A Rescue Mission

[Commissar]

...Source: Planet Manhattan...

...Encryption: Unknown...

*McFarlen frowns, wrinkles appearing on his forhead. Oddly enough, his lips curl into a slight grin.*

"Play the Message." *Sarah's voice, wavering a little, crackles from the console.*

"Until next time Aigis... And thank you. Tell Dad I love him."

"That's her alright." *Johnathon rubbed his eyes. He'd expected it really, but it still hurt. She wasn't coming home... Space was dangerous, and he doubted her ability to survive it. She was just a kid for Christ's sake.*

*The man's mood lightened as he read the rest of the message. At least she wasn't facing it alone.*

"Thank you... Look, I don't normally talk to people like this. Least of all those who don't give me names, still it looks as if you've done me a great service. I know you didn't ask for payment, and without your name..." *He shrugs.* "If you ever need a favour, you only need to ask."

McFarlen frowned. He wasn't used to doing business like this, most people's motives were clear cut. Credits were quite the motivator.

Kevin Godfrey waddled over to the larger man.
"Hey, I think we've got something. Listen to this." Godfrey hit a button on the console, playing the message again.
"Aegis...And th-" The Intelligence man slapped a hand on the console, stopping the recording.
"Do ya want me to see what I can find on this Aegis?"
Johnathon was already shaking his head.
"Whoever, they are, they've got Sarah. Whether that's a good or bad thing I'm not sure. If they've lasted this long out there, she's almost certainly got someone watching databases. I don't want anyone feeling threatened. Let's give her the benefit of the doubt."
Godfrey's arms dropped to his sides.
"Fine, your call."

Within 48 hours the file would be on another man's desk.

---

May you live in interesting times.
| Sarah McFarlen | Jane Hartman |