Ten individuals landed on Altair IV hoping for a new life,
But they were unaware that a 200,000 year old terror lay waiting for them.
(Based on the movie "FORBIDDEN PLANET")
But they were unaware that a 200,000 year old terror lay waiting for them.
(Based on the movie "FORBIDDEN PLANET")
Meet the Crew of the
BELLEROPHON
Dr. Edward Morbius
Philologist/ Communications |
Julia Marsin
Biochemist/ Astrobiologist |
Commander Eric Kalu
Geoscientist |
Captain Peter Chambers
Biotechnologist |
Isabelle Morales
Data Specialist |
Lieutenant Nina Fireheart
Security Officer/Weapons Expert |
Dr. Tan Shishi
Psychologist/MD |
Lieutenant William Adams
Navigator |
Diane Avery Watts
Engineer/Maintenance |
Manuel Soto Cabrera
Chef/Hydroponics |
The Bellerophon Expedition
by Lloyd A. Green
by Lloyd A. Green
Commander Kalu watched the festivities from the upper walkway. He leaned precariously on the guard rail, which prevented him from falling toward the ship’s audience area where most of the group had gathered. Not wanting to disturb the others, he spoke quietly into his mobile recording unit, whose wired microphone stretched from his belt.
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, July 1, 2232.
“It’s been 240 days since our Bellerophon Expedition Class starship departed from Earth, and the surprises have begun long before our arrival at the great star Altair. Captain Peter Chambers is smiling from ear to ear as he completes one of his more pleasant command privileges. As I speak, he’s marrying two members of our crew. The lovebirds are Dr. Edward Morbius, Philology/Communications, and Dr. Julia Marsin, Biochemistry/Zoology.”
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, July 1, 2232.
“It’s been 240 days since our Bellerophon Expedition Class starship departed from Earth, and the surprises have begun long before our arrival at the great star Altair. Captain Peter Chambers is smiling from ear to ear as he completes one of his more pleasant command privileges. As I speak, he’s marrying two members of our crew. The lovebirds are Dr. Edward Morbius, Philology/Communications, and Dr. Julia Marsin, Biochemistry/Zoology.”
Commander Kalu ceased the voice recording as he felt someone’s warm arm move next to his. It was Data Specialist Isabelle Morales.
“Edward is the quietest of our crew, but it’s the quiet ones you have to watch out for,” Isabelle stated as she threaded her hand through Kalu’s arm. “I usually don’t deal with ship gossip, but when the Captain announced this little gathering, I was shocked. Regardless, it’s all pretty romantic, don’t you think?”
Kalu shook his head in agreement. “They do seem like an odd combination as but second-in-command, I’m reserving any further opinions.”
His reluctance to participate in her chitchat didn’t stop Isabelle from prattling on.
“Most communications personnel are known chatterboxes by nature, but Edward Morbius is the opposite. He prefers to be called by his last name, Morbius, which seems gloomy to me, but I won’t go there. He’s reclusive and almost disagreeable at times…”
“Except when it comes to his duties,” Kalu cut her off. “I find him to be remarkably thorough. And regardless of our temperaments, the ten of us are remarkably well-suited for our expedition to Altair IV. We’ll need those talents for us to survive out there.”
Isabelle gently pulled her arm from Kalu’ while leaning toward him to ensure they still made contact. They continue to quietly stare below at the remaining eight of their small crew as Edward and Julia finally said their I do’s.
“Julia truly loves him to death, though,” Isabell said as she exhaled deeply. “Guess she’ll make up for any of his emotional deficits.”
“Edward is the quietest of our crew, but it’s the quiet ones you have to watch out for,” Isabelle stated as she threaded her hand through Kalu’s arm. “I usually don’t deal with ship gossip, but when the Captain announced this little gathering, I was shocked. Regardless, it’s all pretty romantic, don’t you think?”
Kalu shook his head in agreement. “They do seem like an odd combination as but second-in-command, I’m reserving any further opinions.”
His reluctance to participate in her chitchat didn’t stop Isabelle from prattling on.
“Most communications personnel are known chatterboxes by nature, but Edward Morbius is the opposite. He prefers to be called by his last name, Morbius, which seems gloomy to me, but I won’t go there. He’s reclusive and almost disagreeable at times…”
“Except when it comes to his duties,” Kalu cut her off. “I find him to be remarkably thorough. And regardless of our temperaments, the ten of us are remarkably well-suited for our expedition to Altair IV. We’ll need those talents for us to survive out there.”
Isabelle gently pulled her arm from Kalu’ while leaning toward him to ensure they still made contact. They continue to quietly stare below at the remaining eight of their small crew as Edward and Julia finally said their I do’s.
“Julia truly loves him to death, though,” Isabell said as she exhaled deeply. “Guess she’ll make up for any of his emotional deficits.”
“The green sky of Altair IV adds such a dreary layer to an already sad landscape,” Julia stated.
The entire crew was outside of the ship with the duty of finding the most suitable area to place their homes or habitats. Regardless of the breathable air of Altair IV, everyone was required to wear their spacesuits. This rule included Edward and Julia, who walked south of the ship to explore.
Edward was shocked when his wife disconnected the support ring from her helmet, and he heard the decompression. She had done so before he could say a word.
“Julia. Do you remember precautionary rule number 27? Everyone should keep protective gear on for the first few days as a just in case.”
“You’re beginning to sound like Dr. Shishi. I checked the planet’s atmospheric readings with her, and even she knew we were overly safe. Besides. Alfie here hasn’t been affected in the least, which proves my point.”
Edward looked at the pet beagle which, Julia held close to her chest.
“And I don’t think the good doctor would be too happy about you sneaking Alfie off of the ship. You’ll get yourself the reputation as a mutineer.”
“Well, maybe a little mutiny is needed,” Julia replied as she rolled her eyes. “So far, the most exciting thing that’s happened on this planet is when our ship’s landing kicked up sand yesterday.”
Edward smiled at his wife’s gentle opposition to authority. As her blond hair glowed against the distant dark hills, he felt the sudden flare of joy that he’d so often experienced since they first met at the Chicago Spaceport. He moved to give her a warm hug as he tried not to crush the small animal between them.
“I beg to differ,” he finally replied. “At this time of the day, the larger moon overhead is quite picturesque.”
As the pair gazed skyward, the dog squirmed uncomfortably, jumped from between them, and ran across the bleakness of the terrain.
“It seems that little pet of yours has other ideas.” Alfie ran about one-hundred meters from the pair and began furiously scraping at the dry Earth at the base of some hill. “He’s digging like his life depended on it.”
“Alfie, come back here,” Julia commanded lightly with no result.
“Don’t worry yourself, dear,” Edward said. “I’ll go after him.”
