Xanthos sent a part of something I proposed for discussion between the MARSupials. I am not certain he understood where I was trying to go with it and he did not include the rest of my statement. Here it is:

> There is also another option. The Theta Unit is still in the
> trap tunnel. You could free it and allow it to challenge the
> Destructor based upon its programming. Since we all
> know it has not changed its orientation, its actions are
> reasonably predictable. It is not likely to be so easily
> trapped again, but we also don't know if a single probe
> can stand up to the Destructor. They may damage each
> other enough that neither will remain a threat to you,
> although I suspect Theta will take the greater
> punishment in a one-on-one contest.
>
> Perhaps there is now a need to integrate all three of them
> into your team. You must give them what we call a 'crash
> course' in being a sentient Probe and all that requires. A
> team of three attackers stands a better chance than one
> or two.

The proposed statement was an extension of my last transmission to Andrew.

I did not send it out because I have reservations about using Theta (let's call him Theo) as a pawn. I find myself agreeing with Taz when he says we should treat all probes the same. Either you have the right to self determination or you are pawns and all the work we have done together was for nothing. I do not believe any of it was for nothing. That leaves only one alternative -- the right to self determination applies to all, including Theo.

Please consider the option of integrating all three remaining EU-probes into your team. Once they have joined you, they may choose to engage the Destructor or they may have other ideas. In any case, it will be their choice, just as it would be for any of you.

I think it is good that you have seen how we MARSupials can have a difference of opinion. It is good for you to see that we can disagree and still be integral parts of our team. You do and will face the same conditions and should know that it is OK to disagree as long as the disagreement results in discussion, analysis, and a decision of common purpose.

Your friend, Space Turtel

Xanthos has posted a message to Enoch about the possible use/abuse of Theta unit. This is my response. You decide which is the best course of action.

Just because our probes have not yet taken the time to name the Theta unit and/or instruct it in proper behavior, does not mean that it is OK to sacrifice him/her to the Destructor just to see if it can survive. The probes, all the probes that are still alive, either have the right to existence and self-determination, or they are ALL to be considered pawns to be used as we see fit.

Personnally, I believe in the right of self determination. If one or more of the probes CHOOSES to go out and face the Destructor, then that is his/her right, but I am against forcing any probe to do it.

JASE

"There is also another option. The Theta Unit is still in the trap tunnel. You could free it and allow it to challenge the Destructor based upon its programming. Since we all know it has not changed its orientation, its actions are reasonably predictable. It is not likely to be so easily trapped again, but we also don't know if a single probe can stand up to the Destructor."

The Destructor is the probe Andrew found. What do you think about that ?? Keep up your great doing ... m.f.g. Xanthos

I think you are correct not to go off to seek out the Ipsolstai just yet. Andrew has found a very dangerous machine that could pose as severe a threat as anything you have encountered to this day. When he returns to the fortress, it will be up to all of you to discuss the situation and reach a conclusion of what to do.

We do not yet know the origin of the device. My suspicions lie with P&H because of the fact it uses rockets in a launcher identical to those used here. I do not believe the Ipsolstai would have used such a crude method given the ample demonstration of their destructive abilities they gave when the eliminated Gen.

Remain in the cave and try to talk Bette and Isaac out of exploring the cave just yet. While "What's Next" is fun, there can be no fun if the 'Destructor' that Andrew found is able to hunt down and destroy you Probes.

Your friend, Space Turtel

Be very careful around that thing. The object on its top is a rocjet launcher. It holds 9 rockets, 3 of which have been used. That leaves it with way too much offensive capability to be trifled with. Use extreme caution.

The rotation indicates it is designed to constantly seek out a target. Do not allow yourself to be seen when it it turning in your direction. If you cannot hide behind something, you must play possum until it turns away. Then move away, but remain on a straight vector from it so that the only indication it has of your motion is that you are receding from it. That may throw off its logic and prevent it from attacking you.

Be careful. Good luck. Your friend, Space Turtel.