Ch. 276..280: The Vampire Prince's Blindfolded Bride Chapter 276-280

Chapter 276: I trust his decision

In the private hall, only King Esmond and Alora remained. The King gestured for Alora to take a seat, and she complied, settling gracefully into the chair.

"My son continues to face every danger head-on," King Esmond began, his voice tinged with frustration and weariness. "This morning, Magnus didn’t even think it important to tell me about his encounter with Qasima. We’ve grown so old that it seems my own children hesitate to share crucial matters with me." His expression betrayed a deep-seated worry and sadness.

Alora regarded the King with concern, her brow furrowing slightly. "Perhaps it simply slipped Prince Magnus’s mind," she suggested gently, attempting to offer a comforting perspective.

"No. Magnus is calculative and observant. He knows when he has to speak up about a matter. Qasima could have done anything to him. Don’t you think?" King Esmond showed his fatherly concern.

"Your Majesty, because Qasima needs me she won’t dare to harm him. That’s what I thought," Alora replied humbly.

King Esmond observed that Alora trusted on Magnus a lot in every matter. With that a small smile appeared on his lips, "When I’ve first hear about you... 24 years ago, I thought this girl won’t survive. Humans, vampires, werewolves and the witches– everyone was after taking your life. You might be locked in the four walls of your house, but attempts were made to go close to you to harm you. But nothing happened to you. With time, many didn’t bother to go near you, thinking you were the curse for everyone."

This was the first time King Esmond shared such deep thoughts with her. Alora had always believed the King of Velaris never gave her plight a second thought, but she realized now that she had been mistaken.

"Alora, the time has come for you to use your unique vision to save this kingdom from the dangerous witch, Qasima," King Esmond said, his voice carrying a weight of urgency and hope. "Qasima had you blindfolded for a reason, but I believe you can bring her down. Remember the time when your anger towards your father and sister gave you the strength to overcome your fears."

Alora looked at the King, a determined light in her eyes. "I’m ready to fight for my family and for my people this time. I used to be scared of everything, but now, the time has come for me to face it head-on," she declared, a confident smile spreading across her face.

"Magnus will keep opposing it. The message is clear," King Esmond said, his tone heavy with concern. "I suppose your reading skills have improved. Come, take a look at this note."

Alora rose from her seat and approached the King, taking the note from his outstretched hand. Her eyes scanned the message, and she read it aloud, her voice trembling slightly.

"Qasima only wants my presence. If we fail to do that, she will attack someone whom we cannot even imagine," she murmured, her thoughts immediately turning to her mother and family, who were blissfully unaware of the looming threat.

"Magnus is brave. I can’t deny that," King Esmond said, after a moment of deep contemplation. "However, we cannot risk anything this time. If Qasima wants to see you, then you must go to the place she has mentioned."

Alora’s heart pounded in her chest, but she nodded resolutely. "For the safety of my family and the kingdom, I will face her," she affirmed, her determination unwavering. King Esmond watched her, a mixture of pride and worry etched on his face, knowing the heavy burden she was about to shoulder.

"I understand, Your Majesty," Alora said, her voice steady and filled with resolve.

"I give you the responsibility to make Magnus believe that you can turn the tides all by yourself. The day after tomorrow, we must leave for this place to meet Qasima," King Esmond affirmed, his tone resolute and commanding.

Alora nodded in understanding. "I will do that. Your Majesty has shown faith in my abilities, and I will not let you down," she replied, her determination unwavering.

As their conversation drew to a close, King Esmond’s expression softened. "Alora, from the day Magnus introduced you to us, I never imagined you would develop your personality and become such a strong person," he said, his voice filled with a mixture of admiration and pride. "You have exceeded all expectations."

