Another Side Of The Universe

Chapter 98 : Star Market

Star Market is a flea market built on a small planetary body. It is not round like the Earth, does not spin on its axis, and does not revolve around a star. It appears like a floating island in space.
Isadore’s mansion is located northwest of the island. It is the biggest building in Star Market. It has 5 floors in total. 3 floors up and 2 underground floors. The mansion has 20 acres of the yard including a garden. 

After verifying their identity, Noche and Mr. K are escorted by a few guards. They lead them to the mansion where a dozen servants lined up to welcome them. One of Isadore’s maids accompanies them to Isadore’s study room. 

“Welcome!” Isadore greeted with enthusiasm. “Please, sit down. I just got my hands on a very exquisite tea. I’m sure it’ll be to your liking.”

“Thoughtful as always. Thank you,” said Noche as she sat with Mr. K.

Few of Isadore’s servants served tea on the table. He told them to leave as soon as they poured the tea.  

Isadore is a fat alien with a handlebar mustache. He wears a glittering gold turban on his head. His clothes have golden lines on them. He’s showing off his extravagant lifestyle by wearing many accessories. Even one of his teeth is gold. 

“I must say I am delighted to have you here,” Isadore giggles. “When I heard the news that someone is going to kill me, I was terrified,” he said dramatically. “BUT! I am so glad you’re here. If it weren’t thanks to you, how could I ever defend myself from that awful menace called Caligo?”

“Don’t get it over your head, Isadore. We’re not finished with our deal yet,” said Noche.

“Of course, of course! No problem. Name your price. Whatever you need, I can provide,” said Isadore with a cheeky tone. 

“Right. The person who hired Caligo also hired me to kill you. But I rejected it. That’s why he’s hiring Caligo,” Noche lied.

“Oh, why did you reject it?” Isadore asked. 

“Simple. He put a cheap price on your head,” said Noche. “You’re one of the most powerful people in Star Market. And the person hiring Caligo has the audacity to insult you with such a low price for your head. Surely someone as great as you is worth a great amount of prize. I can even say you’re priceless,” she flatter.

Isadore laughed. “Oh yes. You are indeed a cultured bounty hunter, unlike those below your rank. They have no sense of value.”

“Yes. Which is why I rushed here when I heard Caligo is after you. Think of my visit as a token of appreciation from a friend. After all, you’ve been ‘very generous’ to me,” said Noche. 

“Of course. My mansion will always welcome you. I’ll make sure your... needs are well taken care of,” said Isadore. 

“A very understanding man as always,” Noche praised. 

“That aside, I heard you’ve ‘tangoed’ with the intergalactic police,” said Isadore. 

“The news of Planet Circus I presumed?” said Noche. 

“Yes. It seems quite hectic….” said Isadore as he stared at Noche, expecting her reaction. 

“Why yes. An entire planet shut down by the intergalactic police.”

“Do you mind if I ask?”

“Not at all.”

“Is it true you’re working with the police?”

“I wouldn’t exactly call it that,” said Noche as she took a sip from her tea. “The Intergalactic Police merely paid me for a job at the circus and that’s all into it. After all, I’m a bounty hunter. My services fall on the hand of the highest bidder… and a loyal patron of course,” she said as she leaned towards Isadore.