Survey: Survey Intragalactic, #1

By Gina Pond

In this futuristic adventure, computer scientist Kiah Hasan, physicist Nigel Evans, and Captain Josh Walker embark on a mission to the Kuiper Belt on the space station known as Trinity. When simmering political tensions on Earth erupt into war, the Trinity Station crew disappears, only to be found a century later by Admiral Darren Winters. Dr. Hasan's AGI experiments have led the descendants of the former Trinity crew to make remarkable technological advancements in order to survive on massive ships in deep space, culminating in the birth of the new nation of Survey. But when Admiral Winters is tasked with finding the youngest AI, Loki, who vanishes after a tragic accident, he discovers a dangerous secret that could threaten Survey's future. Can Admiral Winters and psychologist Dr. Alex Campos uncover Loki's fate before it's too late?

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Gina Pond
• Release date: Feb 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215053478

Book preview

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, organizations and events portrayed herein are either products of the author’s imagination or used fictitiously.

Survey

Copyright (C) by Gina A. Pond

All rights reserved.

Cover artwork, book design and typography by Sarah Thompson.

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For my Mom, who taught me about art, hope, love, and compassion. And in memory of Christa McAuliffe and crew of the Space Shuttle Challenger mission STS-51-L.

Prologue

01

Kiah

Why did I agree to go to Bonfire Night? I thought as I was pulled along by the crowds. Because that lunatic physicist asked you to go in front of everyone and you couldn’t say no. I sighed. Good thing I have Amina covering for me with Uncle Faisal. Allah, take pity on me. My tablet buzzed, pulling my attention from the enveloping sea of people.

Where are you? Nigel texted. We’re leaving the Eagle...

I’m near All Saints Church, walking towards the Common. I stopped next to an old brick garage to get out of the flow of people while I replied. I let out a sigh of relief. The tablet buzzed again.

STAY THERE! We’ll come to you!

I smiled and shook my head. Ok, I texted back, relieved that I didn’t have to push my way through the crowd. That helped me relax a little, and I just focused on breathing. The tightness in my chest eased a bit, though I kept watching the crowd, just in case my cousins decided to come looking for me. I should have said no and stayed home, but Amina wanted to go with her British boyfriend, so... I sighed again.

The crowd got bigger as I waited, and my chest started to feel tight again. I took deep breaths, but I could feel the panic starting to rise. No, no, no! Not here, not now! I told the memories that were rising up. I felt my eyes tearing up, and I began to pace along the wall. Allah! Help me! I wildly looked around for refuge. There – the Jesus College gate, just across the street. My mind focused on that gate as if it were a heavenly portal. I left the safety of my corner and made my way to that shining beacon, pushing my way through the crowd of chattering people.

The fireworks started as I got close to the gate. I put my hands over my ears to try to block them out, but the noise reverberated through my body. I ran blindly inside and down the path as memories took over my mind.

A flash. Smoke. Debris. The smell of fire and blood. Mama! Papa! Why aren’t you moving? I crawled over the rubble-strewn floor to touch my mother’s hand. It was warm, but Mama didn’t respond to my touch. Mama! I screamed. Papa! The flashes and the booms kept shaking the house, raining dust and broken glass on me. I screamed and cried, holding my mother’s hand.

I ran to the small building at the end of the path. Reaching the Porter’s Lodge entrance, I flung the door open and scrambled inside. Slamming it shut, I put my back to the door, still holding my hands over my ears.

Oi! Who’s slammin’ my door! said a man from a doorway in the back of the office. Oh no! I thought, shrinking in reaction to the male voice. I moved along the wall to the corner of the room, slid down it, and curled into a ball with my hands over my head. The fireworks made me flinch again, especially the louder booms. There was the smell of fire and dirt in my nose. I tried to breathe, but all I could manage was short gasps.

Allah help me! Allah help me! I whispered to myself over and over. I felt light-headed. I couldn’t move or even think past the sound of the fireworks.

A shadow fell across my feet. A large man in a dark suit and black headphones, who I assumed was the Porter, knelt down in front of me. Are you ok, love? he said, gently this time. I looked up into the man’s concerned-looking eyes and shook my head. The man took the pair of headphones off his own ears and put them over mine.

The noise of the fireworks disappeared. There was blessed silence. I burst into tears.

With the quiet of the headphones, I was able to calm myself down a little and take deeper breaths. After a few moments, the Porter stood and held out a hand. I took it and stood up, letting him steer me to the couch. My mind was still a whirl of memories.

I watched as the Porter shuffled around the office, plugging in a kettle and bringing out a tray with a teapot and cups and a plate of biscuits. He flinched every so often as he did so.

Once the the water boiled and teapot was filled, the Porter set the tray on the low table in front of the couch.

You were in the war? I heard him say through the headphones. I nodded. Ah, poor love, no wonder. Well, you keep them headphones on, and I’ll fix you a cuppa. My name’s Gerald, Gerry to my friends.

I tried to speak, coughed, then tried again. Uh, thank you, Gerald, I managed. I’m Kiah.