Alora felt a warmth spread through her at his words, a sincere compliment that made her smile. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Your support means everything to me," she replied.

~~~~~

"Prince Magnus needs to understand that his wife is fully capable of confronting and defeating a witch like Qasima," William remarked with a hint of frustration in his voice. "I don’t comprehend why he becomes so obstinate at times."

Magnus leaned forward, his expression serious and his voice tinged with confidence. "Because I have insights that surpass those of the First Elder. I know that Qasima is simply trying to intimidate us by targeting vulnerable humans. Elder William hasn’t seen Qasima; he doesn’t perceive the fear in her eyes that I do."

"You both could have agreed to summon Qasima for a discussion. That might have unsettled her," Magnus muttered, rubbing the bridge of his nose in frustration.

"Why doesn’t Prince Izaak and Prince Alaric try to make him see reason this time?" Bernard suggested, annoyance evident in his tone as he contemplated Magnus’s apparent reluctance to understand the situation, particularly Alora’s capability to defend herself.

"I don’t need to listen to anyone," Magnus retorted defiantly, his jaw clenched with stubborn resolve.

Just then, a servant’s voice cut through the tension. "The meeting is adjourned."

Magnus wasted no time, swiftly exiting the room to find Alora. Her smile, as bright as ever, momentarily lifted the weight from his shoulders.

"Let’s go," Alora said calmly, her voice steadying him.

"Why did you agree with Father?" Magnus asked, his concern and frustration evident in his tone as they began to walk together.

"Because he is the King and my elder. I trust his decision," Alora opined.

Chapter 277: The last time

"Qasima wants you to be in the blindfold. I can agree for everything, but I will never agree to send you alone with a blindfold. I can’t even bear seeing a single scratch on your body. You know this well, Alora."

Magnus expressed his concerns with a frustrated tone. He felt Qasima was too cunning and too dangerous when it would come to fulfilling her own ambitions.

"She can’t do that. You are aware of this," Alora said.

"No. I am not aware of this. What I know is that you won’t go alone," Magnus said.

"Didn’t you tell me I’m strong enough to bring any person on his knees? Magnus, why can’t you trust me this time? Forget everyone, but trust me at least," she pleaded, her eyes searched for an understanding in his.

Magnus turned silent and told her he didn’t wish to talk anymore about it.

"Huh? Why?"

"I’m going outside," Magnus said and left the chamber without giving a second glance at her.

Alora sighed because she had saddened Magnus. However, she was determined this time. She would not let any of them to take the charge for what she was supposed to fulfill.

She stepped into the balcony and rested her hands on the balustrade for the support.

"I wish you can come here, Lunar God. It is difficult for me to make my husband understand that I won’t be hurt. Can’t he keep his worries aside for a moment?" she murmured. Talking to herself was the only way to remove her pent up frustration in her head.

"You can’t call me every time, Alora. That’s bad!" Raphael said and she turned to face him immediately. Her face lit up with a smile.

"I thought the Lunar God would not come," Alora murmured.

"You called me with heart. I couldn’t ignore it," Raphael said. "But this is the last time I’m here. Don’t call me ever. That will make things hard for you," he advised her.

"Hard for me? How?" Alora inquired.

"Future may change," Raphael said.

"Doesn’t that constantly change base on our present works?" Alora questioned.

"Everything is destined, Alora. What is supposed to happen will happen despite the efforts you put in to change it," Raphael stated. His words sounded like a warning to her.

"Let the destiny flow. Just do what you are supposed to do. That’s my only advise to you," Raphael gave her a wonderful piece of advice.

"Hmm." Alora nodded at him and lowered her head. "Forgive me for troubling you. I won’t bother you again," she added.

"I hope you keep up with the promise. Else, be ready for the consequences, Alora," Raphael said. As she lifted her head, the Lunar God had disappeared from her sight.

~~~~~

Magnus and Griffin stood at the edge of a formidable cliff, its sheer face plummeting hundreds of feet down to where the river surged below. The waters churned with a relentless force, echoing their power against the rugged canyon walls. The strong winds making the sound of the waves intense.

"Why have you brought us here, Your Highness?" Griffin’s voice wavered slightly. He shifted his weight nervously, his eyes darting between Magnus and the ominous expanse below.

Magnus remained silent, his gaze fixed on the distant horizon. The wind tousled his hair, adding an air of solemnity to his regal demeanor. His thoughts seemed distant, absorbed in contemplation.

After some time, Magnus broke the silence with a tense exhale. "I argued with Alora. She doesn’t grasp the danger she’s in. That blindfold is her vulnerability. With it on, she’s helpless against Qasima. That witch... I wish I could rip her heart out," he muttered, his voice edged with annoyance and resentment.

"Your Highness, I’ve heard the King intends for her to protect everyone. Isn’t that why His Majesty trained Princess Alora? He’s always emphasized her strength and that she shouldn’t fear anyone. Others should fear her instead," Griffin countered, his tone firm yet respectful.

Magnus turned a sharp gaze towards Griffin, disbelief flickering in his eyes. He couldn’t fathom Griffin speaking as if he were defending Alora’s perspective.

