Chapter 13 & 14 : Forbidden Bond
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
The air was filled with chatters and laughter as Jade and Aurora were busy washing.
“You should see her face, she was shy” Jade said.
“Seriously” Aurora chuckled.
“I’m not joking, she was like…..”
“Who are you talking about” A maid, zara came up to them glaring at Aurora.
“and why do you want to know” Jade stood up fixing her hands on her waist.
“So you really made friends with this….loser” Zara pointed at Aurora waving her hand in disgust.
“How is that your concern…..leave” jade asked
“How pathetic” Zara hissed Walking away not without eyeing Aurora.
“You don’t have to reply her” Aurora said.
“Why won’t i” she muttered.
“There she is” they heard a voice from afar and they turned to see Esmeralda coming with Sage.
👥 It the Mistress!!
👥 What’s she doing here
👥 I wish I am the mistress
Aurora heart started beating fast as Esmeralda came nearer.
‘i didn’t do anything did I’ she thought as her mind went to what happened last night.
Is she coming because of that? Oh God let it not be? She’ll be in trouble with the Mistress??
Esmeralda got to her, without hesitating…. She slapped her hard on the cheeks.
“What gave you the gut to sleep in the emperor’s chamber” She yelled.
“My….”
“Don’t call me, you pathetic fool” she glared at her.
“Ever since you’ve been in this palace, you have been disturbing my peace and I won’t back down because of you” she spat and Aurora gulped.
“I won’t allow you take what I’ve wished for away from me” she barked and Aurora flinched.
“You are just a slave, an ordinary slave…and I won’t let you compete with me” she snorted.
“Sage” she called.
“Yes, My lady”.
“Get the blade” She commanded stretching her hands and Sage handed her the blade.
What does she wants to use a blade for? Let it not be my hair? Or is it my body??
Different thought ran through her mind as she saw Esmeralda with a blade.
“Come over here, I’ll start with your stinking hair first…..I’ll make sure you go bald” she said but she stood still.
Esmeralda moved closer to her and she shook her head “No..no..no please not my hair” she moved back, her father had always warned her not to cut her hair but she doesn’t know the reason even if she asked.
Esmeralda took fast strides to her and got hold of her immediately.
“What are you trying to do” A voice came and Esmeralda turned to see Sapphire.
“Leave Sapphire, what I’m doing here is non of your business”.
“Yes it is, leave her alone” Sapphire seperated Aurora from Esmeralda.
“Who do you think you are to stop me….just leave” Esmeralda yelled.
Sapphire pulled Aurora up immediately, “I will but not without her” Sapphire said and Esmeralda boiled.
She went to drag Aurora but sapphire didn’t let her, she wanted to slap her from where she is, but it landed on sapphire mistakenly.
Everyone gasped.
Sapphire eyes become red in rage as she slapped Esmeralda back, not once or twice but thrice.
Esmeralda eyes widened, Sapphire never laid her hands on her, they only share insults but now she slapped her.
Someone she is older than slapped her??
“You slapped me sapphire”.
“Yes I did. Next time, you learn to stay your place and let the innocent have some peace” Sapphire hissed.
“You are just a mistress not the empress” she glared at her and took Aurora’s hand leaving with her.
Aurora was extremely surprised on seeing Sapphire defend her. The princess is not bad after all.
Esmeralda breath was heavy as she clenched her fist.
“You’ll regret this Aurora, I swear” Esmeralda muttered inwardly and dashed away, fuming furiously.
Aurora looked down at her hands and at sapphire who was fuming.
“Princess” she called and sapphire stopped.
“Why did you help me earlier, you don’t know me”.
“It nothing, I just hated the way she’s maltreating you”.
“I don’t think you should hold me like this, I don’t want the emperor to misunderstood” she muttered.
“My brother cannot stop me from having friends in this palace, so he can’t misunderstood anything”.
Friends? When did she became friends with the princess??
“I know you must be thinking why I saved you earlier, but it nothing……I just want us to be friends, I’ve never had any friend in this palace”
Aurora took her lips in “My lady…..”
“The emperor shouldn’t stop you from having friends” sapphire said and she nods.
“I’m sapphire”.
“Aurora”.
“I was expecting you to be an ugly maiden but you are really far from it……even your hair is beautiful, is it Artificial” Sapphire asked.
“No, it Natural..my lady”.
“Just call me Sapphire”.
“But we are…….”
“I know but I really don’t like formalities” Sapphire urged.
“Call me sapphire instead” Sapphire said.
“Ok My lady….sorry Sapphire” she twitched her lips.
“come let go to my chamber” he took her hands again.
“But, I have works to do”.
“It can be done later, c’mon”.
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Sebastian was sitting in his chamber when he heard a voice from outside.
“Your highness, the shaman is here” A guard announced.
“Let him in” he said and the door creaked open. The shaman entered and bowed to him.
“Your highness”.
Sebastian faced him immediately, “the attack failed”.
“I know your highness, the only thing we can do is to find Astrid” The shaman said.
“Where do expect me to find him, he disappeared ever since Augustus was declared the next emperor…..do you know where he is hiding” Sebastian asked.
“We can still try, your highness” The shaman said.
“We’ll summon him with the spell Malicia’s left behind”.
