Tales from the Former Universe

9. Progress Complications

Lepille deftly guided Hwillfyrd's trembling hands, unraveling the labyrinth of silk. With a patient smile, she mirrored his father's gentle teachings, weaving tradition into the fabric of the moment. As the knot tightened, Hwillfyrd stood taller, ready to step into the spotlight with newfound confidence, a testament to generations of wisdom passed down.

"You are ready," Lepille said, holding both Hwillfyrd's shoulders. "Success, this outcome will be. Objectives can change, but goals shouldn't."

"Thank you," Hwillfyrd said kindly, and let go of Lepille's hands off his shoulders, leaving for the pitch.

In the proto-space elevator, Lobertari's gaze extends beyond the confines of Earth's atmosphere, venturing into the boundless depths of the galaxy. As she drifts farther from the familiar embrace of her home planet, a kaleidoscope of celestial wonders unfolds before her eyes. Amidst the vast expanse of space, interstellar dots twinkle like distant beacons, each a testament to the unfathomable scale of the universe. Supernovae erupt in brilliant displays of stellar majesty, casting their radiant glow across the cosmic canvas. The raw energy of meteorites ignites a symphony of light and motion, their fiery trails carving ephemeral arcs against the infinite darkness. In this cosmic ballet of creation and destruction, Lobertari finds herself awash in a profound sense of awe and reverence for the cosmic forces that shape the cosmos.

It was her fifth session in the spaceport, already, Lobertari was allocated some tasks at Lapangkasa

Task #1: Gravity Diagnostics

She entered the forecast chamber, conducting diagnostics alongside a colleague before delivering the findings to Bantargara. The diagnostics ran smoothly, enabling a thorough scan of the weather. Yet, amidst the seriousness of the conditions, she harbored doubts regarding the accuracy of the forecast. Adding a few adjustments, she ran another diagnostic, revealing the true severity of the situation. However, her actions raised eyebrows, with accusations of unauthorized manipulation of the machinery directed at her and her colleague, Lobertari.

Lobertari relayed the suggestion, but it failed to gain traction, deemed impractical. All adjustments were reverted to standard settings to mitigate costs and avert potential risks.

Task #2: Space Farm

It was the one and only space farm Indonesia had and it was the size of a common apartment in Jayapatih. Lobertari smelled and experienced greenery and freshness of naturality. It was wondrous herself, for her to inquire some notes of her own on her tablet—she sincerely wished the farm was bigger someday, giving it more attention than other unnecessary facilities like that large space bedroom.

Task #3: Space Cluttering

According to protocol, every 1.5 days demanded the astronauts meticulously cleanse the exteriors of Lapangkasa. Lobertari, having received certification and pledging allegiance to the spaceport, actively engaged in this cleaning ritual.

She approached the task with a maternal instinct, tending to Lapangkasa's every nook and cranny. Despite the interruptions and the time-consuming nature of scrutinizing the helmet's analysis for potential debris in the void of space, she persisted.

The most challenging aspect of the cleaning regimen was undoubtedly the solar panels; any blemish on their surface could jeopardize energy storage. Lobertari faced rigorous trials, often stumbling during the solar panel cleanliness assessments. She likened the delicate process to polishing the highest window of a skyscraper, mindful of the fragility exacerbated by cosmic winds.

Unofficial Task: Investigate Space Rock found

Just three days prior, a minuscule space rock had been unearthed by the keen eye of a scientist. Eager to contribute, Lobertari threw herself into assisting her colleagues in scrutinizing the celestial find. Possessing a remarkable talent, Lobertari's initial instinct, even before employing the scanners, was to observe the rock afar firsthand, sans the protective shield of her helmet, utilizing her preeminent visions.