"What? Did I say something wrong, Your Highness?" Griffin asked.

"Have you ever fallen in love?" Magnus asked him.

"No. But I’m trying to," Griffin replied.

"When you are deeply in love, no matter what happens, you don’t allow your beloved to face the danger. Is that wrong if I want to protect my wife? As her husband, I will be concerned for her safety," Magnus explained to him in the simplest of the words.

Griffin pursed his lips tightly for a brief moment.

"Prince Magnus, but you are no ordinary husband. Remember, you are the man who brought a wonderful woman like Princess Alora to the public. Your Highness turned the tides. You always believed in Princess Alora when everyone didn’t even have any expectations with her. That’s you, Prince Magnus! And if you hold back your wife from doing what she is born for, that will be wrong. Let your fear go like it used to all the time and let Princess Alora do what she has to do this time."

Being the closest friend of Magnus, this is the only advice he could give to him. He knew how much Alora meant for Magnus.

"Hmm." Magnus realized he didn’t have to let the fear overpower his mind and control it.

Magnus stood taller, his expression softening from contemplation to acceptance. "You’re right, Griffin," he affirmed.

A genuine smile spread across Magnus’s face, illuminating his features with warmth. Griffin suggested they make their way back to the palace.

"Yes, let’s head back," Magnus declared, his tone now infused with optimism. "But before that, I must visit my in-laws," he added firmly.

Griffin nodded in understanding, falling into step beside Magnus as they began their descent from the perilous cliff. He couldn’t help but exhale a breath of relief as he ran after the prince.

"Alora, I’m coming to you soon," Magnus murmured as he walked down the hill with confident strides.

Chapter 278: Time to show who you are

"Your Highness, you could have summoned me to the palace," Odin remarked as Magnus and Griffin stepped down from the carriage.

Magnus adjusted his coat and replied, "I needed to speak with my in-laws personally." Odin nodded in understanding and stepped aside, allowing them to pass.

The trio entered the grand estate and made their way to the elegantly furnished living room, where Norman was already seated. Upon seeing the Prince, Norman promptly rose from his chair and greeted Magnus with a deep, respectful bow.

"Please, have a seat, Your Highness," Norman said, gesturing toward the main sofa. He then turned to a nearby servant and instructed, "Fetch my wife."

Magnus settled into the plush sofa, while Griffin and Odin remained standing, their expressions were attentive and vigilant.

"Alora didn’t come here, Prince Magnus. I heard about the recent rumors regarding a witch. Is everything alright in the palace?" Norman inquired, showing his concerns.

"I chose to come alone. Everything is well at the palace," Magnus said and saw Rhea rushing toward them while Venus was behind her mother. They both greeted him when Magnus asked Rhea to take a seat.

"I’m here to talk about an important matter with you," Magnus said, a serious expression formed on his face. "Qasima is a formidable witch, who has awaken after thousands of years. Odin must have talked to you about it already," he said, glancing at Norman.

"Yes. Odin did tell me why suddenly the security is tightened around this house. However, he didn’t go in details," Norman said. He rubbed his hands together, his nervousness building with each passing second.

"It’s all related to Alora. Your daughter is not an ordinary person– she is chosen to carry those eyes. Thousands of years ago a prophecy was written in which it was mentioned a human would born in the future to take down such evils. Alora is that human. Because you are her family, we decided to give protection to all of you. Please refrain from leaving the residence for two weeks. Rest assured nothing will happen to any of you," Magnus explained to them.

Norman and Rhea gazed at each other, feeling worried for Alora.

"We are unaware of any such prophecy. Will our Alora has to fight Qasima?" asked Rhea. Her heart palpitated in fear.

"No one knew about this. I’ve recently found out all this. Now, you all must have been aware why Alora got such eyes. She is well protected, so you don’t have to be worried. What I want from all three of you not to leave the house," Magnus stated. "If you need anything, Odin will arrange it for you," he added.

"We understand, Your Highness," Norman replied.

Magnus hummed and left his seat as he prepared to leave.

"Your Highness, how is Alora? Is she scared after hearing all of this?" Rhea inquired as she stood up, followed by Norman.

"Alora is quite strong, Mother-in-law. She doesn’t fear anymore. I will bring her soon here so that she could see you all," Magnus stated and passed a tiny smile to her. "I should leave now," he said and walked out.

All of them followed him till the carriage. Once Magnus left with Griffin, Norman and Rhea went inside first. Venus and Odin walked along with each other slowly.

