A quibble in the third paragraph, first sentence — two independent clauses need not be separated by a comma. Some adjectives distract the rader (e.g. for a “brief” instant reads better as “for an instant” and ….something “deep” behind the “glistening” optical sensors is too busy) I am a huge fan of your writing, THX. Just offering my 2 cents to help you improve. -TEH
Robotech_Master
The Electric Hillbilly