Hello Readers, I hope you enjoyed my this book. if you have any suggestion to improve my chapter, plot and story give suggestion and support me with powerstone to encourage my story. Thankyou...
-------
The carriage slowed to a halt as it neared the heart of the market district. Orion gazed out of the window, his sharp blue eyes locking onto the imposing structure ahead.
The Iron Fang Armory stood like a fortress amongst the surrounding shops, exuding an aura of power and prestige. Crafted from dark stone with golden trimmings that shimmered under the sunlight, the building stretched across a vast premise. A grand entrance adorned with banners bore the emblem of a sword coiled by a dragon—a mark of its dominance in the weapon trade.
At the entrance, several armoured guards stood in rigid formation, their presence exuding discipline and authority. Unlike common shopkeepers, these men weren't mere employees; they were warriors, their polished armour reflecting their status. It was clear—Iron Fang Armory wasn't just a business; it was a force of its own.
As the carriage door swung open, Orion and Elara stepped out. Behind them, their escort of warriors aligned in disciplined precision. Their presence naturally drew attention, whispers spreading among the merchants and customers in the vicinity.
Elara inhaled sharply, her blue eyes widening in admiration. "This place is… incredible," she whispered, unable to hide her awe.
Orion, his expression calm yet curious, muttered under his breath, "Iron Fang Armory, huh? Let's go."
The moment they approached the entrance, two guards stepped forward, blocking their path with crossed spears.
"State your purpose before entering," one of them commanded in a firm tone.
The abruptness of the action made Elara's brows furrow, irritation flashing across her delicate face. Orion, however, remained unfazed, knowing that such establishments followed to strict security.
Before he could respond, Commander Black stepped forward. Without a word, he pulled out a small, exquisitely crafted insignia—the Viscount Vale household seal, depicting an eagle with widespread wings.
The moment the guards laid eyes on it; their faces paled.
"T-The Viscount's household?" one of them stammered before realization struck. Their gazes flickered toward Orion and Elara—the resemblance was undeniable. The young man before them, with his noble air and piercing blue eyes, was unmistakably a Vale.
A surge of panic gripped them, and within seconds, both guards bent down on one knee.
"Our deepest apologies, Young Lord and Young Lady!" one of them hurriedly spoke, his voice laced with respect. "We did not recognize you. Please forgive our insolence!"
Elara exhaled sharply, still clearly displeased. Orion, however, gave them a brief glance before shaking his head. "It's alright. You were only doing your job." His voice was even, devoid of arrogance.
The kneeling guard quickly stood, bowing once more. "Please wait here, my lord. I will inform the owner of your arrival immediately!" He turned on his heel and disappeared into the armoury.
Orion let out a quiet sigh, turning to Elara. "No need to be upset," he murmured.
"I just don't like how they treated you earlier," she muttered, arms crossing. "They should know their place."
Orion chuckled. "I'd rather people treat me normally than bow all the time."
Elara pouted slightly but remained silent.
Before Orion could respond, the massive doors of the Iron Fang Armory swung open.
And then… she appeared.
A woman stepped forward, her presence alone commanding attention.
Her raven-black hair cascaded in smooth waves down her back, accentuating her flawless, porcelain-like skin. Golden eyes, shimmering like liquid fire, locked onto Orion with an intensity that made the air itself feel charged. She moved with a feline grace, her every step exuding confidence.
Her attire was equally striking—a form-fitting dress of midnight blue and gold, the intricate embroidery tracing patterns of swirling dragons. The neckline dipped just enough to be provocative without being indecent, framing the curves that made her presence all the more dangerous.
But what truly set her apart… was the way her gaze fell on Orion.
But when her gaze fell upon Orion, something flickered in her golden eyes.
A brief moment of stillness.
Her breath hitched—so subtly that no one but herself would have noticed. Her heart gave a single, unexpected thump against her chest.
She had met countless men before—powerful nobles, renowned warriors, even elegant men. And yet, not a single one had ever made her heart race the way this young man did.
His presence was magnetic.
Bluish-white hair framed his angular face like a painting brought to life, strands catching the light with an almost ethereal glow. His icy blue eyes, sharp and calculating, pierced through her like a blade, holding a quiet storm beneath their depths. And his presence—commanding yet effortless—was unlike anything she had encountered before.
For a fleeting second, she was lost in him.
Then, as if regaining control, her lips curled into a refined, beautiful smile.
"Ah… so you must be Orion Vale." Her voice was velvety, carrying a hint of playfulness. "And this lovely young lady beside you must be Elara Vale."
Orion gave a polite nod. "That's correct."
She placed a delicate hand over her chest, bowing slightly. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you, Young Lord. I am Laura Valtor, owner of the Iron Fang Armory."
Elara narrowed her eyes slightly. Something about this woman put her on edge.
Laura straightened, her gaze drinking Orion in with a slow, almost indulgent look. "The famous Golden Blessing Awakener of Valeria City… and just as the rumours say—" she tilted her head slightly, her voice lowering to a velvety whisper. "—you're quite handsome, my lord."
Orion's expression remained neutral, offering only a polite smile. "You flatter me, Miss Laura."
Beside him, Elara's fingers curled into fists.
She didn't like the way this woman was looking at Orion.
Laura, catching the shift in the girl's expression, chuckled inwardly. She was amused.
Elara, on the other hand, felt an unfamiliar sensation coil within her chest.
It was a strange, burning sensation. Not quite anger. Not quite jealousy.
But something in between.
A moment later, she straightened, her expression regaining its business-like sharpness. "Now then, my lord, may I ask what brings you to my humble establishment today?"
"I wish to purchase a weapon." Orion's answer was simple.
Laura's golden eyes gleamed with intrigue. "Ah, then you've come to the perfect place." She gestured toward the massive building. "Iron Fang Armory boasts the finest selection in Valeria City. Enchanted blades, rare artifacts—anything your heart desires."
She stepped forward, lowering her voice slightly. "I assure you; you will not leave disappointed after seeing my establishment weapon collection."
Orion nodded. "I look forward to seeing your collection."
Laura chuckled softly. "Then allow me to personally escort you, my lord."
Orion blinked. "You're the owner. Surely, you have more important matters to attend to."
She smiled, tilting her head ever so slightly. "Oh, but I make exceptions for special and honourable guests."
Orion met her gaze evenly. "Then, I appreciate the honour, Miss Laura."
As they stepped inside, only Commander Black followed. The rest of the guards remained stationed outside.
Laura walked closely beside Orion, her movements fluid, her voice a soft melody in the grand halls of the armoury. Occasionally, her arm would brush against his, just slightly.
Elara, walking on the other side, after seeing her action, she felt her irritation grow with moment.
She didn't know why… A strange mix of jealousy, protectiveness, and something deeper brewed within her.
She clenched her hands into fists.
But one thing was certain.
She did not like Laura Valtor.