Page 43 of Alien Prince

As he gestured to the holographic display, an image of Xeno Prime’s palace appeared, its intricate spires rising majestically into the pink alien sky. The architecture looked like something out of a dream, all shimmering surfaces and fluid lines that seemed to shift with each flicker of the display.

“The royal family has extended a formal invitation,” Director Nguyen began, his voice blending seamlessly with the low hum of the display. “You’ll be meeting with Prince Kas, the heir apparent, as well as his brothers, Prince Bayn and Prince Ryler. Each has unique roles within the kingdom’s structure, andyour objective is to establish a diplomatic rapport, strengthen relations, and gain insights into their political landscape.”

The enormity of it settled over me, cool and heavy, but it didn’t feel daunting—just exhilarating. I straightened, taking in every word.

“Xeno Prime is… peaceful, correct?” I asked, my voice lower, almost hesitant.

“Relatively. There are always factions and differing opinions, as with any government,” he replied, his gaze steady. “Your primary mission is to create trust. They need to feel they can rely on us—and that we value their sovereignty.”

“I understand.” I nodded, my mind already whirring with possible conversation starters, questions I could ask without sounding intrusive, topics to avoid.

Director Nguyen studied me, then added, “Maisie, remember, the royal family will assess you as much as we’re assessing them. Take time to listen as well as speak.”

I met his gaze, the full weight of his words settling on me. “I won’t forget.”

The director reached out, squeezing my shoulder—a rare gesture of warmth from him. “Good. Now, I’ll see you off at the launch bay. There’s someone else waiting to say goodbye.”

As I turned to leave, my heart leapt slightly. I had a pretty good idea who he meant.

Back in the hallway, I spotted my father standing near the bay doors, hands tucked into his pockets, eyes scanning the bustling crowd until they landed on me. The moment he saw me, his face softened, the hint of a smile breaking through his usual composed expression.

“Dad!” I hurried over, wrapping my arms around him, inhaling his familiar scent of aftershave and the faint trace of cologne he always wore. The warmth of his embrace made mefeel small and protected, a grounding moment amid all the chaos.

He pulled back, his gaze intense but warm. “I’m so proud of you, Maisie. You’ve worked hard for this moment.”

“Thanks, Dad. I just… hope I do it justice.”

“You will,” he said firmly, resting a reassuring hand on my shoulder. “Just remember, we’re here, always. And if things get tough, lean on what you know—the strength you’ve built.”

I nodded, my throat tight as I absorbed his words. “I’ll remember. Thank you.”

With one last hug, he stepped back, and I turned toward the bay doors, a final goodbye lingering in the air. The cool touch of the handle as I opened the door to the docking bay felt like the start of something new, a signal that there was no turning back.

As I walked into the launch bay, the metallic scent of fuel and the slight vibration of engines ready to ignite filled the space, blending with the muffled sounds of ground crew shouting instructions. My ship stood before me, sleek and silver, its frame shimmering under the bright lights. I took a deep breath, letting the scent of adventure mingle with the last traces of familiarity. The stars were calling, and I was finally ready to answer.

Chapter 3

Departure for Xeno Prime

The departure hall was alive with motion and sound, a whirl of color and energy that felt both chaotic and mesmerizing. Towering spacecraft, their metallic bodies adorned with luminescent patterns, cast shimmering reflections across the hall as the setting sun bathed everything in rich, golden light. The air was charged with the sharp, electric scent of ionized particles.

I stood at the gate, my pulse quickening in sync with the rumbling engines of the ships docking nearby. Friends, families, and colleagues clustered around, their voices forming a comforting hum. It felt surreal knowing I’d soon be leaving all this behind.

Suddenly, warm arms wrapped around me, pulling me into a tight embrace. Elena’s familiar scent, a mix of lavender and something uniquely her, surrounded me, and I leaned into the softness of her scarf, letting myself feel the moment. Elena has been with my mother for years now, truly a second mother.

“You’re going to do amazing things, Maisie,” she whispered, her voice a blend of pride and a hint of worry that she couldn’t quite hide.

I could feel my throat tighten as I smiled, blinking back a tear that slipped free before I could stop it. “I’ll come back with stories you won’t believe,” I promised, my voice steady, even though a storm of emotions churned beneath my calm.

Elena held my hands in hers, squeezing once more before stepping back, and I turned to see my mother approaching.Mom’s expression was a mix of excitement and concern, while her steady gaze radiated quiet encouragement.

Mom reached out, brushing a strand of hair back from my face with that gentle, familiar touch. “Just remember, Maisie—stay safe and trust your instincts,” she said softly, her eyes searching mine as if trying to memorize every detail.

“I will, Mom. I promise,” I replied, squeezing her hand.

“Your mom and I, we’re all here cheering for you,” Elena said, her voice roughened with emotion she tried to keep in check.

I held their hands for a moment, feeling the strength in it, then released them with a final smile. I could feel their love and support wrapping around me as I turned and made my way toward the spacecraft.

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