VC2 Chapter 43-Recycling

Sector 2100

Planet 2101

December 4, 2052

The battle had been so big that that there were so much debris floating in the sector. Friendly miners of different organizations had been invited to come harvest the debris field and recycle the parts for reuse.

“His ship is out there somewhere.” Stella watched as Tassos scanned the debris field for signs of life.

“I must find him. He was like a brother to me.” Tassos looked on.

“I know...” Stella placed her hand on Tassos' shoulders to comfort him.

Tassos sighed as he sat down to face reality. He removed his Spartan helmet and looked at it.

“Another great warrior has fallen.” Tassos stood up and looked at his crew.

The crew turned to look at their leader.

“We shall honour the sacrifices many have made so that peace can continue.” Tassos placed his helmet beside his hip.

The crew removed their Spartan helmets and did the same. Tassos closed his eyes to remember his friend.

“Thank you.” Tassos whispered and turned to look at his wife.

“Let us go home now dear.” Stella held his hand.

“Stop scanning. We go home now.” Tassos transmitted to his fleet.

* * *

“Hell of a battle Irene.” Papagiannis patted his sister's back.

“Very impressive indeed.” McClelland clapped as he presented Irene with a combat medal.

Natalia also received a medal and hugged Irene once she got off the stage.

“Our first medals.” Natalia squealed with joy as she examined her shiny medal.

“Now I know the price of getting a medal...it's hard.” Irene remembered the intensity of the battle and tried to take the image out of her head.

“Yes it is.” Papagiannis replied sensing discomfort from Irene's voice.

“I don't know if I want to be part of this.” Irene looked at her feet.

“Part of what?” Natalia asked.

“The war...the killings.” Irene spoke softly.

“We had to do what's necessary. We got attacked...and we defended ourselves.” Papagiannis chose his words carefully.

“Yeah, but the others weren't so fortunate.” Irene sighed.

“It's a price we all pay for freedom and peace.” Papagiannis placed his hand on Irene's shoulder and looked her straight in the eye.

 “I understand.” Irene nodded.