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Found 62 results

  1. SpacerSteve

    [M-D04] Asset Retrieval

    Location: D04 Terrial Minor Tags: Ground Vehicle, MANTIS, Civil, Farming, Creature Spacer Steve and his team of explorers arrive on a MANTIS Agra colony with a special mission to recapture a genetically modified Reptoslicer. - Chogg - Why is Chogg here again? Chogg is hungry. Sooooo muuuch Food!!!! Agent L- Why is it always the food Chogg? Focus on the mission. There are plenty of grubs on the ship. Spacer Steve- Agreed. We are here because one of Doctor Arvan's assistance let his guard down and allowed the Reptoslicer to escape. We are here to retrieve the asset. Doctor Arvan is away investigating a strange alien race. Fortunate for his assistant the the Reptoslicer ate him. Better then becoming one or Dr. Arvans dissection specimens. - Spacer Steve - Now here is the plan team I will take the tranquilizer rifle up on the Locust Harvester! Agent L whe I give the word fire up your jetpack and grab the Reptoslicer's attention. Chogg, set you Death Ray Tm to disentigrate. Only fire if I give the command - Agent L- WAIT! I'M BAIT! Spacer Steve- Don't worry Chogg has our back if anything should go wrong Agent L- Thats what I'm worried about. Just then a piercing screech filled the air. Spacer Steve - Agent L Go! Agent L- Yes sir - - Chogg- Ahhhh Kill it!!! - Spacer Steve - CHOGG NO I have a shot... - ..... More shots of the Reptoslicer and Harvester Edit: Thanks for looking C&C welcome.
  2. MysticModulus

    Conclusive results on GM Plants

    Location: Guinevere A06. Tags: Science, Guinevere A06, M.A.N.T.I.S. Finally I have som conclusive results on my latest project: genetically modified plants that can withstand these harsh conditions on Guinevere A06. Hopefully this will lead to a greater supply of organisms (and som nice flowers to put in the M.A.N.T.I.S. HQ).
  3. Ferdinando

    [M-B06] Great things are afoot

    Location:B06-Sorn Tags:exploration, land vehicle, civil building https://www.flickr.c...0338@N08/C378q1 Sorry but this time I haven't been able to post the build directly here because of a glitch in the Matrix or whatever it was. I have provided the link for the flickr album with photos and story. WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE INCONVENIENCE fixed. Dr.Arvan ‘Yrich Arkov’s personal log: “Something is happening. I feel like awakening from a dream, just to discover it was real… The deep-buried secrets of this galaxy arise to the surface, remnants of long-forgotten kingdoms. It is true; we know it. What had me ridiculized by the laymen’s skepticism now bathes in the blazing sunlight of the alien suns. The recent discovery of a crashed derelict on Terrial Major was the final proof that rekindled my superiors’ trust in my beliefs. Operation Architects lives again. The next step of my research awaits on the marine paradise of Sorn, on a little isle deep within Kawashita territory. It will also be the chance to test a new exploration and transport vehicle, the MX-Grasshopper, specifically designed (by me) to swiftly carry equipment into and out of our enemies’ borderlines.” Sorn by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “Hey Doc, be careful with that. It be my exploration stuff!” Dr.Arvan: “Kevin, firstly, this is not “your” stuff, it is M.A.N.T.I.S. property; secondly, this is not “stuff”, it is a finely designed descent wire.” Zeni’ya: “Wow, it’s barely long enough… I can see water; it could be an underground lake or river.” Dr.Arvan: “There’s light too…this means technology, which means developed alien civilization, which means a step forward in my research!” Kevin: “Which means lootable stuff as well!” Dr.Arvan: “There’ll be a time for looting, Kevin. But this is a research mission. We go, we look, we record, we leave. Clear enough?” Kevin: “Yeah, yeah…” Dr.Arvan: “Well, time to penetrate the mineral hide of this watery world and explore its schistous bowels, whatever mistery may stand awaiting…” Zeni’ya: “…in hope of finding a trace of the Magratheans, so that we may be rewarded in wisdom, glory and higher paychecks.” Kevin: “I be the explorer. I go first.” Sorn2 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “Whoa.” Dr.Arvan: “Breath-taking.” Sorn3 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “Ok, there’s a creepy dead guy lying right here. This may puzzle you sciencey guys, but “creepy dead guy” in explorers’ language means one thing: booby traps. Yeah.” Zeni’ya: “Isn’t it a bit offensive? Let me explain, any civilization that should leave lethal concoctions to guard their treasures and knowledge would do so because they think that anyone that stumbles across them would be greedy and blind to the chance of learning. Isn’t that a bit pretentious?” Dr.Arvan: “That’s logic. It’s just lack of trust. Let’s move on.” Sorn4 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “Ok Doc. This is just a by-the-book exploration. Alien temple. Creepy dead guy. Frozen guy. Button-looking device. Next step? What does your sciencey head tell you?” Dr.Arvan: “Er… push the button?” Kevin: “NO! Button-looking device is booby traps! Left to trick sciencey heads!” Dr.Arvan: “Ok, ok. Then what? You’re no sciencey head. You’re the explorer. Yet you’re too frightened of a trick to do your job. This sciencey head is going to push the button, and you, girly guy, are going to become M.A.N.T.I.S.’s laughing stock!” Kevin: “I BE THE EXPLORER! I PUSH BUTTON! YOU STAY BACK!” Sorn5 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn6 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “What…?” Dr.Arvan: “I suddenly remembered my training. “In case of button-looking device, have an explorer push it.” CHANDRAXERE’ MAYENDRA-CHRIXEYRICHI AKUURA. CHANDRAXERE’ MAYENDRA… Zeni’ya: “Droid fiend! Destroy it!” Sorn7 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “Take this!” Sorn8 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Kevin: “EEEEEEEEEK!” Sorn9 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Magrathean: “Yaleenar! Enough of this!” Sorn10 by tropeaferdinando, su Flick Droid: “Chaxara. Yes, Master.” Sorn11 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Dr.Arvan: “Thanks gentle alien. I am Dr.Arvan ‘Yrich Arkov and these are my assistant Zeni’ya and explorer Kevin. Who are you, exactly?” Magrathean: “My name does not matter." Sorn12 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Zeni’ya: “How exactly it doesn’t? You’re a stranger to us, and I assume it would be much easier to address you with a more precise denomination than “old, bearded, almost hippy-looking alien”, not to say it would take much less time.” Magrathean: “Oh well… I’m called Zartiblartstaff, and I’m the designer of this planet. Yep. I’m an ocean specialist.” Sorn13 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Zartiblartstaff: “Charlaxes avraineth. Here, you see it.” Dr.Arvan: “Goodness gracious… one of the Architects stands alive before me… I-I’m deeply honored, O Immense Zartiblartstaff, and hope you will grace us with more of this Magrathean knowledge. Yet I couldn’t help but notice you speak our language. How can you do this?” Sorn14 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Zartiblartstaff: “When you pushed the button, you reactivated the room and its machinery. Your discourse matrix was then extrapolated and telepathically transmitted to my brain. Much more efficient than the old Babelfish. “ Sorn15 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Zartiblartstaff: “Alas, this is not the time for tales of the past. This galaxy is in danger; You must help me, or we will be late.” Kevin: “Late?” Zeni’ya: “ You speak of a danger; what danger is it that you talk about?” Dr.Arvan: “Indeed; we will help you, O Probable Source of Our Future Glory, Prizes and Pecuniary Reward, though, we’re scientists, and we could use a more specific explanation! What prevents you from telling us more?” Zartiblartstaff: “We have a deal, human, but I can only say that… great things are afoot.” extra pics: Sorn extra pics by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn extra pics 2 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn extra pics 3 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn Extra pics 4 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn extra pics 5 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Sorn extra pics 6 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr
  4. Ferdinando

