After completing the first task, a second meeting was called. Orion and Arabella shared their impressions and information from the video call they had with members of the NASA administration.
After that, the entire NASA project was in full swing. Everyone began working diligently. Soon, the video call also delighted the other team members. They were further motivated because they were convinced of the project's credibility.
***
They continued to work rapidly and responsibly toward their set goals. NASA was thoroughly examining Syrinx and, to a lesser extent, Scylla. Orion and Arabella led more detailed research about Earth. They wanted to establish a stronger connection with it. Their task was to send traditional items and worn-out parts of their planet via rocket. This would greatly assist NASA with a new, protected project called the Space Museum.
Arabella once again remembered that worn-out hole she had found on a part of Syrinx. She decided to find Orion before class today and talk to him about it.
– Hey you! – she called out loudly, then tapped him on the shoulder.
Although he was usually lost in his own world, he immediately noticed her. He turned and bent down a bit to look her in the eyes.
– Hey you too! – he shouted back softly, smiling gently.
– I need to talk to you about something! – she said, then for the first time, shyly broke eye contact and started blushing.
– You're blushing! That doesn't suit you.
He moved a little closer and whispered: – Not even your "loser" version.
She just smiled at him.
– Shut up! – she said roughly, then pressed a soft, barely noticeable kiss on his cheek while he was still close.
His cheeks were softer than ever, and she wanted to cover his entire being with countless kisses. The urge inside her was burning. He smiled gently and stepped back a little so they could continue their conversation.
– What did you want to tell me?
– I waaa… – the bell rang at that moment and interrupted her.
There was a commotion as everyone scattered to their classrooms.
– Come on, tell me!
– It can wait! I'll tell you later, we have to go to class.
– Bet!
During the break, Arabella found herself with Liv and Kasy. Watching them eagerly, she waited for Orion, even though he wasn't very sociable.
– So, you two are together now? – Kasy asked curiously.
– Well, I guess so – Arabella replied.
– They definitely are! Don't listen to her – Liv joyfully interrupted, nudging her.
– I'm really happy about that. From the very beginning, I saw a special chemistry between you two – he continued.
She just smiled at him, and then she noticed Orion entering the lounge hall, scanning the room for her. She was surprised by his arrival. The moment he spotted her, his face lit up. She waved at him excitedly.
– Who are you waving at? – Liv asked, then turned around and saw Orion walking confidently toward their table.
– Look at him… he's completely different now. What did you do to him, Arabella? He's glowing!
– Are you talking about me? – Orion asked sharply, sitting down next to Arabella.
– Now we've got good reason to! – Liv replied.
– There you are. I was looking for you. I'm glad I found you – he continued, ignoring Liv.
– I didn't expect you to come here – Arabella said.
– Neither did I! – he replied sarcastically.
– And who's he?
– I'm Kasy, Liv's boyfriend – he introduced himself, reaching out to shake Orion's hand.
– That's right – Liv chimed in, wrapping her arm around Kasy.
– Nice to meet you, then. In that case, would you like to be part of the NASA project team?
– Where did that come from?! – Liv cut in, surprised.
– He's part of your club, and you, Liv, are someone I trust. I'm the one picking the people, and we're short on team members for this project anyway.
– I'd be happy to – said Kasy.
– Excellent! Welcome aboard!
– Why are you being so nice all of a sudden? – Liv asked curiously.
– I've always been nice! – Orion replied sarcastically.
– Love works wonders! – she teased, and then a short silence followed.
Orion broke it:
– If we're done here, Arabella is coming with me now.
– Just when I was starting to compliment you, you go back to your old self.
– I just have priorities – he said with a grin, grabbing Arabella's hand.
– Go on then, get out of here! – Liv laughed, and Kasy chuckled.
– Don't tease them, babe – he joked. – Let them enjoy their time.
Orion took Arabella by the hand and they began weaving through the crowd. Once they reached the academy courtyard, he exhaled and gently said:
– Finally, I'm alone with you again.
She smiled warmly and held onto his upper arm tightly.
