Thanks, Marion. I don't want to come right out and say the Martian's a tightwad, so let's just say he's very careful with a dollar.

Omi has certainly earned some consideration for her suffering at the Colonel's hands, but good luck to her getting an extra nickel from His Highness, lol.

And no surprise to find that Madame P is somehow involved in this caper. Not sure what she's up to, but I'm sure she has the Ministry's best interests at heart. Probably.

Thanks for stopping by and your positive comments, always very much appreciated!

With great power comes great responsibility, or so says Madame P. And after saying so to the Colonel, who was about to meet with the Martian to reveal what he'd learned from Omi, she apologized, whispered a quick incantation, and *POOF* turned him into a frog.

She headed straightway to the Martian's office and told him that, during his interrogation, the Colonel discovered Omi had been working as a double agent, had only passed along to the Nanookians disinformation regarding the upcoming invasion of Rhode Island. His feeling was that Omi should be immediately pardoned, returned to duty, and, in fact, given a commendation and a raise in salary for her efforts on the Ministry's behalf.

The Martian appeared dubious, and asked why the Colonel hadn't come himself to explain the situation.

She said that Omi, in exchange for her own information, had learned of Nanookian plans for an impending attack on the Northern Division's massive Catnip Works factory complex. The Colonel, as commander of Seal Team 9-Lives, felt he would be urgently needed back home, sent his apologies for the hasty exit and would be sending a full report when time permitted.

The Martian asked if Omi had revealed who had set up the operation, who her controller in the Ministry was. Madame P shrugged, said the Colonel, if he knew, hadn't told her, but it would undoubtedly be in his report.

The Martian looked thoughtful for a moment, then nodded, said Omi could be returned to duty, and that he'd write up a commendation for her. But no raise.

Madame P left his office, an odd smile on her face.