Visitors from beyond
40th Galactic Year. The Visitors.
Visitors.
Episode 2: The Third Planet – 3
“One!”
Captain Love suddenly raised her voice, cutting off Shior’s words. It was like a dog’s bark, calling out One’s name, causing his narrowed eyes to open.
“The fourth planet it is. As captain, I propose we adjust our cargo and revise our plans accordingly…after that, do as you see fit. You’re the commander of this team.”
Being addressed as the commander, One responded with a somewhat flustered air. “Commander? Well, I suppose…if you say so, Captain. The fourth planet does seem like the right choice. I’ll take over command. Please continue managing our approach. And Shior, if you don’t mind joining me, I’d like you to check on the LEP and storage.”
Saying this, One grabbed Shior’s arm and rather forcibly led her out through the rear passage.
“Eft, report on the ship’s status.”
“Understood. Ship name O-UNI.X. No external damage. LEP and LEN normal. Spatial energy recharge at 100%. Energy reserves at 380.”
“Lite, how long until we reach the fourth planet?”
“Should take around 80 hours or so. If you’re tired, you could get some sleep.”
“I see…very well, share that with the other two as well. I’ll get some rest myself for now.”
With that, Love reclined her seat and lay down. Lite smirked, wondering why she didn’t just go to her private quarters right nearby. Perhaps it was a sign she had fully embraced her role as captain.
Within seconds, surprisingly gentle snoring could be heard from her. Hearing this, Lite and Eft exchanged amused smiles and began conversing in hushed tones.
“It’s rare for Love to relinquish command before arrival. She must really be worn out,” Eft whispered.
“Well, this is supposed to be her last run, isn’t it? The worst she’s had to deal with so far.”
“Worse than that time when we arrived to find the target planet obliterated?”
“Back then we had no choice but to turn back immediately. But now we’re operating on an uncharted planet.”
“Good point. When you put it that way…” Eft trailed off, glancing at the meager survey data on the fourth planet displayed on the monitor before them – far less than what they’d normally have to work with.
Next Episode 3