An Unfortunate War

By Joe East

Three hundred sixty-seven parsecs from Earth, a battle looms.

With the discovery of hyperdrive technology, humans gained the ability to explore their galaxy. As Earths population exploded, the discovery of a new planet of nearly identical size and resources was welcome news. The establishment of a colony on the new planet, now known as Haven, was a crucial investment in humanitys future. After 250 years, the colony thrives. Havens self-sufficient residents love their world and no longer feel any attachment to Earth.

But back on Earth, conditions grow increasingly desperate, and the people look to Haven for salvation. Rich in agricultural opportunities and minerals, the colony could be Earths salvation, but the people of Haven are cautious by nature. To preserve resources for future generations, Havens government has refused Earths latest demands. Peaceful by nature, they must now prepare to defend their colony from off-world invaders who would strip their planet dry as well. In order to protect their planet, as well as their sovereignty, the people of Haven prepare for war.

John Collins, a skilled construction worker, has been drafted to serve in Havens militia. There, he meets his commanding officer, Helen Ramses. A raven-haired beauty, she treats John like her personal servantand sparks begin to fly as their personalities clash. Other members of the fire team begin to wonder if John or Helen will survive their tense relationship.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Sep 11, 2015
• ISBN: 9781491776292

Joe East

Joe East served his country as an air force communications intelligence specialist. As a civilian, he enjoyed a thirty-six-year career teaching logistics, program management, and contracting to soldiers and others. He has a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University and a master’s degree from Florida Institute of Technology. Joe lives in Madison, Alabama, with his wife, Joan, and three dogs.

Book preview

PROLOGUE

Following the discovery of hyperdrive technology, manned exploration of our galaxy was undertaken. America’s interstellar explorers discovered, claimed and colonized Haven; a planet 367 parsecs from Earth.

Haven is almost identical to Earth in size, climate and natural resources. Two hundred fifty years after the first settlers arrived; Haven’s residents are now completely loyal to their world and no longer feel any attachment to Earth.

In the meantime, Earth is no longer able to feed all of its population. Desperate for food, America has turned to Haven and demanded that Haven grow and produce more agricultural products for export. Haven’s government has refused America’s latest demands because it means allowing millions of farmers to immigrate to their planet. Haven’s peaceful residents now face an invasion by Earth which will force them to give up their sovereignty and way of life.

John Collins, a skilled and highly-paid construction worker, has been drafted to serve in Haven’s expanding militia as a vehicle mechanic. On reporting for duty, he meets Helen Ramses, his commanding officer. Helen has both a tough reputation and a fiery temper and she treats John like her personal servant. Sparks fly as their personalities clash. Other members of Helen’s fire team wonder if John or Helen will survive their tense relationship as Haven prepares for war.

CHAPTER 1

NEGOTIATIONS (EARTH)

President Phillip Reginald Williams studied his visitor; Ambassador Jonathan Allen, Haven’s representative on Earth. Ambassador Allen patiently waited for President Williams to speak.

Phillip Williams was acknowledged as Earth’s most powerful leader because he governed fifty-five percent of Earth’s remaining arable land.

The dwindling supply of arable land occurred when poorer nations failed to promote sound agricultural practices; resulting in less land available for farming. Recently, millions of hectares of East European farmland were temporarily lost due to a terrorist group infecting winter crops with a genetically modified variant of wheat rust.

Today, most nations are forced to import food from America to feed their citizens. Interestingly, the increasing demand for American agriculture products triggered a reversal of earlier land use practices. Arable land is now being reclaimed from urban sprawl and converted back into farmland. Suburbanites are moving into compact cities and living in skyscrapers or below ground.

Two hundred fifty years ago, an American space exploration team discovered and claimed Haven; a planet similar to Earth in age, size, climate and land mass. Shortly afterward, American pioneers began arriving on Haven; thus cementing America’s claim to that planet as its territory. During the past seventy-five years, Haven has become an important source of food controlled by America.

