Page 6 of The Alien's Unwanted Bride

Sprig projected a holographic map of Tharvis, a faint blue line indicating their planned path. “Affirmative, Zora Arison. I’ve calculated a route that avoids known patrols and settlements. However, I must express concern about the potential dangers of this expedition.”

Zora nodded, her expression a mix of excitement and resolve. “I know, Sprig. But think of the possibilities. If we can find even one of these species, it could revolutionize medicine and life on both Tharvis and Earth.”

She began gathering equipment and checking off items on a mental list. “Field journal, botanical sampling tools. Compact tent. Sustenance capsules... where did I see those?”

As she rummaged through drawers, Zora found items she didn’t even know existed that could come in helpful.

“Who should I contact to go with us?” Sprig asked.

Zora smirked at Sprig including himself in the excursion. But who else should she include? Who would appreciate her enthusiasm and understand the importance of going?

The robot’s lights dimmed slightly as if expressing concern. “May I suggest asking Prince Dravek? His military expertise could be valuable if a rescue becomes necessary.”

Zora paused, Dravek’s face flashing in her mind. The memory of his arms around her, the warmth in his eyes when he looked at her... She shook her head, pushing the thoughts aside.

He would try to talk her out of it saying it was too dangerous. No, this was something she’d have to do by herself. Well, herself and Sprig. But she would inform her sisters of her trip.

But before it got too late, she wanted to see Dravek one more time. He was about to begin the evening warrior training and she wanted to watch him in action.

FOUR

Dravek stood at the edge of the elevated platform, overlooking the vast expanse of the Tharvisian military training grounds. The facility, carved into the side of a rugged mountain, sprawled before him like a testament to Tharvisian might and ingenuity. Holographic combat simulators flickered to life, projecting lifelike battle scenarios that shimmered in the fading daylight.

As the twin suns of Tharvis dipped below the horizon, the sky erupted into a breathtaking display of purples and ambers. The prince’s dark armor, adorned with silver accents that caught the dying light, cut an imposing figure against the colorful backdrop. The Tharvisian crest on his chest gleamed, a constant reminder of the weight of his responsibilities.

Dravek’s gaze swept over the assembled elite soldiers of the Tharvisian Royal Guard. Their faces expressing a mix of determination and reverence looked up at him expectantly. He drew in a deep breath, allowing the crisp mountain air to fill his lungs before addressing the troops.

“Today’s exercise,” he began, his voice resonating across the training grounds, “focuses on adaptive combat strategies against unpredictable foes.” With a subtle gesture, he activateda holographic projection hovering above his palm. The air shimmered, materializing into lifelike representations of various threats, including the notorious Drakanor mercenaries known for their guerrilla tactics.

As he expanded on the details of the exercise, a flash of movement in his peripheral vision caught his attention. Glancing toward the observation deck, he was surprised to see a familiar figure – Dr. Arison, the Earth botanist. She stood among a small group of dignitaries, her auburn hair catching the last rays of sunlight.

For a moment, Dravek faltered, caught off guard by her unexpected presence. He quickly regained his composure, but not before noticing the look of genuine interest on Zora’s face as she watched the proceedings. It was a stark contrast to the polite but often bored expressions of the other observers.

Pushing aside the distraction, Dravek refocused on the task at hand. “You’ll face scenarios that will push you beyond your limits,” he continued, stepping into the holographic warzone. “The enemy you face today will adapt to your strategies. You must think faster, move quicker, and anticipate their every move.”

As the exercise progressed, Dravek found his attention split. While the majority of his focus remained on guiding his troops through the complex simulations, he couldn’t help but be aware of Zora’s presence. More than once, he caught her leaning forward, her eyes wide with excitement as she followed the intricate maneuvers.

The training reached its climax with a one-on-one demonstration. Dravek selected Lieutenant Korrin, one of his most skilled warriors, as his opponent. As they circled each other in the center of the training ground, Dravek was acutely aware of all eyes upon them – including a pair of deep blue ones from the observation deck.

The fight was intense, a blur of strikes and countermoves. Dravek and Korrin were evenly matched, each anticipating the other’s tactics. But Dravek had an ace up his sleeve – a complex maneuver he had been perfecting in private. With lightning speed, he feinted left, then dropped low, sweeping Korrin’s legs out from under him. In a flash, Dravek had his opponent pinned, the match decisively won.

As he helped Korrin to his feet, a sound caught Dravek’s ear – a cheer, quickly stifled from the observation deck. He looked up to see Zora, her hands clasped over her mouth, eyes shining. The sight sent an unexpected warmth through him, a feeling he couldn’t quite name.

As the troops began to disperse, Dravek made his way to the observation deck. He told himself it was simply to greet the dignitaries as protocol demanded. But he couldn’t deny the quickening of his pulse as he approached Zora.

“Dr. Arison,” he said, inclining his head in greeting. “I wasn’t aware you had an interest in military exercises.”

Zora’s cheeks flushed slightly, but her smile was genuine. “I find all aspects of Tharvisian culture fascinating, Your Highness,” she replied. “And I must say, your fighting skills are quite impressive.”

Before Dravek could respond, General Emear, one of his high-ranking officers, stepped forward. “Indeed they are, Dr. Arison,” the general said, his tone warm. “Perhaps you’d like a closer look at our training facilities? I’d be happy to give you a personal tour.”

Dravek felt an unexpected surge of... something. Annoyance? No, it was sharper than that. He was surprised to recognize it as jealousy. The realization unsettled him, adding to the emotional confusion that seemed to swirl around Zora’s presence.

“I’m sure Dr. Arison has more pressing matters to attend to,” Dravek said, his voice cooler than he intended. “Her botanical research is quite demanding, I believe.”

Zora looked between the two men, a slight furrow in her brow. “Actually, I would love to learn more,” she said carefully. “But perhaps another time. I wouldn’t want to impose on Your Highness’s schedule.”

Dravek felt a pang of regret at the hint of disappointment in her voice. He opened his mouth to say... what, exactly? He wasn’t sure. But before he could speak, an aide approached, informing him of an urgent matter requiring his attention.

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