Terl was as happy as a baby Psychlo on a diet of straight kerbango. Although it was late in the day, he was on his way!
wayHe steered the Mark II ground car down off the ramp, through the atmosphere port, and into the open air.
There was a warning plaque on the ledge in front of the driver’s seat:
BATTLE READINESS MUST BE OBSERVED AT ALL TIMES! Although this tank is compression contained, personal face masks and independent breathing systems must be kept in place. Personal and unauthorized battle use prohibited. (signed) Political Department, Intergalactic Mining Company, Vice-Director Szot.
Terl grinned at the sign. In the absence of political officers—on a planet where there was no indigenous politics—and in the absence of a war department—on a planet that had nothing to war against—