Just as he reached the animal, Edward heard the scraping of its tiny claws against a hard substance. It sounded like a metal, and it appeared about an inch down. Upon closer examination, a flat metal plate that extended toward the nearby rock formation was becoming visible. There was unrecognizable writing engraved into the metal. There was no way that these symbols were a natural occurrence. Knowing what a find like this might mean, Edward turned and was about to holler out to his wife. Within shouting distance, other crew members sauntered about the area. Something in his gut pushed him to give it some time before sharing his discovery.
“Hey, little one. Let’s make this our secret for now.” As he picked up the beagle, Edward nonchalantly kicked the dirt back into place, so the metallic surface area was no longer exposed.
The entire crew was outside of the ship with the duty of finding the most suitable area to place their homes or habitats. Regardless of the breathable air of Altair IV, everyone was required to wear their spacesuits. This rule included Edward and Julia, who walked south of the ship to explore.
Edward was shocked when his wife disconnected the support ring from her helmet, and he heard the decompression. She had done so before he could say a word.
“Julia. Do you remember precautionary rule number 27? Everyone should keep protective gear on for the first few days as a just in case.”
“You’re beginning to sound like Dr. Shishi. I checked the planet’s atmospheric readings with her, and even she knew we were overly safe. Besides. Alfie here hasn’t been affected in the least, which proves my point.”
Edward looked at the pet beagle which, Julia held close to her chest.
“And I don’t think the good doctor would be too happy about you sneaking Alfie off of the ship. You’ll get yourself the reputation as a mutineer.”
“Well, maybe a little mutiny is needed,” Julia replied as she rolled her eyes. “So far, the most exciting thing that’s happened on this planet is when our ship’s landing kicked up sand yesterday.”
Edward smiled at his wife’s gentle opposition to authority. As her blond hair glowed against the distant dark hills, he felt the sudden flare of joy that he’d so often experienced since they first met at the Chicago Spaceport. He moved to give her a warm hug as he tried not to crush the small animal between them.
“I beg to differ,” he finally replied. “At this time of the day, the larger moon overhead is quite picturesque.”
As the pair gazed skyward, the dog squirmed uncomfortably, jumped from between them, and ran across the bleakness of the terrain.
“It seems that little pet of yours has other ideas.” Alfie ran about one-hundred meters from the pair and began furiously scraping at the dry Earth at the base of some hill. “He’s digging like his life depended on it.”
“Alfie, come back here,” Julia commanded lightly with no result.
“Don’t worry yourself, dear,” Edward said. “I’ll go after him.”
Just as he reached the animal, Edward heard the scraping of its tiny claws against a hard substance. It sounded like a metal, and it appeared about an inch down. Upon closer examination, a flat metal plate that extended toward the nearby rock formation was becoming visible. There was unrecognizable writing engraved into the metal. There was no way that these symbols were a natural occurrence. Knowing what a find like this might mean, Edward turned and was about to holler out to his wife. Within shouting distance, other crew members sauntered about the area. Something in his gut pushed him to give it some time before sharing his discovery.
“Hey, little one. Let’s make this our secret for now.” As he picked up the beagle, Edward nonchalantly kicked the dirt back into place, so the metallic surface area was no longer exposed.
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, January 2, 2233:
Since our arrival on the planet, the crew has been on exploratory tours of the area. The best placement for our living habitats should have been standard, with us staying close by to one another in case the need for help arose. Everyone followed the recommendations of engineer Diane Avery Watts except for one couple.
Edward and Julia Morbius have requested a different location. They wanted their habitat bubble placed at a distance from the rest of the settlers. The habitat couldn’t connect to its sister units once against the hill face, so I voted against it. In contrast, the Captain gave the okay pretty much because Morbius and his wife are still newlyweds and said we should respect their privacy. The Captain noted our safety officer, Lt. Nina Fireheart, Diane Watts, and my concerns for the couple’s safety. The pre-constructed habitat was positioned and then secured against the rock wall just as Dr. Morbius requested. It is strange how exotic plants are forcing their way out of the dry ground close to their living space. It’s understandable why he would pick that location.”
Since our arrival on the planet, the crew has been on exploratory tours of the area. The best placement for our living habitats should have been standard, with us staying close by to one another in case the need for help arose. Everyone followed the recommendations of engineer Diane Avery Watts except for one couple.
Edward and Julia Morbius have requested a different location. They wanted their habitat bubble placed at a distance from the rest of the settlers. The habitat couldn’t connect to its sister units once against the hill face, so I voted against it. In contrast, the Captain gave the okay pretty much because Morbius and his wife are still newlyweds and said we should respect their privacy. The Captain noted our safety officer, Lt. Nina Fireheart, Diane Watts, and my concerns for the couple’s safety. The pre-constructed habitat was positioned and then secured against the rock wall just as Dr. Morbius requested. It is strange how exotic plants are forcing their way out of the dry ground close to their living space. It’s understandable why he would pick that location.”
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, May 18, 2233:
The Captain alerted me that Dr. Morbius had made a find underneath his habitat. Strange how the exact spot chosen to build his home was where Morbius found the alien entrance. Upon the inspection by Dr. Mobius, Dr. Tan Shishi, the Captain, and myself, there was surprising proof not only that sentient life once existed on Altair IV, but by the looks of their technology, they were pretty advanced as compared to Earth standards."
The Captain alerted me that Dr. Morbius had made a find underneath his habitat. Strange how the exact spot chosen to build his home was where Morbius found the alien entrance. Upon the inspection by Dr. Mobius, Dr. Tan Shishi, the Captain, and myself, there was surprising proof not only that sentient life once existed on Altair IV, but by the looks of their technology, they were pretty advanced as compared to Earth standards."
***
Morbius woke with a massive headache and found himself stretched out on the dull metallic floor. Through blurred vision, he checked the timepiece on his wrist and had to catch his breath. His last memory was of him sitting at the console in the alien laboratory and turning a dial that placed the “Plastic Educator” in the creation mode. More than twenty-four hours had passed, and he hadn’t spoken to Julia. She would be justifiably frantic.
He attempted to stand, but his grogginess dragged him back down. The low hum of the power running under the floor vibrated through his prone figure. His eyes grew heavy as the hypnotic blinking lights across the various panels of the laboratory pressed into his brain. Morbius only wanted to rest. After another ten minutes, the pounding on a distant doorway brought him back to consciousness.
As Mobius slowly cleared his vision, he stumbled his way to the left of the triple-layered sliding metal doors. With some difficulty, he reached where the clock-like combination lock stood. After twisting the dial with the proper combination, the nearby doorway opened, as did the one further down the hallway where the pounding originated.
Rushing through the doorways ran Captain Chambers, Commander Kalu, and Lt. Fireheart. Bringing up the rear was Dr. Shishi with her medical gear in tow. Three of the four trained military personnel had their blaster pistols in hand and scattered through the strange surroundings, but they found no evidence of intruders.
