Chapter 7 & 8 : A Battle of Wills
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Aurora was weak and tired from all the washing, she has just thirty minutes left as she hung the dresses on the line.
‘how can these dress dry within thirty minutes?’ she thought inwardly as she sighed softly.
She turned back to see Caeser standing there “oh” she flinched.
“are you scared, Pretty” he chuckled.
“Yes I am, you scared me” She said and he smiles.
“How about we take a walk together” Caeser asked and she shook her head.
“I’m busy…..maybe some other time” she flashed him a smile.
“Fine then…… lemme help” he offered.
“Don’t worry, just go…….I’ll see you around” she gestured him to leave.
“Alright pretty” he winked at her then left.
Meanwhile, sage has been watching them as they talked loudly and she scoffed. “How did she became friends with Caeser” she asked herself jealously.
She gritted her teeth thinking of what to do.
Aurora took the bowl wanting to leave the place when someone yanked it away from her. It was Sage…
“What have you been doing since” she half yelled.
“I’m done with it already”.
Sage walked towards the drier and checked the dresses.
“It still dirty, you didn’t wash it well” Sage grunted and begin to fall the dresses on the floor that is sandy.
Aurora eyes widened as she removed all the dresses from the line.
“Now, start again…..30 minutes left” Sage bumped shoulders with her and left smirking dangerously.
Aurora felt a brim of tear dropping from her eyes, she wiped it up carefully as she stared at the dresses on the floor.
She packed up the dresses as she teared up Washing it all over again.
AN HOUR LATER>>>
Esmeralda barged into the field where Aurora is washing the dresses.
“What have you been doing since” she yelled grabbing her hair.
Aurora screamed in pain and Esmeralda slapped her.
“Don’t you dare scream, you foolish slave” She held her hair tighter and she couldn’t help but Yelp in pain.
“I gave you just 2 hours but you were busy flirting with a guards right??” Esmeralda asked and her eyes widened
What has sage gone to tell her “No, I didn’t….she came…” She wanted to protest but sage cut her off “Came what!!!!!”
She faced Esmeralda, her face full of Smirk “My lady, she is absolutely lying…..I saw her with Caeser minutes ago” she added.
“We were just having a conversation” she protested.
“A conversation at the expense of your duty huh” Esmeralda snapped.
“Let me tell you this, you dumb slave” Esmeralda pointed at her as she bent her head.
“You are a nobody in this palace, Everyone will disregard you because you are a lowly slave and I won’t also watch you share the emperor with me” she half yelled.
“If not for the grace of the emperor, I’ll have killed you a long time ago” she yelled and Left the field in anger. Sage smirked at Aurora.
“Serves you right” She said venomously and followed Esmeralda.
The maids scurried around Emperor Augustus, adjusting his robes and adornments. Astrid, his personal guard, stood watchful, ensuring everything was in order. Once the maids finished, Astrid stepped forward to inspect the emperor’s attire.
“Your highness, The mistress will be waiting for you” he informed.
Augustus face was devoid of emotion as he checked his reflection in the mirror.
“Let go” he muttered, calmly walking out of the chamber and Astrid bowed then followed suit.
Esmeralda was seen waiting for the emperor with some of her maids. She smiled widely when she saw him coming with Astrid.
He approached them and she bowed happily “Good morning, your highness” but he didn’t respond to it.
Esmeralda stood waiting for the emperor to carry her up on her horse but instead he got on his and Astrid move closer to her helping her up on her.
“Don’t touch me” she glared at him.
Astrid got on his too and some other guards did.
They wanted to go when the emperor halted them. “Stop”
“Get the slave” he ordered Astrid.
“Yes, your highness” he bowed and left.
Esmeralda furrowed her brows angrily “Your highness, must the slave come along”.
“You are not to tell me what to do” he snapped.
“She shouldn’t be…..”
“That doesn’t mean I’ve forgiven you” he cut her off and she bit her lips angrily.
Madam Eloise and Aurora were busy preparing some dishes when Astrid walked up to them.
“Madam Eloise” he greeted.
“Oh Astrid, is there anything wrong” She asked as she raised a brow.
“Nothing Madam Eloise, his highness seeks Aurora’s presence” he informed.
“Why???” Aurora asked Curiously.
“Just follow me” He muttered and she looked at her dress which was a bit dirty
“Don’t worry about it, just go” Eloise assured her and she smiled following Astrid.
They got to where the emperor is and she bowed slightly “My lord”
“She’ll be going with us” Emperor Augustus muttered.
Astrid wanted to carry Aurora on his horse when the emperor stopped him.
“No, she’ll follow by foot” He said and Aurora looked down at her legs, she isn’t wearing any footwear….she is barefooted.
“Anytime the horses run, she must run also” he declared and her eyes widened.
“Yes, your highness” Astrid mumbled and got on his horse.
The left the palace and Aurora followed suit by walking quietly.
HOURS LATER>>>
The horse stopped running and Aurora stopped too catching her breath, she has been running for more than thirty minutes, catching up with the horse which was too fast.
She fell on the ground weakly as she inhaled and exhaled repeatedly. She had different thorns on her legs as blood gushed out.
She kept the pain inside her so as to not make the emperor angry.
She was totally weak that she couldn’t stand up. “Get up” Esmeralda yelled at her.
She was actually enjoying the drama.
Aurora tried to stand up but she is too weak.
“Your highness, should we go to the other side of the woods” Esmeralda asked wanting to make Aurora weak more.
