The anticipation made it seem like hours before the transport ship finally launched. It was quite a sight to watch Aeris fade and the blue sky turn into a starlit background. The sight of civilization disappeared, revealing only the face of nature. I couldn’t help but be transfixed and I thought to myself, “This definitely won’t be the last time I do this.”
After about 30 minutes or so there was an announcement – “We are now approaching The Aurora Station, should be docking in about 10 minutes.” As The Aurora came into sight it was absolutely overwhelming. It was almost like a separate civilization floating above Aeris. The best way to describe it would be a city in the stars.
As the transporter began to dock I could see the legendary Asirium Hall. Asirum is a clear, glass like substance that was found on D-217 and it just so happens to be one of the strongest materials we know of. It’s a perfect example of helpful discoveries that can be made from the Sirius missions.
The ACI decided to make the outside walls of one entire floor from asirium. The Aurora was spherical and the Asirium Hall wrapped around the whole station. You could walk for hundreds of miles with an ever-changing view of space. It’s something I definitely planned on doing tonight since we wouldn’t be leaving until the morning.
When the transport ship docked and Kayin and I boarded The Aurora, we were both speechless. All we could do is look at each other and point at everything. It became very apparent that the ACI was far more advanced than the public and our government. The Capital was amazing… but nothing like this. Walking through the doors onto The Aurora was almost like stepping through a portal into the future. If the cities outside the protected zone saw this, it would surely provoke another war.
We followed the group to the north side of the Asirium Hall. It was one of the most incredible things I had ever experienced… The asirium was so clear that it gave the effect of actually walking in space. I was lucky I didn’t bump into anyone or trip; I couldn’t keep my eyes forward as we made our way to the orientation area. The only way I could describe it was hypnotizing and when I looked over at Kayin, I could tell he felt the same way.
When we all made it to the orientation room there was already a man standing at the podium waiting to speak. He was obviously ex militia and probably pushing 60. He looked intensely serious… like he had been through a lot.
He cleared his throat and began to speak – “I am Commander Neros, and I would like to start by congratulating all of you, as you are now officially members of the Aeris Coalition of Intelligence… From the moment you entered this station, everything you see and hear must be considered as classified. From the moment you enter your assigned ship, The Sirius 7, everything you see and hear is classified. Does everyone understand?” We all replied “Yes.”
Commander Neros stated “All the ships at the ACI have been named The Sirius because they are our greatest hope to once again find something that could change the world forever… This mission will be potentially deadly and quite possibly unsuccessful, but you’re all here because you know it’s worth the risk. We must no longer stand by and watch the rest of the world suffer, simply because we have the technology to help ourselves. Otherwise we are no better than the men who destroyed the atmosphere through industry so long ago. I have faith that we will correct their mistakes, and that all of us will return as the saviors of humanity”… After hearing his words I knew that I truly was in the right place, and that I would never regret my decision.
Just as Commander Neros finished, another man stood up and proceeded to take the podium. – “Hello everyone, I am Director Orion. I’m basically in charge of The Aurora, once you get into space, Commander Neros will be who you answer to… The Sirius 7 will be leaving tomorrow morning, before then please take the time to see what The Aurora has to offer… Best of luck to all of you, please know you have my utmost respect for your efforts and courage… Oh yes… All technicians report to area 17 in the west wing for technology orientation. I promise you will all be very intrigued by our new creations.”
I looked over at Kayin and I could tell he was excited. He said “Oh this is going to be great! I can only imagine what kind of classified tech these guys have. You know I drool over this stuff Atlas… I’m outta here, I’ll come find you as soon as I’m done.” He slapped the back of my head and took off running… I’d get him back.
I walked back out into the Asirium Hall and continued to gaze at the stars for quite some time. Then I noticed someone out of the corner of my eye – “Amazing isn’t it?” I replied “Yes it is… I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to stop looking.” He put out his hand and said “My name is Cyrus, I’m the head of the science division for The Sirius 7” I turned and said “Science division? I think you’re in the wrong place; we’re all militia in this section… Atlas, by the way.”
He said “Well actually before I go on any mission I always go around and look for an assistant from another division… Scientists can be arrogant, combative, and annoying.” I paused and said “Didn’t you just say you were a scientist?” He laughed - “Yes I’m a scientist, and it’s my duty to present reality.” I smiled – “Hey, you said it”.
He turned and faced me – “Why are you here Atlas?” I thought for a moment – “Well… you may not believe this but it’s because I’ve been thinking everything that Commander Neros said for a very long time. Just because we all live in safety, people seem to forget about the billions on the outside of the protective field. I don’t know about you, but I’m not ok with that.”
He looked at me for a few moments – “So you’re not here for money or a good time?.. Actually I already knew that, I was watching you while the Director gave his speech. I could see it in your eyes. That’s why I came over here to talk with you… Follow me.” I wasn’t quite sure what had just happened but I have a feeling it was a good thing… Cyrus looked to be at least 50, maybe even 60. He had an odd look in his eyes, almost as if he knew something the rest of us didn’t. I could almost describe it as unwavering confidence and wisdom. I wonder what he could possibly want from me?
