《What Dimmed the Stars? - A Sci-fi Adventure/Mystery Novel Set in Space》


 Chapter.1

    Something streaked across the sky, catching Kai''s attention. It wasn¡¯t a freighter¡ªthe spacecraft was fast and small. He watched as it shattered the sound barrier, the boom reaching his ears seconds later, it flew fast, leaving a white contrail behind.


    Kai stared until he was certain nothing else was happening. It wasn¡¯t every day that a ship like that visited a mining planet so far removed from the galaxy¡¯s center of attention. Quantum fuel wasn¡¯t cheap. He imagined the scene inside the cockpit: what a beautiful sight it will be.


    He dreamed of owning his own ship someday¡ªthe freedom to traverse the stars and witness the wonders of space. Perhaps, if he worked harder, he could just save enough to make that dream a reality.


    Lowering his head, Kai resumed his walk. The red dirt, carried by the wind, stung his face like thousands tiny needles. He pulled his gaiter higher and wiped dust off his goggles.


    The mine came into view, its gaping holes punctuating the barren landscape. He pressed forward until he reached one of the entrances. Walking down the ramp, he stopped before a heavy metal door.


    Kai glanced back at the contrail one last time. It was heading north, toward the city. Probably someone high up in the Federation paying a visit. Either way, it wasn¡¯t his concern.


    He knocked on the gate, and a small panel slid open. A gruff voice demanded identification. After verifying his credentials, a smaller door on the side creaked open, allowing him entry.


    The air inside was thick with the smell of sweat and dirty boots. Kai swallowed his disgust. Four months underground had taught him to endure.


    A guard waved him forward. The man, clad in standard-issue combat armor, had a rifle slung across his chest. Despite the time Kai had spent here, he still didn¡¯t know the guard¡¯s name. All he knew was that the guy was one of the decent ones.


    Kai approached and raised his arms in a T-pose. The guard patted him down, nodded, and let him pass. The security check was more for show than substance¡ªa reminder to the miners that they were being watched. Smuggling items in was easy; it was sneaking them out that posed the real challenge, the search will be far more thorough to ensure every stone, every gem belongs to the owner of the mine.


    Kai moved through another door into the locker room. A few miners glanced his way, a few offered brief nods of acknowledgment. He found his locker and opened it, pulling off his gaiter and goggles. His medium-length hair, now a mess, reminded him that he was overdue for a haircut. But something always came up when he planned to get one.


    Stripping down to his undersuit, Kai began gearing up. The suit clung to his body like a second skin. He stepped into the leg piece first, followed by the chest and arm pieces. Lastly, he secured his helmet. The sealing mechanism clicked into place, and the air instantly felt cleaner.


    He gathered his tools: a small cutter, a tester, and a container for storing samples, which he attached to his belt. From his locker, he retrieved a hardened backpack case, designed to carry whatever he harvested. It latched onto his suit with a satisfying click. Fully equipped, Kai was ready.


    As he headed toward the lift, he passed a familiar face coming out of the shaft.


    ¡°Going into the deep again?¡± the miner asked, not breaking stride.


    Kai nodded silently and stepped into the lift.


    The miner turned back, his expression grim. ¡°One day, you¡¯re going to get yourself killed down there.¡±


    Kai nodded at that. He knew the miner was right. The safer, shallow sections of the mine, with their security measures and stable environment, were where most miners stayed. But Kai wasn¡¯t looking for safety¡ªhe was chasing a miracle. Something that could make him rich overnight, make him able to afford a spaceship.


    Ever since he arrived on this planet, he had yearned to leave this planet and see the stars. To achieve that, he had to venture into the uncharted depths of the mine, where the environment was brutal, and rules were merely suggestions.


    Kai smiled faintly at the miner and pressed the button for the lowest level.


    The lift shuddered and began its descent, the grinding of powerful gears echoing as the chain pulled it downward. Concrete walls gave way to raw, jagged rock.


    Level 1


    On the uneven rock face, red paint marked the floor number.


    Level 2... Level 3...


    The numbers steadily climbed as the lift plunged deeper. Kai could feel the temperature dropping. By the time the display read Level 15, his suit''s HVAC system kicked in, pumping warm air to counteract the chill.


    At Level 30, the embedded lights disappeared, leaving him enveloped in the oppressive darkness of the uncharted depths. This was where the known world ended, and the land of danger and opportunities began.


    The lift stopped at Level 34, roughly 200 meters below the surface. The doors slid open, and Kai stepped out. A man stood waiting by the lift, his posture tense. At the sight of Kai, his hand instinctively moved toward the knife on his belt.


    Kai raised one hand slightly, showing he meant no harm, and gave the man plenty of space to pass. The tension eased as the man offered an apologetic wave. They brushed past each other without a word, and Kai continued on.


    The cavern was shrouded in darkness, save for the small area illuminated by the spotlight attached to the lift system. Beyond its reach lay pure blackness¡ªa haunting reminder of why these levels were considered uncharted.


    The uncharted depths were infamous for their hazards: uneven terrain, lethal gas pockets, and unstable rock formations waiting to collapse at the slightest provocation. These dangers made mining here a perilous gamble.


    In more advanced worlds, large ground-penetrating scanners would map the subterranean terrain, providing engineers with crucial data to guide excavation efforts. But on a planet like Drakmoor, the cost of such equipment far outweighed any potential profits, at least that''s what the officiald said. Instead, miners relied on outdated tools, instincts, and luck to navigate the treacherous depths.


    There were others like Kai who ventured deep into the uncharted levels, searching for undiscovered clusters and veins of precious minerals. These pioneers knew the risks; for them, it was either a gamble they embraced or a desperate choice they had no alternative but to make. Most were criminals or gamblers drawn by the promise of wealth, the allure of potentially striking it rich. The odds of finding a substantial crystal cluster were far greater here than in the safer, surface levels. And if someone hit the jackpot and found a vein, the reward could reach millions.


    For experienced miners, environmental dangers like cave-ins and gas leaks were only a minor concern. The real threat came from other pioneers. The lower levels lacked telecommunications, making it impossible to call for help or report crimes. Down here, even murder could go unnoticed and unpunished.


    Kai double-checked his supplies one last time. He was sure he had enough food and water to sustain him for this session. Adjusting his headlamp, he stepped further into the darkness of the mine.


    The tunnels alternated between wide, open spaces and narrow, claustrophobic passages. The layout was mostly unchanged since his last visit, and Kai navigated the labyrinth with ease, remembering which paths to take. While pioneers were potential enemies, they also had a peculiar, symbiotic relationship. Each miner dig upon the work of others, gradually expanding the tunnel networks in their shared pursuit of riches. Sometimes, miners would team up to speed up the process. But just as often, conflicts would break out, and those conflicts usually ended in death. As a result, the tunnels held their share of corpses.


    Kai passed one such body lying against the tunnel wall. The corpse was still encased in its suit, the airtight design turning it into a macabre coffin. He barely glanced at it. The body had been there during his last visit¡ªand the one before that. Over time, Kai had memorized the locations of every corpse. That way, he would know immediately if a new one appeared.


    The tunnels branched outward like an upside-down tree, each path twisting into the depths of the planet. After an hour of walking, Kai reached the branch he needed. He set his backpack on the ground and rummaged through it, pulling out a small laser device.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    Carefully, he concealed the device behind a small rock near the tunnel¡¯s entrance. The laser would project an invisible beam across the opening, and if anyone crossed it, the device would send a signal to his suit, alerting him to their presence.


    Satisfied with the setup, Kai picked up his backpack and prepared to venture deeper into the tunnel.


    Kai reached the end of the tunnel after another half hour. Taking a moment to rest, he attached his water bottle to the port on his helmet and sipped through the internal straw. Once hydrated, he returned the bottle to his bag, which he set aside on the ground, and got to work.


    The last time he was here, he¡¯d found something¡ªnothing valuable, but it might be the start of a vein. This trip was to confirm his theory.


    He removed a sheet hanging from the wall, revealing a small crack. Peering inside, he spotted the faint color variation he had seen before. It might be nothing, but he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that today might be his lucky day.


    ¡°Let it be something good,¡± Kai murmured, pulling out his cutting tool. The device, shaped like a pistol, emitted a precise, short-range laser beam. When activated, the tool continuously fired, cutting through rock with ease.


    Kai began carefully cutting away small pieces of the wall, the loose debris clattering to the ground and bouncing off his chest and leg armor.


    Small-scale mining was a meticulous process. Miners had to remove the surrounding rock bit by bit without damaging the minerals inside. Cutting too much could ruin the yield and cost a fortune in lost profit. Leaving debris behind was also problematic, as it could block the tunnel and make future trips difficult. Kai took his time, knowing patience would pay off.


    The heat from the cutter radiated through his face shield, but he didn¡¯t mind. He hummed a tune to himself as anticipation bubbled within. He kicked away a loose piece of rock with childlike excitement.


    As he worked, the metallic sheen of a crystal vein began to reveal itself under his headlamp¡¯s glare. It stretched from the top of the rock wall to the bottom, and Kai¡¯s grin widened. This could be it¡ªhe was about to strike it rich.


    Suddenly, he heard the unmistakable sound of boots on rock behind him. He turned, his heart pounding, to see two men approaching down the tunnel.


    How was this possible? He checked his HUD¡ªno alerts. The laser tripwire hadn¡¯t worked.


    The two men were moving fast, their heavy mining armor slowing them only slightly. Their intentions were clear¡ªthey weren¡¯t here for a friendly chat.


    Kai cursed himself for not bringing a real weapon. Improvisation would have to do. He tightened his grip on the cutting tool in his right hand and grabbed a loose rock with his left.


    The men closed the distance, stopping just short of him. They blocked the tunnel, their armored forms standing imposingly in the narrow space. Like Kai, they wore mining suits, not combat gear. Their helmet lights shone directly into Kai¡¯s face, causing his visor to dim automatically. He couldn¡¯t make out their faces behind the glare.


    ¡°What do you want? How did you get past the tripwire?¡± Kai asked coldly, he didn''t show a slight of fear.


    "It doesn¡¯t matter who we are," one of the men replied, his voice distorted by the suit¡¯s speaker. The tone was rough, hardened, and merciless¡ªKai could tell this man wasn¡¯t a stranger to killing.


    The man tossed something at Kai¡¯s feet. It was the tripwire device, its casing cracked and useless. "All that matters is we know you¡¯ve found something valuable, something we¡¯d like to share with you."


    "Is that so?" Kai said, gripping the cutter tool tighter. "And what if I''m not in the mood to share?"


    ¡°We¡¯re giving you a chance to live¡ªyou should feel grateful,¡± the other man said, his voice carrying an unfamiliar accent. ¡°You found something we¡¯re interested in, and now we¡¯re going to take it. Simple as that.¡±


    Kai didn¡¯t reply. He didn¡¯t have time to waste with these people. If they wanted his findings, they could take them¡ªover his dead body.


    In a swift motion, Kai hurled the rock he¡¯d been hiding behind his back. His suit¡¯s assisted mechanics propelled his arm forward in an arc, sending the rock flying through the air like a bullet. It struck the man on the left square in the stomach. Though the mining suit absorbed the impact and the rock shattered into thousands of pieces, the sheer force of the throw knocked the man onto his back.


    "Now it''s a fair fight." Kai thought.


    The other man, to his credit, reacted quickly. He closed the gap between them in two steps, his movements surprisingly nimble for someone in a heavy mining suit. He swung a left hook, but Kai ducked under it, following up with a punch of his own. His fist connected with the attacker¡¯s chest, sending him stumbling backward, but the suit¡¯s armor left him unharmed.


    Kai glanced at the first man, still struggling to get up. The weight of his suit, once a shield, now worked against him as he flailed to regain his footing.


    Kai knew he had to finish this fast. He charged at the second man, locking him in a grapple. Their suits clashed with a resounding clang of metal on metal. Kai tried to throw his opponent to the ground, but the man¡¯s weight, combined with the bulk of his armor, made it nearly impossible.


    Instead, the heavier attacker overpowered him. With a heave, the man tipped them both over, sending them crashing to the ground with Kai pinned underneath.


    Kai''s body slammed against the ground with a bone-jarring impact. The attacker wasted no time, raining down punches. Each power-assisted blow tested the limits of Kai¡¯s helmet, the force rattling his head within the tight confines. If not for the helmet¡¯s soft padding, he¡¯d likely have suffered a concussion already.


    Kai struggled to push the man off, but his attacker had anchored his full weight, pinning him down completely. Another punch connected, and the visor of Kai¡¯s helmet cracked. A sliver of fiberglass broke free, slicing a thin line across his cheek. Tiny droplets of blood seeped out, but that wasn¡¯t the worst of it¡ªKai held his breath. The mine¡¯s air was likely toxic, and the crack in his visor had compromised his life support. He was literally down to his last breath.


    Gritting his teeth, Kai raised the cutter tool in his hand and powered it on. The laser flared to life, cutting through the man¡¯s suit armor slowly. Another punch landed, narrowly missing the same spot on Kai¡¯s visor. He tilted his head to avoid a direct hit, knowing he had little time left.


    Through the cracked visor, Kai could see his attacker¡¯s face¡ªgrinning, teeth gleaming beneath the helmet. That grin quickly twisted into a grimace of pain. The laser cutter had burned through the armor and into the man¡¯s abdomen. He let out a scream and a stream of blood from his mouth, his suit amplifying the sound into a distorted wail that echoed through the tunnel. The man kicked out in pain and rolled off Kai, clutching his midsection.


    Kai didn¡¯t hesitate. He rolled in the opposite direction, and sit up. His attacker writhed on the ground, hands pressed to his abdomen, his suit¡¯s speaker broadcasting his agony in chilling, metallic tones that echoed in the tunnel.


