“Imagine a vast and glittering ocean seen from a great height. It stretches to the clear curved limit of every angle of horizon, the sun burning on a billion tiny wavelets. Now imagine a smooth blanket of cloud above the ocean, a shell of black velvet suspended high above the water and also extending to the horizon, but keep the sparkle of the sea despite the lack of sun. Add to the cloud many sharp and tiny lights, scattered on the base of the inky overcast like glinting eyes: singly, in pairs or in larger groups, each positioned far, far away from any other set.” OceanImageryHyperspaceFtl Book:Consider Phlebas Source: Consider Phlebas
“How far a journey, Lord?" His lips drew back and back. "A very far journey, Lady. Yet it will last only one long night.” Time DilationFtl Book:Rocannon’s World Source: Rocannon’s World