Moarka regarded Mangar with a raised eyebrow, a bit taken aback with the intesity of his sudden flaring mood, she dealt with fiery temperaments on a daily basis but so far Mangar had just seemed like a harmless drunk. It wasn't the confrontation she was looking for at the moment and she huffed a bit chastised." Sorry I asked...." Her eye moved to Tovan for a moment and then back to Mangar, something he said struck a nerve but she made attempts to hide that fact. Instead she just left Mangar to his own devices ad returned to her spot behind the counter, angrily snatching a cloth and started polishing the surface of the counter with it. She offered the Drow one more angry look before she decided to focus on her work and not her personal vendetta with an entire race.

Tovan crossed her, answering as he passed Moarka without giving her any significant look. "I bloody will not... You've 'ad enough fer the damn moment longshanks... Clear up and maybe I'll throw ya another drink but as of now yer cut off, only water and that's it...Don't like it go wet yer damn tongue somewhere else..." Tovan was still talking when he passed Mangar, mechnical grabbing arm swiftly picking up the tankard that Mangar dropped and putting it on the tray of a passing barmaid. The dwarf went on to sit in his spot, a private booth in the far corner of The Inn, and took out an ornate pipe made from a warm-hued stone and only lightly ornamented with a scaled pattern upon the faces of its faceted bowl. Much like Tovan himself, the pipe is rugged and practical, without fanciful trappings and decoration that suggested he was anything more then what was seen. He filled it with tobacco and lit it with a welding instrument attached to his mechanical appendage. Puffs of swirling smoke rose from the pipe, Tovan's single eye locked on entrance, knowing full well who was about to enter.

Captain Elion Tame, Captain of The Void Hunter, experienced treasure hunter, former Steward and a man known for his daring plans that yielded a high reward but often at the cost of his crew. He was the sort of man that attracted individuals looking for a big score, daredevils and those with ambitions to become rich or escape the life of piracy with one last job...or die trying. The seasoned space pirate had one hand resting on the pommel of his trusted plasma sword while the other stroked his beard thoughtfully. He stopped just after passing "Snippy", giving the local patrons time to soak in his rogueish charisma. His eyes went around those present in the establishment, picking out possible prospects... Tiefling, cyborg, Shirrens...an eyebrow raised at the sight of a Drow, that certainly was rather unusual... Some less obvious talent might be hidden... His eyes finally stopped on the Dwarf sitting in the corner of the tavern, he glanced to the hulking Vesk at his side and nodded before aproaching the Dwarf in a straight line and humbly asked for an audience with the infamous proprietor of The Inn.

Krong walked into the Inn, Doshko resting over his shoulder and clawed thumb hooked on his broad leather belt. To the uninitiated the fierce polearm would look like an oddly shaped club with obvious mechanical parts. Those with knowledge on martial hardware would easily recognize the Doshko, a Vesk developed weapon also known as a Plasma-Axe, a brutally efficient weapon that reflected the Vesk's penchant for ending fights as quickly as possible with complete victory. The Vesk almost sneered while looking around, he (or she..it's hard to tell if you don't know vesk) obviously had little love for his current location and wasn't afraid to show it. While the captain was unconcerned with anything except Tovan, Krong the Vesk was keeping an eye on the other patrons; His body language misleadingly suggested a confident state of relaxation, for those knowing the subtleties of physical expression it would be obvious that the Vesk was ready for a fight...The occasional twitch of his heavy reptilian tail a subtle giveaway for those with more Exo-or Xenopological interests.

It was easy to miss the small "mousy" Keesh if you weren't paying attention as she was either hiding behind the captain's leg or scurrying between him and the hulking Vesk. The Ysoki with the pure white pelt walked with an obvious discomfort and skittish disposition. Beedy red eyes darting around and head turning from side to side as if there might be danger around every corner...she wasn't far from the truth really. "Automated defenses already have lock on us..not good not good...nonono... please don't do anything stupid...pleasepleaseplease..."The Ysoki murmured to herself as she followed her captain, tail curled inwards to express her fear. The looks she got from those patrons that noticed her made her nod and grin nervously, dispensing nervous greetings that conveyed a stance of worry and insecurity. "Hello...hello...hi...we're good..yesyes...hi..don't mind me...Just passing through hehe..nothing to see here, nono..."
 
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___Sinra Dalis___
Located: At The Inn
Wearing: Designer Drow Light Armor
_________________________________________________________________________​

A thin dark eyebrow arched at Headcase as he began... 'speaking'... Ever since they met at the docks she has had to decipher every word coming out of his crooked toothed mouth. What was the point of a language being called 'common' if everyone would warp it an add their flavor? It rendered the whole effort of a unifying language of commerce moot. She blinked slowly and took a deep breath, bringing up one of her heart-stopping smiles again, Sin understood the important bits of what he said anyway...

"Splendid." slipping out one of her many concealed generic credsticks, she clacked it on the table and moved her slender hand away, continuing. "I am worth my word, kuggen. Here is an advance on our agreed amount for the three of you, why don't you go get yourselves a drink at the bar while keeping an eye on me? I'll have a little tal'thalra with the man at the counter."

Snatching the credstick greedily, Headcase grinned stupidly and uttered something unintelligible to which Sinra simply smiled and winked as he and the other goons stood and followed her instructions. It was obvious that there was only so much those buffoons would be able to do for her and there had been only a handful of looks coming her way that didn't seem completely uninviting. The stunned look on the Tiefling's face, for example, hadn't gone unnoticed. He seemed not to have been taken by his surprise for long, as his striking eyes had studied her rather quickly. By such, Sinra could tell the man was very likely as useful as most Tieflings she had met and stored that information for when he seemed less busy with the antennae'd waitress.

