[ti]Ep 2.5[/ti] A New Introduction [Laura]

[Optimus Prime]

Episode 2.5 | Week 1 | Day 2




Humans.

This was their world, and Cybertronian were the intruders.

This undeniable fact always had to be remembered, always taken into consideration. Their kind, could not simply do as it willed without repercussions, they could not act out and tear the land asunder in the wake of their war, without dismantling the lives of millions of innocent bystanders. They could not harvest all the Energon that there was with ease, simply because cities and towns have been built atop it. Most of all however, they could not even make their presence known, the small world so technologically stunted and isolated, that they believe themselves alone in this cold universe, and to know otherwise could start mass panic.

Or so their leaders have deemed.

Many know of them, many have inklings or ideas. Mistakes happen; small sightings are made here or there. To ask for perfection was... a long wish, and nothing logical. Thankfully it had all been suppressed. Explained away either by logic or phenomenons such as ball lighting when a stray blast caught someone's eye, to writing them off as tinfoil hats that clutch onto the latest fad hoax and run with it. However, a few did step over the threshold of secrecy, and become aware of their kind in full.

Agent Fowler and the government he worked under, had been made known of their presence the moment they made contact and stepped foot on the world. Since then, they have offered ample generosity, gifting a base location, and some raw supplies in order to turn it into a functional hub. In return, the Autobots offer what help they can, and their aid in keeping the Decepticons in line to the best of their abilities. It was a loose foundation, one that could seem painfully one sided at first. There had been discussions for the Autobots to offer more, but the governments high command was only interested in weapons.

That was not up for negotiation.

Despite these shortcomings, a functional alliance was made, one that Optimus cherished well and tried to work with on anything they ask of him. It could be tiring; occasionally needing to speak at length over things that have occurred, and divulge what information they have, even if it isn't complete. So many questions, so many hurdles... and it seemed a new one was coming on board to deal with.

Humans at the base were acceptable as long as they are cleared and remain on the catwalks, but that didn't mean it was ever easy when someone new was possibly going to be appointed onto the team. The discussions on this Lieutenant Adler had been extensive behind her back. Why would she be here, why was she needed? She was combat personnel, not a mechanic like other workers in the past who helped to work with repairs around the base and learning their biology to assist Ratchet. Why would a FIGHTER be here, when he had no intention of letting her fight? There were pointed reminders, that Optimus would NOT be sharing weaponry information, and if this was their way to try to garner such things, than he would be displeased.

In the end, Optimus relented, and all the turmoil that lead to the welcome, would be shoved to the side where the female would not need to be aware. He did not need her to know her presence had been looked upon with skepticism, and instead perhaps.... he was being overly wary. Not wanting humans to get woven too deeply in this war, not wanting them to be hurt under his command... it was easy working with just his team, but when another species came in that he wanted to protect, then things got a bit ugly.

The Ground Bridge roared to life with a snarled tear, ripping open a vortex that temporarily connected the Omega Outpost's Control Room, with a nondescript air hanger in Blackrock. The portal would only be permitted to stay open a short moment, enough for the individual to filter through, but would slam shut immediately behind her, in order to try to conserve fuel.

The Control Room was large and imposing, a partial octagonal shaped chamber reaching high into the air, separated and branched by catwalks, and pipelines that stretched like webs in the upper reaches. Bright lighting cast down, flooding out the area and making the ceiling itself difficult to discern, the lighting highlighting numerous pieces of technology and other barriers. The center of the room jaggedly started to go up in large platforms, steps that were far too tall for her to climb on her own, leading to railed off spaces where some human accommodations could be found from the children. Couch, television, a table and game console, etc.

To the left, sat three entrances. One was a door that was sealed shut, no visible markings or handle on its surface, while on either side a good distance away, were two tunnels. One hooked and bent at a sharp angle, the walls lined in rock, and ceiling holding small lights, fresh air filtering in from it, while the other was straight, and plunged deep into the base, its walls lined in metal and conduits that powered the main area,

To her right, would be a computer terminal, but it was absolutely massive, and beyond any reach of one of her size. Immense monitors stretched into the air, cobbled and placed together into a disjointed patchwork of varied screens. Wires snaked and fed out of it like serpents into the wall, latching into the thicker cables there, while smaller human sized ones fed back towards the center of the room where the elevator stretched high towards the plateau's top.

