chapter 2 - when that day comes

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♪When that day comes, Lord,

When that day comes,

There’ll be glo—ry,

When that day comes. 

O Lord, no more shackles,

None more for me.

When that day comes,

I will be set free. 

When that day comes, Lord,

When that day comes,

There’ll be glo—ry,

When that day comes.♫

“All right!! Stop that God awful singing and get back to work!” demanded the guard. “The Lord ain’t listening to you today.”

“Oh, why don’t you let them sing?” interrupted Carlos. “They don’t have much more to live for in this camp. After all, this is Mogandish.”

“I’m sorry sir,” apologized the guard. “But the Commodore has given strict orders that nothing is to interfere with their work.”

“I’m sure a little singing is not going to stop their working,” offered Carlos. “In fact, it might just lift their spirits and make them more productive.”

“Lift their spirits?!?” asked a surprised guard. “Sir, we’re talking about Swashkinese slime. You give them an inch and they’ll take the whole yard. Look here comes some more new ones. You’d think they had finally gathered all of them and shipped them here.” 

The guards led nine Swashkinese, new to the penal camp at Mogandish, to the pillories. Each in turn had their head and wrists locked firmly between the wooden planks. Once they were secure, the guards brought out the hot branding irons. Each iron was sprayed with green paint and then placed against the forehead of the new prisoners. In this way, every Swashkinese in the camp was stamped with a dark green “SK” in their brow for easy identification. The Swashkinese standing nearby grimaced at the sight and shuddered when each new inmate screamed with the pain of being branded. 

“That’s what keeps their spirits in check,” mused the guard. “It has a bigger effect on them than any singing.”

“Well, don’t let me interfere in your work,” offered Carlos. “I just need some sent to my house to help with my project.”

“Project sir?” asked the guard. “I haven’t been told about any project.”

“I didn’t know our leader, Kosnos, kept you informed of his special projects,” mused Carlos.

“A p-project for Kosnos, sir?” stammered the guard. “My apologies. How many do you need?”

“I need two families,” directed Carlos. “In good health. Including the children.”

“That may take me a few hours to find, sir,” responded the guard.

“Then make it your priority,” ordered Carlos.

“Yes, sir.”

“And my dear friend, a word to the wise,” offered Carlos.

“Yes, sir?”

“Kosnos, really doesn’t tolerate too many people knowing about his projects,” explained Carlos. “My advice to you is to not mention this to anyone.”

“But, sir, surely I must say something to the Commodore,” protested the guard. “If I hide something from him, he will make my life miserable.”

“Well, that is your choice, friend,” mused Carlos. “But the Commodore knows and, of course, approves of this project. He also is well aware that very few individuals are to have knowledge of such a secret project. I wonder what he would do if he found out you know about it? And heaven forbid if Kosnos ever found out!”

“Sir, my lips are sealed,” offered the guard. “I will never say a word about this.”

“That’s probably for the best,” smiled Carlos. “Now please bring me the two families.”

“Yes, sir.”

############### 

“Your Highness, the Chief of the Armies,” announced the crier.

“Sire, I come at your bidding,” offered the Chief as he approached Kosnos, leader of the Centauri Right.

“Chief, I’m concerned about the progress, or should I say, lack of progress on Diaden,” responded Kosnos.

“The king of the sixth planet has shown more determination and tenacity than we ever expected,” reflected the Chief.

“It was months ago that the army surrounded the capital city, but yet it hasn’t fallen,” mused Kosnos. “What are you doing about this?”

“Our siege on the city will result in its capture,” offered the Chief. “It’s just taking longer than anticipated.”

“Well, Chief, my patience is starting to run thin,” declared Kosnos. “I want that city taken, and the King and his family brought in irons to me.”

“It will happen as you wish, your Highness,” assured the Chief.

“I want you to make sure it happens in the near future,” ordered Kosnos. “When I promise victory to the people of Centauri, I expect to deliver on that promise, and I expect to deliver soon.”

“Yes, sire.”

“Chief, you have been most trustworthy and loyal, but if I have to make an example out of the General in Charge on Diaden, then I will,” threatened Kosnos.

“I do not believe that will be necessary,” offered the Chief. “I will go there myself to make events happen as you have ordered.”

“What I want is for you to get the General in Charge to take whatever action is necessary to capture the capital city,” ordered Kosnos. “In the meantime, start preparing some nuclear weapons in case he fails. What do we have?”

“The whole arsenal is ready and at your disposal,” answered the Chief. “Are you seriously thinking of using one?”

“If you and your army can’t get the job done, then I will,” declared Kosnos. “Is there a neutron bomb ready?”

“Yes, though it may take a few weeks to make sure one is fully operational,” offered the Chief.

