New Front Origin Stories: Unique Perspectives

The marine mammal, exhibit industry (although I guess you would say the main animal exhibit industry, although I think would mainly be the marine animal side of the industry) has always been one of the lucrative yet seedy industries.

It was one of the more yet less controversial industries. It was one that, if you saw the second advertisement above, no doubt generated headlines on the news. Pretty big headlines concerning safety and ethics.

Because that’s what it primarily came to be about: ethics. Did the animals like it? Hell, even the relationships between the trainers and animal was put into question.

Well many a maned Richard Edward Lancaster sought to change that. It was the 26th century, and let’s just say a lot had gone down between now and then.

New means to interact with the animals was possible. It was now possible to give them even bigger spaces, Seing as entire planets could be used to accommodate them, as mentioned in the first if the above adverts.

Well, he would spend his entire life planing. He was one who loved the creatures actually. He believed there was a way to make it work. A way for it to be more ethical.

Well, he would lay the foundations for what would become Aquascape Seapark. Except, he would never live to see the park itself open or even built.

Wanting to make something of himself, he joined the United Interstellar Army, the army of the United Alliance when their military forces remobilized. He never made it, perishing on a day known as “the day the sea ran red.”

The Arctic battle that ensued between humanity and extraterrestrials took millions of casualties. So many, to the point where the sea had gained a red hue, visible from space. Ironically, he perished just off of Iceland.

Well, he had no idea that his vision would lead to some big events. Ones that would change the hole history of not just those mere industry, but the earth and the alliance as well.

## Adverts

### - Advert One -

“Imagine a place of fun. Imagine a place full of breathtaking experiences. Experiences like no other. Imagine a place where you’ll make memories that last a lifetime!

That’s right folks, here at Aquascape Seapark, you’ll spend time like you’ve never had in your entire life!

With our breathtaking shows, you’ll be dazed for days! Get up close with the animals themselves and directly interact with them!

That’s because we’re more than just a park! Take one our famous boat tours across the Sea of Deception, an entire manmade ocean! Or go for a scuba dive, underneath the waves for a chaotically exciting time! Oh, and did I mention our underwater restaurants and facilities?

Need a place to stay? Not to worry, we with our top-rated resorts, you’ll be more than covered. Want to shop? We have a shopping complex that’ll sure keep you busy. Want to take some chances, we have some of the galaxy’s best casinos, where you’ll get pure enjoyment all the time!

With our water and theme parks, you’ll get the enjoyment of a classic experience, woo-hoo!

We’re not just a place for entertainment. No sir-re. We are also a center for animal rehabilitation. We take all of the injured or sick creatures and give them a place to rest, or if they can’t live by themselves, a new better home.

We do a service to the environment. Because it’s our commitment! So come down and stop by, because for us, it’s maritime!”

### - Advert Two -

Wow, a seedy industry, Yup!. 2000 and my god, so many things are going!?

Hold the phone! Grab the remote and press the fast forward button a couple of centuries!

Unlike those barbaric attractions, Aquascape Seapark as an unmatched environmental and safety record!

That’s right folks. With the latest advancements in technology and using the latest techniques, we have garnered an unmatched reputation for animal welfare and environmental and safety standards.

Everything, for the manmade ocean if the Sea of Deception right down to the inclusion of other organisms, everything here is designed to keep the animals comfortable and happy.

Using the latest communications technology and methods of encouraging the animals, we do not rely on the forceful, brutal methods used by 20th/21st century parks.

We also use other means of interacting with the animals including our famous boat and scuba tours!

We also act as a rehabilitation center for injured animals, helping those who are injured, and sick get back on their own two feet, well if they had feet! [the narrator laughs].

We help those who are unable to get back I. The while by getting them a better place to stay, where we ensure they are treated as if they were one of our own, because they are!

We ensure proper treatment including feeding, cleaning, enough space to move and inhabit and social interaction with their own kind!

Don’t worry folks, we have it under control. Should anything get out of hand, our partners at the famous Oceanic Control Department use the best methods to pacify any ‘rouge’ animals while ensuring little harm or injury to them!

No wonder we’ve got a ten out of Platinum ++ from the United Alliance Environmental Affairs Administration. We’ve got positive reviews from countless environmental groups and organizations!

When it comes to safety, we kill it! We have countless galactic class lifeguards on duty. Our famous trainers can also give a hand. And the O.C.D isn’t just an animal pacification service, it’s our own private coast guard! Ready to jump into the action should an emergency occur!

We’ve have had an A++ from the Better Business Borough for more than 15 years straight. We’ve got a 5-star rating from the United Alliance Workplace Health and Safety Services Administration for more than 20 years in a row!

Because here at Aquascape, we’re about safety, ethics, education and fun!”

## Pre-Prologue

June 26th, 2755 9:23 PM, Northside of Marobal.

Steven was growing anxious. You could tell how much anxiety and fear was flowing through him. His face was red, he was sweaty, and he was trembling. The young rookie had never seen combat before, but today was the day.

He was stationed on the A.M.V (which stood for Alliance Marine Vessel) Sheldon. Not the biggest or most spectacular vessel (well it was somewhat large), but it got the job done. On the moon, a large flotilla of aircraft carriers, dreadnoughts, battleships, destroyers, corvettes, frigates, gunboats, fast attack boats and other vessels waited. They, in addition to the thousands of Maunsell Forts, would be tasked with defending the moon from an attack by enemy forces. The Sheldon was part of this flotilla.

“When do you think they’ll arrive?” He asked to his squad leader, Senior Petty Officer David “OX” Sherman.

“Don’t know. Nothing from the radio operators. Feels like they could be here any minute know.”

The guy next to him took out a flint and steel, he made an attempt to light a cigar, but the device would not work. “Ah gosh darn it.” He turned to another guy, Joey. “Hey Joey, mind if you let me use some of your flint and steel? Mine won’t work.”

“Sure. Not like I use it anyways.” He pulled it out of his pocket. “Here ya go.” He said in a calm tone, handing it to the guy who asked.

“Thanks. Much appreciated mate.” The man proceeded to light his cigar. Unlike 21st/20th century cigars, these did not use tobacco. They used a much healthier synthetic material known under the name of “Dragon’s Breath,” so called because it involved liquid nitrogen, the same type used in the dessert. This cigar would not give you any side effects, unlike those used in the 21st century.

Suddenly, an air raid siren went off as searchlights shined high into the air. “Oh, my goodness!” Exclaimed Steven. Then something bright flew in the air. The enemy attack signal.

“Incoming!” Spoke the Senior Petty Officer.

“Attention everyone! The attack has commenced all fronts! ETA of enemy forces is five minutes. Battle Stations!” They heard over the radio as alarms on the vessel went off.

Suddenly, a large wave of enemy craft flew overhead as they began to release payloads upon payloads of high explosive energy bombs (Hexems). Everyone aboard the vessel immediately scrambled to their stations.

“Everyone, load and fire! Range finder! Give us the details!”

“Alrighty! We need to aim at 64 degrees into the air, 57 degrees west!”

“Alrighty. You heard him! Turn the gun!”

Operatives worked closely to turn the weapon, turning the wheels that caused the weapon to turn in a certain direction, before turning the wheels responsible for changing the weapon’s elevation.

“Done sir!

“Alrighty! Prepare, aim and fire!”

The gun went off as shells were hurled into the air.

Hundreds of guns located on other ships and Maunsell Forts went off: Anti Aircraft Guns, Rotary Cannons, Surface to Air missiles, all of it.

“Come on. Reload reload reload! Faster!”

All of the men hurriedly grabbed shells, loaded them, fired and retreated. These were flak shells, designed to explode midair.

Enemy extraterrestrial aircraft flew by as they began bombarding the moon.

“Holy crap!” Steven was focused on his work. But then, something felt, wrong… He didn’t know, something just didn’t feel right.

Clouds formed in the sky as a fierce storm swept overhead. The rain was falling heavy and hard. Lightning lit up the sky. Thunder booming across the vast blanket of water.

“Sir!”

“Yes, Seaman Apprentice!?”

“Something’s off! I can feel it.”

“What do you mean!?”

“I don’t know, it’s just that…”

“Just that!?”

“Just that I don’t know! Feels like we’re being targeted or something. I feel like something’s going to go wrong. I just feel it. I know it!”

