Day in. Day out.

It has been two days since Kaya arrived at the Underworld's capital, Scotia. She was locked in a room that didn't have windows. Thrice a day, a female would come to bring her food. "Well, at least they don't want to starve me." She mumbled as she poked with the fork on her plate. The food looked unfamiliar, and it didn't taste good. "This tastes like foot." She complained and shoved the plate away.

Kaya felt overwhelmed by everything that had happened in the past few days. She had received so much information but only a few answers to the many questions swirling in her head. Her grandmother seemed to be more than just a regular human—she was an angel. This explained Kaya's unique powers. Unlike other priestesses who could only heal minor injuries, Kaya could hear voices and feel emotions when she was close to someone.

She touched the necklace around her neck, a family heirloom from her great-grandfather Uriel. It was her only direct link to her ancestors. She knew the necklace had been passed down through generations, suggesting that her grandmother had returned it to Uriel at some point because her mother never wore it. Her grandmother went to so much yet she never saw her struggle or she was that good at hiding it well in front of all of them.

Kaya was too young but she remembered how strict her grandmother was. She had taught her so many things, especially the language of the Seraphims. She also told her about the creatures, how they all lived together in peace and as a unit. Her grandmother had pointedly told her about the faeries and wolves, that they weren't their enemies and shouldn't be feared

Kaya whispered to herself, "I wish I could talk to you again, granny. I have so many questions." She wondered if her mother and father knew about her grandmother's true nature. She also thought about her missing companions, who had disappeared when they arrived at the palace. She couldn't even say goodbye or thank them for keeping her safe. Her thoughts turned to Jin, hoping he was safe wherever he was. "Oh, Seokjin, you shouldn't have come with me."

As she laid there, the dimly lit room around her seemed to fade away as a vivid image formed in her mind. His eyes, a mesmerizing shade of golden amber, held a depth that seemed to penetrate her very being. Within those eyes lay a tumultuous storm of emotions - desperation and frustration intertwined, creating a complex tapestry of sorrow and longing.

Kaya could almost feel the weight of his burdens pressing down on her own shoulders, whenever their eyes had met. The fragility of his gaze spoke volumes, revealing a vulnerability that tugged at her heartstrings. It was clear to her that he carried a heavy load, one that seemed almost unbearable.

"Why is that dumbass invading my thoughts?" she muttered to herself. With a bewildered shake of her head, she tried in vain to banish his haunting image from her mind, but it clung to her consciousness like a persistent shadow. "Shadows." She whispered when she memorized the image when Taehyung entered the underworld. Shadows were swirling around him as if they were caressing him. Was Taehyung controlling them?

Knock. Knock. Knock.

The distinctive sound of three deliberate knocks reverberated through the room, a ritualistic prelude to the opening of the door. With a creak, the heavy wooden door swung inward, revealing a mysterious figure shrouded in a flowing robe that blended shades of deep red and black. The fabric cascaded around her in dramatic folds, creating an aura of intrigue as she stepped into the dimly lit room. A large hood, intricately adorned with crimson roses along the hem, partially obscured her features, casting a shadow over half of her face and heightening the enigmatic nature of her presence.

As she moved further into the room, the flickering candlelight revealed intricate details that captivated Kaya. Her lips, painted in a deep, almost black hue, were just the beginning of the mesmerizing artistry adorning her visage. The elaborate design extended beyond her lips, encompassing her entire face and down to her neck in a striking blend of black and red against the white background main color on her skin. The intricate patterns resembled a skull-like motif, yet each line and curve bore a delicate beauty that drew the eye with its exquisite detail, creating a hauntingly captivating allure. Whenever she allowed herself a subtle smirk, her glistening canines peeked through the darkness.

Despite Kaya's attempts to engage her in conversation about the well-being of the others, the woman remained steadfastly silent, her actions speaking louder than words as she methodically carried out her tasks. With an air of efficiency, she completed her duties before departing the room without uttering a single word, leaving an aura of intrigue in her wake.

While her usual responsibilities involved delivering meals and maintaining the tidiness of the chamber, tonight held a different purpose. "Your Highness, I am here to prepare your bath," she declared with a hint of formality, her voice soft yet commanding. Intrigued by the unexpected turn of events, Kaya followed the mysterious female to the opulent bathroom, a space that transcended mere functionality to exude an aura of indulgence and luxury.

