Part Three: Beta Pac: Chapters 21 and 22 Summary

Melanie's diary notes that even the transmitter on the telescope appears to be organic. On April 11th, the Catherine Perch approaches Beta Pacifica III. Terrestrial, it has oceans, clouds and a single land mass shaped like a long hook. Four moons orbit that range in size from a fifteen kilometer wide rock to one a third the size of Luna. There are no obvious signs of life or inhabitants. Carson points out an anomaly on the moon designated Three-B at the same time as the Captain notices. Closer examination reveals a larger version of Oz and Frank is unsurprised and sees no need to investigate further, but the discovery of bridge supports on the planet is cause for excitement. At very least, it is another archaeological site. Truscott balks at allowing any more...