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Season 7 - Episode 8 - Laniatus

8/25/2015

LIU Atlas - Laniatus

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Laniatus

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today, we’re visiting the ringed gas giant, Laniatus. Laniatus’ planetary ring was created when one of its moons crossed the gas giant’s Roche Limit and was broken up. Objects in the ring vary in size from dust particles to large moonlets. One of Laniatus’ moonlets is inhabited. That’s where we’re headed.”

Doog: “A moonlet is just another name for a really small moon. Laniatus A, as it is officially designated, is much to small to achieve hydrostatic equilibrium, yet it contains ample mass to distinguish itself from the other bodies in the ring. Laniatus A, the innermost of Laniatus’ twenty six moons, is one of two moons that rest in the planet’s rings. Laniatus A orbits in the inner ring, while Laniatus B orbits in the outer ring.”

Doog: “As we approach Laniatus A, the extent of its development comes into view. Structures seem to protrude from everyone of its surfaces. One of these structures appears to be an airlock. That‘s where we are headed.”

Doog: “Alright, I’ve been dropped off in some sort of receiving bay. I don’t see anyone else, so I’m not sure who my guide will be.”
Max: “Doog. I’m here, look up.”

Doog: “Uh…you’ll have to excuse me. I believe one of my crew members must have drugged me. Apparently, I‘m tripping or something.”
Max: “Haha, I’m afraid not. It’s a common reaction for our first time visitors. Laniatus A is pretty small. It’s gravity is only one twentieth standard gravity. In order to colonize this body, we had to use artificial gravity. It’s no different than the artificial gravity in your ship or a space station.”
Doog: “Yes, I’m aware of artificial gravity, but you’re standing on the ceiling. Apparently the gravity has failed.”
Max: “Not at all. Early in this facility’s construction, we decided to take artificial gravity to its max. We wanted to utilize every inch of the little space available. We’ve installed artificial gravity generators in multiple surfaces.”
Doog: “Weird. So, are you coming down or am I coming up? My neck is getting tired.”
Max: “You’re coming up. Head over to that blue spot over there.”

Max: “Stand there in the middle of the blue dot. It’s a gravity lift where artificial gravity is suspended. Then just do a little jump. Make sure you do a little spin midair so you land on your feet. Artificial gravity is intact on my end. I don’t want you landing on your head.”
Doog: “I didn’t sign up for this…”

Max: “That wasn’t too bad for your first time.”
Doog: “I only managed a quarter flip and face planted. Not sure how it could have been worse.”
Max: “ I was just trying to be nice. I’m Max, by the way. I’m Director of Operations here.”
Doog: “Nice to meet you. So, what type of operations do you direct here?”
Max: “We have a pretty diverse economy with interests in mining, manufacturing, and power generation. I figured we’d focus on our power generation since we’re short on time. It’s the most interesting anyway.”
Doog: “Sounds good. What’s going on over here?”
Max: “That’s Central Control. They monitor the facility and make sure everything is working properly.”

Max: “Let’s head down to our main source of power generation first.”
Doog: “Man, this is scary.”
Max: “You get used to it eventually. I know it’s a bit shocking to see people walking on the wall.”
Doog: “No, not that. Stairs. I see lots of stairs. Stairs on every surface. The horror…”

Max: “Not far now.”
Doog: “Gotta love walking into a room with a radiation warning sign on it.”

Doog: “What do we have here?”
Max: “Our main source of power generation is Tritium fusion. Tritium, or Hydrogen-3, is a radioactive isotope of Hydrogen. It’s formed when cosmic rays interact with Laniatus’ atmosphere.”
Doog: “You collect this Tritium from Laniatus?”
Max: “Yes, but we’ll get to that in a bit. Because of its radioactivity, Tritium is not a popular fusion fuel. Some call it dirty fusion, mostly because of its byproduct.”
Doog: “I’ve been involved in a few dirty fusions if you know what I mean.”
Max: “Uh, yeah. Sure. Anyway…

Max: “The extremely radioactive byproduct of Tritium fusion turns off most people from using it. However, we thought up a convenient disposal method that also solves our collection issue. Come with me.”

Doog: “Oh man, this is trippy.”
Max: “Sometimes it doesn’t make sense to use gravity lifts and we have smooth transitions like this.”
Doog: “I feel like this is some sort of high-tech fun house.”

Max: “Be careful not to venture too close to those stairs on your left. If you get caught up in that gravity system, you’ll be face planting down a set of stairs.”
Doog: “You never have to tell me twice to stay away from stairs. Although, seeing a stair ascension in my future. Serious injury may be preferable.”

Doog: “Where are we now?”
Max: “This is the Firing Center. In order to dispose of the spent Tritium, we load it into a rocket and fire it into Laniatus.”
Doog: “You’re just dropping radioactive material on a planet?”
Max: “Why not? Like most large gas planets, Laniatus’ is already radioactive. We’re just adding to it. Besides, it’s not like anyone lives there.”

Max: “The rockets detonate in planet’s atmosphere which forces large amounts of gas off the planet and into orbit. We then mine this gas for Tritium.”

Doog: “Whoa. Whoa. I’m not comfortable being around radioactive bombs.”
Max: “Relax. These rockets aren’t radioactive. We also dispose other unwanted materials: shredded documents, biological waste, classified materials, et cetera. Once fired into the gas giant, they can never be retrieved from its crushing, irradiated depth. It’s the safest way to dispose of anything.”
Doog: “Uh, do you do personal computers? My browsing history may need to rest in the irretrievable depths upon my death.”
Max: “Uh sure…”

Max: “Tritium fusion might be dirty power, but we make up for it in our other power generating method. It’s clean and renewable. To better understand this method, we’ll head to the Ring Wave Center.”

Max: “As you are aware, Laniatus has a ring system. But, I bet you didn’t know that we can generate power with it.”
Doog: “No, I didn’t. How does that work?”

Max: “Laniatus A is the innermost item in the ring. As it circles the planet, its weak gravitation pull has an effect on the ring. It pulls the bodies forward as it passes, and then, Laniatus pulls the bodies back when the moonlet leaves. This creates little waves or ripples in the ring. The resonance of the system’s other moons enhance this ripple effect.”

Max: “This process has been going on for centuries. The frequencies of these waves are well documented and can now be predicted. We’ve since developed wave generators that take advantage of this process.”
Doog: “How?”
Max: “We’ll have to use some stock footage. You’re ill equipped to venture out and see it yourself.”

Max: “Any body in the ring of sufficient size has been fitted with a wave generator. The varying gravitational forces and wave motion turns the weighted wheel on the generator making power. The energy is stored in the generator until it can be collected.”
Doog: “Seems easy enough. Say, if you have more stock footage, maybe I can head back to my ship and you can finish this show up yourself.”
Max: “Sorry. I don’t think I do. Besides, we’re almost finished.”

Max: “Most of the energy we produce is stored in fuel cells and sold to the rest of the galaxy. The only thing left for us to do is to get the fuel cells up to the shipping hangar.”
Doog: “How do we do that?”

Max: “Come this way.”
Doog: “Is that another blue spot on the ground? Tell me we‘re not doing another gravity lift….”

Max: “Yep. It’s one of the longer lifts on the moonlet. We’re headed up a few thousand feet.”
Doog: “Aw man. This is going to hurt.”
Max: “Nah. This lift is only accelerating a meter a second. We’ll be fine. We have plenty of time for me to get you orientated. Just remember to bend your knees when we land to lessen the impact.”

Doog: “Well folks. Laniatus, its rings, and its moonlet are all important parts of the LIU. Both clean and dirty energy are generated here. Unwanted items are disposed of forever, never to be seen again. All this despite their crazy artificial gravity system. Well, I’m off to ice up my knees…and my face…and my pride. See ya!”

Note:
The Laniatus A Disposal System does not take live specimens. Please find alternative methods to dispose of annoying spouses or significant others.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 9 - Udo Aer

1 Comment

Season 7 - Episode 7 - Emeritus

8/25/2015

1 Comment

LIU Atlas - Emeritus

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Emeritus

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Oldie: “Well boys, I know how stressful our tour of the Ferox Cluster was, and I…”
Doog: “What! How was it stressful for you? You guys all stayed on the ship! Me and the hover camera did all the work!”
Mike: “Hey, being crammed in here together for days on end wasn’t exactly easy Doog. Have you ever had to watch Oldie’s puppet show? His puppets are made from socks and dirty underwear.”
Oldie: “Well, I’m not going to waste clean ones. Now, keep quiet! As I was saying, I know we’ve all been under a lot of stress. I figured we’d do our next show somewhere nice where we could get a little rest and relaxation. I searched nearby targets, and I found a little Resort World interesting enough for a show. Well…did you guys hear me? Hello…I expected that announcement to be followed with glee and applause.”
Doog: “Oldie, you’ve failed us so many times. We’re not sure if this is a good thing or bad thing.”
Mike: “Yeah. You say Resort World, but really it turns out to be a World of Last Resort or something. Everybody gets murdered.”
Cam: “Yeah, or a Retort World. Everyone delivers snarky responses to everything you say.”
Oldie: “Oh, come on guys. Just trust me…”

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today, we’re visiting the Resort World of Emeritus. Despite of our massive mistrust in Oldie, we’ve elected to come here for a show and a mini-vacation. Emeritus sports a planet-wide tropical climate with several warm seas. Oldie might be on to something here.”

Doog: “Alright Oldie, something isn’t adding up. Where are all the big resorts and hotels? All I see is mile after mile of single story housing. Also, there appears to be an above average amount of handicap parking.”

Mike: “Yeah, where are all the hot chicks? I haven’t seen anyone under the age of eighty.”
Oldie: “Hey, there’s nothing wrong with GILF’s.”
Doog: “Oldie, what are you not telling us?”

Oldie: “Well…Emeritus might be a…”
Guy: “Get out of my parking spot you young punks!”

Doog: “Emeritus might be a what, Oldie?”
Oldie: “It might be a Resort World…for retirees.”
Doog: “What!?”
Doc: “Yes, retirees, specifically retired veterans. Only those who serve a full career in the LIU’s military are allowed to live here. It’s a gift for their service.”

Doog: “Whoa. Where did you come from? You don’t look old to me.”
Boko: “Well, that’s because I’m not. I’m Dr. Lynn Boko, Senescence Specialist here on Emeritus.”
Doog: “Scent Specialist? Boy, do I have some questions for you. Our ship…”
Boko: “No, senescence, or biological aging. I’m a specialist in caring for the elderly.”
Doog: “So everyone here is old?”
Boko: “Depends on what you mean by old, but generally all our residents are over the age of seventy.”
Doog: “And they are all veterans?”
Boko: “Yes. A full military career ensures you a spot here. Come, let me show you guys around.”

