That Prince is a Girl the Vicious King's Captive Slave Mate - Chapter 143

Chapter 143:

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Emeriel stood at a loss for words. His life in danger? “But why would they wish to harm me?”

Grand Lord Vladya arched an eyebrow. Emeriel’s shoulders slumped, and he averted his eyes. “The truth is,” he began, “I don’t think I have anything to do with the grand king’s progress. How could I? I’m just a small, insignificant human. Perhaps this is all a misunderstanding…” His words trailed off, his voice thick with sincerity.

“But… if there’s even a sliver of a chance… if there’s something I can do to aid him, then I will.” Emeriel squared his shoulders, a flicker of determination igniting in his eyes. If there were truly something Emeriel could do, then he would take the chance. “I’ll do whatever it takes.”

Grand Lord Vladya scrutinized Emeriel. His gaze piercing, his expression unreadable.

“Perhaps I am mistaken regarding the danger to your life. Nevertheless, I am not taking any chances,” Lord Vladya said with conviction. “I will be absent for three days. During this time, the maids will prepare a room for you here in Blackstone. You will reside and work within these walls for the next three days. Under no circumstances should you venture beyond Blackstone. In my absence, I cannot ensure your safety outside my domain. Do you understand?”

A knot tightened in Emeriel’s stomach. “Yes, my Lord. Um… might I see Aekeira? Just for a little while?” All of this sounded extremely serious. Apart from the mistress, Emeriel couldn’t imagine any powerful person wanting him dead. The thought was terrifying.

“Your sister may visit.” Vladya dismissed him with a wave. “You may leave. Do not get yourself into trouble. Do not get yourself killed.”

EMERIEL

In the following two days, Emeriel was relocated to Blackstone, and Lord Vladya departed on his journey. He was assigned to work in the gardens—a prospect that filled him with unexpected relief. Emeriel had always envied the slaves who worked in the gardens, drawn to the earthy scents and the quiet rhythm of tending to the plants. It had been one of his indulgences back in Navia—a haven of peace amid a life of turmoil.

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Emeriel couldn’t be certain whether it was due to what had happened in court or if the slaves in Blackstone were simply different, but he noticed a change in the way he was treated. The slave masters no longer bellowed at him, and his fellow slaves no longer sought reasons to harm him. Even the Urekai maids displayed a newfound respect. They observed him with curiosity as he moved about and generally stayed out of his way.

Aekeira began visiting more frequently as well. Once she had finished her tasks, she would hasten to help Emeriel with his work. Of course, they had to be discreet about it, as the slave masters frowned upon slaves aiding one another.

However, yesterday, while Aekeira balanced a brimming clay jug, helping Emeriel soak the thirsty flowerbeds, the slave master in charge of their duties caught them. Emeriel tensed, the watering can slipping from his numb fingers, and they sprang upright, rigid as the dried stalks bordering the garden. Like cornered mice, they awaited their punishment. Surprisingly, the slave master ignored them, leaving Emeriel utterly bewildered and relieved.

Aekeira was overjoyed when Emeriel shared the news of her meeting with Grand Lord Vladya. Tears streamed down her face, hot and unchecked, as she expressed her happiness.

“So we shall remain together now, with you in the neighboring chamber?” she queried, a lingering sniffle betraying her tears. Her wild smile held a flicker of uncertainty beneath its joy.

Emeriel embraced her, nodding in affirmation.

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