The Amber Wing holds just beyond the derelict's hull, attitude thrusters correcting its slow drift. Lahani keeps the return lane centered while Ranuko studies the new current below the command deck.
Ranuko
That power signature is not part of the old command network. It is drawing from a sealed reactor branch, and the load is climbing.
The exterior service route brightens section by section, revealing armored access panels and dormant equipment bays. Several emitters match the compact weapons already secured aboard the Amber Wing.
Lahani
It could be a weapons magazine, a drive-control module, or another trap with better timing. I can keep us aligned with the return lane, but not indefinitely.
Ranuko
The signal is offering a narrow upgrade profile. Power regulation, targeting, maybe navigation hardware. It is also probing for the authority key again.
On the Amber Wing's local display, the derelict maps three possible access points: an armored service hatch, a sensor blister, and a conduit junction leading toward the reactor branch.
Lahani
We have enough salvage to justify leaving. If we investigate, we risk another fight for control of our own ship. Your call, Nahuli.
“I follow the return lane away from the warship”
SUCCESS (Legendary Agility, rolled +4)
The Amber Wing slipped into open dark, salvage secured and her return lane steady beneath Lahani's hands.
Ranuko
Usable parts, intact autonomy, and no fresh holes in the hull. I can call that a victory.
Lahani
You can. The derelict can keep its sealed heart and its unanswered signals.
Nahuli
Then we leave it behind. The Wing is ours, and everyone aboard comes home.
Ranuko folded the reactor readings away, and Lahani guided them cleanly beyond the derelict's reach. No command voice followed, only the quiet systems of a ship still free.
The Amber Wing carried its salvage, its scars, and its autonomy into the dark. Behind her, the derelict kept its hidden power and its silent questions, but neither could claim Nahuli or the crew. Ahead lay home, hard-won and wholly theirs.