Instead, her lilac eyes glanced at the man on the counter who had been watching her by the corner of his eyes. Sinra was momentarily distracted from his bright blue implanted eyes when the VWP - Moarka, was it? - returned and shot her a baleful look. The Drow woman had seen worse before, so it was not at all a look that made her balk, but she didn't return any spiteful response. What would be the point? If she understood correctly, the woman was also an owner of The Inn and Sinra didn't buy any trouble if it wouldn't be somehow beneficial for her. Besides, she had to admire the woman for escaping Apostae alive and making out a living. Moarka didn't belong to her, so why should Sin care?

Refocusing on the (cyborg? android? she still wasn't sure, but unwilling to push her luck by casting a spell) man, Sinra inclined her head in the direction of the empty sit in front of her as an invitation to join her and took another sip of her unsatisfying wine...

@jrusso20
 
Even Mangar, as lost in the drink as he was, knew when he had pushed something too far. Seeing the expression on Moarka's face.....and hearing Tovan as he blocked off his recourse, Mangar knew he had gone too far.

"Fuck," he curses softly to himself in the corner of the room.

It is often said that it is only when one hits rock bottom that they begin to come out the other side. Slumped forwards, Mangar lays his hands out palms up on the wooden table. Overhead, the orange light of the Inn bathed its soft radiance over him, illuminating him in the gloom. He gazes down as his hands shake.


"You have nowhere else left to go."

The voice again. Tormenting his mind. Reaching up, he holds his head in his hands. "Leave me be spirit. Get outta my fucking head."

Anyone watching the scene would have seen Mangar talking to himself. There was no one there sitting in front of him. Yet the voice persisted, in his mind, as she had done all night.

"Your choice. Live or die."

Raising his head, Mangar closes his eyes. A sharp pain courses up his body from his left hand. Opening his eyes, Mangar looks down to see his fingernails embedded deeply into flesh, drawing blood. His hand shaking, he watches idly as the ruby red droplets fall from his pierced flesh. So red....so perfect, crystalline..... The droplet strikes the floor, splashing. A faint stain. Slumping back, Mangar looks upwards.

Where was there to go?

Around him, he sees the patrons go about their daily business. The blue haired man and the drow making looks at each other. The shirren, the tiefling and the redhead...... Mangar looks over in her direction briefly, taking her form in properly is. She looked nervous, out of place here....

"Like you. Holding on to the past and never letting go."

The voice was intense, piercing as it accused..... Mangar could not deny its truth.


When the newcomer entered, Mangar bows his head. Of course, he recognised the man straight away, even in his state. Who didn't know of the infamous Captain Elliott Tame and his fearsome companions? Mangar sighs softly, trying to sink back into the shadows. The last thing he wanted was the good captain and particularly the brutal Krong noticing him.

Better put a bullet in my brain if they do. It's better for us all that way.
 
Multiple outbursts from the louder members of the establishment drew Adran's brief attention. Mangar's outburst surprised him as in the week that the android had been here, the poor drunk had kept to himself, mostly quiet as the grave. There was also the man with the green Mohawk, prattling out a language that was both common and yet almost unintelligible to the lovely Drow woman. It was clear from her expression that she didn't keep those goons around because she enjoyed their company. Hm, not a bad opening line. Keep that in mind. He noted.

He gave the older human, the Vesk and the Ysoki that just entered a passing nod of greeting, but otherwise kept silent. He could tell from a brief glance that if they had business with him, then he would know. He caught the Drow's look towards him as she sent her goons away. She was indicating towards the empty seat next to her, clearly they both were on the same page. Running a brief hand through his synthetic black hair he moved over to the seat next to the Drow.

"Good evening, M'lady. I hope this doesn't seem to presumptuous, but it looked like you were in need of some... intelligible company." Casting a knowing glance to the thugs who were sloppily draining their ale. "My name is Adran. It's a pleasure to meet you. I confess, you're the first Drow I've ever had the chance to meet, but I've always desired to know more of your culture. Might I buy you a more tasteful wine? Tovan keeps the finer contraband below the counter."

@Maeriel
 
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Clara sat, slowly work through her paste, not interacting with anyone except a small smile and nod at the man who had helped her find the Inn. If only he'd sit with her, she had a million questions but she wasn't about to ask for aid in a place like this. Not that she really knew what this place was, but, if pirates ported here it wasn't a good indication of class.
Without meaning to Clara's eyes met those of a Shirren sitting not too far off from her. Stupid Clara don't make eye contact with these strangers. Still, damage done, she smiled awkwardly while wondering what the creature wanted with her. From what she knew about Shirren, they were generally peaceful plus she'd been told the Inn was a safe haven so surely there wouldn't sinister intentions, but without too many interactions with Shirren throughout her life, Clara knew very little about reading their nonverbal signals. She really was ill prepared to leave her home planet and she had simply thought as long as she had enough credits she'd be fine, but there was more to the world that that, and she simply hadn't experienced much of it yet.
Starting to feel awkward Clara couldn't stop her mouth running away from her in an attempt ease the tension. Picking up a spoon of the dull protein paste, she nodded at the Shirren.
"I see you're enjoying the delicacy too." The joke was followed by a forced and tense laugh before she blushed at her own stupid remark and stuffed the spoon in her mouth. She looked away, hoping by some slim chance the Shirren simply didn't speak common.
 
