Chapter 2

Charlie walked me into the chow hall, through the line, paid for our lunch, and showed me to seats around a table in the corner of the hall, designated as ‘Reserved’.

The more I found out about these people that were recovering from catastrophe, the more I realized that not much had changed after thousands of years of space exploration and colonization. Baked chicken and broccoli with butter were still favorites of mine when not eating space rations.

“Chalen, when you get your computer, can I see some of the evidence you have?”

“Yes, Charlie. The AI has it stored and ready to view. There are some pretty graphic details of the murder, and I have yet to see how Ronen’s body got twisted, since I was busy coming out of reentry, but it will be there.”

“Where were you when the incident occurred, if you don’t mind me prying,” he asked, hesitantly. I could tell he was trying not to offend me with the question.

“Asleep in my berth, as the AI’s shift logs will indicate. We don’t film our bunks, but the AI keeps track of where our bodies are at any point in time. I’ll show you how to confirm that. I have nothing to hide, and everything to gain by being open and honest with you, Colonel. Do not hesitate to ask me anything you wish.”

“I agree with that assessment. As soon as I see the video you have offered, the subject will be dropped. Your captain has been removed from your vessel and is presently in the morgue. His body will be analyzed as much as possible, his condition documented, then with your approval, he will be cremated and placed in a container for your return trip. Is cremation an acceptable end for your people, Chalen?” he asked, sincerely.

“Yes, for most, since you probably don’t have large rodents around to feed him to.” I tried to smile when he did, but I was serious whereas he thought I was joking. “I’m sorry, Charlie, but the man was a scumbag long before he ruined and killed Venal. Some people are just evil. His father, supposedly, isn’t that bad. I’ve heard that he, Ronen, takes, or should I say ‘took’, after his mother, the Queen. She is said to be a hateful, spiteful woman who gets along with no one, to include her husband. They live apart and are seen together for appearance’s sake alone. So, the stories go. I have no reason to doubt them after being shiplocked with her son for almost a month.”

“I’m sorry you had to go through that. Especially losing your friend, Venal. I truly am sorry.” He seemed genuinely sincere. He seemed like a genuine man. I was starting to think of him as a nice guy. He seemed like he might be one. Not common above the grade of major, let me tell you. I know from experience. Not to mention he was listening. He remembered her name. He remembered Venal’s name from my explanation. Interesting.

Sergeant Foster chose then to arrive with the satchel and my computing device. I thanked him, then started to bring up the videos of Ronen attacking Venal. Thankfully, it also showed the conversation before the attack as that explained the outlandishness of the attack itself. Charlie was stricken with anger when he saw the violence on the screen.