“All seems to be secure, sir,” Lt. Fireheart spoke briskly to Captain Chambers.
Morbius leaned heavily on the locking mechanism, attempting to appear more alert than he was. Dr. Shishi immediately moved to aid him.
“Place your arm on my shoulder, Morbius.” As she walked him to the closest seat in front of a glassed-in console, Captain Chambers moved to aid them.
“What’s all of this?” Lt. Fireheart barked in the direction of Morbius.
“Back off for a while, lieutenant,” Dr. Shishi stated harshly. “Let me make certain this man is okay.”
Dr. Morbius fought to answer the question regardless of how weak he appeared.
“The simplest way to explain all this is that I’ve discovered an alien civilization far advance of anything that humanity could possibly imagine. Unfortunately, I had a slight accident when I tested one of their machines.”
Dr. Shishi knelt in front of Morbius. “Edward. What are these three dark spots on your head? I suppose they’re some sort of effects of the test?”
Captain Chambers glanced curiously at the three-pronged apparatus that extended from the console before Morbius.
“The contacts on the tip of each prong seems the likely cause of those spots,” the Captain replied.
“You’re going to have to come to my office so I can perform a proper examination,” Dr. Shishi stated.
“Dr. Morbius, Captain Chambers stated pointedly. “This alien laboratory will have to be off-limits. We must establish safety parameters.”
“Young man, I must continue the work I’ve invested in here for the past few months. And doctor, thank you for your dedication, but I assure you, I do not need your services.”
As Dr. Shishi and Captain Chambers were about to respond, footsteps approaching through the hallway could be heard by all. Through the doorway arrived Julia. She seemed to ignore the amazing surroundings and walked directly to Morbius. The strength he attempted to display suddenly drained from his face.
“Out of respect for your work, Edward, I didn’t contact the others as quickly as I should have. Do you have any idea what I went through, not knowing what might have happened to you? I thought you might be injured or worst. And are you considering what all this stress might do to our baby?”
“I can only attempt to say how sorry I am,” Morbius apologized. He then broke eye contact with her and lowered his head as she continued to speak.
“This is what’s going to happen. Doctor Shishi will thoroughly check both of us, and I’m not taking No for an answer.”
Mobius knew that arguing with his wife in her delicate condition would only make things worse. A month ago, Dr. Shishi confirmed that Julia was at least four months along in her pregnancy. Morbius had convinced himself that Julia’s need for rest meant him not discussing his work in the laboratory with her. With all of the present commotion, he realized that he had misjudged the situation.
“Doctor, Captain.” Morbius knew that his tone was a lot more reserved than usual. “I guess we should all take a walk to discuss our good health and the future of this facility.”
Morbius’ mind was spinning as they all walked through the oddly shaped doorways. In the short time since his awakening from the accident, Morbius suddenly had an increased insight into the alien symbols he had desperately been attempting to decipher. Inspired awareness now sprung from the alien geometrical theorems. What was once a meager understanding of the alien writings was now a vast comprehension. He could even give a name to their long-dead civilization. They called themselves the Krell. And as much as he didn’t want to see the doctor, he had no choice. For his safety, he couldn’t allow his human weaknesses to interfere with his work here. Morbius required help. It was paramount that he construct a tireless automated assistant.
He attempted to stand, but his grogginess dragged him back down. The low hum of the power running under the floor vibrated through his prone figure. His eyes grew heavy as the hypnotic blinking lights across the various panels of the laboratory pressed into his brain. Morbius only wanted to rest. After another ten minutes, the pounding on a distant doorway brought him back to consciousness.
As Mobius slowly cleared his vision, he stumbled his way to the left of the triple-layered sliding metal doors. With some difficulty, he reached where the clock-like combination lock stood. After twisting the dial with the proper combination, the nearby doorway opened, as did the one further down the hallway where the pounding originated.
Rushing through the doorways ran Captain Chambers, Commander Kalu, and Lt. Fireheart. Bringing up the rear was Dr. Shishi with her medical gear in tow. Three of the four trained military personnel had their blaster pistols in hand and scattered through the strange surroundings, but they found no evidence of intruders.
“All seems to be secure, sir,” Lt. Fireheart spoke briskly to Captain Chambers.
Morbius leaned heavily on the locking mechanism, attempting to appear more alert than he was. Dr. Shishi immediately moved to aid him.
“Place your arm on my shoulder, Morbius.” As she walked him to the closest seat in front of a glassed-in console, Captain Chambers moved to aid them.
“What’s all of this?” Lt. Fireheart barked in the direction of Morbius.
“Back off for a while, lieutenant,” Dr. Shishi stated harshly. “Let me make certain this man is okay.”
Dr. Morbius fought to answer the question regardless of how weak he appeared.
“The simplest way to explain all this is that I’ve discovered an alien civilization far advance of anything that humanity could possibly imagine. Unfortunately, I had a slight accident when I tested one of their machines.”
Dr. Shishi knelt in front of Morbius. “Edward. What are these three dark spots on your head? I suppose they’re some sort of effects of the test?”
Captain Chambers glanced curiously at the three-pronged apparatus that extended from the console before Morbius.
“The contacts on the tip of each prong seems the likely cause of those spots,” the Captain replied.
“You’re going to have to come to my office so I can perform a proper examination,” Dr. Shishi stated.
“Dr. Morbius, Captain Chambers stated pointedly. “This alien laboratory will have to be off-limits. We must establish safety parameters.”
“Young man, I must continue the work I’ve invested in here for the past few months. And doctor, thank you for your dedication, but I assure you, I do not need your services.”
As Dr. Shishi and Captain Chambers were about to respond, footsteps approaching through the hallway could be heard by all. Through the doorway arrived Julia. She seemed to ignore the amazing surroundings and walked directly to Morbius. The strength he attempted to display suddenly drained from his face.
“Out of respect for your work, Edward, I didn’t contact the others as quickly as I should have. Do you have any idea what I went through, not knowing what might have happened to you? I thought you might be injured or worst. And are you considering what all this stress might do to our baby?”
“I can only attempt to say how sorry I am,” Morbius apologized. He then broke eye contact with her and lowered his head as she continued to speak.
“This is what’s going to happen. Doctor Shishi will thoroughly check both of us, and I’m not taking No for an answer.”
Mobius knew that arguing with his wife in her delicate condition would only make things worse. A month ago, Dr. Shishi confirmed that Julia was at least four months along in her pregnancy. Morbius had convinced himself that Julia’s need for rest meant him not discussing his work in the laboratory with her. With all of the present commotion, he realized that he had misjudged the situation.
“Doctor, Captain.” Morbius knew that his tone was a lot more reserved than usual. “I guess we should all take a walk to discuss our good health and the future of this facility.”