    Turning his attention to the second man, Kai saw him still struggling to sit up. The rock had done its job¡ªdamaging the suit¡¯s mechanisms and leaving the attacker¡¯s limbs powerless. Kai pushed himself to his feet, his visor missing a chunk of glass in the middle. He couldn¡¯t afford to breathe, not yet.


    The man watched in horror as Kai approached, desperately trying to push himself away, but his suit wouldn¡¯t power on. Kai could see the panic in his breathing, the visor fogging up with every gasp.


    Standing over him, Kai holstered the cutter tool and bent down. For a brief moment, the man¡¯s panic shifted to hope, as though Kai might actually help him. That hope shattered when Kai twisted his own cracked helmet off and tossed it aside.


    Realizing what was about to happen, the man screamed, the sound muffled by his helmet¡¯s visor. Kai didn¡¯t want to do this, but he had no choice.


    "Just trying to live. Sorry,¡± Kai said coldly as he removed the man¡¯s helmet.


    The man¡¯s screams turned to frantic pleas for mercy, but they didn¡¯t last. His face contorted in agony as the toxic air flooded his lungs. Kai noticed a tattoo on the man¡¯s neck¡ªthree tiny circles arranged in a triangle. It was a design he¡¯d never seen before. The man¡¯s cries dissolved into choking gasps, and Kai quickly put the helmet on himself.


    The visor cleared of fog, and fresh air flowed into his lungs. He took a few deep breaths, feeling his strength return. Glancing down one last time, he saw the man struggling, his breaths shallow and labored, his terror written across his face. Without another word, Kai turned away.


    The other attacker lay still on the ground, blood pooling around him from the wound the cutter had inflicted.


    Kai stood still for a moment, grappling with the weight of his actions. In just five minutes, he had killed two people. Even though it was self-defense, the realization settled heavily on him. He felt terrible. But then he thought about their intentions¡ªthey had come to kill him for his discovery. Whatever they were after, it was worth dying for, at least in their eyes.


    Kai¡¯s gaze shifted to the vein in the rock wall. The thought of what lay ahead stirred his resolve. He could finally afford his own ship, fulfilling the dream that had driven him this far. His mood lifted slightly.


    Taking out the cutter tool once more, Kai returned to the wall. He carefully chipped away at the rock, determined to extract a sample. All he needed was proof to present to the mining company and the information alone is going to get him off this rock.


    Kai worked in silence, his usual hum replaced by the steady rhythm of his cutter against the rock. His nerves were on edge, anticipation building as he chipped away at the surrounding stone. He was so close now¡ªhe could see the metal glinting behind the crack.


    With a few precise cuts, he exposed the mineral beneath. It was unnaturally smooth, almost polished. Kai pulled out his container and began to cut a sample. The metal gave way far too easily, almost like it wasn¡¯t solid. After only a few seconds, he had carved out a small circular piece.


    When he reached to remove it, the sample fell inward, disappearing into the darkness beyond.


    A cold realization gripped him. The rock was hollow.


    Kai adjusted his helmet light, angling the beam into the opening. Sure enough, there was a void on the other side. Confused but intrigued, he chipped away more rock, revealing more of the strange metal behind it. The smooth, flat surface was unlike anything he¡¯d ever seen¡ªtoo perfect to be natural.


    Curiosity consumed him. He continued cutting, piece by piece, and the truth slowly began to take shape. This wasn¡¯t just an unusual mineral deposit. Whatever it was, it didn¡¯t belong to this planet.


    ¡°No,¡± Kai muttered to himself. ¡°It¡¯s manmade.¡±


    He uncovered more of the structure, exposing a seam in the metal. It was lined with rubber, running up and down in a precise, straight line. Following the seam, Kai found it extended all the way to the ground. The cutter in his hand grew hot from prolonged use, but he ignored the discomfort. His heart pounded with each new discovery.


    Then, another piece of rock fell away, and a metal bar came into view. It was painted red, standing out sharply against the pristine white of the surrounding metal.


    The realization hit him like a thunderbolt. This wasn¡¯t just any metal wall. It was something he¡¯d seen before¡ªback in the picture books of his childhood, when he still had a place to call home.


    He stared at the red paint, his breath catching. It was the same color used for handrails on the exteriors of spaceships, designed to guide crews to an entrance.


    Kai stepped back, his mind racing. He wasn¡¯t just mining anymore. He had uncovered something ancient, something hidden¡ªa buried structure, a spaceship.

 Chapter.2

    Kai had more questions than answers: Why was the spaceship buried so deep inside the planet? Did the mining company know about this? How had the two attackers know about it? There was so much he didn¡¯t know, and the only way to find out was to go inside.


    He grabbed the handle and tested it. To his surprise, it still moved. Encouraged, Kai pushed down, but the door remained stuck. The ship had likely been without power for centuries. Undeterred, he tried sliding the door open manually. It was a struggle¡ªa long time of neglect had left the mechanism rusted shut.


    Kai powered on his cutter and carefully made a small hole in the door''s edge. He saved a small peice of the door as a sample. Then Jamming his fingers into the gap, he engaged his suit¡¯s powered assistance to force the door open. With a screech of protesting metal, he managed to push it halfway, creating a narrow opening just large enough to squeeze through.


    The interior was pitch black, the ship''s systems long dead. Unlike the sleek, functional designs of modern ships, this one was cluttered with archaic machinery and scattered equipment. Everything about it screamed obsolescence. Kai stepped carefully, his helmet light sweeping the space as he ventured further in.


    Past the machinery, he found another door¡ªsmaller and circular, clearly part of an airlock. He turned the hatch, and to his surprise, it opened with minimal resistance.


    Lifting his leg cautiously, Kai entered the space beyond. It was as dark as the rest of the ship, the only light coming from his helmet. The corridor he stepped into was cylindrical, its walls, ceiling, and even floor covered with screens, buttons, and panels. Some displays were underfoot, making little sense to Kai at first.


    ¡°This design... it¡¯s unlike anything I¡¯ve seen,¡± he muttered, confused by the odd placement.


    Kai paused in the corridor, uncertain where to go next. Suddenly, a faint light blinked in the corner of his vision. He froze, heart pounding, and waited. The light flashed again, coming from a panel beside a door further down the corridor.


    He approached slowly, each step deliberate. The outdated displays creaked under his weight, but he ignored the noise, focused solely on the light. Reaching the door, he gripped the latch and pulled. The door opened with a metallic groan, and a humanoid figure collapsed onto the floor, startling him.


    It was a body, clad in an unfamiliar spacesuit¡ªbulky and heavy. Kai strained to drag the corpse out of the doorway. Inspecting it, he noticed a faded insignia on the upper arm: a flag of white and red stripes with tiny stars on a blue square.


    Kai squinted. ¡°Fifty stars... could that mean fifty colonized systems?¡±


    He quickly dismissed the thought. Whatever this flag represented, it was nothing he recognized¡ªnot from the Federation, the Empire, or even pirates. The purposeful design hinted at an organized and powerful faction, yet one completely unknown to him.


    Setting aside the mystery of the flag, Kai turned his attention to the room beyond the door. A faint blue glow illuminated the space, drawing his gaze. It was unlike the rest of the ship¡ªdevoid of clutter or machinery. At the far end stood a glass container, its contents floating in some kind of liquid.


    Kai stepped inside, his eyes fixed on the glowing vial. As he approached, his foot hit something. Looking down, he saw a small notebook. Picking it up, he flipped through the pages. It was a diary, fortunately written in English.


    The entries detailed routine tasks performed by the crew, but the more Kai read, the more unsettling it became. The ship and its crew were from a time long past. There were no artificial gravity systems, explaining the controls on the floor. Each chapter ended with the same signature: Lieutenant Colonel Smith, USSF.


    ¡°USSF¡­¡± Kai muttered. ¡°What does that mean?¡±


    He skimmed through the entries until he reached the last one. The words sent a chill down his spine:


    One of its scouts found us. We had no choice but to land and bury the signal. I hope the decoy we launched will buy us time. May God bless humanity and keep it hidden from the horror. I¡¯ve secured the vial and rerouted all power to sustain it for at least a thousand years. I¡¯m sorry I had to cut power to everything else. The crew understands. We said our goodbyes and donned our suits. They¡¯ll keep us alive for a little while longer. If anyone finds this, protect the vial at all costs. It¡¯s humanity¡¯s last hope.


    ¡ªLt. Col. Smith, USSF


    Kai¡¯s gaze shifted to the container. He opened the lid and carefully removed the glowing vial. It appeared to hold nothing more than clear liquid.


    ¡°What¡¯s so special about this?¡± he wondered aloud, disappointed. He was about to place it in his backpack when he noticed the vial was empty.


    Stunned, Kai inspected it. The liquid had simply vanished. There were no leaks, and the ground beneath him was dry. His confusion deepened as a faint glimmer on his shoulder caught his eye.


    The liquid was there, shimmering in the blue glow. He reached to touch it, but it evaded his hand, moving upward¡ªtoward his helmet.


    Panic set in as Kai realized the liquid was alive. It had intelligence, and it was trying to get inside his suit. He swatted at it, but it slipped past his fingers. In seconds, it disappeared from view.


    Then he felt it. A cold, wet sensation seeped through the drinking port, crawling over his face. It slithered into his nose and mouth despite his attempts to keep them shut. The liquid invaded his body, its moved with intention that scared him.


    Kai fell to his knees, clutching his helmet. Pain exploded in his head, spreading to every inch of his body. It felt as if countless tiny creatures were consuming him from the inside out. He crawled out of the ship and back into the tunnel.


    Darkness overtook him as he collapsed onto the cold tunnel floor, his last thought a fleeting regret: Not only had he not found the riches he hoped for, he was now going to die from a mysterious slime he couldn''t even fight back. What a shity day this had been.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Kai couldn¡¯t see. He thought this was unconsciousness¡ªyet how could he still think if that were true? His entire body felt as though countless tiny needles were piercing him at a cellular level. Each stab unleashed a wave of searing pain, sending desperate signals to his overwhelmed brain. He could feel the agony crawling up and down his body, but he was paralyzed, unable to move even an inch to escape it.


    The torment began with his skin, burning as if it were aflame. Then it moved deeper, attacking his muscles and organs. Each wave of pain felt like the peak of human endurance, yet the onslaught continued. When the creature invaded his bones, it was worse than anything he¡¯d thought possible. The sharp, stabbing agony fractured his very sense of self until his mind was utterly broken, reduced to raw, instinctive suffering.


    Just when he thought he could endure no more, the thing finally shifted. He felt it moving upward, shooting into his brain. This time, he truly passed out. But in his unconsciousness, he was not spared. Instead, he was submerged in visions¡ªterrifying and incomprehensible.


    Kai saw a darkened sky swarming with hundreds of shadowy dots. Explosions rained down from above, obliterating a city in fire and ash. He saw people screaming, running desperately for safety, only to be caught by the blasts and reduced to molten forms of nothingness. He felt as though he were one of them, he ran and tripped and got up running again, only to realize he was no longer on the ground but floating in a void.


    The void was vast, stretching beyond understanding. He saw lights scattered across the darkness¡ªstars, brilliant incubators of life. Then, one by one, the stars began to dim. First one, then another, then dozens more. He didn¡¯t know what could cause such a thing, but he understood the horror of it. Without a sun, life in those systems would perish.


    Then he saw it: a shape moving across the black expanse of space, soo massive it eclipsed the light of entire stars. Its sheer size defied comprehension, and the dread it inspired was primal, absolute. Kai knew¡ªthis was what Smith and his crew had fled from. The thing was more than a force of destruction; it was a harbinger of extinction.


    Kai wanted to scream, to block out the visions, but it was impossible. The liquid had hijacked his mind, transmitting images directly into his neurons. Even with his eyes shut, he could not escape.


    The stars disappeared completely, leaving him in suffocating darkness. Then, slowly, he became aware of his own breathing. It was shallow and ragged, but it was real. He opened his eyes and found himself back in the tunnel.


    The first thing he saw was the lifeless face of the man whose helmet he had taken to survive. The glassy, vacant stare burned into Kai¡¯s soul. He felt sick¡ªhis stomach churned violently, and he thought he might vomit. A wave of despair overtook him.


    He wanted to tear the helmet from his head, to accept the same fate the man had suffered. Anything to escape the weight of the visions, the knowledge of what he had seen, and the overwhelming guilt gnawing at him.


    So that¡¯s exactly what he did. Kai twisted his helmet off and took a deep breath, fully expecting it to be his last. He welcomed the idea of eternal peace. But what he found was... breathable air. It felt no different from the air he had breathed inside the helmet.


    Two streaks of tears ran down his face. He couldn¡¯t even take his own life.


    Kai stood up, wiped his face, and began walking back. The journey to the elevator was a blur of steps and shadows. When he arrived, the lift doors opened just as a miner stepped out. The man froze, his body tense as he took in the sight of Kai¡ªbareheaded in the toxic air of the mine.


    The miner¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. He opened his mouth to say something, but Kai¡¯s cold, hollow stare stopped him. Something about the look in Kai¡¯s eyes chilled him to the core. Without a word, the miner stepped aside and hurried into the tunnels, disappearing into the darkness.


    The elevator ride up gave Kai time to think. His head still throbbed, but his body felt strangely light, almost weightless, even in the bulky mining suit. Something inside him had changed. He could breathe the toxic air of the mine without consequence. His movements were freer, more fluid, as though the liquid had rewritten the way his body functioned.


    But most of all, he thought about the vision. The destruction of stars. The massive, incomprehensible being that swallowed the light of entire systems. How could something so catastrophic exist without anyone knowing? Why weren¡¯t the Empire or the Federation preparing for it? The implications were staggering, but he had no answers. Only questions.


    When the elevator reached the top floor, the doors opened, and Kai stepped into the locker room. Immediately, he sensed the change in the air. The miners, who had been chatting moments ago, fell silent as soon as they saw him. All eyes turned toward him. The room grew eerily quiet.


