"Well that's not a good sign, isn't?" Boreas called out after the shock of the explosion rattled throughout ship. "I'm certain that your minions aren't in the habit of blowing up ships you've boarded while you're still on them."
"You should join me Captain. I have something to show you." Her voice belied nothing of her emotions.
"It couldn't be hospitality on my own ship could it?"
"If I storm in there with my fellow associates I will guarantee no one will be spared. Not you. Nor your companions, regardless of how young and tender they are. I shoot to kill.”
Black Dog looked over at Peter and Hoodie.
“If anyone else but me comes back for you two then Hoodie blow out the docking airlock. Understand?"
Hoodie nodded and glanced at the controls near him.
"What are you doing?" Peter's voice cracked.
"I'm going to negotiate with this woman."
"You're going to stall?" Hoodie suggested.
"Exactly. Now stay out of sight and trust me."
Black Dog walked slowly to the entrance to the bridge. He let his arms hang wide to either side and his steps were deliberately slow and loud. He could see part of the common area at the end of the corridor but not enough to tell much of the situation. As he neared the other end he saw a tall female figure dressed in functional gear that was intricately detailed. The look on her face was cold and her eyes were intense.
"Ah, captain! Oh should I say, Black Dog? It's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance at last."
Boreas stepped to the edge of the top step that led down into the common area. He spotted two men with weapons ready aside from the woman. "Oh where are my manners? My name is Belisa Doryan."
"Welcome to my ship! May I offer you some refreshment?" Boreas stepped down a few steps and the men pointed their guns at him. He continued the next few steps and stopped calmly at the bottom. He motioned towards the food station on his right.
"That won't be necessary. I've yet to work up an appetite."
Black Dog stood there facing Belisa. Her stance was casual but her footing was solid. She was a coiled snake. He stood there waiting for her next move. She studied him in return.
