Suddenly the bar burst with activity after Ossanlin's arrival: Claxter, Jocun, Keshin, and Mar all reentered the bar shortly after the first Andalite.
After Chris's comment about there being so many 'blue dudes' around, Parker commented, "This is only half as many as there once was. For a time, Andalites out numbered the controllers." Chris then became engaged in a conversation with Claxter about the status of Efaen, Terenia's host (if he recalled correctly).
Parker made note of the new arrangements the patrons maneuvered themselves into and began a new threat assessment. Mar's presence would cause Myitt definite discomfort, as would the Andalites' presence to the number of rebels unfamiliar with them. Tamora's vital readings were spiking, though she seemed too frightened and timid to act. Keshin was always a wild card; however, as a bounty hunter, it would be unlikely that she attack anyone without promise. Not to mention the only one near her was the unknown Jocun who defended a friend to his fullest. It was unlikely he would lash out at Myitt, but he did return with a different weapon. His decision to switch his rifle to a quick-draw weapon gave Parker pause. This new weapon would perform better close quarters. Perhaps he did anticipate a confrontation. Parker made a note to watch that pair and gave Thor an order to monitor their conversation. He wanted to know if Jocun was planning on hiring the bounty hunter to target Myitt.
Claxter's appearance was mostly an annoyance. For some odd reason, after Parker helped him move Ossanlin, Claxter felt that made them friends. He, for some reason, waited for a response to his earlier question of a sitrep. Parker finally answered Claxter's question. Though he answered it as neutrally as he could, "What you see before you is all that's new. Most of the bar's patrons are now indoors save ten: four are outside taking part in an exhibition, there's Salem, Al and his female follower, along with Salem's attacker are outside as well; and there are also two more individuals behind the bar. If you wish for further debriefing, I suggest asking elsewhere." He turned his head to look directly at Claxter at the words "elsewhere". He kept his tone even, so no emotion could be read; but his final "look" should have conveyed that he didn't like Claxter hanging around. He then returned to watching Myitt's booth and following their conversation.
He commented to Chris, "I don't think Myitt would take too kindly to being called 'Ma'am' in the first place. Women rarely like being called that. Besides, it seems as though she treats those around her as more equals than inferiors. She does carry authority, but rarely pushes it around. That's what I've gathered anyhow."
Garreth smiled slightly and nodded, "I too feel it. I believe it's what is called, a 'Force Bond'. I think our interaction created some sort of link between us. It did become rather intense there for a moment. I'm glad you survived it. May I ask why you keep one of your sabers behind your back?"
