11.      Mating Dance

Mulder successfully establishes the first subspace communication link with Bill at Epsilon Eridani using the SCUT device, discovering real-time interstellar communications across twenty light-years. Bill informs Mulder of a potential colonization target and directs him to read updates on BobNet, prompting Mulder to begin serious preparation work.

Mulder, stationed at Eta Cassiopeiae, constructs the SCUT (Subspace Communications Universal Transceiver) from plans transmitted by Bill and activates it to establish contact. Upon connecting to BobNet, he successfully reaches Bill at Epsilon Eridani instantaneously across nearly twenty light-years of space, marveling at the revolutionary nature of real-time interstellar communication. The two exchange pleasantries and catch up briefly. Bill reports that Mulder has discovered a viable, if not ideal, colonization target in his system, requiring colonists to establish an immediate space presence. Bill mentions that Riker has also found something and directs Mulder to review blog posts on BobNet. After Bill disconnects, Mulder recognizes the significant work ahead: preparing orbital refined metals for incoming colonists and compiling a comprehensive bestiary documenting the system's creatures, particularly a kraken that will require extensive documentation.