Bethelzar Dolomitti


Outwardly to the casual observer, Bethelzar barely gave a reaction when Captain Tame, Krong and the meek, jittery little Keesh came into the Inn. While the entrance of the trio drew some eyes towards them, Bethelzar seemingly had no such interest in the new arrivals, still slumped over the table and contentedly sipping on the last of his Maka-Mede. If one observed him closely, however, they would've noticed that his back straightened just that much to indicate attention and his eyes instantly brightened up and grew observant, sharp and calculating, as though deep in concentration in a chess game and contemplating his next move.

Oh, Bethelzar has heard of Captain Tame and his crew before. Even outside of the Forgotten Hammer, Captain Tame had a bit of a reputation, though one that tended to err towards the negative side. He's heard plenty of the veteran Free Captain's conquests and missions- of how, in spite of all of Tame's luck and pluck, all his crewmembers dropped like flies bar only his two most trusted crew, Krong and Keesh. The word from the grapevine said that more often than not, Captain Tame and his trusted right hand men would be the only ones surviving after their missions. Bethelzar has heard unverified rumours that Tame killed his own crew after they were through with the mission, as well as a plethora of other ludicrous claims of questionable believability. He thought a great number of them to be utter bollocks, but most rumours usually stemmed from some truths, so there was probably something to be gained from the man's reputation. While Bethelzar doubted that Captain Tame would intentionally kill his own men, the fact remained that being on his ship alone was more hazardous than anything and would probably result in a high probability of one becoming just another casualty rotting away in some backwater planet.

As for Bethelzar himself, he was a man driven partly by the smell of his next paycheck, and partly by his own amusement and self-preservation. He took commitment badly, and he (well, mostly, at least) valued his own life over getting paid. No, Bethelzar liked to tether at the edge of uncertainty and probability when the scales were balanced. From what he's heard, though, he was slightly apprehensive to meet the searching eyes of Tame and his crew. They were clearly looking for potential recruits, and on account of him being a Tiefling, he reckoned that he wasn't low on their list. There was, however, a reason why he's only ever accepted hit missions and no long-term commitments before. Bethelzar worked for whoever offered a better deal, which meant that all bets were off when it came to him picking a side. Commitments could only get someone so far and Bethelzar was hardly the type of person to ever stop and be content with staying somewhere unless there was a very, very good reason.

For now, however, Bethelzar was fine with merely observing Captain Tame and his crew. He supposed that he might go out and get some slightly more reliable information from around the rumour mill later- after all, he's got plenty of time to spare. He can decide whether his next paycheck would come from Tame or not later.
 
Unfortunately (?) for Clara,the shirren understood and 'spoke' common perfectly. Kaaschi gave the red head a little nod of acknowledgement. "Indeed, truly a meal fit for a king." This reply was accompanied by a soft trill of impulses, a telepathic approximation of a giggle.

"You are...new here as well?" Kaschii wasn't even sure why she even bothered to ask when the answer was obvious as it is. The young lady with the cybernetic implants seemed even more lost than herself, and that's saying something. She took another spoon of the tasteless slop in her bowl.

The arrival of the human captain and his companions did not go unnoticed by the shirren. It was hard not to notice. The bearded old captain, in particular, had a presence one just couldn't ignore. Not to mention...the scar...the single milky-white eye... Something about his features seemed familiar. Not familiar in the way something you've seen before is, but familiar in the sense that the man's individual features seemed to ring a bell. Wait. Was that him? The Captain Tame she'd heard of from many an outlaw she'd treated back when she was still running her little clinic? Well, it was hard not to have heard of him anyways. The reputation of Captain Tame was anything but tame.

Kaschii kept her eyes away from the trio, but her antennae were up with attention. Not that it was any of her business even if the man was indeed the infamous Captain Tame.
 
Clara felt a small wave of relief as the Shirren extended the friendly conversation. She had spoken to Shirrens a few times in her life, but it still felt weird to have someone speaking directly into your mind.
"Erm yeah, I guess I am... where is here exactly?"
Clara vaguely noticed the new visitors enter the bar. She would have assumed the occurrence was fairly normal here and wouldn't have considered the men too out of the ordinary if it hadn't been for all the people in the bar keeping an eye on them, especially on the bearded human. If others felt the need to keep an eye on him, she supposed it would we prudent to do the same.

Back on the streets, it was always important to have your eyes on the big man in town, you'd either want to steer clear or curry favour in an attempt to reap the benefits. Clara couldn't be certain of the best course of action here, considering she was yet to know where 'here' actually was. Either way she could tell it'd be idiotic to get on the bad side of someone like this. Although, getting on anyone's bad side here seemed like a terrible position to be in. Then again, she'd already murdered two men since they ported, so she was definitely on few bad sides by now. Clara stomach lurched at the thought of the bleeding bodies. She had managed to push them out of her mind, while she worried instead about her own future, but now the bloody images were back and she began to wish she hadn't ordered any food at all. Placing the spoon down in disgust, she pushed the bowl away to join the drink in the 'inedible' corner of her table.
 
The mysterious man walked into the Inn as he always did every day for the last week or so. The man looked very much out of place when compared to the usual dwellers of The Hammer; much like several of The Inn's most recent guests. The expensive gear and well groomed man had left many wondering and speculating about his busyness here. never did he speak to anyone, or seemed interested in entertaining company at his table. His determined steps conveyed a purpose, the stoic and hard expression a certain conviction...but other then that the man was an enigma given form.

