Planetside Troubles

 Picking up on Wraith's argument with the market vendor, Gus Fletcher asks her about the high cost of food. 

 "It's the sand storms on Helios," said Wraith. "Much of our agriculture operations are on the planet's surface. Don't know why. It's a bloody desert planet!" 

Time passes, and Gus bids Doronna Hammond farewell. 

 "So long, Wraith. If there's any decent worlds in this sector, I'll find it and let you know."  

Gus decides to head into town to seek out where he might gather information about Cortana Pass. There's got to be a watering hole in a place like this. 

Gus finds a busy tavern called The Red Sundown. He bellies up to the bar and purchases a bottle. As he drinks, Gus listens in to the conversations of those around him. 

Gather Information roll.

[Weak Hit: 1 + 3 + 0 = 4 vs 1 | 4]

[Gather Information: Involves a notable faction] 

The faction would be the Industrial Guild of Starship Manufacturers or IGSM. What's up with them? 

Their digital systems are corrupted. Possibly hackers, some kind of corporate espionage. 

As Gus downs the last of his beverage, he receives a tap on the shoulder. He turns around and is faced with a scruffy young fellow. 

 "Hey Mister, you got a ship? I really could use lift down to the planet. I need to get back to my drive team. I'd be happy to pay you." 

 "Yeah okay. I'm about ready to leave Nerio anyway. Name's Fletcher. Gus Fletcher." 

 " I'm Fredo Yeates. Livestock herder. Thanks a lot, Mister Fletcher. I'm indebted to you." 

 "You can just call me Gus. Glad to be of help. I heard you guys are having a lot of trouble with those sandstorms." 

 "It's been rough. Enjoyed my R and R here in Nerio, but I really need to get back to my team." 

 " Sure, sure. I'm at hanger bay 1128. Meet me there later, Fredo." 

Gus was wrong about one thing. He didn't find much scrapper activity here. Still, it can't hurt to nose around on a desert planet with a  bunch of sandgrazer herders. It could provide more information about Cortana Pass.