Maestro Gaxiola - The Book Of OB

Introduction

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In Dalton Trumbo’s 1939 WWI novel, Johnny Got His Gun, the main character has lost his arms, legs, eyes, nose, ears, tongue, both jaws and all of his face — but his mind still functioned perfectly. He is still who he is, he just doesn’t have his body anymore which suggests that our bodies are not essential to our self-consciousness or self awareness.

Rene` Descartes philosophical principle, I think, therefore I am" could also be interpreted as,“ I think because I have a brain, therefore I am because I have a brain. Or, I am my brain, and my brain is me.

If that is true then the notion that the brain can be detached from the body and transferred into a synthetic body without the loss of the self is more than just science fiction. In fact the idea of a human brain being transferred into a mechanical body is closer to reality than it might seem. Science has already made much headway in that direction. For example, humans are now fitted with artificial heart pacemaker and an assortment of artificial limbs. This combination of human and machine is called a Cyborg. A Cyborg is an organism that has both artificial and natural systems and is an idea that has been around in novels back before WWII. In 1908 a French novelist wrote a novel, The Man Who Can Live in Water, in which the superhero was a Cyborg. Also C. L. Moore’s 1944 short story, “No Woman Born” was about a dancer whose brain was placed into a mechanical body. There have been a number of other books written on the subject as well, including, the Book of Ob.

The Book of OB is set in the future in another galaxy where the transfer of brains into mechanical bodies is common place. The entire planet of Zimmnel for example is populated by Cyborgs. They are not the same Cyborg terminators as portrayed in the film The Terminator. The Terminators were a group of aggressive, violent Cyborgs bent on destroying other planets and human life. The Zimmnellians, who call themselves, “electro-people”, are quite the opposite. Their large, peaceful planet is in a galaxy where humanoids and Cyborgs co-exist. The Zimmnel electro-people do not travel around the universe trying to destroy or conquer other planets; instead they try to bring peace and stability to the universe.

In this story we journey to a small organic planet called OB where our main character, Kenom Ornam and his friend Enew are spending a few weeks as planet patrolmen in an obsolete war dome owned by humanoids from the planet Flexton. They must share the dome with the humanoid Flextons along with electro-people from planet Verton as well as fellow Zinmellians. To complicate matters they are not allowed to disclose that they are electro-people for fear it will frighten the humanoids and cause instability on the planet. This is cause for some deception, but for the most part it is a harmless charade where no one gets hurt.

Kenom asks to be stationed in a remote area of the dome hoping he will be able to relax, think and observe the beauty of the primitive vegetation on this planet. But things get complicated as two religious factions within the dome begin to face off. Kenom is reluctantly put in a position of authority where he is forced to arbitrate to keep things from getting out of hand.

Because Kenom is a non-aggressive Cyborg from a peaceful planet and by nature a peaceful non-violent person, he tries to find peaceful ways to solve problems. Moral lessons are learned on the planet Ob as he comingles with brains of various power levels, some with belief systems quite different than his own.

#1 Electro-people

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Zimmnel is a large, non aggressive, peaceful planet near the center of Galaxy 5. It is a non-organic planet populated by descendents of the homo-sapiens that used to inhabit the organic based planet Playton. There are no longer any organic homo-sapiens on either Zimmnel or Playton, they are now both inhabited by Electro-people, people with organic brains and electro-mechanical bodies.

When Playton was still inhabited by advanced homo-sapiens, around the year five million four hundred and ninety, they began experimenting with electro-body parts. The first body parts they invented were a mixture of organics and electronics and were rather crude by today’s standards. But it was still a very good beginning and for a time they worked quite well. The first fully functional all Electro-body, the PL300, was developed on Playton in the year five million five thousand thirty-six and the first Homo-Sapiens brain was successfully transferred into a PL300 five years later in five million five hundred forty-one.

Research and development of Electro-bodies had also been going on in Walmatt, Zimmel, and several other advanced-brain planets in this part of the Galaxy. But they were never able to make a successful brain transfer because they were working with mostly synthetic organic body parts. These parts would not hold up under light speed space travel. It was the discovery Zeltex on Zimmel that allowed electro-body parts to be made strong enough to hold up under rigorous space travel conditions. Zimmel is now the main supplier of electro-bodies for the entire Galaxy.

Most advanced planets use only the Z501 Zemmnel electro-body for their transfers. The Z501 looks and functions like an organic body in almost every way. It is essential because to function properly all connections must correspond to the original organic body. In spite of the development of the Nefron 703 on planet Tricksen, which overrides most of the organic body functions, the Z501 is still the most used brain container by far. There are still so many organic-based planets in this part of the Galaxy, with organic people inhabiting them, that the Z501 remains the electro-body of choice. Electro-people still have to commingle with organic-body people in order to do business so the Z501 with its organic features like arms, legs, hands and fingers, will probably remain popular until sometime in the future when all planets evolve to the Electron-age.

Another feature that makes the Z501 cost effective is the fact that it will keep an organic brain functioning, with good efficiency and low maintenance, for up to three hundred years. Organic bodies only last about half that long. The oldest known organic body lasted one hundred and fifty years. But it started to malfunction when it reached one hundred and twenty five years. Brains in organic bodies don’t function very well in the first place, there are too many disease prone body parts that distract the brain’s ability to think and concentrate properly. The Center for Electro-Body Research has been working on a new version of the Z501, the Z 800, which is suppose to last up to four hundred years but as yet they have nothing to show for twenty years of research and millions of Yebs spent.

Originally the brain was transferred from its organic body into an electro-body after it had been allowed to develop in the organic body for about twenty years. Early scientists believed that it took that long for the brain to develop and mature properly. That is not the case anymore. Since the development of new DNA technology, organic brains are now grown in the laboratory and they have no need to be nurtured in an organic-body. Brains are grown in the lab and then transferred directly into an Electro-body. Gender also used to be an issue. At one time female brains were transferred into female-like electro-bodies and the males in male-like electro-bodies. But that practice didn’t last long. Scientists soon found that there was no difference in efficiency or power between male and female brains.

Outside the scientific community however there is still some debate. Some feel that the male brain functions better in matters of war and other forms of aggressive posturing than does the female brain. There are those who believe that in spite of all the advances made in the area of body and brain technology, the brain still clings to its evolutionary past and that many of the Homo-sapiens traits still remain lodged deep in the DNA of the brain. For that reason, though gender is no longer a scientific issue, brain transfer records still show the gender of the DNA donor.

One thing everyone agrees on. The brain becomes twice as intelligent in an electro-body as it ever could in an organic-body. In an electro-body more of the intelligence beams that travel with the Life Energizing Beams or LEB as it is referred to, are absorbed into the brain when it is not incased within a skull. It was this higher intelligence that allowed the LEB theory to develop.

The LEB theory gave new credence to the Darwin evolution theory which had fallen out of favor after a revival in the middle homo-sapiens age. The LEB theory was developed not long after the first mass transfer of Homo-sapiens brains into Z501 electro-bodies. Once a certain level of intelligence was reached by the masses the old homo-sapiens God belief system, which violently opposed the Darwin theory, began to crumble. The belief that one’s body and soul was created in the image of an all knowing all seeing God was no longer credible. It falls short of reality when one knows that one’s electro-body was developed and engineered on the planet Zemmnil. It became common knowledge that God did not exist. One could tour the Electro-body factory on Zemmnil if one needed proof.

For the Electro-people the religious homo-sapiens based theory of one God has been replaced with the LEB theory. The LEB theory in essence is the theory that life is stimulated in all organic matter by certain life energizing beams that permeate the universe. These beams are similar to gravity, that is, they are only made manifest when they come in contact with organic matter. Therefore life is created and defined by these life energizing beams All that is needed to experience life is to have a brain, no body required.

Because no one has yet to define just where these beams originate it has given rise once again to a God driven theory about life in the universe. There are currently two theories, - one is science based, one is religious based. The science based LEBers believe that science will one day provide an answer as to where these beams originate. The religious based LEBers, called Godforce Believers, believe that God is the source of these beams and no further investigation is necessary.

While that argument goes on within the electro-people community the traditional organic based belief system of a single God responsible for it all is still alive within the homo-sapiens community. God is not dead in this Galexy. There are still many organic based planets within light speed travel range of Zimmnil that are in the early phase of development. Some of these planets, such as Fignon, Ute and Flecton, have populations of homo-sapiens that still believe in the all knowing all seeing one God religious theory. And their ranks are still growing. The homo-Neanderthals in the Galaxy, who at the moment have no belief system at all, will one day evolve to the point of embracing this organic based belief system. It’s a natural organic progression. Its evolution.

There are also those planets whose people are on the cusp, that is, they are advanced organic homo-sapiens with a brain size of almost 2500 centimeters. They are almost ready to become electro-people. It is these people that the Godforce LEB theory electro-people are working on. They want to convert them to their belief about the origin of the Life Energizing Beams before they become too enamored with the science that produced the electro-body. They send missionaries throughout the Galaxy in the hopes of converting these advanced homo-sapiens, soon to be electro-body people, into believing their Godforce theory. LEB science people tolerate the Godforce people and think of them more as a nuisance than a threat to science or the peace and stability of the Galaxy.

Illustrations

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# 2 War Domes

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Peace and stability is very important to the advancement of science and technology. So as a deterrent to anything that might threaten the peace and stability in the Galaxy, the Center for Galaxy Control built a series of “War Deterrent Domes” that they scattered here and there on small terrestrial satellite planets within reach of Zimmnil, small planets like OB and Lectroy. These planets are mostly small organic based planets, populated with primitive animal species like homo- erectus and homo-Neanderthals whose brain size seldom ever exceeds 1000 centimeters. The War Deterrent Domes were usually placed in remote areas high in the mountains of these planets. They have a low profile so they more or less blend in with the surroundings. Native organic lives on these planets seldom ever know that these Patrol Domes are there.

Most War Deterrent Domes were built back in year-mark five million three thousand ten. That’s when the organic-based planet Fignon had a large population of homo-sapiens with a brain size of around 1800 cm. They had developed sufficient technology to travel in near space so they began plundering weaker neighboring planets for natural resources. This caused a lot of instability around the Galaxy. It wasn’t a constant year around problem however because the Fignons were superstitious and they decided it was only safe to venture out into space when the planets Zipton and Delfon and their three moons aligned with the planet Orkson. They called it “War Season” and it lasted about three months. But still, it was unsettling to the entire Galaxy when the Fignons were out doing their warring and pillaging.

Zimmnil was far out of the reach of these primitive space travelers so the planet was not threatened. However, in order to keep peace and stability in the Galaxy, the Center for Galaxy Control made an war alliance with all the small organic-based planets that were within reach of the Fignons. They offered to build a number of War Deterrent Domes on or near their planets for protection. The deal was that the organic-based planets had to pay the cost of building these war domes plus provide sufficient funds and personal for all the maintenance and upkeep. The Zemmnils would supply the technology and a small contingent of about four hundred patrolmen to operate the blasters-guns and other sophisticated technical equipment in these war domes.

So each year since that arrangement was reached, when War Season rolls around, a small contingent of about three-hundred and fifty or so Patrolmen are assigned to go to each of these small planet outposts to augment the fifty Patrolmen who are permanently stationed there. Its not a dangerous assignment because any fighting that’s left to do in the Galaxy is mostly done by regular army units. Planet Patrolmen are more like part of the diplomatic core in that they are mostly there to foster better relations between organics and electro-people. The Regular Army does all the real fighting and peace keeping from Mobil Space Platforms. The old war Domes are no longer capable of any serious Galaxy protection because the equipment is so old and obsolete. That’s why most of the old War Domes, like the War Dome on planet OB have been downgraded to Planet Patrol Stations.

These War Domes serve no useful purpose anymore but it would cost more to dismantle them than it does to keep them going. They’re rather big and full of what is now known to be toxic material. It has been determined that this toxic material should not be disturbed so they can’t tear them down. And you can’t just walk away from these things anymore either, you have to clean up after yourself. Its Galaxy law.

To the Zimmniltons the War Domes have become a waste of resources. They serve no useful purpose. But to the organic based planets that they are supposed to be protecting the War Domes are considered vital to their survival. Last year alone the War Consul on planet Flekton appropriated seventeen million Yebs for the Patrol Dome on OB. They tax the masses and tell them that it is for the continuing battle against the rogue Fignons. The masses on the planet don’t know that planet Fignon is no longer a threat and that the money is spent on space travel and high living for a few well connected Flextons. The governments on these organic based planets keep their homo-sapiens masses controlled by fear, and what is more fearful than the threat of an invasion.

All the money they spend on these Patrol Domes goes to those with influence and connections. The Zimmnilelians tolerate this petty corruption because it is saving them the cost and trouble of dismantling these structures. They don’t say anything to the Flextons or the Playtons no matter what they do to these old obsolete war domes.

For example, the War Dome on Lectroy has become more or less an entertainment compound. It’s lost any pretence of being a front line military post several years ago when Playton installed a bunch of advanced electronic gadgets, computer games, spas, gyms and things of that nature there. They also brought in enough alcohol to keep any sailor drunk for a millennium. The domes are full of middle class homo-sapiens from Playtons who love to party and carry on. As for the Zimmnil patrolmen, it attracts mostly the low LEB count Zimmnilian patrolmen who use it as a way to serve their military obligations without risking anything more than a bad hangover.

The Patrol Dome on OB is a different matter. High-LEB count intellectual Flextons have taken over that dome. There are still some lowered middle class career warrior Flextons there too, but as they retire they are being replaced with more sensitive and peace loving Flextons. As for Zimminilian patrolmen it has become more of a duty station for the higher LEB count, well connected electro-men who are looking to advance some business opportunity or political career.

One such a man was Kenom Ornan. His DNA father, Kebo Ornan, head of the Political Readjustment Dept. or PRD, on Zimmnil, and also Ambassador to the planet Zentow, has high political hopes for is son. Kenom had already served his required military time on Zimmnil. He spent five months as an intern working with his father at the PRD. But now that Kenom was intent on entering politics his DNA father insisted that he serve “real time” in the military as a Patrolman. To be a politician it is almost a requirement that one spend time in the military, “defending the great planet Zimmnil with one’s life”. Setting two months in an electronic cubical watching a computer screen was not considered “putting one’s life at risk.” It doesn’t matter that the only risk Kenom was taking by going to the Patrol Dome on OB was the risk of being bored to death. Hypocrisy is as resilient as a cockroach.

Politics being politics Kenom was resigned to spending a few months on OB as a Planet Patrolman to please his father and advance his political career. In order to make the stay halfway tolerable Kenom talked his lifelong friend Enew into joining him. Enew had also already served his military obligation time but felt obligated to Kenom and his father. It was Kenom’s father who arranged for him to serve his time at the PDR with Kenom. They shared the same electro-cubicle.

Enew was working at the Brain Transfer Unit in Kimor Provence, sector 18, unit 13. Before that he was a Loan Recall Agent at the Monetary Retraction Unit in the Department of Finance. He was used to boredom and being away on another planet for awhile seemed like a good deal to him. Besides, he knew that Kenom was going places and he didn’t want to be left behind.

#3 Body Coverings - War Domes

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Book of Art June 18, 2009

Enew would have preferred to go to the war dome on Planet Lectroy where all the fun games and electronic gadgets were but he knew it was out of the question since Kenom was going into politics. So he resigned himself to a bit of boredom in exchange for a chance at a front row seat in the high stakes game of politics. Besides he liked Kenom a lot and he knew that because of Kenom’s high LEB count it would make the trip interesting and maybe even fun.

Before they were scheduled to disembark for OB, Kenon and Enew had to take a War Dome Orientation class to familiarize themselves with living in a war dome and get an idea of what was expected of a Dome Patrolman. They both signed up for a three day class called, Dome Patrolmen, Duties and Obligations and another four day class called, War Dome Orientation for Planet OB. They had to learn some of the basics of inter-species co-habitation.

First of all in order for an Electro-man to commingle with Homo-sapiens the Z501 Electro-body has to be vulcanized with an organic-like material called Zemtex. Organics, especially those that have brain sizes under 1500 centimeters, are not ready to accept brains in Electro-bodies. They have a fear of mechanical looking beings. They become very hostile and would never voluntarily commingle with these “alien things” from outer space. That’s why all electro-people who travel to organic based planets, for business or patrol duty, must have their electro-bodies vulcanized with a covering that looks halfway organic.

History shows the consequence of overlooking this little detail. When a research team from the electro-people planet Verton landed on the organic planet Cleenon with no covering on their electro-bodies, the Clenons, with a brain size of approximately 1,100 cm, promptly destroyed the entire expedition and ate their brains. The Verton expedition taught everyone in the electro-body community a valuable lesson about the unstable nature of brains in organic bodies, and the need to make the Z501 electro-body more organic looking. After the attack on their expedition the Vertons began working on an organic covering for their electro-bodies to make exploring on organic, homo-sapiens populated planets, more feasible.

The first coverings were made from Velex which is an organic bi-product. These coverings didn’t pan out as the organic matter clung to the wiring and caused circuit damage. They solved the problem by using Fontex which is a more stable material made from ground up Polex. Zimmnil uses a material that their scientists developed called Zemtex . It is used almost exclusively for all their electro-body coverings because the raw material to make Zemtex is found in abundance on Zimmnil and that makes it the most cost effective material to use.

The original coverings made by the Vertons were very elaborate. They actually made each covering have a distinctive look to match the organic beings on the planet they were planning to invade. That turned out to be too expensive as well as too much work. It took way too many hours to just to get into one of these outfits. Vertons found that all the time and money wasn’t worth the trouble. As long as electro-people looked organic and had arms, legs, eyes, and a mouth, - and brought gifts, they were pretty much accepted. Now days most homo-sapiens accept that all space travelers look more or less alike, so just a good practical organic-like covering does the trick.

However, when the homo-sapiens brain size reaches around 1800 cm they begin to suspect something because, while they are limited to near space travel, it becomes obvious that those coming from deep space must have somehow overcome the organic body limitation, - but they are not certain just how it is done. Those in power that suspect a cover-up say nothing, it is a very guarded secret meant to keep harmony in the galaxy. You never know how the small brain size homo-sapiens masses are going to react if it were to be made public that it is suspected that electro-people are in their midst.

In the War Dome Orientation class Enew and Kenom learned about the history and structure of a War Deterrent Dome compound. Up until then they knew very little about them. Because they are tucked away on these small organic based planets, light years away, most Zimmnilions have never heard of them.

A war dome complex consists of a Central Dome, eight Patrol Domes and eight Mini-Domes. They are all connected by a series of underground tunnels. Inside the tunnels are small four passenger Dome Shuttles that run throughout the tunnels on steel tracks. The layout of the entire dome is like a wheel with the Central Dome being at the hub. The Patrol Domes which house the Neutron Blaster Guns, have connecting tunnels which make up the first ring of the wheel. The outer ring is made up of eight Mini-Domes connected by a long circular tunnel around the perimeter which has hundreds of small-arms firing ports.

During “War Season,“ the Patrol Dome on OB is manned by, 400 Planet Patrolmen from Zimmnil, about 450 homo-sapiens, from nearby planet Flexkon , and a small contingent of around twenty Godforce believing Plutons, who are electro-men from planet Pluton. The Central Dome houses the large Neutron Blaster Generators that supply the power for the Neutron Blaster guns. It is also Planet Patrol command headquarters as well as the electronic control center for the entire compound.

There are five floors in Central Dome. Floor one is the called the Flexton Gaming Floor. It is also the main tunnel shuttle transfer station. Flextons are allowed complete access to this floor. Floor two is called the Power Floor because it is the floor where you find the Neutron Generators. This floor is restricted. This floor is only for Electro-men. No Flextons are allowed. Floor three is the main computer room with hundreds of electro-cubicles. This is also where you find the Patrolmen electro-shut-down dormitories. There are a few Flextons allowed on this floor, mainly for cleaning and maintenance. Floor four is the administration floor where all the administrative work is done. A few Flextons are also allowed on this floor, again, for cleaning and maintenance. Floor five is the War Room or Command area. This floor has the Patrol commander and his staff. All decisions concerning the operation of the entire War Dome are made here. Only Zimmnilians are allowed on this floor, no exceptions.

