Chapter 106: Memories of War

The *Leviathan* hung in space, a colossus in the void. Inside, the crew bustled with a new sense of urgency, the recent victory over the Terminid lab spurring them into action. Jack Steele stood on the bridge, his eyes scanning the tactical display. The data was streaming in from various reconnaissance drones, painting a picture of the surrounding star systems.

"Captain," Zara's voice cut through his concentration. "We've got incoming reports from multiple outposts. Strange activity, potentially Terminid."

Jack turned to face her, his expression hardening. "Strange how?"

Zara's fingers danced over the console, pulling up the reports. "Increased energy readings, unusual ship movements. It's like they're... repositioning."

"Preparing for something big," Jack muttered, his mind racing. "Reyes, get up here."

Moments later, Reyes strode onto the bridge, his face set in a determined frown. "What's the situation, Captain?"

Jack briefed him quickly. "We need to be ready for anything. I want our defenses on high alert and patrols doubled. The Terminids aren't going to sit back and take this."

Reyes nodded. "Consider it done. I'll coordinate with Harrington and make sure our ground teams are prepped."

As Reyes left, Zara turned to Jack, a question in her eyes. "Do you think they know about the hybrid project?"

Jack shook his head slowly. "Not yet. But it's only a matter of time. We need to stay ahead of them."

---

In the ship's armory, Harrington was checking over the latest batch of weaponry. The room buzzed with activity, soldiers gearing up for the next mission. Reyes walked in, his presence commanding attention.

"Listen up!" Reyes barked. "We're increasing patrols and doubling our defenses. The Terminids are up to something, and we're not getting caught with our pants down."

Harrington smirked as he adjusted his body armor. "Sounds like we're in for some fun. Any idea what they're planning?"

Reyes shrugged. "Could be anything. But whatever it is, we're going to be ready. Make sure your squads are squared away."

Harrington nodded, his grin widening. "You got it, boss. We'll be ready to kick some Terminid ass."

---

Meanwhile, deep within the *Leviathan's* research lab, Dr. Emily Chang was poring over the data retrieved from the destroyed Terminid lab. The genetic sequences on her screen were unlike anything she had ever seen. Complex, intricate, and terrifyingly efficient.

"What do you make of it?" Jack's voice startled her from her intense focus.

She turned to see him standing at the doorway, a curious look on his face. "It's... incredible, Captain. The Terminids are using our DNA to create hybrids. They're not just adapting—they're evolving at an accelerated rate."

Jack stepped closer, his eyes narrowing at the data. "Can we use this against them?"

Emily nodded slowly. "I think so. If we can understand their genetic code, we might be able to develop a countermeasure. But it's going to take time."

"Do whatever you need," Jack said firmly. "We're counting on you, Doc."

---

In the crew quarters, Zara sat on her bunk, staring at a small photograph. It was old, creased at the edges, showing a younger version of herself with her family. The memory felt like a lifetime ago.

Reyes knocked gently on the frame of the door. "Mind if I come in?"

Zara looked up, a faint smile touching her lips. "Sure, Reyes. What's up?"

He sat down across from her, his expression softening. "I wanted to check in. You've been working non-stop. Everyone has. Just wanted to make sure you're holding up."

She sighed, setting the photo aside. "It's hard, Reyes. Sometimes it feels like we're just treading water, trying to stay ahead of something we can't fully understand."

Reyes nodded, understanding in his eyes. "I know. But we've got each other's backs. We'll get through this."

Zara gave him a grateful look. "Thanks. That means a lot."

---

Back on the bridge, Jack stood before his crew, the weight of command heavy on his shoulders. "Listen up, everyone. We've made a dent in the Terminid plans, but we can't afford to let our guard down. They're regrouping, possibly for a major offensive."

He paused, letting his words sink in. "We need to stay vigilant. We need to be ready for anything. This fight is far from over, but we've got the best damn crew in the fleet. Let's show the Terminids what we're made of."

A chorus of affirmatives echoed through the bridge, a renewed sense of determination filling the air. Jack looked out at the stars, the vast expanse of space a reminder of the battles still to come.

As the *Leviathan* continued its vigil, the echoes of war reverberated through its halls, a constant reminder of the cost of survival. The crew knew what was at stake, and they were ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Together, they would stand against the darkness, fighting for a future worth living for.