Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
The plasma shield around ShipOne was worthless while it was orbiting <strong>An</strong>la. The proximity to the<br />
planet permitted penetration by well-trained minds. The crew, reduced to four through insanityinduced<br />
suicide, had had their minds and emotions completely infested by the <strong>An</strong>lan priests.<br />
Mr. Sastu, most recent Chief of the Corporation—a corporation with no board of directors—had<br />
decided to communicate with the crew as they prepared for launch back to their home World.<br />
"Hello?"<br />
"ShipOne to <strong>An</strong>ga Control, we read you."<br />
"Oh! Yes... <strong>An</strong>ga Control. Somewhat of a joke, eh?"<br />
Mr. Sastu's secretary whispered something in his ear.<br />
"Yes. This is Mr. Sastu, Chief of your Corporation. How are you all doing?"<br />
The man at the controls of ShipOne looked around at his pitiful crew and said: "We're in hell,<br />
sir."<br />
"Ah, well, you'll be home soon and we'll make it heaven for you."<br />
"I doubt that, sir."<br />
"Who am I speaking with?"<br />
"Officer Spra, sir."<br />
"Well, Mr. Spra, get on with your work. Bring that ship home."<br />
"Doing that, sir."<br />
"Good..."<br />
There was a lengthy pause then the voice of Officer Spra: "Boot us out, Tlin, and pray for our<br />
souls, Mr. Sastu."<br />
There was another lengthy pause, then, after his secretary had whispered in his ear again, Mr.<br />
Sastu said: "We look forward to your debrief when you've returned. Bye for now."<br />
Mr. Sastu glanced at his secretary and rose <strong>from</strong> his chair. As he left the room he felt like he was<br />
stumbling even though his gait was a well-practiced stride of confidence.<br />
Officer Spra broke into a fit of heaving sobs.<br />
~~~<br />
Select Reports <strong>from</strong> the <strong>An</strong>gan Bonded Corporate Mesh:<br />
#Q114T17<br />
ShipOne and ShipTwo launched.<br />
Mr. Sastu invokes lock down on Corporate Science Department.<br />
Births up 20%. <strong>An</strong>alysis shows simulated recreation tools working as anticipated.<br />
Mesh-controlled personal transport deaths of religious criminals up 15%.<br />
#Q498U96<br />
Meteorological anomalies on all land masses.<br />
Mr. Sastu invokes Population Migration Surge.<br />
Insect infestations on the rise.<br />
Agent Suris Molan meets untimely death; given hero's honors.<br />
#A0246F861<br />
Mr. Sastu involuntarily relieved of his duties. Interim Corporate Regeneration Committee<br />
convenes.<br />
#A1863G113<br />
ShipOne arrives at space dock; crew placed in isolation at Corporate Science Department.<br />
21
Change language