Page 42 of Light Leech

“You got it?” I asked.

She nodded. “We should be able to crack ‘Sanna’s’ shell in a minute or so.”

“You really are a freak, aren’t you?” Boyband said.

“What, all of that?” Ralia laughed. “First, you wish. Second, Parkie is a sucker for Luminate League.”

“That stupid neurospace card game?” Boyband scoffed.

“Hey! It’s not stupid. I promised him a few trades and a battle or so when I have the time.”

“Zeggin’ nerd.”

“You’re just jealous, babe. Luminate League is how deals and relationships are made in the neurocore.”

“The dark side of the net?”

“The deep side. Good and bad. It’s where people who know what they’re doing get things done. Shacs in the flesh might discuss deals over a game of poker, but Luminate League is where it’s at.”

She looked at me. “You ever played?”

I shook my head.

“I have,” Naoma said.

“Really?” Ralia’s jaw hung open.

Naoma nodded. “I was an elite, remember?”

“Still are.”

She shrugged. “It’s how deals are made.”

“You know ball, babe.”

“I have played.” Kuni said.

Ralia laughed. “Adults play a little differently, Kun.”

“Can you show me?”

“We’ll earn some more lumens to your name, then maybe you’ll have a shot.”

“Can I–”

She held a hand up to cut Boyband off. She started speaking to the ether again. “You got it? Oh, Parkie babe, I owe you. I’ll send you my collection but know I’m a hard trader. Chat later. Love yah babe.” She scoffed as the call ended. “Stuck up shac.”

“But I–”

She cut off Boyband again. It was hard to keep my laughter in.

“Let mommy cook.”

Boyband glared at me.

I smirked. “You know her well enough by now. Why do you act surprised when she tells you off?”

He rolled his eyes.