Uh-uh. Gerry. You’re a friend. I was in the war, too. In the UN Peacekeeping Force. When I left the forces I didn’t want to spend my days sittin’ at home starin’ at the telly, so my friend got me the job here. But, well. PTSD is a bitch and Bonfire Night is hard. That’s why I have those headphones you got on. Brilliant things, those! He poured tea while he was talking and handed me a cup. I took it in both hands and took a slow sip. The warmth of the tea and the cup seemed to work its way from my hands to the rest of my body, calming me even further. That’s better, yeah? he asked.

I nodded again. I lost my parents. In the bombings. They dug me out of the house after a few days. I don’t remember how long it was.

How old were you?

Six.

Blimey, that young? How did you get here?

I took another sip of tea. My uncle. He moved to London before I was born. He went to Oxford, you see. When the war started, my parents asked him to take me in if anything happened to them. So, when they bombed the town he rushed over to find out what happened. He’s pretty wealthy, so he was able to bribe his way in. He was there when they pulled me out. He took me right to his plane and brought me here.

Is your uncle good to you? he asked.

I felt the blood drain from my face. I’m grateful that he provides for me and has let me go to school, I said flatly. I didn’t look Gerry in the eyes when I said it.

I see. Well – he started to say, when the outer door slammed open again. Nigel came storming in. Gerry and I both jumped.

Kiah! he said, panting. Are you ok?

Oi! Whatchu slammin’ my door for? Don’t you have any manners? Gerry said, raising his voice.

Oh. Uh. Sorry, sir. I was worried about Kiah, you see, and well, we tracked her tablet to here, and... well... He grimaced and scrubbed his hand through his hair.

It’s ok, Gerry, I said. This is my friend Nigel. I was supposed to meet him over by the church, but then the fireworks went off. He worries about me a lot.

Gerry nodded. Ah, right then. Well, any friend of Kiah is a friend of mine. Close the door and pull up a chair. You can pour your own tea, though.

Oh, uh. Thanks, Nigel said, closing the door and pulling a chair over from the other side of the room. He didn’t say anything as Gerry handed him a teacup and Nigel sorted his tea out. He took a drink, put down the cup and said, I should let the rest of them know that I found you so you don’t end up with twenty folks in here.

I would appreciate that, said Gerry, rather dryly.

Nigel tapped out the message, then asked again. Are you really ok, Kiah?

No she’s not, you stupid git, scolded Gerry, before I could answer. What the bloody hell were you thinking asking her out to the fireworks on Bonfire Night? If you’re her friend, you should know better than that!

I – what?! Nigel stared at me, and I looked down at the cup in my hands. Oh, fuck me. I wasn’t thinking at all! Oh, shit, I’m so sorry, Kiah!

It’s ok – I started to say.

No, it’s not, Kiah, Gerry interrupted. PTSD is no joke, no matter how it happened, especially when it comes from war. I know what they did to those towns, Kiah. I was there. You have every right to feel fear when there’s loud noises going off. The good thing, though, is that tonight you’re not alone, right Nigel?

Right.

The two men looked at each other as if they came to some sort of pact. I sighed. Nigel eyed the headphones I was wearing. Hey, where did you get those headphones? They’re brilliant!

Gerry smiled. Online, where else?

Well, I’m going to pick some up for Kiah, then.

You don’t have to, Nigel, really, I said.

Yes I do! It’s my fault that you got hurt tonight, and I want to make sure that the fireworks don’t bother you like that again.

Gerry smiled wider and pulled out his tablet. I can send you the listing for these, he said. One of my buddies in the SAS got me my first pair. They’re a godsend. They’re good for after football matches, too.

Nigel tapped his tablet to Gerry’s and it chimed, confirming that it had sent the link. I smiled, amazed at how easily Nigel could charm anyone. You were in the SAS? Nigel asked, a tiny bit of awe in his voice.

Yup! Gerry replied. He proceeded to tell us some funny stories about his days in training. Nigel asked a lot of questions, but when it came out that they both were involved in the Assassin’s Guild game, they were off. Soon they had me laughing and forgetting about war entirely, and the stories only got wilder and funnier as the hours went on. Just before midnight, my tablet buzzed once more.

Where are you? Amina texted. The fireworks are over!

Oh, sorry. Something came up and I’m at the Jesus College Porter’s Lodge. I replied.

No worries! She texted back. Philip and I aren’t too far from you, then. We’ll meet you there.

Ok. I put down my tablet.

Amina? asked Nigel.

I nodded. I took off the headphones and handed them back to Gerry. Thank you. For everything.

It was my pleasure. Here, he said, tapping my tablet with his. That’s my contact information. You ever need anything, you call, right?

Thank you. I will, I replied.

There was a knock at the door. Gerry opened it, letting Amina and Philip in. They greeted Gerry and Nigel, then Amina said, Ready to get going?

I nodded, adjusting my hijab, and stood.

Hey, Kiah, I’ll see you tomorrow? asked Nigel.

Yeah. I’ll be in the lab later in the afternoon, I said. Thanks again, Gerry!

