Chapter 61: Shadow Among Shadows

The command center buzzed with anticipation as Jack and his team prepared to intercept the approaching stealth craft. Tension hung heavy in the air, each member keenly aware of the pivotal moment they were about to face.

"ETA on the target?" Jack's voice cut through the silence, his eyes fixed on the holographic display that tracked the stealth craft's progress.

Maria's fingers danced across the console, her brow furrowed in concentration.

"Approaching our perimeter, sir. Estimated time to intercept: two minutes."

Jack nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. Whatever lay inside that craft could spell either salvation or doom for their beleaguered forces.

As the seconds ticked by, the tension in the command center reached a fever pitch. Every member of Jack's team stood at the ready, their weapons primed and their nerves on edge.

Suddenly, the alarm blared to life, signaling the stealth craft's breach of their perimeter. Jack's heart pounded in his chest as he watched the holographic display, waiting for the moment of contact.

"Prepare for engagement," he commanded, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins. "This could be our only chance to turn the tide."

With bated breath, Jack and his team watched as the stealth craft descended, its sleek form gliding effortlessly through the chaos of battle. As it touched down on the scorched earth, a sense of foreboding settled over the command center like a shroud.

The hatch of the craft opened slowly, revealing a figure cloaked in shadow. Jack squinted, trying to make out any details in the dim light.

"Identify yourself!" he called out, his voice echoing through the command center.

The figure stepped forward, stepping into the light. Jack's breath caught in his throat as he recognized the familiar silhouette—the same figure he had seen aboard the alien craft that had arrived during the battle at the Vega Outpost.

"Who are you?" Jack demanded, his grip tightening on his weapon.

The figure raised a hand in a gesture of peace, its voice calm and measured. "I am a friend," it said, its words echoing in Jack's mind. "And I bring a warning."

Jack's brow furrowed in confusion. "A warning? About what?"

But before the figure could respond, a deafening roar echoed through the command center—the unmistakable sound of a Terminid war cry.

"They're here," the figure said, its voice tinged with urgency. "And they're not alone."

With a sinking feeling in his chest, Jack realized that their battle was far from over. The Terminids had brought reinforcements, and they were ready to finish what they had started.