    Kai ignored the stares and moved to his locker. He began removing his armor and suit, peeling them off with mechanical precision. Normally, the locker room would be filled with laughter, dirty jokes, and heated debates about politics. But now, there was nothing but silence. The miners watched him, their faces a mix of confusion and unease.


    As Kai changed into his daily clothes, he noticed something odd about his body. His muscles looked more defined, his skin smoother and tougher, almost unnaturally so. Veins stood out more prominently, but they pulsed with a faint, bluish light, as though something foreign coursed through them. His movements felt stronger, more precise, like his body had been fine-tuned beyond human limits. Even the small cut on his cheek, made by the shattered visor, was already healing, the skin knitting itself back together.


    As Kai placed his suit back into the locker and plugged it into the charging station, the realization hit him: the suit¡¯s power had completely drained. Without power, the suit wouldn¡¯t have provided the assistance needed for movement. Every step he¡¯d taken back to the elevator had been entirely his own.


    This wasn¡¯t just unusual¡ªit was impossible. Only the strongest could move in an unpowered mining suit, those whose strength even the Empire¡¯s Royal guard would envy. He looked around the room, and the other miners quickly averted their gazes, pretending not to notice him.


    Kai closed his locker door with a sharp clang, then turned and walked toward the entrance. He had nothing valuable to sell from his trip, no crystals or minerals¡ªonly the knowledge of the spacecraft¡¯s location. He wasn''t even sure if the mining company will be interested in something like that.


    When he reached the gate, the same guard greeted him. The man¡¯s eyes widened in shock as he took in Kai¡¯s appearance.


    ¡°Kai? What happened to you?¡± the guard asked, his voice tinged with concern.


    Kai shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯d better take a look at yourself.¡± The guard grabbed Kai by the arm and led him to a small room off to the side. Inside was a simple washroom with a sink and a mirror mounted above it.


    Kai leaned forward, staring at his reflection. The sight made his stomach drop. His hair was no longer the dark color he had known his whole life¡ªit was white, not silver or gray, but pure white, like the hull of the buried ship. His eyes had a faint blue glow, mirroring the light now coursing through his veins. He touched his face, he felt like he was living inside someone else''s body. No, he felt as if someone else was living inside him.


    Dumbfounded, Kai stood there until the guard broke the silence. ¡°You¡¯d better be careful next time you go down there¡ªand get yourself checked out by a doctor,¡± the guard said, gesturing toward the outside door.


    Kai nodded silently, stepping out into the sunlight. The sky above Drakmoor was tinted yellow by the sun, a vast, cloudless expanse. A whole night had passed since he had entered the mine. He paused, breathing in the open air, but it didn¡¯t feel the same as before.


    Instead of heading straight home, Kai decided he needed something to calm his nerves. Too much had happened in the mine, and the weight of it all pressed heavily on him. He turned and began walking toward the nearest town, seeking a drink to drown the bad taste of the experience.

 Chapter.3

    Kai reached the town by midday, the sun beating down on the dusty streets. At the checkpoint, he ran into trouble. The guards at the gate immediately noticed his changed appearance¡ªhis white hair had drew suspicious looks.


    ¡°What happened to you, Kai?¡± one of the guards asked, narrowing his eyes.


    Kai hesitated, struggling to come up with an explanation. ¡°Uh... an accident in the mine,¡± he said, trying to sound casual. ¡°Chemicals, maybe.¡±


    The guard¡¯s frown deepened, clearly unconvinced. Just as Kai was beginning to worry, someone from the crowd stepped forward¡ªa miner he recognized from the tunnels.


    ¡°It¡¯s fine,¡± the miner said, addressing the guards. ¡°He¡¯s one of ours. You know Kai¡ªhe¡¯s always been a little reckless. Let him through.¡±


    The guards exchanged glances, then reluctantly waved him on. ¡°Be careful,¡± one muttered as Kai passed. Kai gave a nod of thanks to the miner.


    Once inside, Kai felt a growing sense of unease. The long walk from the mine to the town should have left him exhausted, but instead, he felt... fine. His body wasn¡¯t tired, not even sore. Yet he felt an intense thirst and hunger that gnawed at him like a fire burning inside. It was a strange contradiction¡ªhe felt strong, even invigorated, yet the need for sustenance was sharper than ever.


    Kai pushed open the creaking door of the bar he frequented, the dim interior a welcome contrast to the glaring sun outside. It was nearly empty this early in the day, save for the faint sound of glasses being wiped clean behind the counter.


    Behind the bar stood Lily, the familiar bartender who had become something of a confidant over his time here. She was a beautiful young woman, with striking emerald eyes that seemed to shift between green and gold in the light. Her long auburn hair was tied back in a loose braid, leaving a few stray strands to frame her delicate face. She wore a simple yet fitted blouse rolled up at the sleeves, revealing her slender arms.


    When she looked up and saw Kai, her expression shifted. First came recognition, then confusion, her brow furrowing as she took in his changed appearance.


    ¡°Kai?¡± she asked, setting the glass she had been drying onto the counter. ¡°What the hell happened to you?¡±


    "I don''t know, Lily," Kai muttered, sinking into a seat at the bar. She could see the exhaustion etched in his eyes, even though they looked... different. Despite the change in him, Lily was just glad he¡¯d come to her.


    ¡°The usual?¡± she asked casually, as if nothing about him had changed.


    ¡°The usual,¡± he confirmed, grateful for her ability to read him without pressing. That was why he kept coming back to her¡ªshe never pushed when it wasn¡¯t necessary. She just understood.


    Seeing his state, Lily took out some cold sandwich she made for herself that morning, she poured some whiskey over ice and placed the glass gently in front of him. It was a local brew, more of a cheap imitation of real whiskey, but it got the job done. Kai didn¡¯t mind¡ªit had grown on him over the past few months.


    ¡°Thanks,¡± he said, and dug in, he washed the full mouth of food with the whole cup of whiskey in one gulp, letting the liquor burn his throat.


    ¡°Slowly,¡± Lily warned, taking the empty glass before he could gesture for a refill. She poured another drink, but this time, she didn¡¯t hand it to him. Instead, she leaned forward, her emerald eyes searching his. ¡°Tell me what¡¯s wrong,¡± she said firmly.


    Kai hesitated, not because of the murders, Lily had a way of keeping secrets, but because of how absurd the whole thing sounded. Even himself was struggling to process it all.


    ¡°I don¡¯t know if I should say it,¡± he said quietly, avoiding her gaze.


    ¡°You don¡¯t have to,¡± she replied, her tone gentle but her actions betraying her curiosity. She walked around the bar and sat down beside him, her presence warm and inviting.


    Kai sighed, defeated. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll tell you.¡± He smiled faintly, shaking his head. ¡°You¡¯re dangerous, Lily.¡±


    She smirked. ¡°You know I had to hear what happened in the mine.¡±


    He began recounting the events. At first, he kept it brief, but Lily¡¯s piercing gaze pressed him to continue. Slowly, he told her everything¡ªabout the two miners he¡¯d killed in self-defense, the strange tattoo one of them had. Lily listened intently, her smile unwavering. When he confessed to the murders, her reaction wasn¡¯t shock but quiet approval.


    ¡°It is what it is,¡± she said simply, placing a comforting hand on his arm.


    Kai paused before mentioning the ancient ship. He took a sip of the imitation whiskey, letting it linger in his mouth. ¡°God, this tastes awful,¡± he muttered, chuckling softly.


    ¡°You get what you pay for,¡± Lily replied with a shrug and smiled. Her tone turned teasing. ¡°But... if you tell me the rest of the story, maybe I¡¯ll give you a taste of the real stuff. On the house.¡±


    Kai laughed. ¡°Alright, you win.¡± He continued, describing the ship, the diary, and finally the vial of strange liquid. His hand trembled slightly as he recounted how the substance had escaped the vial and invaded his body. He could still feel it¡ªthe alien sensation of something alive rewriting him from the inside out.


    Lily placed her hand on his, steadying him. ¡°You¡¯re okay now,¡± she said softly. Her calm demeanor reassured him.


    Kai had expected disbelief, maybe even ridicule, but Lily only smiled. She didn¡¯t call him crazy. She didn¡¯t recoil. She just listened, the same way she always did, with an unshakable steadiness that felt like an anchor in the chaos of his life.


    As he finished his second glass, she stood and took it from him. Without a word, she walked back behind the bar, letting the silence settle over them. Kai watched as she reached for a bottle on the top shelf. The label was unmistakable¡ªRegal Bourbon from Tyvaris 5. Kai knew it was a planet renowned across the galaxy for its whiskey.


    She poured a generous amount of the amber liquid over ice and slid the glass across the bar to him.


    ¡°On the house,¡± she said with a knowing smile.


    Kai caught the glass and nodded his thanks to Lily, appreciating her quiet support. Without hesitation, he took a sip. The whiskey was leagues beyond the imitation he was used to. Smooth and rich, it carried a deep, smoky flavor with hints of caramel and oak, leaving a warm, satisfying burn as it went down. It wasn¡¯t just a drink¡ªit was an experience, a moment of solace.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.


    After finishing the glass, Kai stood up, feeling the comfortable buzz settling over him. He pulled out a few bills and placed them on the counter, along with a generous tip. It was his way of repaying Lily¡¯s kindness and understanding.


    ¡°Take care of yourself,¡± Lily said softly, her emerald eyes watching him as he adjusted his jacket.


    Kai gave her a faint smile and nodded. The dizziness was pleasant, not enough to hinder him, but enough to remind him that, for a brief moment, he¡¯d found some peace.


    Kai was just about to step outside when Lily¡¯s voice stopped him.


    ¡°Kai,¡± she called, her tone serious yet cautious. ¡°I just thought of something that might interest you.¡±


    He turned back toward her, raising an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s that?¡±


    ¡°There are some big players in town,¡± she said, lowering her voice as if to avoid somehow being overheard in an empty bar. ¡°Someone from the Federation homeworld landed in the city recently. I¡¯m not sure what they¡¯re looking for, but a couple of friends told me things aren¡¯t looking good. Word is, there might be a war brewing between the Federation and the Empire, and they¡¯re trying to force people to pick sides.¡±


    Kai nodded, her words sinking in. He was already planning to head to the city to sell the location of the ship, but now there was the chance to see the Federation players up close. The thought filled him with a strange mix of excitement and dread.


    ¡°Thanks for the information, Lily,¡± he said, a small grin tugging at the corner of his mouth. ¡°And thanks for the drinks.¡±


    Lily smiled warmly, waving him off. ¡°Be careful, Kai. And come back anytime.¡± As he turned to leave, she added, ¡°Oh, and¡­ I think the white hair suits you.¡±


    Kai glanced over his shoulder and caught a faint blush rising on her cheeks. He chuckled softly to himself as he stepped out into the sunlight. The visit to Lily had lightened his spirit. Whatever had happened to his body, whatever changes the liquid had made, it didn¡¯t matter so much now. Life had to go on.


    He¡¯d visit the city, sell the ship¡¯s location, and come back to the mine. Everything would stay the same¡ªat least, that¡¯s what he told himself. Deep down, though, he had a feeling life was about to take a very different turn.


    Kai walked through the bustling main street of the town, where the morning rush hour was in full swing. Vendors lined the streets, their makeshift stalls overflowing with goods. Some shouted over each other to advertise their wares¡ªfresh produce, handmade trinkets, secondhand tools, and everything in between. The air smelled of spiced food cooking on open grills, mingling with the faint tang of machine oil from the mechanics¡¯ shops nearby.


    Children darted through the crowd, playing games that seemed to have no clear rules, their laughter rising above the din. A boy chased after a makeshift toy spaceship on wheels, while a group of girls gathered near a stall, bartering for colorful ribbons. Carts rumbled over the uneven road, pulled by old hover engines barely functional enough to float. Kai pushed his way though the crowd.


    Kai made his way to the far side of the town, where the noise of the market began to fade. He reached the landing pad, a worn concrete platform on the edge of town. There, an old, decommissioned spaceship rested¡ªa relic from a time long past. The ship was a patchwork of old parts scavenged from other vessels, its hull a mismatched mosaic of colors where repairs had been made over the years. Its once-proud name, barely legible under layers of grime and paint, hinted at a military origin. Now, it served as a humble shuttle, connecting the town to the distant city.


    The engines hummed faintly, their whine uneven, as mechanics fussed over one of the stabilizers. A ramp extended from the ship¡¯s side, creaking under the weight of passengers loading cargo and luggage. Its interior was dimly lit, with exposed wiring snaking along the walls.


    Kai picked up his pace as he approached the front of the ship, where a short man in a worn pilot uniform stood leaning against the hull. Ray, the ship¡¯s owner and operator, looked up and gave Kai a quick once-over.


    ¡°Kai? What the hell happened to you?¡± Ray asked, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise.


    Kai frowned. ¡°Please, Ray, this is the third time someone¡¯s asked me that.¡±


    ¡°Alright, alright,¡± Ray said, raising his hands in mock surrender. ¡°As long as you¡¯re paying the fare, I don¡¯t care what you look like. You could switch genders for all I care. Speaking of which, I know a guy who can get you a discount on the procedure, if you¡¯re interested,¡± he added with a mischievous grin.


    Kai shook his head, exasperated. ¡°Just a ride will do, thanks.¡±


    Ray glanced toward the crowded loading ramp. ¡°Tell you what,¡± he said, jerking his thumb toward the cockpit, ¡°there are too many people back there. How about you ride up front with me today, big guy? I heard you¡¯ve been dreaming of your own ship.¡±


    Kai chuckled. ¡°Sure, just not something like this dust bucket of yours.¡±


    ¡°One more bad word about her,¡± Ray shot back, grinning, ¡°and you¡¯re riding with the rest of them in that cramped space.¡± He laughed as Kai handed over the fare, then pocketed the money and gestured for Kai to follow him.


