Chapter 132 (1/2)
Pluto
With repairs complete, Atlantis engaged her mighty shields in preparation for departure. Not since before the ancients had abandoned the great city had Atlantis been in such a fine state of repair. With the recent additions to Atlantis she and Borealis were once again similarly equipped. Time away from Pegasus while welcome, had the city sh.i.p.s crew on the edge of their seat in anticipation to return.
Maneuvering with elegance and grace, the towering city ship cleared her bonds, and moved closer to the energy screen separating the interior of Arkos station from space. Standing sentinel outside the station were the Aurora class vessels Senator Armstrong and Senator Michaels. Breaking free of the bonds of the station Atlantis began to maneuver away to her appointed location where the jump to hyperspace would be made.
”Are we ready for our return to Pegasus Radek” asked Woolsey.
”We are Mr. Woolsey. Atlantis will be piloting for the duration. It's good to finally have everything in working order” stated Radek.
”I'm sure you and your team are anxious to examine the Asgard and Furling databases also” said Woolsey.
”That we are. Thinking of what we may find in the Furling database kept me awake last night. This could potentially be very exciting” replied a most excited Radek.
In the distance a hyperspace window tore open. Exiting this window was the Athena, with an object in tow. Thirty seconds later Athena and Atlantis glided past one another. Woolsey and Zelenka standing in the control room looked out the open balcony doors at the vessel as she slipped past.
”Radek, please correct me if I'm wrong. Was that vessel towing an Ori mothership” asked a confused Woolsey.
Air Force One
Thirty eight thousand feet above the Kansas prairie the silver, blue, and white livery of Air Force one was aloft. The four General Electric turbofan engines propelled the converted 747 towards its destination at five hundred and sixty miles per hour. Inside the luxuriously appointed aircraft was the President, and members of his staff along with a key advisor.