It was in front of this terminal, where Optimus stood.

The Prime was not a small Cybertronian, however, if she worked with the individual posted at Blackrock, than he would seem comparable in stature. Granted, she was at the MECH infiltration some time ago, was she not? She would likely have worked with him before, though he could not place her amoung the crowd of black clad individuals he saw that day. The humans all blurred together when they dressed the same, no broad differences in build that ranged as drastically as Cybertronian kind, their height differences a bit difficult to discern when looking down upon them. Alas, he would get a good look at her today, past the report he saw from Fowler.

A slow stride carried the large mech forward, his step gradual and controlled, mindful of the impact as he placed his weight upon it. Despite his care, there was a low thrum, the ankle joint creating a secondary impact as his weight was taken on. This step allowed him to more properly view the tiny human without looming, cyan optics piercing down at her while he tried to evaluate what she was wearing, if it were military or casual, and what, if anything, she brought with her. It could tell him much on what she was hoping to accomplish this day. While he did so, he spoke at ease, a low baritone rumbling out a simple greeting.

"Lieutenant Adler, welcome to the Omega Outpost."

[Deleted]

Like many of the soldiers in NEST, Laura's mental state was always solid. You could throw her into an ambush, a explosive battlefield, pretty much anything and she'd keep a calm level head. But standing there patiently waiting for the ground bridge to activate, Laura was wrestling down some nervous energy. Officially joining and meeting the Autobots was a huge opportunity and all she did was worry over making a bad first impression.

She wasn't a fan of formal military protocol, and she didn't think the Autobots really cared about human formal dress codes. So to her hearts content she kept things pretty casual. Hair up, tan brown cargo pants, a black t-shirt under her zipped up brown leather jacket. The only military accessories she wore today were her black combat boots and the glock holstered to her right thigh.

For this trip she packed light. She had a duffle bag over one shoulder that had some clothing, and also slugged across her back was a soft gun case that held her carbine rifle with some ammo. Because, you never know when you need that. She had organized some containers to come through the next supply drop that contained a few more pieces of gear and ammo (and a case or two of beer). If she didn't get told to leave by then that is.

Soon the bridge roared to life, always making her think of the Stargate, then taking a deep breath she proceeded through.

Laura glanced briefly behind her when the bridge closed, then took in the grand sight before her. She was in awe of how big and complex the control room was making her feel so small in comparison. Her soldier brain took over after a moment, making notes of entrances and key components of the room. Turning more her eyes set on the leader of the Autobots (of course setting her eyes required a slight tilt in the neck to properly lock eyes). The first time she had seen Optimus was a little while back during an operation against MECH. There she had observed him and two other Cybertronians, Fortress and Mirage. There had been no interactions with any of them at that time.

Her gaze shifted down to observe his movement; watching as the gears and armor moved as he took a step. She felt the vibration in her legs from the step but it wasn't anything to cause unbalance. He seemed to be quite comfortable moving around humans.

The nervous butterflies made movements again within her and she quickly crushed them down again. "Thank you sir," Laura said as she gave a quick salute. The form of her salute could've been better, for most of the generals she's met, but she liked just getting it over with and out of the way quickly. "It is an honour to work with you and your team."

[Optimus Prime]

The first thing Optimus noticed, was the fact she was not in military attire, at least nothing like the uniforms he has seen before. The individuals at Blackrock had a very specific look to them, and when garbed for a mission, they were even more unique. This was far more casual, with a few inklings of her allegiance and training in the form of her boots and... well... the second thing to catch his eye, was the firearm on her leg.

Guns of such caliber were borderline useless against her kind. The projectiles dinged and scraped, and could chip off paint on their main bodies, yet could be more annoying and bothersome if it were to hit a seam or hinge along joins. Namely it was a threat to their eyes if anything, so they would need to be a good shot. Not that he expected her to use such a thing against them, but... why was it brought? If Fowler brought firearms they were hidden, and not out on display like this was. It was something to keep in mind, though really, was it any different from their own weapons?

If he so willed, Optimus could have a gun trained on another in an instant. Duel barrel rifle, capable of immense firepower to rip holes in the sides of buildings or foes alike. Was her weapon any different? Humans could not conceal them the same ways, so it just was... notable. After this observation, he took note of the duffel bag.