Morbius’ mind was spinning as they all walked through the oddly shaped doorways. In the short time since his awakening from the accident, Morbius suddenly had an increased insight into the alien symbols he had desperately been attempting to decipher. Inspired awareness now sprung from the alien geometrical theorems. What was once a meager understanding of the alien writings was now a vast comprehension. He could even give a name to their long-dead civilization. They called themselves the Krell. And as much as he didn’t want to see the doctor, he had no choice. For his safety, he couldn’t allow his human weaknesses to interfere with his work here. Morbius required help. It was paramount that he construct a tireless automated assistant.
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, June 21, 2233 A.D:
Against my better judgment, the Captain pulled rank and attempted to use the apparatus Dr. Morbius describes as the Plastic Educator. Upon our detailed interview, the Captain, Dr. Shishi, and I found that Morbius’ attempt at using the device to create a three-dimensional image had permanently doubled his intellectual capacity. Captain Chambers said he needed my assistance at the Krell lab, but it wasn’t an order. Once there, he intended to use the Plastic Educator, and he did, as risky as that might be. At first, I was fascinated by the three-dimensional image that the Captain had created. I recognized it as the Captain Chamber’s brother who I had met back on Earth, but this one was in miniature form, and it moved. The higher the nearby cylindrical electromagnetic intelligence indicator crept up toward the ceiling, the paler the Captain became. Suddenly, Captain Chambers grabbed his head, let out a grotesque scream, then slumped face forward on the console. I immediately called Dr. Shishi to the scene, but it was of no surprise when Captain Chambers was pronounced dead. In laymen’s terms, the Doc said that the Plastic Educator exposed Captain’s brain to an electrical shock, which brought on cardiac arrest. We held funeral services for Captain Peter Chambers on a nearby hilly range not far from our camp. Doc and I did our best to comfort our grief-stricken crew.
I informed Morbius that no one should be using that piece of machinery, and a pretty big argument erupted. He kept stating that I was holding back the study of alien life, which was why we had all traveled so far from home. We came to a compromise that allowed him to continue his translation efforts, but any use of the machinery would have to go through me."
Against my better judgment, the Captain pulled rank and attempted to use the apparatus Dr. Morbius describes as the Plastic Educator. Upon our detailed interview, the Captain, Dr. Shishi, and I found that Morbius’ attempt at using the device to create a three-dimensional image had permanently doubled his intellectual capacity. Captain Chambers said he needed my assistance at the Krell lab, but it wasn’t an order. Once there, he intended to use the Plastic Educator, and he did, as risky as that might be. At first, I was fascinated by the three-dimensional image that the Captain had created. I recognized it as the Captain Chamber’s brother who I had met back on Earth, but this one was in miniature form, and it moved. The higher the nearby cylindrical electromagnetic intelligence indicator crept up toward the ceiling, the paler the Captain became. Suddenly, Captain Chambers grabbed his head, let out a grotesque scream, then slumped face forward on the console. I immediately called Dr. Shishi to the scene, but it was of no surprise when Captain Chambers was pronounced dead. In laymen’s terms, the Doc said that the Plastic Educator exposed Captain’s brain to an electrical shock, which brought on cardiac arrest. We held funeral services for Captain Peter Chambers on a nearby hilly range not far from our camp. Doc and I did our best to comfort our grief-stricken crew.
I informed Morbius that no one should be using that piece of machinery, and a pretty big argument erupted. He kept stating that I was holding back the study of alien life, which was why we had all traveled so far from home. We came to a compromise that allowed him to continue his translation efforts, but any use of the machinery would have to go through me."
Navigator William Adams moved off the foam pad as he wiped the sweat pouring from his neck and brow with the short towel.
“Woman, you must be out of your mind with that routine,” Adams replied. “How come you’re barely breaking a sweat?”
“I know you prefer the complex exercise equipment,” Nina Fireheart chuckled. “But mechanisms like the three-part bicycle are more like navigating a lightspeed path through space on the Bellerophon. Natural exercises can’t be beat.”
“Let’s call it the Lt. Nina Fireheart Torture Regimen.”
“You’ll live,” Fireheart chuckled.
Since Adams walked ahead and reached the portal first, he unlocked the door, which led them to the open passage. The connecting hallways to each habitat were all made of see-through solid plastic, so there was a clear view of the hills and moonlit exterior terrain.
“Did you hear that?’ Adams asked as he reached his hand back and grabbed Fireheart’s wrist.
“What do you mean?” Fireheart asked. She allowed him to slow her to a standstill. “There’s no one else in this section.”
“I’ve heard and felt too many creepy things during the past two months,” Adams said. “You’ve heard the others talk about things being out of place and crazy noises at night.”
“You’re talking about our camp ghosts,” Fireheart replied. “I’m shocked that you pay attention to that. I’ll follow Eric’s orders to the tee, but that doesn’t mean I’ll believe in the urban myths you guys are putting together. The next thing you’ll say is that Captain Chambers ghost is haunting…
A creaking sound grew in intensity, and their eyes shot upward to the upper section of the wall. They watched as the steel wall supports bulged slowly inward.
Fireheart immediately took a protective stance as if she were preparing to defend herself.
Adams was about to turn and run until Fireheart barked a command at him.
“Stand your ground, soldier. Have some faith in our security systems.”
As she spoke, alarms rang throughout the surrounding parts of the facility. The round ten-foot indentation held that present shape.
The clammer of footsteps grew louder as others ran in their direction.
“I guess the noise from the alarm scared it away,” Adams stated. He was still visibly shaking.
“That’s no urban myth,” Fireheart replied.
“Woman, you must be out of your mind with that routine,” Adams replied. “How come you’re barely breaking a sweat?”
“I know you prefer the complex exercise equipment,” Nina Fireheart chuckled. “But mechanisms like the three-part bicycle are more like navigating a lightspeed path through space on the Bellerophon. Natural exercises can’t be beat.”
“Let’s call it the Lt. Nina Fireheart Torture Regimen.”
“You’ll live,” Fireheart chuckled.
Since Adams walked ahead and reached the portal first, he unlocked the door, which led them to the open passage. The connecting hallways to each habitat were all made of see-through solid plastic, so there was a clear view of the hills and moonlit exterior terrain.
“Did you hear that?’ Adams asked as he reached his hand back and grabbed Fireheart’s wrist.
“What do you mean?” Fireheart asked. She allowed him to slow her to a standstill. “There’s no one else in this section.”
“I’ve heard and felt too many creepy things during the past two months,” Adams said. “You’ve heard the others talk about things being out of place and crazy noises at night.”
“You’re talking about our camp ghosts,” Fireheart replied. “I’m shocked that you pay attention to that. I’ll follow Eric’s orders to the tee, but that doesn’t mean I’ll believe in the urban myths you guys are putting together. The next thing you’ll say is that Captain Chambers ghost is haunting…
A creaking sound grew in intensity, and their eyes shot upward to the upper section of the wall. They watched as the steel wall supports bulged slowly inward.
