"Well the sentiment and the new company will be appreciated, Boss. Maybe relieve our loss a bit, if anything can." Pops offered morosely. 'Sophie, I believe the Colonials like something called "Ambrosia".. any in stock?"
"Lads, this indeed is ironic. Today I gained a new friend, and lost an old friend. My new friend flies a train for the KN. I met her by accident in Kusari, and of course was forced once again to explain my bloody tag. We talked a bit of business.. very astute. As the talk turned to the price of deuterium and engine thingies (romantic, eh?), I had the outrageous idea of inviting her walkabout to see Baffin, and explore the route to Canaria. I must commend greatly her piloting skills, as we jumped into 49 directly on top of half a dozen Titans who began making inappropriate advances. Being neutral to them, I didn't immediately notice her plight. What a poor host I was! I turned back and engaged the randy lads, probably buggering up my poor HUD even more in the process, while she managed her escape toward the nearest sun. She made Lanzarote safely, but our encounter had buggered her schedule, and I escorted her back to to the Dublin Jump, quietly this time. I never did pour her that julip.
"And then I return to New York, and hear of Caylith's loss. Sometimes one wishes the blasted Chao would stop spinning altogether, and give one some peace.
"Fiona Laguna.. she reminded me a lot of Caylith. A warmth. A quick riposte at hand. Well-spoken, but coquettish. A companion to share pleasant thoughts with on a long journey...."
A pause, a distant gaze into memory, a deep breath, and Pops gathers the strength to rise and stand tall.
"Fellow Sirians! A toast, to friends, old and new! Though hearts are often lifted, they can often be torn as well. Let us vow to be the Lifters, not the Tearers!
"And to our Lady Eris: Please, Please, Take a week off, and go on holiday with Shamus in Cabo!
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