Space. Near the Central Belt of Civilization.

  The Martian fleet, dozens of ships with elongated hulls and powerful energy trails, is rapidly approaching Mercury. The lines of their thrust engines cut through the vacuum. The tension is palpable, even in the silence of the ether, like something almost material, invisible, yet unbearably close.

  Suddenly — an alarm signal.

  Fleet Command Station. Central Hall.

  The holograms begin to flicker, flashing red. On the main screen, the icons of the ships change one by one to yellow and orange, symbolizing the alarm. Systems malfunction, and the devices hum.

  — We’re under attack! — a voice comes over the communication line.

  The captain of one of the lead cruisers:

  — The ships ahead are under fire! Confirmed — four cruisers are damaged!

  Admiral Tyler, tall, graying, with a stern, almost stone-like face, wearing dark armor with the fleet emblem, sharply rises from his chair. His movements are precise, commanding, but even in this tense moment, it’s clear that he is a man used to pressure.

  — Immediately shut down the thrust engines! — he orders. — Form up in combat formation! Attention everyone — threat coordinates have been transmitted. Groups "Shield" and "Harpoon" — move to cover.

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  The doors to the hall burst open with unexpected force. President Marcus of Mars and Agent Ani rush in. Their faces are tense, anxious, their eyes fixed on the screen, as if every moment could be decisive.

  — What’s happening?! — Marcus demands, his voice sounding like an ominous threat. His eyes immediately lock on the map, where all the fleet’s ships look small and vulnerable. — Who’s attacking?!

  — According to preliminary data, it’s a minefield, — Tyler reports clearly. — We haven’t detected any enemy vessels. No ship has made visual contact. I’ve already ordered the minesweepers to move forward — we’ll clear the path and continue.

  Marcus doesn’t hide his irritation, his fingers balling into fists.

  — Why weren’t the minesweepers ahead from the start?! — the president sharply interrupts him. — We’re not on an excursion, Admiral!

  Tyler turns his head toward him, his gaze calm, but there’s fatigue and firmness in it, as if from a man who’s dealt with situations like this before.

  — We’re in the Central Belt, Mr. President. It’s a neutral zone. According to all reconnaissance data, it’s safe. We’re still far from our objective.

  — What?! — Marcus’ voice cracks with fury, unable to contain his anger. — Mines in the Central Belt? This is a provocation! An act of aggression against Mars!

  Ani, standing a little behind, steps forward. Her voice is calm but firm, like a warning.

  — They might be trying to provoke us. If we strike Earth now — a new war will begin. On two fronts. We won’t survive. It’s economic suicide.

  — Exactly, — Tyler nods. — The enemy isn’t trying to destroy us. They want to delay us.

  A brief pause. The hall grows quieter, and the air seems to contract. Marcus looks at the fleet projection, his face a mask of anger.

  — Fine. Let’s assume. Have you assessed the damage?

  — Yes, — the admiral answers, his voice calm and focused. — Four cruisers are damaged. Life support systems are operational, the main weapons are functional. Temporary repairs are needed. Nothing critical.

  Marcus slowly turns his gaze to the projection, his eyes burning like two fires. He speaks slowly, as though delivering a verdict.

  — Alright, Tyler. Continue the operation. But know this — we’re coming for our property. These pathetic androids dared to challenge the living. The hour of truth has come. Humans will take the place designated by the true God!

  The projection of Mercury flashes on the screen. Beside it, the symbol of the Zeus Corporation briefly appears. It doesn’t stay long. Soon it will be replaced by another. The new symbol will not only signify victory but also the beginning of a new era.