Goodnight, Kiah, he said, and Amina led me out into the night.

Nigel

I waited for the door to the office to close, then turned to Gerald and said, Thanks for taking care of her. And yeah, I should have known better. I just didn’t think.

Gerald narrowed his eyes. There’s more to her story, isn’t there? Her uncle?

I nodded. Yeah. He’s a cunt to her. She won’t talk about it, but I’m certain of it.

Old school Indian, then? he asked.

I nodded again and Gerald shook his head. You be careful, then. There’s no telling what he could do to her if he thinks she’s been ruined by you or other men. Honour killings are illegal, even by Indian law, but there are a lot of ways to make a death look like an accident.

I stared him in the eyes, realising he was serious. Would he really do that? I asked.

If he thinks she’s dishonoured the family, yeah. I didn’t approve of the war, but there’s a reason why it happened.

Shit, I said. Then I had a thought. You want to be on our list? For Kiah?

List?

Yeah. A few months ago, her uncle set one of her male cousins who was studying here on her to spy for him. Thing was, he was into more than just spying on her. He started harassing her, trying to force her to marry him. She didn’t say anything about it, but I knew something was wrong, you know? Then one day, the guy made the mistake of doing it at lunch in front of us. She told us just to ignore him, but well, she’s my friend, right? So I got some of my Assassins mates together and we paid him a little midnight visit. We made it very clear that if he went near her again, well...

Yes, I’m sure you did, Gerald said with a grin. Did he stop?

Oh, yeah, but, well, the day after that, Kiah wasn’t in the lab and didn’t come back for a few days. When she finally did come back, she just said she’s been sick, but she flinched a lot when people tried to touch her. I know that cunt must have beaten her for what we did. I frowned. I still feel guilty for that. Anyway, shortly after that I sorted out a dead man’s switch for her. She’s to text me every night after she gets home so that I know she’s ok. She thinks it’s silly, but I asked her to humour me, so she does it. Just at that moment, my tablet buzzed.

It was from Kiah. At Amina’s apartment. See you tomorrow.

Ok, I replied.

That her? Gerald asked.

I nodded.

Right. Count me in. She’s a sweet girl, and I don’t want anything to happen to her. If you need help, let me know. Us SAS types don’t really retire, you know. We just get old. The Porter held out his tablet, and I tapped it to mine, exchanging our contacts.

I gave a wide smile and stuck out my hand. Thank you, sir.

Call me Gerry, eh?

Right. ‘Night, Gerry!

The Porter nodded. Off with you now! I gotta lock the gates for the night!

I waved as I walked through the door and headed home.

02

Nigel

I ran towards the tree our group sat under, my heavy backpack full of drinks slapping against my back. Watch out! I yelled, before I jumped over the blanket and landed on the other side, nearly running into another group of people. Shit, sorry! I said to them, then turned back to our blanket. Kiah, Amina, Philip, Rafi, and the rest of the regular crew were all there, laughing at my near miss. I flopped down next to Kiah. You’ll need to let these sit for a minute before you open them, I cautioned, dumping the sodas on the blanket. Have they started yet?

No, you’re right on time, Kiah said.

Good! I pulled out my travel pillow and put it against the tree so I could lean on it. Someone handed me a cookie, and someone else handed me some milk. I gratefully gulped the milk down.

Kiah laughed. No one’s going to take the milk from you!

Hey, you never know!

She shook her head with a smile.

Why you so late, Nige? Rafi asked.

I sighed. Last minute call with Houston. Some stupid git was trying to tell me that he knew my engines better than I did.

Uh-oh, said Rafi. You didn’t rough him up too much, did you?

Nah. He’s not a bad engineer, just misguided. Although, he did have a good tweak that might improve fuel consumption- -

Shhhh! interrupted Amina. They’re starting!

I shut up and gave my full attention to Peter Rabbit. It was my favorite story, and I never missed a Sheila and Her Dog society story time when they were reading it. Funnily enough, no one really ribbed me about it - at least, not to my face. The reader was particularly good, and as I usually did, I teared up at the end. I wiped my eyes on my sleeve as the rest of the crew started packing up.

Amina and Philip left first. Have to study for exams! Amina said. We all said our goodbyes, and after a few minutes it was just me and Kiah left. Kiah sighed. I think people think we’re a couple, Nigel.

Really? I asked, a bit confused.

My Uncle thought so, that’s why he sicced my cousin on me. Listen, Nigel—

Oh, Lord! That’s why? Bloody hell, people see a man and a woman being friends and they automatically assume romance. What a pain in the ass.

Kiah laughed. Ok, now I’m confused, because I thought... well...

I do like you a lot, Kiah. You’re my best friend. More like the sister I never had, really. You get me. And you get the physics and my work, like I get yours, right?

Yes, she said.

