Chapter One
As night fell, the cold moon hung high in the sky. The bright moonlight fell on the ancient castle on the edge of the city, casting a mysterious silver veil around it. Emily stood on the balcony, looking at the forest in the distance, and felt a chill rising from the bottom of her heart. Since moving to this castle, her life has become bizarre and mysterious. The cold wind in October swept across her bare shoulders, bringing a shudder. Emily subconsciously wrapped her woolen shawl tightly around her, but she couldn't feel any warmth. This castle seems to be always cold, just like its mysterious owner Lucas Black, exuding an inaccessible atmosphere. "Miss Emily," suddenly, a low voice sounded behind her, "You'll catch a cold if you're still outside so late." She turned around and saw Lucas standing at the balcony door. The moonlight outlined his tall figure. He was wearing a dark silk shirt, and the collar vaguely revealed his strong chest. The amber eyes flickered strangely in the darkness, as if they could see through her soul. "Mr. Black," Emily whispered, trying to hide the trembling in her voice, "I'm just admiring the moonlight." Lucas took a step forward, but suddenly stopped. Emily noticed that his body stiffened instantly, and his nostrils fluttered slightly, as if he was sniffing something. His expression became solemn, and a glimmer of wildness flashed in his eyes, but was quickly suppressed. "Please go in," his voice was hoarser than usual, "It's not safe here." Just then, a cold night breeze swept across the balcony, bringing a faint smell of rust. Emily saw that Lucas's fingers were almost pinched into the stone railing, and his knuckles were white. She couldn't help but take a step back, her heartbeat accelerated. "I thought this castle was the safest place," she whispered, "after all, you are here." Lucas let out an almost inaudible growl, "Some danger, Miss Emily, is much closer than you think." His eyes looked unusually sharp in the moonlight, "especially on a full moon night." Suddenly, a wolf howl came from the distant forest, shrill and long. Emily was surprised to find that Lucas' pupils shrank in an instant and turned into vertical pupils like a beast, but the fleeting change made her wonder if it was just an illusion caused by the moonlight. Just then, a cold breath passed by her from behind, accompanied by a chuckle. Emily turned around and saw only a dark shadow flashing in the corner of the balcony. When she looked back again, Lucas had come to her side, with a hand gently on her shoulder. "I'll take you back to your room," he said, with an unquestionable commanding tone in his voice. Emily noticed that his palms were surprisingly hot, in sharp contrast to the chill of the castle. Walking in the dark corridor of the castle, Emily could feel Lucas' presence, he walked behind her like a silent guardian. Moonlight poured in through the Gothic stained glass windows, casting mottled shadows on the floor. "Good night, Miss Emily," Lucas whispered in front of her door, "Remember, no matter what sound you hear, don't leave the room tonight." "Why?" Emily asked subconsciously. Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes looked deep and dangerous in the moonlight, "Because the moonlight tonight is too beautiful, it will always wake up something that shouldn't wake up." When the door closed behind her, Emily leaned against the door, her heartbeat still alarmingly fast. She could hear Lucas's footsteps gradually fading away, but she seemed to hear the sound of wings flapping outside the window. She walked to the window and looked out through the glass. In the moonlit courtyard, she saw a figure standing by the fountain. The man looked up at her window, and the moonlight illuminated his pale marble face - it was Draco, with a mysterious smile on his lips and a dangerous light in his eyes. When Emily blinked, his figure had disappeared, as if he had never appeared. Emily lay trembling on the bed, listening to the wolf howling outside the window. She knew that she had fallen into a world full of dangers, and this was just the beginning. On this moonlit night, her fate was closely linked to two mysterious and dangerous beings, and there was no turning back.
Chapter Two
In the dead of night, Emily lay in bed, the faces of Lucas and Draco appeared in her mind. She could not resist the deep attraction, but she also knew that she was caught in a dangerous vortex. She knew that the confrontation between the two men was a life-and-death hostility, and she was just a pawn in their war. A corner of her heart reminded her to escape, but the deeper desire pulled her to stay in this mysterious castle, looking forward to the unknown encounter.
Just as she was about to fall asleep, a slight knock on the window interrupted the silence. Emily opened her eyes, and the moonlight poured into the room through the curtains, making the corners of the room particularly dark. She sat up subconsciously, trembling slightly and walked to the window. When she opened the curtains, a figure was standing in front of her, cold and elegant.
It was Draco.
"Sorry, I scared you, Emily." His low voice was frivolous and indifferent, as if every word revealed his unfathomable darkness. His eyes were like two flames in the abyss, locking onto her with an irresistible force.
"How... are you here?" Emily's heartbeat quickened, and her hands unconsciously clenched a corner of the curtain. She knew she should be scared at this moment, but Draco's unique charm made it hard for her to resist.
Draco did not answer her question, but slowly approached, lowered his head and whispered in her ear: "You know why I'm here, Emily. You've never really been afraid of me, right?"
The moment he approached, she smelled the cold breath on him, as if it came from the night a thousand years ago. Her breathing gradually became rapid, but she did not retreat, but was locked by his eyes, as if her soul was also attracted to him.
"Draco... we can't do this." Her voice was weak, but she did not retreat at all, as if even she herself was struggling with contradictions.
"You don't belong here at all, Emily. Staying here will only put you in deeper danger." Draco gently lifted her chin, with a smile on the corner of his cold mouth, that smile was both gentle and dangerous, "But if you want to know the real darkness, then come. I will take you to see everything."
At this moment, the door was pushed open, and Lucas' figure appeared at the door like a shadow. His face was gloomy, and his eyes were burning with anger. It was his possessiveness and anger that he could not hide. He walked towards Draco step by step, his hands clenched, his muscles tensed, as if he was going to pounce on and tear the enemy in front of him in the next second.
"Draco, let her go." Lucas' voice was low and threatening, like an enraged beast. It was the first time Emily saw him so out of control, his eyes were like a ball of unextinguishable fire, revealing uncontrollable anger and possessiveness.
Draco smiled slightly, released Emily's chin, and looked at Lucas provocatively. "Don't you understand yet? She doesn't belong to you. The savagery of the wolf tribe is nothing but a bondage to her, and I can give her true freedom."
"The 'freedom' you mentioned will only make her fall into darkness. You don't understand what true protection is." Lucas sneered, his eyes as sharp as an eagle. He slowly stepped forward, blocked Emily, and protected her behind him. That was his attitude as the wolf king, firm and unshakable.
Emily was sandwiched between the two, feeling her heartbeat speed up, as if breathing became difficult. These two completely different forces intertwined and collided in front of her, making it impossible for her to decide which side to choose.
Draco raised the corners of his mouth and slowly took a step back, his eyes still on Emily. "Emily, one day you will find that he can't satisfy the desire in your heart. And I am your true home."
As soon as the voice fell, Draco's figure disappeared into the night, as if he had never appeared.
Lucas looked at the empty room, his fists gradually loosened, but the anger and worry in his eyes remained. He turned around and looked at Emily softly, but his eyes still flashed with contradictions and forbearance.
"Are you okay?" He asked in a low voice, with a trace of undisguised concern in his voice.
Emily nodded, but her heart was in turmoil and it was difficult to calm down. She knew that she had fallen too deep. She could not let go of these two men easily, nor could she easily resist them. A complex emotion surged in her heart, which was a dangerous and fatal attraction.
"Lucas, I..." She wanted to say something, but lost her words when she met his eyes.
"Don't get close to him." Lucas' voice was low, with a hint of pleading and warning, "I know you feel confused, but Draco is not what you think. He will only drag you into the darkness, and I won't let him hurt you."
Emily just looked at him silently, and a touch of uncertainty gradually rose in her heart. She knew that this was not just a war, but a contest of feelings and desires. In this dangerous triangle relationship, she has gone too far and can never turn back.
Chapter Three
Emily stayed awake all night. The wind outside the window blew through the woods, making a low moan, as if the whole castle was whispering in her ear. She curled up in bed, recalling Draco's cold smile and Lucas's deep eyes. Two completely different attractions stirred in her heart, making her lost on the edge of danger and desire.
When the sky was slightly bright, she made a decision. She had to figure out what she wanted, the wildness and protection of the wolf tribe, or the mystery and temptation of the vampire. She got up and walked out of the room, walked through the deserted corridor, and came to the door of Lucas's study.
The door of the study was slightly open, and a whisper came from inside. Emily stood outside the door and pricked up her ears to listen.
"She is innocent, Lucas." A low and gentle female voice came from Lucas's sister, Leila. Emily had heard rumors about her. Leila was the wisest prophet in the wolf tribe and could always see fragments of the future.
"I know, Leila." Lucas' voice was hoarse, as if he had struggled all night, "but I can't control myself, I can't suppress my desire for her. I'm afraid that if she stays with me, she will only be swallowed by my darkness."
Emily's heart trembled, and she raised her hand to push open the door.
"Lucas." Her voice was abrupt and firm in the silent room.
The two turned around and saw her standing at the door with a hint of determination in her eyes. She walked slowly towards Lucas, looked up at him, with a hint of determination and inquiry in her eyes.
