Saba wrapped her shoulders in a plain cloak over an older, comfortable jumpsuit and sturdy boots before stepping out of the lodge for the first time in days.
The cool air kissed her cheeks as she followed the winding stone paths through the estate, finding herself on the lake shore.
The water stretched out in tranquil stillness, sunlight rippling across its lavender surface. She took a moment to breathe it in, letting the serenity wash over the unrest in her chest.
In time, she turned toward the elevator shaft, curiosity stirring.
The lift’s conveyance machinery hissed and whirred as it descended into the lower levels of the Sombra.
She wandered the corridors, looking for the ship’s literary archive she’d overheard whispers about but had never seen.
Her steps faltered until, from the shadows, Miral appeared like a ghost in dark fatigues and heels, her braid draped over one shoulder, a knowing smile on her lips.
‘Well, hello,Šarim.’
‘Please call me Saba.
‘What brings you here?’ Miral asked.
‘You wouldn’t happen to know where the library is?’
At her question, Miral beamed. ‘I do indeed, for the bibliothèque is my little side project. Over the years, I’ve collected tomes from all over the flotilla, arc ships, mining rigs, and forgotten vaults. Some are first editions.’
‘Really now?’ Saba said, delighted.
‘Don’t act so surprised. The Signet strong guards may be fighters, but we’re thinkers too. This way.’
Miral sashayed ahead, leading Saba down a lesser-traveled corridor.
Saba’s breath caught as they stepped through a pair of heavy doors.
Wall-to-wall shelves rose to the ceiling, filled with cracked spines, parchment scrolls, and printed hardcovers.
‘Oh my, it’s stunning.’
‘I’m glad you think so. I’ll leave you to enjoy it. Use the map I’ve sent to your comm to find your way back.’
Saba murmured her thanks as the synth AI glimmered away.
Then she turned with a clap of her hands to survey the soaring space.
Rolling ladders promised access to the highest reaches, while a worn divan and a butter-soft leather couch sat atop thick, faded carpets at the room’s center.
Most inviting of all was the fireplace Miral had lit.
Flames danced merrily, filling the interior with the rich scent of burning wood, paper, and aged ink, as the hush of the room wrapped around her.
Finding this library aboard The Sombra was like stumbling into heaven.
Before her wedding to Mak, she’d studied data analytics and worked as a librarian on her family’s ark ship.
She’d also researched propulsion systems and energy extrapolation, curious about how the fleet would reach Pegasi.
Weekends were spent baking, sparring in martial arts with Shiloh, or wandering the ship’s sprawling gardens with her best friend Aveline.
But books were always her anchor, and she’d read at least four a week in the past.
Life hadn’t been perfect; her aunt and uncle had made sure of that, but she’d been free.
