A Story A Day Challenge 2025 – A Leap Backwards Part 32

Nothing was out of the ordinary from what Richard could see from outside the room. Environmental scans showed no leaks into the room’s atmosphere.

Richard’s HUD changed to the video feed of the room. Seeing everything looked normal, he opened the door and stepped in.

Nothing. The room was perfectly fine and undisturbed.

“Captain Ludlow,” the ship’s AI voice said through his comms. “This is a private channel. I fear The Lazy Susan is compromised. Captain Harding has been… corrupted.”

The words settled on Richard, threatening to press him into the floor. “What do you mean, computer? He’s compromised how?”