The Engines Have Stopped

Some hours after you fell asleep, you wake up for some unknown reason. Everything seems normal and Aiko is still cuddled up with you fast asleep. You're about to close your eyes again as your suddenly realize that the dull thrum of the ship's engines, that has been a near constant on your cruise, has stopped. Glancing at the clock and see it's still the middle of the "night". The ship isn't set to arrive at Enslan for several hours yet, so something must have gone wrong to stop the ship on its course.

You hate to do it, but you nudge Aiko gently to wake her up.

"Don't tell me you're in the mood again," she says, not opening her eyes but still with a smile.

"No," you answer. "The engines have stopped. It might be nothing, but we might want to get dressed just in case."

Without a word, Aiko gets out of bed and goes to the bathroom to grab her discarded dress while you grab pants, a shirt and your running shoes.

Just as you're finishing dressing, the intercom chimes with an all-ship announcement.

"Attention all passengers. Return to your cabins immediately and remain there until further notice. Please remain calm and follow all instructions issued by crew members." The Captain repeats his announcement and the intercom shuts off.

You and Aiko look at each other with concern. The Captain made no mention of what was happening.