a choice. The politicians insistence in supporting a 'noble war' had finally fallen on deaf ears; and Arthur was glad. His men, and all the Union needed peace. The world demanded it.

Shoving his way into the press of bodies, Arthur felt anything but twenty seven years old. He knew war had matured him, scarred his soul and forged him into a leader. Orphaned at twelve, he was sixteen when admitted into West Point Military College, and had little experience outside the military. A decade, all his adult life, was lost, consumed in combat postings or various army courses. Arthur recognized that he required an end to war more than the Union's exhausted populace and economy. Though what he would do during peacetime was a nagging question he so far failed to answer.

Ignoring the hostile glances, Terreborn rushed into the chanting mass of people, keeping a brisk pace. The towering slanted glass-walls of the HQ, glistened in the smog-free afternoon, a beacon over the heads.

            The moment Arthur stepped into the office of the Honourable Hector Durrance, he broke out in a sweat. The oppressive heat struck him like a physical force, and beads of perspiration formed on his temples. His armpits felt like swamps, while the barrel-chested Minister glared at him like a rabid pit-bull, unaffected by the heat. The Minister's sharp gaze rolled over his uniform, a smirk of what could have been contempt lifted the jowly cheeks. Arthur, tense with distaste, didn't even glance at the Defence Minister. Instead, staring over his head like a guardsman, Arthur tried to remember what he knew of the notorious politician he faced.

The global media had pinned Durrance and the NAU's ultraconservative administration as those responsible for the vicious war in East Africa. Thinking of his own horrifying experiences, Arthur felt sickened, knowing it was likely all true. How many years had he spent killing for this ruthless corporate-allied administration? His vision narrowed on one of the world's most notorious politicians. A deep-seated anger and utter contempt flooded him looking at the Minister. Was Durance immune to the suffering his greed inspired policies had wrought? Or how his corporate allies stabbed Africans in the back daily, all for short-term profits and cheap resources. Certain NAU corporations would do anything to get their hands on the last untapped oilfields and minerals in the dark continent. The global economy was teetering on the brink of collapse, and many blamed the NAU and its government for the destabilizing policies. With debt spiralling out of control, the army exhausted, overworked, and underpaid, half the nation was on the streets. Something had to give.

“Colonel Terreborn,” Durrance croaked, shattering the tense silence. He cleared his throat with a growl. “I've watched you climb the ranks these past years. Read your mission reports from the Sudanese debacle, as well. You did a fine job.” The Minister paused, watching him intently, as if seeking his character in the placid stare Arthur offered. “Did you know you're the youngest Colonel in the Union army?”

“I was not aware of that, sir.” Arthur replied woodenly.

“You've proved yourself an ambitious and daring commander, Terreborn.” Durance sat back, resting pink arms over a bulging gut. “And also a man who knows when to be discreet, if the need arises. Yes?”

“Apparently, sir.”

The mission in Sudan still haunted Arthur's every thought, two years later. The atrocities he had ordered due to this tyrannical man's insistence, would stay with him the rest of his days. It disgusted him to even recall the events that took place in that nameless village. Massacre summed it up. The words hung over his head like the clouds of flies had the piled corpses. He was a murderer whichever way he looked at it, and redemption seemed at long way off. Instead of the government locking him away, they had given him the rank of Colonel. With the promotion he was handed command of an elite Special Forces Regiment, and strove daily to erase the shame of the past.

“There is someone this administration requires.” Durrance explained. “The man has not been easy to track down. This Chinese exile is from their old civilian Space program, and reportedly has plans extremely valuable to this Nation. You've come highly recommended by both General Gunter and Proctor for this type of operation. ”

“Why didn't General Proctor give me my orders, sir.” Terreborn asked.

Durrance waved a hand, as if brushing aside a pesky fly.

“General Proctor does not know the exact details of this mission. It's of the utmost secrecy, and it's better that way. Between you and I, he's a fool, and lucky to have the President for a friend.” The Minister's livid glare fixed on him with animal-like intensity. “ I will issue your orders directly, Terreborn. This is an unofficial operation. None of the company you choose must be briefed before you're on the ground.”

“Why send my troops for just one man? Sir. Is this Chinaman well defended?” Arthur asked.

“No. I doubt we would be so fortunate. But, he is well behind enemy lines. In territory extremely hostile to our cause.”

