Lira's ship cut through the blackness of space, stars streaking past like whispers of forgotten dreams. The Ashen Moons loomed ahead—three barren satellites circling the gas giant Valtis Prime.
Her fingers hovered over the controls, hesitation gnawing at her resolve. The Council's grip was tighter here; patrols scanned for anyone who dared defy their rule.
A flicker on the scanner drew her attention—an old distress beacon, faint but unmistakable.
She keyed the frequency.
"This is Lira Kess, seeking the source of the encrypted message. If anyone is out there—help me."
Static answered, then a weak voice broke through. "You don't know what you're looking for. Turn back. It's… dangerous."
Lira clenched her jaw.
"I don't have the luxury of fear."
Her ship descended toward the largest moon, its surface scarred by ancient battles and buried secrets.
As she landed, the wind howled through the jagged rocks, carrying a warning—and a promise.
The truth was waiting beneath the ash.