Astrid scoffed silently “can’t she just pity the poor girl” he mumbled under his breath as he stared at Aurora who was seriously weak on the floor.
“No…let go back, it enough” he declined.
She pouted and intentionally fell from her house as she screamed in pains.
“Arghhhh”.
She was expecting the emperor to carry her but he wasn’t paying attention to her,
Astrid got down and helped her up, “let go” Augustus menacing voice came.
“Your highness, let me ride with you” Esmeralda pleaded.
“No” He quickly denied and she took her lips in slowly.
Astrid helped her on her horse and they left. He went to Aurora who was still weak the ground.
“Are you okay” he asked.
“I’m….fine” she lied, stuttering.
He swept her off her feet and took her on his horse. “I said I’m fine” she exclaimed.
“But your foot is not” He replied and she kept quiet as they followed The emperor and the mistress from behind.
Aurora took slow strides to the emperor’s chamber, she had been summoned by him and she dare not ignore him.
“My Lord”.
His gaze was fixed on the window, staring at the night sky. “Why does he likes looking at the sky” Aurora thought inwardly.
“Strip” He voice came and she didn’t protest.
She stripped till the last, and her bare naked scar were shown “Done…My lord” she mumbled.
He turned back to her and the scars disappeared. She widened her eyes and looked all around her body gasping.
The scars disappeared, how??
She turned to see the emperor in front of her “Get on the bed and turn your back” he ordered and she walked down to the bed turning her back
“He must really like this position a lot” she thought biting her lips gently.
He went behind her and without warning, he thrust his cock into her clut and her eyes widened.
He pulled out of her tight space and she let out a tiny breath, he penetrated right inside her again more deeper than the first
“Ahhh” Came from Aurora, it wasn’t a scream, neither was it a pain. It was actually a moan, unbelievably she felt something that she never felt before. She can’t really describe the feeling.
The only thing she knows is that…….it felt really good.
The emperor could see all the tiny goosebumps all over Aurora’s body as he moved in and out of her slowly. Without being told, he realized that he was being gentle on her.
He wasn’t planning to be gentle, but strangely he found himself doing so.
Meanwhile, Aurora was trying to keep her soft moans silent, she doesn’t want this sweetness to end anytime soon, if she make a sound..the emperor might decide to change his mind and hurt her but she doesn’t want that.
“Let it out Aurora” Emperor Augustus said and she released heavy breath.
Wow!! First time he is calling her name? How did he know her name?? She thought quietly.
She wanted to apologize when a crazy sweetness overshadowed her s the emperor slides in a sudden move, it was deep.
“My lord” she screamed as she held onto the bedspread tightly like her life depends on it.
She rolled her eyes, what is this feeling?, Why is he being gentle on me?? Why am I feeling this pleasure??? She asked numerous questions in her mind.
She froze when the emperor got hold of her ass cheek allowing his full erection to enter fully inside her.
“Ohhhhhh” she moaned, she was filled up as sweat covered her face, he was big but she doesn’t want it to end.
Why is he being gentle??? She asked herself again.
It was definitely pleasure as she had no wish at the moment, she didn’t realize when she arched her back lower to accept the better part of him.
Emperor Augustus let out a moan pleasurably in between her legs, she is so tight, sweet and soft, she is just everything he wanted. Even though she is still Naive, he wanted to stay longer in her warm clut.
“Fuck” he let out a groan and Aurora could feel his release inside her, she gasped.
‘isn’t that supposed to get a matured lady pregnant’ she thought and shook her head. The emperor won’t allow me get pregnant. No, he won’t??…… She shook her head greatly.
When he finally pulled out, Aurora signed out and was tempted to fall on the bed breathlessly.
The emperor got down from the word, without saying a word to her he left for his bathroom.
Immediately he did, Aurora’s back landed on the bed, she closed her eyes as she released her breath. Her honeypot feels like he is still inside her.
She doesn’t know the feeling……but she loved it.
Esmeralda entered the emperor’s chamber, her eyes demure and her voice sweet. “Your highness,” she said, her curtsy graceful.
“What do you want, Esmeralda” he asked.
“I want to make it up to you, I don’t like it if you are angry with me” she pouted.
“and what is that”.
“I heard you have been skipping meals, so it’ll be nice if we have dinner together alone” she smiled and he stared at her.
She tilted her head still smiling and he nodded.
“Fine” he mumbled.
“Thank you, your highness” she almost exclaimed as she left the chamber happily.
Aurora walked into the kitchen as her eyes searched for someone, she couldn’t find Madam Eloise as she wanted to take a seat so she’ll wait for her but someone beat her to it.
“It mine” she muttered glaring at her.
Aurora didn’t protest as she went to another seat but someone took the chair away and she frowned.
She wanted to take another but someone dragged it away from her, she doesn’t want to make a scene as she went to the far end of the kitchen.
She took the seat wanting to seat on it but her butt fell on the ground.
“Arghh” she groaned as she realizes that someone took the seat again.
The maids laughed at her continuously “Oops sorry” the maid who took the chair said.
Aurora eyes brimmed with tears, cowered as the maids taunted her. “You’re just a lowly slave,” one sneered. “You’ll never be one of us.”
Just as they raised their hands to strike her, a stern voice intervened. “Enough!”
Madam Eloise, her face stern and commanding, strode into the kitchen. “Leave her be, at once!”
Madam Eloise walked down to Aurora and helped her up, her touch gentle. “Are you okay, Aurora?”
Aurora nods. “I’m fine, Madam Eloise.”
