Chap 5: StarShip Operation Orientation

After arriving at the Whitehawk Space Colony we were greeted by a small welcoming party.

"Greetings and welcome aboard the Whitehawk Space Colony. I am Alma of the Eliwood House.

She began by explaining the different dorm rooms we could stay in and they gave us the first choice since we belonged to the Lockheart House, one of the three ruling Houses that rule over the Space Colony. Afterwards they directed us towards the dorms and gave us our room keys along with a schedule that talked about the mandatory orientation which was being held downtown at the Training Hall for the next few days.

This thriving space colony was truly a wonderful site indeed. After we finished unpacking our belongings my sister and I took a tour of the Upper Deck. The space colony is divided into several decks, the highest deck belonging to the TopSiders and the lowest deck the LowSiders where those of the nameless house reside.

Those who have abandoned their Houses or have been abandoned by them for bringing shame or misfortune to their Houses become known as members of the Nameless Houses.

Those of the Nameless Houses are considered disgraced and have little to no value within their society. Some view it as a transition phase while others consider it worse than banishment.

"That sounds like a wonderful idea while you're searching the Upper Deck. I'll sign up for the first day of orientation. I can't believe how massive this space colony is and to thank it's one of many that the Galactica Star Federation Alliance have established within the Galactica Galaxy," I said to myself.

As we ventured through the Upper Deck, we stumbled upon a treasure trove of historical artifacts housed in a grand museum – The Galactica Heritage Center. Perched strategically to overlook the front of the Starship, its massive glass windows afforded breathtaking views of the distant cosmos, set as a magnificent backdrop to the ancient relics of space exploration. The museum was a testament to the evolution of interstellar travel, filled with artifacts dating back to the early days of space exploration, including the first primitive rockets, moon rovers, and remnants of various space stations.

Just down the corridor from the museum, the tantalizing aroma of exotic space cuisine wafted towards us, leading us to "Nebula's Delight" – a fancy restaurant that was a popular haunt for the inhabitants of the Colony. The restaurant was an architectural marvel, its interiors adorned with iridescent constellations that literally seemed to bring the stars indoors. The menu was a gastronomic journey through the galaxy, featuring dishes from the many worlds that constituted the Galactica Star Federation Alliance. It was truly an unforgettable experience, a fusion of history, exploration, and epicurean delights on the Upper Deck of the Whitehawk Space Colony.

At the end of the month I attended one of the StarShip Operation Orientation. This particular one was being held in the 3rd Training Hall downtown. I just had to find the Training Hall.

When I arrived downtown I discovered the entrance was well guarded. The Starz Officers standing guard greeted me before checking their list. Afterwards I entered the elevator along with others and we headed below deck.

"Greetings everyone I'm glad you could make it to the first StarShip Operation Orientation of the week. The Keycard you received upstairs will grant you access to many facilities that would normally be off limits to civilians and not to mention it doubles as your credit card," explained Witney of the Whitehawk House.

As new members aboard the StarShip, our collective responsibilities were of paramount importance. We were expected to maintain the integrity of the ship, adhere to the established protocols, and assist in various operations as per our assigned roles. We were not just passengers, but integral components of the ship, each with a unique function to ensure the smooth running of this colossal vessel.

With our keycards providing access to myriad facilities, the StarShip was like a mini city, its each corner teeming with life and activity. There were the cutting-edge laboratories where scientists conducted groundbreaking research, the state-of-the-art fitness center to keep us in peak physical condition, and the Zen Gardens, a haven of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of the ship.

Our StarShip Operation classes were held at the Galactica StarShip Academy, situated on the lower decks of the ship. This massive learning hub was equipped with the latest simulation technology, allowing us to experience various space scenarios in a controlled environment. The classes were a mix of theoretical learning and practical training, preparing us for the challenges we might encounter during our long voyage within the Galactica Galaxy.

When it was over I returned to my dorm room located on the Upper Deck on the opposite side.

"Don't forget you have your orientation tomorrow morning and you need to arrive early. In don't forget to pick up your keycard at the entrance when you arrive. You will need it in order to make purchases," I explained.

"I already know sis I asked around while you were gone by the way we need to prepare for classes it will be starting very soon. I was thinking that we need to pick out a new outfit for class next week. I found the perfect clothing store while I was exploring the Upper Deck," said Dawnmarie of the Lockheart House as she leaped for joy.

"I should have known that's what you were up to. It doesn't surprise me at all," I replied.

"What are you saying? Are you trying to say you don't want to go shopping with me? We can find something cute together," said Dawnmarie of the Lockheart House.

"I never said that it's just we need to purchase our book cartridge first, don't you agree?" I asked as I held my keycard and imagined what cute outfit I should buy for class next week.

After our lighthearted banter, Dawnmarie and I made our way to the bookstore located in the Central Zone of the ship. Filled with every resource manual, reference guide, and electronic textbook cartridge you could imagine, it was a paradise for knowledge seekers like us. As Dawnmarie was engrossed in a collection of fashion holography, I was drawn towards the quantum physics section, my curiosity peaked by the intricate complexities of the universe. We spent hours there, immersed in the world of electronic books and learning resources, each lost in our own interests.

Afterward, we grabbed a quick meal at the food court, a buzzing hub filled with aromas of intergalactic cuisine that catered to all life forms on board. As the day turned into night, we returned to our dorm, each of us looking forward to the adventures that awaited us. Hours passed as we chatted about the day and the future, our excitement and anticipation evident in our twinkling eyes.

As I laid my head on the pillow, I could see Dawnmarie already drifting into slumber, a small smile playing on her lips. The hustle and bustle of the ship seemed to quieten as we fell into a peaceful sleep, ready to face the new day.