Fireheart immediately took a protective stance as if she were preparing to defend herself.
Adams was about to turn and run until Fireheart barked a command at him.
“Stand your ground, soldier. Have some faith in our security systems.”
As she spoke, alarms rang throughout the surrounding parts of the facility. The round ten-foot indentation held that present shape.
The clammer of footsteps grew louder as others ran in their direction.
“I guess the noise from the alarm scared it away,” Adams stated. He was still visibly shaking.
“That’s no urban myth,” Fireheart replied.
***
“Personal Log: Commander Eric Kalu, September 30, 2233 A.D:
The proximity alarms did not inform any of us that there was an approaching danger of any kind. Regardless, something of considerable size was moving through our camp a few hours ago and attempted to breach our facility’s hallway wall. Diane Watts has ensured the completion of repairs to the wall. Extra safeguards are being put in place to protect the camp.
One variable might be a potential alien presence beyond our understanding. There might be something on this planet or in that hidden lab that might be causing these disturbances. For the time being, no one will be allowed into the Krell laboratory until we understand what’s happening. Engineer Watts will go to the Morbius’ dwelling in the morning to set up no-entry security measures. I’ve spoken to Morbius about this. During our conversation, his newly constructed robot, which he named Robby, stood in the corner. Dr. Morbius admits to the enormous strength that this machine possesses, but the height of the damage done at the passage does not point to the robot’s involvement. Morbius was unhappy about the restrictions, but surprisingly, he agreed with no conflict. I’m not sure why I’m even mentioning this, but Morbius kept calmly rubbing his goatee throughout our conversation. Probably just a nervous habit.”
The proximity alarms did not inform any of us that there was an approaching danger of any kind. Regardless, something of considerable size was moving through our camp a few hours ago and attempted to breach our facility’s hallway wall. Diane Watts has ensured the completion of repairs to the wall. Extra safeguards are being put in place to protect the camp.
One variable might be a potential alien presence beyond our understanding. There might be something on this planet or in that hidden lab that might be causing these disturbances. For the time being, no one will be allowed into the Krell laboratory until we understand what’s happening. Engineer Watts will go to the Morbius’ dwelling in the morning to set up no-entry security measures. I’ve spoken to Morbius about this. During our conversation, his newly constructed robot, which he named Robby, stood in the corner. Dr. Morbius admits to the enormous strength that this machine possesses, but the height of the damage done at the passage does not point to the robot’s involvement. Morbius was unhappy about the restrictions, but surprisingly, he agreed with no conflict. I’m not sure why I’m even mentioning this, but Morbius kept calmly rubbing his goatee throughout our conversation. Probably just a nervous habit.”
“Sorry,” Diane Watts stated. “I know I’m behind schedule on helping you with this upgraded water filtration system, but I’ll finish the reconnects soon.”
“Don’t sweat it,” Manuel Cabrera stated. “As long as the current one is working properly, there will be no interference in us having fresh vegetables.”
“I love it here,” Diane stated after taking a deep breath. “I know this place is your world, but the serenity of the hydroponics bubble cannot help but attract almost every member of our small community. The tunnel-grown vegetables, the plants growing in their nutrient solutions, and just the fresh smell of the greenery, in general, invigorates those that work or visit there.”
“You’d better be careful,” Manuel replied. “You’re beginning to sound like me. Now that you’ve completed that other project, maybe you could spend more time here.”
Diane gave him a sheepish smile before she continued speaking.
“Who would have thought it would take me two weeks just to set up an effective alarm system that would secure entrance to the Krell laboratory. I even had to get Morbius’ help to understand how I might make the system work with those combination locks at the doorways.
“So the place is called the Krell?” Manuel asked.
“No. Krell is what Morbius calls the aliens who built the place. I get the creeps every time I go over there to work. I’m just thankful I’ll have the system up and running by tonight as per Commander Kalu’s orders.”
“I’m thankful too,” Manuel said as he moved closer to continue their conversation until he heard an unusual noise. “Diane. Did you hear something?”
“Yes. But you’ve got so much running in here; I thought maybe you knew what it was.”
As she spoke, the pressurized entrance hatch flew open and banged against the connecting wall.
“Are you not seeing what I’m not seeing?” Cabrera asked.
Diane had gotten used to his sarcasm, but now she could feel her hands shaking. Hopefully, this was a joke that she was not let-in on.
Suddenly, something knocked over rows of stands holding vegetables. It was as if someone or something too large for the aisle was progressing forward, but there was nothing there.
As Diane began to walk backward, Manuel slowly reached under the fourth of the plant stands and pulled out the blaster pistol secured there. As he aimed at what he thought might be the dead center of the invisible intruder, he heard Diane scream behind him. When he turned to look over his shoulder, he could not believe what he was seeing. It was as if the thing reached over him to get to her. Diane’s frantic form was being lifted twenty feet in the air. An unseen force smashed her body into the habitat’s roof and was now scraping her head into the support rods.
In the pit of his stomach, Cabrera knew he couldn’t save Diane, but he shot into what he thought had to be the creature. As if he had angered the unseen beast, it had him in its grasp as he too rose from the floor. The last thing he could remember before blacking out was the intense burning across his entire body and unimaginable pain as the unseen beast pulled his arms and legs out of their sockets.
“Don’t sweat it,” Manuel Cabrera stated. “As long as the current one is working properly, there will be no interference in us having fresh vegetables.”
“I love it here,” Diane stated after taking a deep breath. “I know this place is your world, but the serenity of the hydroponics bubble cannot help but attract almost every member of our small community. The tunnel-grown vegetables, the plants growing in their nutrient solutions, and just the fresh smell of the greenery, in general, invigorates those that work or visit there.”
“You’d better be careful,” Manuel replied. “You’re beginning to sound like me. Now that you’ve completed that other project, maybe you could spend more time here.”
Diane gave him a sheepish smile before she continued speaking.
“Who would have thought it would take me two weeks just to set up an effective alarm system that would secure entrance to the Krell laboratory. I even had to get Morbius’ help to understand how I might make the system work with those combination locks at the doorways.
“So the place is called the Krell?” Manuel asked.
“No. Krell is what Morbius calls the aliens who built the place. I get the creeps every time I go over there to work. I’m just thankful I’ll have the system up and running by tonight as per Commander Kalu’s orders.”
“I’m thankful too,” Manuel said as he moved closer to continue their conversation until he heard an unusual noise. “Diane. Did you hear something?”
“Yes. But you’ve got so much running in here; I thought maybe you knew what it was.”
As she spoke, the pressurized entrance hatch flew open and banged against the connecting wall.
“Are you not seeing what I’m not seeing?” Cabrera asked.
Diane had gotten used to his sarcasm, but now she could feel her hands shaking. Hopefully, this was a joke that she was not let-in on.
