As such, the crew was focused on the chief’s plan to an extent seldom before seen. Without prompting, people were doing dry runs, talking through the operation again and again, looking for failure points.

Meanwhile, the Rocket Impelled Vector Adjustment units were unpacked and moved over to Baby Rock. With virtually no rotation to deal with, they could skip the more difficult and problem-prone spin-down operation.

The crew connected the RIVAs to the rock with pitons, then wrapped a net of cables around the rock to provide additional bracing. A RIVA ripping out of its mooring during a firing sequence would be disastrous. At best, it would impart a spin to the rock and possibly fling the anomaly and suit arm right off. At worst, it could break up the rock completely.

MacNeil donned a suit and personally inspected the setup. Seth was present, and was careful to keep a straight face.

After MacNeil had retreated to the ship, Tenn tapped Seth’s helmet. They turned off their radios and touched helmets in the only truly private way to communicate in space.

“Well, now we know why Mr. MacNeil doesn’t like going EVA,” Tenn said, the usual grin evident in his tone.

Seth didn’t like Tenn’s attitude, generally, but couldn’t argue this one. “The word that kept popping up was gnome. I don’t think they’re specifically Scottish, but…”

Tenn laughed. “I was leaning more toward troll, but let’s go with yours. Skin-tight suits definitely are not gonna be his preferred fashion statement.”

Seth opened his mouth to reply, but at that moment, the suit intercom buzzed, indicating that they should get back on-channel. Seth quickly keyed his control. “Robinson.”

“Pay attention, guys,” Aiello’s voice came back over the general frequency. “The Chief has given his blessing. Two minutes to activation.”

Seth and Tenn exchanged silent looks, and both jetted off to their assigned posts.

At the appointed time, the RIVA units all fired simultaneously. They were throttled back to minimum thrust, using multiple units to distribute the strain as much as possible. The activity went on for several minutes, at the end of which Baby Rock was perceptibly moving away from Big Rock.

Finally, the RIVAs cut off.

“Shutdown confirmed. Units are on failsafe,” Aiello intoned. “Crews, collect all equipment. Carefully.”

The collection of the RIVAs, cables, and pitons would be done with greater than normal care; first, to prevent any obvious marks or damage on the rock and, second, to avoid too much contact between the crew and the equipment. Captain Jennings had ordered the whole mess to be bundled together and sent on a hyperbolic trajectory into deep space. No physical evidence would be left that could tie the Mad Astra to Baby Rock.

15.Deja Vu

15.Deja Vu