Imperial Space Agency.

So, if they intend to stop, it should be within the next two months, Dr. Musa Aminu, the head of the ISA, said while reviewing the latest observation data.

Over the past five years, the empires advancements in observation technology, combined with their rapid production and deployment capabilities, had allowed them to gather increasingly detailed information on the approaching visitors. Now, with precise calculations and high observational fidelity, they could pinpoint the exact region where the visitors were likely to pass through.

However, there was a limit to the current mana-based observation technology. The approaching vessel continuously emitted mana, and when combined with the ambient mana present in the void between heliosphere-protected star systems, this made it impossible to capture a detailed image of the vessel. As a result, they would have to rely on visual observation when the vessel came closer to gather more precise details.

"Are we really just going to sit back and let them do whatever they want while we watch?" one of the attending scientists asked Dr. Musa.

Dr. Musa replied, "That's not my call to make. My responsibility is to report this to the emperor during the upcoming Imperial Council meeting. He will decide what course of action we take." He paused briefly before continuing, "However, if you have any suggestions for how we should handle this, now is the time to share them. I'll present them to the emperor to provide him with options." He opened the floor, inviting suggestions from the group.

With the stage now open, members of the Imperial Space Agency began offering their suggestions one after another. Ideas were discussed openly, with participants debating their merits without concern for how foolish any might seem. After all, it would only be the Agency head and vice heads who would ultimately report to the emperor, not them. This environment allowed for creative, sometimes unconventional proposals, as everyone was focused on exploring every possibility, knowing that the final decision lay with higher authorities.

.

"They have no idea were here," whispered one of the junior officers, awe in his voice as their ship crept closer and closer to the ship whilst in stealth mode.

But then, something changed.

A pulse came from the alien ship, and a sudden, inexplicable wave of energy washed over their ship. The lights flickered. Instruments went haywire.

"Status report!" Darius barked.

"Systems are fluctuating," Irina said, her fingers flying over her controls. "But were still cloaked. They cant"

Suddenly, the alien vessel emitted a bright flash of light, and every screen on the ship went dark for a moment.

"Commander... I think they know were here," Irina said, her voice barely a whisper.

"All stations, prepare for evasive maneuvers!" Darius shouted, his heart pounding. "Break away, now!"

But it was too late. A red warning light blinked on the main display as the alien ship turned toward them, locking on. The hum of energy grew louder.

"Brace for impact!" Darius shouted, gripping his seat. The ship jolted violently as a blinding explosion filled the viewport, racing toward them with terrifying speed.

"Shit," someone muttered as the explosion overtook the ship, swallowing them whole in a split second of blinding white.

{Simulation complete. Result: failure,} Athenas calm voice echoed through the silence, bringing the scenario to a final, bitter end.

Over the past few years since the discovery of the approaching visitors, Athena had been running countless simulations, each with different parameters to predict how their encounter might unfold and how events could escalate depending on their actions.

{Lets start another,} she said, quietly logging the results and insights gained from the previous run. With no definitive knowledge of its occupants, purpose, or capabilities, she was left to theorize, running her calculations based on limited data and educated guesses. Still, she pressed on, knowing that the more simulations she completed, the better her chance of glimpsing the right outcome.

Similar preparations were underway across various departments that had any connection to the impending first contact with the approaching vessels. From the Imperial Space Agency to the military and all the way to the Ministry of the Exterior, each department focused on their role in the encounter.

The Ministry of the Exterior concentrated on the means of initiating communication, while the military prepared to send personnel to protect diplomatic envoys. Meanwhile, the space agency took charge of monitoring the situation, ensuring nothing unusual occurred by locking down surrounding space and keeping a watchful eye on the oncoming visitors.

.

Aron was seated in his office, which remained in the same temporary cube as the construction of the new imperial palace had only begun a few months ago. Given the project's scale, it would take several years to complete.

Brother, why did you call for me? Henry asked as he entered the room. At eighteen, Henry had grown noticeably taller and was beginning to resemble a younger version of Aron, with his recent growth spurt marking his transition into adolescence.

Ive called you because now that youre eighteen and considered an adult, its time for you to start familiarizing yourself with the workings of the government. Youll be attending the Imperial Council meeting with me, Aron explained, gesturing to the stack of papers in his hands.

The papers were made from nanomachines, which allowed them to function like holograms while still providing the tactile feel of paper.

Brother, youre going to be around for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Cant I just focus on what I love? Plus, you could always have a child to take my place if needed. I really dont want to deal with government matters, Henry said, his expression serious about his reluctance to assume a political role.

Aron listened to Henrys response with an understanding expression before asking, So, you dont want to take my place in the future?

Not really. Why tie myself down with such responsibilities when I could be doing what I love? Henry replied.

I understand your reluctance. However, as the only direct heir and the current crown prince, its important for you to at least attend this meeting and see how things are handled. You can decide later if you want to continue in this role or not, Aron said, making it clear he wasnt trying to force Henry into a position he wasnt comfortable with. There was no urgency; he wanted Henry to be informed and prepared, but the choice was ultimately his.

Okay, Ill attend, but I dont need to prepare anything to speak, right? Henry asked, wanting to know if he needed to be ready to say anything.

No, unless you have a suggestion or something specific to discuss, you wont need to speak. Youll mostly be observing, Aron replied, reassuring him.

While the opportunity for Henry to learn was a significant reason for his attendance, this particular meeting was set to address a crucial issue. Aron wanted Henry to be present not only to gain insights but also to be fully informed about the important matters at hand. Understanding these key issues would help Henry make an informed decision about his future role, as knowledge and context often influence our choices.