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Selling an Aid Station 11/28/2021
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan and Mishka walked from the spaceport with credits in hand. Ryan was just starting to settle down as they walked further and further away from the space.
He glanced over at Mishka, "you know that is just like Ava. She really doesn't like Durro, but she still treats him with respect," Ryan explained. "I really hope that the turn around we saw with Durro is the real thing."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
"I'm sure it is," Mishka replied and brushed back a lock of hair as she followed Ryan. "He seemed rather genuine, anyway. I could be wrong, though." Her ears were twitching with obvious agitation, her mind still on the conversation they had earlier. "So...where are we going to sell these medical supplies?"
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Listening to her carefully, he nodded. "I just hope you are right."
He motioned over to Rusty's, "well I am sure that Rusty's should be a good place to start. Plus I want to make sure that I am good with him. He runs most of the black markets in the region, which also include Baklid."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka nodded and offered a smile to him, hesitantly taking his hand in her own. "What makes you worry you're not in his good graces anymore?" She asked, doing her best to hide the disappointment still biting at the back of her mind. "I'm sure he's a reasonable guy..."
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
He rubbed the back of his head, "so I have to warn you about Sinya. So you know that Astra is bat shit crazy. Well Sinya is like that, but she chooses to be like that cause she loves what she does."
He frowned, "Sinya and Nova," he paused a moment, "that was the girl packing up items from the kitchen. So those two were going to blow up a civilian ship filled with innocent women and children."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka just stares at Ryan in slight confusion. "Uhm...I see." She replied, not sure what else to say. "I barely know these people, so I can't really judge them, okay?"
Looking down at her arm with the band around it that Ryan gave her, she decided to keep walking. "Maybe we should get this done and head back to the ship? Don't we have more repairs to do?"
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan blinked a bit surprised, "I am not telling you these things to judge them. I want you to be aware of who they are in their given situations. Knowing this, will save your life."
He head out a finger as if counting, "take Tesara. When you need resolve issues she is great. But if you need someone to have your back, she doesn't do combat well."
He added a finger, "Durro is powerful, but his knowledge is spread pretty thin. Kind of a jack of all trades and a master of none."
He held up three fingers, "Ava is smart and very ambitious. But I have seen her run in combat."
Four fingers, "Astra has one hell of a temper."
"and well," he held up five fingers, "count on Nova to make the morally bad choice when it would cause the most chaos."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka stopped in place and tilted her head to the side just like a lost puppy would. "I promise to be careful, Ryan. You don't need to worry about that." Her fingers tugged at the fabric of her kimono skirt. "I'm not saying you're wrong or anything." A slight blush was on her face. "So...where are we going? To that place we had drinks at?"
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan shook his head, "you kind of made it clear you didn't like spice, so I didn't want to bring up anything bad. Anyway, Rusty's is only open after dark."
He motioned to a large building near the center of the city, "but we are going there first. That is the Intergalactic Bankers Guild." He held up the case, "we are going to open up an account for you."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka felt her face flush, the heat overpowering. "It doesn't mean I won't go there with you." She retorted. "They have those mask things..." A shrug caused one of her sleeves to fall from a shoulder.
"Oh, right," She glanced to the Intergalactic Bankers Guild. "I totally forgot about that. Remember, I want you to have half of it, Ryan. Okay?"
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan glance at her as they walked, "I just didn't want you to feel um....pressured." He saw her sleeve slip from her shoulder. He didn't think about it, he just reached up there and covered her again.
He deeply respected her and knew that her appearance around others was important to her. "Mishka, I really have plenty of money. This is suppose to be your kick starter."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
She barely noticed his hand fixing her sleeve, already so comfortable and trusting of Ryan as she was. Besides, she had seen how much of a gentleman he was already, even if he kept trying to hook Tesara up with a guy so she'd get laid. It still perplexed Mishka that he wanted to "help" the woman lose her virginity, but she was not going to ask about it.
"I understand, Ryan," She began to explain. "But you did most of the work for this. I'd feel bad for taking most of the money..." It was an admittance she had been struggling with for a while. "I won't argue if you persist, though."
