Extract from the Union of Allied Planets Rules for Parliamentary Elections:

20.19.25.3.5b

In order to ensure the full democratic process, all persons in residence between the time of formal notice of election to the date of ballot shall, within the discretion of the election office and notwithstanding any rank or privilege thereof, be considered under the jurisdiction of the returning officer and shall present themselves at a time and date as decided by the relevant parliamentary official, with full identity and other necessary documentation, to participate in or otherwise take advantage of the continuity of voting. Failure to do so will incur penalties, consequences and other corollaries as detailed in Section 22, Sub-Section 7, paragraphs 14 to 84. This obligation and requirement is more fully set out in Section 20, Sub-Section 19, paragraph 26.

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“Kaylee, Simon wants you in the infirmary.” River stepped into the engine room, her bare feet only whispering on the metal floor.

“Can’t,” the young mechanic said, her feet sticking out from under the engine. “Too much to do.”

River glanced at Freya, swinging gently in the hammock.

“She was in here when I arrived this morning.” The older woman shook her head. “She told me it wasn’t necessary, but I think she might have spent the night.”

“Had to. Have to make sure we get to Jericho in one piece.” Kaylee’s feet twitched. “Ain’t like it’s the first time I've done it.”

“Not pregnant,” Freya pointed out. “And apparently it takes more time to explain to me what to do than to do it herself. I'm considering getting Mal to remonstrate with her.”

“Won’t do no good,” Kaylee said, her voice slightly muffled. “I know what my girl needs, and it’s just simpler to get it done while I can.”

“And what about your boy?” River asked.

“What? What boy?”

“Your son.”

There was a moment’s silence, then Kaylee slid out, the wheels on her trolley squealing. Her hand automatically went to her belly, the other clutching a seal