As the morning sun filtered through the curtains, Lucius stirred from his slumber, his eyes slowly opening to find Seraphina nestled against him. He couldn't help but be captivated by her, her long white hair cascading like a silken waterfall, and her green eyes, even in their closed state, holding an enchanting allure. His gaze moved to her lips, mesmerized by the delicate curve, but as if sensing his thoughts, she yawned, and he couldn't help but smile at her adorable drowsiness.
Seraphina awoke with a start when she realized her proximity to Lucius, quickly pulling away with a blush tainting her cheeks. The sensation of warmth and comfort from cuddling against him lingered, leaving her feeling both flustered and intrigued.
"Good morning, Lady Seraphina," he said warmly, attempting to dispel any awkwardness. "Did you sleep well?"
Her voice was soft as she replied, "Yes, thank you. I apologize for... intruding."
"There's no need to apologize," he assured her. "We are bound by our marriage, after all. It's only natural for us to grow accustomed to one another's presence."
Seraphina nodded, feeling a sense of relief at his understanding. As she rose from the bed, she excused herself to bathe, the maids offering their assistance. While bathing, her thoughts wandered to the dark waves of Lucius' hair and his deep, ebony eyes, the way they seemed to hold both mystery and warmth.
Her mind wandered further, imagining what their future together might be like, filled with both uncertainties and possibilities. Little did she know that her destiny held far more than she could imagine—her celestial and infernal heritage, her role as a Defender, and the power she wielded to shape the realms' fates.
After bathing, Seraphina emerged from the bathroom, finding Lucius already dressed. They exchanged greetings before heading to the dining hall for breakfast. The meal was a quiet affair, and though they tried to engage in polite conversation, an air of tension lingered around them.
Later, Lucius informed Seraphina that she would be introduced to his father, King Oberon Ebonhart, and his brother, Asmodeus Ebonhart. The prospect made her anxious, especially considering her father's negative response to their marriage.
As they entered the throne room, King Oberon's stern gaze met Seraphina's, and she sensed a palpable disapproval, though he concealed it skillfully. She curtsied respectfully, feeling the weight of his scrutiny, but she held her composure.
"Your Highness, it's an honor to meet you," she greeted with a touch of nervousness.
"Indeed," the king replied, his voice measured and distant. "Welcome to our kingdom, Lady Seraphina."
Asmodeus, who stood beside his father, seemed to regard her with a mix of curiosity and intrigue. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance," he said, extending a hand for her to shake.
"Likewise," she responded, shaking his hand with a small smile.
The conversation that followed was polite but strained, leaving Seraphina with a lingering sense of unease. She couldn't decipher the reason behind the king's disapproval, but she knew she would have to tread carefully in this new realm, especially considering her own hidden heritage.
As the day wore on, Seraphina found herself drawn to Asmodeus' enigmatic presence, feeling a strange connection to him that she couldn't explain. Meanwhile, Lucius kept his thoughts in check, resisting the pull of emotions he had tried so hard to suppress.