The Space-Center casted the moon below it in permanent eclipse. It was the largest Exploration Center this side of the galaxy. That was probably because this side of the galaxy was minimally explored.
Creatures of all kinds buzzed about, each of them worried about their own tasks. On a board highlighted with red, a ping suddenly showed up in the far right. The Overseer of this board clicked twice on it. They hadn't remembered anyone out there.
But then, after a second, they cringed. Someone had been sent out there. A newbie who was four days overdue had pressed an alarm signal.
"Probably got creeped out after they learned about what's on that death planet," the alien mused in their language. "But anyways, we should send someone out."
They stood up to go over to the Group-Panel of discussion, but felt a slimy tentacle on their shoulder. They stared up to see the most intimidating alien they'd ever seen.
"I'll handle this," the alien said, narrowing two pairs of their eyes.
The screen-overseer's eyes widened as the retired Colonel walked away.