    [M-D03] "Graveyard"

    Location: D03-Terrial Major Tags: science, exploration Dr.Arvan ‘Yrich Arkov’s personal log: “For once, things seem to be going well. I and Steve are becoming great friends, sharing a strong interest for the different forms which alien life incarnates. The journey aboard the Belafonte proceeds normally and serenely… maybe too serenely. I miss a good scientific riddle, the stimulating feeling of being near to something that could change forever our outlook on reality!” End log. Meanwhile on Terrial Major… Lieutenant Ddrawigh: “Commander! I read something!” Commander Adawwar: “At last. Looks like we find our unauthorized transmission source.” Lieutenant Ddrawigh: “It comes from beyond this snowhill!” 20150725_194202-1 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Commander Adawwar: “Well, this is unexpected.” Lieutenant Ddrawigh: “How…How can this be? This ship is crashed, how can it even transmit something?" Commander Adawwar: “This ship may be broken, but it is not dead yet. There is no snow on it... Touch, it's hot. I had heard prisoners back at the M.A.N.T.I.S. outpost talking about this…a distress signals that lures other ships into the same gravitational anomaly that made the original vessel crash-land here. This is a shipwreck graveyard.” 20150725_194155 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Lieutenant Ddrawigh: “The symbol on the hull… It looks like a letter of the human alphabet. Could this ship be human?” Commander Adawwar: “It would be the most obvious explanation, if only I hadn’t seen that symbol before. A long time ago, in an exploration expedition you are too young to have participated in. It is indeed an “M”… but certainly not a human one. The fact they coincide is but a joke of the destiny. What lies inscribed on this derelict of the past is the legacy of legend… heritage of a god-like people. Behold the emblem of Magrathea.” Lieutenant Ddrawigh: “M-Magrathea?” Commander Adawwar: “Call the M.A.N.T.I.S. outpost, and Dr.Arkov as well; tell them we found information about Operation Architects. Extra Pics: 20150725_194148-1 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150725_194227 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Also introcucing the Fenriri people… 20150725_194327 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr …And (coming soon) the Mighty Magratheans! 20150725_194504 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr
  5. Master_Data

    [M - A04] The M.A.N.T.I.S. Tank

    Sector: A04 Tags: Military, Vehicle, Spaceship, Land Vehicle Begin Log: I travel over the surface of Mynderis in the new M.A.N.T.I.S. Fly Class Flyer, searching for the "special package" I'm supposed to pick up. I've found it! Switching from Fly mode to Raven mode for landing. Secured the M.A.N.T.I.S. Tank. I'll drill around the perimeter until a driver reports in. Some back and front detailing. I've found a quiet lava spring to drill into. Group shot: End Log This was my first attempt at more detailed vehicles and landscapes. I'm very happy with how the tank's cockpit function turned out, how much detail I packed in, and how complicated a build it was. It's hard to see them, but I've even added a few car fenders/bumpers to the tank. Comments welcome!
  6. Master_Data

    [M - C04] M.A.N.T.I.S. Stryker 2.0

    Location: C04 Tags: Vehicle, Spying, Spaceship, Military. Begin Log: Master Data, we're receiving a garbled transmission from a Kawashitan base on Aeristus. Quick, Jade, prepare the Stryker for a rescue mission! I can't let you do that, Master Data. Starstriker must be eliminated for our plans to conquer Andromeda to succeed. Weren't you the Octan spy I captured a few weeks ago? Grrr...I will stop you! Quick, jump in the Stryker 2.0. I'll handle this thug! Stryker 2.0? It looks like a Kawashitan fighter to me! The outer plating can now be swapped for any mission. You'll be infiltrating the Kawashitans on this mission, so we designed it to fit in with their spacecraft as much as possible. Thanks Jade. We'll rescue Starstriker before the Kawashitans even know he's there! End Log A picture of all the original builds for this mission:
  7. rodiziorobs

