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00:01By the third year of being Lady Serena's nighttime surrogate, I was finally exhausted.
00:07On the bed, I begged the warlord Bastion for a title. He didn't care.
00:12You are Serena's doughty servant.
00:16Claiming you would be a slap to her face.
00:18I closed my eyes in despair.
00:23Bastion's deep affection for Serena was known to the entire Obsidian clan.
00:27The next day, I dropped to my knees before the matriarch.
00:31I offered to become her dying eldest son's mate.
00:34The matriarch was deeply moved.
00:37After the soulbinding, you will be a widow for the rest of your life.
00:41Good child, have you thought this through?
00:43I pressed my forehead against the stone floor.
00:46I will never regret it.
00:47In my peripheral vision, Bastion and Serena turned deathly pale.
00:51Bastion came to Serena's chamber again.
00:53They cuddled by the fire, whispering sweet nothings.
00:55Serena went to wash up with a blushing face.
00:58Before leaving, she extinguished all the candles as usual.
01:01An hour passed.
01:02I pushed the door open.
01:04The den was pitch black.
01:06Bastion raised his glowing eyes and chuckled.
01:09Why are you dawling?
01:10He pulled me into his arms, then suddenly frowned.
01:17Why are you so cold to the touch?
01:19I was just watching the snow outside.
01:21In reality, I had been standing outside in a thin dress.
01:25Just waiting to take Serena's place at any moment.
01:28A restless night.
01:29Before dawn, I slipped away quietly.
01:36Serena was waiting in the side room.
01:38I knelt through the ache in my waist.
01:40I repeated everything Bastion had said during the night.
01:43Serena's eyes fell on the bite marks on my neck.
01:46Her expression darkened.
01:47She lay down softly next to Bastion.
01:50Bastion suddenly opened his eyes and lifted a strand of her hair.
01:54Sneaking out to see another dragon behind my back.
01:56Serena pounded his chest shyly.
01:59I quietly backed out.
02:02Serena was beautiful, but born with a defective dragonfly.
02:06Because of this, no mail had ever proposed.
02:08At a clan banquet, Bastion fell in love at first sight.
02:13He demanded her as his chosen mate.
02:15They were a match made in heaven.
02:17As her servant, I was genuinely happy for her.
02:20But on their mating night, Serena fainted in the bed.
02:23Bastion was a fire dragon, a fierce warrior.
02:26He was too dominant in bed, and Serena couldn't handle his primal rut.
02:30For three consecutive nights, they failed to complete the mating bond.
02:33Instantly, Serena became the laughing stock of the entire clan.
02:37Everyone said she couldn't satisfy her warlord's urges.
02:41They said she would soon be trampled by other females.
02:44After all, Bastion was in his prime.
02:46Even if he loved her, how could a fire dragon suppress his nature forever?
02:50In desperation, she came up with a deceptive plan.
02:53Every night, the candles were blown out, and a servant took her place.
02:56In the dark, Bastion couldn't see the face of the female beneath him.
02:59Among her servants, only my figure and voice matched hers perfectly.
03:04To fool Bastion's sharp senses, she made me bathe in a little potion that mimicked her exact scent.
03:09Serena promised me it would only be for three years.
03:12She would use this time to heal her core.
03:14After three years, she would give me gold and set me free.
03:18I was a slave born into her family.
03:20My entire family's lives were in her hands.
03:23I had no choice.
03:26An hour later, Serena and Bastion finally got out of bed.
03:30I rested in my room for a moment, before bringing in their morning meal.
03:35Bastion stared at me.
03:37Why are you dressed like that?
03:38I didn't know what to say.
03:40Bastion was a savage biter.
03:42He always left suspicious marks.
03:43I had to wear a high-collared tunic to hide them.
03:46Serena gently pushed him.
03:49My warrior, you forgot.
03:52Vela is a mute.
03:53She can't speak.
03:54I nodded quickly.
03:56When serving Serena, I inevitably bumped into Bastion.
03:59Afraid of exposure, Serena forbade me from speaking.
04:02Bastion raised an eyebrow, seemingly interested.
04:05This little mute in your den is quite pretty.
04:07It's a pity.
04:08Serena scolded him playfully.
04:10What does my lord mean?
04:12Have you taken a fancy to her?
04:14She looked at me coldly, a hidden murderous intent in her eyes.
04:17I haven't blamed you, yet you blame me.
04:20He exposed his arm, smirking.
04:22Look at this.
04:23Isn't this your masterpiece from last night?
04:25Seeing that ring of teeth marks, my body stiffened.
04:28Bastion had been too aggressive last night.
04:30I had cried until my voice was hoarse.
04:32In a fit of panic and anger, I bit his arm.
04:35He was a warlord who fought through mountains of corpses.
04:38He had countless scars and wouldn't care about a small bite.
04:41Bringing it up now was just flirting with Serena.
04:43I knelt on the ground, my hands and feet freezing.
04:46I don't know how long passed.
04:49Boiling tea was splashed onto my body.
04:51The next second, a brutal slap landed on my cheek.
04:56You cheap bitch.
04:57How dare you bite the warlord?
05:00Are you challenging my authority?
05:02Serena had my hands and feet bound.
05:04I was dragged to the dungeon, denied water and food.
05:09Bastion went to patrol the borders and wouldn't return for days.
05:12The entire time he was away, I was kept locked up.
05:16When I was on the brink of death, my younger sister, Hazel, bribed the guards.
05:22She sneaked a bowl of broth in.
05:24She was brought to the clan with me.
05:26She knew nothing about the surrogate mating.
05:29Thayla, how did you anger Lady Serena?
05:31Hazel lay on the ground, looking at me anxiously through the door crack.
05:36I shook my head and just asked.
05:40When the warrior would return.