The eight Patrol Domes in the compound are three floor domes where the Neutron Blaster Guns are located. The Neutron Blasters are on the top floor and they’re manned by four Zimmnil Blaster Patrolmen. The top floor is off limits to everyone else, even regular patrol Zimmnilons. The main floor is occupied by the Flextons. There is one Flexmaster per dome. Each Flexmaster is in charge of his dome and is independent of the other seven domes. His entourage consists of twenty-four FlekLords and thirty or so Flexmen. The Flexlords are the privileged upper-class and have a high LEB count, and as they have no war duties, they come to the dome every war season to eat, drink, talk and have a good time. They always throw lavishly parties. No one objects since their planet is paying the bills.

The Flexmen are the worker bees of the dome. They are mostly lower LEB men who do all the cooking, cleaning, and dome maintenance.

On the perimeter there are eight Mini-domes. These domes were originally observation posts set up as an early warning system to alert Central Dome of an impending attack from near space or from a ground attack. These days they are not used because there is no threat. There is nothing to observe but the landscape of OB. These domes are seldom occupied because of their isolation. They can be occupied by anyone from Zimmnil providing they have permission from Galaxy Control Center and the Patrol Dome Commander. Mostly artists, writers and thinkers ask to use these mini-domes because it is quiet and the view is spectacular.

#4 Artists - Art

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There are at least six or seven painters and a maybe a writer or two on Ob every war season. They petition Galaxy Control and the Patrol Dome Commander for permission to use the mini-domes as studios. Those that apply are usually art traditionalists. These traditionalists are artists who still continue the tradition of creative observation, a tradition that has been outlawed by the Zimmnil established art community. If they get permission they hitch a ride with a patrol supply ship and spend almost the entire season sequestered in these small domes.

The reason these artists come here is because Zimmnil is populated by electro-people with no discernable difference in appearance, and, as the planet is non-organic, with no natural landscape, so these artists come to OB to submerge themselves in the soul stirring beauty of nature. For even though the brain has grown in size and strength and has been transferred into electro-mechanical devices there still resides in the nooks and crannies of some minds a deep seated longing to connect with nature.

For the most part however, artists on Zimmnil have purged or suppressed completely this “back to nature” urge and have looked to money and fame for brain soothing artistic satisfaction. All public and private buildings are now required to buy art. Art is even traded on the Galaxy Art Exchange. As a result art has become a big business on Zimmnil. Art schools have become business schools. Zimmnil artists are considered businessmen first and artists second. It is an accepted truism among young artists that the best businessman is the best artist. The Artist Business Bureau for the Advancement of Art has over a million members. They even have lobbyists at the Center for Galaxy Control to push for inter-Galaxy art standards. They insist that abstract, non-representational art be the “Official” Galaxy art and that it should be the only art traded on the Galaxy art exchange.

It wasn’t always this way. There was a period when there was a flourishing artist community in the Galaxy. It was when the population of Playton was in its high Homo-sapiens stage of development with the average brain size of around 1,600 cm. Artists of that period wandered the planet completely committing their art souls to nature. Planet Playton being a beautiful organic-based planet encouraged and nurtured this “commune with nature” which was deemed so essential for the development of a true artist.

Artists of this period produced some of the most profound and spirit moving landscape paintings in the Galaxy. Visitor from surrounding planets would make the journey to Playton just to view the works of these artists because they were held in such high esteem. For many years it was a duty to make a pilgrimage to Planet Playton to rejuvenate the soul. To meet and talk with an artist from Playton was a rare privilege.

The artists on Playton lived in communes. Their living quarters were austere but adequate. They all shared in the everyday labor of growing food and infrastructure maintenance. They built large temples to display their work. These Art Temples is where many pilgrims came to view the art work. They were Temples for mediating and soul purification and rejuvenation. All were welcome. They were quiet, non assuming temples perfect for the contemplation of art.

However, as the crowds grew so grew the potential for making money. It didn’t take long before unscrupulous money changers saw an opportunity. By manipulating the communication media and using other means which they excelled at, they were able to redefine the meaning of art. They convinced a naïve populous that art was too sophisticated for them to understand. They convinced people that art was very complicated and needed proper analyses before one could truly understand it,- proper analyses that only they and their artist collaborators could provide.

It is not surprising that the masses became confused and no longer trusted their inner soul. With cleaver phrasing and high sounding words the money changers convinced the people that they alone had superior knowledge about what art was or wasn’t . It wasn’t long before they had control over artists and their art. Soon they began to sell what they now defined as art for big profits. Before long young artists no longer wondered the landscape their young minds were seduced by the prospects of fame and riches. The true artists were neglected, temples fell into ruin, pilgrims no longer came, and no one was interested in true art. The people were enticed by the money changers to frequent the new art viewing establishments, elaborate buildings with all sorts of tempting things to buy.

Once they crossed the threshold and walked into these dens of the devil they were taken advantage of in the most egregious fashion. They were told by those within the building that what they were seeing was the best art that artists could produce. They were lead to believe that they were at the forefront of Playton culture when in fact they were being deceived in the name of profit and prestige.

To do this, to take this kind advantage of people who want nothing more than to find solace and peace within their soul, to do this for the purpose of making money, to do this for profit is a very cruel and callus thing to do. It’s a crime against nature itself.

By the time the brain transfers to electro-bodies were complete on Playton, the concept of artist as businessman had taken root and was the well entrenched. When a large portion of the population moved to the new non-organic planet of Zimmnil the business of art flourished. The idea of painting from nature never occurs to the painters on Zimmnil. That’s because nature as a subject never enters the artists mind, - its abstract or nothing.

In spite of this there are still a few artists where nature’s DNA survives. It has managed to tuck away, deep in the wrinkles of the brain, a desire to connect. The descendants of those brains with those small bits of nature loving DNA are in the Zimmnilions artists who request permission to spend war season in the mini-domes.

#5 Tunnel Building Vertons - God-force Plutons

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Interesting enough the first domes on OB were built by electro-people from the planet Vertron, They sent an expedition to OB looking for Ormealan a substance found on some organic-based planets that is used as a rocket propellant. They built a series of domes and underground tunnels for their mining operations. But there wasn’t much Ormealan on OB and when it ran out they dismantled their domes and moved their mining operation elsewhere. They left one small dome and a small contingent of low LEBers to do the cleanup work. They had planned to come back for them in about three years.

However, in the mean time, Verton was invaded by the Cleenons and a forty year war ensued. Eventually the Cleenons were defeated. But not before the Vertons had lost their ability for interplanetary travel and communication. That left the Vreties on OB stranded. Before they could be rescued the Vertons had rebuild their planet infrastructure, which had been completely destroyed.

Because they were unaware of the war that had taken place on their home planet, the Verties assumed they were to remain on OB for some strategic reason. They had no way to leave the planet and their communication equipment had long since stopped working, so they had no choice but to stay put and wait it out. They said nothing about their earlier mining operations when the Zimmnil advanced war dome exploration team arrived. They were afraid they might be giving away vital secrets.

They did not object or complain about the war dome that the Zimmnilions wanted to build and even offered to work on the project in exchange for much needed electro-body parts and support equipment. The Zimmnilions just assumed that these Verties were a breakaway group of Electro-people looking for a simple life on a small organic planet so they decided to put them to work.

They were used, because of their knowledge of tunnel building, to help build the War Dome connecting tunnels. After the dome was built they were kept on to maintain the underground rail shuttle system. However, they were not allowed to co-mingle with the other inhabitants of the dome. There was a fear that because they had been so isolated for so long they may not understand the need for the Patrol Dome protocol about co-mingling with Homo-sapiens.

As the Flextons had the responsibility of ordering, storing, and distributing tunnel maintenance and shuttle supplies, the Zimmnil Patrol command had to be careful about how this was handled. So as a precaution, when the domes were completed the Verties were all vulcanized with Zimtex electro-body coverings before the first contingent of homo-sapiens from Flexton arrived. The Verties were also confined to their small maintenance dome and ordered to keep a low profile when working in the tunnels or on the shuttles. They were also given special uniforms with numbers on them so that they could be easily identified. They were in a sense treated like prisoners, but what could they do; they had no choice but to comply.

Another small group of Electro-people who were also closely watched were the God-force believers from planet Pluton. After the war dome was up and running, with a full contingent of patrolmen and Fleckies, The Center for Galexay Control allowed the Plutons to build a small Relig-O-Dome on the first floor of the Central Dome. The Plutons are missionaries hoping to convert the Galaxy’s organic bodied homo-sapiens, the Flextons in this case, to their God-force belief before their brains reach the 2,500 cm size, which is the size when the brain is ready for transfer into an electro-body. They need to get them to understand and accept the Life Energizing Beam theory and that their bodies are only holding them back from obtaining true knowledge of the universe. Once they accept that then it is just a matter of weaning them off the notion that God is an organic man with a beard in a white robe. Once they understand that God is the creator of the life force then they can accept the notion of electro-bodies much easier.

Of course, with a brain size of 2,500 cm one is not easily fooled. The science and technology that goes into the electro-body process, and the deep space travel that it allows, tends to make the notion of an all seeing all knowing Supreme Being rather farfetched. With so much life in the universe, with all its diversity and uniqueness, to think that one species or another is special or chosen by some unknown, unseen God is to stretch common sense well beyond its limit. But the universe has always had zealots, and zealots will always be zealots no matter how unreasonable their cause.

The Plutons are believers and as believers they feel it their duty and obligation to convert the God believing Homo-sapiens to their God-force belief before they are seduced by science and technology. To help with this they have a Universal Vision tele-view program that runs all day, all night, every day of the year. It broadcasts their God-force message constantly and can be picked up on Tele-view receivers throughout the dome complex. Most Flexies are bored with the program’s constant preaching so they seldom tune in.

However, in spite of what some believe to be a boring simplistic message, the Pluton God-Force believers do have many followers in the Galaxy, including some followers on OB. They promote and support themselves through Universal Vision Tele-view programs and disc-recordings of popular sermons which they sell by the millions in domes across the Galaxy.

As noted earlier, the Plutons and their God-force Relig-O-Domes are tolerated because they pose no real threat to the peace and stability of the Galaxy. Electro people have enough brain capacity to make rational judgments about the validity of the God-force theory on their own without the Center for Galaxy Control dictating what or what not to believe. However, when they set up their Relig-O-Domes in a War Dome complex they are required to adhere to the compounds rules and regulations and obey the dome commander. They are also required to wear distinctive robes to distinguish themselves from the general population of Zimmnilions. It is important that everyone in the dome know at a glance who is a God-force believer from Pluton and who is from Zimmnil. For the most part however, the Plutons stay within their dome and are content to do their preaching through the Tele-view broadcasts.

#6 Orientation - Wardrobe

2010-03-17T10:53:00.003-07:00

The trip to OB takes about half a day. The first thing all duty patrolmen are required to do is report to the Patrol Orientation Master. Duty papers have to be filed, sponsor certification and Brain Size Identification must be made.

Brain transfer papers also have be verified with the Central Galaxy Inclusion Department for authenticity. There have been a number of forged brain transfer papers found recently and the CGID is cracking down on this illegal activity. Brains from Xcepter homo-sapiens have turned up in Zimmnil electro-bodies more than once. Last war season alone fifty alien brains were found on OB.

There is a thriving business of illegal brain transferring going on Planet Verton. The authorities there have tried to shut down these illegal transfer stations but they can’t find them all so the process continues. Because the economy on Xceptor is in such bad shape many high LEB count Xceptors with brains in the 1600 cc range don’t want to wait for the Galaxy Inclusion Department to certify their brain size, which is the first step in the long process that would eventually allow them to receive transfers into Electro-bodies. They figure these illegal transfer stations are the quickest way bypass all that bureaucracy.

There is also a thriving business selling used or imitation Z501 electro-bodies. There is a risk of brain failure when these old or copied electro bodies are used, but not being able to find suitable work for your brain size can cause anyone to take risks.

Once the transfer is made they are supplied with forged brain transfer papers and sent off to one of the many patrol domes. Once inside the patrol dome they sneak aboard a supply ship returning to Zimmnil. The Zimmnil Planet Protection Patrol tries to catch these planet jumpers but the Xcepters are always ten steps ahead of them. The Xceptors are a very resourceful lot.

Once Kenom and Enew had been checked in they had to go to the Central LEB Center for a brain scan and LEB count evaluation. When a Zimmnil patrolman signs up for War Dome duty the brain has to be evaluated to determine what job is best suited for the brain power of the patrolman. Its done to match, “brain to duty.” One can have a high LEB count but still be less qualified to work on a Electro-beam controller that a patrolman with a lesser LEB count who has studied Electro-beam science at some brain enhancement center specializing in Electro-technology.

For example the four Patrolmen assigned to the patrol dome Electro-Blasters are rated SEI, or, patrolmen who have Supreme Electro Interest, or, “Electroheads” as they are called back on Zimmnil. These patrolmen are classified, HE as in Hermit-Electros. It is determined that HE patrolmen have “co-mingling defects” because they do not conform to “normal patrol association“. Again, it’s part of the “brain to duty” matching system.

Another reason new patrolmen must have their brain’s LEB count evaluated is so the proper uniform can be issued. Because all electro-people look alike uniform identification is the only way to separate and identify various brain powers. The lower LEB count patrolman must wear a full-bodied light blue uniform with red trim. The higher LEB count patrolman wears a long dark blue garment trimmed in purple with silver ornaments. They have an OB logo on the front. The Patrol Dome Commander wears a similar outfit trimmed in gold.

The organic Flektons also have a wardrobe identification system. Their system however is not based on brain power; it is based on the traditional organic homo-sapiens system of political and financial power. The most powerful being the Fleckmasters who wear red robes with gold trim. In the second tier are the Flecklords who wear a pinkish robe with red pinstripes and dark red trim. The lowly Fleckmen wear one-piece pink jumpsuits. The Fleckmaster and the Flecklord’s outfits have patches with the letter “F” on the front while the Fleckmen have a center patch of two crossed wrenches with the letter “F” in the center.

Two other uniforms found in the dome are worn by the Plutons and the Vertrons. The Pluton God-force believers wear white robes with a bright red crossed lightening strike symbol across the front. The red crossed lightening strike symbol is a blend of several ancient religious symbols found on various planets throughout the Galaxy, planets that have, or have had, a belief system which includes a firm belief in an all seeing, all knowing God. These uniforms are easy to spot from a distance making it easier for those who wish to avoid contact with these religious zealots to find a quick alternative route.

The Vertons who have no power or prestige in the dome are forced to wear non-descript image coded clothing. Their one-piece garments are dark brown in color with no frills. That makes them a little more acceptable. It also makes them less noticeable because they blend in with the dark tunnels where they work. They have a gear patch logo and a large number on the front for easy identification in the event someone needs to report on an individual workers transgressions or lazy work habits.

#7 Mini-dome C

2010-03-17T10:53:00.002-07:00

After all the paper work, brain scanning, and certifications were completed at the Patrol Orientation Master’s office, the two new patrolmen were directed to the Patrol Supply Area where they were issued their patrol uniforms. Kenom was issued a High LEB Patrolman’s robe because of his high LEB count while Enew received the standard Patrolman uniform.

Once they were properly dressed they boarded a transfer shuttle and reported to the Dome-Duty Station for their duty assignment papers. When he originally signed up for patrol duty back on Zimmnil, Kenom had requested to be stationed in a Mini-dome. He felt the isolation would better suit his temperament. He wasn’t one for group speak or idle chatter.

Because of his father’s connections, the proper documents had already been approved, sent, signed and certified and were waiting for him on the Duty Master’s desk. The Duty Master was a bit surprised at the request when he saw that Kenom was a high LEBer. It is rare that a high LEB patrolman would request duty in a small mini-dome where there is such little contact with patrolmen in the rest of the dome complex, especially the DNA son of an Ambassador. These Mini-domes are isolated and usually held for artists with A-LEB Peace ratings who prefer to be alone.

However, Kenom, as previously stated, was just here to put in his patrol duty time for political reasons and had no desire to participate in regular patrolmen activities. He thought his time would be better spent, and probably more productive to him personally, if he fulfilled his duty obligations by reading and observing nature.

They were assigned to Mini-dome “C” which is one of the eight mini-domes attached to the perimeter shuttle tunnel. Mini-dome “C” is also attached by tunnels to Patrol Dome 4 and Patrol-dome 5. To get from the Central dome to any of the Mini-domes one must take a supper-shuttle to one of the patrol-domes, and then transfer to small four man mini-shuttle which goes directly to the mini-dome. The duty master had one brought up beforehand and it was waiting for them outside the duty master’s office. Kenom thanked the duty master for his help, boarded the super-shuttle and sped off down the tunnel heading for patrol dome 4.

On the shuttle trip to Patrol-dome #4 the shuttle was delayed for 30 minutes due to a small cave-in in the tunnel which had to be cleared before they could proceed. The Verton work crew was still working alongside the track when their shuttle was finally allowed to proceed. This was the first close up look at a Verton for Kenom. He had seen elector-images of them before but he had never seen one in person. Kenom was surprised to see them so dirty and disheveled looking and that many of them had malfunctioning Electro-body parts. He was rather alarmed to see these electro-people in such bad repair. He made a note to inquire about the status of the Vertrons when he met with the Patrol Commander two days hence.

When they finally got to Patrol-dome 4 they made their transfer to a small four man mini-shuttle that would take them to Mini-dome “C“. While they were walking to the mini-shuttle they could hear what sounded like big party taking place on the main floor of the dome. The patrolmen were not surprised as the Flextons are well known for their extravagant parties; it appeared that they were right in the middle of one now. As they pulled out of the transfer station and the party sounds slowly faded away the hum of the shuttle turned their minds toward the peace and seclusion awaiting them just up ahead.

Upon arriving at Dome “C” they secured the shuttle and entered the dome elevator that took them up into the dome. When the door opened they were both rather surprised at how large and well equipped the Mini-dome was. Aside from the usual electro charging room and electro shutdown room there was a large open area with a spectacular view of OB’s landscape as well as a grand view if the stars and planets. To the left, facing outward was a large telescope with numerous interplanetary viewing devices attached.

Kenom particularly liked the large screen Image-viewing monitor. He was sure he would find the broadcast images in this part of the Galaxy highly entertaining.

As they were going over the dome protocol and management manuals two Flextons arrived in a supply shuttle with the gear and equipment that they had sent from Zimmnil. Kenom was happy to see that his container of books was intact as he showed the workers where he wanted various containers placed.

The two Flexton’s were startled to see that there was a “High-LEBer” in the dome. Even though their stares were concealed, and more or less confined to viewing reflections in the glass and mirrors, it was obvious they were excited and wanted to take in every detail. Flextons have all seen High LEBers before on the Image-viewers but almost never in person. This was a rare treat.

They were used to the A-LEB artist types in this area not a High LEB count duty Patrolman. They couldn’t wait to be of some service so that they could tell their friends all about it. They had nothing against the A-LEB artist types that usually stay in these domes; they were nice people even if rather messy and uninterested in dome gossip and activities. But to be in the service of a High-LEB patrolman was going to be something very special.

#8 Unpacking in the Mini-dome

2010-03-17T10:53:00.001-07:00

As Kenom and Enew began to unpack and settle in a voice transfer message came in from the Flekmaster over in Dome #4. It was an invitation to a welcoming party being held that evening in their honor. It seems that word had already gotten out that a High LEB Patrolman who was also son of an Ambassador was staying in Mini-Dome “C” and that it was an occasion for some networking. Dome politics was already beginning to show its nasty head.

Kenom found out by reading the Protocol and Dome Management Manual that the Flekmaster in Patrol-dome 4 was named Tsubo Aseem. The manual said nothing more about him. He decided he had better run a brain size and LEB count check on him. Perhaps with a little more information he could better gage the meaning of such an quick invite. This would mean a trip to Central Dome where he would have access to the main computer system.

So, as a stalling tactic, Kenom answered the invitation with a message saying that before they could attend any dome functions he and Enew first had to report to the Dome Commander and brief him on some important Zimmnil matters. He had a meeting scheduled with him in the morning. This might busy him for a few days, but after that he would inform him as to when they would be available for a social visit.