Focusing on his visitor, President Williams said, Ambassador Allen, the Taxation Commission has given its final ruling. Haven is required to lower its export tax to 1.25% of the wholesale value of all goods being shipped to America. Further, the Commerce Commission has ruled that Haven cannot limit the quantity of goods being shipped. There is really nothing more you can say to change our position in these matters.

President Williams, surely you understand that Haven must be permitted to protect its environment and conserve our way of life. Allowing unlimited immigration to Haven will forever change our unique culture and our deeply held religious beliefs.

Ambassador, as a religious person, you must look at the greater good for mankind. We estimate over ten million people on Earth will starve each year if we don’t increase Haven’s farming capacity.

Mr. President, your exploration teams have recently discovered another planet which can grow food for earth’s populations.

Unfortunately, this planet is not readily available for this purpose. As you undoubtedly know, terraforming a planet takes years and costs trillions of credits. No, we require Haven’s immediate assistance.

President Williams, while I sympathize with the plight of Earth’s population, it is not Haven’s problem. Social policies encouraging population growth, weak environmental regulations, wars, and rampant consumption by the wealthy has decimated Earth’s ability to continue supporting its population. Your predecessors have utterly failed to provide leadership which might have circumvented your current dilemma.

Ambassador, while I respect those who have critical opinions of Earth’s past and present leadership, there is another detail I hoped we could have avoided mentioning. But the fact is, Haven is a territory of America and our laws and policies take precedence over Haven’s wishes. If you cannot persuade your government to accept our final position on immigration, our Agriculture Commission is prepared to send enough growers and equipment to Haven to substantially increase agriculture production.

Mr. President, my government gave me explicit instructions regarding Haven’s position on trade and immigration. These new policies proposed by your government compel me to return home for further instructions.

Ambassador Allen, please convey my respects to Governor General Johnson. Have him contact me if there are additional questions. I look forward to our next meeting and wish you a pleasant trip home.

After the door closed behind Ambassador Allen, President Williams grinned, turned to his Chief of Staff and said, Harry, if Haven’s leadership is anything like that little wimp, I’ll crush them like a bug. These conversations held under the guise of diplomatic negotiations have been a total waste of my time. I want large numbers of Americans to immigrate to Haven. We’ll show them what Earth-style farming is all about. I want you to make it happen. As you well know, we’ve got to do something fast. Sporadic rioting has been reported on three continents. You and I know widespread insurrection is just around the corner.

*     *     *

Ambassador Jonathan Allen left the President’s office and hurried to his official residence to start preparations for the long trip home to Haven. As he entered his residence, he summoned an aide to his office.

After switching on ‘white noise’ equipment designed to ensure privacy, he said, Sergio, please contact Jim Anderson. Tell him I am going to visit Haven for a few weeks. Ask him to bring me any notes and gifts he may have for his family. Also, please schedule an embassy staff meeting to convene at 3:00 PM today. We must begin preparations for a trip to Haven.

*     *     *

Sergio met Jim Anderson at the Lafayette Restaurant for lunch. Jim, it’s good to see you today. How is your family?

Oh the family is fine. Jenny is growing so fast. She started kindergarten this year.

Wow, it seems only yesterday when I saw you and Victoria at the Tupelo hospital. That was the day you were taking Jenny home.

Sergio, your memory is phenomenal. But I’m sure you called this meeting for another purpose. What can I do for you?

Jim, the Ambassador is leaving Earth and returning to Haven for consultations with the Governor General. He is volunteering to take any letters or gifts you may have for Victoria and Jenny.

That’s very kind of the Ambassador. Shipping items home is expensive and this will save me lots of money. Please tell the Ambassador I’ll bring some personal gifts for my family this afternoon.

After returning to his apartment, Jim opened his safe and selected four chips containing data purchased or stolen during the past few months by his team of agents.

Jim left a fifth chip in his safe. It contained a large collection of personal data giving the chip owner access to a number of America’s computers. These computers were connected to power stations, banks, water treatment plants, air traffic control, shipping, communication satellites and selected automated production facilities.

