2024-11-06 19:30:21Elijah remained calm, keeping his expression neutral. “You’re right, Olivia. I’m not who you thought I was,” he admitted, his voice low. “But maybe that’s because there’s more to me than you’d care to see.”
Her eyes narrowed, a mixture of intrigue and skepticism crossing her face. “Then enlighten me, James. Why did you come into my life in the first place? You didn't tell me the truth earlier, I know that.”
“Because I’ve been tracking the power games in Evendore for some time,” he replied smoothly. “And it didn’t take long to notice Duke West and his allies posing a threat to certain…interests.”
She arched a brow. “And that’s why you’re h
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The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 115. I’ll be right here
Elijah’s heart clenched as he carefully lifted Sophia into his arms, feeling the frailty in her slight frame.Her eyes fluttered open for a moment, clouded with pain and confusion, but she seemed to relax as her gaze met his. “Stay with me, Sophia,” he murmured, his voice a soft blend of reassurance and urgency. “I… I slipped,” she managed, her voice barely a whisper. Her face tightened as she tried to move, but he stilled her with a gentle hand. “Don’t try to speak,” he said, a note of firmness in his tone, though his touch was feather-light as he brushed a strand of hair from her face. “Let me take care of you.” He carried her to the medical wing he’d prepared earlier for emergencies and carefully lowered her onto the bed.She winced as her wrist shifted, and Elijah’s face softened as he observed the damage. Her wrist was badly swollen, and there was a small gash just above her eyebrow where blood had begun to dry. Elijah brought out his medical supplies with deft precision, bu
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 116. A Calculated Gamble
Elijah leaned over the conference table, spreading a map of the area as he glanced at Doug.“Lando’s informed me that The Architect’s forces will strike at the meeting spot, likely as soon as we arrive.”Doug’s face remained impassive, but there was a flicker of tension in his eyes. “And you plan to walk right into that?”Elijah’s lips curved in a determined smile. “No, we’re going to turn their own ambush against them. They think we’re showing up unprepared.” He tapped a point on the map, his voice low. “But our men will already be positioned here and here.”Doug nodded, a satisfied glint in his eye. “They’ll never see it coming.”As they reviewed the plan, Sophia’s quiet voice broke through their focus. “You’re talking about a setup, aren’t you?” She stood in the doorway, her gaze sharp and unyielding. “This is about The Architect, isn’t it?”Elijah straightened, his expression softening slightly as he moved toward her. “Sophia, you need to rest. This is something Doug and I can han
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 117. The Architect Revealed
The night was still as Elijah faced the masked figure. The Architect’s gaze pierced through the shadows, and Elijah’s fists tightened. This moment was years in the making, and the taunting presence before him only fueled his determination.The Architect chuckled, his voice dripping with mockery. “You really don’t know how deep your family’s sins run, do you?”Elijah stepped forward, his eyes narrowed. “Spare me the riddles. If you think you can frighten me with stories, you’re mistaken.”“Oh, I’m not here to frighten you, Elijah,” the Architect replied, amusement flickering in his tone. “I’m here to dismantle you, piece by piece. Just as I helped dismantle the Nortons years ago.”Elijah’s eyes sharpened. “Helped? What are you trying to say?”The Architect tilted his head, his gaze intent. “It was all orchestrated, Elijah—the fall of your family, the betrayal you never saw coming.” He leaned in, his voice lowering to a dark whisper. “You think your parents’ downfall was an accident? No
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 118. Gathering Storm
