There was something about the way the man stood that attracted Presea's eye. He was aloof, sure, but not stiff. She'd spent plenty of time with warriors in her life, and that was what it reminded her of, she realized. Not surprising, given that most people here had some kind of combat experience.

But that wasn't her concern so much as the fact that he was alone. Clearly he needed a friend! With no further consideration necessary, she approached him, a blonde, willowy woman wearing a battered leather apron over her plantsuit. She was smiling.

"I don't think I've seen you here before. Welcome to Stacey," she said.