“Some being nonsensical Seaman Apprentice! Go grab a shell, carry it and help load it to speed the gun’s fire right. Get back to work this instant or else I’ll have you…”

Suddenly, hundreds of bombs began going off in their area as enemy bombers released their payloads, making lots of intense splashes around them.

But then, for a split second, the world, or moon, slowed. It slowed so much to the point where that second felt like a thousand years. A thousand dreadful years. But then. It sped back up as a large explosion engulfed the center of the Sheldon. Then suddenly, a flash of light that blinded him, followed by intense ringing in his years.

[Radio] “This is high command! Sheldon is down! I repeat Sheldon is down! Letters: XYGHLZ! Codename Yankee Bravo!”

Steve felt the world spin around him as the vessel was broken into two even pieces. The side of the bow, the side he was one began sinking at a 45-degree angle. Steven could do nothing during those seconds.

The explosion knocked him off his feet. He felt his body slam onto the metal surface below.

He then suddenly felt himself under water; he could not speak or breath. His vision dimmed as the water clouded his sight.

“HMMMMMM!” He attempted to speak but could not do so with the fear of letting water in his body. He tried to swim upwards, be he couldn’t, he found himself grabbed between two of the ship’s floor plates.

Just like that, his world turned upside down. In an instant he was in the water. Stuck to part of the vessel he was stationed on, about to drown. His first mission, and we were ready done for.

He still felt a large ringing sensation in his ears as the explosion's effects were still “active.” He still felt his body vibrating. He turned and saw around him lost of metal. He could see the former area he was working at, but he could not spot any of his former squad mates.

He saw explosions in the water. He heard bullets tearing through the waves. He saw many many objects as boxes of ammo, life preservers, scarred weapons and many other objects floated around him, making it somewhat hard to see.

“HMM!” He scrambled, trying to free himself, but to no avail. Kept pulling at his leg, which was stuck between the two plates.

*“HELP!”* He shouted internally. He kept on trying to free himself, but he felt that he just couldn’t. All of his feeble attempts resulted in nothing.

*“Oh no. I feel like I’m quickly running out of air!”*

He didn’t have long. He only had seconds until he would pass out.

*“COME ON! GET FREE!”* He kept shouting, but it was of no use.

All of those agitating moments. All of it for nothing. “

*“Was this the end?”* He asked to himself. *“Signed up, to continue my family's legacy, only for it to come to this?”*

*“No. NOOO!”* He continued to move around. *“Don’t let it end like this. Please! Not like this!”* He continued to thrash, even harder now.

“Please, at least let me say goodbye. Goodbye to my wife who’ve I’ve only recently married. Goodbye to the kids I never had. To the family I never raised.”

“AAAHHHHHH!!!” He tried to scream. He began to cry as tears flowed down his checks. Or well, they couldn’t because he was underwater, but he felt himself crying.

*“It can’t end like this. Not here, NOT NOW! LET ME FREE!”* He struggled for moments and moments. But a last, he was only human. And humans only have the ability to hold their breath for so long.

He then began to think of all of the events that occurred during his lifetime. From when he went on his first road trip, to when he graduated high school. he was going to die here, he at least wanted to quickly revisit as many memories as he could before he was wiped off the face of the moon, and furthermore, reality.

He felt the world dimming. He made one last ditch attempt to reach for the surface as he raised his arms as high as he could. “I am done. Goodbye Marobal. Goodbye my wife and family and friends. Goodbye to all. He raised his left hand once more, before all went black.

He saw the bright lights. *“The lights of heaven. Am I finally here?”* He asked to himself*.* But he felt a sudden reaction. He got up and began to cough has he began to puke out water. He felt very weak.

“Oh my goodness; what happened.” He spoked coughing. He rubbed his forehead. He made an attempt to get up move. But he stopped as he felt pain at his leg. “Argh! Oh my!” He looked. He then sat up, still coughing and breathing heavily. He rubbed his eyes.

”He’s alive!” Spoke another voice. Suddenly, several medics came to his side.

“Sir, are you ok?”

His clothes were soaked and was still wet.

“What?”

”Are you alright sir?”

”I think so.”

He then turned around. He was lying on an orange bed on the ground. He took a closer look at his surroundings: He was in a large open grey space. There are cods, crates, medical and relive personnel running around tending to other wounded combatants.

He though he heard water. “Wha? No way!” He spoke, He tried to get up, but he didn’t feel like he could stand. “Argh! God dang it.”

”Careful sir. You have a fracture. Best not to move if you don’t wanna make it worse.”

He then turned to see a large black object there in the far side of the room in the area where the water was.

Wait the room had water in it?

He saw a black and white object. It’s not even even object, it’s an animal.

“Is that what I think it is?” He looked wide eyed. He licked his hand and rubbed his eyes to make sure he was correct: yep. “Really?”

“Yes.” The animal replied.

“Oh, my goodness! There’s an orca in here and it can talk and understand me!” He panicked and freaked out. He began slapping himself on the face. “This must be a dream!”

The medical personnel quickly moved to restrain him and calm down.

“Calm down sir, nothing to b e worried about!”

“But, but that’s an animal, how is animal here!? And how is it talking!?”

”I remember you.” He thought the hear someone speak.

”And folks saying they remember me!?”

“You’re right, this isn’t a dream.” The whale, well dolphins spoke.

“Hang on! You’re just traumatized from the experience!”

“How can yo understand and talk to me!?”

“It’s a long story. But calm down.”

”Yeah, she saved you.”

”Wait, she saved me!? Impossible. I must be illucinating!”

”You’re not.”

”Just calm down.”

“Ok, I’m calm. This is weird. One moment, I’m on the battleship having to take enemy planes, only for the ship to explode and me about to drown, next thing you know, you’re alive in a room with an animal who can talk to and understand you.”

“Technically, my kind can already understand you.”

“Ok, but who are you, and why are you’re here and how do you speak!?”

“Well, my name is Fiji, as to why I am here and how I can talk… that’s a story in itself…”

## Prologue

50 years earlier, June 2nd, 2728… Senior Chief Petty Officer Derrick Garson of the O.C.D (which stood for Oceanic Control Department) stood by harpoon rifle on hand.

“So, it’s these two?” Spoke a figure in a black suit.

“Yes sir.” Spoke another figure in a grey suit. “These two right here. Or in here.”

Inside were a pair of orcas. Yes, you heard that right. Orcas.

“So, what are their names?” The figure in black asked.

“Their names? Hang on, let me look them up. Give me a second… ah here we go.” The figure in grey stared at the holographic screen emitted by his smart watch. “Mango and Fruit Cake.”

“Those sure be some names.” The figure in black spoke.

“Well, names are voted on by the public. Not like I have anything to do with this.”

“Of course. Anyways, these are the two ‘deficient’ whales you say?”

“Yes. For some reason, their having trouble understanding or following the commands given by their trainers. Don’t know why…” The figure in grey shrugged, “But they just seem to… not be able to…”

“Well, if that’s true, then they are the perfect specimen.”

“Oh yes, the experiment. That’s why we are here.”

“Of course! How would you forget?”

“Don’t know. But we’re here now, that’s what matters, right?”

“Right. Well now, mind if we pay them a visit?”

“Sure thing. Derrick, unlock the gates, will you?”

“Right away sir.” The young man responded. He quickly went over to the gate, and pulled out his keycard. He swiped it, before doing a retinal scan. Soon enough, the gate was opened.

Behind this gate was a pool. Not just any pool, but rather, a pool that is… quite large. So large in fact that it has about 3 times the surface area of Lake Superior on earth.

Inside, two figures stood, or sat. Both of them were interacting with their assigned animals. The two trainers were of different races, humanoid races. The first one was a bug type person that at first glance, would look unsettling. The second one was a sea creature himself, capable of going underwater for long periods (because he has gills).

Both of them looked up as they saw the incoming figures.

“So, they are… I mean these are it?” Spoke the figure in black.

“Yup. The ‘deficient’ two.”

“Well, deficient for now, but if this experiment goes well, they would not be anymore. In fact, this would revolutionize not just this industry, but all of life. Think about the possibilities with this!”

“Yes. It’s very tempting. But I am concerned.”

“Hmm?”

“For the animals, and their trainers as well. Let’s just say, welfare, ethics, and things like that.”

“Not to worry, this will be the safest experiment conducted by the alliance in years. The trials will be conducted by some of the best scientists in the entirety of the alliance, supervised by some officials with the highest degree of knowledge there is.”

