Onboard the Astral Astoria
Nessus glanced on the computer console and saw the ship, his mind ticking over...
He glanced around to see if anyone else had noticed it, and realised he was on his own.
The controller, had stepped out and no-one had seen him since, which was highly unusual, so unusual that it worried him.
The ship had not hailed, nor had it attempted to come any closer...
..probably wondering whether they had taken a wrong turning ... He thought to himself, ( starting to worry)...
This had happened a few times since the Astoria's sudden arrival, they had very nearly missed having a collision on more than one occasion.
..and (Ayan had reasoned), it probably would be the case until people got used to the huge station being here...
Perhaps I should inform the Mistress?.. (He fretted to himself inwardly)
His thought algorythyms seemed to go into overdrive...
Perhaps I should just let them know they aren't in the wrong place...yes that would be a nice thing to do...perhaps offer them a cup of Andulusion Tea?...
Looking over his shoulders nervously for anyone to help him, Nessus finally, made his mind up...
...The Caretaker Prime likes initiative (he told himself )
Slowly he recalled the procedure and duly followed it to the 'T' , first checking with the downport control to see if the area was clear. Then doublechecking again, just to make sure, and after the third time , (and an annoyed downport superviser) he gingerly opened a comms channel to the craft outside.
"...Welcome to the Astral Astoria, we have many facilities and services to offer a weary traveller like yourself, perhaps you would like a fresh oil-bath?, a memory upgrade, or even a new limb?...we cater to all tastes here...downport bay 41 is clear. Just give your craft over to our tractor array and it will do the work for you...I'll put the kettle on!"
Although his face didn't show it, Nessus felt quite pleased with himself, and wondered whether he should go and see whether the traveller would take the invitation...
