32.Found

Bill discusses a major breakthrough with Garfield: a prototype power core based on alien technology significantly outperforms their fusion reactors. Will joins them to learn about the discovery of derelict Others' cargo vessels found during the Delta Pavonis survey, which the team plans to repurpose as a massive colony transport by retrofitting mover plates.

Bill and Garfield examine the readings from their prototype power core, which is built on technology reverse-engineered from the alien hulk's power systems. The prototype dramatically outperforms their existing fusion reactors at a five-to-one ratio, prompting discussion of potential pilot projects. Will arrives and inquires about Others' cargo vessels. Bill explains that two volunteer Bobs surveying the Delta Pavonis system discovered derelict cargo vessels that were destroyed during a previous defensive engagement. These derelicts drifted undetected through the system after the Others failed to locate them. One vessel is being salvaged for materials, while the other is being repaired. The team's plan is to outfit the repaired cargo vessel with mover plates instead of attempting to replicate the Others' drive system, then pilot it back to Earth. The three discuss the enormous capacity of the vessel—easily capable of transporting fourteen million people—representing either a single massive colony ship or an alternative to fifteen hundred smaller vessels or fifteen hundred transport trips.