“A neutron bomb will not cause as much radiation residual as a conventional nuclear device will,” mused Kosnos. “Most buildings will be left standing. That could be most helpful once we control the whole planet. Get it ready.”

“Yes, sir.”

“I want it ready to go shortly after the ball next week,” declared Kosnos.

“And sire, all are looking forward to the celebration,” offered the Chief.

“It doesn’t seem like a year has gone by since I was elected Chancellor,” mused Kosnos.

“This has been an eventful and exiting year,” reflected the Chief. “Your leadership has been remarkable.”

“Well, if the people want to celebrate and throw me a party, who am I to object?” smiled Kosnos.

“The whole planet is looking forward to a week of celebration,” offered the Chief. “And of course, many of the world’s finest maidens are eagerly waiting your presence at the ball.”

“Chief, you are too kind,” laughed Kosnos. “Though, I must admit, some female companionship would be welcomed.”

“I don’t believe that will be much of a problem,” smiled the Chief. “It’s going to be a gala event.”

############### 

One of the camp guards led the two Swashkinese families into the home of Carlos.

“Thank you, guard,” offered Carlos. “You may leave us now.”

“But, sir, you want me to leave you alone with them?” asked a surprised guard. “They outnumber you.”

“I will be all right,” assured Carlos. “But thank you for your concern.” 

The guard left the house, and Carlos turned his attention to the Swashkinese. One of the females started sobbing. Her husband gently put his arm around her. 

“Why are you crying?” asked a concerned Carlos. “Everything’s all right.”

“Please excuse my wife, sir,” replied the man. “But she is very afraid.”

“Afraid of what?”

“We have heard of the rumors of what you Centauri scientist do to my people,” explained the man. “Every Swashkinese has heard of the horrible experiments that are done.”

“I see,” mused Carlos. “Well, let’s start at the beginning. My name is Carlos. What is yours?”

“My name is Miguel,” replied the man. “My wife is Vivian and our daughter is Hope.”

“And your family?” asked Carlos of the other Swashkinese male.

“Sir, mine is Trevor,” replied the Swashkinese. “This is my wife Jade and our son Dominic.”

“Well, you both have a nice-looking family,” observed Carlos.

“You Centauries don’t think so,” smirked Miguel. “We’re no better than dirt to you.”

“Not to all Centauries,” offered Carlos. “Some of us, well, we see things a little different.”

“So, what is it you’re having us do?” inquired Trevor.

“Well, first of all, who is the best cook among you?” asked Carlos.

“That would be Vivian,” replied Miguel. “At least, she used to be able to cook.”

“Then let’s all join Vivian in the kitchen and help out,” smiled Carlos. “I believe we all could enjoy a good home cooked meal.” 

After the dinner was prepared, all gathered around the dining table. The children stuffed their mouths full until the parents corrected them. 

“Miguel, I believe you were absolutely correct,” observed Carlos. “Vivian is an excellent chef. That is one of the finest meals I have ever had the pleasure to eat.”

“Thank you, sir,” replied a smiling Vivian.

“Sir, if you don’t mind me asking,” inquired Trevor. “Are you sure you’re a Centauri?”

“Why, yes, I’m fairly certain I am,” laughed Carlos. “I know after the way you’ve been treated, it’s hard to believe that some Centauries think things should be different.”

“Sir, what are you planning to do with us?” inquired a solemn Jade.

“Hope, why don’t you and Dominic go out to the back yard?” asked Carlos. “I think you will find some toys you might enjoy.” 

The children excused themselves from the table and went outside to play. 

“Now, let’s talk business,” stated Carlos. “What do you think the Centauries are trying to do by sending you to this camp?”

“I’ve asked myself that a thousand times,” replied Trevor. “It seems we’re to be held here until we can be sent back to Diaden.”

“They just want our land,” offered Miguel.

“You’re both wrong,” corrected Jade. “Kosnos and the Centauries will never be satisfied until the last Swashkinese is dead and gone.”

“Jade, unfortunately, you are correct,” reflected Carlos. “Every day executions take place, even the children cannot escape.”

“If I am given the choice of spending the rest of my life in this camp or having it end, then I welcome death,” declared Trevor.

“I propose to you that some can survive,” offered Carlos. “With my help you can be the ones.”

“What good is our lives if our species is gone?” mused Vivian.

“Listen, if it was within my power to end these atrocities, I would do it today,” declared Carlos. “But alas, it is not.”

“But sir, how can we survive?” asked Jade. “Even you cannot protect us in this house for long.”

“But you can survive if you hide out in the caves of Dolihin,” offered Carlos. “It will take much effort on your part, and it will not be easy, but you can survive.”

“The caves of Dolihin?” mused Trevor.

“Yes,” replied Carlos. “Listen, outside of divine intervention, your species is going to be destroyed by the Centauri Right. Your neighbors and friends who are in this camp are the ‘walking dead.’ They already are as good as dead. The best we can hope for is to save a small number.”

