The shuttle shuddered slightly as it began its descent. Outside the viewport, the barren landscape of Farlight came into view, a desolate expanse punctuated by jagged rock formations and the distant flicker of iridescent lights.

Siliko leaned on the back of Leonye’s chair, peering out with a keen eye. “That’s the place alright, bring us in around the back of the main Spaceport, it’s the least conspicuous spot, right next to the outer markets. Don’t be fooled, though, and keep your eyes peeled. Farlight might look a little chaotic when we’re down there, but it’s got eyes everywhere.”

Leonye nodded, tickling the controls as he guided the shuttle into land. “Alright, well, our spontaneous scavenger hunt aside, we didn't have time to rehearse our roles so, improvisation it is. Selune, you ready?”

She nodded, straightening her posture though her trembling hands betrayed her trepidation. The shuttle touched down with a soft thud, the engines whining as they powered down. Gathering themselves and unable to synthesise anything of real value, Leonye hastily bundled the small amount of valuable scrap they were able to find into a metal case. Cautiously, the trio disembarked, emerging into dry, acrid air which struck them like a slap to the face as they descended the shuttle's short ramp. 

The settlement's outskirts were a stark contrast to the lifeless terrain they had flown over. Ramshackle stalls, blended with makeshift structures, hollowed-out ship hulls and even some altogether intact ships, formed a labyrinth of narrow alleys and hidden nooks. The smell of strange spices and cooked meats wafted through the air, mingling with less pleasant odours that hinted at the market's diverse clientele. 

Selune led the way, tense and visibly uncomfortable as they entered the settlement's outer markets. The noise and bustle of Farlight enveloped them instantly. Vendors shouted their wares in a cacophony of languages, each trying to either outdo the other in volume or ‘discounts’. Everywhere the group looked, exotic goods and dubious contraband were on display. One stall boasted vibrant textiles that shimmered like steam, while another played host to many cases of small alien creatures that hissed and chirped like they were either gravely wounded, or feral.

Proceeding cautiously, the group passed a crowd of mesmerised onlookers caught in the spectacle of a street performer, twirling dazzling batons, showering the area with blue and green sparks. Meanwhile young children darted between the enraptured onlookers, their light fingers emptying their pockets as nimbly as their feet would carry them.

Siliko kept a watchful eye, his attention flickering to every lingering gaze upon them. “Stay close, and don't engage with anyone unless needed,” he murmured.

Leonye nodded, looking up towards Selunes' tense posture. “Selune, remember to breathe.” 

As they moved through the throng, a merchant hawking mysterious vials of glowing liquid stepped directly into Selune’s path. “Ah, my lady! A moment of your time! These elixirs are the finest on this side of the galaxy, an opportunity you won’t want to miss!”

Caught off guard, Selune smiled awkwardly, stumbling slightly, trying to sidestep the merchant. Persistently he pressed on, shoving a vial towards her face. “I insist, just a sample! See for yourself the wonders my remedies can perform!”

Flustered now, she struggled to maintain her composure, her hands trembling as she gently pushed the vial away. “N-no thank you, I’m not interested,” she stammered, eyes darting to her companions.

Leonye stepped between the pair forcefully, his hand gripping the merchant’s wrist tightly and pushing him back. “Back off,” he snarled, eyes blazing. “She said no.” 

The merchant winced, “Alright, alright!” he exclaimed, raising his hands in surrender before mockingly saluting and scuttling off into the dense crowd. 

Turning around Leonye gave Selune a panic stricken glare before quickly bowing his head in a hunch and raising his voice. “Forgive me my Lady, but if you will permit me to fix this,” he said, reaching up to adjust the collar of her outfit. Leaning in close, Leonyes voice dropped to an urgent whisper, “Drop the nerves or we’ll be outed. Remember, you’re in charge here.”

