These kinds of places have always been my favorite. They could never compare to the glittering nightlife of Saphira Nexus, but that was the point. Here, things are quiet, people stay, and the bar feels like a sanctuary instead of somewhere disposable and transitory. After spending my life in the company of Nexans, it feels good to be in a place where there's no rush to get to the next appointment or be somewhere else.
Omar and Rami are bubbling with excitement. Omar's eyes are wide, darting around the room as he takes in every detail. The old scientist is always looking for something new to learn, even in a place like this. Rami, on the other hand, can't sit still. His fingers drum on the table, and he keeps glancing at the bar, eager to share whatever thoughts are bouncing around in his head.
"It really is good to see you both again," I said, feeling the warmth of familiarity. "I've missed our conversations. Honestly, I don't think I could have endured another minute with those corporate drones. Thank you so much for making the journey out here. I know it's a bit unconventional."
Omar leaned forward, curiosity lighting his eyes. "Why here, Tanuc? What’s so special about this place?"
"Why here?" I echoed, letting the question hang in the air with a playful smile. "Let's see how well I know you. Can you guess why I invited you here? You've never been here before, and it holds no particular significance for either of you."
Omar's eyes narrowed thoughtfully, a slow grin spreading across his face. "You knew we'd appreciate the serenity. Away from the chaotic hustle of the cities. A place where we can speak freely and contemplate what comes next."
"Close, Omar. Very close. But there's more to it," I said, leaning in conspiratorially. "Yes, I knew you'd appreciate this bar, but the same reasons you'd choose to drink here are why I believe you'll want to join me. As partners. Both of you."
Rami chuckled, finally relaxing. "So, what's the grand scheme, Tanuc? What are we doing out here?"
"Alright. Here it is. I've left the Broker life behind. It was monotonous, and the people were insufferably self-serving. I'm done with it. I've bought a ship, believe it or not," I revealed, gauging their reactions.
"A ship?" Omar said, leaning forward. "What sort of ship? What's the plan?"
"Well, that's for us to decide, if you're on board. I thought we could chart a course off the beaten path. Omar, what drives you? What do you bring to the table?" I asked, my excitement bubbling over.
"My passions?" Omar's eyes lit up. "Well, I've always been fascinated by uncharted territories, undiscovered species, ancient technologies. As for what I bring—years of engineering experience, a deep understanding of scientific principles, and a talent for tackling complex problems."
"Indeed. What about you, Rami?" I asked, turning my hopeful gaze to him.
Rami leaned back, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Well, you know I've always been good at finding my way and keeping us safe. My time in the Scouts taught me to handle the unexpected and navigate through the unknown. I may not have the fancy education, but I know how to work hard and get things done."
Omar's eyes widened as he grasped the implications. "Wait a minute," he said, leaning forward. "We have an engineer, a navigator, and a broker. We possess all the skills for an ideal exploration team. We can chart unknown territories, discover new species, and even negotiate new trade routes or alliances."
Rami's eyes sparkled with excitement. "You're right, Omar! We could genuinely do this. Explore new worlds, make groundbreaking discoveries, and perhaps even turn a profit."
"I'll drink to that," I said, taking a swig of the local beer, grinning. "Oh—did you bring what I asked for?"
Rami reached under the table, pulling out a small case of beer, placing it on the table with a grin. "You mean this?"
Omar followed suit, producing another case. "We wouldn't let you down, Tanuc."
"Perfect. Harvick?" I called to the barkeep.
Harvick looked up from behind the bar, raising an eyebrow. "What can I do for you, Tanuc?"
"My friends here have brought you gifts," I said, gesturing to the cases of beer on the table.
Harvick wiped his hands on a rag and walked over to our table, his eyes lighting up as he recognized the cases of beer. "Well, well, if it isn’t some of the finest off-world brews," he said, his voice filled with appreciation. "You’ve got Orion Stout and Nexan Pale Ale! These might be common where you come from, but here, they’re like gold."
"It's to keep you sweet. Can't have you throwing us out into the heat, after all," I said with a grin.
Harvick chuckled, clearly pleased. "I suppose I can be persuaded to let you stay a while longer, then. Thanks for the gifts. Now, what are you lot planning that needs such fine refreshments?"
Omar leaned back, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Oh, nothing too dangerous," he said, his tone dripping with irony. "Just a little light exploration of uncharted space, potential first contact with unknown species, and the occasional run-in with hostile environments. You know, the usual."
Harvick shook his head, laughing. "You lot are something else. Well, here's to your next big adventure. May your luck hold."
I smiled, feeling a sense of relief and excitement wash over me. "Thanks, Harvick. We’ll definitely need all the luck we can get."
As the conversation continued, we shared stories of past adventures, each one more outrageous than the last. The bond between us grew stronger with each laugh and each clink of our glasses. The Oasis Bar, with its rustic charm and quiet resilience, became the perfect backdrop for the beginning of our new journey.
We are a team now, united by our desire for something more than the mundane, ready to face the unknown together.
End of Journal Entry
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