Suddenly, something knocked over rows of stands holding vegetables. It was as if someone or something too large for the aisle was progressing forward, but there was nothing there.
As Diane began to walk backward, Manuel slowly reached under the fourth of the plant stands and pulled out the blaster pistol secured there. As he aimed at what he thought might be the dead center of the invisible intruder, he heard Diane scream behind him. When he turned to look over his shoulder, he could not believe what he was seeing. It was as if the thing reached over him to get to her. Diane’s frantic form was being lifted twenty feet in the air. An unseen force smashed her body into the habitat’s roof and was now scraping her head into the support rods.
In the pit of his stomach, Cabrera knew he couldn’t save Diane, but he shot into what he thought had to be the creature. As if he had angered the unseen beast, it had him in its grasp as he too rose from the floor. The last thing he could remember before blacking out was the intense burning across his entire body and unimaginable pain as the unseen beast pulled his arms and legs out of their sockets.
Commander Eric Kalu chairing a gathering in the meeting hall on October 2, 2233:
“Some invisible monster has attacked and killed Diane and Manuel last night,” Kalu stated. “What I found was their body parts distributed throughout the hydroponics lab. A check of that section’s video feeds confirms that whatever it was that attacked them, they couldn’t see it. Manuel shot directly in the direction of the thing with no effect. There are no pistol blast burns in the walls which means he hit what he was aiming at, but that didn’t stop it.”
“This talk about an unknown, invisible force makes no sense,” Isabelle said. She was close to tears. “Our instruments show that there was something physical there, so it is quantifiable. It’s not some ghost. There has to be a logical explanation for this. There just has to be.”
“I agree,” Commander Kalu replied. “Regardless of our speculations, the only safe course of action is to leave for Earth.”
“Finally, somebody who’s talking sense,” Lt. Daniels stated. Her hand rested on the blaster pistol on her side.
“Commander, you can’t be serious,” Morbius stood as he shouted. “There has to be another way. Surely, with strong security measures…”
“Dr. Morbius,” Kalu stated directly to Morbius. “In the past nine months, we’ve lost three of our most important, irreplaceable resources, and their names are Peter, Diane, and Manuel. We are running at a deficit, and we have no idea what new challenges will occur on this planet.”
“The same reason my wife isn’t at this meeting is the reason why we dare not leave. Julia requires constant bed rest and as little agitation as possible.”
“Your wife can make the journey back to Earth, Morbius,” Dr. Shishi stated abruptly but keeping her tone low. “We can make her just as comfortable during the voyage as here, and the baby can safely be born while in space.”
Lt. Fireheart kept fidgeting in her chair. She stared hard at Morbius regardless of who was speaking.
“Morbius,” she suddenly erupted. “You’re not fooling anyone. This isn’t about your wife. You want to stay on this damn planet so you can keep studying those long-dead aliens and their machines.”
“How dare you, Lieutenant.” He raised his voice to match hers. “My wife and I have discussed this, and we feel perfectly safe here. This planet is our home now, and we will not leave.”
“That’s enough, both of you,” Commander Kalu stated. “Dr. Morbius. Within the next six hours, we will prep the Bellerophon for launch, collect what we can, and then leave for Earth. My responsibility to you all supersedes all other priorities. If you disagree, we will escort you and Julia aboard. It’s obvious that we neither know what we’re dealing with nor have a way to combat it. We will all leave in six hours. Are we clear, Dr. Morbius?”
“I am not in agreement, but you’ve made yourself clear, Commander. I will return to my home and break the news to my wife.”
“Some invisible monster has attacked and killed Diane and Manuel last night,” Kalu stated. “What I found was their body parts distributed throughout the hydroponics lab. A check of that section’s video feeds confirms that whatever it was that attacked them, they couldn’t see it. Manuel shot directly in the direction of the thing with no effect. There are no pistol blast burns in the walls which means he hit what he was aiming at, but that didn’t stop it.”
“This talk about an unknown, invisible force makes no sense,” Isabelle said. She was close to tears. “Our instruments show that there was something physical there, so it is quantifiable. It’s not some ghost. There has to be a logical explanation for this. There just has to be.”
“I agree,” Commander Kalu replied. “Regardless of our speculations, the only safe course of action is to leave for Earth.”
“Finally, somebody who’s talking sense,” Lt. Daniels stated. Her hand rested on the blaster pistol on her side.
“Commander, you can’t be serious,” Morbius stood as he shouted. “There has to be another way. Surely, with strong security measures…”
“Dr. Morbius,” Kalu stated directly to Morbius. “In the past nine months, we’ve lost three of our most important, irreplaceable resources, and their names are Peter, Diane, and Manuel. We are running at a deficit, and we have no idea what new challenges will occur on this planet.”
“The same reason my wife isn’t at this meeting is the reason why we dare not leave. Julia requires constant bed rest and as little agitation as possible.”
“Your wife can make the journey back to Earth, Morbius,” Dr. Shishi stated abruptly but keeping her tone low. “We can make her just as comfortable during the voyage as here, and the baby can safely be born while in space.”
Lt. Fireheart kept fidgeting in her chair. She stared hard at Morbius regardless of who was speaking.
“Morbius,” she suddenly erupted. “You’re not fooling anyone. This isn’t about your wife. You want to stay on this damn planet so you can keep studying those long-dead aliens and their machines.”
“How dare you, Lieutenant.” He raised his voice to match hers. “My wife and I have discussed this, and we feel perfectly safe here. This planet is our home now, and we will not leave.”
“That’s enough, both of you,” Commander Kalu stated. “Dr. Morbius. Within the next six hours, we will prep the Bellerophon for launch, collect what we can, and then leave for Earth. My responsibility to you all supersedes all other priorities. If you disagree, we will escort you and Julia aboard. It’s obvious that we neither know what we’re dealing with nor have a way to combat it. We will all leave in six hours. Are we clear, Dr. Morbius?”
“I am not in agreement, but you’ve made yourself clear, Commander. I will return to my home and break the news to my wife.”
***
Kalu and Morales sat near one another at seats that encircled the Bellerophon’s astrogator drive control console. As he worked, he caught Isabelle staring at an empty workspace area. She quickly went back to inputting the calculations needed to ensure that the ship was in prime condition to make the long trip, but her underlying whimpering was unmistakable. He realized it was a ridiculous question, but he still felt the need to ask.
“What is it, Isabelle?”
“I watched Diane happily doing her duties right over there for a solid year and then for months on the planet. She never complained, no matter what we threw at her. She said there was always a solution. The true problem was that we had not discovered the answer yet. Now she and Cabrera are lying there in the botanical bay, and we haven’t even buried them.”
Kalu placed his hand over hers on the console as he spoke.
“They were beautiful people, and I wish we could give them the respect that they deserve.
“But if we don’t move fast, there might be no one left to mourn them.” The pair could hear William Adams’ voice from the console’s opposite side as he finished his navigational calculations.