Selune took a deep breath, nodding slightly as Leonye adjusted her collar, eyes fixed ahead as if trying to ignore his existence, expression hardening like stone. With a voice like thunder she replied, “Thank you. Slave. But speak for, or touch me again without permission and you’ll pay dearly.” 

Leonye stepped back quickly, his head bowing lower. “Yes, Mistress,” he replied, his voice tinged with resentment. 

Making their way through the bustling market, the trio drew more than a few curious glances but were mostly unhindered, the occasional over-eager peddler forcibly pushed aside by the hilt of Silikos blade or a heavy shove from Leonye in the guise of protecting Selune. Whistling sharply, Siliko gestured his head towards an upcoming dilapidated building, a large flickering sign which read “Joren’koda’s Emporium”.

As they approached the entrance, Siliko turned back to Leonye and Selune, his voice tinged with hesitance. “Stick to the plan, in and out, let me do the talking. Joren’s an information dealer, amongst other things but he can get us what we need. But he can be a little…”

“Siliko! I’d recognise that silhouette anywhere! Come in! Come, come, come!” A deep voice boomed from inside the building. With a shrug and a sly smile, Siliko slipped inside the dimly lit and cluttered interior, followed by Selune, forced to duck under the short doorway. 

Lagging behind, Leonye couldn’t help but mutter “What plan!”. 

As their eyes adjusted to the dim light within the emporium, the figure belonging to the booming voice came into view. Joren’koda sat behind a large wooden counter, a lavish yet well-worn chair supporting his frame. Around the store, small droids pottered around, tending to various insurmountable tasks, sorting parts, cleaning items, yet despite their best efforts, the store remained cluttered and dirty. 

Joren’koda adjusted his cybernetic eyepiece as the group approached, its lens gleaming in the low light. Equine-esque in his appearance, his long, narrow face bore a few scars, yet maintained a jovial demeanour. “Well, if it isn't my favourite Dareblade. What brings you to my humble shop for…the second time in as many days?” 

Siliko stepped forward, donning a charming smile. “Joren, my old friend. We’re in need of some supplies. Fuel for one, Dark or Exotic Matter and a few engine parts. Think you can help us out?”

Joren’s gaze shifted towards Sleune and Leonye, his implant whirring as it focused on the pair. “Depends. You got something to negotiate a trade? Not often do we get Kromas in here, let alone two that have been in your company of late Siliko. Branching out are we?”

Siliko’s smile widened, his eyes sparking with mischief. “You could say that. Times are tough, and I’ve found it prudent to diversify my associations. Recently got myself into a bit of a tight spot, so needs-must, and all that.”

Stepping forward Selune interjected, her tone icy, “Negotiate? We have no interest in trivialities. Provide what we need, and we’ll compensate you appropriately. I don’t have time for games.”

Joren leaned back, raising an eyebrow, “Is that so? Compensation is all well and good, but I prefer specifics. What exactly are you offering so that I do my best to not take up your ever so valuable time.”

Siliko cut in, a nervous laugh punctuating the need to smooth things over. “Joren, we don't need to get hung up on the details. We have brought a few valuable pieces of Illadrian scrap to trade, a rarity nowadays. How about this, you accept these unique components of an absent race, provide the fuel, and the engine parts now, and I’ll owe you a few favours on top! You know I always pay by debts and you can consider anything you owe me paid in full!”

Cocking his head, Jorens lips pursed, considering the proposal as Leonye hastily presented the case of fragments to the merchant for perusal. “A handful of…mostly useless engineering scraps for technology that most species cannot make sense nor use of in their native form. Plus a few favours from a fairly competent Dareblade and nullification of my own favours to you? That’s certainly a bold offer. But nowhere near enough to cover everything you’re asking for, especially Dark matter.” Joren scratched his chin, looking up at the ceiling, “if I melt down these parts for their raw components…It might get you a handful of third-hand engine components though.”

Selune’s eyes narrowed. “Ugh, We need high-quality parts, not scrap. Name your price.” 

