“I’m running out of options, Scotty!” Sprite yelled. “Let me know when it hits eighty-five, and then I’m entering encryption. I’m hoping most of these specters won’t be able to follow me there.”

“I’ve got six more specters in your surrounding sectors!” Vapor said.

“You’re in the shade; beacon is blinded,” Darkholm said.

“Finally, some good news,” Sprite said. “Ling, how’s that interference?”

“Wait!” Darkholm interrupted. “Go radio silent! Someone’s locked onto your output, and they’re echoing your signal. You’re no longer running silent.”

“I’m reading a second ghost!” Vapor said. “Both on impact course heading seven nine. Evasive maneuvers!”