    Ray led him into the cockpit and gestured toward the co-pilot¡¯s seat. The ship was an old Federation dropship, repurposed for its new civilian role. The pilot¡¯s seat was positioned in front of the co-pilot¡¯s, following the classic military design. In its original form, the co-pilot would have had access to remote turret controls, but on this decommissioned model, all the weapons had been stripped out long ago.


    ¡°Just don¡¯t touch anything, alright?¡± Ray said, settling into his seat and flipping a few switches.


    ¡°Yes, Ray, I won¡¯t touch a thing,¡± Kai replied, keeping his arms folded to make a point.


    The cockpit filled with a sharp whining noise as the ship¡¯s four VTOL thrusters powered on. Outside, a few late passengers hurried up the loading ramp as dust kicked into the air, momentarily obscuring Kai¡¯s view. The ship gave a shudder as the thrusters strained to lift the heavy, patched-together vessel off the ground. For a brief moment, Kai worried the old thing might not make it.


    Then Ray grinned, pushed the throttle forward with confidence, and the ship rattled violently as it broke free of the ground. The thrusters roared, and the vessel began its slow climb, the scenery of the town growing smaller below them.


    ¡°She¡¯s got some life in her yet, doesn¡¯t she?¡± Ray said, clearly proud of his workhorse.


    Kai smirked, his initial doubts fading as they ascended. For all its flaws, the old ship had character¡ªand for now, it would get him where he needed to go.


    Jokes aside, Kai loved the feeling of being in the air. Up here, he felt a sense of freedom he rarely experienced on the ground. The view below mesmerized him¡ªthe patchwork of landscapes growing smaller as the ship climbed higher. The horizon curved gently, a reminder of the planet¡¯s vastness. Above him, the infinite expanse of space stretched out, dotted with countless stars.


    For a fleeting moment, his gaze locked on one of those stars, and he watched as it seemed to vanish. A wave of fear gripped him as the memory of his vision flooded back¡ªthe star-eating entity, vast and incomprehensible, consuming the light of entire systems. His chest tightened, and he felt his heartbeat quicken. Then, just as suddenly, the star reappeared, no longer obscured by dust on the cockpit window. Relief washed over him, though the lingering fear remained. The vision felt so far-fetched, yet it had been disturbingly vivid.


    The dropship climbed steadily, its four massive VTOL engines straining to carry it to the edge of Drakmoor¡¯s atmosphere. Despite their power, the ship was never designed for full orbital travel, and it hovered near the boundary where the sky gave way to space. The thrusters rotated, shifting their output to propel the ship forward toward the city.


    Kai couldn¡¯t help but admire Ray¡¯s skill as a pilot. Flying this old dropship wasn¡¯t as simple as taking off and landing. Every movement had to be carefully calculated to ensure maximum efficiency, especially with a patched-together ship like this. Kai found himself wondering about Ray¡¯s past¡ªwhat kind of life he¡¯d led before becoming a shuttle pilot.


    The question lingered on the edge of his tongue, but he decided to save it for another time. His body reminded him of how long it had been since he¡¯d rested. Nearly 24 hours without sleep was catching up to him.


    Leaning back in the rigid military-style seat, Kai closed his eyes. The hard surface was far from comfortable, but exhaustion overtook him quickly. Within minutes, he was drifting off, the hum of the ship¡¯s engines lulling him into sleep.


    Kai felt the weight shift beneath him and snapped awake. The serenity of the flight was gone, replaced by chaos as Ray wrestled with the controls.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Kai asked, gripping the sides of his seat.


    "We just lost control," Ray said.

 Chapter.4

    Ray¡¯s tone was calm but urgent. ¡°One of the vertical stabilizers is acting up. I thought the ground crew fixed it for sure, but it¡¯s gone out again.¡±


    ¡°What happens if it¡¯s not fixed?¡± Kai pressed.


    Ray didn¡¯t mince words. ¡°We won¡¯t be able to make a landing. We¡¯ll have to eject.¡±


    Kai¡¯s stomach dropped. ¡°And the passengers? What happens to them if we do?¡±


    Ray didn¡¯t answer, and let the heavy silence spoke.


    ¡°Can you fix it?¡± Kai asked.


    ¡°I can try, but someone needs to keep this thing in the air. And that someone can¡¯t be me while I¡¯m working on a fix,¡± Ray said.


    Kai didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°I¡¯ll do it. Just teach me enough to keep it steady.¡±


    Ray hesitated, glancing at him. ¡°Alright, alright, no choice now,¡± he muttered, running through the basics of the controls as fast as he could. ¡°Just keep her level¡ªdon¡¯t try anything fancy.¡±


    With a deep breath, Ray handed over the controls, and Kai¡¯s right hand gripped the joystick. The moment it came alive under his grip, the ship tipped to the left. Kai instinctively corrected it, but the adjustment was too much, and the ship began to tilt to the right.


    He gritted his teeth, trying to find balance. The ship felt lighter than he¡¯d expected, but also deceptively sensitive. Slowly, he adjusted, making the ship hover on its original path while Ray scrambled to troubleshoot the stabilizer.


    As he focused, Kai felt a strange heat building in his right arm. A faint blue pulse caught his eye, and he realized his arm was glowing faintly. It wasn¡¯t painful¡ªinstead, it felt like the liquid inside him was gathering there, sharpening his reflexes. His grip on the joystick grew steadier, his movements precise. Each adjustment felt deliberate, almost natural, as if the ship were an extension of his body. He stabilized the ship and guided it forward, calm and in control.


    ¡°I can¡¯t fix it from inside,¡± Ray muttered in frustration. ¡°The only way is to repair it from outside, but we can¡¯t get out until this thing¡¯s on the ground.¡± He glanced back at the console and then up at Kai. His eyes widened. ¡°Wait... did you do this? You stabilized the ship?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m trying but I''m not sure if it will work¡± Kai replied, his voice steady. He felt every subtle movement in the controls, as though his senses had been heightened. Each micro-movement he made translated perfectly into the ship¡¯s adjustments.


    Ray¡¯s face lit up with excitement. ¡°No, no¡ªthis is perfect! You keep it stable, and I¡¯ll handle the landing.¡±


    Kai nodded, focusing entirely on the fine control of the ship. The city loomed in the distance, its skyline dotted with flashing green and red lights marking the landing pads. As Ray adjusted the angle and speed, every change required a corresponding correction from Kai, but he managed it effortlessly, his movements fluid and precise.


    Ray hailed the city¡¯s landing service, declaring an emergency. The response was immediate, and a landing pad was cleared. As the ship descended, Ray guided it carefully, while Kai¡¯s precise control kept the ship steady.


    The moment the ship touched down, Kai compensated until the weight settled evenly. The cockpit fell silent, both men stayed quiet.


    Then Ray let out a booming laugh, the tension breaking in an instant. ¡°You did it, kid! Damn, you did it!¡±


    Kai joined in, the relief bubbling out of him. Both men laughed heartily, the sound echoing in the small cockpit. It wasn¡¯t just relief¡ªit was triumph. Against all odds, they had landed the ship safely.


    Ray let the passengers disembark, their chatter and laughter suggesting they hadn¡¯t even realized there had been a problem with the ship. Kai watched them go, surprised by how oblivious they seemed to the danger they had just escaped.


    Ray patted Kai on the shoulder as they both stepped down onto the landing pad. ¡°That was some fine flying back there. I can¡¯t believe you¡¯ve never flown a ship before,¡± he said with a grin.


    Kai shrugged and managed a modest smile. ¡°I just tried my best, Ray.¡±


    Ray chuckled, then handed Kai a bundle of cash. ¡°Here, kid. Take the money. You just saved everyone¡¯s life on this ship. You deserve it.¡±


    Kai hesitated for a moment before taking it. ¡°Thank you, Ray,¡± he said sincerely, pocketing the money.


    Just then, a man came jogging toward them, his heavy boots pounding against the landing pad. His thick mustache bounced with every step, and his face was a storm of anger.


    ¡°Ray!¡± the man¡¯s deep voice boomed as he stopped in front of the pilot. His massive frame towered over Ray, who seemed unimpressed by the man¡¯s imposing presence. ¡°Did you declare an emergency landing just to unload your passengers faster? Don¡¯t think I¡¯ll let it slide because we were battle buddies. You¡¯re getting fined for this!¡±


    Ray shrugged, gesturing toward the ship¡¯s stabilizer. ¡°We really did have an emergency. Go ahead and touch the stabilizer¡ªit¡¯s still cold. It failed mid-flight. And if it weren¡¯t for this gentleman¡¯s fine flying skills, we¡¯d all be dead right now.¡±


    The man stroked his mustache, his glare shifting between Ray and the stabilizer. He approached the ship, kneeling by the stabilizer thrusters. Tentatively, he placed a hand on the cold metal, feeling its inert surface. It was clear the stabilizer hadn¡¯t activated during the descent¡ªthe surrounding area lacked the usual scorch marks from heat emissions, and the thruster ports themselves were clean and cold to the touch.


    Standing up, the man turned to Kai, his gaze softening slightly. ¡°So, you¡¯re the one who kept the ship steady,¡± he said, studying him.


    Kai nodded. ¡°Just did what I could.¡±


    The man grunted, his tone begrudgingly respectful. "I''m Captain Thomas. Fine flying for someone this young. If you ever thought about joining the federation navy, you come and find me, the navy can use someone like you.¡±


    Kai felt a flicker of pride but kept his expression neutral. ¡°Thanks,¡± he said simply.


    Ray smirked. ¡°So, about that fine¡­¡±


    The man scowled at Ray but said nothing, turning on his heel and stalking off, his mustache quivering as he muttered under his breath. Ray and Kai exchanged a glance, then burst into quiet laughter.


    After parting ways with Ray, Kai wandered into the bustling city. It was just as lively as he remembered. Vendors shouted to passersby from stalls lining the streets, vehicles honked their horns as they navigated crowded intersections, and people of all walks of life moved with purpose through the chaos. The city was alive with energy, a stark contrast to the stillness of the mines and the quiet moments of his flight, it made Kai picked up his steps and walked faster.


    Kai set his sights on the tall buildings in the distance and started walking toward them. His destination was the headquarters of the mining company. The city was simply called The City, much like Lily¡¯s bar, which was just The Bar. Why bother with unique names when there was only one of its kind? Efficiency trumped creativity here.


    The walk through the city took some time. By the time Kai arrived, it was lunch hour, and the streets were packed with vehicles and pedestrians. He noticed someone lingering at a corner, their eyes fixed on him. His appearance had been drawing attention ever since the incident in the mine, so he dismissed it and kept moving.


    Finally, he reached his destination: Draco Mining. Kai didn¡¯t care much for the company¡¯s elaborate name or branding¡ªit was just the mining company to him, the only one that mattered on Drakmoor.


    The building was an imposing structure, its gleaming facade designed to impress. Kai climbed the wide marble steps leading to the entrance and stepped into the main hall. Inside, the air was cool and filled with the faint hum of machinery. Employees and visitors moved through the expansive space, their shoes clicking on the polished floors.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!


    Kai stood out starkly from the rest of the crowd in the pristine hall. His rugged clothes, designed to protect against the harsh wilderness, were a stark contrast to the sharp suits and polished shoes of the employees and visitors around him. He didn¡¯t belong to this life, and he didn¡¯t care too. He wasn¡¯t here to impress anyone.


    He approached the front desk, a grand structure carved from polished marble that gleamed under the overhead lights. The edges were flawlessly smooth, and the desk curved slightly to add an air of sophistication. Behind it, in massive, golden letters, the words DRACO MINING were emblazoned on the wall, shining like a symbol of power and wealth.


    The receptionist was a young woman, likely in her twenties, with a polished, professional demeanor. Her makeup was meticulously applied, accentuating her sharp cheekbones and full lips, giving her the look of someone who radiated confidence and beauty. Her appearance practically screamed, Look at me¡ªI¡¯m perfect.


    Kai stopped before her, feeling slightly out of place in his dusty, travel-worn clothes. The receptionist looked up, her perfectly arched eyebrow raising slightly as her gaze swept over him. Despite her poised demeanor, there was a flicker of curiosity in her eyes.


    ¡°How can I help you?¡± the receptionist asked, her tone polished and professional.


    ¡°Uh¡­ I want to report a lead for a discovery in the mine,¡± Kai said, scratching the back of his head.


    ¡°Oh, a vein?¡± Her curiosity piqued, her posture straightened slightly.


    ¡°Yeah¡­ something like that,¡± he replied, trying to keep his tone casual.


    ¡°Alright, sir. Please take the elevator up to the 50th floor,¡± she said with a practiced smile. ¡°I¡¯ll notify someone to assist you with your valuable information. Thank you for your work with Draco Mining.¡± She gestured toward the elevator, which, as if on cue, had its doors opened and waiting.


    Kai nodded his thanks and stepped into the elevator. The button for the 50th floor was already glowing, casting a faint golden light onto the polished steel interior. As the doors slid shut, he felt a pang of discomfort. Despite his love for flying, elevators always unsettled him. The cramped, enclosed space seemed to close in around him as the elevator shot upward with a faint hum.


    He pressed himself into a corner, watching the floor numbers tick up rapidly on the display above the doors. The change in pressure made his ears pop, and he swallowed to adjust. His heartbeat quickened slightly as the elevator slowed, signaling its arrival.


    Ting.


    The soft chime of the bell announced his stop. The elevator doors slid open, revealing the 50th floor. Kai stood still for a moment, bracing himself for what came next. Taking a deep breath, he stepped forward and out of the elevator.


    ¡°Hi, you must be the miner with the lead. Please, follow me,¡± a woman greeted him as the elevator doors opened. Her tone was polite, her movements precise as she gave him a small bow before leading him down a sleek corridor.


