My footsteps echo loudly on the metal floor. Even with all the padding in my boots every step makes a hollow clank. I'll never get used to that sound. It's kind of nice because no one can sneak up on you, but it's yet another thing to get used to on this ship.
"Hey Captain," I greet as I enter the cafeteria.
"Good morning Daisy. If you'll please join us," Captain gestures to a seat next to him at the table in the middle of the room. The rest of the crew had already taken their seats. I walk over and sit next to the Captain. It feels strange that I'm the newest recruit and everyone is looking toward me but at the Captain. A deep voice breaks my train of thought.
"I have some bad news. It seems that the ship is being tampered with. So, it is our responsibility as the crew aboard this vessel to do the repairs," says Captain.
"Isn't that the repair crew's job? I thought they were on their way for yearly inspection soon," Polly says. She is always the first to question the Captain. I guess it's because she has been in space the longest. Her suit casts a red glow across her face. It seems like her and the Captain are in a long, intense staring contest. Or maybe it just feels like time slowed down. Lucas spoke up this time to break the silence.
"Yes, they were on their way but something has gone wrong. They aren't responding to any of our broadcasts." His voice is shaky and laced with worry. I start to fidget in my seat, feeling more nervous.
"I'm sure that they are fine, but the repairs need to be done immediately. I'm going to give each of you a set of tasks to complete. If anything happens we will meet back here," Captain says. I feel better now knowing that the Captain has a plan. But, the First Mate's words stuck with Dr. Monroe.
"What do you mean they're not responding? What happened?" Dr. Monroe continued, "Who's tampering with the ship? How? What do you mean 'if anything goes wrong'?"
"Breathe Kat, it's just in case. I'll come with you for your tasks, then you can come with me. We'll be just fine. Okay sweetheart?" Alex spoke softly.
"I don't want people crowding any of the rooms, so let's not all buddy up." The glare Alex shoots the Captain sends shivers down my spine.
"Here are your lists of tasks, we should review them now before we leave," Lucas says as he hands out the lists and sends everyone digital copies as well.
"Why aren't we all just taking care of tasks in our departments? It's not like we don't fix stuff on the ship." Henry asks
"What? Isn't that how they're set up?" Lucas questions as he looks down at his own list with confusion.
"Captain? Is this some kind of drill? We don't have any time for this. We are going to arrive at Durga soon." Pilot says
"Unfortunately no. This is not a drill, but it will be good training in case anything happens to anyone. I have a conference with Headquarters soon and they should clear this whole situation up," Captain replies
"But you didn't answer Henry's question. Why are the lists like this?" Ellie says. I never understand how cremates can be so blunt to their superiors. It doesn't feel very rude coming from Ellie. But Henry was about to say something and the way Polly speaks to the captain shows how disrespectful they can be.
"Ellie you shouldn't question Captain so much." Michail says. I'm glad I wasn't the only one who thought it was odd.
"But doesn't it seem silly to have people running all around the ship? And plus what if someone messes something up? I don't know anything about Navigation so I could press the wrong button. What if someone does something wrong and makes it worse?" Ellie replies.
"You're right Elle, I don't want anyone touching my stuff. Do you guys have any idea how dangerous the reactor is?! One wrong switch and the ship could blow up! It's dangerous to have people go into wings they know nothing about," Polly scoffs "It's downright stupid!"
"Polly! Did you seriously just call the Captain stupid?" I blurt out I just can't stop myself. I mean he is the person in charge of everything and everyone on this ship. People don't become a captain by making reckless decisions.
"No, I called his choice to make us all go on a wild goose chase when something is wrong with the ship stupid," Polly says.
"If you're questioning his decisions, you're questioning him, that's how it works!" I yell, getting mad.
"Well he deserves to be questioned when he makes stupid calls. Not asking questions is what gets people killed.!" her voice dripping with venom.
"Guys! Stop fighting and let the Captain explain himself!" Lucas shouts. Captain sighed before speaking.
"I have my own reasons for the decisions I have made. You all have read the manual and have plenty of common sense to stop you from making any serious mistakes. The repairs are not difficult or dangerous. As the captain of this vessel and your superior I am ordering you to complete the lists I have made," his voice softens a bit "And as your friend I am asking you all to trust me.". He gets up and starts walking to the bottom of the cafeteria toward communications.
"I have to attend this conference if you'll excuse me," The captain says as he walks through the door.
The room is silent except small huffs from Alex and Henry. Pilot is the first to get up, followed by Ellie. Michail gives me a sympathetic look and follows Pilot toward Navigation.
"I have nothing against you Daisy. There are just some lessons I want you to learn from the easy way, By the people around you, instead of making the same mistakes as those before you." Polly says. Her voice is different than I've ever heard before. It is somber and almost apologetic. I can't say anything, I just sit there, staring at her. She sighs and pats her thighs getting up.
"See you around newbie."
