The hum of the engines was barely noticeable as the two of you made your way to the lower maintenance deck of The Astraea. The mission ahead was important, but there were still some unexpected issues that had to be dealt with first.

Layla had summoned you after noticing a malfunction in the water control system that regulated the ship's showers. It wasn’t a critical issue, but she wasn’t one to ignore even the smallest problem. You found her crouched in front of the maintenance panel as she examined the intricate system of pipes and wires.

"It should only be a simple recalibration, but I’m not entirely familiar with the specifics of your water systems," Layla said, glancing at you as you approached. Her voice was steady, yet there was a hint of frustration in her tone. "I’ve never had to repair anything like this before."

You nodded, sliding down next to her to inspect the control panel. It was clear that she could handle complex machinery she was a captain, after all but when it came to human systems, things were different. She observed as you made adjustments, clearly taking mental notes as she processed your every move.

"How do humans manage to survive in such... fragile conditions?" Her voice held a mix of awe and skepticism, the latter perhaps because, for someone like Layla, a species like humanity seemed almos inefficient. "Your organs, so delicate. Easily damaged. And yet... you endure. You survive, even when your technology is... you know,"

She couldn’t hide the genuine wonder in her voice. Her words weren’t accusatory, just curious an analysis of something she couldn’t fully understand.

"In my world," she mused aloud, tapping her fingers thoughtfully on the control panel, "we are taught that strength is the key to survival. We focus on endurance, resilience. But you, your kind, rely on something else. Something... unpredictable." Layla tilted her head, her gaze softening as she observed your dexterity. "I suppose that’s why your species fascinates me."