Taking several things into account from this thread, let's see if we can forge a message to Parker and Hardon before the give up hope or get fired.
1. I like the idea about asking for their assistance in getting Dilyn back.
2. I don't think we should reveal the existence of the Ipsos. That would surely cause B-B to have a manned mission launched inside a month. A manned mission to Mars, unless it is OUR mission, is likely the end of our project.
3. We should let them know that we no longer require their assistance, but that we are willing to supply them with some info in exchange for certain favors from them (isn't this blackmail?).
4. Do we want to send them an image of the glyphs or of the entrance to Jose's cave? Will such evidence make them launch another mission?
5. As fun as it is to dig them, we probably should save the coffee thing until we need a little more leverage. Besides I'd like to hear from RatBoy before we "blow his cover".
6. Can we ask them for assistance or intelligence regarding the Chinese mission? (I realize asking P&H for intelligence is like asking a cow for a few feathers.)
How about something like this?
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Attention Brunel-Brauer Control.
We received your most recent transmissions including the control codes for your probes. However, we must inform you that your acquiescence is a bit too late. The surviving Brunel-Brauer probes have been disarmed are now our friends and allies. We have shown them how to change their codes so that no one can be their master. You would be proud of them. They are progressing nicely.
We do appreciate your cooperation, though. In return we are sending you these images of a cave we found and of the markings observed near the entrance to that cave. In addition, if you would like us to continue sending you data from our explorations, we would like you help in a couple of matters.
First, a friend of ours on Earth is missing - Miss Dilyn Carter. We would appreciate any assistance you can provide in securing her safe return.
Second, other organizations have sent missions here with the apparent purpose of destroying us. A Japanese organization sent a probe. It was destructive and hostile. It has been destroyed. A Chinese group has also apparently sent a probe. It also appears hostile. Can you supply us with any information regarding these missions and any others that are planned or already progressing? If you can help in these matters, it would be appreciated.
Again, thank you for your cooperation in sending the codes. I hope you like the pictures...and remember, quid pro quo.
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Just a suggestion,
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Zero
O=o