Elijah and Sophia moved swiftly through Arthur Palace, rallying their closest allies.There was no time for hesitation; David, The Architect, had woven his influence deep into Evendore’s elite, and they would need every ounce of support to dismantle it.Doug approached, his expression tense but determined."Marshal, Lando Yale and a few others have confirmed their support. They’re willing to stand with us against The Architect’s forces."Elijah nodded, clasping Doug’s shoulder. "Good. Tell them to prepare for what’s coming. We’ll need them ready for anything David throws our way."Sophia, standing close by, took Elijah’s hand, her gaze unwavering. “If we’re going to do this, we’ll do it together. Evendore’s future depends on it.”Elijah’s eyes softened as he looked at her. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” He turned back to Doug. “Coordinate with Lando and his men. Make sure everyone knows what’s at stake.”Sophia stepped forward, taking a breath. “And my family… they need to unders
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 119. Fall of the Architect
Elijah stood in the dimly lit hall, his gaze fixed on the entrance where he knew David, the Architect, would make his appearance.The tension hung thick in the air, the quiet moments before a storm that had been brewing for years.He adjusted his stance, calm but ready, every muscle braced for what lay ahead.The doors opened, and David strode in, his expression calm, almost amused."So," he said, his voice echoing off the walls, "we’ve finally come to this."Elijah’s eyes narrowed. "The game you started all those years ago—it ends tonight."David chuckled, the sound low and taunting."You speak with such finality, Elijah. But do you really think you’ve outmaneuvered me? Everything you’ve done, every alliance, every move… I saw it coming. I allowed it."Elijah held his ground, his voice steady. "And here you are, alone, without any of your puppets to back you up. Maybe your control wasn’t as absolute as you thought."David’s expression darkened. "I was the one who shaped Evendore! I d
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 120. New Horizons
Two days after the shocking incident, Elijah and Sophia finalized their honeymoon plans. The destination had been decided: a secluded island, far from the noise and power games of Evendore. Sophia was thrilled, her eyes lighting up as she read through the itinerary, while Elijah observed her with a small, reserved smile."So," Sophia said, folding the itinerary and looking up at him, "an island getaway, huh? Just us, no interruptions?" Her tone held a mix of excitement and disbelief.Elijah nodded, a touch of amusement in his eyes. "Just us. Away from it all."She reached across the table, her fingers brushing his. "I can’t believe it. After everything… it’s really happening."Elijah’s expression softened. "You deserve this, Sophia. We both do."Her eyes shone as she squeezed his hand. "It’s just… well, it feels surreal. And for once, I want to leave all the complications behind. No more shadows from the past, no more questions… Just us and the future."Elijah gave a slight nod, hidin
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 121. Shadows on the Horizon
Elijah and Sophia spent their days immersed in each other’s company, exploring the winding paths of the island and savoring every moment together.It was a new world for them—one where there was no need to look over their shoulders, no reason to hold back.Late in the afternoon, they walked along the beach, their hands intertwined as they gazed out at the endless horizon.Elijah glanced over at Sophia, his usual guarded expression softened.“You know,” he began, his voice low, “I never thought I’d have a moment like this. With someone like you.”Sophia looked up, smiling. “And what’s that supposed
The Unstoppable Dragon Marshal 122. The Attack
Sophia walked along the villa’s quiet path, enjoying the peaceful breeze, while Elijah had stepped away momentarily to handle a call.She hadn’t gone far from their suite when a voice called her name.“Sophia.”Startled, she turned to see Olivia, standing just beyond the pathway’s dim light, her face twisted with a mix of rage and cold determination.“Olivia?” Sophia’s voice trembled with surprise, her confusion laced with unease. “What… what are you doing here?”Olivia stepped closer, her eyes flashing with something fierce. “I came for answers, Sophia. And to warn you about the man you think you know.”Sophia took a hesitant step back, her heart pounding. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”“Of course, you don’t,” Olivia sneered, inching closer.“Elijah—or James, as he was with me—has been lying to you. Did he ever tell you about the promises he made to me? The plans we had together?” Her voice was like ice.Sophia’s hands clenched into fists. “Elijah and I don’t keep secrets,
