It wasn't often that Freeport 6 was this busy. Some 300 freed slaves were about the place, being given medical treatment, food, a warm shower and a clean change of clothes. Some of the younger ones were intimidated by the alien staff that ran the station but warmed up to them. Chief Chara found himself taking to some of the children amongst them. Matok himself took some time to chat with a man who was looked to as a spokesman.
"I can't thank you enough, Mr......" the man stalled, unsure of what to say.
"Matok," answered the warrior, "I administrate this facility and you and your people are most welcome."
The man looked around at how crowded it was, "I'm sorry if we overwhelmed you."
Matok shook his head, "No worries. I keep stores of extra food and water is plentiful in system so it is no worry."
The man looked at him, studying him. "Where are you from? How did you get here?"
Matok listened, pouring the man a drink. He slid the glass to him, "It is a long story, one that I wish not to get into now. My concern is getting you and your people to somewhere better than this base."
The man sipped his drink. Smacking his lips, he put the glass down, "Delicious. Thank you." He looked at it and with a face asked, "What is it?"
Matok grinned, "It is prune juice, a warrior's drink. It is also good for you."
"Prunes," the man questioned, "what are they?"
"A fruit growing on trees," explained Matok, "and they are grown on Gran Canaria. I am trying to find transport for you all there."
The man teared up a bit, "I will never forget your efforts, Sir. I am in your debt."
"No," Matok said shaking his head, "You owe me nothing. What I am doing is the right thing to do. Now if you will excuse me, I must see where the transports I called are."
Matok went about his business while the man sat, sipping prune juice and asking for more.