CHAPTER 9 REUNIONS AND REVELATIONS: A STAR PROMISE

Five months had passed since I last heard from Rigel, and I was quietly reviewing some reports in my office when the sound of the LumiCom broke the silence. As I answered, I was surprised to see his face, more serious than usual, on the holographic screen.

—Rigel! — I exclaimed, genuinely surprised. —How is everything? How is your cousin Sira?

The truth is that I had always been worried about Sira, so I was interested in knowing how she was doing. Although Rigel and I didn't talk that often, our friendship had always been strong.

—We are fine, thank you. — Rigel's reply was accompanied by a smile. —I have decided that Sira will live with me; this way, I can look after her more closely and make sure that her friendships are the right ones. She is now immersed in the study of Intergalactic Diplomacy and Administration.

I smirked. Rigel was always so protective, always so meticulous with every step he took. I couldn't help but laugh, perhaps with a hint of mockery.

—So you enrolled her in these studies to keep her busy? — I asked, laughing, knowing full well what my friend was thinking.

Rigel let out a light laugh, confirming my suspicions.

—Exactly. It's the ideal way to keep her mind active and to surround herself with people who share her status. Plus, there's a good chance she'll get that title my uncle so desired for her. Before he passed away, he made me promise to take care of her.

Her tone changed as soon as she mentioned Kai, Sira's uncle. I felt something in the air become more solemn. Remembering Kai always brought me a mix of admiration and sadness. He had been a genius in Androcia 's genetic engineering, and his tragic end under an ambush by Xerion Vora, the king of Vexa , was not something easy to forget. I was silent for a moment, remembering when Kai, in his final moments, entrusted Rigel with the safety of his niece.

Rigel took on that responsibility like no one else would have. I remember when Sira was only fifteen, and Rigel was already busy with his own projects and studies in intergalactic business administration. Still, he sent Sira to a boarding school so she could be protected, though, as we all expected, the young girl's rebellious spirit led her to run away and disappear for six years.

Rigel was always true to his word, waiting patiently for her to return. That loyalty and discipline that characterized him was something I always admired about him. And now, seeing that Sira was under his care again made me think that things were finally getting back on track.

After a few seconds of reflection, I decided to change the direction of the conversation. There was something in Rigel's voice that made me suspect that this was not just a courtesy call.

—I understand the situation, Rigel. But tell me, ¿what is the real reason for your call? — I asked, trying to hide my growing curiosity.

Rigel looked at me seriously, as if she was considering each word carefully before speaking it.

—I want to talk to you in person, — he finally said. —So, ¿what do you prefer? Should I go to Zenith or do you feel like coming here?

I stared at him silently for a moment, assessing the proposal. There was something in his tone that suggested this meeting wouldn't just be a catch-up. My heart began to beat a little faster, and I felt a strange mix of anticipation and urgency.

—Okay, ¿I'll wait for you? — I said, raising an eyebrow. — ¿How long until you get there?

Rigel smiled, with that confident air that had always accompanied him.

—Right away. I'll open a transport portal and be there in no time.

I closed the LumiCom , with a mix of anticipation and concern. Something told me that what was about to happen would change the course of things, but I didn't know how yet. As I felt the distinct vibration of the transporter portal activating, I took a moment to prepare the space. With a quick gesture, I darkened the windows of my office, ensuring that the meeting would be completely private. I knew Rigel wasn't just coming for a friendly chat. This visit brought something else, something I might not have been prepared to face.

Suddenly, the air in the room changed density, and Rigel appeared in front of me. I immediately stood up to greet him, and without hesitation, we embraced. Despite the seriousness of the moment, reuniting with a friend always brought some relief.

—Here I am, — he said with that smile of his that always seemed to hold some mystery. We sat down, and when I offered her something to drink, Rigel accepted an Andronian tea. I knew she liked it, and besides, the gesture helped to relax the atmosphere before whatever she was going to tell me.

As I prepared the cups, I felt a mixture of intrigue and nervousness inside me. I knew that Rigel never said anything without a reason, and if she had made the trip here, it must be for something big.

—So, what did you want to tell me? — I finally asked, taking a seat across from him, ready to hear whatever he had to say.

Rigel did not beat around the bush, as usual.

—I want you to sing in my establishment, — he said, dropping the bomb without warning.

For a moment, I didn't know how to react. I was so shocked that I nearly choked on my tea. I coughed, trying to regain control and not look too upset, but the blow had been direct.