Boko: “Here on Emeritus, we are committed to giving veterans a healthy, safe, and stress-free life. They’ve earned it.”
Doog: “What about those who serve only briefly?”
Boko: “Military commitment in the LIU is for life. Those that leave early, are either dead or dishonorably discharged.”
Doog: “What about disabled veterans?”
Boko: “They are cared for on other planets. Most are returned to full strength through cybernetics and returned to full duty. Here, we only handle those that are removed from the military due to age.”
Doog: “I see.”

Creepy: “How about one of you little boys come sit on grandpa’s lap!”
Cam: “Uh, no thanks.”

Mike: “Check out this old chick. She’s got a sweet flame tattoo.”
Lady: “It used to be a heart. Time is cruel.”
Mike: “Oh…sorry.”

Boko: “Community areas like this allow the residents to interact socially and exercise.”
Doog: “Exercise…what are you trying to do, kill them?”

Boko: “Community dining areas also offer a social setting for our guests. Not only can they enjoy healthy meals, but we also offer several games to keep the residents challenged. One such game, called Money, is popular among the residents. It’s similar to Bingo.”
Doog: “Oh, I get it now.”
Boko: “Excuse me?”
Doog: “I was wondering where the profit was. I see it now. You rob these people of all the retirement savings through games like this.”
Boko: “Uh, no. The veterans here are cared for by the state until they die at no cost. Some money is bet on games like this to increase their interest and to fulfill their competitive needs, but it is all returned at the conclusion of the
game.”
Doog: “Fine. But I’m not giving up. There’s some profit here somewhere.”

Doog: “Wait…is that…is that a buffet?”
Boko: “Yes. This is our lunch buffet.”
Doog: “Could we, perhaps, taste this buffet, you know, for reporting purposes?”
Boko: “I don’t see a problem with that.”

Doog: “BUFFET FORMATION!!”
Cam: “Get it boys!”
Oldie: “Food!!”
Boko: “Please gentlemen, settle down. No need to hurt anyone.”
Mike: “I haven’t eaten in a week. There may be need to hurt!”

Doog: “What villainy is this?”
Mike: “It’s…vegetables…”
Boko: “Yes. Healthy, high fiber foods. Great for energy and digestive health.”
Doog: “I’ve lost my appetite. Let’s continue.”

Boko: “Our medical facilities are top of the line.”
Doog: “Aha, here’s the profit. Medical testing.”
Boko: “Again, no. Our facilities are dedicated to keeping the residents healthy.”

Boko: “Our Health Bot scans residents to detect any vitamin deficiencies or health issues, and administers daily medications.”

Bot: “Hmm, I detect several deficiencies. I will administer a vitamin cocktail with your heart medication, Mr. Johnson. Be well.”

Boko: “Regardless of the preemptive measures we take, age eventually takes its toll, and residents succumb to more serious diseases. Our top medical staff corrects these issues with surgery and other medical procedures.”

Boko: “Despite our efforts, all residents eventually submit to the inevitable, death. They are given full military honors and then transported to the morgue.”

Doog: “This is a little morose, but…is this the profit? Do we have some sort of Soylent Green scenario here?”
Boko: “Of course not!”

Boko: “The dead are stored until their genes can be retrieved then they are cremated.”
Doog: “Until their genes are retrieved?”
Boko: “Yes, all veterans make a genetic donation at the time of their death.”

Boko: “Medical Bots, begin retrieval on specimen #EME 4598312-78315.”
Bot: “Confirmed.”

Doog: “Who was he? I don’t mean that specimen number either.”
Boko: “Ryan Gray. Although frail and weak near the end of his life, he was once a formidable warrior. Gray spent twenty years as a mech pilot and served in several wars. His last years in the military were spent behind a desk, but important work none the less. He’s seen things you people would never believe…attack ships on fire off the shoulder of Gravor. He watched I-beams glitter in the dark near the Ferrariae Gate. All those moments will be lost in time…like tears…in…rain. Now he died.”
Doog: “Blade Runner much?”
Boko: “Ok, so I ripped off the speech, but the accomplishments are all true. He served the LIU in life, and now, he will serve in death..”

Doog: “How does one serve in death?”
Boko: “Reanimation. We’re building a zombie army.”
Doog: “Really?”
Boko: “No, not really. I already told you. In death, he contributes his genes. He is a superior warrior. His genes will breed even greater warriors. Follow me.”

Doog: “We come to it at last…the profit.”
Boko: “Profit…maybe. I think of it more as a perk. We care for these great soldiers that served the LIU. Our hard work is rewarded with genetic superiority.”

Boko: “Think about it. Military employees that last into such old age are doing something right. They’ve avoided being killed in several conflicts. They were one step faster than the next guy, one bit more accurate at shooting. Perhaps they just have a better mind for strategy and awareness.”
Doog: “Perhaps they were just a bit more lucky. Or maybe they were in less dangerous missions.”
Boko: “Indeed. There will be anomalies. They are taken into consideration.”

Boko: “Superior genes are taken from several subjects and combined to create a faster, stronger, smarter soldier. The Emeritus Cloning Project is the future of the LIU Military.”
Doog: “Indeed. Well, we won’t keep you any longer. Thanks for the tour.”
Boko: “No problem.”

Doog: “Well folks, Emeritus is an interesting place. Veterans that serve a full career with the LIU are allowed to retire in peace and harmony on this beautiful planet. They are cared for until their death, where once again, they are called on to serve the LIU. The genes of these exceptional individuals are being collected to construct even better soldiers for the future. Well, we’ve been given lodging for the night, so we’re going to take advantage of the little time we have left for a mini-vacation. See ya!”

Note:

Mike: “We’re going to need to get hammered tonight.”
Doog: “Cheers to extremely lowered standards and bad decisions.”

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 8 - Laniatus

1 Comment

Season 7 - Episode 6 - Cator Furta

8/25/2015

2 Comments

LIU Atlas - Cator Furta

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Cator Furta

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today, we’re wrapping up our tour of the Ferox Cluster by visiting the region’s notorious moon of Cator Furta. The oblong, irregular moon is a haven for crime, spice, and smuggling, giving it the nickname, the Smuggler’s Den. Ligati might be the LIU’s official commerce center within the cluster, but make no mistake, the region’s economic powerhouse is the seedy moon of Cator Furta.”

Doog: “The moon is home to a sprawling city the covers much of its surface. The buildings here are large, but unorganized. It seems each building is constructed as needed with no planning or forethought. I could easily see myself getting lost here. Luckily, I’ll be joined by my expert guide, Trebax.”

Doog: “Good to see you again, bud. So, what’s with the helmets again. Am I not allowed to breathe the air here too?”
Trebax: “No, the atmosphere, although heavily polluted, is breathable. The helmets are a precaution. We need them to mask our identities.”
Doog: “From who?”
Trebax: “Everyone. Cator Furta is the most dangerous world in the Ferox Cluster. I wouldn’t want anyone to recognize you. They might overestimate your worth and try to extort some sort of ransom?”
Doog: “Oh, because I’m famous?”
Trebax: “What? No. Because you’re associated with me. They might take you to get to me. Sorry to tell you, I’m not giving myself up for you.”
Doog: “Thanks pal. So, you have enemies here?”
Trebax: “Everyone has enemies here. That’s the nature of Cator Furta.”

Doog: “Comforting. So, where do we start? This place looks like a maze.”
Trebax: “It is a maze. The city’s twisted paths are intentional. If the LIU would come here in force, they’d have a hard time finding their way around. These meandering paths also hide secret alcoves and building entrances.”
Doog: “Shady. I like it. I might move here next time I‘m due to go to jail.”

Doog: “And look. They have lease free apartments. Perfect.”
Trebax: “Apartments of this nature are common in residential areas like this. Smugglers might only be on the moon a few days. They usually wait for a load then head out. Sometimes criminals will use these apartments to lay low and hide from the law. Not that there’s much law around here.”

Trebax: “Well, shall we get started?”
Doog: “Sure. Hey wait, you aren’t parking your ship here?”
Trebax: “Nah, I’ll send it into orbit. I don’t want it stolen. Besides, I might need to make a quick escape. You never know.”

Trebax: “Little markets like this fill the space between residential areas. All retail here is unregulated so you could pretty much buy or sell anything you want. Guns, drugs, or any other illicit materials are free game.”

Doog: “And pizza apparently.”
Trebax: “Hey, smugglers are people too.”

Doog: “You know you have a bad life when you’re homeless on a moon like this. I’m doubting there are many charitable donations.”
Trebax: “No. And there’s tons of them. Slavers collect people and bring them here to sell. Some of the older or damaged slaves go unsold and are set free to fend for themselves.”
Doog: “Brutal.”
Trebax: “You could give him some money.”
Doog: “What! Me? I’m poor. Screw that guy.”
Trebax: “Exactly.”

Thug: “You had you three days. Where’s our money?”
Guy: “Ahhh! Please. I’ll get it. I need more time!”
Doog: “Oh man. Check it out Trebax.”
Trebax: “Shhh! Mind your own business. And STOP using my name.”

Guy: “Ahhhh!”
Thug: “That’s what happens when you don’t pay!”
Thug#2: “Yeah. Uh, but we still didn’t get our money.”
Thug: “I didn’t think of that.”
Thug#2: “We could have taken his shoes or something…”

Doog: “Holy Kaadu! I just witnessed a murder.”
Trebax: “You’re going to experience a murder if you don’t shut up. Eyes forward and walk. You saw nothing. Here on Cator Furta, we are blind to everything that does not affect us.”

Doog: “If you think about it, that’s not different than most worlds. But murder…wow. That’s tough to ignore.”
Trebax: “Seriously, my extendable sword is pointing at your back. Not another word about it. Last thing you want is to
be labeled a witness. Especially a forthcoming, blabbering witness.”

Doog: “Alright. Alright. So where are we?”
Trebax: “We’re above the open air market. It’s a popular place to fence stolen goods.”

Doog: “That sign says auctions here.”
Trebax: “Yes, indeed it does. That’s where we’re headed.”

Doog: “What in the…Did you just bring me to a male strip club? Or creepy bondage seminar?”
Trebax: “What!? No! This is the slave auctions.”