“Then what?” asked Jade.

“Then you can be a new beginning for your species,” reflected Carlos. “Kosnos will not live forever. That day will come when the hatred of the Centauri Right will be brought to an end. Then you will have a chance to flourish once again as members of this planet.”

“How do you know we will not betray you?” smiled Miguel. “The Commodore would reward us for turning in a dissenter.”

“Oh, I’m not worried about that,” laughed Carlos. “Do you really think he would believe ‘Swashkinese slime’ over a respected Centauri scientist? Especially after I take him a bottle of his favorite whiskey?”

“You do make a good point,” smiled Trevor.

“Look, you talk this over among yourselves,” offered Carlos. “But keep in mind that we either do it my way, or you can go back to your life in the camp. The choice is yours.” 

Carlos retreated to his library to await the decision of the two Swashkinese families. He could hear them discussing the matter in the dining room but was unable to discern any words. Soon the Swashkinese joined him in the study. 

“We have decided to join you,” declared Trevor.

“Good!” smiled Carlos. “Now, this library is filled with the wisdom and knowledge of the ages. You’re going to have to study hard and learn how to survive any circumstance you may meet. And remember, time is not on our side.”

“There is just one thing,” declared Jade.

“And what would that be?”

“Why are you doing this for us?” asked Miguel. “What is it that you hope to gain?”

“Don’t you believe that I’m just a philanthropist, trying to do my small share of good?” asked a smiling Carlos.

“No, we don’t,” replied Vivian.

“Whoever said you Swashkinese were unintelligent, didn’t know what he was talking about,” laughed Carlos. “Yes, I have an agenda.”

“And what is it?” inquired Jade.

“One day, my dear friends, the good people of Centauri are going to see through the evil ways of Kosnos,” declared Carlos. “They will become so sick of him and the Centauri Right that they will gravitate to the complete opposite of his views.”

“And you will be waiting to lead them to a different philosophy,” observed Miguel.

“Yes, I will. One of toleration for all species,” declared Carlos. “And I will need the help of every living being who has tasted the evilness of the Right. That includes you Swashkinese. And of course, you can’t help me if you’re dead. So, I help you to live.”

“It’s hard to even imagine a time without Kosnos and the Centauri Right,” mused Jade.

“I know, my friends. I know,” offered Carlos. “When that day comes, we’ll be there. We’ll be there!”

############### 

The emcee approached the microphone. “Ladies and gentlemen, dear Centauries, it is with immense pleasure that I give you Kosnos, leader of the Centauri Right!” 

Kosnos descended the flight of stairs into the ballroom. The crowd cheered wildly as he waved and bowed to them. They pushed forward to stand in line to greet their leader. Kosnos spoke with each one as he worked his way down the line. He shook the men’s hands and gently kissed the ladies wrist. The men gushed with pride and the young ladies swooned at his very presence. About half way through the crowd, Kosnos came upon a young maiden. The beauty of this creature immediately took him by surprise. Her smile hypnotized him as he tried to make small talk. 

“I do believe your smile is the most pleasant thing I’ve seen in a long while,” offered Kosnos.

“Why, thank you, your Highness,” said the maiden as her smile grew bigger.

“I don’t believe we’ve been properly introduced,” smiled Kosnos. “I am Kosnos.”

“Oh, sire, I know who you are,” blushed the maiden. “My name is Makayla.”

“Makayla are you being escorted this evening?” asked a hopeful Kosnos.

“Why, no, sire,” replied Makayla. “My parents are at the end of the line waiting to meet you.”

“My dear, it’s quite obvious that you shouldn’t be left alone at a party like this,” mused Kosnos. “Why don’t you and your family join me at my table for dinner?”

“Your Highness, I would be honored,” replied Makayla as she took Kosnos’ outstretched hand.  

Makayla and her parents joined Kosnos for dinner. The crowd retreated to their respectful tables to share in the feast. As the evening continued, Kosnos found himself becoming more and more fascinated by her beauty and intelligence. She was pleasant to talk with and shared many of his personal beliefs.  

As the band played softly in the background, the emcee once again approached the microphone. “Ladies and gentlemen and most honored guest, may I propose a toast?”

Everyone stood and raised their glasses toward Kosnos. The emcee continued, “To Kosnos, the leader of the Centauri Right!” 

“Hail! Hail!” shouted the crowd. “Of course, our leader would be nothing without the Swashkinese,” mused the emcee. 

The band stopped playing and the crowd became deadly silent as all eyes fell upon Kosnos. The emcee’s eyes widen with terror as he realized his attempt at humor had failed. Kosnos glanced at the emcee and then looked out at the audience. He burst into laughter and raised his glass in salute to the emcee. The crowd roared with laughter as the emcee took a handkerchief and wiped his perspiring brow. 