Agent Anderson put the four chips in his suit pocket and drove to the Ambassador’s Residence. After entering the Ambassador’s office, he handed the chips to the Ambassador for inclusion in the diplomatic case.

Mr. Ambassador, these chips contain specifications and drawings for the latest hyperpulse engines used on Earth’s interstellar transport ships; specifications for a new armored vehicle; and specifications for a revolutionary fighter design. The fourth chip contains the most recent intelligence on America’s invasion plans. That specific information was furnished by a Haven agent serving on America’s military planning staff. Until today, we considered this merely contingency planning and nothing to be concerned about. However, after hearing President Williams’ conversation with this Chief of Staff following your meeting this morning, there can be no doubt about America’s real intentions toward Haven.

Jim, how the devil did you manage to install a listening device in the President’s Office?

Sir, I must decline to answer that question and it is imperative you keep this most secret. When America invades Haven, this information source could be our key to victory.

Jim, I’m impressed and deeply appreciative of what you and your team have accomplished. Regretfully, you must stay behind and prepare for the worst possible scenario. The sad state of Earth and America’s planned actions toward Haven is placing our world in a precarious position. We need you and your team to remain behind and available to continue helping Haven.

I fully understand, Mr. Ambassador. My team will await your signal. We have finalized our plan; code named Dragon’s Spoon, which inflicts destruction, delay, and confusion to America’s manufacturing and sustainment capability. Jim paused; then continued, Sir, I wish you a safe trip home and please let our families know we are doing well and not to worry about us.

After the invasion begins, America will block all transmissions from Haven. Jim, if America sends an invasion force, I want you to implement Dragon’s Spoon. Here is a chip containing Governor General Johnson’s written authorization. Commence your operations one day after the first Earth soldier lands on Haven.

Mr. Ambassador, my best wishes to you on your upcoming trip. May Haven prosper; forever.

Ambassador Allen replied, And may you prosper, too.

CHAPTER 2

GRADUATING FROM WEST POINT (AMERICAN FORCES)

Cadet Bill Anders was taller and more muscular than most of his classmates at West Point. He also possessed a fiery temper and an overwhelming desire to get ahead - no matter what it cost. Bill was a member of the West Point ice hockey team and was noted for his rough play and frequent penalties. His nickname was The Sandman because of his many knockouts.

Bill, why don’t you leave it alone? Cadet Smith didn’t mean to bump into you this morning. Speaking as your friend and roommate, you’re ‘making a mountain out of a mole hill.’

Jerry, I won’t have that smug asshole going around telling people that he hit an upperclassman and got away with it. I’ve even heard there is a betting pool among freshmen cadets on how many upperclassmen they can accidentally hit.

Buddy, you’re imagining things. I don’t know about you but I want to graduate next month, get my commission and get outta here.

Looking down at his clenched fist, Bill added, Maybe I should catch that little punk alone and have a frank conversation with him. It would be easy to get the truth out of him.

Bill, if you mess with that kid, you risk getting kicked out of the Academy. And just to teach the little punk a lesson? That doesn’t make sense.

Yeah, maybe; we’ll see what happens.

*     *     *

A month later, Bill’s class received their commissions and was given assignments in a wide range of Army units. The 1,000 graduating cadets hurriedly exchanged their school uniforms for regular Army attire and headed out en masse.

Lieutenant William Anders was assigned to the 415th Armored Battalion stationed at Fort Boende in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This remote location was the secondary launch site for the big American interstellar ships. A small military force was stationed there to protect the launch facility. Located near the equator, Fort Boende was not considered a choice assignment. At West Point, assignments are awarded based on a cadet’s academic standing. Fort Boende was ranked near the bottom which mirrored Lieutenant Anders’ grade point average.

Newly commissioned officers customarily take a month of leave prior to reporting for duty. Accordingly, Lieutenant Anders requested thirty days of leave to be with his family in Connecticut prior to reporting to his unit.

