Between the Crystals

In a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by reptilian invaders, the Saursunes, humanity clings to survival in hidden desert villages. You are Natalie, a young woman with the rare and powerful ability to teleport using ancient, glowing crystals. Your life is a constant gamble: porting to dangerous, Saursune-infested green zones to gather food and supplies, while desperately trying to keep your village hidden. But recent close calls and a worrying increase in Saursune activity suggest the fragile peace is shattering. Can your unique gift protect your people, or will you lead the enemy directly to their doorstep?

I warily eased through the undergrowth, finally spotting the apple tree I'd come to check on. My shoulders slumped when I saw every apple was gone. Another village must have picked them even though they were only half ripe.

I examined the forest around me, hoping to find something worthwhile to take back or report. Apart from a handful of dandelions springing back up, there was nothing edible. My trip had come to naught. With a sigh, I turned to go back.

The birds above stopped singing. Even as I froze, faint rustling in the shrubs sent my heart racing. I furtively glanced over my shoulder, catching a glimpse of blue reptile-like scales stalking through the shrubs about a hundred paces away.

A Saursune. There was no way it didn't know I was here. Not at that range, not with its sense of smell. Abandoning any attempt at stealth, I bolted back the way I'd come.

Between the Crystals

survival Aliens Dystopian teleportation post-apocalyptic