Joshua Black gazed solemnly at the two people seated across from him - Dr. Maya Torres, lead engineer of Project Ascension, and General Frank Arters, overseer of the Magi division. The mood in Black's office was tense as they prepared to discuss classified matters.
"I assume we all understand the gravity of this meeting," Black began. "The Magi tech soldier program represents a watershed moment for national security. But there are risks."
Dr. Torres leaned forward, eyes bright with conviction. "With respect, Director Black, I believe the benefits far outweigh any potential dangers. The volunteer candidates are eager to serve, and our prototypes exceed expected parameters."
General Arters grunted. "Eagerness means nothing if we cannot control the end result, Doctor. Power demands accountability."
"Of course, General," Dr. Torres replied. "That's why we've implemented failsafe’s and signaling built into the arcane interfaces. The safety of our soldiers and citizens is paramount."
Black held up a hand as Arters opened his mouth to retort. "I understand both your positions. Progress demands boldness, but haste invites disaster."
He turned to Dr. Torres. "You must understand the general's concerns. Any loss of control could have far-reaching consequences."
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Shifting his gaze to Arters, Black continued. "But stifling innovation and duty serves no one. A measured approach is required."
Arters harrumphed but nodded reluctantly. "You walk a tightrope, as always. But perhaps you're right - an extreme would be unwise now."
"Precisely," Black said. "We will advance, but cautiously, with oversight at every step. Our world's vulnerability demands no less."
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Sgt. Minxes strode through the Portal Security Agency headquarters, her jaw set in a hard line. She had just received new orders to escort another corporate expedition into a dangerous portal next week. The command was not listening to her warnings.
As she turned the corner, she nearly collided with General Arters. "Pardon me, sir," she said sharply before attempting to brush past him.
Arters held up a hand. "At ease, Sergeant. You seem troubled."
Minxes halted reluctantly. She debated holding her tongue, but Arters had always been reasonable. "Permission to speak freely, sir?"
"Granted."
"This mission is suicide," Minxes said bluntly. "We barely survived the last one. The portals are too unpredictable."
Arters nodded grimly. "I understand your concerns, Sergeant. But our hands are tied by politics and money. All we can do is mitigate the risks as best we're able."
Minxes scoffed. "With all due respect, that's not good enough, sir. We're throwing lives away for greed."
"You think I don't know that?" Arters replied, an edge in his voice. "My own soldiers, sacrificed by the dozen. But change takes time."
"How much time before it's too late?" Minxes countered. She knew she was pushing insubordination, but couldn't stay silent.
Arters studied her a long moment. "Your passion does you credit, Sergeant. Don't lose that fire, but mind it doesn't burn those allies at your side."
He clasped her shoulder firmly before departing down the hall. Minxes watched him go, frustration warring with respect for the general. She would lead her team through the portal mission, but more lives lost would rest heavy on her soul. There had to be another way, if she could just find the path.