    [M - C04] Crash landing/SOS

    Location: C04, Aeristus Tags: N/A Kawa 1: "Sir, there is a small unidentified craft approaching the planet's surface. Coming in hot." Kawa 2: "Curse these Mantites! I assume this is another of their light attack cruisers?" Kawa 1: "Not this one, sir. Initial energy and design specifications do not correspond with any known or typical M.A.N.T.I.S. technology. Full specs should be coming in shortly." Kawa 2: "Where is it headed?" Kawa 1: "Toward our military reserve base on the Western Peninsula, but it's not coming in directly..." Kawa 2: "What could it be, then? Alien? Maybe M.A.N.T.I.S. has something new. Get me Lt. Malvado on air, this is urgent..." Kawa 1: "Wait, commander. Details online now...looks like an Octan transport, a small one. There doesn't seem to be anyone on board, or at least no one is controlling it. Impact in planet surface in T minus..28 seconds." Kawa 2: "Figures. Octan trusts their robots to do everything for them, and then they fail. Besides, robots have no honor. How long until..." Kawa 1: "21 seconds, sir. Looks like it will land about a half mile wide of our base." Kawa 2: "Well, that's good. I'm still relieved we sent all our forces away from there to attack M.A.N.T.I.S. on the northern front, just in case there had been a catastrophe. Octan will hear of this, mark me--sending all their junk everywhere..." Kawa 1: "Eight seconds..." Both: ... Kawa 2: "What does that blue and purple mean on that screen there?" Kawa 1: That's the thermal scanner, sir. Blue indicates cool to normal temps, probably from the nighttime air. Cool temps means that the ship did not explode on impact, otherwise it would be red." Kawa 2: "Ah rats. I would rather it were red. I do love a good explosion, and red reminds me of the Honorable emblem of Kawashita. Oh well. Looks like there are tiny patches of red, so perhaps some parts caught fire, at least." Kawa 1: "Would you like me to send a recovery unit out, sir?" Kawa 2: "That won't be necessary. Let Octan's garbage stand as a testament to the incompetence that has emerged from their once fine glory. They have faded. And after we wipe those bugs from this planet, Kawashita will stand supreme in Andromeda! Honorably supreme, of course." Kawa 1: "Of course, sir." Kawa 2: "Keep me posted of any further incident..." ******** Scorpio gasped for air--he was alive! He struggled free from the twisted wreckage, vaguely thinking that the woman was probably still trapped. She could fend for herself, if she was still alive. He wondered where he was. Had they arrived on the planet Octan had destined him for, or had his actions at the Gate diverted their course? On the horizon he saw a cluster of red and grey buildings; he was definitely in Kawashita territory. With the red and white Octan space travel suit he had been given, he would probably stick out and get captured instantly, but he had to chance it. Besides, there didn't seem to be anyone around. The building was deserted, evidently in a hurry as tools were scattered everywhere. He had to find a clue to where he was, and find out if there were any M.A.N.T.I.S. operatives nearby. He reached for the radio controls, and sent out an SOS. He could not access a M.A.N.T.I.S. secure line from the Kawashita base, so he would have to use a public channel. If there were any Kawas around, they would lock on to his signal and find him in a heartbeat. But there was no other way. :::Open channel::Freq.786DF::<unencrypted>::Message[begin]Request for immediate extraction from unknown location, please confirm coordinates with positive ID__Agent: Starstriker, S.__Enemy units nearby, discovery imminent,extraction urgent[end]Close channel::: ******** Kawa 1: "Sir, we just picked up a strange transmission requesting an extraction." Kawa 2: "One of our operatives in the field? Get them out!" Kawa 1: "No sir, this was sent from our training facility on the Western Peninsula, nearby that crash from a few hours ago. An agent named "Starstriker"--nothing pulls up on our records; might be an Octan from that crashed transport." Kawa 2: "Drat! Send a unit back there to investigate, and if needs be, terminate. Those dishonorable Octans! Let me know immediately of any progress!" ********* Scorpio waited for a response. No doubt the Kawas would be closing in soon, and he might never get a response. He had to keep moving. Suddenly a response came in: :::Open channel::Freq.786DF::<unencrypted>::Message[begin]Scorpio! Long time no see. Got your location, I'm headed there once I teach these Kawas a little lesson. Don't get yourself caught again, okay? -SpacerSteve[end]Close channel::: Ha ha! Scorpio was saved! As long as SpacerSteve could reach him in time... **************** Another PAB build this week, if you couldn't tell. Hopefully next week I'll have access to all my bricks. Microscale of the crash site, near the Kawa facility: Andromeda's Gates week 9 by rodiziorobs, on Flickr C&C welcome!
  8. Location: Sector A04 - Mynderis Tags: Building, Military After the scouts returned from the surface of Mynderis, the core of engineers were dispatched to establish mining, research and communication centers. My team was moved to a surface location that is roughly flat and void of alien activity. Here we constructed the long rage communication and research center. All communication sectors have establied channels with our unit. Research can now begin on the lava formations where trace amounts of Awesomnium are being detected on the surface. This could be a potential future mining operation as well. In the next days the Military and Science experts with take over the location and I will be dispatched on my next mission. - D
  9. Ferdinando

    [M-E02] "Allies"

    Location: E02-Jurin II Tags: Science (?) Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov's personal log: " When I was on Terra as a mere learner at the New Mexico college my teacher used to tell us: "Sciencey stuff ain't supposed to be exciting. Most of you will end up in a dirty lab to rot." Then she would grab her carbine and shoot the coyotes near the arrays. Here I am, millions of light-years away from home, shock gun at hand, my leg shot and bleeding, trying to survive an Octan ambush while I should be examining the natives' stone carvings behind me. I am not paid to die heroically. Looks like I will. 20150705_185810 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150705_185934 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr An Octan soldier falls, hit by a positron surge. When I point my weapon at his fellow, I discover he already lies dead, his abdomen pierced by an arrow. I look overhead, and Zeni'ya's gaze answers mine. Behind her, similarly pale aliens, clad in tribal robes, their primitive weapons drawn and ready to strike as lethal rain upon Octan's brutes. M.A.N.T.I.S. has found allies. 20150705_185859 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr extra pics: 20150705_190007 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150705_190651 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150705_190732 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr I apologize for the unedited pics and the rushed build, this will be my last build for AG in a while till the Jurii medical techniques cure my wounds .
  10. rodiziorobs

