
Space Exploration
Episode 3: The Signal’s Source
The rhythmic tones echoed in Elara’s mind as the crew worked tirelessly over the next few weeks. Naia Torres, their chief engineer, spearheaded efforts to decode the signal. The patterns were complex, seeming almost like a language or a code designed to test their intelligence.
“There’s definitely a logic to it,” Naia said, gesturing to the rows of alien glyphs displayed on her console. “It’s not just random noise.”
Dr. Liao joined her, running the patterns through linguistic algorithms. “It’s a bit like mathematics, universal and deliberate. It could be a greeting, a warning… or a test.”
Meanwhile, Samir monitored the ship’s external sensors. As the Astra Velorum moved closer to the coordinates associated with the signal, an object began to appear on their scans: an enormous structure drifting in the void.
“Captain,” Samir called out. “We’ve got something. It’s massive.”
Elara hurried to the bridge, her heart racing. The holographic display revealed a colossal alien vessel, ancient and scarred. It floated lifelessly, its surface marked with strange symbols and fractures that suggested a violent past.
“Lyra, run a full scan,” Elara ordered.
“The vessel appears to be derelict,” Lyra reported. “No detectable energy signatures or life forms on board. However, the signal’s origin is confirmed to be from within this structure.”
“It’s a ghost ship,” Samir muttered.
“Or a tomb,” Naia added quietly.
Elara straightened. “Prepare an away team. We’re going to investigate. Whatever’s inside that ship may hold answers to the signal’s purpose… and to what lies ahead for us.”
As the crew suited up for the mission, a sense of foreboding settled over them. The alien vessel loomed outside like a silent sentinel, its secrets waiting to be unearthed.
To be continued in the next episode..