The Diplomatic Heir by Rebecca Hefner

Author:Rebecca Hefner
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: paranormal romance, fantasy romance, vampire romance, elf romance
Publisher: Reading Goddess Press, LLC
Published: 2022-12-23T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 17

Jaxon stood atop the cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the small coastal town outside San Francisco. He’d taken the day-long road trip from Arizona and promptly passed out once he arrived at his hotel. Now, freshly rested, he was ready to track down Tatiana and ask for her help.

Inhaling the salty breeze, Jaxon closed his eyes, admitting the human world was quite beautiful. The immortal world had its beauty too, but its landscape consisted mostly of rolling hills instead of magnificent oceans and red-rocked deserts. Surprised at his affection for a land that wasn’t his, he allowed it to bloom as he stood firm and tall above the sea.

“Breathtaking, isn’t it?” a feminine voice chimed beside him.

Jaxon’s lids snapped open as his head jerked toward the woman beside him. Long, black curls extended down her back, framing her amber eyes under the blue sky. Her russet skin was flawless and wrinkle-free, although Jaxon knew she’d lived for centuries. Perhaps even eons.

“It’s absolutely stunning.” Facing her, he crossed his arms and grinned. “You know, I was really looking forward to hunting you down. A good investigator enjoys the challenge more than the result.”

Her lips twitched as her expression softened. “I understand, but I don’t like wasting time, Jaxon, son of Trammell. Heden should’ve told you this.”

“I’m sure he did, ma’am, but I’m still a bit shocked to see you appear out of thin air.”

“Very few of us can transport,” she said, gazing across the ocean. “I learned how long ago, as did Crimeous and Dakath. Calinda is the most recent to acquire the ability, although I don’t think she truly understands it yet.” Latching onto his gaze, she spoke solemnly. “Each step forward is a small brick laid on a path forged long ago.”

“Prophetic,” he said, arching a brow.

“Just reality.” Placing her hands in the pockets of her leather jacket, she studied him expectantly. “So, Jaxon, you are here to ask for my help. A noble request, but it is not time for me to join Tordor and Esmerelda’s cause yet.”

“Dakath has already killed one of their counterparts in cold blood,” Jaxon said. “We thought you might want to intervene so more don’t get hurt.”

Something dark and laced with agony flashed through her eyes before it disappeared. “Pain and death are part of the journey, even for immortals. I support the immersion of the species, but the two heirs need to blaze the path.”

Jaxon drew his features together, slightly confused.

“Esmerelda is heir as much as Tordor is. One is celebrated and one is tormented, but it doesn’t negate their birthright. They are both children of kings and will learn to become great rulers.”

“So you don’t want to help us because you want them to learn?” He rubbed the back of his neck. “I get learning from experience, but they have no idea how to combat Dakath’s powers.”

“Dr. Tyson will be helpful in that regard. I’m glad Larkin spared his life and tracked him down. Quaygon needs a purpose that is not motivated by evil.

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