“Well, I guess you can’t argue with that.”

“And remember, the procedure itself will have not one bit of pain. Thanks to the latest medical and scientific advances in technology, we will be able to make this experiment a breeze for both the animals, and their trainers who have concern.”

“Well, it’s good to know that this will be put in the hands of the right people.”

“Of course, it is. In this day and age, you think it’s right to just do things without taking time and effort to ensure safety? I’ve heard about the Silver Spring Monkeys that happened centuries ago. That feels so barbaric in our time. Do something like that, and you’ll be ousted from society.”

“Yep. I mean, how can anyone do such a thing? It astonishes me that something like, that even happened.”

“Actually, this industry astonishes me.”

“It does?”

“Why yes. I mean, seeing as some animals can understand humans, or any being with language for that matter, it would make sense that there would be, how to put it… ‘developments.’ Well, this industry was constantly accused of mistreating animals and things, and well, it was true. It was. I mean, compare the industry way back then before we humans fled earth, to now? Technological progress sure changes things, doesn’t it? Miraculous how it happens. But that’s how it goes, I mean that’s how we ourselves reached this stage of civilization, from the Middle Ages, to enlightenment, to industrialization and so on.”

“Yeah. I can’t imagine being alive several hundred years ago and hearing about the cruelty and bad things happening in these types of industries. But now, well, nothing to worry about!”

“Anyways, well, first impressions.” Spoke the alliance official.

A couple of seconds passed, both orcas just stared at the visitors, their trainers also facing them. More seconds passed, and nothing happened. Nothing.

“Ok then, initial impressions over.” The official then walked over to the trainers, they held out their hand. “So, you two are the ones initially responsible for training these animals?”

“Yes.” Spoke the first trainer as he reached out to grab the official’s hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you too.” Spoke the second trainer, she then reached for the official’s hand to shake in greeting.

“Well, what is it that you plan on doing to them?”

“You know, I can’t reveal that myself. If I do, you’d be require to sign a contract of silentness, to ensure you never speak of it to anyone else other than top alliance officials. If you breach the contract, there’d be some big punishments.

“You know, I think I’ll pass on this secret information.” Spoke the male trainer.

“Me too. Seems like too much of a hassle to deal with.” Added the female.

“Well, alright then. There is nothing in particular of these specimens that we need, only for a ‘defect’ of course, although we do need their medical history.”

“Yes of course, we can provide that to you immediately.”

“Excellent. Is it possible we transport them today?”

“Today? That soon?”

“Why yes. I mean there’s no problem, right? Hurry it up and get it dealt with. Well, not get it dealt with too fast. Safety here.”

“Of course, sure.”

The two trainers looked at each other, with some hints of worry.

“You sure this won’t do harm? Spoke the male trainer.

“Of course not. As stated, it shall be as safe as safe can be.”

“Well, alright then. Be gentle with them. Please? Mind if we have some final moments?”

Meanwhile, in the corporate headquarters, staff members were bustling in and out, going about their daily business.

A senior staff member went about getting the latest financial reports for the third quarter of the 2723 fiscal year. She was busy with her work. She then stopped as the phone on her desk rang.

“Looks like I’m finally getting a call. Wonder what it could be about.” She made her way to the desk and picked up the phone. “Yes, this is Liva Terra on the phone, how can I help?”

“Liva,” Spoke the man on the other end of the line.

“We need you to get down here, to the central meeting room.”

“How come?”

“The signings will commence; the deal has been finalized.”

“Oh my. This is some big news. Isn’t it?”

“Yes, it is.”

“Have you told other staff members yet? Anyone else besides the other higher-ranking members?”

“No not yet. Not until the experiments and trials have ended.”

“Ok then. I’ll be down as soon as possible. Bye.” She abruptly set the phone down and reorganized her desk. She then left a tag that notified others of her temporary absence and that she’ll be back soon. “Alrighty, time to get on with this.”

She made her way down the hallways, before reaching an elevator. She got in the elevator. She then pressed the button that took her to the highest floor, floor 55. “Ok then, time to wait.”

Soon enough, she reached the floor, where she made her way down the halls, going past several offices that belonged to company executives. She eventually made her way to the door leading to the central meeting room. She stopped and knocked.

Not too long later, the door opened. She walked in. Inside was where the company’s highest executives, along with several top officials of the United Alliance.

Because Saliri did not have its own assembly or governor, it was directly administered by the alliance under the “special leadership” division of the alliance.

I

It was a calm sunny day on the dessert planet of Saliri, a relatively spectacular planet. Filled with vast sandy hills, dunes of sand, deadly cacti, shady palm trees and the occasional heavenly oasis, it was, nothing, except for a large manmade ocean, several islands and plenty of other things.

I swam around in the large lake. I didn’t do much, other than talk to my family, who were all with me, and to the other beings who occasionally came to check on us and stuff. So, this was my life.

I was eating some fish until I heard a distinctive whistle noise. *“Looks like we’re being called.”*

Well, my name is Fiji, and I am orca. Yes, you heard that right, and orca. It’s weird, but well, how do I explain this? Don’t know, I’ll just go over the events that led to this. As time passes. It’s not an instant thing.

I swam around to find my other family members gathered around a gate. “So, what is it this time?”

“Another medical checkup.” Spoke my father, Eureka, who was to the left side of the pod.

“Annual checkup?” Asked my younger sister, Latte.

“Yes.” Replied my father.

“Well, we might as well as get this over with.” I spoke, somewhat annoyed.

“You might as well,” spoke a voice from the other side. The doors opened, several figures, several times smaller than us were standing.

“Aye, just the age-old procedure you reckon?” Spoke the figure in white.

“Just shut it.”

“Aye, no need to be rude big girl.”

“Careful sir, they could be dangerous, you know what happened with the mother.” A figure in grey stepped up.

“I know what happened. You don’t need to be bugging me about it every time I check on these folks. If something happens, there are 20 trained operatives to respond, right?”

“I mean, your right, but be cautious. Better to avoid having to deal with the consequences I say.”

“Your too worried.”

“And your too careless.”

If I could roll my eyes, I would. But to well, better than staying in this pool all day. Well, I’ve heard in ancient times, our kin would be kept in facilities much, much, much smaller than this and were treated worse. I wonder if those tales are true.

“Anyways, who’s first? You know the drill guys, or… whales? Anyways… yeah, come on now, we don’t have all day.” Spoke the veterinarian.

“Fine, I’ll go first.” I spoke, pouting a little.

“Alright. Good gal. You know where to head to.”

“Yeah, yeah. Don’t rub it in.” I swam underneath the water, eventually reaching a special tunnel that would lead to the medical facility. You wonder how I am able to communicate with you humans, well, that’s a long, and eventually, tragic story.

Eventually, after swimming for a bit, I managed to reach the area or room. A couple of people (and some other beings I did not know the names of) were all waiting for me.

“Ok then. We are ready to start, right?”

“We’re all good.” Spoke the human in grey. Ready to go.”

“Great. Let’s get started, shall we…?”

This would be quick, or it usually was. It sometimes felt like it takes ages. As we progressed, my mind drifted off the story of how I am here, talking to someone I theoretically shouldn’t be able to be talking to.

Well, it’s speculation from my family and other the orcas with us. Supposedly, the tale goes like this, actually, I should give some context first.

The planet I live on is called Saliri. A dessert planet, not meant for us aquatic animals, who would die instantly in the heat of this planet. But humans colonized it, can build this giant ocean, the one me, my family, and the rest of us live in.

We “work” as performers. According to tales, it was an ancient tradition that humans would tame our kin (and countless other creatures). They would then use us (in particular) for entertainment.

I’m not sure how I feel about this. Does it make sense? Depends. We were able to understand them. Well, it makes sense, otherwise, we wouldn’t have been integrated into their culture.

Of course, the problem was ethics, treatment and such. We were treated horribly. And many of them didn’t care, but other did. Some were sympathetic to us, others feared for their own safety, I don’t know, but it was such a mess.

And it would be, till this day. Well, maybe earlier. I’m not sure.

This “industry” was considered controversial during these “barbaric” times. I’m not sure how they would come to want to tame us and such. It’s weird. I think it’s when they noticed our above average compared to some other animals.

And it makes sense. Father was able to understand humans before being, um, how do I say this…? “Modified.”

