(Briefing area at Initiative HQ. )

WALSH: This is your objective. Sub-T: 67119. Demon class: Polgara species. Though visual confirmation has not yet been made, we're confident of the target's approximate position as it leaves behind a distinct protein marker. Dr. Angleman will brief you on its defenses.

Angleman: When threatened . . . bone skewers jut from the creature's forearms during battle. It's imperative when ensnaring it not to damage its arms. That's all you really need to know.

(Amidst the commandos Buffy raises her hand.)

BUFFY: Question.

WALSH: Buffy?

BUFFY: Why exactly can't we damage this polka thing's arms? I, uh, not that I want to, it's just in my experience when fighting for your life body parts get damaged and-- better its bits than mine. Or . . . ours.

Angleman: We wish to study the physiology of every subterrestrial's natural defenses. It's part of the research we do here. Uh-- Yes?

(We see that Buffy had her hand raised again.)

BUFFY: What do they want?

Angleman: Want?

BUFFY: Why are they here? Sacrifices, treasure, or they just get rampagy? I find it's easier to predict their responses if I know--

Angleman: They're not sentient. Just destructive, I believe.

WALSH: They do have keen eyesight, however. You might want to be suited up for this.

BUFFY: Oh. You mean the cammo and stuff? I thought about it but, I mean, it's gonna look all 'Private Benjamin.'

(This gets chuckles from some of the commandos.)

BUFFY: Don't worry I've patrolled in this halter many times.

(This gets even more chuckles and Riley has to bow his head and clench his jaw to keep from laughing his ass off.)

WALSH: Why don't we give our attention to Dr. Angleman (Buffy raises hand) and save all questions until the end.

Angleman: Actually, I'm finished.

WALSH: Oh. Uh, well, Agent Finn, deploy the teams.

RILEY: Okay, listen up. We'll be going in a four squad set-up. Team Leaders: Gates, Taggart, and Stavros. Alpha Team, you're with me.

WALSH: Report for TLs for assignment and weapons requisitions. Reminder: this is a zap-n-trap, people. Capture not a kill. Any questions? (sees a raised hand) (sighing) Buffy.

• Funnies
• the Initiative

written by: David Fury; Transcribed by Joseph B. Full transcript at:
http://www.studiesinwords.de/69theiinteam.html