The Decision POV: Aidan The moment the signal opens, I feel it. Like a cold gust of wind blowing through my mind, an alien presence presses against my thoughts. It’s not invasive—not yet—but it’s heavy. Patient. I can almost feel the weight of the coalition vessel’s gaze, hovering like an ever-present shadow, waiting to see what I’ll do. The projection of the ship looms ahead, enormous and alive, its structure pulsing with subtle light. The neural link between my mind and the ship stretches, almost tangible. It’s as though the ship itself is alive, breathing with a sense of ancient awareness, sending out an invitation. “Bridge bearer,” the voice enters my mind again. It’s calm. So calm that it feels like an enticement. “Are you ready to decide?” I swallow hard, forcing my thoughts into focus. I try not to listen to the pulse of the ship, the way it seems to hum with power and silent promises. It’s not a question of whether I’m ready. The decision has already been made for me, h
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