So I know I'm not supposed to update until I'm technically totally done with book 5, but I honestly couldn't help myself.

A quick update on the book- I am busy with chapter 16, which is unfortunately still a long way away from the end. I'm trying my best to write, but my work does come first so please be patient with me. Although, you all know by now that it's in progress, so don't worry. I haven't pulled an Erebus and disappeared just yet...

Enjoy chapter 3 and let me know your thoughts! 

*Lovely mood music to set the tone.

A Grand Garden Affair

It was the day of the ball and everyone was scurrying around like mice.

Persephone and I sat on the highest balcony overlooking the small, training arena. The queen of the southern lands nestled a fresh brew of coffee in her gloved hands. "I'll never understand why they enjoy being covered in mud and dirt like this..."

I chuckled as we watched our children spar. My eyes followed Theia's movements. She was more agile than Malreus, but he was no doubt stronger. He pulled his sword back and made a dive for her feet, but Theia saw his tactical thinking and jumped up, throwing herself back. She made a back-flip and landed gracefully across from him, her sword at her side.

"Nice try." She giggled and Malreus' eyes slanted with annoyance, but he couldn't stop his smile from erupting.

He said nothing in reply and instead, focused on trying to let Theia lower her guard enough for him to slip a hit through her defence.

I could tell the two young ones were slightly more nervous than usual. Their fathers were watching, after all...

Thanatos whispered something to Hades. The two large, darkly dressed kings stood next to the arena, their eyes watching the fight like hawks. They were looking for any sign of weaknesses.

Persephone and I, however, weren't taking this little practise run too seriously. I beckoned a servant over with my finger. "Bring us some white wine, dear."

The servant bowed and quickly left to go do my bidding. Persephone disregarded her coffee on the table and shot me a sly look; "Aurora; drinking in the morning? What in Chaos' name has happened?"

"I'm parched and frankly, this whole week has had me riled up. I think it's about time we started celebrating Apollo's little ball."

"Ugh..." She smiled broadly and shook her head. My old friend grabbed my hand with delight; "Have I told you that I love you?"

"Not enough." I winked and gestured with my free hand at our husbands, sitting just below us. "Don't let them see. Thanatos will have a fit."

"And Hades will think I've gone mad." Persephone giggled loudly; "Or that I'm turning into Dionysus."

"I think he'd rather have you insane!" I laughed along with her, but suddenly, a large, expensive bottle of crisp wine was placed on the table across from us. The servant bowed again and served us both half a glass of wine.

"Anything else, my queen?"

I shook my head with a smile and Persephone cheersed my glass; "No, thank you, Petyr."

"Oh, look!" Persephone pointed to the arena and I followed her finger. My eyes caught the sight of Malreus' sword placed under Theia's neck. She looked uncharacteristically annoyed.

I chuckled; "Oh, dear..." My eyes shot to Thanatos and I knew he was grumbling. He hated it when Theia lost focus.

My daughter was by far the most skilled fighter in the group, with Malreus a very close second, but Theia had a knack for losing focus when her mind wandered. She was a soft-hearted girl.

I shook my head. No, woman... I scolded internally. Theia was a woman now and it was sometimes hard for me to process. She was beyond beautiful. Every week she had a new suitor; someone would ask for her hand in marriage and Thanatos and I would always direct the question at her.

Frankly, it wasn't our decision to make. I fell in love with Thanatos and I've been in love with my husband for more than three thousand years. I still couldn't imagine a day without him. I wanted that for Theia- and whatever made her happy, she'd have it.

I was still surprised at how humble my daughter was, considering Thanatos nearly spoiled her to death when she was just a girl. But that was Theia- she was princess and the future queen and yet she acted like anyone else. I loved her for it. I was so proud of the woman she'd become.

She was always so much more optimistic, fun and free than I ever was when I was her age. Theia reminded me a great deal of my mother. She was always warm and trusting, until her death. It still caused me great pain whenever I thought of them. When my parents had died, it tore a hole in my heart. Granted, Theia had definitely taken after my mother and Claudeus was like my father in so many ways. That mere thought brought me great comfort.

Casseus... Good gods, Casseus was my little devil and I loved him to death.

"It looks like she's in trouble." I smiled down at the arena and watched as my daughter lifted her hands up in surrender.

But Malreus knew better than to trust Theia in the combat ring. The only time she ever lied or schemed, was when she fought.

"Perhaps Mal can finally win this time?" Persephone chuckled and took a sip of her wine.

"Let's see..."

We watched as Malreus pointed to the ground, clearly telling my daughter to drop her sword. She nodded, but didn't move.

