>>5885528Turns out, Goldsmith had second thoughts just as you two left and ordered the shuttle hangar locked down. “Just afraid some bugs gonna make a comfy nest in her nav computer when you dock with the station, that's all.” As a result, both you and Johnson had no choice but to go out on a stroll in EVA suits. Throughout the journey, the white star gleams limpidly off of the station's solar panels. Occasionally, you pass through viewing-ports which afford a glimpse into daily life up here. Two warriors lock their claws in a contest of strength. Several little critters chase one another on the silken floor of a nursery. A small declawed drone tend to a small shrine surrounded by a small garden, as in a miniature set. Do these people look out the window from time to time and beat their chests in grief of their lost homes? They certainly seem far enough from the kind of desperation that lives only day by day. In any case, none seems to notice your passing overhead.
Until you suddenly lock eyes with a soldier in what looks like an observatory. He must be young, judging from his largely smooth thorax, not yet decorated by war. A short freeze later, the Mir scurries off behind a door. Goldsmith did tell them you are coming this way, did he? Johnson, too, disappears into the hull. At least his arm promptly pops up again to guide you into the airlock. Emerging on the other side, you were greeted by the young soldier's apparently excited chittering. You motion him to stop while you get the helmet off and turns your translator on. “I can't thank/ gratitude you enough, your lowness/ madam Sivi-Totonret.” Your name's transliteration aside, that training data Yamir provided is really effective. “Because you push that worm/ ship right into our floor-breaking/ambush. The fool Terin did not even realise he was dead/ joined the Feast.” This must be the captain of the corvette from earlier. He pauses for a moment, before launching into a new barrage, “Oh, to wash my claws I forgot. My name is Pahan-Hys. I am a youngling now, but soon I will molt into a Hysin/ warrior.”
<span class="mu-s">"The molting ritual/ceremony is usually closed off to outsiders/not-Mirs, but I know his lowness will not stop me inviting you. Come if you can, (request word)"</span>
>Politely decline. From what you know of these bugs, there's bound to be a Feast afterwards, and you will have eat something you don't want to.>Opportunistically agree. You will try to secret a recording rig in. The video on the ground will make a nice bribe for Barb.>Wholeheartedly agree. You may have underestimate this fascinating people. What's a better chance to cure your own ignorance?>Reservedly agree. You will have to check your schedule. But if you don't make anything come up, you will definitely try to be there.>Write-in 