Before they became legends, they were a family.
Stranded beneath the purple star Orin, Aza and Den discover Apheena-a living world they know only from ancient myth. Here, they can build a future, raise children, and give rise to a civilization unlike anything the universe has known.
But they have brought the old stories with them. And Den believes she knows which creatures to fear.
When tragedy strikes, a secret act of compassion gives birth to the Shameer: a new people whose hidden origins threaten everything their creators believe. Across generations, fragile trust binds two worlds together-until grief and betrayal turn a family's divisions into a struggle for survival.
Beyond their sight, a hidden ship watches. Within it, an intelligence called Mi' waits, her purpose concealed even from those she loves.
Two worlds. One family. A history that remembers monsters.
Who gets to decide which ones they were?