Meanwhile Knew was testing the Universal-vision monitor to see if he could bring in some inter-planet broadcast that he had never seen before. However, he was having a bit of trouble. It seems that the only channel he could receive was the Pluton’s God-force channel, which he thought was rather strange. There must be thousands of broadcast channels in this part of the Galaxy, so it must be some problem with the antenna. Kenom suggested that he take it up with Flexmaster Tsubo when they met, as the Flextons are responsible for dome maintenance.

While discussing the matter they were interrupted by another voice transfer message from dome 4. It was suggested that on their way to the Central dome to meet the Commander a brief informal meeting be held on the shuttle transfer platform. Just a quick introduction - nothing more. It seems that the whole dome by now knew of a High LEB Patrolman out in Mini-dome C and it was imperative that one be the first Flextmaster to greet him. Kenom felt he had no choice but to agree. It would not be prudent to offend a Flexmaster so soon upon arrival. So a time was set to meet the following day.

Kenom and Enew shut down early that evening as their brains had been functioning for quite a long period of time. Kenom wanted to be fresh for his meeting with the Dome Commander. When they come on line again it was time to board the mini shuttle and head out for dome 4. Enew made one last check on the vision monitor to see if it was still stuck on the God-force channel. It was. He was upset and he was going to mention it to Flexmaster Tsubo. He was not pleased at how incompetent these homo-sapiens were when it came to doing anything other than socialize and party.

As the mini-shuttle pulled into the transfer station they could see Flexmaster Tsubo attended by a small contingent Flexlords waiting on the platform. Kenom and Enew disembarked and walked up to meet him and his accompanying entourage. As introductions were being made a few Flextoids could be seen peeking from adjacent balconies and doorways, drawn by a natural curiosity to see the newly arrived Patrolmen.

After the introductions were made and a few pleasantries exchanged the two patrolmen boarded the super-shuttle, saying that they would return soon for a longer visit. Enew added that there was a problem with the universal-vision monitor to which Flexmaster Tsubo replied he would dispatch a maintenance crew to look into the matter. And with a wave of the hand they were off down the tunnel headed for central dome headquarters where they would meet for the first time Patrol Commander, Major Sane Finloy, a good friend of Kenom‘s DNA father and sponsor of this Patrol Duty Assignment.

They were no more than ten minutes down the track when they were stopped again because of tunnel repair work. This was unacceptable to anyone from Zimmnil who was used to highly efficient underground rail systems. Now more than ever Kenom was determined to bring this up with Commander Finloy. Not only was the tunnel and shuttle track in bad repair but the Vertons doing the repair were in need of repair themselves. Certainly if there was money for Flexton parties there was money for the tunnel upkeep and electro-body parts for the Vertons.

It took almost twenty minutes before the shuttle was allowed to slowly advance through the damaged part of the track. It wasn’t hard to see that the two patrolmen were quite disappointed with what they had encountered in their two days on patrol duty. If this was how it was going to be one could imagine they had serious reservations about their decisions to volunteer for patrol duty on OB.

Arriving at Central dome they took a lift directly to the fourth floor to Patrol headquarters where they informed the patrolman at the reception desk that they had an appointment to see Commander Finloy, The duty patrolman voice transferred the information to the Commander’ office and the reply was to send them right up. Kenom and Enew were both impressed with the efficiency of the headquarters staff. This was more like what one expected from Electro-people. In contrast it made the incompetence of the Flexton and their ability to oversee the Vertron tunnel repair crew stand out even more. One could only speculate on how incompetent the Flextoids themselves were at maintenance.

#9 The Commander - Dome Tour

2010-03-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

A lift brought Kenom and Enew and an accompanying Patrolman to the fifth floor. They proceeded down a long circular hall until they came to a door which said, “Dome Headquarters. Commander Sane Finloy.“ Knew slid his identification card through the ID slot and the door opened. Inside were five High LEB patrolmen each with his own computer monitor sitting at a long desk. They continued working except for an occasional side glance, not at Kneom but at Enew. It is rare that a regular patrolman is allowed in dome headquarters, and never to visit the commander. Kneom approached the the desk and said, “We are here to see Commander Finloy.” “Business?” inquired one of them sternly. “He is expecting us” was Kneom’s curt reply. Just then a Patrol Major entered from the Commander’s office, “Hello, you must be Patrolman Kenom. Commander Finloy is expecting you, please, come this way.” Enew’s slight hand gesture could only be interpreted as a gesture of insult toward the High LEB patrolmen as he passed by the desk.

Commander Finloy greeted them warmly. “Going into politics are you?, well that is a worthy vocation,” he said, “I’m sure you will distinguish yourself in politics just like your DNA father has.” “Thank you sir,” said Kenom “may I introduce my dear friend and companion, Enew Snubbs who came along to keep me company.” “Hello Patrolman Enew, we can all use an assistant… let me introduce you to mine, Major Finon.”

With all the introductions done Knenom brought the Commander up on all the latest political news from Zimmnil. After that the Commander inquired as to which mini-dome they had been assigned, “Mini-dome C“, replied Kenom. “Good” said the commander, “you are attached to patrol dome 4 and 5. Flextmaster Tsubo Aseem in Patrol-dome 4 is an agreeable chap with a high LEB count. I will send over his brain analyses for you to read so you will know a little more about him.” Kneom thanked the commander and told him of their brief meeting on the way over to Central dome earlier.

Major Finon reminded the commander of some pressing obligations so after a bit the meeting was terminated. As they were walking towards the door Commander Finloy asked if Knew would be so kind as to deliver some computer discs to FleckMaster Etel over at Partol Dome 5 on his way back to the Mini-dome. He also offered to have a patrolman give he and Enew a tour of Central dome if they were so inclined. They agreed to both propositions.

As they left Enew reflected on the importance of having influential friends. As for Kenom, his thoughts were about the tunnel, he was a sorry that the opportunity never came up to ask the Commander about the Vertons and the tunnel repair situation,…perhaps another time.

When they got back down to the fourth floor a patrolman was waiting for them. He introduced himself as Patrolman Flyn, one of the permanent duty patrolmen stationed here. He appeared to have a high LEB count but not high enough to be wearing a high-LEB uniform. He said he was to give them a tour of Central dome. “We’ll start with the observation platform on the fifth level” he said.

As they proceeded to the fifth floor Kenom had a chance to take measure of the kind of Patrolmen that were stationed here year around. Patrolman Flyn seemed to be a strict, no nonsense type with little regard for anything non-electro. He made no effort to hide his contempt for the Flextons and their inferior brains still in organic bodies. Whether he was just being pro-electro to impress or that it was the prevailing sentiment here in Cenrtal dome Kenom could not discern.

They emerged from the lift to find a large open area with a window view of the entire complex. All eight patrol domes could be seen as well as some of the mini-domes and sections of the perimeter shuttle tunnel. It was quite impressive. Patrolman Flyn informed them that here is where they monitor the Nutron Electro-Blaster tests that they hold each month. These tests are not tests to gauge the efficiency of the blasters because as all Zimmnilions know they are practically useless for any real planet protection. Zimmnil has weapons with enough power to blast the entire planet of OB out of existence if it wanted to.

The whole compound is just for show really. “The Flextons haven’t the slightest idea of how much blast power you need to be a factor in the outer Galaxy war zones,” offered Patrolman Flyn, “but as long as we put on a good show the Flexies are happy and the money keeps flowing in. As far as the patrolmen well they’re here mostly to learn how to monitor the equipment so that they can get good jobs when they return to Zimnel.” Kenom was impressed with the patrolman’s candor.

After the observation deck tour they all three entered the lift and went on to view the remaining floors. Most of the upper floors were the same with rows and rows of fancy high-tech electronics. Nothing very exciting. When they arrived at level one, the Flextrons game and entertainment floor Patrolman Flyn lead them to a narrow observation room that went almost all the way around the perimeter. There were several dozen patrolmen more or less loitering around talking and wasting time. Watching low LEB organics play computer games was not a very engaging duty assignment. But once in a while something goes wrong and they are needed for Environment Stabilization.

#10 Dome 4 Art Gallery

2010-03-17T10:52:00.002-07:00

As they were finishing the tour of Centerl Dome, Kenom asked about the Relig-O-Domes. “Those domes were installed by the Plutons,” responded Patrolman Flyn, “we rent them space down here.” When asked how many God-force Plutons were in the dome compound the answer was a rather vague, “I‘m not sure, maybe 20.” The reason for that is for the most part the Plutons stick to themselves, just happy to be running their God-force channel on the Universal-vision. They come and go but seldom mingle with the patrolmen. They do have a few zealots on “Conversion Patrol” who work the upper floors looking to convert some Zimmnils. There is little hope of success however as the patrolmen in this dome are pretty much science driven. With the tour over, and thank yous given, the two patrolmen boarded a module and set out for Patrol-dome 5.

The tunnel to Dome 5 was a little better than the Dome 4 tunnel but not by much. It was bumpy and noisy. They had to slow the module down several times in order to keep it steady. There were no Vertons working anywhere along the line but Kenom could see equipment laying here and there all along the track.. He was more determined than ever to mention this situation to the commander next time they met even if he had to interrupt.

As they pulled up to Dome 5 they could see a small contingent of Flexlords waiting on the transfer platform. Apparently news of a High LEB ambassador’s son patrolman living in Mini-dome C had spread throughout the Patrol-domes. Among those waiting on the platform was Flexmaster Etel, master of this dome. He greeted them warmly as they disembarked from the module. Kenom handed over the parcel that the Commander had given him as he exchanged pleasantries. Flexmaster Etel offered a tour of the dome, especially to see their new Inter-planetary film viewing theater. He said it is quite popular with the high LEB organics. But Kenom begged off as they had just finished a tour of Central Dome and were ready to go back to their mini-dome for some quiet time. Perhaps another time he said as they walked to the module, we‘ll be here for the entire war season, then with a wave they sped off.

When they arrived at the Mini-dome they found several messages waiting for them on the Vision-Monitor. One was from Flexmaster Tsubo who offered an invitation to visit his art gallery which contained an extensive collection of inter-planetary art. Apparently, because he was stationed in a Mini-dome, Flexmaster Tsubo assumed that Kneom was an artist. He was not. As a matter of fact he knew very little about art spending all his life in the diplomatic core. He had seen a lot of art but only as a spectator, not as a connoisseur. He agreed to meet the next day.

The second message was from the Commander asking about their accommodations, if they were satisfactory. He also invited them to join himself and some of his friends for the Grand Sporting event held by the Organics in Patrol dome #8, a Patrol-dome that had been turned into a sports dome for the low LEBers in the compound. Kenom replied in the affirmative as he thought this might be a good time to bring up the Vertons and the tunnel repair situation.

The third message was from Flexmaster Flyn who wanted to tell them about a new film visual they had just received from planet Ute which was about an artist living there named Shalon Kent. They were screening it that very evening. Kenom declined the invitation saying they had duties to perform and various things to attend to but that maybe at a later date….

It would seem that the whole dome compound thought that they were artists. That didn’t seem to be too much of a problem except that they weren’t sure how they would react once they found out that they weren’t. They weren’t sure if it was an advantage or a disadvantage. But after talking it over for a while they both decided it was time to shut down and rejuvenate. Tomorrow they would put their minds to other matters and let the art thing play itself out.

When they booted up the next day they began by unpacking their supplies and arranging the dome to their liking. As they were unpacking the container from the Galaxy Business Encouragement Center they came upon something from the Artist Business Bureau,- several small abstract paintings to give away as gifts. How appropriate they thought. They could give one as a gift to Flexmaster Tsubo when they went to visit his art gallery.

After a few more hours of unpacking and arraigning they finally had time to set down and enjoy the view. The landscape of OB was spectacular. Primitive plants of all kinds, lush and vibrant, in a variety of colors. It was most pleasing to the brain. Several hours were spent doing nothing more that soaking in nature’s beauty. But eventually they had to get back to the business at hand. It was time to meet with Flexmaster Tsubo. Kenom selected two small abstract paintings from the stack and joined Enew in the shuttle. Thus armed they set out for Patrol-dome 4 to pay a visit to Flaxmaster Tsubo’s art gallery.

#11 Little Abstract Paintings

2010-03-17T10:52:00.001-07:00

Another tunnel delay made them late. When they arrived they made their apologies and offered the reason. It was no surprise to Flexmaster Tsubo as he was well aware of the tunnel problem. He made his opinion known blaming it on,” those incompetent bureaucrats over at Central dome.” It was his opinion that since they never used the tunnels their upkeep and maintenance had a low priority. Knew offered that he would be going to the Sport event over at Patrol dome 8 on the morrow and would bring up the subject when he met with the Commander. Flexmaster Tsubo smiled and thought to himself that perhaps having this High LEB patrolman as a friend might eventually pay some nice dividends.

They proceeded to the art gallery. It was a large room, well appointed but not overly done. There were hundreds of paintings hung on the walls of various subjects, mostly portraits and landscapes. It was nothing either Kenom or Enew had ever seen. They were used to seeing only the art on Zimmnil which was subject-less abstract painting. They had never seen such a variety. Flexmaster Tsubo had collected these paintings from various painters on planets within the Flexton’s limited space travel reach.

Flexmaster Tsubo was particularly fond of his paintings from the planet Ute. He said that Ute was a small art-based planet with no resource value that had a tradition of art that went back thousands of years. Because the planet had no resource value it never became a warring planet,. The Ute’s never had an army and were never attacked or invaded. They remained peaceful and never succumbed to fear, even though planets all around them were always bickering and fighting with each other, The Utes are loved for their art and their friendliness. After every war season Tsubo said he goes there for several months to reset his thinking.

As they talked about various paintings and painters the two Patrolmen began to truly enjoy hearing the opinion of this 1,600 cubic centimeter brain. It was clear that art meant more to these organics than it did to the electro-people on Zimmnil. To a Zimmnilian art was just color and design, it was more of a business than a creative pursuit. These paintings were actually about something or someone, -and it certainly wasn’t a business. How quaint thought the patrolmen.

As much as Kenom enjoyed looking at the paintings and talking to his host he couldn’t help but think that this poor man would eventually find out that art was a business and that no matter how noble the painters were on Ute, when some resource of value was discovered there and the Electro-businessmen descended upon them, they would, like everyone else, succumb to the temptation of money. And when that happened this peaceful planet with its peaceful people would become entangled in war, politics, greed and corruption just like all the rest of the planets in the Galaxy. He had seen it happen again and again.

The Flextons with only their near space travel limitations knew very little about the planets beyond. They had no idea what it takes to survive in an Electro world with deep space travel capabilities and electronic sophistication beyond anything their small brains could conceive. It was sad in a way. Here was this good man thinking that art somehow reflected the most noble of human activities, when in fact it reflected a naiveté about the real world outside the reach of his brain power.

Still, Kenom was pleased that such a large collection of these early homo-sapiens naïve artists’ paintings existed. These paintings might someday be exhibited back on Zimmnil to serve as a reminder to future generations of Electro-people as to what was considered to be worthy subjects for artists, back before the business of art took hold. Other than that he could see no practical use or reason to keep them.

Kenom’s thoughts turned to the two small abstract paintings he had brought to give as gifts. Perhaps if this art patron pondered their meaning he would see the future of art within them. If he did it would go a long way toward convincing the Center For Brain Inclusion Department that the Flextons were close to being ready for brain transferring which would then allow them to participate in the activities of the greater Galaxy.

When the visit was over and the two patrolmen were ready to board their mini-shuttle Kenom retrieved the two small Abstract paintings he had brought along. He offered them to his host as a gift from the people of Zimmnil with the hopes that their two planets would someday share the same cultural goals. Flexmaster Tsubo was very pleased to receive such a most wonderful gift. He handed them to one of his attending Flexlords who marveled at the fine straight lines and bright color combinations. The other Flexlords gathered around the paintings and began talking among themselves. Their praise was enthusiastic and seemed sincere. It was most welcome to hear and both Kenom and Enew were bursting with pride. They felt that through art they had built a small bridge over the gap between Homo -sapiens and electro-men. Their superior brains had found a way, with these small paintings, to relate to the smaller brains in homo-sapiens.

As their shuttle pulled into the tunnel with its happy cargo of two contented patrolmen, and the module disappeared down the tunnel the Flexlord holding the paintings turned to Flexmaster Tsubo and said, “What shall I do with these?” Tsubo smiled and gestured with his hand toward the floor. The Flexlords laughed. They understood, the two painting should go into their “Friendship Gallery” which was located in the basement of the dome. Every war season they get more of these atrocious daubs from Zimmnil and rather than throwing them into the space trash bins, as they would prefer to do, they decided to store them in a dark unused room in the basement. They don’t want to take a chance they could get found, they could pollute the entire dome.

#12 The Believer

2010-03-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

When they pulled into Dome C there were two Flexmen waiting for them on the platform. They could see by their uniforms that they were repairmen.

"Hello," said one of them, "I understand you are having trouble with your Universal-vision. Fleckmaster Tsubo sent us down here to have a look at it." "Of course, please come in. I'm patrolman Kenom and this is my friend patrolman Enew." "Hello, I'm Zelton and this is my partner Zeno, we're from Dome #3. I saw you last night at the transfer station. I was doing some work on the electro-lighting." "Yes, we were there briefly. We were on our way to Central dome to meet with the Commander." said Kenom.

"I’ve never seen the Commander myself,” said Zelton as they entered the dome, “We Flexmen aren’t allowed in that section of the dome…..so, what seems to be the problem with your Universal-vision?” "Well," said Enew, all we can get on the thing is the Pluton Godforce channel." "Damn those Plutons" replied Zelton, "they are always doing stuff like that. They cross circuits in the back of the electro-panel, blocking out every channel but theirs. I'll bet that's the problem. Let's have a look."

Zelton and Zeon took the back panel of the Universal-vision off and started checking out the circuits. "Sure enough," said Zelton, "these circuits have been tampered with. This Mini-dome hasn't been occupied for three month-marks, I'll bet they came in and crossed your circuits. Zeon will have to go over to dome #7 for a new panel. I have to call headquarters and report this. It will take a little while, do you mind if I call from here?" "No.,not at all," replied Kenom.

Zelton came back into the room and started to remove the back panel. Kenom asked, "Did you make your call alright?" "Yea," replied Zelton, "I filed a report, but they ain't gonna do anything about it...they never do. I think half of those Flecktoids up at headquarters are Godforce believers themselves. They don't care what those damn Plutons do. Those Pluton Godforce zealots are a real problem here on Ob. They have everybody screwed up. Things were going good until they got here." "Oh really," said Kenom, "are there many here?" "I don't know," answered Zelton, "I've never seen one myself. They stay pretty much to themselves in their Relog-O-Dome over in the Central Dome with your Zimtel friends. I've only seen them on Universal-vision; they're on the Universal-vision all the time."
Kenom was curious about the thinking of a homo-sapien with a brain capacity of around 1400 centimeters. So he questioned him further. "Have you been stationed here long?" he asked. "I was born here, on Ob, over in Fleck-city." replied Zelton, "...lived here all my life. My family is all gone now; I'm the only one left. I've been in the Patrol for thirty year-marks. This is the only planet I know. I'm not much on space travel. The patrol wanted to send me back to Flickton for electro-robot training, but I wouldn't go. We have enough electro-robot maintenance men already. The pay is better, but hell, money isn't everything."

"I hear you Zimtilleons travel all over the place,...ever been to Clortron?" "Yes I have," said Kenom. "How about Clohen, have you been to Clohen?" "Yes, I've been there too." "Man, you Zimtellions really get around. We had a visitor from Clorton here once," said Zelton, "he was weird, like those Gypsons. He didn't last long. He got in trouble with the Verties and they shipped him back to where he came from. Good riddance I say."

Kenom was silent for a moment then said, "A moment ago you said the Plutons should all rot in hell. What exactly did you mean by that? Where is hell?" Zelton was taken aback by this question. "You don't know where hell is?" he replied. "Well I know it is part of your God based philosophy but I am curious as to where it is exactly." "It's down in the center of Flickton," replied Zelton,"it's full of fire and brimstone." "Really,…what is brimstone?" asked Kenom. "Well.... I don't know exactly, but it ain't good stuff to be in, I can assure you of that." "I see," said Kenom, "so when you say that all Plutons should rot in hell, what you are saying is that you want all the Plutons to be back in the center of Flickton, in all this fire and brimstone stuff." "Well, something like that, I just want them to suffer a lot." "I see. And why should they suffer so much? Is it because of what you see on Universal-vision?" asked Kenom.

