The Stowaway
Galaxy 20,000 Years Later Series
First Installment
The Dream of the Foundation
Part VII
Arcadia Darell
Episode 50
Homir Munn’s ship was gliding silently along an orbit skimming a black hole. He kept his eyes on the console in the cockpit, preparing for the next task without a moment to rest. Suddenly, a voice came from behind him.
“Uncle Homir, don’t be angry.”
Hober turned around in surprise. Standing there was Arcadia Darell. Her expression was a mix of mischief and guilt.
“By the black hole, what are you doing on this ship, Arcadia!” Homir’s voice rose. “Why are you here?”
“I’m sorry for surprising you. I just wanted to come along,” Arcadia replied calmly. “I knew you were going to Kalgan to search for the Second Foundation, and I just couldn’t resist tagging along.”
“And just how did you get on board?”
“It was easy.” Arcadia shrugged. “I told the guard I was bringing some forgotten luggage. He just gave me a thumbs-up and let me through.”
Homir groaned and buried his face in his hands. “And how did you know I was going to Kalgan?”
“Of course I knew.” Arcadia smiled slyly. “I listened in on your plans every night with my high-powered listening device. And by the way, your singing is terribly off-key. Oh, and I know you suspect Mr. Anthor. I do, too. Also, Uncle, after Kalgan, I want you to take me to Trantor.”
“I can’t promise that.” Homir’s tone turned sharp. “You’re not paying for the fuel, are you?” He glared at her. “But why Trantor?”
“When Grandma was still alive, she used to sing me lullabies about Trantor: ‘The planet now called the ruins of the galaxy, the center of the universe, the source of life.’” Arcadia’s voice was filled with conviction. “I’m sure there’s something there.”
At that moment, the ship’s AI, Meeter, interjected into their conversation. “Miss Arcadia, there’s an urgent message from your father. I’ll read it aloud.”
Homir crossed his arms and looked sourly at Meeter.
Meeter recited the message: “Arcadia, I knew you’d pull something like this. There’s no point in calling you back now—it would just cause a scene. Besides, Homir could use the company. Go ahead and enjoy yourself to the fullest！”
Homir couldn’t hide his irritation. “That fool Toran! What does he think I am? A babysitter？ Carefree idiot！”
Then his gaze fell on the strange device Arcadia was holding. “What’s that gadget you’re using to communicate across space?”
“Olinthus modified it for me,” Arcadia said proudly. “It’s a combination of a listening device and a research paper generator.”
Homir sighed heavily and sank into his chair. “You’re nothing but trouble, you know that？”
Arcadia beamed with a radiant smile. “Thank you, Uncle Homir！”
Her cheerful voice echoed through the cabin, and for a brief moment, Homir’s stern expression softened ever so slightly.
To be continued . . .
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