    [M - F02] Scorpion attack

    Location: Lesser Drigo Tags: Spying, Science Things were not looking so good for Scorpio. His mission last week had been a complete success, other than that well, you know, he got caught. When he came to, his equipment had all been taken, and he had been put into a bright red jumpsuit. With no further ado, he had been transported to the prison compound. He assumed they intended to interrogate him later. In the meantime, he was stuck in a bare cell, under the watch of a continual guard, with food that smelled of coffee, and not even a bench to sleep on. The prison area was also on a very busy corridor, where sneering Octan would come by constantly. At least there were no rats. In place of rats, however, there were other pests. Specifically, scorpions. He wasn’t sure if they were indigenous to the planet, or if they just happened to be wherever Octan was. Whatever the cause, the hallways seemed to be teeming with them at all hours of the day. It comforted Scorpio to know that the Octans were afraid of them. Some more so than others. Scorpio had always liked scorpions—it was actually where he had gotten his nickname. Once, when he was just a little boy, his father had found him playing with one as if it were a puppy, completely unhurt. When his father had reached down to get it away, it struck at and nearly stung him. Amazed at this, his father called him a scorpion trainer. His little sister Arsenica had been unable to pronounce it and so called him ‘Scorpio’ and the name had stuck. No time to dwell on old memories, though… One nice thing about being on the busy corridor was that his cell was right next to the laundry, where he overheard a lot of juicy gossip from the Octans. Some of it was the regular workplace drama, but a lot of sensitive information was being passed around in there. That was where he had learned that while Octan had recognized his data transfer of the beryllium sphere specs, they still did not suspect that their robotics program had been hacked. As he passed yet another dull day to himself, he heard a familiar voice from the laundry room. It was Dr. Long’s voice. She was clearly talking on her phone to someone, probably some Octan bigwig somewhere. He was barely paying attention when suddenly he heard: “hrgrngrngnrgnrnStarstrikergrngrngrrrnhrgrn” Scorpio pressed his ear against the wall to hear better. “Yes, we are sure it’s him. Well, not him, but, you know, another one. Blasted door, open! No, sorry. Look, he had identification on him as Scorpio Starstriker, M.A.N.T.I.S. scientist 1st class. Yes. Yes. Uh…I’m not sure, how should I know why they would sent a scientist on a spying mission?! Okay, why don’t I just ask him, then? stupid bloody…rrrrrr! No. Okay. Yes, that would probably be the best way to do it. come on, No! I didn’t want a pre-wash! Oh, okay. I’ll put together the requisition forms and he should be ready to be released into your custody tomorrow. Fine, next week, whenever you want. Yeah. Sounds good. <click>. You cursed little..! Isn’t someone supposed to be doing this for me? As Scorpio heard Dr. Long’s footsteps he wasn’t sure if this was good news or not. Apparently he was going to be shipped off to somewhere else, but where? And what did Dr. Long mean, “another one?” Had one of his comrades been captured as well? Surely he would have known by now. Perhaps she meant another scientist? Or…another Starstriker? That wasn’t possible, as much as Scorpio wished it could be. Still, there was no time to waste, and Scorpio wasn’t going to be hanging out here any longer. He knew there were still M.A.N.T.I.S. agents operating on Lesser Drigo, but if he was shipped off somewhere else his chance of making it home was gone. He had to escape. He waited until a large swarm of scorpions entered the hall, then he would hack the electronic lock and escape in the confusion. Here they came! Now was the time! Waauuuughh! Scorpio decided that it must have been the faulty Octan wiring that had shocked him. Yeah, that was it. Meanwhile, Octan assigned him a robotic guard that was not afraid of scorpion attacks, and he had to endure more of Dr. Long’s cursing and kicking the machines. He would have to escape some other way…
  11. Master_Data

    [M - E02] Undersea Exploration

    Participants: Master_Data, Agent G, Little John Begin Log: We stumbled upon some ruins from Jurin II's earliest civilizations. Little John and Agent G volunteered to help excavate the rest of the ruins and look for more awesomnium. Seems like there are some weird crab-like creatures amongst the ruins. We'd better save one for Big Sal. Little John readies his camera for shots of the area before we start drilling. There's something hiding behind that rock. Better not disturb it. It's almost like the creature is guarding that helmet... Activated my new M.A.N.T.I.S. Awesomnium Locator. Ready to commence drilling! Great! I'll remove the debris with the M.A.N.T.I.S. Gator Class Submersible. Let's get working! End Log Comments: Sorry for the lack of story! I've been very busy. Maybe I'll come back and edit it once I have time!
  12. Andrew JN

    [M - E02] Battle of Jurin II

    Location: Jurin II, Sector E02 Tags: E02, MANTIS, Piracy Log_M_3: After M.A.N.T.I.S. received reports of Octan intel gathering Biomass from the stomachs of the great Vlorms in the forests of Jurin II, I have been sent out to pick up the packages they have very kindly (and unknowingly) prepared for us. The exact location of where I have been sent happens to be the great mushroom forests of Sector E02.... End_Log AG: Battle of Jurin II by Andrew JN, on Flickr
  13. Ferdinando

    [M-E02] Science of death

    Location: E02-Jurin II Tags: science Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov's personal log: "The last standard week has seen outstanding advancement in M.A.N.T.I.S. domination over Andromeda. The rising star of galactic expansion is no more dim and weak and gradually climbs alien heights. M.A.N.T.I.S. now undertakes the glorious path of success - and profit as well. Finally, our talents can be exploited at their best: my past achievements in scientific research have earned me the chance to take part in this journey, and I am now conducting not one, but two research projects on the planet Jurin II; my last assistant has... gone missing, and has been replaced by a more competent one; and lastly, I am awaiting a visit from our Councilor Maxxene Cor, who wishes to inspect our research base personally. The week has brought great positive changes - and one little drawback: apparently, I've lost much of my fondness for tentacled mollusks..." End log. 20150625_172621 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr WHHHHHHHHSSSSSSHHHHHH... Zeni'ya: "Welcome, milady. I hope your journey went well." 20150625_172736 (1) by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Maxxene Cor: "It was fine, thanks. And you are?" Zeni'ya: "I am Zeni'ya, Dr.Arkov's First Xenology Assistant. My non-humanity often disconcerts visitors, but has proved useful in Dr.Arkov's work. My outlook on the subject is... unique, to say the least." Maxxene Cor: "I suppose so. Where is Dr. Arkov?" Zeni'ya: "He is working. He figured you would be much more interested in the actual research rather than in the hundreds of pages of data we collected. Maxxene Cor: "Then he knows me better than I thought." Zeni'ya: "He just read your file. Here, we must access this hatch to enter the underwater section." 20150625_172821 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_173056 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Zeni'ya: "I present to you... Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov, The Collector Head Scientist of this station." 20150625_173221 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Dr.Arvan: "Milady, it is a privilege to have you here. As you can see, our research proceeds fast with the acquisition of new test subjects in the form of alien corpses to dissect for anatomical examination. 20150625_173244 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Dr.Arvan: "Living specimens are also crucial for study." Maxxene Cor: "I admit this...Xenobiology? sounds fascinating, but I fear we're short on time and I am far more intrigued by your...technological research, if you understand what I mean." Dr.Arvan: "Of course.1G-0R, begin without me." 20150625_173432 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_173508 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Maxxene Cor: "Now these look harmful and cool." Dr.Arvan: "I am often mistaken for a pacifist when I say war is irrational; irrational things, though, tend to be wonderfully, as you said, cool. Deactivate holograms, please." 20150625_173847 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr HOLOGRAMS DEACTIVATED. Dr.Arvan: "Much better. We are currently testing Awesomnium-enhanced weapons on different materials.The Awesomnite alloy seems to tolerate normal damage well, but it can't defend from itself. 20150625_174208 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Maxxene Cor: "Time's run out, unfortunately. Well, doctor, I am... impressed. We look forward to seeing these implemented on the battlefield. For M.A.N.T.I.S." Dr.Arvan: "Farewell." Extra pics: 20150625_174501 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174512 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174555 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174534 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174616 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174743 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174746 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174812 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_175425 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150625_174956 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Note: the Jurians' anatomical examination revealed a deadly native disease which M.A.N.T.I.S. doctors eagerly cured, meeting the gratitude of the local alien populace.
  14. rodiziorobs

