Snow in the Desert

Jan. 7 - Zenobia

I stood on the command deck of the Alliance Military Station high above my homeworld. The view was magnificent. The oceans were a serene blue. Clouds swirled across the atmosphere giving a marbling effect.

Some two billion people lived on the planet below pursuing their hopes and dreams.

Countless others passed through on business. Shepherds and scientists. Traders and thieves. And of course, military personnel.

I waited for one of them to arrive.

-----

"Lieutenant. Welcome to Zenobia"

Lieutenant Snow Weinfeld saluted smartly. She was dressed in her travelling clothes, a smart looking, slate grey business suit. She had taken civilian transport and she reported directly to me, rather than keep me waiting while she changed into her uniform.

"I trust your flight was good?" I added.

"Major Siamendes," She said with a nod. "Yes, ma'am. I found it restful. I'm glad that assignment is over, in all truthfulness."

"Well, I'm afraid I'm going to have to send you back in. Have you been formally debriefed on your previous assignment?"

She showed no emotion, just a nod. "Yes, ma'am. The target has been arrested, and the information I supplied seems to be in order." She ended with a polite smile

"Very good," I smiled, "Have you had luncheon?" I was certain she hadn't eaten.

She shook her head. "I'll be fine though, Major. I'm anxious to hear about my next assignment."

"Very well. I hope you like the heat... Faith Industries is located on the planet of Al Raqis. We would like you to infiltrate that organization..."

Lieutenant Weinfeld winched a little. "I've heard of the family. They own a great amount of investments in the Core as well as elsewhere."

"Indeed." A powerful family.

"I see. What is my cover?"

"You will pose as a secretary for that company," I explained.

She nodded and looked down at her suit. "I see. I believe I can handle that assignment."

"This will give you access to documents we may need to proceed with prosecution."

She raised an eyebrow. "May I ask what you believe they are doing that is illegal?"

"We have enough at this time to proceed with murder charges and attempted murder charges against the son, but we feel that there are bigger things here and we want an airtight case when it proceeds to court."

Snow Weinfeld gave a nod. "Who am I to report to?"

"Sedrick the father is currently looking for secretarial staff. The son I referred to is William. He has a sister BriAria. She has a different father I believe."

"Alright...How close are they? Is she useful for information? "

"I plan to interview her myself. I understand that they may be estranged. However, seize any opportunity you have to gain information."

The Lieutenant nodded. "I understand, Major. How long will my assignment last?"

"As long as it takes I am afraid. William Faith is a dangerous man. Move too soon without a solid case and our efforts can fail. Do not take unnecessary risks."

I paused and thought before making my next remark.

"There was a boy on Al Raqis when I was there last, hanging out near the Faith Industries warehouse. He called himself Lynx."

"A boy? Was he an employee?"

"No, just a boy looking for a place to sleep. If he is still there, maybe he can become an extra set of eyes, without you having to reveal your position. As for entry into the corporation, you will be provided with the usual background: years of experience in close to what they are looking for, but not too close."

"I understand. Glad I have the secretarial skills," she said with a little laugh and nods.

I smiled, "And you will report to me directly on this one."

She nodded. "I understand Major, and am excited to work with you.

"...It's a dangerous assignment, I will admit."

Snow gave a little smile. "That's the only thing that makes them worth while. I will look into what is going on. Am I to focus on the son or the father?"

"Stay close to the father," I instructed, "You will be his secretary. It will also be a safe place from which to observe the son."

She nodded. "I understand, and I will do so. Just hope he isn't the kind that likes his secretaries a little too much."

"I have no information on that I am afraid...one way or the other. There is a banquet coming up however in the father's honour."

She nodded.

"Take what you need from the quartermaster."

"I'm sure I'll have everything I need," she replied. She had done work like this before.

"Good. The file name for this one... Caligula. Do you have any questions?"

She gave a little smile. "Famous Caesar .... not too sane.." she then shook her head. "I believe I have everything I need, Major."

"Good," I smiled. "Why don't you go freshen up? Grab something to eat from the galley and maybe a shower... water is precious where you are going."

"Thank you, Major. I'll do that. I should report..." She stopped then wrinkled her nose. "I understand. I'll be sure to bring a bit with me."

I smiled.

"I will report to my transportation tomorrow then?" she asked.

"Yes."

Lieutenant Weinfeld nodded. "Very well, Thank you once again, Major, and I'll go find that food and drink."

I dismissed her with a salute. "Carry on," I said and turned back to the view screen.

She saluted and headed towards the galley.