@AJPhips There was a slight change in routine, sadly which only Clara managed to notice as he passed between her table and that of the Drow, crossing her line of sight of the Shirren. For a moment he looked up, one eye settling on the strange Elven woman and...smiled. It was a cold, tiny smile...no more then a twitch to some...but the Drow's presence had clearly caused it...at least for Clara... Sadly she knew not how unusual this was for the mystery man that had been puzzling the patrons of The Inn for some time now.

The man sat down at a table as usual and asked for a glass of filtered water as he always did. He produced a small oval silver coloured pill box and took out a red capsule which he broke over the glass of water. The clear liquid turned into a rich burgundy almost instantly, this would be the drink that the man would be nursing for most of the evening, with his meal following an hour or so later....and there he sat, by himself. Staring almost emptily in front of himself for whatever obscure reason he had for being there.

=====================

Captain Tame's conversation with Tovan was one of a the polite and respectful persuasion. Tovan was not impressed with the captain's presence but he was not shouting or snarling, which said enough. Moarka had her eye on the conversation while she absently cleaned the counter and served clients. Bethelzar could pick up her murmuring as she watched the infamous captain. "Lookin for more meat for the grinder...."The half orc snorted and placed a shot glass on the counter, uncorked a bottle with her teeth and poured herself a shot of some hard liquor....she downed it without flinching.

Ysun leaned back against the wall, his riffle leaning next to him like some side-kick. He helped himself to a cigar which he produces from a beaten cigarcase he had stowed away on one of the many tactical pouches on his person. An old fashioned zippo lighter working on petrol provided a large flame for him to light his smoke of choice. The sweet smelling smoke floated lazily around him as he watched captain Tame conversing with Tovan, he smirked inaudibly and shook his head. His eyes then kept scanning the Inn, pausing at The Vesk for a moment which stared back at him with puffed chest. The two stared each other down for a moment before Ysun looked away, not interested in the contest of ego...The Vesk snorted and raised his chin in victory. Ysun's eyes then fell on the drunk at the corner of the counter and sighed a little."Such a damn waste...." He said to himself.

Kima the Lashunta barmaid emerged again from behind the counter with a tray of orders, she passed by Mangar and placed a glass of clear filtered water before him. Despite everything the basic flavourless liquid was clean and free of contaminants, a rarity on the station. Sappa, a local mildly flavoured and light alcoholic beverage was often the way to hydrate one self as it was safe to drink, cheap and wouldn't get you sick. Kima paused at Mangar for a moment, her mind reaching out to "say" something to him. Mangar felt the tingeling of the telepathic contact bubble inside his mind but then suddenly withdraw...Kima winced and nearly dropped her tray. She blinked a bit at Mangar and frowned, moving away from him slowly as she stared at him. She shook her head and sighed... lips voicing an unspoken sentence.
 
Bethelzar Dolomitti


Bethelzar's eyebrows flew up as he heard Moarka's muttered comment about Captain Tame and his crew. Turning his head slightly, he watched the half-Orc pour herself a shot and down it like it was water. The woman really was something, and though they haven't interacted past some basic niceties and small talk, Bethelzar couldn't help but find his interest piqued in finding out more about the Captain from her. Surely, since she has had the merit of having worked here for quite some time, she'd be a decent source of information about the Free Captain and his crew. Never mind how colourful her language might be sometimes- Bethelzar was willing to take her word. Still, trading information with her when the subjects of interest were still in the room would be tactless and reckless- they might be overheard and with his amazing luck, he'd be shipped on board Tame's ship as a cabin boy for running his mouth off, or somewhere along that line. Bethelzar made a mental note to talk to Moarka later when Captain Tame wasn't around.

Captain Tame, in the meantime, was clearly looking for recruits, and the calming effect of the Maka-Mede was already starting to wear off, making Bethelzar feel restless and on edge whenever Tame's glance would pass over him. Sure, he was mostly unflappable, but a death wish was not something he actively sought for. Perhaps, if he sought out some unsavoury company, he'd be left alone or at least dropped a wrung or two on the potential recruit list for associating with said company. The Drow woman was first to come to mind, but who knew about what the Captain thought about Drows- maybe he saw them as valuable assets instead of what normal people associated them with. His eyes slowly fell on the corner of the Inn, where the drunk man named Mangar was slumped over and had been as such since his outburst a while ago. Bethelzar watched as Kima tried to initiate some sort of communication at him, only to nearly drop her tray and retreat quickly, his lips twitching into a wry smile. Well, everyone else was busy talking to each other, so what the Hell. He's met his fair share of difficult people before, and Mangar looked like the kind no decent starship Captain would poke with a ten foot pole. It'll definitely ward Tame off for a bit until Bethelzar could gather more information about him.

Grabbing his empty glass and heading over to the corner the drunk man inhabited, Bethelzar set the glass on Mangar's table and pulled the chair up to sit opposite him. The man didn't even turn his head to acknowledge his existence. Bethelzar snorted a little.

"Bad day, huh?" Fiddling with the glass of water, he nudged it towards the human, who reeked of alcohol and regret. "You'll want some of this in you, trust me. Clean water's hard to come by in a place like this, you know."

@Valen
 
And just like that two strange things happened one after another. First of all, as the glass of water was placed on the table in front of him, the drunken man felt something.....a small intrusion inside of his mind. Looking up in surprise, Mangar saw the barmad look at him with an unreadable expression on his face, the once-pilot opens his mouth slightly as the contact suddenly recedes. Shaking his head and looking mournfully at the glass, he glances back at her, as if seeing her for the first time. The girl was not unattractive, and her blue hair was certainly striking. Still.....

