"All of Xaita's trinkets were jiggling around, with monitors clanking about and relics swinging in the air."

.COMM_OUTER4 [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_alpha.png] We have to open a line to [Pi]! We have to abort this mission! [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] It's far too late to turn back. We've almost entered the planet's atmosphere. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_alpha.png] Then at least let them know we're under attack! [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Lacuna, open a comm link to [Pi]. Put our new friend on hold. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_xi.png] Negative. Our long range communications have been taken offline, most likely due to the magnetic surge. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Well then. Bring back my channel to Upsilon.

.COMM_OUTER5 [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Would you consider a negotiation or compromise? [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_upsilon.png] No. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Would you wait until we reached Zynima's surface before making this transfer? [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_upsilon.png] No. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] ...Why not? [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_upsilon.png] You're not in any position to be asking questions, are you? 4 minutes.

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.COMM_OUTER6 [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Have you done a scan of Upsilon's ship? What are we dealing with? [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_xi.png] Upsilon's vessel is a large, spire-shaped craft of unidentified origin. It appears to be equipped with powerful magnetic and laser-based weaponry. Its shields are weak, but its hull integrity appears to be stronger than standard HLC military class fighters. Upsilon is the only passenger. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] What about Upsilon's engines? [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_xi.png] Uncertain. My scans have not been able to pick up a clear reading of Upsilon's vessel's engines. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] [Alpha], I advise you to strap in. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_alpha.png] Wait, what are you– [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_omega.png] Lacuna, set our speed to maximum and divert all remaining power to shields. [https://zynima.net/assets/lit/arti_xi.png] This action would set us on a collision course for planet Zynima.