—Sorry... I think I didn't hear well —I stammered while drying my jacket and desk, both stained by the incident— Did you say that you want me to come sing at your establishment?

I was still in shock. I didn't understand how he had come to that conclusion, let alone how he knew I was singing, or rather, that I was ″Sirius Starlight ″. Rigel was staring at me, without a hint of doubt on her face.

—Don't act ignorant,— he replied, his tone direct and firm. —I know you're Sirius Starlight .

Time seemed to stop for a moment. I felt a knot forming in my stomach as I tried to remain calm. Despite my best efforts to hide it, Rigel had discovered my secret. But how? I tried to evade, looking for a quick way out.

—I don't know what you're talking about, — I replied, hoping to divert the conversation, but deep down I knew it wasn't going to be that easy.

Rigel raised an eyebrow, clearly seeing through my facade.

—Don't lie to me, Terry. I know all your secrets, both personal and otherwise, and I know perfectly well when you're lying. His voice had that unwavering authority he'd always had. He knew me better than I sometimes knew myself.

My mind began to work frantically, trying to figure out how I had gotten here. Had Max told him? After all, Rigel and Max had also been friends for many years, and Max knew about Sirius. But Rigel seemed to have more information than I could have gotten from Max alone.

—Besides, — Rigel continued, not even giving me a pause to process, —you are the superstar of the entire universe. Everywhere you look, there is your picture. And your vocal range is unique. Remember, I have all your song tapes. When we were younger, you made me keep them so your father wouldn't find out. It was inevitable that when I heard you sing, I would know it was you.

Rigel's words echoed in my mind. Everything fit together. I had been careless. For months, I had thought that my double life as Terry, the Imperial Sumo, and as ″Sirius Starlight ″ the musical star, was a well-kept secret. But Rigel, ever meticulous, had connected the dots.

I was silent for a moment, considering my options. Rigel knew too much, and even though I trusted him, revealing something like that always had consequences. I couldn't just deny it; there was no room for lies anymore.

—Okay, — I said at last, letting out a sigh. —You know everything. Yes, I am Sirius Starlight.

Admitting it out loud brought me a mix of relief and fear. Rigel had unmasked the part of me that I had kept hidden for so long, even from those closest to me. Now it remained to be seen what I would do with that information.

Rigel smiled, a smile that combined satisfaction and understanding.

—You don't have to worry, Terry, — he said in a softer tone. —I'm not here to reveal myself to you or put you in an awkward situation. In fact, I admire you for how you've handled everything. But I want you to sing at my club, because I know that the world needs to hear Sirius Starlight in a different way, and you need a place where you can be yourself without the constraints of being the High Imperial.

I looked at him, surprised at the direction the conversation had taken. Was it possible that Rigel truly understood what it meant to me to be Sirius? And that she didn't want to take advantage of that truth, but simply offer me a space to continue being who I was, without masks?

The atmosphere between Rigel and I was light, but I couldn't help but notice how her expression changed as she spoke to me about her cousin. There was a tone of vulnerability in her voice, one she rarely allowed herself to show.

—My cousin is a fan of yours, — he said suddenly, frowning. —She has your picture all over her room. It was frustrating to come in and see your image everywhere. You know how much I adore my cousin; she's become the apple of my eye. And now, I find myself dealing with a feeling of jealousy, knowing that she admires another man.

I couldn't help but smile at the irony and complexity of the situation. Rigel, as protective as ever, now found himself competing with a version of me that wasn't even entirely real: ″Sirius Starlight ″, the singer, the idol. As I tried to hold back my laughter, he noticed my smile and his exasperation grew.

—Don't laugh, — he said seriously, though he couldn't help letting out a shaky sigh. —You have no idea how frustrating it is. I've become more than just her cousin; I'm practically her father. And I can already imagine the day when she starts bringing men over to introduce me to her. The questions I'll ask the poor bastard who dares show up!

I looked at him with a mix of amusement and sympathy. Seeing Rigel in that role was something I had never imagined. Years ago, when we were younger, it was Rigel who was always ready to jump into romantic adventures without a second thought. Now, seeing him adopt a paternalistic stance towards Sira was, to say the least, ironic.

