With that bit of joking over, Komatani returned to relative seriousness. "Anyway, let's move along, we've got lots to do and not a lot of time to do it in. Any other questions will have to wait for the field. You're about to see the real thing," she added, unable to totally suppress her grin.

The machine that had made them all suffer so much last time was starting up again, if the flashing of the vivid blue lights along its sides was any indication. But nothing changed this time -- save for what looked like an empty door frame beside it, that was suddenly occupied by what could only be described as a hole in the fabric of reality, filled with the same swirling, ominous colors that had greeted them before.

"All right, head on through, single file. The Major and I will take point."

With that, Komatani brought down her helmet visor, and in they both went without a moment's hesitation.