Chapter 77: Talking To Iridelle

The sun hung low in the sky, its warm golden light spilling over the rooftops of Rakhshan as the hum of the town softened into the serenity of evening. Inside Natasha's workshop, the glow of enchanted lanterns bathed the room in a soft, otherworldly light. The scent of metal and magic lingered in the air, blending with the faint floral notes that wafted in through the open windows. Alaric leaned against a cluttered workbench, his fingers absently drumming against the polished wood as he studied the necklace before him.

"You know," Alaric began, his voice carrying an edge of curiosity, "I think I might have an idea for stabilizing your necklace. It's a bit unconventional, but it could work."

Natasha's brows lifted, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she turned to him. Her crimson hair fell in loose waves over her shoulder, and the faint smudge of soot on her cheek only added to her charm. "Oh? Don't keep me waiting, Alaric. Spill it."