As we walked, I was about to ask a question and he said “Why you?.. Well most people in the science division are only here because their families could afford the academy. Most of them are money driven, shallow, and lack any real vision. That’s where the qualities I dislike seem to come from. I don’t need someone to second guess my work and try to outshine me; I just need help with certain things… and of course you’ll act as my private bodyguard if we go down to X-451. You’ll learn as you go, and I can promise that you’ll enjoy it much more than whatever else you would be doing… You don’t seem like a militia guy anyway.”
He asked about my life back on Aeris and how I ended up joining the Malitia. By the end I’d basically given him my whole story. I guess he wanted to know exactly who I was… I had the feeling that I was about to become a part of something very important.
This was all so strange, between everything else that had happened and now this… It’s beginning to feel like a dream, almost as if I could wake up any moment and be back on Aeris. I just hoped I could do whatever it is he wanted of me. I could tell he was very particular and demanding just from our short time together.
As we continued on, he gave me a history of The Aurora Station and explained what his science team would be doing on the planet. Since there was plenty of room on The Sirius 7 to bring extra personnel, the government and the ACI agreed the importance of studying an Aeris-like planet warranted the extra time and money. He said if it were only a mining operation chaperoned by militia, the Sirius 7 would have set off over six months ago. Apparently his private division was even kept a secret from the public to avoid any problems with funding.
Cyrus came to a stop, pointed me in the direction of the personnel quarters, and told me to find an empty room. He said “I’ll come get you tomorrow morning and explain further. Oh, and I’d wander around after I settled in if I were you… There’s a lot to see. The west side of
the Asirium Hall has the best views and the nutrition center is on the way there.”
I was getting hungry so I decided to take his advice. It only took me a minute to find a room and I hadn’t brought anything with me, so I posted my information card on the door and headed for the south side of the Asirium Hall.
I was still in a state of utter amazement, to think so many people could be living up in space like this. It really was like a separate world; even the people seemed different than everyone back home… I liked it. There was no threat of war, it was just peace and silence surrounded by the beauty of space.
I walked the Asirium Hall for hours, just taking in all the amazing sights and technology on the Aurora. I had no idea what time it was but I didn’t care. I’d be in suspended animation for 6 years and there was no need to rush. I was sure this upcoming night would be just like the last; sleepless.
Just as I was about to head back I heard Kayin yell my name. He ran over and I said “How was it?” He looked somewhat disappointed and replied “It wasn’t as impressive as I thought… I guess after seeing this place it made my expectations a little high. Still some really amazing stuff though… What have you been doing?”
I told him about Cyrus and the details of my possible new job. I was kind of upset about not spending most of my time with my best friend but it seemed like such a great opportunity. Who knows what it could lead to, and I had a feeling that Cyrus was a part of something very special and secretive.
I could tell Kayin was disappointed as well, but at the same time understood why I wanted to take the job… and also that I didn’t exactly have a choice. The guy was head of the science division. Kayin smiled and said “Well it’s not that big of a deal. We can still hang out when we have free time. Plus I might be assisting and guarding your science team anyway… You wanna keep walking or what? I’ve been sitting down listening to some stuffy old man tell me stuff I already know for 3 hours.”
To be honest I was getting pretty tired of walking but since we might not see much of each other I did it anyway. For hours we discussed the mission and the possibility of encountering intelligent life. He raised good points about the mining process as well. He explained that the ACI estimated eight years by studying similar mining conditions on Aeris.
Kayin knew quite a bit about mining and said he thinks mining 7,000 tons of anything will take longer than that. Especially since all the equipment has to be set up and it might even take a long time to find the chrysos deposits… if they even exist. Basically he advised me to expect our journey to take much longer because the ACI’s estimate was for a best case scenario. I was perfectly fine with that… in fact I think I could live in space for the rest of my life.
Eventually we decided it was time to try and get some sleep; tomorrow was going to be a big day. So we parted ways and headed to our rooms. I was almost back to my room when I realized how hungry I was. The Aisirum Hall had such a hypnotic effect on me that I must have walked right by the nutrition center.
When I got to the center five other people were already in line and it took a few minutes per person so I had a wait. While I was standing there a hand touched my shoulder – “I saw you walking around with Cyrus, you must be his new assistant… I’m Sara, part of the science team. Nice to meet you” She put her hand out so I responded in kind and said “I’m Atlas, nice to meet you too.” She seemed very kind and had a sincere look in her eyes. I immediately felt comfortable around her which was a rare thing for me.
I proceeded to stand there in awkward silence trying to think of something to say, but luckily she took the initiative. “So what division were you in before Cyrus recruited you?” – I hesitantly answered “Militia, first encounter specialist.” She looked confused for a moment – “Really? How did you meet Cyrus?”
