Cadet

Jan. 29-31 - Zenobia Alpinia Testing Facility

Information from my sources trickled in. Little snippets of information, gossip and observations that together constitute a finger on the pulse the 'Verse.

Faith Industries has been running tests on a new single pilot scout ship, the ZR-3 Core class. Light on armor and heavy on recording equipment. It appears they are designing it for market.

Sedrick Ascott put an appearance the opening of the Companion gathering. Intriguing given the recent poisoning.

Lily has been spotted, so to speak. She has been asking around for spice. I found this a bit troubling at first. She was carrying the Ardra AI within her. Was there a connection or was it simply a coincidence? As it turned out, she was trying to obtain the substance for Cody or to use on him. Reasons unclear. She also has a book in Sanskrit that she is trying to have translated. Wish I could help there.

Cody Winterwolf, himself, was being tracked by an Alliance Agent. With a parliamentary operative on his tail, he could be pulled in at any time. It would take me longer to get the paperwork in order.

Lynx has resurfaced and it seems none the worse for wear, I was happy to hear. Both he and the girl in the photo were safe, at least for the moment. And he was still keeping his eyes and ears open.

---

"...has Faith caused you any trouble?" I asked him.

"Faith was here earlier, but did not pursue me. However, the warehouse is now code locked." The voice was young but again showed a knowledge beyond his years.

"Not a surprise," I said. It was a sensible precaution.

"There is a companion," he continued, "who is being asked to work for the Faiths."

"Oh?" I asked.

He gave me her name. "She is a friend," he added.

I nodded.

He went on, "The girl in the photo is someone of note to me as well. I would ask that she be protected as well."

We discussed particulars and protection measures.

"Zenobia has an embassy in Al Raqis now..." I informed him.

"I have heard from CNS."

"...if you are in danger, see the Ambassador there, Madam Jai Raghilda. She can get you off world."

She could ship Lynx and his friends out on the Behemoth run. Drop them off anywhere CATZ has an office or warehouse and several places besides that.

"I will," he replied "For now I will stay and watch for any further information."

"Stay safe," I directed.

"I will try. I am staying to the edge of the desert. until it becomes quiet in town."

"Do you need anything?" I asked.

"Only water containers with an endless supply of water." he added dryly.