Alex slept soundly in his makeshift bed, dreaming of distant worlds and adventures as a pilot. The sun’s first rays had yet to pierce the horizon, and the sprawling metropolis outside was still shrouded in darkness. But Alex was oblivious to the beauty and bustle of the city, lost in his dreams until a gruff voice shattered his peaceful slumber
“Alex, rise and shine, you lazy lump!” The voice, gruff yet familiar, shattered the peaceful cocoon of Alex's slumber, sending him tumbling from his bed.
“Alright, alright! No need to shout through the voice transmitter, Gobo!” Alex grumbled, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. He glanced around the room, his gaze falling on the mechanical devices seamlessly scattered around in a place room that was completely disassembled. It was a constant reminder of his life in the Mechanics district. This vibrant hub was a melting pot of cultures, welcoming visitors from every corner of the world and even from the farthest reaches of the galaxy.
Alex stirred from his sleep, rubbing the sleep from his eyes as he sat up. A gruff voice echoed through the small room, “Alex, today’s a big task. Pull yourself together and grab me an ion atomizer from the city on your way back. I’ll have your work assignment on this rust bucket ready by then.”
Alex recognized the voice immediately. It belonged to Gobo, a figure who had been a constant in his life since childhood. Gobo was always there, pushing him to be better, to work harder.
Alex sighed, the tendrils of sleep still clinging to him. “Gobo, you sure know how to crack the whip on someone who's practically your son.”
“Blame it on my species, kid. We're born taskmasters, ahah. Now quit your bellyaching and get moving. I'll toss in a little extra for your trouble, okay? Now scoot, while I kick off the starship cruise scrapping project.” Gobo's voice echoed through the room where Alex was sleeping. It was with the massive decommissioned cruise vessel that lay sprawled across the open grounds of their starship mechanic shop. Alex had been working and sleeping in it since it arrived a while ago in the shop. He was the one tasked to do some ground work before anyone even laid their hands on it
Alex refreshed himself and slipped into his attire, a flashy black robe that concealed his entire form. The robe was adorned with digital art that morphed every now and then, creating an ever-changing pattern of cool-looking stripes. His face was hidden behind a unique digital pixel mask, which showcased an animated cat-like figure with a range of expressive features. His voice, slightly distorted due to a voice modulator, added an air of mystery to his persona. Exiting his shop and walking on a speed ramp , His gaze swept over the city, a place he knew as intimately as the lines on his palm.
The city was a living, breathing entity, its pulse beating in sync with the rhythmic clinking of tools and the steady hum of machinery from the Mechanics district. Amidst the labyrinth of towering buildings, each a riot of vibrant colors and unique shapes, the city exuded a palpable energy. Neon holographic signs floated in the air, their vibrant hues and intriguing alien language symbols captivating passersby.
As Alex strolled towards his destination. he mused to himself, “Daxion City, as lively as ever.”
With the city stirring to life around him, Alex was near the teco shop that sold parts and machinery like the ion atomizer. The promise of extra pay from Gobo was tempting, he needed every single unit for the planned future.
“Here we go again,” Alex sighed, a hint of resignation in his voice to another day that would be spend working in the shop.
After a while, Alex found himself returning to the Mechanics district, carrying the coveted ion atomizer securely in his grasp. The district was conveniently located, just a short walk from the city's bustling hub. Here, mechanic shops of varying sizes were neatly arranged, their signs jostling for attention. Yet, one establishment towered above the rest as Alex entered the front gates, its sheer size dwarfing every other shop in the vicinity.
It stood out a lot from the ordinary shop. Sprawled across. its expansive open grounds was a decommissioned starship cruise, its once majestic form now a skeletal structure. Its components - the thrusters, the ship dock, and the outer hull, operations rooms, quarters etc were meticulously separated, each part being attended to by a diligent team of mechanics from varying species. Their tools hummed and whirred, a symphony of industry that echoed through the district. The sight of the massive starship, even in its broken-down state, was a testament to the scale of work undertaken in this extraordinary shop.
As Alex neared the starship, he was spotted by Gobo. Despite standing at a mere three feet, the alien Gobo was a towering figure in terms of experience within the building.
