SWEET HOME ALLE BAMMA (SOLBIDYUM WARS SAGA) by Dale Musser

many branches of the government, including the military.  It is also hoped that the FSO will be able to uncover hostile intentions from non-aligned planets that might be planning to intercept the ongoing shipments of solbidyum; and of course, we have every reason to believe such attempts will be made.  If we are able to demonstrate a track record of successful reconnaissance that can be used by the Senate when vetting the FSO, the organization will more likely be able to continue their mission without interruption and ultimately facilitate safe delivery of solbidyum shipments to every Federation planet.”
    “I see,” said Senator Tonclin thoughtfully.  He sat back in his chair to contemplate the implications of an organization like the FSO that is operating at such a broad scale without initial sanction by the Federation’s governing body.  “And what is it exactly that you expect from me?”
    “First and foremost, we ask that you feign ignorance of what we are doing; secondly, that you assist by providing a minimum of ten loyal natives of Nibaria to be trained as operatives and agents of the FSO and that you keep secret your knowledge of the agents you provide us.  Lastly – and this will surely be the most difficult request we make of you – that you provide us with any information you may glean from your duties that indicates any Senate member’s awareness of the FSO and its activities.”
    Senator Tonclin’s growing concern was becoming apparent.  “Please allow me to paraphrase your request for my own clarification.  What you are requesting of me is that I act as an undercover agent within the Senate – the Senate of which I am a sworn member and within which I have avowed to uphold the Federation constitution?”
    “In a word, yes, Senator Tonclin, but not in any way that violates your pledge or any Federation law.  We don’t expect you to lie, but we would ask that you not volunteer information or do anything that would alert the Senate to the existence or actions of the FSO or to your participation in our operations.  We fully intend to operate within the laws and regulations of the constitution.”
    Senator Tonclin made a humming sound and stared at the table for some moments before replying.  The admiral and I fully understood the magnitude of our request to the senator and we waited silently while he deliberated the situation.  At last he said, “I can certainly see the need for what you say, and in all honesty I can see how taking rapid preemptive action against the Brotherhood and our enemies can thwart their advancement before they have a chance to execute their malevolent plans.  However, I do have concerns for the legal rights of our citizens and their private lives.”
    “Senator, I fully understand and appreciate your apprehensions.  On my home planet, Earth, a parallel situation resulted when similar organizations were formed to combat a growing problem with some very dangerous bands of insurgents and, frankly, we were not able to find a clear and easy solution to the controversy.  The legality of many methods used by the investigative body created in my homeland have required the scrutiny of the Supreme Court, the equivalent of the FLRB.  In order for such an organization to be effective, the FSO will have to walk on the edge of legality at times; but I assure you that we will make every effort to stay within the rules of the Federation’s constitution , in spite of the fact that the organization is by nature not able to exercise the transparency expected of other agencies.  Ultimately, the plan of action for the FSO consists of direct and conscionable efforts to preserve the freedom and prosperity of all good and moral citizens within the Federation.”
    The senator sat quietly again before voicing his decision.  “Honored First Citizen, if anyone else presented me with this request, I would not hesitate to decline immediately.”  The usual melodic timbre in Senator