Chapter 2 Preparations

The days that followed the briefing were a blur of activity as the team prepared for departure. Jax and Sophia worked tirelessly, overseeing every aspect of the mission. From provisioning the ship to briefing their teams, no detail was too small.

Sophia's team pored over the ancient map, trying to decipher its secrets. They argued over the meaning of strange symbols and debated the best route to take. Meanwhile, Jax's team checked and rechecked the ship's systems, ensuring they were ready for the long journey ahead.

As the launch date drew near, the tension mounted. The UEG breathing down their necks, the rival treasure hunters lurking in the shadows, and the unknown dangers of the mission all weighed heavily on their minds.

One night, as they worked late in the mission control room, Sophia turned to Jax with a concerned expression. "Captain, can I ask you something?"

"Shoot, Doc," Jax replied, looking up from the ship's schematics.

"Do you think we're ready for this?" Sophia asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Jax set down his pen and looked at her intently. "We've got the best team in the galaxy, Sophia. We've got this."

Sophia nodded, but her eyes betrayed her doubts. Jax knew that she was thinking about the risks, the unknowns, and the pressure from the UEG. He also knew that she was thinking about him, about his past, and about whether he was truly ready for this mission.