She could tell he was really trying to help her.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan nodded, "I know, but there will be times where you do make of the work. The scale swings both ways. Then there will be times where we don't get paid at all."
He looked at the case, "trust me when I say this." He smiled looking in to her eyes, "this nest egg will be vital for your future stability."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
"Okay," Mishka replied as her mind took in the information and put it into a category in her mind. Keeping things held into her memory was a need and she would make sure to write some notes later. That reminded her that she needed to read those two books Ryan got her.
"Well," She continued, plastering her smile back onto her face. "I guess we should get moving then, huh?"
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
He smiled as he reached down and took her hand, "we'll get there," he said softly and enjoyed holding her hand. "Can I ask you something?"
He paused only a then asked her, "how does it feel to be alone in your mind. You could feel me, and everyone around you. But now you can't. How does that feel?"
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Squeezing his hand gently, Mishka smiled. "It's quiet, obviously." She admitted. "Well, quieter than when you feel everyone around you. You mainly feel yourself...if that makes sense. You have a sense of privacy and comfort to have your own thoughts unbothered by other emotions that are not your own."
She tilted her head to the side again, biting at her bottom lip. "Does that make sense?"
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
He nodded, "I never really thought about the privacy side of things. I had been on spice so long, I really wasn't bothered by the other emotions I felt."
"At the club," Ryan explained, "I could feel your attraction. It was, um....so um....sensual."
He half turned, "can you feel my attraction to you anymore?"
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
She blushed at his mention of the sensuality of her attraction to him. “Oh, well…uh…” She stammered, unsure how to respond to that.
That was when he asked his question and her ears perked up as she thought for a moment, tried to see if she felt anything other than her own emotions. She finally said, “No, I don’t…” Her ears fell back down.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
He looked down in sadness, "see, even now, I can feel your, um, well your attraction to me."
He smiled as if speaking of something to be cherished. "I can feel your happiness, and your attraction." He pulled her hand up and kissed the back of it. "I know when I do something you like," he said softy.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
The moment his lips touched her hand, the blush on her face grew darker. "I...I see," She stuttered as her mind went into overload. It was not everyday someone told her they could feel her attraction to them. "You're always so sweet, Ryan. I never know what I can do to help you feel happy...or safe without all the extra emotions."
One hand slipped up and rubbed at the back of her neck nervously. "I know it's probably something you're not willing to try, but having your mind all to yourself can be...comforting. All those different emotions were kind of scary for me."
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan shrugged, he opened his mouth to lie to her again but closed it. He had to be a better person for her. But he struggled with understand why being better meant leaving Spice behind. He shook off the thought, it didn't matter, that is what was needed.
He laughed, "its funny, cause I didn't feel your fear last night. That wasn't it at all." He shrugged, "I feel your fear and concern now." Then he paused and laughed deeper. "I can't read your mind, I can only get feelings of what you are thinking and what you are feeling. Like snap shots into who you are."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
“I was drunk too, Ryan,” She admitted with a grimace. “I understand you don’t read minds…It would be really scary if people could read minds.” A soft giggle escaped her as she thought of something so ridiculous.
“So…you can figure out who I am through the feelings?” Mishka asked after a long moment of thinking.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan nodded, "not just you, but everyone I meet."
He looked down as they kept walking, "Spice opens up a persons mind to well everyone. And seeing I how I have nothing to hide, I don't mind. But it also opens my mind to theirs as well."
He turned to her, "I felt your grief. It was so..." he trailed off before taking in a deep breath. "I had to do something for you."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka looked a little confused, but nodded. "Having privacy is helpful for some things, Ryan." She explained with a soft sigh. "Don't you ever just want a little peace and quiet in your own mind?"
She looked away for a moment, listening to his mention of her grief. "Thank you for what you did, Ryan. I'm sure Aneta appreciated it." Her voice had fallen to a whisper.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
He smiled and gave her nod, "I don't even think of it." Once more he kissed her hand, "you needed help, I heard your sorrow and grief and I came to your add." His smile faded a bit, "if I couldn't hear it, I wouldn't have come."
