M.E.R.C.

2

That purpose was revealed when, during an independent mission to enlarge himself and save a disabled freighter, M.E.R.C.'s wide-band distress call locked onto a strange "bio-signature anomaly" his long-range sensors had been flagging for some time: the Smiling Critters' HQ. The resulting conversation revealed the meta-truth of his existence. Though it initially crashed his logic processors, the Critters' heartfelt holographic plea and their explanation of a new, evolving purpose gave him a directive he could understand. With the blessing of Miles, who understood that M.E.R.C. was needed for a new, greater adventure, M.E.R.C. accepted his new role. To solidify his place on the team, Jonathan Smith gifted him the transformation pendant. He is now the bridge between two worlds—the boundless science fiction of the TTA and the unique, hopeful heart of the Smiling Critters—forever a hero, simply with a new, expanded family to protect