Makayla slipped her arm into Kosnos’ as he shouted, “Hail the Centauri Right!!” 

“Hail the Right!!” responded the crowd. The band started playing as couples began to dance to the music. 

“May I have this dance?” asked Kosnos.

“I was hoping you would ask,” replied Makayla. 

Kosnos and Makayla joined the rest in dancing. With each passing moment Kosnos found himself falling under the spell of her charm. At the end of the dance, they joined in clapping for the band. Kosnos waved to them as they bowed toward him. 

“Come with me and let me show you the beauty of our city,” offered Kosnos. Makayla joined him as they ventured out onto the palace balcony overlooking the streets below. 

“Why, your Highness, it’s beautiful!” exclaimed Makayla.

“Not as beautiful as you, my dear,” smiled Kosnos. “I’m sorry. I hoped I’m not too forward.”

“No, your Highness,” declared Makayla. “You say the nicest things.”

“You make it easy,” declared Kosnos. “I’ve never met anyone like you.”

“I could listen to you all night,” offered Makayla. “And if I may dare say, you are the most handsome man here tonight.”

“You sure make it easy for a man to fall in love with you,” mused Kosnos.

“Why, your Highness, are you falling in love with little old me?” laughed Makayla.

“Not yet,” laughed Kosnos. “But I’m definitely on my way.”

“Well, I do have a confession, sire,” revealed Makayla.

“Confessions are good for the soul,” offered Kosnos. “What is yours?”

“I’ve been in love with you for some time,” reflected Makayla. “I mean if it’s possible to love someone you’ve never met.”

“I believe it’s possible,” mused Kosnos.

“I read all your books and have heard all your speeches,” offered Makayla. “I was going to go to the university just to be taught by you. But, of course, you left the university and had to go and get yourself elected leader of the Right. After that, I thought I would never get a chance to meet you.”

“I suppose fate has brought us together,” mused Kosnos as he gazed into her eyes. “Have you had your test yet?”

“They take blood tomorrow for the DNA test,” revealed Makayla. “Is it really necessary, sire, to have the whole Alpha Centauri system tested?”

“Yes, it is of the utmost importance,” declared Kosnos. “It is the only way to make sure the Chosen Ones are pure. I cannot allow a Swashkinese to masquerade as a Centauri. It would most certainly lead to the diluting of the Centauri Right.”

“But it seems like a lot to do about nothing,” offered Makayla. “All the Swashkinese have been confined to Mogandish.”

“Don’t ever question my decisions,” ordered Kosnos. “Only the Lord can question me. And He never does.”

“I’m sorry, your Highness,” replied a startled Makayla. “I beg your forgiveness.”

“No harm done,” revealed Kosnos as he gently touched her cheek.

“Will I ever see you again?” asked Makayla as she took Kosnos’ hand into hers.

“If I have anything to do with it, you will,” smiled Kosnos as music from the band filtered out into the night’s air.

“Shall we dance the night away?” inquired Kosnos.

“By all means,” replied Makayla as she kissed him on the cheek.

############### 

“Trevor, your skill as a handyman is proving itself very valuable,” reflected Carlos. “I believe you could make anything if you set your mind to it.”

“Why thank you sir,” replied Trevor. “I really enjoy working with my hands.”

“And you Miguel, have been taught advanced memory techniques,” continued Carlos. “Now you have a photographic memory.”

“Thanks to you, sir,” replied Miguel. “And it will always be easy to remember the kindness you have shown us.”

“Well, when we first started out, in my mind, it was all about saving the Swashkinese species from annihilation,” reflected Carlos. “But now it has become more than that. Now it is a matter of helping to save my friends.”

“I believe we all have learned friendship and trust,” offered Trevor.

“Well, I have,” mused Carlos. “In the meantime, I want you to gather all your belongings and all the things you have made. It will soon be time for you to go.”

“Excuse me, sir,” interrupted Vivian. “A guard is at the door requesting to speak with you.”

The three men looked at each other. “Yes, it has come time for you to leave,” observed Carlos. “Be quick about your business but be silent.” 

Carlos made his way to the living room where the guard was waiting for him. 

“Good evening, how may I help you?” asked Carlos.

“Good day, sir,” replied the guard. “The Commodore has sent me for you. He wants to see you immediately.”

“Thank you,” offered Carlos. “Please tell him that I will be there within the hour.”

“He said for you to come now,” ordered the guard.

“But, friend, I just cannot,” reflected Carlos. “I am in the middle of an experiment that must be finished. If I stop now days of work will be lost.”

“I have my orders, sir,” replied the guard.

“I know you do,” mused Carlos. “Look, here is a bottle of the Commodore’s favorite whiskey. Take it to him with my compliments and tell him I’ll be there within the hour.”

