I'm stepping through the door

With any luck, these are my final few moments on Mars. Thank God.

Ed was more prepared than I thought. Never underestimate a janitor. He had already convinced a small group of engineers, navigators and even guardians to join in his plan of escape. I asked him why he didn't just try to convince some of the higher ups around here to organize a full fledged evacuation. He just laughed. "Boy, you have no idea what's going on. They get more stubborn the higher up you go here. The Virgle Corporation is here to stay and they don't want to hear any different." That was enough for me. Actually, seeing the Crawlers was enough for me. After seeing those creatures I needed little convincing. I was trapped here and he had a plan. End of story.

As part of his little group, Frank and I have been stashing away supplies here and there for the ride back home to Earth. During this time of being some kind of secret ops pack rat I worked overtime on Ed convincing him to include Bryn in our little band of escapees. He was a little hesitant at first but he finally caved. Actually I don't think he cared that much but he enjoys making me sweat. Once she found out I stuck my neck out for her, things have been much better between us. I'm no longer the annoying frat boy hitting on her. She might even dig me. But then, what do I know. Girls are a labyrinth.

Things moved fast and in the dark of night last night we all met in the Phobos cafe. In true janitor fashion, Ed produced a monster set of keys and led us down a series of empty corridors no one knew existed.

Before we knew it we were outside of a huge spaceship that was kept underground. The engineers and navigators got to work right away. Soon lights were flashing everywhere and a huge hatch above us opened up into the night sky.

We're all strapped in and holding tight waiting for launch. Frank and Bryn are sitting on either side of me, more excited and nervous than we've ever been in our lives. We have a skeleton crew for one of the most difficult space journeys known to man so we don't expect a smooth ride. This may in fact be the last trip I ever take. Who knows. But I'd much rather take my chances on this ship than back on Mars.

Wish me luck...