Phantasm 1: For the Light of the Stars (one)

"That’s a first," Laura said. "Before, I have always been turned down when I’ve asked for greater access."

"Your education isn’t your primary concern anymore, you’re old enough and smart enough to get what you need from the analytical by yourself. Your training is all that matters now."

Laura turned her back on him, her way of dismissal. She immersed herself in the necessary procedures for providing security for the drawers. She heard an exasperated sigh behind her and Silverburgh left a few moments later. She managed a small smile. It felt good to know that here she had a little power, even if it was unofficial.

Her retinal image was recorded and the drawers slid open in unison. There were only three of them and luckily she had very few items to store within them anyway. One held a few jump-suits identical to the one she wore, as well as the cylinders Silverburgh had mentioned, and beneath it all were some credit chips for her to use on the promenade. The other two were empty. Laura removed her carry-bag from her shoulder and half-filled the empty drawers with what was inside. She secured the drawers with a muffled clank. The panel on the side turned from red to green, indicating that it would require her retinal image again when she wished to open them.

Laura sat on the edge of the bunk and rested her hands in her lap, distractedly twisting the ring on her finger. Her body still felt tense and sore from the journey, and weary also, exhaustion beginning to set in… but not physical tiredness, mental fatigue. She had seen too much for one day and her new circumstances would take a while to become accustomed to, she needed to rest to have time to take it all in.

She shifted back further and rested her head against the wall behind, closing her eyes. Laura knew she would not sleep, but that was not her intention. She desired only the peace and serenity her mind could offer and only there could she truly rest.