05:42I heard he returns tonight and is heading straight to her chamber.
05:46I let out a sigh of relief.
05:49What's been going on out there?
05:52Hazel said.
05:54Lord Theron is failing.
05:56The shaman says he is beyond saving and to prepare for his death.
06:00Above Bastion, there was actually a legitimate older brother.
06:03He was born with a shattered dragon core.
06:06He had lived until today only by burning his life force.
06:09That was why Bastion inherited the warlord title.
06:12Lord Theron has never taken a mate.
06:15The matriarch doesn't want him to enter the afterlife alone.
06:18She wants to find him a soul bonded mate.
06:21Hazel sighed softly.
06:23Once bound in the soul bonded mate ritual,
06:26the female follows the male into the grave conceptually.
06:30Theron was going to die in a few days.
06:32Whoever bound her soul to him would live as a widow forever.
06:36Let alone noble females.
06:39Even the lowest slaves refused.
06:41At dinner time, I was released.
06:44Serena ordered someone to prepare food for me.
06:47Get some rest and serve the warrior'd well tonight.
06:50She smiled faintly with a gentle apology.
06:52Viola, punishing you was an impulse.
06:54I meant to lock you up for half a day.
06:56Who knew I'd get so busy and forget you?
06:58Don't hold a grudge.
07:00I wouldn't dare.
07:02Serena nodded slightly.
07:03A few seconds of silence passed.
07:05I couldn't wait any longer.
07:07My lady, I'm thinking of leaving the clan.
07:09Serena's face suddenly changed.
07:11You want to leave?
07:12I carefully said.
07:13Yes.
07:14Her pale fingers traced her teacup.
07:16My core hasn't fully healed yet.
07:18The warlord still needs you.
07:20She had promised me only three years.
07:22If you insist on leaving, I can only let Hazel take your place.
07:26You are sisters.
07:27Your figures and voices are very similar.
07:29I felt like I had plunged into an icy abyss.
07:32I heard my own teeth chattering.
07:34Then could you let the warrior officially claim me?
07:37Dreaming of becoming a master.
07:39If I wanted to choose a consort for the warlord, I have a hundred females waiting in line.
07:43It would absolutely never be you.
07:45Don't even dream of climbing into his heart.
07:47You are just a toy to him.
07:49Even if you became his bed slave, I could crush you with one finger.
07:52I could barely breathe.
07:54But a servant must be mated eventually.
07:57Serena said carelessly.
07:59The guard's son is your age.
08:00When you turn sixteen next year, I will reward you to him.
08:03When Bastion returned, I was kneeling on the ground in a daze.
08:07Serena stood up with a smile.
08:09My warlord has returned.
08:11He must be tired.
08:12This clumsy slave broke a crystal cup.
08:14I am punishing her to kneel.
08:16How is Theron's matter going?
08:17Serena sighed.
08:19I've asked all the females in the clan.
08:21My lord, to be honest, this soul-binded mate ritual is terrifying.
08:24No young female is willing.
08:26Bastion frowned.
08:27What's there to be unwilling about?
08:29Just find a random female and threaten her family.
08:32Such a cruel act might not be hidden from the matriarch.
08:35Offer enough gold and someone will volunteer.
08:37Use enough force and the mating will be done.
08:39My mother dislikes you.
08:41If you handle this beautifully, she will change her view of you.
08:44Yes.
08:45Every time he returned from patrol, Bastion would demand me all night.
08:49That night, I used all my strength to cater to him.
08:51I pushed Bastion to the edge several times.
08:54Why so passionate?
08:55Did you miss me too?
08:56I didn't speak.
08:57I just pushed myself up and left a shaking kiss on his cheek.
09:01On the bed, I rarely took the initiative.
09:03Bastion sighed softly.
09:05Good girl.
09:06Right before dawn.
09:07I woke up and pushed him away with exhausted hands.
09:10But he caught my wrist and pulled me back into his arms.
09:13Still trying to leave?
09:14I froze in place.
09:15Bastion nuzzled my face affectionately.
09:17A fire dragon is extremely sensitive to scents.
09:19I knew about the scent potion trick you and Serena played all along.
09:22He grew wilder every time.
09:24He already knew the female beneath him wasn't his mate.
09:27Then when do you plan to give me a title?
09:30A title?
09:32You are her servant.
09:33Only she can give you one.
09:35If I demanded you myself, it would damage my bond with my mate.
09:38What is your name?
09:40I'll have someone send you some jewels.
09:41Once Serena's core is healed, I'll make you my official bed slave.
09:44I closed my eyes in mockery.
09:46Why give a title to a female you can sleep with for free?
09:49Serena was right.
09:50The affection built in bed was pathetically little.
09:55Seeing my lack of response, Bastion laughed.
09:58What, too happy to speak?
10:00Thank you for your favor, my warrior, but I'm afraid I don't have that blessing.
10:04Bastion froze for a moment, his tone turning cold.
10:07You've merely been slept with by me for a few years.
10:10Don't aim too high.
10:11A bed slave isn't enough.
10:13Do you expect me to make you a consort?
10:15You must consider your master's face.
10:17He never liked greedy females, his tone carrying a hidden, rumbling growl.
10:22The Obsidian clan had several highborn consorts gifted by other lords.
10:26A low-tier servant like me wasn't qualified to be his consort.
10:30Moreover, since Serena mated with him, he never visited other females.
10:35Outsiders praised the warlord for his devotion to his mate, and Bastion was very proud of it.
10:40Serena's father was a powerful leader in the Dragon Council.
10:43He had helped Bastion more than he knew, in ways both seen and unseen.
10:48If he really took Serena's servant as a consort, it would ruin his reputation.
10:52The more I thought about it, the colder and clearer my mind became.
10:56His words today were just a bit of pity after his rut was satisfied.