    [M - F02] To Octan, with Love

    Location: F02, Lesser Drigo Tags: Spying, M.A.N.T.I.S, Scorpio Starstriker "At last," Scorpio grunted as he scraped along the narrow cave floor. He had been crawling over an hour, but now he had arrived at his goal, the lower utility corridor of the engineering wing of Octan's water extraction facility on F02. Operation OMEGA had begun. He had been sent to infiltrate the facility along with Double D and Isaac Redsyn. Scorpio's specific mission was to break in and steal the software to their robotics program. They knew they could persuade the robots to pledge allegiance to an opposing corporation--this had been Isaac's mission--but worried they may still continue to work for Octan. With the raw code, however, M.A.N.T.I.S. would be able to override this protocol in order to reveal all of Octan's secrets. There were also rumours Octan had discovered an incredible energy source, so Scorpio was to gather intelligence to confirm this as fact. Conveniently, satellite readings had shown high energy signatures from the same labs where the code was kept secure. Secure, hah! Having drilled an entrance into the utility corridor, Scorpio pulled his Octan disguise on over his spying outfit, and headed up into the engineering bay. What he saw he couldn't believe. First of all, the number of coffee stains on the floor. (Ugh! and they thought larvae were gross!) Second, Octan had indeed discovered a tremendous energy source. Scorpio recognized it from some historical documents--it was a beryllium sphere! Scientists in radiation gear were scanning it, while the others stayed a minimum safe distance; Scorpio guessed from the awesomnium-tipped rods that they were attempting to increase its generation potential even further. "Hold it right there!" a woman's voice commanded. Looking up, Scorpio saw a woman up on an extendable platform, staring straight at him. She seemed familiar from somewhere, but Scorpio couldn't place where. All the scientists stopped, and turned to see Scorpio. "Who are you?" she asked. Scorpio had practiced this part. "Dane Fleegman, ma'am, Octan PR. President Business heard about the great work you folks are doing, so had me sent down here to take some photos, you know, for good publicity back on Terra, show the folks how much Octan is innovating the future and all that. Would you consent to doing an interview?" Her scowl in return answered his question, although she said nothing. Not to him anyway. Instead, she turned aside and called some instructions to the radiation-suit guys. "I'll just snap a few photos of the..what is it called again?...Never mind, of your work here, and try and stay out of your way." Scorpio advanced up the spiral staircase, up high to get a better view. So far his plan was working, and within minutes M.A.N.T.I.S. would have all the info it needed. But he still had to find the secure terminal where the robotics code was kept. Then he saw, up on the platform next to the woman, a lone server. That had to be it. "Mind if I, uh, come out there? You know, to get a bird's-eye view?" She remained motionless. Just then, a call box down the catwalk rang and the woman, even more upset (if such a thing were possible) left to answer it. Perfect. It would only take a few seconds to locate and remove the proper chip, and he could then complete the data transfer to HQ en route to the rendezvous point with Isaac and Double D. Luckily enough, there was the chip inside, clearly marked. He hurriedly inserted it to his hidden radio and hit send, then began his way back down the stairs. The woman, finished with her call, came up right on his heels, grabbed the megaphone and called out, "Intruder alert! Our lab has been breached! All staff on alert!" Scorpio froze. Did they suspect him? Or had one of his comrades been discovered? The answer came quickly enough as he was suddenly heard running the woman running toward him from behind. He dodged, and raced towards the stairs. The radiation suit guys were already blocking his way. "Give it up, spy!" The woman called. "Never! I never give up, never surrender!" came Scorpio's retort. He quickly checked his radio: "File Transfer: Code name OMEGA: 13% remaining." Hopefully it would finish in time. He looked up just as he was struck from behind. He must have only blacked out for a second, because when he came to there were guards on all sides and then the woman, standing above him saying "take him away. I'll deal with him later." As she spoke, he noticed a familiar scar he hadn't seen before. The last thing he saw was the end of one of the guard's stunners. To Be Continued... ************ More pictures: M.A.N.T.I.S logo (along base) in focus, and edge of cavern area Octan logo (along base) in focus (fuzzy) overview of the whole lab Spiral staircase, upper control panel, with view of lower personnel doors Spiral staircase in focus, view of cavern area Bay doors and emergency hydrant Coffee, heads-up display, and far console Octan crew, including radiation suits and a guy who has clearly forgotten his a time or two. Beryllium sphere and robot
  15. LittleJohn

