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Supply drops weren’t unusual in the Mating Games.
They usually contained useful tools, weapons, and sometimes, vital information.
I’d seen them drop several times already but had ignored them.
We’d been busy surviving.
But they could also act as bait, drawing competitors together, sparking conflict.
“Is it worth the risk?” Riley said, determination shining in her eyes. “The others will try to get to it too. Maybe there’s something in there we can use.”
“It’s a double-edged sword,” I agreed. “Going after it puts a target on our backs. But ignoring it could mean missing out on something crucial.”
We shared a loaded glance, both of us aware of the risk involved.
But as the supply drop kissed the treetops, an idea began to form in my mind — a plan that could potentially turn the tables in our favor.
I grabbed Riley’s hand. “Come on, we need to hurry.”
* * *
Riley’s grip was firm in my hand as I pulled her after me, weaving through the dense foliage.
Each step was calculated yet swift, my blue-scaled feet adept at navigating the unfamiliar terrain.
The looming trees provided the perfect cover, but also made the path ahead uncertain.
With my free hand, I pulled a sturdy branch from a tree, along with some vines.
I hastily tore the vines into strips and attached them to the top and bottom of my impromptu bow.
I pulled it back, testing its flexibility.
Rudimentary, but good enough for my purposes.
Simple, but hopefully effective.
“Where are we going?” Riley panted, her feet occasionally snagging on the jungle’s underbrush.
Despite the challenges, her spirit was unyielding.
The game had changed, and though the alien species we faced had reputations for brutality and cunning, I was not about to let them get the upper hand.
The dense greenery was disorienting, even for someone like me, who hailed from a planet with equally sprawling forests.
My heightened senses were on overdrive, trying to locate that distinct metallic scent of the supply crate.
But there was nothing.
Only the musky smell of damp earth, the occasional whiff of a flowering plant, and… was that a hint of fear?
Or anticipation?
Riley reeked of it.
“Talan,” Riley whispered, her grip tightening, “are yousureit’s this way?”
I paused, momentarily doubting myself. “It should be. The drop was close.”
