Chapter 2 Rare mineral effect

Violet, her voice faint, gave a command.

"Elara, initiate medical protocol. Prepare the medbay."

As the protocol activated, Violet summoned the last remnants of her strength, tapping into her telekinetic ability—a pure gift from the Elarian race—to lift herself into the air. With a strong mental push, she rose from the ground, her body hovering steadily despite the waves of nausea and dizziness that assaulted her.

Each telekinetic pulse sent a tremor through her body, but Violet endured, focusing all her will on reaching her ship, which lay a considerable distance away from the cave. The strong winds and the disorientation made her journey even more arduous, but she pressed on.

Breathing heavily, Violet whispered to herself,

"Just a little farther… I have to make it."

The world around her spun as she flew over rocky terrain and steep valleys. Minutes felt like hours, but finally, her ship—Elara—appeared on the horizon.

With the last of her strength, she landed roughly near the ship's entrance. The hatch opened automatically, and Violet staggered inside, breath ragged and body trembling. She rushed toward the medbay, already prepped with advanced diagnostic instruments.

"Welcome back, Violet," Elara's calm voice greeted. "Medical protocol is active. Please lie down for analysis."

Violet collapsed onto the medical bed as various sensors and devices sprang to life, scanning her thoroughly. A holographic display above the bed began to show real-time diagnostics.

"Significant changes detected in your genetic and physical structure," Elara reported. "Your skin pigment has darkened—now a warm golden tone—and your hair has undergone a molecular shift, producing a white-gold hue. Your internal energy levels have increased drastically, resulting in side effects such as dizziness and nausea."

Violet whispered, "What have I done to myself…" as she closed her eyes, trying to steady her breath.

The dizziness began to ease as the medical systems worked to stabilize her. She realized the power she had gained came at a cost—and now she had to learn to control this transformation.

"I must understand this power… Planet Blue has given me something extraordinary. I can't waste it… not for myself, but for my people," she thought with determination.

Moments passed. Her condition stabilized. Violet sat up on the medical bed, facing her reflection on the holographic mirror. She barely recognized herself—her radiant golden-brown skin, shimmering white-gold hair, and deepened sapphire eyes gave her the appearance of a goddess from ancient myths.

She softly murmured again, "What have I done to myself…?"

The drastic transformation left her shocked and overwhelmed. She reached up to her face, almost needing the touch to confirm the surreal image before her.

"This is… incredible… and terrifying…"

Suddenly, a surge of nausea hit her like a storm. Her stomach churned, her vision blurred, and her head spun uncontrollably. Her limbs trembled, and within seconds, her strength failed her.

"No… what is this…?" she groaned.

Her body convulsed, and the overwhelming dizziness rendered her unconscious.

---

Hours later, Violet awoke slowly, her consciousness returning bit by bit. She felt weak, but the nausea had faded. Elara's voice filled the room once more.

"Good morning, Violet. You've been unconscious for several hours. There's important information you need to know about your condition."

Violet sat up cautiously, still weary but now curious. She turned toward the holographic display, which now revealed a more detailed analysis.

With concern in her voice, Violet asked, "What's happening to me, Elara? Why did I pass out?"

"Upon further analysis," Elara responded, "the mineral you absorbed has triggered profound changes—not only physically, but biologically."

Violet's eyes widened as she awaited the rest.

"The mineral exhibits an extremely potent reproductive effect. At present, there are four new lifeforms developing inside your body. You are carrying quadruplets—two male and two female."

Violet froze. Her eyes widened in shock, her breath caught in her throat. The words hit her like a thunderclap.

"What? How is this even possible?" she gasped. "I… I never expected this. Four children?"

Elara continued, "The mineral's full properties remain unknown, but its reproductive capability appears to be part of its natural composition. The developing offspring show signs of accelerated growth and potential abilities far beyond normal parameters—similar to the transformation you experienced."

Silent for a moment, Violet slowly placed her hand over her abdomen. Fear and confusion began to fade, replaced by a fierce resolve.

"I've made my decision," she said firmly. "I will stay here, on Planet Blue. This will be our home—for now. I must ensure the safety of my children and raise them in a secure environment."

"A wise decision, Violet," Elara replied. "I will assist you with everything you need during your pregnancy and beyond."

A surge of protective instinct filled her heart. As she continued to cradle her stomach gently, she asked Elara about the expected time of birth.

"Elara, when will I give birth? Do you have an estimate?"

"Based on the accelerated development rate and your altered physiology," Elara explained, "I estimate the delivery will occur within six months. This is significantly faster than standard gestation, likely due to the mineral's influence."

Six months. It wasn't long. Violet knew she had to prepare everything within that short time—but with Elara's help and her newfound strength, she believed she could handle it.

"Very well. Six months. We must prepare everything for their arrival. I will not let them be born into chaos."

"I'll begin designing the necessary systems and gathering supplies for pregnancy and delivery. We should also seek a more stable location on Planet Blue to settle."

Violet nodded. "Agreed. We need to build a home—a sanctuary. Planet Blue still holds many secrets, but I believe we can find a safe haven."

Elara responded, "Currently, our landing site consists mainly of barren rock, sparse soil, and wild grass. Exploring the planet further would be wise. There may be edible resources and habitable terrain."

"You're right, Elara. We can't rely solely on the ship's food reserves. We need to find natural food sources and a better place to live."

"I recommend an expedition westward. Scanners have detected a zone with high humidity and denser vegetation approximately 20 kilometers from our current location."

"Then I'll go. Prepare everything I'll need for the journey."

With Elara's assistance, Violet packed essential gear—holographic maps, water supplies, and medical kits. Though her body was still adjusting to the transformation, her resolve to protect her unborn children fueled her strength.

"I will monitor your journey and provide guidance through remote communication. Stay safe, Violet."

"Thank you, Elara. I'll be careful."

Stepping out of the ship, Violet moved with purpose. The sky above was darkened by looming storm clouds, and rain poured in relentless waves. But with her telekinetic power, she soared through the harsh terrain, undeterred.

The dark blue sky was veiled with thunderous clouds, unleashing torrents of rain. Fierce winds lashed at her, trying to hurl her back as she floated forward.

In the distance, a vast ocean spread endlessly. Towering waves roared, crashing against jagged cliffs. The sea shimmered faintly beneath the hidden sun, reflecting light in ethereal blue glimmers.

Violet gazed at the breathtaking yet daunting scenery. Planet Blue was alien, but its raw beauty was captivating. She could feel the deep energy pulsing through the environment, stronger than anything she'd known before.

As she reached the designated coordinates, confusion swept over her. All she saw was a barren stretch of lifeless stone.

"Elara, are we at the correct location?" Violet asked, puzzled.