Next Colony: Nemesis Chapter 9, Page 11

As Admiral Steel and Lieutenant Rafalski enjoyed their cold drinks, Jack felt a sense of calm and relief. Even though his mind continued to race, and ruminate over the information he had just received, there was nevertheless an atmosphere of tranquility surrounding the Admiral. The problem, of course, was where to go from here.

I don't suppose you're going to tell me where Vice Admiral Maxwell is?

• Sorry, Admiral, for the moment we're keeping that a secret. I do hope you understand?

Of course, Lieutenant, I would have done the same in your situation. Has there been any response from The Cryptoriddler?

• Not that I know of; this obviously creates some anxiety for us all. If I were a betting man, I would have to guess that he's confused at the moment, and awaiting our next move.

And do we have a next move?

• Well, Sir, if we do, you're probably not going to agree with it.

I don't know if I like the sound of that. Just when I was beginning to relax.

• Try to look at the bigger picture, Admiral. This isn't easy for anyone. My men and I suffered a great deal over this long period of time that we had to survive in those caves. There's a lot of anger, and calls for revenge.

You realize that the path towards revenge requires the digging of two graves.

• Very wise, Admiral Steel, but wisdom is usually not a collective elixir. I, as an individual, may see your point, but how do you now get that point across to the group?

So you're planning another attack, aren't you?!

• I'm glad to see that I don't have to waste time with you, Sir.

I'm not one to beat around the bush, Lieutenant. You do realize that I will try to stop you?

• My turn to share some wisdom with you, Mr. Steel. The 77 men, myself included, returned to Genesis1 and 2, and were welcomed as heroes. Those same 77 men are now here, on Genesis7, 5 and even 6. Don't take that as a sign that there is some kind of plot against you, Sir. A lot of old friends are being reunited as we speak. And those old friends are recounting an uncomfortable story to everyone they meet. You're an intelligent man, Admiral; what does this create?

Sympathizers!

• Exactly! And you are their leader, Sir. Would it be wise to go against the mood of the collective?

But I'm the one who has to lead! And they should be fully aware that my orders are to be followed!

• A leader can only lead with the power that is granted by those who follow.

Lieutenant, you make things sound so simple! You know nothing about what it's like being an Admiral, and the responsibilities involved!

• I may know nothing about being an Admiral, but I just spent months doing my best to keep my men alive, and sane! With all due respect, I know a good deal about reading the mood of the collective, and making the right decisions to keep everyone from exploding!

I'm sorry, Lieutenant, please forgive my frustration. You have a good point. I didn't mean to offend you.

• No worries, Jack; in the end, we're still only human. We have up moments, and down moments; and we make good and bad decisions.

So what would you suggest? I mean, if you were in my seat?

• Don't go against the collective mood, even if you don't agree with it. It's easier to find solutions when you have the people with you, rather than against you. There are a lot of men, right now, in this very moment, who are all anxious to find out if you are with us, or against us. It's a heavy decision, Sir, but the fate of the unity of the Genesis Starfleet is in your hands. Choose wisely!

Next Colony: The Steembook - Chapters 1 thru 8

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