Doog: “Slavery…I keep forgetting that’s so abundant in this cluster.”
Trebax: “Yes, and this is the heart of the whole operation. It accounts for a third of the Triumvirate’s operations.”
Doog: “The what?”
Trebax: “The Triumvirate. It’s a criminal syndicate that combines the illegal operations of three of Cator Furta’s biggest crime organizations. This third is known as the Slavers Guild. It is run by the Mancipium race. They once scoured the galaxy abducting unfortunate souls to sell into slavery. Once defeated by the LIU, the Mancipium race relocated here to restart their operations. Although, now, they operate on more of an administrative capacity.”

Doog: “Administrative capacity? How so?”
Trebax: “Now, they rely on independent slavers to gather their product. They only handle the selling of the slaves. It keeps them safe from the LIU.”
Doog: “Wow. I never knew this existed on such a large scale.”
Trebax: “Yeah, they hide it well. Slavers only hit backwoods agricultural worlds and such.”
Doog: “Well great. Another reason to hate agricultural worlds. Can we move on? This is depressing.”
Trebax: “Yeah, follow me.”

Trebax: “The second third of the Triumvirate involves the spice trade. This is run by the Dogian race.”
Doog: “I’ve dealt with the Dogians on a few occasions. I know they are heavily involved in smuggling operations, some of it legal.”
Trebax: “Yeah, well this is definitely one of their illegal operations. They collect the cluster’s spices - Awe, Tantiban, and Glow- and smuggle it into the rest of the galaxy.”
Doog: “Glow? Haven’t heard of that one before.”
Trebax: “Yeah, because it is made here on Cator Furta. The Dogians mass produce it in large warehouses in the city’s underbelly. That’s where we are headed.”
Doog: “We are going inside their illegal operations? Isn’t that…dangerous.”
Trebax: “Yeah. It’s going to require some ingenuity, so…let me handle it.”

Doog: “Wow, this place is huge.”
Trebax: “Yes. It’s grown in massive quantities.”
Doog: “What is Glow?”

Trebax: “Glow is the processed pollen of the Quies flower. It originated on another, classified world within this cluster. Glow is so addictive, the LIU fire-bombed the entire planet in an attempt to get rid of it. Some had already made it off world though, and it was transported here to be grown.”
Doog: “Why doesn’t the LIU bomb Cator Furta then? Seems like it could handle a lot of their problems.”

Trebax: “As we’ve discussed before, the LIU dislikes some, or even most, of the illegal activities here. But some of it, well, it’s just too profitable to destroy. They tolerate Glow to an extent, but trust me, you’ll get the axe if you’re caught selling or possessing it off world.”
Doog: “What does it do to you?”
Trebax: “Huh?”
Doog: “Glow.”
Trebax: “It’s hard to explain. It’s a relaxant, but at the same time, it gives you lots of energy. Don’t ever try it though. A single use can give you a life time addiction. It’s nearly impossible to stop.”

Dogian: “Hey! How did you get in here! Wait, is that you Trebax? I thought you were out of the game.”
Trebax: “Sort of. I got pinched smuggling spice. I’ve been laying low since.”
Dogian: “That’s not what I heard. I heard you’re a snitch for the LIU now.”
Trebax: “Me? Never. I did a little freelance work for the LIU for a reduced sentence, but I’m no snitch. In fact, I’ve moved out of the smuggling game, and I’m thinking of selling.”
Dogian: “Oh yeah?”
Trebax: “Yeah. This guy here is one of my investors. I told him I’d show him around a bit. Ease his worries.”
Dogian: “Hmm? What’s your name, investor?”
Trebax: “He, uh, doesn’t speak basic.”
Doog: “Uh, yeah, no basic here.”
Dogian: “Wait. That was basic right there! What’s going on!”
Trebax: “What I meant to say is that my rich investor here doesn’t talk to basic level folks like yourself. He’s one of the rich, elitist types. I do all his talking. In fact, he told me he’d rather me stab him in the throat than allow him to speak to a basic level guy.”
Dogian: “Rich folks…need their money, but man they are quirky.”
Trebax: “You’re telling me. So, how about it? A little tour?”
Dogian: “Yeah. I guess. That’s not a camera? Is it?”
Trebax: “What camera? Oh, that hovering thing? That’s just an automated death sentry. Part of my rich, silent investor’s defense strategy. If he dies, that thing kills everyone.”
Dogian: “Wow, he must be rich.”

Dogian: “Extracted pollen is refined and evaporated in these chambers here. A few hours in here, and it’s street ready.”
Trebax: “Looks like your operation is top notch. I’ll need to speak with my client, but I think we’ll be interested in a purchase. Speaking of which, do you mind if I speak to my client alone for a bit?”
Dogian: “Not at all. That death sentry is kind of freaking me out. When you’re ready to deal, come find me.”
Doog: “Whew…that was close.”
Trebax: “ Too close. You couldn’t keep your mouth shut for five minutes?”
Doog: “Sorry. I’m new to the whole clandestine journalism thing. So, is this how the drug gets it’s name? From the glowing tanks?”
Trebax: “Partially. The pollen has a glow to it when heated, but the name derives from one of the side effects of chronic use…red, glowing eyes.”
Doog: “Oh, so that’s what your on.”
Trebax: “One of them, yeah. Unfortunately, I’m hooked for life. Come on, standing around this much spice is too tempting. Let’s move on.”

Trebax: “The third part of the Triumvirate is Tri-Loans. This illegal banking operation is run by the moon’s native species, the Cator Furtans.”
Doog: “Aw man. If there’s a race native to this moon, then, let me guess, they’re arachnids.”
Trebax: “Yep. They are the most advanced of all the arachnid species here in the cluster. You don’t see many of them in the open, but I assure you, they are a powerful force.”
Doog: “How so?”
Trebax: “Their bank, Tri-Loans, is the principle backer of most illegal operations in the galaxy. They don’t deal in the LIU credit either. They have their own currency known as the Tri.”

Trebax: “Unlike the LIU credit, the Tri is nearly impossible to track. Makes it hard to follow the money, if you know what I mean.”
Doog: “I don’t know anything about money, mostly because I never have any.”

Trebax: “While the bank funds large scale operations, it also handles small personal transactions. Smugglers and criminals find it safer to keep their money here where it can’t be seized by the LIU. The bank also offer’s high interest loans to individuals to fund their criminal activities.”
Doog: “Sounds like they’re just a large scale loan shark operation.”
Trebax: “That’s exactly what it is. Unfortunately, when you loan seedy money to seedy individuals, problems arise: people can’t repay the loan or just run off. That’s why the Cator Furtans employ a huge personal army of bounty hunters and debt collectors.”
Doog: “They have an army?!”
Trebax: “Oh yeah. They should be close to the bank too. Let’s see if we can find one of their outposts.”
Doog: “Sounds like a terrible idea. Let’s do it.”

Trebax: “Yep. Here, we go. The Triumvirate has outposts like this around the moon. Their personal army of degenerates can load up on weapons before heading off world in search of bounties or to collect debts.”

Doog: “Oh crap. I think I just saw my first native. Is he some type of cyborg?”
Trebax: “Yeah, that’s a Cator Furtan. They are one of the smaller spider species, but they often make cybernetic enhancements to themselves to increase their size. This guy is huge though. Much bigger than usual.”
Doog: “Must be compensating for something..”

Furtan: “Tsk, tsk. Trebax. We’ve had word you had returned.”
Trebax: “Well, I missed you guys.”
Furtan: “The feeling is not mutual. You’ve left the Triumvirate. I can smell the LIU on you.”
Trebax: “That’s probably Doog.”
Furtan: “Enough jokes. You left so you know you’re not allowed in the outpost. Now, you die. Kill him.”

Trebax: “Stay behind me Doog!”
Doog: “I don’t like our odds. Tell me I’m tripping on Tantiban again…”

Trebax: “Don’t underestimate me.”
Doog: “Uh, for the record, I don’t know this guy. He forced me to come here.”

Doog: “Uh, keep up the good work. Also, I will no longer stay behind you, as there is a giant mechanical spider guy currently residing there.”

Furtan: “You still have it Trebax. Credit where credit is due. But now, I finish this.”
Trebax: “Oh yeah? Think those mechanical enhancements will help you?”

Trebax: “They just look like convenient murdering platforms to me!”

Doog: “We have to come up with some better taglines for you.”
Trebax: “Yeah, I’m a bit off my game. Want a souvenir?”
Doog: “I won’t even touch dead, decapitated spiders.”
Trebax: “Fair enough. I need this as a message anyway.”
Doog: “A message?”
Trebax: “Yeah, we have one more stop.”

Trebax: “The Triumvirate Council. The leaders of syndicate.”
Mancipium: “Trebax? Is that you? How did you get in here?”

Trebax: “I killed five of your best guys guarding the door.”
Dogian: “You must have a death wish. If you’re thinking about killing us…let’s just say you’ll never be safe in this galaxy again.”
Doog: “Again, for the record, I have no idea who this guy is.”

Trebax: “Relax. I’m not here to kill you this time. I bring a symbolic gift. I just wanted to give you a heads up. There is intelligence indicating that this organization may be hiding, supporting, and/or financing certain members of the ‘Revolution’. It will cease immediately. This is a one time warning. Everything you’ve built here depends on your cooperation. Thanks for your time.”
Doog: “Uh, have a nice day.”

Doog: “What the heck was that?”
Trebax: “Just a little multi-tasking. Giving tours and delivering messages. Well, it’s been grand Doog. Unfortunately, I must depart. Didn’t make a lot of friends today.”

Doog: “Wait! You can’t just leave me outside the door of the Triumvirate! You just killed all their guys and threatened them! Well folks, Cator Furta lived up to its reputation. It’s the capital of the criminal world in the LIU Galaxy. It’s dangerous, shady, and full of villainy. Speaking of dangerous, I hope the Magellan gets here soon or I’m a dead man. See ya.”

Note: Tri-Loans is now accepting American Express.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 7 - Emeritus

2 Comments

Season 7 - Episode 5 - Vitrum

8/25/2015

1 Comment

LIU Atlas - Vitrum

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Vitrum

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. We’re still here in the infamous Ferox Cluster. Today, we’re visiting the unique world of Vitrum. Unlike many of the other worlds we’ve visited in the cluster, the LIU is highly concentrated here. As soon as we exited hyperspace, the Magellan was intercepted by a LIU Cruiser. We are being escorted to the LIU’s controlled port on the planet’s surface.”

