The Path of Least Resistance

Mike and Dennis performed contract work for a private astro-construction firm, setting up a laser grid to prevent the Narcosians from invading a space colony on an asteroid. The Narcosians were an ancient parasitic space-faring species that used wormholes for plundering throughout the galaxy.

“Are you fellas just about finished?” asked Samantha Jenkins, the colony’s governor.

“Yes, ma’am. It’s protected,” answered Dennis. “The company offers a lifetime guarantee.”

“Oh, a guarantee? That’s great!”

Mike and Dennis reported themselves finished.

All seemed peaceful until Narcosian micro-drones pierced the barrier and killed everyone.

“I discovered the problem,” said an inspector.

“What is it?” asked One Earth’s colonial relations ambassador.

“Sure, they guaranteed the grid but stretched 98% to 100%.”

“What does that mean?” asked the ambassador.

“There was a 2% variance. Enough for the micro-drones to breach.”

“The path of least resistance,” muttered the ambassador.

“You mean the micro-drones took the easiest path?”

“Not exactly.” The ambassador held up a holo tablet. “The contractors ran out of spare parts, so they spread the grid instead of ordering and installing more lasers.”