"I never watch them on Universal-vision.... but I know they should suffer a lot, because ...because... well just because. I just don't like them."

"Because you don't like them, does that mean that no one likes them?" "Well, I don't know, somebody must like them because they sure have a lot of money and influence around here. None of us Flecktons like them though, at least the ones I hang out with". "Why is that?" "Because they don't believe in the one true God, that's why." "And who is the one true God?" asked Kenom. "It's our God!" said Zelton, "Our true God is all powerful and all perfect and he loves all Flecktons. He's the one who created the whole universe." "Is that so," replied Kenom. "What does he look like and where is he?" "He looks like us Flecktons and he is in heaven, that's where he is!" And that’s where I hope to go after I die..to be with the one true God!”

#13 The Believer 2

2010-03-17T10:51:00.003-07:00

The Flextoid was starting to get a little animated, it was obvious he was still in the God based belief system and the competition from another religion was disrupting his thinking patterns. "All us Flecktons who believe in him will go to be with him in heaven when we die. It will be wonderful! And anybody who doesn’t believe will be in hell with all those Plutons!" "I see," said Kenom. "Where exactly is this heaven?" "It is out there in space, that's where... and it is a wonderful place too, full of all sorts of neat things, streets of gold and things like that.”Why would you need streets," asked Kenom, "are there modules there?" "Well,...I guess so,...sure, how else would you get around." "And who repairs the rails, the Vertons?" "Why are you asking me all these questions?....how should I know. Our preachers tell us that's how it is, and we believe them...the modules probably never break down, cause everything is perfect in heaven." "Please forgive me for asking you such foolish questions, I'm sure your priests are right about this, but, being from Zimtel, I am quite ignorant on these matters. Perhaps you could help enlighten me, please tell me more about your God."

"Well, OK," said Zelton, "this is how it is. God, who created everything,- the entire universe, created Fleckton and made it special. Then he rested for a while, after that, seeing that Flecton was his best planet, he created Flecktons, in his image, to live there. He put life, that is, us Flecktons, on this good planet he created." "I see, so then God is a Fleckton, is that right?" interrupted Kenom. "No, no, said Zelton, we Flecktons just look like him, but he is much more perfect and powerful then we are. We are scum. We don't get to be like him till we die." "I see, said Kenom, "please go on."

"Well, after he created us Flecktons, rather than us being good like we should have been, we just made a mess of things. We got all screwed up, you know, we got all corrupted and started being bad and were doing bad things to one another, kind of like what the Figgnons are doing to us, you know, fighting and stuff like that. God didn't like that one bit; he wanted us to be good. So what he did was he had himself a son born on Fleckton. He was called Eenon. His son was supposed to tell us Flecktons how bad we were being so we could change and be good like God wanted us to be." "Well that makes sense." replied Kenom. "Yea, but Eenon didn't live very long, cause those early Flecktons were really bad, they killed him off right away. Can you believe that? Here God has a son born on Fleckton, and the Flecktons go right out and kill him dead. It’s no wondering God hates us."

"Does God hate you personally," asked Kenom. "Well, kind of....because, I am still a Fleckton, even if I was born here on Ob. My priest says all Flecktons are bad, unless they believe in God and try to be good. God hates anybody who is bad and doesn't believe in him, not just us Flecktons. Maybe not you Zimtellions, I don't know what he thinks about you guys, you all seem to be pretty good to me, but then I ain't God. Maybe you'all are doing something bad on Zinmmel." "That could very well be," said Kenom, "but please, continue; I find this all very interesting."

"How do you know what is good and what is bad if Eenon was killed off so quickly?" "Oh, he wasn't killed off that fast. He lived for about thirty years." "I see, well then he had lots of time to write everything down for you, like what was good and what was bad." "No, not exactly, and that's the funny thing about it. He never wrote anything down, not one sentence. As a matter of fact he didn't tell anybody who he really was till they were ready to kill him." "You mean to say God had a son born on Fleckton in order to tell you how to be good, and his son didn't say anything until you were about to kill him? That does seem strange. How do you know then that he was really the son of your God?" "His friends said he was, and they wrote everything down after he was dead, that's how we know."

"Oh, I see. It was God's son's friends then who told you what was good and what was bad, not God's son himself? Is that what you're saying?" asked Kenom, "It was the early Fleckmen who told you that Eenon was God's son and what you must do to be good. But how about the Cortons and the Clohens and the Plutons? I mean what you Fleckmen do might be good for you, but it doesn't seem like it would be necessarily good for the Plutons or the Clohens or the Cortons, am I right? Has anyone from Fleckton been to these planets to find out what they think is good or bad? or is there just one kind of good,-Fleckton good."

"The only good is what God told us Fleckmen was good" "Has God ever told you personally what is good?" "Well not me personally, -he and his son just told some of the early people." "I see. Did he talk to them?" "Yea sure. He talked to a lot of the early people, and they wrote it all down,...lucky for us. It's all written down in God's book." "God's book?" asked Kenom. "As neither God nor his son wrote anything down, you must mean the book written by the early people." "Well, yea...but it's still God's book." "Have you read it?" "Yea, most of it." "What does it say?" "Well, I don't really understand a lot of it, but our priests do. They tell us what it says and what it means. They interpret God's book for us so we don't get it wrong."

"Does God's book tell you what is wrong and right?" "Kind of, but we need the priests to tell us exactly what to do or not do to please God... and, of course if we please him we get to go to heaven when we die and live right there next to him, forever in eternity."

"I see," said Kenom, "sort of like me sitting with the Commander over in Central dome." "Yea, kind of." "That will have to be a rather large table don't you think, if all two billion of you Flecktons are there, not to mention all the Cortons and Clohens. There will probably be some people from all the other planets in the universe there as well. It may be hard for you, personally, to actually get a chair next to him."

“Well, God will work it out somehow," said Zelton, "our priests say he can do anything." "Hummm, I'm sure he will," said Kenom.

#14 The Non-believer

2010-03-17T10:51:00.002-07:00

"Please tell me more about this heaven. You say you will actually be their physically, do you mean you will look like you do right now, with the same body and everything?"

"Sure. I will still be me, cept I'll be with God." "And how about your father and mother, will they be there too?" "Sure, even my grandmother and grandfather...and my brothers and sisters and uncles, aunts, cousins, everybody who has been good will be there, even my little brother who died when he was still a baby." "Will they look the same as they did here on Ob?" "Naturally, they will be just as they were here on Ob." "I see. Perhaps you can tell me then how your baby brother will look." "He will look the same, he will be a baby." "You mean he will have to spend eternity as a baby? That doesn't sound like much fun."

"What?...well, hummm, I suppose he,.. well, I don't know how that works. I'll have to ask my priest." "And how about you? What if you don't die until you are very old and sick, is that how you will be in heaven?" "Oh no..... I'll have my healthy body back just like it was." "You mean just as it is now or just as it was when you were younger? Will you get to choose?" "I'll ask my priest."

Just then Zeon arrived with the new Universal-vision part. "What took you so long?" asked Zelton. Not waiting for an answer he began to install the new electro-panel. After the panel was installed Zelton turned on the set and waited for an image to appear. It worked, but it was a little fuzzy. Zelton said he would have to go outside and adjust the antenna. When he left Zeon turned to Kenom and said, "Sorry it took so long, but they were working on the tunnel and I had to wait a while for them to fix it." "That's quite alright," replied Kenom, "I had a nice chat with Zelton."

"Did he go into all his religious stuff with you? He drives me crazy with his preaching." "Well, as a matter of fact he did, but I didn't mind, his views are rather fun to listen to. I take it you are not a "God believer" like him." “Nope." replied Zeon, "and Zelton knows that too, I've made that clear. He leaves me alone. He's a native Ob'er, did he tell you that?" "Yes he did. Are you?" "Hell no, I was born on Fleckton and I'm going back just as soon as my tour of duty is up, in about three month-marks. This place is too corrupt for me." "Oh really, how's that?" asked Kenom.

"Well, did you meet Flextmaster Tsubo and Flexmaster Flyn yet?” "Yes we did." answered Kenom, “as a matter of fact we just returned from Patrol dome #4 when we met you and Zelton on the platform. We had been visiting Flexmaster Tsubo’s art gallery - which I liked very much. I even presented him with two abstract paintings as gifts that I brought from Zimmnil to add to his collection. Zelton chuckled and rolled his eyes. I’m sure they were so very grateful that they were bowing and gesturing their respect and gratitude, right?" Kenom was a little taken aback though he tried to hide his surprise, “Go on," he said.

"Well the fact is, ninety percent of them hate you Zimtellions. They can't stand you. They envy your technology, but they think you guys are a bunch of robots. They think there must be something wrong with your gene pool, cause you all look alike. Maybe not Tjubo, he's one of the best master up here, he's a pretty good guy. Most Zimmies like him. But as for his Fleclords they’re bunch of hypocrites. I’ll bet your paintings end up in their “Friendship gallery” which is a dark room in the basement.

Myself, I have no problem with Zimtellions. I spend most of my time working in central-dome and the Zimmies that I deal with are pretty good guys. But those numb-heads up there in the patrol-domes, the ones who man thosee space guns, they are something else. They don't talk to anybody." "Well," said Kenom, "the Zimtellions who get assigned to the "space guns" are all very electronic minded and they seldom even talk to other Zimtellions. I can assure you that Zimtel patrolmen have no bad feelings toward any Flecktons. This is just a duty assignment and we all do our best to put in our time and go home."

"Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't mean that we don't want you here, the Friggnons would be all over us if it weren't for you guys and your space guns. It's just that back on Fleckton we have a lot of problems, you know, like poverty and such, and when I see how much money these Fleck-masters and Fleck-lords spend on their elaborate parties and their fancy gold decorated domes, I get furious." "I am sorry to hear that, I am afraid I know very little about Fleckton." said Kenom. "No, no, I'm the one who should be sorry, I shouldn't have said anything." "That's quite alright," said Kenom, "it is good to be concerned about your planet and your people. It is very commendable."

Just then Zelton returned. "OK, that should do it," he said as he adjusted the set. "You can get all the channels now." "Thank you, that looks fine," replied Kenom. "I can fix it so you can't get the Plutons Godforce channel if ya want said Zelton, two can play their game." "No, that won't be necessary, said Kenom, I might just want to see what they have to say." "Well, OK, but it ain't worth watching, I'll tell you right now. It's just a bunch of crap. Anyway, we've got to go. Let us know if you have any more trouble." "I will." replied Kenom, and thank you kindly for your help“.

As they were leaving Zelton pulled a small pamphlet from his pocket and handed it to Kenom, "Here," he said, "this will tell you a little more about God and Eenon, you know, what they said." "Thank you," said Kenom, "I'll look it over." Zeon rolled his eyes as they turned and left.

#15 Sports Dome

2010-03-17T10:51:00.001-07:00

When the day of the sports games arrived, Kenom and Enew were ready for a little entertainment. They happily climbed into their module and set out for dome #8. They went by the "perimeter route" which is a route that bypasses all the patrol domes and goes through all the Mini-domes. They didn't stop at any of the Mini-domes even tho they heard that there was an interesting artist in Mini-dome F. Flexmaster Tjubo had mentioned him while they were going through his gallery. He offered to arrange a meeting with him but Kenom declined.

Arriving at Dome #8, the patrolmen made their way to the Zimmnil section in the upper level box seats. Commander Finloy was there as well as Major Finon and several other highLEB patrolmen. Two seats were open next to the Commander and he beckoned them over. "Kenom, Enew, hello.... glad you could make it," said the Commander, "come sit." This they did.

"How has your duty assignment been going," asked Finon, have you had any trouble with your observing equipment?" "No," replied Kenom, "it works fine...but we haven't seen any Figgnon space ships yet." Everyone got a big laugh out of that. "Well you have a pretty good view of planet Ezel from your position, so I suspect you have enough to entertain yourselves with." Another hardy laugh followed. "Enew is the biologist," replied Kenom, "I prefer to concentrate on the brain." "Good for you." said Finon

The Zimmnil section had, by far, the best seats in the house. They had a commanding view of the entire stadium. Each seat was well appointed with all sorts of electronic gear. There was even an electro-body performance monitor which allowed them to monitor, and record, the body and brain performance of the athletes as they competed in the various events below. The humanoid Flecktons also had box seat sections,-but only for their Fleck-masters and Fleck-lords. These sections were below the Zimtel sections. There were eight of them, one section for each patrol dome. The Flecktons did not have "Body Performance Monitors" however.

The events are essentially a test of skill in running, jumping, and throwing. Rules and distances are set in such a way as to determine which athlete is able to, run, jump or throw the quickest, the highest, or the farthest. There are approximately one hundred runners, eighty jumpers, and around sixty throwers. These are the best Fleckton athletes in the entire compound. Early competition has narrowed the field down to 21, one from each patrol dome, in each category. Competition for farthest thrower was about to begin.

"Have you ever seen organic bodies compete before?" asked the Commander "Yes," once, replied Kenom, "when I was on the planet Mazermin. They were having some sporting event there at the time and I was invited to watch. I believe it was called, "The Mighty Maz Event," if I am not mistaken. But the Maz-men were much larger athletes, and there were maybe ten times as many competitors as we have here today." "I know of the event you are speaking of," said the Commander, "I have also been in attendance a time or two. Organics love their sport, it's a big thing,... even here on Ob. Some say there is such stiff competition here, that some of the Fleck-masters recruit athletes from other planets to become patrolmen just so that they can compete.

Zimlton patrol headquarters thought it would be a good idea to sponsor these games....makes us look more "organic." We also send all the data we get from our "Organic Body Performance Monitors" back to headquarters on Zimtel. They in turn hand it over to the Galaxy Inclusion Department for analysis. Competition at this level is more mental than anything else. They want to see how the Flecktons brains are doing,.... how far along they have evolved." "Good idea." said Enew.

The throwing competition took about an hour. The competitor who won was cheered as he paraded himself around the stadium. He was a patrolman from Patrol Dome #7. Dome #7 won this event last war season too.

Halfway through the jumping competition a note was handed to Kenom. It read as follows: "Dear Patrolmen Kenom, We are happy that you have come to see our sporting event. For the first time in seven war seasons our dome has a competitor in the running competition that has a good chance of winning. My lords would be ever so grateful if you would join us in our box to watch the competition. If you will honor us, Lord Clay will escort you to our box. Your faithful servant, Flexmaster Tsubo. Kenom looked at Enew, "Shall we go?" he asked. "You go," said Enew, "I want to watch the running on my monitor." Kenom looked over at the Commander, "Go," he said, "it will be good public relations." Kenom nodded and went over to where Fleck-lord Clayy was waiting. "It will be my pleasure to join Master Tsubo." he said. Commander Finon turned to Enew and said, "Kenom will make a fine politician, he will go far. You are wise to remain his good friend." Enew just smiled.

#16 Fastest Runner

2010-03-17T10:51:00.000-07:00

Fleckmaster Tsubo was sitting with several of his lords. They all rose when Kenom entered their box. "Thank you so much for joining us," said Tsubo, "You honor us." "Thank you for asking," replied Kenom, "I understand this may be a great day for dome #4." "Yes indeed,, it may“. Kenom took his seat next to Master Tsubo who leaned over and said quietly to Kenom, "Thank you for coming, this means a lot to my lords. Myself, I care little for these games, but......." Then he added, “and thank you again for the wonderful gift of those two wonderful paintings, I have hung them in my “Friendship Gallery” Kenom smiled and nodded.

The winner of the jumping competition had been awarded his prize and was making his final lap of the stadium. He was also from Dome #7. It was time now for the running competition. "This is the competition to see who is the fastest patrolman on Ob," said Lord Clayy, "We have a new patrolman this year that should win. His name is Flextoid Nim. He is very fast,.... is that not so master." "Indeed it is." said Master Flyn.

True to his prediction, Patrolman Nim did win the competition. He ran the 16 leagues in 7 minutes full 2 minutes ahead of his closest competitor. All the lords in box #4 were very pleased with Patrolman Nim, they were all stood in honor of his accomplishment.

However while Patrolman Nim was being awarded his prize, Kenom remaind less than enthusiastic. He felt he should retaliate for what he now perceived as a slight over the two abstract paintings that went into the “Friendship Gallery. He wanted to shoot a high LEB brain bullet across the bow of these upstart low LEB organic bodied Flextons.

Flexlord Flyn, puzzled by his lack of enthusiasm, turned to Kenom and said, "Patrolman Nim is truly the fastest patrolman on Ob, for he reached the finish line in less time than any other patrolman ... is that not a worthy accomplishment?" Kenom said, "well yes, certainly it is, but I couldn't help thinking, that in reality, he was no faster than any other patrolman in this dome,.... including you and me." All the Flexlords looked puzzled then turned to Master Tsubo for a response.

Master Tsubo paused for a moment and after thinking on it, said, "How can this be? We have never left our seats, yet you say we are as fast as Patrolman Nim.... who has just run 16 leagues in 7 minutes. Kenom replied, "Yes, that is true, let me explain. As you say, Patrolman Nim, running as fast as he can, can run 16 leagues in 7 minutes, as he proved in the contest we just witnessed." "That is true," replied Master Tsubo, "no patrolman can run faster." All the Lords agreed. "Well, perhaps,” continued Kenom, “but what if the distance to be run was shorter, say 14 leagues, would Patrolman Nim go from start line to finish line in a shorter time, thereby being even faster?" "Indeed he would," replied master Tsubo" for the less distance to be traveled would mean less time to get from the starting line to the finish line. He would indeed be faster still."

"Then is it not also true that even if Patrolman Nim traveled at the speed of sound, he would still need some small amount of time to get from the start line to the finish line?" "Yes, that is also true,...even traveling at the speed of sound, some time would be needed,..... but very very little."

"Then," said Kenom, "as you have also agreed, the only way to reduce the time, thereby increasing the speed, to get from the start line to the finish line would be to shorten the distance between the two lines, is that not true?" "Yes said," Master Tsubo "I agree that would be the only way." "Therefore," said Kenom, "if you bring the finish line up to the starting line, the sportsman who just stands on both lines is truly the fastest, for he is at both the starting line and the finishing line at the same moment."

Master Tsubo looked at the Flexlords, thought for a moment, and then said, "Yes, "I suppose that would also be true." "So then," continued Kenom, "if the fastest patrolman alive just had to remain in one spot, are we not just as fast by remaining in our seats?" Master Tsubo then realizing the joke, turned to his Lords and with a smile, .... "I am convinced of it!" "Well then," said Kenom, "it is settled, no one is faster than we are, we should all go down and get our awards!" The Lords, still a bit puzzled and confused managed a weak laugh. as they realized they had been taken in by a superior brain.

After the games were over and as everyone was filing out, Kenom mentioned the tunnel delays and the poor condition of the Verton maintenance men to the Commander. He asked if anything could be done to rectify the situation. The Commander introduced him to Special Patrolman Dorn who was in charge of Dome security. Patrolman Dorn said that tunnel maintenance was under the authority and supervision of the Vertons in Dome #7. He suggested that he visit the dome and inquire into the matter there. Kenom thanked the patrolman as the Commander the rest of his entourage boarded a secure shuttle for the return trip to Central dome.

Enew had had enough for one day so he boarded a shuttle and returned to the mini-dome while Kenom, in another shuttle, proceeded to dome #7

#17 Maintenance Dome Pass

2010-03-17T10:50:00.001-07:00

About halfway to Dome 7 Kenom’s shuttle was flagged down by a Verton workman. He was told that there was work being done on the tunnel and that there would be a few minutes delay. Kenom gave a look of frustration but nodded in the affirmative. While he was waiting he couldn’t help but notice that the Verton’s left arm was inoperative. Finally his curiosity got the best of him and he asked the workman, whose number was 45, “I see your arm is down, why you don’t replace it?”

