That Prince Is A Girl: The Vicious King’s Slave Mate Novel

Chapter 251: Orin's breath caught. "A Syren?"

She turned to Emeriel, her gaze filled with newfound respect and a genuine smile. "I am so happy for you, Lord Herod. I have been worried that you would not be able to move on from Lady Vera. It warms my heart to see you making an effort."

Amusement danced in Lord Herod's eyes. "Indeed, I am making an effort, so worry not, dear Orin. Where would be a suitable place for this assessment? Must we return to my home?"

Orin practically bounced with excitement. "No, no, that's too far. My home is much closer, My Lord, as you well know." "That I do," he nodded.

"I shall fetch my bag at once. I'll be back in a moment," Orin said, her voice filled with anticipation as she hurried away.

AEKERIA

As Aekeira and Hansel ventured further into the woods, the crowds thinned, replaced by the rustling of leaves and the chirping of crickets.

Hansel opened up, sharing stories of his life in Urai-he was born here-his deceased mother and his father, who toiled in the minefields.

In turn, Aekeira spoke of her life with Emeriel before their arrival in this land.

The conversation flowed easily, and Aekeira found herself enjoying Hansel's company. He was kind, gentle, and genuinely interested in her words.

Suddenly, Hansel stopped short. "We have to go back," he said, his voice tinged with worry. "We're too deep into the woods."

Aekeira nodded in agreement, her gaze sweeping the dense underbrush and towering trees. The absence of other festivalgoers was a clear indication that they had strayed off the beaten path.

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"Urekai hunt in these parts," Hansel whispered, his eyes scanning the shadows. "It wouldn't be safe to encounter them in their beast forms."

They turned to retrace their steps, their lanterns bobbing in the darkness. The silence of the woods was shattered by the sound of coarse laughter.

"Well, well, well," a gruff voice sneered. "Look what we have here, boys. A pretty little bird."

Aekeira whirled around, alarmed, as a group of men emerged from the trees.

Humans. Slaves, like them, but older. Harder.

"Look, man, we don't want any trouble," Hansel said cautiously, squeezing her hand.

"Oh, but we do," the apparent leader stepped forward. He was a burly man with a menacing grin, eyes glinting with malice even through the darkness.

He gestured to a hulking figure behind him, who lunged at Hansel, shoving him violently to the ground.

Hansel sprawled on the ground, his face contorted in pain.

The leader's gaze raked over Aekeira, lingering on her curves with a hunger that made her skin crawl. "We'll take the girl. Haven't had a pretty one like her in ages."

Aekeira's heart hammered in her chest. Without a second thought, she turned and fled, her legs pumping as she dodged between trees and fallen logs.

"Someone's eager," the leader taunted, his laughter echoing through the woods. "Come on, boys, let's have some fun!"

The men gave chase, their heavy footsteps pounding behind her. Aekeira pushed herself harder.

But she was no match for their speed and stamina. Within moments, they were upon her, their hands grabbing at her clothes, their breath hot on her skin.

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