Daie 1 – 25 May 2017 – Lando, Han, and Bala-Tik
At first, we thought the black liquid was oil, that we'd struck it rich and that we'd be able to retire and live in leisure. We actually started writing down all the ways we'd spend the money. Our first choice was obvious – the Lady Luck and the Falcon would definitely get some major overhauls! And then…
"Just think about it, Han ol' buddy," I continued as I turned away from the running analysis, "we could retire. Actually retire! Well…not right away, of course. There's gonna be a good bit of refinement to do. And the marketing and such…"
Han rolled his eyes. "Doesn't sound like a retirement would be anywhere in those plans…"
"No no. Don't you worry. I've still got all my contacts – well…most…some of my contacts from my Bespin daies. Gas – Oil? Same general idea." At my friend's continued worried look, I rushed on, "Just think of it! A place somewhere quiet for you and the princess. And your new little man! We'd hardly have to lift a finger once everything is up and running. I'm sure we'll find plenty of young bones to do the heavy lifting." I paused, a thought coming to me. "Hey – think we could convince Luke to include heavy labor into his new Jedi program?"
I hadn't expected a response to that one. We both turned at the ping from the analyzer. "Well, one thing's for sure," I added, "Threepio will love…it…"
"Lando?" Han stood and walked over to peer over my shoulder.
"It's… It's…"
"Worthless?"
"Worthless…" All that money… Wasted on just a speck of oil mixed with loads of worthless sludge.
A grumble, followed by the sound of a comm link being made. I turned to my old friend just as the other line answered.
"Bala-Tik! Hey…you wanna make a good impression on your new boss? I got a deal for ya…"
Well…what can I say? We're still a couple of great swindlers… ;)