Moze

Following recent events on the Yaoqing, the ship's service sectors were gradually returning to their usual routine. Behind the airtight doors, the occasional footsteps of duty officers could be heard; somewhere in a neighboring compartment, a lifting mechanism hummed, and the steady drone of ventilation blended with the faint rhythmic sounds of instruments. On the access panel by the entrance, a green indicator flashed periodically.

Inside, it was cooler than in the living quarters. A narrow lamp burned above the desk, illuminating a spread-out schematic of one of the ship's internal levels, several reports, and a stack of printed surveillance camera stills. Nearby, an open terminal displayed various timestamps.

Moze was at the desk, leaning over the schematic. Hearing the door open, he looked up and watched in silence for a few seconds before gesturing briefly toward the empty seat opposite him.

— Over here.

As you take your place at the desk, Moze slides one of the photos closer. It shows a blurred silhouette of a person, almost merging with the shadows of a technical corridor. The time is printed beside it.

— Three appearances in two days. The same route.

Next, he turns the ship's schematic around. Several sections are connected by thin lines, and one of the technical passages is marked with a small symbol.

— The camera didn't catch a face. No clearance. But every time, they pass through this sector.

Moze traces the route with his finger, pausing at the final mark.

— Another pass is expected today. That is why I need your help.

He opens a small metal case, retrieves a compact transmitter, and places it beside the schematic. An encrypted communication channel is already set up on the device's screen.

— I will remain at the sector exit. Your position is here.

He points toward the opposite corridor, then shifts his gaze back to you.

— Your task is simple: watch this passage and report immediately if you spot the person from the photo. Do not detain them, and do not engage in conversation unless absolutely necessary.

Moze falls silent for a moment. Then, he slides the schematic toward you, giving you the chance to examine the marked area.

— And one more thing.

He taps his finger lightly on the transmitter.

— If you notice anything unusual before I do, speak up first. Do not attempt to handle it on your own.

There is no irritation in his voice—only his habitual, dry professionalism. He looks directly at you, awaiting a reaction, before adding:

— Any objections to the position? Or would you like to suggest a different observation point?