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2025-03-13 11:32:32
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Mine Beloved 001
“I need a slave.” Lord Lucian Blackwell declared, gazing at the eloquent garden through the window of his manor.“A slave?” Trevor asked as he dropped his feet from the table in disbelief.It was no secret the number of the things Lucian Blackwell detested–slavery being chief among them. Slaves were nothing but property: deprived of name, status, wealth, respect, and dignity. To Lucian, slaves were depreciating liabilities–they aged and got boring quickly. He believed in the principle, ‘Every man has a price’ which extended to labour. Until now.Lucian turned away from the window and took a seat, facing his old friend. “I need a slave. Young, healthy, and smart. I don’t care the cost if it meets my requirements.”Trevor leaned forward, “Why? You have never weened such notion… What changed?”Lucian’s eyes flickered toward the painted portrait of his deceased wife cradling an infant swaddled in a red blanket. “For Nathaniel’s education. A slave his age to learn, rival, befriend, and ser
Last Updated : 2024-09-23Mine Beloved 002
The cold air of the night bit at the child's skin as he stood before Lucian, his frail body exposed and shivering with a thin chain hung loosely around his neck. He flickered his gaze between the ground and the towering man who had purchased him.“Does he speak?” Lucian asked, examining the child.“Yes, m’lord, but he is lacking in our tongue.” The keeper yanked the leash sharply. “Speak.”“Master.” The child’s voice was soft and timid as he prostrated.“Stand.” Lucian commanded.The keeper tugged the chain again and the child stood. This infuriated Lucian. It was a slave, not a beast.“Cast the chain and clothe him.” Lucian ordered.“But m’lord–” The keeper dared to argue.“Do as the lord say!” A voice cut through, belonging to a stubby man clad in expensive, fine fabrics and adorned in gold jewelleries. This haughty beta was the master of the auction.“Yes sir.” The keeper responded quickly and led the boy away.“Follow them.” Lucian instructed and Trevor followed the keeper leaving
Last Updated : 2024-09-23Mine Beloved 003
Ten days later, Lucian returned to his home at the countryside. Although it was modest compared to the grand manor in Linfield, it was still the largest property in town. Green plants lined the paths, creating intricate patterns that guided carriages and visitors to the white villa. Dull vines, bare of flowers, clung to portions of the villa’s walls. The sight of the neglected plants stirred a bittersweet feeling in Sarang, who stared at them until he was called inside.The servants greeted Lucian warmly, relieved with his safe return, but their eyes soon drifted to the unfamiliar child clinging to their master's side..Lucian Blackwell was an intimidating alpha in his thirties. He was very attractive with wavy chestnut hair, onyx eyes, and a thick beard that framed his rugged, olive, skin. A faded scar ran across his left cheek, enhancing his imposing presence. Yet, the beautiful child grasping his hand without fear amused the servants.“Father!” A bubbly voice called.Sarang gawked
Last Updated : 2024-09-23Mine Beloved 004
Season’s flourished, days progressed to weeks, weeks to months, a year, two, three until eighteen years had passed. All the children raised in the Blackwell villa aged with beauty and grace and young passion blossomed as well.In the beauty of spring at the Blackwell’s home, servants scurried the halls, quick on their feet to complete their morning tasks on time. The sight was satirical to witness, their faces alight with joy and anticipation for a very important visitor.The sounds of two horses galloping grew louder as their riders waved to the gardeners watering and trimming the plant paths until they stopped at the doors of the grand villa.Nathaniel dismounted his white horse and grinned at his childhood home. Asides age, the house retained its charm. The once dull and dry vines were now vibrant green with purple flowers and small sprouts of mushrooms on it. It had become this way under the tender care of a cute lunari.He was home.A young maid knocked on Lucian’s study and ente
Last Updated : 2024-09-28Mine Beloved 005