To tell you the truth, romance is a real pain in the ass. All that fuss for five minutes of squidging! Messy, too! Ew, no. I shook my head. I mean, I think I’m probably asexual if you want to be official about it, but whatever. Physics is what I’m married to, and I don’t think anyone can really come between me and it. Besides, when you finally find someone you want to marry and have sprogs with, I want to be that crazy uncle that does all the weird shit and then takes them for their first beer, or chip butty, or whatever.

Kiah stared at me in shock for a moment, then burst out laughing. Nigel, you are a force of nature, I swear!

I shrugged. I’m only what God, Allah, or whoever has made me.

That is true. She looked at her watch. Do you mind if I pray?

No. Do you want me to leave while you do it?

You don’t have to. It won’t take long. She pulled out her tablet, faced herself in the right direction, put the tablet down, and started the ritual prayer. I always liked watching her pray. It was utterly fascinating. For some reason, when she spoke the Arabic of the prayer, she seemed to have a glow about her. Sometimes I wondered if she’d already be an imam in one of the more modern sects. She always had the same kind of vibe that the priestly types I talked to once in a while had.

I grinned and let her peacefulness wash over me. It was always soothing. It made me wish that I could bring peace to the rest of her life.

Placet!

I let out a breath that I didn’t know I’d been holding. I saw Kiah visibly relax as the college officials finished the graduation ceremony. I wanted to shout and clap, but I also didn’t want to get kicked out. As she filed out to the courtyard with the rest of the graduates, I made my way through the crowd, finally making it over to where Kiah stood. I grabbed her in a bear hug and twirled her around.

She let out a scream. Nigel, put me down! she said, laughing.

Woo hoo! I yelled. Kiah blushed and grinned. I felt like a proud uncle, or maybe big brother. I was still angry that her cunt of an uncle - or any of her other family - hadn’t bothered to show up, but I kept my game face on and smiled wide. So, to the Eagle, then? I asked the crowd, taking the cheers as an affirmative. We headed out, Kiah leading the way.

Of course, the pub was busy when we got there, but we managed to find seats. I went to the bar to get drinks, bringing back a beer for me, and a drink for Kiah. She looked at the red liquid dubiously. What is this? she asked.

I took a swig of beer. I promise you it’s chemically inoffensive. It’s called a Shirley Temple. Just soda water, grenadine syrup, and lime juice. I told them to leave out the cherry, since I think they’re usually soaked in booze.

Kiah took a tentative sip. Gah! It’s so sweet! She laughed. It’s not bad though. It might grow on me.

I grinned and lifted my glass. Congratulations Doctor Hasan, one of the most brilliant minds on the planet! I clinked it with hers, and the rest of the table shouted Hear hear! Kiah turned bright pink and tried to hide her face in her hijab. The conversation continued until the food came out, and then everyone ate with gusto.

Are hamburgers halal? I asked, as she started to eat.

This one is. It’s a vat-burger, and they were declared halal a couple of hundred years ago, apparently. They’d better be, because my cousins scarf them down all the time, she replied.

I frowned. I’m still mad that your uncle couldn’t be arsed to show up.

Kiah shrugged. I’m ok with it, Nigel, really. The people who are most important to me were there, and that’s enough.

I grinned and started in on my fish and chips. Still... well, I suppose you’re right. I looked around. Everyone else was engaged in conversation with other people. So... uh... Kiah... I kinda have a surprise for you, I said in a low tone. Kind of a graduation gift.

A surprise? she asked with a smile. A good one, I hope?

I think it is!

Well, what is it?

I took another swig of beer. I... well... I put your project in for Trinity.

Kiah’s eyes went wide. You did what?!

I put your project in for Trinity.

And you waited until now to tell me? She frowned. Dammit, I thought, this wasn’t how this was supposed to go.

Well, yeah, because if I asked you, you wouldn’t have done it.

But weren’t the scientists supposed to write up these lengthy proposals?

I nodded. I sent them your PhD thesis and filled out the forms. It wasn’t hard. Don’t you want a chance to see if your AGI theories will work?

She absently played with one of her chips. I do, but...

But nothing! You’re one of the greatest minds in computing since Von Neumann or even Turing! Your AGI design will revolutionize humanity! And I’m not just saying that to be nice, Kiah. I’ve talked to others in the lab. They say the same thing. Your project should be on Trinity Station, Doctor Kiah Hasan. I looked her in the eyes, Just as much, or maybe even more so, than my engines!

Her eyebrows lifted into her hijab and her eyes were wide. You really think that? she asked in nearly a whisper.

I do, and that’s saying a lot, since I know I’m a selfish, arrogant ass! I said with a smile.

She laughed, then grabbed a napkin and carefully wiped her eyes around her makeup.

Oi, Nige! You making Kiah cry on her graduation day? What kind of monster are you? Rafi yelled across the table.

Kiah waved her hand. It’s ok, Rafi. He was actually giving me a compliment. A very nice one!

Rafi widened his eyes, came around the table and put a hand on my forehead. He doesn’t feel feverish! He then picked up my beer, sniffed it, then took a swig. The beer tastes ok. Damn, Kiah, you might tame this wily bastard yet! Everyone laughed.

I doubt that, Kiah said. The man’s a force of nature!

