Page 28 of Stars in Nova

Kisan spent the next few days mulling Samira’s invitation.

The idea of booking a private show felt indulgent, almost reckless.

Yet, every time he thought of her—her raw, husky voice, presence, and enigmatic smile—fokk, her pull.

Finally, unable to resist, he made discreet inquiries with Raza.

He did it in person, keen to find out what to expect.

The lake’s glow casts shifting patterns on CyVoda’s polished stone walls, making the cavern seem alive with quiet energy.

The hum of customers’ conversations mixed with the soft lapping of water and the strains of music drifting from hidden speakers.

Kisan reclined near the counter, his imposing frame cloaked in shadow. His green eyes scanned the room for the one individual who always seemed to know everything.

Raza was easy to spot, even in the vibrant chaos of CyVoda.

The Iccythrian owner leaned against the bar, his thick beard glittering with tiny jewels as he laughed with a pair of patrons.

Kisan waited until Raza finished his conversation, clasped his clients on their shoulders, and sent them on their way with another chuckle.

As soon as the gregarious Iccythrian turned, he spotted Kisan and spread his arms in welcome.

‘Kisan, my friend!’ the Raza said, his voice carrying across the bar like a gentle rumble of thunder. ‘What can I do for you tonight? Another whiskey? Perhaps a spa treatment?’

Kisan stepped closer, murmuring into the Ccyth’s ear. ‘I need to talk to you about one of your performers.’

Raza’s jeweled brow arched, a glimmer of curiosity lighting his eyes. ‘Ah. Let me guess—Samira.’

Kisan inclined his head. ‘She’s captivating.’

‘Also sensual asfokk, ay?’ Raza laughed, a deep, warm sound that echoed through the cavern. ‘She’s extraordinary.’

‘Who is she?’ the Rider asked, his tone blunt but not unkind.

The establishment owner’s jovial expression softened, his hand absently stroking the golden threads in his beard. ‘So you’re curious about her story. I can’t say much—Samira is a private woman. I can tell you this: she’s loyal, hardworking, and gifted beyond measure. She came to me as an exile, like many who find their way to CyVoda.’

‘Refugee?’ Kisan’s rasp carried a note of intrigue.

The bejeweled Ccyth nodded, the light from the lake reflecting in the gems on his face. ‘From a far-off planet. A beautiful place, by her account, ravaged by some catastrophic cataclysm. She doesn’t speak of it often, but I can tell it weighs on her.’

Kisan absorbed the information, his aqua eyes narrowing. ‘What kind of disaster?’

‘That, my friend, she hasn’t shared, and I won’t pry,’ Raza said, his undertone growing quieter. ‘I know that she has a strength about her—a resilience. Whatever happened to her world, she carries it with dignity. Though it’s shaped her, she doesn’t let it define her.’

The Guardian leaned against the bar, his jaw tightening. ‘You trust her?’

‘What’s to trust in this business?’ Raza replied, a touch of humor returning to his inflection. ‘She comes to work on time and dances. I pay for her talent. My former dancer Ma’Shella recommended her, then took off on holiday without giving any notice, claiming burnout. She insisted, via a holo message, that I give Samira her place here, and she’s more than earned it. So far, Samira hasn’t demanded extraordinary treatment or a wage hike like many of my past popular girls have done. Yet, I’ve raised her take because she’s - how do I put this? A woman of quiet power. A woman who can negotiate without uttering a word is formidable. The kind who’ll walk without hesitation if I do not pay her what she’s worth and more.’

The portrayal added more layers to the mystery of the woman occupying the Rider’s thoughts.

He hesitated for a moment. ‘I want to book her.’

Raza’s eyebrows lifted, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. ‘A private show?’

Kisan gave a curt nod. ‘With discretion.’

‘Of course.’ the businessman’s grin widened. ‘She’s selective about exclusive bookings, but I’ll make it happen for you. You’re a valued client.’

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