Chapter 3 The Hidden Oasis

"Yes, Violet. The coordinates are accurate according to my analysis," replied the AI, Elara, with firm confidence.

Violet scanned the area carefully, trying to find any sign of the place she was looking for. But disappointment slowly crept in as she found nothing but lifeless rocks scattered across the harsh terrain.

Suddenly, her steps came to a halt as she unintentionally stepped on a cluster of cracked stones. The ground beneath her gave way, revealing a large hole. Inside, she discovered a hidden oasis—lush green plants thriving and a small stream flowing gently, its soft gurgling bringing a sense of calm.

A wave of relief and joy washed over Violet. In the midst of the relentless storm and rain blanketing the planet, this discovery felt like a miracle. She felt grateful for Elara's help and grew eager to explore the place further.

Violet floated gently down into the opening, carefully controlling her descent with her telekinetic abilities. As she entered the hidden oasis, she was taken aback by the stark contrast it offered compared to the barren, storm-ridden surface. Here, beneath the ground, vibrant greenery thrived, and a stream whispered a tranquil melody.

"Elara, this is incredible. It feels like a hidden paradise amidst the chaos above," Violet said, awe resonating in her voice.

"Initial analysis indicates that the microclimate here is highly stable and supportive of life. These plants and fruits may provide essential nutrients for your survival—and that of your future children," Elara responded calmly.

Violet walked deeper into the oasis, gently brushing her fingers over the soft leaves and inhaling the fresh, clean air—so unlike the toxic atmosphere outside.

"Elara, I need to know more about the plants and fruits here. Can you analyze them and see if any have special properties?" she asked, plucking a ripe, juicy fruit.

"I'm scanning now, Violet. The analysis shows these fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals. Some may even possess healing properties or enhance physical strength," Elara reported after a moment.

Violet took a bite. The sweetness flooded her senses, and almost instantly, she felt a surge of energy revitalizing her body—as if the fruit itself granted her renewed strength.

"This is amazing. This place could be the perfect shelter to raise our children, at least for now," she said with hope in her voice.

"I agree, Violet. With the resources available here, your basic needs can be met. I'll continue monitoring the area to ensure there are no hidden threats," Elara replied.

Violet continued her exploration, relishing every moment in the peaceful oasis. Amidst the storms and constant rain of the Blue Planet's surface, this place offered a glimmer of hope and tranquility.

"Elara, we must ensure this place remains hidden and secure. It's the perfect place to start a new life," Violet said with determination.

"Agreed, Violet. I will assist you in keeping this location protected," Elara answered.

With renewed spirit, Violet felt more prepared for whatever the future might bring. In this secret haven, she found peace—and courage to continue her journey on the Blue Planet.

But as Violet roamed deeper into the serene oasis, a strange sensation crept into her chest. Peace surrounded her, yet something ominous stirred in the shadows.

"Violet, sensors have detected an unidentified presence nearby. It seems someone is watching us," Elara said, her voice tense.

Violet froze, sharpening her senses. "Where is it, Elara?"

"Northwest—approximately thirty meters from your position. Activating alert protocol now," Elara responded.

Violet gathered her telekinetic energy, preparing for any threat. Cautiously, she moved toward the direction Elara had indicated. With every step, she could feel it—an unmistakable presence growing stronger.

Then, from behind dense foliage, a towering, muscular figure emerged. The creature's dark green, scaled skin shimmered slightly under the filtered light, and its red, glowing eyes radiated a mysterious menace. A low growl escaped its throat, signaling its displeasure at Violet's intrusion.

"Who are you? What are you doing here?" Violet asked firmly, remaining in a defensive stance.

The creature stepped forward, eyes locked on hers. "I am the guardian of this place. No one enters without permission," it growled, its voice deep and echoing through the oasis.

"A guardian? I mean no harm. I'm only trying to survive," Violet replied calmly, but remained alert.

Before she could speak further, the creature roared—a powerful sound that shook the air around them. In an instant, its form shifted and grew. The guardian transformed into a massive dragon, its scales gleaming green, reflecting what little light seeped into the oasis.

"A dragon?!" Violet gasped, bracing herself. "Elara, it transformed into a dragon! What do we do?"

"Full alert, Violet. Use your telekinesis for both defense and offense. I will provide tactical support," Elara responded swiftly.

The dragon let out a thunderous roar and unleashed a wave of fire from its jaws. Violet dodged nimbly, lifting a boulder with her telekinesis and hurling it at the beast.

The dragon dodged effortlessly and countered with a sweeping strike of its spiked tail. Violet was thrown several meters back but quickly rose to her feet, determination burning in her eyes. Focusing her energy, she formed a powerful telekinetic shield.

"Elara, analyze its weaknesses!" she commanded, holding back the firestorm with her barrier.

"There appears to be a softer patch beneath its neck scales. That might be the weak point," Elara replied quickly.

Seizing the chance, Violet launched into the air with her telekinetic power, dodging another burst of flames. With swift precision, she directed sharp stones toward the vulnerable spot on the dragon's neck.

The dragon shrieked in pain, but it did not retreat. Violet intensified her assault, lifting massive rocks from the ground and crashing them into the beast's neck.

The dragon stumbled, but in a final act of desperation, it lunged with its massive claws. Violet twisted mid-air, barely avoiding the strike, and hurled one last, devastating blow with all her telekinetic might.

With a final cry, the dragon collapsed, groaning in pain as it fell to the ground. Violet stood over its motionless body, panting but vigilant.

"The dragon is down—but stay alert, Violet. There may be other threats nearby," Elara warned.

Violet nodded, still cautious. She approached the dragon's body carefully, realizing it was still alive—barely. Its glowing red eyes flickered open, gazing at her in pain.

"Who are you… really? Why did you attack me?" she asked, her voice calm but firm.

The dragon groaned, struggling to speak. "I… was once an explorer like you. My name is Zorak. I came from a distant world… like you. But I was not as strong."

Violet listened intently, her heart heavy with sympathy. "What happened to you, Zorak?"

"When I arrived on the Blue Planet, I was a humanoid alien with scaled skin. But this planet's atmosphere… it's filled with strange radiation. My body couldn't endure it—I mutated into this dragon form. The radiation drove me mad."

He continued weakly, "I wandered in madness… until I found this oasis. It was the only place that brought me peace. I felt I had to protect it, even if I became a monster."

Violet's heart ached at his story. She could feel his pain, his loneliness. "Elara, we must help him. This wasn't his fault."

"I agree, Violet. We have medical equipment that might assist him," Elara replied.

Violet quickly retrieved her medical kit and began treating Zorak's wounds. She used advanced tools to stabilize him, apply healing compounds, and administer a radiation suppressant that might ease his mutation effects.

Zorak winced but looked at her with deep gratitude. "Thank you… Violet."

"No need to thank me. We're all just trying to survive," she replied gently. "And I'll do everything I can to help."

After some time, Zorak's condition improved. His breathing eased, and the madness in his eyes began to fade.

"Zorak, this oasis is beautiful. I promise, I'll help protect it—and make it a home for us both," Violet said sincerely.

Zorak nodded slowly. "I will… watch over it… and help… as best I can."