Shine On, Space Cadet (Pt. 8)

After the film was over, Omar approached Cal and wanted to discuss something about the deployment of the drones when they arrived in the Blair system;

“About 96% of our units are operational, but I wanted to discuss with you their load out.”

“Of course, go on.” Cal replied.

“Shall I outfit them with lethal or non-lethal weaponry? The Captain instructed me this will be your decision as you’ll be commanding the units.”

Cal paused for a moment, surprised he was given such responsibility and authority so soon, but he took the news in stride.

“Navy protocol indicates that violence against a representative of the Republic or its citizens shall be met with overwhelming force, so outfit the drones with lethal weaponry.”

“Aye sir, will do. My team will start on outfitting the drones first thing in the morning.”

“Good… and one more thing, Omar. How much do you know about these rebel miners?”

“Not much outside of what the reports have said. Sounds like a bunch of savages to me.”

“I agree, I’m glad we’re on the same page.”

“Of course, sir.”

Omar gave a relaxed salute and left the common area along with the rest of the crew. Cal stayed behind on one of the couches and decided to do some reading up on the Blair system. He pulled his tablet from the pouch on his pant leg and pulled open the Navy Intelligence wiki.

According to Republic records, the Blair system was colonized thirty-seven years ago and has seen amazing growth since then. The colony is home to some twelve thousand workers and their families as well as the Exxon corporate headquarters for the sector. Profits from the mining operation have increased every year since its inception, but the colony has been plagued by strikes and protests by the miners. In recent years the colony has become increasingly automated to account for these issues which has led to the clashes between Exxon and its employees. Despite this, shipments of sulfur, titanium and magnesium have continued on schedule for a record of 946 days in a row.