Eventually though, Malreus has had enough and he made a move to push Theia down and hold her to the ground so that the fight could be over, but Theia had wanted exactly that- for him to step forward.

She swung her sword across the gap, knocking away his from her neck, and dropped her own. Theia dove straight for Malreus, like a damn rugby player going in for a low tackle.

I burst out laughing and Persephone snorted in surprise, her wine glass swirling around in her hand as she shook with laughter.

Thanatos covered his mouth with his hand to stop his laugh, but Hades didn't even care. He exploded with a loud, booming chuckle.

Theia had Malreus on the ground in a flash. She placed her elbow underneath his neck and pushed. Malreus tapped her head to get her to stop and she took that as his surrender.

"Yes!" She yelled and jumped up, elated that she'd won- again.

"Pure luck." Malreus rolled his eyes and stood up from the ground. His face was red from embarrassment. He didn't want his father or Thanatos to see his defeat, but it was unavoidable when it came to challenging Theia. Malreus had a small weakness for whatever my daughter wanted, and most of the time, she wanted to win.

"Luck-smuck." Theia scoffed and slapped Malreus on his rear with her sword; "You know I'm the best..."

"Watch out; you're getting cocky."

Theia giggled and the sound made Malreus join in with a small smile. He shook his head and pointed to Theia with his thumb, directing his words to his father and Uncle. "Please tell her I technically won."

"He did technically win, cub." Thanatos shrugged up his shoulders and shot Malreus a small smile of reassurance.

Theia flicked her tongue in her mouth; "Excuse me?"

"Sword at the neck, Theia." Hades pointed his own index finger at the base of his throat and sliced; "It's the rule."

"Rules don't apply in real fights." My daughter tapped her head and tried to make a philosophical point, but Malreus kicked her bum with his heel as he passed and she stumbled. "Hey!"

"Rules don't apply in real fights." He lifted up his shoulders as if to say 'sorry' and smiled broadly at her.

"This is unfair and indecent. I won!" Theia said loudly, but she wasn't angry, just teasing the men. Thanatos walked up to her and ruffled up her hair; "You should've played rugby, cub. You're a natural."

Theia patted down her hair with annoyance; "Don't change the subject..."

I chuckled softly to myself as I watched two of my favourite people bicker. They were far too alike in some ways.

Persephone sighed when Hades turned to head up the stairs. "Hide the wine."

I laughed even louder, knowing that she was making a joke to tease her husband. "Hades," I called out to him when he was a bit closer. He smiled in response. "Care for a glass?" I lifted mine up to show him.

He tilted his head at his wife and grumbled; "This early, Pers?"

"It wasn't my suggestion..."

"Ah-huh." Hades didn't sound convinced and instead, he leaned down to place a kiss on his wife's dark brown head of hair. "Join me for tea with Poseidon when you're done here."

"May I join?" Malreus walked up the steps, two at a time. He was very fit and by far the most skilled at leading among the children. I had a great deal of respect for Malreus- he'd never been naughty or disrespectful as a child. He might've been an only chid, but he possessed a compassionate quality few people ever saw in young, wealthy princes. He was a true leader- born and bred for a throne.

"Of course." Hades nodded to his son. The old, gloomy king was very different around his heir. Hade sand Malreus had a special bond and it was so easy to see how much the king loved his young prince. Malreus was a adult man now and Hades treated him exactly like a future king, but in Persephone's mind, Malreus was still her little boy.

"Oh, baby!" Persephone held out her hands for a hug from her son. He inhaled with false annoyance and leaned down to embrace his mother. Malreus loved her with all of his heart, but she was definitely the clingiest mother of us all. "You did wonderful, my little crow!"

Malreus tried to step back, but Persephone wasn't done cuddling him. "Mama..." Malreus scolded her and she let go with a huff. "Am I not allowed to hold my only son?"

"Yes, but-"

"Nah-ah." Pers wiggled her finger for silence. "Now go freshen up so we can leave."

"You're joining?" Hades smiled down at his wife.

"I thought I might. Amphi still needs me to check her dress for tonight so I might as well go there now with you both."

"And leave me to drink alone?" I pouted at her, but Persephone wasn't buying into it. "Oh, please. Thanatos is on his way up. He'll join you; no questions asked."

"Hmm, true." I nodded and sipped at my wine.

Malreus tugged at his sweaty assassin's armour and quickly ducked down to place a peck on my cheek; "See you later, aunt." Technically, I wasn't really his aunt, but ever since they were children, Malreus and the other kids would call me and the other women 'aunts' as a show of respect.

"Bye, my boy." I smiled up at him as he turned to leave, waving a quick farewell to Thanatos and Theia down in the arena. I watched as his mother chugged down the rest of her glass. Hades put his hands on his hips and snarled; "You don't have to finish it!"

