The weight of the universe seemed to press down on Paruru as they watched Marina's coffin drift away into the endless void. It was a cold, impersonal farewell for a woman who had been more than just a crewmate. She was family.
There was no time for grief. The creature was still out there, a silent, deadly predator lurking in the shadows of the station. Paruru's voice echoed through the intercom, a sharp counterpoint to the growing dread. Every crew member was tasked with a search, their eyes scanning every corner, every vent. Communication channels were kept open, a constant hum of activity and tension.
A call to Earth was imperative. Paruru contacted NASA, her voice steady despite the turmoil within. The news of the creature sent shockwaves through mission control. A decision was made swiftly: the launch of the replacement crew was postponed indefinitely.
The response from NASA's chief administrator was chillingly clear. The creature was not to reach Earth at any cost. The order was stark: do whatever it takes. Even if it meant sacrificing the station.
Henry's question hung in the air, a bitter pill to swallow. Expendable. It was a harsh reality, but it was the truth. They were the last line of defense against a horror beyond comprehension. And as the weight of their responsibility settled on their shoulders, they knew that their fight had just begun.
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Paruru Festival
Short Story"An anthology of short stories featuring Haruka Shimazaki in various roles, each with a different co-star. The collection includes both six-chapter stories and one-shot chapters, with each tale standing alone in its own unique setting and narrative...
