Chapter 58: The Rhythm of Progress
The Hope's Refuge space pulsed softly, its lights following a steady heartbeat rhythm that had become oddly comforting to everyone. Outside the translucent viewing dome, the holographic projection of Astra Haven stretched wide across the planet's surface — no longer a scattered framework of floating silver structures but an almost-complete cityscape of gleaming metal and crystalline spires. The system reported 87% completion, each percentage climbing with a low hum of quiet triumph.
Inside, the crew of seven had long since adopted a rhythm of their own.
Mornings began with Cream Puff's ever-so-cheerful system chime:
> "Good morning, Operators! Time to optimize your potential!~ (❁´◡`❁)"
To which Zephyr almost always muttered, "I swear it gets chirpier every day."
