As his finger hovered over the ignition, Morgan looked back to her.  His eyebrow raised slightly at her comment.

[b]”Science Officer Briarwood...”[/b] he began as he pressed the button.

Behind them the jets came to life with a loud roar as the Falcon started to inch forwards slowly.

[b]”You’re about to be the first of the human race to set foot on a planet in the Epsilon System.”[/b]

The officer waved them forwards.  Twisting the flight stick, Morgan maneuvered the ship to the left.  In the distance, the hangar bay doors began to open.

[b]”Your siblings and your parents, for all their achievements haven’t done what you’re about to do.  Congratulations Miss Briarwood,”[/b] he turned his head to her with a small smile.  [b]”...you’re about to join the list of people that have accomplished something.”[/b]

Grinning, Morgan pressed the throttle forward softly, moving the pod forwards.  Beyond, the open expanse of space beckoned.  A veritable carpet of black punctuated by white glittering stars.  The officer outside nodded his head and moved out of the way.  On the metal walkway, standing at its head, Major Carver looked over.  He held his hand up, signalling to the two of them.

[i]Three days.  Don’t be late[/i]

Heading towards the end of the hangar, the pod gradually increased pace.  The exit came closer, leading to the cavernous, never ending abyss of space beyond.....

Then it was free, and the Falcon was heading out into the great unknown.  On either side the blackness of the universe could be seen.  There were other aircraft, both heading towards and away from the Galacticus on their own individual missions.

A waystation was hovering near the Galacticus, flashing red and green lights to mark the position of the ship.  Several patrol ships circled the perimeter, keeping an eye out for any threats.

Turning his head back to Beatrice, Morgan grinned again.

[b]”Are you ready to make your mark on the universe officer?”[/b]

He pressed the button to engage warp speed.