“I’m Rachael.” She said, dragging him to the next cabin. “And you’re Ethan.” She said it matter-of-factly, as if he might not know his own name.

“You’ve been aboard for three local hours and haven’t said a single word to any other passengers.” She said, “so there has got to be something interesting about you.” Her ruby smile was crooked, and clashed deliciously with her mauve hat.

Ethan eyed her suspiciously. “How do you know my name? I’m just trying to…”

She rolled her eyes. “Your name tag? Please don’t tell me you’re just another tourist. Come. Have a drink with me.”

“But.” Ethan looked down at the copper nameplate pinned to his brown wool jacket. “Alright, fine.” He said, giving in. “What do you have to drink?”

She sighed. “You really are new here aren’t you?” Rachael produced a thin crystal flask from her bodice and handed it to Ethan.

“What is it?” He asked.

“Well it’s not poison.” She said, snatching the flask and drinking half the contents. “Here, drink the rest.”

He did. “So, what was it?”