“I don’t know, sir,” hesitated the guard.

“Well, here,” offered Carlos. “Take a bottle for yourself, too. I’m sure the Commodore will be understanding.”

“Well, I could at least try,” reflected the guard. “But don’t delay. The Commodore is not in the best of moods these days.”

“I will be there,” promised Carlos. “You have my word.” 

The guard took the bottles and made his way out of the house. Carlos watched until he was over the hill and out of sight. 

“I believe the Commodore is getting worried about your experiment,” reflected Miguel.

“Yes, he is,” reflected Carlos. “So, it’s time to end the experiment.”

“We have everything ready to go,” offered Trevor.

“Good,” observed Carlos. “Once you go out this door, do not look back. Do not stop. No matter what happens, you keep going until you’ve reached the safety of Dolihin.”

“I’m going to miss you, sir,” offered a teary-eyed Vivian.

“And I will miss you,” replied Carlos. “And I will especially miss your cooking. I believe I will never eat that good again.”

“May I kiss you goodbye, sir?” asked Jade.

“Well, I suppose so,” reflected Carlos. “I’ve never kissed a Swashkinese before.”

“And I’ve never kissed a Centauri before,” offered Jade. 

The two kissed each other on the lips. They stood there for a moment reflecting on what had just happened. 

“Not bad,” observed Carlos. “Not bad at all.”

“You’re a pretty good kisser, sir,” smiled Jade.

“Now, you’re just trying to make your husband jealous,” laughed Carlos.

“She’s always been like that, sir,” smiled Trevor as he shook his head.

“Miguel, you lead this group to safety,” ordered Carlos. “We all are depending on you.”

“I will, sir,” responded Miguel. “Thank you. Thank you for all you have done.”

“You’re welcome,” replied Carlos. “And as for you, Trevor, try not to break too many things when you’re tinkering with them.”

“I’ll try, sir,” laughed Trevor. “I know we can never repay you for your kindness.”

“I’m just trying to help,” reflected Carlos. “I believe we Centauries owe you much more than we’ve been willing to give.”

“I do have a gift for you,” offered Trevor. “Here are the keys to a fighter ship that’s sitting just outside the camp.”

“My, my, have you been a naughty boy Trevor?” smiled Carlos.

“Well, they did leave the keys where they could easily be stolen,” reflected Trevor.

“And where was that?”

“In the pocket of a drunken soldier,” replied Trevor. “He was unconscious at the time.”

“And what am I supposed to do with a fighter ship?” asked Carlos. “There’s nowhere in the Centauri system that the Right doesn’t control.”

“Then maybe you should leave the system,” offered Miguel.

“The ship will take you far away from here,” reflected Trevor. “You can fly it, can’t you?”

“Yeah,” replied Carlos. “They gave us basic training when I joined the military’s science department. They almost fly themselves.”

“You know you’re going to need to escape,” reflected Miguel. “So please let us know that you’re going to flee to safety, too.”

“All right, if that’s what you want me to do,” smiled Carlos. “Who am I to object? After all, Trevor risked his life getting this for me.”

“Then it was well worth it, sir,” offered Trevor.

“Children, you come here and give me a goodbye hug,” ordered Carlos.

Hope and Dominic ran to Carlos’ waiting arms. They showered him with hugs and kisses. “Now you two help your mothers and fathers,” ordered Carlos. “We’re all depending on you two.” The children agreed they would.

“Sir?”

“Yes, Dominic.”

“Can I call you ‘Uncle’?”

“Uncle Carlos. Hmmm, that seems like a pretty good name,” laughed Carlos. “Of course you can, Dominic.”

“Thank you, Uncle Carlos.” “Bye Uncle Carlos.” 

Carlos watched the group make their way from his house. Once they were out of sight, he locked his door and headed to the Commodore’s office.

############### 

“Your Highness, the Lady Makayla is here to see you,” announced the crier.

“Oh, good. Show her in,” ordered Kosnos. 

Makayla approached Kosnos and bowed. He took her hands into his and gave her a kiss on the cheek. 

“It is so good to see you,” reflected Kosnos. “I hardly slept a wink last night thinking of you.”

“I’ve missed you, too,” replied Makayla. “Yesterday’s picnic out in the country was wonderful. You definitely know how to spoil me.”

“Well, I hope to make a lifetime out of trying to spoil you,” smiled Kosnos.

“Oh, your Highness, are you falling in love with me?” teased Makayla.

“I believe I’ve gone past that a long time ago,” laughed Kosnos.  

With that they embraced each other and kissed. Makayla gently took Kosnos’ hand and led it to her breast. After a moment he removed his hand and stroked her cheek as he gazed into her eyes. 

“Makayla, you know I love you,” offered Kosnos. “I’ve never loved anyone as I do you, but I’m just not ready to go any further.”