—You, playing the overprotective father. What twists and turns life takes! —I said, still amused by the idea. I remembered how my own father would question me about my love interests in the past, and how he always

It ended with warnings about keeping my secrets safe. My smile faded a little as I thought of Sira. I knew her life wouldn't be easy if she followed a path similar to mine, full of secrets and responsibilities.

Rigel looked at me with an expression that was a mixture of relief and resignation. Our lives, though distant in many ways, had always had one thing in common: the complexity of protecting those we love while dealing with our own burdens.

—Okay, I'll go sing at your club... I mean, your place —I finally said, with a knowing smile, letting him know that I was willing to help him.

Rigel let out a sarcastic laugh.

—Yes, call it a hellhole, because that's what it will become when all your fans arrive. Not to mention that Sira will surely be in the front row to see you.

I noticed how he pressed his lips together, as if he didn't want to blame me for something that clearly made him uncomfortable. I knew it wasn't my fault that Sira admired me so much, but for him, it added another layer of complexity to his relationship with her.

—Besides, I want something else,— he said suddenly, changing his tone.

—What else can I do for you, dear friend? — I asked, intrigued and willing to do whatever it took to help.

Rigel looked at me seriously, as if what I was going to say was not a simple request.

—I want you to make a song for my cousin, just for her, and invite her up on stage.

Her request took me by surprise. I stood there in silence, processing what she had just asked of me. This wasn't just a song; it was a request fraught with emotion and potential complications. I had always been careful not to cross certain lines, especially where my fans were concerned, out of respect for my wife, Zahori . I knew that while she understood my public life, things could get complicated if something like this was misinterpreted.

—I can do what you ask,— I said finally, my tone lower, as I looked away, aware of the delicacy of the matter. —But… the problem is my wife, Zahori. You know I don't want her to feel uncomfortable.

Rigel nodded, surprised by the answer, but understanding the situation.

—And, ¿Zahori knows you're Sirius Starlight? — she asked, with a mix of surprise and curiosity.

I leaned back in my seat and let out a sigh before answering.

—Yes, and she is Luna Solaris, — I revealed, knowing this would add a new layer to the conversation.

Rigel readjusted in his seat, clearly shocked by the revelation.

—Wait... How does she know? You've always tried to keep your family from finding out about your actions.

—She followed me and found out. You know how Zahori is, — I replied with a resigned smile, knowing how difficult it was to keep secrets in our relationship. She had always been perceptive and determined, and when she discovered my double life, I had no choice but to accept the truth.

Rigel nodded silently, processing the complexity of my life. She knew our relationship with Zahori was built on trust, but also on the constant balance between our public and private identities.

—Okay, I accept your proposal, — I said finally, with determination. —But I will speak clearly to Zahori about this. I am sure he will understand.

Rigel nodded, satisfied with my answer.

—Perfect. And when do you plan to hold the concert? —I asked, eager to move forward with the preparations.

I felt reassured knowing that, despite everything, the friendship between Rigel and I was still as strong as ever. We had shared many things over the years, and our lives, so full of unexpected twists and turns and secrets, had not managed to weaken that bond. I knew that, despite the challenges that still lay ahead of us, the trust we had in each other would allow us to face them together. It was then that Rigel, with an enthusiastic smile, interrupted me with news I had not expected.

—This Saturday night. I have already organized everything at the venue. It will be ready to host the event —he said, with that sparkle in his eyes that made me understand that he had already visualized the success of the evening.

I couldn't help but smile at his enthusiasm, but I also knew it wasn't as simple as putting on an impromptu concert.

—You'll have to coordinate with Max and Zyron then —I reminded him, knowing that they managed my busy schedule— They're the ones in charge of my commitments and organizing everything related to Sirius.

Rigel frowned, as if she didn't expect Max to be involved in this.

—¿So Max is involved in this?— he asked, intrigued. —I wasn't expecting that.

I knew that Rigel had met Max years ago, but I probably didn't imagine the role he played in my musical career. To be honest, I hadn't imagined it myself until it happened.

—Actually, he was the one who recruited me for this, — I said, remembering how it all began. —Originally, I had no intention of getting up on stage to sing. My life has always been in the military.

Rigel looked at me in surprise, and I didn't blame him. The truth was that my foray into music had been something completely out of place compared to what he was used to doing.

—And how did he manage to convince you to do something so out of the ordinary? —he asked, genuinely intrigued— I mean, for you, who prefer not to deviate from your military obligations.

I sighed, remembering how Max had managed to get me into this whole mess.

