A few minutes later, Beka was in Command, studiously avoiding Telemachus's eyes.
"Nice of you to join us, Beka," Dylan said with a grin. "Rhade told you about Pratolcha?"
"Yeah, he mentioned it. What's up?"
Andromeda appeared on a viewscreen. "We've received a mayday signal from Perses. It was audio only and claimed that the Drago-Kazov Pride had attacked them without provocation."
"So, it's the usual little guy in distress." She looked around at the solemn faces of her crewmates. "What's the big deal?"
"The message was addressed specifically to Commonwealth ships," Andromeda replied.
"Oh-kay. It's good intentions versus tactful avoidance of confrontation. I can understand that." Beka stepped behind the pilot's console.
Dylan crossed his arms and watched the data flashing near Andromeda's head on the viewscreen. "What do you think, Beka? Do we stay or do we go?"
"Well, you know I'm not the Commonwealth's biggest fan, but come on. These people named their planet after Andromeda's kid or whatever. If we abandon 'em now, I can guarantee you they'll never forgive us."
"I'm with you, boss," Harper said from his station. "Hey, maybe it'll earn us points with the Commonwealth populace if we ride to the rescue of Perases."
"Perses."
"Yeah, them too."
Dylan nodded his head slowly. "Trance?"
The golden being looked thoughtful for a moment and then dipped her head. "This is more important than you realize now, Dylan. Much will be revealed and more will be questioned."
"Rhade?"
"You've always been a loyal man, Dylan, even when it hurt you." Telemachus risked a brief glance at Beka. "I'm sure you'll make the right decision."
Dylan flashed Rommie a small smile. "And we all know a warship never backed away from a fight. Let's bring it."