"Careful girl," he whispers. "There are some demons that you do not want to find."

Closing his eyes, seeing her strange, bewildered expression reflected in his mind's eye, Mangar shakes his head once more. Truthfully, the darkness that must have lurked inside his mind must be too much for most to deal with. So caught up in his own demons was he that he did not notice the strange man that entered the bar. Even if he had seen the man, the chances were high that it would not have registered on Mangar's shattered psyche.

Slumping forwards, he sat with his head in his hands for a moment. His head had begun to ache even as his swollen eyes ached from the potent alcohol that he had been drinking. The orange light seared his eyeballs and was painful to look upon. His visage was littered with dancing, blurred imagery that the overindulgence of alcohol had caused.

The first time he became aware that someone else was there was with the voice that suddenly permeated the dark bubble that he had encased himself in. Suddenly looking up to the stranger, a small smirk registered on the drunk man's features. He waved an arm theatrically.

"Pull up a chair. Make yourself at home."

Mangar's drunken humour was in all likelihood lost on the man, who clearly had decided to make himself at home. At the man's comments, he merely snorted, "You have no idea friend," he said. Picking up the glass of water, he turns it in his hand, watching the water swill inside of it. "Perhaps," he answers non-commitally.

Putting it back down, he briefly thinks about sending the man away, but decides better of it. He had already sent Moarka packing once tonight and he already felt bad for it. He didn't really, deep down, want to make the same mistake again. Perhaps some company was what he needed.


"What brings you over here anyway,"
he begins to slur, "Why sit with the drunk man?"
 

___Sinra Dalis___
Located: At The Inn
Wearing: Designer Drow Light Armor
_________________________________________________________________________​

As the man got up and approached, Sinra caught sight of a drunken man talking to himself, just before her eyes shifted to the newcomers. She didn't give the trio (oh by the depths of Apostae, a rat! ... it's kind of adorable...) much attention until she noticed everyone else did... and the weapons systems locked on them. There was clearly some important piece of information she was missing about the men and the Drow glanced to her own trio of knuckleheads to check if they also stared in recognition. By then, the man had taken her invitation and sat in front of her.

"Good evening, M'lady. I hope this doesn't seem to presumptuous, but it looked like you were in need of some... intelligible company." Casting a knowing glance to the thugs who were sloppily draining their ale. "My name is Adran. It's a pleasure to meet you. I confess, you're the first Drow I've ever had the chance to meet, but I've always desired to know more of your culture. Might I buy you a more tasteful wine? Tovan keeps the finer contraband below the counter."

Sinra smiled and spoke in her rolling R's and sibilant S's. "Vendui', Adran. Was it that obvious? What can I say?! When in need one does lower one's standards... and I needed guides and bodyguards, for that purpose, they suited just fine, my little kuggenen." With a flourished gesture of a slender, mulberry colored hand, she added. "I am Sinra Dalis, and I'd love a decent drink, abbil. I guess it is true most people only know us for our weapons trade and the slandering of the... elves... But us Ilythiiri are more than that." She slid the plasteel cup with the vinegar called wine away from her and at that moment a richly dressed man passed by, oddly enough wearing an eye-patch, and Sin couldn't help but hope that he had a ship and she could get passage on it, for he was the first more appointed looking person she had seen since leaving civilization (i.e. Nightarch).

Discreetly gesturing with her head to the mystery man, Sinra leans closer with an elbow on the the table and inquires. "Say, abbil Adran, do you know that man? Or those three who entered previously and caused everyone to grow... what is the word? ... tense?"

@jrusso20
 
It was an interesting experience, trying to translate the language of the Drow. Some of the phrases Sinra used seemed completely unknown to his various dictionaries. There was one phrase, the most common phrase she used, abbil, the resonated with him though. A term of endearment, meaning comrade. Possible formality, or a genuine response to having company closer to what she's used to. As I suspected, she's used to the elven prejudice, perhaps later I can gain a deeper trust with her by revealing myself as an Android.

"Moarka! How about a glass of Verisian 218 for my new friend, eh?" He asked the half orc, throwing a generous tip on top of the full price, along with an apologetic look. Whatever the issue was between Drow and Half-orcs, he recognized that his order would be difficult for Moarka, and tried his best to make it worth her while. The wine itself was more aged then the regular stock, much finer or so he'd been informed. Not the best wine in the galaxy, but certainly the best she'd find on the Freehammer.

Looking back at his new friend, he turned to observe the Mystery Man, who once again entered the tavern, sitting in his usual spot. He gave a nod as he indicated towards Captain Tame. "All I can offer are rumors and my own personal observations, I am quite the people watcher. The man talking to Tovan is known as Captain Elion Tame, one of the more renowned Captains on the Freehammer, though not for the most glorious of reasons. His two associates I don't have names for yet, but they say those two are the only members of Tame's crew that he's managed to keep alive."


He regarded the Mystery Man with an unimpressed demeanor. It was clear that Adran didn't think much of his enigmatic composure. "As for that man, no one knows what his prerogative seems to be. I've been living in this tavern for about a week now and seen him every day, his behavior never straying from what you're seeing now. He sits there, and stares into space until closing time. No one dares disturb him, they see him as a sort of mystic element. I personally don't see it. I'm a very good judge of character, dear, and as far as I can tell, the man seems to be in a similar state to poor Mangar over there." He said pointing to the drunk who was now joined by the tiefling. "Suffering from a trauma of some kind, yet choosing to cope through a different method. I suppose the phrase I'm looking for is 'Shell-shocked'."

