Depth Charge is part of a chronological, episodic series. If you have not read any previous stories from the currents of Infinite Wild, I suggest you start from the beginning.
Malik Azfal Costa sat cross legged in his conductor’s chair at the helm of Sustenance. “Why is this taking so long? The idea was to follow him through this new route so that we could deliver food faster, not slower. Get him up on the comms.”
“Yes, Malik.” said one of the pilots.
“Uranographer Trion, this is Malik Azfal Costa, how are we doing out there?” asked Azfal.
White noise crackled over the comms and a raspy deep voice crawled through the speakers on the bridge. “Slow. Too slow.”
“We thought the same.” said Azfal. “I just want to remind you that your bonus is dependent on us navigating this new route faster than the standard line. People have to eat, after all.”
“On Sumracc?” said Trion. “They eat, alright, but I can’t imagine what you would be dropping off to a people who primarily eat fish. Seafood can’t last long on the float.”
“You’d be surprised how strong our freezer units are.” said Azfal. “Regardless, I owe them a delivery. Sustenance provides.”
“So I’ve heard.” said Trion.
“So what’s the issue?” asked Azfal. “Is this route no good for spacescrapers?”
“The route is fine. Been floated, verified. The issue is the flow.” said Trion.
Azfal motioned to one of his pilots to see the flow numbers and visual projections. “Looks fine to us.”
“Of course it does. But that’s why you’re calling me.” said Trion. “I can’t figure it out, either. We should have more speed, more flow. But we’re moving like it’s a drought”
Azfal rolled his eyes. “What can we do for you, how can we help get through this route and on to Sumracc?”
“Be helpful to talk to your viamorrs.” said Trion.
“About another crew’s first float?” asked Azfal. “You’re welcome to them. I’ll send word to the docking bay.”
“Malik.” said Trion. “Might be a good time to try some of that food you’re always talking about.”
“Trion.” said Azfal. He waved his hand to an attendant on the bridge. “For the best uranographer in the currents, I’ll break out my best food.”
“Keep the fish frozen.” said Trion. “I prefer the smaller, shelled kind of fare.”
“Of course.” said Azfal. “I’ll tell the team you’re coming.”
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