A new window appeared above the information window. ‘Call for help?’ I wanted to, I mean, there was no way we were going to be able to deal with this many ships without some assistance, but who would we call.

  The nearest fleet was over a day away. Stationed at the nearest colony to protect it from any sneak attack while still being close enough to provide some support. My body slumped against the wall. Sliding down as the reality hit me. I was going to die here. Courtney was going to die here. We all were going to die here. And there was nothing I could do about it.

  The window flashed again. I scowled at it, growling out, “And who would we call that would be able to help us?”

  ‘Information Blocked.’

  “What would they even be able to do that our fleet was unable to?”

  ‘Information Blocked.’

  That message was starting to piss me off every time I saw it. I knew I didn’t have high clearance. In fact, I have little more information than the typical citizen. Half of the information I did have just gave more realistic numbers and capabilities than was made public. “Would they be willing to help and what would it cost us?”

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  ‘Yes, they would charge nothing. In fact, they may end up paying you for this opportunity.’

  That utterly confused me. “Then why are you asking me? Shouldn’t you be asking the fleet commander?”

  ‘User is the only one in a position to send out the call.’

  I rubbed at my face. “Still not my choice to make.”

  ‘User must accept another genetic alteration. Agree. Deny.’

  My mind went blank as the two options blinked in front of me. The AI was malfunctioning. That same AI was applying changes to me as well as providing information it should not have. Something was very wrong. Licking my lips, I asked two more questions, “What will these changes entail and what are you changing me into?”

  ‘Changes are to accelerate the process already set into motion in your …error Information Blocked.’ The window disappeared, but not before I could read it.

  “Fine, then answer this question. Will I be a threat to the crew?”

  ‘No, not if you don’t want to be.’

  That answer sent a wave a relief through me. It meant that I would still be myself, at least in some fashion. If it meant I could save everyone still alive while not being a threat to those around me, why would I do so. “Fine. I accept the changes. Call for help.” My body seized and felt like it was burning up. My vision darkening until finally I passed out.