11:00Once he calmed down, he would regret it.
11:02He was going to be a loving mate to Serena for the rest of his life.
11:06I don't dare to ask for a title.
11:07I don't belong in your bed.
11:09I only wish the warlord and Lady Serena a lifetime of love.
11:13Growing old together.
11:15Hazel heard that Serena was going to give me to the guard's son.
11:18She cried.
11:19We served her for so long.
11:21How could she be so cruel?
11:23The guard's son was a brute, born with the mind of a child, but an extremely violent nature.
11:28Only by mating with such a male could I continue to be Bastion's secret toy.
11:32I went to beg the matriarch.
11:35I am willing to be Lord Theron's soul-bonded mate.
11:39The matriarch was surprised and overjoyed.
11:42What is your name?
11:44The elder shaman drew in my scent and nodded repeatedly.
11:47Her scent is rare.
11:49It has a calming effect.
11:50It's exactly what Theron's damaged core needs.
11:54A soul-bond could ease his pain in his final days.
11:57Bastion and Serena soon rushed over upon hearing the news.
12:00When they stepped through the door, I was rubbing the matriarch's aching legs.
12:04I heard Bastion's laughing voice.
12:06Is this the female willing to bind herself to Theron?
12:10I wonder whose servant she is.
12:12Truly kind-hearted.
12:13Mother must reward her handsomely.
12:15As they spoke, I turned around and bowed to them.
12:18To the wardiard and my lady, it is me.
12:21Seeing my face, Bastion was shocked.
12:23Aren't you a mute?
12:24I shook my head.
12:25I can speak.
12:28But Lady Serena forbade me from making a sound.
12:30In just a few words, Serena's face turned deathly pale.
12:33The matriarch held my hand, her wrinkled face full of relief.
12:38I never knew you had such a loyal girl serving you.
12:41But once the soul-bind is complete, you can never take another mate.
12:45Are you certain?
12:46I pressed my forehead to the ground.
12:48I'll never regret it.
12:50He looked at me in utter disbelief.
12:52The matriarch patted my hand.
12:54Child, is there anything you want?
12:56Whether it's gold or treasures, whatever I can grant, I will give you.
13:00I turned to look at Serena, my gaze turning somewhat chilling.
13:04After a long moment, I lowered my eyes and spoke quietly.
13:08I have a younger sister named Hazel.
13:10I beg you to let her serve by your side.
13:12That is simple.
13:14As long as she is a servant in this clan, I make the rules.
13:18With your devotion, I will protect her for a lifetime.
13:23Serena forced a laugh.
13:25Mother, Hazel has sworn herself to me.
13:27I don't mean to be selfish, but she's my personal attendant.
13:30I...
13:31She's just a servant.
13:33If Mother wants her, let her go.
13:35What's there to argue about?
13:37The matriarch's face also darkened as she stared silently at Serena.
13:41Serena bit her lip and ordered someone to bring our service contracts.
13:44Hazel became the matriarch's personal attendant.
13:47Grateful, I promised to devote myself to Theron.
13:50At the mention of her ailing eldest son, the matriarch couldn't help but choke back a sob.
13:55While the matriarch was pregnant with Theron, a clan rebellion erupted in their territory.
13:59The old warlord led his warriors into battle and nearly died.
14:02The matriarch spent months fearing for his life.
14:05Theron was born without a heartbeat.
14:06Fortunately, his father returned victorious that very night.
14:10He brought the elder shaman back from the deep forest.
14:12Using ancient magic, the shaman brought Theron back to life, but cheating death came at a price.
14:18Theron's dragon core was shattered.
14:20The shaman warned he wouldn't live past 30, and his prediction proved true.
14:24Theron was sickly throughout childhood and couldn't train as a warrior, but his mind was unmatched.
14:29He became the youngest strategist ever appointed to the Dragon Council.
14:32Many of the clan's laws were written by him, but as Theron grew older, his health steadily declined.
14:37Eventually, he could barely leave his room.
14:40He spent his days in a cabin beside Jade Lake.
14:42Since I agreed to be his soul-bonded mate, I had to stay by his side.
14:46I heard he disliked being served by others.
14:49Only the elder shaman accompanied him.
14:51When the shaman led me into the inner room, Theron was still sound asleep.
14:55I stepped closer, my breath catching as I finally laid eyes on him.
15:00He was two years older than Bastion.
15:02The two brothers didn't look alike at all.
15:04Bastion trained in combat year-round, his skin dark, his body hard and rugged.
15:09But Theron had elegant, ethereal features.
15:12His skin was pale, and his face was devastatingly beautiful.
15:15When the sun set, Theron finally woke up.
15:17It was time for his potion.
15:19I knelt before him, raising the wooden bowl above my head.
15:22Are you the female who will bind your soul to mine after I die?
15:26Yes.
15:26He glanced at me.
15:28Get up.
15:29I obediently stood by his side.
15:31Please drink your potion, my lord.
15:33He calmly picked up the bowl, with a gentle twist of his pale wrist.
15:39I don't want to drink it.
15:40What can you do to me?
15:42I stared at him in silence.
15:43Before I could speak, a chilling presence filled the room.
15:46His slit pupils locked onto mine.
15:48My knees weakened under the force of his dragon aura.
15:51Theron is a male of extreme passion and true nature.
15:54What does that mean?
15:55The shaman stroked his beard and told me an old story.
15:58Theron was a gifted strategist, and the clan's chosen heir.
16:02But the night before he took power, everything changed.
16:06He was patrolling the Abyssal Gorge with Bastion.
16:08Theron formed his cursed waters.
16:10The curse ravaged his already damaged dragon corps, and he remained unconscious for days.
16:15In a fit of rage, the matriarch banished all the guards and servants around Theron.
16:19Since then, Lord Theron has refused to let anyone serve him.