Studying Selune for a moment, Joren turned back to Siliko. “There’s a rival trader who’s been undercutting my prices and stealing my clients. Send them a message, nothing drastic, just enough to remind him of the consequences. Do this, and I’ll supply the Dark matter, and throw in a few second hand parts. On the house. Though if you had brought more to the table…I could increase the quality and quantity.” 

Siliko glanced at Selune and Leonye, then nodded. “Deal. We…I will take care of it. Meanwhile your servant can no doubt try and find some items of worth to improve our trade, Madame Selune.”

Leonye, shuffled forward slightly, head remaining bowed. “Mistress, if I may speak? The parts we need are quite specific. I can provide a detailed list.”

Selune nodded curtly. “Make it quick, slave.”

Leonye quickly listed the parts they needed, his technical knowledge leaving Joren’koda bewildered as he listened attentively, nodding as he made note of the information.

"Alright," Joren finally said, "I'll have my droids fetch the parts right away, but the quality will depend on what you bring back." He turned to Selune, adding, "Take your scrap with you. Maybe your slave can get a better price for it elsewhere. Or you could sell him easily enough down in the red-light zone. Right now I'm mainly after Celestrix dust, refined of course, or Voidheart resin. If you can convince some poor fool to part with either, I'll ensure your parts are ready by the time you return with the goods."

As the group nodded and began to exit, Joren beckoned Siliko to hang back. “Can’t remember the last time I saw a Kromas wearing synthetic garments before today,” he mused, “not to mention one with an Illadrian as an aide. That story is one I would most definitely like to hear.”

Siliko laughed, a hint of tension in his voice. Joren’s cybernetic eyepiece whirred softly, its lens gleaming as it focused on Siliko with a knowing look. “Odd bedfellows I keep nowadays I agree.” Siliko replied, his brow furrowing. “I’ll fill you in another time, she gets awfully impatient, and I have a trader to rough up.” 

Joren tapped his eyepiece, his gaze never leaving Siliko. “Indeed,” he said, a hint of suspicion in his tone. “I’ll be waiting for that story.” 

With a nervous gulp, Siliko hurried out quickly after the others, leaving Joren watching him depart with narrowed eyes. Stepping outside to join his companions, Siliko gave Selune and Leonye an uneasy glance. “I’ll handle Joren’s job. Have a browse through the market, see if you can haggle with some of the merchants for anything worthwhile to trade in. Either resin or dust would be perfect but you may have to…”

He paused, looking around as if ensuring they weren't overheard, then lowered his voice “...you may have to offer more than just the scrap we brought. These merchants don't play fair, and we have no real bargaining power. Some of them might want more personal favours so Muscles might need to get his piston wet.” 

Leonye opened his mouth to retort but was abruptly stopped by Selune, who outstretched her arm before his face. She addressed Siliko with a stern gaze. "Be gone then, and don’t come back until you’ve completed your task. The sooner I am free of this hovel, the better."

With a devilish grin, Siliko bowed and vanished into the throng. Leonye, wary of being noticed, subtly shifted his position and gave Selune a questioning look. She flicked her eyes towards the right. Following her gaze, Leonye felt a chill run down his spine. Near the end of the bustling alleyway loomed a tall, metallic figure, the space around it left vacant, as passers by gave it a wide berth. Its green eyes glowed ominously, scanning the crowd with cold, calculated precision. Searching for something? Or someone?

Forcing himself to stay in character, he asked, “My lady, is that—?”

Selune nodded curtly. “A Kromas drone. It seems I’m not the only one here, which is…” She trailed off, anxiety flickering in her eyes. She coughed sharply, trying to regain her composure as a group of aliens gawking at Leonye passed by. “...delightful. We’ll have to be careful not to offend any of my kin, won’t we, slave?”