“Yes. Sir.”

“With peace negotiations near concluding, we can't afford a noisy debacle, Colonel. There must be no rumour of his capture escaping the scene. None at all. Understood?”

Arthur controlled his rage. Did that comment imply what he thought it did? He bit his lip not trusting himself to speak.

“Take this file, ”Arthur caught the thumb-sized memory chip as it was thrown. “Get the job done and you'll be a Brigadier General by next week.” Durrance told him. “General Gunter will brief you on transport details.”

Arthur's mind was racing. There was enough innocent blood on his hands being a Colonel. It was because this billionaire's greed inspired war that his soul was tainted scarlet. Where was the appeal in further promotion if it was bought in more innocent lives?

Durrance stared back seemingly puffing up in anger. “Well?” he bellowed.

“ I understand, sir. Yes, sir.” Terreborn replied, unsure how best extricate himself from the boiling office.

Ruffling a stack of papers on his desk, the Defence Minister glared at him expectantly.

“Then go get him, Colonel!” He waved a dismissal and Arthur snapped to attention. “And make dammed sure not a word escapes the scene. No one must find out.”

With a nod, Terreborn saluted and shut the door behind.

The dual rotors shrieked as the chopper swooped low over the parched African savanna. Neither animal nor men chanced the sweltering sun, the plain was motionless.

Watching the scenery slip past his tinted sunglasses, Colonel Terreborn writhed in bitter dilemma. His chapped lips were curved in a scowl, while his hands mirrored his frustration, playing with his rifle's magazine. The troops unfortunate enough to share his chopper, gave his foul mood a wide berth. Even Paul Cummings , his closest friend and second in command, seemed reluctant to burst his somber mood.

The trailing helicopters briefly swung in view, rotors thumping loudly as the pilots kept low to the ground, avoiding radar and missile batteries.

Paul watched Terreborn from the seat directly across. He had broken army operation protocols and rode with Arthur, his commander, for the trip. He now slid beside, and nudged the soldier beside to move over.

“Arty mate? What are we doing then?” Paul yelled over the whooping rotors.

Arthur shrugged. He had known Paul for more then ten years. They had attended West Point together, and survived countless battles and tests at each others side. He was more relieved to have Paul at his side, more than he cared admit, but pretended not to hear the question anyway. He saw his silence infuriating him, and hoped his friend wouldn't succumb to his rebellious nature in front of the men. Paul had a knack of speaking his mind, and though Arthur enjoyed it most times, respecting the chain of command was still necessary in front of the company.

“We're in the East African Union, Paul.”Arthur said.

“I know.”

“As for what we're doing here....”

The rushing scenery spun dizzily as the chopper suddenly veered up and dropped to the grassy plain.

“It's green.” The pilot shouted as the skids touched. “Go!”

Grabbing his webbing and leaping out into the swirling dust, Arthur covered his eyes, keeping low. He rushed for the sparse cover of a mopane tree while soldiers leaped from the chopper's open sides. Thirty seconds later the last helicopter flew off toward the Red Sea, and Terreborn with fifty of his best men was abandoned behind enemy lines.

Kneeling among the grass, Arthur pulled the palm-sized GPS from his webbing and took coordinates while Paul led the three platoon captains to his piece of shade, a jaw tight with annoyance.

“Maybe now you can tell us what the hell we're doing here?” Paul snapped.

“It's still a ten mile hike to where we've got to go.” Arthur offered with a smug glare.

“And where is that?” Paul asked. “You can't bring us into enemy territory without a briefing.”

Terreborn looked at his friend and nodded, he was right.

“Okay.” He sighed, considering how best tell them.

He focused on the heat blurred hills in the distance, his conflicting emotions radiating with the boiling land.

“Three days ago, while you were on leave, I was ordered to Washington. My presence requested by the Defence Minister.” He had their attention now. Arthur plucked a long piece of grass from the Earth, struggling to disguise his rampant emotions. “I can tell you first hand, Hector Durrance is a right fucking prick.”

Vince, his senior Captain chuckled.

“Why'd he choose you?” Captain Joshua Stevens asked, his slight Georgian drawl barely apparent. His thin face was sweat streaked, his hair an unruly mop, while his uniform was near tatters after constant campaigning. He was one of Arthur's best officers, despite appearances, and had proved his competence more than once.

