Operation Nightlight

A short two part fiction from the Sigma Fiction Competition of July 2015

Part 1

The general quarters alarm sounds, it echoes through the metallic halls of the ISD Warrior. In the Sigma squadron barracks, people rush to get into their flight suits. The hissing of air tight systems and gear shuffling fills the room. Squadron Commander Len walks down the middle briefing everyone on the situation. “Alright pansies! We just got word as to where COL Frown is located on his vacation. We have been tasked with an extra special assignment…” Len reaches the end of the barracks and turns round. Standing triumphantly he continues, “…to keep him safe from enemy ambushes in the night.” Everyone now suited up looks confused at Len. “We are to fly low and release at the precise moment charged flash rounds to illuminate the ground so the Colonel can be sure no one is trying to sneak up on him.” The Sigma barracks go quiet. From the back, CPT Crix pipes up, “...so we are Colonel Frown’s…night light?” Everyone shuffles in their gear. Len looks out at Sigma and sighs, “Looks that way. Come on men Hustle!” Len leads Sigma out of the barracks and towards the hangar bay.

Part 2

As Sigma squad enters atmosphere on a tropical planet, Len calls for flight check in. Breaking through the upper troposphere the squad approaches the drop point. The ground below is pitch black, it is almost impossible to tell how far away it is. “Turn on the targeting computers gents” says Len through the coms. A screen glows orange as it turns on and begins to help track their relative location to the drop point. Flight two makes the first pass. CPT Crix chimes in, “Don’t worry Col. We have your night light right here.” As the computer sounds on target the first salvo is released. The jungle behind Col Frown’s hut lights up. It sounds like thunder cracking. Flights one and three follow behind. Each one letting loose a huge thunderous crack. Col Frown comes in over the radio, “KEEP IT DOWN SIGMA! CAN’T YOU SEE I AM TRYING TO SLEEP HERE?!” Len responds, “Sir, do want us to stop?” There is a long pause before the Col comes back. “Carry on Sigma, just keep it quiet. How can anyone expect to sleep with that racket?” Spiffy comes in on the Wing-only channel, “How does the Col expect us to drop these flash rounds without making a sound?” Len sighs, “I have no clue.” Crix chimes in, “Sing him a lullaby through coms?” Chuckles can be heard throughout the Wing. Only a Frown mission would be this off the wall.