    [M - E02] The Jungles of Jurin II

    Location: E02-Jurin II Tags: Vehicle, Exploration Job: Explorer After delivering my rock samples from Guinevere back to HQ, I was asked to test out the new T4 Jeep in the jungles of Jurin II. I accepted the job. Picked up a few plant samples to take back to Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov's lab, but haven't seen much else of interest so far. Wait.. what was that? AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Stay back, I've got a MANTIS™ Death Ray Blaster©, and I know how to use it! The alien stared at me with his baseball size eyes, not moving. I relaxed my grip a little on the Death Ray Blaster©. Just then, I had a brilliant idea; I got out a coil of rope and made a lasso out of it. The alien seemed disturbed by this movement, and started to turn away. I threw before he could get to far though, and hauled back on the rope, to stop his progress. It was then a simple matter to tie him to the back of the T-4 and tow him along behind. Big Sal's gonna love this! A few more pics: More pictures here: Link C&C welcome
  16. M.A.N.T.I.S Engineering Department Date : 21 Junali 3815 Location : Guinevere - A06 Environment : Arid Desert, Lava Flows Participants : Ninja Nin, SpacerSteve's Intern, Little John Enemy spotted : Commander Turtle, Graham Gidman Log update : I've arrived on Guinevere early this week, but then I heard about the ceasefire rumor from Kawashita. Nevertheless, we M.A.N.T.I.S. are here for the gold, so I should carry out my duty to construct a gold mine, or more appropriate, the M.A.N.T.I.S. Secret Hide-Out. OK, let's begin a guided tour. First of all, a keep out sign, especially for the Octan. A water tower, important in such dry arid desert environment. Let's go inside. A common room for engineers to relax and play cards. SpacerSteve was supposed to be here to guard the gold storage, but he's on Barker's Folly this week, so his intern is sent here instead. Explorer Little John is on the top spot for a better view as usual. Our hide-out is under attack by the Kawashita: Commander Turtle and Graham Gidman are spotted. Little John and the intern will defend the gold at all cost. It is also the time for me to launch M.A.N.T.I.S. Cannon Hovercraft. Complete Setting : The Gold Mine on Guinevere "M.A.N.T.I.S. Secret Hide-Out", a Sci-Fi adaptation from my childhood favourite : 6761 : Bandit's Secret Hide-Out Hope you like it.
  17. Location: D02-Barker's Folly Tags: Science, exploration. Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov's personal log: "Here I am, on a secret flight headed to the rocky maze of Barker's Folly. I'm not allowed to speak to anyone nor exit from my cabin (cell?). All I was told is that I was needed for scientific advice about a strictly classified matter on that blasted asteroid belt, and that if I refused "they" would have been happy to neuralyse me. i wasn't exactly eager to leave my work on Guinevere, but I'll die before letting anyone play with my memory! And I even feel a bit of nausea; it never rains, it pours sulphuric acid." General Vrayne: "Get up Doc, almost there!" Dr.Arvan: "I had figured it out, thanks. I can't hear the propulsor hummng anymore. Is there any chance you'll let me peek through the window? Or is that forbidden too, as is " thinking too aloud"? 'Cause that's what one of your men said." General Vrayne: "Sorry Doc, but this matter requires discretion. Though I think it's safe to let you have a look, here." Dr.Arvan: "..." General Vrayne: "Whaddya think?" Dr.Arvan: "When did you find it?" General Vrayne: "A few days ago. It hasn't moved since." Dr.Arvan: "He's probably in some kind of self-induced suspended animation. Is it doing what it looks like it's doing?" General Vrayne: "It looks so. That guy is eating Awesomnium." 20150619_215617[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215623[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215627[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215632[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215650[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215657[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr 20150619_215137[1] by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr (I know the rules say "minimal overhang", but the tentacles would actually fit in the 24x24 base if the flexible tubes I used weren't... well, so flexible.) Proof: Proof by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr I totally understad if the judges will disqulify this (though I hope not) and I thank them for this awesome challenge!
  18. Participants: Master Data, Agent G Begin Log: I'm supposed to pick up yet another food shipment from the labs on Hunston to deliver to our forces throughout the sector. I suspect that one of the opposing corporations is going to try and sabotage my mission, so I've brought Agent G to ensure I make it there in one piece. Scanning the island chains for Big Sal's lab. I'm supposed to pick up a shipment of some new type of larva for the cafeteria. Hold on, I'll run a scan of the surrounding islands. Computer, set us on course for Big Sal's lab. Computer: Of course sir... You are 12,000,000 space-specs off course. Preparing to recalculate. GAHHH! Computer, why couldn't you warn us earlier?! I don't want a repeat of last time! KABOOM! We've been hit! What? There aren't any other corporations on this planet yet! Computer: It appears that the Kawashitan malware you picked up on Guinevere activated a M.A.N.T.I.S. defense drone. Useless computer... Agent G, blast it! I can't - you didn't build any guns into the ship! Oh...well, I hope you can swim! Master Data, I hope you haven't left yet! The order just got cancelled! Something about causing stomach problems across the sector... So that's what it was...
  19. Location: A06 (Guinevere) Tags: Piracy Science Land Vehicle It had been a pretty busy week on Guinevere for Scorpio and Elbow and Pitt, his two assigned SPIT (Special Police in Training). After dispatching the Octan spy, they discovered a few more Octan agents nearby—which with some efficient work from the SPIT quickly became a few less. They may be a bit dim-witted, but the SPIT sure knew their way around an assault blaster. Scorpio was still a bit bummed about that having given his grubs to them. Even more so because today—larvae Friday, course—he had missed lunch, due to an over-long briefing with his superiors. When he got back, the SPIT had seen to it there were no leftovers, except salad. Meh. The brief had been long because Kawashita troops had touched down on the other side of Guinevere a few days previous. The council was deliberating the best course of action, and had orders for Scorpio to not engage in a violent encounter. In the SPITs’ mind, that took all the fun out of it, and Scorpio had to agree. He had decided that even though being a scientist wasn’t bad, he enjoyed these more exciting kinds of missions. Scorpio and the SPIT went to the Kawas’ landing site. Although there weren’t many of them, clearly they had gotten right to work right after landing, as there were several crates already filled with gold. As the M.A.N.T.I.S craft was approaching, Scorpio saw them all stop to watch. He could see that although a few of them were carrying arms, they didn’t seem to be in any hurry to shoot. He imagined they had similar orders from their higher-ups to avoid armed conflict, which was somewhat reassuring. One of the Kawas, clearly their leader, emerged from the back and advanced toward Scorpio. “This is our claim,” he insisted. “You Mantite scum better get on outta here.” “Sorry, M.A.N.T.I.S. already claimed all of Guinevere. So, you’re the ones on our turf.” As he spoke, Scorpio suddenly realized that he had underestimated their numbers, and hoped his hunch about their orders was correct. “Ha!” the Kawa leader laughed. “It doesn’t matter. We have already extracted almost everything here, as you can see—” he motioned towards the crates. “But I’d like to see you try and make us leave, anyway.” “I’ll tell you what,” Scorpio replied. “Let’s make a deal, you and I, to see who leaves this spot, and who can stay.” The Kawa leader laughed again, followed by the rest of his team. “What kind of a deal? You can see, I have more men, more arms, and more gold! And I have my orders. What could you offer me?” “Oh, this is not an offer. This is a challenge. We challenge you to a contest—you win, we will leave you in peace to do whatever you please in this place. We win—” Scorpio paused to look around at all the Kawashita troops, “and you leave forever. Not just this spot—but the planet. You leave Guinevere for good.” “Ha ha! This insect is a joker! I will indulge you, what kind of contest did you have in mind?” “How about a race? Ah never mind, you wouldn’t stand a chance against us. Let’s pick something more fair…” In his mind, Scorpio counted to three. He only got as far as two. “You boast, Mantite! Kawashita engines are the fastest, and our drivers the most skilled! I accept your challenge, if only to teach you humility!” “Very well, then. Your fastest land craft against ours. You pick your racer, and Pitt here,” Scorpio motioned toward the more dim-witted of the SPIT, “will drive for M.A.N.T.I.S.” As Scorpio and the Kawa leader shook hands, Pitt leaned over toward Scorpio and whispered, “I don’t think I can. I’m not that good a driver—not as good as these Kawas, for sure—and I’m starting to feel a little sick. Like I’m going to…” but he never finished his sentence; the words were drowned out by awful wretching noises, and drowned in a pool of sick. “I feel sick, too, sir.” the SPIT leader, Elbow, intuned. Then, looking over at Pitt, said, “but I think I’ll be fine.” “Well good, because I need you to come with me.” “What about me, sir?” Pitt inquired. “You still have to drive,” Scorpio answered. “But don’t worry; it doesn’t matter if you win or lose, just as long as you drive for at least five minutes or so.” “Why doesn’t it matter?” Elbow asked. “Because,” Scorpio began, “while all these fools are cheering on the race, you and I are going to steal them blind and make a quick escape. Don’t worry, Pitt, we’ll pick you up in the ship. Elbow, come and help me set up some telesponders over here.” While the Kawa leader was explaining the course and rules to Pitt and the Kawa driver, Scorpio and Elbow set up the antenna-like devices around the crates of gold. As the start pistol fired, Scorpio summoned the teleporter crate and quickly rerouted it to the telesponders; before the dust had even settled, Scorpio, Elbow, and the gold were all gone. ********* Other weeks I have incorporated the story with the build, but this week the story is really just to build-up the, uh, build. With both teams landing on the same planet, it was fun to think up some way to bring conflict into the mix without any actual conflict. C&C welcome, as always! More pictures under the spoiler: See more on my Flickr page
  20. Challenge #1 Location: C02, Hunston "Volcanoes eons ago created jagged mountain islands which life clings to" As the M.A.N.T.I.S. Exploration team began their descent into Hunston's atmosphere, jagged peaks began to loom before them, piercing the crystal blue waters. Although the intrepid explorers were still several miles up, caves, cracks and crevices could be seen among the rocks which had grown smooth from millennia of wind and weather. What sorts of life might be dwelling therein? Hunston's jagged cliffs by rodiziorobs, on Flickr ********** Seems like a lot of people have been doing microscope for their challenge builds, and I haven't tried microscale in long enough I wanted to give it a go. I thought the jagged mountain features turned out quite well at this size. Thanks Bob for making the Challenge available as long as it is still Sunday somewhere, and thank you Pago Pago for being that somewhere Edit: I just saw Bob's post in the Intro thread, so I guess this was too late. Rats. Some weeks just don't have enough hours in them...
  21. Location: A06-Guinevere Tags: Exploration My first sight of Guinevere was of its rolling sand dunes. There appears to be rock formations protruding out of the sand, I'll have to take a closer look at them. This was a fun build, getting the rocks to stick out of the sand at an angle was a bit of a challenge, but I think it turned out pretty well. C&C very welcome
  22. LittleJohn

