The vast expanse of space near the Halifax system provided the backdrop for the arrival of Little Suzy, a small transport vessel, as it made its way toward the imposing figure of the Mandoleer’s Folly.
Inside the cockpit, Spacedawg Pauly’s voice crackled over the radio, breaking the silence.
“This is SPD 01 requesting landing clearance,” he announced, his tone firm and professional.
A response came swiftly from Maelstrom
Origin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... More, the ship’s AI.
“Welcome back, Lieutenant. You’re clear for docking,” MaelstromOrigin and Early Life Maelstrom, a Gichi-manidoo from the Rogue Moon of Giizis Babaa-ayaa in the Ontario Sector, is distinguished by her blue-furred, wild cat-like features. A member of the humanoid species with a deep connection to nature, she embodies the physical and spiritual traits of her heritage. Maelstrom’s life took a significant turn when she relocated to the bustling... More replied, her voice warm and familiar.
In the cargo bay of the Mandoleer’s Folly, the doors slid open with a hydraulic hiss, revealing Agent Celine and Spacedawg as they disembarked from their fighter. They were met by Captain Ed, who greeted them with a smile.
“Got word from RCSC. Sounds like you two had quite the adventure down on Halifax Prime,” Captain Ed remarked, his tone filled with admiration.
“Just doing our part,” Agent Celine replied modestly, though a hint of pride lingered in her voice.
Captain Ed’s eyes twinkled with amusement as he continued. “Captain Douglas was impressed. Sent up a case of 30-year-old Halifax Gold as a thank you.”
“We’re glad we could assist,” Spacedawg chimed in, his expression stoic but his gratitude evident.
Captain Ed’s demeanor shifted as he mentioned a familiar name. “Oh, and we ran into a friend of yours on Sherbrooke Prime.”
Agent Celine’s interest was piqued. “Mr. Jones? But he disappeared after our meeting.”
“He left me a suitcase of currency from 1904 and coordinates to input into the nav computer. Pauly, I need you at the helm,” Captain Ed instructed, his tone serious yet tinged with curiosity.
On the bridge of the Mandoleer’s Folly, Spacedawg assumed his position at the helm, fingers flying across the controls with practiced precision.
“These coordinates are inside the Fold,” Spacedawg observed, his voice steady despite the potential risks.
“Great, just what we need. Let’s take her in,” Captain Ed replied, his confidence unwavering.
As they engaged the Fold Drive, their journey was unexpectedly interrupted by the fury of a temporal storm, throwing the ship into chaos.
“Captain, we have a problem. Temporal storm inbound,” Agent Celine warned, her voice urgent.
The ship rocked violently as they navigated through the turbulent storm, alarms blaring and consoles sparking with electricity.
“I’ve lost control. Engines are shot,” Spacedawg reported, his voice strained with effort.
“Long-range sensors are damaged. Attempting to determine our location,” Agent Celine added, her fingers flying across the console in a desperate attempt to stabilize their situation.
Maelstrom’s voice crackled over the radio with a solution. “Captain, we need Udath Particles to recharge the crystals. I’ve located a habitable planet nearby. We should set down for repairs.”
“Take us in, Pauly,” Captain Ed commanded, his voice steady despite the gravity of their situation.
As they descended toward the planet’s surface, a sense of unease settled over them. Agent Celine’s voice broke the tension as they approached their destination.
“Is that Earth? Where are the satellites?” she questioned, her words laden with uncertainty.
