Chapter 2

The hum of the ship’s engines was a constant backdrop to Alliyanna’s new life aboard the “Star Shadow”. With a heart still heavy from her father’s declaration and the weight of an uncertain future, she tried to focus on the routine of shipboard life. The first issue they needed to address was sleeping quarters. There was a spare bunk, but it was in what reality was the simple sick bay, a narrow and cramped space with a MedDoc AI and a thin bunk that, if Alliyanna were a male, more than likely she wouldn’t have fit. But it was all available since the refit had taken all the crew quarters and converted them into holds. She slept there without complaints.

“Morning!” came a deep, gravelly voice from the galley doorway. Talak stood with his arms crossed, a scowl on his face. His wild and unkempt hair gave him a look of perpetual frustration.

“Morning!” Alliyanna replied cheerfully, determined to make the best of her situation. She had spent the last few days familiarizing herself with her tasks: cleaning and organizing supplies, and now, she was expected to help prepare the meals. However, she was painfully aware that cooking was not one of her strong suits. Tal ‘Yak eyed her with suspicion as she shoved the last vegetables into the pot. “You call that a stir?” He leaned against the wall, arms still crossed, brow furrowed. “A proper meal requires more finesse and less chaos. You’re just tossing things in willy-nilly.” She felt heat rise to her cheeks, a mix of embarrassment and determination. “I’m trying to learn!” She tried to sound confident despite the creeping doubt that gnawed at her. “It’s just ... a bit overwhelming. I’ve never cooked on a ship before.” “Try stirring in a rhythm, like a dance,” he muttered, although his voice softened slightly. “Food needs love and attention, not just haphazard movements.” Following his advice, she concentrated, slowly finding a rhythm as she stirred the pot. “Like this?” she asked, glancing over her shoulder.

Talak grunted a sound that could have been approval or mere acknowledgment. “Better. But you could use some seasoning. Good food needs flavor, or no one will ever eat it, you know?” “Oh!” She laughed, relieved at the lighthearted exchange. “Maybe I should take notes.” With a reluctant grin, he began to show her where the spices were kept, and she followed him around the cramped galley, soaking in every word like a sponge. “You’ve got the spirit; I’ll give you that,” he said, pausing to add a pinch of salt to the mix. “Most would’ve given up by now. But you keep at it.” She smiled, buoyed by his unexpected compliment. “Thank you! I really want to learn—especially if I’m going to be traveling like this for a while. I want to contribute!”

A moment of silence passed as Talak considered her words. “It’s not just about cooking, Alliyanna. Shipboard life has its rhythm—the chores, the routines. You’ll need to learn how to navigate through everything. It’s more than just food; it’s about keeping the crew together. If they eat well, they work better.” “Got it,” she nodded, focusing on the simmering pot. “So, what else should I know?” As the conversation continued, he instructed her on everything from meal prep to ship safety protocols. For the first time since she’d been thrust into this new life, Alliyanna felt a spark of hope. Though she was far from the princess dwelling in visions of grandeur, she was on a journey of her own design. Hours passed like the steady waves of the ocean, and soon enough, the tasty aroma of the meal began to fill the galley.

Talak served the dish with an exaggerated flourish. “For today’s special, I present the culinary masterpiece of our new ships girl!” he announced with mock grandeur. Alliyanna felt her heart swell with pride despite her initial nervousness. Alliyanna savored her small triumph. The journey had only just begun, but she realized she was no longer simply the baroness of a minor, struggling world—she was becoming a part of something larger, and each day brought something new to learn and cherish. With every task she tackled, she began to forge her identity, not just as Alliyanna from Oranth, but as a capable young woman ready to carve her path in the universe.

Alliyanna had quickly settled into a routine, but as the days passed, she understood that her journey was about more than just learning to cook. With each new task, she felt her confidence grow. Following meals, Talak introduced her to the art of navigation, which was crucial for their travels through the vast and often treacherous expanse of space.

“Setting a course is like casting a net,” Talak explained one morning as they stood in the operations center of the ship, the controls humming softly around them. “You need to know where the fish are and how to catch them. The same goes for navigating the stars.” Alliyanna nodded, intrigued. “So, how do we find the best routes?””

By using star charts and the ship’s navigation systems,” he replied, motioning to a holographic display that illuminated the darkened room with swirling maps of constellations and planets. “Each sector has its trade routes; some are safer and faster than others. We have to plot our course carefully to avoid hazards and ensure we maximize our travel efficiency.” Her mind raced as she studied the screens; memories of her father’s lessons came rushing back.

Growing up as the daughter of a baron, she had sat in on countless discussions about trade, economics, and the intricacies of forming alliances to benefit their small planet. Now, she could draw on that knowledge in a practical way. “What about trade? How does it work on a larger scale?” she asked, her curiosity piqued. Talak smiled—he had seen her quick mind at work. “Ah, you’ve got a head for this, don’t you? Trade fundamentally revolves around supply and demand. Each planet has its resources, strengths, and weaknesses. For instance, Oranth is rich in fertile land but lacks advanced technology. So, we need to trade for high-tech goods while exporting our agricultural products and skilled labor.”

She furrowed her brow, thinking deeply. “And we’re aiming to do that with the Duke’s investments, right? To improve Oranth’s position?” “Exactly,” he said, his tone growing serious. “Your betrothal to Duke Birsha might open doors, but it also chains you to his whims. Knowing this stuff is critical if you plan to negotiate for your people’s future.”

As she absorbed his words, Alliyanna felt energy surge through her. “So, if we can plot a course that allows us to trade efficiently with other systems, we can establish better relationships and access what we need?”

Precisely!” Talak exclaimed, clearly impressed. “But it’s not just about plotting routes. You have to build relationships with other traders, understand their needs, and negotiate deals that benefit both parties. Often, that involves making concessions or compromises.”

“What kinds of compromises?” Alliyanna inquired, her brow slightly furrowed. “Sometimes, you’ll need to offer your skills or services. Other times, goods or profits from future trades. It’s about give and take—but often, for planets like Oranth, you’ll find you’re the one giving more than receiving at first.” Her thoughts turned back to Duke Birsha’s offers and her father’s sway in the political arena, a tide of uncertainty washing over her. “But what if the terms are not in our favor? How can we ensure we’re not taken advantage of?” Talak’s expression shifted, becoming more contemplative. “That’s where understanding your position and knowing the value of what you have comes into play. An educated negotiator can turn the tables by knowing when to push back and when to yield. And, of course, having good advisors helps.” With every word he shared,

Alliyanna felt more empowered. The lessons from her childhood, previously overwhelming when mixed with her father’s expectations and the lament of her responsibilities, began to coalesce into a clearer picture. “I’ll need to learn more about the different systems we’ll be trading with,” she said, her resolve strengthening. “Understanding their economies is key.” “Smart thinking,” Talak replied, his demeanor turning more encouraging. “You’ll be a valuable asset on this ship if you keep this up. But remember, it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about people—understanding their motivations and fears.”