As soon as the research department spotted a strange energy signature at the edge of the asteroid belt, management prioritized data collection. The company sent a series of probes first, followed by a manned mission: two astronauts sent to conduct experiments and gather samples of the strange flora that sprouted around the doorway. Supply chains limited expansion of the mining operation and shareholders were very interested in these plants that survived in the cold, sunless vacuum.
The moment the crew landed, the mission began to unravel. The comms team recalled a series of rambling, hallucinatory reports before they lost contact.
The final transmission from the body cam of CPL Kurosawa showed the disembodied head of PFC Jones. Mushroom-like organisms grew from his head, and he appeared to be speaking to Kurosawa, though the words were unintelligible.
A figure (later referred to as “The Gardener” could be seen emerging of the doorway. The comms personnel who watched the video clip agreed it was humanoid, but each one described a different shape.
Its nickname came from the delicate movements as it harvested the mushrooms from Jones’ skull before turning back and disappearing through the portal.
The footage was archived and the department closed. All personnel involved with the expedition were released after signing an NDA.
A somber message was sent to inform the crew members families that both had perished in an unexpected phenomena not covered by the company’s insurance policy.
The asteroid still drifts at the edge of the belt, sending its siren signal into the void.
Sculpture from found materials
Approx 9x4x4.5" (HWD)