16:23I understood the shaman's underlying meaning.
16:25Theron never treated servants like animals.
16:27He'd been well-educated from a young age.
16:30He was fair and level-headed.
16:31Nothing like Bastion.
16:34The shaman's willingness to stay by his side all these years proved his true nature.
16:39Yet, knowing I was to be his mate, knowing I'd become his mate, a faint, absurd thought sprouted in my
16:45mind.
16:46Seeing me staring at him continuously, Theron's smile vanished for a second.
16:50What are you looking at?
16:51I silently brought back a freshly brewed bowl of potion.
16:55I spoke rigidly.
16:57My lord, I indeed cannot do anything to you.
16:59But since I will bind my soul to yours sooner or later, why not-
17:02I lowered my head, stirring the potion.
17:05Why not exercise my rights as your mate right now?
17:07Theron looked at me in shock.
17:09He seemed to disbelieve I could say something so bold.
17:12Either you drink the potion now or-
17:14He seemed to laugh out of anger.
17:17Or what?
17:18I pursed my lips tightly.
17:19The shaman told me Theron had refused to drink his potion for half a year.
17:24That was why he was on the verge of death.
17:26If this continued, he truly wouldn't live much longer.
17:29I hesitated for a few seconds.
17:31With quick hands, I grabbed Theron's chin.
17:33I lowered my head and gently kissed his cheek.
17:36His body was so cold.
17:38The moment our breaths tangled.
17:40I shivered.
17:41Theron leaned back slightly.
17:43His prominent throat looked as if it would pierce his snow-white neck.
17:46After a few short breaths, I looked up.
17:49His face was bizarrely flushed and his long eyelashes fluttered with anger.
17:53I suddenly felt a twinge of guilt.
17:55But I had promised the matriarch to take good care of him.
17:58I suppressed my racing heartbeat and feigned calmness.
18:01If you don't drink the potion, I will force myself on you again.
18:05Theron glared at me with fierce intensity.
18:07After a long moment, he snatched the bowl from my hands.
18:10He drank it all in one gulp.
18:12The shaman was thrilled to see Theron finally taking his medicine.
18:17I leaned over to wipe the potion stains from the corner of his mouth.
18:21The distance suddenly closed.
18:23In my peripheral vision, his pale, slender hand gripped the fur blanket tightly.
18:29My lord, your body is clearly improving these past few days.
18:34You don't feel as cold to the touch.
18:36It's all thanks to the potion, Theron said coldly.
18:39Potions are the most useless things.
18:42I patiently continued to coax him.
18:45The elder shaman worked very hard to brew this.
18:47If you refuse to drink it every time, he will be heartbroken.
18:51Saying this, I stretched out my ten fingers.
18:54Look, my lord.
18:56The potion has to be watched constantly while it brews.
19:00Dear Maliapet, the magic fades.
19:02I've only made it for a few days and look at my hands.
19:06The shaman has done this for you for years.
19:08Theron's eyes dropped to my hands.
19:10His lips tightened.
19:11Then he grabbed the potion and drained it.
19:13After that, I never had to nag him about his medicine again.
19:17Two weeks later, the elder shaman updated the matriarch on Theron's condition.
19:21He had improved considerably.
19:24At least he was no longer at death's door.
19:27The matriarch asked cautiously.
19:31Why is he suddenly doing so much better?
19:35Is this just a last burst before the end?
19:40The shaman smiled and pointed at me.
19:43Don't worry, matriarch.
19:44Lord Theron is truly recovering.
19:46And it's thanks to her.
19:49I told you, her scent works perfectly with his damaged core.
19:54Every eye in the hall turned to me.
19:58The matriarch's expression softened.
20:01She invited me to sit beside her.
20:06Then she turned to Theron.
20:08How has Viola been treating you?
20:10Theron paused.
20:12She takes very good care of me.
20:14The matriarch nodded in satisfaction.
20:17Her expression toward me growing even more affectionate.
20:20Serena covered her mouth and chuckled.
20:23Lord Theron might not know this.
20:25When Valor was in my chamber, her skills in serving the warrior were also quite excellent.
20:32The air went dead silent for a moment.
20:35I tried my best to stay calm, but my hands couldn't stop trembling.
20:38Theron looked at her coldly.
20:40He spoke with a light but dangerous tone.
20:43Is this how you speak to your future sister-in-law?
20:46The matriarch's originally glowing face visibly darkened.
20:50She said slowly.
20:51Serena, you may be young, but you cannot be this unruled.
20:54Mother and Theron are here.
20:55It is not your place to speak.
20:57Serena crumpled the corner of her fine silk sleeve.
21:00A few days later, Hazel couldn't wait to find me.
21:03From her mouth, I learned the truth.
21:04Serena had found another substitute.
21:07But this time, Serena didn't pick from the clan's servants.
21:10She bought a well-trained female Dargan from outside.
21:14Her voice and figure were identical to Serena's.
21:17I was confused.
21:20I didn't know something that secret.
21:22That night, the Warlord suddenly caused a huge scene.
21:25He flew into a rage.
21:26He beat the woman half to death and dragged her before Lady Serena.
21:30She was so terrified she fainted.
21:35And then?
21:36The Warlord said if Serena wouldn't share his bed herself,
21:39then he'd never enter her chambers again.
21:41They've been sleeping separately ever since.
21:47Separate chambers sent a clear message to the entire clan.
21:51Their relationship was over.
21:53Serena had lost Bastion's favor.
21:55Her mother-in-law disliked her, and she had no hatchlings.
22:00No wonder she looked so worn down.
22:02But Bastion had let me take Serena's place for years.
22:05Clearly, he'd never cared that she used someone else.
22:08So why did he suddenly care who that person was?
22:11I didn't know, and I didn't want to know.
