As the tiny shuttle sped through the planetary system, the turbulence intensified. The rocking back and forth of the cabin made the passengers’ heads bob from side to side, and the lights cut off momentarily then quickly came back on. The luggage stored at the bottom of the shuttle made loud thuds as they crashed against each other with each shake and shift. Aiofemi and Samikah were two of seven passengers aboard the aircraft. In the triple fused windows, which were designed to withstand high pressures and reentry temperatures, the fifth planet came into view, so did the massive Spaceport that was orbiting it and Aiofemi sat up, carefully placing one hand on the window as she stretched her neck to get a better look at both the planet and the station.
“Mikah! Look how beautiful it is.” She looked back at her assistant, Samikah, whose hands were clenched to her chest and eyes pressed shut.

Ai Oshiro, Dir. Med. & Soc. Svcs.