Madam Eloise stood up turning to the maids, her eyes stern. “Listen well, all of you. Aurora may be a slave, but she is still a human being, deserving of respect.
The maids looked down, some were literally glaring at Aurora. “Yes, Madam Eloise,” they murmured.
Madam Eloise’s voice was firm but gentle. “You are not superior to her because of your position. You are all equal in my eyes, and I will not tolerate any mistreatment of Aurora or anyone else. Do I make myself clear?”
The maids nodded, their eyes cast down. “Yes, Madam Eloise.”
Aurora’s gratitude shone in her eyes. “Thank you, Madam Eloise.”
Madam Eloise smiled, her expression softening. “You are not supposed to let them get to you, they are not superior….. you are just like them.”
With a reassuring pat on the back, Madam Eloise led Aurora away from the maids.
“Come take Your lunch”.
Esmeralda sat regally, her maids fluttering around her like butterflies. One styled her dark long hair into an intricate updo, while another applied a fragrant cream to her skin, massaging it in with gentle circular motions.
“Your skin is like silk, My lady,” a maid cooed.
Esmeralda’s eyes closed, her expression serene. “Yes, I know. Make sure to highlight my best features. I want to dazzle the emperor tonight.”
The maids exchanged knowing glances, their hands moving with precision as they worked their magic. They dressed her in a gown of shimmering silver, the fabric looking extremely beautiful on her like a lover’s embrace.
As they finished, Esmeralda opened her eyes, her gaze meeting her reflection. She smiled, satisfied with the masterpiece before her.
“Perfecto,” she breathed. “I am truly perfect.”
The maids gathered around her, their faces beaming with admiration.
“My lady, you look stunning,” one said.
“The emperor won’t be able to take his eyes off you,” Sage added.
Esmeralda’s smile grew wider, her eyes sparkling with pleasure. Her gaze lingered on her reflection, her confidence soaring.
“You all should go, except Sage” She said and the maids left the chambers.
“You just have 15 minutes left to go, My lady” Sage said.
“I’ll really can’t wait” Esmeralda exclaimed.
Madam Eloise arranged the dinner the emperor is going to have with the mistress on three trays giving it to the maids.
“Go set the table for the dinner” Madam Eloise muttered.
“Aurora, go with them” she gestured at Aurora.
“Mee” she exclaimed.
“Yes, go with them and set the table” She smiled at her and she nodded.
“Yes, Madam Eloise” she said as the maids threw hateful glances at her.
They left the kitchen and went to the Emperor’s chamber. He wasn’t in the lounge and Aurora wondered where he was.
‘He might be in the inner chamber’ she took her lower lips in as she joined the maids in setting the table.
Emperor Augustus came out from the inner chamber, his aura speaking of fear. The maids bowed their head immediately they saw him.
“Your highness” they chorused.
He didn’t respond but went to his balcony instead.
Minutes Later, they finished settling the table and the emperor walked back into the chamber.
“Leave, all of you” he ordered and they bowed their head turning to leave.
“Aurora, stay behind” he blurted and Aurora halted on her spot.
The maids shared hateful glares at her and left the chamber leaving Aurora alone with the emperor.
He walked closer to her and her heartbeat rose.
Isn’t he supposed to be having dinner with the mistress? Why is he coming close?? What does he wants to do with her??? She asked no one but herself.
Emperor Augustus was just an inch away from her when Esmeralda came in and saw them in the position.
Her eyes flashed with anger as she approached them. “What are you doing here, and what are you doing with him” she half yelled.
“Nothing, My lady…..” She bowed her head.
“Get out” she yelled at her and she squrried out of the chamber.
“Don’t tell me it what I’m thinking, your highness” She asked Emperor Augustus.
“Esmeralda, the dinner” he tried to change the topic.
“I don’t think you are really punishing her, you are pleasuring her” Esmeralda blinked.
“What I do to her is non of your concern” he snapped.
“I’m your Mistress, your highness….it my responsibility to satisfy you and not ignore me” she tilted her head hurtly.
“The dinner, Esmeralda” he said simply.
She Hugged his waist, her head on his chest “You highness, I don’t want you to Ignore me anymore…..it hurt whenever the slave comes to your chamber at night”.
Emperor Augustus signed and allowed her hug him.
She broke it smiling “let have dinner” she said as they walked down to the settled table.
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Emperor Sebastian’s eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in frustration. “Have you sought a solution?” he demanded, his voice low and urgent.
The shaman bowed his head, his eyes cast down. “There is no other way, Your highness.”
Sebastian’s grip on his seat tightened. “Then how will I get my daughter back?” he growled, his voice rising in desperation.
The shaman hesitated, his eyes darting around the chamber before fixing on the emperor. “We have just one option,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.
Sebastian’s eyes narrowed. “What is it?” he asked, his impatience palpable.
“It someone”.
“Who could that be” Emperor Sebastian asked curiously.
The shaman’s eyes locked onto the emperor’s, his gaze steady. “His elder brother,” he said, his voice firm.
Sebastian furrowed his brows as he thought carefully about it, he soon widened his eyes as he realizes.
“Atlas”.
Chapter 9 & 10 : Surviving in the Emperor’s Palace
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Sapphire gazed out of her window, her mind racing with plans to sneak out of the palace. The sun had set, casting a warm orange glow over the gardens below, and the sapphire felt a sense of outing wash over her.
As she stood there, lost in thought, Jade entered the room. “My Lady, is everything all right?” Jade asked, concern etched on her face.