    [M - A06] Lavafall on Guinevere

    Location: A06-Guinevere Tags: Exploration Job: Explorer My next mission for M.A.N.T.I.S. was to scout out Guinevere. I was told I would love it there, that it would be like a vacation... Suffice it to say, it's not my definition of a good spot to vacation, unless you like boiling lava and rock. Needless to say, I wasn't impressed, besides, the smell of sulfur did nothing to help my feelings of nausea. I grabbed a few samples of rock, (I'm sure the scientists back at HQ would have liked some of the black stuff, but I was going anywhere near that lava) and set off to try and find a part of Guinevere that wasn't 1000 degrees... More pics can be seen here: Link As always, C&C very welcome
  23. Location: A06-Guinevere Tags: science Dr.Arvan 'Yrich Arkov personal log: "Four days ago I landed on the planet Guinevere, an adolescent world whose deserts are scarred by newborn volcanoes - wholly different from the ancient serir on Linopeia III. It is a hostile planet for technologically advanced species, as the extreme heat melts metal while the sand consumes it, eating away our precious machinery and, even worse, damaging the delicate electronic synapses of our droids, computers and ships' AIs. But working without robotic assistance is unconceivable; my laboratory is crammed with the remains of the numerous artificial counterparts that couldn't stand Guinevere's environment, and now redesigned to fulfill their task. Domination through adaptation, the major truth of life - both biological and technological. I am waiting for the M.A.N.T.I.S. mining overseers to arrive and witness the testing of the new lava sampler I designed - if it doesn't work, I can still tell them it was my student's fault." Guinevere 1 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Dr.Arvan: “Overseer Krya, Lieutenant Aarne; I welcome you to our research base and experimenting field on Guinevere. I see you have left your weapons outside on board; it is a necessary safety measure with the volcanic particles in the air, as is wearing protection goggles. While the air is breathable for short periods, the heated dust and lapilli can damage permanently the eyes.” Overseer Krya: “No need for such recommendations, Dr.Arkov; we are well aware of the M.A.N.T.I.S. environmental protocol. Shall we commence with the operation? Dr.Arvan: “Of course. As you can see, we’re about to send the M-X18 prototype to obtain a lava sample for mineralogical analysis. I planned to test the X17 too, but my student destroyed it.” Parix: “It wasn’t my fault; if that Positron Core Collapser hadn’t been on... Dr.Arvan: “Shut up! Guinevere 2 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Guinevere 3 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Dr.Arvan: “The Awesomnite alloy plating is withstanding the heat and protecting the AI computational matrix. Success.” Guinevere 4 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Oversser Aarne: “Impressive. Can this modification be implemented on all of our machinery? And more specifically on military machinery? After all, we may have to contend this planet with Kawashita very soon.” Dr.Arvan: “I am a scientist, Overseer. I disdain war as the irrational behaviour it is. But I see your point. Once the basic instruments and droids are provided with this new armour, we’ll be able to upgrade weapons and vehicles in no time.” Overseer Krya: “Excellent. By the way, don’t worry too much about the possibility of war. If a conflict ever breaks out, the scientific contribution you all give will make it a very short one... " extra pics: Guinevere 6 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Guinevere 7 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr guinevere 8 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Guinevere 9 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr Guinevere 10 by tropeaferdinando, su Flickr
  24. LittleJohn

    [M - A05] Two Unexpected Guests

    Location: A05-Yallorn II Tags: Water vehicle, Exploration Job: Explorer After ending my call with Mark, I checked my scanner; still no life forms detected. so much for "moderate alien activity..." Wait, did something just move in the water? Nah, must've just been my imagination. Suddenly, a big black alien surfaced out of the water: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!! The alien was stunned by the appearance of this odd looking (and loud) thing, and merely looked at it, too surprised to do anything else. Our "brave" explorer whipped out his radio and yelled for help. HELP! Big Sal here John, what's up? A ginormous alien is coming right for me! Ooh, can you catch it and bring it back to the lab? Are you nuts?!?! It's bigger than my boat!! Hmm, could you tow it? Wait, I think it's leaving. Yes, it is. Phew, that was a close one. Too bad, I could use something interesting to experiment on. All they've had for me lately are boring plants... I'll see if I can bring you back a small, less terrifying, alien, but no promises there. Little John out. After putting away his radio, Little John hops our of his boat and climbs up the rocks to get a better view of the surrounding area. An overview shot: Lots more pictures here: Link C&C very much appreciated
  25. rodiziorobs