22:13Jade Lake Keep was surrounded by water, with silver fish darting beneath the surface.
22:18Theron was feeding them with a matriarch, keeping her entertained.
22:22The night breeze made his thin frame look even more fragile.
22:25I went back for his cloak.
22:28As I walked down the winding corridor, someone slammed me against a pillar.
22:32A hand clamped over my mouth.
22:34I looked up in shock.
22:35Bastion's face loomed out of the darkness.
22:37His narrowed eyes burned with savage fury.
22:40He hissed each word at me.
22:42Was it you?
22:43My heart dropped into an abyss.
22:45I struggled.
22:46He pinched my chin hard.
22:48Speak!
22:49Still trying to play dumb in front of me?
22:51Did you think not speaking would hide you?
22:53He whispered deeply.
22:56I don't need a voice to know if it's you.
23:01One night with you would tell me.
23:02Was he insane?
23:03Since I was going to bind my soul to Theron, I belonged to Theron.
23:08How dare he?
23:09The female I slept with for three years has actually become Theron's mate.
23:13How dare you make fools of us?
23:15Especially me.
23:16Is being my bedsleed worse than being a widow for a dead man?
23:19Are you truly willing to mate with a corpse?
23:21I finally couldn't bear it and pushed him away hard.
23:26I just wanted to survive!
23:29If I didn't do this, Serena would have given me to that brute.
23:32By then, I'd already be another man's mate.
23:35Even if Bastion wanted to give me a title, he couldn't.
23:38I'd remain his secret substitute forever.
23:40I'd be kept in his bed, taking Serena's place whenever he wanted me.
23:44That way, I'd never threaten her position.
23:46That was Serena's plan.
23:48Bastion clearly knew nothing about it.
23:51While he was stunned,
23:54I stomped on his foot and ran.
23:57I stumbled back into the light.
24:00Then I sat Theron.
24:03He stood at the end of the corridor, frowning at me.
24:08Why did you take so long?
24:11My racing heart suddenly calmed down.
24:16It's late.
24:17Lord Theron was afraid you'd run into trouble and insisted on finding you.
24:23I was afraid she'd fall into the lake and disturb the fish.
24:27I had a wheeled chair built for Theron.
24:29Pushing him around was better than him lying weakly in bed all day.
24:36In the afternoons, Theron liked to sit there in the sunlight.
24:40He'd sip warm spiced wine from a goblet and read.
24:43I would lean against the marble railing.
24:45Half asleep, I heard Theron's voice.
24:52Why did you want to be my soul-binded mate?
25:01I didn't want to be given to a brute.
25:05I guess that was the reason.
25:07Seeing that Theron's condition was stable.
25:11So the shaman decided to leave and gather some rare herbs.
25:14Before leaving, he gave me a thin wooden box.
25:18Inside was a thumb-sized whisperstone.
25:20He told me to carry it at all times.
25:23It was an ancient magic.
25:25As long as I crushed the stone, it would send a distress signal across a thousand miles.
25:29Before leaving, the shaman teased.
25:32Should I start calling you my lady now?
25:35Master shaman, please don't joke like that.
25:39A soul-bond ritual was nothing like a true mating ceremony.
25:42Even if Theron died, a servant could never become his true mate.
25:46I'd likely spend the rest of my life at the clan shrine.
25:49I'd remain his widow, praying for his soul.
25:52That was the unspoken agreement between the matriarch and me.
25:55After the shaman left, I had more duties around Theron.
25:58I helped him dress and bathe.
26:00The first time I bathed him, he resisted immediately.
26:12I couldn't help staring.
26:13Had no woman ever helped him bathe before?
26:16Have you no shame?
26:17If I'd never been with a man, maybe I'd be embarrassed too.
26:21But I had.
26:22What was that word again?
26:25Tainted.
26:26Old books used that word for women like me.
26:30One afternoon, someone quietly draped a cloak over my shoulders.
26:35What strange things are you reading?
26:38Theron treasured his books, but let me read anything I wanted.
26:42One day, proudly recited a poem I'd memorized.
26:45Oh, our Vyra is so amazing.
26:47You sound like you're coaxing a dragonling.
26:48How old are you this year?
26:50Eighteen.
26:50I'm almost ten years older than you.
26:52To me, you are a dragonling.
26:53Somehow, I'd already been by Theron's side for nearly two years.
26:58For two years, Theron remained weak but stable.
27:01The shaman created new potions to keep his condition from worsening.
27:04He also performed ancient rituals in Theron's chamber every day.
27:07He prayed the gods would grant Theron more time.
27:09Before lighting the candles, the shaman told Theron to make a wish.
27:12You make a wish for me.
27:13In a flash, many thoughts crossed my mind.
27:15I wish for you to be happy.
27:18What kind of happiness?
27:22You'll get better.
27:23Take a noblewoman as your mate, have plenty of dragonlings.
27:26Then you'll lead the clan.
27:27Something like that.
27:29Is that really what you want?
27:30Was it? It didn't matter.
27:32What mattered was that the shaman's prayers seemed to have worked.
27:35Theron suddenly wanted to go outside.
27:39Where do you want to go?
27:41Today's special.
27:41There's a firelight festival in the lower town.
27:43Festivals weren't unusual.
27:45But I hadn't attended one since joining the obsidian clan with Serena.
27:48I desperately wanted to go.
27:50That day, a young dragon council princess happened to be visiting here.
27:53She immediately noticed Theron.
27:55I admit defeat.
27:56Let me buy you a drink.
27:58Want to come?
28:00I'll wait outside, your highness.
28:03I hadn't acted like a servant around Theron in a long time.
28:07But with outsiders around, I had to remember my place.
28:10The princess eagerly stepped past me and took hold of Theron's chair.
28:14She didn't seem bothered by his failing health at all.