So her intent was to stay longer term. Not an issue, namely an observation, now planning to show her to the small area of the facility that was left intact. Many of the floors and walls of the original silo base had to be decimated, but a few offices and branching rooms remained in the rockwork attached to the catwalk. One was for Fowler's work of course, but others could be gifted out.

When she spoke, he shifted his weight some and canted his torso a bit forward. To one of his size, it could look like he was leaning forward a bit awkwardly, but the action caused him to be able to actually view her with ease, the broad plates of his chest armor and windshields otherwise blocking her out.

"And it is always a pleasure to meet a new ally."

This was spoken calmly and with care, no sign of the apprehension he had felt with taking in a soldier.

"You are one of very few who has been gifted entry into this Outpost. In doing so, there are some rules that need to be recognized."

The rules were undemanding and simple all things considered. It was mostly safely protocols to make sure that she would not find herself killed. Keeping to the catwalks for example, was a notable rule, but if you had no option but to travel on ground level, than keeping to the outer walls made chance of unintentional... crushing... much more minimal. There were notes about Energon and how toxic it could be to humans, so she didn't expose herself unknowingly if there was a spill, and there were directions to not go into the workshop unless invited in, so that any noxious fumes that would be fine for Cybertronians could be aired out before entry. There were other things like this, watching out for her safety in a base that most definitely was not designed for her type.

"I trust however, that Fowler briefed you before sending you here?"

[Deleted]

"Thank you, I appreciate the opportunity very much. I understand that it could be a bit of an adjustment."Laura said. She didn't know about the concerns in the background but figured it wasn't an easy thing to come too. If it was there'd be more humans stationed here.

When she caught wind she was an option for this new position she pushed hard for it. Working at Black Rock base and the occasional joint missions were great and all but she wanted to be here; closer to the action with more active missions. MECH was doing a lot of serious damage and she wanted to be on the front line against them.

Laura shifted her weight slightly and moved her right hand from her jacket pocket to the strap on her duffle bag. "Yes, he did." Laura replied with a slight nod. The rules were straight forward and made perfect sense. She had been curious how they accommodated wondering humans. "He explained everything in great detail; it won't be a problem."

[Optimus Prime]

"That is good to hear."

He said this after her confirmation that she knew the basic rules of the outpost. It meant he didn’t need to bombard her with a bunch of limitations the moment she walked in the metaphorical door, even if it was for her own safety. Optimus knew he could be rather... persistent with making sure the humans knew of such things, but he was just over cautious and nervous. Their presence here alone was nerve wracking, since all it could take was one misstep... one issue... one forgetful mistake... and a life could be clipped away from under their care.

The Prime didn't know what he would do if that happened, especially if it were one of the children. He valued all life a great deal, and a loss of any human no matter the age would be a crushing blow, but one of the kids? They were cherished so much by so many here, and they would not even get to live a full life. They have only been on this world for a fraction compared to adult humans, and a blink compared to the lives of Cybertronian kind.

Ahh well, he needed to focus down upon the newcomer.

Even if he was not good at small talk.

Optimus can explain things with care, he can elaborate when asked and guide when the moment was needed, but filling in the gaps between introductions and managing them on any sort of level? It was not his strength in any way whatsoever. He often relied on the more chatty members of the outpost to fill the voids, to ask questions and get the newcomers or human children to talk and relax... but when it was just him? It left an awkwardness that was not intentional.

"I assume you have many questions, Lieutenant Adler."

He asked this carefully, trying to guide her in a direction on what she wished to speak on first. He could just show her where she would be staying, he could just push her to take a tour, he could even tell her what her task would be and who she would need to seek out first to get information, but it was best to get any lingering concerns taken care of right from the get-go. No use trying to offer other information, when her mind may be distracted by other thoughts or concerns.

[Deleted]

So far she hadn't put her foot in her mouth (yet) but may had succeeded in transferring her awkwardness to the Autobot leader, judging by his speech. Giving herself a mental kick Laura shifted her weight slightly again from one foot to the other and stood a little straighter.

"Yes, many questions. I hope too not frustrate anyone with my constant human curiosity for the next little while." Laura said. She didn't want to be bothering the Prime with questions of pure curiosity at their first meeting. So she stuck with the important stuff, mission oriented.

"I am not sure how up to date the database Blackrock has on Omega Base and the rest of the Autobots is; if there is any information I can read up on to catch up would be perfect. And if there's been any new Intel or developments against MECH as well. I have all of our previous information on them well memorized already."