His programming displayed these thoughts in a highly convincing manner, looking to be a believably strong opinion form him, but his mind knew better. There was more to that Mystery man than meets the eye. He just wasn't stupid enough to find out what it was, and didn't wish for this Drow to try and find out either, he was quite enjoying her company, after all.

@Maeriel
 
Bethelzar Dolomitti


From a man like Mangar, the reception that he'd given could hardly be considered cold. Bethelzar was surprised that he hadn't been chased away like all the others before him had been. Perhaps the man was just too tired to care about him. Either way, he wasn't complaining. If Mangar continued to cooperate like this, he might be able keep any unwanted eyes off of him long enough for him to gain some solid ground on information. Before that, however, he supposed that he'd have to keep the drunk company. Not that he particularly minded- he's dealt with worse, and Mangar right now was honestly downright docile as compared to how he was just before.

"I don't know, call it a whim. Everyone else seems to be busy, and you do look like you're in need of some company." And a thorough scrub, a sixty-day alcohol detoxification programme, and some major therapy sessions. Of course, Bethelzar didn't mention any of that, but truthfully the man was a complete wreck. He's seen those types before, everywhere that he's been- people drinking themselves into their graves, who spend their days in an alcohol-induced haze to try and lessen the pain. The forgotten and the damned, those with so much weight on their heart that they simply just let go. There's all kinds of people that end up in this state- everyone from outlaws and petty criminals to has-been geniuses and dreamless poets. Many of them were fascinating to talk to and interact with, if one bothered to dig deep enough to look for what's beneath the facade. It's a downright shame that so many great minds should be lost to the cruel wheel called life, but then again, it wouldn't be life if it wasn't cruel. He eyed the glass of untouched water, then back at Mangar, and wondered if he'd notice if he snuck a sip or two. He decided against it a moment later, that no, he wasn't that desperate to steal from a depressed drunk.

"In any case," Bethelzar continued, "the name's Bethelzar. I've been around these parts for a bit, though you seem to be a regular here." He wondered if he should push the man for more details about himself. "Been around much? I haven't seen you anywhere else but in the Inn." He doubted so, seeing how the man was usually two breaths and a shot away from passing out, but small talk was supposed to be mundane and harmless, after all. If he pushed too hard, Mangar might just decide to start yelling at him again, and that was the last thing he needed to happen then.
 
The shirren stops midway into bringing a spoonful of protein paste to her face. She looks up at Clara, confused. What did she mean by 'where'? Was this a trick question? A riddle? Because if that was a genuine question, that is very worrying. "Uh...The Inn? Um...unless that wasn't what you meant by the question..care to elaborate?"

Her attention was then diverted towards the mystery man entering the inn, but only momentarily. She'd seen the man around but not enough to know what was the norm for him and what was not. Not that she would have noticed that hint of smirk anyways. For now she was more interested in the presence of Captain Tame. Her ever listening antennae had confirmed her suspicions - it was indeed the man himself. And his presence at this moment could apparently be explained by a need for crew.

To get a job on a ship as a ship's doctor was certainly an option she had been entertaining even before departing her familiar little corner of the diaspora. The other option was to set up a clinic at The Hammer. The former option seemed to hold more promise, provided things went alright for the shirren, but the latter was safer. More secure. But then what? Would her future even go anywhere like that? If it weren't for the fact this prospective employer was a man infamous for losing his crew Kaschii would have pounced onto this opportunity.

But no, she wasn't here to make rash decisions. She was here to build a future for herself. But then again, she was probably getting ahead of herself now. Was this even an option for her? While she was fairly confident in her ability as a healer, she doubted her ability to work in such a crew.
 

___Sinra Dalis___
Located: At The Inn
Wearing: Designer Drow Light Armor
_________________________________________________________________________​

A dark eyebrow arched pleasantly surprised and the Drow spoke to the male next to her. "A good selection, abbil Adran. I am familiar with that wine." She was in fact used to the most refined vintages, but for a place like this, the Verisian 218 wasn't bad at all... It spoke in favor of the man in her company now and it was certainly a good start for their conversation. Now she only had to hope that the VWP wouldn't poison it... And if she would, that maybe Sinra's prototype implant would work once again.

Lilac eyes followed each of the people discreetly, alternating between them and the brilliant blue eyes of Adran as he shared what he knew... Or at least what he was willing to share, Sinra was still to make up her mind, though she had no reason to think otherwise by his features. With each passing moment it was becoming glaringly clear how ill equipped she was to deal with the world outside of Apostae and the Drow was growing uneasy. Her usual unshakeable confidence was being chipped away since the incident that caused her hasty departure and Sin must find ways to cope with that. Surrounding herself with those actually knowledgeable about the place she was in seemed like a good way to start and Adran certainly a more useful (and so far more pleasant) than the goons she hired for way too little.

Sinra's gaze quit wandering to rest on Adran and the corner of her rose lips curved upwards into a subtle smile as she once more spoke in that accented sultry voice. "Thank you for the information, abbil. You have mentioned that you have been living here for a week. I assume there are accommodations to be rented here then? Where do you come from to seek berth in such a... peculiar place? And do you perhaps know of someone reliable with whom one might acquire passage to... Uh... more... populated areas?"

