Chapter 7: A Dangerous Introduction

The warning klaxon blared through the bridge, echoing off the metal walls like a death knell.

I tightened my grip on the command console, my mind racing.

First contact, and I was in a warship.

A dreadnought, no less.

To them, I probably looked like an invading force, a relic of some forgotten war suddenly appearing in their space. This could go sideways fast.

“Alright, G’Lan,” I muttered, swallowing the lump in my throat. “Options?”

“You may respond to their hail, power down weapons, or attempt to evade. However, based on their fleet’s formation, escape is unlikely.”

I glanced at the viewscreen. Twelve ships, sleek and deadly, were already shifting into an attack posture, their weapons lighting up.

Running was off the table. Fighting? Not an option.

I exhaled. “Fine. Let’s talk.”

With a nod, I straightened my shoulders and took a deep breath.

“Open the channel.”

A second later, the screen flickered, and a figure appeared.