My own source was someone who has been here for a few months. The ship was more of a gambling resource if nothing else.

[She blows out a breath, and she holds out her hand. She channels mana, and lo, out comes a small star of light, hovering over her palm.]

It's focus and willpower; the way a person may focus varies, hence the unique gestures and phrases. It has to be something that will focus you into doing that specific spell.

So I've been given to understand.