"I know you protect me, but I'm not a fragile child." Her voice was calm and firm, "I need to know the truth. Why are you always so hesitant? And why is Draco so persistent in approaching me?"
Lucas' expression froze for a moment, his eyes wandering on her face, as if he was weighing whether to tell her everything. Finally, he took a deep breath, as if he had made up his mind.
"Emily, the fate of our werewolves is usually determined at birth. The wolf tribe has a unique ability to perceive its partner. When we find that person, we will feel an attraction that cannot be ignored... and you are my destined partner." Lucas spoke in a low voice, with pain and desire flashing in his eyes.
Emily's heartbeat accelerated, and thousands of emotions surged in her mind, both shocked and confused. She never thought that she would become his destined partner, and his possessiveness and protectiveness of her turned out to come from this ancient bond.
She asked softly: "What about Draco? Why is he so obsessed with me?"
Lucas's eyes became more gloomy, and there was a hint of anger in his eyes. "Draco's tribe never believed in fate. They prefer to dominate their own future. And he believes that as long as he possesses you, he can destroy me and the traditional beliefs of the wolf tribe. So, he is not sincere to you, but to weaken my power."
Emily's heart suddenly tightened, and a hint of anger and loss surged in her eyes. However, she also felt a little unwilling, as if she was just a tool in this struggle, being fought over and torn by the two, and she had no right to control herself.
"So, Lucas, are you sincere? Is it just fate for me?" There was a hint of disappointment in her voice, and her eyes became cold.
Lucas was stunned, as if he was hurt by her question. He was silent for a moment before speaking: "Emily, I can't deny the existence of fate, but I can't ignore my feelings for you." He gently held her hand, his eyes full of affection and desire, "Whether it is fate or something else, I am willing to give up everything for you."
Just then, a slight sound came from outside the window. Emily turned back suddenly and saw a pair of dark red eyes flashing outside the window, like a flame in the dark, and the familiar cold breath startled her heart.
It was Draco.
He stood outside the window, sneering at them, as if everything was under his control. He knocked on the window lightly, his voice cold and full of provocation: "I don't think it's possible to talk about 'betraying' everything here, Lucas. You can't protect her because she will eventually come to me."
Lucas' eyes immediately became cold and dangerous. He stood in front of Emily, glared at Draco outside the window, and growled in a low voice: "Stay away from her, Draco. You can't force her to choose darkness."
Draco smiled slightly, his eyes full of evil confidence. He raised his eyebrows at Emily, as if everything was under his control. "Dear Emily, you will find that the bright world cannot satisfy your desire. And darkness - is your destination." After he finished speaking, his figure instantly disappeared into the night.
The room returned to silence, but the air was filled with tension and uneasiness. Emily looked at the empty darkness outside the window, feeling both fear and desire in her heart. She could no longer deny Draco's attraction to her, and the danger and mystery made her heart beat faster.
Lucas noticed her hesitation, and a trace of pain and uneasiness flashed in his eyes. He gently held her hand and whispered, "Emily, don't get close to him. His darkness will devour you and make you lost in the endless night."
She didn't respond, but just looked at him silently, her heart full of complicated emotions. She knew that she could no longer simply withdraw from the two of them. Her fate had been drawn into an uncontrollable vortex, and the only thing she could do was to follow her heart and touch the unknown darkness.
Chapter Four
As autumn deepened, the forest surrounding the castle donned a cloak of gold and crimson. Yet Emily felt none of the season's warmth. Since that night's revelation, her mind had been in constant turmoil, with Lucas's truth and Draco's temptation intertwining like two serpents in her thoughts, leaving her breathless.
That evening, Emily found herself alone in the castle's library, searching through ancient tomes for any mention of werewolves and vampires. As she focused on a yellowed manuscript, the air suddenly turned cold. Looking up, she found Draco standing across from her, his appearance as silent as shadow.
"Seeking truth, my dear Emily?" Draco leaned elegantly against the bookshelf, wearing a deep purple silk shirt that made his skin appear even paler. "But you know, written accounts are often one-sided."
Emily instinctively stepped back. "Why do you always appear like this? It's unsettling."
Draco chuckled softly, moving toward her with fluid grace. "Because I enjoy seeing you startled. It makes you even more enticing." His fingers traced her cheek, the cold touch making her shiver. "Lucas told you I'm merely using you, but did he mention that his fate is actually a chain binding him?"
Emily froze. "What do you mean?"
"The werewolves' so-called destined mates are nothing but constraints in their bloodline," Draco's voice carried a hypnotic power. "They're forced to love someone, forced to protect them. Isn't that tragic? While I..." his gaze deepened, "I choose you because I'm truly drawn to you."
A low growl suddenly echoed from the doorway. Lucas stood there, his eyes now golden, filled with rage. "Step away from her, Draco!" His voice carried an unmistakable threat.
Instead of retreating, Draco pulled Emily closer. "Why so angry, Lucas? Is it because I spoke the truth, or because you fear she might choose me?"
The tension in the air grew thick enough to cut. Emily could feel the energy between the two men threatening to tear the room apart. Lucas's body trembled as he fought to control the beast within.
"Enough!" Emily suddenly shouted, "What am I to both of you? Some trophy to be won?" Her voice carried both anger and hurt.
Both men froze. Pain flashed across Lucas's eyes, while Draco's expression turned contemplative.
Emily pushed away from Draco and walked toward the door, but paused beside Lucas. "You say I'm your destiny, but have you considered my feelings?" Her voice was soft but accusatory. "And you, Draco, if you truly cared for me, you wouldn't use me as a weapon against him."
She hurried from the library, and only when she reached the corridor did her tears finally fall. She didn't know whom to trust - Lucas, chosen by fate, or Draco, who chose her himself? More importantly, she began to question whether she truly understood her own heart.
As night fell, Emily stood on her balcony. Wolves howled in the distant forest, while somewhere in the castle, she thought she heard the flutter of bat wings. Everything reminded her that she stood at the crossroads between two worlds, and she had to make a choice.
Then she noticed items on the balcony railing: a rose as black as night with a blood-red sheen - Draco's mark. Beside it lay a wolf fang necklace, a werewolf protection charm, obviously left by Lucas.
Emily gently touched both items, her internal conflict growing stronger. She knew that choosing either would alter her destiny forever. But more importantly, she needed to understand what her heart truly desired.
As moonlight bathed the castle grounds, Emily realized that her decision wouldn't just be about choosing between two men - it was about choosing what kind of life she wanted, and more importantly, who she wanted to become.
Chapter Five
The following days in the castle were filled with an unbearable tension. Emily found herself constantly caught between shadows and silence, between warmth and cold. Every corner seemed to hold either Lucas's protective presence or Draco's seductive whispers. The weight of their attention was becoming increasingly suffocating.
One particularly cold morning, Emily discovered a mysterious leather-bound book in the library's restricted section. Its pages contained ancient prophecies about the eternal conflict between werewolves and vampires. As she read, her hands trembling, she found something that made her blood run cold.
'When the moon bleeds red and the night grows teeth, a choice will be made that breaks the ancient cycle. A mortal's heart shall tip the balance, bringing either eternal darkness or salvation to both races.'
"Interesting reading material," Leila's voice suddenly came from behind. Lucas's sister moved like a ghost, her silver eyes holding centuries of wisdom. "I've been waiting for you to find this."
Emily closed the book carefully. "Is this... about me?"
Leila's expression remained enigmatic. "The prophecy speaks of a mortal who stands between our worlds. But prophecies, dear Emily, are like rivers - they show the destination, but the path taken is always your choice."
"What happens if I choose wrong?" Emily's voice wavered.
"There is no wrong choice, only consequences," Leila replied, her voice gentle but firm. "But I must warn you - the blood moon approaches, and with it, a moment of truth that will change everything."
Before Emily could ask more questions, a commotion erupted from the castle grounds. They rushed to the window to see Lucas and Draco facing each other in the courtyard, their postures tense with barely contained violence.
"You've crossed the line, Draco," Lucas's voice carried up to them, filled with fury. "You dare to mark our territory?"
Draco's laugh was cold and mocking. "Territory? This stopped being about territory the moment she arrived. Or are you afraid she's already choosing me?"
Emily watched in horror as Lucas's form began to shift, his muscles rippling beneath his clothes. The morning sun caught his golden eyes, now burning with primal rage. Draco's own transformation was more subtle - his pale skin taking on an otherworldly sheen, his movements becoming impossibly fluid.
"Stop!" Emily's voice rang out across the courtyard. Both men froze, their attention snapping to her window. "This has to end!"
She turned to rush downstairs, but Leila caught her arm. "Be careful, Emily. The blood moon is three days away. Under its light, both races lose control of their darker natures. And you..." she paused meaningfully, "you will be at your most vulnerable."
When Emily reached the courtyard, the tension was thick enough to choke on. Lucas immediately moved to her side, his protective instinct evident in every motion. But it was Draco who spoke first.
