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Traversal: Another Option

“Allow This One to summarize,” the AI said.

“By all means,” Harking replied. He folded his arms across his chest and watched as glyphs spiraled around This One’s body. The AI wavered and flickered. The captain knew it was processing more information than he had given it. A lot more.

“You were warned off by The Incorporated, the Abattoir have blockaded all known routes from this point in space, and the nearest jump point — unlikely to be blockaded — is far enough away that this crew will almost certainly perish before arrival. Yes?”

“Your command of the obvious is compelling.”

“Do not be rude, Captain. This One is merely collating.”

Harking sighed. “Continue. What do you suggest?”

“Simple. You will need to create an unknown route.”

Harking snorted, incredulous. “You’re talking about punching a hole in subspace. There’s a reason we use existing conduits. We don’t have the technology to make our own. No one does.”

“That is where you are wrong, Captain,” the AI replied. “This One knows of a way.”

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