28:17A strange emptiness settled in my chest.
28:19I'd never had him.
28:20So why did it hurt like I was losing him?
28:22I stood alone in the cold wind for a long time.
28:25Then I suddenly remembered.
28:26Today was my birthday.
28:28The princess was the council leader's only daughter.
28:30When her parents came to discuss a mating alliance, the matriarch was stunned.
28:34That was when I learned the truth.
28:36The princess had loved Theron for over a decade.
28:38Back then, Theron had still been young, healthy, and full of life.
28:41Even after he fell gravely ill, she refused to take another mate.
28:45Their possible union soon became the talk of the entire obsidian clan.
28:48Even the news of Serena's pregnancy was overshadowed.
28:51Naturally, the matriarch wanted the match to happen.
28:53But Theron already had a soul-bonded mate.
28:55Before he could take a true mate, our soul bond had to be broken.
28:58I'd already asked the shaman to compare their scents.
29:00They were perfectly compatible.
29:02I knew exactly what I had to do.
29:05I'm willing to break our bond so Lord Theron can take her as his mate.
29:10The matriarch seemed relieved that I didn't object.
29:12What do you want in return?
29:18Please remove my servant, Mark.
29:21Child, you could ask for far more than that.
29:23Hazel wanted to leave with me, but I refused.
29:25Life outside the clan wouldn't be easy.
29:28Once she left, she'd have no one to rely on.
29:30I told her to stay with the matriarch and keep out of trouble.
29:33That way, she'd always have a safe and comfortable life.
29:35When it was finally time to leave, many came to see me off.
29:38To my surprise, Bastion was there too.
29:41If you want, I'll make you my consort right now.
29:44Serve me as well as you used to and I'll have no one else.
29:49Don't give me that look.
29:51What? My bed isn't good enough for you anymore?
29:54Still hoping Theron will ask you to stay?
29:57You probably haven't heard.
29:58Once you're gone, the princess will move into Jade Lake Keep.
30:01How touching. She's waited for him all these years.
30:03So what did all your devotion get you?
30:05You nursed Theron back to health only for another woman to have him.
30:07Once he's better, he won't need you anymore.
30:09In a few years, he might not even remember you.
30:11He couldn't even be bothered to see you off.
30:13That tells you exactly how little you meant to him.
30:18Theron and I hadn't spoken properly in days.
30:20It started on our way back from the Firelight Festival.
30:23Did you have fun?
30:26I did.
30:27Because you got to see the festival?
30:31No.
30:32You and that noble woman looked perfect together.
30:34My wish is already coming true.
30:36I'm happy for you.
30:38Seeing me with another woman makes you happy?
30:41She's beautiful, noble and clearly interested in you.
30:43She might even become the clan's lady someday.
30:46Of course I'm happy.
30:47Vela, I never knew you could be so heartless.
30:50I had no family and nowhere to return to.
30:51At first, I planned to open a small shop in the Royal Citadel.
30:54Then I thought of Bastion and Serena.
30:56A chill ran through me.
30:57That very night, I boarded a boat heading south.
30:59With nothing else to do, I counted my savings.
31:01There was far more gold than I remembered.
31:03There were rare gems too.
31:04And beneath them was the deed to a house in the south.
31:07Where had all this come from?
31:08Only the elder shaman had touched my luggage before I left.
31:11But how could he possibly have this much money?
31:13Suddenly, the boat lurched violently.
31:15I nearly went overboard.
31:16I barely regained my balance before several figures blocked my path.
31:24Hazel was right.
31:27I served her once.
31:29Why must you relentlessly persecute me?
31:38I only borrowed you for a while and you dared find another way out?
31:42You ungrateful wretch.
31:44Have you forgotten your promise to serve me faithfully?
31:47Serve her faithfully?
31:48I had never been that devoted.
31:50I only believed in doing what was expected of me.
31:52I did my part well in exchange for a decent life.
31:55I was her slave, but I was still a living, breathing soul.
31:58I only hoped she would vent her anger quickly and let me go.
32:01Clearly I overestimated her conscience.
32:03On the first day, I was just beaten.
32:06On the second day, Serena drove bone needles into my fingertips.
32:09On the third day, she locked me in her father's flooded dungeon.
32:12Inside I found the corpses of my parents.
32:14At that moment, I truly just wanted to die.
32:17In the foul-smelling water, I tried to drown myself.
32:23Viola, you can't die! Wake up!
32:29Do you know me?
32:30Viola, you forgot.
32:31I owe you a great debt.
32:33Years ago, Lady Serena's gold bracelet went missing.
32:35The steward couldn't find the thief, so he framed me.
32:37You proved I was innocent and found the real thief.
32:39That's why I wasn't executed.
32:40You are so kind-hearted.
32:42Why is the lady torturing you like this?
32:45Because I am not a loyal servant.
32:47How are things at the Obsidian clan?
32:49I heard Lord Theron is about to mate with the princess.
32:53It should have been good news.
32:55But the Lord got worse.
32:56I heard he's at death's board.
32:58Mating could kill him.
32:59The matriarch panicked and called off the wedding.
33:01She claimed the princess's scent was incompatible with his.
33:03The council leader wouldn't risk his daughter becoming a widow,
33:05so the marriage was called off.
33:06How could that be?
33:07Did the princess agree to counsel it?
33:09The princess grew up sheltered in the royal citadel.
33:11She'd never seen real bloodshed.
33:13I heard the Lord looked half dead during his last attack.
33:15She fainted at the sight and fled the clan that very night.
33:18Viola, forget about them.
33:19Think about yourself.
33:20Just do a good deed and don't let you die in front of me, okay?
33:22I composed myself and begged the boy to recover my parents' bodies first.
33:26So what are you going to do?
33:30I need you to help me find something.