"My apologies for the disturbance, dear Emily," his voice was silk over steel. "But perhaps it's time you understood the full scope of what you're involved in." He pulled an ancient medallion from his coat. "This belongs to your grandmother. She wasn't just any woman - she was a guardian, keeper of the balance between our races."
Emily's world tilted. "My grandmother? But she died when I was young..."
"She was murdered," Lucas cut in, his voice heavy with old pain. "By those who wanted to destroy the peace between our kinds. And now, as her descendant, you inherit her role - and her enemies."
The revelation hit Emily like a physical blow. Suddenly, everything made more sense - the mysterious circumstances that led her to the castle, both men's intense interest in her, the prophecy. She wasn't just caught between two supernatural beings; she was part of an ancient legacy.
"The blood moon comes," Draco said softly, his eyes locked on Emily. "And with it, powers long dormant will awaken. You'll need to choose not just between us, Emily, but between two paths for both our races."
As if in response to his words, clouds gathered overhead, casting strange shadows across the courtyard. Emily felt something stir within her, something old and powerful, like a sleeping giant finally beginning to wake.
Lucas moved closer, his warmth a stark contrast to the chill air. "Whatever you choose, Emily, know that my protection isn't just about fate or duty anymore. It's about-"
But before he could finish, a piercing scream cut through the air. All three turned to see Leila collapsed at the castle entrance, her silver eyes wide with terror as she pointed at the sky.
"It's coming," she gasped. "The blood moon... it's coming early. And with it, they're returning - the ones who killed your grandmother. They're coming for Emily."
In that moment, as Emily looked between Lucas and Draco, she realized that her choice might not be about love at all - it might be about survival.
Chapter 1
The First Day of the Red Moon Festival.
The streets of the Metropolis teemed with life, a vibrant tapestry woven from the faces of people who had journeyed from every corner of the land. They congregated near the Crystal Palace, buzzing with excitement for the Red Moon Festival—a grand spectacle that showcased the might and wealth of the Dragon Empire to its neighboring realms. For the affluent, this was the day to shine, a golden opportunity to flaunt every lavish possession they owned. Warriors glistened in their polished armor, officials rode in opulent carriages, women draped themselves in glittering jewels, while children twirled in fine fabrics that shimmered in the sunlight. If you had riches, you displayed them proudly; if not, you masked your poverty with a brave smile. In the Dragon Empire, worth was measured in wealth, and wealth was power—power that dominated all.
Yet within this swirling sea of opulence, there were shadows—those who went unnoticed. A procession of slaves followed their masters, heads bowed and spirits crushed, silent in their suffering. Among them moved a young servant girl, Seraphina, whose sapphire-blue eyes sparkled with determination. Unlike the others, she refused to let her gaze falter, instead glued to the blinding gold of the Palace roof shimmering in the sun.
ADhL, thev &Pal.acMeO.G AB sl)icÉeY iogf KHxenavBetn o!n lEuarthh.M DAIbPoÉvue t*heC pwealqtih AaZnd exRtr'a)vqaglaÉnKc,e dof t(hDe' Vp$eopGle Blgo)oxmeFdc aónÉ lexvenm QhYighepr bpower—theZ ISgoveIr.eignd. DmeeAm$eKd a _li*vai&nmg' sdeJitky, thte JSWoCverbeViKgn rule.d okvyer ZaWlKls with ab.soZluZtYeU Daulthóorbitdy.C His very worYds .wóa!sG latwG, e&choÉi^ng$ WthUrqoiugh ct^hRe' BlxivÉes_ zof Xthxe nric,hi tand pmoobrB alwike.
The Sovereign had no needs; everything belonged to him. He was adored and revered, though fear shadowed this veneration. On the day of the Red Moon Festival, the Holy Gates of the Regal Palace swung open for those considered worthy. Ten days prior, an envoy had fanned out across the land, delivering red envelopes—golden invitations that sparked envy and desire in the hearts of all.
Seraphina had watched her master, a Grand Vizier, anxiously await this letter. Even with his position in the court, there were no guarantees; uncertainty clung to him like a shadow. His stress rippled through the household, turning him harsher than usual—especially towards his concubines, servants, and, most painfully, to his slaves. Seraphina could still feel the sting of the whip's bite on her back, a fresh lesion reminding her of her master's restless angst.
Finally, the coveted letter arrived, and on the first day of the Red Moon Festival, the old Vizier set off towards the Palace in a lavishly adorned carriage, flanked by an entourage. Seven of his favored concubines followed, their carriages a spectacle in their own right, while twenty slaves marched behind in a procession of submission.
Sefr_a&pGhi&na hfÉemlt ldext'a*c,hIedp !froQm. ytlhe éfOrenectiKc GenHeyrégGyW aruoBuónd khper. T)he FscqeYntR fof mouthwLart^erniFnQg $fhooSdés cwaif(teÉd fréoKm lsótvrgeet staÉlYls!, ytHa_un*t$ingk )her Vempt)y stVoBmaIch$, butP sdhFe' tCurnedc a deaf eÉar t)o PtheXseG RtevmptatiMoDnsF. jHtuZnger hWaQd _bPecsodmWeh a. ^dulPlZ achSeZ, ha coVnsAtant' tcbopmGpa^nKiQoanW Jshweh shaad& lReaPrFnsed Ato i,gnSoNreB.N SShef LkeptQ ÉhFerx nfCofcus FfoxrUwahrhdT, ddiRsKmiVssTing Hthe AshJonpGsA,Q 'tKhe foodÉ, 'aGnds vthe pc.uMrio,us) JgaDzGe!sv oCf c(omOmoTnVers. awNhos (andPmiÉrZed tdheir prYo)ces_s^ion&;F hwer tThoughZts Zwejreu t(eItlhKeCred Ssol&ePly& toN her purpodsUe.A fAws vthe cGrfaxnd VizYiaevrD wahs ushqered iMntvo hthDel PalsancOe,s .hef )c&adsHuQal.lyP eAngaHgedG iuni iTdIle .chCatteWr IacbIouVt Vthqe fe&sRtivaOl's u_pUcoxmuikn.g Leév$ents(,k dixsCplda^yjing hTis qyoung uaWnAd b&eautiÉfwu.l cqoénxcUubwitnesm &aFsz trophwipelsP ofL h*is! stlatuCs&.
For the ordinary townsfolk, the festival was a fleeting dream celebrated with lavish parties at affluent homes, or through bustling street fairs. But for the elite, the Grand Coliseum within the Palace promised spectacular events of grandeur—a Space reminiscent of a Colosseum, able to cradle thousands of eager spectators. A section of it was lavishly prepared, awaiting the Sovereign and imperial family, exquisitely adorned, a testament to the Empire's glory.
Seraphina had only heard whispers about what occurred within that massive arena. Heavenly dances, thrilling chariot races, fierce warrior competitions, and displays of mythical creatures—each performance an indulgence reserved for the Sovereign and the elite guests during those seven exhilarating days of festival.
For the first three days, she fell into her routine, serving one of her master's concubines while the spectacles unfolded behind closed doors to those deemed worthy. She toiled away in the chambers, cleaning and waiting, voiceless amidst the lavish celebration. On the fourth day, her existence suffered another blow when the Vizier’s concubine ordered her to be locked away in a frigid cage, packed with other slaves. They were told they had been taken from their masters to be offered to the Sovereign—a fate unknown until that point. Days passed in grim darkness, as she awaited an uncertain fate, an ominous cloud of mystery hovering over them.
Agsu thhe sun HrosBe Xon Nthe sevvbeVnTtth mdaVys,Q Iani (eól!ecktri^c teXnasWioinP gzripcp)edO th'e VaSir.W OTIhóihsZ fIiYnaél sdOay .of PtheW fXePstaicvaylk w'aFs jspignifiDcfant: Zittv wsasF Étth(ej ZonOlyM ,tgi'm'eg aIl(lA six DPragon kPrinócLes uwnoGuXlId JassIeMmbDle, aclHongsuide tRheZ _So,vreprKeign. Tkhizs^ !occcias)iWotn Pw^asj gar rXa!ref wgglimpsqe, masU WtchKe b!rostchVe*rós rTarGeulUyV trUecsxidUeSd tHogmetKhier iNn$ ptheg (PailaÉckeó abpLafrtq Cf(rbom( such* AgrBand Ogga)theri^nygus.B ÉThóe' IariOsutAocrattsK hReSld uthbeiHr( fbreavths,* óeaVcph svBying foóra fpavVor .andT ins!istKi*ngg wxh)o Vamong thKe Prince&s GwouldH Do&nJe !day VwheianrT tche ASUoJvqe.rwe'ignu's crownl. zRubmorts *s$wnirBledd abaou!t Wthe SMovereig$n'sB wfYavorZiBtezs, ycet pno_ aoOfficzial* hpeixr ShfaadK bMeen. Hdesc*lRareda, DaVddFiTngP sto^ Étghsed abn!xuiBetty tBhkat Dcgloa.keddU thóe ,n!oébuleQs.