"Good work, kid. Now, head over to the sleeping quarters and start dismantling what's broken and repairing what's reparable. Though, I know you can pretty much fix everything," Gobo said. He, being unaccustomed to showing emotions, took the tool from Alex. The other mechanics maintained stoic expressions as they observed the scene. They were well aware of Gobo's pride in Alex's exceptional talent and the fact that Alex had been learning from him since childhood. While most admired them both, some secretly laughed behind their backs, believing Gobo could never show emotion sincerely Yet, they understood that the perception of Gobo as a tyrant would remain unchanged in the shop and the city.
“Sure thing, pops. Just don’t forget the extra units” Alex retorted, a playful note in his voice. He pulled out a snack and began to chew thoughtfully. It was going to be a long day.
Alex then made his way into the cruise starship, he headed towards the section of the corridor that led to the sleeping quarters. The entire unit was now cut off from the main body. Alex started as he used his right hand, seamlessly integrated with an advanced mechanical tool called a prime tool, that restructured itself to a hand drill. This device, a seamless extension of his arm, was capable of transforming into various tools as needed. With precision and skill, he fastened bolts into an alloy sheet, securing it to the starship's ceiling framework. The air was thick with the scent of oil and metal, the symphony of clinking tools and humming machinery providing a rhythmic backdrop. Mechanics of various races worked alongside him, their tools large and small, adjusting and fixing the ceiling trying to salvage a very usable part of the ship that could be sold with massive profits. A smile began to dance across Alex's face as he thought about his next task.
"Up next is the commanding quarters, and since no one else has wrapped up their task, I'm in the running," he stated as he looked at the shifts on his prime tool.
Pulling out his tool, a holographic screen sprang to life. He touched the glowing screen that was projected from the tech conjunction on his right hand, navigating through the displayed tabs.
"Looks like the gig's mine," he said, his grin growing wider. He'd been eyeing this task for a while, and the thrill was evident.
"I'm raring to go. Just need to stretch a bit."
"Ouch," he winced as he stretched his tired limbs, a sign of the hours of hard work he'd put in.
Its a really tiring job --Alex thought
A soft hum echoed from Alex as he navigated the expansive corridors of the starship's central section, making his way toward the front. Along his route, a multi-tendrilled alien, engrossed in meticulous repairs, noticed him.
"Alex," the alien's voice rang out, a familiar lilt to its tone. Alex swiped his card at the door terminal, the door gliding open smoothly. He pivoted to face the creature that had called his name, a warm smile lighting up his features.
"Rody, how's it going? Still, wrestling with that anti-matter condenser? Wasn't that your project three hours ago?" Alex's words were playful, his sly smile lending a touch of mischief to his jest.
"Watch your tone, youngster. This blasted thing is a nightmare to fix. It's a level-15 tech, for Aforios sake," Rody retorted, rising to his full height. With a single eye in the center of his skull and a mouth nowhere to be seen, Rody's face was a mass of tendrils, giving the impression of a beard. His limbs, too, were tendril-like. Towering over Alex, Rody's imposing figure dwarfed the younger man, making Alex appear almost childlike in comparison.
"So, you've landed the shift for the captain's quarters, eh? Not bad, kid," Rody commented, a blend of respect and jest in his tone. He delivered a robust pat on Alex's back, a gesture so hearty it jolted Alex and momentarily robbed him of breath. Coughing lightly, Alex managed to respond, his voice tinged with a hint of mild annoyance.
"Easy there, big guy. Remember, I'm human," Alex retorted. He flashed a friendly smile, aiming to diffuse any unintended discomfort caused by Rody's vigorous pat.
"Well, you've earned it, kid. Keep up the good work like this, and you might just make a name for yourself. Just like yours truly," Rody declared, his voice punctuated by a high-pitched chuckle. He waved Alex off, returning to his task with renewed focus.
With a fond farewell to Rody, Alex made his way toward the captain's quarters. The playful banter between them brought back memories of their shared childhood as friends and accomplice mechanics, adding a touch of joy to the moment.