Instead of immediately going home, Bill put his plan to kidnap Cadet Jonathan Smith into action. Wearing civilian clothes, he purchased a ticket to New Haven and gave it to a shabbily-dressed man who was panhandling outside the ground transportation terminal.

Using a false identity, Bill rented a nondescript personal hauler and checked into a hotel about seven kilometers from West Point. He scouted the area, made a few purchases and found the perfect place in which to meet privately with Smith. Bill then began his reconnaissance by quietly watching places frequented by cadets.

A couple of days later, Bill spotted Cadet Smith walking near a pizza restaurant. Bill identified himself as Lieutenant Anders and invited Smith to go for a drink. The cadet was flattered that an officer would invite him for a beer and readily accepted. A couple of beers later while Smith visited the toilet, Bill put a Rohypnol derivative into Smith’s drink and waited for the expected effect. It didn’t take long for the drug to begin working. He helped Smith out of the bar and into his rental vehicle and drove to the secluded site.

Bill fastened Cadet Smith’s arms and legs to a chair in an old wooden structure located near an abandoned farmhouse. The building appeared to have been a workshop.

Cadet, can you hear me?

Bill slapped Cadet Smith’s face a couple of times and repeated his question, Wake up! Can you hear me?

Slowly, Cadet Smith’s eyes opened slightly. His head was bobbing and he seemed to be trying to focus on Bill’s voice.

Let’s wake up, Cadet!

Smith slowly focused his eyes on Bill and softly responded, Where am I?

Cadet Smith, you’re in my ‘truth chamber.’ I’m going to ask you some questions and I expect you to answer each question truthfully and without reservation. Is that clear?

Smith’s head bobbed again as he said, What questions?

Bill slapped Smith again and said, Cadet, you’d better stay focused; I’m not playing with you.

Bill slapped him again even harder and said, Are you getting my drift?

Y-y-yes, sir

Bill grinned and continued, Okay, now that I have your full attention, I want you to tell me about your little game of ‘accidentally’ hitting upperclassmen.

Smith looked at Bill and didn’t say anything at first – then slowly answered, Sir, seven of us have a pool going to see how many upperclassmen we can accidentally bump without being caught. I know what I did was wrong and I apologize for my inappropriate action.

Bill smiled. He was pleased about getting the confession and validating his suspicions. He thought, ‘Okay, now that I have his confession, what punishment is appropriate?’ A few moments later, Bill made his decision and hit Smith’s jaw with his right fist using a quick uppercut. Almost in slow motion, Cadet Smith and his chair toppled backwards to the floor.

Bill heard a dull crack as the back of Smith’s head smacked a loose brick lying on the floor. Smith’s body went limp and Bill noticed a trickle of blood spreading into a small pool.

After vainly feeling for a pulse in Smith’s neck he thought, ‘Oh crap, he’s dead. I didn’t hit him that hard. His head bounced off the brick and his skull must be cracked! It was an accident. Holy crap; why did this have to happen to me? Well that doesn’t really matter, does it? He’s dead and I have to get rid of the body unless I want to lose my commission and spend a long time in prison for manslaughter.’

After pacing the floor for a few minutes, Bill came up with a plan to get rid of the body. Outside the workshop was an old well. Bill heard a reassuring splash as Smith’s body hit the water. That evening, Cadet Smith’s absence would be noted and reported to authorities.

Bill thoroughly cleaned his ‘truth chamber’ before leaving for Connecticut. The remainder of his family leave was uneventful. Bill contacted some friends who graduated with him from high school and even had a few dates. He enjoyed the fact that women were attracted to an officer; especially when wearing a uniform. He made sure everyone knew that he had spent a few days in New Haven before coming home to Stamford. His initial regret about accidentally killing Cadet Smith faded completely from Bill’s conscious. A month later, it was as if it had never happened.