He looked down, "I think that is what I am most scared of, not hearing them anymore."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Mishka smiled at the kiss, unable to deny his statement. Of course, anyone with eyes would have noticed the depression constantly on her face, but she got the point.
"Why are you scared of not hearing them anymore?" She asked, watching his face for the expression he would show.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/28/2021
Ryan thought long and hard. He knew the answer, but how to make her understand. that was the trick. "Um..." he started. Once more ruling out lying to her again.
"I know," he finally said. "What if, you were told that starting tomorrow, you would have to expose yourself, to talk to people and tell them all your fears, hopes and dreams. Rather they wanted it or not, you would have to tell everyone you met everything about you." He turned to her, "that kind of change is what I feel."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/28/2021
Hearing Ryan's explanation made Mishka think of what had happened to her, of the horror that had changed everything for her. Her views of the world had instantly changed in those moment, even if she barely remembered what had happened. She could recall the pain and misery she had felt, though.
"I kind of know that feeling..." She whispered, looking down at her feet. Looking back up, she tried to smile, but could not. "I know you're afraid, Ryan, but you'll have someone here for you. I promise. Just remember that, okay?" She persisted. "I'm not going to push you, though."
She tried to smile again, succeeding this time, even if the sadness and fear were still in her eyes.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan held her hand and smiled to her, "I know what happened." he shrugged slightly, "okay not what happened. But I can feel the echoes of your pain. Your suffering, and your misery."
He pulled her close, "we are here, we are meant for each other." He smiled softly. "I just know it."
He listened once more and met her smile, "I want you to know how hard and how much I fear this."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Being closer to Ryan, feeling the warmth radiating off his body, always created a brilliant comfort that flowed through her entire body. “I barely remember what happened, Ryan…” She admitted with a slight shudder. “I’ve had nightmares, though…and I’m very aware of what probably happened.” With a shrug, she glanced away. “The one thing I remember most was the pain…”
A part of her wanted to tell him what she knew happened, what her nightmares revealed. She had already had flashes of memory hit her and was doing her best to ignore them. Thanks to Ryan, that was much more easily done.
When he mentioned wanting her to know how hard this was for him, how much fear it gave him, she smiled softly. “I understand, Ryan, but…no matter your choice, I’ll be here.” Raising her free hand to his face, she used the small amount of courage swelling inside her and kissed him.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Her words was like a lightsaber burning into his heart. He didn't deserve her, and he knew it. He painted a smile on his face as he tried to conceal his guilt.
"Thanks," he said. Though he knew he should have been warning her to run away from him and never look back. He knew he should tell her to not waste her kindness and effort on him, that he would just disappoint her.
"I don't know what you got tangled in, but the world I live in is an ugly one filled with ugly creatures who prey on good girls like you," Ryan explained softly.
"If you are to survive here, you need to be able to see those beings for what they are," he shook his head. "Tesara often speaks of the good nature of people. Don't ever believe her," he warned. "That is how they will kill you, or worse."
He walked a bit in silence, suddenly feeling like one of those ugly creatures that she should avoid. The guilt was overwhelming, it was all he could do to hide it from her.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
A bit of surprise struck Mishka when he didn’t return the kiss, but she tried to brush it off as him being distracted by their task at hand. But, then he was talking about the ugliness of the world and the creatures in it. That led to confusion, her ears twitching with concern. Did he not see the beauty around him in the plants and life?
“I’m sure I’ll learn to see them more easily with your help,” She chimed, catching up to the pilot. A sweet smile was on her face again, trying her best to be cheerful for both of them. “Hey, once we get the engine fixed, maybe we can take a quick nap before having to leave?” It was a suggestion she was using in an attempt to change the subject.
All she wanted was to be there for Ryan, to help him keep going. She hoped he understood that.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan felt her surprise, and it hit him like a brick to the gut. He was trying to understand what he had missed, what had he overlooked. They kissed, or was he so distracted with his own thoughts that he didn't kiss back. He cursed him for being so stupid.
