Axly McBride: Despite promises from CDF, the orbs have not disappeared. According to CDF, “logistics disturbance” prevents the close-down, but not everyone buys that story. There are people blaming various parties, most often PGC, for sabotage. Others think that CDF are unable to close the orbs, that their scientists are wrong. Still others claim that there is a stand-off between Major Carramone, the High Commander of CDF, and the Office of Colonial Affairs on Earth.

As a guest in the studio, we have governor Dumpty. Governor, why is the close-down delayed?

Governor Dumpty: There is a reason for the delay, and I think that it’s the science. They’ve got it wrong, and they’re trying to fix it. The question is whether they can. I don’t think so. I hope they can, but I don’t think so.

AMB: What do you think of the rumours of a stand-off?

GD: No, I don’t think so. Carramone has mandate to run the defence as she sees fit, and it’s a long distance anyway. If she could, she would, and Earth wouldn’t be able to do anything about it.

AMB: Thank you, Governor. With us at the CDF headquarters, we have Shelly Nakajima. Shelly, what can you tell us?

Shelly Nakajima: Not much, Axly. CDF is closed-lips as always, and Major Carramone ran out of her office just a few minutes ago heading for Twin Peaks and the inauguration of the Genesis Tower. However, I would put my money on a power struggle with Earth or that there actually are problems with the logistics.

AMB: How is that?

SN: As Major Carramone stormed out, she shouted to an aide to… wait, let me quote her. She shouted “I don’t care what that slimy Earth worm says, get me a (beep) lorry that can (beep) handle the mud!”

AMB: So CDF could be telling the truth?

SN: Basically, yes, but I also think they’re not telling all of the truth. Something is going on here, and it’s almost impossible to dig anything out of anyone. Especially not the Major.

AMB: Thank you, Shelly.