You always have at least one line that describes what the readers feel while reading the chapter, I was just surprised that the first one here came in the very first line! Is that an intentional meta-reference or something? Because, if it is, you really __are__ a genius, my brother! In any case, you never cease to impress me.

I like how the whole encounter was packed with so much emotion, not just among the characters, but also with the emotions you elicit with your writing. You injected humor in the right moments, and you surprise me with offhanded lines many times. This is such a tense, yet whimsical, chapter. It's a strange mix, but that's what great stories tend to do.

Here I am gushing at the intricacies of your writing style, while this chapter was the encounter that we've all been waiting for. Well, maybe the second-most anticipated. I like how you explored Drucker's insecurities and contrasted it against Rik, who had such a flamboyant start, but had such a mercurial turn of events. These two are such great foils for each other, and the dynamic, I believe, has even more potential to reach!

And, __who__ is Colonel Frank Pactor?? It's such an understated start, but you really stressed how intimidating he is in so few words. One of the best intros I have read in a while. I'm reserving my judgement for the eventual intro of the cliffhanger in the other (synthetic) side of the equation.

Great job, brother, you're in such a roll! :D