[ Hickey stops just short of running into Ashford, surprised by the sudden shift. It's been a while since the captain has reprimanded him like this. He'd be angry about it, save for the fact that Ashford doesn't make a show of it. Their conversation is private, despite the bodies moving around them.

And really, Ashford does answer his question. It's a more idealist lens than Hickey can bring himself to adopt completely, but for a moment, he does see the grandeur of it all. A Belter ship, through and through, with Earth footing the bill. Not bad.

But not great, either. Hickey wants greatness. They've more than earned it. ]

It is an impressive ship.

[ He doesn't argue that he's not disappointed, though. He lets Ashford lead for a few steps before cautiously following, finding his place next to him again.

Then, he's silent for a moment. He's choosing his words carefully. ]

The Xuesen and the Thomas Prince are impressive, too. Built to be warships.

[ He shrugs. ]

Imagine what Belter hands could do if we na have to convert one thing into another. This ship is a step forward, yeah, but we're still feeding on scraps.