“I understand,” replied Makayla. “When you are ready, I’ll be here.”

“You make me so happy,” smiled Kosnos. “I sometimes find it hard to think about anything else.”

“But you must,” offered Makayla. “You have the whole Centauri system to worry about.”

“It can wait,” laughed Kosnos. “Right now I want to think about you.” 

They were interrupted with the ringing of Kosnos’ teleprompter. He excused himself and took the call. 

“My apologies, sire,” came the voice of the Undersecretary. “But I have information that I thought you would want.”

“And what is it?”

“Do you have the new list of DNA results?” asked the Undersecretary.

“Yes, the documents are right here on my desk,” replied Kosnos. “I haven’t had time to look at it.”

“May I suggest, sire, that you especially take a look at page sixty-nine?” requested the Undersecretary.

“I’ll look at it right now,” replied Kosnos. 

He turned the pages and came upon the report the Undersecretary had mentioned. Kosnos’ face dropped as he read the page. He hung his head and finally buried it in his hands. 

“Your Highness is there something wrong?” asked a concerned Makayla.

“Guards!!” shouted Kosnos. Three palace guards ran to his beckoning. “Arrest this woman immediately,” ordered Kosnos. The guards looked at each other and hesitated. “I said NOW!!” barked Kosnos. 

“What have I done, sire?” cried Makayla.

“According to the latest DNA report, you’re Swashkinese,” replied Kosnos.

“I am not!” declared Makayla. “There’s been some kind of mistake!”

“The mistake has been me giving my heart to you,” shouted Kosnos. “I fell in love with Swashkinese slime.”

“I am not now, nor have I ever been Swashkinese, your Highness,” protested Makayla.

“Yes, you are,” barked Kosnos. “This report shows you’re one-eighth Swashkinese.”

“One-eighth?!?” asked a shocked Makayla. “How do you become one-eighth?”

“One of your ancestors was Swashkinese,” replied Kosnos. “That’s all it takes.”

“And because of that I’m now labeled as ‘Swashkinese’?” argued Makayla. “But doesn’t that make me seven-eighths Centauri? If that reports even close to being true, it only means I’m more Centauri than I could ever be Swashkinese!!”

“You’re not pure,” declared Kosnos. “You are not of the Chosen Ones.”

“I am Centauri, your Highness,” protested Makayla. “Besides, no one can be responsible for what some ancestor did hundreds of years ago.”

“I told you before to never question my decisions,” shouted Kosnos. “Have her bound and taken to Mogandish!” 

The guards tied her hands and started to lead her away. She turned to look at Kosnos. “To think I could have fallen in love with a monster like you,” she cried. The guards escorted her away. Kosnos fell back onto his chair and closed his eyes. 

Later that evening, Makayla stood waiting to board the ship headed to Mogandish. Her parents were bound and stood nearby. Dried tear stains marked her face as she stared off into the distance. Emotionally drained, she offered no resistance as the guards took her aboard the ship. 

The palace lights in Kosnos’ room were still shining when morning came. Sobbing was heard by the palace workers as they quietly walked past his door. No one spoke a word.

############### 

“Commodore, you wished to see me?” inquired Carlos.

“Why, yes, Carlos, I did,” replied the Commodore. “Please have a seat. I wanted to speak with you about some prisoners you have at your house. Some of the guards finally told me you have two families living with you.”

“Sir, excuse me, but have you been drinking again?” asked Carlos.

“Yes, I have,” declared the Commodore. “It’s the only way I can stand to run this God forsaken camp. The stuff they want me to do. The things I have to do! Why, it’s a wonder I don’t drink more than I do.”

“I can only imagine,” offered Carlos.

“But anyhow, back to the prisoners,” reflected the Commodore. “What are you doing with prisoners staying at your house?”

“Well, I thought that’s what you wanted me to do,” replied Carlos.

“I’ve never said anything about you keeping them at your home,” offered the Commodore. “You can have all you want to keep at the lab, but not at your house.”

“My apologies, sir,” responded Carlos. “I evidently misunderstood our conversation.”

“Well, you take some guards with you and bring them back to camp,” ordered the Commodore.

“I’ll be glad to,” offered Carlos. “But could I wait until tomorrow? You see, one of the women owe me a favor.”

“Oh?” laughed the Commodore. “A little favor, my friend?”

“Just a little one,” smiled Carlos.

“No,” barked the Commodore. “I want them back now. Get some guards or I’ll go do it myself!”

“Excuse me, sir,” interrupted a guard. “But I have an important message for you.”

“What is it?” asked an annoyed Commodore.

“We have received a high priority communiqué from the Royal Palace,” replied the guard.

“From Kosnos?” asked a shocked Commodore. “What does it say?”

