Callisto 2.0: A novel of the future by Susan English

Author:Susan English [English, Susan]
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Published: 2020-11-04T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 20

After my lunar holiday, I felt like a new woman, and tackled the problem of the warp bubble collapse with renewed energy. I had a few new ideas, and was looking forward to sharing them with Hadley when she and Andrea returned from their trip to Earth.

At the next staff meeting, I sat next to Elena, the station’s astronomer, and, as Hadley had mentioned, the genius behind the spectacular mosaic in the hub. She was a small, sturdy woman, and from her features I guessed she was from an indigenous tribe in Central America. We hadn’t exchanged more than a few words the entire time I had been on Shambhala. I would have to make an effort to get to know her.

Fae and Mei Xing reported on their progress with manufacturing food balls—one step closer to full self-sufficiency for the space station. We were already preparing our water and beer balls on Shambhala, using Zoe’s algae. Mei Xing was describing their experiences so far.

“All is going well, with a few minor mishaps.”

Fae stared at Mei Xing, her eyes wide. “Minor mishaps!” She laughed. “If you call exploding globs of food a minor mishap.”

Mei Xing laughed, too. “Okay, it’s true the filtration and vacuum systems were working overtime in the kitchen for a few days.” She caught my eye and I suppressed a giggle.

“What a mess! There were bits of food floating everywhere. I think I had food in my hair for a week.” Fae touched her hair, as if checking for overlooked food particles. “But despite the minor mishaps,” she gave Mei Xing a look of disbelief, then winked at me, the corners of her mouth twitching, “I’m happy to report we’ve got everything under control, and the new food balls are on the menu tonight!”

Mei Xing held up a hand, palm out. “Don’t get too excited. It’s a brand-new recipe.”

“Don’t mind Mei Xing, she’s just being modest,” said Fae, rubbing Mei Xing’s shoulder affectionately. “This new recipe is delicious. She’s a master chef.”

Mei Xing looked down at her feet. “I hope everyone feels the same as Fae.”

That night at dinner, we were treated to Mei Xing’s creation. The food balls were delicious, as I already knew from our food fight in the kitchen. They had a slightly crunchy texture, and were a little spicy, with a hint of sweetness—a burst of competing flavors. It was the first meal made entirely from food grown on Shambhala, and it was a milestone. Everyone took turns congratulating both Fae and Mei Xing. Fae, gracious as always, reiterated Mei Xing’s pivotal role as head chef, and Mei Xing looked abashed but immensely happy.

◆◆◆

At the social that night, I sat with Raven and Jordyn, a vibrant woman from Australia with an athletic body, light brown skin, and lustrous black hair. We had a bin of beer balls in front of us, and another bowl filled with Mei Xing’s masterpieces.

“This is really good,” said Raven, popping another food ball into her mouth.

I nodded, my mouth full.

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