Beneath Terran Thrones

Chapter 7

Rachel later drew slack lines on Zorath's chest while they lay entwined in the debris. She said, "We can't keep doing this, you know," but her voice lacked conviction.

Gently, Zorath's fingers caressed her hair. "I am aware. However, we also seem unable to stop.

With a sigh, Rachel's eyes strayed to the ceiling. It's not simple. This place has everything.

With a contemplative gaze, Zorath nodded. Yes, complicated. but worthwhile.

Rachel gave him a soft-eyed glance. "Yes, it was worthwhile." She bent down and gave him a little peck on the lips. "At least for the moment."

Their lighthearted conversation resumed as they dressed, their hidden affair temporarily forgotten. Zorath laughed at Rachel's "human stubbornness" and mocked him about his "alien charm."

Rachel, though, couldn't get rid of the feeling that their tenuous equilibrium was going to be put to the test as she left his office. The presence of Dr. Primrose and the continued political unrest cast doubt on their relationship's future as well as the success of their diplomatic effort.

But for the time being, in the peaceful moments they stole away from Futraxi Prime, they found comfort and a sense of community. And that was plenty for Rachel to continue along, one difficult step at a time.

With a quick peek at the mirror on Zorath's office wall, Rachel straightened her clothing. In the reflection, she could be seen attempting to keep her cool as her mind raced over their secret meeting. She looked over at Zorath, who had a contemplative look on his face as he buttoned his shirt.

"There's something you should know, Rachel," he replied, his tone growing serious.

Her fingers lingered on her collar as she hesitated. "What's that?"

"There's a formal dinner at the Capitol this evening," Zorath said, fixing his gaze on hers. "Please come be my guest,"

Rachel's forehead wrinkled a little. "A celebration? What is the event?

Zorath's expression became wary. This official gathering is an expression of good will between our countries.

That's not all, though. Dr. Primrose isn't merely come to assess our diplomatic efforts, I have cause to think.

With surprise, Rachel's eyes grew wide. "Explain what you mean."

Zorath maintained a steady stare and a stern tone. "I believe she's a spy sent to find out our secrets instead of evaluating our work. Her behavior is very careful and cautious, as I have noticed. Additionally, it appears that she is overly fascinated in facets of our culture unrelated to diplomacy.

With a tone of mistrust, Rachel shook her head. "Zorath, that is a very serious charge. Primrose could be disagreeable, but a spy? That's difficult for me to believe.

With a sigh, Zorath moved in closer to give her a gentle face-cup. "I understand it seems unrealistic, but would you kindly keep a watch on her? I have a feeling she’s not what she seems.”

Rachel bit her lip, considering his words. “Alright,” she agreed reluctantly. “I’ll keep watch.”

Later that night, after Zorath had warned her, Rachel discovered herself pacing outside Dr. Primrose's apartments. She hovered close to the door, trying to get up the courage, but the hallway was dimly lighted and the shadows played tricks with her sight.

She perceived a slight noise inside—Primrose conversing with someone. With her heart racing, Rachel took a step closer. She strained to hear the conversation as she pushed her ear to the door.

"Yes, I have communicated with the ambassadors," Primrose's composed, professional voice declared. They don't appear to understand why I'm here. It will be an excellent chance to learn more during the gala this evening.

Rachel was having trouble breathing. Zorath was correct. Primrose worked as a spy.

Her mind racing, she retreated from the door. She had to move fast. Rachel turned on her heel and ran down the hallway, leaving the empty hall in her wake. She went to her own room, where a safe-keeping gadget was waiting for her.

She shook her hands, turned on the gadget, and entered the code to talk to Charlote. Charlote's grim face emerged as the TV came to life.

"Ambassador Collins," Charlote said with a lively tone. "What has changed?"

Taking a deep breath, Rachel prepared herself. "Dr. Primrose is not who she appears to be." She's a spy, I overheard her say. She is not here to assess our diplomatic efforts; rather, she is here to gather information.

With a flicker of something sinister across her face, Charlote's eyes narrowed. "I understand.

The news is alarming. Keep an eye on her, but avoid going up against her. We must handle this carefully.

With her heart still pounding, Rachel nodded. Recognized. Tonight is also the gala. She'll be there, so this could be an opportunity to find out more information.

Charlote maintained her neutral demeanor. Alright. Please update me. We must ascertain precisely what she is pursuing.

Rachel was alone in the dim light of her quarters as the screen turned black. She went back out after giving herself a chance to gather herself. She needed to locate Lucas.