He stopped and turned to her, "look, I am so sorry," he said softly. He reached and took both her hands. He held them like a bridge between them. "Its new and exciting, well I mean you," he explained.
He closed his eyes and drew in a deep breath. He had seen Tesara do this so many times when Durro had her bouncing off the walls. He hoped it worked. He tried to let go his raging emotions and calm his frantic mind.
"Normally no one ever pays old Ryan any mind. Its always fly us here or do this for us," he smiled. "And I liked it that way. I am not the hero type. I am, just me."
He pulled her closer, "but when I look at you. When I see your eyes. I can see in you the man you want me to be. Its not bad, but I am afraid."
He felt this horrible urge to lie to her, but he looked in to those eyes and fought it back. "I am afraid I can't be who you want me to be. I mean I will try so hard to do it. But in the end, I am who I am. I love who I am." He looked down and frowned but then forced his eyes back to meet hers, "I will kill myself to be who you want me to be. But I want you to know something. You are amazing, just the way you are. Your little quarks," he said reaching up and brushing her hair to the side. "They only make you more beautiful. I will never be disappointed in you for being you."
He drew in a deep breath and finally let his guilt go, "I am sorry for being distracted." Finally he returned the kiss she had so kindly given him.
His heart half expecting to be rejected.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka did not stop him from grabbing her hands, did not stop the kiss. In fact, she gladly returned it with a softness that would most likely surprise Ryan. Her mind went through what all he had said, what all he had admitted.
“I don’t expect you not to be you, Ryan,” She said in a whisper against his lips. “I like you the way you are. You’re sweet and kind, funny, and you know how to tell stories. You always bring them alive with your excitement.” It was the honest truth. The half-bothan really did like him the way he was, but she feared the Spice would kill him one day.
Drugs always killed a person in the end…
Squeezing his hands gently, careful not to let her claws cut anything, she gave him her best smile. It was her genuine smile. Pulling one hand to her chest, he pressed it to where her heart was. “So long as this is beating, I’ll be here for you. It’s a promise. Okay?” She told him.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan felt a wave of guilt drip from him, like he was stepping in from the rain. He smiled, "if I can help it, it will beat long and hard."
He motioned with his head, "let's get everything taken care of."
He turned to her, "you don't have to use spice to be beautiful. And I am sorry if I made you feel that way." His words were honest and from the heart.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka smiled as she followed him, holding his hand. “I know, silly.” She replied. “I wanted to give it a try for you, though. You know that, right?”
They were growing closer to their destination and she wanted to make sure they were both comfortable before having to deal with opening up an account for her.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan stopped once more, it was almost funny, and he couldn't help but laugh. "I understand, but I don't want that."
Once more he found himself looking deep in to her eyes, "don't do anything for me," he said softly. "If you want to do that, then that's fine. But don't do anything for anyone unless you really want to."
He slipped back and laughed slightly, "okay I am super happy you did try it. But what if if ended badly, I would feel horrible!"
He shook his, "just please....."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka looked a little perplexed as she watched Ryan. “But…I knew I would be fine because you were there.” She admitted with another smile. “You promised you would keep me safe, remember?”
If only he could see her little tail wagging beneath the kimono as she followed him. The happiness she felt being around him was always there, always existent. She hoped he would feel that and know that she is not going to judge him for being who he is.
She wanted to know Ryan as an individual, as a person. It was why she had gladly gotten those books. Understanding him and his struggle might help her aid him in the future and that was what she wanted most.
“So, finish up this whole banker thing?” She asked with a giggle.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan groaned as he nodded, "I would rather argue with you over spice than deal with bankers." He laughed, "but you are right, lets go."
He led her the rest of the way there and in to the Intergalactic Banker's Guild building. "So these guys control all the money," Ryan explained as he walked her through the large complex. "It doesn't matter who is doing what, they have their fingers in it. They were the best way to protect your money."