"Why didn’t you tell me about that?" Venus complained to Odin.

"Because that wasn’t my place to tell you the truth. I do what I was told to," Griffin replied. "However, now, you have to keep in mind not to go out for two weeks," he asserted. His tone seemed like he was scolding her.

"You can be a little gentle while speaking to me," Venus said with a frown and rushed into her house, not wanting to converse with him.

~~~~~~

"Why hasn’t Magnus returned yet? He didn’t even attend the council meeting," Alora said, glancing worriedly at Tobias. Her brow was furrowed with concern, and she wrung her hands anxiously.

"His Highness will return soon," Tobias reassured her, his voice calm and respectful. "There’s no need to worry."

"Magnus is angry with me," Alora murmured, her eyes downcast. The worry in her voice was unmistakable.

"That’s impossible, Princess Alora," Tobias responded firmly. "Prince Magnus cares deeply for you. There must be another reason for his absence. Please try not to worry."

"Tobias, I told him I would go and see Qasima alone. And he left in anger. It’s past lunch hours. Magnus never did this before." She lowered her eyes and looked at her ring.

Tobias turned quiet while thinking in mind if Magnus was truly upset with Alora. He pivoted on his feet as he saw Magnus enter. "His Highness is here," he said.

Alora quickly lifted her head and rose to her feet. She met his gaze, her eyes were slightly misty.

"Give us some privacy," Magnus said. Tobias bowed and left the chamber.

"Forgive–" She couldn’t finish her sentence as Magnus appeared before her. His index finger pressed on her lips.

"You’ve done nothing wrong, so you need not to apologize." He slowly lowered his finger and held her both hands. "I trust you. Do what you feel is right. I’ll support you," Magnus stated.

Alora smiled, still peering into his eyes without blinking. "Thank you."

Magnus pulled her into a hug, his one hand possessively went to her back while the other to her head. "It’s the time to show who you are Alora. For what purpose you carry these eyes. I’m sorry for not understanding you. This is the Alora I always wanted to see. Fearless. Strong. Confident."

She pulled away slightly, gazing deeply into his eyes. "I will not let you down, Magnus. You uncovered the truth about my eyes and gave me the strength I needed. Today, I feel fearless because of you. Thank you for putting your trust in me," Alora said softly and a smile forming on her lips.

Magnus caressed her hair tenderly before leaning down to kiss her.

Chapter 279: Desire of wanting more

"Your Highness, as per your instructions, I have relocated Miss Melody’s belongings to the room you designated for her within the palace," Zerah reported with a respectful bow.

"Excellent work, Zerah," Prince Izaak commended, his tone warm with approval.

"Thank you, Your Highness." Zerah smiled, bowing his head slightly. After a brief pause, he added, "It seems that Prince Izaak is preparing to take Miss Melody as his wife," his eyes twinkling with a hint of curiosity.

Prince Izaak’s smile broadened for a few moments, his eyes reflecting a his fondness for Melody. He then gave a gentle nod, acknowledging Zerah’s observation without further comment.

"Yes, Zerah. She is the one," Izaak replied.

Zerah was happy for his master. "I have prepared for the tomorrow’s departure of Prince Izaak to the Land of Mistmoor," he informed him.

"Hmm. Thank you," Izaak said, nodding appreciatively. He then dismissed Zerah with a wave of his hand and settled into his chair behind the desk to finish his work related to the Council.

Some time later, as Izaak applied the stamp to the final document, a familiar scent reached his nostrils. A smile carved itself on his lips as he realized Melody was approaching. He carefully placed the stamp back in its stand just as he heard a gentle knock on the door.

"Your Highness, may I come in?" Melody’s soft voice floated through the door.

"Yes," Izaak responded eagerly, his voice tinged with excitement.

Melody entered the room with a gentle rustle of her flowing, off-white dress, its long sleeves contrasting with the bareness of her shoulders, making her an ethereal beauty. Her hair, intricately braided, cascaded over one shoulder, a few strands framing her delicate features.

Upon seeing the scattered documents on the desk, Melody hesitated, her apology forming on her lips. "I will come back later, as I see Your Highness busy," she started to say, but her words faltered as Izaak gently pressed a finger against her lips.

His touch silenced her softly, his eyes warm with affection as he regarded her.

"I finished my work the moment you arrived at the door," Izaak replied softly, his finger lingering on Melody’s lips for a fleeting moment before gently lowering. His eyes remained locked onto hers, a hint of fondness and admiration shining in their depths.

"The dress looks absolutely stunning on you," Izaak complimented sincerely, his voice warm and appreciative.

"Thank you. I’ve never worn anything quite like it before. Her Majesty also gifted me with some of her most exquisite jewelry. It’s all so surreal, like stepping into a magnificent dream," Melody shared, her smile radiant as she recalled the overwhelming generosity bestowed upon her.

"I’ll tidy up the desk for His Highness," Melody offered eagerly, her eyes darting to the scattered documents. With swift, purposeful movements, she moved to the desk and began carefully organizing the papers, her heart palpitated because of excitement and nervousness in Izaak’s presence.

As Melody completed the task of organizing the desk and turned around, she was startled to find herself suddenly pressed against it, Izaak’s tall frame looming over her.