—He knows how to persuade, — I replied, reflecting on the way Max had managed to drag me into the world of show business. It was a skill few had, and he handled it with a mastery that sometimes amazed me.

—I'll talk to him and get his story. I want to hear his side of the story, — Rigel said, smiling as if she was already putting the puzzle together in her mind. —I want to know all the details.

I chuckled. It was typical of Rigel to want to get the full story from every angle.

—Well, I'll tell you that he basically dragged me into this. He kidnapped me and forced me to do it —I joked, smiling as I recalled the unusual circumstances that led me to accept the challenge of getting on stage.

Rigel laughed with me, understanding the tone of the joke, but knowing there was some truth behind it.

—I imagine so, — she replied, still laughing. —Still, I want to hear what Max has to say. I have your side of the story now, but I want his.

I stood in silence for a moment, watching Rigel, my old friend, and couldn't help but reflect on how far we'd come. Our lives had intertwined in ways so unexpected, so profound, that at times it felt like fate itself was playing tricks on us. But there we were, sharing laughter and confidences, navigating together the chaos and revelations our choices brought. No matter how uncertain the future was, I knew that when the concert came or whatever challenge lay ahead, I could always count on Rigel. And in this vast, chaotic universe, that was the only thing that really mattered.

At the end of the day, I arrived home. Castle Whittaker, our home on the imposing planet of Omegara , glowed softly under the stars. The soft lights and shadows in the hallways brought a much-needed sense of peace after a tiring day. Zahori was already in bed, deep in sleep. I knew she had waited for me, but the night had been too long; my responsibilities had kept me busy investigating a murder on a planet embroiled in territorial disputes and under the jurisdiction of the Galactic Federation. It wasn't something new for me, but every time I came home after such a day, I felt the weight of those lost lives on my shoulders.

With quiet steps, I approached the bed where Zahori slept. I leaned down and gave her a soft kiss on the forehead, careful not to wake her. ″Tomorrow I will tell her all about my conversation with Rigel″, I thought as I made my way to the closet, eager to rid myself of the uniform that marked my rank as Imperial High Priest, a burden that sometimes seemed heavier than I could bear.

However, as I began to undress, I heard his voice, soft and warm, breaking the calm of the room.

—Terry, ¿is that you?— she whispered, barely audible, but full of that unmistakable affection that always made me feel at home.

—Yes, my love, I'm home now, — I replied, trying to keep my voice calm so she could continue resting.

I headed for the closet to take off my black jacket decorated with gold details and remove the imperial insignia, but as I was about to hang it up, Zahori moved in the bed, and I saw her emerge from the shadows, something in her hands.

What she was holding left me speechless for a moment. It was a guitar, a work of art in itself, but what really struck me was the meaning behind her gesture. Zahori, so wise and perceptive, had captured the tension between my two worlds, between music and my imperial duty. The guitar reflected that internal struggle, but also a promise: a union between both aspects of my life.

—You shouldn't have...— I began to say, surprised and moved, but my words fell short in the face of Zahori 's gesture of love

—I want you to be complete, in every stage of your life, — she replied, her voice soft and firm at the same time. Then she kissed me, a kiss that seemed to seal her intention, as if she were telling me that, no matter what happened, we were in this together, sharing an eternity.

The weight of his gift overwhelmed me, but it also filled me with gratitude. I nodded at his suggestion to bring that guitar with me to the next performance. It was as if Zahori understood better than anyone that part of me I had always kept hidden, that duality between Sirius Starlight and Terry, the Emperor. But I knew there was still something else I had to tell him, something I couldn't put off for later.

— Zahori, there is something we need to discuss —I said, my voice a little deeper, aware that the conversation would not be easy.

I felt the air in the room shift slightly. Zahori looked at me, his eyes filled with understanding, but also anticipation. I knew that although our relationship was built on deep trust, there were aspects of my life that always brought uncertainty, especially when it came to my role as Sirius Starlight.

I walked over to the bed and sat down next to her, taking her hand in mine.

—Rigel asked me to sing at his club this weekend. I want to do it… but he also asked me for something else. He wants me to invite his cousin, Sira, on stage, to dedicate a song to him, — I said, carefully observing his reaction.

Zahori remained silent, listening intently. I could see her processing my words, but before I could continue, she gently squeezed my hand.

—Terry, I know how important music is to you, and I also know that our lives are full of difficult decisions. If you believe it is the right thing to do, I will support you —she said, her words enveloping me in a calm that only she could provide.