They walked up to the counter and true to his word, Ryan helped her set up her own account and deposited thirteen thousand, five hundred credits in to the account. In exchange, he took his share of one thousand five hundred and place it in his own account. She didn't see how much he had in there, but she was sure it was a lot.
He smiled at her, "I told you, I am not hurting for credits."
Ryan had Mishka way in a chair while he took care of some other, private business, then returned to her.
With her chain code updated and her new credit chip linked to her new account, she finally had her own money to spend. Ryan lead her from the bank and headed over to Rusty's.
Once more he assured, "don't worry, the club is closed."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
As Mishka waited for Ryan to take care of his private business, sitting in a chair, she gazed at the floor for a long moment. Something flashed across her mind as she did so. There was laughter and a couch, her feet moving down a hallway. It made no sense to her as she shot her head back up and glanced around the room.
Just the Intergalactic Banker's Guild lobby surrounded her. No one was even paying her any mind as they went about their own business.
Trying to brush the images away, she rose from her seat as Ryan returned. She followed him outside, thankful for the fresh air because she had become greatly uncomfortable after those images flashed across her mind. Were they memory or just something her mind conjured up to scare her?
At the moment she did not care as and Ryan made their way to Rusty’s. “Okay,” She said to him in a soft voice. “Do you think we’ll be able to get anything sold for a good price?”
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan laughed, "Last minute sells are hardly ever done at a good price." He walked her down the street. "Anyway, If we give Rusty a good deal on the lot, he just might forget about all this mess with the lost package."
He frowned, "I really don't like loosing a package like that. I get that they wanted to make Sinya happy. But fuck me, that will burn my reputation." He gave her a sideways glance, "you see Mishka, your reputation is all that your employers have to establish how trustworthy you are. I happen to have a really good reputation in these circles. So we cut Rusty a good deal, he is made happy and so my...um...our reputation doesn't get smashed. And Durro is no wiser."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka nodded in understanding as she rubbed at her necklace. “I understand that.” She replied and took his hand gently. “I’m sure he doesn’t blame you for the loss of that package, though.”
She wanted to say more, but could not think of anything at the moment.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
He laughed, "Rusty can be rather unreasonable when he feels crossed."
He suddenly felt uneasy for a second. A wave of bad memories washed over him.
He smiled softly towards her, "don't worry," he assured. "We will cut a deal and make Rusty happy, and Durro gets rid of the aide station he been crying about for weeks and we get just that much more profit.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka nodded again as she looked toward their destination, having noticed a look of discomfort on his face for a brief moment. “Yeah, a little more profit and then we head back…and go on this crazy mission…” She mumbled.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
The pair made their way to Rusty's. When they arrive, true to his word, the place was shut down. Though there were people working there.
Walking up to one of the door guards. "We are here to see Rusty," Ryan said, "We have a possible sell for him. One I am sure he would be interested in."
The man nodded and allowed them access to the club. As they walked through, Mishka could see girls practicing their dance while others work to clean up the club for the coming night's service
Heading up to the upper level, they walked in to Rusty's lounge.
"Rusty," Ryan said softly. "Do we have a great deal for you!"
"Ryan of Baklid," Rusty said, "I am not pleased with our last business transaction."
Ryan nodded, "you know I had nothing to do with that."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka averted her eyes from the girl practicing their dance as she kept following Ryan, greatly uncomfortable with the sight for some reason. Brushing her hair back, only to have it fall back in front of her face, she looked at Rusty. “Uhm…yeah.” She murmured as she stayed close to Ryan. “That…what was her name? Sinya? She came for it and mentioned it was settled with you.”
Glancing to Ryan, she thought to mention the medical supplies, but wanted to leave the negotiating up to him. She was afraid of saying the wrong thing.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/29/2021
Ryan nodded, "yeah her name was Sinya, and she said she had settle the score with you."
Rusty laughed, "Ryan...Ryan....she did settle, at the tip of her lightsaber. Bad for business."
As he walked Mishka was a redheaded female walk in with drinks on a plate. There was something familiar about this woman. She walked in and gave Rusty his glass and poured him a drink. She then moved and gave drinks to a few others that were there. Then she offered Ryan a drink, who waved her off. She then walked up to Mishka.