“Well, William, you are right about that,” Isabelle replied.
Kalu noted that her voice sounded stronger as she nodded her head.
“Where is Dr. Shishi?” she suddenly asked.
“She’s not far behind me.” Fireheart’s voice broke in as she walked up the entry ramp into the ship.
“She was out there collecting the last of the medical supplies from her office and just walked out from the furthest habitat. She’s headed in our direction now.”
“Great,” Kalu stated as he glanced in Fireheart’s direction. “Once she brings those necessities, all essential materials from the habitats have pretty much been gathered.” He also knew that having more than enough food and water supplies was because of their reduced numbers. He decided to keep that particular thought to himself.
“Sounds like we’ll be leaving sooner than expected,” Fireheart stated, hanging by the doorway.
Kalu stood from his seat and reflexively straightened out his clothes.
“My last task is to ensure that Morbius and Julia are aboard. I honestly don’t care if they bring any of their belongings. They should have been here by now.”
A piercing scream, coming from outside, penetrated the entire interior of the ship.
When Kalu reached the ship’s port window, he witnessed Dr. Shishi trying to run in the vessel’s direction, but her feet no longer touched the ground. She suddenly fell and began running at a furious pace away in the opposite direction. Within seconds, the invisible thing had her pinned to the ground, and it soon muffled her cries for help. Even at the distance of hundred feet, Kalu could see that the burned and bloody body pressed into the rough gravel was a remnant of what was once Dr. Shishi.
Kalu went to grab for the laser rifle, which he recently hung near the doorway, but it wasn’t there. From the sound of power blasts outside, it was apparent that Fireheart had taken the lead and grabbed the rifle first. After pulling out his sidearm, Kalu stepped into the doorway.
From a crouching position, Fireheart tumbled down the ramp and placed herself in a stance in which she could fire her weapon. She aimed as best she could. When the energy hit the unseen creature, Kalu discerned a vague outline. The blast moved the thing back a few feet, but within seconds, the creature moved forward with even more significant momentum. Kalu aimed and fired in unison with Fireheart.
Because of the streams of neutron beams and the dust swirled around, Kalu could finally see the creature. It was more than thirty feet tall, with a round furry body that stood on two grotesquely shaped animal legs.
Fireheart must have hoped to get a better firing position and moved off the ramp. Between Fireheart and the creature, Kalu wasn’t sure who was screaming louder. Unfortunately, she had taken one step too far because the thing took her within its grasp, but she was determined to continue blasting at it as long as she possibly could. As the now visible thing waved its monstrous head and opened its jaws, a deathly roar shook Kalu to the core, but he kept firing his blaster in hopes of making the beast release Fireheart. Just as the outline of fangs bit down on Fireheart’s head, decapitating her, Kalu swore that he saw a beard or a goatee waving from under the monster’s huge jaw.
After emptying the pistol into the creature, with no effect, Kalu knew that running into the ship was his only recourse. He hit the ramp control as he ran toward the astrogator console.
“We’ve got to lift off now,” Kalu commanded to his tiny audience.
“What about Morbius and Julia,” Isabelle screamed.
“They’ve made their choices,” Kalu shouted as he moved toward the propulsion controls.
“But the baby…”
“Adams,” he yelled furiously. “Get us out of here. Now.”
As they ascended, Kalu could tell that they were about two-hundred feet above the ground without looking at the instruments. From an external camera, he could see Morbius watching the entire scene as he stood outside his habitat. Isabelle was openly crying inside the ship, but all Kalu could do was pray there was a chance the three of them might live through their ordeal.
Suddenly, emergency alarms were sounding throughout the ship.
“Our systems aren’t simply failing,” Adams yelled. “According to this, the connections just no longer exist.”
As Kalu watched his panel, he could not deny the sad truth. The ship was depressurizing, and the aft area was slowly disintegrating.
“Hopefully, the back-up recorded memory at the habitat will somehow survive since it’s obvious that the rest of us and the ship will not.”
Something quickly muffled Isabelle’s screams. She tried to stand, but her lower extremities were vaporizing along with the rest of her console. Kalu spoke one last time into the console’s microphone.
“I pray that no one else ever finds their way to this planet which has become our …”
After the Bellerophon disappeared, all was quiet on the dusty terrain. The second moon was beginning to show itself just above the southern mountain range. Morbius was stunned by what he had seen. Whatever strength and tactics the crew used was met with overwhelming force by the thing. Morbius finally turned away when he heard Julia calling him. He would have to decide what to tell his wife about the loss of the others. He would weigh this carefully since he didn’t wish to upset her.
“What is it, Isabelle?”
“I watched Diane happily doing her duties right over there for a solid year and then for months on the planet. She never complained, no matter what we threw at her. She said there was always a solution. The true problem was that we had not discovered the answer yet. Now she and Cabrera are lying there in the botanical bay, and we haven’t even buried them.”
Kalu placed his hand over hers on the console as he spoke.
“They were beautiful people, and I wish we could give them the respect that they deserve.
“But if we don’t move fast, there might be no one left to mourn them.” The pair could hear William Adams’ voice from the console’s opposite side as he finished his navigational calculations.
“Well, William, you are right about that,” Isabelle replied.
Kalu noted that her voice sounded stronger as she nodded her head.
“Where is Dr. Shishi?” she suddenly asked.
“She’s not far behind me.” Fireheart’s voice broke in as she walked up the entry ramp into the ship.
“She was out there collecting the last of the medical supplies from her office and just walked out from the furthest habitat. She’s headed in our direction now.”
“Great,” Kalu stated as he glanced in Fireheart’s direction. “Once she brings those necessities, all essential materials from the habitats have pretty much been gathered.” He also knew that having more than enough food and water supplies was because of their reduced numbers. He decided to keep that particular thought to himself.
“Sounds like we’ll be leaving sooner than expected,” Fireheart stated, hanging by the doorway.
Kalu stood from his seat and reflexively straightened out his clothes.
“My last task is to ensure that Morbius and Julia are aboard. I honestly don’t care if they bring any of their belongings. They should have been here by now.”
A piercing scream, coming from outside, penetrated the entire interior of the ship.
When Kalu reached the ship’s port window, he witnessed Dr. Shishi trying to run in the vessel’s direction, but her feet no longer touched the ground. She suddenly fell and began running at a furious pace away in the opposite direction. Within seconds, the invisible thing had her pinned to the ground, and it soon muffled her cries for help. Even at the distance of hundred feet, Kalu could see that the burned and bloody body pressed into the rough gravel was a remnant of what was once Dr. Shishi.
Kalu went to grab for the laser rifle, which he recently hung near the doorway, but it wasn’t there. From the sound of power blasts outside, it was apparent that Fireheart had taken the lead and grabbed the rifle first. After pulling out his sidearm, Kalu stepped into the doorway.
