Page 41 of Quick on the Claw

When she finally came to fully, she found herself in the medical wing of the castle. The alien doctor, Dr. Viiks, was bent over her, his iridescent skin shimmering with concern.

“You’ll be all right now,” Dr. Viiks assured her after giving her an injection, his melodious voice soothing. “The plant you were exposed to, the Lumina Orchid, has been shown to be dangerous to humans. It releases a toxin that can cause severe reactions in your species. It’s a good thing His Majesty got you here so quickly.”

Tiffany nodded weakly, still feeling shaky. “I’ll remember to look and not touch from now on,” she said with a faint smile.

Zak took her hand, his eyes filled with relief and love. “I’m just glad you’re okay,” he said softly. “I should have warned you about the local flora. I’m so sorry, Tiffany.”

“It’s not your fault,” Tiffany reassured him, squeezing his hand. “I’m the one who touched it without thinking.”

“Doctor, is there any type of immune-boosting shot I can get to help me with the flora and maybe anything else that might prove dangerous to my system?”

“That’s a great idea, Miss Whitlock. I will put something together for you, your travel companion, and any other humans that have the same issue as yourself.”

“Oh, great. I feel better already knowing you’ll have something to help.”

Dr. Viiks nodded. I’ll bring something here in the morning.

Zak chuckled, the tension finally easing from his shoulders. “Wonderful. Until then, I think I’ll keep you here, just to be safe.”

As she rested, recovering from her ordeal, Tiffany reflected on the day. Despite the scary ending, it had been wonderful. She’d seen a new side of Nova Aurora and of Zak, and she felt more at home than ever. As she drifted off to sleep, still holding Zak’s hand, she knew that no matter what challenges they faced - be it hostile council members or dangerous alien plants - they would face them together.

NINETEEN

Zak’s heart raced as he guided Tiffany toward the docks. He’d spent days planning this surprise, hoping to show her the true beauty of Nova Aurora. As they approached, Tiffany’s eyes widened at the sight of the sleek boat bobbing gently in the pink waters.

“What’s this?” she asked, a smile tugging on her lips.

“I thought you might enjoy seeing our famous pink oceans up close,” Zak replied, unable to contain his own excitement. “There’s no better way to experience them than from the water itself.”

Tiffany’s face lit up with wonder as she took in the scene. The vast expanse of pink stretched out before them, reflecting the alien sky in a breathtaking display of color. Zak helped her onto the boat, his hand lingering on hers a moment longer than necessary.

As they set sail, Tiffany leaned against the railing, her hair whipping in the breeze. Zak stood beside her, drinking in her joyful expression. The pink waters lapped gently against the hull, creating a soothing rhythm.

“It’s incredible,” Tiffany breathed, her eyes sparkling. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

Zak smiled, pleased by her reaction. “Wait until you see how it looks at sunset. The entire ocean glows.”

They sailed farther from the shore, the coastline becoming a distant silhouette. Tiffany turned to Zak, her face alight with curiosity. “How does it stay this color? Is it some kind of algae?”

Delighted by Tiffany’s genuine interest, Zak launched into an explanation about the unique microorganisms that inhabited Nova Aurora’s oceans. As he spoke, he noticed a mischievous glint in her eye.

Before he could react, Tiffany scooped up a handful of the pink water and splashed him playfully. Zak stood there, stunned for a moment, pink droplets running down his face. Then, a slow grin spread across his features.

“Oh, you’re in for it now,” he growled playfully, reaching for the water.

Laughter filled the air as they engaged in a spirited water fight, their joy echoing across the vast pink expanse. Tiffany’s giggles mixed with Zak’s deep chuckles, creating a melody that harmonized with the gentle lapping of the waves.

Eventually, breathless and dripping, they collapsed onto the deck. Zak pulled Tiffany close, both shaking with residual laughter. The warmth of the alien sun dried their clothes as they lay there, content in each other’s company.

As their breathing steadied, Zak told Tiffany about his first time sailing these waters with his father, learning the intricacies of navigation and the respect one must have for the sea.

“I remember being terrified of falling in,” he admitted with a chuckle. “I was convinced the pink water would turn me into some kind of sea creature.”

Tiffany laughed, her eyes twinkling. “And did it?”

Zak grinned, flexing his muscles dramatically. “Well, I don’t have gills, but I’d say I turned out pretty well, wouldn’t you?”

Tiffany rolled her eyes, but her smile betrayed her amusement. “All right, Your Majesty, no need to fish for compliments.”