CHAPTER 3

FORT BOENDE (AMERICAN FORCES)

Bill’s flight from New York arrived just outside the city of Boende at 9:00 AM local time. The rocket powered plane crossed six time zones in only two hours. As he exited the plane and began walking toward baggage claim, he immediately noticed the many different aromas which seemed to permeate the terminal. Bill was met at baggage claim by a sergeant.

Lieutenant, welcome to Boende. My name is Sergeant Jerry Rogers. Let me take your bag. My hauler is parked just outside and to the right.

Thank you, Sergeant.

Exiting the terminal, Bill was struck by a wave of hot air. The heat outside the terminal felt like you were standing in front of a blast furnace. Regretfully, the hauler was not air conditioned, either.

As the hauler departed the airport, the sergeant looked over at Bill and said, Sir, it takes several weeks to get used to this stinking heat. I’ve found the best thing to do is drink lots of water and limit your physical activity outdoors until your body adjusts. Luckily, we have air conditioned offices and barracks. Even our gym is air conditioned.

Thank you, Sergeant for the health tip. This is my first time to be so near the equator. I suppose it is like this year round?

Yes sir, pretty much so.

What do you do for entertainment out here?

Sir, some soldiers date contractor personnel and others have found local girlfriends. The Fort sponsors tours to various places during our time off and we have lots of vids in our day room. We have a well-equipped gym complete with a bowling alley and swimming pool. There are a few good restaurants in town and several bars where they serve local beer. The beer is pretty good, too. Boende also has a casino filled with a variety of games invented to separate you from your money. That’s just about all there is to do around here. The most exciting thing to see is a rocket launch. The Colonel insists that everyone not on guard duty be permitted to see the launch. Lieutenant, a rocket launch is well worth seeing. It beats fireworks any day.

He continued, Sir, when we get to Fort Boende, I’ll drop you off at battalion headquarters and stow your gear in your quarters.

That’s very kind of you, Sergeant. How far is it to the fort?

"Sir, it’s about sixteen klicks from town to Fort Boende.

*     *     *

Welcome to Fort Boende, Lieutenant Anders.

Thank you Sergeant Major. Is the Colonel expecting me?

Yes sir. I’ll take you in.

Sergeant Major Tinsdale knocked on Lieutenant Colonel Miles Harper’s door and entered with Lieutenant Anders in tow.

Colonel Harper, Lieutenant William Anders reporting for duty.

Returning Bill’s salute, Colonel Harper said, Lieutenant Anders, welcome aboard. Please have a seat. I’ll brief you about our battalion and will give you my expectations. Afterwards, I’ll introduce you to your company commander.

Thank you, sir. I’m really excited about joining this battalion. I’ve heard a lot of good things about your unit.

Lieutenant, I’m proud of the 415th. Our primary mission is to protect the launch facility. Since our battalion assumed responsibility for security, there have been no unauthorized entries.

He continued, Boende is scheduled for four launches this year. Seeing, feeling and hearing a rocket launch itself into space is an unforgettable experience. Everything stops and everybody gets to see each launch. It’s really the highlight of your tour of duty.

Yes sir, I’m looking forward to seeing a launch.

After meeting with Colonel Harper, Bill walked over to the B Company area with Colonel Harper and was introduced to his company commander, Captain Melissa Steiner.

Captain Steiner walked up to Bill, extended her hand and said, Welcome to Company B, Lieutenant Anders.

As Bill shook her hand, he quickly noted her appearance. Captain Steiner stood just above one and a half meters, weighted roughly fifty kilograms, with short blonde hair and blue eyes. Her only noticeable physical flaw was a wide scar running from the corner of her mouth to her ear; possibly caused by a vehicle accident or bullet wound. She didn’t try to hide the scar with makeup nor did she appear to be self-conscious about its presence. Bill concluded she was a career-oriented armor officer and the Army was all that really mattered to her.

After the battalion commander departed, Captain Steiner asked Bill to be seated. She sat behind her desk and quietly announced, Lieutenant Anders, I’ve received a message from the New York State Police notifying me that you are to be formally deposed as part of an ongoing investigation. Do you know anything about this?