    [M - A06] Shibboleth

    Shibboleth Location: A06 (Guinevere) Tags: spying science After Scorpio's brief adventure on Barnius, the council had decided that--despite the sustainability of the planet--M.A.N.T.I.S. resources were needed more urgently elsewhere. His discovery of foodstuffs had earned him an impressive commendation from the Council (“such an excellent variety of mushrooms! And the Barnian grubs are the finest we have tasted in Andromeda!”), so he imagined he would be sent on yet another food-finding mission. Yet the brief Scorpio received was nothing he had ever expected. “We need you to go to Guinevere. On a spying mission.” “What? But I’m not a spy!” “Not important now. We need you to go because you’re resourceful…” “But…” “…dependable…” “But…” “…and most importantly…” “…Yes?” “You’ve got a bribe bag.” “Ah, well then, fair enough.” “Your dossier will contain further instruction. Any questions?” “Yeah, do I get a cool special suit or something?” “<sigh> Yes, I suppose you’ll need one.” Scorpio was to be accompanied by a small detail of special forces, as M.A.N.T.I.S. had gathered that there were be hostile forces starting to build on the planet’s surface. Further investigation had confirmed these reports, also adding the reason for their suspected colonization: gold was found in tremendous supply. Scorpio’s mission was to (1) determine the strength of any enemy forces on Guinevere. Once that was accomplished, he was to (2) obtain a sample of the gold for analysis, and make observations considering large-scale mining and extraction. The rest of the unit’s mission was to guard the gold Scorpio the gold. If the team’s presence were discovered, the special agents were to terminate any enemy threats, with interrogation and torture optional. Scorpio almost laughed when he was introduced to his team—they were not full-fledged agents, but Special Police in Training—SPIT, as they called them back on Torresta. It was actually a term of endearment, and was no way a knock on their abilities. The brief had just made this sound like such an important, high-profile mission, and here he was, a non-spy, being sent out with two—yes, only two—rookie guards. Oh well, at least he got a special suit. As a scientist, he outranked the SPIT, but this essentially just meant they called him "sir" all the time and then did whatever they wanted. Not that Scorpio minded; it seemed like they knew their job pretty well. They touched down on Guinevere, and the heat was overwhelming. The air, despite the sulfuric odor, was safely breathable, so long as you had a filter against the volcanic ash. Scorpio took off his helmet in an attempt to cool off, but the SPIT left theirs on (“combat gear, sir”). They ambled around until coming to a low, bubbling volcano. Scorpio’s scanner was picking up a weak signal nearby, when suddenly he was distracted by the sight of gold. Right on the surface. Sure, it was surrounded by molten, bubbling lava, but this was no different than back on Torresta! Mining and extraction would be a cinch. First to procure a sample for analysis... He took his pick and extracted a nugget, then summoned the teleportation crate. The gold secured inside, he punched an auto-analysis formula, and the code to return the crate to the ship. One thing he liked about this mission already was that he got cooler toys. Scorpio then had to turn his attention away back to his primary task: spying. “Why couldn’t they have sent an actual spy?” he muttered to himself as he fiddled with the calibration. They could see no signs of activity, so why was there a signal? Suddenly, one of the SPIT broke the silence. “FREEZE!” Scorpio spun around and saw a man in an Octan uniform just a short distance ahead, hands up. He dropped his instrument. "Found an Octan agent, sir!" The lead SPIT reported. "No, no, guys, you've got it all wrong! I'm here with you guys!" "They why you wearin' that Octan gitup?" The lesser SPIT spat. "Well, uh, we heard reports there might be Octan personnel in the vicinity, so the, uh, Lady K sent me in disguise, just in case." Scorpio thought the scenario sounded fishy. "The Lady K, huh?" he asked. The stranger nodded. "Then where is the rest of your unit?" "We crashed on entry to the planet. I have been wandering for hours—good news, I haven’t seen anyone else. I reckon Octan is light years away from this place. The real Octan, that is. You know. Not me. ‘Cause I’m not Octan. I’m with you fellers.” "Do you want me to blast this liar?" The SPIT interjected. “Well, you see, I would have radioed in, but my coms broke," the stranger explained. Scorpio ignored him; his patience with this Octan spy had worn thin. "Who was your unit leader?" Scorpio asked. "Uh, Dave. I was a part of Dave’s team," came the reply. Suddenly Scorpio's expression changed. There had been two missions sent to spy on Guinevere--Daring Dave had been the one leading the team on the opposite side of the globe. They had supposed to have contacted each other shortly after landing, but Scorpio had been unable to reach him. What if this guy wasn’t actually a spy? Perhaps he was telling the truth. "Did anyone else survive the crash?" "I don't believe so. I was unable to survey the wreckage because of the flames." Still, Scorpio couldn’t tell if he was for real. They hadn’t noticed any smoke from wreckage, yet given the planet’s volcanic activity, how could they? He needed a test, to make sure. Then, an idea came to mind. He whispered to the SPIT, “Private--keep your guns trained on him for just a second." Then to the stranger: “Well, we’re sorry to hear about the crash. I had better send a report to the Lady K immediately, and see what she would have us do. In the meantime, I am sure you are quite hungry..." "Oh yes, do you have any food?" came the earnest reply. "Why, of course.” Scorpio pulled out a jar, which he had kept from his trip to Barnius, and it pulled from it two fat, wriggly grubs. He could practically feel the anticipation in the air as the two SPIT licked their lips. "Well, here you go. A real tasty morsel, to help calm your nerves after all that you've been through." The stranger stood motionless. Week 4 of Andromeda's Gates by rodiziorobs, on Flickr Week 4 of Andromeda's Gates by rodiziorobs, on Flickr Week 4 of Andromeda's Gates by rodiziorobs, on Flickr "Boys, he's all yours!" Two quick pulse blasts later, the lesser of the SPIT inquired, "Do you think he really was an Octan, sir?" "Certainly; he wasn’t one of us, I can promise you that. He was probably sent up here to investigate our arrival, and the rest of his buddies are down there over that ridge setting up their own mining encampment. We had best proceed carefully.” This encounter raised a lot of questions: how did this spy know about the Lady K? and Dave? Was it a just lucky guess? or had Octan cracked their encoded communications? Or worse, yet, was there a mole in M.A.N.T.I.S.' operations? Surely the answers would not come easy. But in the meantime... Week 4 of Andromeda's Gates by rodiziorobs, on Flickr "Looks like Friday came early this week, boys, but I think you've earned it. Eat up, and let’s go see what we can see."