Page 15 of The Alien's Unwanted Bride

Dravek’s hand instinctively moved to the hilt of his energy blade. “That could make our journey through here... unpredictable.”

“True,” Zora agreed, “but also incredible. Think of what we could learn from a place like this.”

Her enthusiasm was met with a slight softening of Dravek’s stern expression. “Your passion for discovery is... admirable,” he said, his words careful but sincere. “However, we must remain focused on finding a way out.”

Zora nodded, trying to temper her excitement with practicality. “You’re right, of course. Let’s see if we can figure out how this labyrinth works.”

They began to make their way through the shifting corridors with Zora taking the lead.

“Look at these flowers,” she said, pointing to a cluster of delicate blooms that opened as they approached. “They seem to be responding positively to our presence. I think they’re showing us the right path.”

Dravek nodded, impressed by her observations. “Your expertise is proving quite useful, Zora. I’m glad you’re here.”

The compliment sent a warm flutter through Zora’s chest, but she quickly pushed the feeling aside. Now wasn’t the time to dwell on her growing attraction to the stoic prince.

As they continued, Zora noticed other plants that emitted warning fragrances when they strayed too close to potential dangers. She guided them away from these areas, relying on her instincts and knowledge.

Dravek remained cautious, his powerful frame tense and ready for action. It was a stark contrast to Zora’s more relaxed demeanor, but she appreciated his protective presence.

Their progress was steady but slow, each step requiring careful consideration. The labyrinth seemed to test them, presenting new challenges with every turn. At times, the paths would open up invitingly, only to close off when they drew near. Other times, seemingly solid walls would dissolve into mist, revealing hidden passages.

“It’s like the labyrinth is playing with us,” Zora mused, her frustration tinged with fascination.

Dravek grunted in agreement. “A game where the rules keep changing. Not unlike politics.”

Zora glanced at him, surprised by the hint of humor in his voice. It was a rare glimpse of the man behind the princelyfacade, and she found herself wanting to see more of this side of him.

Their moment of levity was short-lived, however. As they rounded a corner, the air grew thick with an acrid scent. The bioluminescent glow of the surrounding plants dimmed, casting eerie shadows across the path.

“Something’s wrong,” Zora whispered, her body tensing.

Dravek moved closer to her, his energy blade humming to life. “Stay alert. We’re not alone.”

As if summoned by his words, dark shapes began to materialize from the shadows. They moved with fluid grace, their forms seeming to flicker in and out of existence. Zora’s breath caught in her throat as she recognized them. But from where?

“Shadow stalkers,” she breathed, a mix of fear and awe in her voice. “I thought they were just legends.”

The creatures, resembling large panther-like beasts with cloaking abilities, circled them with predatory intent. Their eyes gleamed with an otherworldly intelligence, assessing the intruders in their domain.

Dravek stepped in front of Zora, his blade raised defensively. “Any ideas on how to handle these ‘legends’?” he asked, his voice taut with concentration.

Zora’s mind raced, searching for knowledge. “They’re sensitive to certain spores,” she said quickly. “If I can find the right plant...”

Her eyes darted around, searching the surrounding foliage. There, nestled between two large roots, she spotted a cluster of puffball-like growths. “Cover me,” she told Dravek, then darted toward the plants.

The shadow stalkers pounced, their spectral forms becoming solid as they attacked. Dravek moved with incredible speed andprecision, his energy blade slicing through the air. He parried and struck, keeping the creatures at bay while Zora worked.

Zora reached the puffballs, her hands steady despite the chaos around her. She’d always worked well under pressure, a trait that had served her well in her academic pursuits. Now, it might save their lives.

She carefully plucked one of the puffballs, cradling it in her palms. “Dravek, get ready!” she called out.

The prince glanced her way, then redoubled his efforts, driving the shadow stalkers toward her. When they were in range, Zora squeezed the puffball with all her might.

A cloud of iridescent spores exploded into the air, enveloping the creatures. The effect was immediate. The shadow stalkers recoiled, their forms becoming erratic and unstable. With unearthly howls, they retreated into the darkness, leaving Zora and Dravek alone once more.

For a moment, they stood in stunned silence, the adrenaline of the encounter still coursing through their veins. Then, Dravek turned to Zora, a look of genuine admiration on his face.

“That was... impressive,” he said, his breath slightly ragged from the exertion. “Your knowledge may have saved our lives.”

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