Doog: “Alright folks, it looks like security here is pretty strict. Uh, what do I have to do?”
Security: “To enter Vitrum, one only needs to submit to a biological scan. We must insure no dangerous contaminants are brought to the planet.”
Doog: “Ok, phew. I saw that probe that guy over here was holding. I didn’t like where this was going.”
Security: “Oh, that’s reserved for people leaving. The exit protocols are much more thorough. We can‘t let anyone smuggle anything off world.”
Doog: “Well, it’s official. Vitrum is my new home…”

Trebax: “Welcome to Vitrum, Doog.”
Doog: “Thanks. I hope I like this place. I’m not sure I’ll ever be leaving.”
Trebax: “Oh yeah? Why is that?”
Doog: “I’m not sure I’m game for a cavity check.”
Trebax: “I forgot about that. I usually bypass security.”
Doog: “What? How?”
Trebax: “Oh, you know, small ship, radar disrupters, and old smuggling techniques. I have the clearance to enter legally, but I guess old habits never die.”
Doog: “Think I could catch a ride when we leave?”
Trebax: “Uh, no.”

Doog: “Fine. So, what’s this stuff.”
Trebax: “Vitrum is home to a complex hydrological system. Unfortunately, this water system is also home to large
amounts of sulfonic acid. You or I wouldn’t want to drink this stuff, but it’s an important component of the native species’ anatomy.”
Doog: “Noted. Don’t touch. Must keep pants.”
Trebax: “Huh?”
Doog: “Nothing. So, you said something about native life, let me guess, arachnids?”
Trebax: “Yep. But don’t worry. Because of the LIU’s heavy presence here, the Vitruman Arachnids are a little more civilized than some of the other arachnid species. They are almost fully integrated into our modern society. Many can even speak basic.”

Crura: “What up dudes! Welcome to Vitrum.”
Trebax: “Hey.”
Crura: “I’m Crura, I’ll be your guide around the planet.”
Doog: “Uh, I already have a guide, but thanks. Well, I guess we better move on. See ya.”
Trebax: “Doog, I have some general knowledge about Vitrum, but we need Crura if we really want to learn all there is here.”
Doog: “I guess.”
Crura: “What’s this dude’s malfunction, Trebax?”
Trebax: “He’s scared of spiders.”
Doog: “No! I’m not scared, I’m terrified. Get it right.”

Crura: “Aw, no worries buddy. I won’t eat you.”
Doog: “Trebax….I need your sword. There’s a spider on my shoulder.”
Trebax: “Maybe you shouldn’t touch him Crura. Let’s not complicate things.”

Crura: “Totally. Maybe we just get this tour started?”
Doog: “Uh, yeah. After you.”

Doog: “Wow. This is a big acid pool.”
Crura: “Yeah man. It’s a sea. The planet has many large bodies of sulfonic acid that are visible from space. This is one. We, like, call this one the Corallium Sea.”
Doog: “Why does he keep talking like that, Trebax?”
Trebax: “Don’t be rude. You have to remember, most of these guys learned basic from the young soldiers stationed here. That, and old TV shows.”

Doog: “Well, it’s a cool sea and all, but what’s next.”
Crura: “Our next destination is a small island within the sea. Sweet, huh?”
Doog: “Totally. Where’s the boat?”
Crura: “What’s a boat?”
Doog: “A floating thing that takes me to the island without me wading through corrosive acid.”
Crura: “Sounds sweet man, but we don’t have any of those here. I just walk across. My legs have these bundles of hair that create a lot of surface tension, which keeps me on top of the acidic waters.”
Doog: “Well, what about me? Does my hair work like that? Am I doing some type of headstand maneuver?”
Crura: “That would be radical dude, but I figured you could just ride on my back.”

Doog: “Oh no. I’m not falling for that one. There’s no way I’m going voluntarily.”
Trebax: “Come on Doog. Just do it. It’s like riding a horse…with a lot more legs.”
Doog: “Nope.”
Trebax: “Hey Crura, you guys still have spinnerets, right?”
Crura: “Oh yeah.”
Trebax: “Well, he said he isn’t going voluntarily…”
Crura: “Gotcha man.”

Doog: “Ahhh! Ahhh!”
Crura: “Sorry dude. This hurts me more than you.”
Doog: “Doubtful.”

Doog: “What is this?”
Trebax: “Check it out. The Crystal Reefs of Vitrum. Worth the ride, huh?”
Doog: “Barely. What are these crystal reefs?”
Crura: “The small islands in the center of this sea are home to a unique crystal coral species. These species are awesome.”

Doog: “Are they like plants are something?”
Crura: “No man, they’re like coral. Small microscopic species called polyps attach to these rocks and convert these acidic waters into food. The polyps secrete an crystal exoskeleton for protection. Each one of these structure is like a whole colony of these polyps.”
Doog: “Cool, I guess. They only grow here, in this one sea?”
Crura: “Yep. They are a rare commodity.”
Doog: “Commodity?”

Crura: “Some varieties of coral are super awesome. The crystalline structure totally pwns. The LIU is very interested in these varieties.”
Doog: “So the LIU collects them?”
Crura: “Not from here. These are too rare to harvest. They grow to slowly in the wild anyway. We’ve had to find a way to grow them faster in an artificial setting. Shall we head to the city?”
Doog: “Yeah. Just let me get my bearings before you tie me up in silk again.”

Trebax: “The Vitruman live in tall spires very reminiscent of termite mounds.”

Trebax: “Of course, the LIU has integrated some of their own structures into the spire. Like that landing bay there.”

Crura: “Our technology has made huge improvements since our buddies at the LIU showed up. Our walls used to be made of mud.”
Doog: “Looks like a typical hallway to me. Maybe a bit dimmer.”
Crura: “Really? It looks good to me. I do have more eyes though. Alright, make a left here.”

Doog: “Boxes of pulsating spiders! What does this have to do with crystal coral?!”
Crura: “Nothing man. I like thought we’d grab some munchies for the rest of the tour. These are the smaller species also native to Vitrum. Want some?”
Doog: “Ew, no.”

Trebax: “I’ll take one of those red ones. Crunchy, but juicy on the inside.”
Doog: “You’re kidding right?”
Trebax: “Yep. The black ones are way better.”
Crura: “Alright dudes. Let’s continue.”

Doog: “Hey, that’s some of the crystal coral from the reef.”
Crura: “Yeah. We’re growing two specific varieties here. Both have unique crystalline structures useful to the LIU. While they grow slowly in the wild, we are able to grow them much faster here.”

Doog: “How so?”
Crura: “Awesome question. These chambers create perfect conditions. Richer soil, more acidic water, and stronger sunlight. We’ve also removed predators and competing corals. These corals now grow at ten times the speed. Really though, we’re still trying to make the process faster. Demand is like really high.”
Doog: “What are they used for?”
Crura: “Weapons, dude, weapons. Come on. Follow me.”

Crura: “Welcome to the range, dudes. Here, we test new weapons technology derived from the crystal corals.”

Crura: “Most of these weapons are still prototypes, but the LIU has high hopes that one day, Vitrum will lead the galaxy in weapons technology.”

Doog: “Are those the crystal corals integrated into the gun?”
Crura: “Yep. Sweet huh? Like I said earlier. These unique corals have a unique crystalline composition. This naturally occurring crystal can focus energy beams and amplify their power.”

Crura: “When perfected, these crystal could make hand held weapons much more powerful.”
Doog: “Cause normal guns don’t usually kill people.”
Crura: “Nah, they do man. But these guns could let a single soldier compete with armored vehicles and stuff. They’re too clunky and heavy now, but we’re tinkering with the technology.”
Doog: “I guess that explains the strict security here. I guess they don’t want anyone else to have stronger weapons.”

Doog: “Well folks, Vitrum is relatively unknown now, but it may play a large role in the galaxy sometime in the near future. The planet is home to several species of beautiful crystal corals. Some of these corals are being grown for their crystalline structures which can be used to increase the strength of laser weapons. The LIU strictly controls access to this planet for that very reason. Speaking of which, I’m due for some severe probing before I can depart, so I better go get that over with. See ya!”

Note:
Doog concludes his tour of the Ferox Cluster next episode when he visit’s the cluster’s unofficial capital, Cator Furta, also known as the Smugglers’ Den.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 6 - Cator Furta

1 Comment

Season 7 - Episode 4 - Tantibus

8/25/2015

4 Comments

LIU Atlas - Tantibus

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Tantibus

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today we’re visiting the rocky, barren planet of Tantibus. Tantibus is another Ferox Cluster world that lies just one light year from our previous destination, Attonitus. These stellar neighbors have many similar features; they both house arachnid races, and they are both home to a variation of space spice. The spice, Tantiban, street-name ‘Dream Sauce’, is only found here on the planet Tantibus. Let’s go check it out.”

Doog: “Alright folks, we’re joined by our guide for the Ferox Cluster, Trebax. Trebax, good to see you again.”
Trebax: “Hey, as long as you keep hitting up these spice worlds, I’m game. Although Tantiban is my least favorite.”
Doog: “Really? I hear it’s pretty awesome.”
Trebax: “Don’t believe the hype. Tantiban is very dangerous in its native form. Even after being refined, its iffy at best. There are very few practical uses for the drug, so the LIU is much stricter about keeping it out of the market.”

Doog: “Is that why they built a fort here? To keep away spice dealers?”
Trebax: “I said there were ‘few’ practical uses. It’s not totally useless. Tantiban has some benefits. The LIU collects the spice in small amounts. The fort was built to protect the workers and the spaceport.”
Doog: “Protects them from what?”
Trebax: “From illegal spice dealers mostly. Several flock here to cultivate the spice themselves and sell it on the black
market. Of course, the native arachnid species is quite dangerous themselves, although they rarely wander out of the caves.”
Doog: “Let me guess…we’re headed to the caves.”
Trebax: “You know it.”

Doog: “So, any precautions this time? Advice maybe?”
Trebax: “Rule #1: Don’t touch anything. Rule #2: Don’t get eaten by the gigantic meat-eating arachnids.”
Doog: “Wow, thanks. Very confidence building.”
Trebax: “Look, I’m not trying to scare you. But, this is a little different than Attonitus. The arachnids here are not fully sentient. They have some organization, but they lack technology, language, and self control. They are heavily reliant on instinct. They will kill and eat you. So, stay close.”

George: “Trebax, who’s the weakling?”
Trebax: “This is the guy I was telling you about. He’s going to tag along and document the spice collection here.”
George: “You told him the risks, right? He’s looks a little too scrawny for fighting.”
Doog: “Hey! Who are you calling scrawny? I can totally take care of myself. Trebax, cut this guy in half for insulting me.”
Trebax: “Cool it, Doog. George is going to show us the caves. This guys been doing this for years. No one knows this place better.”

