The Two Rico's (Starship Troopers Male Oc)

The Dance

Johnny walks through rooms filled with elegant furniture. He's all spiffed up for the big dance. His mother catches him preening in front of a mirror by the transporter in the hall.

Johnnys Mom: "who said you could grow up so fast? Last time I checked you were only five years old chasing Thomas around the house."

His moms smile dropped after mentioning his brother. Johnny was used to the topic bringing his parents down.

Johnny: "Aw, don't get mushy."

Johnny's father enters carrying a Federal Service Catalogue.

Johnnys Dad: "This came for you today. I presume on your request."

Johnny: "A lot of my friends are doing Federal Service."

Johnnys Mom: "You aren't thinking of applying...?"

Johnny shrugs.

Johnnys Dad: "Have you lost your mind? I'd rather take ten lashes in Public Square than see you ruin your life like your brother."

Johnny: "It's a term of service, not a career. I just want to get out on my own and see the galaxy for a couple of years."

Johnnys Mom: "Johnny, people get hurt... people get killed in the Federal Service. It's already hard enough knowing Thomas is serving. If something happened to both of you, I don't know what I would do."

Johnnys Dad: "Who gave you this idea? It's that teacher. What's his name? You know the one i mean."

Johnny: "Mr. Rasczak."

Johnnys Dad: "Rasczak... Silly name. There ought to be a law against using a school as a recruiting station!"

Johnny: "No, Mr. Rasczak doesn't do that at all. He sort of discourages you really."

Johnnys Dad: "Good, because you're going to Harvard, and that's the end of it."

Johnny: "I'm eighteen. It's my decision."

Johnnys Dad: "Oh, is that how it is?"

Johnnys Mom: "Wait you two. Your dad and I have a Suprise for you that will settle this. Can you guess what it is?"

Johnny: "Uh, no."

Johnnys Dad: "A trip to the outer Rings. What 'Ya think of that?"

Johnny: "Wow! Santori and Zegema Beach, I've always wanted to go there."

Johnnys Mom: "Good good, then it's all settled."

Johnnys Dad: "A year at Harvard and you'll see this Federal Service is just menial training for inferior people so they can call themselves citizens and take airs for the rest of their lives."

Johnny: "Wait a minute! Thomas is doing his Federal Service and he isn't inferior. He's the bravest person I know!"

Johnnys Dad: "Sorry. I love your brother..."