Her breath caught in her throat as she realized she was now encaged between his arms, his nearness sending a rush of warmth through her despite the nervous flutter in her chest. His closeness was palpable, his breath softly fanning her face, and she couldn’t help but meet his intense gaze.

"Why did you come?" Izaak’s voice was low, filled with curiosity and something deeper that made her heart race even faster.

"I-I wanted to w-wish His Highness a safe journey tomorrow," Melody managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper. Her hands felt clammy against the polished surface of the desk, her eyes flickering nervously under his penetrating stare.

"Hmm," Izaak murmured, his eyes briefly tracing the line of her neck, searching for the spot where he had bitten her to drink. Remembering it was hidden beneath her braid, he gently pushed the strands aside, his touch cool against her skin. A shiver ran down Melody’s spine at the sensation, her toes curling involuntarily.

"It’s fully healed," Izaak murmured.

"Yes," Melody breathed out, her fingers tensing on the edge of the desk as Izaak’s presence enveloped her. She could feel the warmth of his breath against her neck, sending a shiver again down her spine. Suppressing a gasp, she bit her bottom lip, desperately trying to steady herself against the rush of sensations.

Izaak’s lips began to trail featherlight kisses along the curve of her neck, his touch igniting a cascade of tingling sensations across her skin. Each kiss seemed to draw out a soft sigh from her, her pulse quickening beneath his gentle caresses. He inhaled her scent, infused with with her blood and her natural essence.

"Melody," Izaak’s voice came again, low and intimate. "That night you lulled me to sleep—it’s unforgettable. You have no idea how soothing your voice is. Where have you been all these years? I would not have suffered as I did if you were there," he confessed.

Izaak pulled back slightly, his gaze searching Melody’s face as he noted the raggedness of her breaths, the intensity of her response evident in her eyes.

He tenderly cradled her neck, his touch gentle yet possessive, his thumb trailing along her cheek before he boldly claimed her lips. Melody felt a rush of heat as if all the air had been sucked out of her lungs the moment their mouths met. With a firm grip on her thigh, Izaak effortlessly lifted her, guiding her to perch upon the edge of the desk.

As he continued to stroke her thigh, Melody, though fully clothed, felt a strange, exhilarating sensation deep in the pit of her stomach. The intensity of Izaak’s touch stirred a longing she hadn’t known before.

With a deft touch, he coaxed her swollen lower lip, already reddened from her nervous biting. He gently nipped at it, causing a small bead of blood to form. Without hesitation, he licked it away, the sweetness of blood mixing with the heat of their shared desire, leaving him with a desire of wanting more.

And the same happened to Melody.

Chapter 280: My last attempt at love

Izaak licked his bottom lip, his gaze locked onto Melody’s as her eyes flickered with deep feelings. He could sense the awakening desires within her, a longing that mirrored his own. "I can’t wait to take you to my bed. But that won’t happen today," he said, his voice laced with a promise of future intimacy.

Melody’s breath hitched, and for a moment, it seemed as though time itself had paused. Her eyes ceased to blink, and a deep blush crept up from her cheeks to her ears, painting her in shades of red. She exhaled slowly, lowering her eyes as she finally blinked, regaining her composure.

"Your Highness," she began, her voice steady but soft, "I have nothing to offer you except for my love and loyalty. What Prince Izaak could never receive from his former late wives, I vow to provide. I will give you my unwavering devotion." She paused, gathering her courage before making her request. "Also, I have a request to make," she added, lifting her eyes to meet his gaze once more.

"What is it?" Izaak asked, his curiosity piqued as he searched her face for an answer.

"I want His Highness to never keep any secrets from me," Melody said earnestly. "Whatever you feel, whether in times of distress or happiness, you must share with me. That’s all I ask, Your Highness."

Izaak’s expression softened as he took in her words. "Except for you, I have no one who can truly understand me," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "Nothing will remain a secret between us. I give you my word."

Melody smiled and thanked him for providing such a promise. "I want to be a companion whom His Highness can lean on any time. I always wanted a family of my own. Thank you for choosing me and giving me a second life. Sometimes when I think of the Slave market, I realise what would have happened to me if Prince Izaak hadn’t magically come that day. I have relatives too. But no one helped me with my debts. I prayed for only a two times meal. However, Your Highness provided me more than two. If Prince Izaak will ever say to sacrifice my life for him, I’ll willingly–"

She paused as Izaak hushed her. His pointer finger pressed her lips.

"Never. Your life is precious to me. I won’t ever ask for that," Izaak said. He lowered his hand and helped her stand straight. "I, too, have always wanted a family of my own. This is my last attempt at love, Melody. I’m putting my faith in you, and I can’t bear to be betrayed again."

Melody’s eyes shone with determination as she responded, "Never. I would sooner take my own life than betray you, Your Highness. I would never do that to the man who has given my life new meaning."

Izaak embraced her warmly once again. Melody reciprocated to the hug and rested her hands on his back.