    Kai followed her silently, noting how her heels clicked rhythmically against the polished floor. She brought him to an exclusive meeting room with floor-to-ceiling windows that offered a breathtaking view of the city below. The midday sun casting a golden glow over the few skyscrapers and bustling streets.


    The woman paused, allowing Kai a moment to take in the impressive scene.


    ¡°Mr. Draco will be with you shortly,¡± she said, her tone even and professional. With a small nod, she stepped out of the room and closed the door behind her, leaving Kai alone with the view¡ªand his thoughts.


    Since the moment Kai had entered the building, everyone had been professional and kind to him. Yet, curiously, not a single person had asked for his name. The realization sank in¡ªthey weren¡¯t kind because of who he was, but because of the potential value of the information he carried.


    And then, the first name anyone mentioned was Mr. Draco himself.


    Kai understood now: in this place, a name wasn¡¯t just a label¡ªit was a powerplay. Only the most powerful individual warranted the recognition of their name. Everyone else was a role, a function, a part of the machinery that kept the system running.


    As the thought lingered, Kai smirked. Maybe he should suggest to Lily that she put her name on the bar¡¯s sign¡ªLily¡¯s Bar. It would give her the recognition she deserved and remind everyone who they were really coming to see.


    The door swung open, and Kai turned to see an middle aged man step inside. He was the embodiment of wealth and authority, his presence commanding the room without a word. His sleek, jet-black hair was styled immaculately, combed back with precision that hinted at meticulous care. His hazel-eyes felt as if they could see into Kai''s deepest thoughts. His suit was unlike anything Kai had ever seen¡ªdeep navy with intricate gold patterns woven into the fabric, shimmering subtly under the light. The patterns resembled delicate veins of precious metal, running across the jacket and cuffs, accentuating the sharp lines of his tailored attire. A golden tie bar and cufflinks completed the ensemble, adding a touch of understated extravagance. His polished shoes clicked softly against the floor as he approached.


    "Mr. Kai Renn," Draco said, his voice smooth as silk. He paused for effect, then motioned to the chair in front of him. "Please, sit."


    The use of his name struck Kai immediately. He had never seen these people before, never given them his name, yet Draco spoke it with ease, as if he had known it all along. It was a demonstration of control, a subtle reminder of who held the power in this room. Even though Kai stood a head taller than the man, the authority Draco exuded was palpable. Kai disliked the feeling of being outmaneuvered, but he sat down anyway, keeping his composure.


    Draco took the seat opposite of him, fixing Kai with a steady gaze. For once, Kai spoke first.


    "Is Draco your real name?" he asked, leaning forward slightly.


    Draco allowed himself a small smile. "No, it¡¯s not. It¡¯s a title, reserved for the highest position in the company. As for my real name... it¡¯s a secret, even to most of our employees. Perhaps I¡¯ll tell you, if your information proves to be valuable."


    Kai smirked, leaning back in his chair as he reached into his pocket. He retrieved the small container with the sample he¡¯d brought and placed it on the table. Then he crossed his arms, letting Draco lean in curiously. If this was going to be a game of power, Kai was determined to play it on equal footing. He may have been a miner, but he wasn¡¯t a fool.


    "What am I looking at?" Draco asked, his tone measured.


    "This," Kai said calmly, "is a piece from the outer door of a spaceship."


    Draco raised an eyebrow. "A door? I thought you were here because you found a vein in my mine."


    Kai kept his grin in place. "Yes, this piece might not seem valuable. But the real value lies in the location and origin of the ship it came from."


    Draco¡¯s interest was piqued, though his expression remained cool. "Do tell, then."


    Kai knew he had Draco now. He had to sell this perfectly if he wanted to walk away with more than just scraps.


    "The first strange thing about my discovery," he began, "is where I found the ship. It was buried 200 meters below ground, in one of the uncharted tunnels of your mine. I¡¯m sure you understand how unusual that is."


    Draco nodded slightly, urging him to continue.


    "And the second strange thing is the origin of the ship. I found information inside it¡ª" Kai chose not to pull out the notebook from his bag; its contents were too sensitive to risk revealing now. "The ship belonged to a faction called the USSF. I¡¯m not certain what the ¡®US¡¯ stands for, but the ¡®SF¡¯ clearly stands for Space Force. Their flag had 50 stars on it. Now, here¡¯s the question: why would a power capable of rivaling the Empire and the Federation be absent from our history books? Why is it not taught to our children as part of their education? Don¡¯t you think the powerhouses of humanity are hiding something from both you and me?"


    Draco leaned back, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "How much do you think this information is worth?" he asked.


    Kai hesitated for a moment. He hadn¡¯t expected Draco to make an offer this quickly. "For me," Kai said carefully, "this is priceless. It¡¯s a secret with the potential to shake the foundations of both the Federation and the Empire."


    Kai studied Draco¡¯s face, watching for any reaction. This was a gamble, a dangerous one. If Draco Mining was aligned with either faction, this could land him in a cell for treason. But Kai was betting on Draco¡¯s ambitions, on his hunger for power and independence. A businessman like Draco wouldn¡¯t just hand over a mystery this enticing without exploring it first. If he played this right, Kai could make Draco Mining a name whispered across the galaxy.


    Draco remained silent for a long moment, considering the proposition. He hadn¡¯t expected this when he woke up this morning. On one hand, the prudent choice would be to turn this information over to the Federation¡ªlikely the safer option given their interest in securing secrets. On the other hand, the idea of an unknown faction, a whole new mystery, was irresistible.


    A ship buried deep in one of his mines, linked to a force that had somehow vanished from history? Draco¡¯s curiosity burned. He wanted this ship for himself, to unravel its secrets, to add it to his personal collection. It was worth the risk. And then there was Kai himself¡ªthe confidence in his eyes, the calmness in his demeanor. It was rare for a miner to handle negotiations so deftly. Even if the information proved to be false, Draco saw potential in the man.


    Finally, Draco spoke, his voice steady. "You¡¯ve given me a lot to think about, Mr. Renn. If what you¡¯re saying is true, I believe we can come to an agreement. The question is, can you deliver what you¡¯re promising?"


    "Yes, if you like, I can take you to the mine first thing in the morning," Kai said with a nod, his voice steady.


    "Well then, what better way to confirm than seeing it with my own eyes," Draco replied with a smile, standing and extending his hand. "And since you¡¯ve earned it, you can call me Kevin."


    Kai stood as well, meeting Kevin¡¯s hand with a firm shake. ¡°Looks like we have a deal.¡±


    ¡°Indeed,¡± Kevin said, his smile widening. ¡°It was your confidence that convinced me. Please, enjoy a stay on my expense.¡±


    Kai nodded, watching as Kevin reached for the sample on the table. ¡°If you don¡¯t mind,¡± Kevin said.


    Kai pushed it toward him. ¡°Please.¡±


    Kevin picked up the sample and studied it briefly before tucking it into his pocket. ¡°Thank you again,¡± he said. As he turned to leave, he paused at the doorway. ¡°Oh, one more thing¡ªten million.¡±


    Kai raised an eyebrow, unsure.


    ¡°Ten million credits and a position in the company,¡± Kevin clarified with a grin. ¡°That¡¯s what I¡¯m offering.¡±


    Before Kai could respond, Kevin smiled again and walked out, leaving him standing in the room with more to think about than he had anticipated.

 Chapter.5

    Kai stood under the steaming shower, the fog curling around him like a shroud. His thoughts were heavy, but the warm water offered a brief reprieve from the day¡¯s chaos. A man in a suit had led him to the suite he was now occupying¡ªa luxurious one nestled in a different wing of the Draco building, which doubled as a high-end hotel for distinguished guests.


    The suite was a masterpiece of futuristic design, blending sleek functionality with unmatched opulence. The walls were made of smooth, polished alloy, their metallic sheen subtly illuminated by soft, ambient lights that adjusted to Kai¡¯s presence. A sprawling floor to ceiling window offered a breathtaking view of the city, the shimmering skyline stretching out under a blanket of stars.


    The furniture was both minimalistic and sophisticated, with clean lines and soft curves. The sofa seemed to hover slightly above the floor, its base hidden by discreet magnetic technology. The bed, larger than any Kai had ever seen, was dressed in fabric that shimmered like liquid silver, promising comfort beyond his imagination. A holographic interface on the wall allowed full control of the suite¡ªlighting, climate, even entertainment at the touch of a finger or a simple voice command.


    The bathroom was equally extravagant. The shower Kai stood in was enclosed in glass that frosted for privacy at the wave of a hand. A mirror displayed real-time readouts of his vitals and could even project soothing visuals or news updates if he desired. The floors were warmed beneath his feet, and every surface seemed to exude a quiet luxury.


    Kai couldn¡¯t believe how a place like this could coexist with the barren, unforgiving planet outside. The contrast was staggering. Despite the luxury surrounding him, his mind refused to settle. Ever since his discovery of the strange liquid that had invaded his body, his life had been a whirlwind of danger and uncertainty.


    What exactly have I gotten myself into? he wondered, letting the warm water wash over him, hoping it could rinse away his troubling thoughts. What he needed now was food and some rest.


    He turned off the shower and reached for a clean towel. Drying himself off, he searched for a place to hang it but found none. Spotting a sleek basket in the corner, he tossed the towel in with a slight shake of his head. This place will always choose comfort over sustainability, he reminded himself.


    Stepping out of the bathroom, he froze. His clothes were gone. His heart leaped, a surge of paranoia coursing through him. Had Kevin played him after all?


    Kai rushed into the main room, still naked, scanning the room until his eyes landed on the desk. His bag sat exactly where he¡¯d left it. He exhaled a shaky breath and hurried over, checking inside. Everything was still there, including the notebook. He stared at it for a moment, gripping it tightly. I need to be more careful, he thought. Just because he had struck a deal with Kevin didn¡¯t mean they were friends.


    Kai noticed a neatly folded set of clothes left outside the bathroom. On top of the clothes was a small note, written in precise, elegant handwriting:


    Kai,


    I trust you¡¯ll find your accommodations to your liking. Please enjoy your stay and make full use of the facilities. Attached is your room key/credit card for any additional expenses you may incur during your time here. You cloth will return to you after cleaning.z Consider it a gesture of goodwill and trust in our partnership.


    Looking forward to tomorrow.


    - Kevin


    Clipped to the note was a sleek black credit card, embossed with a gold logo that matched the opulence of everything else in the suite. Kai stared at it for a moment, the gesture feeling both generous and calculated. A show of power and wealth, he thought, but he tucked the card into his pocket. For now, it was another resource in his arsenal.


    Kai slipped into the clothes, finding that they struck a perfect balance between formal and casual. The suit was comfortable, made from a lightweight, durable material that hinted at practicality. The design subtly embodied the mining heritage of Draco¡ªcharcoal-gray fabric with fine gold stitching running along the seams, resembling the veins of precious metals found deep underground. The cuffs bore an embossed emblem of the company. It was attire meant to remind him of Draco¡¯s dominance while ensuring he looked sharp enough to represent them.


    Kai adjusted the suit, appreciating its fit, but he couldn¡¯t help feeling a little too exposed without his usual jacket. It had been a staple of his wardrobe for years, and he hoped he¡¯d reunite with it soon. He pocketed the sleek black card, straightened his cuffs, and opened the door to his guest room.


    If he remembered correctly, the elevator was just down the hallway. He paused, debating his options: he could dine in one of the building¡¯s restaurants or venture out into the city. The memory of feeling watched earlier came back to him, and the decision was easy. Staying inside the Draco building felt safer for now.


    Kai stepped into the elevator and descended to the second floor, which housed a diner primarily used by Draco employees during the day. It was a practical space, a corporate cantina designed for efficiency rather than elegance. The smell of freshly prepared food greeted him as he stepped out, and the low hum of conversation filled the air.


    Kai figured a quick meal here would do the trick. He¡¯d eat, then head back to his room to rest. After all, the less attention he drew, the better.


    Hunger gnawed at him again, sharper than usual. Whatever changes had occurred in his body seemed to demand more fuel. He grabbed a full tray of food, and found an empty table in a quiet corner, away from the bustling employees. Though he didn¡¯t admire the unnecessary luxury of these people¡¯s lives, he had to admit their food looked, and smelled¡ªdelicious. And since it was all free, why not indulge a little?


    Halfway through devouring his meal, he heard the sharp, rhythmic clicking of high heels on the polished floor. His appetite paused as he looked up to see the receptionist from earlier approaching him.


    She was just as delicately beautiful as before, with a face like a porcelain doll¡ªperfectly composed, with flawless skin and softly painted lips. Her professional demeanor hadn¡¯t faded, and her graceful movements seemed almost rehearsed. As her hazel eyes met his, Kai couldn¡¯t help but smile at her.


    Kai had to remind himself that the woman before him possessed a different kind of beauty¡ªa beauty that provided leverage. Unlike the natural, unpretentious allure that Lily exuded from within, the beauty he witnessed now was carefully crafted, manmade, and potentially dangerous.


    He put down his fork and wiped his mouth with a napkin. He didn¡¯t speak, waiting for her to make the first move. When she pulled out the chair across from him and sat down, he didn¡¯t offer assistance. He didn¡¯t want to give her the wrong impression.


    ¡°Oh, don¡¯t let me stop you,¡± she said, placing a small plate of food on the table. It was barely a meal in Kai¡¯s eyes. There¡¯s no way that¡¯s enough food for her, he thought, but he said nothing.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.


    The receptionist noticed his gaze and smiled, her expression polished yet disarming. ¡°Oh, my manners,¡± she said lightly. ¡°I¡¯m Eliana. And if you don¡¯t mind, may I have yours?¡±


    ¡°Kai,¡± he replied simply. Then, with a slight nod, he added, ¡°Thanks for the help earlier, Eliana.¡±


    "Don¡¯t be so formal, Kai,¡± Eliana said, her tone light and friendly. ¡°I was just doing my job. Speaking of which, I¡¯m on my meal break now, so let¡¯s talk like we¡¯re off the clock, alright?¡± She flashed a practiced smile, her perfect white teeth catching the light. ¡°I think you look good in that suit,¡± she added, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.


