"Only automated identification requests. Eirenne answered them."
Eirenne gave a small nod. "The captured codes remain valid. The relay still believes we are carrying replacement components for the sanctuary's geothermal system."
"That should get us close," Aurelian said.
"It should," Eirenne agreed. "But once we enter the inner system, visual inspection may expose us."
Aurelian had expected that.
The Compact had weaker long-range security than the Alliance, but Sanctuary Ardent was too important for Drann to leave completely unguarded.
Even with most of his fleet away, several defense stations, patrol groups, and planetary security units would remain.
They did not need to defeat those forces in a large battle.
They only needed to keep them confused long enough to reach the sanctuary.
Astra stood beside him, quietly watching the map.
"How long until Taran arrives at Talis Verge?" she asked.
Eirenne brought up the estimate.
