We're in Space ... So What?

Chapter 8: No More Space Travel, I'm a Bartender Now

After a long night at the tavern, Ryan found himself leaning against the bar, watching Klik serve drinks and listening to the banter of regulars. He felt a sense of camaraderie that was hard to let go of, and the thought of leaving it all behind for the uncertain thrill of space once again was daunting.

"Alright, I've decided," Ryan said to Klik as he wiped down the bar. "I'm staying here for at least another week. Just until I feel ready to go."

Klik grinned, pouring a drink for a customer. "Good call. It's not every day you find a place that feels like home. Plus, I hear the ship hunting can be a headache."

Ryan nodded, grateful for the support. "Yeah, I'll let the guys know."

Later that day, Ryan found Jamie and Judah at a nearby café, casually discussing their plans for the new ship. As Ryan approached, he could see Jamie lounging back in his chair, twirling a piece of pasta around his fork, seemingly unfazed by the upcoming decisions.

"Hey, guys," Ryan greeted them, plopping down into a chair. "So, I've decided to stick around here for a week."

Jamie shrugged, chewing his food with a lackadaisical air. "Cool. No skin off my nose. You do you, man. Just means we'll have to find a ship without you."

Judah shot Jamie a disapproving look. "You're not even a little worried about him? We could use him on this ship hunt."

"Eh, I mean, it's Ryan. He'll figure it out," Jamie replied nonchalantly, waving his hand dismissively. "I'm just here for the food and the ship. If he wants to hang out with the bar crowd, more power to him."

Ryan frowned, feeling a pang of frustration. "Come on, Jamie. I'm not just hanging out; I'm working! I like it here."

Judah, sensing Ryan's discontent, chimed in with a supportive smile. "It's great that you found something you enjoy. This place can be tough, and you're handling it well."

Ryan appreciated Judah's encouragement. He'd been through a lot since they landed on the planet, and finally finding a job he could feel good about gave him a sense of stability. "Yeah, I'm just tired of running around, you know? I want to settle in for a bit and see what I can make of it."

Jamie rolled his eyes but couldn't help but smile at his friend's enthusiasm. "Alright, alright. You do you, but don't expect us to wait forever. We'll be out there finding our new ship."

"Just don't take too long," Ryan shot back, but a grin crept onto his face. He knew his friends would be okay without him, even if they bickered over every detail.

"Trust me, we'll find something amazing," Judah said, his voice steady. "You've earned your break, Ryan. Take it. Just know we're going to miss having you with us."

As Ryan settled into the conversation, he felt a mix of emotions—relief at having a choice, excitement for his friends, and a tinge of concern for how their adventures would unfold without him. But ultimately, he felt confident in his decision to stay a little longer, knowing he would always be a part of their team, no matter where the journey took them next.

The next day, with Ryan occupied at the tavern, Judah and Jamie set out to find their new ship. The local shipyard was bustling, filled with everything from sleek fighter ships to massive cargo freighters. Judah squinted at the options, his practical mind already assessing the durability and cargo space of each vessel.

"Look at this one!" Jamie exclaimed, pointing to a sleek, streamlined ship with shiny metallic curves and a luxurious-looking interior. "It's fast, and just think of the comfort we could have!"

Judah crossed his arms, unimpressed. "Yeah, but how much cargo can it carry? We need something that can take us to more planets, not just look pretty."

Jamie rolled his eyes. "Come on, Judah! A little comfort goes a long way. We can't live in a tin can forever. What about a couch? Or at least a decent bed?"

Judah sighed, glancing at another ship—a rugged freighter with reinforced hull plating. "This one has the space we need and can withstand deep space environments. It's practical."

"Practical, yes, but it looks like a brick! We're not hauling cargo; we're adventurers!" Jamie shot back. "We should enjoy the ride!"

As they continued to bicker, they moved from ship to ship, each one pulling them further into a debate over style versus substance. Judah focused on the exterior durability and cargo capacity, while Jamie zeroed in on aesthetics and comfort features. Their frustration grew as they failed to find a ship that satisfied both their needs.

Just as their argument reached a fever pitch, a voice chimed in from nearby. "You boys look like you need some help."

They turned to see a young woman with striking features and an easy smile. She had bright blue hair that framed her face and a confident stance that suggested she knew her way around a shipyard.

"I'm Angelia," she introduced herself, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I couldn't help but overhear your... lively discussion."

Jamie raised an eyebrow. "And what makes you think you can help us?"

Angelia grinned, stepping closer. "I've got a ship in mind that combines both comfort and practicality. You two just need a little guidance."

Judah exchanged a skeptical glance with Jamie. "What do you know about ships?" he asked.

"I might not be a licensed broker, but I've been around enough to know what works," she replied, unfazed by their skepticism. "Plus, I have a knack for spotting potential."

Jamie's interest piqued. "Alright, show us what you've got."

Angelia led them through the yard, pointing out various vessels before stopping in front of a ship that caught both their eyes. "This beauty here is a hybrid model—durable enough for deep space but with a surprisingly cozy interior. Check it out."

As they stepped closer, Judah inspected the ship's hull, noticing the reinforced panels. "This is solid construction," he admitted, feeling the surface. "And it has decent cargo space."

Jamie nodded, stepping inside. "Whoa! It's got a nice lounge area, and look at these controls! They're user-friendly, and the flight system is top-notch."

Angelia beamed, watching their reactions. "See? It's got the best of both worlds. You can explore the galaxy comfortably without sacrificing practicality."

As they explored the ship further, Judah and Jamie began to warm up to Angelia. She shared stories of her own adventures, recounting humorous mishaps and narrow escapes that made them laugh.

"So you mean to tell me you once tried to outrun a group of space pirates in a junker?" Judah asked incredulously.

Angelia laughed, her blue hair bouncing. "Hey, it's all about survival! Sometimes you just have to wing it."

Jamie looked at Judah, a smile creeping onto his face. "Okay, maybe she's not all talk."

Angelia leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. "Look, I know you two are a package deal. But trust me, this ship will serve you well. It's got room to grow, both in cargo and in your adventures."

Judah, still cautious, said, "And why exactly should we trust you?"

Angelia stepped forward, her expression earnest. "Because I see potential in both of you, and I know how hard it is to find the right fit. Let's be real: we all want the same thing—a ship that feels like home."

Jamie glanced at Judah, then back at Angelia. "Alright, let's hear your deal. If you can convince us, maybe we'll consider bringing you on board—literally and figuratively."

With a grin, Angelia began to detail the ship's features and why it was perfect for their needs, eager to prove her worth and build trust with the two adventurers. The bickering had turned into a productive conversation, and for the first time that day, they felt like they were getting closer to a decision that would suit all their needs