Both us aliens and the natives of the planet had assigned people as translators. A simple dialect of communication was beginning to grow. Basic concepts could be understood on both sides.

It was established that the natives only wanted to return to their home world. The aliens, never wanted to be in this position.

A bright flash from the sky. A reflection of the sunlight as the space ship began to break orbit. Leaving just the top 3 sections. Nervousness grew among the Aliens. Their spaceship was leaving?

The Captain separated the last 3 levels from the ship and broke orbit. Not everyone agreed on Lou's punishment. But all agreed someone doing such things, should not be on their ship.

Almost a day had past since Lou found explosive devices. 213 hours left until explosion. There has to be a transport of some type here. Escape pods. the emergency escape pods. Why didn't he think of those sooner. He would load up as many escape pods as possible with needed items and then use one himself to get to the planet.

Batteries medical supplies the data bank of knowledge. Those were the top 3 priorities. Anything else he found along the way he would add as he goes.

Concern was mounting on the planet over their chances of survival without all the technology of the spaceship. Personal items lost, what if they need to leave the planet? Anxiety was building up among the aliens.

Ezel demanded the key for the runabout. This was the only way they had to know what was going on above. Those with the key decided a more experienced pilot should use the runabout. Ezel put up protest. Stating no one else could fly that runabout. Many of the systems have been removed and others modified.

On inspection other pilots agreed. They would need a few weeks of training on the runabout. Just to familiarise themselves with how the runabout handles. The risk of a miscalculation through the atmosphere could overheat the runabout. Reluctantly they handed over the keys to Ezel.

Ezel asked for a couple of the pilots to help with some changes to the ship. Removing extra seating to lighten the load. Less load means more flying time. It would also provide enough fuel for two trips if needed.

TBC...