// Mission to locate Earth-temperate planet for colonisation: failed … // 1000 years out from Earth base, damage to colony sleeper hangars 1, 3 and 4 sustained … all lives lost … hangars 2 and 5 still operational … // Mission parameters adjusted: Augmentation of colonists to commence … // Request all drones and ‘bots to medical units to begin experimentation … A novella of power and humanity from 'one of the very best of British SF writers.’ Vector ‘SF infused with a cosmopolitan and literary sensibility … accomplished and affecting.’ Paul McAuley ‘Brown is at the height of his powers’ Stephen Baxter