The Captain had summoned Dr. Lenz right at the start of his cycle. No time to look out at the great expanse of space or even have breakfast for that matter. He had never thought that this would be his future. But, he also knew that he had been very fortunate to be gifted this opportunity to save humanity.
The Captain was in his room waiting for him and he knew what he wanted to discuss. Where next for Negativum? It was a major concern since the Danu entered intergalactic space. The distance between star systems had now increased exponentially and the Captain was growing increasingly nervous. Dr. Lenz was too, but he dare not show it. The prevailing theory had always been that Negativum had been created during the Big Bang, at the moment of the creation of the Universe and therefore should be evenly distributed in it. But what if that was incorrect and they had already passed the last collection point?
Dr. Lenz had to put his faith in all the great minds that had once existed.
“A location has not been yet been determined. It is more difficult in intergalactic space.”
“I have total faith in you Dr. Lenz but the crew is getting nervous. I’ve been informed that our supply is running low.”
“Yes, I am very aware of that and what is at stake. I’ve been working on this problem non stop.”
“Is there any way anybody else could be of assistance? Maybe Candace, she’s a fine officer and very intelligent. You seem to have a good working relationship.”
“She is a fine officer but..”
“Let me be clear. This is an order. You must share your expertise with others for both the short and long term future of humanity. She will be the first and will be at your workspace within the hour.”
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Candace was looking at the array somewhat bewildered. Dr. Lenz was trying to hide his frustration. He just didn’t have the time for this.
“Once again Candace, this is a three dimensional Michovic diagram of space of about three thousand light years across. We are searching for mass – volume anomalies that might indicate the presence of Negativum.
“I just don’t understand.”
“What exactly?”
“You said the anomalies should be near stars. But what about this?”
She point to empty space.
Dr. Lenz looked and was dumbfounded. He had never thought to check such areas. It must be a free floating planet. For the briefest of moments he was overcome with joy and hugged her. It felt good and she didn’t push back. Then he took a step back.
“We have to inform the Captain!”
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