Chapter 43

FORTY-THREE

T he attack on the family gathering had confirmed their worst fears - Dimitri’s forces were growing bolder and more sophisticated. Analysis of the debris had revealed advanced cloaking technology with traces of corrupted dragon magic, pointing to a hidden research facility.

“The energy signatures are unique,” Asher explained to the assembled war council the following morning, gesturing to complex data streams flowing across the briefing room’s screens. “We’ve tracked similar patterns to a supposed pharmaceutical research center outside the city. It’s on a large plot of woods away from everything.”

Talon studied the facility schematics with narrowed eyes. “Heavy security, restricted access. Getting a team in would trigger immediate alerts.”

“But a single researcher with the right credentials...” Asher let the suggestion hang in the air.

“Absolutely not,” Talon’s response was immediate, his dragon stirring restlessly beneath the surface.

“I’ve already established a fake identity through legitimate scientific channels,” she pressed on. “One person can get in and out without raising alarms. A team would be detected immediately.”

The logic was sound, though it made his dragon howl in protest. Around the table, both families exchanged worried glances, but no one could deny the plan’s strategic merit.

“We’ll need exceptional security protocols,” Levi noted, already pulling up building layouts. Beside him, Lori’s fingers tapped away as she began crafting digital safeguards.

“And a foolproof extraction plan,” Everett added, protective brother instincts in full force.

Their mothers shared a knowing look that suggested they’d already anticipated this development, while their fathers immediately dove into discussing theoretical applications of quantum entanglement for secure communications.

That night in their quarters, Talon traced the faint scars from her cold iron injury, his touch featherlight against her shoulder which for some reason refused to completely heal. She sensed his carefully controlled fear warring with pride in her strength.

“I hate that you’ll be out of reach,” he admitted, pulling her closer. “The dragon... we’re not good at letting you face danger alone.”

Asher turned in his arms, electricity crackling softly where their skin met. “You know why it has to be me.”

“You’re the only one who can work the damn device you made. But knowing doesn’t make it easier.” His kiss held desperate intensity. “If anything happens...”

“Hey.” She cupped his face, making him meet her eyes. “Remember who you’re mated to. The woman who rewrote genetic code just to meet you properly.”

His laugh rumbled against her chest. “My incredibly reckless mate.”