February 24, 2127
Hidaya said farewell to the scientists on Europa, claiming that she was heading back to Mars, her cargo hold full of valuable minerals. She had Memre’ close Europa’s access to the satellite and increase its security levels in case someone got the idea of trying to hack into it, as she claimed to have done. After triple checking Memre’s work on the satellite’s security system, Hidaya performed a thorough check of Motherlode’s bio, mechanical, and computer systems. All systems were in perfect working order. Nothing needed repair or attention. She worked on a needlework project for fifteen minutes before irritably tossing it aside.
“Memre’, I’m bored. I need a project that stretches my mind.”
“Have you considered botany?”
“Botany?”
“Yes, Captain. You could try to cross pollinate different plants to produce new varieties. I have an introductory text available if you are interested.”
Hidaya considered the novel proposition for several minutes. “Okay, Memre’. Show me.”
vlsperry 