“Negative, Captain. I am unsure what caused the alert. I’m performing a diagnostic now.”

Robert remained silent for a moment, his mind racing over the possibilities. Was it a malfunction or something more?

“Computer, are the internal sensors working?”

“Yes, Captain. They are at optimum efficiency.”

Robert paused. The sensors were working, so it had to be a malfunction. He rubbed his chin, pulling at his beard. “Where is Captain Ludlow?”

“Captain Ludlow is in the laboratory. He recently activated the shower. Shall I summon him?

Robert shook his head, unsure what he wanted or needed yet. “No, not yet.”