The Box NebulaOfficial SynopsisWhen mysterious energy signals are detected from the distant Box Nebula, Captain Leo Tiberius Cumberland immediately authorizes an exploratory mission. Commander Buddy B. Cumberland recommends returning home. The recommendation is ignored. Opening SceneThe DSS Dingo lands on the surface of an unexplored world. Two enormous moons hang overhead. Purple nebulae fill the sky. Commander Buddy steps down the ramp carrying the latest Galactic Survey Instrument. It features:
Buddy scans the horizon. "Captain... I'm detecting unusual energy readings." Leo is standing beside him. His own detector is upside down. "Mine says BOX." Buddy sighs. "Captain... that's because you're holding it backward." Leo turns it over. The needle immediately swings harder toward BOX. "Better." Five Minutes LaterThe mysterious signal has been located. It is... an ordinary cardboard box. Leo gasps. "It's beautiful." Commander Buddy quietly closes his eyes. Mission Log — Commander Buddy B. CumberlandCaptain has entered the structure voluntarily. Pause. Captain has refused evacuation. Longer pause. Captain now identifies as Emperor. Very long pause. Captain has ordered me to carry the throne. Extremely long pause. ...I'm carrying the throne. Buddy's Personal NotesRecovered from a notebook not intended for official release. "I've been trying to retire for three years." Final ClassificationPlanet Box has been declared an Imperial Territory by Captain Leo Tiberius Cumberland. Commander Buddy has declined further comment. The box has declined all interviews. No alien civilizations were consulted during this expedition. |