Outer Sector Outpost 7, Imperial Periphery
The final hours stretched before the 7th Battle Group's arrival, thick with unspoken questions and the low hum of an outpost bracing for change. Valerius felt the ticking clock acutely. The Navy's presence meant order, security, but also scrutiny and layers of bureaucracy that would make his clandestine activities infinitely more difficult, if not impossible. His window of opportunity to gain power discreetly was closing fast.
He monitored the updates from Investigator Thorne's team on Moon 7C. They had managed to triangulate the source of the 'Omega-734' signal more precisely – deep beneath the main collapse zone, shielded by layers of bedrock and the facility's own ruined structure. Attempts to boost or analyze the signal further yielded little; it remained faint, alien, pulsing erratically. However, preliminary analysis of organic residue found near the destroyed core structures indicated non-human biological material, though too degraded for definitive identification.
'System, correlate 'non-human biological material' with 'Omega-734 Containment Marker - High Threat Biological or Psionic Entity'.'
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A contained biological entity? Was Project Chimera about studying, controlling, or perhaps weaponizing such a creature? The Red Scorpions playing with Precursor-level containment and potentially dangerous alien life felt like a recipe for disaster far exceeding simple piracy.
This new information solidified Valerius's resolve. The threats potentially facing the Imperium, hinted at by these discoveries, were immense. His ambition wasn't just about personal power; it was about gaining the strength necessary to control, to dominate, to impose order on a galaxy clearly teetering on the edge of dangerous unknowns. He needed to be stronger.
The unstable plasma core in Secure Storage Unit 7-C was the only viable path right now. The System had analyzed the low-level security protocols, the patrol routes in that wing, the energy signature masking required. The risks were significant – detection during the break-in, accidental energy discharge from the unstable core, drawing Kaelen's already heightened suspicion. But the potential reward – a massive infusion of energy to push him firmly towards Mid-Level Wargod before the Navy locked everything down – outweighed the dangers in his cold calculation.
'System, finalize plan for acquisition of 'Unstable Plasma Core - Confiscated'. Identify optimal window within the next three hours. Detail required tools, energy signature masking protocols, and contingency routes.'
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A fifty-five percent chance of some kind of detection, even if minor. Higher than his previous infiltrations. But the clock was ticking. The 7th Battle Group's main contingent, including Captain Rostova and potentially higher-ranking cultivators with sharper senses, would establish full operational command soon after arrival. This might be his last chance.
He subtly checked Kaelen's status via Spatial Sense and System monitoring. The Lieutenant was currently in the main command center, reviewing fleet arrival protocols with a Navy liaison. His attention seemed diverted, for now.
Valerius began his preparations, gathering the necessary tools from his standard kit, ensuring his armor's systems were optimal. He mentally rehearsed the infiltration steps, the security overrides, the handling procedure for the unstable core as outlined by the System. He felt the familiar cold focus descend, pushing aside fear, doubt, and the lingering unease about the Omega marker and the anomaly below. There was only the objective: power.
As he prepared to leave his quarters under the guise of a late-cycle systems check, a general announcement echoed through the outpost comms – Commander Vorlag's voice, tinged with relief.
"All personnel, attention. Confirmed hyperspace signatures detected at system edge. Lead elements of the 7th Battle Group have arrived. Repeat, lead elements have arrived. Maintain standard duty assignments until relieved by Battle Group personnel. Vorlag out."
They were here. The ticking clock had just run out. Or had it? The main fleet elements arriving didn't necessarily mean an instant lockdown of every storage unit. The initial hours would be focused on establishing command, securing key areas, debriefing personnel. There might still be a brief window of transition, of relative chaos, where a swift, discreet operation could succeed.
The risk profile spiked dramatically. But the potential reward…
Valerius paused at his door, the choice stark. Abort the mission, play it safe, accept the slower path under the Navy's gaze? Or seize this fleeting moment of transition, gamble on the initial confusion, and secure the power he needed?
His ambition made the choice for him. He activated the portable energy dampener, slinging it beneath his armor, checked his tools one last time, and slipped out into the corridor. Towards Secure Storage Unit 7-C. Towards the unstable core. Towards the next level of power, whatever the cost.