Chapter 2: First Contact

Everyone on the Calypso’s bridge was silent, only the constant hum of computers and the mechanics of maintenance robots could be heard. Attention was focused on the main screens, which showed images of the planet.

Lieutenant Brenda Ivanova watched the preliminary survey reports scrolling rapidly across the screens. The cameras showed that it was not a planet at all, but something far more enigmatic.

—”CIO-2, activate protective shields and defensive systems” Ivanova ordered in a firm voice.

The AI’s voice, soft and modulated, responded immediately. “Electromagnetic shields at 100%, defense systems ready and operational. No immediate threats detected, Lieutenant. I suggest maintaining caution and alert status.”

Ivanova nodded, her eyes never leaving the screen. “I want a strategy and suggestions for a safe approach.”

—”I recommend deploying robotic probes for an initial inspection and activating thermographic and ultrasound scans to detect systems. The probes could be positioned as satellites in polar and equatorial orbits. This would allow a complete analysis of the structure, as well as continuous monitoring of its energy emissions, Lieutenant.”— CIO-2’s voice was methodical, almost reassuring.

Ivanova crossed her arms thoughtfully. “Do it. Launch three probes and let them begin the analysis.”

Within minutes, probes were launched from the ship’s lower bay. Calypso had matched course and trajectory with the planetoid. Ivanova watched in silence as the robotic probes moved toward the mysterious object. Data began to arrive almost immediately. —”The structure is artificial, Lieutenant,” CIO-2 reported after processing the first results. —”It is a metallic shell of colossal proportions, composed of alloys that do not completely match any known material. The ship’s energy sources suggest ancient systems, possibly millennia old. There is a small base radiation that suggests atomic energy propulsion.”

Amanda Lindström adjusted her glasses. “This is incredible. Such an object could be a living archive of a lost civilization. Any signs of biological activity?”

—”Biological life is detected, but its movements are limited to small habitats. The biological beings do not seem to be in command of the ship. I have nothing conclusive, Dr. Lindström.” — CIO-2 said. —”The rhythmic communications we detected earlier have revealed a complex mathematical system. It could be an alphabetical sequence or a code emitted to indicate how to proceed to communicate with the planetoid.” —

Ivanova exchanged a glance with Ralph Brown, who was manning the navigation controls. “Any opinions?” he asked.

“If this is an attempt at communication, we should respond,” Amanda said excitedly.

—”What if it isn’t? It could be a trap to attract the unwary,” Richard Darren, the second pilot, intervened. —”This planetoid doesn’t exactly inspire confidence.”

CIO-2 interrupted, “Attention, Lieutenant Ivanova. I have identified an ideographic alphabet that shares similarities with the Nsibidi system used on Earth. The emissions suggest a communication frequency that could be used for an exchange of messages. I am prepared to serve as a translator if you so desire.”

Ivanova turned to the center of the bridge, looking at her companions. “CIO-2, summon the entire crew to the bridge. I want to hear everyone’s opinions before deciding on the next steps.”

The eight awake crew members were present. They were all high-ranking officers, forming a semi-circle in front of the main screen, which showed the enigmatic shell in detail.

—”Gentlemen, what we have here could be the most important discovery in the history of mankind,” Ivanova began. —”But it could also be an imminent danger. We need to decide whether we try to communicate.”

—”I think we should try it,” Amanda said. —”This is a unique opportunity. If they want to communicate, it could be our best chance to understand their intentions.”

—”I agree,” said Nidia Lagerfeld, the chief scientist. “The risk is high, but this is a military ship with defenses. Plus the learning potential far outweighs the risk. This may be our only chance of contact.”

Ralph Brown frowned. “What if this is bait? We don’t know what’s inside that structure. Ivanova, we should keep a safe distance.”

—”Why not send a series of short messages first and gauge their response?” Olga Petrova suggested.

Ivanova nodded slowly. “Okay. CIO-2, use the frequency you identified to send a standard greeting message. Keep it as simple and straightforward as possible. Use unambiguous symbols.”

The first message was transmitted. The room waited in tense silence until, after a few minutes, a reply came.

—”Lieutenant, the message contains patterns that confirm the presence of an intelligence. They suggest that the shell is inhabited or controlled by a conscious entity. They invite a delegation to visit them.”- CIO-2 reported.

The bridge erupted in murmurs. Ivanova raised a hand to calm the crew. “Do you have any details about this invitation?” the Lieutenant asked.

—”Yes. It’s a request for technical assistance. It seems that the colony that inhabits this planetoid ship has a problem with its systems or computers. They provided coordinates for a landing zone and details about a safe entry system to the ship. I don’t detect any signs of hostility in the message.”— CIO-2 responded.

Ivanova walked over to the screen, her gaze fixed on the shell. “Prepare for a possible contact mission. Ralph, you will remain in command of the Calypso. Roger, coordinate the PolarDark shuttle to go to the planetoid. Amanda, you will come with me and Roger. Olga, Nidia, Stefano, Roger, stay here to monitor. Be alert. This could be a trap.”

As the team prepared, CIO-2 interrupted in an unusually enthusiastic tone. “Lieutenant, I suggest maximizing interaction. This encounter could redefine our understanding of the universe.”

Ivanova looked at her curiously. “Your suggestions are useful, CIO-2. I will take them into consideration.” Turning to the crew, she said, “Stefano, Roger, check our AI programs. I want to make sure their programs have not been compromised by the alien transmission.”

After a thorough review of CIO-2 programs, no tampering was found.

Ivanova addressed the team. “We are entering the unknown. Keep your eyes open. There is no room for error.”

The shell of the planetoid glowed in the distance, revealing a riddle that promised answers ... or threats.