The ship came into view slowly.
Even with full magnification, it was hard to see at first—just a dark shape against the backdrop of stars.
However, as the Xu family cruiser fleet moved closer, details started to emerge.
Scratched plating. Melted outer wings. Large burn marks on the hull. It looked like the aftermath of a cosmic war.
Inside the command bridge of the lead cruiser, Vice Admiral Xu Jian stood behind the main console with a straight back and sharp eyes. Around him, officers moved with quiet efficiency, tracking every pulse from the unknown vessel.
One of the scanners finally blinked.
"Sir. Visual lock achieved. The object is a large exploration-class ship. Unknown origin. Appears dormant. No shields. No weapons powered."
Xu Jian didn't respond at first. He stared at the screen, arms behind his back.
The ship was big. He could see now how many layers it once had—command decks, observation domes, segmented cargo holds.