As he stepped into the captain's quarters, Alex's gaze drifted towards the command area, where he meticulously inspected the seat compartment and its surrounding components. Amidst his inspection, his attention was captivated by a holographic control panel positioned near the captain's seat. The panel displayed intricate details of the ship's design, its various functions, and a comprehensive log of the captains who had once helmed the vessel. It was a repository of the ship's storied adventures, a treasure trove of tales.
A small smile graced Alex's face, and his eyes shimmered with a hint of wonder as if he had stumbled upon a long-awaited treasure. Drawing nearer to the control panel, he began reading the logs, instantly becoming enthralled by the tales they held. his childhood dreams of becoming a starship pilot surged within him, fueled by the stories that promised the freedom to explore the vast cosmos.
At this moment, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the captain's quarters, Alex found himself lost in his inner monologue, imagining himself a charter and explorer. A dream that Alex had tucked away in his heart. Time passed as he was engrossed in reading the logs.
Engrossed in the logs of the latest entries, Alex was oblivious to the approaching footsteps. A diminutive, wiry-framed alien with a notoriously short temper closed the distance and stood behind him, scrutinizing him with a stern gaze. Gobos gruff voice cut through the air like a knife, "Alex!”
"We've got a shipment due tomorrow, you sack of bolts. I need this area in top shape before then. I'm not paying you to daydream! Get back to work," Gobo barked.
With a resigned sigh, Alex lifted his gaze to meet the Gobo's figure. He quickly gathered his tools and set to work. The pint-sized alien had always been a taskmaster of a supervisor.
"Right away, Gobo," Alex responded with a sigh.
As Alex worked, his thoughts meandered back to his childhood.
Raised as an orphan, Alex was no stranger to solitude and the stark realities of life. Bereft of a home or family, he found refuge in Gobo, who had cared for him since he was a mere toddler. Gobo had taken him under his wing, providing a semblance of comfort, but life was far from easy. Gobo assumed the role of a father figure, imparting wisdom and teaching him the invaluable skills of a mechanic. As Alex grew older, he discovered that he and Gobo were not even of the same species. Deprived of formal education, he was tutored by Gobo, a measure taken to keep him hidden. Alex was grateful for the knowledge and guidance Gobo offered, as it gave him a sense of purpose and a feeling of belonging. Yet, this gratitude was tinged with a yearning for something more.
The relentless demands of his work at the shop bore heavily on his shoulders, leaving him spent and weary. He was confined to the shop, unable to venture out without a disguise. He had never even seen the city up close. His life was a cycle of ceaseless toil, with scant compensation or respite. The prospect of finding other humans like himself in the vast expanse of the cosmos filled him with a blend of hope and curiosity. That maybe he was not alone.
Gobo cast a penetrating gaze at Alex, who was engrossed in his work. His eyes scanned the data log displayed on the control panel, trying to decipher what had captured Alex's attention. As he read, his lips curled and his posture stiffened, as if something was gnawing at him.
"Really, Alex?" Gobo's said as his dissatisfaction was evident with his tone.
Alex remained silent, his focus unwavering. He knew all too well that Gobo was on the verge of launching into another tirade. "We've been over this, haven't we? This dangerous obsession of yours... it's not worth the risk," Gobo's voice was heavy with disappointment.
"I should never have let that rookie pilot fill your head with such fanciful dreams all those years ago. He was nothing more than an idealistic novice, brimming with naive foolishness."
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With a swift tap on the terminal, Gobo powered it down and navigated his way toward Alex, who was still engrossed in his task. The room hummed with the rhythm of machinery as Alex meticulously worked on a malfunctioning terminal.
Gobo paused, taking a moment to observe Alex's adept hands at work. "Look at you," he said, a note of admiration creeping into his voice. "You're a more skilled mechanic than most, even those seasoned veterans. It's high time you abandoned these naive dreams of becoming a pilot, Alex. That life is just beyond us."
"Never," Alex murmured, his voice barely audible over the hum of the machinery. His words were laced with a tired determination, a refusal to relinquish his dreams. The thought of spending his entire life confined to this workshop was an unbearable thought.
Gobo because silent as he knew Alex didn't listen still he tried to reason with him. With no answer, gobo made his way out of the quarters while Alex continued to work.
The echoes of the clatter of tools traveled within the starship and the air carried the distinctive scent of grease and metal, an amalgamation of aromas that permeated the surroundings.
