Joe Larson

"I have seen the future!"

The old man crooked a bony finger at his hushed audience before repeating himself. "I have seen the future." He paused. "And it ain't gonna be pretty! No-sir-ee!"

His audience leaned closer, for the old man's predictions were usually correct. "Tell us!" said one.

"Yes, tell us!" begged another.

"Tell us!" said the crowd together.

The revered old man licked his lips, surveying the crowd. "I will tell you," he said quietly. "Listen, and learn! It is not too late to change what will be."

The man gave the crowd a moment to settle themselves before continuing.

"There will be a great war!" he told them. "Ships from many systems will join together to fight a common foe." He surveyed the serious faces before him. "We will stand united against a greater enemy."

He paused again.

His voice deepened, growing softer. "But the enemy will be crafty, able to assume many disguises, able to slip amongst us as friends. We must be forever vigilant."

The oldest amongst the young audience looked at the old man thoughtfully, an expression of distrust appearing on an otherwise open face.

"Aw, Grandpa," he said. "Have you been watching DS9 again?"