True, that! said Amina.

Everyone else went back to talking, and I leaned in closer to Kiah. Listen, the decisions haven’t been made yet. It’ll be another few months before they announce the mission specialists. Just think about it, ok?

All right, Nigel. I’ll think about it, she said, but I heard a note of defeat in her voice.

I really want to kill that cunt of an uncle of hers, I thought, but out loud I said, So, who brought the cake?

A few days later I was having my weekly tea with Gerry. Initially, I figured since he was on the List, it would be a good idea to meet with him regularly to get to know him better. Thing was, he was a pretty awesome guy. He gave good advice. And just like Kiah, he seemed to just get me. Unlike her, though, he didn’t put up with my shit and never hesitated to give me a piece of his mind if he thought I needed it. I liked that about him.

Her project needs to be on that mission, Gerry. I just know it. But that bastard probably won’t let her go, I complained, as he handed me a cup of tea.

He nodded as he sat back in his chair with his own cup. Are you sure her project’s going to get selected?

Of course it will! It’s brilliant work. If they don’t, they’re stupid. I know a lot of the committee. They’ll see the usefulness of it. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Indo-China bloc decided to fund it outright. They’re always hot on new tech.

It’s gotta be her decision, lad, you know that. She has so little choice in her life already. You can’t be like her uncle and try to force her into it.

I frowned into my teacup. I know, I know, but God, she’s the brightest mind Earth has in computer science! It would be such a waste for her to stay on-planet and not see her work come to life.

Gerry chuckled. You want to see it, too, I’m guessing?

Well, yeah, why wouldn’t I? Think of it! A sentient high order quantum computer? Who knows how far that kind of AGI could advance human science? And with Kiah as its mum? It would be amazing!

Huh, I’ve never thought about it like that. I suppose AIs kinda scare me. I mean, what if they can’t learn morality, or determine right from wrong?

Yeah, but, with Kiah teaching it, I said. Well... she’s good and kind and... well, not like me. I’d teach an AI, or even a kid, bad habits.

She’s just a human being, Nigel. She’s no saint, Gerry said.

I don’t know, Gerry. Have you ever seen her pray? I asked. The Porter shook his head. She has this glow about her. I mean, I don’t believe in God, but when I watch her pray, I think I can believe in some sort of intelligence to the universe. Sometimes she comes off like the folks in seminary, without the long theology sermons.

Gerry chuckled. They do like to hear themselves talk, don’t they?

I nodded.

He put his cup down. "Listen, Nigel, like I said, you can’t force her into this if her project is accepted. She’s gotta decide if she’s going to do it and if she wants it enough to stand up to the bastard. If she does, though, we have to be ready for the fallout, because you know what his answer will be."

Yeah, you’re right, I said, and finished my tea.

03

Kiah

Meet at the Eagle for lunch! I’m buying! texted Nigel in our group chat. I sighed and put my tablet down. I couldn’t concentrate on my work anyway, since my arms were sore from doing housework the night before, so I picked up the tablet again. Ok, I replied. Be there shortly.

I turned off my computer, picked up my purse and walked down to the pub. It had just opened, and Nigel was sitting at one of the larger tables inside with Rafi. I was surprised at that, since Rafi had just gotten a new job with the Swiss Embassy. Hi Nigel. Nigel waved as he sipped his drink. Good to see you, Rafi! They let you out of the Embassy for lunch up here?

Rafi smiled widely at me. Hey Kiah! Of course they did! It’s Swiss National Day today. I decided to take the week off anyway, since I haven’t had my summer holiday yet. Then this guy demanded that we meet for lunch. Luckily, I was in the area.

Nigel snorted. You came up yesterday because you heard the news first, since you work in the Swiss PR office.

News? I asked.

I want to wait until everyone gets here! Nigel said with a wide grin.

The others came in just as my soda water arrived. Nigel had even invited Gerry, who came over, patted me on the shoulder and asked, How are you Kiah? Haven’t seen you in awhile!

I’m ok, Gerry, I said. He narrowed his eyes at me. Really! I promise I’ll come for tea later this week!

He nodded, then sat down. When everyone had ordered drinks and food, Nigel stood up. So, if you haven’t seen it yet, guess who’s the Chief Engineer of Trinity Station?

Everyone looked confused. Uh, Nige. I thought you already were? asked Amina.

Well, now it’s officially official! They had a press conference this morning and named the senior crew and critical staff!

Oh, Lord, said Amina. They’ve publicly gone and called him something important. Anyone got a pin to pop that ego?

I’m paying for lunch! Nigel said, pretending to look hurt as we all laughed.

Congrats, mate! said Philip. Gerry raised his glass, and the rest of us followed. Our food came, and between bites, we all gave Nigel a good natured ribbing about his ego.

Well, just you wait! I’ll probably be asking some of you to come and work on it! Nigel said, pointing one of his chips at us.

When do you head to the US, then? asked Rafi.

September first is when we start astronaut training. He gave me a significant look, but I ignored it. Thankfully, I can take all my meetings from here while they get all the visa stuff sorted. Oh, and get this! I get diplomatic immunity while I’m there! Can you believe it?