The Verton looked at him for a moment and realizing he was a HighLEB Zimmnilian told him that he had been waiting for a replacement but that there was none available at the moment. He went on to say that the reason that the tunnels are in such bad shape is that most of the workmen are disabled because of broken or damaged body parts. You must be joking,” said Kenom in amazement, “there are replacement electro parts in abundance over the Central dome..I saw them myself. They are Z501 body parts but they can easily be retrofitted to your K730 units can they not?’ “Sure,” replied the workman, “we use old discarded Zimmnil body parts all the time, that is, when we find can them. We have a few men working over at the recycling center just to scavenge discarded Zimmnil body parts. We are able fix them up and reuse them most of the time, but there are never enough. The Xceptors manage to get most of the used bodies before we do; they pay good money for them.

Kenom just looked at the Verton in amazement. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Finally he said, “Do they know about this over at Central dome?” “I doubt it,” he said, there hasn’t been a Zimmnilion over at the maintenance dome in over twelve war seasons. They just don’t care about us, we are the, “forgotten people”…no one cares about us Vertons here on OB…We just work the tunnels and that’s about it. If we don’t work the Flextons will shut us down by cutting off power to our dome and we need it to recharge and keep our brains alive. The Flextoids are supposed to take care of us but they spend all their wealth on parties and other luxuries. There is nothing we can do; we have no voice here in the dome.”

When the track work was finished and he was allowed to continue Kenom tried to assure the Verton that he would do something to correct the situation. As he slowly pulled out Kenom told #45 that he personally would talk to someone about this matter.

After pondering the situation Kenom decided he would make this tunnel problem his little project. He thought the experience of working with the Vertons, the Flextons and the Zimmnil Patrolmen to solve this problem would be a good way to hone his diplomatic skills. He really didn’t think there was much of a problem; he thought it was more of a lack of communication. With that in mind he laid out a plan.

The first thing he planned to do was to go over to the Verton’s Maintaince Dome and see for himself if things were as bad as # 45 said they were. He could not confront Flexmaster Lector in dome #7 if he didn’t know firsthand what needed to be done.

The entrance tunnel to the Maintanance dome was half way between Mini-dome F and patrol dome 7. As he approached he could see that there was a small guardhouse blocking the entrance. It was manned by a Flectoid Sportsman.

Kenom stopped his module and went over to the guard who was reading a magazine. Excuse me, my name is Patrolman Kenom, he said, I would like access to the maintenance dome please.” The guard looked up from his magazine and said rather gruffly,” Do you have a pass?” “Well no,“ replied Kenom,” do I need a pass?” “You do if you want to go to the Maintenance dome. No one gets passed this point without a pass.” Then, glancing over at the module Kenom was driving, he added, ”…specially you Mini-dome guys.”

Kenom was not amused by the treatment he was getting, but he controlled himself. Apparently these sport guys don’t know the Zimmnil LEB rating system he thought because he didn’t recognize his high LEBers uniform, or perhaps he did but didn’t care. He asked where he could obtain a pass and was told to go to Dome 7. “And who do I see?” he inquired,. “I don’t know…ask around.” was the curt reply as the sportsman went back to reading his magazine. Kenom said nothing. He got back into his module and took off for Patrol dome 7.

Patrol dome 7 was occupied by a Flexmaster Lector but run by a sport Flexlord named Gleen who was a sport fanatic. All the FlexLords and FlexMen were large low LEB athletic types with more than a little arrogance in their walk. Unlike Flexmaster Tsubo’s lavishly decorated dome Flexmaster Gleen’s dome was painted grey so it looked very drab in comparison. The walls were covered with all sorts of sporting awards.

As he entered Kenom could see that they had been partying for some time as they were all more or less in a drunken stupor. They had won almost every prize at the recent sport competition so he assumed they were still celebrating. He walked up to a desk where a big Flexlord was sitting and asked, “I would like to get a pass to the Maintenance dome, whom do I see?” The Lord scarcely acknowledged him and replied, “What for?”

“That’s no concern of yours.” said Kenom losing patience. “No one from the Mini-domes is allowed in the Maintenance-domes,” was his short reply. “Is that a fact” responded Kenom. “Yes it is.” answered the Flexlord as his eyes returned to the magazine he was holding. “May I use your voice transfer?,” asked Kenom. The Flexlord didn’t look up he just pushed the voice transfer in Kenom’s direction. Kenom paused a moment, gathered himself, and picked up the voice transfer.

#18 The Vertons

2010-03-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

After being refused a pass to the Maintenance Dome Kenom asked for a voice transfer into which he pushed some numbers. He waited a moment then said, “May I speak to the Special Patrolman Dorn in Dome Security please, this is Patrolman Kenom speaking.” The Flexlord glanced up from his magazine when he heard the word “Dome Security“, but continued to read his magazine.

“Hello, Patrolman Dorn?, this is Patrolman Kenom,……. fine thank you sir, I called because I am over here in Patroldome 7 and I am trying to get a pass to visit the Maintenance dome,…yes that’s right…. but the Flexlord on duty“, ….turning to the Lord…“what is your name sir?”..The Lord had now put down his magazine and was sitting up in his chair thinking he may just have gotten himself in a bit of a jam…“Flexlord Lunt” he said. “Flexlord Lunt tells me that Zimmnil patrolman are not allowed to go there…..Yes of course..” Kenom handed the voice transfer over to Flexlord Lunt and said, “Special Patrolman Dorn would like a word with you” The Flexlord stood up at attention, took the voice transfer. “Yes sir….yes sir….yes sir…right away sir…yes sir…I understand sir..right away sir”

Flexlord Lunt hung up the voice transfer and quickly pulled a pass from his desk. He filled it out and handed it to Kenom. “Sorry sir,” he said, “Here is your pass.” Kenom gave the Lord a stern look, took the pass and returned to is module. This may turn out to be more difficult than I thought he said to himself as he rolled down the tunnel.

When he arrived back at the maintenance tunnel guard station, the guard was standing smartly at attention. “Please proceed.” he said not even bothering to look at Kenom’s pass. Apparently word travels fast around here Kenom thought to himself. As he continued down the tunnel it got darker and darker. It had a rather eerie feeling about it. When he arrived at the entrance to the dome he got out of his module and slowly walked into the dome. He was appalled at what he saw. The floor was littered with electro-parts. The walls and ceiling of the dome were all covered with organic mold, - the smell was stifling. Vertons were setting or laying around in all sorts of disrepair, some with no Flextose covering at all. Many had inoperable body parts, legs, arms, feet, hands, -it was appalling. The Vertons looked at him as if they had never seen a Zimtel patrolman before. They said nothing, just stared.

Suddenly a voice came out of a small room to his left. "Hello there, aren't you the guy from the module I met on tunnel #3?" It was the Verton #45. "Yes, it's me, Patrolman Kenom, from Mini-dome C." "I can't believe you actually came out here," said #45, "how did you ever get by the guard?" "Never mind that, what is going on in here? Why is this place in such a mess?" "I am so sorry you have to see us this way," replied 45, "if we had known you were coming we....." "This is appalling," interrupted Kenom, "who is responsible for this? Who is in command?" "Well," said 45, "no one is actually in command here, we get our work orders from Patrol Dome #7.... Flecklord Gleen, he's in charge over there." "Yes, go on." said Kenom. "Well, one of his Flecklords tells us what needs to be done and we do our best to get it done. That's about it."

"But does Master Lector know what condition your dome and your workers are in?" "Well,..I guess not...well.. maybe...I don't know,.. we have to conceal the fact that we are electro people you know. We have to pretend to be organic, ...you know... we more or less stay out of sight, and don't complain to anyone." "But how about the Zimtels, certainly they know you are electro people, why haven't you asked them for help?" "We’re not allowed into Central Dome. I don't think the Zimtellions ever give us a thought, except when some tunnel track is down and they miss an appointment or something. Then they have the Flecktons get after us. We tried to get help from them a few war seasons ago, and they'll send us some used body parts now and then, but as a rule, they do very little. ... it's complicated.....you know....politics. We do the best we can with what we've got." "Well I think it is an outrage," said Kenom, "no electro-people should be treated in this fashion. Tell me, what is your most pressing need?" "Well," said 45, "what we really need is a couple of generators ours broke down six war seasons ago. We get all our power now from Dome #7. As you know, our electro bodies need a lot of power for regeneration. Flexlord Glenn keeps cutting down on our power. He says, "Work harder and you will get more power." But how can we work harder without enough power?. If we had enough power we could get our body-rebuilding department going again,... we would be able to work much better, and certainly look much better too, that's for sure."

"Do they have any generators in dome #7?" asked Kenom. "They say they don't, but we have seen them, they have a lot of them in their supply department. They use them to run their sport training facility." "That's unbelievable," said Kenom, "I intend to report this to matter to Dome Security over at Central Dome Headquarters at once." "That would be most appreciated." said 45. "I'll do what I can for you," said Kenom, "you have my word on it." 45 smiled and said, "You're very kind to go out of your way for us."

#19 Priority Patrolman

2010-03-17T10:49:00.001-07:00

Kenom headed straight for the Central Dome and went to Major Finon’s office. He told The Major what had transpired. Finon acted surprised and said, "If that is the case, it is a disgraceful condition, wait here, I will talk to the Commander." Major Finon went into the commander's office and said, "Commander, patrolman Kenom is in my office. He has just been to the Verton's maintenance dome and he tells me that the conditions there are deplorable. Most of their electro-body regenerating equipment is non-functional and the Vertons are badly run down." "Well," said the commander that is Flect-master Lector's responsibility." "I know sir," said Finon, "but it seems that Master Lector has been supplying the electro-power to the dome since the Verton's generators went out a few war seasons ago and he holds back power as leverage to get more work out of them. They don't complain because they don't want it found out that they are electro-people." "I see," said the commander, "well, perhaps you should speak to Master Lector about having the power increased."

I am afraid that won't do sir," said Finon “The problem is that Patrolman Kenom is looking into this matter rather intently and as you well know he is not just any patrolman, he is the DNA son of Ambassador Ornan,..." the commander nodded in the affirmative. Finon continued, "You know well, commander, how Ambassador Ornan feels about organics, any organics, who try to dominate electro-people. You will remember that it was Ambassador Ornon who helped convinced our leaders on Zimtel to take action against planet Flort when it was found out that the Flortons were using Bligg electro-people to work in their Nimlin mines. I don't think it would go well for us, "permanent duty” patrol officers here on Ob, especially the commander of this dome, if the Ambassador were to hear that the Flectons had the Vertons in virtual slavery right under our noses.” “I get your point,” said the Commander, “We must remedy this situation, quickly and quietly."

"We must act wisely," continued the Commander, "this is a delicate situation. If we were to intervene ourselves, we take a chance of offending the Flectons, which could jeopardize our long term, rather pleasant, relationship. I don't think we would want to do that over such a minor issue as the Vertons. Therefore, it seems to me that if we let Patrolman Kenom, who is only on short term duty, go after Master Lector, we can quietly stay in the background. If master Lector makes an issue out of it we can tell him it is just, "politics," and that everything will return to normal after patrolman Kenom leaves Ob. This way, we keep our friendship with the Flecktons, as well as their generous funding of our compound, .. do you follow me?" "Yes," said Major Finon, "I get your point."

Reaching into his desk, the commander pulled out a "Priority Patrolman” order form and began to write on it. He affixed his seal on it and handed the finished order to Finon. "This should allow Patrolman Kenom to correct the situation." Major Finon took the order, read it, and said, "A wise decision commander, I will give this to patrolman .... then, with a quick glance at the order, continued, Priority patrolman, Kenom." They both smiled at each other. “Oh yes,” the Commander added, “give patrolman Kenom this“Special Patrolman Badge” it gives him all the authority he needs at a glance”.

Major Finon returned to his desk and said to Kenom, "The commander is very concerned about what you told me. He has written a new duty order for you,.. here it is." Kenom took the order form and read it. "To whom this may concern, Patrolman Kenom has been designated Priority Patrolman while he is here on Ob. He is acting on my behalf. He is to be given full cooperation from everyone in the War Compound. Treat him as you would me. Signed, Commander Finloy, Central Dome Commander." "This order gives you the authority to act in the Commander’s name; I know you will use it wisely." Kenom was surprised to be so honored, he said, "Thank you Major, I will, and please, thank the commander for me." "You’re welcome, Patrolman Kenom. The commander was grateful that you brought this matter to his attention. He would have handled it personally but the Commander thought that since you were going into politics, that this would be a good experience for you." "Indeed it will," replied Kenom. The Commander also asked me to give you this “Special Patrolman Badge” – you only have to show it and you will have all the authority you need.” “Thank you again.” said Kenom as he turned to leave.

Kenom was more than surprised at this turn of events. He had not expected to have received such broad power. He was, however, not overjoyed at the prospect of having to tell people what to do. After all he came here to OB thinking he would have time to think and reflect not to become embroiled in Dome politics. Now here he was with power equal to the Commander. He thought of the old adage, “Power corrupts” and he reminded himself to be cautious not to go overboard with his authority. He tucked the order and badge into an inside pocket and thought, "Maybe I won't have to use this." He got into his module and set out for Dome #7...he was delayed a half-hour as there was work being done on the track.

#20 Dome #7

2010-03-17T10:49:00.000-07:00

When he arrived at Dome 7 the duty patrolman stood up and said, "Can I help you sir?" "Yes," said Kenom, "I would like to see Master Lector please." "One moment please," said the patrolman, as he headed for a door at the far end of the room. In a moment he reappeared and said, "Master Lector will see you now, right this way." When Kenom entered the room he found Master Lector seated behind a large desk. There were four large Fleck-lords standing or sitting to his left. Standing to the right of Master Lector, was the largest of the Fleck-lords, Fleck-lord Brutum. Master Lector was a small and frail old man, which surprised Kenom, considering his reputation.

Master Lector did not rise but said, "Patrolman Kenom, how good of you to call, I was told you stopped by earlier. I'm sorry if our duty patrolman treated you with less respect then he should have, but most of our patrolman are not quite themselves today, as you must know our Dome won the throwing and jumping competition again at the sporting games this war season, and ... well most of them haven't completely recovered from our big victory celebration." "That is quite alright," said Kenom. "Well then, patrolman Kenom, what can I do for you?" Kenom leaned forward in his chair and said, "I am here in regards to the condition over at the Verton Maintenance Dome. I was there yesterday and I found their dome to be in very poor condition." Master Lector looked up at Lord Brutum, and said, "Lord Brutum is in charge of the Vertons, what do you know about this Lord Brutum? "

Lord Brutum was a low LEB sportsman. One could easily see that he only cared for sports and his organic body and little else. He, and the other lords who were setting in the room, showed little respect to Kenom. It was obvious to Kenom that Master Lector had abdicated his authority to his lords. Lord Brutum answered, directly to Kenom, "Those Vertons are a bunch of lazy good for nothing rabble, it takes ten of them to do the work of one Flectman. Look at the shape our tunnels are in, I am not surprised that their dome is in a mess too." Kenom tried to control his anger at this arrogant outburst. Looking back at Master Lector, Kenom said, "They need some new generators." Master Lectod looked up again at Lord Brutum, "Do we have any generators?" he asked. "None that we can spare." was his reply. "We give them plenty of power from our dome power units, they don't need any generators." Master Lector looked over at Kenom, "I'm sorry, patrolman, but it looks like there is nothing we can do for you." Kenom said, "Perhaps I could go down to the supply section and have a look for myself." Lord Brutum abruptly said, "Patrolman from the Mini-domes are not allowed in that section." Now Kenom was really getting angry, he stood up and said to Master Lector, "I was hoping to do this the easy way, but you force me to do otherwise."

Kenom pulled his order form from his pocket and handed it to Master Lector. Master Lector read it and turned pale, he stood up bowed and said, "I apologize to you Special Patrolman Kenom, I was unaware...." He said nothing else, but remained in this position, eyes fixed on the paper in his hands. All the lords could see that something serious was happening. They all stood up and looked to Lord Brutum for guidance. Lord Brutum looked down at the order and began to turn white. All he had to see was the Commander's seal on the order to know that he was in deep deep trouble. Kenom took the order from Flexmaster hand and slipped it back into his pocket. Lord Brutum attempted to say something but all he could do was give a salute and stand at attention. The rest of the lords did likewise. All was silent for a while, Master Lector with his head bowed, the four lords at attention. Finally Kenom said, "With my authority settled then, why don't we all go down to the supply section and look for those generators." With that Kenom pinned the special patrolman badge to his uniform and they all left for the supply room.

Kenom was only the second patrolman to ever get Priority Patrolman status on Ob. The first Priority Patrolman was a Zimtellion from Womatt. He found and rooted out Flexton corruption throughout the compound. Seventy five Flecktons, including three Fleck-masters, were sent back to Flecton to face court marshal as a result of one of his investigations, so the power of a Priority Patrolman is well known in this dome. The Dome Commander as a rule looks the other way when it comes to the Flextons, even though he has the power to remove anyone from duty in the dome. But when an outsider gets that much power everyone runs for cover.

It is not surprising then to get such a reaction from Master Lector and his lords. On the way to the supply section every Flectoid-patrolman they passed snapped to attention when they saw the badge and the Flexmaster and his Fexlords looking so grim. They knew something was going down. Kenom would find it all rather amusing if it were not for the seriousness of the situation with regards to the Vertons.

Inside the supply section they found ten brand new generators, still in their shipping cases. They also found tons upon tons of all sorts of electronic gear, everything imaginable. Master Lector seemed as surprised as Kenom at the amount of stuff stored there. He was so embarrassed at how his lords had deceived him that he almost came to tears.

Kenom felt sorry for this old man and said, "Perhaps you can have three of these generators sent over the Verton Maintenance dome, Master Lector, they would be very grateful." Master Lector collected himself at this show of respect; he turned to Lord Brutum, "See that three of these generators are delivered to the Vertons immediately." "Yes sir!" was the reply. "Leave them in the tunnel," said Kenom. Kenom didn't want any Flectons to go into the Verton's dome in the chance that they would happen to see some exposed electro bodies. "Yes sir!" said Lord Brutum. "Well then," said Kenom, "I have no further business here today, so I will be on my way. Thank you Master Lector,.. Lords."

#21 The Generators Arrive

2010-03-17T10:48:00.001-07:00

As Kenom was leaving dome 7 Master Lector stopped him and said, “If the Vertons have need of other supplies, please let me know." "That is very kind of you," replied Kenom, "I will ask them for a list of things they need and I will drop it off at your office tomorrow." "Very well," said Master Lector, and they parted. As Kenom was driving back to his Mini-dome he couldn't help but feel energized by what had happened. He felt good with himself that he used restraint. He was happy with his new authority as Priority Patrolman, because he thought perhaps he could do some good while he was here on OBs But he reminded himself about not going overboard with this power. He could see that Lord Brutum had become a victim of too much power, and he did not want to fall into the same trap.

Kenom stopped a dome #5 on his way home to use the voice transfer. He wanted to let 45 know that the generators would be brought over in the morning. "Hello," he said, after he was connected, "this is patrolman Kenom, is 45 around?" "Let me see," said the voice at the other end,. there was a pause then the voice came on again, "No, I don't see him, this is 24, can I help you?" "Well,"said Kenom, "tell 45 that Flect-master Lector is sending over three new generators tomorrow morning." "What?" replied 24, "three new generators?" "Yes," replied Kenom, "I have asked that they be left in your tunnel, is that alright, can you take them from there?" "Uh...yea, sure..uh.." " I'll be by in the morning to see if they have arrived safely," said Kenom, "please ask 45 if he will meet me then." "Uh.. yea... sure.. I'll tell him." "Thank you,"said Kenom, and he hung up.

When he got back to the Mini-dome Enew was waiting for him, "I didn't expect you to be gone all day, where were you, I was getting worried." "I'm sorry," said Kenom, "I should have called you. But you will understand when I tell you about my most extraordinary day."

After the tale was told, Enew just sat there in disbelief. "I'll never forgive myself for not going along with you he said,... Priority patrolman, I can't believe it. You truly are an extraordinary man Kenom." "Thank you my friend," said Kenom. "I'm going out there tomorrow to make sure the generators arrive, you can come too if you would like." "I'm never leaving your side again." laughed Enew. "See that you don't." laughed Kenom.

