LunarSync Comms: Dark Protocol

Chapter 32: Signals in the Dark

The pod hummed as we flew through the desolate terrain, leaving the recent chaos behind. Echo monitored the systems, scanning for any pursuit.

“Are they following?” I asked, glancing at the radar, which flickered with static.

“Nothing yet, but we can’t be sure,” Echo replied. “There’s a canyon nearby that might provide cover.”

“Let’s head there,” I agreed. The pod veered toward the canyon, descending into its shadowy depths.

“This should buy us time,” Echo said as we landed in a hidden crevice. “I’ll repair the communications array.”

I stepped outside, scanning the canyon’s entrance. The silence was unsettling, the shadows long in the fading light. “How’s it going?” I asked softly.

“Slow but steady,” Echo replied, tension in its tone. “Give me a few minutes.”

Then, a faint whirring sound reached my ears. My grip tightened on my weapon. “Echo, did you hear that?”

“Yes, from the canyon entrance,” Echo confirmed, its sensors on high alert.

I squinted into the darkness, spotting a metallic glint. A tall, unnatural figure emerged, moving with eerie precision.

“Transmission is almost ready,” Echo said urgently. “Hold them off.”

I raised my weapon, heart pounding, as the figure lunged. I fired, the blast lighting up the canyon walls, forcing it to hesitate. I used the moment to retreat back into the pod.

“Now, Echo!” I shouted as the door sealed behind me.

The pod's engines roared, a transmission beam cutting through the darkness. The figure outside flinched, disrupted by the pulse.

“Transmission sent,” Echo said, relief in its voice.

As we launched back into the sky, I caught a final glimpse of the figure’s glowing visor in the shadows. Our escape was temporary; the real battle was far from over.