Gerry laughed. The US won’t know what’s hit it!

Oh, can you imagine? I said.

Et tu, Kiah? Nigel said, then stuck his tongue out at me.

I can’t help it if you’re an easy target, Nigel! I replied.

After lunch, most of our group left to go back to work, leaving just me, Nigel, and Rafi at the table. Leaning toward me, Nigel lowered his voice and said, This means I’m on the selection committee, by the way.

I looked him in the eye. Nigel, don’t you dare do anything to influence the other committee members! He raised his eyebrows. I mean it, Nigel!

All right! I promise! They won’t need me to convince them anyway, he said, and took a swig of beer. Besides, they’re announcing the selections at the end of this week, so you’ll know soon enough. He grinned like a cat in cream. I just sighed.

Leave it alone, Nige, Rafi said.

Right. Are you heading back to the lab, Kiah? Nigel asked.

I nodded. I was going to, but I think I might go home.

You ok? Nigel asked, looking worried.

Yeah. I’m just tired. Thanks for lunch! I said, picking up my purse.

Don’t forget to ping me later! he said.

I smiled. I won’t.

I left the Eagle and got on the next train back to London.

I opened the door of the kitchen entrance to the townhouse. The basement room smelled of yeast and curry. Haniya was beginning dinner already. She looked up as I came in. You’re home early, Kiah.

I wasn’t feeling well, so I left early. I flopped down at the kitchen table, watching Haniya work dough for naan.

Haniya stopped kneading, wiped the flour from her hands, and went to the pantry. She came out with a small analgesic spray and applied it to my neck. Go on up to bed. I’ll bring you some tea and scones later. The men won’t be home until dinnertime, so you’ll have the afternoon to yourself. I’ll come get you in time for dinner.

I gave her a weak smile. Thanks, Haniya, I appreciate it. She went back to her dough, but I didn’t leave the table. Haniya, do you think Allah hates me? I asked.

No! Why would you say that?

I keep getting all these opportunities that would be wonderful, but I know I can’t take them.

Who says you can’t? she said.

What? You know how it is for me, Haniya.

Haniya didn’t reply right away. She kneaded the dough a bit more vigorously, slapping it hard on the counter a few times. She formed it into a ball, dropped it in a bowl, and put a tea towel over it. Then she went over to another part of the kitchen and came over with a plate of bhaji. Here, eat some of these, it’ll make you feel better. I dutifully obeyed. Haniya’s bhajis were always the best.

She sat down at the table. Now you listen to me, girl. I grew up in Kashmir and only got enough schooling to be able to read and to not let the vendors cheat me at the market. I thought my life was going to be really bad, but then Allah put your uncle in front of me. He gave me a job looking after you and keeping house which brought me here. Allah gave me the opportunity to leave Kashmir and I took it. My children don’t have to worry about where their next meal comes from. Even though your uncle is a bad man, he does pay me, and between me and my husband’s wages, it’s enough. She paused for a minute, just gathering steam.

"But you! Allah gave you a brilliant mind. You went to school and got your degrees, despite whatever you Uncle Faisal thinks is your proper place. I know he let you do it because he didn’t want to look bad in front of his British Lords. I also know very well how he’ll react if you want to do something for yourself. But Allah wouldn’t have given you your mind and the friends you have, who I know care about you, or put me in your life, if he didn’t expect you to finally break free."

I stared at Haniya, bhaji forgotten in my hand. Something seemed to click into place in my head, and I knew she was right. If you know my uncle is bad, why do you keep coming here?

She patted my cheek and said, I stay for you, my dear. You needed a mother so desperately after coming here. I couldn’t just leave you completely to Faisal. I’m an old woman now, and I can’t do much to protect you from that man anymore, but I tried to give you hope and faith that Allah would send you a lifeboat.

I took a deep breath. Nigel put my thesis in for the Trinity Station project. I’ll find out at the end of the week if it got accepted or not.

Well, Allah certainly made you a nice lifeboat, didn’t He?

I laughed. Inshallah.

The older woman took my hand and looked me in the eyes. No, Kiah. He did. I don’t doubt it and neither should you. Allah gave you the gifts to go to the stars. Don’t doubt, my love. Believe. You aren’t a child anymore, after all. She stood up to stir the curry on the stove.

I absently nibbled on the forgotten bhaji, chewing while I thought. That’s right! I’m not a child anymore. I’m nearly thirty! Anger and determination seemed to grow in my mind and fill my chest. I’ll accept the position and tell uncle that I’m going whether he likes it or not. Allah protect me, but I’ll do it. I finished the bhaji and went over to the stove. You know what’ll happen if I tell him, right? I asked Haniya in a low tone.

I do, Kiah. I wish I didn’t, and I wish I was strong enough to protect you.

You’ve done what you could, and it was enough. You gave me faith. I sighed. You should go back to Cambridge early this week, Haniya. Tell uncle something came up and leave Thursday. Don’t come back here.