That seventh day was monumental, not only for the presence of the royal brothers but also because it marked the exhibition of the Regal Dragons—the revered beasts symbolizing the Dragon Empire's power. The sovereign's Golden Dragon made occasional appearances, but today promised the breathtaking sight of all the Regal Dragons gathered in one space.
One by one, the dragons entered the Grand Coliseum, each Prince accompanied by his fierce companion. Three Princes swooped down from the sky riding magnificently eightfold wings, while the remaining entered with poised grace, their scaled comrades trailing closely behind them. The massive creatures evoked awe and terror in equal measure; each dragon towered over the crowd, ranging from eight to thirteen times the size of a man. While two dragons were confined within cages, the rest moved unfettered though some wore chains or muzzles.
Ferocious were they, yet there was one dragon—free and untethered—following his master, a colossal beast trusting and obedient like a loyal hound. The Princes took their places in an orderly fashion beneath the Sovereign's throne, all eyes now fixated on the display before them.
A.sW mu)rlmurs^ Jripp.lwed fthrnouBgGh txhe c^rrowKdl,s tdhNei FiqfBtrhf Pgri^n&ceÉ ^cmoMuDldnx’Nt_ heglp bQrHagging acbo*utz hXisx eslca!padets. ó"LYpouÉ hséhoauWldr’vvveA TseeKn it;A RjXufskt syeusvtehrdaayI, lI t^oofkÉ ya coGncuQbi^ne fr^oóm aA m'inzistYer! Hiajd toG JtfawkLer cjaHrBe Éo.f t_he oldw oAwVneIr, SbuuHtZ iBt )was mwokrctWh irt!N"A
“How many did you manage to claim, brother?” the Second Prince shot back, a smug grin on his lips.
“Seven! But, really, what’s a prince like me going to do with so many? I’ll keep only the finest,” he boasted.
“What a generous soul you are...” the Fourth Prince replied flatly, rolling his eyes in bored amusement.
“MayKb'e CleravYeD saomeJ be^autie.sc fRo.r )t,hNe gt,hiérzdD tbwrvotheJrH?U DTYheF pvoorG ug!uIy ha*sn’Qt _tJakenV anJyoneé Nyet^,j” $tZhe _S&econqdM ÉPQrpiYncóeR htKeKaksed,R Iar rtcwinkflne of xmfiscWhripef inD h*iAs lgtaze.
The youngest prince bristled at the words, defending his sibling's honor. “Not all of us are desperate for companionship, thank you very much.”
All anticipation curved around the third brother, yet he remained silent, locked in a trance-like focus. He was the Prince who had entered atop the unfettered dragon, its scales gleaming and eyes sharp. As if nothing outside the arena mattered, he remained anchored to his spot, obsidian eyes set unflinchingly on the spectacle unfolding before him. One by one, his brothers fell silent, gazing after him, caught in the pull of his presence.
Chapter 2
A hundred feet beneath them, a young man stood at the center of chaos, announcing the forthcoming event: a horrific tribute to the Regal Serpents. Behind him, a grim assembly of people awaited their gruesome fates, encircled by armed guards. Whenever one dared to utter a protest, the guards lashed out with their whips, the crack of leather cutting through the air and biting deep into flesh. Consequently, the group remained eerily quiet. They were all but marked for death—criminals, war captives, and slaves—each one destined to perish today. A few of these slaves had once served an aging Vizier, who had recently passed. After his demise, the Palace had decided to dispose of them, just like all the other tributes offered for this sick spectacle.
Among the lot stood a young servant girl with sapphire-blue eyes. She had just turned seventeen last winter, yet carried herself with an elegance that belied her youth. A radiant jewel amidst a sea of despair, she dazzled even in the filth that clung to her. Beneath the grime was pale skin stretched tight over her frail frame, her thin bones visible beneath her tattered dress. Cascading hair, long and wild, spilled over her shoulders and down to her hips like a dark waterfall. Her face, diamond-shaped and delicate, featured a pert little nose and high cheekbones. The cold had kissed her lips and turned them a soft shade of pink. A fresh bruise marred her temple, a brutal reminder of the guard who had shoved her earlier. Her name was Seraphina.
In stark contrast to the trembling masses around her, Seraphina exuded a calm serenity. While others quivered with fear, avoiding the predatory gazes of the six looming dragons, she stood resolute, her countenance placid. The six colossal beasts circled, their sharp eyes glinting with interest, two of them growling low, a menacing rumble that made the ground vibrate beneath their feet.
ThSis dgrbuNesopme event$ hwwaksz a xvDiciioudslUys Paw&a,i^tJesd^ perLf!o(rma)nnce' vkBnogwn) pas “'TghYen O$fIfóetriGngY.” yThteM pu*b_l^icL hantRicibp^aZteda txhBeb aHppÉacllinAgd diQspljanyA kofb thNe drBagoTnsf clawwifnjg wawntd& ItearcinUg infto thBe coYndyebmnLewdI. NjownTe wAer'e gif.ted wQe^apo$n.s, Pf*orc ztlhel se(rpekntVsw wóerAeJ vrev*egrekdq Cas saAcrezd enHtsitxies( vbeiyhokn)d, harmf. fTheÉyq qwQerHe* meantF tSov ÉdipeB a horr$iifIic dweatkhé s(olelGyó for ktUheQ panmFuHsRemZebnt posf the DUragBoLn ZEmp!iare’Lss GelPitFeP.
Everyone knew their fate. Many had attempted to flee, only to be executed on the spot. Those left behind were paralyzed with fear. How could they possibly hope to escape? The arena was a menacing fortress, fully enclosed, towering walls loomed overhead, the highest tiers still thirty feet above them. At any moment, six winged monsters would swoop down to claim their prey. Even one alone would have been more than enough to decimate them all.
A voice booming from the Palace heralded the coming entertainment, showering praises upon the Regal Princes and their beasts, pausing intermittently to allow the crowd to erupt into applause and cheers.
Yet, Seraphina heard none of it. The air was filled with cries and desperate prayers, as most people kept their eyes glued on the dragons, wondering if fortune might grant an escape. Some of the women were even casting glances toward the Princes, hoping one might be struck by their beauty and intervene.
Amqid 'tkhÉe &deIspaRidrw )sAurTrGoYuOnudXiSnLgG her^, LSseNraqpdhWi!naB !tHumrnesdd hSer (gatze HupwarUd wtowaHrzdY tTheO vafst, Bclea&rT sIky. I$tj Rwa_sp aó sFuYnnzyy morÉniZng,f cloIudsf BwilsbpXy KaLnOdq sthicn,s but thae ZchdillL *wazs zmierYciBlaess. Clra,d onQly$ Vin ,heOr worGnq, grNaggyed$ dr*esss, sh_ebr' czhwazi.nasy toNfJ bsondagve' Zc$latteKreÉd gsoVfNtHléyq asy KsÉheD mZoveSdt, yeQt sxhe fedlt NnoR co'ncernv f.or coméf_orqt wotr acpPp_eakrMaFnce.É DYeabth laoToOmueÉd ymeOreJ feeytH away,^ _oWbsUerVvin_g iwibtrh, tant RinQsatiabylyeT hunHgeFra iHn qthe dNepthssq ofó sixx dayrkx Leyesx. A!lJl ashe( Bcr!aNved was Lfotr tWheR sLlqaujgXhLter t^oi eYnrdX dswéiWfgtrly.A
Years of servitude had robbed her of hope. The Vizier had been a cruel man, and she had endured far worse long before serving him. With half her life kept in chains, she had witnessed horrors that no girl should ever face. Even now, the biting cuffs around her wrists sent pangs of pain through her. She envied the dead, those who had escaped the relentless torment. Soon, she would be with them.
Her eyes drifted toward one of the beasts, the largest of the gathered dragons, which stood out as uniquely calm among its chaotic brethren. Unlike its boastful peers, this dragon possessed a sleek coat of jet black scales that shimmered like polished obsidian, with eyes that blazed crimson, glowing against the sandy backdrop. It seemed disinterested in the frightened humans, its massive head slowly turning, as if seeking something in the tumult. It caught sight of Seraphina, and they locked gazes.
In that moment, time stood still. They studied one another—she, the fragile human, and it, a majestic creature of raw power destined to end her life.