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Sapphire pulled Aurora to her chamber as she sat on the chair in her dining area.
“Join me, Aurora, I don’t like eating alone” Sapphire gesture for her to seat.
“No..My lady, I can’t” Aurora shook her head.
“I won’t take that Aurora, sit” Sapphire shook her hand signifying No.
Aurora sat opposite her and they took their chopstick.
“I heard you were a princess before you came here” She said and Aurora nodded.
“So how old are you” Sapphire asked.
“Nineteen” she replied and Sapphire eyes widened.
“Nineteen, you are still young” she exclaimed.
“You look more mature than your age” she added.
“I’ve heard it countless times” Aurora muttered.
“Well, I’m still eighteen, you are just a year older than me” Sapphire said simply and Aurora smiled.
The Princess isn’t like her brother.
“Eat more”.
The Emperor lay in his inner chamber, his eyes wide open as he stared at the ceiling.
He tried to sleep but it wasn’t coming, his mind racing with thoughts of Aurora.
Who was she, really? He couldn’t shake off the feeling that he slept peacefully days ago.
He hadn’t been able to sleep since their encounter. Her piercing eyes and smile lingered in his mind.
He turned to the side, closing his eyes when Astrid came in.
“Your highness” he called and Augustus stood up slowly. He walked out of the inner chamber to see Astrid in the lounge.
“What is it Astrid”.
“The elders are waiting for you in the throne room for minutes now” he informed.
“Okay, I’ll be there” he muttered.
“I’ll accompany you, your highness” Astrid muttered and he nods slightly walking towards the bathroom closing the door with a slight click.
<2PM~PALACE FIELD>
Astrid arrived at the field, his sword at the ready. Caeser was already there, a smirk on his face.
The other guards watched with interest, eager to see the two men clash. “Oh, he’s finally here,” Caeser sneered. “Let’s get this over with.”
Astrid unsheathed his sword, his eyes fixed on Caeser. “Yeah, let me see how strong you are,” Caeser taunted.
Louis appeared on the field, a look of concern on his face. “Are you guys still on this?” he asked, but Caeser waved him off.
“Don’t interrupt, Louis. You can just watch.”
The two men charged at each other, their swords clashing in a flurry of steel and sparks. Astrid blocked Caeser’s attacks with ease, but Caeser was relentless, determined to prove his superiority.
He finally managed to land a blow, striking Astrid’s arm and causing him to stumble.
“Caeser, stop this! You’re hurting him!” Louis shouted, but Caeser ignored him, his eyes fixed on Astrid with a fierce determination.
Astrid gritted his teeth and charged at Caeser again, the two men exchanging blows in a fierce and intense battle.
Despite his injuries, Astrid refused to back down, his sword flashing in the sunlight as he fought to gain the upper hand.
Caeser was a skilled swordsman, but Astrid was driven by a fierce determination, his anger and frustration fueling his attacks.
Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Astrid managed to gain the upper hand, pinning Caeser to the ground with his sword pressed against his throat. Caeser glared up at him, his eyes flashing with anger and defeat. “Is that the only skill you have?” he sneered.
Astrid’s eyes blazed with fury, but before he could respond, a familiar voice interrupted the fight.
“Astrid, stop!” Sapphire shouted, her voice urgent and worried.
Astrid turned to her, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of anger and relief.
Caeser took advantage of the distraction to wriggle free, striking Astrid’s other arm and causing him to fall to the ground, throwing his sword away.
“You see, I’ve won already,” he gloated, standing over Astrid with his sword still raised, the others guards cheered.
“You aren’t worthy to be the Emperor’s personal guard” he glared at him and walked away feeling proud.
“Arghhh, you bastard” he groaned.
Sapphire rushed to Astrid’s side, her eyes wide with worry. “Why did you have to fight him?” she asked, her voice trembling.
Astrid eyes turned cold, his eyes flashing with anger. “Don’t ask me, princess. Just leave me alone.”
Sapphire’s face fell, taken aback by his sudden reaction.
“You’re bleeding,” she whispered, her voice barely audible.
“Leave princess, I can take care of it myself” he muttered.
“Astrid……” she mumbled worriedly.
“Just stay away from me princess…..go” he said and she bit her lips gently, hurtly.
Her expression suddenly turned into frustration immediately.
“You know what, you too stay away from me…….I don’t freaking care about you anymore” She barked at him hurt by his words as she rushed out the field.
Louis approached him immediately “you shouldn’t have talked to her like that”.
“If I don’t, it’ll become uncontrollable”.
“But you were too harsh”.
“Am I” Astrid asked, he could see the hurt in her eyes but he did what best for him.
“It better like that” Astrid added.
“Let me take you to Madam Eloise” Louis offered.
“No, I can take care of myself” he quickly declined.
“Fine”.
Esmeralda could be seen, her face covered with a veil. Sage was trailing behind her too as they approached an old hut.
“Wait here sage” she said and sage nodded.
She entered the hut, a witch sat on the floor, her back straight, hands stretched out as if in meditation.
Esmeralda removed her veil, “Xylene” she called.
Xylene, her eyes still closed, responded, “I know what you’re here for, Esmeralda.” Her voice was eerie, sending shivers down Esmeralda’s spine.
