The cost of Infinity

Prologue: And so it begins...

In a distant galaxy, a battle rages on; Commander Sinumbra calmly orders her crew into their positions as she prepares to finish off the last warship fleet of her enemies. The last week has been nothing but continuous battles. She is exhausted, but the thrill of knowing her victory is imminent has provided her with the energy boost she needs to see this mission through to its finish.

Just as she is about to call in the kill shot, her screen changes to show a live feed of The High Council. She straightens up as she sees the Supreme General come into view. "Commander, you have been relieved from your current duty assignment, effective immediately. Your first mate will resume your duties as Commander. Your personal items have been prepped for transport, and a ship is waiting to take you to meet with the high council. Consider this your formal notice of reassignment."

Commander Sinumbra bows respectfully, "Yes Sir, Thank you, Sir" once the battle projector returns to its original screen, she straightens up just in time to see her crew jump out of their seats and rush to congratulate her. Some shake her hand while others pat her on the back. Her first mate takes the helm and orders the final crushing blow that destroys the last warship. After confirming the battle is over, her first mate turns slowly and bows in her direction. An honor reserved only for fleet commanders and their superiors.

She removes her warship commander insignia from her shoulder. "Mahteia, You have been my shadow since the day I set foot on this ship; now it is your time to step into the light." Sin pins the Commander insignia onto Mahteias shoulder. "I leave it to you." She says flatly. Sin backs away from the commanders' helm and watches as her protege takes her place and becomes the new master.

When Commander Mahteia starts issuing orders to her new crew, it gives Sin the chance to sneak out unnoticed. She preferred to leave that way, no big parties or fancy dinners. Just a peaceful walk down the hall to reflect and prepare herself for whatever is to come next. Upon arriving at the Capital, she is greeted by the General. She begins to bow, but he holds a hand out, signaling for her to stop. He smiles at her warmly, a small show of affection for the woman he considers as a daughter. "I told you this day would come; I couldn't be more proud." He beams with the pride only a parent could feel. "You must know, I did not influence the council in any way while they were making this decision. You truly are the best candidate for this assignment." The General looks upon his daughter's face, expecting a stone-cold reaction typical of her. She did not disappoint him. His lips curl into a grin, and he chuckles. "let us be off then; we don't want to keep the council waiting."

When they arrive at the meeting hall, the General takes his seat among the rest of the high council members. Commander Sinumbra takes a strong stance at the center of the room and bows before the council.

The head of the high council stands, "Commander Sinumbra, Welcome. We have called you here to discuss your new assignment. I can not stress this enough, it is of the utmost importance that you succeed. Based on your track record, we see that failure has never been an issue for you which made you the perfect candidate for this assignment, amongst other things." Commander Sinumbra bows again, "Thank you, Sir."

"Don't thank me yet Commander, You should at least hear the details of the mission first."