First contact with Rocky

Grace initiates communication with the alien ship by flashing his engines. The alien responds in kind, and a cylinder is sent over. Inside, Grace finds a star map model showing the local stars, with a connection between Tau Ceti and 40 Eridani, indicating the aliens' home system. Grace names the alien 'Rocky' and begins a process of communication, first through gestures and then through shared scientific concepts. This event marks the beginning of a deep friendship and partnership that becomes central to the story.