Doog: “So this George guy works for the LIU?”
Trebax: “Yeah. He’s a contractor. The LIU hires him out to procure Tantiban as needed. George can’t do it alone though, so he hires mercenaries to keep him safe.”
Doog: “I was wondering who these guys were. Thought maybe I was about to be shanked from behind by some spice dealers.”

George: “Alright boys, the caves are opening up. Be on the look out.”
Doog: “Look out for spice?”
George: “Ha. No buddy. I know where the spice grows. I’m talking about the arachnids. They can’t fit in the small tunnels, but we’re at risk in this large chambers.”
Doog: “H…h…how big are we talking?”
George: “Are you familiar elephants?”
Doog: “They’re the size of an elephant!?”
George: “More or less. More legs though. And instead of having a trunk, they have four huge razor sharp grappling arms.”
Doog: “You know what. I think I left the lights on in my ship. I better head back and take care of that.”

Trebax: “Don’t freak out on us. The arachnids smell fear.”
Doog: “Oh crap. They’re coming then. I’ve been sweating fear bullets since we entered the cave.”
Trebax: “I’m just kidding. I’m kidding. Just stick by us, and you’ll be fine. We’ve all made runs like this several times with no problems.”
Doog: “You’ve done this before?”
Trebax: “Sure. After I left Ligati, I was strapped for cash. I did plenty of odd jobs like this.”
Doog: “Well, that makes me feel a tad better. Maybe I should have a gun just in case.”
Trebax: “You having a gun? Now, that scares me.”

George: “Ah, there we go, a bundle of Tantiban.”
Doog: “That’s it?”

George: “Yes. These are the fruiting bodies of a subterranean plant. The red, fleshy part is actually a seed. The seed has a protective mucus coating that contains Tantiban. We need to remove the seed without touching it.”

George: “We keep the seeds attached to the stem to make transportation easier. The Tantiban is extracted back in the fort.”
Trebax: “You better gather it quickly. We have company!”

Doog: “Words can not describe the sickening feeling of fear coursing through my veins.”
Trebax: “Less talking, more running. I can’t hold this thing off forever.”

Doog: “My body is not cooperating right now. I’m paralyzed in fear.”
Trebax: “You’re going to be really paralyzed after this arachnid severs your spinal chord. Run!”

Doog: “Ok! Ok!”
Trebax: “Don’t run through the seeds!”
Doog: “Too late for that. Besides I don’t think we should be worrying about saving the spice at a time like this!”
Trebax: “I’m not worried about…”

Trebax: “Quit flailing around on the ground! There’s two now. I can’t block both of their attacks! We need to retreat!”
Doog: “I am running!”

Doog: “Trebax! No! Don’t leave me! I don’t want to die!”
Trebax: “Run Doog…run…”

Doog: “I’m running. I’m running. Wait, where have you guys been!? Shoot those things! They got Trebax!”

Doog: “No! Shoot better! Shoot BETTER! I can’t do this alone!”

Doog: “There’s so much I haven’t done yet! I want to get married. I want to have kids that I actually know about. I've been such bad person. I promise I’ll change! Wait. I see the light, in a good way. I see my ship too! I might live yet!”

Doog: “N…n…no…they got to the Magellan. Oh no, Oldie. You‘re dead! I mean, it was past your time, but still. Mike! Cam! Noooooo! Hugo! Noo! Timbo…oh darn.”

Gma: “It’s ok, Doog. Just give up. Give in to your destiny.”
Doog: “Grandma? How? Why are you here? You shouldn’t be here, it’s dangerous.”
Gma: “You don’t stand a chance. Run towards the spiders.”
Doog: “No!”

Jaspero: “Dude, like, you should totally go get eaten.”
Doog: “Jaspero? What’s going on?”
Jaspero: “Getting eaten is so sweet, man. Better than shrooms.”
Doog: “Now I know you’re lying!”

Doog: “What’s going on? Something’s not right.”
Big: “They’re better than chicks. Go to the arachnids.”
Doog: “I guess I should go. This is it.”

Mike: “What the heck happened to him?”
Trebax: “He ran through the plants when the arachnids showed up and got Tantiban mucus all over himself. For lack of a better term, he’s tripping balls right now.”
Oldie: “Tripping?”
Trebax: “The spice Tantiban causes users to hallucinate. Components of the spice make these ‘trips’ extremely negative. Almost like living a nightmare.”
Mike: “So he’s having a bad dream?”
Trebax: “A very bad dream. Some experts think the spice aids the arachnids in catching prey. Most creatures are completely incapacitated by the drug.”
Cam: “Somehow Doog resisted it?”
Trebax: “Nope. He fell over almost immediately after running through the mucus. We fought off the arachnids, and I dragged him all the way back here. He should wake up soon.”
Mike: “Sniff. Sniff. Did he soil himself, by chance?”
Trebax: “Very likely. A common side effect.”
Oldie: “Who needs the diapers now!?”

Doog: “What, what happened?”
Trebax: “You’ve been hitting the ol’ Dream Sauce.”
Doog: “Huh?”
Trebax: “You’ve been hallucinating a bad dream.”
Doog: “But it wasn’t a dream. You were there, and you, and you. But it had to be…you’re all alive. I’m so confused.”

Trebax: “You’ll be groggy for a bit. It will wear off soon enough.”
Doog: “So it was all a bad dream?”
Trebax: “Yeah.”
Doog: “Didn’t you say earlier that there are uses for Tantiban? Who would want to be subjected to that?”
Trebax: “No one willingly. The LIU uses it as a form of ‘punishment’, often with prisoners.”
Doog: “That’s some harsh punishment.”
Trebax: “Yeah.”
Doog: “What about the black market? Who would want to buy Tantibus for recreational use?”
Trebax: “Very few people. It’s mostly used for the same reasons the LIU uses it.”

Doog: “Well folks, Tantibus is a messed up place. It’s home to a variation of spice called Tantiban that causes users to hallucinate life-like nightmares. There aren’t many recreational users, but the LIU and some of the underworld use the drug as a form of torture and punishment. These Ferox Cluster worlds are getting more and more taxing. I need to rest up before the next planet…and change my underwear. Well, see ya.”

Note:
Tantiban was once used to treat various phobias as it forced patients to face their worst fears. Unfortunately, it often made their phobias twice as bad…and ruined lots of underwear.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 5 - Vitrum

4 Comments

Season 7 - Episode 3 - Attonitus

8/25/2015

1 Comment

LIU Atlas - Attonitus

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Attonitus

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today we’re continuing our tour of the Ferox Cluster and visiting the planet Attonitus. Attonitus is probably the most known world in the cluster, at least, indirectly. People might not know about the actual planet itself, but many people know its most famous export, Space Spice. Attonitus is home to the strain of spice known as Awe. I was really psyched to visit here, but then I found out that Attonitus’ native race were arachnids. I‘m terrified of spiders, but very fond of drugs. Uh, completely legal drugs…yeah. Anyway, this should be interesting.”

Doog: “Trebax, our guide for this cluster, has insisted upon meeting me aboard my ship before we start the tour. Trebax, good to see you again.”
Trebax: “Yeah. Looks like you got my message. I see you’re wearing your space suit.”
Doog: “Yeah, I am. What’s up with that? I mean, all our sensors show that Attonitus’ atmosphere is breathable.”
Trebax: “It’s breathable. You’re just not allowed to breathe it.”
Doog: “What did I do that they won‘t even let me breathe their air?”
Trebax: “Not just you. No one, but the natives, are allowed to breathe the air. Awe is a spore based plant. These spores are blowing through the air. If you breathe the air, you’re breathing in their product. Essentially you’re stealing from them.”
Doog: “What about you?”
Trebax: “My hood has a built-in face mask.”

Doog: “That’s a terrifying, but awesome facemask.”
Trebax: “Thanks. Intimidation goes a long way in this cluster.”
Doog: “I bet. Probably helps having me walk next to you.”
Trebax: “Oh yeah. You’re super scary.”
Doog: “Uh, let’s change the subject. So, if I were to take my helmet off, I’d be getting high right now?”
Trebax: “A little. There’s enough spice swirling through the air to give someone like you a little buzz. It’s a phenomenon known as, ‘shooting the breeze’. It really threw the first visitors for a loop.”
Doog: “Think I could pop this visor up for a bit? Just enough to feel the breeze on my face?”
Trebax: “The penalty is death, so I wouldn’t recommend it. Besides, here comes one of the Attonitusians.”

Doog: “Ok, I wasn’t quite prepared for this. This guy is a lot bigger than I imagined. I’m just going to stand over here with my mic pointed in your general direction.”
Trebax: “You better get used to the whole spider thing. Due to Panspermia, this cluster is full of arachnid species. They all evolved from the same progenitor species. Besides, the Attonitusian species is only aggressive if you mess with their spice.”
Doog: “Noted. So why is this guy just standing here?”
Trebax: “The Attonitusians don’t speak basic. They communicate telepathically.”
Doog: “I hate telepaths.”
Trebax: “Don’t worry. Without command of basic, he won’t get much from your brain. I’m communicating to him with pictographs. I’m trying to get us access to the spice operation.”
Doog: “But if you’re not a telepath, how do you know what his answer is?”
Trebax: “Well, in a few moments, he’s either going to kill us or lead us to the field.”
Doog: “I don’t like those odds Trebax!”
Trebax: “Relax, I’ve dealt with the Attonitusians on several occasions.”

Doog: “I guess he said yes. Otherwise, the afterlife is not what I expected.”
Trebax: “Yeah. This is one of the spice fields.”
Doog: “It looks like a creek bed of some kind.”
Trebax: “Awe only grows in the planet’s uniquely acidic creek waters. That’s why it is only found here.”

Doog: “So what can you tell us about Awe? Or space spice in general?”
Trebax: “Every galaxy has its ‘space spice’. It is just a general term. In the LIU, spice generally refers to various intoxicating plant seeds. There are four forms of spice that originate in the LIU Galaxy, three of which, originate from within this cluster.”
Doog: “And Awe?”
Trebax: “Awe is one of the most popular of the four spices. It’s the seed of the Attonitusian Vine. The seeds form in those brown seed pods. If left to mature, the pods burst and spray the seeds into the air.”
Doog: “So the Attonitusians harvest them before they burst?”
Trebax: “They don’t harvest it themselves…”

Trebax: “…they use slaves.”
Doog: “Slaves…I forgot that went on around here.”
Trebax: “The LIU doesn’t officially sanction it, but they don’t do anything about it either. Attonitus is one of the largest slave markets in the galaxy. Slavers bring hundreds of slaves here every month.”