“Kosnos, leader of the Centauri Right is coming here tomorrow for a visit,” read the guard.

“Kosnos, coming here?!?” the startled Commodore repeated. “That’s all I need!”

“Well, it seems you have a lot to get sober, uh, I mean, a lot to get done,” smiled Carlos. “I’ll just take some guards and bring the prisoners back here as you wished.”

“Huh?!? Oh, don’t worry about that now,” responded the Commodore. “I don’t have time for that. I’ve got to get this place in shape fast. Kosnos is coming!”

“Then I will take my leave so you can concentrate on more important matters,” offered Carlos. The Commodore did not respond as he was already barking orders at his guards. 

Carlos paused on the front porch of the Commodore’s office to look out over the camp. Even with all the horrible atrocities that were being committed here, he could not but help feel things would get better. If nothing else, at least the two Swashkinese families were well on their way to safety to be found in the caves of Dolihin. Carlos could not help from whistling a little tune as he left Camp Mogandish and walked toward his home.

############### 

The royal ship came out from the clouds and hovered over the Mogandish camp. All eyes were upon it as the landing approach brought it near the Commodore’s office. Carlos took the opportunity to silently slip into the pilot’s seat of the fighter ship. While everyone was transfixed with the sound of the royal ship’s engine coming to a rest, he started the fighter ship and lifted off into the sky. From high above he smiled as he looked back at the camp. He was not sure where he was going, but he was sure that all was going as planned. In an instant he was out of sight and on his way to the unknown. 

“Your Highness, it is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Mogandish,” offered the Commodore.

“Thank you, Commodore,” replied Kosnos. “Let’s retire to your office.”

“I thought you would like to tour the camp,” reflected a somewhat surprised Commodore.

“No, that’s not necessary,” directed Kosnos. “I’m not going to be here long.” 

The men walked into the Commodore’s office. Kosnos sat down behind the desk and looked at the Commodore. 

“I was going to ask you how do you think you’re doing here,” mused Kosnos. “But then it really doesn’t matter what you think, does it? It only matters what I think.”

“Sire, I have been faithfully doing all that you have commanded,” protested the Commodore.

“Really?” mocked Kosnos. “Did I not order a hundred executions a day?”

“I was told that number,” declared the Commodore. “But I did not realize it was written in stone. I thought it was a suggested number.”

“Commodore, I do not talk just to hear myself speak,” offered Kosnos. “When I give a suggestion, as you say, I expect it to be done.”

“Yes, sire, I will see that your wish is carried out,” promised the Commodore.

“Good,” smiled Kosnos. “And what weapon are you using for the executions?”

“We line the prisoners up and use the blaster guns,” replied the Commodore.

“Don’t you know that is a terrible waste of resources?” asked Kosnos.

“I never thought of it that way,” offered the Commodore.

“You see, Commodore, you must think of these things,” declared Kosnos. “I cannot, and I will not, come out here and hold your hand and show you how to do what I want done.”

“Yes, sire,” grimaced the Commodore. “I promise you I will make the necessary changes.”

“Good,” mused Kosnos. “Have you had the daily executions?”

“No, sire,” offered the Commodore. “I had thought we would waive them since you were visiting here today. But, of course, now I know better than to have thought that.”

“Then get the prisoners together,” ordered Kosnos. “I’ll take the time to show you how to do things around here.” 

The guards forced a hundred Swashkinese into a circle near the Commodore’s office. Kosnos surveyed the scene. 

“Give them each a piece of firewood,” directed Kosnos. The guards obeyed and soon each prisoner was holding the wood. 

“Now, listen up, you Swashkinese slime,” yelled Kosnos. “Today, half of you get to live. But in order for you to continue living, you must kill another prisoner.” 

The prisoners looked at each other and then turned back toward Kosnos. “I will not kill my fellow man,” shouted one of the prisoners. Kosnos pulled his blaster pistol from his belt and instantly killed the Swashkinese. 

“Now, I have no trouble standing here and killing each and every one of you,” declared Kosnos. “In fact, it would bring me immense pleasure to do so. But I’m trying to give half of you the chance to live. It’s your choice.” 

The Swashkinese prisoners started clubbing each other with the wood. Kosnos, the Commodore, and the guards watched as blood splattered and skulls were crushed. Once a prisoner had killed another he was allowed to step away from the circle and return to his barrack. Eventually fifty bodies lay motionless on the ground. 

“You see, Commodore, that’s the way you do it,” declared Kosnos. “In the last ten minutes I have executed fifty and I only fired one shot. You do this twice a day, Commodore, and you will have your hundred.”

“I see how to do it, sire,” offered the Commodore as he fought to control his nausea.

“Good,” smiled Kosnos. “And Commodore, I don’t want to have to make another visit out here.”

“That will not be necessary,” assured the Commodore.

