[ If Claire knew what River's life had been, River would find herself with someone instantly willing to be a mother-figure, if she wanted such a thing. Many things get to Claire, but none more than those who were treated cruelly, especially young. ]

At least humanity had to build their own settlements this time. But four hundred years is a long time to never come across another planet of sentient beings, especially considering...well.

[ Claire looks around; the fact that they're all on Abraxas and not from the same places means everyone's home is out there, somewhere in the infinite expanse of space. ]

No beings have ever found Earth from my point of view, but perhaps something out there is searching as well, thinking the same things we are.

[ River's question is simple but broad, and so many answers tumble through Claire's mind at once that she has to shake her head just a little to clear it. ]

From traveling, I miss seeing how varied the planet could be. Snow and mountains one moment and then, a hundred miles in one direction there's a desert. Sunset on the coast and being able to see the sunrise on the horizon. Or hiking until you think there's no point and you're going nowhere, only to break through a clearing to the most beautiful landscape you've ever seen. Those are things I haven't experienced since I was probably around your age.

[ Exhaling, she tries to come up with a better answer than something so broad. ]

Right now, in this moment, it's people I miss. My husband, our children.

[ Bree of course, but Fergus too, and by extension, Marsali, which means grandchildren to miss. Can she miss something she hasn't experienced yet? ]