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terminated the pregnancy .”
    Todd looks stunned.
    “I’m sorry, I didn’t know–––are you ok?”
    “I’m fine. Can’t say the same for , Tyler,” Vanessa says as her voice drops slightly.
    “Well , I understand why you did it. If we’re going survive the next fifty years or so we’re gonna have to reach for the stars right? I just wish you could stay here and work on this with me. We’re on the verge of something big here I can feel it.”
    Suddenly, the automatic do ors to the lab flies open. Three Ares Corp. executives and General Graham walk in.
    The G eneral is serious as usual. He addresses Vanessa.
    “We’ve had a change in plans. You will be the new , Captain, for the mission to MV5.”
    Surprised Vanessa listens intently.
    “Captain Daniel Briggs has opted for early retirement. His political views on the nature of our work on MV5 has created some–––concerns, with the board. Since we don’t have time to prep a viable candidate–––you’re up. Congratulations!”
    He shakes her hand firmly.
    “When do we leave–––I mean, I thought the mission was on hold at least until Proposition 9 is voted on,” Vanessa asks.
    One of the Ares’ executives interrupts the conversation.
    “Prop. 9 is just a formality, Captain Bains . A carrot for the public, besides we’ve already sent several missions to the planet to set up a habitat for you and your crew. The teams are already headed back to Earth. The site and its systems are maintained by HAB 1, our resident computer.” 
    “I’m sorry , but I wasn’t briefed on the current status of the mission. As I understood it we were going to MV5 to begin terraforming operations and surveying for prime mineral extractions. A habitat?” Vanessa asks.
    Vaness a directs her attention to the General. He hands her a clear octagon shaped disc marked MV5 Mining Mission Initiative.
    “This is now strictly a mining expedition, Bains. Our probes have confirmed the existence of massive amounts of precious mineral deposits we need for The Dyson’s Sphere. The Apollo Corporation and Aaron Enterprises have scheduled similar missions to the site. They expect to leave two months ahead of us. They want to beat us to the punch,” the General explains.
    The Ares’ executive interrupts again, “Whoever controls the reserves , controls the fate of the Earth. We’ve worked out a mining treaty for now, but it’s flimsy at best. With the site so far away you’ll be on your own if the, shit, hits the fan. So diplomacy is key here.”
    “Review the disc––– you’ll be introduced to your crew in a few weeks,” the General adds.
     
     
    Vanessa Bains is excited about her new commission and saddened by her choice to terminate her pregnancy. The choice to terminate her unborn child and the resulting demise of her marriage was a calculated decision–––one she wrestled with for a long time. Yet, her inner thoughts remain her own. Careful not to show her inner conflict, she put on a brave face for the company men and the general. She realizes that she will be the first black female in history to ever lead a mission like this. Racism and sexism are no longer issues that plague mankind. However, Bains realizes her achievement is significant.
    Bains also knows that she will be considered a pariah in some circles for her decision to terminate her child. Abortion is still a hot topic. Yet, her rationale is that her decision is for the greater good of humanity. She weighted her options and is prepared for the judgment; she just hasn’t considered her own remorse.

Chapter Two
    Weeks later, Vanessa Bains is put through her paces. Training is difficult, but her tenacity and ambition keep her on point. She is physically and mentally ready for the mission and the command of her crew.
    She is eager to meet her crew and prepared for their expected rejection of her. Captain Br iggs, her predecessor, is well-liked by the public and his crew. His crew is notoriously