Marooned - Christie Golden [5]
"Anyway," Aren continued both his walk and his story, "you may take it from me that these pirates were brutally efficient. Even after all these years, you can see the results of their handiwork. They hit us hard and left many dead. It is fortunate that Oasis is as valued as it is. In fairly short order a display of combined force from all of the nations with a vested interest in this station managed to drive the Ja'in from our space. But we are only now starting to recover economically. Voyager is one of the first visiting ships to enter our space since we reestablished business activity on the station. We occasionally do business with the Thatli, but," he smiled, "insectoid races don't generally require the same things that we do.
"Now," and he looked around at the away team, perhaps you can tell me what your interests are and I can steer you in the right direction. We're at the heart of the Tradesman's Sector now and you can see all the open shops from here. Perhaps you are hungry?" he asked, hopeful.
"A little thirsty," said Paris. "Is that a, uh, tavern of some sort?" He gestured at a dimly lit establishment where several patrons were lifting glasses.
"It is indeed. Jakrig's, is the name. Ask about the P,hulani flower liquor. And-B'Elanna, is it? I believe your captain said you were interested in speaking with one of our repair personnel."
"That's right," began Torres, "we were wondering if-"
"I do apologize," a voice interrupted. A smaller, rounder Rhulani scurried up to them, consternation on his face. "Administrator, I'm afraid there's been a malfunction in our system. All the accounts have been affected, and-"
Aren groaned. "Not that again. I just correctednever mind. Captain, you must excuse me. If I don't straighten out these accounts at once, I'll have some very unhappy merchants on my hands. Would you and your crew like to reschedule your visit, or do you feel comfortable enough to continue exploring on your own?"
"We'll be just fine, thank you. Now that we're here, I wouldn't mind doing a little shopping." And if these star charts are as accurate as I'm hoping, it'll be a fair trade indeed, she thought. Neelix had done an admirable job the last few years of playing native guide, but they had exhausted even his extensive knowledge of Is the Delta quadrant. Star charts of the area would be a lifeline.
And besides, her quarters could use a little something colorful.
Aren brightened at her words and executed a deep bow. Again, Janeway caught a glimpse of the lumps on his back as she bowed in return. "Lieutenant Torres, the repair sector is along that corridor and-Kes and Neelix, yes? Our hydroponics arboretum and grocery is right over there. We're rather proud of it here on Oasis; if you're interested in fresh foodstuffs, please tell the gardener on duty that I sent you. Again, my apologies. Perhaps I'll be able to finish this quickly and catch up with you, though sadly, I doubt it."
He turned, clasping the smaller man by the shoulder, and walked quickly away, listening to his assistant explain something about lost data and glitches.
"I take it then, Captain, that we may consider ourselves off duty for a bit?" asked Paris, looking hopeful at the prospect.
"You may, Mr. Paris, but don't drink too much of that Rhulani flower liquor. I expect you back on the bridge and up to speed within the hour." She glanced around at Torres, Kes, and Neelix. "That goes for the rest of you, too. We don't want to overstay our welcome this first time. As for payment, I advise you to remember that whatever you purchase comes out of your rations unless it's something specifically for the ship. Other than that-enjoy. Dismissed."
She gave them a warm smile as the four immediately dispersed. They looked like schoolchildren hearing the bell for recess. Paris headed straight for Jakrig's, Torres moved with a determined stride down the corridor in the direction of the repair facilities, and