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Chapter 13 - Chapter 13: The Crisis Descends

Energy beams shot towards the Ark like raindrops. Yang Hao shouted, "Activate the emergency evasion system!" The Ark suddenly turned sharply, and the beams grazed past the hull, leaving fiery trails in the cosmos. Li Qiang's face turned pale as he gripped the control stick tightly. "What's going on with this planet? Just when we saw a glimmer of hope, this happens again!"

Lin Xiao tapped rapidly on the keyboard, analyzing the origin and frequency of the beams. "These attacks seem to be coming from the planet's automated defense system. They probably think we're intruders." Yang Hao was frantic, directing the crew to adjust the Ark's defense system while thinking of a countermeasure. He knew that the Ark, having endured so much hardship, couldn't withstand such continuous attacks.

Just as the situation grew more and more critical, Yang Hao suddenly thought that the alien relic might be able to establish communication with this planet's defense system. He immediately focused his mind and, through his spiritual connection with the alien relic, tried to send out a signal of peace. Time seemed to freeze as everyone held their breath, waiting for a response.

Finally, the attacks from the planet stopped. Then, a communication request was transmitted to the Ark. Yang Hao nervously swallowed and answered the call. A humanoid creature appeared on the screen, with pale green skin, long, narrow eyes that emitted a mysterious glow. "Where do you come from? Why have you invaded our territory?"

Yang Hao took a deep breath and said sincerely, "We are survivors from Earth. Earth is about to be destroyed by a neutron star, and we embarked on this journey of escape for survival. We implore you to allow us to stay temporarily on this planet to repair the Ark."

The alien creature was silent for a moment and said, "We have been observing you for a long time. Your technology and behavioral patterns are similar to those of a race that once invaded us. We have to be vigilant." Lin Xiao quickly added, "The alien relic we brought may prove our goodwill. It contains knowledge from a higher civilization and might be helpful to you as well."

The alien creature seemed intrigued by Lin Xiao's words and demanded that they demonstrate the functions of the alien relic. Yang Hao and the others carefully showed some of its capabilities to the other side. The dazzling light and magical energy fluctuations made the alien creature look surprised. After some internal discussion, the alien creature finally spoke, "You may land, but you must disarm and accept our supervision."

Yang Hao glanced at Li Qiang and Lin Xiao and, with no other choice, agreed. The Ark slowly descended onto the planet's surface. When the hatch opened, a group of alien soldiers were already waiting outside. They held their weapons with alert eyes and surrounded Yang Hao and the others. Led by the soldiers, they arrived at a huge city. The architecture in the city was peculiar and full of a sense of technology. All kinds of strange aircraft hovered in the air, and alien residents on the streets cast curious glances at these outsiders.

Yang Hao and the others were brought to a palace, where an alien leader dressed in magnificent attire sat on a high throne. He scrutinized Yang Hao and the others and said in a deep voice, "I hope you don't try any tricks, or the consequences will be on your own heads." Yang Hao respectfully said, "We just want to survive, and we also hope to coexist peacefully with you and jointly explore the mysteries of the universe." The alien leader nodded slightly and indicated that they should settle down in a designated area and wait for further review.

In their temporary residence, Li Qiang complained, "What's this all about? Just out of the frying pan and into the fire, and now we're being watched like criminals." Yang Hao comforted him, "At least we're safe for now, and we have a chance to repair the Ark. Don't worry, there will be a way." Lin Xiao had been studying the possibility of integrating the alien relic with the planet's technology. She had a hunch that this planet might hide an even greater secret.

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