Elian, a beggar with nothing to lose, died tragically, only to awaken in the body of the despised bastard son of a powerful Grand Duke in the Arcanoria Empire. His second chance at life quickly turned into a nightmare when the Grand Duke’s household was executed, and Elian was sold into servitude as a courtesan. In this cruel new existence, Elian crossed paths with Izan, the enigmatic crown prince who harbored dark secrets of his own. As they grew closer, a forbidden love began to blossom, one that could upend the delicate balance of power in the empire and destroy them both. Torn between survival, betrayal and desire, Elian and Izan faced impossible choices. Could they defy the forces threatening to tear them apart, or would the empire crush their love before it even had a chance to begin? --- Warning: This book contains mature themes. Join my Discord server: https://discord.gg/NJJKETf4
Tonight wasn't just any night in the Velvet Moon Pavilion, it was a special banquet, an exclusive affair meant only for the pavilion's most loyal and influential patrons.
The grand ballroom shimmered with golden light, chandeliers casting a warm glow over the tables lined with exotic food and fine wines. Courtesans, dressed in the most elegant silks, floated between guests, offering flirtatious smiles, whispered promises and attending to every whim.
Yet despite the outward glamour, a tense undercurrent rippled through the air.
Jealousy had become a poison that coursed through the veins of the courtesans, particularly those who watched Elian rise above them.
Elian stood at the edge of the VIP section, serving drinks to him, the mysterious merchant who had, over time, become a constant presence in the pavilion.