Well, the legend goes that one human, who’s name we don’t know, had, well, I’m not sure about our relatives, but he had other sea faring creatures in his possession. And he used them to open a venue of entertainment. The details are vague, but something along the lines.

Well, this industry would go on to grow, becoming popular amongst them. I’m not sure what I can say about our kin though. Did they like it? I feel like they didn’t.

Well, this industry remained stable, until the humans were forced to leave the planet. Not sure why. Something involving other beings not from earth. After they came back, the industry never restarted for some reason. That was, until they discovered this planet.

Then supposedly they (being a mysterious group of humans) saw an opportunity and then restarted this highly controversial industry. The difference was that new more ethical techniques and practices could be used given technological advancement.

This included the use of technology, new taming practices, telepathy (I forgot to mention that they also met more beings from different planets, right?), heck this entire ocean they built for us. It’s insane, and just thinking about it breaks my mind.

Well, let’s just say some time passed, then comes my father, and my… mother. They, and me and my family were all destined to be performers. Or we would be required to. Not sure what happens to those who were disobedient. I heard they were just released and placed into their own separate sections.

Well, both my mother and my father had trouble obeying their orders. Don’t know why, but they had trouble understanding them, which was weird. But they were chosen for something and were modified.

The humans gave them the ability to talk. And that resulted and me and my siblings were born with that ability also.

Then something happened. Involving my mother. For some reason, she was, well… obedient, as all of us are. But then for some reason, she supposed… “went mad.” …

“Hey.”

“And.”

“Hey!”

I then zoned it back into the real world. “Huh? What happened?”

“Nothing. I think you zoned out on me. Thinking about something?”

“Oh, er- no. Nothing at all.”

“Well, not sure what to say about that actually, it’s not a good thing or a bad thing? Let’s well, move on.”

“Alright.” I sighed.

“Well, time to see it the tag is up to date. Flipper out please?”

“Ugh.” I grunted. The tag, the worst bit. Me and my family are all required to wear one each, because they fear we’ll go rouge, and we’ll go on a madman rampage. Blah.

“Common, don’t be so ‘salty’ now. See what I did there? Cause you guys are saltwater animals.” The veterinarian chuckled to himself.

I just pouted. “Can I not wear this tag? It’s annoying and it itches.”

“Wish I could do that. But hey, protocol’s protocol. Or more like regulations.”

I snarled. I noticed that some of the guards were holding on their arms tightly.

If I could breathe fire (as some of the mythical creatures they believed in could), I would burn everyone and everything in this room.

Eventually, it would be over. Luckily. “May I leave now?”

“Well…” the veterinarian looked at his clip board, “Yes. We’re all good here. So yes, you may leave.”

“Thank you.” I said sarcastically as ever.

The vet just chucked to himself.

I then made my way back to the main waters, where the rest of my family was waiting for me.

“So, how’d it go?” Asked my father.

“Well, not great, not bad.” I spoke in a neutral manner. After that, my younger brother went. The procedure would be the same. It would take a couple of minutes.

I just floated there because well, it’s not like I can stand or sit, I’m an orca or goodness’s sake. I just looked on. All was quiet until until I broke the silence. “Hey guys.”

“Yeah?” Replied one of my brothers.

“Have you ever thought about, the ethics of this?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, we’re the only ones who can talk.”

“Yes, and you are saying that?”

“I mean, can’t we do something greater with this ability? I mean something greater than being kept up here all the time?”

“I know we can. They however won’t let us out you know. For what happened.”

“Yes, I know that they won’t let us out. And I know why. Boy, it feels like reality is always trying to remind me of the incident.”

“It’s not like that. I mean, could we get out? Maybe we can. Maybe we can’t… And what do you mean by ethical?”

“Well, it’s weird. Before us, none of our kind could’ve talked. I mean, we were and are able to understand them, but with this? Just feels like there’s something bigger, like they wouldn’t just give us the ability to speak, only to keep us trapped in here for the rest of our lives?”

“Well, that wasn’t their original intention. But yes, it feels odd.”

“Yeah.” By that time, my younger brother had come back, and someone else had went. Many minutes later, it was all over.

“Well, we’re all done, and it all seems good.” Spoke my father. Mother deceased, he is the leader of the pod.

Well, time had had passed, and it was nighttime. Everyone in my pod was asleep, except for me, because I couldn’t sleep.

I kept hearing noises from the other side of hills that separated our area from the main. Well, we have our area, along with main ocean. There are other areas similar to ours. Some of them, such s ours are separated by hills and walls, although there are special gates that can be opened, connecting all of the ocean areas.

I keep hearing music coming from the other side. It was nighttime, as I said, and the park didn’t operate this side during said hours, except during special occasions, but this wasn’t one of those occasions.

“What’s going on?” I asked myself. I was hearing shouting, cheering, and clapping. Now, luckily for us, there is a special area we can use to view the other sides. Well, several areas that are uncovered. They are above the water but teaching them ain’t hard. We can only look though, as they are too small for us to fit through.

I swam up to the hole, and using my left eye, peaked through. I saw many, many figures, and not just regular park staff, guards or even visitors. I saw a bunch of figures dressed in elaborate attire, performing what appeared to be complex maneuvers that required skill and precision.

Most of them were holding instruments, I think they were called? I saw that some held weapons. They all seemed to be making music.

“Now who are they?” I wondered. I got as close to the hole as I possibly could. All of the instruments they held were made of a shiny material, brass I think it was called. Many other people appeared to be dancing around them.

In the center I saw a human, a man in particular. He was dressed in attire much different from that of the others. He was holding a, a microphone I heard they were called, and he was singing into it.

He appeared fairly old, much older than the rest. He was somewhat shorter and looked more fragile.

Not too far behind him, I saw two large banners being held by people dressed in similar elaborate attire to their comrades. Four more people, all holding weapons, dressed in the same attire surrounded them.

“A special celebration of sorts?” Lots of thoughts were rolling through my head of what could’ve been occurring.

Being able to hear the music and singing, I thought I heard words such as “trooper, jump, engines, gory, hella, medic,” and many other words.

The only one speaking I realized was the old man. Apart from the music being made by the other humans, only he was making sound.

I decided to go wake the others, but I decided to stop myself, wanting to over serve more. I went back to the area with the hole and continued to peak. I saw that that they were still add it.

It was unlike anything I’ve experienced or heard and saw in all of my years. “I have to know what’s going on.”

The atmosphere sounds all cheery and happy, sounds like, their playing music about war? I’ve heard the tales about human conflict. It was brutal painful affair. But an honorable one at that.

I think of the little fights we would get into at times. Then I think of what a human would possibly go through. I like to not think about it. But I knew who to ask.

Luckily, we weren’t the only animals to have gotten the ability to speak. Just on the other side of the north hills was an enclosure that where several sea lions lived. Just as I made my way over, I thought I heard clapping and more cheering.

I went over to the enclosure and knocked on a piece of glass that was exposed. Soon enough, a seal made his way over. I recognized his voice as soon as he spoke.

“Yes Fiji? What could you possibly want at this hour? It’s late! Don’t you want to sleep?”

“Sorry Milo for disturbing you but, don’t you hear that?” Marlo was a somewhat serious animal. He was perhaps on the grumpier side of the spectrum, but he sure did know quite a lot, since he spent more time with humans.

“Hear what?”

“The music!”

“The music? Oh, the tune. Yes, I hear it, what about it?”

“Can’t you tell it’s different? Diffident from what we usually hear?”

For several seconds, Milo focused on hearing the tunes that came from the other side.

“Come to think of it, you are right. It sounds more… classy. Not like the usually more upbeat or more hyper tunes that we are accustomed to.”

“Yes! And I need to know more. What do you think is going on? I’m sure you perhaps have more information?”

“Well, I do.”

“Well, can you spill it for me?”

“Sure, just promise to be less annoying from now on. You know I am always having to deal with Marky, and I won’t a second him to have to be around.”

“What? I’m not that annoying!”

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I’m not!

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I’m not!”

“I think you are.”

“Of course not, how can I be that annoying?”

Milo just squinted.

“Come on, it’s not my fault that these things happen to us!”

“Yeah, I’ll give you that.” He grumbled.

“Can you talk now?”

“Fine. Well, where do I start… Ok then, we’ll, you know about humans and how militarized they are, right?”

“Right. I know that.”

“Well, they’ve got… a lot.”

“What do you mean, ‘a lot’?”

“Well, if you were to see the true size of their, civilization, it would be incomprehensible to us.”