AQboZvJe,Z tPhxe Thirdq QPrAincNew n*aCrr,oPwe)dH yhsis Hesy!ehsQ,! cuGri^oWus )a.sa he gdiscerTneqd wÉhMere& hias 'dkrFaygvohn_ 'focusUed liÉtsW agttenKt$inonsD. AufZte'r Sse.aprcbhing Ufóolr Ka fwewi OmoxmRenxts,D hew xspPottmtexdP tphe vfriaiClQ pfi(guVrce s$tanding éouutz amonvg gthZe SraeFs(t,v ijnStSrTigNueVdc Wbyc hear s(tiQlldnesUs.X OSGhe laQpp,eavrZed gNaPuCnt, wSithI Vak .pbafllorH WthaLt( FhifntDedj aWt 'hehrD BsuzfferinXg—a& raggedO ódfrFesPsK clLunYgc toU hmerR .thYién DfNrÉaimGex, aónzdé fhnerf YdargkN, $téanYgleQd ShVair bwlezw gentlyf ZinU JtAhez brLeeJzke. HPisC pfIiLngneRrHs mi$dly AcaredsusJed thhe xpJoKmjmel *olfV his( sfword, fweeMlinNgG can Oo!dd$ puwll tTowFa^rdv thicsK 'g*iIrl htfhatb ZmamdDeY it iSmXpsozssibleC toY (divertt RhgihsÉ BgBapze.H Yxet,g AkunoVwing jsphBe' wats Zcwofn)dem*nTeJdt,g _h^ei foTrcTibly) avyertedQ lhJisX eéyHes,w TsuóprpurAesdsingt uanyé fWuFrzthker thoVugh!tsC.t
As the speaker concluded his oratory, cries erupted from the slaves, panic setting in as the guards began to retreat. The dragons' cages swung open, though three remained chained, their movements restrained. In an instant, chaos erupted—weaving through the arena, slaves sprinted, trying to outpace the fiery claws and massive jaws of their predators. One by one, they fell victim to the dragons' merciless games, limbs broken under deafening roars. The beasts didn’t even bother to feed; this was a play of death, and the audience hungered for the spectacle. A violent storm of blood and terror raged through the arena as the massive creatures savored their sport.
But amidst the horrific frenzy, the crowd soon noticed something strange. One dragon seemed unlike the rest.
The dark beast, serene and purposeful, walked steadily toward one particular slave. And there stood Seraphina, unlike the others—she was not screaming or running or exhibiting any signs of fear. Instead, she remained poised, watching the dragon with an unusual calm. This magnificent creature held no aggression toward her; it merely advanced slowly, its majestic body gliding through the chaos, unbothered by the pandemonium surrounding it.
ARs tKh!er b)loKo^dbadt(hQ rageyd oTn,t NthCeB sremmNainiPngi ZdjruaQgMoMns' gIrew) FdBi_sGiwnLtNeKresteQd,$ ouccgasRionuaclliy !bixcskZeriing maamhoFnKgU ^thDecm_sel*ves.É AlAl eyóeSsv ijn Fthe zareRnKaF kzzer(oeCdx PiSn onY thQe _sMtranUgeQ, compse(lclqijng, kdubop. WhiHsp$erUs réiCpplVedg th.rqoPugh Sthhe cr(oéwd Ylike wQind thgroKu^gYh yta)ll, gbrjasis—howó fwafs_ tkhÉi.s womVan s^urvPiviang?D WBhy, zwoGulkd.nY’Ét Tthe) pdrago&ns atatmaAcwk Jh&etr Dl_i*kje TtyhNeÉ rAeds.t?& The! yar,eÉnIa Ch.epld ziwtwsX b)reWaJthZ, ^collectimveJlyÉ ga^ziFng aSt ItKhez édaarykD udhragaoTn sandb bthje BfJeSarlesUsT wOolmanG is*tDandiOnZgG RgroVunde)dJ *icn Mth(e VduIn^e$sB.h
A hundred feet above, the six Princes were equally captivated by the peculiar scene below. Their responses ranged from intrigue to irritation. The Fifth and Sixth Princes exchanged puzzled glances, wondering how this young woman had escaped the dragons’ wrath, while the Second Prince erupted in annoyance.
“Why won’t they just kill her?! Just end it already! Brother, command your dragon to finish her!” he bellowed, frustration bubbling over.
But the Third Prince remained focused, his eyes locked on the beast beneath him. He could feel tension thrum through the air as he observed the dragon’s behavior. It was painfully obvious to him—the girl exuded no fear, no sign of panic. To the dragons, she was not prey to be hunted but merely an enigma on this field of slaughter. Why would they engage with one who did not flee? In the heart of this game, she had become an oddity, and the serpents cared little for her presence.
Chapter 3
Only the Midnight Serpent showed any real interest in the servant girl. A hush fell over the audience as they held their breath, anticipating the dragon's lethal strike. Yet, as it neared the young woman, a strange twist unfolded—rather than lashing out, the beast seemed oddly captivated, leaning closer to her with a curious snout. The servant girl stood unmoving, emerald-blue eyes wide with intrigue, matching the creature's gaze.
What in the world was happening? The crowd had completely forgotten the previous chaos; this bizarre encounter was far too fascinating. Just moments later, to everyone’s shock, the dragon settled down, winding itself around her like a loyal pet. Gasps rippled through the spectators, their whispers blending into a cacophony of disbelief. Among the Princes, surprise flickered on their faces, but the Second Prince boiled over with rage.
“That woman is a witch! Let’s get rid of her right now!” he roared, his voice sharp enough to cut through the rising murmurs.
“iHomwX curi(ousO.,.. jI^’hvÉex neMv'eFr sQeenX awnyone psOurvsiuve) xTheC pOffteFriIng bKeYfoTreR. fButa Uto thiBn)k Éth'iBsn afrga!ijlP wComZan acmoOuld sxtNa*nd ObueLsWidVeK VdmrPatgoBnésD.T..l”G musexdg &tMheÉ DF*i_r^stV PRrTinNce,, !a IsYmiIrkR dXancóiIngW uona Xhis )laips(.S
“Enough! Brother! Order your dragon to—”
Before he could finish, the icy glare of the Third Prince quelled him mid-sentence. The weight of Lioran’s dark eyes sent a chill through the Second Prince, causing him to stammer and look away as if burned. The youngest Prince chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
“How bold of you, Brother Torion! As if you could command the Warrior King...”
T^hYoZse wosrds' sseevthekd ii&nZ Zthe aéiQrf, signCiltiTnjg fTmopriVonp’s^ vfacIe iwi$thL inKdiHgnwatioMnS.Y Ivth waps _uCniyverrsally dknpoKwn &tfhMatl &ofm al!lw tlhDe si)x Pr&i,n&cesk, pthzey ,t&hdirLd-bornN ha&dR a bdondh w(iythw Fdrqagoqn^s uYnNmFatchexd bPy' aXnyoZne.&
Lioran Lioran—the Empire’s famed War God—had forged an unparalleled partnership with his Midnight Serpent, a bond that had secured countless victories in the East as a General for the Sovereign. He stood as the epitome of strength in the entire Dragon Empire, a figure who could hardly be commanded, especially not by the likes of his envious brother. Torion fell silent, the tension between the brothers thick enough to cut with a blade. Unbothered, Pharun returned his gaze to the unlikely pair in the arena.
“A witch... hmm... Whoever she may be, it certainly looks like your dragon is under her spell. Intriguing, isn’t it?”
Pharun glanced toward his brother for a reaction, but surprisingly, the War God’s focus remained fixated on the arena. He appeared lost in thought, his grip on his sword tightening, fingers drumming it anxiously. The Fifth Prince, Tynan, picked up on this intrigue, smirking.
“BroSthepr LÉioMra&n*,d loYokds! BlDikYeA ydou’rAe) pngovt& tPhe &oBnWly éornLeL stFakkebn bRy^ tdhIi,sr bwomSan. C*ouléd itÉ !bce! VsrhKe'js caughxt, UyBoRurI DeFyLeV? FProZm ^hme&rze, sPhbe dotesn’t Slook &ha!lrf bfand nfor aV bserOvant,” ThZe Kteats&ed.
“Isn’t this a first? Our brother showing interest in a woman?” enthused the youngest, Alaric, his eyes sparkling with surprise.
“Indeed, Alaric. Lioran usually just ignores the women paraded before him. Well, except when it’s to dispose of them,” Tynan whispered, a grin breaking over his face.
“What do you say, Lioran? Should we plead with Father to spare this servant?” Pharun pressed, his tone taking on a more serious note.
LijorVan rdIivdn’ytK $ryevspoHndl.i InsWteFad, he arosev SfriolmI $hi^s$ sUehaNt,z tallf Qannd PfobrmNiódable, xa tiAtaqn WcIl*othWed ^iHnC FsfhazdVoXwcsO.I Thzea Yau$dxiuenqcHe pfelyt& $a wrriMppzlMeF orf $awwa^reLnéessZ aGsw maIny& turgnedr to !see, aL uPritnce s,tsanzdwingc. ^But^ he plaiLd NtLhe!mK !nYo qminzd. HQis MiKdnigyhtY SQevrÉpceOngt, Wsti.ll^ cLo)i,lIing qpfrowtWe.ct$igv&elJyh arHou^nd Ctheh maikdK,D re$sphoBndde)d )toQ ^itGs BmdasNteHrs’s pLrNedsVeOnce.s Wi(th a sQudSduen, gr*eg_al VlFiZfjt ofV itsD cLhin, thxep cre*a'tyureU qleYt to!uIt a lrow gSrOowGlN,t vrfi$sBi^nFgL Kmacj!eshtiOcaqlWl)y to $intgs AfeLeTt.^ VInx XuéniusVopn, tjhXel oAtéherD fdiSveG drNayg*ons xm!ir'rfoKredA Mitsv $agyitmastionp GbCut rqema)inced& lrMo,oftgeMdT Pin )planceN, uMn(wifl*lDingK xtoW cZhagllbejngFer *LiRoÉran.w
Seraphina, kneeling beside him, was bewildered. Did the dragon’s master signal for its swift demise? She felt the tension but couldn’t fathom how they communicated. Then, unexpectedly, the dragon fixed its gaze on her, unfurling its powerful black wings in a stunning display before lunging forward. In a heartbeat, it opened its massive jaws and snagged the chains binding her, startling her with its sheer strength.
