Page 56 of Solar Bound
Solar considered their options. "Galaxy Brides' alternative extraction protocol uses energy signature recognition. Each of us carries a unique pattern that their systems can lock onto. If Eclipse's signature can be enhanced, we may be able to help locate him."
“That’s exactly what I was going to suggest,” Bob inserted.
Dani frowned at the alien. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let's do it."
"There is risk," Solar cautioned. "Amplifying Eclipse's energy signature would also make our position more detectable to Milano's tracking systems.”
"But we'd be helping Eclipse," Dani countered, her eyes intent on his. "We can't just leave him to Milano's scientists. What if it were you? He wouldn’t leave you behind."
Solar understood her concern. Eclipse was more than a mission comrade. He was a fellow Zorveyan, one who had shown unexpected tactical flexibility and personal courage. The Elite Guard code emphasized victory above all, but it also acknowledged the strategic value of preserving skilled operatives.
Something deeper stirred within Solar. A sense of obligation. Of connection. Eclipse had remained behind to allow their escape. Honor demanded reciprocation.
"I will attempt the amplification," Solar decided. "Bob, prepare the sensor array for reconfiguration. Gary, monitor Earth's orbital detection systems for any sign of Milano activity."
“Give Lunar a new extraction timeline before you disconnect,” Bob ordered Gary. “Let him know we’ll be there in fourteen Earth days. Tell him to remain where he is. That will give us time to liaise with Harris on Earth.”
For once, both aliens worked without unnecessary commentary. Solar moved to the main sensor control panel, his light brightening as he channeled energy directly into the ship's systems.
The process was delicate. Solar's natural energy had to be carefully modulated to avoid overwhelming the ship's already unstable systems.
"Is it working?" Dani asked.
"The signal is strengthening," Solar confirmed, monitoring the energy patterns displayed on the screen.
As the amplification continued, a map of Earth's surface terrain appeared on the main display, gradually focusing on a specific region. A pulsing point of light emerged, growing stronger as Solar channeled more energy into the system.
"There," he indicated the light. "Eclipse's energy signature. He is being held in a subterranean facility approximately forty kilometers from their current position."
"Can we send this information to Lunar?" Dani asked.
"Starting transmission," Solar confirmed, automatically relaying the coordinates through the encrypted channel.
A warning indicator flashed on a secondary display.
“Stop!” Bob lurched forward, his expression alarmed. "Energy detection alert. Something on the surface is scanning us."
Solar immediately reduced his emissions.
"What’s happening?" Dani asked, concern evident in her voice.
"Milano has detected our energy signature,” Bob continued. “They are attempting to lock onto our position. You can’t contact Lunar again. You’ll reveal his position."
"Do they know we're here?" Dani insisted. "And that we're helping them?"
"Yes," Solar acknowledged.
"We need to warn them," Dani insisted.
"Not yet. Eclipse is in immediate danger. Lunar and the others are safe so long as we don’t expose them." Solar assured her.
"If Milano has detected us, our extraction timeline is compromised," Gary interjected, his usual bravado absent.
"They can’t reach us in space right now,” Solar denied. “Earth's launch capabilities are limited, and Milano would face significant obstacles in deploying any vessel capable of orbital interception without detection by Earth authorities."
"Agreed," Gary said, like he had the same idea.
Solar sighed. "We must prepare for immediate relocation. Bob, calculate alternative orbital positions that would minimize detection while monitoring when it is safe to communicate with the surface."