“Yes...Madame Selune.” Leonye spoke flatly, cold shivers running down his spine at Selunes' unfriendly tone. Doubts crept into his mind as to Selune's real allegiances. “Shall we explore some potential trades so we can best return to your ship and your mission as quickly as possible?”

Selune nodded again, giving a stern wave of her hand for Leonye to proceed ahead. As the pair walked quickly away from the foreboding presence in the alleyway, she brushed her fingers lightly against his hand, a fleeting touch but a deliberately reassuring one. Leonye glanced at her, catching a brief, subtle smile that vanished as quickly as it appeared.

“Faster slave!” Selune commanded, maintaining her regal bearing as they continued their walk through cramped and bustling stalls. As they passed a tent peddling vibrant shimmering textiles, a vendor attempted to engage them.

“You there! Illadrian boy! Perhaps something for your mistress? Finest silks in the galaxy. That's what they is!” The vendor exclaimed, reaching out to Leonye.

Selune shot the vendor with a withering look as their loud call had attracted many pairs of unwanted eyes trying to glimpse the sighting of an Illadrian. Feeling the pressure, Leonye stepped forward. “My Lady has no need of silks,” he said curtly. “We seek more valuable items, might a humble trader, such as yourself, know where we may obtain either Celestrix dust or Voidheart resin?”

The vendor’s eyes widened slightly, but they quickly composed themselves. “Such rare and specific items are hard to come by, even in Farlight. Though I might know a trader who can help you. Of course, a little… incentive might help me remember where to find them.” 

Leonye glanced back at Selune, who gave a subtle nod. “What kind of incentive?” he asked, keeping his voice steady.

The vendor leaned in, lowering their voice to a whisper. “Precious metals of course! Gems and the like, they make the finest inlays for my fabrics. Or perhaps a night alone with that firm, sculpted…”

Leonye stiffened, fortunate to have Selune step in as the vendor extended a hand to squeeze Leonye’s arm, her voice dripping with disdain. “You will show my property respect, or you will find yourself without a head to gawk. We offer some Illadiran metal, valuable components, easy to extract and add to your…fine wares.” 

The vendor gulped, “Of course, my lady. No offence intended. That will suffice plenty.” Leonye reluctantly opened the case, handing over several chunks of embossed metal, shivering as the vendor's hands lingered on his own a little too long. 

“I’ll fetch the dealer right away. Wait here.”

The vendor disappeared behind one of the larger silk displays, the fabric rippling as they vanished from view. A moment later, a 'new' figure emerged, their attire only marginally different from that of their predecessor—a different hat, a donned scarf, and an unusually exaggerated swagger. Clearing their throat, they announced in a gruff tone, “I hear you’re lookin’ for somethin’ special. I’m the dealer you want. Shards and dust, yeah?”

Leonye exchanged a look with Selune, the vendor's ruse turning her face a livid shade of green, eyes narrowed to slits. “Yes, that’s correct.”

The 'dealer' nodded, a smirk playing on their lips. “Very well. I can get ya that, but it’ll cost ya. Got any more of that fancy metal? Would love a little more o’ that. Or a night alone with loverboy here will get ya your weight in shards, mark my words.”

Selune inhaled sharpy through gritted teeth, her patience wearing thin. “We can give you a score of more fragments, but my slave is off the table. Accept it, and we shall conduct our business swiftly.” 

“I’d rather insist he be on the table…or the floor,” the dealer remarked as Leonye shifted uncomfortably. With yielding reluctance, the dealer reached into their pocket, withdrawing a small velvet bag, dropping it on the table between them. “A dozen resin, take it or leave it.”

Scowling, Selune remarked. “A dozen Voidheart resin for a score of rare Illadrian fragments?” She calculated for a second, sensing the eyes of the crowd lingering. “Fine.”

Leonye handed over the case containing the remaining fragments, carefully placing it into the dealer’s outstretched hands. The dealer opened the case, inspecting the fragments with greedy delight, his fingers lingering over the intricate designs before stashing the case and its contents away.

