Page 34

Grace

ALARA’S SKY HAD A CAPTIVATING pale pink hue. The entire landscape was illuminated by a soft and ethereal glow. I had never seen trees like these on Earth before.

Some had less foliage and softly moving branches. Some were thick and abundant, resembling fluffy cotton.

Smiling, I admired the colorful flowers scattered on the ground as we made our way to the city. Glancing at Trex, I commented, “It’s absolutely gorgeous here.” The temperature was warm, not humid. It was great to be on a planet once more, feeling the sun on my face and breathing fresh air.

We were escorted by Orin, Krin, and Trex to a row of peculiar hovering vehicles. Their outer appearance featured a smooth and immaculate white finish.

Krin pointed toward one. “This is a viko . It will take us to the royal palace.” A door slid open to let us in. It effortlessly levitated above the ground, emitting a faint hum that resonated in my ears.

These vehicles were unlike any cars or modes of transportation found on Earth. Rows of seats faced each other with plenty of space. I guess it was to make chatting on the journey more convenient.

A laugh escaped me as I remembered that the Alaran’s communicated through their minds, not their eyes.

The city view, with its white stone buildings and reflective glass, caught my eye. It appeared immaculate.

I was captivated by the colorful landscape and couldn’t help but admire it. The streets of Struna, Alara’s capital city were crowded with people. Most of those engaged in their daily activities were male.

“I’m so excited to explore the city and learn all about it,” I exclaimed.

Trex chuckled. “You will in due time my mate,”

Flashing a cheeky grin, I tilted my head at him. “Yes, I know. Silly. I’m just really looking forward to it. That’s all I meant. I’m aware you have more important things on your plate right now.” Grimacing, I wished I had said nothing when I saw the stress on his face.

Shooting him a mental message, I reached for his hand. ‘Everything is going to be fine.’

Trex squeezed my hand in response.

I could feel the warmth of Trex’s hand as he held mine, his thumb tracing patterns on my skin.

No matter how much time we had already spent together, his touch continued to stir something deep within me. I side glanced at him, and a playful smile tugged at the corners of my lips.

Trex gently pressed his lips against my temple before he leaned in close and whispered in my ear, his warm breath brushing against my hair. “I’ll come and get you as soon as I can. Once I attend to a few things, you will be staying with me.”

After nodding, I brought his hand to my mouth and kissed it.

THE VEHICLE TOUCHED down as we arrived at the palace.

Similar to everything else I had seen, the royal building was not extravagant or flashy. The only distinction was the inclusion of color accents. Blue and gold bursts enhanced the white exterior.

When we left the viko , we found ourselves facing a group of Alaran guards outside the closed palace gates.

They respectfully bowed their heads upon seeing Trex, then reached across their chests with a fist on the opposite shoulder in an Alaran salute.

Trex and I shared a quick glance before going our separate paths- he with Krin, and the rest of us with Orin and another warrior.

Upon our entrance through a side door, we were greeted by a hallway adorned with ornate tapestries and paintings depicting landscapes and portraits. Bathed in the warm radiance of the inset overhead lights, the soft hues took on a mesmerizing quality.

Vibrant woven carpets in unfamiliar colors and patterns covered the stone floor, creating an eye-catching display.

The silence that enveloped the surroundings immediately captured my attention. The hallway was adorned with stunning woven rugs, muffling the sound of our footsteps as we walked.

I wondered if Trex was experiencing the same tightness in his stomach as I was. The place was too quiet.

Despite the enchantment of my surroundings, I remained thankful for the guards accompanying us. Their presence provided comforting reassurance.

We arrived at a double door that opened when Orin waved his hand over a panel.

We entered, and I gasped in astonishment. I’d never been in a place as luxurious or large as this.

The space contained a large single room with connecting wooden doors, including a massive set of sliding glass doors that opened to a balcony.

I took a few more steps into the room and was greeted by the delicate fragrance of fresh flowers in vases on nearby tables. They filled my senses, intertwining with the delicate aroma of polished wood.

There was an eating and food preparation area with a long table and chairs. Two long sofas and multiple armchairs filled the comfortable and inviting space.

Plush textures and fabrics in soft, inviting colors adorned the luxurious furnishings.

I was surprised by the décor; it wasn’t what I expected from an advanced alien race.

Though being honest, I wasn’t sure what I expected the palace accommodations to look like.

The space was warm, welcoming, and not stuffy at all.

My eyes danced across the room, taking in every intricate detail.

The blend of modern technology integrated with the timeless beauty of the decor was amazing. I couldn’t resist running my fingers along the smooth surface of a state-of-the-art holographic control panel, marveling at the seamless fusion of innovation and elegance.

I turned to Orin. “Are we all staying in this room?”

He gave me a tiny smile. “For now, yes.”

“Where is Trex’s room?”

“His highness’s suite is on the other side of the palace.”

“So we are calling him ‘your highness’ now huh?” asked Riley with a quirk of her brow.

“Of course. He will be our new King...he is no longer my Captain,” Orin stated in the most reverent of voices.

Riley smirked at me. “I guess that makes you the new Queen?”