DEDICATED TO ALEX J.

Better late than never I always say. I had all the best intentions to have my "Q" FF posted for late afternoon yesterday, but as we all know things happen, right?

At some point I wanted to have a special post for our best and most loyal blogger buddy, Alex Cavanaugh. Finally an opportunity arose through this challenge for me to write a SCI/FI F/F riddle especially for Alex and ALL my friends who write SCI/FI. THIS is my first attempt at this genre, so I hope you all like it .

I must admit it was a bit easier than I thought. Of course, I trembled slightly as I wrote the first sentence. Then, thankfully it all flowed.

Thanks again, Alex for all your support and FRIENDSHIP. What would our community do without you ...

As you all know, I ask for the answers in the comments. For you SCI/FI writers it should be pretty easy. Remember, it does begin with "Q."

Have a wonderful day everyone. At some point, I hope to add the "R" post that is due for today.... Wish me luck!

Ninja Captain, Alex J. Cavanaugh, turned toward his reluctant crew; deep frown lines etched in his face. “We have no choice. We must continue on this path.”

“But Captain, you do realize how dangerously close we are coming to it. Death is certain,” said a man whose eyes widened to twice their original size.

“We will continue lieutenant. That is an order.”

“If you are sure, sir.”

The captain nodded with certainty. The lieutenant paled and returned to the controls, pushing multi-colored buttons in a complex sequence. 

Pacing, the captain glanced through the curved window and into the starry galaxy. In the distance, just barely visible, a bright fiery light edged the horizon.

He shook his head. “There is no other alternative,’ he whispered, and then swallowed hard.

A memory of the most astonishing natural phenomenon flashed through his mind like a rocket cutting through the atmosphere.

Could this one be anything like that? What little color drained from his face. God help us if it is ...