Sapphire waved her hand dismissively. “No, Jade, you may leave. I’m just a bit…bored.”
“We can just take a walk” she suggested.
“You don’t have to worry, I’ll stay here” Sapphire let out a fake smile shortly.
Jade bowed and exited the room, leaving Sapphire alone. She took a deep breath and made her way to the palace exit, her footsteps light on the floor.
As she reached for the door handle, a strong hand grasped her wrist, halting her escape. Sapphire’s eyes flashed with annoyance, and she turned to face the intruder.
She turned to see Astrid standing before her, his eyes piercing and unyielding. “What are you doing here, Princess?” he asked, his voice firm but gentle.
Sapphire’s expression transformed from irritation to nonchalance. “Oh, just taking a stroll around the palace. I’m bored, that’s all.”
Astrid raised an eyebrow. “Or perhaps you’re trying to sneak out again?”
Sapphire’s eyes narrowed, her voice laced with defiance. “I’m not sneaking out, I just found something interesting here.”
Astrid’s gaze remained same. “I caught you, Princess. No need to lie.”
Sapphire’s face flushed with frustration. “So what? Will you report me to my brother?”
Astrid’s expression softened. “You have to go back to your chamber, Princess. It’s not safe outside. The emperor would never forgive me if anything happened to you.”
Sapphire’s voice rose in protest. “Why must I be trapped in this prison called a palace? Can’t I move around freely? I’m not a child, Astrid!”
Astrid’s response was firm. “You should have asked the emperor for permission, and he would have allowed it, with guards.”
Sapphire’s arms crossed, her eyes flashing with frustration. “I don’t want anyone following me around. I want to be free to from this bondage.”
Astrid’s face remained stern. “Then you should return to your chamber, Princess. It’s for your own good.”
Sapphire’s eyes gleamed with determination. “I’m not going anywhere. You can follow me instead.”
Astrid raised a brow shortly as he thought for a while.
He hesitated, then nodded. “Fine, let’s go, but we won’t be long. And we’ll have to be careful.”
Sapphire’s face lit up with triumph, and she smiled sweetly at Astrid. “Yes, but don’t tell the emperor about this.” She said and he nods quietly and they left the palace.
Astrid’s grip on her arm tightened. “But, Princess, we can’t stay out for long. The emperor will be furious if he finds out.”
Sapphire nodded, her heart pounding with excitement.
Astrid was walking hastily to his quarters when he bumped into someone and he groaned.
“Don’t you have eyes” Caeser voice came.
“It was you who bump into me, so apologize” Astrid half yelled.
“I don’t apologize to a chick” Caeser frowned.
“are you trying to say I’m weak”
“If you are not, you won’t groan just because of a little bump” he muttered and continued “or are you not weak, just because you are the emperor’s favorite doesn’t mean you should carry your shoulder’s up” Caeser glared hard at him.
A guard rushed towards them and seperated Astrid from Caeser.
“Louis don’t interrupt” Caeser gritted.
“No, I won’t watch you two fight here………it foolish” Louis muttered.
“And how is that your business” Astrid squeezed his face.
“Why do you two like causing a scene”
“Leave Louis” Caeser said in an authoritative voice.
“No, I won’t…..stop this please” he wanted to take Astrid away but he pulled away from his hold.
“You fool, you might be the strongest but you are no match for me” Astrid growled.
“How about a duel to confirm” Caeser let out a smirk and Astrid gave him a questionable look.
“Stop this Caeser” Louis said.
Astrid turned to walk away when Caeser voice came again “Ar you now scared that you’ll lose” He grinned.
“I’m not scared ok, I’m just not interested” Astrid snapped.
“Then why don’t you want to agree to the duel” he asked.
“I said am not interested”.
” You being not interested means you are weak, you are not fit to be the Emperor’s personal guard” Caeser half yelled.
“I’m not weak, you fool”.
“Then prove it with a duel with me” Caeser yelled.
Astrid gritted his teeth as silence erupted. “What do you think, if you did not do the duel with me, others would think you are weak” He added.
“Fine, I’ll….. when will it be” Astrid muttered without thinking.
“Astrid!!!!” Louis exclaimed.
“How about next tomorrow, so I’ll let you prepare” Caeser smirked.
“Fine” Astrid spat and left the quarter angrily.
“You shouldn’t have suggested this duel Caeser” Louis said.
“I just wanted to measure his strength, maybe it weighs more than mine”
“You shouldn’t be doing this Caeser, you guys were friends before” Louis exclaimed.
“Friends indeed” he hissed and left.
“Gosh”.
<8PM~EMP. AUGUSTUS CHAMBER>
Aurora made her way down the long, winding corridor, her mind racing with questions. Why had the emperor summoned her again? Had she done something wrong? She couldn’t shake off the feeling of unease that had been building in her stomach since she was summoned. Her heart raced with every step.
She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves, and pushed the door open.
Upon entering, she found Esmeralda lounging on a plush couch, her eyes narrowed in disapproval. The mistress’s beauty was undeniable, but her cold aura made Aurora shiver. “What are you doing here?” Esmeralda asked, her voice laced with disdain.
Aurora bowed her head, her eyes down, trying to show respect. “I was summoned, My lady,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Esmeralda’s frown deepened, her lips curling into a sneer. “Get out,” she spat.
Aurora stood still her heart pounding in her chest. She knew she couldn’t leave without the emperor’s permission. “I can’t leave until the emperor dismisses me, My lady,” she said, her voice polite.