    Kai nodded his thanks, but inwardly, he wondered if the blush was as practiced as the smile. Why had she chosen to sit at his table when there were plenty of other empty ones? A younger version of himself might have thought she was interested in him, but maturing had taught him otherwise. The world wasn¡¯t just about hormones and desires.


    Deciding not to beat around the bush, Kai leaned back slightly, his gaze steady. He didn¡¯t care much for her opinion of him. He wasn¡¯t here to impress her or make friends. He was here to do business, to make a profit, to achieve his dream.


    ¡°So,¡± he said, his tone direct, ¡°what brings you to my table, Eliana?¡±


    Kai studied Eliana carefully, noting that his direct question didn¡¯t elicit even a flicker of surprise. If her answer seemed contrived or far-fetched, he was ready to end the conversation and leave.


    Eliana, however, didn¡¯t hesitate. ¡°I was curious about what you found in the mine,¡± she said evenly. ¡°It¡¯s not every day someone comes in with a lead on a new vein. I just wanted to know how that feels.¡±


    Kai paused, weighing her words. He remembered that he¡¯d told her he¡¯d found a vein earlier, which was why she had sent him up in the first place. Low-level employees probably don¡¯t have access to sensitive information, he thought.


    ¡°The information still requires validation,¡± Kai replied calmly. ¡°So, right now, it¡¯s just my word against theirs. But... finding a vein is like winning the lottery¡ªonly it¡¯s a lottery you play with your life.¡±


    Eliana¡¯s expression shifted, her smile fading slightly. ¡°Must be exciting when you do find one,¡± she said softly, her tone laced with melancholy. ¡°I can¡¯t imagine what that feels like. My work... it¡¯s the same every day. Nothing ever changes.¡±


    Her eyes glistened slightly, and for a moment, Kai wasn¡¯t sure if she was genuinely emotional or playing a part. He decided to keep it professional. ¡°Trust me,¡± he said, his voice steady, ¡°far more people lose their lives than find success. It¡¯s not a life for someone like you.¡±


    Eliana¡¯s expression hardened, her tone sharpening. ¡°Someone like me? What kind of person do you think I am?¡±


    Kai raised his hands slightly in a gesture of peace. ¡°Sorry, I meant no offense. I just meant... the mines are a different world. There¡¯s usually more fighting than talking down there.¡± His words were straightforward, matter-of-fact.


    For a moment, the tension hung in the air, and Kai waited to see how she would respond.


    "Do you want to spar with me?" Eliana asked, her tone cool but laced with challenge.


    "I''m sorry?" Kai blinked, certain he¡¯d misheard her.


    "Fight me," she clarified, her eyes narrowing slightly. "And see if I¡¯m the kind of girl you think I am."


    Kai¡¯s gaze flicked to her plate¡ªa delicate egg salad sandwich and a few pieces of fruit. The contrast between her bold words and her dainty meal caught him completely off guard.


    Eliana noticed his glance and smiled. ¡°I know a place,¡± she continued, leaning forward slightly, ¡°but only if you accept the challenge. Or are you too scared?¡±


    Kai chuckled, shaking his head. "A little exercise after lunch won¡¯t hurt," he said with a smirk. ¡°Fine. But what¡¯s the prize for this fight?¡±


    Eliana tilted her head thoughtfully, then her smile turned playful. ¡°If I win, you¡¯ll have to take me to the mine one day.¡±


    Kai raised an eyebrow. ¡°And if I win?¡±


    Eliana paused, her gaze locking with his. Her voice dropped slightly, and a sly smile curled her lips. ¡°If you win... I¡¯ll let you know me better.¡±


    Her suggestive tone wasn¡¯t lost on Kai. He leaned back in his chair.


    To say that Eliana''s offer wasn¡¯t tempting would have been a lie. Kai was a normal man with normal desires, and the way she presented her challenge stirred something primal in him. But he wasn¡¯t naive. He knew there was more to her proposition than just flirtation.


    What the hell, he thought. If she wants to play games, I¡¯ll play along. Let¡¯s find out what she¡¯s really after.


    He leaned forward slightly, his smirk unwavering. ¡°Alright, Eliana. Let¡¯s see if you can back up that confidence.¡±


    "Alright, my shift ends in 30 minutes. I''ll meet you at the training room on the 15th floor in an hour" Eliana said with a playful smile. She finished her food with surprising speed, flashed an innocent grin at Kai, and walked off, leaving him to ponder her boldness.


    Kai stared after her for a moment, then turned his attention back to his tray. He didn¡¯t want to waste the rest of the food, but he also didn¡¯t want to fight with a full stomach. He flagged down a server, asked for some containers, and packed up the leftovers. With his meal stored away, he returned to his room to prepare.


    ---


    Kevin¡ªor as most called him, Mr. Draco¡ªstood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window in his office, his silhouette framed by the sprawling cityscape below. From his vantage point, he could see the entire city and even the barren horizon beyond. His hands were clasped behind his back, his posture rigid as he focused.


    The miner who had come in earlier that morning had delivered news that far surpassed the value of any discovered vein. It was something that should only exist in legends.


    ¡°Mr. Draco,¡± a soft voice interrupted his thoughts. His assistant stood by the door, a stack of reports in her arms.


    ¡°Leave them on the table, thank you,¡± he said, waving a hand without turning. She nodded, setting them down quietly before leaving.


    Kevin''s mind was elsewhere. If the miner¡¯s claims were true¡ªif they aligned with the stories passed down from his father and grandfather¡ªit could mean the resurfacing of something far more important than any resource or power struggle. A secret that, if discovered by the wrong people, could bring about the destruction of humanity itself.


    He took a slow, deep breath, yet his heart continued to race. Kevin prided himself on being unshakable, a man who had seen and controlled much in his lifetime. But the thought of facing the legend sent an uncharacteristic rush of adrenaline through his veins.


    He turned from the window, his expression unreadable. "I¡¯ll just have to see it for myself," he murmured to himself.


    ---


    Kai changed his cloth under a servers instructions and entered the training room, a serene space with polished wooden floors and paper-paneled walls that let in soft, golden light. At its center was a circular sparring stage, slightly elevated and marked with faint concentric rings, surrounded by neatly rolled mats and racks of training weapons.


    Eliana knelt in the middle of the stage, her legs tucked neatly beneath her, eyes closed in meditation. Her posture was straight, her breathing steady, and she seemed completely focused, a calm energy radiating from her that contrasted with her earlier playful demeanor.


    Kai felt a pang of guilt; perhaps he¡¯d judged her too quickly. Still, it didn¡¯t matter now. He would discover the truth of who she really was by testing her skills. Kai was no martial artist, but his years spent surviving on the streets of Velmorra had taught him to fight hard and fight to win. He wasn¡¯t sure if Eliana was ready for that kind of raw, unrestrained combat.


    He stepped into the circle, approaching Eliana. She had removed her makeup, and for the first time, Kai saw her natural face. Without the polish, her features were softer, her freckles visible, and her complexion more human, less doll-like. Her eyes, no longer framed by cosmetics, seemed clearer, more earnest. She looks better this way, Kai thought.


    Eliana sensed Kai¡¯s approach but didn¡¯t open her eyes. ¡°Sit and meditate with me,¡± she said softly. ¡°Clear your mind and just focus on the fight. Don¡¯t think about the prize, don¡¯t think about winning or losing. Just feel your opponent¡ªtry to understand them.¡±


    Kai hesitated, then knelt opposite her. On Velmorra, kneeling was often seen as a sign of defeat, but he recognized this was different¡ªa gesture of mutual respect. He closed his eyes, letting Eliana¡¯s words guide him. What kind of person is Eliana, really? he wondered. His initial impression was of a materialistic girl, preoccupied with appearances. Yet seeing her now, calm and focused in the training room, challenged that assumption. Was she playing a part earlier, or was this just another side of her? The question left him puzzled.


    When he opened his eyes, he found Eliana watching him with a steady gaze.


    She rose gracefully, brushing her hands over her legs. ¡°Ready when you are,¡± she said with a faint smile.


    Kai stood, shaking off his uncertainty, and got into a standard boxing stance. His feet moved in a rhythmic bounce, his body swaying lightly with motion. In contrast, Eliana¡¯s stance was calm and deliberate. She placed one foot forward, her arms raised, hands in a loose, half-fist position. She radiated precision and control, a stark contrast to Kai¡¯s more fluid and reactive approach.


    The match was on.

 Chapter.6

    Kai lunged forward, using his weight and momentum to his advantage. He wasn¡¯t planning to strike Eliana, but he aimed to overpower her and wrestle her to the ground.


    Eliana watched his approach calmly, as if she had anticipated it. She didn¡¯t dodge or even move her feet. Instead, she simply smiled, her expression almost amused. Kai¡¯s confidence grew as his arms closed in on her wrists.


    Got her, he thought, his smile widening.


    But then her wrist slipped through his grasp as if it wasn¡¯t even there. Kai blinked in disbelief¡ª Eliana hadn¡¯t moved much, yet her body shifted in an instant, almost imperceptibly, to dodge his grip. She was still standing in the same spot, but now his entire side was exposed to her.


    Eliana¡¯s smile widened. Kai had done most of the work for her. With his momentum and poor positioning, all she needed was a well-placed push to send him to the ground.


    Kai¡¯s eyes widened as he realized he¡¯d miscalculated. He felt a familiar burning sensation in his arms and legs, the same odd energy that had coursed through him when piloting the ship. His body responded before his mind caught up. Twisting at the last moment, he redirected his momentum and managed to wrap around Eliana¡¯s waist, pulling her down with him as they fell to the floor.


    Eliana let out a short, surprised yelp as they landed. She had been certain Kai would hit the ground first, yet somehow, he had reversed his trajectory in a way that seemed almost impossible. The reflexes and sheer core strength required to pull off such a move were extraordinary, and it didn¡¯t add up.


    She stared at him, momentarily stunned. Kai didn¡¯t look like someone who had spent years training for moments like this. There was something about him, something she couldn¡¯t quite place.


    Eliana searched Kai¡¯s eyes, looking for some hint of smugness or triumph. But there was none. If anything, he looked just as surprised as she was.


    She scrambled to sit up, brushing a stray strand of hair from her face. ¡°How the hell did you manage to do that?¡± she asked, her voice tinged with curiosity and frustration.


    Kai remained on the ground, staring up at her. ¡°To be honest, I¡¯m not sure. My body just reacted. I guess I got lucky.¡±


    ¡°Again,¡± Eliana demanded, narrowing her eyes. She didn¡¯t believe for a second that it was just luck. Kai was hiding something, and Eliana was determined to figure out what it was.


    She got back on her feet, adjusting her stance. This time, she decided to go on the offensive. She was sure she was faster, more precise. There was no way he could rely on luck twice.


    Kai rose as well, rolling his shoulders as he readied himself. The burning energy coursed through his body again. He took a few deep breaths, calming his mind and focused.


    Eliana made the first move, closing the distance between them in a blur of motion. She launched a quick kick aimed at his midsection. Kai sidestepped it effortlessly, his movements fluid. She followed up with another kick, snapping it toward his legs, but he dodged again, this time even smoother.


    Maybe he recognizes my fighting style, Eliana thought. If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll just switch it up.


    She pivoted back, switching her stance mid-step. Her body language shifted subtly as she transitioned into a different technique, one of several she¡¯d mastered over the years. This time, she intended to keep him guessing, to find the gaps in his defenses and exploit them.


    Kai¡¯s focus didn¡¯t waver. He could feel the rhythm of her movements, the ebb and flow of her attacks. He didn¡¯t recognize her techniques outright, but his body seemed to anticipate them as if guided by an unseen instinct. Whatever was happening to him, it wasn¡¯t just luck¡ªit was something far deeper, something he was only beginning to understand.


    Eliana smirked, launching a feint to test him before moving in with her new approach. Let¡¯s see how you handle this.


    Kai saw Eliana raise her arm, feigning an attack. His instinct told him to dodge, but then he noticed something unusual¡ª a faint, almost imperceptible aura radiating from her opposite leg ¡ª the one she wasn¡¯t actively using. It was subtle, like a ripple in the air, but it told him everything he needed to know.


    In that moment, Kai understood her true intention. The raised arm was a distraction, and the real attack was coming from her leg.


    Without hesitation, his body moved on its own. He raised his leg swiftly, intercepting Eliana¡¯s kick with the side of his shin. The impact echoed through the dojo.


    Eliana¡¯s eyes widened, her carefully planned attack thwarted. ¡°How¡­?¡± she muttered under her breath, momentarily thrown off balance. Kai remained steady, his leg holding firm against hers.


    From Eliana¡¯s perspective, it was as if Kai had read her mind. The way he raised his leg just slightly before her kick connected wasn¡¯t a reaction¡ªit was a prediction. He had anticipated her move with a precision that unnerved her.


    Eliana paused, her breathing steady but her confidence shaken. There was no point in continuing. She had been bested, and she knew it. Sparring further wouldn¡¯t change the outcome.


    Taking a step back, Eliana lowered her head in a deep bow, acknowledging her defeat. Kai returned the gesture respectfully.


    As Eliana straightened, she noticed something for the first time. Kai¡¯s forehead glistened with sweat, his face slightly flushed from the exertion. He loosened the top of his sparring cloth to let in some air. It was then that Claire¡¯s eyes caught the definition of his physique. The company-issued suit, tailored for elegance and utility, had concealed his strength. Beneath his composed demeanor, Kai was far more formidable than she had imagined.


    For a moment, she stood there, observing him in a new light.