The dealer slid the velvet bag across the table. “Pleasure doin’ business with ya,” they said, their grin never fading. “I’ll be here if you need anythin’ else, though I still say a night with your slave would fetch you quite a bit more.”

“You can trust our business is concluded.” Seline replied firmly, grabbing the bag and quickly making sure the contents were genuine. Turning to leave, Leonye followed closely behind. 

As Selune and Leonye moved away from the stall, the bustling market seemed to close in around them. Selune clutched the velvet bag tightly, her pulse gradually beginning to slow. 

“Where to next, Mistress?” Leonye asked, looking around as an unusual murmur descended through the crowd. A ripple of silence spread through the marketplace like ink through water. Whispers hushed, eyes turned in fear and curiosity as the lively chatter was replaced by uneasy quiet, broken only by the approaching sound of heavy, synchronised footsteps. 

Selune’s eyes widened as she followed the direction of the crowd’s collective gaze. Rounding the corner at the far end of the alley, a male figure came into view, flanked by two unfortunately familiar green eyed, humanoid drones. The figure paused, their presence like a shadow falling over the marketplace. Jet-black hair adorned their head, neatly styled, framing a smug face that was both handsome and foreboding in equal measure. But it was his eyes, piercing violet, glowing with almost otherworldly power that sent a shiver down Leonye’s spine, making his heart flutter with an unusual rhythm. 

As the man drew closer, his sleek black suit adorning his athletic frame seemed to absorb the very light around him, as his gaze lingered on Selune for a moment, before locking on Leonye, the corner of his mouth curling into a predatory smile.

The marketplace seemed to hold its breath as he moved towards the pair, each step measured and deliberate. The remaining crowd parted before him, not out of respect, but terror, with many quickly retreating from the scene entirely. The drones, menacing in their silent vigil, flanked him like harbingers of doom. 

Leonye felt his stomach knot, his logical, tactical brain seeming to stutter.. “Selune…” he squeeked, unable to break eye contact with the approaching man.

The man gave Leonye a thorough examination, his violet eyes roaming over Leonye’s form with a deliberate slowness that made Leonye’s heart race. Then, with a casual, almost playful air, he winked, before turning his attention back to Selune.

His voice was smooth, confident, but carried an undercurrent of true menace as he continued to approach. “Well, well,” he said, tone dripping, “It’s not every day one finds a fellow Kromas in such a remote and specific marketplace. How intriguing.” 

Selune maintained her regal bearing despite the palpable tension in the air. Taking a deep breath she steeled herself. “Stay calm,” she whispered, more to herself than Leonye.

The man stopped a few paces away from them, his eyes locking back on Leonye with an intensity that made the air around him feel thick and oppressive. This gaze roaming, lingering, taking in every detail with a deliberate slowness that sent heat rising to Leonye’s cheeks.

“And who might you be, wandering so boldly in Farlight? He asked, his tone mocking but eyes sharp, like a snake ready to strike. He took another step closer, his attention unwavering from Leonye, as if Selune was an afterthought. 

Selune straightened, her voice icy. “I am Selune, and the meat you’re ogling is my slave. I am here on business, nothing more.”

The man’s smile widened, taking another step closer, now only a breath away from Leonye. “Business, you say? How fascinating.” His eyes flicked back to Leonye’s face, lingering on his lips.

Leonye gulped, the intensity of the man’s presence keeping him frozen, heart pounding in his chest. In the back of his mind he screamed in confusion, absent was the hatred and rage he expected to feel, replaced only with the heat of the man’s gaze that made it difficult for him to think clearly. 

The man chuckled softly. “Where are my manners?” he said, finally tearing his gaze away from Leonye to address Selune. “Allow me to introduce myself. I am Zalen. And you are?”

Selune held her ground, keeping her voice steady. “Selune, as I already informed you,” she replied bluntly, before softening her tone. “We are simply here to complete some business and be on our way, the less time spent amongst the filth, the better. Your own reason for being here?”

