The Dragon's SanctuaryThe Maldivian sky at five in the afternoon looked like a gradient of gold and violet, reflecting perfectly upon the crystal-clear surface of the ocean. On a private island unmarked on any commercial map an island named 'Aethelgard' by the ancestors of the Thorne family a Gulfstream G700 private jet had just landed on a runway surrounded by lush palm trees.Mavric Thorne stepped down from the jet, loosening his tie and leaving the top button of his shirt undone. Behind him, Liora walked wearing a white summer dress that billowed gently in the sea breeze. For the first time in months, the tension in her shoulders seemed to fade away."Welcome to my sanctuary, Liora," said Mavric, his voice sounding lighter, almost carrying a rare tone of happiness. He took Liora's hand, interlacing their fingers firmly. "Here, there are no board meetings, no Syndicate, and no 'Number 0'. There is only you, me, and the ocean."Liora breathed in the fresh sea air, closing her ey
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