“Xylene, I need to get rid of that slave…she is disturbing my peace” Esmeralda said and Xylene turned to her.
She looked very young even though she is 80 years already.
Xylene eyes opened to reveal piercing black orbs.
Her hair, lips, eyes, and even nails were all a deep, dark black, giving her an otherworldly appearance
“and how do you intend to do it” she asked.
Esmeralda hesitated, her eyes darting around the dimly lit hut. “I don’t really have a plan…I just decided to come here,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.
Xylene’s gaze seemed to bore into her soul. “Do you come with anyone?” she asked, her eyes glinting with knowledge.
Esmeralda nodded, her eyes flicking towards the door. “Yes, she’s waiting outside.”
Xylene’s eyes closed again, her face tilted upwards. “I can sense it.
Xylene closed her eyes for a short while and opened it back immediately.
“the Emperor’s fate has been changed by the goddess” Xylene blurted.
“What!!!!” Esmeralda exclaimed shockingly.
Does that mean the Emperor would have an Empress? What will become of me??.
Esmeralda shook her head greatly “erm that means, The emperor would have an empress soon right” She said to confirm and Xylene nodded.
“Do you know who she might be??” Esmeralda asked.
“It wasn’t revealed to me, but the woman in question is close to the emperor” Xylene replied.
Esmeralda thought for a while and finally realized.
No..no..no? It can’t be the slave right? It better not be??’ she thought in her mind.
She won’t give up on the emperor, Never??
“I know what you are thinking, you want to eliminate her right?” She asked, her voice dripping with malice and Esmeralda nodded.
Xylene cackled her eyes glinting in malevolence as she brought out a little bottle from her waist.
“Take this, I’m sure it’ll be useful for you” she smirked handing Esmeralda the bottle.
Esmeralda eyes scanned it but found nothing inside it. “What is this, there is nothing in it” she wanted to open it when Xylene stopped her.
“Don’t”
“Why??”
“It air that is in it, a poisonous one at that…..once anyone sniff it” she paused looking at Esmeralda who was listening carefully.
“It will take only 10 minutes before the person dies” she blurted and laughed mischievously again.
Esmeralda smirked dangerously. “This is surely useful Xylene, thanks” she muttered in between her smirk.
Jade was walking down to the Princess chamber, her face filled with smiles. Her smile faded when she noticed someone following her.
She got afraid and ran forward. “hey stop, I don’t bite” she heard a voice from behind and she stopped and turned back.
Louis got to her smiling, “why are you following me” she demanded.
“Nothing” He replied.
“Then why, do you know me” she asked.
“Maybe.. I’ve seen you countless times” he smiled.
“I’m Louis by the way” he added.
“I’m Jade”.
“I know already” his eyes gleamed as he talked to her.
Jade raised an eyebrow “how did you know me, have you been stalking me” she asked.
“No, I heard it from someone”.
“But I don’t remember seeing your face anywhere, are you new here” she asked.
“No, I’m not, I’ve been here for a while now”.
“Oh..ok” she mumbled shyly. This is the first time a guy is talking to her privately.
She was still in her thought when her leg hit a stone and she tripped, Louis caught her before she could fall and balanced her up.
She felt some goosebumps immediately she felt his hands on her body.
“Thanks” she let out a sly smile.
“It nothing, let me walk you to wherever you are going” He offered and she nodded gently.
“Sure”.
Aurora entered the room but saw no one inside. “They must be with their lady” she muttered.
She was totally exhausted as she has been working since morning, her mind went to the emperor and she blinked.
Ever since the incident, he never calls her and she feels hurt.
She hated to admit…but She misses him greatly?
Wait! What was she thinking? The emperor is her enemy, so how can she miss him??
“Stop thinking, Aurora” She hit her head slightly.
Her eyes caught something on the table and she walked towards it lazily as she picked it up.
It was a bottle!!
“What is this” she asked no one in particular as she scanned it carefully.
Meanwhile, someone stood near the window watching her closely smirking.
Aurora opened it slowly and the smell emanating from it hit her hard down to her lungs.
“Ahhhhhhhh” she screamed and fell down.
The bottle fell from her hold as she held her chest tightly, she started coughing repeatedly.
The substance made her weak that she couldn’t feel her legs.
She reached out for help but no one was in sight, she started coughing out blood from her mouth as she stretched her hands to the door.
“Help…” She shouted but no one came. She coughed out more blood as she called out a name that appeared in her mind.
“My Lord!!!!!!”
Chapter 15 & 16 : Rescue Mission
“My Lord!!!!!!” Aurora screamed, breathing heavily as her hands dropped falling into darkness.
Jade entered the room immediately to see Aurora on the floor and she gasped.
“Oh my Gawd, Aurora!!!!” She exclaimed and rushed to her, on seeing blood on her lips she carried her up to the bed.
Maids rushed in on hearing the screams.
“Someone call the healer”.
“You don’t have to, she is dead” Zara blurted.
“How could you say that, she is still breathing” Jade barked.
Suddenly, a wind blew shortly and Emperor Augustus appeared. His nose caught a smell though others can’t smell it anymore, he scanned the room and saw a bottle on the floor.
His gaze went to Aurora on the bed and he walked towards her.
