Astra's Arc

Chapter 3 of 5

Astra needed one more thing before the rescue could work. The floating island had water and power, but the baby would need warmth during the cold nights. She scurried across the lavender sand toward the supply depot near the research station's edge. Her pink ears swiveled, listening for footsteps. The depot door hung open just enough for her to squeeze through. Inside, she found exactly what she hoped for—a reinforced bunker built for emergencies. Its white metal walls gleamed under the dim lights. The airlock entrance looked solid and secure. This was it. She could move this to the island. The baby would stay protected inside, safe from wind and cold. Safe from the researchers who wanted to run their tests. Astra dragged the bunker outside, her small paws straining with each pull. Near the lab's outer wall, she spotted something that made her freeze. A mouse hole entrance carved into the rock face. Another mouse peeked out, white fur bright against the darkness. The mouse's pink ears twitched forward in greeting. Astra approached carefully. This mouse lived here and would see anyone coming or going. She needed this kind of help—someone to watch and warn her if the researchers got close. Before heading back to the island, Astra placed one last item near the research station entrance. The hazard sign's jagged edges caught the light. Its symbols glowed bright against the dark surface. Anyone who came near would see the warning. Dangerous experiments happened here. The baby deserved better than this place. Astra picked up the bunker again and turned toward the floating island. Everything was ready now. Tonight, she would bring the baby home.