Jaxon took a deep breath and turned to his team of soldiers and workers. The heavy silence reflected the anticipation in the air. They were waiting for answers, a clear course of action in the face of uncertainty.
— I'm staying here, he declared firmly, breaking the silence.
A murmur rippled through the group. Some nodded in agreement, while others seemed uncertain. Jaxon raised his voice, commanding everyone's attention.
— Pier Benir isn't done with us here. But he's weakened. If we can take him out, it will ensure our safety as we head to the Moon and later return to Earth without running into NHU ships.
He paused, letting his words sink in, then continued, his tone grave.
— But that's not all. We need to stabilize the technology here on Deimos and on the Moon. The threat of the Flashing Being is growing, and if we don't act, we risk unleashing a catastrophe of unimaginable proportions.
His final statement landed like a thunderclap. The faces around him displayed a mix of fear and determination. Paula was the first to break the silence.
— So, you want us to stay here, stabilize Deimos, and hunt down Pier Benir? she asked, frowning. — It's risky, but I'm with you.
Alira nodded slowly, her arms crossed.
— If we ignore the Flickering Being, we could lose far more than just a battle against Pier Benir. Stabilizing this technology must be our priority.
Liza, her face drawn with exhaustion, spoke up.
— Then we need a clear plan. If we stay, we'll need a solid operational base and enough resources to hold off any further attacks.
Jaxon, appreciating Liza's pragmatism, nodded.
— That's exactly what I propose. Listen carefully.
He activated a holographic display, projecting plans for the camp's expansion and fortification. The projections showed reinforced structures, artificial gardens, and an underground complex under construction.
— Here's what I propose. We use the time we have here to solidify our position. The existing warehouses become our operational center. We'll transform them into viable long-term facilities. Then, we establish artificial gardens outside to produce our own food.
His finger moved to a section marked in red on the map.
— At the same time, we begin building an underground complex. This will protect us from orbital attacks and give us a secure refuge. We've already started digging with the drills. It'll take time, but every meter counts.
Alira stepped forward, her silver eyes shining with intensity.
— And your ship? Are you planning to integrate it into the camp?
— Yes, Jaxon confirmed. — Part of its technology will be connected to the main infrastructure. It'll serve both as a communication hub and, if necessary, an evacuation option.
A heavy silence followed his explanation. Liza, standing near Mark, broke the quiet.
— It's ambitious, Jaxon. And dangerous. But… it's doable. With limited resources and the right people.
Paula stepped forward, her gaze fixed on him.
— I'll stay. If you're serious about taking down Pier Benir and dealing with that… Flashing Being, you're going to need all the allies you can get.
The workers, hesitant at first, began murmuring among themselves. The idea of a solid camp, a place where they could defend themselves, resonated deeply. Slowly, hands rose, and faces hardened with determination.
Jaxon felt a weight lift from his shoulders. He wasn't alone. He had a team, a cause, and now a plan.
— Then it's decided, he concluded with a subtle but sincere smile. — Let's get to work.
---
The following days were marked by intense activity. The warehouses were reinforced, equipped with backup generators and automated defense systems. Outside, artificial gardens began to take shape under massive transparent domes, where hydroponic systems promised the first crops within weeks.
Below ground, Alira oversaw the subterranean work. The drills progressed slowly but surely, and basic living spaces were already taking shape. The tunnels stretched deeper, offering a secure haven in case of an attack.
Liza managed logistics, ensuring every unit had the resources needed to advance. Her expertise and calm demeanor had become indispensable to the camp's organization.
As Mars's red moon shone in the night sky, Jaxon stood on an elevated platform, watching the bustling camp. Beside him, Paula adjusted her rifle.
— We've got a chance, she murmured. — Not a big one, but a chance nonetheless.
— And that's all we need, Jaxon replied, his gaze fixed on the horizon.