The first volley tore through the patrol line before it could form, disabling the ships closest to the starport approach and forcing the remaining vessels to scatter.
Targan Rell reacted faster than Aurelian expected.
The starport alarms flashed across the tactical map, and the hidden fleet began launching almost immediately.
Ships left the docks in groups rather than one at a time, forming behind the station's defense screen while their shields came up.
Aurelian watched the movement carefully.
"He's good enough to avoid being trapped."
Astra nodded. "Yes."
"Let him come out."
Eirenne's projection looked toward him. "He is attempting to restore short-range command through hardline laser bursts."
"Can you delay it?"
"Yes."
"Do that. Don't shut it down completely. I want him confident enough to keep forming outside the port."
Eirenne smiled faintly. "Understood."
Rhoswen's voice came through. "That sounds cruel."
"It is war."
"I didn't say I disliked it."
