stumble through uncharted lands (part XIX)

(Roleplay entry. Continued from part XVIII.)

Justine paced in the command centre. "STAN, status report?"

Nothing. She looked at the console. "STAN, any more messages received at any of the relay stations?"

Nothing. She tapped the number 2 pencil against her lips. "STAN, send the autopsy report to my workstation, ASAP."

There was a harsh buzz, a burst of static, and then STAN's voice picking up mid-statement. "--and Alert. 0945 SLT. Gearhaven Prime Airship Tower reported unknown Airship over Dark Sea. It has been confirmed it is a Colossus Class Diesel Dreadnaught. Recon Confirms it is the Gray Area I. Crew is missing."

Justine whirled. "[F*ck]!"

"Interstellar Retrofit modules are not on Board. On Board AI Modules missing. The Gray Area was brought to the Gearhaven Airship Station for further diagnostics. End of Message."

Justine shook her head. "STAN, fire up my shuttle, I'm headed to the docks now. And send a message to the Duchess!" She ran.

(Continued in part XX.)