But the challenge of transporting the core was only one of three obstacles. Second, removal.

It required a deep understanding of quantum antimatter dynamics - a field that was both practically and necessarily small. Not only did the installation and removal of an antimatter reactor core necessitate a Sectorate (two levels above a doctorate) but the Res Publica Consortium of Antimatter Studies maintained a strict limitation upon how many individuals could be accredited and entrusted to perform such a task.

Smit was intelligent, if uncouth. But a Sector of Quantum Antimatter Dynamics?

N-XS engaged humour protocols and produced a suprasegmental acoustic signal in which the vowel being articulated was preceded by an h onset.

Then a noise caused her to stop laughing.