15. Functional Testing

Bob and Bridget conduct functional testing of the Quinlan-form androids on the dead planet Quin, performing an autopsy on a corpse, exploring a government building, and testing the mannies' aquatic capabilities in a canal. The chapter concludes with Bill and the team confirming the androids are ready for production after Garfield completes a final vacuum-pressure test.

Bob and Bridget arrive on Quin in a cargo drone to test the newly created Quinlan-form androids. They land near a canal-city built on the shore of a slow-flowing river, noting the sophisticated architecture with its embellished buildings, art-covered facades, and thoughtful urban design. After an aerial survey, they select a governmental building as the most likely location for bodies. They break into the Emergency Management office on the fourth floor and find a mummified corpse at a desk. Bridget performs an autopsy while Bob explores the office, examining the desks, chairs, phone systems, and physical remnants of Quinlan bureaucracy. Bridget discovers a significant viral load in the tissue and forwards detailed scans to the Skippies for simulation analysis. To complete testing requirements, Bob and Bridget dive into the canal to test the androids' aquatic functionality. They discover the Quinlan form moves naturally through water like otters and engage in a playful swimming and tagging competition before exiting the water and returning to the cargo drone. Back at base, Bill reviews the video footage and declares the androids functionally sound with only minor software glitches. He identifies one remaining concern: how the androids will handle vacuum conditions due to their new circulatory system. Garfield volunteers to conduct the vacuum test. Bridget suggests Will use the remaining time to explore Quin and practice with the androids. Bill confirms the Skippies have extracted maximum data from observation and the Gamers have completed tunnel excavation and widened the hatch to accommodate the mannies. The team determines no further issues remain before beginning production of the full android fleet.