I replied “It was right after Commander Neros’ speech; Cyrus approached me… He asked a few questions and next thing I knew the job was mine. He said something about not liking scientists as assistants... I don’t know to be honest. I’m a bit confused myself.” She smiled – “Well I guess he must see something in you. What made you sign up for the militia in the first place?” Before I could answer the man waiting behind her pointed out that it was my turn.
I rushed over to the booth, got my supplement and stood aside to wait for Sara. When she was done she walked over and said “Sooo?...” I stuttered a bit - “Oh uh.. Well I joined the militia division because it was the easiest way to become a part of the Sirius mission… I’m here because I want to be a part of healing our world. What about you?” She smiled – “Oh now I understand, you’re the first person I’ve talked to so far that said that, it seems like everyone else is here for fun, work references, or a nice paycheck. It’s nice to know I’m not the only one on the team that actually cares about all the people beyond the safe zone.”
I said “I’m sure other people care” She grimaced – “You’d be surprised… well I’ve got to go. I guess I’ll either see you tomorrow… Or in six years.” I laughed “Yeah, I’ll see you in six years”. As she walked away I found myself wanting to continue the conversation. I hadn’t met anyone quite like her before. I couldn’t really understand what I meant by that… But it meant something.
Even though I was tired, I figured since it was my last night here for 20 years I would spend some more time walking the Asirium Hall. I’d gone to the west side like Cyrus recommended, but only to the beginning.
I might as well use my remaining time to go as far as I can. I have to remember I may not come back so it could be my only chance. After I walked for what seemed like an hour I decided to turn around, otherwise I’d have a long way back to the team quarters. Cyrus most certainly wasn’t lying about the view; it was indescribable.
I finally made it back to my room and after a few minutes of lying down I started to realize I was exhausted, the excitement had just pushed it aside. I noticed a book next to the bed labeled “The History of the ACI.” I really wanted to start reading it but my eyes were far too heavy… I leaned my head back and as I drifted away I thought to myself “tomorrow will be my real beginning.”
I awoke to a knock on the door… I was immediately wide awake with excitement and I jumped up and threw on my uniform. As soon as I opened the door, Cyrus began talking; no good morning, just right to it. I was starting to get the impression that he was a very serious and driven man. I could tell I’d have to really try my best if I wanted to impress Cyrus and keep my new position.
He explained that his team was specifically sent in search of intelligent life. X-451 was not only similar to Aeris in every way, but the unmanned ship determined it was approximately the same age. The ACI believes there is an extremely good chance it could house intelligent life and in the very least a wide array of creatures and plant life for study. Many of the most important drugs and medicines come from animal and plant life. That alone could produce a wealth of information.
He continued on – “The ACI committee and scientists strongly hope to find a type of life form that is very similar, if not exactly the same as us. We have long thought of our planet as a kitchen of sorts, and the type of kitchen and ingredients dictate the type of food correct? Well, X-451 is the exact same kitchen, with the exact same ingredients… understand what I’m saying?” I looked over and said “Yes… but just so you know I’d prefer if you explained things to me in a more serious way.” He laughed – “Excellent, I’d prefer that as well… just wanted to start things off simple but I can see you don’t need that.”
He then said it was time for me to meet his team so he could introduce me as his new assistant. As we walked he told me a little more about my job description. Apparently I would be doing things like taking notes in meetings and in general, fetching equipment, handing him various things while he’s working, and also assisting the team when need be. He also claimed he liked an alternate opinion in times of uncertainty and sometimes people looking from the outside in notice things those directly involved don�
��t.
I had a feeling watching them work and being involved in the research in any way would be extremely interesting. Especially if the ACI was right and there was in fact intelligent life on this planet. It was very exciting to think of such a concept as that there may be an actual civilization on X-451.
Who knows, it could even be more advanced than ours and be willing to help with the mining process… Though that could backfire into a refusal, as they would need the chrysos as well. Only time would tell… Nevertheless the idea of anything other than microbial life being a reality is amazing. Especially since I would get to see it, or them, with my own eyes.
When we got to his private laboratory it wasn’t quite what I expected. There were only about 20 people including Sara, and more than a few seemed to be technicians, not scientists. It was also quite a bit smaller than I had imagined. Cyrus got the attention of the room and announced that I was his new assistant. Then he gave me a quick tour and introduced me to some of the other team members.
He led me into his office and before he could speak, I said “Why such a small team for something so important?” He cleared his throat – “Well basically, money. It’s much more expensive to employ world class scientists than any other profession on this mission. It was also extraordinarily expensive to set up the necessary facilities here and on The Sirius, even for my small group. It’s one of the reasons our work is highly classified, can’t let the details get out to the public… then they’d know how much it costs.” - He grinned.
The argument of our government was that no matter how much the ACI wanted to believe the evidence meant intelligent life; it was still a shot in the dark. I actually got in trouble during the meeting when I said it was like taking a shot in a dark room full of people… The committee didn’t like that very much.” He smiled and I couldn’t help but laugh.
The Sirius Chronicles Page 2