Doog: “What are they wearing?”
Trebax: “Upon arrival to Attonitus, all slaves are locked into these suits. It prevents them from escaping, communicating, and, most importantly, breathing the spice. The suits are all computer controlled.”

Doog: “You said earlier they receive hundreds of slaves a month. Why do they need so many?”
Trebax: “Well, spice is in huge demand, especially Awe. They are constantly increasing their fields. The turnover rate is pretty high too. Lots of slaves get killed, usually by the Attonitusians themselves.”
Doog: “They kill them?”
Trebax: “As I said earlier, the Attonitusians get defensive around the spice. It’s instinct. Even now, you can see them swarming around the slaves as they work. Sometimes, they just lose control, I guess.”
Doog: “That’s harsh.”
Trebax: “Very, and it‘s getting worse. The Attonitusians used to only use Awe for religious purposes. Now, it’s a huge product and they‘re making more than ever before.”

Doog: “This must be where it is processed.”
Trebax: “Not in bulk. This is processing for religious purposes. The seed pods are cooked and prepared according to ancient standards.”

Trebax: “The ancient standards aren’t really up to par with modern production methods. The stuff you get on the streets in about 99% pure. This religious stuff is only about 60%.”

Doog: “Is religion important among the Attonitusians?”
Trebax: “It once was. As their economy and technology advances, it plays less and less of a role. Altars are being replaced with factories. Priests are becoming foreman. The drug trade is really taking over.”
Doog: “I guess I didn‘t realize how big the market was.”
Trebax: “The market is massive, especially for Awe. It’s sold both legally and illegally.”
Doog: “Wait, I though all space spice was illegal?”
Trebax: “Not all forms. Let’s head to processing.”

Doog: “This looks a little more modern than the other architecture.”
Trebax: “Yes, this is the processing center installed by the LIU.”
Doog: “The LIU installed a center for processing space spice? Something doesn’t make sense.”
Trebax: “Well, like I said earlier, there are some legal forms of Awe. The spice actually acts as a stimulant. It increases reaction time and focus.”

Trebax: “The LIU dilutes the spice and sells it as a ‘stim’. They’re popular among athletes, soldiers, and pilots.”

Trebax: “Of course, the Attonitusians sell five pounds of Awe on the black market for every ounce they sell to the LIU. The black market stuff is ten times more powerful too.”

Trebax: “Shipments to the LIU are packaged into shipping containers, but the black market stuff goes into small boxes. It makes it easier to smuggle into the rest of the galaxy.”

Doog: “I can’t believe the LIU doesn’t stop this.”
Trebax: “The LIU stops it, just farther along in the supply line. Think about it. It’s much more profitable to let spice into the galaxy. For one, it creates more law enforcement jobs. More law enforcement means more guns, ships, armor, prisons, et cetera. Then there’s the criminal side. They need more guns and better ships too. An entire economy is created around spice.”
Doog: “It makes sense, I guess….in a galaxy revolving around profit.”
Trebax: “Hey, I don‘t know this for sure, but I‘d bet the LIU controls a large portion of the black market. It‘s a massive corporation that does anything imaginable to make money. I wouldn‘t put anything past them.”

Doog: “So that was Attonitus, huh? It’s not the greatest place, but I never really felt it was all that dangerous.”

Trebax: “Paying customers are never in any real danger.”
Doog: “Hey! What are you doing!? I thought you couldn’t breathe the air!”

Trebax: “Take it easy. We’re getting ready to leave. Besides, I can’t snort Awe through my mask.”
Doog: “You’re going to snort spice in the middle of our tour? We still have several planets to get to.”
Trebax: “Hey, there’s no way I go to Tantibus without a boost. I don’t want to die.”
Doog: “Wait, what about me? I might need a boost too!”
Trebax: “Nice try. You’re under my protection. I’m the only one that needs a boost. See you there.”

Doog: “Well folks, I survived Attonitus, the home of the space spice, Awe. The arachnid Attonitusians manufacture this stimulant in small doses to aid the LIU’s soldiers and pilots, but they also produce the drug in huge quantities to feed the spice addicts around the galaxy. Well, on to the next world in the Ferox Cluster. See ya.”

Note:
In small volumes, Awe increases reaction time and focus, but in large quantities, it creates a huge sense of awe and euphoria. Abusers use the spice for both properties.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 4 - Tantibus

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Season 7 - Episode 2 - Ligati

8/25/2015

1 Comment

LIU Atlas - Ligati

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Ligati

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. We’ve traversed the Caligavit Nebula, and we’ve finally arrived in the Ferox Cluster. The Ferox Cluster is a globular cluster in the deep core consisting of over two thousand stars. The crowded center of the cluster, where most of the stars are concentrated, is dominated by strong gravitational forces. Almost no planets have formed in this region of the cluster. However, many of the outer stars in the cluster have planets, and they’re inhabited. Due to the cluster’s isolation, many of these planets sport unique life unseen in the rest of the galaxy.
The first planet we’ll be visiting is the port world of Ligati. Ligati, which orbits the star Ianua, rests at the end of the ferry route through the Caligavit Nebula. It is a staging point for the LIU’s financial exploits into the Ferox Cluster. Goods from throughout the cluster are brought here to be shipped out to the rest of the LIU Galaxy. Several citizens were relocated here to serve as workers for the port. Well, enough talk. Let’s head down to the planet.”

Doog: “Ok. I’ve been dropped off in Ligati’s port town of Turpis. This was not what I expected. The city is rundown and decayed. The actual port itself isn’t too bad, but there does not appear to be much activity there. Despite the port being safer, my guide insisted on meeting here.”

Doog: “My guide said he’d be wearing a cloak, but that’s not really helping me. The few people I’ve encountered here all seem to be wearing cloaks, even the two shady looking characters walking up behind me. Uh, hey guys. How’s it going?”

Doog: “Are you my guide per chance?”
Slaver: “Guide? I guess in a matter of speaking.”
Doog: “In a matter of speaking?”
Slaver: “Yeah. We’re going to guide you onto our ship and sell you to the highest bidder.”
Doog: “Oh, you must be mistaken. Don’t let my good looks fool you. I’m not a prostitute. And, even if I were, I wouldn’t need a pimp.”

Slaver: “What?! We’re selling you into slavery, you idiot.”
Doog: “Oh…that kind of bidder. Well, no thanks. I’m currently employed. No slavery here.”
Slaver: “Don’t make this any harder than it needs to be. We don’t want to damage our goods.”

Trebax: “We don’t want any trouble.”
Doog: “I don’t want any trouble either, but I also don’t want to be a slave.”
Trebax: “I’m not talking to you.”
Slaver: “Hey Trebax, we found him first! Find your own score.”
Trebax: “He’s with me.”
Slaver: “Maybe you didn’t hear me. We found him first.”

Trebax: “Maybe you didn’t hear me, he’s with me. He’s under my protection.”
Slaver: “…fine. He’s too fat to be worth much anyway."
Doog: “Hey, I resent that. I’m plenty fit to be a slave.”
Trebax: “Shut up Doog. You’re not helping matters.”

Doog: “Please tell me you’re my guide.”
Trebax: “Yes. I’m Trebax. I’ll be your guide for the Ferox Cluster.”
Doog: “What’s up with those guys? Thank the Emperor you came when you did.”
Trebax: “Slavers, the scum of the Ferox Cluster.”
Doog: “Slavers? I thought slavery was illegal?”
Trebax: “The rules…are different here. They still apply, I suppose, but they’re not typically enforced. The LIU’s forces here are concentrated around economic interests. There’s not enough of them to enforce everyday laws.”

Doog: “I guess that’s why this place looks so bad.”
Trebax: “Partially. The true root of the problems here rise from the LIU’s policy of Exul Magnis.”
Doog: “Ex hole magnets?”
Trebax: “No. Exul Magnis, forced exile. The LIU had a hard time finding citizens that would voluntarily relocate to Ligati. Instead, they forced several of them here. Many of those forced here were petty criminals. Entire prisons were offloaded here.”
Doog: “Are you, by chance, one of these prisoners?”
Trebax: “No, but my father was.”
Doog: “So, you grew up here?”
Trebax: “For a while. My mother was taken by slavers, and my father was killed in a drug deal gone bad. I spent my early years here fending for myself, fighting off slavers, and committing petty crimes to stay alive. As soon as I could, I left this crap hole. This is my first time back here in a long while.”
Doog: “Where did you go?”
Trebax: “I joined a smuggling ring that brought the ‘treasures’ of the Ferox Ring to the rest of the galaxy.”

Doog: “You’re a smuggler?”
Trebax: “I was a smuggler. I got pinched transporting some Space Spice a few years back. I’ve been out of the game for a while now.”
Doog: “What do you do now?”
Trebax: “To avoid prison time, I made a deal with the LIU. I’m sort of their expert on the Ferox Cluster. I know all the ins and outs. I protect LIU Executives visiting the cluster, help determine economic interests, and, apparently, help give tours to visiting TV Hosts.”
Doog: “Better than prison, I guess.”
Trebax: “Much. I get paid well, and I get all the Space Spice I ever wanted.”
Doog: “You do Space Spice?”
Trebax: “The red eyes didn’t give it away? I’m hooked. I’ve been doing it for years. I couldn’t stop now if I wanted. Space spice is prevalent here. Three of the four varieties of it originate from within the cluster.”

Doog: “So, why are we here? I mean, there‘s not a lot to see.”
Trebax: “I want you to see this. I want you to drop any preconceived notions you may have. The Ferox Cluster is a dangerous, lawless place. The LIU is barely here. You’ve been here ten minutes, and you almost got sold off into slavery. There will be temptations and dangers in this cluster that you can’t face alone. You must follow my every instruction. Are you sure you want to do this?”
Doog: “Well, you‘re scaring the heck out of me, but I don‘t think I have any choice. Let‘s do it.”
Trebax: “Very well. I‘ve summoned my ship. I‘ll meet you on Attonitus.”

Doog: “Well folks, Ligati is not such a great place. It’s the LIU’s main port within the cluster, but due to failed policies, its mostly poor slums. Slavers and drug dealers run rampant. It’s a sobering look into what the Ferox Cluster has in store for us. Good thing our guide seems to be such an expert. Well, see ya.”

