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
Revelations in the Night
Elian sat in the lavish chamber, staring blankly at the tray of untouched food. His stomach twisted in knots, his thoughts a swirling mess of confusion, anger, and disbelief. He still couldn't understand why he was in the palace.
He wiped away the remnants of his tears with trembling fingers, still reeling from his confrontation with Izan earlier.
The thought of him made Elian's chest tighten with pain. How could he have been so foolish to trust him, to fall for his lies? His hands clenched into fists as anger welled up inside him again.
A soft knock interrupted his spiraling thoughts, and his body went rigid. He quickly wiped at his face again, trying to compose himself.
The door creaked open, and Elian's heart lurched as the emperor stepped inside. His posture straightened in an instant, and he stood up, wiping his eyes hastily. He bowed deeply, trying to mask his emotional turmoil.