"I understand that allowing a human soldier on base full time is a new experience; I will of course respect any limitations on any information or duties you feel is necessary at this time." Laura said channeling her father's diplomatic side. Of course she was really hoping there wouldn't be much of that, especially when it came to field work.

[Optimus Prime]

Her first statement somewhat amused him.

Optimus was introduced into this world in a society that was well aware of the expanse of the universe, and how numerous sentient species were. The stars stretched on for an almost endless expanse, bringing with it life forms that crossed all stages of matter and construction. He lived knowing this as fact, just as the humans know their sky is blue and that grass was green. He couldn't even begin to pretend he knew what it would be like, to suddenly know you were not alone, to feel so isolated and forgotten... then to be shown this... but while he can't equate it to his own personal experiences, he could empathize.

Curiosity, wonderment, a wish to learn, none could blame her for such things, and despite his rank he would be willing to field most questions she could throw his way. Granted, it was a conversation far more suited for one of the other Cybertronian on base, if she felt need. Their far more chatty nature could create a better dynamic than calculated replies that could fall flat and seem overly mechanical.

"It is only recently you have become aware that life exists outside of your world. It is understandable you would long to learn about it."

Amusement edged into his words at this.

"Most here will be more than happy to answer whatever you need, including myself."

Teaching her about their kind could wait a moment however, for he had to address the commentary that related to MECH first. That was sadly a very important topic, and was a large portion on why she was even here to begin with.

"The database is updated with what is known. That said, Zoom-Zoom is currently sifting through much of the additional data. Your native knowledge may help guide him in the right direction by noticing things we cannot."

Getting a set of human eyes on the situation would be valuable. He considered for a brief moment if he should warn her of Zoom-Zoom's anti social nature, but that was something she could discover on her own. Perhaps they would get along, more likely they may not... but it was better to let such things form on their own, and not start on the foundation of a warning. His own personal experiences where his, and since the red mech was not a real threat, it needn't be mentioned.

[Deleted]

Optimus' words were no joke. She remembered the day where her world got blown open. It was the first day she had met Fowler, when her unit had been reassigned to the Blackrock base. The day they arrived Fowler sat them down to explain their new purpose here, about MECH and the truth about Cybertronians. Laura had always considered herself to be fairly open minded about things, but giant fighting robots had sounded ridicules. Some of her unit had actually laughed. Fowler however didn’t need video or pictures to convince them; one look at Fortress had made them all believers.


Laura in particular was keen on learning more. Now wasn’t a good time to dive into questions but she was glade thsy wouldn't mind indulging a curious human.


Laura nodded slightly as Optimus explained the database and who she would be working with. She defiantly had a few very ‘human’ ideas to try out. “I can get up to date on anything that might be missing from our database and work on some theories with Zoom-Zoom (That was a weird name to say out loud) when he is available. I have a few ideas I’m hoping may help narrow down the search areas.”


“In the mean time is there a bunk I can toss my stuff down, and get a lay of the land?“ Laura said as she gave a light pat on her duffle bag. She hoped she didn't come across pushy by any means. Plus she figured Optimus wouldn’t want her down on the floor too long.

[Optimus Prime]

Since Laura seemed more focused upon business, Optimus would do the same.

"This outpost was originally a silo, holding numerous portions that have yet to be touched."

Informative, and to the point, it framed his next statements well.

"While some offices are made connected to the Control Room-"

Optimus hand gradually lifted so that he could gesture to the upper walls. Metal catwalks strung and snaked out the edges in mangled patterns, creating convenient walkways for the humans to travel, that would not be knocked into or hit by a Cybertronian unintentionally with ease. It was higher up along these paths that trailed along a rock facing, where some doors could be seen. One of these was Fowlers, some dents and cracks around what appeared to be a new door settled in place, while others were dusty and dingy from lack of use, waiting to be claimed. After he had motioned in this area, the Prime's hand then gestured further down the way, where the catwalk snaked into the hallway that lead into the rest of the base.

"-Others closer to the personnel quarters can be unlocked and fashioned into whatever suits your needs."

There were so few humans around, yet so many portions of the outpost that remained that were human accessible. Locks and temporary doors had been plugged over the gaps, to keep the children from exploring the potentially dangerous regions, but... if they were going to house individuals here long term? Than the rooms would likely need to be accessed at some point and the seals removed.