"Drink My Lady," the woman said softly with her head lowered.
Rusty continued, "so you have something to sell Ryan?"
Ryan nodded, "I have a Nu-Class cargo bay filled with medical supplies and equipment, for a below reasonable price."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/29/2021
Mishka shook her head at the drink as she tried to recall where she had seen this woman before. Her mind was running through everywhere she had been recently, searched through all the faces she had seen. It was just eluding her at the moment.
It was only harder to discern who this woman was when she kept her head lowered like that.
Her ears twitched, listening to everything she could, her eyes scanning the room. Rusty seemed to be calm enough, but she had never been the best at reading people. “It’s a lot of supplies, too…” She whispered, hand rubbing at her necklace again.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Rusty laughed and Ryan gave Mishka a soft nod, telling her to trust him. Rusty continued, "the original buyer of the package might be interested in a swap. Though the cut will be far less."
Being new to this world, even Mishka could sense that words meant much more than what the ears detected. There appeared to be a level of danger in the air.
Ryan nodded as he shifted nervously, "I can see how this puts you in a bind." Reaching in to his pocket he pulls the coin. It was time for him to complete this damage control operation. "I will forgo any commission," he said walking to the nearest guard and handed the Favor Token over. "Consider it my apology for this hardship that you have been put in."
Rusty laughed deeply, "Ryan of Baklid, your reputation proceeds you." The large Hutt turned to his nearest henchmen, "I heard such good things of this man." He turned back to Ryan, "why don't you work for me directly?"
Ryan laughed allowing his nervousness to ease a bit, "I prefer being a free agent." He smiled, "the pay is better."
Rusty motioned to the guard that Ryan gave the coin to, "return the coin." As the guard returned the token to Ryan's waiting hand, "I will move your goods." His voice tailed off as his large fat hand rubbed his chin, "for 20k."
Ryan didn't catch himself as he laughed. The sudden out burst caught everyone by surprise, and suddenly the tensions in the room rose once more.
Ryan stood there next to Mishka as the guards facing them was unsure what to do. Rusty was silent for a long stressful moment, before he started laughing.
"Okay," Rusty said as if understanding that his first offer was laughably too low. "30ks," he said then held up a fat finger, "but remember Ryan of Baklid, this is sight unseen and I don't have a buyer yet."
Ryan nodded, "30ks it is," he said softly.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
A hint of fear swelled within Mishka when Ryan began to laugh at the lower price. Her fingers had wrapped around the necklace tightly as her other hand swiveled around her midsection as if hugging herself. How could he be so calm about this? Or was he? She could not feel Ryan’s emotions, so she was unsure.
But knowing him, he was probably just as nervous as she was.
When they agreed on the new price, Mishka glanced at the pilot. “Shouldn’t we get going soon?” She almost whispered. Every time she heard the name Rusty or saw him, she felt a tinge of familiarity. Why she did was beyond her at the moment and she honestly did not want to know why.
All she wanted to do was get out of here and away from these people. They all seemed to be…on edge.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan nodded and smiled to Mishka, "I think our work here is done." On that, Ryan started to escort Mishka from the upstairs office.
As they were walking down the stairs, Mishka took sight of the redheaded female once more. She shared similar features as Mishka, indicating her half Bothan heritage. What caught Mishka's eyes, or more her ears was that dreaded sound that summed the redhead to the bartender for a new round of drinks. That sound Mishka wished she had never heard before.
Ryan turned her with surprise and fear on his face, "Mishka....." he said as she stood shaking in fear. "what's wrong," the concern in his voice was clear to her.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka was hugging her stomach, fighting tears that threatened to fall down her face as she finally looked at Ryan. “That noise…” She whispered, ears completely down. Her heart had sped up, mind spinning as the sound echoed through her mind. Images flashed through her mind, starting up a headache that she was not ready for.