“Heard my name in some report from Sudan.” They fell silent with the word. “Anyway, the bloody man decided to use us as his means to finding some scientist and research data.”

“A Scientist?” Vince scoffed. “I thought they went extinct with Human rights and the UN charter?”

“Nope. This one is an exile, or something close to it. He is living in those foot hills in some sort of compound.”

“That's why we're here? To rescue a frigging white coat.” Paul chuckled, taking a swig from his canteen and wiping his dust smeared forehead. He flopped his desert cap on his head and peered at the squatting special ops company, most hidden amongst the arid grass, waiting.

“There's more,” Arthur added. “We have to capture him, not rescue him. And can't let news of his abduction reach the outside world.”

“We know what that means.” Stevens grumbled.

Vince was shaking his head as if an idea slowly crawled up his spine. “Then why in the hell did you choose these men? They're the ones with morals and a conscience,” he said, gesturing to the crouching shadows of the soldiers.

“I know. They're the best there is, mate. That's why I picked them.” Arthur replied as he stood.

Paul came close, hissing with intensity. “I hope you know what you're doing, Arthur.”

Terreborn shot him a quick grin. “So do I, Paul.”

For hours Arthur forced the pace. Crossing the featureless plain, once abundant with animals, it was now an arid lifeless desert. Into the hills Arthur led the line of heavily armed soldiers, navigating through gullies and under a sheer cliff of jagged stone. They took a water break in the shade and he ordered the march to resume two minutes later. Pressing on over a ridge and through dried riverbeds and prickly cactus fields, he halted them on the summit of the valley's western slope, his fatigues drenched with sweat.

Paul and Vince trailed as Arthur forced his way up to the highest escarpment, guzzling water before ducking against the hot bedrock. He beckoned them to crouch and took out his binoculars from his webbing's pouch.

“There's the settlement, in the valley's centre.” Arthur remarked.

“Yeah, but tell me something? What will we do if it's full of innocents?

“I don't know mate. Our choices are rather limited, wouldn't you say?” Arthur replied calmly. “I have the promise of going to military prison if I refuse orders, or living with more guilt. Maybe you could get off with a warning though, Paul. Being a Major and all. You can say I forced you at gun point to commit the massacre.”

“Dammit Arty, this is serious shit!”Paul hissed, his sweat crusted face reddening with stress.

“Don't worry, mate. I know it's serious.” Arthur responded. He saw both Paul and Vince looked unconvinced.

“If we go in there without a plan, Colonel, we're setting ourselves up for mutiny.” Vince said.

Arthur nodded. “ This war is near finished and none of us needs more blood on our hands. Me especially.”

“The Defence Minister's a bastard elitist, who would never dirty his hands with this task. He will only benefit from it. Stiffs like us get screwed with his ambitions,” Vince scoffed.

“Why does he want this scientist? What was his name again?” Paul asked.

“Wong.” Arthur covered his eyes from the sun's glare and looked at Paul, “I asked that filthy red faced tyrant the same thing.” Arthur exclaimed,“ said it's some plans that will set us ahead of the Chinese. Needed for public security.”

“Why keep it so secretive?” Paul asked. “Why not use proper protocol and the chain of command.”

Arthur shrugged.“ I saw nothing but greed in the man's feral little eyes. He's a fucking monster and probably wants whatever this Wong has for himself.”

“ What could Durrance want?” Vince asked. “He already owns half the world's arm's trade and industry, let alone this beloved army of ours.”

“More power?” Paul suggested, glancing to Terreborn.

“Lets go find out.” Arthur said, standing and looking down on his company. “On your feet men. Extended line below the crest. We descend into the valley. Hold your fire, safety's on.”

Tired of speculating, Arthur crossed the crest, signalling the advance with his raised assault rifle. He tramped ahead of his small force, ever vigilant for ambus

The leader, dressed in bright orange robes of a monk, waved down some of the heated insults spat at the armed intruders, calling for order and peace. Arthur could feel the uncertainty of the residents, and of his own men, ordered to refrain from using violence to motivate the unruly crowd. He turned his attention to the Buddhist leader, a short bespectacled man who appeared almost serene with calm. He was careful to show neither derision or fear in Arthur's presence, and looked almost as if he'd expected the company of soldiers to overrun the compound. Terreborn was used to whimpers of terror and anger when his soldiers entered villages, they had a right to be scared. But the leader appeared more relaxed than even himself, eyes never wavering from their analysis of his own.

