Shards of former greatness (III)

 To my own surprise, studying the Imperial military doctrines took me much longer than planned—two days. But "I swallowed it and want more."

But no. Everything in moderation. We need to educate ourselves not only militarily but also politically. Especially before arriving at Weyland, which was only half a standard day away—twelve hours.

Of course, compared to what the Galactic Empire had at its disposal five years ago, now... not much.

But it's not empty either.

What is now called the Empire, or the Imperial Remnant, is nothing more than a Confederation consisting of territorial entities that, one way or another, continue to adhere to imperial orders. They are ruled by various intelligent ones, unity with whom it is not only impossible to achieve but also harmful. For me and my plans.

So, the Empire is actually squeezed out to the outskirts of the galaxy—into that part called the New Territories.

** Regions and territories of the galaxy **

The central part of the galaxy—the Deep Core, is currently controlled by the Imperials, independent military leaders who seem to be like the Imperials, but they absolutely do not care about what is happening around them. They are safe in the Deep Core—the paths leading there are well known, easily blocked, and any random visitors, like the New Republic, will not be able to get through undetected due to the difficulty of celestial navigation in this part of the galaxy. Gravitational anomalies, black holes, and other "delights" are much more advanced protection than even a fleet of hundreds of ships of the main class.

The Core's military leaders ignore all calls to join the Imperial Remnant, and for many Imperials, such demarches are not clear. After all, if the Imperials were united at least within the framework of the same Confederation, the New Republic would have had a very hard time, since the military leaders in the Core have huge forces under their control. However, there is no unity among the Imperials. And the main reason for this is the exorbitant ambitions of the Imperials themselves. Well, we'll work with what we have.

One of the largest Imperial Remnants is what still calls itself the Empire. Well, or Imperial Space.

** Scheme of the location of Imperial Shards in the New Territories (the Empire of Zsinj at the moment no longer exists as a state entity, having lost its territories up to the Hydian Way in favor of the Empire) **

The capital of the Empire is currently the planet Orinda, where the Imperial Ruling Council meets, which supported Thrawn in his quest to destroy the New Republic. The Empire provided Thrawn with the ships of the fleet that he has at his disposal, as well as some kind of financial support. Planet Weyland, to which the Chimera was now moving, is located at the very edge of Imperial Space. And therefore, the rebels will not go there—not only because the coordinates of the planet are not known to them, but also because they simply do not have enough strength to guard their vast territory and even organize a full-scale invasion. They have enough problems of their own right now, so striking them in the near future to weaken them is a more than tempting option.

Imperial space, in addition to providing Thrawn with a fleet, also placed at his disposal shipyards on the planet Bilbringi, Tangren, Ord Thrasi, and in a number of other places, where he could not only repair his ships but also build new ones. Even if this happened many times slower than before. The Imperial Ruling Council governed the daily life of these territories, generally breathing a sigh of relief when Thrawn decided to lead their military forces. Unfortunately (or not?), not all combat-ready ships are in the power of the Grand Admiral and sent to the front line—the Imperial Ruling Council is also concerned about protecting its territories. But they are much more interested in internal squabbles between each other in an attempt to snatch as much power as possible. And therefore, you shouldn't expect much help from them—after all, the advisers themselves will need it. Simply put, I now have at hand everything that is "free," combat-ready, and able to leave the boundaries of Imperial Space without losing the defense capability of the territories. Well, in order to have the possibility of an armed response to other members of the Ruling Council. You should be careful with them—for failure they will tear me apart like a voracious predator, and for victory—one of them will probably try to get me into their "clip" in order to usurp power over Imperial Space. Double-edged sword...

At the disposal of Imperial Space is also the Ubiqtorate, the think tank and leadership of Imperial Intelligence, whose base is located on the planet Tangren. Don't put a finger in these guys' mouths—let them do some nasty things to the enemies of the Empire. Espionage, sabotage, a coup d'etat—all these activities, as well as many others, are in their arsenal of "good deeds." The resource is very valuable—and I plan to use them in the near future. It is fortunate that they are loyal to the Imperial Space and will carry out the orders given by me unquestioningly.