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335. Into the Lion’s Den
“We’re running out of time,” Elijah said, his voice sharp as he surveyed the dimly lit hideout. “We move tonight.” Doug stood at his side, nodding. “Understood, Marshal. But we still don’t know what we’re walking into.” “That’s where I come in,” Lando said smoothly from across the room, leaning against a crate. Elijah turned his cold gaze to him. “And why should I trust you?” Lando smirked. “Because you don’t have a choice. I know the layout of The Warden’s stronghold. I know how to get you inside without triggering every alarm in the place.” Doug’s hand hovered near his weapon. “And what do you want in return?” Lando’s expression darkened slightly. “A future. One where The Warden doesn’t control everything. Like it or not, our goals align—for now.” Elijah studied him, weighing his words. He hated relying on a man like Lando, but time was slipping away. Sophia needed him. “Fine,” Elijah said at last. “But if you try anything, I will put a bullet in you myself.” Lando
334. Captured by Darkness
"Take her! Now!" one of The Warden’s men shouted. Sophia barely had the strength to fight back as rough hands grabbed her. Blood soaked her shoulder where Lando’s bullet had struck, and her vision blurred. She tried to summon her power, but it flickered weakly, slipping through her grasp. “Elijah—” Her voice barely left her lips before a sharp blow to the back of her head sent her world spinning. Elijah’s roar of fury echoed across the battlefield. He lunged forward, cutting through the soldiers in his path, but there were too many. The Warden’s forces were prepared this time. Smoke grenades exploded around him, choking the air with thick fog. "Marshal!" Doug yanked him back just as a group of enemy soldiers fired in their direction. "We have to move!" Elijah fought against Doug’s grip, his breathing ragged. "They're taking her!" Doug gritted his teeth, dragging Elijah behind a broken wall. "Sir, listen to me. We can’t fight them like this! We’re outnumbered, and you’re wo
333. The Breaking Point
"Fall back! Now!" Doug's voice barely carried over the roar of the explosion. The blast sent waves of fire and debris through the battlefield, throwing men off their feet. Smoke choked the air as Elijah pushed forward, ignoring the pain in his shoulder where shrapnel had sliced through his coat. He couldn't stop—not when Sophia was still out there. "Marshal! We have to regroup!" Doug caught up, his face streaked with ash and blood. "No," Elijah growled. His eyes burned with fury. "She's here. I can feel it." Doug hesitated, then nodded. "Then we fight through." They moved with ruthless efficiency, cutting down enemy soldiers who tried to block their way. Gunfire rattled through the air, but Elijah barely heard it. His focus was on one thing—getting to Sophia. Across the battlefield, Sophia stumbled. Her hands trembled, her breath ragged. The energy inside her pulsed like a living thing, hungry and desperate. She clutched her head, trying to suppress the unbearable pressur
332. No Safe Haven
“Elijah.” Sophia’s voice was hoarse as she stumbled forward, exhaustion evident in her every step. The moment she saw him, something inside her steadied. Elijah turned, his sharp gaze locking onto her. Relief flickered in his eyes, but only for a moment. He stepped toward her, scanning her face. “You’re hurt.” “I’m fine,” she said, though the trembling in her limbs told a different story. Doug kept his rifle raised as he surveyed the others. “Marshal, we need to move. Now.” Lando scoffed, brushing snow off his coat. “Move where? We’re boxed in.” Elijah ignored him, his mind already working through the problem. They were outnumbered, trapped in the ruins of a dead village with no easy way out. But surrender wasn’t an option. Cassian stepped forward, his face grim. “We spotted patrols in every direction. They’re closing in.” Sophia’s stomach clenched. “He’s here, isn’t he?” Cassian nodded. “The Warden is leading them himself.” A heavy silence settled over the group.