Dr. Jin Wong's placid expression seemed non-perplexed by the company's of NAU soldiers, or their numerous weapons. Not a hint of fear was suggested in his confident pose. The scientist stood proudly in front of a nervous rabble of almost one hundred and fifty civilians, patiently watching Arthur and his gathering commandos.

Wong had been easy to find. Questioning a gardener tending his plants as they approached the compound had led them to Wong, meditating in an air conditioned office. Moments later Wong rang a bell on the compound's central structure, and herded the community to the sun baked square.

Waiting as the last of the occupants shuffled into the sunshine, Arthur found himself growing intrigued by the mosaic of cultures and races gathered in the dusty square. He intentionally dragged out the silence, inspecting the white chipped compound and its occupants. Along the southern wall were gardens and trees, while on three sides of the walled compound were neat lines of tin shacks. Each had solar panels, many with satellite dishes or antennas and shaded by camouflage-nets. Opposite the square was a two floored building, tin walls painted white. Arthur had checked inside and seen a tangle of machinery and electronics, and some sort of engine.

“What the hell could you be researching, hidden in the foot hills of East Africa?” Arthur asked. Crickets buzzed as every soldier and civilian craned to listen. Wong looked back on his cluster of followers.

“We have fled to this research institute for many reasons, Colonel”

“Is this compound from the UN?” Arthur asked, gesturing to a paint chipped symbol.

“When the organization was disbanded ten years ago, myself, and a few other staff from the UN Space Sciences Institute, came here. We were too close to a break through to quit. Over the years, more have fled the wars and fundamentalists, and we have made many breakthroughs, and are destined to make many more. This is a peaceful community, Colonel. All of us are engineers or scientists of one kind or another. We seek only to be left alone.”

“And you're a monk?”

“In my spare time. I like to think of myself as a fusionologist. But now it is my turn to query you. Where are you from, and what do you intend to do with so many weapons.”

“This is hostile territory.” Arthur stated.

“It is now, yes. May my people stand in the shade?” Wong responded.

Arthur hesitated before nodding consent.

“You've managed to piss off someone very powerful in the NAU. I'm ordered to take you back to Alliance HQ for questioning.” Watching Wong's reaction carefully didn't reveal a grain of emotion from the Buddhist.

“I always knew he would come looking for me. One day.” Wong muttered sadly.

Arthur resisted the impossible urge of comforting the frail monk. It was then he knew the man wasn't an enemy. There was something irresistible in Wong's intelligent gaze that made Arthur want to talk freely, open up, beg for forgiveness. A defiant possibility hovered in mind, and Arthur grew weaker and weaker resisting its potential as Wong explained their research.

“You understand, Colonel, our research here is a threat to many with established power in the western world. It has the means of revolutionizing our times, if used correctly.”

“You're talking about fusion power?” Arthur asked.

“Yes! Among other things. I imagine you've been ordered to steal all our research as well.” Wong grunted acknowledgment, as if Arthur had given the response. “There's a great character in you, Colonel. I can sense it in your eyes. A restlessness, or is it a thirsting desire for our deaths. Ambition, perhaps? Have your dreams not been quenched by these years of bloodshed?”

Wong inclined his head, a dimpled smile spreading as he read Terreborn's tense scrutiny.

“Do you wish for more needless suffering, Colonel? The terrors of war are written on your face as surely as the sun is shining. Do you wish a massacre, here and now? Will sacrificing of more than a hundred and fifty brilliant minds appease your master's greed? Or your thirst for blood?”

“It's you he wants.”

“Ah. I can see the contempt you have for his kind. His desire for power will never be quenched, even by the miracle of contained fusion reaction and propulsion.”

“A spaceship?” Arthur chuckled. “Maybe you've been in the sun too long. No one has bothered with spaceflight since the space hotel explosion in twenty-five, and that blundered lunar landing in twenty two. Space exploration died with the wars.”

“Myself and others intend to bring it back to life.” Wong said carefully.

“This is the most absurd thing I've heard all day. A bunch of techies in the savanna, studying the stars and planning history. I don't buy it.”

