Stars and Destinies: Kiritella's Interstellar Journey

A slight rustle is heard, as the office chair rolls back.

''"I just don't understand it, Harris!" She exclaims, exasperatedly. "Why does this have to be such a big deal?"

Harris looks at her with a serious face, and kind but tired eyes. His thinning hair sticks out in a way that makes him look like he's under stress. He replies: ''"Kiritella... you know why it has to be this way. Until they can find the 'right candidate', we might have to put off some of our other plans."

Kiritella is visibly frustrated, and folds her arms against her chest. She sighs, and says: ''"But why do they have to send us so far away? We could have done all of this on Earth! Do we really need to go all the way out here?"

Harris clenches his jaw, and leans forward in his chair. He stares at Kiritella for a moment, then says: ''"No... we probably don't. But if we want people to take us seriously, we need to go where the action is."

Kiritella uncrosses her arms, and places both hands on top of her head; she starts rubbing her temples with her index fingers. With an air of resignation, she asks: ''"What about the other candidates? Did they get sent to more distant locations?"

Harris looks down at his desk for a moment. His face takes on a somber expression, as he replies: ''"Yes... they did."

Kiritella suddenly realizes what that means. Slumping back into her seat, she whispers: ''"Oh no..."

Harris lowers his head, looking extremely tired and sad. He puts his elbows on the table, and rests his forehead against his clenched fists; he remains that way for several moments before saying: ''"It will be alright... we just need to make sure that everyone gets their chance."