Sinra had done her best not to say 'civilised areas' but maybe only succeeded in implying the meaning and the idea that she was at least attempting to act diplomatically. She reserved her own opinions about the people they discussed, like the three were clearly criminals and looked more like thugs than a ship's crew. Or how that well-appointed mystery man seemed to be more nursing his drinking and waiting for someone than drowning his sorrows. Unlike the one called Mangar, who looked ragged and haunted next to the Tiefling. Sin would never understand punishing oneself for one's woes. Punishment was for others, for herself she reserved only the best life had to offer and there were so many more pleasant things to do to lift her spirits... But she knew humans to have rather strong and wild emotions, so who was she to judge?

@jrusso20
 
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Adran smiled slightly as he saw Kaschii and the red-headed cyborg girl appearing to have a telepathic conversation of sorts. He enjoyed Kaschii's company, the shirren was a gentle soul, and he saw nobody more fit to make the shaking leaf that was the red-head, besides himself of course. His smile grew wider as Sinra expressed her approval of his choice in wine. It reinforced his theory that she was raised in a wealthy, possibly even noble household, the type of people he'd been conversing with for years. But there was something more about her than just wealth, an aura that hinted at secrets within her that makes her a fascinating person to study. It attracted him to her, like a moth to a flame.

He paid attention to each of her questions, putting his thoughts on her second question aside for a moment while he answered her more simple first and third questions. "Indeed, there is a communal sleeping hall you can spend the night in for just one chit a night. It's merely a cot to lay your head and there's zero privacy, unfortunately, but for such a low price, it's quite the bargain. It's also the safest place you'll find to rest on this station, under the same rules as the rest of the tavern."

"As for where you can acquire passage, you go to the men with the ships, and the only men with ships here are pirates like Captain Tame over there. Some are as brutish as the children's tales make them out to be, others can have a certain charisma about them, but either way, you need to understand how a pirate's mind works before you can prove yourself useful to them. Perhaps in that regard we may be able to help each other further..."
He trailed off, letting the implication hang in the air, an open invitation to the alluring drow, before changing subjects.

He'd been processing his response to the personal question as he was answering her others. He didn't trust her with his whole story, yet. So he decided to leave it vague and mysterious, while sprinkling a bit of flirtatiousness on top. "As for myself, well a gentleman never reveals all his secrets on the first date. For now lets just say that I have a lust for adventure, wanting to observe the behavior of the less fortunate, and this was the closest place that fit my criteria."

@Maeriel
 
As the patrons of the Inn engaged in conversation Captain Tame stood from his seat at Tovan's table and took a small bow in gratitude. Tovan looked up at the ageing human with the same flat and unimpressed expression while puffing his ancient pipe slowly...he finally humoured the captain with a faint nod. Captain Tame turned and walked over to the bar, curious eyes wandering from patron to patron and looking a bit longer towards at Mangar and Bethelzar. Moarka moved slowly to intercept Tame, stopping and leaning forward on her palms...he eyes narrowed.

Captain Tame reached inside his jacket and took out an unmarked credstick which he placed before Moarka with the necesary flair. He offeered her a wink and a slow burning smile that made the half ork smirk."This should take care of the expenses my dear..Keep the change..." The captain then turned to face the assembly of patrons, raising a hand to call attention and speaking loudly, his voice easily carrying across the establishment and possessing a surprising amount of warmth and confidence.

"Pardon me for interrupting your conversations my fellow travellers among the stars, If I could lend your ear for but a moment. As some of you are undoubtedly aware of I am "the infamous" Captain Tame, commander of The Void Hunter.. Free Captain, Treasure hunter, Entrepreneur and if you believe certain rumours the last man you wish to be caught on a ship with..." He smirked "I am moored on this station and in need of a new crew after having parted ways with my last, A good ship needs a reliable crew and am beginning my search here in this establishment because..well... let's just say that I do not often see eye to eye with people that can't abide by a set of simple rules... Something that is required of any who wish to reside in this fine establishment... You will find a fair and honest captain in me if you'll have me. I will be here with my loyal crewmates Keesh and Krong for the evening.." He gestures towards The Vesk and Ysoki who had procured a table for themselves in the meantime, The reptilian Vesk sat with his arms crossed, his lip twitched for a second in a near snarl as the captain drew attention to him, eyes narrowing as he glared at the captain. the Ysoki stood up on her seat in order to be seen, though she did so with a little wince while waving timidly. There were some smirks and murmurs among the patrons. The Captain continued. "Feel free to enjoy a refreshment on my expense while you consider my offer... The details of our voyage and it's purpose will be gladly shared if you join us for a drink and a chat here in the safety of The Inn..." The captain spoke with the kind of inviting charisma you'd attribute to a friendly Dragon. Inviting, undeniable yet somehow dangerous... A few patrons gave a little cheer and raised their glasses at the offering of a free drink, barmaids where called over and overwhelmed by orders of obscure and rare drinks. The captain grinned and then turned away, passing the corner of Mangar and Belthezar, he slapped a hand on Mangar's shoulder like one would greet an old friend. "Mister Mortaliasta... A hole such as this is no place for a man of your renowned skill... I hope you come speak with me, I need a good pilot and you my friend look like you need a purpose... Feel free to bring your friend..." At that he winked at the Tiefling, the confidence in his voice was infectious as was his easy charisma. there was really something about the man that inspired a certain willingness to listen. These sort of aura's often had roots in experience, genetic alteration or magical assistance...the fact remained, when Tame spoke..people listened. The captain left his words to linger and walked over to sit down with his crew mates nearby, got comfortable and waited for the first applicant to bite. There were 4 free seats at the table for now.