“Most of us are very grounded, Colonel. But all have sworn their lives to advance mankind with their skills and talents. It is us who intend to open the gates to a great age of Human evolution.”

“So you're fundamentalists?” Paul asked as he walked up to Wong and Arthur still in the sunshine.

“I and my followers are some of the last remaining believers in humanity's spatial destiny. While the world appears satisfied in continuing the path toward social and economic meltdown,we look to the stars for fulfilling our needs.”

“What are these plans you have, Doctor?” Paul asked.

“You are likely referring to the blueprints of a new kind of spacecraft. It is a type of fusion powered scram-jet, that will revolutionize air transport, travel and space exploration. In one trip to orbit, two hundred tons could, theoretically, be lifted by this propulsion system.”

“So what are these people doing here than?” Arthur interrupted.

“They wait for peace. All believe, Colonel, that it is our species fate to expand into the heavens. We await our moment.”

“Space fundamentalists?” Arthur asked.

“Fanatics of science and reason, perhaps.” Wong said with a sigh, looking on his followers with fondness. “We once had funding from the United Nations, and were the Earth's chief defence against asteroids.” He gestured to the nervous crowd, “now, we are sought for extermination like vermin.”

Arthur didn't respond but Wong seemed to know his dilemma and nodded.

“After you slaughter us, Colonel, beware. Hector Durrance is more dangerous and evil than these words can possibly imply. I had the misfortune of studying with him at Oxford a very long time ago, and learnt first hand of his cruelty.” Wong showed a long crooked scare across his forearm. “This technology has endless potential, Colonel. Using it to explore and exploit space will be for the benefit of all, not one man.”

“How will space exploration benefit all, Dr. Wong?”

“Opening a new frontier will relieve some of the pressure on those exiled, such as myself. Clean, cheap energy will be developed once my community finds the funding and resources. Durrance, on the other hand, wants the secrets of fusion for all the wrong reasons.”

“I believe it.”Arthur admitted.

“With several reactors, we could supply power to a continent. And we will, one day. However, I fear the repercussion on society should your master attain such powers.”

Arthur was allowing himself to be swayed, and knew it. The six year conflict was on the verge of a peaceful settlement. How could he let Durrance sacrifice his soldiers honour, again, after he had sworn never to kill innocents again. His decision was forming, but Arthur worried of his men, and the repercussions such disobedience would have on them.

Wong was watching him carefully.

“You must believe me, Colonel.” Wong whispered, “I can not go with you, and would rather die than pass my knowledge to such a tyrant.”

Arthur saw Vince walking toward them from his inspection of the compound, Wong continued.

“Colonel Terreborn, look past duty and obligation, and embrace logic. You're employed by an evil man, an evil empire, and you know it. We peacefully plan a great leap for mankind, once peace is declared. My community believes great events are needed to instill hope in this tired world. The time is nearing when we will awaken the slumbering billions from their consumption-driven existence, and point them to a new, untouched frontier. ”

Despite his better judgment Arthur was infected by Wong's words, and relieved by Vince's distraction.

“Sir.” Vince said, stamping his boots together.

“What?”

“We have a lot to carry, Colonel. Every shack has several computers. There is some extremely complex machinery in that building.” He pointed to the tall, tin walled structure. “Third platoon is retrieving the data drives, but it'll take a while.”

Arthur nodded glancing to the monk who seemed undisturbed.

“Paul.” Arthur gestured to his friend. “Dr. Wong here, says he has the recipe to Humanity's greatness.” Arthur squinted at the orange robed scientist. “Explain it again, Doctor.”

“We have the designs for a fusion scram-jet,” Wong replied seriously, “and when this silly war is finished, me and my people will incorporate a new organization that will put the technology to a noble use. The machinery in the workshop is for testing the magnetic generator, and the prototype engine.”

“Looks pretty small for a fusion reactor,” Vince mumbled. “I heard they weren't feasible because the size.”

“In the past this was correct.” Wong explained, “however, with a magnetized chamber we're able to contain and direct the reaction in whatever direction we wish. An advanced array of lasers accelerate and zap the deuterium and hydrogen atoms inside. The result is a controllable and continuous propulsion system, and a power source unmatched by conventional energies.”