The next largest and first most combat-ready Remnant is the Pentastar Alignment, whose ruler is currently Grand Moff Ardus Kaine. The Alignment provides some funding for Thrawn's campaign. And even then, these funds came at the disposal of the Grand Admiral at a time, last year. Yes, the amount is significant, but Thrawn was not known for squandering. But we must understand that this money, like any other, tends to run out. Ardus Kaine is an excellent manager, as can be seen from his organizational skills: under his command is an Executor-class super star destroyer called Reaper—in a fully equipped and combat-ready state. At the moment, no other Empire Remnant can boast of such wealth. But the New Republic can. "Lusankya" is somewhere out there, waiting in the wings...

Of course, Kaine will not give up this excellent ship to anyone—after all, it is a symbol of power, success, as well as the guaranteed annihilation of any enemy who tries to encroach on the territory of the Five Star Alignment.

Not on a gratuitous basis, Kaine is ready to make the shipyards on the planet Yaga Minor available to Thrawn. These are well-equipped slipways and docks, equipped with the latest technology. However, in order to use the shipyards, it was necessary to shell out a tidy sum. Not the most cost-effective option. It is much easier to use any shipyards in Imperial Space.

Ciutric Hegemony. A sector with its capital on the planet Ciutrik IV. This association is headed by the imperial military leader Prince Admiral Delak Krennel. The Hegemony is twenty-five inhabited worlds in a dozen star systems. A small empire with about a dozen warships at its disposal, including star destroyers. They, like most of the Shards, are self-sufficient, own small shipyards where they can repair ships of almost any type of starship, but they do not have the production capacity to build anything. But Krennel has money. And a lot of money. He is one of the main donors to Thrawn's campaign. A dangerous opponent. Especially when you consider the unspoken forces behind it. But for now he is an ally—and a very valuable one at that.

The Antemeridian sector, under the control of Moff Getelles, was a supporter of Thrawn. Honestly, I dug through all the data in the archives to understand why Imperial Space is still trying to hold this section of space. There were no mining factories, no military production, no agricultural worlds. The planets of the sector somehow survived on their own and did not depend on those around them, which characterized Moff Getelles quite well. However... There is nothing to grab onto here. That is, in my understanding, Imperial Space must fight for the subjugation and control of strategically important worlds, systems, and sectors—for what can give at least some advantage in the war with the New Republic and unreliable neighbors. There is none of this in Antemeridiana. Except that…

Noticing a link to the presence of military contracts, I opened the corresponding file, running through it diagonally.

Oh, that's what it's all about! Well, now everything has fallen into place.

There are many private companies in this galaxy that produce not only civilian but also military equipment. Loronar Corporation was one of these. The Galactic Empire made them a military contractor, supplying the Imperial Navy with Strike-class medium cruisers.

** Strike-class medium cruiser **

The ship had a modular design, very modern and powerful weapons, a modular design of the interior, was relatively cheap to build, and therefore was purchased en masse by the imperial fleet for a variety of purposes. In Thrawn's fleet (so, it's time to get used to it and call it your own!) there were several such ships—they appeared thanks to the support of Moff Getelles. Despite their unprepossessing appearance, these two such ships were considered equal in strength to the Victory-class Star Destroyer, and the latter was one of the well-proven ships. The Sector built Strikes in small batches, as their shipyards allowed, and supplied them to various Imperial Remnants.

But the icing on the cake was that Loronar Corporation was also the supplier of Torpedo Spheres. In the New Republic, this type of battle station is called "miniature Death Stars," and deservedly so.

** Torpedo sphere **

Armed with five hundred proton torpedo launchers (not counting turbolasers and other weapons), the "torpedo sphere" is designed for massive bombardment of planetary shields. Energy shields that can protect an entire planet from orbital bombardment are a problem. Because you can squander them for a very long time before it becomes possible to destroy the protection. But it must be said that sieges of this kind are not uncommon. But assembling an armada to remove the planetary shield is a thankless task. That is why "torpedo spheres" were developed. They do it with ease.

The only problem is that this almost two-kilometer monster costs just over three hundred million credit cards—almost four hundred. Considering that this is a third of the cost of one Imperial-class Star Destroyer, which is essentially the main and universal ship of the Imperial Navy, the narrow specialization of the "torpedo sphere" precisely determines the fact that in cramped conditions of crisis, not a single Imperial Remnant does not dare to order such installations, which, due to their design features, are of little use for counteracting the enemy fleet. That is why they are no longer in any of the Empire Remnants loyal to Thrawn. Officially, no. In fact... anything can happen. And most likely someone has a few hidden somewhere—just in case of emergency.