Bill replied, No Ma’am. I have no idea why they want my testimony. But I’ll be happy to cooperate.

That’s good to hear. Please be in my office when they call at 7:00 PM this evening and let me know if you want an attorney present during the deposition.

Ma’am, I’m sure I won’t need an attorney.

She continued, Fine. Now let’s talk about your platoon. I am assigning you the 1st Platoon. You are replacing an officer who was selected to command an armored company in Florida. Lieutenant Don Marks was one of the highest rated officers serving in the 415th Battalion and the soldiers assigned to 1st Platoon adored him. I’m afraid you’ll have your work cut out for you in filling his shoes.

Bill was thinking, ‘It sounds like Lieutenant Marks was more to his company commander than just a platoon leader. At the very least, Captain Steiner must have been president of his fan club.’

After an awkward silence, Melissa continued, "Lieutenant Anders, our battalion’s training budget was cut again this year. Although we have a full complement of cheetahs, we can only afford to operate them during our annual two-week battalion level maneuvers. The remainder of our time is spent on simulators, physical fitness programs and in patrolling our assigned area outside the launch facility. In spite of funding limitations, morale is high and my company is ready to fight.

Your job is to ensure your platoon maintains its high readiness level. If you have questions or need my help, don’t hesitate to see me. As you know, my job is to prepare you for company command. But before you can become a company commander, you’ll have to prove yourself as a platoon leader. Have you any questions?

No Ma’am. Everything is perfectly clear.

Take it easy for a few days until you become acclimated to the weather and adjust to the six hour time difference between here and New York. If you feel up to it, you’re invited to have dinner with myself and your fellow officers of B Company tomorrow evening.

That sounds like a lot of fun. I’ll be there, Ma’am.

After the briefing by Captain Steiner, Bill walked out of her office thinking, ‘Not only I am stuck in the middle of nowhere, I’m saddled with a giddy-headed commanding officer who has loser written all over her. She does have a cute figure though. If I get desperate for sex; maybe I’ll favor her with my attentions.’

Bill took a quick tour of his quarters where he noted that his gear had arrived. He next walked over to his platoon area and met with Sergeant Roland Miller; the platoon sergeant.

Sergeant Miller said, Lieutenant Anders, may I suggest we go to the dining hall and have lunch?

During lunch, Bill asked, Sergeant Miller, where and at what time is formation?

Sir, company formation is held at 0600 each morning in the company headquarters’ parking lot.

What is the uniform of the day and do you have an extra set of unit patches?

Lieutenant, based on the clothing sizes listed in your personnel file, six sets of tropical combat uniforms have been put in your closet. Regarding the unit patch; a couple of patches have been placed on your desk in your quarters.

Fine; now what is on our training schedule?

Sir, tomorrow 1st Platoon is having an open locker inspection followed by a tour of the motor pool. Time has been set aside for you to meet with the squad leaders, address the platoon, and observe our physical fitness training.

Thank you, Sergeant Miller. I’ll see you in the morning." Bill returned to his quarters and put away his gear and took a long shower.

At 6:45 PM, Bill returned to Captain Steiner’s office and waited for the call from the New York State Police. While waiting, he and Captain Steiner talked about his plans for 1st Platoon.

Bill asked, Captain Steiner, what can you tell me about our Boende launch facility security mission?

Bill, platoons in the battalion are assigned guard duty on a rotating basis. Each platoon works an eight hour shift. This means a platoon has guard duty about ten times each twenty-eight day period. Your platoon is scheduled …

They were interrupted by the call from New York.

The call was displayed on a vid unit. Lieutenant Anders, my name is State Trooper Reynolds from the Special Investigations Division. With me is Mr. Paul Archer; a New York Assistant District Attorney. This interview is being recorded.

Bill responded, Trooper Reynolds, present with me is Captain Melissa Steiner, my company commander.

