SandScript 2023 [Digital Exclusive]

end, and it had a curved handle on the other.
“These items called ‘umbrellas’ were recovered from underwater cities on Earth,” Professor
Smelg explained while a video ran on the main screen showing how umbrellas expanded with
the push of a crude release button.
“Each of you will develop a hypothesis about the function of umbrellas. You have 15 minutes.”
At Fremsie’s table, Gograhm and Krutis battled over control of the Giggi Board. Each boy
opened and closed the umbrella hologram repeatedly, then quickly lost interest.
“It doesn’t do much,” Krutis complained.
“Well, I think it may have been a weapon,” Meela said. “It has a pointed end and can be used
as a shield when it’s open.”
“Right, it would be perfect for poking sharks in the eyes,” Fremsie agreed. “Sea predators were
a constant problem in Earth’s underwater cities.”
“Not a chance,” Krutis said. “The construction is too flimsy to be a weapon.”
“Ohhh…I don’t know,” Fremsie teased. “Let’s test it on Gograhm!”
Meela and Krutis vigorously nodded in agreement, while Gograhm laughed and shielded his
eyes.
Fremsie scanned the room. She noticed that the umbrella holograms at every lab table were
identical in structure, but each had a unique fabric covering.
“It could be a fashion accessory,” Fremsie suggested.
“Maybe, it is very decorative,” Meela said. “The shape reminds me of a Rebellian lizard’s throat
sac.”
“That’s it,” Krutis interrupted. “Humans opened umbrellas to signal interest in potential mates.”
Using the Giggi Board, Gograhm positioned the umbrella hologram in front of Fremsie, twirled
it, and opened it with a flourish.
“Hubba, Hubba,” Gograhm flirted.
Fremsie and Meela glared at him in unison.
“Whaaat?! I was just testing Krutis’ idea,” Gograhm said with feigned innocence.
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