Arkstream

Maron obtained a position on Explorer 2 as a junior physicist. For many years, she'd searched for a way into a Particle Stream for extended space travel. Her mother had disappeared on Explorer 1 and deep within she hoped she was still alive. An alien called the Blowery assisted the travel to Blue Sector, where there were many planets populated with races like themselves. People suspected the impossibility of such a solar system, and even stranger accepted it too.
The Blowery took them into the darkness beyond their system, where the Particle Stream started. That too made little sense. Why a specific spot, it was against the science and still no-one challenged it. The alien took their ship through a stream to the Blue Sector and unlike last time disappeared upon arrival, leaving them stranded. Despite her earlier conviction, she was close to finding a means back, Maron now realises her work was flawed.
Worse, she understood their Earth, in a sad state after decades of misuse by humankind, was in danger. How did she know, and why did everyone believe such a crazy idea without proof? Why had the Blowery shown interest in a mere junior scientist? Maron suspected the Blowery was not an alien. She cared enough about them to save some from doom. She cannot rest until they meet again, and she knows the truth.