“What kind of organization will you incorporate, then?” Paul demanded, “another energy conglomerate? There's enough of those stealing our money already, doctor.”

“ For years a dozen talented scholars have prepared the path for the establishment of an organization. It's purpose will be to exploit the heavens, and to achieve great triumphs for all mankind.”

“So you're no different than Durrance after all. You desire power above all else.” Arthur said to the Buddhist, whose dark eyes fixed back on him, a patient smile on his lips.

“Yes. I desire power.” Wong said, “ Yet my motives are different. Where Durrance wishes power for personal enrichment and dominance, I desire it for fulfilling the Human spirit, for meeting resource needs and socially healing our wounds.”

Arthur tried to speak but Wong cut his words with a raised hand.

“What do you plan to do once this childish war is over, Colonel Terreborn? There will be no need for soldiers like yourself. You will likely be retired on a tiny pension, left to contemplate the evils you accomplished. Until some politician has further use for you, your existence will be meaningless.”

“What's your point, Wong?” Paul asked.

“The point is, when the NAU rests its weary warriors, it will fall to us to revive hope for the future.”

Paul shrugged unconvinced and glanced to Arthur who was pondering the words, drumming fingers on his dusty chin.

“If you mean to kill us, than do it,” Wong replied, jutting his chin out defiantly. He was resting his weight on a carved cane, and Arthur thought he saw concealed anxiety in the scientist's glare.

Terreborn looked to his soldiers, unable to meet Wong's fixated gaze any longer. He had known this day was coming since leaving Washington, it didn't make the looming decision any easier. What would his men think of him? Or do, rather? He looked them over, feeling a wave of affection for each of his silently attentive company.

The rabble of prisoners in the shade of a tree and the row of shacks, were fidgeting with tension. Many eyed the armed platoons with animal-like desperation. With one word he could wipe them all out. Terreborn was all-to-aware of having the power of life or death over the assortment of foreigners. In a flourish of bullets and blood he could steal one hundred and fifty suls. The occupants were deathly silent. Could they read his thoughts?

Arthur studied his company, standing guard around the sun drenched compound. He knew most would loath him the rest of their days, if he followed orders. Was that why he had chosen these ones? Because they had all proved their higher morals? Their obedience to his whims? He couldn't recall a more difficult decision, but knew already he couldn't live with a hundred and fifty more lives on his conscience. A wave of nausea flooded his body. What was he about to do? He felt sick of the army, of politicians and bureaucracy and especially of war. He had never been in charge of his own fate, perhaps it was time to take his existence back, and direct it to a noble cause.

Nodding to himself, Arthur glared back to Wong, than his anxious men behind.

“If I kill all you bastards, I 'd be cutting the throat of humanity's only hope for the future; isn't that right, Wong?” Arthur asked, hefting his rifle and staring unblinking and utterly serious at the man.

“Tragically, Colonel Terreborn, you very well might be.”

“Than tell me, Dr. Wong. To preserve the lives of your band of space cadets here-” the crackle of the transceiver on Ardron's radio headset stole Arthur's attention.

“It's General Proctor sir. He wants to talk with you.” Ardron said.

“Shit.” Terreborn hissed, grabbing the headset.

“Terreborn here.” He snapped into the receiver.

“Colonel. I've been ordered to relay a direct message from the Defence Minster.”

“Go ahead, General.”

“It says, and I quote, 'You are under satellite observation. If the mission isn't accomplished in the coming minutes, you will be sacrificing your regiment and reputation. An alternative plan will be enacted'. ”

Arthur blanched, looking to the skies and knowing Durrance likely had missile drones circling above. If the Minister couldn't have the technology, no one would.

“You have your orders Terreborn. Do you copy?” Proctor said over the receiver.

“General, my orders are to slaughter more than a hundred and fifty unarmed civilians! These are innocent scientists with no part in this fucking conflict, except to further our beloved defence minister's unquenchable greed! Tell him I'm a soldier, not his executioner.” Arthur spat into the microphone.

“I am aware of your orders, Colonel. They won't be easy, but I'd hate to see a promising officer like yourself put against the wall for this.” Proctor said.

“Copy that sir. Will you take full responsibility for these war crimes I'm ordered to commit?” Terreborn asked.

“I'm not on the ground, Colonel. Do your duty,” Proctor replied. “ that is all. You'll be rewarded for your devotion.”