The maids eyes popped out on seeing the emperor, Augustus approached Aurora to see her pale body which was getting dry and her bloody lips.
He felt rage immediately and carried Aurora in a bridal way vanishing into thin air.
The maids who were holding their breath sighed.
“Did the emperor just took her away” a maid asked.
“Who are you asking, we all witnessed it” Jade replied.
“Her body is getting dry, is it poison”.
“It might be”.
Jade was tired of hearing their murmurs as she shook her head.
“You all, out of my room…I’m sure you have works to do” she half yelled and the maids trooped out.
“Must you yell….we just came to sympathize with you, maybe your dear friend would be dying soon” Zara rolled her eyes.
“Take it back, she won’t die………must you be negative”
“Whatever” she hissed and left the room.
Augustus appeared in his chamber and dropped Aurora on the bed carefully.
Astrid entered the chamber immediately, “your highness, the healer is here”.
“Then why are you making her wait, tell her to come in” he growled and Astrid hastily left the chamber and the healer came in.
“Over here, sora” he said and the healer, Sora walked towards the bed and dropped her bag.
She touched Aurora’s forehead and she gasped.
“She’s poisoned”.
“Poisoned, who dared do that” he spat, angrily.
“It not just a substance, it a deadly Vapor, an air that kills within ten minutes after inhaling” Sora said on recognizing the kind of poison.
His mind went to the bottle he saw earlier in her room and his eyes turned red immediately.
Esmeralda was pacing restlessly as she checked the time countlessly.
“It more than 10 minutes now, she should be gone” she smirked.
Sage entered her chamber immediately.
“My lady” she called, breathing heavily like she has been running.
“What is it sage, is there anything wrong” Esmeralda asked.
“Of course there is” Sage replied.
“What is it, tell me” she half yelled, curiously.
“His Highness, he……..”.
“He did what” Esmeralda cut her off.
“He took Aurora away” She blurted out and Esmeralda eyes widened.
“Did she inhaled the substance” she asked.
“She did, but it didn’t take long before the emperor came to take her…..I was shocked” Sage replied.
Esmeralda inhaled and exhaled loudly. “Out sage, now” She commanded and sage left her chamber.
Immediately she left, Esmeralda bit her fingers angrily.
Why did the Emperor save? She should have died??
“He shouldn’t have done that, she is just a slave” she mumbled inwardly.
She felt a presence behind her and she quickly turned to see two pairs of angry eyes in front of her.
The emperor walked closer to her and she became scared, she has never seen this side of him before.
“Oh my God, this is scary” she mumbled inwardly.
“Why did you do it” He asked In a cold, belittling voice.
“Do what, I didn’t do anything your highness!!” She said, feigning ignorance immediately.
“Don’t tell you don’t know what I’m talking about” he yelled and she flinched.
“Your highness………”
“Just tell me……” He demanded.
“It your eyes” she pointed.
“What wrong with my eyes” He asked.
She sighed “the way you look at her is totally different, you never looked at me that way not even once” she said as tears slipped out of her eyes.
“Ever since that slave got into this palace, you haven’t been giving me your attention” she added.
“That doesn’t matter, Esmeralda…..she is my slave and I’ll be the one to decide what to do to her” he said.
“Your highness”.
“You don’t have the right to touch my slave, I’ve warned you this before” he spat.
“She is just a slave and I’m your Mistress, totally different…..or do you have a thing for her” she asked.
“I don’t Esmeralda……and stop asking unnecessary questions”.
“Since you don’t have a thing for her your highness, then why do you care about her”
“Just stop it Esme, the next time you try such thing like this, you’ll regret it” He warned.
“Your highness”.
“I mean it” he vanished immediately.
Esmeralda sat on her bed and palmed her face,
No I won’t take this? I won’t let that slave take him away from me? Never??.
Esmeralda walked into the queen mother chamber and saw her knitting, she greeted her with respect.
“Queen Mother”.
“What brings you here Esme” she asked dropping what she is knitting.
Esmeralda teared up immediately and Queen Nana felt sympathy.
“What is it Esmeralda, tell me” she urged.
“It the emperor”.
“What did he do” she raised a brow.
“He chose the slave over me” She blurted and Queen Nana tilted her head backwards.
“Never, Augustus can never stoop so low to do that” she shook her head.
“Well he did, I feel like I’m losing him mother” she said in a calm and sweet voice.
“You won’t Esme, I’ll talk to him” she assured but she wasn’t satisfied.
“You know him Mother, he doesn’t easily listen” Esmeralda said.
“Of course, he will and I’ll make sure that slave stays in her place” Queen Nana said and Esmeralda smiled.
“Thank you Queen mother” She muttered.
“For you to make him yours, you have to get pregnant” Queen Nana said and she bent her head in embarrassment
“But Mother, he doesn’t……”.
“You don’t have to worry, His father has once been like that” she creaked and Walked to her drawer bringing out a wrap.
She handed it to Esmeralda and sat down in front of her.
“What could this be mother” Esmeralda asked, curious.
“It a non-resistant pill, just add it into his drink and he wouldn’t be able to resist you nor stop himself from releasing inside you” Queen Nana explained and Esmeralda smiled to herself.