However, there is a certain catch. According to reports from Ubiqtorate agents, more than once or twice the Loronar Corporation, in addition to supplying military equipment to the Empire and the Remnants, was seen selling weapons to the Rebel Alliance. And at the same time, it continues to function without any complaints. It seems that the Imperials are ready to turn a blind eye to such double-dealing in order to have a reliable supplier of high-quality equipment themselves. Curious…

In addition to territorial entities, scattered planets on which the imperial regime continues to be supported are also loyal to Thrawn's actions. They are scattered throughout the galaxy and for the most part either have a good planetary or orbital defense system, or the New Republic does not currently have sufficient forces to capture them. And in view of the large distance between the Remnants of the Empire and pro-imperial planets, few Remnants are trying to take control over them—no one wants to send part of their fleet into the unknown, which could be destroyed at any moment by the New Republic if it suddenly gets into trouble.

But the list of these planets is impressive.

The Imperial Academy is located on Carida. And this planet, possessing a powerful planetary defense system, is not only a testing ground for the latest models of military equipment but also a training ground for the good guys in the well-known snow-white armor—stormtroopers. They are prepared perfectly, in a short time—in just six months, yesterday's farmer from Tatooine can be turned into an uncompromising weapon of the regime. And all without any kind of brain surgery or Sith magic. Drill, ideological pumping, and good old speeches about how the Motherland is in danger. The Imperial Remnants value and support Carida and, in the event of an attack, are ready to devote forces to protect her and repel attacks. The New Republic, according to Imperial intelligence data, is licking its lips, glancing towards this planet. But they understand that they do not have enough strength to quickly take control of the world. Just as they are not there for the blockade. The only way they imagine is either to leave the planet alone or to come to an agreement. For now, they stick to the first option. But as soon as the borders of Imperial Space move further away from Carida, and timely aid to the hypothetically besieged world cannot arrive on time, the Republicans will definitely try to lure the planet away.

Rendili. Now this is interesting. For this world is located in the region of the Core Worlds, and therefore surrounded by territories loyal to or inclined to join the New Republic. Rendili is a strategically important star system, as it is home to the headquarters and significant production facilities of the Rendili Starships Corporation, known for being a reliable supplier of starships to the Galactic Republic for many thousands of years. But, during the Clone Wars, things did not work out for the corporation, since Palpatine, who then ruled the Republic, had specialists from the shipyards of the Kuat sector in favor. One way or another, Rendili Starships have produced many excellent starships in their history, such as the Dreadnought-class heavy cruiser, which, despite its venerable age, has proven itself well.

** Dreadnought-class heavy cruiser **

Another achievement of the Rendilians was the creation at the end of the Clone Wars of the Victory-class Star Destroyer, which is still found in relatively large quantities throughout the galaxy. Despite the appearance of the "Imperial", "Victory" can still be found in many fleets of the galaxy. In mine, for example, there are several of them. And the pro-imperial government of the Corporate Sector, for example, owns almost a thousand of these starships.

** Victory-I-class Star Destroyer **

At the moment, the Rendilians exist thanks to Imperial orders for the repair of starships, which they do not really like: there are not so many "Victories" at the disposal of the Imperial Shards; they, like other remnants of luxury, are cherished and are not thrown to the front line in vain. Rendili's economy suffers as a result. And the locals are already on the verge—this is the very case when loyalty, not backed up financially, can deprive Imperial Space of another valuable ally. And I really wouldn't want this, because if everything goes well, then I will have work for the Rendilians. A lot of work.

For which there is currently no large money supply.

The planet Kelada in the Duluur sector was a valuable ally. It was here that the production of speeders was located, which were used so widely in the Imperial army that they had already become an integral part of the image of Imperial reconnaissance stormtroopers. Speeders and gravity bikes are always needed, and therefore the Imperial Shards do not spare money on purchases. That's why Kelada is with us.

Bestine IV is a world, practically a fortress. The ocean-going shipyards known as Jaggerhead are located here. Here, under the guise of assembling Acclamator-class strike cruisers—veterans of the Clone Wars, and now serving as auxiliary ships of the Imperial Navy—secret engineering developments were carried out. Which ones exactly are not particularly important. The main thing is that most of the population of this world was settled by the Imperials on other planets in order to maintain the secrecy of production. And now the shipyards are in a practically mothballed state—few people want to build anything on a planet surrounded by the enemy. So, the rulers of this world are simply going with the flow, waiting either for manna from heaven to fall on their heads in the form of large contracts, or they simply cannot help but go over to the side of the New Republic. It's worth thinking about this. Losing such an important strategic world because they simply have nothing to pay for orders is a stupid but harsh truth. And another headache.