    Kai noticed Eliana staring at him, her gaze lingering longer than he was comfortable with. Embarrassment crept up on him, and he shifted slightly, adjusting his loosened cloth. He had won the match, and that meant his prize was going to be time spent with Eliana¡ªwhatever she had in mind. Yet, at the back of his mind, a flicker of guilt surfaced. How much of that fight was truly me, and how much was because of the strange liquid inside me?


    The thought gnawed at him as he stood there, unsure of what to say. He didn¡¯t want to come across as cocky, nor did he want to downplay her effort. But words failed him as he watched her, seemingly lost in a trance, her expression unreadable.


    For a moment, silence filled the space between them, tension mingling with curiosity and the unspoken questions they both carried.


    Eliana broke the silence, a playful grin spreading across her face. ¡°Guess I have to fulfill my promise,¡± she said, her tone teasing. ¡°But don¡¯t let your dirty mind get all excited. The prize was to spend time with me, not sleep with me. I hope you didn¡¯t misunderstand.¡±


    Kai smirked, deciding to play along. ¡°Yeah, that¡¯s exactly what I thought you meant when you said I could get to know you better.¡±


    Eliana chuckled, shaking her head. ¡°Sure thing, Kai.¡±


    Her grin widened, but behind her teasing tone, there was a flicker of intrigue in her eyes.


    ---


    Mr. Draco read through the report, then set it aside with little interest. His company had reached a point where it could thrive even without his constant management. Soon, his daughter would take over the family business, as had been planned by him and her mom.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    His thoughts drifted to the legend passed down through his lineage, a tale of immense danger and responsibility. He had carried the burden of that knowledge for years, and now it was time to pass it on to her.


    ¡°Where is my daughter?¡± he asked aloud, his voice firm.


    From just outside the door, his secretary responded promptly, ¡°She said she wasn¡¯t feeling well and took the rest of the day off, sir.¡±


    Kevin frowned, his annoyance surfacing. ¡°How many times has she done that this week?¡±


    ¡°This is the third time already, sir,¡± the secretary replied.


    ¡°And what did she really do? I don¡¯t believe she simply went home to rest,¡± Kevin said, irritation creeping into his tone. He suspected his daughter¡¯s priorities were far from the business he was grooming her to lead.


    The secretary hesitated for a moment before answering, ¡°Well, sir, she had a meal at the cantina and... um... booked a room at the dojo.¡±


    Kevin¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°The dojo? Who was she training with?¡±


    There was a brief pause. ¡°You¡¯ll find this interesting, sir. Your daughter was training with the miner who came in this morning. I believe his name was Kai.¡±


    ---


    Kai sneezed in the shower, the sound echoing off the tiled walls. He chuckled to himself, wondering if someone was talking about him behind his back. Eliana, maybe? he thought with amusement. She might still be stewing over her loss.


    After drying himself off, he slipped back into the suit, adjusting it to make sure it sat properly. Once ready, he headed out and made his way to the entrance of the dojo, where he leaned casually against the wall, waiting for Eliana.


    He didn¡¯t have to wait long before Eliana stepped out. She was dressed in casual, cropped black hoodie and fitted joggers with sleek lines, paired with simple sneakers. Her Auburn hair was tied back in a practical ponytail, with a few loose strands framing her face, giving her a relaxed appearance.


    Ever since the sparring match with Eliana, Kai felt a growing sense of trust in her. There was something about that physical exchange, the unspoken communication through movement and instinct, that bridged a gap no words could. The Eliana standing before him now felt like a completely different person than the one he had met at the front desk.


    Eliana caught him staring and flushed slightly. She puffed her cheeks and pretended to be annoyed. ¡°What are you staring at?¡± she asked.


    Kai snapped out of his thoughts and quickly apologized. ¡°Sorry, I was just thinking about how different you are now compared to when I first saw you at the front desk.¡±


    Her eyes lit with curiosity, and she leaned in slightly. ¡°Oh? What was your first impression of me?¡± She added with a teasing grin, ¡°Don¡¯t hold back¡ªjust say it.¡±


    Kai hesitated for a moment before answering truthfully. ¡°Well¡­ I thought you were a materialistic girl and wasn¡¯t exactly fond of you.¡±


    Eliana blinked, her blush deepening, but her expression shifted into a mix of amusement and indignation. ¡°Materialistic?¡± she repeated, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Wow, Kai. Way to sweep a girl off her feet.¡±


    Kai raised his hands in defense. ¡°Hey, I didn¡¯t know how things worked in the city. I guess it wasn¡¯t that I had something against you personally, but more about my dislike for the lifestyle here. People seem so wasteful. Like the shower towel I used¡ªI only used it once but still had to toss it in the laundry basket.¡±


    Eliana burst out laughing, finding his complaints surprisingly endearing. ¡°No, silly,¡± she said with a chuckle. ¡°That¡¯s because you¡¯re a personal guest of Mr. Draco. Most people here don¡¯t live in that kind of luxury. And my makeup? That¡¯s just something all the women here use for work.¡±


    She paused thoughtfully before continuing, ¡°Makeup to us is like the mining suit you wear in the mines. It¡¯s a layer of protection. It gives confidence and makes conversations more pleasant for clients.¡±


    Kai nodded slowly, considering her words. ¡°That makes sense,¡± he admitted. Then, with a slight blush, he added, ¡°But honestly, I find you without makeup more attractive.¡±


    His face grew hotter as the words left his mouth, and he quickly looked away.


    Eliana¡¯s cheeks turned pink as well, and she fidgeted with her hair. After a moment, she spoke softly, almost shyly. ¡°Alright... if that¡¯s what you find pleasant, I won¡¯t wear makeup when I¡¯m with you.¡±


    Her words hung in the air, and for a brief moment, neither of them knew what to say.


    Eliana¡¯s stomach rumbled loudly, and she quickly covered it with her hands, her face flushing with embarrassment.


    Kai couldn¡¯t help but laugh. ¡°I knew those tiny portions you ate weren¡¯t going to fill you,¡± he teased with a grin.


    Eliana chuckled, brushing off her embarrassment. ¡°I was just trying to be polite. I didn¡¯t want to scare you with how much I can actually eat.¡±


    Kai smirked, shaking his head. ¡°You don¡¯t have to hold back around me. I¡¯m not that easy to scare.¡±


    Eliana had picked a spot in the city for dinner, a cozy, casual place that offered a breathtaking view of the city skyline. The city truly came alive at night. From their vantage point, Kai could see towering skyscrapers glittering with lights, their reflections shimmering in the glassy surface of a nearby river. Cars zipped through the air in orderly streams, their lights streaking like fireflies. Neon signs from various establishments painted the streets below in vibrant hues of red, blue, and gold. The hustle and bustle felt more subdued, almost serene, under the blanket of city lights.


    They both ordered hearty meals, the portions making Eliana¡¯s earlier lunch seem like an appetizer. As the plates arrived, the aroma made Kai¡¯s stomach growl. He glanced at Eliana and couldn¡¯t help but laugh again. ¡°I think this is more your style.¡±


    ¡°I have an image to maintain at the company, alright?¡± Eliana said, rolling her eyes with a playful grin. ¡°Let¡¯s just eat. The food here is really awesome.¡±


    With that, they dug in, and Kai quickly realized she wasn¡¯t exaggerating. His meat stew was rich and hearty, packed with flavor. The tender chunks of meat, perfectly seasoned broth, and fresh vegetables created a symphony of tastes that was a far cry from the bland energy bars he was used to in the mine. Those bars, with their cardboard-like texture, had been his staple for far too long that he would liked, making this meal feel like a feast.


    He paused briefly, savoring the moment. ¡°You weren¡¯t kidding. This is amazing,¡± he said, glancing at Eliana, who was equally engrossed in her meal.


    After dinner, Kai and Eliana walked along the river that glimmered with reflections of the city lights. The hum of the city was distant, replaced by the soft lapping of water against the banks. Neither spoke at first, letting the serene night wash over them.


    ¡°It¡¯s nice to step away,¡± Eliana said softly, glancing at the water. ¡°To just breathe.¡±


    Kai nodded. ¡°Yeah. Makes things feel clearer.¡±


    She turned to him with a small smile. ¡°You¡¯re not what I expected.¡±


    ¡°Neither are you,¡± Kai admitted.


    In that quiet moment, they shared an unspoken understanding, a connection that needed no words. The world seemed simpler here, just for a little while.


    It was a nice moment between the two of them, quiet and unforced. But for some reason, Kai couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that they were being watched. He subtly glanced around, scanning his surroundings from the corner of his eye. The riverside was lively, filled with people enjoying the night¡ªmostly couples strolling hand in hand, just like them. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, yet the unease in his chest remained.


    Maybe it was just his looks. His white hair and sharp jawline made him stand out, giving him the appearance of someone who had just stepped off a movie set.


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Eliana asked, noticing his distracted expression.


    Kai shook his head slightly. ¡°No, sorry,¡± he said. ¡°I just can¡¯t help but feel like we¡¯re being watched.¡±


    Eliana glanced around, her expression growing cautious. Apparently, she felt it too. ¡°Perhaps we should head back,¡± she whispered.


    Kai nodded in agreement, and the two made their way back to the Draco building. Despite the unsettling feeling, the moment didn¡¯t ruin their night. The warmth of their earlier connection lingered, and they walked together in quiet understanding.


    Kai hated to admit it, but he felt a pang of sadness that the evening had ended so abruptly. Still, he was grateful for the time he had spent with Eliana and for the chance to see her true self. He had learned something important¡ªthat people adapt to their environments, and first impressions often hide much more beneath the surface. Never judge a book by its cover, he reminded himself.


    Eliana didn¡¯t say anything at first; she simply leaned in and wrapped her arms around Kai.


    ¡°Thank you for the date,¡± she said softly, her cheeks tinged with a faint rose.


    Kai returned the hug, his voice sincere. ¡°I enjoyed our time together, Eliana. I hope I see you soon.¡±


    Eliana smiled, stepping back. ¡°I¡¯m sure we will,¡± she replied, giving him a small wave as she turned toward the elevator.


    Kai stood there for a moment, charmed, watching as she stepped into the elevator. Just before the doors closed, she waved one last time with a warm smile. He found himself smiling back, even as the elevator carried her out of sight.


    Little did Kai know, Eliana was smiling long after the elevator doors closed. She leaned against the wall, her thoughts swirling. She had never opened her heart to anyone the way she had with Kai. Though they had only just begun to know each other, there was something undeniably special about him.


    Eliana knew her cards well. She was the center of attention for many men at the company¡ªsome drawn to her because of her connection to Mr. Draco, others purely for her looks. But none of that mattered to her. What she craved was someone she could talk to, someone she could spar with and feel at ease around. Kai was perfect.


    He had come out of nowhere, completely unaware of her background. He treated her with respect, not as someone to impress or curry favor with, but as an equal. Handsome, fit, and genuinely kind, he had shown her a side of himself that felt real. And on top of that, he was an incredible fighter. His raw skill, quick reactions, and strength intrigued her, even if his technique lacked polish.


    Thinking about him made her heart race, so much so that she had called it a night earlier than she¡¯d wanted to. She didn¡¯t want to fall too hard, too fast¡ªnot yet.


    As she rode the elevator alone, a small smile lingered on her lips. Soon she will be able to see him again.

 Chapter.7

    Kai returned to his room, taking a moment to compose himself. The unexpected detour with Eliana had been one of the best experiences he¡¯d had in years, but he reminded himself of the real reason he was here. Tomorrow would be pivotal, a day that could determine whether he could finally leave this barren planet behind.


    He lay down on the soft, luxurious bed, the kind of comfort he wasn¡¯t used to. As he closed his eyes, his thoughts drifted back to Eliana. He forced himself to stop, knowing better than to fall for someone he had just met. For all he knew, he might never see her again.


    Damn it, he thought, realizing he hadn¡¯t even gotten her contact. He cursed himself quietly and turned onto his side. What did she mean when she said she was sure we¡¯d meet again soon?


    Kai didn¡¯t know when sleep overtook him, but the plush bed certainly helped him rest deeply. He woke to find it was just past 5 a.m., the city still quiet in the early morning light. He spent a few minutes soaking in the serene view from his window before heading to the bathroom.


    Looking into the mirror, Kai saw the disheveled state he was in. His hair was a mess, and he hadn¡¯t shaved in over a week. With meeting with Mr. Draco in mind¡ªand the faint hope of possibly running into Eliana again¡ªhe decided to clean himself up. Tying his hair back into a bun, he carefully shaved his beard, watching as the rugged miner in the mirror took on a sharper, more polished look.


    Kai made a simple breakfast and waited for someone to contact him. The call came just as he was placing the last dish in the drying rack. He wiped his hands on a towel and answered.


    Five minutes later, he was in the elevator, heading down to the lobby. Kevin had returned his clothes to him, cleaned and neatly folded. Even the tiny holes in his jacket, something he¡¯d decided to ignore long ago, had been expertly patched up.


    The elevator came to a smooth stop, and the doors slid open. Kai stepped out and immediately focused his gaze on the front desk. A beautiful woman stood there, greeting clients with a polished smile. But his heart sank slightly when he realized it wasn¡¯t Eliana, just another receptionist. Shrugging off the disappointment, he continued toward the exit.


    A car was waiting outside for him. A blackout Astra Eon, a high-end model crafted by the luxury automaker Celes Dynamics, known for their sleek, futuristic designs and unparalleled comfort.


    Kai stepped into the car, only to find Mr. Draco and Eliana sitting across from him. He was taken aback by her presence but masked his surprise. Eliana wore light makeup and her casual sporty attire, her posture relaxed yet composed as she sat beside her father with a pleasant smile on her face.


    ¡°Mr. Draco,¡± Kai greeted, nodding politely.


