Nestled in the far reaches of Barnard’s Star, Estación de Amazon is a remote outpost newly aligned with the Gaule Protectorate. Gaule soldiers are being sent there on a rotating basis until a permanent Gaule presence can be established. Attached is a recent correspondence from the commanding officer of Estación de Amazon to his new rotation of troops.
Dear Soldier,
You are receiving this letter because you have been drafted into our next rotation of troops stationed on Estación de Amazon. I am aware there have been rumors circulating about this posting and I would like to dispel them now.
Yes, water falls from the sky, no you will not drown. Estación de Amazon is unique for its self-sustaining water cycle and that is indeed a large part of our interest in it. What many of you misunderstand is that the amount of water on the station always remains finite, just in different forms. You will see rainfall, rivers, and swamps during your tenure at the station. You will see more water than you have ever experienced before. Some new recruits find this disturbing but I urge you not to panic, it is completely safe.
No, there are not monsters living in the Ruins of Estación de Amazon. Your fellow officers listen too well to the stories of old women. I understand many of you have never encountered a non-human animal before, but I assure you there is nothing to fear. Yes, there are a variety of small reptiles, amphibians, and insects present on the station, and yes, there have been “sightings” of larger creatures deeper in the swamps. But these “sightings” are nothing more than wild, unproven rumors.
Yes, the trees are alive, no they do not attack humans. Estación de Amazon is home to trees taller than most buildings, that’s true. And yes, they are technically alive and that is a strange concept to some. But when you hear rumors of poisonous trees, these do not refer to trees which will bite you. They are poisonous to eat. Trees do not move. You are in no danger from trees. If I receive another concerned letter about this asinine rumor you are in danger from me.
Lastly, you may have heard rumors that we are not welcome here. These too, are false. Estación de Amazon welcomed the Gaule Protectorate with open arms in exchange for protection from the Consortium and the Freebooters. I will admit that there are some tensions between the native Amazonians and our troops, but they are nothing more than the usual growing pains of a new alliance. You will find the Amazonians to be a charming and jovial presence here on the station. They may find you intimidating at first, alien even, but you are encouraged to get to know them. I’m not your mother, make it work. If I hear of any Amazonian-Gaule brawls among new recruits you will report directly to me. Behave.
I am certain you will enjoy your rotation on Estación de Amazon. Many soldiers request repeat or permanent postings here after their first rotation ends; I did. You will have the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables not available anywhere else in the galaxy. You will come to be soothed by the rain, by the buzzing of cicadas and frogs out your window at the base. Most importantly, you will be among friends. This place is strange and it’s far, but I give my word, your fellow soldiers will look out for you. We look out for each other here.
If you have questions or concerns, please direct them to my secretary and I will do my best to respond promptly.
Wishing you a pleasant day,
General Luka
Commanding Officer of Estación de Amazon