3171W3

CHAPTER 11

The Beta group, after an endless march, arrives in front of a massive door at the end of this endless corridor. As they approach, the airlock opens, revealing a huge glass window overlooking a sparkling red energy core, but located at a very significant height. The sight is breathtaking, and everyone feels awe-struck in front of this mysterious energy source. 

- It's impressive! It looks like the energy center we were searching for, observes Corporal Chief Garcia. 

- How on earth are we going to reach that energy core? It's way too high! calculates Sgt James Reynolds. 

- We can't afford to waste more time. Time is of the essence; weshould split the group in two, suggests Captain Jackson Blackwood. 

- I propose staying back to study the measuring instruments and the control panel to learn more about this technology and energy, adds another member.

- That's an excellent idea, Lara. And if the Captain agrees, I'd like to stay too to gather as much information as possible. 

- We'll join you as soon as we're done. 

The group separates, despite Captain Jackson Blackwood's hesitant approval. He joins Corporal Chief Garcia and Sgt Reynolds to continue their path into the unknown, leaving Dr. Marcus Williams and Lara Washington behind. As the trio advances, Corporal Chief Garcia is plagued by increasingly severe coughing fits. The concerned Sergeant suggests she stop. 

- Well, Garcia, I've never seen you like this before. Do you want us to take a break?

 - I don't understand, Sergeant. It's the first time my allergies have been this aggressive. But I'll be fine; I can keep walking.

Meanwhile, Dr. Marcus Williams and Lara Washington explore the energy core room with fascination. They discover that the measuring instruments and control panel allow them to manage the energy flow and channel it to other parts of the facility. Excited by what they see, Lara and Marcus share familiar gestures with each new discovery they make. 

- Lara! Look at these symbols on the control panel. It seems like incredibly advanced energy conversion technology. 

- It's amazing, Marcus. If we could understand this, it could revolutionize energy on Earth, figuratively speaking, of course.

- Exactly. After all, I'm a biologist; I know nothing about atomic energy. Dr. Smith should be the one here. But it's true, it's an extraordinary opportunity to understand a technology our civilization has never seen before. 

- I couldn't agree more, my dear.

- Whoa! Did I disturb you that much last night, dear roommate? 

- Don't play coy, Marcus. You asked for seconds twice. 

- Hmm! Yummy.- Did you hear that? 

- What? The appetite I have for you? 

- It's coming from there. 

- What did you hear? 

- I don't know, it's like whispers. Can't you hear anything? 

- Yes, you're right. I hear them too. 

While our couple of lovers approaches the source of the whispers, the second group cautiously continues to advance in this endless corridor, led by Captain Jackson Blackwood. 

- I don't know what you think, but I suggest we start turning back. 

- Given that I've lost contact with the Newton, and not to be pessimistic, but I'm afraid this corridor might lead nowhere.