This is great? She should have come to the Queen Mother in the first place? This is surely a better plan to make the emperor hers???
“Thank you, Queen Mother”.
“You are welcome”.
Sora sighed as she beheld Aurora’s limp form, her skin pale and dry. She is slowly giving up to death.
She could sense the poison’s dark energy suffusing Aurora’s body, threatening to consume her to death.
With a deep breath, Sora focused her healing powers, closing her eyes immediately.
She placed her hands on Aurora’s chest, and a soft, pulsing glow emanated from her fingers. The light enveloped Aurora’s body, penetrating deep into her soul.
Sora’s energy coursed through Aurora’s body, her skin began to regain its natural radiance, and her breathing grew stronger. The dryness gave way to a fresh skin, like the first dewdrops on a morning leaf.
Sora’s drew out the poisonous gas, neutralizing its dark influence and restoring balance to Aurora’s vital.
The gas escaped in a visible mist and dark form, as it dissipate into thin air.
With each passing moment, Aurora’s color improved, her pulse strengthened, and her chest rose and fell with increasing steadiness.
Emperor Augustus entered the lounge towards the bed.
“She’s fine your highness, she’ll only need some rest” Sora assured and picked up her bags leaving the chamber.
Augustus sighed, He doesn’t know why he is doing this?
He turned his gaze to her as thought ran through his mind.
Who could she be? He asked no one in particular as he looked at the window.
Just then, Aurora coughed out slowly and he turned to her.
Her eyes were blurry at first and she soon flinged it open. She scanned her surrounding and frowned.
“This is not my room? Where am I??” She asked herself only to turn to see Augustus staring at her.
She gasped and quickly stood up though she still felt some pains in her chest.
“Lay back”.
Did he heal me?
She bowed slightly at the emperor. “No my……Lord” she called.
Did he hear her cries? How did he know she is in trouble?? She thought.
Suddenly, Astrid entered the room and bowed.
“Your highness” he called from the lounge.
Augustus went out of the Inner chamber “what is it Astrid”.
“The elders are waiting for you in the throne room” he informed.
“I’ll be there” he muttered and Astrid bowed before walking out.
Aurora wanted to Leave the chamber when the emperor stopped her.
“Don’t….wait here till I’m back” He said and she stood still.
The emperor walked out of the chamber and she sat on the bed immediately.
What is she going to be doing?, this place is a bit boring without him??
She felt the softness of the comfy bed “this is nice” she complemented. It more superior she once used when she was still a princess.
Aurora laid on the bed and soon she drifted into her Dreamland.
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Emperor Sebastian sat on his legally throne as his gaze went to the Shaman in front of him.
“Have you summon him already” He asked.
“Yes your highness, but I haven’t seen any sign of him”.
“Where could he be hiding”.
Surprisingly, the door to the throne room opened loudly and they turned to the door to know who it is.
Someone strides into the throne room, his black attire seems to blend with the shadows, making him almost invisible except for his piercing eyes.
As he moves, the attire seems to ripple like the surface of a dark lake, giving off an aura of mystery and power. The overall effect is one of calculated elegance, as if he has carefully crafted his appearance to exude confidence and authority.
His very presence seems to command attention, and the eyes of Sebastian and the shaman in the throne room are drawn to him like moths to a flame.
He approaches the throne with a deliberate slowness, his black attire seeming to absorb the light around him. The air was tensed as the Emperor and the shaman were speechless.
“You seek for me…” He said in a cold, unusual voice.
“Yes, we did Atlas”.
“and why is that” Atlas sat down on a seat majestically.
“Who asked you to sit, stand up now” A guard barked at him and Atlas stretched his hands closing it slowly.
The guard held his neck as if it was in Atlas hands, as Atlas closed his hands, the more the guard tighten his neck groaning until he closed it finally and the guard dropped dead.
“You don’t have to do that here” Sebastian barked.
“You don’t have the right to tell me what to do, if I decide to kill you right now and take over your throne…… it’ll be so easy” He spat and Sebastian swallowed.
He is just like his younger brother?!!
“Atlas” the Shaman called and he turned to him.
“I already know what you want and I’ll give it” He said and Sebastian smiled inwardly.
Finally!!!
“We’ll release Malicia and raid Yongjing. Once we succeed, you take your daughter and I’ll take over the kingdom” Atlas smirked.
‘I’ll kill him for real this time around’ he mumbled inwardly.
“That really a good plan” Sebastian smiled and turned to the shaman.
“When will you start the ritual” he asked
“Immediately, so we won’t take time” he replied.
Atlas stood up “but I have a condition in exchange for my blood” he said, a smirk playing on his lips.
They turned to him. “Anything” Emperor Sebastian said and he twitched his lips mischievously.
<7PM~EMP. AUGUSTUS CHAMBER>
Aurora gazed out the window, her eyes wandering across the palace grounds as the sun dipped below the horizon. The sky casted a warm glow over the bustling courtyard.
She watched as servants scurried about. Guards stood at attention, their armor glinting in the fading light.
As she leaned against the window, her mind began to wander.
Was did the Emperor asked me to stay here?
Her gaze drifted back to the dining area, where she had carefully prepared a spread of dishes, hoping to surprise the emperor upon his return.
