Deep Space Odysse Volume 1

Chapter 3 Investigation

He opened his eyes.

The sky outside was still cloaked in darkness. Reynolds sat up in bed, draped his robe over his shoulders, and stepped onto the balcony. From there, he could gaze out over a pristine, clear lake, its surface shimmering under the gentle caress of moonlight. The breeze stirred the small trees by the lakeside, their rustling leaves accompanied by a refreshing fragrance that filled the air.

The New Federal Government had long decreed that Earth should be restored to its former tranquility and natural beauty. Most industrial zones had been relocated, the population density reduced. Without the noise and chaos of sprawling cities, Earth's nights were serene and peaceful, its landscapes picturesque, resembling a paradise on earth.

After completing his mission, Reynolds had been stationed at San Juan Mountain Sanatorium, a military convalescence facility, due to the major repairs needed on the Aphrodite. Until the ship was repaired, or until he received new orders, he would spend a leisurely holiday here.

Perhaps it was the habit of living amidst the thunder of war, but in the calm and peaceful night, Reynolds found himself unable to sleep, as though sensing the calm before the storm.

Memories, like bubbles rising to the surface of water, flooded his mind—recollections of his early days at the academy, his first clash with Matthew, and his initial meeting with Claire...

Ah, those reckless, youthful days.

Once, he had dreamt of commanding a starship and sailing through the galaxy.

Once, he had been so close to that dream.

But in the end, it had all turned to dust. He hadn't become the victor, but one of those cast aside by Alpha Academy.

Whether it was luck or misfortune, the outcome had been inevitable.

Fate had given him another chance, allowing him to command a starship during the last mission. For Reynolds, it was the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream.

When he brought the ship back to Earth, he felt as though all his dreams had been realized, leaving no regrets in his heart.

From now on, he told himself, just enjoy being a mecha pilot and the thrill of combat in space.

A faint smile played on Reynolds' lips as he poured himself a glass of wine and sat in the wicker chair on the balcony, gazing silently at the distant night sky.

Dawn had arrived.

It was only then that Reynolds realized, unknowingly, he had spent the second half of the night sitting there.

His mind was still sharp. In his days aboard the ship, staying awake for thirty-six hours straight had been common. This newfound comfort, in contrast, left him feeling slightly out of place.

He went to the bathroom, washed his face, and shaved off the stubble that had begun to grow. Staring at his reflection, Reynolds murmured to himself, "At least I fulfilled one dream, didn't I? A life with dreams is never in vain."

At that moment, the voice of the intelligent housekeeper rang out, "You have a visitor."

Now?

Reynolds was surprised but said, "Let them in."

The mirror screen shifted, revealing a man in a black suit and sunglasses standing at the door. Pressing his wrist to the identity scanner, the man spoke, "Federal Fleet Investigation Bureau, here to see Captain Reynolds."

The identity scanner quickly verified the implanted chip in the man's wrist and displayed the name: Russell Hill.

"A federal agent?" Reynolds mused, "What does an agent want with me?"