“Yeah, with a firing squad or prison cell.,”Arthur spat. “I will not murder for you, or that swine Durrance. He can fuck himself! You have my response, Proctor. These innocents will live,” he yelled, under my protection.” He handed the receiver back to Ardron, who looked worried.

A stream of sweat, chill on his blistering skin, rolled down his right temple. Arthur felt every millimetre of its descent, and sensed the pounding of his heart, and the nervous quiver of his limbs. This is one of my life's greatest choices, he reflected, and it was made. Was he really willing to abandon his nation, his government and home for these civilians right to live?

“Captain Stevens.” Arthur hollered. Josh Stevens trotted from the inner compound where his platoon guarded the perimeter. “Assemble the men, right here, three ranks.” He gestured to the dusty square. Putting his loyal soldiers into such a position, gnawed at his thoughts. As they ran to ranks and assembled, Terreborn inspected them face by face, saddened at dragging each into his defiance. Some had families and kids in the NAU, futures and dreams of peace. Would they throw away their citizenship for these strangers, as he was willing too?

“ Listen up.,” Terreborn began. “Our orders are to kill these people, take the data, and flee to the northern border after dispatching these witnesses.”

The rabble of scientists gasped, some hollering profanity at their political leaders, while others were solemn, a group made to leave but oddly, Wong's outstretched hand held them in place.

Arthur raised his voice.

He took off his beret, looking at the cap-brass with tear glistening eyes.“How long have we fought and bled for our country. Our empire. Now it demands this slaughter, for some math equation on memory chips? I say fuck the politicians! Durrance should be hung. Let them live with innocent blood on their hands, as I won't.” Throwing his beret to the sun dried Earth, Arthur ground it into the dust to the utter shock of his company. “I've killed enough for elitist greed! Haven't you? Durrance is a war criminal, gangster, and now my enemy. I spit on his orders, and would rather mutiny than fulfil his evil wishes. Are we not soldiers? Do we fight to save and protect civilians? Or to execute them in daylight like plagued cattle? These orders convince me we fight for the wrong side.”

Arthur suddenly bereft of the burden of command, knew he had made the right decision by his relief.

“Follow me if you choose. I will strive to see you all through this. Return to the coast for NAU extraction should you wish. I have enough blood on my conscious, and returning to our families as murderers of woman and old men will not suffice! These peoples only crime is possessing a technology our Defence Minister wants for himself. Make your owns decisions.”

“We're with you Colonel!” Several veterans howled, others cheered but some left ranks.

“Tell your citizens, Wong, to gather every piece of vital data from their homes. They are to do this in,” Arthur glanced at his Timex, “ two minutes.”

The monk didn't budge. “I will not move until you tell me what you intend, Colonel.”

“I intend to save you and your community. Stay and discuss it if you must, but we must get out of here, fast. Anyone willing to follow, evacuate this compound ASAP.” Arthur shouted, glancing to the hostile sky. He looked back to his stunned company, many unsure what to do.

“Men. I'm sorry for putting you in this position. I really am. But my moral code has been breached. “ I'd say in five minutes this place will be levelled by missiles. Either you join me in saving these civilians, or flee this vicinity now.”

“I'm with you sir!” Shouted Nat, the machine-gunner as more joined the call. Others discussed the situation furiously, some solemn and confused others insubordinate and angry. Several groups, led by the older family oriented NCO's, slipped away toward the compound's rear. Arthur let them go, knowing those men weren't able to turn their backs on waiting wives and their young children back home. He didn't blame them, and was fortunate being an orphan.

“Any man who follows in defying Durrance's orders, is a true patriot of the NAU. Our nation was founded on the ideals of Human rights, and protecting the weak, not killing them. Stand by me in bringing down the bastards who put us in this position? Such sinister men will never hold power over me again!” Arthur hollered. The remaining company cheered and even Wong was clapping, a grin on his pale face.

“You have sacrificed much to help us, Colonel. Such will not be forgotten. For that, we thank you.” Wong bowed, than turned to his expectant citizens. “Gather all vital for the visions fulfilment. We go to the caves! Two minutes my people. Two. Now hurry! Your very lives hang in the balance!”

