The earth-shaking sounds of "sisterly communication" from deep within the bridge finally subsided.
A moment later, Holy Kesha reappeared at the entrance to the bridge's main passageway.
Her steps were steady, her breath utterly unruffled, and her silver-white armor was spotless, as though the supernova-like commotion deep within the ship had nothing to do with her.
She calmly returned to the command throne and sat down with elegance.
Just then, Flowing Cloud stepped forward and reported respectfully, "Queen Kesha, there is an incoming external communication request."
Kesha's golden eyes lifted slightly. Without the slightest emotional fluctuation, she merely gave a small nod.
Flowing Cloud instinctively glanced toward the passage leading to the training grounds behind Kesha. It was deathly quiet there, and Queen Liang Bing had not emerged yet... She silently lit a candle for her own queen, then operated the console.
On the enormous main screen appeared Silent King Szarekh, seated upon a stasis throne and radiating cold majesty.
His hollow eye sockets swept across the bridge, his gaze lingering on Kesha for a moment.
"Honored powerhouse," the Silent King's synthesized voice remained cold, though it carried a deliberately softened note, "I am Silent King Szarekh, supreme ruler of the Necron Dynasties. Please allow me to clarify: the previous attack on the Imperium of Man's expeditionary fleet was not ordered by me, but was an act of rebellion led by the traitor Imotekh the Stormlord and his followers. I have previously met with and reached an agreement with Saint Luke. I hope to discuss certain... matters with Queen Liang Bing."
Kesha sat upright upon her throne and did not respond immediately.
Her golden eyes were calm and still, as though assessing him, or perhaps merely waiting.
During that brief silence, light flickered at the side passageway of the bridge.