Ysun watched the entire affair with a suspicious look, cigar smouldering between his fingers. After the captain finished his speech he looked over at Moarka and their eyes crossed for a moment. the half orc discreetly shook her head and turned to gather the influx of orders coming from the bar-wenches. Ysun sighed and took a slow drag from his cigar. He looked over the in, wondering who'd take the bait.

Qwai Qwai looked at the entire thing with confusion, she did not understand anything of what was being said or some snippets at best, loose words that gave no context or deeper meaning. When peple started ordering she seemed even more a loss until Moarka called her over and gave her simple tasks such as filling trays with drinks for other maids to pick up.

Tovan sat silently in his booth, puffing his pipe and watching the entire development with disinterest. All he cared about was the safety of his staff and patrons, what they were up to or what they solicited was often none of his concern. The dwarf sat still and motionless, sweet smelling smoke lazily lingering around him.
 
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Clara grinned, a little embarrassed at the return of the Shirren's question. She supposed most people didn't turn up places like this having no idea where they were.
"Well I kind of mean the planet, or port or city or wherever we are? Odd question, I know" She laughed nervously as she rubbed at the back of her head.
Clara had no idea how to explain why she'd ask such a strange question nor how much she should reveal in the first place. Did the pirates have connections in here? Would people turn her in? She was saved from an immediate answer with the entrance of another patron.
She glanced up as the man walked between their tables and she noticed the smirk he shot the Drow girl. Having no prior knowledge of his behaviour, she easily brushed off the gesture and brought her attention back to the Shirren before her.
"Let's just say I was brought here against my will and now I need work and a way out of here."

Before either of them could discuss further a voice filled the tavern with a booming yet drawing tone. Clara listened as he explained his need for worked, her brows shooting up at the fortuitous coincidence. His call for crew came conveniently times but his talks of being the last person you'd want to be on a ship with, were... less appealing. If she passed on this though, would there be other opportunities for working her way out of here? She didn't fancy becoming a slave under more cruel pirates and by comparison this opportunity sounded a blessing. Even so, what service could she possibly offer him aboard his ship? Perhaps her mechanic skills would be desired but she really didn't know how she fared against professionals in the industry. Sure, she seemed to be able to keep up with Mr sebali okay and he had put her to work around town to bring in some money, but she didn't consider herself a professional. Still it couldn't hurt to get more information could it? There wasn't much to lose at this point, after all.

She glanced back over at the Shirren, attempting to gather the other's opinion on the man but quickly realised that she wasn't familiar enough with the race to do so.
"Well that's rather convenient timing. I don't suppose he'd need a clueless cyborg though.." She hoped the comment would rouse some opinion from her new friend to help guide her own.
 

___Sinra Dalis___
Located: At The Inn
Wearing: Designer Drow Light Armor
_________________________________________________________________________​

Sinra didn't exactly leave the rest of the patrons unchecked in her peripheral view, but her focus was on the important information she was seeking to acquire from Adran, and the sprinkling of personal information was both to gather a better sense of with whom she was dealing and to gauge how reliable his information would be. Well... to amuse herself with more high-minded company as well. On that point he didn't seem to fail, so far he seemed like a smart man and the flirtation was not something that the Drow woman was invested in, being a lot more concerned about getting to safer and more civilized environs, but it certainly was a welcome distraction.

The news about what passed for accommodations in this place was rather disheartening, but at this point in her life Sin was rather open to eschew comfort and luxury in favor of assured safety, as she did with her less-than-ideal choice of bodyguards. Adran's proposition of mutual aid was left hanging in the air, a tempting idea that she took with more than a grain of salt for not knowing exactly what her part in the deal would be, and a deal was only such when both parties benefited, so what did Adran have in mind to gain from her? She had to be careful. Her drink arrived with a pretty alien waitress with blue hair and peculiar antennae right on time and Sinra sipped from the wine, served in a better cup even, with a lot more pleasure than the swill she had been given previously.

Before Sin could answer to either his invitation or his flirtation with follow-up questions, the so-called Captain Tame raised a rather impressive voice that seemed all too knowing on how to turn a crowd. She could tell lesser minds were easily swayed by the man's obvious charisma by the manner in which her goons seem to rib and chat among each other with dreams of easy creds fleeting through their dull, bovine eyes. They failed to see how 'too good' a proposition this all sounded to be. It was't uncommon for captains to seek crew at each port, men and women would come and go, seeking different grounds, different lives, different companions... but to crew an entire ship? It spoke of incompetence, or at the very least, recklessness, and neither were very desirable for Sin right now. On the other hand, a captain who might ask one too many questions of her might not be the ideal kind either, there was much she didn't want coming to light anytime soon.

As those things crossed her mind, Sinra called the pretty waitress, who identified herself as Kima, and ordered a whole bottle of the Verisian 218, corked and sealed, on Cpt. Tame's tab. She'd be needing it soon, by the sounds of it. Turning to Adran once more, she spoke in that enchanting, exotic voice. "Well, aren't I in rather convenient luck today?" Am I not usually? "It seems we have a captain with a ship right here. You say that it pays to have knowledge over such people, and I confess piracy is not my area of expertise, though you seem to hint you have a good mind for it. As it turns out, I am good at paying, so how about you come aid me in securing passage out of this floating salvage and we discuss a suitable compensation, abbil?"

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