Captain, we have docked at the space station, says Nova. Alright, I'm going down to ask the inhabitants if they know anything else we don't already know. Affirmative captain. Mind if I tag along? I need to find some more parts for the ship. Asks Zach. Sure thing. Well then, shall we? After you. No, I insist. Kids do I need to throw you out the hatch or can you walk like normal humans? Says Nova. HA HA, we're going Nova. Finally, he adds.
As Zach and I open the hatch to step out into the station we are greeted by an old man. He smiles and asks, how are you two fine gentlemen doing today? Well, we'd doing much better if we didn't have to be here, no offense. Says Zach. Don't worry, none taken. I'm just glad to have some company here on Heaven's Reach. Is that what it's called? It sure is, I named it myself.
Huh, are you the only person on this space station, I mean, other than us? No, no, no one wants to come here anymore on a count if they think it's bad luck. What do you mean? I ask. Well ever since the colony site was abandoned people stopped coming through here so often. When the first crew went down to investigate and never came back that's when the rumors started. They say that it's haunted by the colonists who used to live there, and since they never came back, they won't let you either.
Do you believe the rumors? Pshhh, nah that's all some bullshit made up by people with nothing better to do with their lives. Hey, that's a vote of confidence if I've ever heard one, right captain? Whatever gets you to go down on the planet works for me. Oh HAHA, real funny. Anyway, old man have any parts I could buy from you? Yes yes, I have some in my shop. Here, follow me.
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
As the old man leads us down a short, dimly lit pathway we emerge into a giant atrium filled with black screens and holograms that have all been powered down. Would ya look at that view Zach says as he gestures toward the ceiling. And what a view it was, the entire ceiling was see-through, allowing in a gorgeous view of the planet hovering perfectly centered above us. Ah, yes. One of the few things worth anything around here. The old man chuckles. Let's keep moving. As he leads us to his shop in the corner of the atrium he shuffles behind the counter and asks us, Now, what kind of parts did you say you were after?
What I need is a Neural Sync Core. I doubt you have one but if you did, I would love to buy it. What do you need a Neural Sync Core for? Hell, what does that even do!? I ask. Just a part I need for a secret project of sorts. Do you mind telling me what that is? HA, nope. Hence the word "Secret". Alright man, I'm heading back to the ship call me when you're done. Alright.
As I walk away, I can hear the old man saying. Found the part you were looking for, it's a bit beat up, but it should still run ok. How much do you want for it? 30,000 credits. What!? That's like half my salary! I wouldn't even pay that for a brand-new one! As I continue to walk away, I can hear their voices fade away still arguing over the price. That old guy is going to be in for a hell of a fight, Zach is the best haggler I've ever met, and keep in mind, I've traveled the galaxy.