Karadin

[Stoat]

Now he knew where hed seen that uniform before. The Colonial Remnant. He was now the proud owner of a Viper, it seemed. He shook his head, disbelievingly. They were a touchy bunch, the CR, from what hed heard in his time working with the IMG. Highly unpredictable was how most of the miners on Freistadt described them. And now hed probably have them chasing him around, demanding their ship back. Fate was definitely playing its games again, but this time he was at a loss to its devices. What the hell was he going to do with a Viper? And how was he going to stay under the CRs radar? One thing was for sure. He was going to have to learn to fly the ship in short order.

Cheers, George. I think my life has just become a lot more interesting. he said, offering his hand to the mechanic. George took it, grinning.

Not seen your ship before then, ey? Hah! Thought so. You didnt look like a Viper pilot when I first laid eyes on you. Your face is a picture, mate! So, did you steal it or win it? George raised his eyebrows expectantly. Nah! You dont need to tell me! None of my business, mate. I just fix things. Long as I get paid, Im happy. So youll be wanting to know how to start this baby up, I reckon. Well, this shouldnt take long. You piloted a fighter before?

Karadin nodded sharply. Working as a bounty hunter was what had got him stranded on Freistadt five years ago. Yeah, I can fly, though Im rusty. Just need to know how to launch her. The rest I can discover for myself.

Cool. So, press this here to open the cockpit. Dont worry though. Theres sensors that make it impossible for the hood to open when youre in space. Cant have that happening, can we? Heh! So, climb in. George was nearly bouncing from foot to foot with excitement. Karadin couldnt help but smile, and felt his own excitement rising as he climbed up to, and then into, the cockpit. The adrenalin really strarted flowing as he scanned the dials and displays. It felt good to be back in the saddle.

Damn, Ive missed this feeling! Its been too damn long since I was last in the saddle! George! he shouted. Get up here and explain these controls. Georges head appeared before hed finished the sentence, and he quickly showed Karadin what he needed to know.

Listen, mate, Id suggest you head away from here for a bit. You never know how the CRll take the loss of a ship, so youd be advised to make yourself scarce for a while. Learn the ship well. Vipers can be twitchy, but shell hold her own against anything once you know how she moves. With that he disappeared, leaving Karadin alone in his new ship. He looked around, took a deep, calming breath, and initiated the launch sequence.

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