In the heart of the room, a breathtaking sight awaited her—a magnificent swimming pool intricately carved into the floor, its pristine waters shimmering under the soft glow of candlelight. The pool, more akin to a regal bathing sanctuary than a conventional tub, beckoned with the promise of relaxation and rejuvenation. Intricate marble pillars adorned the space, casting elegant shadows that danced across the walls, adding to the air of mystique that enveloped the room.

"Wait, so you're able to speak my language?" Kaya asked with excitement as the female began to remove layer after layer of clothing. Unfazed by being stripped naked, Kaya had grown accustomed to it from a young age. Typically, it was Liana who undressed and dressed her. The female motioned for Kaya to enter the water, which carried the fragrant scent of roses and honey.

"I'm Kaya," she introduced herself.

"I know who you are, your Highness," the female replied in a calm and soothing voice. As she started to moisturize Kaya's hair with the shower head, she relaxed, leaning back. Though the female still wore her black gloves, Kaya noticed a rustling of clothes when she averted her gaze—she must have removed them. A gentle pumping sound filled the room, enhancing the fragrance of roses before Kaya felt the shampoo being massaged into her scalp.

"Please, just call me Kaya," she said softly, closing her eyes as she felt the gentle scratch of the female's long nails in soothing circular motions against her scalp. The sensation stirred fond memories of her mother, who would lovingly comb through her hair until she drifted off to sleep. "Do you know where my friends are?" she inquired cautiously, referring to them as friends, she believed they were good-hearted by nature; Jimin, Jungkook, and Taehyung. "And where is my general? He's human too."

The female paused, letting out a heavy sigh before responding, "I'm sorry, I don't have any information on your inquiries, Your Highness." Taking a washing sponge, she began to brush Kaya's back in a comforting rhythm.

"It's just Kaya," she insisted more firmly this time.

"I'm afraid, Your Highness. I am not permitted to address you by your name. You are Prince Kazimir's fiancée," the female explained, her tone respectful but unwavering.

"Will you face punishment if you do?" Kaya's curiosity mingled with a tinge of apprehension as she awaited the woman's response.

"Yes, I will," came the whispered reply, carrying with it a sense of solemn duty and sacrifice..

Kaya gasped but wasn't surprised. They were in the underworld, known to be the harshest of the three worlds. Evil creatures lurked here, seeking pleasure and blood by causing harm to others. Such grim tales had been recounted to her by the elders in Anthropos, painting a bleak picture of this dark realm.

"I'm sorry to hear that. What is your name? Don't tell me if revealing it will bring you harm," Kaya inquired, her voice laced with genuine concern.

The woman chuckled quietly, her soft laughter barely breaking the silence. "No, it's fine. My name is Ella," she replied, a hint of warmth in her voice.

"Ella," Kaya repeated, "You have a beautiful name."

The female remained silent for a moment, but Kaya sensed a shift in her demeanor. A mixture of melancholy and bitterness blossomed in her chest, resonating deeply with Kaya. It was clear that Ella, too, had experienced pain and desperation in her past.

"Thank you," she spoke softly, breaking the heavy silence that enveloped the mist-filled bathroom. "I was named after my father; his name was the same as mine." Kaya sensed the weight of unspoken pain in Ella's revelation about her father, and she knew instinctively not to pry further into her family history.

They didn't talk the whole bathing session. One, Kaya was too relaxed to think because Ella exactly knew where and how to caress, to keep her silent. Two, Kaya had no energy. She hadn't eaten properly since the food wasn't edible in her opinion.

Ella briefly left the room and returned, holding a folded dress that gleamed white and sparkled in the light. Stepping out of the water, Kaya immediately felt the absence of its comforting warmth. The female began to delicately dry Kaya's body with a soft towel, revealing Ella's face to Kaya for the first time.

Ella was truly stunning. The intricate artwork adorning her face was nothing short of a masterpiece. Kaya was captivated; she had never encountered anyone quite like her. While Ella's makeup was meant to resemble a skull, the meticulous details - like the delicate rose petals and tiny red glittering stones accentuating her eyes - made her large, dark eyes sparkle. Even her neck bore intricate designs, resembling a fusion of roses, other flowers, tribal motifs, and thorns.

