Chapter 126: The Trade Hub
The corvette dropped out of hyperspace, emerging in the orbit of Drakos-4, a trade hub nestled at the edge of neutral space. Below them, a sprawling station-city floated above a barren planet, its interconnected docks forming a web of bustling activity. Merchant ships, pirate vessels, and rogue freighters drifted among the lanes, exchanging goods and secrets alike.
Liana ran a scan. "Station's registry is open. No immediate red flags, but security is tight."
Selara smirked. "Perfect place to lay low—if you don't get stabbed in an alley first."
Raizen leaned forward. "Set us down. We need supplies and information."
The corvette angled downward, maneuvering past freight carriers before settling into a dimly lit docking bay. The moment the landing gear locked, Raizen exhaled. Time to see what this place had to offer.
Exploring the Market
The trade hub's lower sectors were alive with energy—alien traders shouting in a mix of dialects, black-market dealers haggling over illicit goods, and mercenaries scanning for their next job.
Joran whistled. "Feels like home."
Kain's gaze was sharp. "Keep your guard up. Places like this don't play fair."
Raizen's golden eyes swept over the crowd. "We need three things—supplies, fuel, and intel. Let's split up and meet back in two hours."
Seraphina nodded. "I'll handle supply negotiations."
Liana tapped her datapad. "I'll secure refueling."
Raizen cracked his knuckles. "Then I'll find us some information."
An Unexpected Encounter
As Raizen moved through the winding alleys, a voice called out.
"Raizen Izumoto."
He turned sharply, hand on his weapon. A hooded figure stepped from the shadows, their posture relaxed but eyes sharp.
Raizen narrowed his gaze. "And you are?"
The figure removed their hood, revealing a woman with crimson eyes and raven-black hair, a knowing smirk on her lips.
"Someone with answers about your bloodline."
Silence stretched between them as Raizen studied her, his instincts sharp. Whoever she was—she knew something he needed.
And that meant this meeting just became his top priority.