In the 30th century humanity has spread across the galaxy, organizing itself into a loose confederation of worlds. Vivian Skye has just landed her first job at the distant Extra-Galactic Observatory. Her task is to perform routine upgrades on the space station’s quantum supercomputer, quIRK—one of the most advanced pieces of equipment in the galaxy.

Then, it all goes wrong. The administrator of the station, Bryce Zimmer, is threatened by Vivian and quIRK’s recent string of eccentric behavior. Eventually, Bryce’s jealousy and ambition compel him to pit Vivian and quIRK against each other in a conflict he hopes will consume them both. Vivian must fight for her rightful place in the galaxy, and survive the emerging super intelligence that is quIRK.

Can the thing that’s trying to kill her also be her salvation?