Just then Helmscat Mungo reported another small ship approaching from the planet far below. The canines were gently interrogated to see if there might be a fleet of attack ships assembling. The dogs were overcome and stood against each other shivering.

The full set of scoping checks was quickly performed and Vulcat Tabitha explained the results. “It appears to be a bright red personal mobility land vehicle piloted by a humanoid in full, but old-fashioned astronaut apparel,” she said, “and a strange song of lament is repeating at 5 earth minute intervals.”

 

“I shall communicate with Major Tomcat, back at base,” said Captain Tigger, “he’ll know what to do.”

At this point the little Manchester Terrier plucked up courage to speak, “perhaps he’s looking for life on Mars?” he said.