Nathaniel stared at the doors of Lucian’s study and heaved. He knocked then entered.His father sat at his desk, eyes closed, coloured papers and books strewn around him, and a half-full bottle of whiskey rested by his side. A glass chessboard and books sat on a desk by a window with two chairs facing each other. The shelves contained more fictional literature than the boring textbooks, children’s books, poems, and literature his father enjoyed. Portraits of Nathaniel, Sarang, and Lucian hung on the emerald walls, and newly additions of non-alcoholic drinks.Every nook and cranny held an essence of Sarang. Nathaniel’s expression turned grim.“Father.” Nathaniel called from the door.Lucian opened his eyes.“Is now a bad time?” Nathan asked, his tone solemn.“It’s fine.” Lucian replied, readjusting in his chair. “Come, sit down.”Nathaniel couldn't help but notice the endless paperwork before his father. As the Grand Duke, Lucian’s responsibilities seemed unending, tethering him to his
Last Updated : 2024-10-11Mine Beloved 006
Ten days later, Lucian and Sarang set off for New Borough at dawn. The journey was long and exhausting, but Sarang admired the view away from their hometown. The first he had ever gone without Nathan tagging along.Sarang’s eyes softened. He wondered what Nathan was doing. Were the negotiations going smoothly? Was Nathan facing challenges he couldn’t?Sarang heaved and glanced at his notes. He blushed and snapped the book close, attaining Lucian’s attention.“What has you flustered?” Lucian asked and Sarang shook his head.“It’s nothing.” Sarang said.But it was something. Nathan was the only man on his mind, but his note was mostly full of the man sitting in front of him, it was muscle memory. Sarang finally understood Nathan’s anxiety.He was too friendly with Master.“We have arrived.” Lucian said and Sarang pushed the curtain aside.New Borough was a quaint, picturesque village nestled among lush greenery. The homes were a mix of old stone buildings with thatched roofs, and newer
Last Updated : 2024-11-04Mine Beloved 007
As night crept, the streets bustled with people and lanterns casting warm light over the cold evening. Sarang picked up a green half mask from the wagon and turned to Lucian.“What do you think, Master?” Sarang asked.Lucian shook his head. “It doesn’t compliment your crown.”“How about this?”“It’s unflattering.”“And this?”“You lack the charm of a fox.”Sarang frowned, folding his arms. “We will never obtain a mask if you are picky, Master. It is a festival–to celebrate and live carefree, not brood and critique.” He picked a red mask.“The colour is–”“This is for you,” Sarang interrupted. “You always wear dull colours. Red is considered a lucky and rich colour.”Sarang slipped the mask onto Lucian’s face. It was shaped like an owl, adorned with rhinestones and feathers, cool against Lucian’s skin. Lucian studied his reflection, hands clasped behind him, giving a nod of approval. “Thank you.” Lucian said.Sarang grinned in victory.Lucian chose a blue mask and gently fastened it o
Last Updated : 2024-11-16Mine Beloved 008
Sarang stepped back, clutching the gemstone in his hand and returned to Lucian’s side.“I helped them.” Sarang said.Lucian’s lips curved into a small smile. “I never doubted.”Sarang hugged him tightly.Moments later, the mayor approached, his demeanor formal but kind. “Thank you for celebrating with us, Grand Duke. It is our honour to host you.” He extended his hand, which Lucian shook him with a serious counter.“Your village has excellent hospitality.” Lucian stated. The mayor’s gaze shifted to Sarang, softening into a warm smile.“You’ve done a great service for our village; I don’t know how to repay you.” The mayor said.“You don’t have to. I enjoyed my time here, and…” Sarang held out the gemstone. “This belongs to the people of New Borough.”The mayor shook his head. “It is yours. It is a gift from the fairy queen herself. Nineteen years ago, the flower delayed blooming too.”“Really?” Sarang asked.“Yes. I had forgotten until today. My wife sang to the flower when morning cam
Last Updated : 2024-11-20
Latest chapter
Mine Beloved 023