Haniya carefully put the spoon down and hugged me. She had tears in her eyes, and so did I. I love you, Kiah. I always thought of you as my daughter, even if you weren’t of my blood.

I smiled. I always thought of you as my mother, Haniya. I love you, too.

She put her hand on my head. As-salaam ’alaykum.

I kissed her cheek. Wa ‘alaykum as-salaam, I replied, and left the kitchen.

Nigel and I were having a late lunch in the dining hall on Friday. I was nervous, not just because of the announcement, but because of what would happen later. I hadn’t told Nigel yet that I was going to stand up to my uncle. I wanted to have the letter in hand. I smiled at him. Thanks for coming to lunch, Nigel.

And miss you getting your email? Hell no!

I sighed. You’re that sure?

He just gave me one of his mischievous smiles.

Nigel... I said.

I was good, I promise! I even recused myself when it came to the decision! Honest! He was practically bouncing in his seat, which meant he didn’t see Philip sneak up behind him, Assassins-style, until Philip slapped a piece of paper on his hand and held it there. What the hell? Nigel said. Philip took his hand away. There was a food ticket for the Eddie’s dining hall on the top of his hand. Contact poison?

Philip smiled widely.

Awww, son of a bitch! I was so close to winning this year! Well, you might as well come and sit with us, you sly bastard!

Philip laughed. Nope. I have a lecture in a few minutes. Good luck, Kiah!

Uh... thanks?

Nigel let us know about the proposal a couple of days ago, he said, then waved and left for class.

I tried to give Nigel The Look, but he just grinned. I shook my head. It was just then that my tablet buzzed. I took a deep breath and tapped open my mail. I read it once, then twice, then a third time. Allahu Akbar! I said, and handed Nigel the tablet.

To: [e-mail]

From: [e-mail]

Subject: Project Acceptance for Deep Space Science Station

Dear Dr. Hasan,

It is our pleasure to inform you that your project has been selected to be included on the Deep Space Science Station (D3S), also known as the Trinity Project. Attached you will find the acceptance form, details of how your project will be funded, the timetable for training and materials transfer, medical forms, and visa requirements.

You must reply to this message, with the acceptance form, within one week to hold your place in the training program. Mission specialists are to report to Houston for training on September 1st.

Sincerely,

D3S Science Committee.

He read the message, then smiled from ear to ear. I told you! he said, handed me back the tablet, then hugged me. I started laughing.

So? How do we get you there? he asked, suddenly serious.

Allah sent me a lifeboat, I said, half to myself. I’ll tell my uncle I’m going then figure it out from there.

Do you want me to come with you? Nigel asked, looking worried.

It’ll be fine, Nigel. You’ll see, I said, sounding braver than I really felt.

You sure?

I smiled. Yes, I’m sure! I’m going to go back to the lab to fill out all the forms, and let my supervisor know! I jumped out of my seat, grabbed my purse, and ran out.

Kiah! I heard Nigel call after me, but I pretended like I didn’t hear him. I had to do this myself. Allah gave me a lifeboat and I would get on it, one way or another.

Haniya had done as I asked and left the day before. She left me plenty of food that I could heat up and serve to my uncle and cousins. My bravery started to ebb as it got closer to dinner time, so during my afternoon prayers, I willed Allah to give me strength. He must have heard me, because I was able to serve dinner calmly and not sweat through my hijab.

My cousins and uncle were talking about something to do with the family business, which wasn’t interesting to me. I pushed the food around on my plate, until the men demanded coffee. I went and got it for them, then sat down.

I took a deep breath. Uncle? I said.

What is it, Kiah? he said with annoyance.

My PhD work was accepted for the Trinity project, and I’m going to Houston on September first to start astronaut training.

The room went silent. All four men turned to look at me like I had said something vulgar. All I could hear was the ticking of the grandfather clock in the hall.

What did you say? Uncle Faisal asked, in a surprisingly quiet voice.

My project was accepted for Trinity Station. I’m going.

Well, surely one of your cousins will be going with you, then?

No.

Uncle’s face turned red. No niece of mine will go alone with godless infidels into space! He slammed his hand on the table. That’s it! he yelled. I’ve indulged you enough with this schooling, allowing you freedoms you should never have had! I’m sending you to your grandmother in Kashmir! I’ve been talking to her recently, and she’s found you a suitable husband who will teach you the proper place for a woman!

I stood up. No! I yelled back. I’m a grown woman, Uncle! I will not be married to some man I don’t know who’s probably old enough to be my grandfather!

You dare say ‘no’ to me!

You’re not my father! I fucking earned this and I’ll be damned if I let you take this from me! I’m not asking for your permission, Uncle. I’m telling you I’m leaving! I stood up and started to walk out of the room, trying to make it to the kitchen where I had put my purse and a backpack.

Don’t you dare turn your back on me! my uncle shouted. I ignored him and kept walking down the hall. I heard him say something else and suddenly hands were pulling me back down the hallway.

NO! LET ME GO! I yelled as loud as I could. One of my cousins put his hand over my mouth and I bit it.