33:32The shaman's wooden box.
33:33The one holding the whisper stone.
33:34It was meant for Theron in emergencies.
33:36I hadn't realized he'd slipped it in with the treasures.
33:38I thought he'd left me a keepsake.
33:40Now I understood why.
33:41But the box had been hidden in my clothes.
33:43And I had no idea where they'd been thrown.
33:45Finding one tiny box in this huge estate wouldn't be easy.
33:47I don't think I'm going to make it.
33:49If you can't save me, don't blame yourself.
33:52You buried my parents.
33:53I'll find a way to repay you.
33:57On the evening of the fifth day, Serena came to the flooded cells again.
34:02You're still alive?
34:06Guess fate wants you to suffer a little longer.
34:08I listened quietly, barely breathing.
34:11My entire body felt raw and rotting.
34:14I couldn't even lift my head.
34:19Want me to spare you?
34:21Dream on.
34:22I almost laughed.
34:23She thought I was begging for mercy.
34:26I was actually wishing her the worst death imaginable.
34:28If loyalty only got me tortured to death, then I'd rather die a vicious traitor.
34:33At least I deserve my fate.
34:36Through the haze, someone shoved my head underwater.
34:39I almost felt relieved.
34:40Finally, she was going to end it.
34:42My lungs began to burn.
34:45Just as everything went dark, she suddenly pulled me back up.
34:48I opened my eyes in terror.
34:50Did she think of another way to torture me?
34:52Noisy sounds continuously entered my ears.
34:55Someone entered the water and carried me out.
34:58The world suddenly brightened.
34:59I really couldn't open my eyes.
35:01I only felt myself falling into a freezing embrace.
35:04I'm sorry I was wrong, I'm sorry.
35:07I'm sorry I was wrong, I'm sorry.
35:19Theron, I missed you so much.
35:25I missed you very, very much too.
35:28I missed you so much I was going to die.
35:32Theron took me back to the Jade Lake Keep.
35:35The shaman prepared a healing pool for my wounds.
35:38Theron personally washed and tended to me.
35:42With every new wound he found, his eyes grew redder.
35:45Half conscious, I felt him gently holding me above the warm water.
35:51My last memory was sinking into a soft bed.
35:54I curled into the blankets and finally let myself sleep.
35:58I slept for a very, very long time.
36:02When I woke up again, the shaman was applying medicine to my fingers.
36:07Where is Theron?
36:11He stayed by your side for days.
36:13I couldn't take it anymore.
36:15So I drugged his water and knocked him out.
36:22Did he have another attack?
36:26After you left, he ruined himself even more than before.
36:31The person he loves isn't me, what can I do?
36:36Why are you crying?
36:37Isn't he still alive?
36:39Don't worry.
36:40Before he turns 30, he won't die.
36:43Before 30, he won't die?
36:45What did that mean?
36:49Then what about after 30?
36:51Will he not live past 30?
36:56He will die sooner or later, don't you know that yet?
37:00If he didn't die young, how could you two have this destiny?
37:04I sat blankly in place.
37:07I just felt like something inside my body was tearing apart in pain.
37:13When Theron woke up, he saw my dazed look.
37:20What's wrong?
37:27I want to kiss you now, are you going to let me or not?
37:33You weren't this impolite the first time you kissed me?
37:37I cupped his face and kissed him.
37:39Our lips and teeth tangled.
37:41His breath was very faint.
37:43Theron was pressed beneath me.
37:45He tipped his head back, trembling as he surrendered completely.
37:49The corners of his eyes reddened, almost like a silent protest.
37:56Theron, I really like you.
38:00Me too.
38:02How much?
38:03He looked at me with some distress, as if looking at a huge problem.
38:07I never thought that in my short life, I would meet someone I like this much.
38:17I didn't expect it either.
38:20Every hope I had died the night Serena gave me to Bastion.
38:23Back then, I thought my life would never change.
38:27I never imagined that four years later, I'd fall in love with a dying man.
38:31Looking into Theron's eyes, I felt both sorrow and joy.
38:36When I saw the matriarch again, I came as a guest, not a servant.
38:41Hazel poured me tea as we talked.
38:43I could tell the matriarch treated her well.
38:45After Theron's wedding fell through, our soul bond remained unchanged.
38:50Once bonded, I'd be sent straight to the clan shrine.
38:54Eventually, the conversation turned to Serena.
38:57After the chaos at her father's estate, Bastion cut Serena off completely.
39:01His consort passed away half a month ago from a miscarriage.
39:05It was investigated and found to be Serena's doing.
39:08She never meant to kill the hatchling.
39:10She wanted the mother dead and the hatchling alive.
39:13But she got the dosage wrong and killed them both.
39:23When Bastion wanted Serena back, I opposed it.
39:26She was too frail to become his lady.
39:29But he loved her.
39:31And I didn't want him living with regrets.
39:34Now I see she was never fit for that position.
39:37She's bitter, petty, and brought ruin upon herself.
39:42Serena had certainly caused her own downfall.
39:45But was Bastion really innocent?
39:47It had started when he fell for her at that banquet.
39:50Her parents had planned to marry her into an ordinary clan.
39:54Their influence would have protected her, even if she couldn't bear hatchlings.
39:59If Bastion hadn't insisted on claiming her, things might have ended differently.
40:04Speak of the devil.
40:06I ran into Bastion around the corner.
40:08I hadn't seen him in days.
40:11He looked thinner, standing there alone.
40:14For her father's sake, I won't banish Serena.
40:20But I'll never favour her again.
40:24Consider that her punishment for hurting you.
40:27I almost laughed.
40:28Some punishment.
40:32What about the two lives she took?
40:36I never cared for that consort.
40:38And the dragonling was lowborn.
40:40If I want more hatchlings, I can have plenty.