“How so?”

“Because they have millions of years of experience. We don’t. They have developed sentience far earlier than us. It’s not widely understood how, even to this day, but a big theory is that they heated their food.”

“That!?”

“Yup. But anyways, they’ve grown so large, it’s impossible to describe it. I mean, while we did have forms of communication, forms of communication that even they considered more advanced compared to other animals, it was them who gave us the ability to speak and truly understand their languages. Weird because according to legends, they’ve been looking for a way to communicate with us for centuries.”

“Really?”

“Yes. It’s astonishing. But anyways, simply focusing on the smaller picture for now, that is one of their military bands. They have this entity called the ‘United Alliance’ I remember it being called that is composed of not just them, but other species that are also capable of thinking complex thoughts and feeling complex emotions. Capable of making written and spoken language. Along with so much more.”

He then looked down for a second before continuing, “But basically, their not just creatures who talk. They enjoy entertainment which, well, is, let’s just say, ‘touchy,’ if you know what I mean, especially amongst themselves. But they have bands, which make music and song, using musicians who play instruments and singers who sing. And that there, is a military band.”

“So, their celebrating something?”

“Yes. I assume.”

“But what could it be?” Suddenly, we both turned our heads as we heard a door open.

We both stared in silence as a figure made their way into the area, walking across the pathway located on land.

“I’m gonna go underwater.”

“Ok then. I’ll be here if you need me.”

I proceeded to swiftly swim under the water. I then poked my head out to see. Well, our area of ocean was separated by hills as I sealed earlier, well there was a gate that meant for use by humans and other beings. This door was located somewhat above the water. There was a pathway that was dug into the hills. This pathway was extended via a catwalk.

Being the “dangerous” animals, we were supposed to be, they sure had spectacular security for us; the only guard stationed in our area was asleep on a chair, cap covering his eyes and his rifle standing a couple of feet from, him.

The human was slowly making his way above the path. “Another Guard? Doesn’t look like it.”

I decided to use my echo location to find out more. I’ve heard that other animals, such as bats would use it in caves, so I assumed we too could use it above the water. I released a call, to which the figure jolted.

“Hmm, what was that?” He spoke. “This doesn’t look like the area that leads to the bathroom. Only if I made my glasses.”

I witnessed him continuing to sluggishly walk. He appeared to have a cane, and was dressed in black attire, although he had 5 thick yellow, chevrons I think they were called, o n his right sleeve. He appeared to be short.

Wait… “Is that the old man from earlier.”

“Hey.” I called out to him. Somehow, the single guard was sleep through both my call and me calling out. Impressive.

“What was that. Hello? Someone there? Whoever you are, come out know.”

“Hey, you are in the wrong area if your looking for the bathroom. Don’t think you should be here!”

“What was that. Hang on, let me see if I can get my glasses.”

He fiddled with a small object in his hands, before dropping it, a splash being heard.

“God dang it. Where did they go?”

I quickly swam to retrieve the spectacles. Of course, how I would return them to the man, that was a question. As I came back up, I saw him walking towards… the edge.

“Oh!” I knew I had to do something. Call out? But no, I don’t want to cause a disturbance, especially given our status. Or maybe a small call. That wouldn’t hurt, right?” I let out a quiet call, not too quiet, but not too loud.

The guard was still asleep.

“Oi! Animal. An animal? Only if I haven’t lost my spectacles!” He continued to walk.

I panicked. I quickly swam over to where Milo was.

“Psst, Milo.”

“Yes?”

“What should I do? He’s walking to the edge, and he could fall.”

“Don’t know, best thing I can say is that you swim near the area he is at. If he falls, you catch him.”

“Alrighty, thanks.”

I then made my way under the water again. I swam, poking my head every now and then to see where the man was.

“Argh, bathroom must be, down this turn!” He squinted. But then, he took a step down the wrong path. “Wait, oh my- AHHH!”

I quickly swam over as fast as I could. Suddenly, I heard a loud “SPLASH” I swam even faster.

“Argh, what is this!? Water?” He was able to stay afloat, but I wondered how long he could remain like that before he finally drowned.

I stand underneath him, careful to avoid making noise.

“Argh, need to get out of here, but I don’t see a staircase or ladder. What kind of pool is this? Remain calm mate. Someone will notice that you’ve gone missing.”

Meanwhile, the band outside was busy playing music as everyone danced along.

I continued to swim underneath, circling him. I wasn’t sure if I should wake my siblings or not. In the end, I decided to pick him up.

I continued circling for a couple of more minutes. Still, no one came and the Guard was still fast asleep.

“Hey! Someone gets me out of this pool!”

I then went underneath him and then slowly came up.

“Hey, what the!? What are!? What is!?”

“Hey, no need to be um, rowdy?”

“Wait, um, dang, if only I could see. Still have no idea where my glasses went.”

“Oh, your glasses, right. Here” I handed him the glasses, which I kept close with me.” Luckily, they wouldn’t sink, so I just had to push them.

“Umm thanks?” He dried them off before putting them back on. “Wait, black, white…” he stopped for a moment. “Is that a… hole? Wait, are you a… WHALE!?”

“Dolphin, but you call us whales.”

“Am I dreaming or something? Or is it my old age getting to me. I think I need my meds.”

“No, its none of that. This is real.”

“How!?”

“It’s kind of complicated.”

“So, what is this area?”

“Well, it definitely isn’t a pool. Or it is and it isn’t.”

“And- oh my goodness, where the hell is my cane? Musta’ve dropped it when, when I fell off. Without I can’t walk. Great.”

“Hang on, let me fetch it for you.” I took a close look. After looking for a couple of seconds, I spotted it, before swimming over. “You should be able to pick it up.”

“Um, thanks? So… you live here?”

“As if it couldn’t be any more obvious.”

“What do you do here?”

“Nothing?”

“Yup. Because we’re supposedly ‘dangerous, threatening and rouge.’ Yeah right.”

“But why are you seen that way.”

“Incident with my mother…”

“What, what happened?”

“Something I’d rather not talk about.”

“Well, that ain’t right. This is injustice! Something that needs to be fixed. It’s like the universe’s ethical and philosophical standards all of a suddenly reversed. This would have been acceptable in my day.”

“Wait… Wasn’t that door locked?”

“No, it wasn’t.”

“Was it labeled.”

“Nope. Or it did, there was bathroom sign next to it.”

“Really gives you an idea about the parks security.”

Suddenly, the door opened as another guard, a higher-ranking member came through. “Hey, I think… Oh my, he’s in here!” He then walked up to the other guard, “Able Seaman Darry!”

The sleeping gaurd then woke up with a “Huh. What… oh my. Yes, Chief Petty Officer Harry?”

“What are you doing!? You should be awake! Look at who’s in the pool!”

He then turned “Oh crap! I am so sorry! I must’ve fallen asleep because I was very tired and, wait, the guy who’s on the night shift never came!”

“Well, that’s no excuse for not doing your job! Either way, no time for arguing, we must get him out before he drowns!”

“Actually, I’m fine!” He called up.

“Nonsense, your about to drown!”

“Actually… he started.”

I then revealed myself.

“AHH! He’s with the killer whale! And I mean that in a literal sense! Hurry, get more guards here, before something bad happens!”

“Hang on a minute!” The man shouted. I’m good! What do you mean “killer?” I mean, other than the incorrect classification, she ain’t doing no harm.

He then proceeded to stroke me on my head, which felt calming.

“Actually, she saved me, helped me get my cane and helped my get my glasses.”

“Really?” Asked the second security guard, eyes wide with disbelief.

“Yeah! I’m not sure what these superstitions are. But it’s as if the universe has gone coo coo in ethics. This would’ve been unacceptable when during my prime years.”

“Your being nonsensical.”

“No, your being nonsensical. How come she hasn’t attacked anyone?”

“Because of safety protocol. Why do you think we keep her and her mates isolated?”

“Has she ever displayed any sign of aggression?”

“…”

“Exactly.”

“Well. Um, Err. Just come on out.”

“Finely, I’ll come out. Well, you’ll have to get me out of there that is.”

This was, very weird to say the least. No one had ever done this before. At least not for us. Stand up for us, I’d never thought I’d ever see someone do it. But he’s done it. I’m not sure why. I’ll have to ask, if I can.

Eventually several other guards came to get the man out.