Bitch! I heard one of them say. I started to scream again as they brought me back into the dining room, but one of them put his hand on my throat and squeezed. I stilled, choking.

I heard the unbuckling of a belt from behind me. I tried to get free, but the cousins held on to me tightly. They turned me around and Uncle Faisal put his face close to mine, saying quietly, It’s a good thing that your new husband won’t really care how you look, only that you can birth him sons. It’s bad enough that you whore around with unbelievers. I have had enough of your disobedience! You have disgraced this family enough!

I haven’t disgraced anyone, I managed to croak out around my cousin’s grip. It’s you who have disgraced this family, Mohammad, and Allah!

His face twisted in rage. Hold her, he ordered, and my cousins held more tightly to my arms. He didn’t say anything more as his belt landed across my face.

04

Nigel

Shit, shit, shit, I thought as I watched Kiah run out of the dining hall. Fuck. I think she’s really going to do it! Fear spiked in my chest. I knew exactly how that bastard was going to react when she defied him. I grabbed my backpack and ran to Jesus College. I barged in the door to the Porter’s Lodge, not bothering to knock. Gerry! I yelled in a panic, but no one answered immediately. The lights were still on, so I threw my pack down and paced until Gerry came through the door.

Well, hello Nigel! Fancy a cuppa?

Gerry! I said, talking so fast I was barely breathing. Kiah’s project got into Trinity and she got the letter fifteen minutes ago while I was with her. I asked her if she wanted me to come with her to tell her uncle, but she said it was ok, she’d tell him herself. I asked her if she was sure, and she said something about Allah and lifeboats, then went back to her office to respond to the acceptance letter and fucking hell I have a bad feeling about this!

Sit, Gerry ordered.

I– I started to say, but Gerry just looked at me.

Sit, he ordered again. I did so, wringing my hands nervously and fidgeting. Gerry went over to his desk and tapped his tablet.

Hey, Ger! How’s college life? said another man’s voice.

Not too bad, Will, not too bad. You remember I told you a while back at the pub about that girl from Bonfire Night?

Oh, yeah. Kiah, right?

Gerry nodded. Well, we might have a situation tonight. Can you call the rest of the lads? We’ll need Thomas, too.

For real? What kind of situation? asked Will.

Yes, for real. Extraction. Abusive asshole, probably unarmed but you never know, Gerry replied, stony faced.

Understood. We’ll be ready, he said, and the tablet beeped as he hung up.

Gerry put the tablet down. Well, what are you waiting for?

Oh, right! I pulled out my own tablet, and sent: Kiah got the news today. She said she’s going to tell the bastard tonight that she’s going. Will probably be bad.

Shit! Right, I’ll pull the strings here, texted Rafi. Gerry in?

Already put the word out, Gerry replied.

I’ll bring you clothes and stuff for her, Rafi, Amina replied. I’ll have Philip call his cabbie friend.

Ok, folks, if I don’t hear from her by midnight, I’ll call it, I texted. I looked up and Gerry nodded. Everyone else texted in the affirmative.

That’s all you can do, lad. Now we have to wait.

I stood up and started pacing again. I don’t get it, Gerry! How can her family be so horrible? I mean, she’s this brilliant woman, with this amazing mind, and they treat her like she’s nothing but dogshit! They should be worshipping the fucking ground she walks on! They should be happy for her, but instead, she’s probably going to get the shit beaten out of her. Again! Gerry didn’t say anything, so I continued. Why do these men do this shit? Don’t they know that’s 2220 and not 2020? Jesus fucking Christ! I sat back down on the couch, panting.

Gerry stayed quiet for a while, then said, You finished?

Yeah. For now, anyway, I said.

Good. Now, listen. We don’t know for sure what’s going to happen when she goes home. We can’t do anything unless she calls, or she doesn’t message you later. What you should be doing right now is getting online with the folks in Houston to let them know what’s going on. I’m guessing she gets some sort of special status once she’s sent them back the paperwork?

A ray of hope entered my mind. Yes. Yes! She gets diplomatic status as soon as it’s sent back, and she said she was going to fill out the forms before she went home! Right. Do you mind if I call from here?

Gerry shook his head. Go right ahead. Tea?

I nodded, and began to make some calls.

Gerry brought me to a pub later and managed to get me to eat some food. You’ll do her no good if you’re falling over from hunger. Eat! He was talking sense, so I did, but I had no idea what I’d eaten. I went back to my flat and packed a bag, which I dropped off with Amina to give to Rafi. I walked around the Jesus College grounds for a while, trying to get my nerves under control, then went back to the Porter’s Lodge around 2300. When I knocked on the door Gerry opened it, dressed all in black. Come on in, he said.

He closed the door behind me. Jesus, I feel like I’m in a movie now, I said.

Gerry chuckled. Well, hopefully, we’ll have a happy ending. She hasn’t messaged you?

I shook my head. She usually does between nine and ten.

Call it, then. Let’s not wait much longer, he said, reaching for his tablet.

I pulled out mine and texted to