The ship was doing a long-haul taking a mix of human and havenworlder colonists to one of the few mixed-colony worlds. A human child, with their havenworlder friends, had begun exploring the ship and found their way to the engine room. When the parents found them, they were being given a lesson in how the engine works, and being allowed to be helpful, as much as kids can be. -- Fighting Fit
The world that Planetary Survey had found was perfect. Perfect for both Humans and the Phlupharin who wanted to live there. The recent peace between the Human Deathworlders and the Galactic Alliance Havenworlders had encouraged them to try building a settlement together. The Humans could deal effectively with any hazards and their presence tended to reassure the Havenworlders with them.
The reputation of Humans as intensely protective guardians had got around. So much so that the Phlupharin were unconcerned about their own young playing with junior Humans. Several friendships formed on the journey there. Such as Deg and Su.
They were five, and Human Deg had a knack for finding ways around the ship that ze really should not have access to. Fortunately, there were other Humans working on board and many of them were used to the less advisable habits of their young.
Deg held Su's hand as they crept between nooks to peek at the Gravy Drive. The attending Nae'hyn didn't even look up from their console. "This could be a dangerous place if you're not careful, children."
"How did he know?" squeaked Phluphan Su.
Nae'hyn Varys chuckled and turned. "Ancient wisdom of old - pay attention to reflections." He pointed out the shiny surfaces on the interface he had been working on. "You're lucky the engine likes children."
"It's a thing," objected Su. "How can it have feelings?"
"It's more than a thing," said Deg. "The Gravy Drives are alive. They're like people."
"That's right. Machines can gain souls just like people, and with souls come personality. With personality comes consciousness. Would you like to help our engine take you to your new home?"
"WOULD I?"
Half an hour later, when their parents turned up, they were running minor errands for the engine and its attendants.
Whatever happened in the colony, they were certainly in for an interesting time.
[Image (c) Can Stock Photo / Sergeybitos]
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