Death Star

"Death Star" by James McKimmey Jr. is a science fiction story about facing the unexpected outcomes of dreams and ambitions. It tells of Hurtz, an experienced pilot nearing retirement with a singular wish for land ownership. Hurtz is thrust into a mission accompanying Jones, a young, arrogant pilot, on what was intended to be a simple solo flight. Tragedy strikes when their voyage ends in a devastating crash on an uncharted planet, leaving Jones injured and resentful towards Hurtz whom he holds responsible. As Hurtz cares for the injured Jones, he is forced to confront his past and the single-minded pursuit of his dreams, realizing how it shaped choices and affected those around him. The narrative highlights themes of accountability, regret, and finding peace as Hurtz discovers that his dreams can evolve even in the face of adversity, finding a form of redemption in the face of their shared predicament when he stumbles upon the very land of his dreams.