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“The Eclipsarion is not simply a talisman; it’s said to be crafted from a fragment of the moon itself, its core is made of a rare mineral known as the Lunaris Heart,” Cedric explains with a tone of awe. “This core emits an enchanting azure light, akin to the tranquil glow of our moon on a clear, starlit night when the stone is awoken.”

He carefully leans forward and adjusts the talisman, allowing the light to catch its intricate designs. “This heart is encased in a frame crafted from the same heavenly material, forming a perfect circle that symbolizes unity and the endless cycle of life. The surface of the Eclipsarion is adorned with patterns made of stardust, which trace ancient symbols representing the elements and the cosmic balance they maintain and also the Azure emblem.”

Cedric’s voice deepens, reflecting the profound power of the talisman. “Upon wearing it, the Eclipsarion pulses softly with the wearer’s heartbeat, as if it’s alive and responsive to their emotions once merged. In moments of intense feelings, such as deep rage or immense love, the Lunaris Heart awakens, intensifying its glow and enveloping the bearer in a serene yet powerful light.”

He leans in closer, ensuring each word carries its full weight. “This talisman holds the power to command the elements in their most fundamental form. It can communicate directly with the forces of nature and enhance the wearer’s inherent abilities to levels far beyond the ordinary.”

Pausing, Cedric’s eyes sweep across the faces before him, ensuring they grasp the significance. “Its protective power can forge shields as steadfast as the night sky itself. Moreover, it serves as a conduit for the bearer’s will, allowing them to unleash the elements’ wrath upon their adversaries.”

“That’s why my mother was trying to get to it, she was going to try to use it to shield everyone,” Azalea murmurs, and Cedric peers down at the desk.

Trey’s eyes turn glassy as he looks away. “She was selfless, she sacrificed everything for everyone, yet he couldn’t even sacrifice his whores for her,” Trey says bitterly.

“She died trying to save the very kingdom that enslaved her.” Trey swallows thickly and lets those words sink in before he gets up and so does Cedric. Azalea peers down at the pendant around her neck.

Finally, Cedric concludes with a solemn nod, “This talisman, Azalea, is not just a link to your past but a key to the future. In the right hands, it can restore balance and peace; in the wrong ones, it could bring about an era of ruin. The weight of this legacy is now yours to bear, not just as a keeper but as that stone’s guardian.”

Chapter

Twenty-Eight

KYSON

We’re planning to meet with Larkin at Landeena castle in a few days, and Cedric is going to try to see if he can find out more about the Eclipsarian. He’s bringing the records, and we’ll see what we can unearth from our end. Once everyone departs, I pull Azzy onto my lap as she stares at the illustrations in the books Cedric left her.

“Can you read this to me?” she queries, and I lean over her shoulder, resting my chin on her. She squirms as my stubble tickles her.

“It’s myths and legends about what historians believe the Azure’s and Landeena’s were blessed with,” I explain to her, and she nods in understanding, her fingers tracing over the aged pages.

“When do you want to leave for Landeena?” I question, aware that I need to coordinate everything with my men.

“Cedric said he can leave not tomorrow but the day after. He mentioned if I am returning home, the guards would want to accompany us,” she informs me. My lips tighten into a thin line.

“You don’t seem thrilled about that?” she observes, turning her face towards mine.

“I’m not upset about it; their lack of faith in me protecting my own mate grates on me and feels quite insulting.”

“I think they merely wish to go home,” she suggests.

“This is home. We can’t govern two kingdoms, and there isn’t much left of yours,” I point out bluntly. She swallows hard at this reality check.

“I wouldn’t even know how to rule,” she admits wistfully, gaze fixated on the window across from us.

“In time, you will,” I reassure her. She sighs deeply then attempts to extricate herself from my lap but I hold fast onto her.

“Come on! We have things to sort out and also check if Abbie wants to join us,” she urges.

“Just a little longer,” I plead, reluctant to release her. She exhales, then pivots on my lap, her knees straddling my hips and her hands gliding up my chest.

“You are rather clingy for a King,” she teases.

“Only with you,” I confess, leaning in to plant a soft kiss on her lips. “I don’t enjoy sharing your attention,” I murmur while nipping at her lips. My fingers curl around the back of her neck, drawing her closer still. My mouth descends on hers and I groan at the sweet taste of her on my tongue.

“Kyson!” she squeals into our kiss, and I grin against her lips, deepening the kiss further.

“What if someone comes in?” she protests in between giggles.

“Let them! I want you,” I declare boldly, reaching for the buttons obstructing me from getting to her skin. One by one they pop open under my deft touch revealing the lacy bra beneath.