"I cannot speak for what lies beyond initial offices in the silo's depths. I would caution against unnecessary exploration, for none of my Autobots will be able to reach you if things go astray."

Optimus frankly did not know what was further down. He knew a schematic of the area, and could say what SHOULD be there, but time can cause many hazards that would not be visible upon a simple blueprint. Mapping out her new room, making it safe, and plugging up later on down the way past her needs with a proper door Miko can't get through, would likely be an early job for the woman.

After he had informed this, Optimus' squared off hand then gestured over towards the wall, where a ladder was connected to the catwalks up above.

"You may climb above there, or if you require assistance due to your possessions, I may assist."

Laura did have some rather clumsy looking containers with her, as well as the gun and duffel bag. It would probably be a couple trips, or one very awkward and risky one to try to climb a simple metal ladder with it all. That said, he did not know her personal morals, and to just offer and assume she wanted help, may be a jab at some unseen pride. As such, he would only help in this situation, if she were to ask for a lift up, though he did offer to show it was not 'beneath him' to help some 'menial human' or other thoughts that may brew up that were untrue.

[Deleted]

Listening quietly Laura's gaze followed Optimus' hand, looking at the upper levels of the silo and the intrjcate path ways the catwalks made. Still following his hand she cocked her head to the side slightly looking down the pathway. ”Understood sir. If any of these areas need checking out for any reason I can help out with that.” She offered.


“Thank you for the offer, but I should be fine these aren’t too bad. Sargent Peterson liked to weigh us down with a lot more than this on training days.” She said with a slight chuckle in her voice, padding the duffle bag lightly. “I figured it was best to pack light my first trip out here until things settled in. I have a couple extra things coming in on the next supply drop.”


Laura made sure to give Optimus plenty of space as she approached the ladder to keep him comfortable. As she walked she glanced sideways at Optimus, studying his pedes. She was pretty tall for a (human) woman but she was barley on eye level with what looked like his ankle joint. It made her feel incredibly tiny.


Reaching the base of the ladder Laura shifted the duffle bag so it sat more behind her and under the gun case. His earlier comment about the base's structural status made her give the ladder a firm shake before she climbed up it to the catwalk.
The higher position gave a grander view of the base, she even now noticed the large Autobot insignia carved into the floor in front of the ground bridge.


This new view also provided a better vantage of the Autobot leader. Nearly forty feet up from ground level her line of sight was only level with the midway portion of his chest plating, furthering his imposing size. From here she no longer needed to tilt her head nearly as much to be able to look at Optimus' face, the detail in the metallic face plating was amazing.


As the control room seemed to be the main area of use she figured it would be better to avoid being in here during any down time. “The offices near the rest of the quarters is fine.” She decided, no longer having to yell as much anymore to be heard now.

[Optimus Prime]

"Very well."

Optimus knew that humans needed to pack more than any Cybertronian would, due to their needs for varied clothing and other wares required by an organic creature, but the idea that so much was considered 'packing light' to her was amusing on some levels. He knew it was a species and culture difference, but Optimus himself did not even own enough personal wares that could be packed in such a way if the bags were scaled up to match his stature. He really didn’t have much of anything to his name, so much simply lost through the years of war and turmoil... abandoned as bases were changed and left in their wake.

Anything that the Prime would pack up to move would be things for the team as a whole. Medical supplies, computer documents, datapads and perhaps some weaponry from the armory, things which would be difficult to replace wherever they were to end up. Granted, the most priceless of possessions was there Ground Bridge, but that was not something that could be simply relocated at whim. Perhaps if they got enough warning, Ratchet could remove the important drives and components, allowing them to just manufacture replacement structural parts to support. This was all frivolous thoughts however, flickering ideas that snaked through his processor while he watched the human maneuver over to the ladder, and check its integrity before starting to climb.

Optimus' frame was at an odd angle to Laura, the female now able to look upon his side more so than his front now due to her new location. Despite this, the massive Cybertronian did not move, until she was safely upon the catwalk, his weight gradually rolling to his opposite leg, before he turned to face her fully once again. Even if he was not walking, even if he had only shifted and re-planted his peds down, there was still a solid thrum as his weight was placed upon it, no dampeners or rubber lining that could soften the impact.

"If you follow this path, I can walk you there."

