The road drive lasted two and a half hours. Without feeling the slightest hint of exhaustion, he arrived at the military facilities. Hidden in plain sight, the base housed a world where the government sanctioned experiments, time travel and the interrogation of terrorists and dangerous criminals. Tom loved his profession and carried it out with pride. After parking, Tom entered the military installation carrying a small bag over his shoulder. He was greeted by those he passed with honor and respect and he made his way to his barracks.


Changing into his military uniform, he felt a sense of authority wash over him, the fabric complementing his light- colored eyes as they stared blankly as his reflection in the mirror. He straightened his uniform and stretched his body. So strong and so unyielding!

He headed to the conference room. A large, middle – aged man stood waiting for him. Upon Tom’s arrival, he smiled and gestured for him to take a seat at a chair. Tom obeyed with not a hint of a smile disturbing the muscles of his face.


Lancer Harris, his captain, sat down across from him. Without saying a word, he slid a folder across the table.

Tom’s gaze fell on the title : “ TOP SECRET : SUBJECT A-01 “. His attention shifted entirely to the plain brown folder. Lancer Harris nodded with his weathered hand, indicating that Tom should open it. He did as instructed.


“ P L E R S I Z I A N S “ was the first word he read. “ An extraterrestrial and extremely dangerous species” followed by an explanatory sentence beneath. Tom had heard of them, but he had never seen one. He had doubted their existence until Lancer had handed him that folder. First he believed Lancer, and then everything was written on the papers. A wave of excitement gripped his stomach, fluttering in his heart. He understood his mission immediately. Subject – A01 was the leader of the species and Purpose wanted it exterminated.


<< Before we continue, I need to tell you a few things, Walts..>> Lancer requested, and Tom immediately shifted his gaze to the captain. Lancer smiled at his soldier’s prompt obedience and relaxed his rigid posture, leaning back in his chair. Though he maintained a serious expression, he let his shoulders drop. << This subject is female- a very powerful leader who possesses formidable weapon. We’ve received intelligence that in November of 2030 , this leader plans to use those weapons to attack humankind with the sole aim of seizing complete control of our planet! This is something we must prevent. She and her kind are a bunch of malevolent beings who operate without mercy! They are aliens, for God’s sake! >> he raised his voice trying to express his uncontrolled inner panic. While their innocent appearance might deceive anyone, I believe nothing can fool you!>> he said, taking a sharp breath. He rubbed his face and ran his hand over his short, chestnut hair.


<< The purpose of this mission, as you understand, is to save humanity. And its excellent that you are leading the operation. Tonight, we’ll prepare you for time travel and equip you with modern weapons and everything you’ll need. You will eliminate anyone who stands in your way, Waltts ! You will be relentless, as always, and I expect you to return with her body in a sack! >> he commanded, his voice rising with a fierce passion for this particular mission.


<< Yes, Sir! >> Tom shouted, already wearing the expression of a victor.


<< Son, your country is proud of you. The opportunity to save humanity with time traveling is something no soldier has ever experienced before.! The role I've assigned to you carries honor and dignity.! Don't disappoint me! >> Lancer urged. turning his dry gaze away from Tom.


<< Have i ever? >> Tom asked with a playful tone cutting through the commanding atmosphere of the room.


Lancer laughed with pride swelling in his chest.


<< No. Never. You have become what i thought you will be from the first time i saw you, Tom. I am, also, proud of you. >> he said calmly and turned his dry gaze away from Tom. He gave him a light pat on the shoulder – a gesture that felt more like encouragement than consolation- before exiting the room and closing the door behind him.


Tom's body remained motionless for a few seconds, his mind racing with Lancer's words. From the age of eighteen, when he met his captain, to the age of twenty- five, where he stood now, Tom had never questioned him. Lancer in his own way, pushed him, cheered him on, and assigned him the most dangerous and challenging missions where he proved his worth. An intense psychological bond had formed, one that Tom had no intention of breaking. Lancer always knew what to do and Tom always acted without a second thought. He was doing what Lancer trained him to do : following orders.


He opened the folder and remained in the room, reading about the Plersizians. This study enhanced his knowledge about the species he would face in just a few hours. Nothing would catch him unprepared.