The planet Lainuri was located in the Doldur sector of the Middle Rim. A beautiful world with a diverse ecosystem. They talk about these "Earth-type," but here's the problem—in this galaxy, there is no planet called Earth. But this does not change the very essence. Conveniently located near the southern end of the Corellian Route, the planet stood like a dagger in the heart of territories already part of or sympathizing with the New Republic. Despite the lack of large planetary defenses, this is where the real Thrawn located his base of operations. Behind enemy lines... And again—arrogance on the verge of a brilliant tactical decision. A little-known planet, far from the main hyperspace routes, does not attract much enemy attention. But from here, it is very easy to strike at enemy territory. Having bases on the surface, as well as a fleet of Star Destroyers and ships of a lower class, there is every chance of not only fighting off any attack but also evacuating if things get really hot. Not to mention the fact that in the nebula nearby at the old station, gases useful for such a small fleet are extracted.

However, until I master at least part of the Imperial military program in order to at least partially live up to Thrawn's image, my destiny is raid operations. Which, in fact, is what the ships of my fleet are doing at the moment. Full-scale invasions and seizure of territories are still a long way off. Patience is a virtue. First, it is necessary to properly tighten up the rear, and take away from under the nose of the New Republic what is lying badly. And to do this, you first need to subjugate Palpatine's treasury. The Imperials, of course, are allies, but even when I get hold of new ships—and I will definitely get hold of them—few will be willing to give me even partially trained officers, gunners, pilots, and deck crews. That's what Mount Tantiss is for.

But, let's continue to look at what else is there in the bottom of the barrel.

What did I say about "torpedo spheres"? Here's a simple example. One of these protects the planet Chasin in the Core Worlds. There is only one siege station, but the New Republic bypasses not only the planet but the entire star system. A couple of light patrol ships guarding the borders of territory loyal to the Empire do not count.

Planets Trogan and Columex. Located in the Outer Rim, they did not have much military significance. Trogan is a run-of-the-mill planet with a small Imperial garrison. Columex is generally run by private individuals. But the point is that there is a good gaming industry here, which appeared at the instigation of the Empire. And for general patronage, as well as non-interference, Columex supplies Imperial Space with credit cards. That is, the money goes into the pockets of the Imperial Ruling Council, not mine. There is no limit to disappointment. After all, as you know, income from vice is one of the most abundant.

The Pakuuni star system is little more than an outpost with a small Imperial space station. It was built three years after the Battle of Yavin, by the way, on the orders of Thrawn himself, when he, while still a vice admiral, was establishing order in this part of the galaxy, hunting pirates. Nothing particularly worthwhile. Just a point of interest to display the flag.

The planet Makem Te in the Nilgaard system of the Outer Rim is another staunch supporter of Imperial Space. A fortress world, absolutely loyal to the Imperials and feeding them with money. But this is now, after Thrawn reclaimed the planet in a short but ruthless battle several months ago. Just last year, the warlord Zinj was in charge here—a very odious figure, unloved by the Imperials, and a very interesting and capable business executive. But he didn't do very well in military affairs—he held out for about four years after the Battle of Yavin, controlling a vast territory and annoying literally everyone—both the Republicans and the Imperials. The most disappointing fact is that "thanks to" Zsinj, two Executor-class Super Star Destroyers were lost...

It's all sad.

Especially that the list of allies of the Imperial Remnant includes the Corellian sector. The same one that is the birthplace of such heroes of the New Republic as Han Solo, Wedge Antilles and... Okay, these two are enough to turn the world into disgrace.

The Corellians were among the first to declare separation from the Empire after the Battle of Yavin. The forces of the Imperial fleet stationed here seemed to be ready to even capture Coruscant, but it all came down to an internecine war between two major military leaders, the death of most of the fleets of both, the flight of the few survivors, and the emergence of a dictatorship in the sector. Which claims to be loyal to the Empire, however, does not show any movement on this matter. Despite the fact that Corellia is home to one of the most reputable shipbuilding companies in the galaxy: the Corellian Engineering Corporation. Building strong and reliable starships is a habit for them. In fact, they are building. For myself.