Standing at Lucas's door, Rachel's thoughts were racing with both urgency and disbelief. Her knuckles clattered against the glossy wood as she gave a forceful knock. After a few period, the door opened and Lucas came out with his shirt half-buttoned and his hair disheveled.

He murmured, blinking in shock, "Rachel." "What is happening? You appear to have witnessed a ghost.

Rachel shoved past him, her body tense. Lucas, we've got an issue. a significant one.

Lucas shut the door and observed her with a puzzled look. "All right, take it slowly. What's wrong?

With intensely wide eyes, Rachel turned to face him. "Primrose." She works as a spy. She's not here to judge us, based on what I overheard her saying to someone. She is present in order to obtain data.

Lucas crossed his arms and scowled. "Spy? Are you sure, Rachel? That is a really grave charge.

With an eager tone, Rachel affirmed, "I'm sure." "I personally heard her. She intends to gather more intelligence at tonight's event.

Lucas looked doubtful as he ran a hand through his hair. "I'm not sure, Rachel. That seems a little unrealistic. Are you certain you're not exaggerating?

Rachel erupted in annoyance. This isn't a jest, Lucas! She poses a threat to our goals and everything we're working towards in this place. This needs to be taken seriously.

Lucas let out a sigh and sagged his shoulders. "All right, all right. I'll be watching her at the gala. However, you must settle down. We are unable to afford to act rashly.

Still feeling her heart race, Rachel nodded. Alright. Just exercise caution. We have to deal with this without giving her away.

Thoughts of possibilities rushed through Rachel's mind as she left Lucas's room. The stakes were bigger than ever, and she knew she couldn't trust Primrose. She had to be prepared for whatever came next because the gala was their next opportunity to find out.

Futraxi Prime – Year 2358 – The Gala Dinner

For the gala supper, the Capitol Building's vast hall was turned into a breathtaking show. A gentle, golden glow from the chandeliers illuminates the tasteful décor and the visitors mixing in their best clothes. The sound of clinking glasses and gentle chatter filled the air, a sharp contrast to the chaos bubbling beneath the surface.

Rachel stood close to the door, looking out over the throng. She noticed Zorath conversing with other dignitaries from across the room. She couldn't help but be impressed by his confident, charming, and completely engaging demeanor despite the anxiety.

With a controlled, enigmatic smile, Primrose entered the room. Rachel saw as Lucas walked over to her and struck up a casual chat. She hoped he could distract her long enough for her to find out more.

Rachel felt an imminent clash as she moved through the crowd and couldn't get rid of it. The delicate balance between diplomacy and dishonesty was going to be put to the test as the night was just getting started.

Zorath was standing next to him, a tall, commanding figure, as she took a sip of her drink. The gathering was riveted by the senior Futraxian's intense gaze and severe face, which stood in stark contrast to Zorath's affable manner.

With a warm and inviting tone, Zorath remarked, "Rachel, allow me to introduce my father, Governor Xerix."

Rachel bowed her head in deference. Greetings and honors, Governor Xerix.

Rachel was analyzed by Xerix's unwavering, razor-sharp gaze with a trace of doubt. "Ambassador Collins," he uttered in a hurried tone. Greetings from Futraxi Prime.

Primrose, who had been socializing in the vicinity, approached them with an air of polished charm. "Governor Xerix," she gestured with a purring hand. "Medical Professional. Here, I've heard a lot about your leadership."

Xerix's expression was enigmatic as his gaze darted to her hand before he accepted it. "Dr. Primrose," he uttered in a cold voice. "I hope this visit has been educational."

Primrose smiled in a slightly predatory way as she leaned closer. Governor, it's been fascinating. I'd love to hear more about Futraxi from someone with your... depth of experience in particular.

Watching, Rachel's discomfort increased. But Zorath stepped in with ease, approaching his father. He answered sharply, "Father, we have other guests to greet."

Xerix flicked his eyes to Zorath and released Primrose's hand. "Obviously," he stated in a harsh tone. "Dr. Primrose, have fun tonight."

Primrose's eyes narrowed and her grin wavered slightly as she observed Xerix and Zorath walk away. Rachel noticed the slight change in her attitude and recognized the irritation of a plan that had been momentarily derailed.

Gazing back at Rachel with a sly expression, Zorath and Xerix made their way through the throng. With a subtle nod, she conveyed the mutual understanding they shared. Primrose was a participant in a perilous game, and in order to shield Futraxi from her ulterior motive, they would have to constantly anticipate her moves.

Rachel and Zorath were preparing in silence for the fights that were ahead as the gala went on, the atmosphere vibrating with the mix of intrigue and diplomacy.