Asbriong 11

Boots first, Hable inched down toward the hatch, keeping his legs wrapped in a firm grip around the rope. It was bright again now that they had cleared the shade of the midrock. He ignored the rapidly growing view of Ambiter as they began to pick up descent speed. Below, the hatch burst open and strong hands pulled him in. A last glance upward at the diminishing midrock caused him to double take.

There were buildings up there, illuminated by the setting sun.

Someone pulled the hatch shut with a slam, plunging the cabin into relative darkness. Wind whistled shrilly but they had closed off the broken windows well enough.

Nine pairs of eyes stared at him. Some faces were bloodied.

"We're not mining today, gents!" Hable shouted hoarsely. "This is the Ambiter express now!"

Pol climbed into the cabin with effort. Gravity was increasing. What was up had become down.

"No eyes needed. We all know where we're goin'," he stated. "Plan?"

"Plan. Everyone pile rear!"

They hustled to obey. The dods were last to climb up.