Europa, July 16, 2027. 1000 Hours.
Rachel Voigt secured the last fuel canister, her tone sharp as the ice cracked nearby. “Fuel’s loaded, Mitchell. We’re ready to move.”
Mikael Heikkinen checked the ship’s nav, his voice eager. “Course to Titan is set—ten hours at max speed.”
Li Wei adjusted the Dragon systems, his expression cautious. “Power’s holding, but we’re cutting it close.”
John Mitchell stood on the ship’s bridge, his leadership a steady force. “Zheng, what’s the latest on that signal?”
Xiaotong Zheng reviewed her tablet, her sleek bun catching the light. Again she immediately understood what’s going on. “It’s a beacon, Mitchell—the Overseers are guiding something to Titan.”
Anika Sharma cross-referenced the shard’s logs, her tone tense. “Guiding something… or someone. We’re walking into a bigger fight.”
Elias Moretti fidgeted with his scanner, nervous. “Titan’s atmosphere is thick—landing’s going to be rough.”
Yuri Leonov laughed, clapping Elias on the shoulder. “Rough? We’ve handled worse, my friend!”
Elias managed a weak smile, his voice shaky. “I hope you’re right, Yuri. I really do.”
Yuri grinned, his tone encouraging. “Stick with me—you’ll be fine.”
Kenji Sato monitored comms, his voice urgent. “I’m picking up movement—something big near Titan’s orbit.”
Sarah Carter checked the crew’s vitals, her tone calm but firm. “Everyone’s holding up, John, but we need rest soon.”
Rachel turned to Anika, her tone curious. “You think the Overseers built the Sumerer tech?”
Anika nodded, her voice thoughtful. “Maybe… or they stole it. Either way, they’re dangerous.”
Mitchell met Xiaotong’s gaze, trust absolute. “We launch in ten. Be ready, everyone.”
Yuri raised his plasma torch, smirking. “Titan, here we come!”