It was late when Kenom came on again the next morning. Enew was already up and running about doing some chores, "Well, Priority patrolman Kenom," he said, "You are finally on again. You shut off late last night so I didn't want to disturb you; I figured you needed a full charge after yesterday’s events." "Thank you, you're right I must have been almost completely drained. I feel much better now....and stop with the "priority patrolman" stuff; I'm trying to keep this thing in perspective." "Alright." laughed Enew as they boarded their module. They were going to check to make sure the generators were sent as promised.

When they arrived at the tunnel guardhouse the guard who was stationed there was gone. Kenom and Enew entered the Verton tunnel to find it bustling with activity. 45 spotted them and came running over. "How in the universe did you manage this." he said, as he pointed to the three new generators. "That's not important, are they what you need?" "You bet!" said 45, "we'll have them up and running by this evening. This is truly a great day for us, we will always be in you debt." "I was happy to be of some help," said Kenom, "incidentally, this is my good friend, Enew, he is stationed with me." "Hello." said 45. "Hello." replied Enew. "Look, 45, if you make me a list of some other supplies you need, I will try to get them for you." "Sure...sure.. I can give you some old unprocessed requests for supplies." "Fine," replied Kenom. 45 rushed off to get the forms.

"Man, this place is really in need of repair," said Enew, "not to mention the Vertons themselves. They are worse off then you described." "Hopefully things will be better soon," said Kenom. 45 returned with some papers, "Here, these are some of the more pressing things we need." "Thank you,"said Kenom, "I'll see what I can do." "Thank you again, patrolman Kenom." Enew was about to interrupt and say, that's Priority Patrolman Kenom,…. but he thought better of it.

#22 ...an extraordinary man

2010-03-17T10:48:00.000-07:00

Kenom and Enew left for dome #7. Enew thought to himself that those Flecktons needed a good thrashing for what they have done to those poor Vertons. He couldn't wait to see what kind of punishment Kenom was going to hand out to those barbarians. When they got to Dome #7, and went in, they found it almost completely empty, The patrolman who was at the duty desk the day before was gone and another, much smaller patrolman was in his place. "Patrolman Kenom to see Master Lector please." "Certainly, go right in." was the reply. Kenom and Enew found Master Lector sitting pensively at his desk. He looked very depressed. "Hello Master Lector," said Kenom, "may I introduce my good friend Enew, he is stationed with me." "Hello, Patrolman Kenom,...Patrolman Enew, it is a pleasure to meet you." Enew said nothing, he just nodded. He was moved at what a frail yet intelligent looking man Master Lector was, not nearly the ogre he thought him to be.

"Where are your lords, master?" asked Kenom. "They are all in the detaining unit. They have voluntarily surrendered themselves to be shipped back to Fleckton to face court-martial. They leave on a supply ship tomorrow. Also tomorrow, I will inform Commander Zeto of what has transpired here in dome #7. I intend to offer him my resignation." "I see," said Kenom quietly. Master Lector continued, "We cannot have this sort of corruption up here on Ob, it threatens the entire operation, - and those men will pay the price for what they have done." Enew felt a little embarrassed at his prejudice toward these Dome #7 Flecktons, perhaps he had been a little too harsh in his judgment.

Kenom felt more saddened from what he heard then delight as he looked at this poor old man. He paused a moment then said, "I can't help feeling a little responsible for this, Master Lector, Perhaps...." "No," said Master Lector, "my Lords have betrayed me and the entire command, it is my responsibility." "Still," replied Kenom, "I wish you would reconsider... “Now it was Master Lector who was surprised by what he heard, he thought that punishing the lords and his resignation would make the Zimtellions happy. He stammered for a bit, not knowing how to respond. Kenom continued, "Perhaps if your lords were to be re-assigned, that would be punishment enough. True it was bad thinking on their part, but bad thinking can always be replaced with good thinking... with a little forgiveness."

Master Lector again was at a loss for words. "But.. but.. there is no place to send these men, every dome already has a full complement of lords, there is no place to re-assign them." "Who is in charge of the Sports dome?" asked Kenom. "Well... no one really," said Master Lector, "we just all use it when we need it." "I see." said Kenom, "Why don't we, with your permission of course, put them in charge of the sports dome, they certainly are qualified to run it." "Oh, yes..yes indeed they are," said Master Lector, "but...but..they should be puni....." Kenom interrupted, "Well it's settled then. I will inform the Central Dome Command of your decision to volunteer you lords for work in the sports dome. They shall be called the "Sport Dome Lords",... again, with your permission of course." "Yes.. yes.. of course." "I know commander Zeto will be pleased to hear of your decision," said Kenom, "he loves sporting events you know. And as for your resignation, I'm sure he wouldn't hear of it . You are much too close to retirement for that. I will report to Commander Finloy that the Verton situation is being resolved, and that Dome #7 is cooperating fully. He need not be troubled with all the details. Are we agreed?" "Uh... yes.. yes, that would be most kind of you."

Before they left, Kenom handed Master Lector the papers #45 gave him, "Oh yes, one more thing, Master Lector, would you be so kind as to see that these supplies are brought out to the Vertons." "Yes, of course, right away," said Master Lector. When they were out of ear shot of Master Lector, Enew whispered to Kenom, "You handled that with such intelligence and sensitivity that... well, you made me proud to be a Zimtellion. You are an extraordinary man". Kenom looked at Enew out of the corner of his eye and smiled.

#23 Enlightened Mr. Wo

2010-03-17T10:47:00.001-07:00

Book of OB June 25, 2009

When they returned to the mini-dome Enew checked the text transfer recorder. “There is a message for you on the text transfer from Major Finon that says "urgent." Kenom went to the message transfer and pulled up the message. It read as follows; "Patrolman Kenom, please come to my office as soon as possible, Major Finon." Kenom said, "I wonder what this is about? I'd better get right over." Enew said, "I'm coming too, I don't want to miss out on any more of your adventures." "Alright," said Kenom, "let's go."

They arrived at Major Finon's office in record time; they went by tunnel #4, as it was clear. They were escorted into Major Finon's office by one of the duty patrolmen. "Your message said urgent," said Kenom, "so we came as fast as we could." "Thank you for coming Patrolman Kenom," said Major Finon, “Commander Finloy has been called away to planet Flexton for a war council meeting and he left me in charge until his return.. He then looked at Enew and hesitated for a moment as if to say that the business at hand was for Kenom only. Kenom picked up on that and said, "Whatever you have to say to me you can say to my friend Patrolman Enew, we are inseparable." Enew felt a tinge of pride when he heard Kenom's words. "As you wish," said Major Finon, "I suppose this business will affect him too."

"Two hour-marks ago a space ship from planet Glickron was on its way to planet Clohen when it developed thrust problems, it had to make an emergency landing here on Ob. It's down in space port #2." "I see," said Kenom. Major Finon continued, "It may take a few day-marks to get the parts from Glickron, we have sent a request for the parts already. But here is the problem, There is a rather special passenger on board,... his name is Enlightened Master Wo." "Enlightened Master Wo?" asked Kenom. "Yes." said Finon. "He is a highly esteemed enlightened master from planet Ute. He is well respected in this part of the Galaxy.” "But how is that a problem?" queried Kenom. "The problem is, Master Wo, because of his enlightened thinking, has many enemies as well as admires. Many religious sects feel threatened by his influence, the organic God believers, and the electro people's Godforce believers among them." You understand how that is." "Indeed I do." said Kenom, "So what is it you would like me to do?"

"Well, I was hoping that you would take Master Wo out to your Mini-dome as your guest for a few days while we repair the space craft. I believe that with all the Fleckton God believers in the compound, and the Godforce Plutons here in Central dome, it would be best if his presents here in the dome were kept quite. We wouldn't want any problems of a religious nature to arise." "I see your point," said Kenom. Kenom turned to Enew, who gave more or less an affirmative shrug, then said to Major Finon, "We would be most happy to have Master Wo as our guest." "Good," said Major Finon, "I was sure I could count on you."

"We have managed to keep Master Wo on board the space craft by telling him that the repairs would only take a few hour-marks. What you need to do is to go down to port #2, where the space craft is docked, and tell Master Wo that you are a Priority Patrolman and that you would like him to be your guest." "What if he doesn't want to go?" asked Enew. "He knows the authority of a priority Patrolman," said Major Finon, "when Kenom shows him his priority orders he will go, he wouldn't cause a scene." "Very well," said Kenom, "we will go directly to space port #2 now."

"Thank you," said the major,....and by the way, I have made arrangements to have an "organic life support package" delivered to your dome. Master Wo is an organic, so he will need organic substance while he is visiting you, the support package comes with organic food and all the rest of the things organics need." "Very good major, we are on our way".

Enew whispered to Kenom on the way out, "A bit presumptuous of the major to anticipate our answer beforehand, and order that organic package sent to our dome, don't you think." Kenom said nothing.

The Glicktron space craft was in dock bay #5 on the east side of the port #2. Enew pulled the module up to the loading portal so it could be lifted up to the craft's main door. "I'll go back and set up the organic life support package," said Enew, "I'll see meet you back at the Mini-dome." "Good idea." said Kenom. Kenom signaled the duty patrolman to lift his module up to the craft's door. When it stopped, he opened the door and entered to find the space craft empty. Then, far back in the last row, he saw a man sitting all alone. He walked back to his seat and said, "By any chance do you happen to be Master Wo?" "Yes," was the reply, "I am Wo." "My name is Patrolman Kenom, from Mini-dome C, I was sent at the request of Major Finon." Wo said nothing.

Kenom continued, "I am afraid that the repairs to this craft will take a little longer then had been expected..... it could be as long as two day-marks." Wo said nothing. "Major Finon was thinking that, perhaps, you would do me the honor of staying at my dome while the craft was being repaired." Wo said nothing. "My dome is on the perimeter..... he felt that it would be more quite for you out there then in the Central Dome." Kenom was trying to fill the silence with words because he was unnerved by master Wo's silence. " ....the Central Dome can be quite noisy at times. I also have a rather nice view of Ob,... being so far out...." his voice trailed off as he could see Master Wo was not responding. There was a few more moments of awkwardness for Kenom, then Wo spoke. "It would be my pleasure," he said. "Oh.. good." said Kenom, trying to hide his relief.

They entered the module, were lowered down, and detached from the lift. Kenom waved to the duty patrolman who was maneuvering his module. He decided to take the perimeter route in order to avoid running into any Fleckton's who might be hanging around the transfer stations at the patrol domes. He was also hoping to give Enew time to set up the organic life support package back at the Mini-dome. We'll take the perimeter route, said Kenom, it is a little more scenic. There are some port holes where you can view Ob as we go by. Wo just nodded.

#24 Thoughts of Mr. Wo

2010-03-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

As their module traversed the perimeter tunnel Kenom felt a bit uneasy about the silence of his guest Master Wo, he could tell that Master Wo was thinking, but of what he had no idea. Kenom tried again to engage him in conversation. "Were you the only passenger?" he said, "I noticed that you were alone when I boarded the space craft." Kenom thought, "How stupid of me to say that, any one could tell he was the only one on board." Wo smiled and said, "The others went off to eat and be entertained by the Flectons at their VIP room. I preferred to wait on the craft." "I see," said Kenom," .. that was probably a good choice...the Fleckton's idea of entertainment is watching the Universal-vision." Wo smiled and nodded, "Yes, I know." he said.

The module ride was slow, and Kenom felt a sense of serene peacefulness as they rode silently along the perimeter tunnel. "Have you ever been to Ob before Master Wo?" "Yes, once." was his reply. "Really," said Kenom, "when was that?" "Long ago." said Wo. "That's nice." said Kenom. Kenom thought to himself, that's nice, what kind of answer was that. I must sound like a low LEBer.

After about a half an hour-mark, they pulled into the platform at the Mini-dome. "We'll this it," said Kenom. "I hope you will find my dome to your liking." Wo smiled, "It will be an honor to stay with you, Patrolman Kenom." Enew was waiting on the module platform "Master Wo, may I present my duty partner, and good friend, Patrolman Enew, we share this dome together." "How do you do Master Wo." said Enew. "It is a pleasure to meet you Enew", said Wo, "to be a good friend of someone is a noble thing to be." Enew looked over at Kenom, a bit surprised, and answered, rather proudly, "Thank you Master Wo,...please come this way, I have your room ready." Kenom turned to Enew and said, "Thank you Enew for having things ready." When they got to Master Wo's room, Kenom said, "We have a good view of Ob from our forward portal, if you would like I can..." "Thank you, but I will be fine here," said Master Wo. "Well, if you change your mind, Enew and I will be out in the main electro-room." Master Wo, just nodded. As Kenom was leaving, he turned to Wo and said, "We also have some very fine books I brought from Zimmnil ...If you think you might be interested..." his voice trailed off as he could see he was only going to get a nod from Wo, which he did.

Kenom and Enew sat in the main electro-room and said nothing, even though their brains were full of thoughts and questions about their guest. They just couldn't manage to put their thoughts into words. They both felt a "presence" in their dome, but somehow they knew that words alone could not express their feelings. Like Master Wo, they just sat and said nothing. They could see light coming from under the door of Master Wo's room, and could hear the faint sound of soft music being played on a flute. They would glance over from time to time, but made no comment to each other. The night was spent in such a way.

The next morning Kenom was energized and his brain was racing. He had many questions to ask his guest. He couldn't wait to see him again, so he went to Master Wo's room. Master Wo was sitting cross legged on a mat under a large organic plant, that was part of the organic life support package. Beside him was a small instrument. "Is everything to your liking Master Wo?" asked Kenom. "Yes," said Wo, "it is more than adequate." "Good," said Kenom, "if you need anything else please let me know and I will get it for you." “That won't be necessary, I need very little." was his reply.

Kenom again felt a little awkward in the presents of Master Wo. After a few moments of silence Kenom finally asked Master Wo. "Master Wo," he said, "I have a feeling that you would not have come out here if you didn’t suspect that I had the authority to force you to come.” Master Wo smiled, and then said, "That is true. I suspect you have Priority orders on your person., am I right?“ Kenom was surprised by what he heard. "But how did you guess?“ he asked" You walk with the authority of a priority Patrolman," said Wo, "yet you do not act with the authority of a priority Patrolman. That is the sign of an honorable man. I appreciate honorable men." Kenom did not know how to respond. He knew one thing however; he knew that he was in the presence of an extraordinary man.

Somehow Kenom felt that nothing could be kept from Master Wo. No lie, no matter how small, would escape Master Wo's perceptive eyes. With a little guilt, Kenom said, "I must confess that I was not completely candid yesterday when I first talked to you, I should have also told you that Central Command was concerned that your presence here might cause some problems of a religious nature. The Flectons are, for the most part, God believers, and as we now have a small contingent of Plutons, with their Godforce beliefs, stationed in the Central Dome, they felt....." Master Wo interrupted and said, "I understand." More silence. Kenom felt relieved that he had been completely honest with Master Wo. Not doing so had made him uncomfortable. Now that he told Master Wo the real reason he was there, he was content to let Master Wo spend the rest of his time alone, if that is what he preferred. As Kenom turned to leave, Master Wo said, "And you? Which of the two do you believe in?" Kenom paused, turned to master Wo, looked him in the eye, and said, "Neither."

#25 Conversation With Wo

2010-03-17T10:46:00.002-07:00

After hearing that Kenom was not a God force believer Mr. Wo looked up, smiled and said, “"Please forgive me for being so unresponsive, Patrolman Kenom, it was rude of me and I apologize." Kenom softened too and said, "No apologies necessary, and please, there is no need to call me Patrolman, -Kenom is fine." "Thank you Kenom," said Wo, "and I would be pleased if you just call me Wo." "Agreed." said Kenom.

"I would be honored if you would stay and talk with me awhile," said Wo, "I would very much like to know your thoughts on God." "And I would be interested in your thoughts as well." said Kenom. Wo got up from his mat and they both sat down in some comfortable chairs. "You told me that you had been here on Ob before," said Kenom, "what brought you to this remote military outpost?" "I was here at the invitation of an old friend of mine from planet Womat, Special Patrolman Mung. He was given priority patrolman orders and was making some changes here at the compound and he wanted my advice. That’s how I found out what kind of authority a Priority Patrolman had." "I see," said Kenom, "many of the changes made by Patrolman Mung are still in place, so you advised him well." "I am happy to learn that." said Wo.

"Tell me," said Wo, "what are your thoughts on God and the Godforce? Mung believed in the LEB theory. Even though he could not tell me the source of LEB, he would not accept the Godforce belief that it came from God. Is that also your belief?" "Yes it is," said Kenom, "even though I am not a true believer in the LEB theory, I accept it because science has not found any other explanation for the creation of life, but I don't want it to control my thinking. I want to leave the question open as to the nature of life and the universe." "I see," said Wo, "Perhaps you would agree with me that, even if you do not give credit to any God for the creation of the universe, we must believe that it did in fact have a beginning."

"No," said Kenom, "I won't agree on that either. Just because everything we see, life in all it's forms, planets in all their variety, and so forth, have beginnings, it does not necessarily follow that the entire universe also had a beginning." "Yes," said Wo," but if all the things you mentioned had beginnings, isn't it logical to assume that universe too had a beginning?" " Logic is limited by our brains ability to comprehend things." said Kenom, "When our brains evolve to the point where they can accept more LEB they will also be able to decipher more universal mysteries and answer some of these questions. What seems logical now may well indeed be illogical later." "Perhaps you are right." said Wo.

"Myself," continued Wo, "I am more concerned with what life forms believe is the truth then I am with what the truth may in fact be. Life forms may never evolve to the point you just mentioned if they continue to fight and destroy each other because of their faith in preconceived beliefs. I am here with you now because there are two opposing views on life here on Ob, one by the Flecton's with their faith in God, and the other, the Pluton's with their belief in the Godforce." "That’s true," said Kenom, "men stifle there thinking by believing strongly on this matter one way or another." "Yes," said Wo, "much harm is done by believing strongly in something for which there is no proof." "I had an interesting talk with a Flecktoid patrolman," said Kenom, "he was out here doing some repair work on our Universal-vision, he told me...."

The conversation was interrupted by Enew who knocked on the door, then entered. "Central Command just voice-transferred and said that the space craft has been repaired, they ask that all passengers re-board." he said. "Thank you Enew." said Kenom. Turning to Wo, Kenom said, "Well, we must continue this conversation another time." "Indeed we must." said Master Wo.

On the return trip to the space port Kenom and Wo talked about art on the planet Ute which Kenom had heard so much about. The subject of in Flexmaster Tsubos gallery also came up. Master Wo knew of it and had seen many of the paintings within his collection. Kenom told Master Wo about his embarrassing gift of two abstract paintings that had ended up in the “Friendship Gallery” which amused Wo greatly. Wo suggested that perhaps a gift was not always the best way to make friends.

When they arrived at the space port the supply ship was loading and preparing for launch. Mr. Wo boarded along with the rest of the passengers. "Good bye," said Kenom, "have a safe journey." "And you also," said Wo, "may you always travel in light."

Later that night, back in the Mini-dome, Enew and Kenom thought much about their guest. "He was a strange organic don't you think?" asked Enew. "Indeed he was," said Kenom, “I am sure he knows more about me than I know about him." As they prepared to send back the organic life supply package to central dome, Enew noticed that Master Wo had not touched a thing. "Look," he said to Kenom, "Master Wo didn't touch a bit of the organic substance food, or anything else. They both looked at each other. “What a strange human”.

#26 Explosion in Central Dome

2010-03-17T10:46:00.001-07:00

Kenom and Enew had just returned the organic life support package to central dome supply and were getting into their module to return to the Mini-dome when they heard an explosion. "What was that?" exclaimed Enew. "I don't know," said Kenom, "it sounded like it came from the level #1, we had better go find out what happened." When they got to level #1, it was full of smoke. There was a lot of confusion. No one seemed to know what to do. Patrolmen were just running around in circles. "This hardly looks like a battle ready war compound," said Enew, "if one little explosion and some smoke can cause this much panic, what would they do if it was a real attack." "Never mind that," said Kenom, "let's find out what happened."

