Thanks for the suggestions dmm
That reference for 'thirsty' engines was back to the captains 'thirst for exploration' but perhaps I could re-word it.
I like the suggestions of the communication but I might alter it to a test with a communication probe first.
As the race develops they will undoubtable encounter other races and turn back to the religion they lost during their expansion to the stars. Perhaps I should elaborate that section and make it a bit clearer in the history.
Anyway.. back to work
Storytime will have to wait for now.