Every aspect of Ella's appearance was breathtaking. Her shoulder-length dark hair cascaded gracefully on either side of her face, crowned with a voluminous hoodie. A form-fitting black corset cinched her waist, adorned with red ribbons that enhanced her curves. Despite the alluring plumpness of her décolleté, it was veiled by a sheer lace material, preventing prying eyes from lingering too long. Below her waist, a black lace skirt with red accents flowed down to her ankles. Even her ankles and legs were adorned with the same intricate motifs, completing her mesmerizing ensemble.

Kaya stood still in astonishment, completely unaware that Ella had already finished dressing her. As she was gently turned around to face the mirror, her eyes widened in disbelief. The dress she was wearing was undeniably revealing. Adorned in a light blue bra bandeau embellished with cascading jewelry that delicately grazed her exposed midriff, she felt a wave of unease wash over her. A wide belt adorned with thousands of glistening beads cinched her hips, while beneath it, a sheer light blue fabric fluttered delicately, barely providing any coverage. With each step she took, her legs were fully exposed, leaving her feeling vulnerable to even the slightest gust of wind.

"I can't wear this!" Kaya protested as looked at herself from all sides.

"Prince Kazimir chose your clothing for tonight's dinner." Ella sounded encouraging and wrapped a blueish scarf over her shoulders. "Don't worry, everyone is wearing a similar dress to yours. It's the usual clothing here in Scotia.

"You're not wearing something this revealing." She argued while pointing at her body.

"I have my reasons, your Highness." Ella said coldly as she bowed her head. "We have to go, they're waiting." The female opened the door for Kaya, it was the first time she was allowed to leave the room.

"They?" Kaya asked unsure.

"The King and the prince; King Drago and Prince Kazimir." Ella answered, her steps almost inaudible on the marbled floor. The female had the same stillness as the trio, and every immortal she had met the past few days.

Ella Widow

The dining room was a lavish and opulent space fit for royalty, adorned with intricate wood paneling, elegant tapestries hanging from the walls, and a vaulted ceiling with ornate chandeliers casting a warm, golden light over the room.

A long, polished wooden table stretched down the center of the room, surrounded by exquisitely carved chairs with plush velvet cushions fit for noble guests. At the head of the table sat a magnificent throne-like chair, probably for the King, adorned with velvet and a golden-black dragon on each side.

The table was set with fine silverware, and crystal glassware, reflecting the wealth and grandeur of the royal family. Candles flicker in golden candelabras, adding a soft glow to the room and casting dancing shadows on the walls. Servants were moving silently around the room, attending to the needs of the King and his guests, ensuring that every detail was perfect for the royal meal. The air was filled with the tantalizing yet unfamiliar aromas of the feast

Ella gracefully led Kaya through the grand hall, the soft rustle of their footsteps echoing against the marble floors. As they approached the ornate dining table, Kaya's apprehension grew, a subtle tension evident in her poised demeanor. With a practiced finesse, Ella guided her to the intricately carved chair, a masterpiece of craftsmanship that seemed to whisper tales of bygone eras.

Sparing a moment before sitting down, Kaya cast a discreet glance around the opulent room, her eyes meeting those of five males seated at the table. Clad in impeccably tailored black shirts, each one bore a striking resemblance to the others, yet there was an air of individuality that set them apart. Their gazes, cold and penetrating, seemed to strip away any facade Kaya had mustered, sending a chill down her spine. They were malicious, she felt it to her bones.

"These are the princes, sons of King Drago," Ella's hushed voice provided Kaya with a crucial introduction to the formidable figures before her.

Intrigued, Kaya leaned in slightly and inquired, her voice barely above a whisper, "And where is Prince Kazimir amidst this gathering?"

"He has yet to arrive," Ella responded with a nod towards the empty seat, her expression inscrutable yet tinged with a hint of anticipation. Gesturing for Kaya to take her place among the princes, Ella's eyes conveyed a silent message of caution, hinting at the complexities that lay beneath the surface of this royal encounter.

As Kaya prepared to lean back in her chair, her gaze wandered further and was suddenly captured by a pair of striking familiar golden eyes. A mix of shivers and a warm sensation spread through her body, making her shudder. It was Taehyung, looking different from their previous meeting. He wore a stylish black shirt with golden touches that suited his skin tone perfectly. Kaya thought he looked fantastic, but something felt off about him, though she couldn't quite pinpoint what it was.

