EDEN: Dark Universe

CHAPTER | TWELVE

"Calling all ships, all ships," Arissa said into the transmitter, though she knew there was only one ship in the area. "All vessels, this is a warning. A flagrant system virus is being transmitted to all ships entering this sector. Avoid this area of space or risk computer infection."

Had Jack not known the plan, he would have thought it odd that they were warning their mark away from them, but now he was focused on a different negative aspect of the whole thing. He was dreading the part he was taking in the affair.

The Gunder gave no response, and Arissa repeated the call. This time adding, "We're looking at you, Gunder. This malware has real teeth. Steer clear of the area."

"Unidentified vessel," some grunty voice from the Gunder said. "This is an F.A. prison ship. Under no circumstances will we alter course or operating protocol without official orders."

Arissa did her best to sound annoyed while smiling with glee at the plan's success thus far. "Gunder this is merchant ship...Reggie. The circumstances call for an immediate course change. Some nut job has a concealed satellite out here and we still haven't found it. If you're not going to alter course at least shut down all communication and sensors until you're clear of this sector."

"Negative. We only accept commands from the F.A."

"We have immunization software. If you let us approach we can save you a lot of trouble. Or do you not let vessels approach without 'official F.A. approval?'"

"Stay clear or we will open fire. Gunder out." The line went dead, and Arissa looked to Talia.

"Are they close enough?"

"Just barely. I can flicker lights at best."

Talia winced, almost as if it was painful to reach so far and hack into such a secure vessel. "I have access. Their interior is basically a haunted house now. Flickering lights, loud sounds from the speakers, nothing actually threatening."

The crew of the Odin sat in silence, waiting for the Gunder's call for help. There was only silence. Arissa rubbed her eyes. "Damn the male ego. He can't admit his mistake."

Just then, the some grunty voice reemerged. "Reggie this is Gunder, what are the symptoms of this system infection?"

"Lighting and audio systems are the first to go," she said. "Next is..." she looked to Talia.

"I can get their toilets," the A.I. said.

"Toilets go next, Gunder. Then it's anyone's guess."

There was a pause, as the Gunder comm officer either discussed with his superiors, or swallowed his own pride. Then, "Reggie can we confirm you have immunization software?"

"Confirmed, though I'm not sure what good it will do you now. It could be too late."

"Understood. You have authorization to approach at low speed with cold weapons, if any."

"Gunder this is a freelance merchant ship, we do not alter course unless it's for profit."

Jack smacked her on the shoulder. Arissa snapped back.

"What? We can't appear too eager." The voice on the radio returned.

"Reggie if your solve comes through you will be compensated by the F.A."

Arissa smiled. "Appreciate that, Gunder. We're en route." She flicked off the radio, swung around in Jack's chair, smiled, and leapt to her feet. "There," she said. "Hazard pay."

Kane, standing on the sidelines, gave a grimace and a head tilt. "Not bad. Talia?"

"We're already on our way."