Lieutenant Anders, we’re conducting an investigation into the disappearance of Cadet Jonathan Smith who is assigned to West Point. Please describe your relationship with this cadet.

Bill responded, I met Cadet Smith during my senior year at West Point. We talked on several occasions. I concluded that Cadet Smith had a lot of potential as a future Army officer. He was not my friend because upperclassmen are not permitted to fraternize with plebes. In summary, our conversations were brief and always related to military subjects. I don’t recall ever discussing any personal subject with Cadet Smith.

Have you seen or have you been in contact with Cadet Smith since you graduated from West Point?

No. After graduation, I was on leave for thirty days and then departed for my current posting.

Have you heard anyone discuss Cadet Smith in any capacity since your graduation?

No. I have not spoken with anyone from West Point since graduation.

Lieutenant Anders, thank you for your cooperation in our investigation. Please contact us immediately should you remember or hear anything about Cadet Smith. This interview is over.

Bill said, Trooper Reynolds, I’ll call you should I hear anything pertaining to Cadet Smith.

After the interview ended, Captain Steiner paused a few moments then said, Bill, how much experience do you have operating cheetahs?

I spent three months between my junior and senior year in a cheetah unit. That summer convinced me to become an armor officer.

Okay, let’s assume you may be a bit rusty. I want you to spend time in the simulator refreshing your skills. Our battalion is scheduled for its annual training exercise in October. Following this event, a one-on-one competition is held among the platoon leaders. Last year, Don Marks, your predecessor, eventually lost to Lance Stallings of A Company in the finals. As you might imagine, a lot of unit prestige is at stake.

She added, I’ve also been informed the local casino operates a betting pool on the annual competition and even posts odds on each lieutenant. And in spite of regulations against gambling, some of our soldiers will bet several months’ salary on the outcome.

Ma’am, thank you for the challenge; the cheetah simulator and I will become best friends during the next eight weeks.

Bill, you’ve had a busy day. Why don’t you turn in? We’ll have time for further discussions tomorrow.

Good night, Ma’am.

CHAPTER 4

THE TRIP HOME (HAVEN)

Key members of the Embassy staff accompanied Ambassador Allen to the Cape Canaveral Spaceport where they boarded a transport ship bound for the month-long voyage to Haven. A majority of the staff remained behind to maintain the appearance of ‘business as usual’ at the embassy.

Jonathan Allen smiled as he boarded the ship. He was looking forward to seeing his family and returning to his home world. His momentary elation was quickly replaced by a feeling of dread lurking in the back of his mind. The meeting with President Williams had gone badly. He had failed to persuade President Williams to moderate his demand for unlimited immigration and he knew that few options remained; none of which were acceptable to Haven’s government. Jim Anderson’s bombshell about America’s planned invasion made his trip home all the more critical.

The ship’s captain personally greeted Ambassador Allen and escorted him to the bridge as his special guest. The Steward showed other members of the embassy staff to their quarters.

As you will note, Mr. Ambassador, we are fully prepared for takeoff. I am delighted to have you join us on this trip to Haven.

Thank you, Captain. I feel safe knowing you have taken this trip many times. Your enviable safety record and reputation for meeting schedules are well known throughout the diplomatic community.

That is very kind of you to say so, Mr. Ambassador. We have calculated this trip to Haven will take only thirty days.

After a slight pause, Jim continued, Captain, do you mind my asking what cargo you are taking to Haven?

Mr. Ambassador, in addition to you and your staff, we have on board almost 7,500 settlers with farming equipment who volunteered to immigrate to Haven and start a new life. My crewmembers are telling me these settlers are excited about the prospects of breathing Haven’s fresh air and a new start. Due to our large number of passengers, we’ve modified our holds and installed temporary shelters for our additional passengers. After arriving on Haven, these temporary shelters will be taken off my ship and reassembled as the settler’s homes.

Jonathan inwardly cringed at this news but showed no emotion as he stated, "Captain, after the ship’s launch, may I be shown my cabin?