Note:
Space Spice is highly illegal. Just say no.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 3 - Attonitus

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Season 7 - Episode 1 - Caligavit Nebula

8/25/2015

60 Comments

LIU Atlas - Caligavit Nebula

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Caligavit Nebula

The Ludgonian Industrial Union's galaxy contains billions of stars and billions of planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to Season Seven of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today, we’re visiting the Caligavit Nebula, a large nebula in the deep core. The nebula’s high concentration of debris, protoplanets, and fledgling stars make it a navigational hazard. There are no known hyperspace routes through the dangerous nebula. This isn’t a problem for most travelers, as the nearby hyperspace route, the Caligavit Run, bypasses the nebula. Unfortunately for us, our destination, the Ferox Cluster, lies at the nebula’s center. Despite the warnings from the local Fari Stations, we are entering the nebula.”

Doog: “Don’t worry. We’re not going to try to make the trip with the Magellan. That would be crazy. There are several portions of the nebula that require long sub-light travel. The Magellan doesn’t have enough power for that type of trip, and we certainly don’t have that kind of time. Not to mention, the debris. The Magellan isn’t equipped with sufficient armor to risk this trip. Instead, we’ll catch a ferry. We just need to land on this small space station in order to make arrangements.”

Doog: “Alright, we’ve docked up with the station. There’s not much here. Just a little lobby to wait for the ferry and some ticket windows to purchase rides. Those without ships can buy individual tickets, but we need to bring our ship. We’ll be visiting several planets within the Ferox Cluster. It’s not going to be cheap. I decided to assist Oldie in making the arrangements so we don’t get stuck in some cargo hold again.”

Attendant: “So that’s one mid-class cargo vessel and six crew?”
Oldie: “Uh, yeah.”
Attendant: “And what is your cargo?”
Oldie: “Uh, no cargo. The vessel has been converted. Just a transport for my TV crew.”
Attendant: “Oh! You make TV? Anything I know?”
Oldie: “LIU Atlas.”
Attendant: “Never heard of it. Well, anyway, your total comes to six hundred credits.”
Oldie: “That’s a bit steep. Anyway we can cheapen it up. My crew can ride in boxes or maybe perform janitorial duties…”
Doog: “Oldie, no! For the love of the Emperor, pay the lady!”
Oldie: “Fine. But we’re not getting any snacks then…well, maybe a few snacks.”

Mike: “So everything is set?”
Doog: “Yeah. Thanks to me. We almost ended up scrubbing toilets the whole trip.”
Oldie: “Hey, I’m trying to make a little profit this year. I want to retire one of these days. Where’s Timbo and Hugo?”
Doog: “They’re prepping the ship. Once the ferry arrives, Hugo will need to fly her onboard. We’ll meet them on the ferry. The lady said it should be here within the hour. All we have to do is kill a little time.”
Mike: “Well, that shouldn’t be too hard. The LIU spared no expense in the entertainment department. We have this lovely kiosk with advertisements and a newspaper from four years ago.”
Doog: “Stare blankly into space it is.”
Computer: “The Kharon, your ferry for this trip, is now arriving. Please board at this time. The ferry is set to depart as soon as all ships have been secured onboard. Thanks for flying with us!”
Doog: “Well, that was convenient.”

Doog: “Alright folks. We’ve boarded the Kharon, and we’re just waiting for the last few ships to board. The Kharon is a highly specialized ship made to traverse the Caligavit Nebula. It has powerful sub-light engines, advanced scanners, and an armored hull. We should be in good hands.”

Doog: “The ferry has docking ports on both of its sides that are large enough to hold several ships. Ferries like the Kharon transport hundreds of smaller ships in and out of the Ferox Cluster every week. It’s the only safe, reliable passage to this remote cluster. Of course, there are those who chose to risk the trip on their own, but they‘re mostly pirates and smugglers.”

Computer: “All ships have boarded. We are now departing. We expect to make our first jump in twelve minutes. We will reach the Ferox Cluster in 28 hours. Thanks for flying with us!”

Computer: “Our parking hangars are equipped with charging stations. You may charge your ship for a small fee. Feel free to remain in your ships or visit the passenger care compartment. Thanks for flying with us!”
Oldie: “I guess we better charge up the ship. There's not many civilized worlds in the Ferox Cluster. This could be our only shot.”

Hugo: “Let me guess. That’s my job. Oh well, I guess I’ll stay with the ship. Like always.”
Doog: “Don’t fret. Timbo volunteers to keep you company. Don’t you, Timbo?”
Timbo: “…”
Doog: “That’s what I thought. Alright guys, let’s check out this ‘passenger care compartment’.”

Doog: “This is it? A dingy little concession stand?”
Oldie: “They don’t even have any pony soup…”
Stewardess: “Sounds like this is your first trip aboard the Kharon. Care for a tour?”
Doog: “With you? Sure thing.”
Stewardess: “Alright. This is our café. I know its small, but there’s not a lot of space. The storage hangars take up most of the space in the Kharon. The ferry’s huge power generators, engines, and shield systems take up most of the remaining interior space. We’ve had to make do with the little remaining real estate. The café serves non-alcoholic drinks and light snacks.”
Doog: “I guess it’s better than nothing. So the café is all there is in the passenger care compartment?”
Stewardess: “Oh no. There‘s more. Follow me.”

Stewardess: “There are several small corridors like this with our patented Rent-A-Bed. If you don’t have sleeping accommodations on your ship, you can rent one of our beds for a small fee. Many travelers take a nap to pass the time.”

Oldie: “You had me at nap.”
Doog: “You’re spending money on that? What about retirement?”
Oldie: “Priorities, Doog. Priorities.”

Stewardess: “Come on. Follow me.”
Doog: “What is this? Looks like a stage. How do you have room for a stage, but not enough room for a bigger café?
Stewardess: “This isn’t a stage. This is the Observation Deck. Guests can come here and enjoy breathtaking views of the nebula.”
Doog: “I don’t see anything.”
Stewardess: “Well, that’s because the blast doors are closed. Because of the dangerous nature of the nebula, the doors can only be opened in between jumps #2 and #7, jumps #12 and #15, and jumps #30 to #37. We should be able to open them shortly.”

Stewardess: “There we are.”
Doog: “Wow. That’s awesome.”
Stewardess: “Quite the sight, huh? The gases of the nebula are ionized by the star cluster within giving it its unique fiery glow. If you think this is cool. You should see it with the lights out. Computer, turn off the lights in the Observation Deck.”

Doog: “It’s sort of romantic. Isn’t it?”
Stewardess: “Please stop touching my hand, sir.”
Doog: “I, uh, didn’t. It was an accident.”
Cam: “Rejected!”
Doog: “Shut it! Hey, what‘s that out there?”
Cam: “Trying to change the subject huh?”
Doog: “No, Look. They‘re zooming around the ferry.”

Stewardess: “No need to worry. The ferry has a fleet of support ships to help it make its journey. Look, those green ones are space tugs. The help position the Kharon into a precise position to make its next hyperspace jump. Their precision makes the journey much quicker.”

Stewardess: “The tug has a magnetic repulsor on its bumper arm. It allows the tug to push the Kharon without actually making contact with the hull.”

Doog: “What about the yellow ones?”
Stewardess: “Also a support ship. They’re like dozers. They clear obstacles from the Kharon’s path. They have two methods. The mag-disks push smaller particles out of the way….”

Stewardess: “…while the large robotic arm removes larger objects. They clear the area before any hyperspace jump is initiated.”
Doog: “Seems like a lot of work to get to this cluster. I hope its worth it. I don’t just mean for us either. I wonder why the LIU even bothers with this.”
Stewardess: “It’s not that bad now that this route has been mapped out. It used to be worse. Imagine the struggles of the first explorers. They had to map this whole thing out. And just think, in a century or two, a hyperspace route will open up.”

Doog: “Wait, what?”
Stewardess: “Yeah, the LIU is constructing a hyperspace route through the nebula. It will drop travel time down to an hour or so.”
Doog: “How does one construct a hyperspace route in a nebula? I thought it was impossible? And how does it take centuries?”
Stewardess: “Well, I’m no expert. I’m a ferry stewardess, after all. But if you look close enough, you’ll see large yellow cylinders floating around the nebula.”
Mike: “Yeah, I see one over there.”
Stewardess: “Yeah, well apparently they’re some type of gravity anchor points. The cylinders are slowly drawing in nebula dust.”

Stewardess: “As the cylinders draw in more and more dust, their mass increases, and their gravity drives get stronger and stronger. Eventually, this long line of cylinders will clear a straight hyperspace lane through the nebula.”
Doog: “Cool.”
Stewardess: “Well, that was jump #7. We need to close up the Observation Deck. Hope you enjoyed the tour.”
Doog: “Thanks. Sorry about the whole hand thing.”

Doog: “Well folks, the Caligavit Nebula is an interesting place. Despite its beauty, the nebula is a complicated navigational hazard. It blocks direct hyperspace travel to the Ferox Star Cluster. Luckily, an advanced ferry escorts people and ships through the danger. I think I might get some sleep during the rest of this journey, well, as soon as I kick Timbo out of my bed. See ya!”

Note:
This long journey is worth it. The gang will be doing several episodes on the unique planets within the Ferox Cluster. That is, if they don’t die first.”

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 7 - Episode 2 - Ligati

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Season 4 - Episode 11 - Flumen A'ris

8/17/2015

1 Comment

LIU Atlas - Flumen A'ris

There are billions of stars, millions of planets, but there is only one man, Terrance McDoogal. Welcome to LIU Atlas.

LIU Atlas - Flumen A’ris

The Ludgonian Industrial Union’s galaxy contains billions of stars and planets. Unfortunately, most residents of the LIU could only name a handful of these worlds. In order to improve astronomy grades across the LIU, TV2 has started a new program called LIU Atlas. Follow our host, Terrance McDoogal, as he takes you on a tour across the LIU and some of its more obscure worlds.

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: “Welcome to another episode of LIU Atlas. I’m your host, Terrance “Doog” McDoogal. Today, we’re visiting Flumen A’ris, a desert planet in orbit around the fast spinning neutron star Nendum. Nendum’s extremely quick rotation has caused Flumen A’ris’ rotation to drastically speed up. The planet’s quick rotation gives it short days and nights, and, due to the Coriolis effect, powerful jet streams. These planet encircling jet streams and their associated
winds have stirred up Flumen A’ris’ dusty, sandy surface into a planet wide sandstorm.”