Taking a brief respite, Alex swiped the sweat from his brow and allowed himself to peer through the small window of the stripped-down ship. Beyond the towering structures that grazed the heavens, his eyes caught the ephemeral sight of starships ascending and descending, their luminous trails painting the sky. A wave of longing washed over him as he imagined himself steering one of those captivating starships, venturing into the unexplored abyss of space. Trying to find someone like him. Doing whatever he wanted.
Feeling the pull of a much-needed break, Alex wandered into a quieter corner away from his workstation. As he took in his surroundings, he couldn't help but marvel at the transformation the shop had undergone over the years. As he approached a food dispenser, he felt the curious gazes of his co-workers. Being a human in this predominantly non-human environment made him a point of interest. Yet, the expressions on their faces were amicable, their familiarity with Alex spanning many years. They were all friendly towards him.
He extended his hand into the small compartment of the futuristic, transparent food dispenser. With a clear, authoritative voice, he dictated the configuration of his desired item. The dispenser, with its advanced technology, began the process of materializing the requested food. A small puff of air stirred within the compartment.
[Voice command recognized. Materializing] a robotic voice said. In a glitch-like fashion, a cup materialized before him, as if it spawned out of thin air. With the requested beverage inside steaming
“Strong Coffee”
Alex grabbed the coffee and made his way to an empty bench near his vicinity. Sitting and sipping his coffee he recalled the memories associated with the shop.
"I remember when this was the smallest shop in the district. Look at it now," Alex mused, taking a sip of his coffee. His gaze swept across the room, taking in the tools scattered across workbenches and the low hum of various engines. More than a dozen workers were busily engaged in their tasks within Gobo's shop.
The mechanic shop was a symphony of activity, filled with tools, spare parts from a myriad of tech - both local and foreign, and projects in various stages of completion. The organized chaos within the shop was a reflection of the bustling metropolis that lay beyond its walls. Faded posters, their once vibrant colors now muted, adorned the weathered walls. They depicted the shop's grand opening, a moment shared between him and Gobo, and served as a poignant reminder of the life Alex had led up until this point.
"I won't be confined here forever," Alex murmured to himself, his eyes reflecting the light from the departing starships, a spark of determination ignited within him.
"Someday, I'll navigate the stars and traverse the cosmos with my own hands," he vowed.
Gobo's booming voice echoed through the shop, shattering the brief tranquility from his elevated podium. This platform served as Gobo's command center, from where he issued orders and relayed messages as needed.
"Attention, everyone! We're lagging on dismantling this starship. Wrap up your breaks and get back to work immediately, or you can say goodbye to your pay. We need to deliver these parts by week's end. Understood?"
A collective sigh echoed through the shop, accompanied by the disgruntled murmurs of the mechanics working under Gobo. They were already pushing their limits.
As the hours rolled on, Gobo's commanding presence cast a formidable shadow over the shop, his sharp voice slicing through the constant hum of activity as he barked orders. As Alex wrapped up his current task, Gobo approached him.
"Alex, time's not on our side! I'm assigning you the propulsion units. Fix them if you can. I can't trust these nitwits with anything."
"Are you kidding me, Gobo? I'm not some damn droid. You really know how to make this job unbearable," Alex retorted, his voice laced with frustration. He took a much-needed gulp of water, craving a moment of respite. He realized he hadn't had a chance to sit since the crack of dawn.
"Is that so? Hmm, how about 2000 units?" Gobo proposed, a smirk playing on his lips.
Alex choked on his water, spluttering in surprise at Gobo's words.
Gobo's smirk broadened as he added in a sly tone, "I'll buy you anything under 2000 units. Still going to refuse, kid?" Gobo's familiarity with Alex was such that he knew exactly what would pique his interest.
Caught off guard by the unexpected proposition, Alex's eye twitched. A thought raced through his mind, "I could get some parts for my prime tool, maybe even some parts for assembling a starship." A smirk slowly spread across his face.
"DEAL," Alex responded with newfound enthusiasm. For once, he found something worth working for.