Esmeralda’s expression darkened, and she gestured for Aurora to leave. “Are you disobeying me now? I said leave!” she snapped, her voice echoing off the chamber’s walls.
Just then, Emperor Augustus emerged from the inner chamber, his eyes fixed on the scene before him. His face was a mask of calm, but Aurora detected a hint of annoyance in his eyes. “What are you doing here, Esmeralda?” he asked, his voice menacing.
Esmeralda’s expression changed instantly, her face softening into a pout. She rose from the couch, her movements graceful, and approached the emperor. “Your highness, I’ve missed you and I want to be with you tonight,” she cooed, her voice dripping with sweetness.
The emperor’s gaze remained still, his eyes fixed on Esmeralda. “Leave,” he repeated, his voice firm, but with a hint of weariness.
Esmeralda’s eyes flashed with anger, and she turned to Aurora. “You, leave!” she yelled, her voice echoing through the chamber, her face red with rage.
Aurora flinched, her heart racing, and quickly exited the chamber, the door closing behind her with a soft click.
The emperor’s gaze followed Aurora, then shifted back to Esmeralda. “You too, leave,” he muttered, his voice firm, but with a hint of disappointment.
Esmeralda’s face fell, her mouth flashing with a pout. “But, your highness, I missed you,” she protested, her hand reaching out to touch him, her voice laced with desperation.
The emperor stepped back, his eyes cold, his face unyielding. “Leave, Esmeralda,” he repeated, his voice firm.
Esmeralda’s face reddened, and she groaned, her voice barely above a whisper. “Fine.” She stormed out of the chamber, her anger and disappointment palpable.
Aurora was lost in thought as she walked back to the Quarters.
He chose the mistress over her? What was she thinking? She is just a slave??.
She felt a surge of pain wash through her and she bit her lips gently.
Lost in thought, she didn’t notice Caesar approaching her until he stood right in front of her. She flinched, her heart skipping a beat. “Oh my, why do you like scaring me?” she asked, a hint of annoyance in her voice.
Caesar’s smile was warm and gentle. “What are you even thinking about, Aurora? You seem a thousand miles away.”
Aurora shrugged, trying to brush off her thought. “It’s nothing… just boredom, that’s all.”
Caesar’s eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled again. “Let me walk you to the Quarters. It’s getting late.”
Aurora raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in her eye. “Do you like smiling this much? You seem to be doing it always.”
Caesar chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “Not really, pretty. But you make me want to.”
Aurora’s furrowed brows relaxed into a soft smile. “You’re funny, Caesar.” She chuckled as they walked down to her quarters.
Maybe having a friend isn’t bad after all.
Sapphire’s eyes sparkled with excitement as she sampled various snacks from the market stalls. Astrid trailed behind her, his watchful gaze scanning the crowded streets.
As the sun began to set, Astrid gently grasped Sapphire’s arm.
“Princess, it’s getting late. Let’s head back,” he suggested, his voice soft but firm.
Sapphire’s face contorted in a pout, her mouth full of honey biscuits. “But I want to stay longer,” she mumbled, her eyes gleaming with mischief.
Astrid’s expression remained resolute. “I don’t want to get you and me into trouble, let’s go.”
Sapphire’s determination only grew stronger. “I won’t,” she said, her voice clear and defiant.
In a swift motion, she yanked her arm free and took off, her feet pounding the streets.
Astrid chased after her, his longer strides quickly closing the gap. He scooped her up in his arms, her legs kicking in protest.
“Let me down, Astrid!” she demanded, her face flushed with excitement. “I can walk on my own!”
“Not until we’re back at the palace, Princess,” Astrid replied, his voice firm but gentle.
Sapphire squirmed in his grasp, her eyes flashing with defiance. “I hate this! Put me down!”
Astrid’s grip only tightened as he carried her through the winding streets, dodging pedestrians.
Sapphire’s struggles grew more fervent, her hands pushing against his chest, hitting him harshly.
“Astrid, drop me! I’m not a child!”
As they approached the palace gates, Sapphire’s protests intensified. “Let me down! I can’t be treated like a prisoner!”
Astrid’s expression remained unyielding, his eyes fixed on the palace entrance. He carried her through the gates, past the guards, and into the palace.
He used a secret route to get to her chamber to avoid detection.
Finally, they reached her chamber “just let me down Astrid” she muttered.
Astrid attempted to set her down on the bed. But Sapphire’s hands dragged his robe.
In a surprising move, they both tumbled onto the bed, their faces inches apart, their gazes locked.
Sapphire’s eyes widened as she felt something warm on her lips, her eyes widened on realization
Their lips brushed against each other in a soft, accidental kiss.
Emperor Augustus looked out in the window as the half moon almost appear, he felt heated at that moment but he kept it within.
Astrid came in and bowed his head.
“Your highness, the moon”.
“It won’t be too hurtful, it just half of the moon”
“Your highness..but…..”
“Leave and don’t let anyone into my chamber till tomorrow” he said, his voice low
“Yes, your highness” he bowed and left.
Aurora was feeling uneasy as she couldn’t sleep, she gazed at the sky and saw the half moon.
What is happening? Why am I feeling uncomfortable?? She thought as her mind went to the emperor.
She bit her lips and stood up walking out of the Quarters with no destination in mind.
She found herself in front of the emperor’s chamber and she head little and low groan from inside.
Her eyes widened and she walked to the door to go in but the guards stopped her.
“No one is allowed to go in anymore” one of them said.
“Didn’t you hear anything from inside” She asked and they exchanged glances.
