To: Tia Stormclaw

[thisDerius]

Tell you what—how about we make a proper little adventure out of this?

I’ll chart us a route through the Sigma systems, something scenic, something interesting. Might even throw in a detour or two if we feel like sightseeing a bit—or dodging patrols, depending on the mood. There’s something calming about the Sigmas at the right time of day... until the pirates show up, but hey, what’s life without a little spice?

Once we’re done with that, we head to New Tokyo. And no, not the surface—we’ll hit one of those quiet little food joints that float just above orbit. I know a place or two. Real food, real tea. Nothing replicated, nothing pre-packaged, nothing that tastes like the inside of a ship’s air filter. Shouldn’t be too expensive either, unless you decide to go for the deluxe sashimi platter—which I wouldn’t blame you for. It’s worth it.

And don’t worry about me. You know I always find a way to stay under the radar. I’ve slipped through worse than Kusari customs or some nosy Naval patrol. If anything, it’s those quiet moments I’m not used to. But it’ll be nice, I think. You, me, some decent food and a little peace—at least for a few hours.

I’ll send you the coordinates once I’m close.

Tia Stormclaw