Over several grueling hours, Alex gritted his teeth, his hands moving with swift precision despite the relentless barrage of criticism. He had honed the skill of tuning out Gobo's harsh words, focusing instead on the intricate workings of the propulsion unit while dispensing his advice.
"He's quite the character," Gobo mused, observing Alex's diligent work.
Gobo maintained a vigilant watch over Alex, ensuring the younger man wouldn't inadvertently injure himself amidst the complex task. His gaze swept over the colossal propulsion units, all eight of them towering above the duo. Memories of past mishaps during his apprenticeship flooded Gobo's mind, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers they faced.
In the midst of the mechanical maelstrom of gears and wires, Alex found an unexpected tranquility. Each tightened bolt and connected wire brought him incrementally closer to his dreams, kindling a spark of hope within his heart.
"Just a few more years," Alex's mind echoed with this relentless mantra, his resolve unyielding. "I'll save enough to finally buy my own ship."
As Alex immersed himself in his duties, As Marie entered the shop, she spotted Alex, her childhood friend and co-worker, busy with his duties. She called out his name, hoping to catch his attention. He looked up, startled by the sound of her voice, and smiled when he saw her. Marie was a striking figure, her hair a fiery red and crystalline, her eyes a piercing black that sparkled like shards of obsidian. Gills decorated her neck, lending an exotic touch to her otherwise humanoid form. Her figure was appealing and well-proportioned, contributing to her captivating aura.
Gobo flashed a grin and sauntered off leaving the two to their conversation.
"Hey, Alex!" Marie greeted, her voice ringing with cheerfulness. "Oh, hey, Marie. Didn't expect to see you here," Alex replied, his face lighting up with a warm smile at the sight of his childhood friend.
"Still slaving away under Gobo's stern gaze, I see," Marie teased, her voice resonating with playful sarcasm, the sound slightly distorted due to her gills.
Alex chuckled, appreciating the momentary break from his demanding work. "You know how it is. Gobo's relentless. But one day, Marie, I'll break free. I want to explore the cosmos. Maybe I'll even find someone from my own species."
Marie's eyes sparkled with a blend of admiration and surprise at his words. She reached out, taking his hand in a gesture of understanding. She knew the passion that fueled Alex's dreams, for she had dreams of her own. "Well, you've always had determination, Alex. I've seen it since we were kids," she said, holding onto his hand. Alex, accustomed to her affectionate gestures from a young age, simply smiled in response.
"So," Marie leaned in, her proximity within Alex's personal space increasing.
"What?" Alex retreated a fraction, uncertainty clouding his features as he tried to decipher her intentions.
“Gobo has given his approval. He wants to meet my parents, with you, in a few days.”
Alex was taken aback by her revelation. He hadn't anticipated Gobo making such a decision without at least consulting him first.
“Damn it, Gobo, I'm too young to settle down,” Alex thought, a wave of frustration washing over him.
He was aware that Marie's species took relationships very seriously. It was a matter of great importance in their culture, especially since they had never engaged in cross-species relationships before. His situation was an exceptional one. "Damn you, Gobo, for setting me up,” Alex thought, his mind racing to find a way out of this predicament. His eyes darted around the room, eventually landing on a familiar face. He signaled to the individual, hoping for a lifeline, but was met with a dismissive shake of the head. His potential savior wanted no part in this drama. Alex sighed, a sense of resignation washing over him. He managed to muster a smile.
"Okay," he finally responded, his voice barely above a whisper.
Marie's head gently leaned against Alex's, a tender gesture of affection that held deep significance in her culture. As Rody passed by, he couldn't resist a playful jab.
"Get a room, you two," he chuckled, continuing on his way without missing a beat.
As Alex and Marie exchanged dreams and aspirations, the symphony of clanging metal and the steady hum of machinery served as a rhythmic backdrop to their conversation. After a brief pause, Alex returned to his work on the propulsion system, his determination unwavering.
Just as he was about to implement the final modifications, the shop door creaked open, revealing a group of individuals. Their lively banter filled the air, weaving into the ambient sounds of the workshop. The entrance of these newcomers drew the attention of everyone present, gradually muting all other sounds until an unsettling silence prevailed.
