"Routine Patrol", the words echoed in Flight Officer Berzak's ears over and over. How many times had he heard those orders in the past? "Routine Patrol" he thought. Yeah, like those bastards issuing the orders ever took any risk and went out on one of those "Routine Patrols".

Berzak's NavComp suddenly lit up, signaling his arrival in the Thaaluron Quadrant. At the same moment, his Threat Detection Board went into a frenzy of light and sound. Oh yeah, just another "Routine Patrol" where we've already lost 7 XP49's in the last 4 solar cycles.

Berzak began a quick assessment, judging correctly that he was only being scanned at the moment. While a tracking beam can set your pulse upwards, it took a guidance beam to really get your complete attention.

JOHN:

I would like to thank you personally for avoiding much of the political gloominess & tragedy that's transpired in the past week.

I am so disgusted--so angry--with the political "correctness" (& ineptness)--both from the Capitol & the Pentagon--my head throbs & my chest aches (& I don't have any cardio issues) when I read/listen to the childish drivel that's pouring out of virtually every media outlet.

I had to turn off & tune out, & it's been a welcome respite for me that you're NOT doing a lot of political stuff right now.

Rescue me on the blast zone and mining for al have the screw is broke and feed has stopped. Agar media need a cork top. Sudden all material be x-ray. John has some glue helmet cycle of split image.

(static)
What the heck was that?

(static)
Berzak! Is your oxygen mask over your face, maggot?!

(static)
You're incoherent, son! Check your oxygen mask!

(static)
CONTROL TO MAJOR BERZAK!