Mr. Sing

The academy claimed the water traveled to the equator and poured into a core vent shaft where it came close to the planet’s magma center and was then turned into steam. The steam then rose through a lesser baffled pressurized exhaust vent and was sent to Polar Regions of the planet. The steam was cooled as it neared the planet’s surface but was warm enough to push the existing ice outward where it melted away seeping into the many rivers within the planet, starting the process all over again.

Mr. Sing tried to enjoy the view but a flashing thought made him uneasy; again he had to remind himself to stay clam. He resented having to make this journey, forced by the ruling of the Council to commit a murder. He still could not figure out how his primary mission had been compromised. Only two people knew of his assignment, his silent contact and himself. Could there be a spy within the Council? There had to be, Sing thought but whom? Kulik the Supreme Council Member had protected him as best he could during the Third Party Ruling but lost to a majority vote. He had to follow through with the assassination. Sing’s chest was tightening with anxiety. He needed to relax. If only he had brought his medication. The medicine helped him to relax under stressful council sessions which seemed to be occurring more often. In the beginning, his job as a council member was rewarding and gratifying but now, with the booming industrial revolution and without an associate to assist him, the pressure to have his community increase in productivity had mounted even greater. The only pleasure Sing could find associated with this trip, if there was to be any, was the luxury to travel alone in the tiny passenger compartment. Privacy was very much a rarity. His pleasure was interrupted with a sharp knock on the door. He paid it no attention. Whoever it was knocked again and again, Mr. Sing refused to acknowledge it. The knock occurred again, causing Sing agitation. He stepped up to answer the door when in stepped a young steward.

"Sir, I came by to see if everything was satisfactory. It’s not often we travel with VIP’s. Normally we would have had a food platter all set up before your arrival. I do apologize; I was unaware that you were even in this compartment until…."

Mr. Sing ignored the steward and returned to his seat. He eyed the young man, noting he was close in age and appearance to his own son. He suddenly realized he hadn’t spoken to his son since their argument two days earlier. Sing mentally noted that he would have to repair their relationship when he returned.

Realizing Mr. Sing wasn’t paying him any attention, the steward reached over and tapped him on the shoulder. "Sir, are you okay?

"Yes." Mr. Sing said barely audible coming away from his thoughts. "I’m fine, thank you. I just want to be left alone." He ignored eye contact with the young steward and continued to gaze out the window.

"Sir?"

"I said, I want to be left alone." Sing snapped.

The steward, being shunned by Mr. Sing, felt it was best to back away. "Yes sir, if that is what you wish. Later, if you happen to change your mind and would like for me to bring you some refreshments, please ring the bell. I’ll be right outside."

"I want nothing, young man. Just make sure that I am not disturbed."

"Are you sure I can’t get you a blanket or something to read?" The steward tried one last time.

Mr. Sing shifted in his seat, twisting to face the steward. "No, young man! I want nothing.