Humanity has outgrown Earth, splitting into two rival empires: the Nyenyezi Empire and the Ishan Empire. Both are racing to expand their nations across the Milky Way. The Nyenyezi Empire is sending out many exoplanet expeditions in search of resources and habitable worlds. One mission has taken six scientists to the frozen planet of Volta in the Norma star cluster, where an exciting discovery quickly turns perilous. The Ishan Empire launches an attack, destroying the Volta Moon Base and leaving six scientists stranded with limited communication and supplies. Lark, Phoenix, Alex, Iris, Newt and Penny are the crew of the Volta science expedition, they are all established scientist with good reputations in the community but are not survivalists. With seven long months until a Nyenyezi fleet can rescue them, the team must rely on their skills and ingenuity to survive against the harsh environment—and the looming threat of the Ishan Empire. Tensions rise and resources dwindle, all the crew wants is to go home. [Participant in the Royal Road Writathon challenge]