The CSATA briefing room smelled of disinfectant and cold coffee. Director Ngoa had not slept. He laid the satellite map on the table, tapped Vandenberg with the tip of his pen.

"Joint base, California. They want you on site within eighteen hours. Officially, technical cooperation. Unofficially, you are the only person on Earth who understands what Sentinelle 7 is saying."

Kom nodded. Nadia, leaning against the wall, took notes without looking up.

"Nadia stays at the cafe. Encrypted relay, remote access to the servers. Boss, if anyone touches your equation, she will know before Washington does."

At Nsimalen, VIP lounge, the air conditioning bit into the skin. A woman rose as he entered. Charcoal suit, thick file pressed against her hip, no wedding ring. Direct gaze, almost insolent.

"Doctor Kom. Elena Vasquez, Space Force. I am your escort."

He pulled a sachet of Ngonda from his briefcase, slipped it between her fingers. She inhaled, surprised, eyebrows lifted.

"I have never smelled a coffee so alive."

"Make we go, docteur Vasquez, le ciel n'attend personne, même pas les Américains."

Night flight. She fell asleep against his shoulder. On her tablet, still lit, one folder: SENTINELLE-KOM. Kom did not blink.

Curious about what he read in that file? Write me on Messenger, I will slip you a hint. ☕