Fourth Wall - Behind the scenes

Posted on Thu Mar 8th, 2018 @ 2:55am by Commander Bertrand Cuprum & Lieutenant Sara'draphia T'eseri

Sara and Bertrand found themselves in a much smaller room with two chairs facing each other and a female in a white bodysuit smiling at them.

"Welcome, contestants. We are so pleased to have you here. Please have no anxiety. This is a formality that must be undertaken before you can be introduced to our current leader."

"Android," Bertrand supplied watching the woman.

"This," the woman said gesturing around, "Is our performance suite, and the first step in introduction to our leader. Please do not be apprehensive. Every effort has been taken to assure your comfort and safety."

"Before you are allowed to meet with the leader, you are to be introduced. This requires a performance of skill. While sitting in these chairs you will be given direct control of Drones based on your physical characteristics as they were scanned through the turnstile. By operating these drones to the best of your ability during a series of tasks you will gain an audience to our leader. I regret there is no other way. Please, take a seat. The process of operation is painless and safe for all species."

"Drones," Bertrand nodded. "That explains a lot. All of the death and injury were simulated. Our crew are safe?"

"Every effort has been taken to assure the comfort and safety of all contestants."

"And who is watching this spectacular?" Bertrand pushed.

"The Greatest Show is broadcast on all frequencies."

"So, our ship is seeing what is happening in the arena?" Bertrand checked, a plan forming.

"Absolutely," The Android woman confirmed, "Now please take your seats, so we can begin."

Processing what they had just been told, Sara smiled, "Well, as it would appear we have no choice, let us give them the show that they want." She said unzipping her jacket and sliding it off before moving over to one of the chairs and placing it on its back. "It's been a while since I have had a chance to show off, and I guess now is as good a time as any."

"Hold on," Bertrand hesitated, his mind racing. "I am good with people, but not droids... Just need a moment... Okay, let's go."

There was a moment's disorientation; a feeling of being in two places at the same time. They were still sitting in the chair opposite the other, but at the same time they were standing in the auditorium opposite a replica, right down to uniform and equipment.

A moment later the pair were back in the room. Bertrand noticed that the wall near him was severely damaged by blunt force.

"Right," he mused, "Well it seems the drones are not able to mimic our psychic and mental abilities. Your Telekenisis fired off here, instead of in the arena. Just be careful where you push that, yeah?"

"Well done, both of you," the hostess cooed. "Now I'll ask you to relax and enjoy the show while the next round continues..."

Unable to move the pair remained in their chair as the other combatants fought it out.