Snippet #2824929

The Commandant took a sip from a canteen at his waist, a stiff lip perhaps revealing it was more than simple water as he held the microphone by his face. Every few moments, there would be a soft cackle of feedback, the Commandant having to squint through a light projected against the small stage while he spoke. "Good then, uuuuh for the off-worlders, welcome to our homeland, and we appreciate your efforts for the people and the grateful states of Hadriatica."

The quartermaster was next to speak, sharing the microphone with the Commandant as he nudged in from the side. "Uhh, barracks and housing will be behind the cantina." With the orders of the Commandant given, the GPC personnel standing on the sidelines were then free enjoy the bar themselves.

One of the Verians at a nearby table waved his feathered hat over towards Lancelot and the other off-worlders, holding up a handful of small devices fitted on the side of the head. "Salve, viaggiatori - you might find it easier to understand everyone with these." He offered, his gloved palm stretching out. Several of the other Verians muttered amongst themselves. Taking up two tables, the section of twenty men had a veritable feast between them.

"Hai fame - are you hungry? These Gemonites cook a damn good pig." Another one of the Verians spoke, the younger Gardenite pushing a dish along the table. "Have a bite, the Popularas all say this'll be one hell of a leg."

Two of the Verians at the table were in a game of cards, holding the square, slim pieces of metal in their hand. "Think they've got some baubles to lose in a game of Stig?"

"No no, you're just looking to spread your debt - don't be an edicyte." The second one said promptly, shoving a hand out onto the pile of cards and loose dollars on the table between them.

When the Taiyou entered, the Commandant checked the tablet in his hand. "Ah, I was wondering who the Taiyou would be sending." He said calmly, giving a brief bow and salute in return. "Captain Petralios ... Captain!" He called, and from one of the tables a man in grey stood up. "You - the Major here will be in command of your company for the operation ... we need someone who has actually led troops in the field."

"Welcome to Cluj, Major." He spoke, though his language seemed slower as it was re-translated, somehow as he spoke. "I don't know why the Taiyou have sent an advisor all the way out here for a burial mission - but I don't question why the Gardenites do what they do anymore."