"And let it go to waste?" Persephone gasped and stood up with a glare; "After thousands of years you clearly don't know me very well..."

He sighed dramatically and shot me a look as Persephone leaned down to hug me goodbye. "I blame you."

"So sweet..." I winked at him and he chuckled, waving his hand and grabbing his wife by the arm to pull her away. They were most probably already late for their date with his brother.

I sighed and poured a clean glass full of wine when I spotted Theia leaving the arena to go shower. No doubt she'd want to get all her ducks in a row for tonight's festivities.

Thanatos walked up the stairs and smiled when I lifted up his glass of wine and held it out for him to take. "Did you teach her to do that?" He took it from my hand and lifted it up for a sip.

I smiled and scooted up so he could sit beside me on the spacious sofa. "Tackle? No, but I'm fairly sure she learned it from you tackling them when they were young."

He used to love wrestling with the twins and Theia when they were children. Thanatos scooted closer to me and kissed my cheek; "And of course, Theia would remember that..."

"She does like surprising people." I giggled up at my husband. Even after thousands of years, he was still the most handsome man I'd ever seen.

His red eyes were dark with amusement and playfulness and his thick, black beard framed his face so well. He had a strong jaw and piercing eyes- even to this day, I don't think there was a god who could compare to him.

"So what do you think? Is she getting better?"

"She's fantastic." Thanatos sipped at his drink and placed his feet on the table in front of us as we stared across the empty arena. For once, we had a quiet day off to ourselves. "But so is Malreus."

"But he holds back, doesn't he?" I asked coyly and my husband shot me a look. "What do you mean?"

"Come on; even I can see it..." I lowered my head and let my eyes talk, but Thanatos didn't understand what I was referring to.

"See what?"

I sighed and placed my drink on the table; "The way he purposefully swings his sword slower in case he strikes her at a wrong angle or the way he smiles when she manages to get a hit in." I placed my arm on the backrest of the sofa and turned my body towards Thanatos. "He's a little obvious, don't you think?"

"That he's afraid of hurting her?" Thanatos shrugged and I rolled my eyes.

"Yes, but why, vlaka?"

"I don't know?"

"Gods, you're so unobservant with these things, aren't you?"

Thanatos grumbled under his breath; "Are you going to tell me or should I go ask the great Oracles?"

"He's in love."

Thanatos spat out his wine. "What?" He yelled with a mixture of anger and confusion. "What are you talking about?"

"Really?" I asked with a deadpan voice and a smile; "You didn't notice? Wow. They're both painfully obvious."

"Both?" He did a backtrack and shifted his body towards mine to look me dead in the eye. "Theia is... in love?"

I couldn't help but laugh at the way he said those last two words. Thanatos sounded like it'd just told him that our daughter had a chronic disease of the mind.

"You really don't see it?"

"No, I don't. She's my daughter. She can't be in love. That's ridiculous!"

"You do hear yourself when you speak, right?" I asked and picked up my wine again, but Thanatos grabbed it from me and angrily asked; "And you're sure about this?"

I sighed; "Yes, darling, I am. Is it so strange to you? They grew up together- they have quite literally done every single thing in their lives together, side by side."

"Well, that could just mean that they're best friends?" Thanatos scoffed; "Which they are, by the way."

"And you don't think best friends can develop intense feelings for one another?"

"Ugh. Intense feelings? This is your daughter you're talking about, woman."

I eyed him with a glower and snatched back my wine; "Thane, at some point in your life you're going to have to come to terms with the fact that Theia is a grown-ass woman."

"But I don't want to." Thanatos pouted and poured the rest of the wine down his throat in an attempt to dull his shock.

"I know you don't, but isn't her happiness more important?"

He was quiet for a second. Most probably thinking. Eventually though, Thanatos sighed and rested his cheek against the palm of his hand, with his elbow on the armrest of the sofa. "Yes, yes... Fine."

"Besides, if anyone is going to be her king, don't you think Malreus is the perfect candidate?"

"Hold up. King?" Thanatos grumbled like an old man; "I'm king. And until I say so, there will be no new king."

"Drama queen."

"You bet your ass I'm a drama queen- and a fucking king." Thanatos huffed up like an irate lion; "Malreus is the best candidate, yes, I agree, but he's not king yet and neither will he be until Hades and I decree it."

"My apologies, your majesty." I smirked into my glass. At least he'd admitted that Malreus was good for his daughter. That was a step in the right direction...

"Now," Thanatos looked around the empty balcony and shooed away the two servants who stood by the double doors. They stepped out and closed the entrance to the arena. "Since you're so talkative this morning, how about you let me use that pretty mouth of yours for something else?"