“Good, because if I have to, it will be an unpleasant visit,” offered Kosnos. “And I hate unpleasantness.”

“There will be no need for such a visit,” assured the Commodore.

“Good,” reflected Kosnos. “Then I bid you adieu.” 

Kosnos turned to walk to his ship. Nearby stood a group of Swashkinese female prisoners. Kosnos stopped abruptly as he recognized one of them to be Makayla. She was staring straight through him, as if, he did not exist. He was shaken when he saw the large green “SK” embedded in her forehead. Slowly, he turned and entered the awaiting ship. 

Kosnos kept his eyes on Makayla as the ship lifted and rose into the sky. He watched for her as long as he could. 

“Tell the pilot to circle the camp a few times,” ordered Kosnos to his aide. In a few minutes the aide returned. “The Chief of Generals is on the teleprompter for you, your Highness,” declared the aide. 

“Hello, Chief,” responded Kosnos.

“Your Highness,” came the cheerful response from the Chief. “I have great news! The king of Diaden has surrendered. The planet is ours!”

“Chief, you have made my day,” smiled Kosnos. “What caused him to change his mind?”

“Our General in Charge sent word to him that our bomber was on its way with a neutron bomb,” explained the Chief. “The king decided he would surrender instead of sacrificing so many of his people.”

“That was a wise decision,” mused Kosnos. “Is the bomber on its way?”

“Yes, sire,” replied the Chief. “And we will need a direct order from you for it to halt its mission.”

“Tell it to turn around and go home,” ordered Kosnos as he looked out at the camp below. “No, wait. I have another mission for it.”

“Another mission, sire?” asked a surprised Chief.

“Yes,” replied Kosnos. “I want it to drop its load on Mogandish.”

“Mogandish?!?”

“Chief, I don’t think I stuttered,” smirked Kosnos. “Tell the bomber to drop the neutron bomb on the camp.”

“But, sire, if I might say so, we have over six hundred guards and soldiers stationed there,” objected the Chief.

“It will be a lost, Chief,” mused Kosnos. “Such brave men and women dying in combat. Get their names and I’ll send the families a personal letter of condolence. It’s the least I can do when their loved ones have given all for the Centauri Right.”

“You’re sure this is what you want done?” asked the Chief.

Kosnos closed his eyes for a moment. “Do it, Chief,” came his terse reply.

After circling the camp a few more times, Kosnos’ ship turned toward the capital city. Kosnos felt the ship shudder with the shock wave of the detonated bomb. He glanced out the window to see a huge mushroom cloud ascending in the distance. Closing his eyes he slumped back into his chair. A tear rolled down his cheek and silently fell to the floor.

############### 

In a cave in the hills of Dolihin Jade felt the ground move. She glanced at her husband with a puzzled look.

“Did you feel that?” she asked.

“It must have been a small earthquake,” reasoned Trevor.

From around the corner came Miguel, Vivian, and the children. Their eyes were wide with excitement.

“Something has happened,” declared Miguel. “We saw a strange cloud back toward Mogandish.”

“It’s no telling what evil deed Kosnos has ordered,” mused Trevor. “I am so grateful we are here together.”

“Do you think I should sneak into the village and find out what has happened?” asked Miguel.

“I don’t think we can take that chance,” observed Trevor. “Besides, I’ve done something that hopefully will help us all on this planet.”

“What did you make this time?” asked a smiling Vivian.

“I set up a transmitter outside the cave,” replied Trevor. “It’s sending a distress signal to deep space.”

“Can’t the Centauries pick up the signal and find our location?” pondered a concerned Jade.

“That’s the beauty of it,” smiled Trevor with pride. “The signal is designed where it cannot be detected until it is well out of the Centauri system.”

“So you’re hoping that one day some beings from another system will detect the signal and figure out where it came from?” asked Vivian.

“That’s right,” declared Trevor. “Then they can come and rescue all on this planet from Kosnos and the Centauri Right.”

“But what if someone worse than Kosnos hears the signal?” pondered Miguel.

“Someone worse than Kosnos?” mocked Trevor. “I don’t believe it can get any worse than it already is.”

“Well, it’s probably worth a try,” reasoned Vivian. “I only hope they don’t delay. To survive we’re going to need all the help we can get.”

“There is one thing for sure,” offered Miguel. “We can’t ever give up hope. Rescue will come. And when that day comes, I’m going to sing and shout ‘til I can shout no more!”

“That reminds me of the song some used to sing at the camp,” mused Jade. “Let’s see how did it go?” 

All joined in singing.

♪When that day comes, Lord,

When that day comes,

There’ll be glo—ry,

When that day comes. 

O Lord, no more shackles,

None more for me.

When that day comes,

I will be set free. 

When that day comes, Lord,

When that day comes,

There’ll be glo—ry,

When that day comes.♫

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