“There is nothing coming from inside, so leave” The other one growled.
Aurora paced restlessly as she peek at the door, she wanted to force herself in but they were too strong for her.
Suddenly, a fierce wind blew and the guards fell on the floor, Aurora gasped on seeing them on the floor.
Her heart raced as she pushed open the door to the emperor’s chamber. She had been drawn to this place by a strange, unsettling energy that seemed to emanate from within. The guards’ sudden collapse had only added to her sense of urgency.
As she entered the room, her eyes scanned the dimly lit space, searching for any sign of the emperor. And then, she saw him lying on the floor, his body contorted in pain, his chest heaving with labored breaths.
Aurora’s concern and fear for his well being propelled her forward, her feet moving swiftly across the room. “My lord!” she exclaimed, her voice barely above a whisper.
The emperor’s eyes flickered open, his gaze locking onto hers with a mixture of surprise. “Aurora…” he whispered, his voice weak.
She wanted to move closer when he stopped her.
“Who…allowed you…in” he grinned
“My lord!!!” She exclaimed wanting to go to him
“Don’t come close, arghhh” he groaned again.
Without hesitation, Aurora rushed to his side, her hands reaching out to support his back as she helped him sit up. His body felt warm, almost feverish, and his eyes seemed to bore into hers with an intensity that made her heart race.
As she held him, Augustus could feel the pain dissipating slowly. His released heavy breath, his body relaxing into her embrace.
But just as she thought he was recovering, his eyes became blurry.
He fell unconscious in her arms.
He wanted to say something when he fell unconscious into her arms.
Chapter 11 & 12 : A Glimmer of Hope
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Sebastian’s long strides devoured the distance as he paced back and forth in his chamber, his eyes fixed on the half moon visible through the window.
He mind lingered on what the shaman had told him.
“Augustus is always weak when the half moon appears and more weaker on the full moon, those two periods is the best to attack him”
His mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Karl, his strongest guard, who had gone for a mission.
‘He should be weak by now?’ he thought.
Just then, his personal guard, Isa, entered the chamber, his voice firm but polite. “Your highness,” he announced, his eyes bowed in respect.
Sebastian’s pacing halted, his gaze snapping towards Isa. “Is he back?” he asked, his tone laced with a mix of anticipation and impatience.
Isa’s expression remained neutral, his head bowed. “No, your highness. Not yet.”
Sebastian’s eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched in frustration. “Report to me the moment he returns,” he commanded, his voice firm.
With a slight bow, Isa acknowledged the order. “Yes, your highness.” He retreated from the chamber.
As the door closed behind Isa, Sebastian’s gaze returned to the half moon. With a deep breath, he entered his inner chamber, the door closing behind him with a soft click.
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Astrid’s gaze was fixed on Sapphire, his eyes wide with shock as their lips met in a soft, accidental kiss. The unexpected contact sent shivers down his spine, followed by a wave of goosebumps.
What Happening to him??
As quickly as it had happened, Astrid retreated, his face flushing with embarrassment. He stood up, dusting off his robe as if to erase the evidence of their little contact. Sapphire’s eyes gleamed with shock, her heartbeat racing faster than normal.
“What did you just do?” she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Astrid protested, his words in a rush. “It was a mistake, Princess! Besides, if you didn’t drag me down….. it wouldn’t have happened.”
Sapphire’s expression remained frozen, as she turned her back on him. “Fine… you can leave,” she said, her voice cold.
Astrid didn’t protest as he left quietly, Sapphire’s sighed a sense of relief.
As the door closed behind him, Sapphire let out a sigh and walked to her mirror, staring at her reflection. Her fingers traced the outline of her lips, her mind lingering on the unexpected kiss.
“What just happened?” she mumbled to herself, her eyes searching for answers in her own reflection.
Aurora’s eyes widened in alarm as Augustus’ body went limp, his weight heavy on hers.
“My lord!!!, My lord… Your Highness,” she whispered urgently, her hands shaking as she tapped his cheeks repeatedly. But he didn’t respond.
His face was pale, his skin clammy, and his chest rose and fell with slow, labored breaths.
With a surge of worry, Aurora struggled to move him onto the bed, her slender frame straining under his weight.
She groaned with effort to carry him up on the bed but she was powerless, her muscles protesting as she finally managed to position him on his back.
His face was still pale, his eyes closed, and his lips parted slightly, as if inviting her to lean in closer.
Rushing to the kitchen adjacent to the chamber, Aurora returned with a bowl of cool water and a towel. She gently scrubbed his body with the damp cloth, trying to bring down his feverish temperature.
As she worked, her hands trembled, her heart racing with concern. She had never seen the emperor so vulnerable.
As she placed a cool towel on his forehead, she noticed a presence at the window and her gaze darted towards it, suspicion etched on her face. But seeing no one, she cautiously closed the window and returned to Augustus’ side.
As she sat on the bed, her hand instinctively went to his forehead, and she felt his temperature subsiding.
She breathed a sigh of relief, her shoulders relaxing slightly.
But just as she stood up to leave, Augustus grasp her hand tightly.
His eyes remained closed, but his lips parted, and a low, husky voice whispered, “Don’t go… please.”
Aurora’s eyes widened in surprise, her heart racing at the unexpected plea. She tried to yank her hand free, but Augustus hold was tight.
She felt a flutter in her chest, her pulse quickening as she gazed at him.
Why was he begging her to stay??
With a sigh, she relented, sitting beside the bed near him as he positioned her hand under his head.
