>>5842553You are a raider. Given the choice, of course you will raid. Even better, having a frigate screen should cover the Vanilla Skyline's main weakness: coordinated destroyer attacks. The only question left is whether Jean-Pierre is as much of a natural at sneaking as he claims. Probably yes, seeing he is still alive in spite of his company. The plan definitely holds pressure, so why is your stomach tied in knots? That man, it must be that man. You quietly seethe. “We privateers are the Director's instruments too!" Only an idle observation, and already you were excusing yourself as if it was the final verdict. He caught you off-guard, next time won't be so easy.
Moynihan dissipates your frustration, “Contact confirmed. Moving through corridor Charlie. 4 cruiser-sized and 2 destroyer-sized signatures. Over.” Springing into action, you quickly tightbeam the information to the Richardson. You cannot change the past, but the same cannot be said for the present. As the bridge crew scramble into combat positions, you review the drafted tactical plans. The escort details seem about right, the Qyngur wanted to avoid attention. However, so many freighters for such a small outpost?
“2 Albatross destroyers,” Bulky, efficient but rather sluggish. “3 Ox freighters," Only three? “And 1 Komodo heavy cruiser.” Well-armed and well-protected, this is getting interesting. Moynihan does not stop, “Anomalous energy signature detected in one of the Ox's holds. Analysing..." You already knew the answer even before he confirms it, “Most likely carrier conversion.” This isn't a resupply mission, it's an honest-to-God warhive. At least outside of the Komodo, the rest are relatively soft targets
Well, if you retreat now the next meeting with that agent will not be so cordial. You immediately call for a conference. Lieutenant Commander Roquefort, captain of the Richardson, speaks first, “This isn't completely surprising. Our sister ship the Thomasville has reported greater build-up in this region after your spectacular performance at Dantalion.” Johnson pounces on his words, “And you do not think this is important enough to bring up during planning?” Roquefort is visibly worried, “That is not the biggest problem. If the Qyngurs brazenly dispatch warships like that, it would certainly compromise the secrecy of the...” Moynihan barges in through the intercom, “Ma'am, two new contacts just jumped into the system. Burning hot for the convoy.” Reinforcements. “Friendly vessels, a pair of Yonaoshi-class light cruisers. Should we hail?” For you.
Now it is Silas' turn, “That's gotta be the Yushi and Shishi. My old buddy Ienaga's company. Heard he's been in the red recently, never figured it was so bad, having to take this fight.” Blood drained from his face as he realised what they have just done, “They cannot be allowed to leave, can they?” Roquefort nods, “Naval Command won't prosecute anyone for what happens today.”
