Snippet #2039991

Alta-Corp Vessel Summerwind, we read you Salient. We're undamaged but in need of an escort, which I'm getting covered as we speak; one of our carriers the Queen Gertrude. Our protocols keep comms clear during combat unless it's a trusted source, we weren't ignoring you. You just didn't have the magic word. Tell Ronin thanks for looking out and thanks to you guys for taking out the trash. We'll be underway as soon as our escort arrives if you can stick around until then. Summerwind, out.

The rest of the bridge crew resumed their previous activities as the field cleared of hostiles. The lumbering hull of the Salient slowly approached the two Altamus vessels, before finally stopping within reach of the two vessels.

Salient to Summerwind, we will remain behind until your vessel escorts have arrived, Aronimus paused.

The Admiral turned to one of his junior grade lieutenants, Francis Napier, who was attending his own systems. Napier was of mix descent, a majority of which was French, a recent graduate of the Naval Academy. He did not have a distinguished academic career during his time in the Academy, and was sent to serve on a small frigate. After two years time, he requested for a re-assignment, where the Department of the Navy reassigned him to the Salient, against his wishes. He wasn't exactly enthusiastic to be dragged to the far reaches of known space for obscure reasons. However, following the small victory enjoyed by the Salient over the pirates, he felt a bit of pride and excitement.

"Mr. Napier, can you do a scan on the two Altamus vessels to assess their damage?"

"Right away sir," Napier spoke with a hidden accent that even the Admiral could not distinguish from an accent-less voice.

Located in the underbelly of the Salient were multiple sensors and scanners, which then beamed directly at the two vessels. The beam bathed the two vessels in a thin field of particles. Once the reading was acquired, Napier began to read out the assessment.

"Well, both vessels still have their propulsion systems working, though the Centurion has one damaged drive, as well as extensive damage to the external hull. The Summerwind has damage, but not as severe. Your orders sir?"

The Admiral rubbed his beard, before coming up with an answer. He could send some of the Salient's repair drones, but those were strictly for federal vessels plus the Altamus vessels already had another escort en route to their location. Aronimus returned the link to the Altamus vessels.


I am inclined to inquire about the nature of your cargo. I want to know why the pirates went after you.