TOG In Space

by cmopatrick

A novel about Shawn Ryan and his adventures set in the Star Citizen universe. Please note that this was begun in 2013 (only months after the Star Citizen funding campaign launched), long before most of the game mechanics had been described (much less finalized). (update:) When canon Xi'An content was finally added, the story fell completely out of canon (their choice, not mine).

33. After Words

2943.11.27

On the planet Hadur III, the UEE's High-Secretary and several members of the Senate are being shown around on the surface by a Xi'An contingent led by Torsi Leelk and Attle Heehth. Even now, Spectrum channels are lighting up with the glowing news coverage, and as the Emperor foretold, peace seems to be breaking out from every government person asked for a position and every media talking head giving their opinion in spite of how little they know. Granted, it constitutes the first pause in the almost nonstop hysterics that started just a few days ago... when Jenk Gallen got home.

…..

A nondescript Xi'An Dor'Qual settles in front of my hangar, kicking up dust that partially obscures the rolling emerald of the Torre Nor. Jurdi and Dean are standing with Bashir, each adult holding a little one. I'm rather at my ease, just finishing a chicken sandwich. The ship's hatchway opens; two heavily armed Nagdach in combat gear step down the ramp, then take positions on either side of the accessway. Next is Kree'Gna, followed by Naaēlish Ee'shu.

Across the table from me, a bald woman rises, "That him?" she asks.

"Mellow out, Gloria. He'll decide if he wants to talk with you or not."

"If he wants to know who is behind this, he'll have to talk with me."

"And if he doesn't want to, then you will remember where you are and not make him feel unwelcome."

"You've gotten pretty uppity in the time I've known you."

"Yeah, and it's all your fault."

She smirks, "You'll get yours."

"Yeah, but not for a while now, don't you know."

"Well, if they have a fountain of youth back there somewhere, I expect to be notified."

"I'll be sure to send you a pigeon."

"Ha ha, very funny. We both know you'll be back, if only for the kid."

"Yup. But I'm not likely to be quite the pushover in a couple years."

"By then, you'll just be Lanai's property."

"Only in my dreams."

"They going to let you fly out there?"

"Yup. But they're keeping the M50 on Jiā so it can't be tampered with."

"No jump drive?"

"Nope, don't want one. I get the ship so I can dance with the stars."

Gloria smiles, as near as I can tell it is a warm genuine smile. "You deserve stars without someone shooting at you. I hope you enjoy your time there."

"Yup," I respond, "It will be good just to be myself... The old guy who loves the glowing void."

Gloria grins, "TOG in Space."

(the end)