~~~~~~

"What are you cooking?" Odin asked, his eyes fixed on the sizzling contents of the wok.

Venus spun around, startled to see him standing in the kitchen. "Why are you here?" she demanded, her voice tinged with surprise and a hint of irritation. The three maids present exchanged glances, sensing the sudden tension.

"Lady Rhea mentioned that her daughter was preparing something delicious, so I thought I’d come and see for myself. I’m a curious person," Odin replied nonchalantly, leaning against the counter with an easy grace.

Venus frowned, her brows furrowing. "You should leave, Odin. You’re a vampire. This kind of food isn’t good for you," she said firmly, gesturing toward the door. "It’s a sweet, and I know you can’t digest that."

"This isn’t the way you should treat a guest, especially a vampire, Venus. What if I bite you someday?" Odin’s tone turned intimidating, his eyes narrowing as he took a step closer.

Venus met his gaze without flinching. "Prince Magnus will punish you if you do that," she replied calmly, focusing her attention back on the wok, her hands steady as she stirred the sweet mixture.

Odin chuckled, the sound low and sinister. "We’ll see about that," he murmured before turning on his heel and leaving the kitchen.

As he left, Venus let out a sigh of relief, shaking her head to dispel the lingering tension. She returned her attention to the sweets, made of milk, sugar, and a touch of saffron, their rich aroma filling the kitchen.

Once the sweets were perfectly prepared, Venus carefully placed them on a plate, arranging them with meticulous care. She took a deep breath, steadying herself, and carried the plate to the living room where her parents were seated.

"I made these, Father, Mother. Please taste them," she said softly, setting the plate down on the table in front of them.

Lady Rhea’s eyes sparkled with pride as she reached for a sweet. "They look wonderful, my dear," she said, taking a bite and savoring the delicate flavors. "Absolutely delicious."

"My Lord, please have one," Rhea said, handing a sweet to her husband with a warm smile. Norman accepted it, taking a small bite and letting the flavors unfold on his palate. The richness of the milk, the sweetness of the sugar, and the subtle hint of saffron blended perfectly.

"This is exceptional," Norman said, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "Venus, your cooking has truly improved. These are some of the best sweets I’ve ever tasted."

Venus felt a surge of pride at her father’s praise. "Thank you, Father," she said softly.

"You should eat one too," Norman urged, looking at his daughter with a gentle smile.

Venus nodded, humming in agreement as she picked up one of the sweets. She took a delicate bite, her movements graceful and composed. The sweet melted in her mouth, the flavors even better than she had imagined. She couldn’t help but smile.

"They turned out better than I thought," Venus said, her eyes shining with delight.

Thinking of Odin, Venus thought to give one to him as well for the taste and told her parents she would be back soon.

Arriving outside Odin’s room, she knocked on the door and found it was open. Pushing it slightly, Venus looked inside and walked in. "Where could he have gone?" she murmured to herself while walking ahead, her eyes scanning the room.

"What brings Venus to my chambers?" Odin’s deep voice startled her.

Promptly she turned around only to find Odin was only in his trousers, "I-I..." and words didn’t come out of her mouth.