I decided to take my old mining surveyor for a run out to Vespucci system to see if I could re-establish any connections with the Hellfire Legion. Blow out the cobwebs with my face sucking back in the seat at 425m a second. Stick some guns on it. And a Razor. And some nuclear mines for good measure, just in case something managed to catch me.
I checked in at the Ravager Dreadnought and told them I had come to initiate more recent diplomacy. I took a variety of ores and some various things. But they seemed only interested in H-fuel. I spoke with the Captain about the possibility of launching mining operations from Vespucci which he seemed mildly interested in.
When I saw the size of their ships and fleet I saw why. Huge gunships. Then, unexpectedly, a ship much larger that would normally make me split my flight suit appeared. It was quite obviously a Siege Cruiser, one of the assets that must have defected with them I guess. After a discussion about my intentions, I was invited on a joined patrol.
We went though Magellan and into Cortez system. It appeared some new construction was going on there. We also went into California, sticking to the ice nebula to avoid detection. I was running low on fuel, so I invited them to our place. We even managed to transfer enough nanobots and shield batteries to completely repair and restock both of the Hellfire ships. They also commented on the strategic value of our newest hideout.
This means we have something to work with, and some room to perhaps get some cooperation going again.