    ¡°Please, don¡¯t be so formal, Kai,¡± Kevin said with a dismissive wave. The car accelerated smoothly. ¡°Call me Kevin. And by the looks of it, I think you¡¯ve already met my daughter, Eliana.¡±


    Kai blinked, his mind reeling. Daughter? The receptionist Eliana was Kevin¡¯s daughter¡ªthe daughter of the head of Draco Mining, one of the most powerful men on the planet. He turned to Eliana, his expression frozen in disbelief.


    Eliana was the first to break the silence. ¡°I¡¯m really sorry, Kai,¡± she said softly, her voice earnest. ¡°I didn¡¯t mean to hide it from you. I just didn¡¯t want you to see me differently because of who my father is. I really enjoyed our time together.¡±


    As she spoke, any irritation Kai might have felt melted away. Her sincerity disarmed him, and he realized that if he were in her position, he would have done the same. Life in the city, especially one so tied to power and influence, was far more complicated than his own.


    ¡°That¡¯s alright, Eliana,¡± Kai replied with a smile. ¡°I understand.¡±


    Kevin, observing their interaction, spoke with a neutral tone. ¡°Eliana insisted on coming along for this trip into the mine. She¡¯s quite fond of you, Kai.¡±


    Kai glanced at Eliana, whose cheeks flushed slightly at her father¡¯s words, and he found himself smiling again. This trip was already shaping up to be more interesting than he had expected.


    Kai stepped out of the Astra Eon, shielding his eyes from the glaring sunlight. As his vision adjusted, the sight before him was nothing short of breathtaking.


    "Welcome to the BlackSwan" Eliana said behind Kai.


    On the landing pad stood a massive luxury starship, its design an intricate blend of sharp, angular ridges and smooth, elegant curves. The metallic hull gleamed in the sunlight, a stunning combination of polished silver and subtle gold accents that seemed almost alive as they reflected the desert light.


    The ship¡¯s rear ramp extended to the ground, where crews worked diligently to load supplies. Crates of various sizes were being carried up by workers that wear EXO-suits and loaded with precision, while small drones zipped back and forth, delivering additional cargo. The rhythmic clanking of equipment and the occasional hum of engines filled the air.


    Set against the stark red sand of the barren desert and the vast blue sky above, the starship looked like a masterpiece of engineering. It was everything Kai could have asked for in a starship¡ªelegant yet practical, with a professional crew working seamlessly to prepare it for departure. He had dreamed of boarding a ship like this for as long as he could remember, and now, that dream had finally come true.


    Eliana watched as Kai inspected the ship, his eyes darting across its surface, taking in every detail as if he didn¡¯t want to miss a single thing. She chuckled softly at how endearing he looked, like a child unwrapping a long-awaited birthday gift. She stood beside him, waiting patiently while her father engaged in conversation with the ship¡¯s commander nearby.


    Kai finally turned to her, his eyes glistening with excitement. The joy on his face was unmistakable, and Eliana couldn¡¯t help but smile back, sensing that he wanted to share this moment with her.


    ¡°Just wait until you see the inside,¡± she teased, her voice light and playful.


    Eliana wasn¡¯t lying. As soon as the crew finished loading the last of the supplies and boarded the ship, Kai followed her inside and was immediately awestruck. The interior was a seamless continuation of the ship¡¯s elegant yet functional design. The walls were lined with sleek, polished metal accented by panels of real wood¡ªa rare and luxurious commodity on Drakmoor. Soft, recessed lighting cast a warm glow, highlighting the intricate craftsmanship of the ship¡¯s corridors and rooms. The space was vast, far larger than Kai expected, with high ceilings and a layout that balanced practicality with comfort. Every facility he could imagine was here: even including a fully equipped gym, a small pool with shimmering water, and lounges furnished with plush seating that seemed to invite relaxation. It was a self-contained world, built for both efficiency and indulgence.


    Kevin led Kai and Eliana to the bridge, his voice steady with pride. ¡°Welcome to the brain of the ship,¡± he said, gesturing to the space around them. At the front, a massive viewport stretched from floor to ceiling, offering an unobstructed view of the horizon and providing the pilot with unparalleled visibility. Just behind the pilot¡¯s seat was the commander¡¯s station, slightly elevated to oversee all operations. To the left and right were the engineering and gunner seats, with state-of-the-art controls. The engineering station monitored the ship¡¯s systems, while the gunner seat controlled the  weaponry remotely. Everything was carefully designed and customized to perfection."You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.


    Kai was captivated by all things on the bridge. Every detail brought his childhood dream one step closer to reality. If it weren¡¯t for the meeting, he would have chosen to stay on the bridge for the entire duration of the flight.


    Not long after takeoff, four people sat around a round table in the ship¡¯s meeting room. The hum of the ship¡¯s engines provided a low background melody as they ascended into the sky. Commander Grayson, a towering man with an impressive build and a beard so thick and majestic it could rival the men of the warrior tribes on Tarnaxis, sat at the head of the table. The other three were Kevin, Kai, and Eliana, each taking their seats as the meeting began.


    Commander Grayson spoke first, his voice firm and direct. ¡°Two days ago, a ship from the Federation landed on Drakmoor. Several ambassadors held a meeting with Governor Railey to discuss the possibility of a future conflict with the Empire, seeking her loyalty in what they see as an inevitable war.¡± He paused briefly, his serious gaze sweeping the room. ¡°We all know that a war between the two factions is only a matter of time. The Emperor¡¯s goal of uniting humanity under one banner has been a controversial topic for decades.¡±


    Kevin leaned forward, his tone calm but resolute. ¡°Governor Railey contacted me last night for my opinion. I¡¯ve pledged my support for her decision to side with the Federation. The Emperor is a tyrant who takes far more than he gives.¡± He glanced meaningfully at Kai, his words heavy with unspoken acknowledgment.


    Kai nodded slowly, understanding the weight of Kevin¡¯s reference. The invasion of Velmorra¡ªthe reason Kai had fled his home in the first place¡ªwas a stark reminder of the Empire¡¯s ruthless ambition. His dislike for the Empire ran deep.


    Commander Grayson continued, his tone growing graver. ¡°Our biggest problem is Drakmoor¡¯s location. By this time next year, the star systems¡¯ rotation will align our planet with Denzov-II in the Gnonoe System, creating a perfect jump point into federation territory. Recent heat signatures from that sector indicate a rally of at least four capital-sized vessels accompanied by support fleets.¡±


    Eliana drew in a sharp breath. ¡°We couldn¡¯t possibly fight back against a force like that. What is the Federation planning to do?¡±


    Grayson¡¯s expression remained steady. ¡°The Federation has promised a response force of similar size. Their plan is to intercept and drive the Empire¡¯s fleet away before they reach Drakmoor¡¯s orbit.¡±


    Kevin exchanged a weighted look with Grayson before turning to Kai. There was a shift in the room¡¯s atmosphere, and Kai felt uneasiness wash over him.


    ¡°Kai,¡± Kevin began, his voice slower and more deliberate. ¡°The information you brought me about the lost ship¡ªit wasn¡¯t news to me.¡± He paused, letting the words sink in. ¡°I owe you an apology for not telling you the full truth before. But my daughter¡¯s approval of you has convinced me that you¡¯re someone trustworthy. So, I¡¯ll tell you everything now.¡±


    Kai glanced at Eliana, searching her face for answers. She caught his gaze and mouthed the words: ¡°Don¡¯t worry.¡±


    "I¡¯ve already told Eliana," Kevin said, his tone grave, "and now I¡¯ll pass down our family¡¯s secret to you." He leaned forward, his gaze unwavering. "There¡¯s a legend that¡¯s been passed down through generations in the Draco family. It tells of a ship buried deep beneath the rocks of Drakmoor¡ªa ship that could hold the key to unimaginable change. And I believe the ship you found might be the one."


    Kai frowned, his skepticism apparent. ¡°If it¡¯s that important, then why not use deep ground scanners to find it earlier? Surely, with your resources¡ª¡±


    Kevin raised a hand, cutting him off gently. ¡°Because the legend warns us of what happens when it¡¯s found,¡± he explained, his voice steady. ¡°The day it¡¯s unearthed is said to bring change to the universe. The ship you found, if it is the one, must be protected at all costs. And so must the person who finds it.¡±


    Kai¡¯s expression darkened as he considered Kevin¡¯s words. ¡°What kind of secrets would be so important?¡±


    Kevin shook his head. ¡°Nobody knows. The legend never explained what secrets the ship holds. That¡¯s why I wanted to visit the mine myself.¡±


    Kai nodded, his mind racing as he recalled the notebook he had taken from the buried ship. He was ready to share his own discovery. Reaching into his pocket, he was abruptly interrupted by a blaring alarm that echoed through the ship¡¯s hull.


    Commander Grayson was the first to react, bolting to his feet and rushing out of the room. The others quickly followed, their footsteps pounding against the metal floor as they hurried to the bridge.


    The moment they entered, the tension in the air was palpable. The engineer turned in his seat, his face grim. ¡°We were cruising at a steady speed,¡± he explained, his voice steady but urgent, ¡°when an unknown ship locked onto us. They must have been cloaked because there was no sign of them on our scanners until the lock-on warning triggered.¡±


    Commander Grayson stepped forward, barking orders. ¡°Evasive maneuvers! Prepare countermeasures!¡± He turned to the gunner. ¡°Get weapons systems online, now!¡±


    The pilot¡¯s hands flew over the controls as the ship shuddered violently. ¡°They¡¯ve fired! Brace for impact!¡± he shouted, the screen lighting up with red indicators tracking an incoming missile. The crew moved with precision, but the element of surprise had put them at a dangerous disadvantage.


    Eliana grabbed Kai¡¯s hand, her grip tight. Kai could feel her nervousness and instinctively wrapped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her close as they both braced themselves.


    ¡°Weapons systems online, shields at one hundred percent,¡± the engineer reported, his voice steady despite the tension.


    ¡°Intercept the missile, and scramble their lock.¡± Commander Grayson ordered sharply.


    The gunner was already in action, seated at his station with a VR goggle strapped over his eyes. A wire connected his helmet to the ceiling, feeding his view directly to the display in front of Commander Grayson. On the screen, Kai could see what the gunner was seeing¡ªa missile streaking toward them, closing the gap with alarming speed.


    ¡°Missile inbound.¡± the gunner announced, pausing briefly before continuing, ¡° Chaff launched. Ivan, evasive maneuvers now.¡±


    Kai felt the ship lurch as gravity shifted momentarily, then stabilized as the ship¡¯s artificial gravity generator adjusted. The ship banked hard to the right, pulling into a sharp turn. Despite the evasive maneuver, Kai was impressed by how smoothly the ship handled for its size.


    A bright flash and a muffled explosion erupted behind them. For a brief moment, Kai thought they¡¯d been hit. But a glance at Commander Grayson¡¯s calm expression, and the faint grin tugging at his lips¡ªtold him otherwise. The chaff had worked, successfully diverting the missile.


    ¡°They¡¯ve lost the element of surprise,¡± Grayson said, his voice calm but commanding. ¡°Robert, get me a lock on their ship.¡±


    ¡°Roger,¡± Robert, the gunner, replied. His hands moved deftly over the controls, and the display on Grayson¡¯s screen shifted as the view swiveled to follow their attacker. At first, there was only a small black dot in the distance. Then, as Robert zoomed in, the attacking ship came into focus.


    It was a small, sleek craft shaped like a triangle, darting through the air with stunning speed. Vapor trails streaked behind its wingtips as it maneuvered to stay on their tail. Kai¡¯s sharp eyes recognized it instantly.


    ¡°A stealth bomber from Corsair Industry,¡± he muttered, his tone grim. ¡°Popular with pirates and PMCs.¡±


    Eliana glanced at him. ¡°What do you know about it?¡±


    ¡°It¡¯s fast and agile,¡± Kai explained, his voice low but steady. ¡°It carries an impressive missile payload, but its hull is paper-thin. It relies on stealth and boom-and-zoom tactics¡ªsurprise, strike, and vanish. If we can lock onto it, it won¡¯t last in a head-to-head fight.¡±


    Commander Grayson nodded slightly, overhearing Kai¡¯s assessment. His focus remained fixed on the display. ¡°Let¡¯s see if they can handle being on the other side of the hunt.¡±


    Robert, the gunner, leaned into his controls with a confident smirk. ¡°Teresa, decode and send me the signature of that ship. I¡¯m going to give it a little gift.¡±


    ¡°Already done,¡± Teresa replied, her own smirk matching his.


    Kai¡¯s attention was glued to the gunner¡¯s display. He watched as a small object ejected from the rear of their ship¡ªa countermeasure with a very specific purpose. The attacker had made a critical mistake, Kai realized. It should never have lingered in pursuit against a ship like the Black Swan. Perhaps they had assumed the ship was unarmed, or their pilot was simply too inexperienced to execute the hit-and-run tactics required.


    As expected, the pursuing ship broke through Teresa¡¯s jamming and fired a second missile. But it was too late. The ¡°gift¡± Robert had sent out reached proximity of the attacker and released a powerful burst of electromagnetic energy. The attacking ship¡¯s systems sputtered, and its maneuvers ceased as its computers were fried. The once-agile craft drifted in the sky, a sitting target. The missle lost its guidance and flew aimlessly towards space.


    ¡°Sir, we have a lock!¡± Robert said, his voice brimming with excitement.


    ¡°Fire,¡± Commander Grayson ordered, his tone calm and final.


    The bridge fell silent for a moment as the gunner executed the command. The bright explosion lit up the distant sky, the remains of the attacking ship scattering in all directions.


    The immediate danger had passed, but the tension in the room lingered. The crew exchanged puzzled glances, the same question on everyone¡¯s mind: who had sent the attacker, and why?


    ¡°Sir,¡± Teresa¡¯s voice cut through the heavy silence on the bridge, sharp and filled with urgency. ¡°We¡¯ve lost contact with the mine.¡±