The aroma of roasted meats and steaming vegetables wafted through the air, tantalizing her taste buds in her nose.
As the minutes ticked by, Aurora’s patience began to wear thin. She pushed away from the window, her eyes scanning the room for something, anything, to occupy her attention.
But there was nothing. No books, no instruments, no distractions from the emptiness that seemed to echo through the chamber.
With a sigh, she returned to the window, her eyes drawn back to the vibrant scene below. The palace was alive with activity, a stark contrast to the isolation she felt in this chamber.
She wondered when the emperor would return and sighed out.
Augustus was sitting on this throne as the elders were making suggested about a particular event.
He was just looking at a particular direction as his mind were somewhere else filled with thought of Aurora.
Why is he thinking about her, she is his slave??
He shook his head as the elders turned their attention to him.
“Is there anything wrong your highness” one of them asked.
“Nothing, let suspend this meeting” he declared and stood up from the throne walking out of the room.
The elders bowed till he was out of the throne room.
As the Emperor walked down the corridor, he felt a strange aura and he stopped. “You all should go back” he demanded to the guards and they left.
Someone Appeared and it turned out to be Atlas.
“What are you doing here” Augustus asked coldly.
“Can’t I come home anymore” he smiled, narrowing his eyes.
“This is not your home, go back to where you are coming from and don’t ever come back again” He spat.
“Besides, how did you enter the palace” he added.
“Must I take permission, c’mon bro…”
“Leave Atlas” Emperor Augustus demanded frustratingly and Atlas leaned on a rail.
“You should prepare a welcome party for me, I’m back…. instead of chasing me away” Atlas twitched his lips moving closer to his ears.
“You better watch out till I take everything that is mine from you” Atlas smirked and left leaving Augustus frustrated.
“Why did he come back” He hit the wall angrily and the building shook.
The Emperor entered the chamber to see Aurora near his window.
“My lord!” She bowed her head slightly.
He didn’t reply as he walked into his bathroom frustrated, he needs someone to let his frustration on.
He soon came out to see dishes placed on the table at the dining area.
“I made some special dishes, you’ll love it” she smiled.
“Are you trying to impress me now” he asked and she swallowed.
“No, that not it……..” She mumbled on noticing his angry eyes.
Her dress suddenly disappeared from her body and she gasped.
“Get on the bed and turn your back” he ordered and she hesitate before walking to the bed.
She felt his presence behind her and without warning, he pushed his full length into her and she let out a scream.
“Ahhhhhhh” she screamed, it was painful, really painful as the Emperor went in and out of her aggressively.
“My lord!!!! Please” she pleaded but it sounded like melody in his ears.
He pulled out and went in again more deeper that the first and more rougher.
Both tears and sweat covered her face as she bit her lips painfully.
It was hellish than he did before, she cried continuously.
“My lorddddd” she wept bitterly
The voice stricken him hard as his frustration left his body.
She is crying??
He pulled out slowly and crept beside her wiping her tears slowly but she continued weeping loudly.
He had hurt her!!!
“I’m sorry” he said calmly, wiping the tears that were falling off her face as she weeps loudly.
Chapter 17 & 18 : Discovering the Past
Maids were busy doing one thing or the order as the kitchen was bustling with activities.
Jade and Aurora were seen washing the dishes while chatting loudly.
Sage walked past them hissing at their faces.
Jade turned to her in a twist eyeing her. ” Just leave her jade, she is not worth your time” Aurora turned her back.
“I’m pretty sure, she’s the one that dropped that poisonous bottle in the room” Jade said in defiance.
“Forget about that, it the past” Aurora urged as they continued washing. Her eyes caught someone outside the window as she halted.
The Emperor and the Mistress were taking a walk together and she swallowed. Her mind went to what happened last night as thought filled her mind.
He apologized? She can’t believe the Emperor apologize to her last night??
She shook her head as her gaze met with the emperor outside. She quickly looked away.
“Aurora, are you listening….” Jade asked on noticing she is lost.
“Erm, I need to go…I’m tired” She washed her hands and left the kitchen.
“What wrong with her” jade asked no one in particular as she furrowed her brows. She shrugged and continued.
Sapphire was walking towards her chamber when she bumped into Astrid.
“I’m sorry, Princess” he apologized.
“You should probably check your eyes next time” she said holding her breath trying to walk away from him when he stopped her.
“Princess..”
“It Sapphire, I hate formalities” she eyed.
“I can’t call you that..” he replied.
“What do you want” she said trying to keep a stern face.
“I’m sorry if I’ve hurt you” He apologized.
“You don’t have to be, I’m not supposed to be mingling with a guard anyways” she rolled her eyes and his shoulders fell.
“Okay, princess” he paved way for her and she took slow strides away from him.
Sapphire released loud breaths as soon as she moved away from him.
“Gosh, he almost made me breathless” she muttered and walked away.
Meanwhile, Astrid stared at her retreating backs as she walked away from him, he released a sigh as a maid came to him.
“Hey Astrid, I’m Zara” Zara winked cutely at him, stretching her hands forward and he scoffed.
He left her hanging and her smile fell. “What!!!!!” She exclaimed.
Did he just ignored her???
She furrowed her brows and dropped her hands before leaving.