Kind of allies, like the gopher from the good old movie "DMB": "Do you see the gopher? - No. - Me neither. And he is." It is not clear what to expect from such allies. It's easier to avoid it.

Actually, that's all, ladies and gentlemen. That's all the allies... It seems that it's not small, even the territory, if you look at the map, is significant. But we must understand that there are much fewer inhabited planets in the part of the galaxy controlled by the Imperials than in similar spaces somewhere in the Central Worlds, Colonies, or the Middle Ring. And the Empire has no more allies. On the contrary, territories are only lost.

Here, one of the latest examples is the Oplovis sector.

Until recently, it could boast of a well-equipped rear fleet base, which, like the entire territory of the sector, was under the command of Admiral Gaen Drommel five years ago. The admiral was a protégé of the late Grand Moff Tarkin, so it is not surprising that under the command of Drommel he was not just an excellent area of responsibility with developed industry. So, in one of the seven star systems that were part of the sector, there was a shipbuilding plant. What is noteworthy about it is that defectors from the Rebel Alliance worked at this enterprise. And the latter were very unnerved by the fact that shipbuilders from the shipyards of the planet Sluis Van were working for the Empire.

But what really piqued my interest in this sector was that Tarkin's protégé had at his disposal a highly trained force of three Star Destroyers... and an Executor-class Super Star Destroyer called the Guardian. It would seem that everything is fine, but...

There is always a "but". Five years ago, in the Battle of the Tantive System, Gaen Drommel and his entire fleet fought against the Rebel Alliance fleet. And he lost. Two of his three Star Destroyers were lost in battle, and the third was captured by the enemy. The fate of the "Guardian" is unenviable. It is considered destroyed or lost. Immediately after this, a number of planets in the sector came under the control of the New Republic, including the fortress planet Ketharis. From the previous sector, only a couple of systems remained that were loyal to Imperial Space, but they did not have much strategic value.

Stop.

Stop.

Stop.

The Super Star Destroyer Guardian—a name that tugs at the edges of my memory. Something about it is intimately familiar and somehow connected to the New Republic. But why? The rebels never had a "Guardian," only the "Lusankya." Or did they?

Wait a minute...

Yes, the New Republic definitely had the "Lusankya" during the war with the Yuuzhan Vong. The ship fought valiantly but met its end after ramming a massive Yuuzhan Vong worldship. However, why do I recall that some of the "Executors" served in the post-war state? No, that's not right. The "Lusankya" was destroyed—lost at the war's height. But one "Executor" took part in the Battle of Mon Calamari, which marked the war's end. So? Or am I confusing something? Could it have been "The Reaper"?

No, not the Reaper. Ardus Kaine perished during the campaign of the resurrected Emperor, and his flagship went to Gilad Pellaeon, who then led the remnants of the Imperial territories. The Reaper fought against Lusankya and died in one of those futile and merciless campaigns.

So it's not that.

Think, think, think...

Fine. If I can't recall immediately, let's use the process of elimination.

For all its faults, the Empire maintained meticulous records, even post-Palpatine, updating the archives with precision. Touching the receiving socket on my computer with the code cylinder, I accessed the Ubiqtorate database. They rarely share information, but the highest ranks of the Empire are an exception. And that's exactly how I perceive myself.

Let's see what we have here. "Executor-class Super Star Destroyer." Time to delve into the holy of holies—how many of these were built?

** Executor-class Super Star Destroyer **

Blah blah blah, the project was overseen by Lira Wessex—right, she was married. Focus! I need a list!

First on the list... and it's not the Executor. What?!

The initial orders for the Executor series were placed simultaneously with Fondor and Kuat, the two largest shipbuilding giants. There was some rivalry between them, but that's irrelevant. What's crucial is the prototype was built at Fondor. The Rebel Alliance destroyed it during an attack on the shipyard, giving them some hope, I suppose.

This vessel is definitely destroyed. We can cross it out.

Next, "Executor" and "Lusankya." The first serial ones. One built on Kuat, the other on Fondor. Both were called "Executors" during construction to maintain secrecy, I suppose. The fate of the Executor is well-known—it crashed into Death Star II five and a half years ago. "Lusankya" was buried on Coruscant (I remember this well; it's not in the Ubiqtorate files), fought, and was ultimately captured by the rebels. Its current location is unknown.

