Tags: Civil Building, Science
Planet: Fractor V (aboard the Axle, in orbit)
Notes: This isn't really part of "The Invasive Species." Think of it as an interlude so that you all can finally use the bathroom after 4 weeks.
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Interlude
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7 (Finale)
"Log date 704, this is Dr. Danielle Long, recording from the O.C.S. Axle, in orbit Fractor V, where I am reassigning the function of some underused Troop carriers. Our orbital factories have been churning them out since MANTIS's last treaty violation, but since we've returned to less overt aggression, I've been able to borrow a few. I've been informed that MANTIS is dealing with some kind of spider infestation, of late, and they can hardly muster an offensive, at the moment. I'm not one to underestimate an enemy, though. As they say, walk quietly, but carry a blaster. The situation on Onix is progressing well. We've released Ba'al Ba'al back into the Gongen Empire, where she is reestablishing communications with her previous allies. Octan has brokered a treaty between Ba'al Ba'al and her revolutionaries and the Nan-Nan tribe. Once I return with our drone peacekeeping force, we may finally be able to reason with the Oni-Ren."
Later....
"Status update. Ship transfer complete. The Axle's Hangars are full. I now will retire to the exercise chambers of the Axle to perform my required physical therapy treatment.... And considering recent events... Well... You never can be too safe, can you? Hmm. Why am I asking my logbook expository questions like this. Anyways, Dr. Long out."
Axle Exercise Chamber G+ Room 5
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"I'm no proponent of violence as a means to resolve conflict."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"It's costly. Barbaric. Senseless."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"If only the Oni-Ren Queen could understand this. If only she listened to logic."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"She's forcing my hand now... refusing our generous offer... We've tried the carrot... And as much as I don't like it, we'll need to try the stick."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"With our peacekeepers, we can ensure minimal losses during the transition... But times of unrest are inherently unsafe... I need to make sure that this still works, for my own protection... Shame it never made it to development... Octan didn't see the utility, nor demand for such a product as the Chekhov's Gauntlet... But the prototype fits me like a... well, like a glove."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"I have confidence that with collaboration and logical discourse, we can end the suffering of the poor plague-ridden people of Onix... We simply have to remove one particularly stubborn obstacle."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
*ZZZZ* *Thunk*
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"Ouch. I... I'm glad I chose against the higher setting..."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
INTERCOM: "Is everything alright in there? What happened?"
"Just a slight weapons malfunction... But everything's fine right now."
INTERCOM: "We're sending a technician in there."
"Very well. I insist that we follow proper procedure after all. The door is unlocked."
Power Play by Danny-Longlegs, on Flickr
"Hmm. This thing sure does pack a punch. I'd hate to be on the receiving end of such might. Fortunately, the glove is on my hand.
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Next week, "The Invasive Species" begins its climactic series with "And Clouds of White."
As always, comments, critiques, and criticism is appreciated.
~Insectoid Aristocrat