✨ HUAXIA KINGDOM ✨
Emperor Sebastian paced restlessly in his chamber as he thought of what to do.
The condition Atlas placed is taking a toll on him as his mind went to what he said yesterday.
FLASHBACK>>>
“But I have a condition in exchange for my blood” Astrid stood up smirking.
Augustus turned to him with a furrowed brow “Anything” he said.
“Once you get your daughter” he paused as Sebastian was listening curiously.
“I’ll have her” He blurted and Sebastian eyes almost popped out of his socket as he stood up.
“I can’t………”
“Do you need the blood or not” Atlas asked quickly.
“This is what I’ve been preventing, infact……I’m no more interested” Emperor Sebastian declared.
“You better get ready to loose all you have if you do….” Atlas threatened and he froze.
PRESENT>>>
He was getting restlessly, he was going to release her from a devil then hand her to another devil.
He gritted his teeth in frustration.
He shouldn’t do it? He can’t do it???
✨ YONGJING KINGDOM ✨
Aurora was walking down the corridor when she met with Caeser,
“Hey” she let out a smile shortly.
“You seem sad, are you okay….do you still feel pains” he rushed his words worriedly.
“I’m fine Caeser, you don’t have to worry” she smiled.
“Let me walk you” he offered and she nodded as they walked down together.
“How about we go to the garden, I saw some beautiful flowers there….I’m sure you’ll love it” he suggested.
“Flowers” she exclaimed “I Love flowers, I’ve never seen a garden here” She added.
“I’ll take you there, let go” he took her hand heading to the palace garden.
Aurora exclaimed on seeing the garden. It was filled with flowers and fruits.
“This is cute, I never knew there are flowers in this palace” She gushed.
“Lemme show you that particular flower” he led her to a particular place in the garden.
“This is it” he pointed it.
“That peony…I love it” she exclaimed as she cut a little part of the flower inhaling it’s fragrance.
“Nice” she shook her head as she tried to fix it on her hair but she couldn’t.
“Lemme help” Caeser offered and collected the flower fixing it on her pure white hair.
He stared at her face closely wishing he could just suck out those tasty lips in front of him.
“Done” he Muttered and she smiled.
“I’ll check it later” she mumbled. “You don’t have to, it looks beautiful on you” he complemented and she blushed.
“Let go check some other ones” he said taking her to the other parts of the garden where fruits are.
Aurora saw an Apple tree and he gaze was fixed on it, She loved Apple’s right from her childhood but she hadn’t been able to eat it since when she was brought here.
Caeser noticed it and smiled. “Do you want some Apples” He asked.
Her eyes gleamed in excitement. “Sure, I’ll love it” She replied.
The tree is high as Caeser climbed it and took some apples throwing into a basket with Aurora.
He got down as the basket was filled with apples.
“Won’t his highness complain about taking these Apple’s” Aurora asked.
“No he won’t” Caeser assured her and she let out a sly smile.
“I can’t finish it all” she mouthed.
“I’ll take some and you can share the rest with your friends” he said.
“Ok” she smiled brightly making Caeser lost in staring at her smile. His heart was beating too fast on seeing it.
What is she doing to him??
Surprisingly, The emperor walked towards them with the mistress beside her.
“Your highness” They chorused as soon as the emperor got to them.
Emperor Augustus didn’t say a word as he looked blankly at Caeser before walking past them.
“Hope I didn’t put you in trouble” she shook her head.
“No, don’t worry about me” he assured her and they left the garden.
A maid came towards them immediately, “Aurora, the princess summons you to her chamber” she said and Aurora shook.
“Ok, I’ll be there soon” she said.
She handed the basket of Apples to Caeser “give the rest to Jade, I’ll be back” She mumbled.
“Why don’t you take it to the princess, she loves Apple’s too” he suggested.
“Really!!!” She widened her eyes and Caeser nodded in response.
“Thank you for bringing me here Caesar” she said and he closed his eyes waving his hands positively.
“It nothing” he smiled and she returned it before leaving.
Caeser stood still on his spot staring at her retreating back as her hair flipped cutely.
“Cute” he bit his lips smiling continuously then left.
Esmeralda was in her lounge as the Sags rubbed her silk fresh skin.
“My lady” Sage called.
“Yes, what is it Sage” she replied still closing her eyes.
“That slave is becoming bold, shouldn’t we put her in her place” Sage said and Esmeralda raised a brow.
“You don’t have to sage, I’ve got a better plan” she smirked opening her eyes.
“Really!!!”
“Yeah, It will surely put her in her place”.
“What could it be My lady” Sage asked, curious.
“You don’t need to know Sage, you’ll find out later” Esmeralda assured.
“Alright My lady”
“She should enjoy while it last!” Esmeralda closed her eyes again resting on the seat comfortably.
Aurora entered the chamber to see Jade making sapphire’s hair.
“My lady” she called.
Sapphire squeezed her face and Aurora shook “sorry, Sapphire” she smiled.
Sapphire returned the smile as her eyes met with the basket on her hands.
“Are those Apples” she asked.
“Yes, I got it from the garden” Aurora replied and Sapphire gestured for her to come closer and she did.
“Oh my, they are ripe already!!!” Sapphire exclaimed and took one taking a bite from it.
