“That sounds like a plan.” Freyr agreed.

The large tent was bereft of much heavy equipment. Instead, a dozen holos projected mountains of data visualisations onto whiteboards, the walls and even the ceiling. Academics of both species stood around talking, sitting quietly and running through simulations in their head or writing out structures to make sense of it all. The groups were more mixed than before, but there was still quite a clear separation between the Rothian & Human cadres. 

Most of the Human team greeted their leader returning with relief. They’d been to her bedside earlier, but the doctors had ushered them away to let Freyr rest. She did notice though that some people didn’t come and say hello. They clumped together in pockets throughout the space and watched her with interest.

Eventually, quiet fell in the tent when it became clear Dr Lang wanted to address them.

“Hi everyone.” She began, searching for the words. “I think we all need to talk.”