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But her energy relaxed when we reached our destination, a row of storefronts in the Promenade, only a short walk from the casino. Species of all kinds milled around the space in their finely tailored suits and glamorous dresses. The only danger here were the strange looks from people not expecting to see a Black Star hostess uniform among all the luxury.

“What’re we doing here?” Amber asked.

“Getting you a new look.”

“Ryrik, I can’t afford?—”

“Who said you’re paying?” I responded with a chuckle.

I first took Amber to a salon. It was known for the best hair, nail, and make-up experts on this side of the star system. And Amber was going to be their next big project.

Even with a casual glance, Amber was pretty, but her years on the street and with the Quilthar were apparent with just one look.

I wanted to wash it all away, to let Amber know what I saw in her. To make her shine like the greatest beauty on the station.

Amber was worth so much more than she let herself believe. And I would find a way to convince her of it.

First, a lady took Amber by the arm and sat her down in a chair. Amber looked at me with uncertainty as the lady washed her hair, but I simply nodded.

I watched from the corner of the salon as the first lady washed, cut, and styled Amber’s hair, until at the end, her honey-colored hair flowed and bounced beautifully with every movement of her head.

Then someone led Amber to another station, where they proceeded to do her makeup while another worked on her nails.

Soon, Amber’s naturally pretty face was made to look gorgeous. Shiny lipstick brought focus to her plump lips. Blush gave definition to her sharp cheekbones. And likely more tricks were used I didn't even notice, things that as a Vinduthi I’ve never even considered.

After transferring funds from my percomm, we left with bags full of hair and make-up products. Amber looked like a new woman.

“Okay,” Amber said. “You didn’t say a single word in there.”

“I let the experts do their work. You look great.”

“I do… But why? Why are we doing this? How is this going to help us stop Conii and save Isa?”

“It won’t, not directly,” I responded. “But it will protect you. Conii and her goons are looking for you, the old you. But after some proper make-up, hair care, and nice clothes, you’ll blend in with the crowd better.”

“Really?” she asked, cocking her head up at me. “That’s your plan?”

“Well, as much as you like the bed, I can’t exactly keep you locked up in the apartment all day every day until we take down Conii. This will help with that.”

“That makes sense.” Amber stopped to think for a moment. Then she looked at me with a smile. “You said something about nice clothes?”

“Yes, I did.” I chuckled. “You look far too glamorous to be wearing your hostess uniform.”

“Oh, do I?” She rolled her eyes. “Did all that money you just spent go to waste?”

“It depends on how you end up looking in the dresses,” I teased.

She playfully pushed my arm.

“This way,” I said, grabbing Amber’s hand.

I led her further through the Promenade until we reached a high-end clothing store. With one look at the dresses on display in the window, Amber’s jaw dropped.

“Ryrik,” she breathed. “Are you sure you can afford this?”

“It’ll hardly cause a dent.” It had been a long time since I had reason to spend so much money. It felt good to be using some of my wealth.

As soon as we stepped into the door, a saleswoman approached us.

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