Arthur nodded approvingly to Vince, surprised by Wong's concise orders which were followed instantly by the residents who dispersed at a sprint. The raced among the buildings when Vince, fidgeting beside Arthur, turned with a sly grin.

“What is it Vince?”

“Thank god you're here, sir.” Vince said with a shake of his head. “I could've never followed through with those orders. Not with so many cute woman in Wong's entourage.”

“Leave it to a woman to change your loyalties ,eh? I'm sick and tired of killing for those ruthless swine in Washington, Vince. They think nothing of playing with peoples existence, always for profit. If you stood at the desk of that wretched man Durrance, and saw his corrupt glare, it wouldn't just take a piece of ass to sway your loyalties.”

Vince chuckled.“ You're probably right. So what's a corrupt glare look like than?” he asked.

“It's what lay behind the eyes.” Arthur said.

“Colonel, sir. You may have signed the death warrant of everyone here. Even those who don't wish to follow becoming a fugitive and mutineer.” Vince mumbled, rubbing dust from his forehead.

“Vince you're my friend, and I love you as a brother. But their death warrant was already signed. Durrance said not a word can escape, so what makes you think he'd let us live to accuse him of ordering a massacre. I'm not about to become a war criminal because that prick wishes me too. It's time to take the high road. As soldiers we protect those who can't defend themselves. That's the way it should be, and will be.” Arthur said, secretly dreading a rejection and the demise of a close friendship. He wanted beyond all else his closest mates at his side. Pride demanded they follow on their own free will. “Are you with me?”

“Of course, sir,” Vince replied, “I'm with you all the way. Just wanted your honest response.”

Arthur breathed a sigh of relief and slapped Vince's back. “You will always have, it you treasonous prick.” They laughed together.

Wong was scurrying this way and that, organizing his followers who carried backpacks or duffel bags crammed with precious research and belongings.

“I'm curious how long before we're nuked.” Vince joked. Arthur's humour had evaporated realizing they had a vast valley to circumvent. He looked to the skies again, expectant of attack.

“He'll send something. He didn't seem to be a man who could tolerate no for an answer. Start evacuating the compound.” Terreborn ordered, and Vince strode into the ranks, shouting commands.

“Leave the compound! ” Wong yelled. “Head for the hills, people. It's just as we practised. Quickly now.”

Arthur's breath was ripped from his lungs. Searing pincers of flame swept in all direction before the heat struck with a fiery breeze, flattening him to the dust. He buried his face in the dirt, tasting the bitter soil, cursing the name Durrance. A filthy cloud of smoke and debris blackened the skies, and as the rumble died, Arthur hefted himself. He helped Wong to his feet and watched the compound disintegrate in flame. Tin roofs melted, the workshops and research lab's were gutted with fire and oily smoke. Bio-gas cylinders burst, solar panels shattered and another missile thumped into the perimeter, sweeping the peaceful compound with ruin. A dog tore from the site, its back aflame as two of Wong's followers, slow to evacuate fell to a massive ball of flame which torched the skin and hair from their bodies, and scorched them to ash.

“They're gone. Let's get out of here.” Arthur said.

Pulling Wong, who had tears in his eyes, Terreborn ran deeper into the orchard's sparse cover, wishing he was deaf to the hideous screams of the stubbornly slow. Soon only the crackling fires and billowing smoke was left, grass fires ignited the dry scrub around the scorched walls, the gardens smoked. An aerial drone flew low overhead, a missile screeching over their heads, shivering eardrums as it struck the far corner of the shacks, sending streams of roiling flame bubbling to the heavens. The drone arced overhead, flying over the valley walls, empty of missiles.

“I know. Tell the able bodied men to help with the refugees with cargo and wounded, we march in a minute.” Arthur replied, staring over the valley's floor and knowing there was no hope of safety until they were in the foothills; a long march away.

Wong was wiping sweat from his bald scalp as Arthur found him.

“Where are these caves, Dr. Wong?”

“They're several miles away. Up there,” He pointed to a shard of cliff, high on the summit of the western slope. The cliff-face jutted into the sky like a twisted thumbs up, wavering with the merciless heat. The ugly, uprooted chip of granite was their sole sanctuary, and a long ways off.

“We're in for some trouble.” Arthur replied, knowing the distance they needed to cover would allow plenty of time for Durrance to send air-support, and ensure word of his mutiny never escaped.