– What was it you wanted to tell me?
– I wanted to talk to you about that hole we found during our first mission.
– Yeah? What about it?
– Doesn't it worry you? It seems dangerous, like the entire planet could collapse into that starry waterfall and merge with the cosmos.
– Let's go check it out then!
– What do you say we go after academy today?
– Sounds good!
After class, Arabella stepped out of the classroom and found him waiting right outside the door.
– How did you know I had my last class here? – she asked as they slowly began walking toward the path that led to the mysterious hole.
– I know a lot of things!
– That's not an answer.
– Arabella, my dear, I already told you that you've always been my intense obsession. I know every little detail about you, even your class schedule.
– You're such a psycho.
– Your psycho. Don't forget that.
– Alright, my psycho! – she teased, and they continued chatting until they reached that part of the planet.
She carefully looked around, trying to spot the hole, while he followed behind her. When she finally found it, she shouted:
– There it is!
– Are you sure?
– I'm not sure.
Then she playfully poked him in the forehead and insisted:
– Look, it's over there.
They moved closer to the hole and peered inside. It had grown larger and now had an even more intense starry waterfall inside.
– It's bigger than it was before – she observed.
– Mhm – he agreed absentmindedly, staring at every detail of the hole.
They stood watch over it, marveling at the strange phenomenon.
– Come on! Let's go! – he said, standing up and offering her his hand.
– Where are we going?
– To the library. To investigate the case.
This time, they didn't have access to the mysterious library that once existed just for them. It had vanished just like the black butterfly that had led them to it. They had to adapt and find useful information in the ordinary library. As they stepped inside, Orion led her through endless rows of bookshelves.
– Do you know what we're looking for? – she asked, tilting her head up so she could see him better.
– Yes – he answered shortly, without elaborating.
She didn't want to question him further. She simply followed his lead and felt safe doing so. Often, when she looked at him, she would catch a glimpse of light falling across his black hair, revealing the sharp lines of his face lines that drove her mad.
Finally, after a long walk, he stopped in front of a massive bookshelf.
– Will you tell me now what we're looking for? – she insisted.
– We're looking for a book.
– Really? I thought we were searching for nuclear weapons – she teased.
– Why would you think that? – he suddenly turned toward her, stepping closer and eyeing her curiously.
– Because I wasn't getting any proper answers.
– I'm truly sorry for that… but stop fantasizing.
He gently ran his hand through her hair, then turned back and continued searching.
After a few moments, he finally said:
– We're looking for a book called Collapse.
– Why are we looking for that?
– Because the situation is far from good.
He turned toward her again and started explaining:
– I have a theory that we're in danger… that the end is near.
– Go on.
– Let's find it first. I'll explain everything after that.
Both of them began searching the giant shelf, and soon after, he exclaimed:
– Here it is!
– Let me see – she said eagerly, moving closer.
He was holding a massive book with brown covers. It was old and very dusty. In black Gothic letters across the cover, it read Collapse.
Orion started flipping through it impatiently, but she quickly shouted:
– Wait!
– What is it? – he paused and looked at her.
– Come here! – she grabbed his hand roughly and quickly pulled him through the shelves.
They reached the reading corner, and then she slipped into a tucked-away section. It was filled with blankets and cushions. Dozens of tiny lights created a cozy and well-lit space in that hidden part of the library.
– Welcome! This will be our spot now, – she said cheerfully.
– Thanks! This place looks amazing.
He glanced around, taking in every detail.
– I know. That's why I wanted to share it with you.
They sat down, and then she continued:
– Now explain your theory.
– Well… that hole reminds me of an ending. That starry waterfall looks like atoms… the ones our planet is made of – he explained carefully.
– Well, hats off to you. I've always said that, but no one ever listened to me.
– Oh, hush.
– I won't hush. This is a valid point – she said proudly, raising her voice, and then Orion quickly covered her mouth.
– Shhh... Someone might hear us, – he whispered, then gently moved his hand away.
