Alien - Pandemonium

Chapter Five

The first light of dawn peeked over the distant curve of the moon, casting long shadows across the ship's hull. Golden rays filtered through the solar panels, igniting them with a vibrant glow as they eagerly soaked up the energy. Inside the ship, the sunlight streamed through the windows lining the corridors, casting warm hues across the metal walls and waking the sleeping crew. Charlie stirred in her bunk, blinking sleepily as she turned towards the window. The soft light bathed her face, gentle and inviting, coaxing her into wakefulness. With a contented sigh, she stretched beneath the covers, relishing the comforting warmth of the sun's embrace.

Charlie slowly untangled herself from the warmth of her bed and padded across the room, her footsteps muffled by the soft carpeting. She gathered her clothes and slipped out of her room, making her way down the familiar corridors towards the shared bathroom. As she entered, the sound of running water filled the space, indicating that most of the showers were already occupied by crew members preparing for the upcoming mission.

Spotting Judy among the group, Charlie made her way over and started up the shower beside her, exchanging a brief nod of acknowledgment.

Charlie grinned. "Glad you decided to stick it out."

Judy nodded, a smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yeah, me too. I think I'd regret it if I bailed now."

Charlie glanced at Judy as she stepped into the stream of water, the hot steam enveloping them both, creating a comfortable atmosphere despite the close quarters. With the steam providing some privacy, conversations with the crew flowed easily, adding a sense of camaraderie to the pre-mission preparations.

"What made you change your mind?" Charlie inquired, genuinely curious.

Judy met her gaze. "I guess the Captain convinced me. Plus, as the legal advisor, I need to be there for signatures and handovers."

Charlie chuckled. "That's fair".

After the crew had showered, dressed, and eaten, they all gathered to prepare for the spacewalk to the station. The procedure was straightforward: a tether line would be launched from the airlock of the Grafton to connect with one of the alternative access points on the station. The Captain had calmly explained this plan to Judy before the meeting. During the spacewalk, she would be tethered between Barry and Carter, while the Captain led the team with Charlie.

As they suited up in their EVA suits, Judy couldn't shake the nervousness gnawing at her. She watched as the others checked and double-checked their equipment, their movements fluid and practiced. Barry flashed her a reassuring smile, but it did little to ease her anxiety. Once they were all geared up, they made their way to the airlock. The hum of anticipation filled the room as they waited for the final preparations to be completed. The Captain's voice came over the intercom, calm and steady, issuing last-minute instructions and reassurances.

Finally, the airlock cycled open, revealing the vast expanse of space beyond. Judy's breath caught in her throat as she stepped out into the void, the weightlessness of space enveloping her. She gripped the tether tightly, her heart pounding in her chest. With the Captain leading the way, they floated gracefully towards the station. The sight of the damaged docking port loomed ahead, a stark reminder of the dangers that lurked in the vastness of space. But amidst the uncertainty, Judy found a glimmer of determination. She was here for a reason, and she would see it through, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

"It's actually beautiful out here," Judy commented, her voice barely audible through the comms in her helmet.

"It is," the Captain replied, his words echoing softly in her ears.

Charlie glanced back at Judy, a smile evident even through the faceplate of her helmet. "Space is beautiful. Enjoy the sights while you can!"

"Not too much further now, keep on," the Captain commented over the comms, his voice steady despite the tension.