Reclaimed By My Alpha (Natalia and Andrei) novel Chapter 336

Chapter 336

“That’s interesting,” I said, pointing to the ruby, “Where did you get it?”

The metalsmith came around the counter to look at what I was pointing at. “Ah, that piece is just a replica, not a real ruby. I made it myself based on descriptions I’ve read.”

“Descriptions of what?”

“The rubies from the far north. The Red Peak, specifically.” He opened the case and carefully lifted out the fake stone. When he handed it to me, it was surprisingly light. I supposed it was made of some kind of resin.” According to legend, the real ones have properties that go beyond just being pretty to look at.”

“So I’ve heard,” I said, glancing at him sideways. “Do you know any specific details about them?”

“Well, they’re probably just stories, but the legends are fascinating. I’ve made a bit of a hobby of studying the old tales about them. I’m something of a history buff when it comes to the old magics. Most people think it’s all nonsense, but I find it interesting regardless.”

He gestured toward a shelf behind the counter that was lined with books. “I’ve got quite a collection of research on the subject.”

That piqued my interest. “Would you mind if I borrowed one of your books? I’d like to read more about these stones.”

“Of course. Let me find a good one for you.” He moved to the bookshelf and ran his finger along the spines before pulling out a thick one bound in dark leather. “This one’s got the best compilation of stories and historical accounts I’ve come across. Some of it’s probably fiction, but there are enough consistent details across different sources to make you wonder.”

I took the book from him and smiled. Maybe this was precisely what I needed to keep my mind occupied while Andrei was gone. “Thank you. I’ll bring it back when I come for the ring.”

>>

“No rush. Keep it as long as you need.” He grinned. “I’ve read it three times over.”

I walked back to the house with the book tucked under my arm. Once I spent some time with the twins, I headed to my room to see what the book said. I doubted there would be anything too useful inside, but it made me feel like I was being productive somehow, even if I was just reading fairytales.

The first chapter was devoted to general folklore about magical artifacts, but the second chapter was specifically about the Red Peak rubies. According to the author, the stones had been mined from deep within the mountain for centuries before the veins were declared exhausted and the mines abandoned.

But it wasn’t just the scarcity that made the stones valuable Multiple accounts described warriors who wore the rubies experiencing increased strength and speed in battle. Healers who used them in their work claimed they could accelerate the body’s natural healing processes. Some stories even suggested that the stones could enhance existing magical abilities.

I found myself completely absorbed in the accounts. Some were clearly embellished folk tales, but others read more like historical records. There were detailed descriptions of specific battles where ruby–wearing warriors had turned the tide, medical texts that referenced the stones‘ healing properties, even trade records showing the astronomical prices they fetched.

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