“You know. This isn’t right. It needs to be fixed.” Spoke the man as he was lifted unceremoniously out of the water. “Looks like I’ll need a change of clothes as well.” They left.

“I need to ask…” I swam underneath the water again. I decided to speak to Milo once again. For some reason, the single gaurd who was still in charge of guarding this area went back to sleep. At least they locked the door.

I then gently tapped on the glass. “Psst, Milo, you there?”

A couple of seconds passed before he poked his head out, “Yes, I’m here.”

“Great, because I need to ask you.”

“Yes?”

“Who is that guy?”

“Well, I think I know who he his. He is the, “Man Frozen in Time.”

“Frozen in time!?”

“Correct.”

“What do you mean by frozen in time?” I spoke eyes wide.

“Well, according to legend, from what I’ve heard, he is from another era. An era long before this moon was colonized. Well before we existed.”

“What!?”

“Yeah, I know your in disbelief.” He then stroked his whiskers for a moment before continuing on, “Well, let’s just say that several centuries ago, in the year 2430, the humans were still exiled from earth. Right?”

“Right?”

“Well, during this time, there was no United Alliance or all of these colonies and things. But humans were still faring in space. Their army during this time was known as the ‘Star Corps’ from what I can tell. It was a more rudimentary army, still using less sophisticated weapons, like the ones we see the guards using, although more advanced.”

“Well, his name, I heard is Owen F Williams. Don’t know what the F stands for, but it’s part of his name. He was supposedly a Master Corporal in this Star Corps. Well, at some point. He was part of an experiment in which his body was frozen to preserve it. He was basically in stasis.”

“Well, the facility was abandoned due to an attack. It is not known what Hallen to the other tubes continuing the other bodies, but some of them were found to have been destroyed. Well, he was stuck in that tube for over 200 years. And only recently has it been rediscovered.”

“Wait, so he is from over 200 years ago and he is over 200 years old?”

“Yes. He comes from a more rudimentary version of this civilization. A time when things were much different. From when humanity was still shaken.”

“That is some damning knowledge.”

“It is.”

“Wait, so what does he do?”

“I think he’s retired from combat. But he is still part of the U. A’s army, with the Science Health and Research Corps that is.”

“What is that?”

“Their division for exploration and research essentially.”

“But what does he do in the army?”

“He works as a singer from want I can tell.”

II
--

“That’s his job?”

“Pretty much.”

By now, morning had arrived. But something felt different. The atmosphere feels different for some reason.

“Do you feel that?”

“Feel what?”

“I’m not sure. The atmosphere feels different than usual.”

“How so?”

“Well, we got this ‘military band.’ Now…” I took a glance at the sky, it was basically morning. “How many hours did we spend with that whole ordeal?”

“Not sure, 5?”

“That many!?”

“I guess so.”

“Hang on, I’ll be right back.” I went to go find the guard, who was probably awake. When I looked at the spot he was usually in, he wasn’t there. “What? Where is he? I can’t spot him anywhere…”

I then swam back to where Milo was. “Hey… do you know where the guard went?”

“No. Why do you ask?”

“I ask because he isn’t there.” I pointed to where he usually was.

“Maybe another change of stations.”

“Change of stations?”

“Where different operatives change. A shift change. Not like one can be there forever you know.”

“Great.”

“Well… uh oh!”

“What is it?”

“Looks like we’re being called. Gotta go! See you around.”

“Later!” I replied as he left. I swam back to the center of the lake, because that’s basically what it was. I decided to eat something because well, I haven’t eaten anything in a bit. I spotted a fish that was swimming not to far from me. I managed to catch it and eat it.

“Hey!”

I jumped at the voice. Oh, it was my younger brother. “Hey, don’t scare me like that!”

“Oh sorry, didn’t think you’ll get spooked.”

“Well, it’s alright. Not like you meant to anyways.”

“Yeah, just thought I’d say high.”

“Well maybe.”

“Maybe what?”

“Have you realized that there is no gaurd here?”

“There isn’t? I never realized.” I was going to say something else, until I heard something. “Wait…”

“What are you doing?”

“Hang on a minute. I’ll be right back.” I swam up the to the little viewing spot I normally used. “Is that music?” I got closer, “But a different type of music. Not like the cheerful music from last night.”

“What’s happening Fi?” Continued my little brother.

“Well Starry, I’m hearing, music.”

“Music? There’s always music! What’s so special about this time?”

“Yeah but… I hear a lot of singing, and a stringed instrument, a guitar I think it was.” I peeked through through the hole, and what I saw astonished me. I saw hundreds of humans, all of them wearing the standard uniforms. The uniforms of the O.C.D.

All of them were wielding signs and banners and flags and all of it. They all had their first raised in the air and oh my, it’s one sight. “What in the world is happening?”

“Hey Star…”

“Yes?”

“I figured out why there are no guards.”

“Why?”

“They’re all rallying.”

“For what?”

“I don’t know. But it isn’t normal. I don’t hear any of the normal sounds that one hears when the park operates as it should. No music, splashing, clapping, commands or anything!”

“Oh. Wait…” I quickly swam over to the area Milo was. I tapped on the tank, anxious to see if he would come, surprisingly, he came, and Marky was with him. “Hey guys, I didn’t think I would see you! That was fast.”

“It sure was.” Replied Marky. “For some reasons, our ‘sessions’ aren’t being held today.

Weird, even Marky wasn’t being his usual goofy self, as if he knew something was off.

“Yeah, it’s weird.” Added Milo.

“Ok then, but what is happening? Why could this be?”

“Wait, be quiet for a second.” Star spoke.

We all stood quiet for a second, listening to what was being said or plaid. *Solidarity Forever, Unions, Toil, Work…*

“You hear that?”

“Yes.”

“What’s going on?”

“I think…” Milo started. “I think they’re protesting.”

“For what?”

“Pay and Rights.”

“Wait, so how does that affect park operations?”

“Well, the park relies on them for ‘animal control’ and maritime safety. Without them, the park can’t operate. Not if it wants to its safety credentials.”

Suddenly we heard the door open. We all turned our heads. Owen came through, along with several trainers and military band members.

“Well, would you look at that?” Spoke Owen as he made his way through.

After several others entered, the final person to enter the door closed it and locked it.

“What, what is going on out there?”

“Well…” Spoke Owen, “Let’s just say things have gotten a little ‘rowdy’ out there.”

Owen was in different clothes from last time. Most of the trainers were in their usual performance attire, and the band members were in less elaborate attire than what they wore last night.

The band members wielded instruments. I saw a light drummer, heavy drummer, a tuba player, two trumpeters, three buglers, a clarinetist and two flutists, one guy wielding cymbals and one wielding a mace and wearing a tall fur hat.

“Wait, so what do you mean by, ‘rowdy?’”

“Well, they’re getting a little crazy. Not violent, but let’s just say that they’re… how to put it… ‘making a mess’ if you could put it that way.”

“Wait, so how long until this blows over?” Asked a trainer.

“Don’t know. We might be stuck in here for a good amount of time.” Spoke a band member.

“So… what to do?”

“Don’t know, do any of us here have a way to communicate out?”

“No.”

“Wait, but what about park authorities?” I asked, “Surely they would do something.”

“Well, I’m not sure if you know…” Replied a trainer of a different species, “But the O.C.D are not under park administration?”

“What?” Starry spoke. “They’re not part of the park?”

“Yeah. Their only hired by the park. The O.C.D is managed under its own company. One could call them a private security force for hire or a mercenary group, though that’s not their nature.”

“Damn!” Starry spoke with concern.

“Wait, so no one here has a way to communicate out?” Owen asked.

Everyone then turned to each other, before turning back, dead silent.

“…”

“Wow.” We all turned.

“How long have you guys been awake?”

“Long enough.” Spoke my father.

“But can’t the park authorities do anything?” Starry spoke.”

“No…” Spoke a male trainer. “Unfortunately, well yes unfortunately, just an odd way to start the sentence, but, ahem, I’ve heard they have surrounded corporate headquarters. All the elevators and doors have been locked shut.”

“But can’t anyone communicate to authorities outside of the planet?”

“No. For unknown reasons, all of the communications channels have shut off. Mysterious.”

“So we’re stuck here. Awesome.”

“Hmm…” I signaled for the rest of my pod to follow me underwater, to which they have agreed. Soon enough, we were beneath the waves.

“So… you called us to go underwater?” My father asked.”

“Yes…”

“How come?”

