We're in Space ... So What?

Chapter 26: Snow Tricks with Ryan and Alex

Ryan's breath came out in ragged, frosty puffs as he trudged alongside Alex. The icy wind cut through his gear like it wasn't even there. He hunched his shoulders, trying to block out the biting chill, but his condition was deteriorating. His steps felt heavier, and his face was pale from the cold.

Alex glanced over, clearly noticing the change. "You're not looking too great, man. Not used to the cold, huh?"

Ryan let out a strained chuckle. "Yeah, you could say that. My planet's nothing like this. It's more... mountainous. Green trees, lots of woods. We had seasons, sure, but never anything like this. Nothing that rips through you like you're standing naked in a snowstorm."

Alex nodded, listening thoughtfully. "That sounds pretty nice. Bet it's beautiful there."

Ryan smiled, though his lips were chapped and his teeth were starting to chatter. "It is. At least, it was. Haven't been back in a while. Things got... complicated. That's how I met the others, actually."

"Oh yeah?" Alex asked, curiosity piqued. "How'd you all meet?"

Ryan blew warm air into his hands, trying to keep his fingers from going numb. "I was running from some bad deals. Ended up hopping ships to escape a bounty. Judah and Jamie were on the same vessel. We were all headed in the same direction, trying to make a living. One thing led to another, and now here we are."

Alex whistled softly, impressed. "Sounds like fate, man. You three seem tight."

Ryan nodded. "Yeah, we are. They've had my back more times than I can count."

The wind picked up, making Ryan shudder. He clenched his jaw, feeling the cold set deeper into his bones. "Speaking of, I really hope they're inside somewhere warm. I can't handle this weather."

Alex gave him a sympathetic look. "You've just gotta learn how to bear it. Trust me, it gets easier. Here, try this-don't tense up. Your body wastes more energy trying to fight the cold that way. Stay loose, and keep moving. It sounds counterintuitive, but it helps."

Ryan frowned but followed the advice, trying to relax his muscles as he walked. Surprisingly, it took some of the edge off the cold, allowing him to breathe a little easier. "Huh. Not bad."

Alex grinned. "See? You just gotta know the tricks."

They continued on, the icy landscape stretching out before them, dotted only by the dim lights of the distant town. Ryan still felt the cold gnawing at him, but with Alex's advice and the distraction of their conversation, he pushed forward, more determined than ever to find his friends.