It had always been my dream to explore the stars, to visit all of the planets and see the suns of a thousand worlds. Since childhood the yearning to explore New Eden had held my imagination firmly. My parents however, felt it a foolish notion, one left for children. They insured my upbringing allowed little time for selfish thoughts. So, I was trained to serve the Caldari State to the best of my ability in whatever manner that would bring honor to the family.
My grandfather was a dreamer like myself. He was in the Caldari navy, a ship hand on some of the largest and greatest ships ever conceived by human minds. He visited the stars, but not in the manner he would have chosen. Rather, he was usually not fortunate enough to actually see the systems the fleet operated in. As a warp drive engineer, he was kept deep within the bowels of the ship with no viewport access. Only the privileged or a hand full of lucky souls were fortunate enough to view the wonders of the universe as they patrolled Caldari space.
Retiring from the navy, my grandfather passed away not too long ago. Still a dreamer he was, telling me of some of the systems he actually was able to see as well as other wondrous and unbelievable sights. He was proud of me and my work, but understood the dreamer within me. Often, he would encourage me to find my own path and reach for the stars. Doing so, I knew, would bring shame and dishonor to my family. So, my life as influenced by my parents had taken me into the realm of scientific studies and research. However, I decided if I was unable to visit the stars themselves, then I would study them from afar, as a grounder. With that, I was able to satisfy both my duty to the family and my own personal desire.
At the University when not participating in some of the funded research projects, I was a teacher’s aide and lab assistant for astronomy and astrophysics classes while studying for my own master’s degree. That was until recently. A mysterious yet generous contributor, deposited a rather large lump sum of credits to my account. I was contacted by a banking official concerning the deposit stating the contributor wished to remain anonymous. That there were no strings attached, the credits were mine to do with what I pleased and there were no conditions to pay back the contributor. The only message that came with the funds was “Reach for the Stars.”
That was six months ago and after paying the required amount due to the State for taxes, the rest has remained in my account, unused. I’ve yet to share this with my family. After many months of consideration, I’ve finally decided to use the credits. My dreams had started again, to explore the stars first hand, to see them with my own eyes. So, I applied for and was accepted into the capsuleer’s program. I’ve left the university and have started my training. Still, my family doesn’t know. I realize this action will bring dishonor to them, but my grandfather would understand. I honor him in doing this.
For you, grandfather. I’m reaching for the stars.
Katia Sae