The stars were blinding through the shuttle window, too brilliant for Emma to look at for long. She hadn’t known silence like this—the kind that swallowed thoughts and fears alike. Outer space was indifferent, untamed, and stunning. Her breath fogged slightly against the glass as she pressed her forehead to it, absorbing the weight of what they were about to do.

Beneath her, Earth rotated slowly. A blue cradle of humanity. Above her—Claire’s station.

Phoenix Station.

A name chosen ...