Just then a Patrolman came running up when he spotted Kenom‘s high LEB uniform. He was in a panic. Kenom calmed him down enough to give him orders. He ordered him to seal off the tunnels so that they wouldn’t fill with smoke. The Patrolman ran off toward the tunnel entrance. Patrolmen were running every which way. Kenom grabbed one of the patrolmen who was running by and said, "You must have an exhaust ventilator system in here, go turn it on!" The patrolman was frozen with fear, he just stood there. Kenom shook him and shouted, "Turn on the ventilator system, NOW!" "Yes sir!, Yes sir!" said the frightened patrolman.

Kenom could tell that the only way he was going to get things calmed down was to assert his authority as Priority Patrolman. He climbed up on one of the electro-panels and held up his Priority orders. "Attention!, attention!," he said, "everyone calm down!" By now the ventilators had been turned on and the smoke was beginning to clear. Things started to settle down a bit. Soon all the patrolmen were standing at attention. All was quite.

"That's better," said Kenom, "Now,... there is no need to panic. It looks like it was only a small Electro blaster cap." Electro blaster caps just make a lot noise and smoke..... but they are harmless. They were developed by the Orksons. They used them to gather primitive organic cave people during their "Manifest Destiny" expansion period. A couple of blaster caps thrown into a cave would send the organic people inside running out into the awaiting nets. They were later banned by the Galaxy Organic Preservation Department. They objected to the gathering of Organic people for slaves.

Kenom continued, "As soon as the smoke has cleared I want you all to go back to your duty stations. I will find out what happened here and make a report. There is no need to worry. Go back to work. I may need to talk to some of you later, but for now go back to your duty stations." The patrolmen were much relieved as they drifted back to their work stations. What surprised them as much as the blast, was to find out that there was a Special Patrolman in the compound with Priority orders.

Kenom got Major Finon on the voice transfer, “Hello, major, there has been a small blast down here on level #1 near the Relig-u-dome. It looks like it may have been a small Electro blaster cap, but I am not sure. I don't think there is any damage, just some smoke, which I have taken care of. I just wanted you to know that everyone is back at their duty stations." "Thank you Kenom," said Major Finon. "We didn't hear the blast up here, but I just got a call from the duty master down there. I'll send Patrolman Flyn down to give you a hand." "There is no need for that," said Kenom, "I'll have a look around to see if I can find out what happened." "Good," said Major Finon, "Please investigate the matter and report back to me about your findings.” "Very good major." said Kenom.

Kenom turned to Enew and said, "Let's go see how the Plutons are doing and find out if they know why anyone would want to throw a blaster cap at their Relig-u-dome." “Good idea.” said Enew. As they were walking over to the Relig-u-dome, Kenom's voice transfer unit buzzed. "Hello, Patrolman Kenom here." It was Master Etel from patrol dome #5, “Hello," said Master Etel, "we heard that there was an explosion in the Central Dome. I just got word from one of my lords. We are all on alert here, has there been a Figgnon attack?" He sounded frightened.

"No, no," said Kenom, "it's nothing. Someone just threw a small blaster cap at the Relig-u-dome, no damage, just a lot of smoke." "Thank you for the information. I will tell all the other masters to call off the alert." "Yes," said Kenom, "please do that.... I'll get back to you as soon as I find out something....and don't worry." Master Etel thanked Kenom and hug up. "Let's hope the Figgnons don't hear about this," said Kenom, "if they knew how much panic could be caused by a small blaster cap, they would attack for sure." Enew laughed.

They walked up to the two large doors at the entrance to the Relig-u-dome. There was a small blast burn on one of them, about one foot-mark up from the floor. Kenom knocked. There was no answer. "While you are doing that, I'll interview some of the patrolman to see if anyone of them saw anything." said Enew. "Good idea." said Kenom, as he knocked again, this time with more force. Again no answer. He knocked once more. This time a small peep hole opened and a voice from inside said, in a gruff voice, "Go away!" Kenom was losing his patience. He knocked again and when the man inside peaked out the peep hole, Kenom slammed his Priority badge up against it. "Open up!" he said. With that, he heard the door unlock.

#27 A Blaster Cap

2010-03-17T10:46:00.000-07:00

Kenom pushed the door open with such force that it knocked down the Pluton who was behind it. Kenom gave him a stern look and the Pluton rushed off. There were about twenty Plutons huddled on their knees up toward the front of the dome. They were obviously frightened. They were being comforted by the Pluton priest who was assigned to this dome. Kenom walked up to him and said, "It's alright, there is no need to be frightened, someone just threw a small electro-blaster cap at your door. There was no real damage."

The Pluton priest reassured his flock and came over to Kenom. "How do you do, patrolman,...." he hesitated waiting for Kenom to give him his name. "Patrolman Kenom," said Kenom, "I have been asked to investigate this incident." "Ah yes, Patrolman Kenom," he said," ..my name is Leader Scott. I am the priest leader of this dome. Won't you have a seat." "Thank you," said Kenom, "I just wanted to see if everyone was alright in here before I checked the damage. I haven't determined if it was a blaster cap for sure, it was just my guess. I will return later when I have more information." "Very well," said Leader Scott, "I'll be here." Kenom was rather surprised at how calm Leader Scott was.

Kenom went out and started to inspect the door. Enew came up with a patrolman. "This is Patrolman Skinlin," said Enew, "he was walking near the dome when the blast went off." "How do you do patrolman," said Kenom, "tell me what you saw." "Well," said Patrolman Skinlin, "I was walking over to my duty station when I heard this blast right behind me, I thought it was a Figgnon attack, I've never heard anything like that before, and I've been here for two war seasons. I looked around and saw all this smoke so I headed for the south tunnel as fast as I could." "I see," said Kenom, "What else?" "Well," continued Patrolman Skinlin, "that's about it. I don't remember much else... accept all the panic." "Alright, patrolman, thank you, we may need to talk to you again. And by the way," Kenom said, as a parting shot, "next time something like this happens, keep your head and go directly to your duty station, you wouldn't have been much help out in the tunnel if this had indeed been a Figgnon attack. Your place is at your duty station." "Yes sir." replied Patrolman Skinlin.

Kenom and Enew inspected the door further. "It was an electro-basting cap alright," said Kenom, "see these small bits of grey powder mixed in with the black soot that can only come from a blaster cap." "I agree." said Enew, "It must have been thrown from a short distance too, because those things go off rather quickly once they are armed." "You're right," said Kenom, who ever threw it could not have been more than thirty feet away. "But this is odd;" said Kenom, "see how the main blast marks are high up from the floor?" "Yes," replied Enew, "it must have still been in flight when it went off." "Yes, "but also notice that the blast marks are evenly spread, if it had been coming towards the door the blast marks would have made a much larger pattern because of the force of the throw." "I see," said Enew, "but then where..."

Kenom looked up. Above the dome was the ceiling for level two. It was a good ten feet above the Relig-u-dome. There were a number of catwalks crisscrossing the ceiling; these were used by repairmen so that they could get to the lights and the wiring. "It must have been dropped from up there," said Enew. "That's my hunch too," said Kenom. "But who.." "That's what we will have to find out my friend." interrupted Kenom. Kenom decided to talk further with Priest Leader Scott. He asked Enew to round up all the Flecktons stationed on level #1, to find out if they knew anything, and to get their names.

Kenom had no trouble getting into the Relig-u-dome this time, all he had to do was knock once. Having priority duty papers had its usefulness he thought,- when one wanted to get something done. Priest Leader Scott greeted him warmly, and they sat down to talk. "Tell me Leader Scott," said Kenom, "do you know of anyone who might like to frighten you?" "No one specific," he said, "but we Godforce believers are not well liked among the Fleckton population here on Ob. They are God believers you know, and they object to our being here. We hope to change that, the Central Inclusion Department tells us the Flecktons are on the list for Galaxy inclusion. We hope to make them all Godforce followers so the transition will be smooth. These things take time however; organics don't give up their belief system easily." "I understand." said Kenom. Leader Scott continued, "For the most part we stay to ourselves in our Relig-u-domes. We use our other dome for a broadcast station where we run the Relig-u-channel on Universal-vision.

We seldom have any personal contact with the Flecktons unless they come to our dome for repair work." “I see”.said Kenom, "My duty partner Enew is questioning the Flecktons now, maybe he will turn up something." "We Plutons would rather not make a big deal out of this," said Leader Scott, "we don't want to lose our foothold here on Ob,... you understand." "Yes I do," said Kenom, "but I am afraid we cannot let this pass without a response. We must get to the bottom of this because Zimtel command cannot have this sort of disruption in the compound." "Of course, I understand," said Leader Scott, "we will cooperate fully." "Thank you." said Kenom, and he bid the Priest Leader goodbye.

#28 Blast Investigation

2010-03-17T10:45:00.000-07:00

After leaving the Relig-O-Dome Kenom found Enew who told him, "I talked to the Flecktons who were here in the game room and they knew nothing about the blast. The rest of the Flextons that were here were all at the far end of the dome, gathering up some party supplies for dome #5, when the blast went off. That was confirmed by the Zimtel patrolman who was on duty. I have all their names though, just in case you want to talk to any of them. They weren't at all concerned about the Plutons, they don't like them one bit. It's a religious thing." "Yes," said Kenom, "this incident is beginning to smell of religious intolerance. I should make a report to Major Finon so he knows what we have found out."

Kenom dialed Major Finon on the voice transfer, "Hello major, this is Patrolman Kenom, I have some news for you. I was right; it was an Electro blaster cap that went off down here. It seems as though the blaster was dropped from the ceiling catwalk. It made a lot of noise and there was a lot of smoke but it caused no real damage. I talked to Priest Leader Scott, and the Plutons are all fine. Priest leader Scott indicated he would prefer that we drop the investigation...........Yes that's what I told him. Who is in charge of the Flecktmen here on level #1? ...FlectLord Blanden? Good, I will find out who has access to those catwalks. Yes, ... Yes,... fine, thank you major." "Ok, Enew let's go have a talk with Flecktoid Blanden."

FleckLord Blanden was in his office at the far end of the dome. Kenom introduced himself and went in. FlectLors Blanden looked like a career bureaucrat, he was sitting behind a desk, full of papers and forms, all indications he was a low LEBer. "FleckLord Blanden," said Kenom, "I understand that you are in charge of the maintenance men who work here in central dome, is that right?" "Yes it is," said Blanden,"but we only take care of the dome maintenance, we don't touch the battle equipment." "Yes I understand that," said Kenom, "can you tell me who was on duty today?" "Yes of course," said Blanden, "I hope you don't think we had anything to do with that blast, it was terrible!" "I'm sure you didn't," said Kenom, "but we have to check every lead." "I understand," said Blanden. "Let's see,..... there were three maintenance men working today, ... Fleckman, Lang, Dommer, and Shimm." "Where are they now?" asked Kenom. "I'll send for them." said Blanden, which he did.

Fleckman Lang and Dommer were escorted into a small room next to Blanden''s office where Kenom talked to them. "I understand you were on duty in the main dome today," said Kenom, "What was your duty assignment?" "I was in the lift," said Lang, "I had to reset some panels that had come loose. I was in there all day." "I was in the storage room," said Dommer, "I had to get some party supplies for dome #3." "I see said," Kenom, "and how about Flecktoid Shimm?" "Shimm was supposed to change some lighting above the control panel on unit 3, but he wasn't at work today. Dome #3 sent a replacement, a guy named Zelton." Kenom looked over at Enew and thought, BINGO! "Do you know where this Zelton is now?" asked Kenom. "Yea, I think he went back to dome #5. I haven’t seen him since this morning." "Well, thank you gentlemen, you have been most helpful." said Kenom. After they left, Kenom thanked Flecktoid Blanden, and he and Enew got into their module and headed for Dome #5.

On the way Enew said to Kenom, "I think we've got our man, don't you?" "He certainly is our number one suspect.” said Kenom, "It will be interesting to hear what he has to say." As they entered Dome #3, Kenom reached into his pocket to be sure he still had his priority orders. Kenom asked to see the FleckMaster of the dome. They were escorted to his office. "Master Teems, Patrolmen Kenom and Enew to see you." said the lord that had escorted them. "Patrolman Kenom," said Master Teems, "what a pleasure to meet you. Master Tjubo has spoken of you, in glowing terms I might add." "Thank you master Teems," said Kenom, "it is a pleasure to meet you." "What brings you to our humble dome?" asked Master Teems

#29 "We've got our man!"

2010-03-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

Kenom explained to Flexmaster Teems about the investigation that was underway with regards to the blaster cap incident over in Central Dome. "I understand that you have a maintenance man here by the name of Zelton, is that correct?" Master Teems looked over at his lord for conformation. "He is in the maintenance crew" said his lord. "Yes, apparently we do," said Master Teems, "I can't keep track of everyone in my dome, I let my lords take care of that." He gave a small laugh. "I would like to have a word with Flrcktman Zelton if I may." Said Kenom "Certainly," said Master Teems, "bring him here." he said to his lord. "Yes sir." said the lord.

While they were waiting, Master Teems asked Kenom and Enew if they would like to come to the big party they were having that evening. They were celebrating the arrival of a supply ship from Fleckton. Kenom and Enew made their excuses and said that they would think about it. Soon the lord arrived with Zelton. Zelton seemed relieved to see his friend Kenom. "Oh, it's you," he said, "are you having more trouble with your universal-vision?" Then turning to Master Teems, "Those damn Plutons crossed circuits on his unit so that only their Godforce channel came in, but I fixed it for him." He seemed rather proud to be telling Master Teems about his work.

"No," said Kenom, "the Universal-vision is still working fine." Zelton smiled and looked even prouder. "What I need to ask you is where you were this morning?" Zelton lost his smile and began to stammer in surprise. "Uh... I was here all day." he said. "Can you confirm that?" Kenom asked the lord. "If he says he was here, he was here" came the rather curt reply. Master Teems looked rather troubled at this turn of events. "What is the trouble Patrolman Kenom?" he asked. Kenom also took a more serious stance, "Someone threw a blaster cap at the Pluton's Relig-u-dome this morning." "What? a blaster cap,...at the Plutons?" said Master Teems, "who would do such a thing. I heard there was some problem up at central dome but I had no idea..." Kenom interrupted, "I will ask you again Zelton, where were you this morning?" Zelton began to sweat, he was very nervous. "I..I.. I was here, like I told you." Lord Barker broke in, "I hope you don't think that dome #3 had anything to do with this patrolman, I find that bit presumptions of you to..."

Kenom reached into his inside pocket and pulled out his priority order, handed it to Maester Teems and said to the lord, "Two witnesses have put Zelton on level one of the central dome this morning. He was a substitute for a man called Shimm." The room went perfectly silent. Master Teems and Lord Barker turned white as the blood drained from their heads. They just kept staring at the priority orders. Zelton was shaking. Kenom broke the silence by saying to Zelton "Once again, Flectman Zelton, were you in the central dome this morning?"

Zeltonl dropped to his knees and started praying. "God save me!, God save me!, please I beg of you, save me!" Kenom was rather embarrassed by this uncontrolled outburst. He hated to see any person, organic or not, is such a state. "Did you drop that electro blaster cap on the Plutons Relig-u-dome?" he asked. "Yes...yes... I'm sorry, I didn't mean.... I'm sorry." he was crying uncontrollably. After a moment Kenom said, "Master Teems, would you be so kind to place Flectoid Zelton in your detainment unit until central headquarters can make a determination as what to do with him." Still stunned, Master Teems said, "Yes, yes of course." He motioned to his lord to carry out Kenom's orders. Lord Barker, now trying to prove his loyalty, grabbed Zentel roughly and shoved him out the door.

Kenom and Enew got up to leave, Master Teems still stunned, awkwardly started to get up. "No, please," said Kenom, "we will find our way out. Thank you for your cooperation Master Teems, Central Command will be in touch with you.....and good luck with your party tonight." Master Teems managed a smile; he didn't know what to do. When Kenom and Enew got to their module, Enew said, "Get in your majesty, I will drive." Kenom smiled as he slipped his priority orders back into his inside pocket.

#30 What Punishment?

2010-03-17T10:02:00.001-07:00

"Tomorrow I will go over to that Central Dome tomorrow and turn in my report to Major Finon on the blaster cap incident." said Kenom. "What do you think they will do with Flecktoid Zeltoin." asked Enew. "I don't know, "but I am sure they will have something to say about it." "I wouldn't want to be in Zelton's shoes," said Enew, "he turned this compound upside down with just a small blaster cap. If Central Headquarters on Zimtel was to hear about this, some heads would roll, that's for sure." "You can bet on that," said Kenom, "Worse still, if the Flecktons found out how ill prepared this compound is to fight off a Figgnon attack, it could turn into a real incident. They could hardly justify the large amount of money they spend here if they knew this place was more like a party platform than a war compound."

The next morning Kenom and Enew were at Major Finon's office early. They had left with plenty of time expecting a tunnel delay, but to their surprise, there was none. Major Finon greeted them warmly. "Come in, come in," he said, "We have been hearing some good things about you Kenom, it seems that you have been using your Special Patrolman status with great success. Our message transfer machine has been flooded with messages from Fleckmasters all over the compound. It seems as though the Vertons have been repairing the tunnels with great effectiveness. Everyone is very pleased. They say the Vertons are even smartly dressed these days, which is a real surprise." "Thank you sir," said Kenom, "but I had little to do with it. You can thank Master Lector in dome #7 if things have changed for the better." "Well, I will certainly see that he is commended at your request, Patrolman Kenom." "I know he will be pleased." said Kenom.

"Now what news do you have on the blaster cap incident?" asked Finon. "Well sir," replied Kenom," I have a full report here for you." Kenom handed the major his report. "In brief, a certain maintenance man, assigned to dome #5, got a little zealous with his religious convictions. He climbed up on the catwalk and dropped a blaster cap on the Relig-u-dome. I suppose he was making a religious statement of sorts. At any rate, he confessed and is now in the confinement center awaiting Central Command's decision on what to do with him." "Humm, I see," said Finon, "We can't have this sort of thing disrupting our combat alertness here in the compound. We must remain at a high level of effectiveness at all times. The Flecton war council on Flecton expects nothing less of us." "I'm sure your right major." said Kenom.

"I hate to trouble Commander Finloy with this, he is occupied with more important matters. Perhaps you would be kind enough to see that the proper punishment is rendered on the patrolman responsible for this incident? Maybe you can just have him returned to Flecton, after all no real damage was done." "Are there no precedents set for this kind of crime?" asked Kenom. "I'm afraid not," said Finon, "We have very little trouble here, most patrolmen, Flecton and Zimtellions, consider this "privileged" duty, so they mind themselves. I was afraid something like this would happen though, once we let the Plutons rent space here. Trouble always follows religion."

"Well I don't know sir," said Kenom, "I would prefer not to be the judge of what punishment should fit this crime. I may not be able to make the proper decision, as I am new here and not sensitive to you ways." "Nonsense," said Major Finon, "you have shown yourself to be quite capable of making good and proper decisions. Command headquarters will abide by whatever you decide." "Very well then," said Kenom, "I will do what I think best." "I know you will make the right decision Patrolman Kenom." "I hope so sir," was Kenom's reply, "I hope so."

Of course Major Finon knew that Commander Finloy would prefer Kenom take the blame if there was to be any repercussions as a result of this incident. After all, they were career patrolmen with a pension to look out for.

"Judge, jury, and executioner," said Enew, "as they left the majors office, I had better watch my step with all the power you are accumulating." "I didn't ask for this." said Kenom. Enew laughed, "Don't worry; I won't let it go to your head." "I'm sure you won't," said Kenom, "now I just have to be sure I don't let it go to my head." "You have shown a lot more good judgment and restraint then any man I have ever met," said Enew, "I know you will be alright." "Let's hope so," said Kenom

Kenom decided to ponder the question for a while. He thought that a few days in confinement would be good for Zelton. He could contemplate his fate, and Kenom was sure that whatever Zelton believed his fate to be, would be much greater then it would probably be in reality. "I think I had better go down and tell Priest Leader Scott that we caught the man responsible for the explosion, and get his opinion on the matter." "OK said," Enew, "I'm going back to the Mini-dome and shut down for a while, I'll catch up with you later." "Fine," said Kenom, "I'll be along shortly."

