Aria

Chapter 2

Chapter 2

The white noise of the engines told me I was doing everything correctly. I had my first piloting simulation today and I couldn't blow it. This is the first step to reaching my goal. All around me were stars; glittery but only a screen. I came upon another ship and quickly tried to veer past it, assuming it was only programmed as a distraction. 

Once it was out of view I came upon the planet that I was supposed to land successfully on. It looked so real; the colors, clouds, city lights, it was peaceful, almost. 

I turned into the planet’s atmosphere, “mild turbulence, I have made appropriate modifications.” my headset felt scratchy on top of my tight dark brown ponytail. 

“Received, continue on the current course, ensign Kaarn,” they answered. The audio wasn't clear but I could make out what they were saying. I took a deep breath in and out. Focused. Calm. Aware. I repeated reassuring words to myself under my breath.

Some thick, orange clouds of dust blocked my view. I couldn't make out anything; I only could see shadows of what I hoped wasn't the surface. I braced myself as the shadows grew larger and darker. I pulled up a bit and slowed my speed. “The clouds can’t cover the entire atmosphere, right?” I thought out loud. I was right; I eventually reached a clear patch and saw the most incredible sight. Waterfalls, lush, green, grass, and vibrant, exotic flowers. I turned towards the landing platform and as I turned my to the direction in which I was flying, that same red ship appeared. “The second vessel in view,”

Silence.

I spoke into my communication system. “There is another ship, what should I do.”

No reply.

My heart skipped a beat when I realized they weren’t going to respond. I’ve only trained with backup. I took a deep breath and realized that this was far more than a test.

I scanned the ship: there were 2 life signs. Both male. They have weapons far more advanced than the ones on my ship. I couldn’t win a fight even if I used everything I have. 

They were a few miles out. If I could go as fast as I can, I can make it to the landing pad unseen. The planet’s brush should be able to keep me out of sight and my cloaking feature should leave me undetected by their censors.

I flew forwards, behind trees, under a cliff. I noticed that my fuel was running low. I didn’t have much time. The checkpoint is in view. I made a dash for it. I was in the open for about five seconds, until I was spotted.

I turned my head. It felt like everything was moving in slow motion. I saw the fiery, red, beam coming straight towards me a split second before my console exploded. Sparks, shrapnel, surges, I covered my face with both arms. I didn’t realize how hard I was squeezing my eyes shut until I opened them. The entire area was filled with smoke. I couldn't see anything. I coughed so hard my eyes watered as I fumbled for the door handle. I finally found it and pulled it. I took what I thought was going to be a deep breath of clean air. The door was locked. I realized that and started pounding on the metal and pulling at the door. It didn't move. I used what air I had left to scream for help. It felt like an eternity. The air was running out. I heaved trying desperately to fill my lungs. No one came. I felt lightheaded. I let out one final call for help. The world went dark.