Arabella moved closer and softly pressed her lips against his. They returned to studying the book. As they flipped through countless pages, they examined the texts together. Arabella often caught herself staring blankly at him. The little lights cast a glow over his face. He seemed unreal.
She thought to herself that the universe simply wouldn't be the same without him.
– Look at this – Orion said thoughtfully after a long time, having found something that might help them.
– Let me see... – she leaned in and began reading aloud.
– "A hole that appears on a planet will gradually grow larger and be filled with star dust. The end for that planet will slowly begin to approach. The hole will expand, and once it reaches its peak, the entire planet will turn into star dust."
They were both in shock.
– How much time do we have left then?
– Wait. – He continued reading, and soon answered her question.
– Two more months.
– And what are we going to do about it?
– We'll call a meeting and tell the others.
The next day, the entire team working on the project gathered around the rocket dock. They had a video call with John, who gave them all the instructions they needed to follow once the rocket arrived. Following the guidelines, they opened the roof to prepare the landing area. They had received word that the rocket was near. Everyone was restless and eagerly waiting for it. It began descending through the opening, slowly lowering itself onto the designated platform. Once it landed, its massive doors opened. Orion notified John about its arrival. It looked similar to their own rockets, with slight differences in shape and some components. It wasn't piloted by a human. There was a built-in mechanism, something like a robot, that was in control.
Interrupting the team's silent observation, Orion called out:
– You all know what needs to be done! Let's get to work!
Everyone nodded in agreement and quickly moved to their assigned tasks.
They performed a detailed inspection of the rocket and confirmed that everything was in working condition. Large crates were unloaded, and they began carefully packing everything. Once the loading was complete, they re-checked every part of the rocket and programmed it for the return journey to NASA headquarters. They launched it, and it shot off into the cosmic path that would lead it back to Earth. Everyone congratulated one another on a mission well done. They waited eagerly for information from Earth. John's call would mean joy and success. This was a monumental moment for the entire planet of Syrinx. The excitement was immeasurable.
To end their small celebration, Orion stood up and gave a formal speech.
– This was a huge step for us. The success of this mission will elevate us to the next level of establishing contact with planet Earth, where we'll continue to grow and become even more successful. We might even get the chance to visit it someday. Let's celebrate the successful conclusion of this mission! Now you may all go and enjoy your well-deserved rest, because another task awaits us very soon!
The beings began approaching Orion, thanking him and shaking hands in gratitude. As they started leaving the room, Orion called out loudly:
– One more important thing! Tomorrow after school, come to the city planetarium. We have an important meeting.
– What kind of meeting? – asked Kasy, who happened to be right next to Orion at that moment.
– You'll all find out tomorrow what it's about.
– Is it about the project?
– No. All the inhabitants will attend the meeting.
– Then what's it about?
– Like I said, you'll see tomorrow. Now go about your day. But be aware—attendance is mandatory.
Once they were alone, Arabella approached Orion and quietly asked:
– Are you feeling nervous about tomorrow's meeting?
– Maybe a little.
– I'm not sure the beings will take it well.
– Why do you think that?
– Because I know them very well. I have a feeling it's going to cause serious uproar.
– Then I need to come up with a good way to tell them without causing panic.
– I hope you do. Anyway, I'm off. See you tomorrow at the meeting!
– What, you're leaving already?
– Well, yeah?
– You're mistaken, young lady! We're spending the rest of the day together just so you know! We have to make the most of the time we have left, because all of this... it's going to disappear.
– Don't remind me, Orion. Live in the moment!
– I'm just saying! Come on, let's go to our sakura tree.
They spent the rest of the day under what had now become their sakura tree. They watched the Moon and the stars. Arabella lay on his shoulder. They had deep conversations, filled with emotion and meaning.
The next day, just an hour before the meeting was scheduled, Orion was wandering the academy searching for Arabella. She was nowhere to be found. He was starting to get worried.
He returned to the classroom where she was supposed to have class. Leaning against the wall outside, he kept thinking about where she might be. He needed her for the meeting they were supposed to lead it together.
