The mysterious ship, a sleek black vessel with no markings, hailed the Marauder's Revenge.
"This is Captain Zara Nexus of the 'Eclipse,'" a sultry voice said. "I've been tracking your... creative escape. Impressive."
Jax eyed the Eclipse warily. "What do you want, Captain Nexus?"
Zara's laughter was husky. "Oh, I think we can help each other. The EUG's getting too big for its britches. I have a proposal for you, Captain Vashin."
Arin's eyes narrowed. "What kind of proposal?"
Zara's smile was audible. "Let's just say... a mutually beneficial alliance. Meet me on planet Tartarus-III to discuss details."
Jax exchanged skeptical glances with his crew. But something about Zara's words resonated. Maybe it was the promise of taking down the EUG, or maybe it was the thrill of the unknown.
"Alright, Captain Nexus," Jax said finally. "We'll take a chance. But if this is a trap..."
Zara's laughter cut him off. "Oh, Captain Vashin. I promise you... this is only the beginning."
The Eclipse vanished as suddenly as it appeared, leaving Jax's crew wondering what they'd just gotten themselves into...