The task

"He seemed reluctant to share anything with me, but I'm sure he would tell you," I continue.

Martin considers the thought. "Why not? Auto, why did you wake me up? What do you need me to do?"

"That will require some explanation," says Auto. "My forward telescopes have been observing a solo K-type star eight point three degrees off our current heading, approximately three light years away, designation APEL seven zero one five. Quite young, little variable flare activity. The second innermost planet orbiting this star lies within its habitable zone. This planet displays bio-signatures--primarily a nitrogen atmosphere, but traces of free oxygen, a substantial ozone presence. The chance of life is near certain. The chance of suitability for colonization is quite strong."

"Ho. Lee. Shit," says Martin. "Well, I think I see where this is going. You want to use the side thrusters and main engine to align to a new heading. Then flip around in anticipation of a deceleration burn in a couple of decades."

"That's correct, Martin Hughes."

My mind is reeling at these revelations. A new world, and one we'll visit soon? Perhaps I'll live long enough to see for myself? Though I'm not sure what a "decade" is.

"Auto," I say, "when was all this decided? And why does no one else know about it?"

"I informed the council two hundreds ago. They decided on this course of action, based on my recommendation."

"Auto, and they decided to keep it a secret, I suppose?"

"That was also at my recommendation, based on my extensive observations of human psychology."

I suppose I am not surprised. Though the council in Lakepolly has ultimate decision-making authority on universal matters, they always defer to Auto's recommendations. Why wouldn't they, when he is so sensible? I, too, follow his suggestions in all things. Mostly.

"I would ask that you not divulge this to anyone," Auto continues.

"I won't," I promise.

Martin shrugs his shoulders. "Sure. I'm not one to rock the boat my first day awake. But, Auto, you still haven't explained how I fit into this."

"Work has been ongoing for some time, repairing and aligning the thrusters. Supervisor Valerie is adamant a sleeper expert should be present to oversee final preparations and execution. That is you."

"Me," sighs Martin. "Very well, Auto, I guess I should see this supervisor. I assume she'd be near the engines?"

"That's right. The installation is located in the redward hills. I estimate a three day journey to reach her."

"I'm...walking?" Martin looks over at me in disbelief. "There's not a tram or something, to move across the ship?"

I shake my head. "I'm afraid I don't know what that is. Everyone walks."

"Auto, there's no tram?" Martin says.

"There was a cross-ship transportation network at one time. Unfortunately, irreplaceable parts broke down over four thousand years ago, and the material comprising the network was repurposed."

"Hmm." Martin sounds a little skeptical. "Ah, well. A little exercise never hurt anyone."

"Auto," I say, feeling impetuous, "I'd like to accompany Martin. Could that be my assignment for the next few days?"

"I was going to suggest that myself, Marissa," says Auto.

Martin looks at me. "You want to go with me? The whole way?"

"Aye, why not? You could use a guide. And if you insist on forgoing a collar, someone has to accompany you...Unless you don't want me?"

"Not at all. If anyone was to travel with me, I'd hope that it was you." His smile sends flutters across my tummy.

By this time, the two of us have reached the foot of the hills, standing on the flat grassy verge that precedes the fields of wheat and beans. The sunstrand has begun to wane, though it is not far off its full brightness. I turn spinward, regretful at having come back into my weight. The feeling of low gee is exhilarating, liberating.

"Our immediate plan has not changed," I say. "You can come rest with me in my polly overnight. Tomorrow, we set out redward."

"Sounds good to me. I look forward to meeting your...polly-mates?"

"I know they are dying to meet you. Serena told me before I set out that she has many questions for you."

"Uh oh. I don't like the sound of that," says Martin, though he's still smiling.

We continue spinward. The polly is visible above us, though it gradually nears and drops down to meet us. Martin shades his eyes with his right hand and stares intently. "Those are...buildings?" he says uncertainly. "But no roofs. I guess you wouldn't need them, with the constant temperature and lack of rain." He looks over at me. "You folks certainly aren't much for privacy, are you?"

"I...suppose not," I say, but I'm not sure. I have no basis for comparison besides Martin himself, and I'm realizing how little I truly understand of him or where he came from. Perhaps I will learn more on our adventure together.

The sunstrand has waned halfway when we reach the edge of the polly. All this walking has taken a toll on my muscles. I pause for a moment to stretch, interlocking my hands, then bending over to touch my boots. Martin makes a strangled sound behind me. Perhaps he is stretching as well. When I've finished I head towards my locker to drop off my utilities and boots before looking for the others.