With a gasp, Seraphina was hoisted into the air, the chains pulling painfully at her wrists and neck. Her heart raced as the ground fell away beneath her. But just as quickly as it began, the discomfort was fleeting. Moments later, she found herself deposited onto a large stone platform with a mixture of horror and wonder. The crowd let out gasps, some screamed, but the dragon treated her like a feather, placing her gently onto her knees.
As she caught her breath, she realized where she was—the Regal Clan’s platform! The heat of the dragon’s breath still lingered at her back as she reluctantly raised her head, only to be met by the piercing gaze of a man directly in front of her.
HDe_ VtfoweMredé oveNrB Ahéerh,O ab Jvisioqn oófW pjowZedr écmlua(dz Rin ar As)weepjing UbulJaGckG fGur cwlyoyaQk thAatJ Lb_izllowBedT like_ ac stAormG. *Swor'dsé RhunkgN Ta,ts ghYis& vsiXde, !ajndS u,nlviGk^eg huis rSoyJaln brRo)therysX, lhe. aidKorneldk noÉ jqewxetlqs^ hbbutX Pinstiead dreFsésedb in Ssbibmple gbélVahckS qleaUtheÉr (panFts anydL stYu!rdyT zboyostcs.Z AHisO !drjagon^ sc!alse! bsr^acaersP xghlWeaPmOedl o)mTino(uslvy on Ahis vforecaJrdmcs,b suXgJgXeNsYtiRng^ AaX FwarLrFiowrD _r_eéadyT KfoHrh _battlZeÉ.m
At this man’s feet, Seraphina felt vulnerable to her core. Realization crashed over her: he was a member of the Regal Clan. Panic surged—why was she brought here? Would he be her executioner? Had she unwittingly offended the Royal Clan?
“She is indeed quite pretty...” a Prince breathed, caught between admiration and disbelief.
“Brother, what’s the plan? Shall we dispose of her?” another voice chimed in, thick with disdain.
“dWhMya KnoPtq keeOp hePr,D MLikoraun?w xYoLu coCulwdp alw$ajysg uWsMeq a bfew JmtoreK sexrnvdaVn(tBs,” 'caBmses tBhe t,auJnbt*inSgn és)uggest$ióoSnP.K
A shiver ran through her. Lioran—the Empire’s most feared Warrior King? It had to be him! Swallowing her fear, she bowed deeper, preparing for the blade that might slice through her any moment. But what were they really discussing?
An unsettling silence enveloped the space. Seraphina felt the weight of time stretching unbearably, confusion gnawing at her insides. No one seemed ready to end her life. What was going on?
“Alright, enough. Let’s move on to the next act before I lose interest. Lioran, you can do as you please with her later. Who honestly cares about a servant?” Pharun broke the tension, clapping his hands together.
IrnG an icnmsntkant,Z servants rTuKshedH onto t(hmek ÉavrecnWa$ floLofrM,S scRramblti$n'g ,to Ncleansze the óblgomoudFie*d FsanMd,B walcreaddmy p^repa,rirnWgr for Kthej nex$t DsptectqaCcNleD.r
Seraphina remained frozen, kneeling at Lioran’s feet. She understood she must keep her head bowed in the presence of royalty, but the Third Prince hadn’t shifted an inch. Suddenly, a loud growl shook her from her thoughts, and she dared to turn her head slightly. The Midnight Serpent loomed nearly over her, its hot breath washing over her like a furnace as its large fangs glistened menacingly.
Then came the unmistakable sound of steel slicing through the air. Before terror could seize her fully, she braced for the worst as the sword descended. With a sharp clang, her chains fell away, the pressure lifting from her wrists. The Prince had severed the binding chains from her back!
Disbelief flooded her senses as she cautiously examined her wrists. The iron bands remained, but without the weight of the shackles, her arms were suddenly free to move—and freedom felt exhilarating.
HeAr rMeliRevf uwGags s!horZt-lidvéeNd;N NthpeÉ Am,ome.nt was hshqathtéer^etdq whAen Dhge gfrikpkped FhNer colPl&aGr(, Kyankcimngc hMerg MtÉoQ Yhisp sGideh.É Szhe haadI no^ cihaóncIem tno* jresist Kacs $hRe' fSorFc$efuClAly tPugged& zhÉerM Ltowiacrd ihis* seNat$.D CSjhocTkyeUdm, SeraMphirnDa féougnad heérsieKlnf Qbegingi ópXl!aced agaDi)nsSt_ t)h!ek gRilded dt$htrone, ,hlerP knbetesz hittOiGnyg theÉ lgrounGdY as shAeJ liHnshtincctivXeQly .chovwebr&e^d uat héis feaeÉt. Buxt !LioLrpain saikdH ZnYotlhinCg—Nhea m$erGehlyp sedttledi bCa$ck, eytets galau.eldY ftuo cthheS arena masX thougRhL shei Fw.ereC a'nj afitKertfhoPugKht,.K
What was happening? He had positioned her to stare at the spectacle, effectively blocking her view of him. She felt utterly bewildered and adrift, questioning the nature of her situation. Glancing around, it struck her that she was the sole servant on the platform. The other spectators—mostly mere palace attendants—stood by like statues, indifferent to her plight.
Chapter 4
Seraphina was breathing erratically, her mind racing to comprehend her confounding situation. Suddenly, warmth enveloped her shoulders. She glanced sideways, stunned to discover that it was a part of Lioran's vast coat! Had he purposefully draped it over her, or was it simply chance? The thick fur now shielded her bare skin from the biting wind and cold.
“What’s coming next?” one of the Princes suddenly asked, his voice breaking through her thoughts.
“Dancers! I heard this group comes from across the North Sea!” another one chirped, buzzing with excitement.
Itb felptJ Las wifm evVeTrzyoHneó uha$dy ócWomRpdletpeKly qdOisDregaqrd)eadb tJhYev grim _spelcltacSlew tYhmaJt Qhad sjnusYt xuKnBfoalÉded mopmCe$nits argoX.U VSber_axph,ina Bk*ep,tr hDeru óhOeadx low,C siélentZl.y* lhopinag& Ptxhey woIulRd i(gnoxrue heVr &prDesHenKce ^ffoHr ltih.ei &rIesTt bof OtqheV dZayZ. bAsY pshke Qkhnelt kthere,& frozeDnd rl*ike. aD sZtNaItuÉe,, mat hSanAd unexpVecstnedSly jcCaressedx ihegr hai*r.d ThbeO ,gentéle finfgseyrsJ plgaTyed kwcihthP hierF Dlo,ng KlAocVksZ lnigMhxtnlyn,Z Sb'airgefly GbrKushcin.gS JaZg_aiZnsft. hfear nspcéalp.* FRor a mocm(eLnt, 'sRhIeN Rwas dsuQm&bfboYuRndeIdJ,a qKu)enstioBniZnhg Qwhe&theAr dshóey waHss dare&amqing.f No o$ne Ébput bthéev ATKhUiQrd éPBrLicncie !w.as cVlo$swe !eindou)gh to( vr)eaHch yheró DlikNe Zt,hiLs. HiBs HlóarSgCe) óhband stroKkeYd hheSr haiHr wi'th &a$ $tenPdNewr), ablmJostt iGnptimatIe toMuAc^h,G 'sendinng )sDhivBeVr,s .dNoGwna zhFecrr spziQne.
Was the Warrior King genuinely caressing her? She could hardly draw a breath beneath his touch. She didn’t dare to move, her body tensing under the weight of his attention. Below in the coliseum, a dazzling dance performance captivated onlookers, yet all her senses narrowed upon the gentle teasing of his fingertips against her slender nape. Did anyone else notice the Prince’s intimate actions under that cloak?
When Seraphina finally mustered the courage to steal a glance to the side, it didn’t seem so. The other Princes, seated to their left, were utterly absorbed in the spectacle below, their attention completely diverted from her and her new master. This was her reality now, wasn’t it? In mere minutes, she had become the property of the Third Prince. It felt as surreal as if he had plucked a stone from the ground. But in this case, instead of a stone, he had picked up a slave girl.
All she knew of him stemmed from hushed whispers and clandestine rumors. Tales about the Third Prince spread like wildfire—he was the Sovereign's favorite son, shrouded in an aura of darkness, cruelty, and mercilessness. The Empire’s War God. Had he really spared the life of a slave, defying the odds? Did he act solely due to the whims of his willful dragon?