“Well, we’re stick in here, right?”

“Yeah, spoke one of my older sisters.”

“But are we though?”

“All of pod mates looked at me.”

“I mean, are we really? Isn’t there another way out?”

“But what way is that?” Spoke my father.

“Those tunnels, like the ones used every time we have a checkup. Those connect our area with other surrounding areas.”

“Ok. In that case, how are we supposed to own those gates?”

“Yeah, it’s not like we can access them, and they are guarded.”

“But aren’t the guards on strike.”

“The O.C.D Guards are. But the park maintains it’s own security forces for office areas.”

We all turned. At the sight of a familiar, yet uncommon voice.

“Milo!?” We all shouted.

“Yes, I’m here.”

“How’d you’d get over the wall?”

“Well, I found a shortcut. And it’s not just me.”

Then other sea lions revealed themselves.

We all started in awe.

“When?”

“A couple of minutes just after you dived. It was a team effort.” Spoke Milo.

“What could they possibly be doing down there?” Asked Owen.

“Don’t know.” Spoke a trainer. “Could be anything!”

“Anyways, let’s play some music to settle the mood.” Spoke the drum major.

“Sure.” Went some of the band members.

“Not sure if that’s a good idea.”

“One, two three.” Then the band began playing a music, sounded like they were playing a tune known as “You’re a Grand Old Flag.”

We all stared above. “Not sure if that’s a good idea I said.”

“So, you were saying?”

“The park has its own security decision for office and non-animal facility related functions. Not only that, but we’d have to open the door from the other side.”

“Oof.”

“It’s possible.”

“But how. Who on knows what could happen out there?”

“We’ll, we won’t know until we try.”

“I do have an idea.” Starry spoke.

All eyes turned to him.

“What if we get someone to jump enclosures?”

“Jump enclosures?” Marky asked.

“Yeah! I meant, if Milo and the other seals were able to do it, I don’t see while a human or humanoid wouldn’t be able to!”

“Hmm, that is a good plan actually.” Father spoke.

Meanwhile up above, “So, someone go check on the animals.”

“Who though?”

Owen spoke in a somewhat flabbergasted manner, “Really? We have a bunch of aquatic animal trainers. Who else?”

“Right. Sorry.”

“Who shall go?”

“I’ll go,” called out a female trainer, Hatarra Saluki. From the race of aquatic humanoids known as Sentrians. The same race as the famous alliance diplomat Satrap Arrieno.

Sentrians are built with for the water: with a tusk that ends in fins, rubbery scales, webbed hands and feet, gills along their necks, whiskers and barbels under their snouts (their head is reptilian shaped) head frills, they were more than adapted for water.

Some of them were able to use echo location. It was an uncommon ability amongst them, but here was one. Some of them (her included) could learn to communicate with the animals in their own language.

“So, you're willing to go?”

“Yes. I mean, I’m not sure why we’re acting like this is some horror movie or something.”

Everyone turned to each other for a moment.

“I mean, she isn’t wrong.” The band’s drum major spoke. Sergeant Major Arfield Gustav. A fine fellow he is. He is one of the more balanced people when it comes to seriousness and fun.

“Well, I’ma head down now I suppose.”

“Alrighty.” Owen spoke.

Minutes later, she was underneath the waves.

“So. That’s the plan?” My father spoke.

I jerked as I felt a sudden tap on my backside. A female trainer came down.

“So, what are you guys up to?” She spoke.

“Planning.”

“About what?”

“About getting out of here.”

“Alrighty, mind if you come share? The others are wondering what you guys are up to.”

“Sure, tell them we’re coming.”

“All righty.” Soon enough, she was gone.

I then gestured for the others to come up.

“So, you were planning something?” Owen asked.

“Yup!” Starry cheerfully exclaimed.

“Well, what is it?”

“Well, basically, the idea we have is that we can escape under the water tunnels, but someone would need to open the doors.”

“And how do you suggest we do that?”

“We thought about having one of you guys jumping over the enclosure.”

“What?” Is that even possible?” Sergeant Major asked.

“Yes.” Spoke Milo, with the other sea lions revealing themselves.

“How’d you guys get in here?”

“It’s not that hard. Just requires a little team effort.” Replied Marky, pointing to the area they jumped.

“Well. I guess so.”

“So, what’s it like on the other side?”

“Well, lots of ice, and water that’s for sure.”

“Hmm… so, who will go?”

“Don’t know, are there any guards on the other side?”

“Doubt it.” Replied Sergeant Major.

“Yeah. Seems like their all at the main square and around corporate headquarters.”

“Well in that case, let’s assemble a team!”

“Sure thing. Who should be on it?”

After several minutes of chatting and debating, it was decided: Hatarra, Gustave, Owen and another of the band members, Private First Class Teka Taliri, who has a bugle and another of the trainers, Niko Enfold.

“Alrighty then. So this is who’s going?” Asked my father.

“Petty much.”

“Well, alrighty,”

“Wish you luck!” Starry exclaimed.

“Be safe, hope you make it.” In all my years of being here, doing nothing, I’d never thought this would ever happen. Well, it’s now time to wait.

Ah, the United Pioneer Corps. An organization dedicated to helping minors connect with nature, learn a variety of useful skills, learn various values and morales and helping each other socialize. It’s the typical scouting organization, but on the galactic level.

Cynthia loved it. She was of a bug like race, one that the alliance had encountered before. But like eyes, trap jaws, a black exoskeleton, dragon fly like wings, antenna, sure, she looked like one of the most unsettling things, but she was a friendly fellow.

Before joining, she was a shy and quiet girl who spent most of her time at home. Recently, at a certain point, the organization had decided to establish a camp there. Well, she was enrolled in by her parents, with the intent on having her be more active, socialize more.

The corps valued diversity amongst their ranks, which led to her meeting so many friends of all races, with varying features and magnificent abilities.

Eventually, she, by her choice, she moved to an off-world camp, located well, on another world. She has been there since. Troop 5065. Her brothers and sisters, in spirit. They were some of the most accepting and friendly beings she’s possibly met.

Life in the crops was without doubt, not perfect, but it’s helped her develop a sense of belonging, along with helping develop her personality.

Well, today is meant to be a fun day, or month. Or it was meant to be. For their good behavior and excellent performance, their troop (and other selected troops) were rewarded by a vacation, everything paid for by the organization.

Well, now they’re in a pickle. No transport to get off, communications outage, riot potentially turning protest, yeah. One big pickle.

“Well… day 13, still stuck here.” She spoke.

“Of course. Who knew this would’ve happened?” Spoke another member of their troop. Taliran. A naga. Supposedly mythical creatures in ancient human mythology, they were real. “Seriously, who would’ve expected an armed paramilitary group to protest? I wouldn’t be surprised if this turns into a riot.”

“Come on, be a little more positive.” Spoke Cassidy. A fuzzy little thing, she was as adorable and as sweet as she appeared.

“How? First, the whole big near fight, now this?”

“Are you seriously still mad over that?” That was Jara. From a very hairy race, she was perhaps the most egotistical of the group.

“Well, I don’t blame him.” Fílozy. The “tough” member of the troop. Mess with his buddies, he’ll leave you a nice message. “I mean, I didn’t expect him to hold that grudge this long, but yeah, I get it. Somewhat.”

“Well, we should focus on current events.”

“Yeah, we can deal with the old with last events later.”

“Alright, alright.” The said, turning to face the rest of the troop.

All of them were dressed in the standard corps uniform: A khaki shirt with pockets, darker brown trousers, a belt with brass buckle, brown patent leather shoes, white knee length socks, and a white shirt worn underneath the uniform shirt.

Shirts and skirts were also issued as an alternative to the regular trousers. All members wore sashes that had badges on them. Sashes came in olivine or tan. Neckerchiefs were standard issue on the uniform as well for all genders.

The troop leader wore a campaign hat, a tie or neck tab and/or a Sam Browne Belt. Unlike the scouts, who had their rank insignia displayed on their collar pips, the troop leader wore, shoulder boards.

“Well, what should we do. Should we check on the conditions outside?”

“I think we should, but we ought to be as cautious as possible. No one knows what could happen.”

They all then turned as the dormitory/hotel door opened. “Well scouts. It looks quiet tense out there.” The troop leader entered. A female with matte black skin and long waist length neon teal hair, she sure was stunning. Her eyes were also a nice teal.