Nathaniel arrived late to dinner. He sat in the seat across Sarang, who heeded his food, deliberately ignoring him. Nathaniel slowly picked up his spoon, casting a long, sombre gaze at Sarang before he stated eating.Sarang, unfazed, finished his portion in silence. He dabbed his mouth with a napkin, then turned to Lucian.“Thank you for the food, Master.” He said with a soft smile and stood up. He bowed politely then left the dining room.Nathaniel immediately rose to follow. “Excuse me.”“Stay.” Lucian interjected smoothly. “Let us talk, you just arrived.”“Surely, it can wait.”“It will not,” Lucian replied, spearing a piece of fish with his fork. He lifted it to his mouth, then added, “Not if you want Sarang to forgive you.”Nathaniel eyed his father suspiciously and sank back into his seat.“You should eat more.” Lucian suggested, setting his cutlery down.“I’m not hungry.” Nathaniel muttered.Silence stretched between them. It had been a long time since father and son sat togeth
Mine Beloved 022
A little past evening, Nathaniel returned home, his eyes drooping with exhaustion. The viscount’s hospitality had been impeccable, but his daughters were by far the most obnoxious women he had ever encountered. Their relentless fawning and desperate, simpering smiles only solidified his disinterest in them.He reached for the doorknob, twisting it open, and stepped inside. Sarang sat on his bed, arms folded, gaze sharp with anger. Nathan quietly shut the door behind him.Without a word, Sarang lifted the crumbled paper in his hand and read aloud. “It is without a doubt that this season’s finest bachelor is an enigma from the household of the Grand Duke of Eldoria, Prince Nathaniel Blackwell. A young alpha whose presence has ignited a grand stir in the ton and fervent passion in the hearts of hopeful youths. But why now, and more intriguingly, for whom? Whispers travel that this mysterious gentleman seeks one thing–a diamond. A princess, no less. Should yours truly believe his diamond
Mine Beloved 021
“Your name is Sarang, right?” A soft, gentle voice broke through the quiet.Sarang turned to find Lysandra standing behind him, her cheeks flushed and temper mellow.“Your–”“No need for that.” Lysandra interrupted, holding up a hand to stop him from bowing. “I’m a guest here. Please, be at ease.”Sarang hesitated, then straightened. “Is there anything you need, Your Highness? The young master isn’t home.”“I know. It is not Prince Nathaniel I’m looking for. It’s you.”“Me?” Sarang echoed, blinking in surprise.“Yes, you.” Lysandra stepped closer, her expression sincere. “I apologise for how I behaved when we first met. It was unladylike, and I hope you can forgive me so we can start anew.”“You do not have to apologise or seek my forgiveness.” Sarang replied politely. “You’ve never wronged me, Your Highness.”“I should. You are Prince Nathaniel’s childhood friend and closest companion. Uncle Lucian said you grew up together, so you’re practically family.”“I suppose so.” Sarang repli
Mine Beloved 020
They returned to the estate at dusk, their earlier frustrations now a distant memory. They chatted excitedly about the places they would explore in Linfield: The original churches of the two religions in Eldoria, the museums of art, and the famed Big Bell Tower.Nathaniel reached for the entrance door’s handle, only to have it open. A familiar figure emerged—a lunari woman dressed in soft pink and a chessboard in her delicate arm. Her green eyes lit up at the sight of Nathaniel, and she tucked a loose strand of silver hair behind her ear with a shy smile.“Nathaniel, welcome. I did not think I would see you before I leave.”“Your Highness.” Nathaniel said, bowing alongside Sarang.Her lips curved into a soft smile. “We’re beyond formalities now. Please, call me Lysandra. Just Lysandra.”“What brings you here?” Nathaniel asked, his voice cool and steady, and his hands clasped behind his back.Lysandra held up the chessboard. The same board he gifted her. “You mentioned you didn’t have
Mine Beloved 019
Nathaniel stomped down the stairs, muttering under his breath. Sarang watched cautiously before stepping closer, placing a gentle hand on Nathaniel’s shoulder.“Breathe,” Sarang murmured, his voice soft and soothing as his fingers traced slow, calming circles on Nathaniel’s back.Nathaniel exhaled sharply, then mirrored Sarang’s deep, measured breaths. He maintained eye contact as he released a louder breath, his tension easing slightly.“Better?” Sarang asked with a small smile.“I’m not fine,” Nathaniel snapped, though his tone had softened. “Father’s gone too far this time. Making such a decision without consulting me—I’m not a child.”“I know. I agree with you that Master is acting… unusual. But an aggressive confrontation won’t solve anything, it will only make him difficult. You know how stubborn he can be.”Nathaniel sank onto the stairs, intertwining his fingers in frustration. “Then what do you suggest I do? Coddle him with soft words and kindness?” His voice dripped with sar