331. A Ghost from the Past
“This place gives me the creeps, Marshal,” Doug muttered, stepping carefully over the snow-covered ground. Elijah didn’t respond immediately. His sharp eyes scanned the abandoned village, taking in the half-collapsed roofs, the broken windows, and the eerie silence. The storm had buried much of it under ice and snow, but traces of its past remained—scattered tools, torn banners, faded carvings on the walls. A place forgotten by time. Elijah crouched, brushing away snow from a wooden sign. The words beneath were barely legible, but he could make them out. RavengateHe frowned. “I’ve heard this name before.” Doug tightened his grip on his rifle. “What is this place, sir?” Elijah’s fingers trailed over the letters. “A research site. One of The Warden’s early bases.” Doug stiffened. “You think Sophia was here?” Elijah stood, his expression unreadable. “Maybe. Or someone like her.” They moved carefully through the ruins, their boots crunching over ice. The deeper they wen
330. The Price of Power
“Elijah! Can you hear me?” Doug’s voice was hoarse, barely cutting through the howling wind.Elijah groaned, his body half-buried in the snow. His limbs ached, and his head throbbed from the impact. He forced himself upright, shaking off the dizziness. The avalanche had separated them from the others, leaving nothing but a wasteland of ice and silence.“I’m here,” Elijah rasped, wiping blood from his forehead.Doug exhaled in relief and moved toward him, limping slightly. “Thank the gods. I thought you were buried alive.”Elijah steadied himself and scanned their surroundings. The sheer cliffs stretched endlessly, s
329. Into the Storm
“This is madness,” Lando muttered, tightening his cloak against the bitter wind. “A frozen death trap waiting to swallow us whole.” “No other way,” Elijah said, his voice firm as he led the group through the narrow path. The wind howled through the ravine, a brutal force against their already exhausted bodies. Doug kept pace beside him, eyes scanning the ridges above. “Marshal, we’re exposed here. Too easy to ambush.” Elijah knew he was right. The walls of ice loomed over them like towering prison bars, offering no cover. Every step forward felt like an invitation for an attack. Sophia shivered, pulling her arms tightly around herself. The cold was relentless, seeping through her bones. Her body still ached from the last fight, her mind even more so. She could feel the power inside her, restless and hungry. Cassian trailed behind, checking their back. “No movement yet. But it’s too quiet.” “Always is,” Lando said grimly. “Right before the knife sinks in.” The wind picked
328. The Hunt Never Ends
“We need to keep moving,” Elijah said firmly, scanning the horizon. The cold night stretched endlessly before them, the distant howling of wolves blending with the wind. Doug adjusted his rifle and nodded. “Yes, Marshal. But they’re gaining on us. We can’t keep running forever.” Sophia, leaning against a rock for support, tried to steady her breathing. The escape had drained her. The battle had taken more than just her strength—it had carved something dark inside her, something she wasn’t sure she could control. Lando let out a dry chuckle. “Oh, we could keep running. But it won’t matter. The Warden isn’t hunting us.” He tilted his head toward Sophia. “He’s hunting her.” Elijah’s eyes darkened, but he didn’t take the bait. “And yet, here you are, running with us.” Lando smirked. “Self-preservation. The Warden isn’t the forgiving type.” Doug shot him a glare but stayed silent. The tension was thick, but they had bigger problems. Their pursuers weren’t far. Cassian returne
327. No Way Back
“They’re everywhere!” Doug shouted, firing off a round as he ducked behind a broken tree. Elijah gritted his teeth, his sword slicing through one of the Warden’s men. The ambush had been fast—too fast. They had barely taken a breath before the enemy forces had surrounded them, cutting off every possible escape route. Sophia moved beside him, her breathing heavy. For the first time since her capture, she was fighting at his side. Her hands trembled, energy crackling at her fingertips. It felt different now—stronger, wilder. “I can stop this,” she murmured. Elijah blocked a strike, shoving an attacker back with sheer force. “Not like that,” he snapped. She met his gaze, frustration and fear warring inside her. “If I don’t, we’ll die.” Lando’s voice cut through the chaos. “She’s right.” He crouched beside Cassian, both of them covering Doug’s flank. “The only way out of this is a full-scale wipeout. And she’s the only one who can do it.” Elijah’s jaw tightened. “Absolutely
