Professionalism

As they sit down in the interview room, Mike can see that Donna has composed herself completely. It’s obvious that despite her playful side, she takes her job seriously. Though her demeanor is still friendly, it’s clear she won’t be fooling around here.

With a smile, she folds her hands on the table between them. “So, to start off, thank you for being so willing to aid everyone since your arrival. It makes it much easier to dispel any nasty rumors about you.”

Mike nods. “I can’t see why I wouldn’t. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful so far. And I’m not even talking about our…bedroom activities.”

Donna chuckles. “Although I’m sure that doesn’t hurt. So, you say that you’re sure that whoever came through yesterday was someone from a different faction? Can you explain that, please?”

Mike shrugs. “I’ll do the best I can, I was never deeply involved in that side of things. There are three major powers currently, but only two with the resources and ambition to do this. The globalists are the ones who sent me, but they used up too many resources to try again so soon. Then there’s the theists, they’re zealots, but for the most part they simply want to be left alone. They’ve shown no interest in this project.”

Donna is listening intently, clearly paying close attention. “So the last group is who you suspect is involved here?”

Mike nods. “The separatists, yes. They want to divide the world up to how it once was, or at least that’s what they say. I expect that they just want power for themselves. They’re not above stealing research and material to replicate the machine that sent me here.”

Donna frowns. “And I would guess that they fit with the common perception of humans as warlike and belligerent?”

Mike chuckles. “The leaders? Absolutely. But I have no idea who they would send, and how successful they were. After all, I was never supposed to be the one who came here.”

Donna nods, thinking. After a moment, she smiles. “Thank you for clarifying all this. This will be helpful to our officers in the field. One more question. What do you think they are after?”

Mike shakes his head. “Not a clue. If I had to guess, I’d say they’re scouting, although I don’t know what for.”

With a nod, Donna stands. “Well, hopefully we can solve that mystery by finding whoever came through. That’s all for now, Mike. Let’s go back and see what’s new with you and your…changes.”

Just like that, the slight playfulness is back in her voice. Mike can’t help but notice the change in how she looks at him. It’s like she switched off her professional demeanor and now she was eager for something different. As they walk back across the hall, she actually winks at him!