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
The Return to the Palace
The ride back to the palace was one of the heaviest Izan had ever endured. His heart sank under the weight of what he'd witnessed, and the failure to capture Lord Cedric only twisted the knife deeper.
Lucian, tied up like a common criminal, staggered behind, dragged by a thick rope that bound his wrists. His once pristine robes were now stained with dirt, sweat, and shame, hanging off him like rags. Each step seemed to drain what little composure Lucian had left.
He had lost the gleam of arrogance that once marked his every step. Now, his face was pale and drawn, streaked with tears and dirt. He stumbled, nearly collapsing, as the guards yanked him forward.
"Please, Izan... Brother. You can't do this!" Lucian's voice cracked, laced with desperation.
His tear-streaked face, usually filled with venom and entitlement, was now contorted with fear. "I didn't mean for things to go this far… Please!"