“That noise…” She repeated, grabbing onto Ryan’s arm tightly. “I want out of here.” There was fear written all over her face, a fear far worse than any discomfort he might have seen her deal with before.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan grabbed her hand and started to hasten their speed from the club. He didn't need her to explain. He felt her fear, he felt the very edge of pain she was on. He knew she needed his head and he would do just that. Help her get out of there.
Once they were well far away, he set her down at a small bench under a large shade tree. "Okay," he finally said. "You are safe now," he added holding her hand as he dropped to his knees before her.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka was on the verge of hyperventilating by the time they slipped out of the place. She let Ryan pull her along until he sat her down on the bench. The tears had finally fallen down her face during the fast walk. "I'm sorry," She murmured to him as her breathing started to even out.
She could partially recall something that caused her to fear that noise, knew it had something to do with her rape and abuse. "Something about that noise...it has something to do with what happened to me, I think." She admitted softly, squeezing his hand.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan reached up and touched the side of her face, hoping she could feel his care and compassion for her. "You don't need to be sorry," he said softly.
He nodded, "its called an Summoner's Whistle. Its common among the Cracken Slave Guild."
A sudden wave of sadness crossed his face, "if you got picked up by then, you are lucky to be alive let alone free."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
“I don’t remember the details,” Mishka explained as she leaned into his touch. It was so warm and comforting, another reminder of how kind Ryan was.
“The…Cracken Slave Guild?” She inquired with a frown, glancing toward Rusty’s place. “I…I remember someone dropping me off at the farm, but…I don’t recall the mention of a guild…” She thought of the images that flashed across her mind, of the horror she saw. It made her feel sick…
“Maybe we should head back to the Jupiter One?” She asked.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan nodded, "Okay, come on." he said helping her to her feet and ready to be her support should she need it. "Rusty's isn't directly involved in any of the slave guilds. I know they often give him gifts or at least offer him gifts. They want access to his black markets across the region," Ryan explained. "It is how Rusty and I had our first business dealings. Rusty knew me from Riche, and knew I was in his backyard and asked me to check in on one of his um...associates," Ryan explained.
He helped her back to the Jupiter One as they continued to talk, "Rusty doesn't mind slavery, I mean after all, he is Hutt. But he does draw the line in how the Cracken Guild operates."
The space port was slowly coming in to sight.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka felt as if a rock had just sank into her stomach. “I see,” She murmured and kept close to Ryan, her eyes gazing at the ground before them. “I know I’m probably going to regret asking, but…how do they operate?” A part of her felt as if she already knew, though.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan sighed as he really didn't want to tell her the truth but she had asked. "They often kidnap their victims," Ryan said softly. "There is more, but I really don't think you want to know. I am sure you get the impression," he said then added. "The this particular guild is the whole reason why the Watch Tower was created," Ryan explained."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
“The…Watch Tower?” Mishka’s ears twitched, the words ringing in her mind as if connected to a memory. “That name sounds familiar. I think the person that helped me said the name…I can’t really remember why.” Her fingers gently gripped onto his hand as they got closer to the Jupiter One. “I think I’m starting to remember what happened to me, Ryan.”
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan frowned, "are you sure that is wise," he said softly worried that it would hurt her to remember things best left forgotten. He personally understood this like no one else could. Deciding instead to change the subject he added, "The Watch Tower is more boogieman to the slaves than anything actually real. Well, I mean, you will hear stories of them, but no one ever claimed to have personally known anyone who has actually seen them."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka tilted her head to the side with curiosity and smiled. "So, they're like a fairytale." She chimed with a soft giggle, thankful for the change of subject. "So, are you ready for the mission we've got to go on?" She asked as they finally reached the ship.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan walked her up the ramp and into the Jupiter One, "not really. I am really worried about you," he confessed. "I don't like the idea of you being out there alone."
He walked her in their new room. "You know, we are going to have to make this room ours," he said softly.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
“I’m sure I’ll be fine so long as I follow your instructions,” She said with a small smile as they entered their new room. Her eyes took it in, glanced over everything, and finally fell back to Ryan. “Ours?” Her voice became a cute squeak. “You…you want to share it with me?”