I sighed, relieved by his understanding, but also knowing there was another aspect I needed to consider.

—Thank you, my love, — I murmured. —But I need you to know that I don't want this to make you feel uncomfortable. I've always tried to keep a clear line between my public life and ours.

Zahori smiled softly.

—I know, and I appreciate it. But I also know that Rigel trusts you in a way that few others do. If this is important to him, it will be important to me as well, — she replied, with that wisdom that he so admired in her.

The weight of my responsibilities and secrets was still there, but in that moment, with Zahori at my side, I felt that any challenge was easier to bear. I knew that the conversation with Rigel and the concert would be complicated, but I also knew that, with her support, I could face whatever came next. She told him about Rigel's proposal, about a concert meant to further unite their worlds, and about a song dedicated to a young admirer. Zahori listened, her serenity a beacon in Terry's uncertainty.

—¿And what is the dilemma, my love? — His question was a balm, his support unwavering.

I hesitated for a moment, feeling the tension gripping me, a knot in my stomach that wouldn't leave me alone. The fear of hurting or neglecting Zahori was something that plagued me constantly. But she, as always, with that wisdom that seemed to have been forged in ancient suns, reminded me how strong our bond was, how deep what we shared was. I knew that no matter how much the chaos of my public life pulled me in every direction, our love was unbreakable.

—You have nothing to fear, Terry, — she said softly, her words like a balm to my mind.—Our love is the shield against any storm, and together, we will navigate the waters of admiration and fame, always united, always faithful to our shared heart.—

In that instant, I felt as if all the weight I had been carrying evaporated. I exhaled deeply, releasing the air in a breath that washed away the pent-up tension. The room filled with a palpable peace, and for the first time all day, I felt completely present, as if nothing else mattered beyond this moment. Between Zahori and me, there was a connection that went beyond words, a mutual understanding that always left me in awe.

As I stood there, lost in that sense of tranquility, Zahori moved with the grace that had always characterized her. Everything seemed to flow naturally when I was near her. She spoke to me with that same sweetness, and she captured my full attention. I saw that she was holding something in her hands: a black satin bandage, elegant, wide, and with a texture that reflected an air of mystery.

She moved closer slowly, and I felt her tenderness in every movement. Without another word, she placed the blindfold over my eyes, her fingers brushing my skin with a gentleness that made the world blur around me. Unable to see, my senses were heightened, and all I perceived was her presence, the softness of the satin, and the steady beat of my heart, which seemed to quicken in anticipation.

Zahori gently settled herself on my knees, and in that moment, with my eyes covered, I was immersed in a world of sensations. I let her guide the moment, trusting in her touch, in her intention, in that connection we had built over the years. In the darkness, I could only feel her, the anchor that always kept me firm, even when everything else around me threatened to crumble.

—Relax, my love, tonight will be magical— Zahori whispered, her voice full of promises. With the blindfold already in place, Zahori led me on a sensory journey, tracing my entire neck with passionate kisses and mischievous licks, making my skin shiver with pleasure, while with her hands Zahori ran all over my chest until she unbuttoned my pants and gently lowered the zipper all this while she continued kissing me on the mouth with her wet tongue, while with my hands I was caressing her buttocks and waist, she put her hand inside my underwear until she found my penis that was already erect from the excitement and she took it out to place it between her hands while she knelt down to caress the blossoming head of my penis.

The skin was satiny to the touch and very hot, Zahori licked it all over its length making me roar with pleasure shaking my whole body which made me have to put my hands to hold on to the chair where I was while Zahori was sucking my penis with great skill, I felt my penis swell and get more excited just like my whole body I thought I couldn't stop it any longer before ejaculating but my wife noticed and stopped immediately getting on top of my legs and placing her vagina on top of my penis,

I felt my wife's entire vagina which was wet and ready for him to enter that cave of pleasure, Zahori made a movement with her hips and I penetrated her easily, I could no longer bear the erection and stop ejaculation, we began to move in unison together until we exploded with pleasure, joining our bodies in an embrace that seemed to melt our souls, we immersed ourselves in the dance of our hearts, where pleasure, love, desire and lust intertwined in an intoxicating whirlwind. Our heartbeats resonated in perfect harmony, creating a unique melody that only we could hear, while we lost ourselves in the ecstasy of our mutual connection.