It had been a grueling warp toward the Dentarra Sector, the ship’s engines vibrating with the intensity of the journey. Now, as they approached their destination, Reacher found himself on the edge of his seat—literally shifting forward in anticipation. Harlen had yet to respond regarding their backup ship, which didn’t surprise Reacher. He had come to expect delays and miscommunications in such high-stakes missions. With no time to waste, he steeled himself to make do with the resources at hand.

“Ops, what’s the status on our sensors?” Reacher asked, his voice firm.

The Ops Lieutenant glanced at the readings, focusing on the flickering displays. “We’re green across the board, Captain. However, we should be cautious—intelligence suggests they may have security systems in place designed to disrupt our sensors as we arrive.”

“Captain,” Kate interjected, her tone assertive yet measured, “I recommend that once we reach a safe distance, which is imminent, we initiate ghost mode. That way, we can mask our presence and gather intelligence without being detected.” Ghost mode was a tactical maneuver reserved for situations where stealth was paramount, preventing them from showing up on enemy radar or scans.

“Captain, Commander, we are now 10 minutes out,” reported the young ensign at the helm, his fingers dancing over the controls with nervous energy.

Reacher paused to think for a moment, then stood and made his way to the top tier of the control room, where the Tactical and Auxiliary Engineering Consoles loomed. He meticulously reviewed each display, noting active systems and potential vulnerabilities. After a thorough assessment, he returned to his command chair. “Let’s initiate ghost mode,” he commanded. Tapping the comm button embedded in the armrest, he announced, “Attention all personnel, Ghost Protocol is now in effect. All personnel, maintain general quarters. Engineering, shut down all non-essential systems. Reacher out.”

Reacher turned his attention to the main viewscreen, where the swirling stars of the Dentarra System awaited. “Helm, pull up the Dentarra System map,” he ordered.

The helmsman nodded, quickly bringing the map to life on the screen. A vast array of celestial bodies populated the display, their orbits meticulously outlined.

“Commander, do you see any viable hiding spots—or potential tactical advantages?” Reacher asked, his eyes locked on the screen.

Kate approached the viewscreen, her brow furrowing in concentration as she analyzed the map. “Captain, there’s an asteroid field at 5 o’clock. It could provide excellent cover from their sensors, and we could also use it to monitor their movements without being seen,” she suggested, pointing to potential routes between the asteroids.

“Lieutenant Fox, what are your tactical thoughts on this?” Reacher wanted to ensure he heard from his Chief Tactical Officer before proceeding.

“If I’m going to be honest, sir…” Fox began, hesitating just for a moment as she weighed her words.

“Fox, I expect complete honesty. We have two colonies that may be in violation of Federation Code and Laws,” Reacher emphasized, grounding the gravity of the situation in their minds.

“I think we should take the risk. Though moving through the asteroid field while in ghost mode might be challenging, it’s a calculated risk. However, if we get into a firefight, we’re unlikely to emerge unscathed,” Fox stated, her expression serious.

“Noted. So, if we want to engage and drive them out, we need to extract ourselves from this rock farm as quickly as possible. Helm, alter course to approach the field directly. Prepare to move in and out quickly.” Kate turned and took her place at the Tactical Console, ready for action.

“Sir, I don’t know if you’ve reviewed our shuttle manifest, but we have two Dunnabe runabouts available. Each is equipped with its own shields and weapon systems; they might serve as a useful distraction,” Kate pointed out, her eyes bright with the prospect of added resources.

Reacher shot her a quick glance. “Commander, I am aware of their capabilities. However, I will not gamble with the crew’s safety by using them as bait or otherwise compromising our position,” he replied firmly, conviction radiating from every word.

Kate opened her mouth to argue further, but Reacher cut her off. “I know you might think I’d cut corners like Captain Smith did. And look where that led her! Our mission is to save lives, not put them at risk. That includes the crew. If I give an order, I expect it to be followed. Understood, Commander?”

Kate nodded, frustration flickering in her eyes. Smith would have embraced that risky strategy, but this captain wanted everyone to return home safely. Now, more than ever, it was clear that survival was uncertain, especially against such a mysterious threat.

With a sigh, Jack turned and made his way to the ready room. “Commander, you have the bridge. I’m going to check in with the Admiral to see if he’s secured our backup.” He felt ready for the challenges ahead, but the question lingered—was his crew equally prepared?

—————— 1 Minute Out ——————

Jack exited the ready room, determination in his stride as he returned to the command center. “Helm, ETA?” Reacher inquired, his voice steady.

“1 minute, sir,” came the rapid response from the helmsman, anxiety evident in his tone.

“All personnel… Red Alert!” Reacher commanded. Instantaneously, the crimson red alert lights illuminated the bridge, casting a dramatic glow, accompanied by the piercing wail of the alert siren. “Computer, mute audible alarms.” The room fell silent except for the rhythmic beeping of the control panels, as each crew member steeled themselves for the imminent encounter.

As the ship exited warp speed, Reacher felt the vessel shudder slightly as it transitioned from the vastness of warp space back into the familiar expanse of normal space within the solar systems. The consoles around him flickered with data, confirming their arrival and the surroundings now vibrant with stars and planets ahead.

“Alright, team, let’s get to work. Helm, plot our course and take us in. Tactical, keep a vigilant eye on the sensors for any hostile ships approaching. We can’t afford any surprises out here,” Reacher commanded, his voice steady and authoritative as the crew prepared for the mission ahead.