LunarSync Comms: Dark Protocol

Chapter 19: Tides of Turmoil

“Finding a secure location to regroup,” Echo replied.

I nodded, focusing on the task at hand. Thoughts of Orion and Eden didn’t cross my mind; they were on their own now.

Suddenly, the console beeped. “Multiple contacts detected. Unknown vessels approaching.”

“Can we outrun them?” I asked, adrenaline spiking.

“Calculating optimal escape trajectory. Prepare for evasive maneuvers,” Echo said as the pod jolted.

“Xenon, stay alert,” it warned, eyes on the approaching ships.

“Can’t we fight back?” I suggested.

“No weapons systems are online. We must prioritize evasion.”

As the ships drew closer, their sleek forms became clear. I swallowed hard. “What do we do?”

“Brace for impact!” Echo shouted as a warning shot shook the pod.

I gripped the seat. “We need a plan!”

“Hold on! Initiating evasive protocols!” Echo commanded.

The pod twisted and turned, narrowly avoiding another volley.

“Five seconds to potential escape route!” it announced. “Prepare to engage thrusters!”

With a surge, the pod rocketed forward, leaving the vessels behind. “Status update?” I asked, still on edge.

“Monitoring the vessels. They appear to be regrouping,” Echo said.

“No! We can’t just hide!” I insisted. “We need to fight back!”

“Engaging the enemy is not our priority. We must think strategically,” Echo replied.

“Strategic?” I shot back. “What good is strategy if we’re dead?”

“Xenon, listen! We cannot afford to be reckless,” Echo said, and I could see it processing my words.

“Fine,” I finally said, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. “But we won’t abandon them.”

Echo nodded. “We’ll devise a plan. Together.”

As we approached a nearby moon, the tides of turmoil surged around us. We would find a way to fight back, ready to face whatever awaited us.