#31 Problem Solved

2010-03-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

Arriving at the Relig-u-dome, Kenom knocked on the door. There was no answer. He knocked again. Finally the peep hole opened and the gruff voiced man behind the door said, "Go away!" Kenom held his badge up to the peep hole and the door opened. Priest Leader Scott happened to be close by when Kenom entered. "Patrolman Kenom," he said, "good to see you again." Kenom looked over at the gruff voiced man who was scurrying away, "I'm sorry about that," said Leader Scott, as he noticed Kenom's unhappiness, "We Plutons don't destroy defective brains as you do on Zimtel. We give them electro-organic bodies and try to make them useful. We find them to be very loyal." Kenom felt a little uneasy. He was going to make a defense of Zimtel's practice of destroying defective brains, but when he realized that any defense was impossible, he decided to let it drop.

"That's quite alright," said Kenom, "I admire your compassion. I stopped by to tell you that we have found the person responsible for the blaster cap explosion." "Indeed," said Scott, "I admire you effectiveness as an investigator." "It was, as you suspected, a God fearing Flectoid with a hatred for your Godforce beliefs," continued Kenom, "we have him in the confinement center." "I am sorry to hear that patrolman," said Leader Scott, "I was hoping we were making some headway here." "Well," replied Kenom, "I am sure this is an isolated case, I know all Flectoids don't feel as he does." "I hope your right." said Scott, "What does central command plan to do with him?" "It hasn't been decided yet," answered Kenom, "I was hoping to get some input from you."

Priest leader Scott, was surprised to hear this. Most decisions in the Command Compound are made without consulting anyone, and never the Plutons. "What are the options," he said, not knowing where to begin. "Well," said Kenom, "he cannot be allowed to return to the general population. He would be an instant martyr. Then you would have some real religious problems." "I agree," answered Leader Scott. "I suppose banishment to Fleckton is the only real solution." "Yes," replied Kenom, "but then there is always the possibility that he would be looked at as a martyr back on Fleckton too. Being sent back to Flecton for attacking the Plutons would be a powerful tool; it could be used against you with great effectiveness. Over time, as word spread, this small incident would turn into something quite different then it was. The small blaster cap would become a bomb, and instead of no damage there would have been many Pluton killed, that's the way hatred gains its momentum."

"Very true," said leader Scott, "but what is the alternative?" Kenom thought for a moment then said, "What would you think of this. What if he were to be assigned into your care here in your Relig-u-dome? He is not an evil person, just misguided. He is very good at electronic repair work and I am sure you can find him plenty of work to keep him occupied." "Hummm," said Leader Scott, as he thought it over, "a very creative idea,... very creative indeed. Perhaps it would be beneficial to us to have a Flecton in our dome, particularly a God believer. We could very well learn something from him. He might help us learn how to break down the barrier that separates our beliefs. Yes, this is a good idea, patrolman Kenom , a very good idea."

"Are you sure this won't be a problem?" asked Kenom, "Don't forget he is an organic. He is in the lower LEB count." "No, not at all," said leader Scott, "We mingle with low LEBers all the time. We are all trained to do this. I can have him room with our doorman, he also has a low LEB count. They should get on nicely, as our doorman has little grasp of the Godforce philosophy and never talks about it. We will be able to bring him along slowly." "Fair enough," said Kenom, "let's consider it done then." "Won't you have to check with Central Command first," asked Leader Scott, "They may not think so highly of your idea." "That won't be necessary," replied Kenom, "I already have the authority to act on this matter." "Very well," said Leader Scott, "I will get things ready for our new guest."

As Kenom was slipping his badge back into his pocket and starting to leave, Leader Scott said, "I couldn't help but notice the Special Patrolman badge you were holding is that the reason you can make policy decisions?” Kenom was taken by surprise by what he had just heard. He thought that leader Scott knew about Priority Patrolman Orders and what authority came with them. He had forgotten that the Plutons were new here on Ob. He stammered for a moment then said, "Oh this, it was given to me by the commander, I use it to open doors!" They both had a good laugh, and parted.

#32 Zelton's New Home

2010-03-17T10:01:00.001-07:00

Kenom went directly to Patrol Dome #3. After greeting Master Teems, they went to Teems office. Lord Bakker was also there. When they sat down, Master Teems pulled some papers from his desk and said, "I have the deportation papers all made out for maintenance man Zelton, he will be on the next supply ship back to Flecton." Lord Barked breaks in, "And I will see to it that he has a good thrashing before he goes!" "That won't be necessary," said Kenom, "I have made other arrangements." Master Teems and Lord Barker looked at each other with fear on their faces. "And what might they be?" asked Master Teems timidly, fearing that perhaps he and his lord were also to be deported.

"I'm sorry, but this matter is to remain confidential, his whereabouts will be known only to Central Command. I can only say that maintenance man Zelton will be dealt with in a manner that befits his crime. I consider the situation resolved. If you would be kind enough to have maintenance man Zelton brought over to Central Dome, I will take it from there... and be sure and put him in a sealed module." "It will be done as you ask," said Master Teems, "get on it at once Lord Barker." Master Teems couldn't believe his good fortune at the outcome of what could have been the end of his career. "Yes sir!" said Lord Barker. Kenom could tell that Master Teems and Lord Barker were relieved that they were not being held responsible, and that the matter was closed. One could almost hear Master Teems saying to himself, "It's party time!!"

The sealed module was waiting for Kenom when he arrived at Central Dome. Those Flecktoids can be rather efficient when their careers are threatened, he thought to himself. He entered the module to find Zelton crying uncontrollably, "Oh, please God, Please save me!!" he was saying. Kenom finally had to grab and shake him to get his attention. "Stop this" he said, "stop this crying at once!" Zelton managed to gather himself up a bit, but he remained inconsolable. "They’re sending me to Flecton!" he said, "I don't want to go, I don't want to go! I'll do anything, anything, just please don't send me to Fleckton, please! I beg of you!"

"Stop it" said Kenom sternly, "you're not going to be sent to Fleckton." Zelton slowly begin to stop crying as the words Kenom said started to sink in. He said nothing; he just sat there quietly sobbing. "Alright" said Kenom, "that's better. Now listen to me,.. are you listening?" Zelton nodded, yes. "Say it" said Kenom, "are you listening to me?" "Yes, I'm listening." came the weak response. "That's better" said Kenom, "Now here is what's going to happen to you. You are going to be assigned to the Relig-u-dome..." Zelton broke down again after hearing these words, "No!, no!, they will kill me! No!, I beg of you.." Kenom grabbed him and said, "Stop it!, they are not going to kill you, you have my word, do you hear me, they are not going to harm you in any way." Zelton begin to control himself, he knew that if a Special Patrolman said he would not be harmed, it would be so. "Are you sure?" he said meekly. "Yes, I give you my word, as a Special Patrolman, and as a friend"

Zelton felt that a miracle had occurred; a Special Patrolman had just called him his friend. He stopped crying and just looked at Kenom. He looked at Kenom as if he were a God. Kenom felt a little uncomfortable to be looked at like that. They sat there for a moment, neither of them quite sure what to say. Then Kenom continued, "You will be under the guidance of Priest Leader Scott. I want you to promise me that you will be obedient and do as he says. I want you to show the utmost respect to him and all the Plutons in the dome and never cause them any trouble, is that clear?" Zelton nodded in the affirmative. "I want you to say it" said Kenom. "I promise to be obedient and do as Priest Leader Scott says...and never to cause any trouble" Zelton finally said. "Good" said Kenom, "I know that if you do that you will find them to be not near the monsters you believed them to be. You can learn much from them I assure you." Zelton nodded and said, "I will not let you down Special Patrolman sir, I will not let you down." "I'm sure you won't" said Kenom, "now let's proceed to your new home and meet your new family"

Kenom realized that Zelton was still just a child, brain wise. He was only a fanatical God believer because he wanted to be accepted. Being born on Ob probably made him feel more or less like an outcast. By being a God zealot, Zelton felt he was loved and accepted. The more committed he was to his God the more he felt loved and accepted. After all, he believed that God loved him, even if he was born on Ob.

Zelton had not completely regained his composure yet when they met Priest Leader Scott. Zelton was surprised when everyone in the dome came out to greet him. They all made him feel quite welcome. Zelton seemed a bit overwhelmed, but he was visibly pleased. Kenom had voice transferred Leader Scott and told him what he had told Zelton. Priest leader Scott assured Kenom that all would go well, for he had discussed the matter with the rest of the Plutons and it was unanimous that Zelton should be in their charge. They all felt it to be a great advantage to have a God believing Flecton in their midst. They felt they could learn much about how best to direct their, "conversion efforts." They were happy to do anything that would help them be more effective, not only here on Ob, but on planet Fleckton as well.

Seeing that all was well, Kenom said his goodbyes and left for the Mini-dome

#33 The Problem With Power

2010-03-17T10:01:00.000-07:00

On the way back to the Mini-dome, Kenom couldn't help but wonder if he had done the right thing, substituting one false belief with another in that poor Flecton's brain. But he assured himself that the Godforce and the LEB theory was a far better belief system then the organic, God based Philosophy. One gets to the truth in steps, he thought, perhaps this step is a necessary one in the evolution of the clear thinking brain.

After the "blaster cap incident," Kenom didn't leave the Mini-dome much. Word spread rapidly about his "Special Patrolman" status and Kenom felt uncomfortable about all the attention he was getting. He had become somewhat of a celebrity. He and Enew went to the Central Dome Image Projection Center one night to see a new image projection that was sent up from Zimtel. It had just won all sorts of awards and was all the rage on Zimtel. But he felt uncomfortable the entire night, everyone seemed to be looking at him with a, "so that's the new Special Patrolman" look. He felt very self-conscious.

People still talked to him, but now he wasn't sure if it was him or his celebrity they were talking to. The Flectoids were the worse. They lived by status. It had always been a mark of prestige to have a High LEB Zimtellion patrolman visit one of their domes, but now, to have a "Special Patrolman" in for a visit was tantamount to having the creator of the universe stop by. Kenom seldom even went over to the Central Dome any more either. He stayed clear of level #1 completely because the one time he did go there, everyone stood at attention when he walked in. His treatment was well beyond what he had expected, or wanted. He had expected respect for sure, but blind obedience to authority was something that appalled him.

There were also the usual requests for help. Fleck-masters who wanted to get this or that done, the voice and message transfers with all sorts of flattering comments, plus the never ending party invitations. Most of these things were ignored or replied to with a voice message made by Enew, which said, "Thank you for your message. At the moment, Special Patrolman Kenom is quite busy with important war duty matters. He regrets that he cannot respond at this time. He is very appreciative of your call and will do what he can to get back to you. Thank you."

Kenom hated this situation. He had become a prisoner of his status. He could only be of use now if there happened to be a Figgnon attack, then his authority would be needed in a real way. Now he had too much power to deal with the small day to day problems at the compound. Just his intervention would cause the smallest problem to be escalated into the realm of a "serious compound incident." Some would cherish that kind of power, and indeed there were those in the compound that envied him for having it, but Kenom felt neutralized and ineffective. He felt he had become something much more then he was, and he was not pleased with his new status. He now had great power, but no power to change how others perceived that power.

He didn't ask for this power, but by showing that he had it people now blindly subjected themselves to it. Before this happened, he could pull out his badge, assert his power, then put it away and continue as if he had none at all. That was effective use of power. Power used sparingly, to remedy a specific situation. That was much better then broad power. Broad power corrupts broadly. It is a lesson few have learned.

Kenom spent the rest of his duty time reading the computer disk essays and books he had brought with him. He also started tending a small organic plant that was left behind when Enew packed up Master Wo's organic life support package. It was a small miniature tree from the organic planet Ezel. It was at least a hundred year-marks old and Kenom found it to be very beautiful, in an organic sort of way. He had become quite attached to it. He also had time to do a lot of thinking, which gave him his greatest pleasure. Enew spent his time watching the Zimtel channel on Universal-vision. It seems that Zimtel Universal-vision channels could be picked up on Ob after all, -with the aid of a de-scrambler box, supplied to him by Major Finon. Some perks of having a friend with power.

Before they knew it it was time to start getting things ready so that they could leave. Enew was busy packing and getting things ready, he handed Kenom a stack of electro-messages and said, "Here, you should answer some of these. I think the whole compound has sent you a farewell message. There have also been a lot of voice transfers for you. You may want to get back to some of them.......Oh, and the major voiced you too" "Thanks said Kenom, "I'll get right on it."

#34 Goodbye Messages

2010-03-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

Kenom spent the next few days answering all the electro messages. "Thank you for all your kind words, I am sorry that I was unable to, etc...etc...etc." Most of his replies were short, as he had so many. He did, however, reply in a more lengthy way to the Vertons. They sent him several electro gifts and several very moving messages. He told them how happy he was that he had been of some help, etc..etc., and how pleased Central Command was with all the fine work they were doing with the tunnel repairs. He promised them that when he got back to Zimtel he would talk to his DNA father to see if something could be done about getting the Vertons, back on their home planet, to recognize their plight. He thought something should be done to change their "forgotten people" status.

The message that surprised him the most was the one he received from the Sport Dome. The message went into great detail about the changes that were being made there. Body monitors on all the seats in the Fleck-masters sections, large viewing monitors for the Flectoid patrolman, organic food stations, a permanent music band, a new state-of-the-art competition field, -just to name a few. It was signed by each and every Sport Lord. Kenom smiled when he read the message, there was nothing they could do for the Vertons when they needed fixing up, but there was always plenty of money to fix up a sports facility. But Kenom held no grudges, his answer was gracious, telling them how happy he was that they were doing so well, and wished them further success. He thought for a moment about the essay he had once read on the Law of Occurrence. Surely, he thought, that this had been a good example of turning a bad occurrence into a good one. Things had turned out well for the Vertons and the Flectons. Perhaps there is something to this theory.

Kenom was overwhelmed by all the invitations to parties and special functions he had been invited to since his status as "Special Patrolman" had become known. He received messages from Fleck-masters that he had never even met, from Patrol Domes he had never visited. He couldn't help but wonder if he would have been so popular if had never been found out. But, as he had had some experience in these matters while traveling with his DNA father, he accepted it as, "the burden of power."

The one message that he liked the best came from Fleck-master Tjubo. It was hand written and hand decorated. It read, "My dear friend Kenom. I am indeed sorry that you are leaving us so soon. It is hard to believe that the war season is over already. I will never forget the many hour-marks we spent talking. Anyone who is so open to new ideas and is willing to view the universe, and all its life forms, without prejudice, is truly a great man. You are that, plus, you are truly an exceptional Zimtellion. I know the future for you is a bright one. I will never forget meeting you.” Signed, Tjubo. Kenom read it several times, he was not only pleased at what it said, but it was pleasing to look at as well.

Enew came in, interrupting Kenom's thoughts, and said, "Well, I think we are pretty much ready to leave, I've shut down most of the electro equipment and I've sent our stuff over to the Central Dome loading platform to be loaded into a Nominal-module. It should be ready for us to leave tomorrow." "Good, said Kenom, Thanks." Don't forget my little organic plant," he added. "Don't worry," said Enew, "it's packed in a special, organic shipping container." "Good, thanks." said Kenom, as he returned to his message writing. His thought pattern had now been interrupted, and instead of a lengthy reply, he just wrote Tjubo a quick note, thanking him for his kind words and assuring him that he would also not forget their talks

The next morning, after one final inspection of the Mini-dome, Kenom and Enew grabbed what small items that were left, and got into their module and headed out for the Central Dome to say goodbye to Major Finon. Kenom sealed the module so that they wouldn't be seen, he never liked goodbyes and he was afraid he might run into one of the Fleck-masters or Fleck-lords on one of the transfer stations. He had already said what needed to be said in his electro-messages, seeing anyone in person would only seem anti-climatic. He preferred to just be gone.

#35 Time To Go - Epilogue

2010-03-17T09:57:00.000-07:00

Arriving at Central Dome, Kenom and Enew went directly to Major Finon's office. "Hello major" said Kenom, "we just came by to tell you goodbye and thank you for all you have done for us during our duty tour." "I'm sorry to see you go," said Major Finon, "it seems like you just got here and now you are leaving already." "Yes, well, time flies when you are busy." "And from the reports I have been getting, you have been just that." replied the major, with a smile. Yes, said Kenom, perhaps I’ll write a book about my adventures here on OB when I return to Zinmmel, I’ll call it, “Odyssey on OB” They all had a good laugh over the thought.

Kenom pulled out his badge and special orders he had received from Commander Finloy. As he handed them over to the major he said, "Please thank the Commander when he returns for giving me the privilege to be a Priority Patrolman while I was on duty here, I learned a lot about myself and what it means to have power." "I'm sure you did," replied the major, "and from what I have heard, power suits you well. I know that the things you did here, as a Priority Patrolman, will forever be imprinted on the minds of the Flecktons".

"I have been in contact with the Commander and he wanted me to congratulate you, and thank you for all your good work. He also asked me to tell you that he wants you to keep the Special Patrolman badge as a souvenir of your tour of duty here on Ob. He knows that you will be a great politician one day, and he hopes that you will always remember your duty at this compound. And my I add, I too believe that you have a bright future as a politician, I know you will make your DNA father proud." Thank you, Major, and thank the Commander for me too." said Kenom, "I shall always cherish this gift."

With the pleasantries out of the way, Kenom and Enew went down to the transportation space port to prepare themselves for the space ride back to Zimtel. They went up to the duty patrolman and asked if their Nominal-module was loaded and ready. The duty patrolman brought them over to a port #1, where a brand new Luxury-module was setting. There was a note taped on to the side.

Kenom opened the note and read it to Enew, "Dear Kenom and Enew, The Commander wanted you to have this. It was given to him by the Flecton War Council on Fleckton. It was a nice gesture, but he has little use for it. The Flecktons on Ob all agreed that it would be better if you had it, and got some use out of it, rather then it just setting here gathering dust. Please accept it with the well wishes of the entire compound. Godforce speed home, signed, Major Finon." Kenom and Enew looked at each not knowing what to say. Enew finally said, "It would never do for a Priority Patrolman to arrive back on Zimtel in a Nominal-module now would it." "No I guess it wouldn't," replied Kenom. They both had a good laugh.

They climbed aboard and soon they heard, "We're ready to start the count down." Alright my friend, let's go home!" Then with a loud roar of the rockets they blasted off the central dome platform. Soon Ob faded from view as the space craft headed toward home.

Epilogue

A peace treaty between planet Figgnon and planet Fleckton was signed in year-mark Five Million five thousand sixty five. The Planet Patrol Compound on planet Ob was shut down a few years later. Zimtel Patrol Headquarters reassigned all the Permanent Duty Patrolmen to the War Compound on planet Mazgermin. All the Flecktons who had been stationed on Ob returned to their home planet Flecton. They all received a substantial retirement and lived their remaining lives in comfort.

Fleck-master Tjubo managed to bring back, to Flecton, his extensive collection of paintings. He eventually became director of the FleckMuseum of Universal Art. He was instrumental in making that museum one of the finest in that part of the Galaxy. His brain was eventually approved for transfer into an Electrobody.

The Vertons were welcomed as heros when they returned to their home planet Verton. They were hailed as examples of Vertons traditional values of hard work and tenacity. The Vertons eventually purchased the old Maintenance Dome, dismantled it and had it brought back to Verton and rebuilt. A tour of the old Dome is a requirement for all Vertons.

Kenom’s DNA father had managed to get him appointed to the position of Director of Galaxy Studies at the Political Correction Department on Zimtel and before long he was selected to be on the Zimtel Political Council. His meteoric rise to political power astounded everyone, except Enew. Enew remained his aid and confidant for his entire career. In the year mark, Five million fie thousand one hundred sixty Kenom was selected to be LordMaster of Galaxy #3. That was the most powerful position in the Galaxy. He lived out the rest of his days on planet Nemlon, the largest planet in the Galaxy. He shut down for the last time in the Year-mark, Five million five thousand two hundred twenty after being acclaimed as one of the most effective planet unifiers in Galaxy history. His Z501 body unit was sent back to Zimtel where it is still on display in The Gallery of the Greats Zimtels most honored and prestigious museum. He never did write his book.