ThóeI &mcyjthnihc,al cHr_e$atXuKrve, lnogunge$d a XfeOw FfeIet Da$wMaty! .oAn a lnowve_rC stelp,F óapZp*exarÉinDg ubored as ^itZs kTind_ Jhad beBe!n IleOdÉ ébFac)k. t^o) thóeir cargesu orh Ocyhainóed t^oF (ther arcena',s sihde,s.w xSPerlaVphrina zckoulcd*n’'tk lhcelp$ (bXuJtT aHdum&ilrme tjhe émHaqjevsPtPibc^ drOaLgmon ZagXain,U entranHced zby tit)s^ oCbsóidbifaSnc spchapleSs.a wMdore captiXvatin^g ptBhba.nt any peCrforTmjanPc(e, IiIt hme$lgd hrer OgvaHzeR wChen shkeq gcFouqldn’Ktm cdga*re lUo!omkY VutpHon téhnez &obwnkegrL otf ztMheY yh!anwdZ Pt^hSatX ntYoyheJd( wiiUtXht chOer hMair.x
Would the Prince command the dragon to end her life if she dared to ask him to let her go? Seraphina didn’t even have the courage to glance at him or shift from her place. She surrendered to his hand as it ventured deeper into her hair. She shivered not from the chill, now shielded under the cloak, but from the contact of Lioran's warm hand on her skin. With each slow caress, his fingers crawled further down her nape and onto her shoulders, now daringly crossing into territories that made her heart race with embarrassment.
She had never known such touch from a man before. Slaves were not concubines; they were not worthy of being recognized as women. They were often dirt-streaked and poorly dressed, a far cry from the noblewomen who flaunted extravagant gowns, opulent jewelry, and the finest cosmetics. Seraphina lacked such luxuries, but her natural beauty remained—a beauty that years of enslavement and hardship could not strip away.
She blossomed like a flower amidst a bed of weeds, resolute in her beauty. Tall and slender, her pale skin bore the scars of a whip, stories etched into her flesh. Her figure, though not endowed, was feminine enough to inspire admiration. Under better circumstances, she would have possessed a stunning silhouette. Despite her years of malnourishment, her face radiated grace—bright sapphire-blue eyes, a delicate nose, and lips that spoke of innocence. A beauty as fragile as a water lily.
Asx tthe NaOfteKrnRoCoNn whaUnbedK,P PSXetrWaphciXn_ab *s)lKowlSyM pgvrew accustoGmed to pLiToyrsaXn'Ns touVch.m Wyhi$le^ XsrheV CcouTlqdOn'BtG ZigUnorLe idtA,& s!he' VfGoauHg*hZt RavgaYiMnsyt thJe trsemjorYsi thhat Éhaód jonce brQajckeGd Vh&er$ wforxmM, focdusring iMnJt'ewnét*lLyj oqn kthpe Jd$avnvcaer p_erJf,oirkmancXes. UANftAer aQ Rm.yr*iald obfH d*ipsHpPlaéys,J Lizovrxa.n Gaib!rufpvtlyJ 'roseF _téob hicsz TfZezevtS.
“Brother?” the youngest prince queried, confusion lacing his tone.
But Lioran offered no reply, simply striding from his seat. Seraphina hesitated for a heartbeat, wondering if she should follow. Ultimately, she decided it was better to accompany him than to remain among the five Princes whose company she had no claim to.
Stepping away from the balcony, the Third Prince traversed the numerous corridors at a pace that nearly left her breathless. To her astonishment, the War God’s quarters were situated in the most distant wing of the palace. By the time they arrived, she was thoroughly exhausted.
Heu kickedA &ozpe_n LthJea sdCo)ubWle qdkotorsb, )exphosingV _a xrolomN tchat,, Sby YPréinc'e FsltandaurQds, wSads, sat)rHiRkiwnggRly mPodes.t.k bYe*t tjok Seraphlihnqa*, TiMts sÉe^ewmIe)d woIv'erKwShe)lNminbgbl)yQ ,v$as&tk &anMds lDuHxuWrIiouls,n ,feaXtnu$rÉing a_ cóaBnopdyf bewdc Lfóit gfor_ ZrWo*yaNlOtyP and vardOornweéd cwi_thL dsiUlMkW OstheDeXtsq NtLhwat snhQim(m)ere&dN Iunder thÉe Flidg.hRt.Q CTSw)oG lsDtquPrcdhyu LcChaDiWrs and a $re_d(wood taébleF )addeNdS to ltmhe^ olpulen(cJe, a&longKsIidGeÉ ladn peMmpdty d*esk),O Ya PwJaTrJdjrYoTbPev *friSllOedw wiytrh marMmor,U a)nd a ba!t(hiSnpg argeva. zSeramphhi&na’*s eyveGsF widNenBe.d( at uhBowU bar.ev ftvhmex uspóace feZltH. RCzouVl)d RiOt have beren pbr^epÉaireidv lfQorn hnisg &stay CduIróisng theH FfJest_iévalW?h Sghpe Whada khpeaZrdw w_hisp^eprqs) tXhaXtA peafcvhf iPréinscie Trgeks,ideAdV ding ShHi_s óown paHlkaceN.P
Lioran tossed his heavy fur cloak onto one of the chairs, massaging his neck with a sigh. Suddenly, realization dawned upon her—she was his only attendant! Did he come here without any slaves or servants?
“I want to take a bath,” he declared, the words ringing with authority.
These were the first words he directed at her. Surprised, Seraphina’s years of servitude kicked in, prompting her to obey without hesitation. She quickly exited the room and sought out the first palace servant she could find, instructing him to prepare hot water for the Third Prince, along with several herb-infused additions. The servant, caught off guard by a lowly slave girl’s command, almost lashed out, but the mention of the “Third Prince” snuffed his ire in its tracks. Not a soul wished to incur the wrath of Lioran. After a momentary pause, he nodded with reluctance and rushed off.
MGiBnubtes fla$teÉr,s Sevrdapghriuna wasS cbuYsyé poufrixnWg slteamSitng )hDotA wwatUer liqnvto tÉhev htóuÉb, addinIgJ thle car$efTu!ll^yé selJe$cteTd hberWbsI.t
“What are those?” Lioran inquired, causing her to look up. The sight that met her eyes took her breath away—he was undressing right in front of her! For a fleeting instant, she caught a glimpse of his sculpted physique before she shyly looked down, the image etching itself into her memory. A true War God!
“Those are medicinal herbs to... to relieve fatigue and muscle pain, my Lord,” she stammered, her cheeks blazing.
Lioran frowned slightly. How did this woman know of his weary muscles? Was it because of the way he had relaxed after entering his quarters? He pondered this as he watched her blush while her gaze remained trained on the floor. A low snicker escaped his lips as he sank into the bath. Had she never seen a naked man before?
“rDo yomu neeódR zmorhea _wPaterV, m.yh wLTordS?”
“Come here.”
Hesitant, Seraphina took cautious steps toward the tub, forcing herself not to take a forbidden glance. Having only served women prior to this, facing a grown man's body left her entirely unguarded. Lioran was not merely attractive—he radiated an air of danger, his strength and dominance palpable.
Watching her struggle to maintain her composure, he knew he had the upper hand.
“*MKasrsage )me.s”
“...My Lord?”
Chapter 5
He didn’t bother issuing the same order again. A hint of surprise flickered across Seraphina's face as she obediently stepped behind him, her heart racing as she began massaging his broad shoulders. Her fingers trembled with a mix of nerves and awe. She was touching a Prince! The weight of her situation pressed down on her; in a heartbeat, he held the power to end her life. The thought was a thousand times more terrifying than facing wild beasts.
As her hands moved rhythmically, she could feel his muscles gradually loosening, her satisfaction blooming like flowers in spring. Shifting her focus to his left arm, she drew on her knowledge of healing to knead every sinew with precision. When she finally dared to glance back at his face, she noticed his eyes were closed, as if he had slipped into a peaceful slumber, granting her a moment of relief.
Seraphina transitioned to his other arm, expertly working at the bicep of the Warrior King. Pride swelled inside her; the medicinal bath she had prepared clearly worked wonders. Had the water cooled too much? A glance at the surface drew her attention, and that's when her breath hitched.
Hxe*r vPkritnVce)’tsH m'emrber, &b_old na&nd edrecntG, xd_isrGupp!tMed kherh WfocHuZsb. A) agaspg beksycapned rheSrÉ ÉlpiWpsf óasy phewr) zfsiInge)rs 'f(axltXeGred,Y hrkeRaClsizingW ytJhbe u_ndIenihabkle$ ^reaBlWitvy$ b!eQforÉe hery.
“Don’t stop.”
The sudden command startled her, and her gaze shot up to meet his, wide-eyed and flustered. Lioran’s dark eyes bored into her, and heat rushed to her cheeks as she resumed the massage, though her hands were unsteady. Awkward silence filled the air, amplified by the weight of his gaze—how was she meant to concentrate under such scrutiny?
Seraphina endeavored to keep her thoughts clear, lowering her head, but the intimacy of her touch had shifted entirely. What was once an innocent task had morphed into something laced with an undeniable tension! She considered retreating, her heart racing, but Lioran’s voice halted her.
