From the journal of Roger M. Sherridy, First Lieutenant of the Green Army, second battalion.

date:27.3.7.42138.n.a.

General Willian spoke to me earlier today regarding a new target for Draxen control. The planet is small and has little by way of natural resources, but the general believes its position on the outer edge of the galaxy makes it a prime location for a launching base.

“It’s perfect,” he said, “there’s no one on the planet except the occasional pirate, who have no grounds on which to argue.”

“Sounds like a brilliant plan sir,” I said, even though I don’t really understand why we would ever need any holdings in that area.

“Of course it is,” the general smirked in a way that implied an unspoken “because I thought of it.” He continued, “I need you to take a squadron down to the planet to clear it up and start prepping for the engineering team to meet up in a week.”

“Yes sir,” I said and saluted as I walked out of the room.

I remember shaking my head as I walked down the stairs back towards the barracks. I went back to my room and was glad to find Nevin already sitting on the bed. He immediately sensed my discomfort.

“What’s he done now?” he asked as he stood to help me with my jacket.

“I’ll tell you,” I said, “but I’m going to enjoy this first”

“And what is that exactly?” he asked, smiling.

“This,” I said and covered his smile with my own.

I could tell that Nevin was still bothered by my obvious disappointment, but I think he sensed my need to get rid of some of the stress, so he did not break away until I was nearly done.

“Okay Rog,” he said, “now you have to hold up your end of the bargain.”

I looked at him, this week was the first time we’d been able to see each other for the past several months. I was afraid that this constant separation would strain our relationship, so how could I tell him that I was about to leave again tomorrow?

I was saved having to explain because he read the look on my face.

“When are you leaving?” he asked softly.

I couldn’t look at him as I whispered, “tomorrow,” but I felt him wince all the same.

“I’m sorry-” I started.

“Don’t be sorry,” he said, “you’re proving yourself, moving through the ranks, and I am proud of you. I wish that didn’t mean we would end up apart so often, but it does.”

“It should only be three or four weeks before I can return,” I said.

He smiled weakly and nodded once.

“I’ll be right here when you do.”

Next Chapter: Sylvester 2