“There is news from Earth.”

Work stops, the slight figure draws back, pauses and thinks for a moment. “They are beginning to understand, they should by now.”

“Yes they are.”

“But?”

“The other Australian has died.”

The room changes, black despair swirls in.

“Their war?”

“No, again a surprise. One of the others was going to meet with him, to tell him what is happening when some criminals – law breakers – encountered him by chance. There was a fight, he died saving someone.”

“Let us hope in saving one he did not condemn us all. I thought he had been chosen wisely, possibly I was mistaken.”

“I think not, he was mortally injured when he gave himself. We chose correctly I believe. It was misfortune.”

“This may change the plan, do you agree?”

“Yes.”

“We must be ready sooner, there is nobody to help us. We must be ready in time.”

“I know.”

Silence.

Next: 25 - Glossary