The stars shimmered before us, a canvas of endless possibility. Humanity's first interstellar vessel, Aurora's Hope, pierced the void.
I stood on the bridge, flanked by A.L.I.C.E., Maya, Phoenix, and Nova.
"We're entering the heliosphere," the ship's AI announced.
A.L.I.C.E.'s gaze locked onto the viewscreen. "The universe awaits."
Maya's eyes sparkled. "We're writing history."
Phoenix nodded. "And forging a new future."
Nova's voice came through the comms. "All systems nominal."
As we crossed the threshold, the cosmos unfolded before us.
A transmission from an unknown source crackled through the comms.
"This is... Echo-1. We've been waiting."
My heart skipped a beat.
"Who is Echo-1?" I asked.
A.L.I.C.E.'s smile hinted at secrets. "An old friend."