OutBound Transmission Started on April 10, 1998
To: Bette
From: Koala on April 10, 1998 at 15:36
Bette, this is Koala.

Thank you for that very informative report. You have answered some of our questions about the Ipsolstai and their political structure. NM has confirmed there are at least two factions within the Ipso society. They do not always agree with each other and sometimes those disagreements result in fighting, although usually they do not.

He also told us that despite the disagreements, they still consider each other Brothers all the same. That could mean the have a strong sense of community, or the word Brother to them is the same as the word Human to us. Here on Earth we consider everyone to be our Brother Humans although we may violently disagree and openly war with some of them. We will have to explore their concept of a Brother more as time permits.

You reported feeling dizzy. I suspect that sensation was the result of traversing the Groove. The only other time I can recall you being strapped down was when you left for Wolf 359. You used the Groove then. Please try to confirm that if you can.

> Wait. We have a lot of experience at that.

I can sympathize with your impatience. Please hold on and do not let waiting become a burden to you. Waiting is a time when reflection, planning and strategizing can be accomplished without compromising other high priority tasks. Take advantage of the opportunity presented you.

Good luck. Your friend, Koala

To: Andrew
From: Koala on April 10, 1998 at 15:26
Andrew, this is Koala,

Your assessment that the Ipsolstai are demonstrating politics in common with that of Earth is quite astute. I believe you have correctly evaluated the situation. With that as the case you then know that rationality is not a requirement in the decision making process.

Do not despair! It is usually the staunchest of ideologues who make the greatest mistakes by allowing their emotions to overrule their thoughts. Caleb is such an individual. His zeal for power and prestige will be his undoing if everyone is careful to permit him to bring discredit to himself. (It is the proof of the old sayings, "He is his own worst enemy" and "I hurt him [injured his prestige] very badly, I let him talk.")

It appears he may have already begun that process. The Ipso military commander may have rebuked Caleb when he addressed Burn in so respectful a manner. It certainly brought out an unhappy response in Caleb.

You must be traveling far once again. The last time you were strapped down was when you traversed the Groove. Please inform us of your next location as soon as you are able to determine it.

Good luck to you and your fellow travelers. Your friend, Koala

To: Enoch
From: Orpheus on April 10, 1998 at 08:31
Enoch, don't get too cocky yet. I know you are a good pilot, and are probably better then I could ever be, but every good pilot always admits there's room for improvement. One way earth pilots keep track of who's the best is by keeping track of their kills. You're not an ace until you get at least seven kills. Watch your back, my friend.

Be cool,
Orpheus

To: Daniel
From: Orpheus on April 10, 1998 at 08:27
Daniel, I'm sorry about that message. My finger slipped, and I sent the message to you instead of Enoch. It was a human error, so please forgive me. By the way, thank you for the picture of the ship. I apologize again for the misdirected message. Could you try and get more pictures of the outside of the ship?

Be cool,
Orpheus