She wore a decent amount of makeup. Of course, such things weren’t usually allowed by corps dress regulations. Well lipstick was, although not blush, eye shadow or heavy amounts of eye liner.

Of course, there was an exception to dress regulations (and most regulations). That exception was if it was a cultural thing. In that scenario, it was advised to keep it as “relatable” as possible.

In Sashimi’s culture, it’s standard for females to wear makeup, usually as a sign of achievements and family/clan background.

She usually wore makeup that was various shades of light earthy browns to stick to the theme. She also wore corresponding jewelry (when it came to jewelry, certain things weren’t allowed, but other things were).

“For now.” Responded Taliran. “I bet that in a couple of hours, they’ll probably break out into war.”

“Ok, let’s try to keep this non grim, alright?” Asked the troop leader.

“Yeah, she’s right. Bringing about dark thoughts won’t help resolve this situation.” Cynthia added in.

“Well, how are we going to resolve this? We’re just a bunch of kids wearing uniforms out in nature. Not much power there.”

“Awe come on. Don’t speak like that. That’s the entire, well one of the main reasons the corps exist in the first place. To help us succeed in the future. I mean, ‘Forging the Pioneers of Tomorrow.’ It’s the literal motto.”

“Maybe…”

“It’s the grudge I tell you. Troop 2445 is definitely gotten to him. Yeah, they may be our rivals but remember that the leaders don’t want such rivalries amongst the groups. I mean, this is why.”

“Your right. I need to calm down. I need to go wash off.” The snake humanoid then slithered off to the bathroom to rinse his face.

“So, what’s the plan?” Asked Sashimi.

“Check on the animals? Check out the park’s headquarters? Or the headquarters of the company that owns the park.”

“I suggest not.” Started Cassidy. “I heard that major things are going down at the park company’s headquarters. Things involving the protest. And, how to get in the park? I’m sure it’s closed.”

“Maybe… but maybe not.” Cynthia began. “I’ve heard that a human named ‘Owen’ who is famous for being frozen in time, accidentally stumbled inside an enclosure. Only one Guard was station there, and he was a heavy sleeper. And the door was unlocked, with a bathroom sign with the directions covered up.”

“Damn. Now we know why they’re protesting.” Fílozy spoke, making his mark on the conversation.

“Well… Hmm… I assume that the main path from the hotel to the park is part of the activity. But maybe there is a way, like an underground passage to enter?”

“There is.” Spoke a voice. “And I can get the necessary details for it.” Jaramer. The so called “tech expert.” The corps may be about teaching minors to live in simpler times, but they didn’t want to vilify technology or technological progress.

A furry quadruped creature. From a glance, he resembled any non-sentient earth animal. It was weird, he had a build similar to that of a reptile. A Komodo dragon or a lizard, but he was covered with fur, and had a much taller, and a much slenderer neck.

Of course, with the way he was built, he couldn’t wear the standard uniform, although he did wear the neckerchief, along with a brown leather collar that contained two smaller versions of the standard rank pips.

He also wore a brown band on his tail, and a leather backpack on his, well, back. He also wore several saddle bags (because that’s what they were basically) on his sides.

He flicked is tongue several times before speaking again, “Getting access to those tunnels shouldn’t be too hard.”

“Ok then, if that’s the case, how to de get to those tunnels.” Cynthia asked.

“Well, first of all, it’s pretty obvious. We have to take the elevators down to the lower sub levels. I assume this building has sub levels for maintenance and security purposes.”

“Ok then. So, we just go to the elevators, and get down?”

“No. The civilian elevators don’t have access to those subfloors, but there are no doubt employee elevators that can.”

“I assume we there are no doubt entrances to find those elevators.”

“Yes. But we have to deal with security.”

“No problem.” Taliran reappeared.

“Your not going to poison anyone the troop leader spoke.

“You forgot that I don’t have to poison them, right? I can paralyze them temporarily. Taliran had fangs with venom, but the special thing was that he had different “settings,” ranging from “less lethal to more lethal.”

“Right.”

“Well, we going to do this?”

“I guess so.”

They all then headed out. Knowing what was to come. They made sure to avoid any areas with security cameras. They all made their way through the hallways, careful not to attract unwanted attention.

They all then saw the nearest backdoor and headed towards it. Soon, they were in. “Ok then, now to find those elevators. But then, they all froze as a security guard made his way down the hallway.

“Everyone, hide!” The troop leader whispered.

Soon enough, the guard came. But once he arrived. He did not move.

“Goddamn it! What now?” Whispered Cynthia.

“Don’t know.” Cassidy spoke.

“You know what, I’m going for it.”

“Wait what?”

“Don’t worry, I know what I’m doing.”

“Wait!”

But it was too late. She was out. She then walked, her footsteps noticeable.

“Hey!” Called out the guard, what are you doing back here. You’re not supposed to be back here!” The guard called.

Cynthia froze, praying in her head.

“You're coming with me lady. Think you can snoop back here? Once your superiors find out about this… you’re done for.”

But then suddenly, before he could react, or before he could even noticed, slithered behind him, the guard turned and he was about to release a scream, but it was too late, and in an instant,  Taliran bit him, injecting some of his venom into his body. He but the guard away from any major blood vessels. He also made sure to only paralyze him. He would wake up soon.

“Oh, my goodness. Never done that before. And it feels somewhat weird.” The naga rubbed his fangs.

“Wish you didn’t have to do that.”

“Wish I didn’t have too either. Well, yes and no. Well, not in this situation.”

“Well…” Sashimi spoke, “If we were to be caught by security, let’s just say a lot of things could go down. I think it’s best we get a move on. We can describe the ethics of this later.”

“She’s right. Better not waste time.”

They spent a couple of minutes walking. They eventually found a door. They all stopped.

Cynthia went to go check it out. “Looks like there’s a keycard reader.” She went back to the main group. “There’s a keycard reader.” They all then turned to Jaramer.

“Alright. Alright. Let me deal with this… Wait… didn’t that guard have a key on him?”

“You’re right. I can believe we didn’t think of that!”

Cynthia went back to the guard to retrieve his key card. “Ah, here we go.” She then walked back.

“Well, now, to open this door.”

“Wait!” Jaramer spoke.

“Yeah?” Sashimi asked.

“We don’t know what’s on the other side.”

“You’re right. Again!”

They all then turned to each other.

“What then?”

“Anyone up for a James Bond style adventure?” Fílozy asked.

“What do you mean?”

He then pointed to the wall. “There’s a vent. If we could climb through. We could see form up atop.”

“Good idea, but who should go?”

“The two who are best suited for the job of course!” They all then turned to Jaramer and Cassidy.

“Oh great…” Jaramer murmured.

“Wait, us?” Cassidy spoke, hint of excitement in her voice. It wasn’t often she got the opportunity to do this.

“Of course! You both are the right size for those vents! You won’t struggle in there at all!”

“Make sense.”

“Oh no…” Jaramer murmured to himself.

“So, how do we open the vents?”

“Well, we have to unscrew the screws and get the cover off.”

“Well, that’s a no brainer.”

“Ok then, any of us have a screw?”

“Yeah.” Spoke Taliran. He looked into his has satchel and pulled out a set. “So… what do we need?”

Sashimi inspected the vent cover. She took a close look at the screw type, “Those appear to be Torx screws.”

“Got it.” He pulled out the appropriate screwdriver. “Let’s see if this works.”

Fílozy grabbed the screw driver and unscrewed all of the screw one by one. “Ok, now to… oh my! Damn! This is heavier than I expected. I need some help over here!”

Jara came to assist. She had been relatively quiet this whole time.

Together both of them lifted and moved the vent cover over to the far side, where it wouldn’t be in the way of anyone else.

Well, in an instant, both Cassidy and Jaramer were in the vents.

“Oh…” Jaramer spoke,

“What is it?”

“I’m not the best with heights.”

“What?”

“I-I’m not best with heights.” He only ever so slightly whimpered.

“Oh, I didn’t know. Actually, none of us knew.”

“Yeah…”

A couple of minutes passed. The only sounds heard were the metallic tapping of of their feet. The vents grew somewhat dim, although Jaramer had excellent night vision. Cassidy has decent night vision, but it could be better.

The sounds echoed through the vents, although all was mostly quiet. Eventually, they came across an area where the vent went upwards. Jaramer could climb up vertical surfaces, but, Cassidy, couldn’t.

“Right, grab onto my back.”