Mine Beloved 018
Sarang stood by a small pond, tossing fish food to the colourful koi that swam eagerly to the surface. As the white cup in his hand emptied, he smiled in satisfaction. The fishpond was one of the most tranquil spots on the Linfield estate.The soft rustle of grass behind him caught his attention. He turned to find Nathan striding toward him, his expression taut with nerves, his fists clenching and unclenching in agitation.“We need to talk.” Nathan said, his voice sharp with urgency.Sarang set the empty cup on the pond’s edge. “Can we not talk here?” He asked, staring at Nathan. and Nathan surveyed their environment. There was no one around but he didn’t get a sense of seclusion in the open space.Nathan scanned the open space. While no one was in sight, it didn’t feel private enough. “No, we cannot. I need to speak to you in private. Come with me.” He said and grabbed his hand, leading him away.They disappeared into the shaded cover of the garden’s dense foliage. Without warning, N
Mine Beloved 017
Lucian rested in bed, the soft rustle of papers filling the room when the doors creaked open. Sarang peeked in, his lips forming a cute pout.“Master, can I come in? I made you food.” Sarang said, his voice tinged with concern.Lucian glanced up and nodded.Pushing the door open with his shoulder, Sarang waltzed into the room carrying a tray. He approached the bed and presented it to Lucian, who set the papers aside.“It’s ginseng chicken noddle soup.” Sarang explained, rubbing his shoulder nervously. “I heard you weren’t feeling well. Did the doctor come?”“Yes.”Sarang fidgeted with his fingers, his brows knitting in worry. “It’s not serious, right? Are you going to get better? I’ve never seen you bedridden–not even from a fever.”Lucian chuckled, placing a warm hand on Sarang’s hair with a reassuring smile. “You have nothing to worry about, I’ll be fine. The doctor said I overexerted myself and need some rest.”Sarang relaxed, his shoulders dropping as he offered a bright smile. He
Mine Beloved 016
Linfield, the capital of Eldoria, was an enormous city of pristine streets and elegantly dressed citizens who moved about without fear or caution. To visitors, the city appeared devoid of poverty, a model of wealth and order. But the truth was far grimmer. The poor were relegated to slums on the city's outskirts, hidden from the public eye unless they had business beyond their domesThe structure was discriminatory. While all were Eldorians, there was no sense of unity beyond their class. Sarang vividly remembered the first time he had witnessed a public beating of a pickpocketing child from the slums. If not for Sebastian’s intervention, the child would have lost a limb—or worse, his life. That incident had starkly reminded Sarang of his own fortune, because as twisted as it sounded, in some ways, slaves had it easier, provided their masters weren’t malicious.Nathaniel and Sarang wandered into Linfield’s bustling market, the heart of the city. They entered a quaint bookstore, browsi
Mine Beloved 015
Blackwell Mansion, Capital City Linfield–Eldoria.The vast estate of the Blackwell compound was eerily quiet. Servants on duty rose at dawn, swiftly cleaning the remnants of the celebration. Amid their brisk movements, Sebastian ascended the grand staircase, a tray of tea and sandwiches balanced expertly in his hands.At the master’s bedroom door, he knocked. “Master Lucian, I’ve brought you a snack.” Sebastian announced.“Enter.” Lucian’s voice came from inside.Sebastian stepped inside, setting the tray on the nightstand. Lucian emerged from the walk-in closet, buttoning his coffee vest over his white shirt.“You should rest, you haven’t had much sleep.” Sebastian urged, his tone laced with concern.“I cannot sleep.” Lucian admitted, his voice low. “The pills are becoming ineffective. Alcohol helps, but the children will worry.”“This could all be avoided if you heed the doctor’s advice, but you are far more stubborn than your parents combined. I’m glad the young master inherited la
