The Researcher

It was impossible not to be stunned by the sight, but Helena, seeing Tyler frozen in place, pushed him forward, forcing him inside. Melanie was already in. As soon as Helena shoved Tyler through, Alia and Isaac began closing the door. Once the door was shut, Alia pressed a button, sealing everything. Checking the panels, she said:

"You can take off your masks."

"Finally," Melanie said as she removed hers. "I might enjoy traveling, but I hate wearing these masks."

"I love these places," Isaac added.

"What is this place?" Tyler asked, looking around wide-eyed.

"Come on, let's go upstairs. I'll explain everything there," Alia said.

Helena had already started climbing, and everyone followed her to the stairs. Alia stayed behind, as she always did, making sure everyone was safe. The staircase was well-lit, and they climbed without difficulty.

Upon reaching the upper level, Alia immediately went to check the panels to ensure everything was in order. Even though maintenance crews visited monthly to ensure the place was operational, she preferred to double-check. It proved to be the right decision—though the issue was minor, a problem was still a problem. Fixing it while it was small was far better than letting it grow.

"Helena," Alia called, turning to signal that she needed her attention. The group immediately sensed it was serious. "I need you to check the east upper wing sensor, left corner. It looks like there's a minor air leak. It's harmless now, but if it's real, better to fix it early."

"On it," Helena replied, grabbing the necessary tools and heading off. Everyone knew that if it wasn't serious, she'd return in five minutes with the issue resolved.

"Welcome, Tyler, to the treehouse," Alia announced. "It's a small refuge strategically located across various points of the archipelago, specifically built for researchers during their travels. It doesn't accommodate many people, with a maximum capacity of eight, despite seeming spacious. That's due to the air filtration limit. And before you ask, yes, we've tried increasing capacity to take in refugees when needed, but it doesn't work—the filtration system is already maxed out."

"Incredible," Tyler said, amazed. "So there are more of these around the world? Used as a base for researchers and their teams?"

"Exactly. They were built to give us a safe place to rest, and they're much more secure than filter bubbles for camping. We always aim to reach one of these before settling down. The best part? No other people around to bother us—true luxury."

Isaac chuckled at her last comment. It was so like Alia to dislike contact with others.

"Now the real question," Isaac began, pausing dramatically, "Are we staying here tonight, or are you planning to move on?"

"I'll redo some calculations, but I intend for us to stay. Take advantage of the time—shower, use the bathroom. But first, I'm having lunch."

Alia headed to the kitchen, where Melanie was already warming up a plate of food. Isaac and Tyler followed shortly after. Alia hadn't even finished heating her food when Helena returned.

"Problem solved. It was nothing major, probably just wear and tear. If the refuge caretaker didn't catch it, it must've happened recently," Helena reported, grabbing her plate.

"Perfect. Thanks, Helena."

"Are we staying longer, or do you want to leave?" Helena asked while everyone was still paying attention.

"I'll redo my calculations, but if they confirm it's safe, we're staying," Alia replied, sitting down at the table with her warm plate.

"Told you my question was valid," Isaac said with a wide grin.