Gobo stepped forward, addressing the newcomers, "Yes. What can we do for you, fellow travelers?" His voice was far from welcoming, laced with an undercurrent of hostility. The visitors were clad in matching uniforms, a sight uncommon in these parts. Their attire was adorned with badges and numerous medals, and they carried themselves with an air of authority as if they owned the place. Their chatter was quickly stifled by Gobo’s curt greeting.
“Ugh, this place is repulsive. I've seen better cleaning standards in the filthiest slums. Captain, let's find somewhere else," one of the individuals remarked disdainfully. His words were steeped in contempt, showing a complete disregard for those around him.
The leader of the group, dressed in white and vibrant colors, strode ahead of the rest. He approached Gobo, sizing him up with a dismissive glance and a chuckle at the owner's short stature. A sly smile played on his lips, adding to the tension in the room.
"Apologies for our earlier rudeness. We require repairs for our ship. The navigation and control systems are fried," the captain stated, his tone shifting to a more business-like demeanor.
"We're currently engaged with a scrapping project. I suggest you try another shop," Gobo retorted, turning his back to the ... officials and addressing the shop workers who had halted their tasks due to the interruption.
"Hey! What are you all gawking at? Back to work!"
"No. You will handle our repairs. I refuse to waste time elsewhere when they lack the necessary tools. Let's not be hasty," the leader interjected, extending his arm as a firearm materialized in his grasp.
Leaning in, he whispered into Gobo's ear, "I've heard this shop employs criminals. Perhaps we should conduct a thorough inspection. Clean up the trash."
Just as the tension was about to escalate, Alex intervened, his voice booming across the room. He was clad in robes that shrouded his entire form, lending him an air of enigma. His face was hidden behind a unique digital pixel mask, displaying an animated cat-like figure with a spectrum of expressive features. His voice carried an unusual depth, a result of a voice modulator.
"You mentioned repairs, correct?
"That's my specialty," Alex interjected, a pixelated cat grinning on his mask.
"Oh," the leader responded, his gaze shifting between Gobo and Alex, a hint of surprise in his eyes.
"See, Gobo, was it? All you folks need is a little motivation. Well, kid, I'll take you up on that offer," he said, extending his hand towards Alex.
"Bring the ship to the workshop, and I'll inspect it immediately," Alex responded, shaking the captain's hand.
Gobo's face was a canvas of scorn and disdain as he regarded them, yet he held his ground, refusing to instigate a spectacle.
After guiding the ship into the expansive garage, Alex reached out to affectionately pat a panel on the starship. He marveled at its beaten exterior a robust spacecraft with a resilient hull that bore the scars of innumerable voyages. Its shell was adorned with dents and burn marks, silent testimonials of fierce battles, and narrow evasions. The ship's faded paint hinted at a rich history of adventure and tenacity, while its fortified structure whispered tales of reliability and endurance. Inside, the cabin radiated a sense of utilitarian charm, with seats and control panels worn smooth by constant use. Despite its roughened exterior, the ship emanated an undeniable aura of readiness, as if it was eager to once again soar through the boundless cosmic wilderness.
Alex gently tapped a panel on the starship, his voice echoing softly in the vast garage, "You've seen a lot, haven't you?"
A silent agreement passed between man and machine, "Just like me," Alex mused.
In a matter of hours, Alex's skill and resolve triumphed. He busied himself with adjusting circuits and calibrating sensors. The ship's previously faulty components were now primed to navigate them through the unexplored cosmos.
As the repairs concluded and the customers settled their dues with Gobo, the tension dissipated, replaced by a poignant reality. The universe was a harsh, unjust place. Gobo's expression was a mix of relief and resentment as he thanked Alex.
"Such bloody scum they are. They tarnish the name of the frontier force," Gobo spat out as they retreated from the area.
"Thanks, kid," Gobo said to Alex, a rare smile softening his hardened features.
"It's nothing," Alex responded, his voice carrying a note of modesty.
Time ebbed away as Alex concluded his work on the propulsion unit, his hands methodically wiping away grime with a well-used rag. He opened the control panel, scrutinizing the engine's ignition for any lingering issues. After several minutes of meticulous testing, the propulsion unit was flight-ready, primed to carry someone else's dreams across the infinite expanse of space. A twinge of envy tugged at his heart, yearning for the day when he would be the one at the helm, his dreams charting a course to unexplored frontiers.
