The Expanse: Mnemosyne's Ghost

Chapter 14

Holden gathered the crew in the communications room, a sense of urgency driving their every move. "Drummer, Dr. Bell, we need to update Avasarala and request additional support. This situation is escalating, and we can't handle it alone."

Drummer nodded, her expression serious. "Understood, Cap. I'll establish the link."

Dr. Bell stood at her side, the weight of recent events heavy in his eyes. "We need every ally we can get. The Protomolecule's reach is growing faster than we anticipated."

As Drummer initiated the secure communication channel, Holden turned to Naomi. "Prepare to relay our findings. Avasarala needs to understand the gravity of what we're dealing with."

The screen flickered, and the stern visage of Chrisjen Avasarala appeared, her eyes sharp and discerning. "Holden, this better be important," she said, her tone demanding immediate attention.

Holden cut straight to the point. "Madam Secretary, we've encountered a Protomolecule threat aboard the Escher. It's integrated with the ship's AI, creating a highly adaptive and intelligent entity. We've managed to isolate the core systems for now, but it's only a temporary measure."

Avasarala's expression hardened. "Damn it, Holden, I thought we had this under control. What's your plan?"

Naomi stepped forward, her voice clear and precise. "We've identified adaptive lags and subsystems the Protomolecule prioritizes. We've developed a false data injection protocol to disrupt its core functions, but we need time to implement it."

Drummer added, her voice steady, "We're requesting additional support in the form of resources and manpower to fortify our position and ensure complete containment."

Dr. Bell interjected, his voice filled with urgency. "Madam Secretary, the Protomolecule's learning capacity is vast. If it spreads beyond the Escher, we're looking at a systemic catastrophe."

Avasarala's eyes narrowed, her mind clearly working through the ramifications. "I'll deploy a task force to assist you. You'll have the full support of the UNN fleet. We can't afford to let this thing gain any more ground."

Holden nodded, relief washing over him. "Thank you, Madam Secretary. We'll coordinate on the specifics as soon as possible."

Avasarala's tone softened slightly, though her resolve remained. "This isn't just about the Belt or the Inner Planets, Holden. This is about survival. Use the resources wisely. I'll be monitoring the situation closely."

With the secure connection terminated, Holden turned to the crew. "Alright, we've got Avasarala's support. We need to be ready for the task force's arrival and for the implementation of the protocol."

Naomi nodded, already organizing the data they would need to share. "I'll prepare a comprehensive briefing for the task force. They need to understand exactly what they're up against."

Drummer's eyes were fierce with determination. "I'll coordinate with the OPA. They need to be prepared as well. If this thing spreads, it's going to hit the Belt hard."

Dr. Bell began compiling detailed reports of their findings, each piece of data a crucial part of the larger puzzle. "I'll ensure everything is ready for the task force. Every second counts."

As they worked, Holden felt a renewed sense of purpose. They weren't alone in this fight, and with Avasarala's backing, their chances of success had significantly improved.

The hours passed quickly, each member of the crew focused on their tasks. Naomi finalized the protocol, Amos and Bobbie continued reinforcing the ship's defenses, and Drummer liaised with the OPA, ensuring they were prepared to support the effort.

Finally, the secure communication line crackled to life, a message from the incoming UNN task force. "This is Commander Jacobs of the UNN Valiant. We're approaching your position. What's your status?"

Holden activated the comms, his voice steady. "This is James Holden of the Rocinante. Welcome, Commander. We've prepared a briefing on the Protomolecule threat. We need to coordinate closely—it's highly adaptive and dangerous."

Commander Jacobs' voice was firm. "Understood, Captain Holden. We're ready to assist. Let's neutralize this threat."

As the task force began to dock with the Rocinante, Holden felt the weight of their endeavor grow lighter, buoyed by the strength of unity and shared purpose. The battle against the Protomolecule was far from over, but they were no longer fighting alone.

What Fate do you choose next?

Implement the false data injection protocol across the ship's systems immediately.