Aurora couldn’t help but stare at the emperor, her eyes tracing the contours of his face, from his closed lashes to his pointed nose and finally, his full red kissable lips.
She felt a strange sense of wonder as she stared at the Emperor.
How can a devil be this Gorgeous? Is he a human or a Demigod?
She rested her head on the bed as her gaze was still fixed on him
‘i’ll leave before he wakes up’ she mumbled under her breath as she stared intensely at him until nature took place.
A figure could be seen outside as he gritted his teeth angrily, he was cursing inwardly at his failed attempts. His eyes caught someone coming and he went to hid behind a piller waiting for the person to pass by.
Astrid’s eyes narrowed as he spotted a figure lurking behind a pillar.
The figure stood still holding his sword tightly.
On sensing Astrid a mile away, he darted away, and Astrid gave chase. They raced across the palace grounds, their footsteps echoing off the walls.
As they burst into a nearby field, the figure drew his sword and charged at Astrid. Their blades clashed in a flurry of steel and sparks, the only sound the ringing of swords and heavy breathing.
The figure gave Astrid a cut on his arms, but he ignored the pain and pressed his attack.
With a swift kick, he sent the figure crashing to the ground. Astrid pinned him, sword pressed to his neck, his legs trapping him in a tight grip.
“Who are you, and what are you doing here?” he demanded, his voice low.
The noise alerted the other guards as they came to the field to see what going on.
Astrid removed the stranger mask revealing a stranger’s face. He laughed, a cold, mirthless sound. “You think I’ll you will hear a thing from me?” he sneered, despite his tight position.
Astrid’s eyes blazed with anger. “Who sent you? I saw you near the emperor’s chamber, are you trying to Hurt him?” he growled, his sword pressing harder against the figure’s neck.
The figure merely laughed again, his eyes glinting with defiance. “Kill me, then,” he spat, “but I won’t say a thing.” He said boldly
“We’ll see about that”
Astrid’s expression turned grim. “Take him to the dungeon,” he ordered the guards, who had arrived at the scene. “He’ll face the emperor’s justice tomorrow.” He said and walked away
✨ NEXT MORNING ✨
Emperor Augustus flunged his eyes open as his gaze met with the ceiling, The room was bright as rays of the sun reflect into the room from the window.
He touched his forehead and his hand touched a towel, he took it as his mind went to what happened yesterday and he realized what he did, he quickly got up to see Aurora sleeping near his bed.
Different thought ran through his mind as he stared at Aurora with both suspence and surprise.
Who is she? How did the pain quickly subside? How come I slept this long? No..no this isn’t Ordinary.
He shook his head slowly and got up from the bed, his mind went to when he asked her to stay behind.
He doesn’t know what he she is doing to him but it felt strange and unease.
He ran his hands through his hair thoroughly, sighing then left for his bathroom.
Aurora eyes slowly opened as she found herself still knelt on the floor uncomfortably. She gazed at the bed to see it empty.
She hastily stood up, gasping as her eyes searched everywhere in the lounge.
Where has he gone to? She thought, immediately, the Emperor came out from the inner chamber and their eyes met.
She quickly bent her head in respect “My Lord”.
“What are you still doing here…..Leave” he said in a cold voice.
Aurora furrowed her brows. This is not the emperor last night??
She bit her lips sadly. “I said Leave………I need some space” He repeated and she left sadly.
She didn’t expect him to still be this mean.
Immediately he left, he released his breath that he has been holding.
He has never slept for an hour but this Maiden made him sleep for 7 Fucking hours!!!. Strange??
“What is going on, Alora should know about this” he muttered as he paced restlessly.
“You called my name” he heard a voice from behind and turned to see Alora.
“What are you hiding Alora” he asked.
“The goddess changed your fate” she replied and his eyes widened
“Seriously, how come” he asked curiously.
“Ever since the beginning, the goddess changed your fate but you don’t know”.
“But though, the scent is getting stronger…….the next full moon is near” she added.
“Who could she be” he asked.
“Sorry, but I really don’t know” she waved her hands negatively.
Emperor Augustus furrowed his brow “Alora, stop this…..I hate suspence”.
“You just have to wait for the full moon, but before then” she paused and then continued
“I’ll be back to tell you something, really important…..and it’ll help you in finding her” she muttered and left before the emperor could say anything.
“Gosh” he muttered in frustration.
Suddenly, Astrid entered his chamber and bent his head “your highness”.
“What is it Astrid” he asked.
“We have an intruder here” he informed.
“Who dare intrude into my kingdom” Augustus growled.
“Actually, he was trying to eliminate you” he blurted and Augustus gazed at him.
“Eliminate me, how did he enter the palace ” he repeated, his frustration turning to anger.
“I don’t know your highness” he replied.
“Someone is behind it”.
“Yes it is, your highness”.
“Where is he” he asked.
“He is in the dungeon your highness” he said.
“Bring him out and tie him on the pillar………I’ll be there”.
he grinned in a menacing voice.
“Yes, your highness” Astrid bowed and left his chamber.
Aurora walked down to the maids quarters, she saw the maids pointing at her giving her hateful glares.
👥 She didn’t sleep in the quaters last night.
👥 Seriously, she is a bitch…..she has no good intentions.
👥 She probably slept with a guard.
Aurora took her lips in, this was what she was avoiding. She saw Jade coming out of the room.
“Aurora, where have you been?, You didn’t sleep in the quarters last? Where did you go?” She asked multiple question, worriedly
Aurora thought for a seconds “sorry, I was in the Library and I slept off” Aurora lied.
