VC Chapter 33-The Offer

Sector 1200

Planet 1201

January 25, 2052

Charlie looked at the fat man sitting in front of him as he explained that the VEGA corporation had traced the location of NB via the tracking beacon on the stolen Apocrypha. He was certain that the cards he had been dealt was not in his favour especially when Rumblelow told him that he had an armada designed to take out rebel forces.

“What do you think? Ally with the corporation and take out the scums.” Rumblelow chuckled.

“For the last time, NB is not a clan, but a community. We do not have the military firepower to go against these rebel groups.” Charlie explained.

“Then why attack us and steal a ship?” Rumblelow scoffed.

“To even the odds so we don't get wiped out from existence.” Charlie sighed in frustration.

Charlie watched as Parks and Vorzer stood outside listening attentively as he was being interrogated by Rumblelow. He was certain if he declined the offer, the VEGA corporation will send his armada to strike into the heart of NB destroying everything he worked for.

“I'll accept the offer, but we need more ships to fight.” Charlie weighed the risks.

“The corporation will supply you Destiny corvettes, a smaller version of the Apocrypha. Prove yourselves to us and we will supply you bigger and meaner ships.” Rumblelow waved Vorzer over.

“Yes sir?” Vorzer walked up.

“You will be watching the NB and reporting their performances back to me.” Rumblelow pointed.

“Permission to speak freely sir?” Parks intruded.

“Go on.” Rumblelow crossed his arms.

“I would like to volunteer on this assignment.” Parks stepped forward.

“No, you have a conflict of interest.” Rumblelow looked at Charlie and then back at her.

“Vorzer...” Parks muttered under her breath as she saw Vorzer smile slyly.

“That will be all. Charlie is to be sent back to NB tomorrow morning.” Rumblelow stood up from his chair and walked to the door.

Charlie watched as Vorzer and Rumblelow walked off to discuss further details of the mission as Parks stood at the doorway.

“Don't worry. I'll be fine.” Charlie walked to the bed to lie down.

“Oh I'm sure. Vorzer is just so hot-headed at times and loves a good fight when he sees the opportunity.” Parks pulled a chair over and sat down.

“You know what I don't understand Sarah?” Charlie suddenly got up and looked at her.

“What?” Parks replied softly.

“Everything I did was for you. I waited years for you...years!” Charlie cried out loud.

“I know...don't make me feel bad.” Parks looked at her feet.

“One would think that after all the time of no contact, I would move on and give up. But they are wrong.” Charlie reached under his shirt to to grab his military tags and a small locket.

He pulled the locket from his neck and put it into her hands. Parks opened it and saw a picture of herself taken before the Earth incident. The colour was slightly faded due to aging, but the outline was still clear.

 “I've always kept you close to my heart.” Charlie walked up beside her and kissed her cheek.