The next morning, Leon arrived at the Nova Terminal, the hub that served as the gateway to the stars. The terminal loomed before him, a colossal structure of gleaming steel and glass, alive with the hum of activity. He parked his car in the designated zone, the engine clicking softly as it cooled. Grabbing his luggage from the trunk, he took a moment to steady himself, his breath visible in the crisp morning air.

  Boarding the transport shuttle, Leon was surprised to find himself seated across from another member of the USSF. The man, clad in the same uniform, offered a warm smile and a nod. Leon returned the gesture, a silent acknowledgment of their shared purpose. The shuttle hummed to life, lifting off with a smooth, almost imperceptible motion. Through the window, Earth grew smaller, its blue hues fading into the vastness of space.

  At precisely 12:01 p.m., the shuttle docked at the International Space Colony Nova. Leon stepped onto the station, his boots clicking against the floor. The air was different here—clean and recycled. He made his way to the bus station, where a sleek, automated vehicle awaited. As the bus glided through the highway, Leon gazed out the window, marveling at the futuristic cityscape. Towering buildings stretched toward the artificial sky, their surfaces adorned with glowing holographic billboards. Suspended monorails crisscrossed above, and flying cars zipped through the air.

  Exhausted from the journey, Leon checked into a hotel provided by the USSF. His room was modest but comfortable, offering a stunning view of the colony’s skyline. He collapsed onto the bed, letting the weight of the day sink in. Tomorrow, he would report for duty.

  Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.

  The following morning, Leon reported to the USSF base, a sprawling complex at the heart of Nova. After, he was briefed on his assignment. Alongside Squadron 182, Leon was tasked with escorting a team of scientists to Sector 0-21, a remote and largely unexplored region outside the colony. Their mission was twofold: ensure the safety of the researchers and observe the sector for six months.

  The journey to Sector 0-21 was uneventful, the squad’s transport cutting through the void with precision. Upon arrival, Leon and his team were greeted by the stark, utilitarian architecture of the sector’s outpost. The scientists gathered in the main hall, their chatter filling the room with an air of excitement. Among them was Makoto Hiroshi, a man of sharp intellect and commanding presence. Hiroshi took the stage, his voice resonating through the hall.

  “Ladies and gentlemen,” he began, “thank you for being here today. I, Makoto Hiroshi, as the Head of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, am very pleased to present to you the discovery made by our exploration unit. Our exploration unit has made an extraordinary discovery—here they have found a resource that has the potential to revolutionize not only machines but our understanding of space and its possibilities. Over the course of six months, we will study this discovery in depth. Your cooperation is essential to the success of this mission. Thank you.”

  The room erupted in applause, the scientists’ enthusiasm palpable. Leon stood at the back, his arms crossed, observing the scene. He felt a surge of pride, knowing he played a role in protecting these brilliant minds.

  The next day, the scientists entered the laboratory, their instruments and tools at the ready. Leon and his squad took up their positions, patrolling the perimeter and monitoring the sector. As the days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months. Leon grew accustomed to the rhythm of life in Sector 0-21. He watched as the scientists worked tirelessly, their passion driving them forward.