The joys of sleep and having a brain back! I'd like to go with the firefly concept - a small crew on a small ship with lots of trouble just getting by. As a space reporter I'd offer legitimate credentials to get into difficult places- a place hit by big events might be closed off to most space traffic, but a reporter can get in, allowing the crew to pick up passenger, bring in support pliers and trade at extortionist rates!<br/>At the same time I'm a reporter and tend to attract other reporters... which is ohhh so bad...<br/><br/>On factions, I'd like to suggest a smaller trading state/consortium that works through animalistic humanoid species. They offer great medical, having mastered genetics to develop their animal DNA infusions and cloning techniques. People from other cultures often are made to sign long service contracts when joining their employees- just to get their free medical benefits. The company doesn't exactly have slavery - but they do setup indentured service so they kinda do. They just are a little more legal about it.<br/><br/>They should have a good rep and bring supplies to places in need often- but they are an evil place that uses subtle brainwashing and genetics to promote submissive/happy enslavement amongst their 'staff'. Dealing with these guys is kinda tricky if you want a bargain - and dangerous once you look past that shiny smooth veneer...