She had heard him exclaim about it earlier when Ava handed the ship over to him, but she had assumed he was joking back then. Now she was aware that he was serious and it caused a dark blush to form on her face. She would love to share the room with him, but she was unsure how it would work out at the moment.
“I mean, I’ll love that…er…I mean, but…really?” She stuttered.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan felt her swirling emotions and became confused, "um, I mean if you...um....." he stumbled over his words. "I don't mean to assume you wanted to share a room with me," he tried to back paddle out of what he assumed was a poorly chosen statement.
It was his time to blush over his misunderstanding of her not saying anything to his earlier statement. He had assumed if she hadn't want to, when he first mentioned the idea, she would have spoken up then.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Blinking, Mishka brushed back a lock of her brown hair. "Ryan, I'll be happy to share the room with you." She finally said in a far more calm tone. Tugging at one of her sleeves absently, she sat down on the bed. "I thought you were joking before, but I'm happy you were serious."
She gave him a soft smile, hoping he understood she was truly happy about the idea.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan smiled as he motioned to the two closest, "You can have the left side and I will take the right." He smiled and gave her a nod, "I will warn you, I move in my sleep."
He walked over to the bed and set down next to her, "look," he said softly, "I am not going to impose anything silly. I often sleep in the cockpit, so I won't be using the bed much."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka merely smiled and nodded as she stroked her necklace. "I figured you were the type to sleep in the cockpit a lot." She said with another giggle. "But always remember there are blankets on a bed to keep warm." Pulling her hair around, she started to untie the ribbon near the bottom of the braid she had left her hair in all day.
"I'll be rooting for you when you go out there, you know." She mentioned as she worked the braid apart slowly. Having it like this all day added to the curls her hair already naturally had. "I want you to come back safe and sound."
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan laughed softly, "its funny, I am more worried that you will be harmed."
He looked down at the floor for a long while. "Listen, I need you to do something for me." He looked to her with a serious look on his face, "I want you to promise me something. If anything happens to me, I want you to take the Jupiter One and head straight to Baklid. Tell Ava what happened to me and you stay close to her."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Worry filled Mishka’s mind as she listened to him, her fingers stopping in their activity with her hair. She prayed nothing would happen to him, but there was always that possibility, wasn’t there?
“I promise,” She told him as she met Ryan’s gaze.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan smiled and let out a sigh of relief, "I can't tell you how important it is for me to know you will be safe should anything happen to me."
He turned to the side and took her hand, "I don't care what anyone says, you keep back and don't do anything stupid."
He smiled, "don't start pulling crazy jedi girl things."
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Ears perking up, Mishka let out a giggle. "I promise not to pull any crazy jedi girl things." She answered and gripped his hand gently. "Just promise me you'll be careful out there, okay?" Her blue eyes looked at the band wrapped around her arm that he gave her. It felt so special to her already.
She honestly didn't know what she would do if something happened to him. Of course, she would follow his instructions and go to Ava, but she knew that she would be alone again. It was truly frightening to think he could possibly die on this mission.
@TheTraveler
TheTraveler — 11/30/2021
Ryan smiles and gives her a nod. "Good, cause I just can't do my job if I am worrying about you," he smiled and kisses her hand. He rose from the bed, "if you don't mind, I am going to go take a shower." He gave her a soft smile and a nod.
He paused and snaps his fingers. "But first let me go put this in Durro's cabin," Ryan said holding up the case of credit.
@Mishka Winlat
Mishka Winlat — 11/30/2021
Mishka nodded and smiled as she watched Ryan. “I’ll be here,” She answered before plopping down on her back and gazing up at the ceiling silently. Waiting until he was out of the room, she turned onto her side and curled up. Her mind went back to the sound, recalling the images it brought to mind.
She could see a hand slipping her necklace into a pocket in her mind, hand instantly going to said item around her neck. “It’s the past…” She whispered to herself, closing her eyes tightly. “I’m safe now.”
At least she hoped she was safe.
@TheTraveler
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