Rheinland's Starquake I

[Backo]

Autopilot assisted landing was a nice feature that colony spaceports offered. It provided the luxury of multitasking, something Valdez appreciated. Perhaps one day they'll have those on Malta as well, she thought to herself as she got herself out of the Series Z fighter.

The person approaching did not seem as outright intimidating as Eliza imagined BDM special agents to be. The Kommissar looked a bit older than Valdez, but the Maltese girl wasn't sure if she shouldn't attribute that to the stress of the job. There was no visible sign of a Daumann blaster on the agent which somewhat reassured Valdez that they were at least starting on the right foot. She was still anxious though, meeting new people in space felt vastly easier than doing the same in person. Perhaps it was the feeling of safety granted by the SP-e2 "Advanced Brigandine" shield. Or maybe the cold void of space separating her from the other ship. Though most likely it was attributed to the fact that a 5'4 lightweight like her stood almost no chance in self defense when face to face.

Being greeted in her native tongue was a charming touch, though Eliza wasn't sure why she was addressed as Sanchez. Was it some sort of running joke that Rheinlanders had regarding people of the Hispania? Perhaps it was best not to ask, instead Valdez smiled and returned the greeting with the same rehearsed cheerfulness as before.

"Buenos dias, señora Laurenz. Thanks for coming to pick me up!"

It was obvious to Valdez that both of them were nervous under their cheerful and friendly masks. A lot was put at stake when both of them decided to meet here. She looked at the ocean besides them. There was another ocean world in Kusari, Eliza remembered, perhaps one day she would have the chance to visit it as well.

"It's my first time visiting an ocean world. Do I look that nervous?"

The small talk was helpful. It could almost distract her from the fact she was now meeting a special agent of the Bureau after only knowing her name for less than 24 hours. Scratch that, Eliza wasn't even sure if Kat Laurenz was her real name to begin with. It did roll nicely off the tongue though.

"And please, you can call me Elly or Eliza, no need for further formalities."

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Republic of the Sword and Sun