Gesturing to the walkway that arched around the room, Laura would be able to see it hook around a corner through a large hallway. It appeared to be added after the fact, not really considered during the initial design of the base. In fact, the walkways in the main Control Room appeared to be one style, while those attached at its edges to lead elsewhere were new construction. It showed how the Cybertronian perhaps did not consider the humans as well as they should have during initial construction.

"While you do not hold official command over my Autobots, you may still request of them anything you may require during your stay here. I should hope they will all be accommodating. If anyone however gives you a difficult time, you may report to me directly, or seek out Ratchet."

Optimus would wait, only moving should Laura begin the trek to the hallway.

[Deleted]

Even up there Laura could still feel the vibrations of his step, the soft vibrations moving up her legs. She watched the intricate movement of the pistons and gears again, still so hypnotized by what she was seeing. “Understood. While I understand it will be being different with me being from the human military Fowler spoke very highly of everyone here, I hope to make everyone comfortable with my presence here.“ She knew Ratchet was the resident medical officer from the files Fowler made regarding the original Team Prime. He was described as being a little ‘gruff' apparently.


Laura started walking along the catwalk in the direction Optimus had gestured to. One hand slid into a pocket of her jacket while the other rested on the strap of her duffle again. She didn’t want to be too slow for the large Autobot, seeing as how one stride of his was quite a few of hers, so she stretched out her usual long stride out just a little bit more.

Looking around again her gaze settled on the TV and couch area on the other side of the room. Fowler had told her about the human children that frequently inhabited the base; in the case of the girl named Miko Fowler warned to keep an eye out for her especially when traveling through the ground bridge, in case she slipped through with them.


It did make perfect sense to Laura that the children were among the first humans to meet and bond with the Autobots, and were probably the leading reason why the extra human element additions to the base. Children were usually fearless and so curious about everything. Even with that fact however she still found the idea of children being around a military base and so close to danger strange. She didn’t dislike children, but she did lack experience with them. Being apart of such a large and impressive secret she hoped they would be easy to get along with.


Laura was actually surprised how quiet the base was. It was understandable to not crowd the control room area with a new human arrival; however part of her had expected to see a few other cybertronians by now, especially with all the new arrivals she had heard about.


“I wanted to say again how much I appreciate the opportunity to be working along side yourself and the rest of your team. I know besides Agent Fowler not many humans have worked this closely before. I know it was likely not a simple descision; I hope to not disappoint.” Laura said looking over at Optimus.

[Optimus Prime]

Despite the fact that Optimus was not overly familiar with Earth and the actions of the native life forms, he could pick up on the fact that Laura seemed trapped between trying to seem relaxed, and attempting to adhere to a formal way of acting. She spoke with praise and awkward regard to her own status and place within the base. It was to be expected truly, she was thrown out of her element into an entire new world, and it would take time for her to possibly shake it off. He hoped that soon she would see that this base was not shackled in formality unless a specific situation was to arise.

"We appreciate opportunity to work with more who call this world home."

Upbeat, or as upbeat as his near monotone could go for the moment, the Prime finally turned, and started to walk while the female did, making sure to regulate his steps. The eased pace he moved could be considered on the painfully slow side of things if he were to walk with another of his stature, but he did not seem to mind, a soft hiss of hydraulics and rumble of weight shifting from system to system sounding out while he progressed. The speed was even throttled more so should she seem to struggle or put an abnormal kick in her step, to try to allow her to walk at a more traditional pace and not rush for his benefit.

He was not here to hustle her to task and then depart.

"And I appreciate you venturing into unknown territory on such an atypical assignment."

Optimus could have left the statement at that, but he chose to continue to try to assure her that she couldn't disappoint.

"Even if this arrangement does not work out, we are bound to learn much from one another to make it worthwhile to us all."

Confident and at ease, they would gradually move around the catwalk and enter into the hallway.

The hallway was expansive and large, metal paneled walls lining each side to lead up to a raw and open ceiling. An abundance of conduits and pipes transferred and wove like a snaking web, some of the connectors old and dulled with dust and age, while others seemed shined and new, fresh wires spliced into old, making a confusing array. It was a patchworked jumble, with hanging pendant shop lights strung at occasional intervals to illuminate their path. Down on floor level, there was one large pipe that strung close to the edge, it looking like fluid transportation that branched into the walls and vanished within the base's depths.