From a crouching position, Fireheart tumbled down the ramp and placed herself in a stance in which she could fire her weapon. She aimed as best she could. When the energy hit the unseen creature, Kalu discerned a vague outline. The blast moved the thing back a few feet, but within seconds, the creature moved forward with even more significant momentum. Kalu aimed and fired in unison with Fireheart.
Because of the streams of neutron beams and the dust swirled around, Kalu could finally see the creature. It was more than thirty feet tall, with a round furry body that stood on two grotesquely shaped animal legs.
Fireheart must have hoped to get a better firing position and moved off the ramp. Between Fireheart and the creature, Kalu wasn’t sure who was screaming louder. Unfortunately, she had taken one step too far because the thing took her within its grasp, but she was determined to continue blasting at it as long as she possibly could. As the now visible thing waved its monstrous head and opened its jaws, a deathly roar shook Kalu to the core, but he kept firing his blaster in hopes of making the beast release Fireheart. Just as the outline of fangs bit down on Fireheart’s head, decapitating her, Kalu swore that he saw a beard or a goatee waving from under the monster’s huge jaw.
After emptying the pistol into the creature, with no effect, Kalu knew that running into the ship was his only recourse. He hit the ramp control as he ran toward the astrogator console.
“We’ve got to lift off now,” Kalu commanded to his tiny audience.
“What about Morbius and Julia,” Isabelle screamed.
“They’ve made their choices,” Kalu shouted as he moved toward the propulsion controls.
“But the baby…”
“Adams,” he yelled furiously. “Get us out of here. Now.”
As they ascended, Kalu could tell that they were about two-hundred feet above the ground without looking at the instruments. From an external camera, he could see Morbius watching the entire scene as he stood outside his habitat. Isabelle was openly crying inside the ship, but all Kalu could do was pray there was a chance the three of them might live through their ordeal.
Suddenly, emergency alarms were sounding throughout the ship.
“Our systems aren’t simply failing,” Adams yelled. “According to this, the connections just no longer exist.”
As Kalu watched his panel, he could not deny the sad truth. The ship was depressurizing, and the aft area was slowly disintegrating.
“Hopefully, the back-up recorded memory at the habitat will somehow survive since it’s obvious that the rest of us and the ship will not.”
Something quickly muffled Isabelle’s screams. She tried to stand, but her lower extremities were vaporizing along with the rest of her console. Kalu spoke one last time into the console’s microphone.
“I pray that no one else ever finds their way to this planet which has become our …”
After the Bellerophon disappeared, all was quiet on the dusty terrain. The second moon was beginning to show itself just above the southern mountain range. Morbius was stunned by what he had seen. Whatever strength and tactics the crew used was met with overwhelming force by the thing. Morbius finally turned away when he heard Julia calling him. He would have to decide what to tell his wife about the loss of the others. He would weigh this carefully since he didn’t wish to upset her.
“Personal recording by Dr. Edward Morbius. The date is October 6, 2233 AD:
Just as Robby and I completed the task of burying the dead crew members, Julia signaled me that the baby would be soon be arriving. Early the following day, Julia gave birth to our baby Altaira. Julia continues to be weak, but according to Robby, she and the baby were both healthy. It has been two days, and the unseen entity has not returned.”
Regardless of this sense of calm, Morbius thought of his obligation to Julia and Altaira’s safety. If the demon ever did return, he had to secure them from harm. Not to mention, there could be no interruption to his studies of the Krell.
“Robby. I’m going to draw up plans for the reconstruction of our home. There will be blast door type shutters that I can activate at a moment’s notice.”
“Understood, Morbius,” Robby responded mechanically.
Just as Robby and I completed the task of burying the dead crew members, Julia signaled me that the baby would be soon be arriving. Early the following day, Julia gave birth to our baby Altaira. Julia continues to be weak, but according to Robby, she and the baby were both healthy. It has been two days, and the unseen entity has not returned.”
Regardless of this sense of calm, Morbius thought of his obligation to Julia and Altaira’s safety. If the demon ever did return, he had to secure them from harm. Not to mention, there could be no interruption to his studies of the Krell.
“Robby. I’m going to draw up plans for the reconstruction of our home. There will be blast door type shutters that I can activate at a moment’s notice.”
“Understood, Morbius,” Robby responded mechanically.
***
Personal recording by Dr. Edward Morbius. The date is January 1, 2234 A.D.
“Three days ago, my dear wife Julia died of natural causes. She grew weaker every day, and unfortunately, there was nothing I could have done for her. She passed away, holding Altaira in her arms. By Earth standards, the date would have been December 27, 2233 AD. Robby ascertained that postpartum depression and a feeling of abandonment contributed to her death. I will no longer make this particular type of record. End recording.”
“Robby. Dismantle and then disintegrate the living quarters on the western side of the plain. I’d rather not have a constant reminder that those poor souls once suffered.”
“Yes, Morbius. And what of the animals in the zoological habitat?”
“Set them free. Just set them free.”
Morbius thought of Julia’s love for all animals. Unfortunately, the weaker creatures would probably perish, but he had no will to care for them. They would only distract him from the time he could devote to his exploration of the Krell civilization.
Morbius thought fleetingly of the unseen menace that might still be moving about the planet, but after months of solitude, except for his nightmares, he felt no fear.
As much as he loved his daughter, Morbius looked forward to the infant growing stronger and needing less of his help. His work to understand the Krell was paramount. He now had nothing but time toward that pursuit. Morbius wished for stronger animals on this lonely planet that could someday provide companionship to his daughter, but he knew that was a passing fantasy.
“Three days ago, my dear wife Julia died of natural causes. She grew weaker every day, and unfortunately, there was nothing I could have done for her. She passed away, holding Altaira in her arms. By Earth standards, the date would have been December 27, 2233 AD. Robby ascertained that postpartum depression and a feeling of abandonment contributed to her death. I will no longer make this particular type of record. End recording.”
“Robby. Dismantle and then disintegrate the living quarters on the western side of the plain. I’d rather not have a constant reminder that those poor souls once suffered.”
“Yes, Morbius. And what of the animals in the zoological habitat?”
“Set them free. Just set them free.”
Morbius thought of Julia’s love for all animals. Unfortunately, the weaker creatures would probably perish, but he had no will to care for them. They would only distract him from the time he could devote to his exploration of the Krell civilization.
Morbius thought fleetingly of the unseen menace that might still be moving about the planet, but after months of solitude, except for his nightmares, he felt no fear.
As much as he loved his daughter, Morbius looked forward to the infant growing stronger and needing less of his help. His work to understand the Krell was paramount. He now had nothing but time toward that pursuit. Morbius wished for stronger animals on this lonely planet that could someday provide companionship to his daughter, but he knew that was a passing fantasy.
The End
Also read Part 1 - Fall of the Krell - by Lloyd A. Green
