Bab 736: Silence Before The War (2)

Onboard the formidable Xyran mothership, Commander Ibis found solace in the repetitive target practice. Instead of a conventional target, a holographic projection of Ashton served as the focal point for her seething rage.

Each pull of the trigger sent searing plasma bolts towards the flickering image until, with a final burst, Ashton's hologram vanished, marking a symbolic 'death.'

Taking a moment to steady herself, Ibis removed her helmet, revealing a face contorted by frustration and lingering anger. The battle in the virtual realm provided a temporary outlet for her emotions, but the reality of their predicament gnawed at her core.

"I knew I shouldn't have trusted him... or Astaroth," She mumbled as she was about to start with another round when she heard a knock. "Come in!"

She was expecting a report on the Xyrans that Ashton had held captive, but instead, an attendant appeared from the door, carrying a communicator.