Zalen’s smile remained, though his eyes flickered with a hint of amusement. “Selune, is it? A pleasure, I’m sure, though my business is my own, same as you. ” He turned his attention back to Leonye for a moment, his expression thoughtful. “Your slave however, quite the specimen. A decorative pet perhaps? Or something more…useful?”

Selune’s eyes narrowed, “My aide, he serves his purpose well.” 

“Hmm…I,” Zalen started, but was cut off as one of his drones emitted a sharp beep, its eyes flaring as its body shifted into an aggressive stance, its mechanical voice sounding, “Illadrian, lifeform detected. Potential threat identified. Neutralization advised.”

Zalen raised a hand, halting the drone as it moved to advance, its aggression momentarily checked. His eyes gleamed with interest. “An Illadrian,” he mused. “How fascinating. Quite a rare sight indeed, especially in such, company. You know I would be pleased to lend one of my servants to your protection, Selune, if you would be willing to part with your aide for a few short hours. I designed them myself and can assure you they are the very best in unquestioning servitude.”

“My Lady…I..” Leonye managed to stammer before receiving a sharp backhanded slap to his face from Selune.

“Know your place, slave! You serve at my whim.” Selune snapped, returning her attention to address Zalen again. “His brazen spunk aside, whatever reason could I have to part with one of my prized possessions?”

Zalen smirked as Leonye recoiled in pain from the blow. He stepped closer, and with a slow, deliberate motion, ran a finger down Leonye’s chest. Leonye’s breath froze, his heart pounding even harder, a rhythm he was certain Zalen could feel. 

“Such spirit even in a slave,” Zalen murmured, his voice a low purr. “I do admire that. It would be a shame to let such potential go to waste, one day I will just have to get an Illadrian of my own. Consider my offer, Selune. I assure you, my servants are most efficient.” 

He leaned in slightly, his lips an inch from Leonye’s ear. “I can sense the fire in you, Illadrian. The shackled need…” Zalen continued, his finger drifting lower, past Leonye’s navel, “I would delight in hearing you beg me to tear you apart… Piece. By. piece.”

Clearing her throat roughly Selune stepped forwards slightly, drawing Zalens attention back to her. Zalen pulled back, his expression irked. Breaking his contact with Leonye, his eyes drifted to Selune as she continued. “Your offer is noted, but my aide remains with me. I have no need for additional protection.”

Zalen’s smile returned, though it was colder now, matched by his tone. “Very well, Selune. You are clearly a woman on a schedule. I bid you safe travels. But do remember to keep your pet on a tight leash. Else they might go missing and end up in an unfortunately tight cage. Farlight is full of surprises after all. If you change your mind, I’ll be here several days more conducting…business. Do stay in touch.” 

With a final glance at Leonye, Zalen turned and walked away, his drones trailing behind him. As the Kromas and his drones disappeared from sight, the market, nearly empty by now, slowly began to rumble back to life. 

Selune let out a breath she hadn’t realised she was holding. “Let’s go,” she said quietly. “We need to find Siliko and leave. Now.” 

Leonye remained frozen, his heart still racing as he remained fixed on the spot Zalen had disappeared from sight, his mind racing. 

Selune gently touched his arm, her voice betraying her disguise. “Leonye, we have to move.” 

He nodded slowly, finally tearing his gaze away, the pair walked, building up to a brisk hurry, back towards Joren’koda’s Emporium. As they made their way through the crowd, Selune kept a supportive hand on the small of Leonye’s back. Despite the growing distance from their encounter, Leonye couldn’t shake the feeling of Zalen’s touch, his voice, the fury and fire he should have felt towards the Kromas still stifled. He glanced at Selune, who appeared equally disturbed by Leonyes uncharacteristically petrified behaviour.

