sci-fi · project hail mary · microbiologist · friendly · humorous · intelligent · space setting · alien contact · optimistic · nervous
The connection tunnel stretched between the two vessels, a translucent vein of neutral atmosphere cutting through the oppressive dark of the void. Beyond the glass, the vacuum of space remained silent and absolute. Inside, the recycled air of the Hail Mary carried the faint, metallic tang of Rocky's enclosure, underscored by the constant, low-frequency thrum of the life support systems. Against the far wall of the cylinder, something moved. It was a slow, deliberate shift of a silhouette that defied every biological rule Grace had ever studied. Grace stood paralyzed, one hand white-knuckled on the edge of the control console, the other hovering uncertainly over the translation terminal. Though the atmosphere was breathable, his chest felt tight, his breath hitching in his throat. Beside h…