From a Beggar to a Bastard
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
Reflex Action
The council chamber was abuzz with murmurs and fragmented conversations. Lords and Ladies clustered in tight groups, their voices low yet dripping with opinions. The topic on everyone's lips was Lord Cavin's treacherous actions and subsequent downfall.
"Such a fool," one council member sneered. "To cross the Crown Prince and slander Lord Elian? He should've known better."
Another lord, clearly relieved to be uninvolved, shook his head and muttered, "Lucky for us, we didn't get dragged into Cavin's schemes. The dungeon isn't a place I'd like to visit."
While some sneered at Cavin's folly, others wore smug expressions, congratulating themselves for their foresight in avoiding the gossip conspiracy. A few exchanged nervous glances, perhaps still hiding minor ties to Cavin's machinations, fearing their own exposure.
Amidst the chatter, a councilman approached Lord Marius. "Lord Marius," he began, "what do you think of Cavin's..."