Next on the list.

"Terror" was destroyed three years after the Battle of Yavin due to rebel sabotage. It was equipped with a cloaking device—a pity it didn't save it.

"Retribution" met its end at the Battle of Nokto three and a half years after Yavin.

"Annihilator" was destroyed during the battle on Kuat involving Imperials, rebels, and Zann Consortium pirates. That's what we remember. However, the files are silent about "Eclipse." Let's check. Nothing?! How curious. And "Lord"? Empty again. It seems someone didn't want these Axial Turbolaser Super Star Destroyers known. They're impressive, but now they're all in the Deep Core under the resurrected Emperor Palpatine. And I have no desire to confront him.

What about the other "Executors"?

"Guardian" is believed destroyed at the Battle of Tantive V, five years after Luke Skywalker destroyed the Death Star. Yet, there's no confirmation of the starship's demise. Let's remember that.

"Iron Fist," warlord Zsinj's flagship, was destroyed during the Battle of Dathomir last year, like the Razor's Kiss, which he tried to steal from the Kuat shipyards.

"Reaper" is in service, owned by Grand Moff Ardus Kaine.

"Awesome"—now here's another candidate for resurrection from oblivion. This ship is considered destroyed after the Imperial forces retreated from the Kurnakht cluster. The "Intimidator" led the Black Fleet. Analogies arise—the Black Fleet Crisis is a fascinating moment in the universe. The Intimidator and its entire flotilla, no less than forty starships, including several Super Star Destroyers, disappeared along with their orbital shipyards. They're considered lost—not as combat losses, but a dry statement of fact. The Black Fleet's fate is shrouded in darkness.

"Aggressor" was rammed by a "torpedo sphere" in the Corellian sector. Who rams a nineteen-kilometer ship into a two-kilometer sphere? Madness.

"Forcing" was destroyed by rebels during repairs.

Another unnamed one was destroyed near Mustafar by rebels several years ago.

Is that it?

No, it can't be. I recall one military leader in the Deep Core had an "Executor" with a cloaking system, but that will be much later. In other words, the ship might not even be built yet.

Dry results: Thirteen production samples were built. A baker's dozen. Of these, only two are confirmed operational—"Reaper" and "Lusankya." But the Reaper is off the table, so it can't be the ship that fought at Mon Calamari.

A ship yet to be built in the Deep Core will also be destroyed, so not this one either.

That leaves only two candidates: "Guardian" and "Intimidating." Using elimination...

The Intimidator is the Black Fleet's flagship. Together with its ships (including several unknown-class Super Star Destroyers) and local shipyards, it was captured by the Kurnakht cluster's natives. The Imperial crews fought to reclaim the ships—though that's yet to happen in this timeline. The "Black Fleet" and its ships fled, their fate unknown to me.

That leaves the "Guardian."

Yes, it may be a stretch, but as a working theory, it will do.

But why hasn't the Guardian resurfaced if it's safe? It didn't even contact anyone. Seriously damaged?

Likely. If so, the commander wouldn't risk contact, knowing any Imperial leader would rush to "visit" and overpower the battered ship. If I were the commander, I'd secretly buy spare parts to restore it.

Well, it sounds simple but isn't. It could take months, even years, to find the Guardian's trail. But the reward is worth it—a Super Star Destroyer would shift the power balance in Imperial Space and the war against the New Republic.

However, first, it must be found in the galaxy's vastness.

Oh, how close happiness seems...

But there's a simpler way to acquire an "Executor." Even two ways. One requires a large fleet, the other scouts to locate the Lusankya hidden by the New Republic.

Otherwise, I need a fleet to reclaim the "Black Fleet" from the Kurnakht cluster's natives. Yet, I doubt they'd hand over the Intimidator and the other starships without a major fight.

So many intriguing things remain in the galaxy's vast expanse after the Galactic Empire's fall. One just needs to figure out how to seize it all, sometimes with cunning, sometimes with brute force.

"Grand Admiral, sir," came Captain Pellaeon's voice from the doorway of my cabin. "We are arriving in the Weyland system."

"Excellent, Captain," I rose from my desk, blocking access to it. "Let's head to the hangar. Order the ship to be prepared—it's time to greet the locals and the Guardian of Mount Tantiss."