N-XS interfaced directly with the Res Publica mainframe through Smit's holoscreen, accessing data files as needed. She sealed the nanofissures in the core's shell, and using the gravity-assist crane managed to manoeuvre it back into Engineering and reinstall it.

Ship's power returned to full capacity and drive systems came online shortly after.

Then the crew returned.

The next time N-XS saw Styx, it was through the clear steel barrier of the Sick Bay as Dr. Anders attended to her broken clavicle.

Jericho came up beside her, trying to act casual.

"Thanks," he said. "For not blowing up my pod and getting us all killed."