Khalfani reached in the sand and pulled a chunk of gold. 

“We’re transporting this asteroid stuff to the capital.”

He put the heavy material in his pocket.

“Saving it for later.”

Joonam saw nearby workers being shocked by electric whips.

“I’m going to work.” Joonam nervously angsted.

“Why? Working is so boring. Just follow me.”

Khalfani rushed Joonam to a small metal bunker next to the landing docks. He sat down on a rug covered in dust and pulled out a teapot with two cups.

“Where are we?”

Khalfani blatantly ignored his question and poured Joonam a cup of tea.

“Best tea you can get your hands on. Stole it from Rabat during my travels last winter.”

The bunker was a complex system of corroded metal and rust. The ends of the hallways were dimly lit by blinking lights. 

“Why isn’t anyone down here?”

“Everyone else is working.” 

Khalfani took a long smoke from an antique hookah.

“Hashish?” He offered.

“I don’t smoke.”

“Suit yourself.” 

He placed his lips only inches away and exhaled the sensational narcotic in Joonam’s face.

“You’re pretty hot for a northerner.”

Joonam blushed and pushed him away.

“Just give me the hose.”