Sunderbans K: The beginning of the Ky Epic

IX (draft)

Bright Stars Duchy
HMS Alecto
Bridge

Mirata had just finished monitoring the gunships entered the hangar bay when Chattar arrived on the bridge. He walked over to Mirata. "I see the gunships have docked."

"Yes." Mirata replied as he checked the ship's systems. "Our shift is almost up. Do you have anything planned for your time?"

"I do, I wish to drop in on an old friend and pick up some materials. Other than that, a quick dinner." Mirata nodded.

"It's been some time since I was here, I don't have anything in particular planned."

"When were you here last?"

"For anything other than a quick resupply, about, five years ago. Most of my time was spent patrolling the edge of the Wilderness, any time off was at Taragan, Canzun, and Kya."

"Perhaps you'd like to join me. There's a few shops that you might find interesting and a few have changed out since you were here last. And I know of an excellent place to dine."

"Sure."

The next shift arrived shortly afterwards and they headed out. As they walked, Chattar spoke of how the station changed and Mirata noted how it was different from the other stations he had visited. Mostly the others were busier, hurried, chatchy.

They made their way to the main concourse of the station, a long outer loop that went along the thickest part of the station. Here were many shops and vendors, merchants, and customers. Chattar pointed out a few of the stores and was able to name the families that owned most of them. He recognized workers and merchants and greeted them as they passed, introducing Mirata along the way.

Chattar stopped and picked up some delicacies at one shop, some personal supplies at another. Then they turned inwards and then entered the inner concourse. Here it was quieter and slower. Chattar spoke of his first visit to the station, when he arrived from Bask ten years ago.

"When did you leave Bask?"

"Just as the Mostrel arrived."

"How?"

"Admiral Pelayo."

"And did any of your family come?"

"No."

"I am sorry to hear that." They walked by several shops, saying nothing.

"But you did say you had an old friend to visit," Mirata said.

"Yes, he came at that time also, and we'll soon be at his shop."

"Good!"

A few minutes later they came to a odd looking shop. Open with books lined everywhere. Coffee and tea were available, and some cakes. There were only a few people scattered throughout the shop, a couple chatting at tables, several reading alone at bookcases, almost all sipping warm steamy drinks. An old monk stood up as they entered. He walked towards them and greeted them with a large grin on his face, "Welcome, weary travelers, to the Bask Tavern, where you will find the finest drinks and the best books." He extended his hand to Chattar, "You have returned after so many months!" Chattar moved forward and grasped the elder's hand. They both bowed, after they embraced.

"We have returned, again Garre, but only for a short time. But, here, let me introduce you to Commander Mirata, he is our Executive Officer!"

Mirata bowed towards Garre, who returned the gesture. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Garre"

"Just Garre, thank you. All are welcome here, especially those from far away. Come, sit. I am sure you have many stories to tell and you will want to pick up some things before you go. I will put together a few items for you and will bring them to you shortly. Though first, I want both of you to have a warm cup of Se'arkteg. It is a tea, from my home island." Garre walked them over to an unoccupied couch and bid them to sit while he went back to the counter. Shortly, they heard him humming quietly as he hot water and prepared the drinks. Mirata was not familiar with the tune and asked Chattar what it was. "It's an old folktale that tells of the rebuilding at the end of the Black Ages."