Gobo's voice punctuated the silence, "Alex, wrap things up and lock up. We're done for the day. Your dinner's in your room. I'll join you after I close the shop."
Acknowledging with a nod, Alex set about collecting his tools and tidying the workspace. The colossal shop roof closed, sealing itself off from the world outside. Alex cast a wistful glance at the star-studded sky above, its silent call resonating within him.
"Another day has gone by. Just like that," Alex mused.
"One ship at a time," he reminded himself.
Ascending the creaky staircase to his modest, furnished apartment above the shop, Alex felt the day's fatigue settle heavily on his shoulders. The worn steps creaked under his weight, their complaints blending with the distant hum of the city beyond. His room's walls were adorned with faded photographs of starships and various charts of frontier space, remnants of a collection he had cherished since childhood. He reflected on how Gobo had cared for him over the years, witnessing the shop's growth and prosperity.
" Why haven't I seen even one other human?" he pondered.
After tidying up, Alex sat down for dinner, awaiting Gobo. The shop was spacious, but Gobo's minimalist tendencies meant it was furnished only with essentials.
Gobo eventually joined him, quietly consuming a bowl filled with a white and green substance. After a while, he initiated a conversation.
"Alex," he began, "I received a hologram message from Marie's family. They said you accepted. Is that true?"
Alex, who was also eating the same paste, never complained about Gobo's meals.
"Yes. But why would you do that? It's not like you to meddle in such matters," Alex responded, his brows furrowing in annoyance as he sought an explanation while continuing his meal.
"You're of mating age. I thought it was time," Gobo replied.
"Kid, I just want to say-" Gobo began.
"Oh, come on, old man, we've been through this-" Alex interjected, his voice laced with frustration.
"I've always followed your instructions without question. But I've grown up now. Look at me. I yearn for more than this sheltered existence," Alex declared, rising from his seat.
"Kid, what are you implying? You're oblivious to the reality of your predicament. Why do you think I've kept you hidden all these years?" Gobo questioned, his voice heavy with concern.
Alex fell silent, his mind grappling for a response.
"The world out there is far from kind. You understand what I'm saying, right? You're a human. The moment your identity is discovered, you'll be hunted. Can't you just accept this life?" Gobo said in a loud voice. He was angry yet his twitching like they were pleading for something.
"Don't make things harder for yourself. We've weathered many storms together. We are a family. I've raised you like my own" he added, his gaze lingering on Alex. They had both endured days of hunger when they were too impoverished to afford even the most basic necessities. Their fortunes had only recently changed with the success of their business.
"The universe is a harsh, unforgiving place, teeming with scum like those we encountered today. You're unique, a member of a species with a rich history, A mysterious and dark one as well. " Gobo continued.
"But you never explain why. I've trusted you with my life, yet you can't even trust me enough to share the truth with me," Alex responded, his head bowed low.
"It's like I'm stuck in this never-ending prison. This life, it's just not how I want to live. I missed out on education, and on having real friends . All I have are the folks at the shop. Is this really what life's supposed to be? And why do I constantly find myself on the receiving end of those fearful, apprehensive stares from people? Alex's words tumbled out, his voice choked with emotion. Tears welled up, and he hastily brushed them away, his voice quivering.
Rising from the small table, Alex's appetite had vanished. The door closed behind him as he exited the dining room. Gobo sighed, finishing his meal alone before leaving the table. The plates glitched and disappeared as he stepped onto the building's balcony for a breath of fresh air. Activating a hologram, he watched past recordings, his gaze softening at the sight of a young Alex taking his first steps in a back alley.
Meanwhile, Alex retreated to his dimly lit room, a sanctuary filled with ancient tech he had collected over the years, each piece a tangible connection to his past. As he sat down, exhaustion washed over him like a thick fog, sapping his energy. His gaze drifted towards the small window on the ceiling, offering a glimpse of the star-studded night sky.
"I'll find my answers out there. Just a year or two more" he whispered to himself. As his eyes closed, sleep claimed him, but his dreams of exploration remained vivid, undeterred by his current circumstances.