Doog: “This sandstorm, raging for nearly a century, has made surface habitation nearly impossible. Instead, the residents of Flumen A’ris live on large floating cities. These cities drift gently around the planet’s equator, where the weak neutron star keeps the planet’s temperature the most comfortable. We’re headed aboard one of these cities to meet our guide.”

Doog: “Ah, you must be my guide. I’m Doog.”
Iberus: “Hola, I am Iberus. Welcome to Bote de Rio, one of seven floating cities here on Flumen A’ris. I am the city’s mayor and economic director.”
Doog: “Yeah, nice to meet you. So, let’s skip to it then. What do you guys do here?”
Iberus: “Our economy is very diverse. The planet, and its unique properties, have created many opportunities for exploitation. Our main export is power, but we also have mining interests, and a striving fertilizer industry. I figured I’d give you a brief tour of all our industries.”
Doog: “Sounds good.”
Iberus: “To see the industries, we will have to descend to the city‘s lower decks, closer to la tormenta, er…sandstorm. For your safety, you will be required to wear a helmet with goggles like mine.”
Doog: “Uh, yeah, sure.”

Iberus: “Like I said before, power is our main export. We generate this power from two different sources, wind and static. Wind power is pretty self-explanatory; the strong winds that drive the sandstorm below also turn large wind turbines. I figured I wouldn’t bore you with spinning fans. Instead, I figured we’d head down and see the static power generators.”
Doog: “Yeah, I’ve dealt with wind power before. Let me tell ya, it blows…”

Iberus: “Between both sources of power, Flumen A’ris generates a substantial amount of energy. Unfortunately, we must siphon off a quarter of this energy to keep our cities afloat. ¡Vamos! We’re almost there.”

Doog: “What’s this?”
Iberus: “This is the static electricity generator. The bottom of our floating city extends into the top edge of the sandstorm, and the city’s hull is constantly being struck with particles of sand and rock. This builds up an electric charge. This charge must be dissipated, or my people would be shocked every time they reached for a door knob. Instead of wasting this energy, we direct the charge into static balls on the exterior of the city, como este.”
Doog: “I could use this thing on my ship. If I get shocked walking to the bathroom in my bunny slippers one more time, I might just lose it.”

Iberus: “Ha. Sí, I know the feeling. As you can see, the static ball builds up a static charge before releasing the energy into the nearby contacts. The contacts route the electric energy to our charging stations, where it is stored until it can be exported.”
Doog: “It’s a little loud out here with wind constantly blowing, but man, this static ‘ball’ creates quite the ruckus. It sounds like a mini-thunderstorm out here.”
Iberus: “Sí, the properties that make this work are very similar to the mechanics of a thunderstorm. Let’s not dwell on that, we have much more to see. Let’s head back inside. We must descend further into the city to reach our next stop.”

Iberus: “Bote de Rio has many economic uses, but let’s not forget that it is also a community. Almost a million people call this city home. Most are employed in the various industrial sectors, but we also have police, doctors, teachers, et cetera.”

Iberus: “Bote de Rio is a very large place, and many sections of the city are color-coded to make things easier for the citizens to find. As you can see, colored lines on the floor indicate the routes to various parts of the city. The orange line, for instance, indicates the route to the residential districts. Blue shows the route to our next destination, the Sand Mining Vacuums.”
Doog: “The vacuums?”
Iberus: “Sí. And I must warn you, this following area can be vary dangerous. We will be on a narrow catwalk on the bottom of the city. There will be nothing below us but the planet’s surface, which is several miles down. Try not to fall.”
Doog: “No warning needed Iberus, as a rule of thumb, I don’t try to fall off things. It might happen from time to time, but I never try.”

Doog: “Wow, it is a lot windier down here! And the sand is somewhat painful! It is almost like I’m being sandblasted!”
Iberus: “Sí, we are now in the upper reaches of the sandstorm. Any exposed skin will certainly be feeling a stinging
sensation.”
Doog: “You could have saved the ‘do not fall’ warning and told me about this, Iberus! I might have worn sleeves! Let’s make this quick!”
Iberus: “¡Lo siento! I figured you’d dress appropriately when I told you this planet is enveloped in a planet wide sandstorm. Anyway, this is one of the Sand Mining Vacuums. The sand in the sandstorm is made up of several different minerals. Three of these minerals: rutile, ilmenite, and zircon, are extremely valuable as they contain the elements titanium and zirconium. The mining vacuums have to extract these components, which only make up about three percent of the sandstorm, from the various other minerals. The vacuum has several antennas which charge these minerals to a specific ion frequency, and the vacuum inhales only these particles. We don’t produce as much as other mining planets, but it’s a nice compliment to our energy sector.”
Doog: “Hey, it’s here. Might as well take advantage of it. Shall we move on!”
Iberus: “¡Claro! But, I’m afraid it’s only going to get more painful. Our last industry is on the planet’s surface.”

Iberus: “In order to reach the surface, we must take one of our vertical trains. It is too dangerous to fly in these winds. The ‘River of Air’, as we call it, constantly blows in one direction. It’s easy to fly one direction, but very hard to fly the other way. Not to mention how much more fuel it would take. We’ll reach the surface in about thirty seconds. Prepare yourself.”

Doog: “Ahhh! My arms are burning! Phew! And I have sand in my mouth!”
Iberus: “Haha. Novato! It isn’t that bad. ¡Vamos!”

Iberus: “The first settlers here were surprised to find that Flumen A’ris actually supports some native life. The Flumen Hormiga, an extremely large ant-like species, somehow survives down here on the surface. While it hasn’t been studied too closely, it is believed that the ants farm various algal species inside their burrows.”
Doog: “Ow! What…ouch!…does this have to do with your economy? Ow! Dang it! Do you guys sell Ant Farms or something?”

Iberus: “Haha. No. The ants serves as a food for the Flumen Pájaro, the apex predator of Flumen A’ris. Look, there are some behind you. The Flumen Pájaro have large wings and glide with the planet’s strong winds. They can circle the planet several times a day searching for ants to eat. If they miss a strike, they must fly on. There is no flying against the wind. They are beautiful, no?”
Doog: “Yeah! Ahh! So, I still don’t get it! Who cares about all these animals?! Ow!”
Iberus: “¡Vamos! I’ll show you.”

Iberus: “The Flumen Pájaro take shelter in caves created by wind erosion. This allows them to rest, eat, and take shelter from the sands. It is also where they defecate. That’s where the economic value is. Bird poop, or guano, contains lots of phosphorus and nitrogen, making it an extremely useful fertilizer.”
Doog: “All this pain for some bird poop!”

Iberus: “Sí! Every so often, workers come down here, brave the elements, and scoop up containers full of guano. It’s very valuable. So, there you have it. Here on Flumen A’ris, we take advantage of all the natural resources: wind, static, sand, and guano.”
Doog: “Let’s go home!”

Doog: “Ahh! Well folks, Iberus summed it up pretty well. So, I’m going to leave it at that! I need to get out of here now! See ya!”

Note:
The sandstorm did wonders for Doog’s skin by removing any dry patches or blemishes. Unfortunately, it also removed a large portion of healthy skin, but the skin he has left…smooth as a baby’s bottom.

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 4 - Episode 12 - Pumilio

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Season 3 - Behind the Scenes - Doog's Place

8/13/2015

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LIU Atlas - Behind the Scenes - Doog's Place

An inside look at Doog's wondeful life.

Behind the Scenes - Doog's Place

Note: This episode is presented in full screen. The corresponding dialogue is underneath each photo.

Doog: "Hello folks. It's me, Terrance "Doog" McDoogal. I am currently on a two week unpaid vacation from LIU Atlas as we transition between LIU Atlas Season #2 and #3. The producers thought it would be fun if you guys got a first hand look at what my life is like during the break. As you can see, I've taking my slim earnings from Season #2 and rented this two room apartment for one month."

Doog: "Yeah, you heard that right. Not a two bedroom apartment, a two room apartment. This here is my living room/bedroom. The other room is a kitchen. There are communal bathrooms down the hall. The bathrooms are a little scary, but I've found that if I wait until after 3AM, I have to step over fewer dead prostitutes. Oh, I almost forgot. I used the remainder of my earnings to purchase a brand new, big screen..."

Doog: "...clock. I almost had enough to get some batteries with it. For now, I just like to stare at the motionless hands. That, and my Mocie Award."

Doog: "The kitchen is alright, but it lacks a few of the basic amenities, like a microwave, fridge, and dishwasher. It did come with a bunch of rats, which actually comes in handy. They're pretty good at scraping my pots and pans clean of any leftover food. It really saves me from doing dishes. Oh, don't pay attention to that blood stain over there, it was from the previous owner."

KNOCK, KNOCK
Doog: "Whoa, who's at the door? I'm not expecting anyone."

Doog: "Aww man, what if it's bill collectors, or even worse, one of my crew members! Either way, I'm bringing a bat."

Doog: "You have no right to be here...I mean, hello there. Did you come for my autograph? Or do I need to flip my sofa chair down into bed mode?"
Susan: "You don't remember me do you?"
Doog: "Er...of course I...uh, do, uh Jennifer? Janet? Janice? Jessica?"
Susan: "It's Susan. Remember? We met two years ago. You told me you just got a job with TV2. You promised you'd marry me. When I woke the next morning, you were gone!"
Doog: "Uh...well, you see..."
Susan: "That's alright. No explanations needed. I've found you now, and I have somebody I'd like you to meet."
Doog: "Ooh, you brought a friend."

Doog: "Uh, I don't know what you're into, but the kid has to go."
Susan: "No Doog, I want you to meet him. His name is Terrance, Terrance Junior."
Doog: "Hey, we have the same name. How cool! You know what, he kind of looks like me too. Wait a minute..."

Doog: "You don't mean what I think you mean, do you?"
Susan: "Yes Doog. He's yours."
Doog: "Uh, why don't you two step out into the hallway for a minute. I need to...er...clean up a bit, and uh, put away my dog. Yeah, my dog. He's vicious. I promise, it will just be a minute."

Doog: "Oh crap, oh crap! Uh Jessica, just give me a few more minutes. Everything is almost ready."
Susan: "My name is Susan!"

Doog: "Almost ready now!"

Doog: "I'll be there in just a second."

Doog: whispers "Well folks, I have to run. Sorry the tour was so short. I guess Season #3 is starting sooner than I thought! Well, gotta run!"

Note:
Doog: "Anyone interested in a one week sublease? Or a kid?"

CLICK HERE FOR NEXT EPISODE: Season 3 - Episode 1 - Crepes Culum

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