<span class="mu-i"> ''Let us take on this challenge, and all the challenges that come after it, with courage and honour, for if we succeed, all mankind will be better for it.'' </span> For that is what it is all about, is it not? From the cavemen of old earth to the voyages undertaken by the great mariners of old to the pioneers of flight and space travel, it is their footsteps you shall tread. Ever upward and onwards, pushing the boundaries of what is possible and expanding the horizons of human achievement. Yes, if there is anything you want to be remembered for, it would be for your contributions to the prosperity and advancement of all mankind.
<span class="mu-i"> "My chief of staff, Vice Admiral von Schellscheidt, will send out messages further detailing the exact roles you will play in this undertaking. We will leave when the clocks of our ships have been synchronised and when the Feldgendarmerie has finished their search. Because that will take a while, I thought it would be nice of me to host a little soirée in the officers' lounge to help us all be introduced in a non-work-related environment. Are there any questions? If not, I can call this meeting adjourned." </span>
A commodore, red of hair and small of frame, raises his hand.
<span class="mu-i"> ''Yes?''
''How long exactly are we to spend on the frontier? The general staff was rather vague about that."
''For as long as necessary, the assignment I was given doesn't provide for an end date for our mission; as soon as we're through, we might as well be there for life, though I hope not, unless you are transferred back or resign, though I think that is unlikely, considering you all volunteered for this.'' </span>
At your last remark, Colonel von Blitzherz lights up.
<span class="mu-i"> ''Damn right! There are no human pilots capable of giving old Blitzy a challenge, so I have to look among the inhuman for a proper challenge! In more ways than one."
''Outside of service hours, I hope?'' </span> You have little patience for such boisterous innuendos.
<span class="mu-i"> ''Of course, sir! My hours are yours to use and waste as you see fit!'' </span> How he ever got promoted more than once remains a mystery to you.
