The clock read 1:46 am, year 2109. I was sitting and reviewing voice messages from my wife, sent during my flight. A cool breeze swirled, hinting at the ongoing rains outside. Yet, above the gentle patter, the mighty roars of starship engines dominated, as the Wuang Shi Space Centre, one of the busiest in the world, was buzzing with activity. Sitting in a hangar by the runway only intensified the experience.

I go by the name of Jake Winters, a metal and metallurgical engineer employed by Forzillus Corporation. Specifically, I'm part of Team 21B, entrusted with the responsibility of studying the elements found on Mars.

Since the inception of synthetic fuel with unparalleled calorific value, space exploration has seen remarkable progress. This synthetic fuel, not only cost-effective to produce but also extraordinarily potent while producing minimal harmful byproducts, became a game-changer. It triggered a surge in space research, including the development of the first asteroid mining ventures and lunar extraction facilities. People's ambitions to explore other planets, extract resources, and amass wealth were ignited, and corporations like Forzillus were at the forefront.

Initially, Forzillus began with lunar mining but eventually revealed its true colors. It systematically acquired other companies and eliminated competition, even playing a role in the formation of a global government, although they insist on their lack of involvement. However, it's widely understood that this world government is nothing more than a puppet under Forzillus Corporation's control.

Our current mission takes us to Mars, where we're set to replace the existing Team 21A. Our shifts typically last around 150 Earth days or 145 Martian sols. I remember our previous shift being extended due to the Phobos Centre shutdown, forcing Mars facility personnel to stay an additional 10 sols. This leads me to believe that this time, our mission may be similarly prolonged.

"I have my doubts about that," Chile, our team's doctor, remarked, reclining near the bags and attempting a quick nap amid the cacophony. "Haven't you heard the news? There's turmoil in the Forzillus High Table. Rumors have it that they're contemplating withdrawing funds from the Mars program. I'm skeptical about them extending our shift."

"Nah, you're banking on rumors, Chile. Do you genuinely believe they'd abandon a project they've sunk trillions into? Without reaping the benefits and profits? They're Forzillus, after all," Nathan, Chile's boyfriend, retorted.

[Announcement: Team 21B, please prepare for departure. We leave in 25 minutes.]

"Chile, I hope you're right about them nixing the extension, and Nathan, I'm with you. I can't afford to lose this job; it pays too damn well. While I enjoy space journeys, I never signed up for this extended stay," Mark chimed in, his voice tinged with stress. He let out a sigh, conceding, "Well, money talks, doesn't it?"

25 minutes later, a man clad in a dense brown vest approached and briefed us on the necessary formalities and safety precautions. By 2:10 am, we had boarded the starship. While not colossal in size, the starship's beauty was undeniable. It boasted a fortified cockpit with seating for 20 to 30 individuals, state-of-the-art navigation systems, and agile engines and boosters for efficient movement.

Even if this wasn't our inaugural voyage aboard a starship to another planet, many of us, myself included, were filled with unease; each journey felt as nerve-wracking as the first. Soon, the starship's engines ignited.

Mark(Doctor): "I feel like I'm going to throw up!"

Chile(Doctor): "Don't you dare!"

Me: "Keep it together, guys. Just close your eyes and think of something pleasant. Definitely not death."

Mark(Doctor): "Well, that's a comforting thought, isn't it?"

The ship swiftly ascended, crossing altitudinal milestones - 10km, 20km, 30km, and 40km. In no time, we had exited Earth's atmosphere.

[Mission Control: AT19, you've crossed the Karman line. Ease up and get ready for magnetic docking with the skyhook.]

For those unfamiliar with the concept, a skyhook is essentially a vast space slingshot, leveraging its centrifugal energy to propel spacecraft towards their destination. It functions by magnetically attaching a long tether to the starship, whirling it around to gather speed, and then releasing it towards its target. Another skyhook awaits at the other end to catch the rapidly approaching vessel, slowing it down and aiding its entry into the target planet's atmosphere.

Although it's a relatively recent advancement, being in operation for just four years, it has already facilitated over 21,000 cargo transport missions and approximately 13,000 transit missions.

Shortly, we were in proximity for the tether to establish a magnetic link. The procedure initiated, our speed gradually increased, and then – with a powerful jolt – we were off for Mars.