Reading this felt like I was reading part of a major sci fi book series, it was such an incredible short story! Your work gave the best combination of modernized dystopian sci-fi works in the same vein as Silo/Red Rising/Annihilation vibes in the best way to me.
Each step the crew took was intense, yet I looked forward to reading what was coming next. The thought of the unknown combined with a glimpse of a hero's journey held my attention to the very end. I also loved that you utilized common sci-fi/interdimensional travel language by making them your own in the most digestible way possible.
I was sad when the story ended. Wanting more of not only David's lore but the rest of his crew as well. And speaking of which, the ending was both touching and thought-provoking as well.