"A Slave must only have relations with another Slave unless otherwise directed by its Owner, Imperiality, or Nobility."  Later that evening, in the quiet warmth of her bedchamber at Bloodrose Villa, Lady Ivanna stood before a tall, gold-framed mirror. A strapless gown of black and deep green clung elegantly to her frame, a matching sash draped with precision over her right shoulder. But elegance did little to quiet the unease crawling beneath her skin. The rigid scars along her neck and left arm were illuminated in the firelight, their grotesque features snatching her attention despite her resistance. She fought against the urge to cover them.Miss Aleda moved silently behind

"Slaves are allowed Arena Training in any and all combat methods and arts."  Nadia couldn't stop thinking about that night on the beach—about the way Prince Raynar's eyes had lingered just a heartbeat longer than necessary; how his voice, low and uncertain, had carried a wish to see her again. Over the days following, the panic that had gripped her chest like a vice began to loosen its hold to give way to a quiet warmth glowing beneath her skin. She found herself smiling at odd moments as she coasted through her chores. The memory of his mischievous smile lit her from within. His eyes had gazed at her not as property or a possession, but as someone worthy of admiration. That fleeting connection, fragile as it was, had given h