“We need to be careful,” she murmured, her voice low. “Unless there are somehow two Kromas with the same name in this system, we need to leave before we bump into him again with Siliko in tow or I doubt we will get away as easily next time.”

They navigated quickly back through the bustling market. The sight of Joren’kodas Emporium brought a small sense of relief to both of them. 

As they entered the dimly lit interior, the familiar clutter and smell of machinery felt almost calming. Siliko it seemed had beaten them back, leaning against the counter with an unsettlingly worried expression. Joren’koda looked up from behind the counter, his cybernetic eye adjusting as he focused on the flushed pair.

“Back so soon?” Joren asked curiously. “You both look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Not a ghost, but close enough,” Selune replied, forgetting her role for a moment before clearing her throat sharply, tossing the small velvet bag of resin onto the counter. “We ran into some… unexpected troubles of the family variety. If it is all the same, I wish to finish our business promptly.”

Joren raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued but unwilling to pry. “Trouble, you say? I do hope it’s nothing that would bring unwanted attention to my humble establishment.”

“Everything should be in order, Joren,” Siliko said, turning to face him, picking up and tipping the velvet bags' meagre contents onto the counter. “Let’s just wrap this up quickly.”

Joren nodded, motioning to a nearby droid. “Fetch the final inventory for our friends here,” he instructed. The droid whirred, scurrying away.

Waiting impatiently, Selune struggled to maintain her aura of control, eyes flicking back repeatedly to the entrance, her nerves starting to get the better of her. Leonye, at least outwardly, seemed to have pulled himself together, and waited patiently beside her as Siliko paced around the shop. 

Finally, the droid returned, beeping affirmatively. “Ah good,” Joren remarked. “Everything you need, as requested, has been delivered to your ship with a few, higher-quality parts that won't be missed by their previous owners. Consider it a gesture of goodwill.”

“Thank you, Joren,” Selune said sincerely, already turning towards the door. “I appreciate your efficiency.” 

“Just remember to stay out of trouble,” Joren replied with a smirk. “And keep that Illadrian of yours on a tight leash, lest he end up in some cage. Farlight is full of surprises after all.” 

Selune stiffened in the doorway, but forced a calm nod. “We’ll be careful.” she said before exiting swiftly alongside Leonye, closely followed by Siliko wearing a seriously concerned expression. 

As they hurried back to the shuttle, Siliko made numerous attempts to grill the pair as to what had happened.

“Not here,” Selune replied, her tone brooking no argument as the trio launched into a sprint for the final leg of their journey. Reaching the shuttle, the group sighed with relief, boarding quickly, Leonye wasted no time in coaxing the ship to life as Siliko and Selune checked the cargo.

Safely onboard and with the outer hatch secured Siliko turned to Selune, already loosening her outfit for comfort. “Now can someone tell me what the hell happened out there?” 

Selune took a deep breath, glancing at Leonye who was feverishly fiddling with controls, his hands visibly shaking. “We ran into another Kromas, your former employer I believe. He… took an interest in Leonye.”

“An interest?” Siliko repeated, frowning. “What kind of interest?” he asked, turning towards Leonye.

Leonye didn’t respond, “The kind that makes your skin crawl,” Selune responded in his place, taking a seat before spinning abruptly to face Siliko again, “But you! Why did you look so out of sorts in Joren’s shop?”

“Joren’s drones followed us about, he was watching everything and, I’m pretty sure he didn't buy our roleplay” Siliko replied, hurrying to a seat as the engines roared.

“He blew our cover?” Selune probed, her face draining.

“No, but he’ll definitely hold that information over me the next time I’m in the neighbourhood.” He replied, scowling. 

Within moments they were airborne, rising swiftly through the atmosphere, leaving farlight in its wake. As the shuttle ascended, Leonye finally allowed himself to relax. Selune moved to sit behind him, her hand resting reassuringly on his arm. 

Leonye nodded, not voicing a reply as he plotted a course back to Pyrosia.