“You should have told me you went there, you made us worried”.
“Don’t include me….I don’t care about her freaking self” Sage rolled her eyes in disgust.
“Sorry for making you worried, I just slept off”
“You don’t have to lie, dummy………you slept in the emperor’s chamber” Sage blurted and Jade eyes widened before turning to Aurora.
“Aurora” she called.
Aurora was shocked as she faced Jade who was also staring at her as if expecting her to say something.
“Is it true, Aurora……..you slept in the emperor’s chamber” she asked curiously.
Aurora looked down, she can’t lie anymore…….it is something she is really bad at doing.
“Yeah I…….”.
“But the emperor never allows anyone sleeps in his chamber overnight” she wondered.
Aurora was taken aback by what she said. “You mean, no one not even the mistress” She asked and Jade nodded.
Aurora eyes gleamed as her mind went to what happened last night, she could remember being in the quarters at night, but found herself moving around the palace until she got to the emperor’s chamber.
Why did she go there in the first place?
“I hope am not in trouble”
Esmeralda’s eyes blazed with fury as Sage told her all that happened. Her fists clenched, her face reddening with rage.
“She slept in the emperor’s chamber?” she repeated, her voice deep in anger.
Sage nodded, her eyes wide with caution. “Yes, My lady. Aurora was in the chamber….I saw her coming out earlier this morning.”
Esmeralda’s breath came in short gasps, her mind racing with indignation. “Something I’ve never done,” she muttered, her voice laced with venom.
“She’s crossed the line, and I’ll make her kill her with my own hands.”
“She’ll regret being in this palace” Her fists tightened, as if she was already strangling Aurora.
“I need to act fast,” she growled, her mind racing with schemes. “Queen Mother must hear of this.”
“Sage, we’ll be going out today” she blurted.
A naked man was seen tied up to a pole in the middle of the field, he had scars on his body as he has been beaten and tortured.
Astrid paced in frustration.
“For the last time, who sent you here” he growled.
The man laughed wickedly “you won’t hear a thing, just kill me already” he muttered as blood flowed out of his mouth, his teeth was red all over, cuts and blood covered his face but he’s still not responding.
Emperor Augustus came into the field and everyone bowed in respect “Long Live, his highness” they chorused.
Augustus walked down to the pole as everyone paved way for him staring at the man tied up on the pole.
“Who sent you” he said in a calm cold voice.
“I guess you are the Emperor he has been talking about” he chuckled in his situation.
Augustus boiled as Astrid handed him a knife, he didn’t hesitate before cutting off his manhood.
“Arghhhhhhhhhhhh” he screamed.
“Who sent you” Augustus barked, his voice containing anger.
“It…it… Emp..eror…………Sebastian” he blurted without thinking as he released heavy breath.
“I knew it……he is just playing games with me” he gritted.
He twitched his lips in frustration as he unsheathed a sword slashing it directly on the man’s neck and blood splashed out of it.
Augustus threw the sword away moving away from the pillar.
“Take the body away and feed it to the wolfs” he instructed and left the field furiously as everyone bowed till he left.
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Sebastian’s face contorted in rage as he slammed his fist onto the table, making the objects on it tremble. “What!!!!!!” he bellowed, his voice echoing off the walls.
Isa, stood at attention, his expression somber. “Yes, Your Highness, Karl is dead,” he confirmed, his voice steady.
Sebastian’s eyes blazed with fury, his mind reeling from the news. His strongest guard, that he had sent. And now, he was gone. The emperor’s thoughts raced with questions and doubts.
With a swift motion, he turned to Isa. “Summon the shaman to the palace now,” he commanded, his voice loud in anger.
Isa bowed and hastened out of the chamber, leaving Sebastian on his own thoughts.
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Sapphire hastened her pace, her eyes fixed on the nearest corner. She had spotted Astrid approaching and didn’t want to face him.
Her heart raced as she ducked into the corner, her breathing quick and silent. Astrid passed by, oblivious to her presence. She let out a sigh of relief as she peeked around the corner, watching him disappear into the distance.
But her relief was short lived. As she stepped out of her hiding spot, she found Astrid standing right in front of her.
She flinched, her hand flying to her chest as if her heart might burst free.
“Oh jeez,” she whispered, her eyes wide with surprise.
Astrid’s gaze narrowed, a hint of amusement playing on his lips. “Are you avoiding me, Princess?” he asked, his voice low and teasing.
Sapphire rolled her eyes, attempting to feign ignorance.
“Why would I be avoiding you? That’s lame.” She tried to brush past him, but he moved closer, his steps mirroring hers.
Every step he took, she took a step back, until her back met the cold palace wall.
She gasped, her breath coming in short bursts as Astrid’s face drew closer. She could feel his warm breath on her skin, making her heart race even faster.
Astrid chuckled, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “You see,” he whispered, his voice sending shivers down her spine. Then, he stepped back, leaving her feeling both relieved and disappointed.
Sapphire’s face turned into a frustration. “Why did you do that?” she demanded, her voice barely above a whisper.
Astrid offered a charming smile. “Nothing. Let me walk you to your chamber.”
Sapphire hesitated, her eyes locked on his. “No, go back…” she declined, her voice firm.
But Astrid insisted, his eyes gleaming with determination. “I insist…I’ll follow you,” he protested.
Sapphire rolled her eyes. “Fine…” she muttered, her voice calm as they walked down to her chamber.