40:43There was nothing left to say.
40:47How exactly did you bewitch Theral?
40:50He nearly got himself killed saving you.
40:53That's none of your business.
40:59You slept with him.
41:01Does he know about us?
41:06Watch your mouth.
41:08There is no us.
41:11No us?
41:12That's cold, Viola.
41:14We shared a bed for three years.
41:18His cruel words shattered what little dignity I had left.
41:27You actually hit me.
41:29Aren't you afraid I'll tell everyone?
41:32Go ahead.
41:33Let's see who Theron kills first.
41:37Aren't you afraid he'll stop loving you?
41:39Was I afraid?
41:41Of course.
41:42But not of losing Theron's love.
41:45I was afraid of breaking his heart.
41:47But I couldn't let Bastion see that.
41:50Bastion, you give yourself too much credit.
41:53I don't love Theron as much as you think.
41:56He's just my way to survive.
41:59You and Serena drove me to this.
42:01Why else would I bind myself to a dying man?
42:04So Theron's no different from me?
42:08You're just using him like you used me in bed.
42:13Exactly.
42:14I don't care whether Theron loves me.
42:17Tell him about our past if you want.
42:18It'll only make him hate you even more.
42:21You still want to do it?
42:25You've convinced me.
42:27Unease crept in as his smile slowly wiped.
42:30Now you'd better figure out how to convince him.
42:33Theron stood only a few steps away.
42:36Is this why you lured me here?
42:38Theron, I wanted you to see her true colors.
42:41She's selfish and cold.
42:43She abandoned me to save herself once.
42:45She'll do the same to you.
42:49What do you want?
42:51Theron, she's deceived you all this time.
42:55You must hate her now.
42:57Let's take her to mother and expose her.
43:00An adulterous servant should be thrown into the volcanic rift.
43:03But I still have a soft spat for her.
43:07Why not let her serve me instead?
43:19I was done fighting, then Theron suddenly called my name.
43:22Vela.
43:26What are you standing there for?
43:30Do you really want to wash his feet?
43:33Oh, oh.
43:39Theron, what are you?
43:40Your mate didn't know how to treat her future sister-in-law, so I had her killed.
43:44Serena died. I was shocked.
43:46Lady Serena threw herself off the Octidian Spire!
43:49Suddenly, a servant's scream came from not far away.
43:52I wanted to go see, but Theron grabbed my wrist.
43:58You did it? How did you do it?
44:02You've forgotten.
44:05Before Father died, he wanted me to become Warlyard.
44:11As long as I live, his shadow guards answer only to me.
44:14When the old warlord died, Theron was still healthy.
44:17Theron later gave Bastion the title after falling ill.
44:20Even now, you still don't know how to respect your brother's mate.
44:31Your mate? What a joke.
44:34A soulbine doesn't make her your true mate.
44:38You're the Warlyard's eldest son.
44:41How can you take a lowly slave as your mate?
44:44Especially one who's already been used by another man?
44:49Very well.
45:04Theron!
45:04What the hell are you doing?!
45:08Go.
45:10Slap him.
45:11I hesitated for a moment.
45:16She is not a lowly slave.
45:18Her name is Vela.
45:20She is your sister-in-law.
45:22Have you memorized it?
45:25You want me to acknowledge such a female as my sister-in-law?
45:29Unless I die.
45:38Theron.
45:39I am your blood brother.
45:44You aren't my only blood brother.
45:48Bastion was locked up.
45:52He is a high-ranking official of the council.
45:54He won't be for long.
45:56Relying on the clan's power, he has done too many unforgivable things.
46:06Don't touch me.
46:12I'm sorry.
46:13Theron pressed a hand to his chest and looked away, pretending not to hear.
46:17That night, I moved my pillow back to my old bed.
46:21What are you doing?
46:27We should sleep separately from now on.
46:32Vera, if only I were a normal man.
46:35If I were a normal man, I'd drag you back into bed.
46:38I'd give you a taste of everything you did to me.
46:44You sleep with me when you want.
46:46Then you leave when you're done.
46:51What am I to you, just a bedmate?
46:58I... I just don't want to make you angry again.
47:03The shaman told me, you've never been with anyone.
47:07And?
47:09Besides, my feelings for you weren't always genuine.
47:11I really, really love you now.
47:13But at first, I only treated you well because the matriarch ordered me to.
47:17I was using you to stay alive.
47:25Go on.
47:32Someone like me even had the nerve to touch you and...
47:35The kiss was gentle and hesitant, just like him.
47:39But this time, I could feel his anger.
47:42After a long while, he finally pulled away.
47:46Vera, are you trying to drive me to my grave?
47:49What you said to Baston hurt.
47:53But I knew you didn't mean it.
47:56You only said those things to stall him.
47:59Then...
48:01Then why did you...
48:02Why did I keep it from you?
48:03If I died without ever knowing what you suffered,
48:07then no one would ever know what happened to you.
48:10And if I died without avenging you,
48:13do you know what that would do to me?
48:15Do you want me haunting this world with regrets?
48:19His words hit me hard.
48:22Each one sent a shiver through me.
48:24My whole body burned.
48:26Yet my fingertips were ice cold.
48:29I threw myself into his arms and kissed him.
48:32Our fingers locked tightly together.
48:40I'm not as forgiving as you think.
48:43Whenever I think about what another man did to you.
48:48I want to break every finger that touched you.
48:51Luckily, he never loved you.
48:53He never knew how to treasure you.
48:56That's the only reason I ever had a chance.
48:59If I'd met you sooner, I would have found a way.
49:02I would have hidden you somewhere no one could find you.
49:04And kept you all to myself.
49:09Viola, you're not tainted.
49:11You're my treasure.
49:14I'm sorry.
49:17So you were my treasure?
49:18That's right.
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