He watched the beings walking into the classroom. Then, just as the class was about to start, he saw Arabella slowly approaching.
Worried, he asked:
– Where have you been?
– What are you doing here?
– I need something from you.
– I was at the school administration office. They were looking for you. They couldn't find you, so they called me instead.
– What did they want?
– They wanted an update on the NASA project.
– O.K.
– So, what did you need?
– I want you to lead today's meeting with me.
– But why?
– Because you're my girlfriend and the second leader of this planet!
– Your girlfriend? – Arabella asked, surprised.
– Yes. Did you really think all this time that you weren't?
– You never officially said it.
– Oh, darling. You've always been mine. Even though I only confessed my love to you a month ago. Do you understand that?
Arabella just smiled at him, while inside her bloomed a million different kinds of flowers. A rush of euphoria overwhelmed her.
– Alright – she answered joyfully, and just then the bell rang to mark the beginning of class.
– I'll be waiting for you here after class – he said over the noise.
When the final bell rang, Orion was standing exactly where he said he'd be, waiting for Arabella.
– Come on – he said, taking her hand.
They pushed through the crowd making its way toward the exit. The hallways were buzzing with noise. Orion picked up his pace, trying to arrive a little earlier than the others. When they reached the square by the planetarium, they saw a huge crowd of beings already gathered. He looked at her with determination. Holding her hand tightly, he gave the signal to cut through the crowd. They climbed onto the platform designated for public addresses. Arabella noticed how the crowd was large, noisy, and tense. Suspicious eyes watched her. She began to feel a bit uneasy, but she was used to public meetings. She caught sight of Liv standing with Kasy, smiling at her in support. That gave her strength.
– Dear people, welcome to today's meeting – Orion began.
– First, I would ask you all to calm down and relax so we can continue – he paused briefly.
Arabella noticed how attentively they were listening to him.
– Today's meeting will be led by me and Arabella. I've noticed some strange looks directed at her. There's no reason for that now. In the upcoming period, we will be leading all activities together. I must admit, the two of us are now a couple. A romantic couple. But that's not why I called this meeting.
Everyone stared at them in shock.
– So, the reason for our gathering today is suspicion about the survival of our planet. During the current NASA project, we noticed something strange.
– It was a small hole from which a stellar waterfall was flowing – Arabella interjected.
The creatures looked at her in wonder.
– We immediately started investigating this phenomenon – he continued.
– Unfortunately, it seems the end is near.
Everyone began looking at each other fearfully, whispering.
– According to my calculations, we have about two months left. After that, the entire planet Syrinx will turn into stardust – he went on, not paying attention to their frightened faces.
– There's no way out, because Scylla is also nearing the same fate. But if anyone has the chance to leave, feel free to go. I cannot influence your decisions.
– The important thing is to stay calm and live in the moment because we can't change anything. The time left should be lived meaningfully – Arabella said.
– I'll only live two more months! – one creature panicked, interrupting.
– Everything will disappear in two months. I'm too young to end my life like this – shouted another from the crowd.
Shouts, sobs, pain, and tears erupted everywhere. For all those creatures, their entire universe had already collapsed. Arabella and Orion were a comfort and a source of advice. The creatures parted, worried and in disbelief.
Liv and Kasy approached them.
– Arabella, what was that? – Liv asked.
– Liv, the end is coming – Arabella replied.
– What are you planning to do? – Kasy asked.
– Nothing, stay here until the very end – Orion answered.
– I see you've already accepted it – Liv said angrily.
– We have. We can't change anything – Arabella said, shrugging.
– You can leave and save yourself.
– We want to stay and work on the project – Orion added.
– Like that will do any good.
– That's our biggest dream – Arabella answered.
– So what am I supposed to do now if you won't go?
– If you have a chance to save yourself, go. I want you to continue with your life.
– But weren't we supposed to be together in all of this?
– The end would have come sooner or later anyway. We still have time to spend together, and we need to make the most of it. And I will remember you forever, even when I become stardust.
– Oh Arabella, don't do this to me.
Then they both hugged and started crying.