Chapter 6

Salacia’s park was the station’s crown jewel, a miracle of modern science and a peaceful oasis. The main section featured lush green grass, neatly arranged flower gardens visited by the honeybees and three butterfly species, and stands of oak trees. True, the oak trees were fairly young and hadn’t yet reached stately maturity, but they were still a pleasant addition to the landscape. At the center of it all stood a water fountain which fed a small koi pond.

There was a walking path around the outside of the park and another which led straight to the fountain. At this time of day the park was sparsely occupied as most of the station’s residents were working. Mick started his workday earlier than most so he could have breakfast ready, which meant he got out early as well. The park was never empty, all the same. A few people tossed around a Frisbee, Lin Chen waspracticing her Tai Chi, and several others were walking around the perimeter path.