Beside Taehyung sat a stunning woman who immediately drew Kaya's attention with her extraordinary beauty. The woman had eyes as clear and blue as the sea, and her hair floated and moved gently as if she were underwater. She wore pearls and shells on her head, giving her a mystical appearance. Kaya had never seen anyone like her before; everyone in the room looked stunning, but this woman was in a league of her own. Her ears resembled shells, and in certain places on her body, she had shiny, colorful scales. Her hands were particularly striking, with thin skin between each finger. It was as if she belonged to the ocean, a creature of the sea.

In a hushed tone, Kaya whispered to Ella, "The woman beside Taehyung, who is she?" Her voice betrayed a mix of curiosity and unease, as if uncertain of what she might discover.

Ella's reply was soft but informative, "Her name is Medusa, the princess of the ocean realm and his mate." The words struck a chord within Kaya, causing her heart to clench. She had always known about his mate, but seeing them together, witnessing the deep connection between them, stirred a complex array of emotions within her. She didn't like it. Them.

Medusa Triton

The room was filled with a palpable tension as the rhythmic drums began to play, their haunting beats echoing through the grand halls. Slowly, the guests rose to their feet, their eyes drawn to the entrance as anticipation filled the air. Despite the commotion around her, Kaya's eyes remained locked with Taehyung's, as if breaking their gaze would mean losing him forever.

As the sound of approaching footsteps grew louder, a sense of awe descended upon the room. The guests fell into a reverent silence as two powerful figures made their entrance, their presence commanding attention and respect. The servants moved with practiced precision, swiftly arranging wooden stools for the King and the prince to sit upon, their movements a testament to the solemnity of the occasion and the importance of the guests in their midst.

Kaya's knees trembled beneath her as the King drew her attention away from Taehyung. Standing before her, the King exuded a presence that was nothing short of overwhelming. Oh gods, have mercy, she thought, her breath catching in her throat. Taehyung may have been imposing, but the King was in a league of his own, towering over them all with a sheer magnitude that sent shivers down her spine.

Power seemed to emanate from every fiber of the King's being, a palpable aura that made her pulse quicken. His eyes, a fiery red that seemed to pierce through her very soul, held a gaze that was both mesmerizing and terrifying. Every aspect of the King commanded attention, his form a symphony of strength and authority.

Clad in nothing but loose leather pants adorned with intricate golden accents, the King's upper body was a canvas of raw power and regal adornments. Chains and necklaces adorned his thick neck, a stark contrast against his leathery blueish-black skin that was covered in intricate golden tattoos. Thick scales and menacing spikes adorned his underarms, a testament to his formidable nature.

But it was his visage that truly captured Kaya's attention. His sharp jawline exuded strength, his long pointy ears adding an otherworldly allure to his appearance. Thick horns sat atop his head, a crown of sorts that accentuated his imposing presence. Amidst the darkness of his appearance, his long white hair stood out like a beacon, a stark contrast to the rest of his formidable form.

In that moment, as she beheld the King in all his glory, Kaya couldn't help but be captivated by his striking features and commanding presence, a mixture of fear and fascination swirling within her. Silent as a shadow, the King settled into his throne-like chair, his mere presence stirring the air around him into a whirlwind. Kaya instinctively shielded her face as the gusts threatened to hit her, proof of the raw power that emanated from the regal figure before her.

As the air swirled and danced around the room, another male figure caught Kaya's attention. The second male, his gaze piercing and intense, moved towards her with a deliberate grace. Much like the King, he too sported thick horns atop his head, their dark silhouette mirroring his silky, long black hair that shimmered with a bluish sheen in the flickering candlelight. Kaya surmised that this must be Kazimir.

Kazimir's deep amber-colored eyes, framed by thick lashes, held a captivating allure that accentuated his flawlessly sculpted face and artistically tattooed, powerful physique. Standing at a height similar to Taehyung, he exuded a magnetic presence that belied a sense of underlying malice, a trait that seemed to shadow all of the princes she had seen thus far. Kaya understood that caution was important in Kazimir's presence.

"I finally found you, my priestess," his deep voice resonated through the room, catching Kaya off guard as he took her hand and pressed a soft kiss to its backside. The stark size difference between their hands was apparent as her small hand could fit thrice within his large palm. Kazimir's sheer physical presence loomed over her, a tangible reminder of the immorality and his otherworldly being.

°°°

((Excited for them to finally meet AND introducing new characters ))

Prince Kazimir Drago

King Drago Damon