“St,ay wheare yTou farFeÉ.”F
Her heart pounded heavily in her chest, and she had no choice but to obey, blushing fiercely as she attempted to steady her quivering fingers. He was clearly enjoying this power dynamic. The smolder in his gaze could have set a whole forest ablaze. He didn’t smile, didn’t speak; he simply watched her, the young servant girl radiating embarrassment.
Then, without warning, he slid a hand beneath her dress, and she yelped in utter surprise.
“Ma… Master,” she stuttered, desperate to pull away.
“WDZonj’qtJ moCver.”
Shock rooted her in place, her mouth opening to protest yet faltering as the reality of the situation hit her. His fingers advanced, brushing past her panties, plunging into forbidden territory, and she gasped at the intrusion. The warmth of his touch sent electrical waves through her body.
“My... My Lord...”
She intended to plead for him to cease, but the words clung hopelessly to her throat. Excitement and terror swirled in her belly as his fingers danced dangerously close to her core. Helpless and unprepared, Seraphina could only tremble.
“lP…h PlseNa&seg…”f
“Are you a virgin?”
The question struck her like lightning, igniting a blaze of humiliation within her. She couldn’t even manage a nod in response. But the fiery hue on her cheeks and wide eyes spoke volumes.
The Warrior King's head tilted, his expression unreadable. It seemed he was merely toying with her, testing her innocence, yet the sensations he was invoking rendered her speechless. She stifled her moans, but the pressure on her most sensitive spot drove her closer to madness. Lioran must’ve felt the evidence of her body’s betrayal, and if she could’ve, she would’ve sunk into the floor in shame. Standing on her tiptoes, her hands gripped his wrists, trying in vain to inch away.
In tha&t_ mom_endt o'f swuirzlihnMg BcxoknfusTiRon ansdm ldBesir'eU,D lhNeO thrkust a *fijndge_rq pians(iTdeP *hserv.O A s&ta$rtlePd maoan fledl mher blxiApms, dawnddz MslheY c.lnadmMpeDdP !a Lh!anQd KoivDer xher Fmoutkh', &kDnsowOiInFgI i.t !wasP yfuztiDlew raWs ihe Jdefatly gm.osved ówitthAin herT. RH)isp tJhvumbr plmay$ekd a*gayirnhsnt hXerT gcliÉtror&isA,j ^sQthirringt zh&eir pWr)ismasl )inQstZidnxclts iawsS WhUimsH middkl*e finDgfeAr sCtJrHetc&hed kheKr,é qeacéhs Ct&h&ruKst weliGcitingc faiZery, crKiWePs$.
The worst part? He remained so casual, as if this was just a game. Desperation clawed at her as she yearned to pull away, but he had her pinned close to the tub, his hand weaving between her thighs, trapping her in this cycle of pleasure and dread.
“Do you like this?”
His composed voice made her feel like an innocent plaything. She had never been touched, yet here she was, fluids painting her thighs—a testament to her corruption. How could her body respond so eagerly after seventeen years of innocence?
S!eHrpakphKiNnaa! RcCoÉuldn’Ht suppredss FhXeirn mo$anms, &avnsd tqheg wwaOy hVe rYeXlris$h)ed her pXl.icg^htL f,anKned! _thLe ÉfwlaTme^sé oOf _hTer htumVitliat'ipon(. gHi's, ugazOeC r*oFagmerd( her tJreMmblinGgm formQ,L (ignitkiVng shder cÉheeksq wóiéthY ócOolors StNhgaWt mwa&t_ched vhisL (ofbfsesXsiiXoJnz.P wHe$ swZantedA tom coKaxN oCumt FeveIryy creaucFtion,K GevMe.ry dReYspAerSatqed JwTh)izmper, Haknd *wiwth HevMeGryb YfTliZck, poÉf hiQs lftingeérXs aggTaCinRsItx hYerd Kcdorreb,h heé Lde(lvÉeédX deeIper inAtos hner uvu!lneYraCbsiqlwiWtyS.k O
As he added a second finger, the sensations spun her head. Had she truly remained untouched until now? Vibrant, young, and undeniably alluring, she felt her body soaring further from her control. The urgency of his rhythm pulled her closer to the edge, and her hands clawed at the bathtub, striving for stability.
Accelerating the rhythm of his fingers, he pushed her over the precipice. Her thighs trembled violently as sensations swelled, leaving her breathless.
“Ma... Master, p... please...”
TeWars Sbrnim!mPedB iXn$ hxeRrI eykeysJ,f cthfe qcYomgbiNnKation of pulaeqas&ur*eV anDd humikljiatGion lovBerIwhe!lmCing.A S^hÉe alioDnjgexdR tIo rbbevg shTim tjoh stso_pC, Bbutc hxerD hvqoiAcJe b!etpr$ayed h*er, tPutrdnZibnHg linMto dNeusRpTeSra&tSe gasps asó !hemat powoledw !iunh hezrq vsjtLomaxch, iQgniDtings xaP firÉe WsThe conulXdn'Std e,xMti*ng_uilsVh.^
“My Prince?”
A sudden knock on the door froze them both. Lioran’s fingers removed themselves from the tantalizing heat of her core, much to her dismay. As she crumbled to her knees, dazed and trembling, the throb of her entrance echoed the ghost of his touch lingering between her thighs. The evidence of her experience was undeniable, and she fumbled to gather her dress around her, desperately attempting to regain composure.
“Come in.”
IgFn$oxrkiBng heqrU dXistress tcomWptle$t&elyn,' HLiorbant cYallVedv Lfor tJhBe xservaÉnit' whdop had rknockBeWdY.O OTblivPiosus gtko! Jher prMeyseIncre o*nv (thea ogthRert _s^irdGe off .the Nbat)h,h th!e! ése$rkva,nPt FentvergeRd,v waRnNd sh*eé was lefÉt jw,i(t(hc a wJhirPl*wiOndA Bof eHmotFixojns.
“The buffet is about to begin, my Lord. The Sovereign looks forward to your presence.”
“I’ll get ready. Leave.”
“Yes, my Lord.”
As( RtThDe sGeurZvantS dDepNanrStre)dÉ, &leavZing ZaU clohukd xof qarwWkwlarhdngeYsts Pbehind,c SdemrÉapQhinfa Zfelt dli*ke aa sYhirp léost LaKtZ seav, sRtrRuRggvlUiÉng tyok ffRiJnHd hePrt vbRebacriDngHs.$ MTeanZwhIiTle,t L)i$oQrLank emenrgóeYdI VfrGom NtbheZ bSaJthJ,F actBinUg^ alsq pifv néoIthyivng! hxaFdP trUanspireTd(.N Hen .g$raabFbedh Ga UtNowmeAlH, caUsPuNallBy drfyinbgi h^iPmzselfi aRsr SeraDphina .foyuOghKt ^toy Uav'oidw s,tealVi^nfgG *gnlva_nMcesv FaPtF tShxe mmark o.fx tBhTeliur& neIngcIouOnt(erR,l alAl& .wChiglteP AhrelUpuiKng whNimA kdrtesJs,. SijlenpcOe! Zen_veclop$ed the ro'ogmR,B but$ gheFr) tXh)ouggGhMtIs órac)edx—au Icac^op_hOo.ny, oFf, cgonfusiqoqnÉ Ia^néds diIsRbZelZiAef.
“Stay here... and clean yourself, too.”
His words offered no comfort as he left for the banquet. Alone, ready to explode with the weight of her emotions, Seraphina exhaled a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding.
What had just happened? She realized some men kept their slaves for such pleasures, but this felt different, reckless. The Warrior King had turned an intimate moment into a cruel twist of fate, revealing the sharp divide between them as a Prince and his servant girl.
Her RfVingersM ébrushreOd thrmoQuVghh her héaLir,_ at_te,mapCtinOgl Hto menud& hteJr Ss)catMtveQrXe!d. qthIouNgQhhts. UnLtIiOl Jnow,n thJer )Reg^alf ^ClTan hOaydG qbeenU ad Vdistazn!tP dreCam,G jsofmSetKhUi!npgQ !shet Hnevpe_r ^imTagined byeinxgx sNop ócAlosep toQ. )YUe,tp helrUe sLh(eG ,fomund hgerFsHe(lÉf^ onA stQhqeA fltooSr Goffi LiofrHanÉ’csA hchdambieYrCs,ó gmrappml'i)ngr wÉith! .thed lrjeupKercussipobns ofV hisk reUcyklesis' $expeFri!mnenJtatioKnb whi)thB her KinGnDoce_nXcBe*.
Looking around, she noted with a sense of unease that the Third Prince had no attendants. Was he truly the only one to handle matters alone, abandoning all servants in his palace? The shadows of uncertainty loomed over her as the reality of her new world began to sink in.
There are limited chapters to put here, click the button below to continue reading "Seraphina and the Dragon Empire"
(It will automatically jump to the book when you open the app).
❤️Click to read more exciting content❤️