Everyone was about to return to their working places, but Navigations Officer Xi Liang spoke before they could, giving them the news they were almost expecting.
"Commander, I'm detecting various energy outbursts near the orbit of Hawking-616f, at 2.9 astronomical units from our position. Their signals match with those of the Absorber. Scanning. Five objects in total with a length of 1.1 kilometers. Hmm, strange. The bigger vessel's nowhere to be seen around."
"Five? Goddamnit," cursed John. More chasing and fighting in space. At least Aleos was nowhere to be seen. For now. He raised his wristcom. “Valva, are you there?”
"Yes, Commander Star,” responded the deep voice of the Soku leader. “Anuk's followers have arrived. They surpass us in numbers and firepower."
"Look, we're too vulnera