“I’ve not washed it Sapphire” Aurora stopped her.
Sapphire stopped for a while and took another bite. “I can’t resist this, you can go wash the rest” She muttered taking another bite.
“uhmmmmmmm, this is yummy” she closed her savoring the taste of the Apples as Aurora went to the kitchen adjacent to the chamber.
“Will you have a taste Jade” Sapphire offered.
“Sure, I’ll like to but I really don’t eat apples” She replied and Sapphire frowned.
“You don’t eat Apples, why??” She asked.
“I haven’t eaten it before”.
“What, you haven’t tasted it” Aurora butt in as she came back with the Apples.
Jade shrugged.
Aurora took one and stuffed it in her mouth. “Taste it, it pretty sweet” Sapphire urged.
Jade took a bite and her eyes gleamed “you are right….it Sweet”.
They heard loud murmurs from outside and the trio walked to the window to know what it is.
A man was seen on a horse coming into the palace.
“I’m back for good” He snorted.
“Atlas” Sapphire muttered from where she is.
“Atlas, who is he” Aurora asked.
“My eldest brother, he disappeared before the coronation day of the emperor” she mumbled biting her lips as the apple fell from her.
“He was once my favorite till he changed totally” She looked away sadly.
“You can confide in us, Princess” Jade said and she let out a sly smile.
“He was the sweetest brother I ever had but ever since, my other brother was declared the next emperor….he changed totally to me even Queen Mother”.
“Why is that” Aurora asked curiously.
“Because of the throne…..he claimed to be the eldest and that he is supposed to be the chosen one but the goddess chose my other brother, Augustus and then….he disappeared..until now” she shook her head slowly.
“Why do you think he Is back” Jade asked.
“Probably because of the throne….I hate when my brothers fight. They’ve never took themselves as brothers”.
“You don’t have to be sad, Sapphire” Aurora urged.
“Lead me to my suite” Atlas ordered a maid and she shivered.
Everyone in the palace knows Atlas to be a flirt who goes for anything under the skirt.
She led him to his chamber which was adjacent the maids quarters.
The maids wants to run off when he stopped her “wait, let go in” he winked and she bit her lips.
“No, my prince….I’ve got something to do” she declined.
“You can’t just reject me” he frowned and dragged her into his chamber.
Queen Nana entered the chamber and Emperor Augustus turned away from the window.
“It time, Augustus” she muttered and he groaned.
“Mother…..”.
“Don’t call me, you have been staying alone….why don’t you make Esmeralda the empress” she cut him off.
“I was once a mistress too before I became the empress……you can’t just wait for the so-called goddess to change your fate. Esmeralda is the one for you” She added.
“She did Already, mother” he blurted and she was taken aback.
“What!!!!, the Goddess had abandoned us”.
“No she didn’t, all thanks to the soceerer…….Fate changed already”.
“How can this happen” she mouthed.
“It bound to happen, Mother” He said, calmly.
“You can’t just wait, Make Esmeralda your empress…..she might be the one” Queen Nana urged.
“We’ll talk later Mother, You can leave” He told her.
“Are you telling me leave” she raised a brow.
“No mother, I’m just tired of this discussion” He groaned.
“Alright” she muttered and left the chamber.
Emperor Augustus inhaled and exhaled loudly before going to his seat picking up a parchment.
Aurora has been summoned to the emperor’s chamber and she wondered why he called for her.
She exhaled and entered the chamber to see him sitting with a parchment in front of him.
“My Lord, I’m here” she called and he raised his head.
“Why did you allow him touch you” he blurted without thinking and she was taken aback by his words.
She remembered being with Caeser when the emperor saw her and she blinked.
“We were…..just having a harmless conversation” she replied, scratching her hair.
“That doesn’t mean he should touch you” he cut in and she swallowed.
“From now on, No other man should touch you not even the slightly part of your hair…….do you understand me” he warned and she quickly nodded.
Why is he being protective? This is weird??
“Come over here” he ordered calmly and she moved closer.
“Get me my tea from the dining area” he ordered and she did just that immediately.
“Is there anything I can help you with, My lord” she asked.
“Can you read” he turned his gaze to her after taking a sip.
“Yes My Lord” she replied.
He handed some parchment to her “Take this, Read it” he said and she took it and started reading using the parchment to cover her face so as to prevent herself from staring at him.
Minutes Later, she heard snores and she put down the parchment to see the Emperor sleeping while snoring softly.
She was lost in staring at him as her hands moved towards his hair. She heard noises at the door and she halted.
“I want to see his highness” A voice came from outside and Aurora recognized it to be the Esmeralda’s.
She looked back at the emperor and saw him still sleeping, she didn’t want to wake him up before he get angry at her as she didn’t want that.
Her heart beat rised, she doesn’t want the mistress to meet her here?
“His highness gave us order not to allow anyone in till tomorrow” One of the guards said, loudly but polite.
“You shouldn’t stop me from seeing him, that rule shouldn’t be applicable to me” She growled wanting to go in when the guards stopped her.
“My lady, you have to go” The other guards said.
Esmeralda didn’t heed but she pushed the guards away gaining entrance to the chamber.
Aurora heart almost flee as the door twitched opened.