In the L4 sector, humanity's first sealed space colony, Elpis, floated serenely. In a room at the Federation Space Force base on Elpis, Leona Garstein stood alone, stunned.
Her trusted and revered commander, Major Yuria Heinkel, had abruptly declared she was heading to Earth and left the room.
Honestly, Leona didn't think the Earth-bound rebellion would affect them much in space. The man in the broadcast—Vindel—had spoken of rampant corruption in the Federation's upper echelons, and she couldn't deny it. But here on Elpis, where the Branstein family's influence held sway, corruption was less pervasive compared to other places.
"Lord Elzam, Lady Katraia," Leona whispered, addressing the two lost in the tragic Elpis Incident. "Should I follow Captain Yuria? Or stay to protect Elpis?"
Her heart sought answers from the departed, but they remained silent.
Then, a sudden feeling gripped her. "If I let Captain Yuria go to Earth alone, she won't come back? Why do I feel this?"
It might have been her dormant telekinetic powers whispering, but Leona, unaware of such abilities, didn't dwell on it. Instead, she made her choice.
"Of course. Captain Yuria is the leader of the Troye Unit. As her subordinates, we belong by her side."
Her decision made, Leona acted swiftly. She contacted the other Troye Unit members, urging them to join her and Yuria on Earth. Given the nature of the mission, only 11, including herself, agreed to go. Together, they sought out Yuria.
Fortunately, they caught her just as she exited the command room.
"What's this?" Yuria said. "I'm about to be busy, so I don't have much time."
"We know," Leona replied. "You're going to Earth, right? The 11 members of the Troye Unit request to accompany you."
"Are you insane? This is my personal matter," Yuria said. "Dragging you all into it—"
"We are the Troye Unit under your command," Leona interrupted. "Where you go, we go."
Yuria met Leona's resolute gaze and saw the same determination she'd felt when deciding to chase Axel to Earth. She gave up trying to dissuade them.
"Idiots. Do what you want," Yuria said. "I'll get the commander's permission. But you saw that broadcast. The enemy's a beast."
At her words, the 11 members saluted in perfect unison.