The ship glided through the expanse, its engines humming softly. Stars stretched endlessly ahead, pinpricks of light scattered across a sea of black.
Plavo perched on a chair near the console, his feet dangling as he stared at the holographic map.
"It's... quieter than I thought it'd be," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
You leaned back in the captain's chair, your fingers drumming on the armrest. The silence was heavy, almost unnerving.
"Don't get used to it," you said. "It never lasts."
General Kael stood at the far end of the room, arms crossed. His eyes were locked on a projection of nearby star systems.
"Quiet isn't always good," he said, his tone low and measured. "It's what you don't hear that gets you."
Plavo twisted his chair to face you, his earlier unease replaced by curiosity. "So, what's the plan? Scouting? Supplies? Exploring ruins? Please say ruins."
Before you could answer, a chime echoed across the bridge.
The comms panel lit up, displaying a faint signal. Static crackled as a voice began to break through, weak but deliberate.
"...Orbit... breached... anomaly... help..."
The transmission cut off abruptly.
Kael stepped forward, his face grim. "Could be a trap."
"Or someone needs help!" Plavo interjected, spinning back to the console.
You stood, walking to the panel as tension filled the room. "Mark the location," you said.
Kael nodded. "And the plan?"
"We investigate. But cautiously."
The ship's course adjusted, its engines flaring to life. The stars outside remained still, silent witnesses as you ventured toward the unknown.