Chapter 4 Journey to the Unknown

The spacecraft, named Aurora, pierced through the atmosphere, leaving the curvature of Earth behind. Jax and Sophia stood on the bridge, gazing out at the starry expanse unfolding before them.

"Captain, we're receiving a transmission from the UEG," the comms officer announced.

Jax nodded, his eyes never leaving the view screen. "Put it through."

The holographic display flickered to life, displaying the stern face of Admiral Chen. "Captain Vash, this is Admiral Chen. I hope you're enjoying the view. You're making good time."

"Thank you, Admiral," Jax replied, his tone neutral. "We're on schedule."

"Good. I expect nothing less from your team, Captain. But remember, the stakes are high. The artifact could change the course of human history. Don't let me down."

The transmission ended, and Jax let out a low breath. Sophia raised an eyebrow. "Pressure much?"

Jax smiled wryly. "Just a little."

As they journeyed deeper into space, the tension mounted. The team worked tirelessly to keep the ship running smoothly, while Sophia's team pored over the ancient map, trying to decipher its secrets.

But Jax knew that the real challenge lay ahead. The unknown dangers of the mission, the rival treasure hunters, and the weight of the UEG's expectations all loomed like specters on the horizon.

And yet, as he gazed out at the stars, he felt a thrill of excitement. They were on the cusp of something incredible, something that could change the course of human history.

Little did they know, they were not alone in the vast expanse of space. A rival ship, the Nightshade, lurked in the shadows, its crew driven by a ruthless determination to claim the artifact for themselves.