I giggled as his hand travelled up my leg and slipped under my dress. Thanatos grabbed my wine glass and placed it on the table behind us.

"What did you have in mind?"

Thanatos climbed on top of me with hunger and growled lustfully; "Oh, something to tire us out a little bit; perhaps even a bit of biting."

"Biting sounds good."

"Just wait until I'm moaning your name..." He whispered in my ear and wrapped his claws around my waist; "Now that'll sound fucking good."

Theia's POV

"You look amazing!" Rhode squealed when I rounded the corner of the wide hallway.

I squealed just as loudly when I saw her dress. Her dark brown hair was curled and pinned up on her head, with a few strands hanging at the back, down her spine. Her dress was a dark, metallic silver colour, with long lace sleeves and a beautiful pearl finish at the front. It was simple, but utterly stunning.

"Me?" I scoffed and quickly ducked in to hug her; "Look at you! You look so gorgeous! Who made it?"

"Mama got Aphrodite's tailor to do it. He's fantastic!" Rhode gushed and waved off my delight at her dress and directed her eyes to my own. She shook her head; "Oh, but never mind that. Theia! Wow! You look like the goddess of beauty herself! Not even Aphrodite can compare..."

"I must agree." Asclepius walked up behind me with a smile. His dark purple toga was adored with dark silver trimming and on his head he wore a golden laurel crown. "Hello, cousins." He leaned in to kiss my cheek and did the same with Rhode. They weren't technically first cousins, but they were family.

"Good evening, your majesty." I smirked and made a small curtsey. I loved teasing Asclepius with his royal status. He didn't mind- he loved it, actually.

"So, are you ready for tonight?" He asked with a small, haughty grin. Rhode nodded eagerly and grabbed my hand, "Definitely! Come on; I don't want to miss the opening!"

"Joining us?" I beckoned him to join, but Asclepius shook his head with a smile; "Can't sorry. Pater wants me to sit with them for the opening. I'll catch you afterwards!"

"Sure thing!" I yelled back and followed Rhode as she led me to the outside.

My breath hitched as the doors opened and I was bathed in the torch light of the fire lanterns that stood regal and ready along the stone pathway.

The vast gardens were magnificent.

There were lanterns and lights hanging from all the trees, even the tallest ones. The marble paths were lined with tall torches and there were sofas and chaises aligned along the flower beds, all covered with fur blankets and throws and the most beautiful wool cushions. The tables were packed with different kinds of foods, desserts and fresh fruits.

There was a fountain of Nectar flowing past the waterfall and next to the large bath pools, was a large orchestra playing smooth, but lively music. Some gods and goddess were already dancing and swinging their hips to the tune of the drums and acoustic instruments.

I spotted my parents laughing and chatting alongside Uncle Hypnos, Aunt Trita and Sonya. Uncle Barrios walked back over to them with a fresh drink in his hand for himself and his wife.

Suddenly, a hand pulled my wrist towards the sharp left and I yelped from the sudden tug.

"Tea-tea!" My little cousins shouted at me with glee. "You're here!"

'Tea-tea' was Phobetia and Phantasa's cute, little nickname for me. They loved giving everyone nicknames and flat-out refused to call us by our real names. The twin girls were definitely adorable, but also incredibly energetic.

"Hello, sweeties!" I knelt down in front of them, careful not to stain my white dress. It was beautiful and I'd nearly cried when I saw it- it was everything I'd wanted. Then again, I did tend to be emotional with things like this.

"You look so pretty!" Phantasa said with a cute grin and ran her hand over the small little bow I'd made at my shoulder. The dress was light and airy. The top layer was transparent and made from the most beautiful material. The bottom layer was silver and glistened in the moonlight and the slits at my legs allowed you to see how the dress danced and swayed whenever I walked.

My waist and top half was lace and a rich white. The thin straps at my shoulder held the tight-fitting dress against my body and the small, lint like bows on top of my shoulders created a princess-like effect. My jewellery was simple- just a few silver rings on both my hands and a pair of dainty, diamond earrings my mother had given me a few years back. Around my neck, I wore the aquamarine necklace my father had gifted my mother a very long time ago. She'd let me wear it for tonight, because it fit so well with everything.

My hair was done into two small braids and pinned at the bottom of my head, above my neck into little spirals. Phobetia ran her hand over my little braided bun and giggled; "I like this! Can you make it for me sometime too?"

"Of course, sweetie." I giggled and pulled them in for a hug; "And don't you two look so beautiful tonight too!" I pinched their cheeks and Phobetia laughed, but Phantasa shyly looked down when I complimented them on their matching blush pink dresses.

They were very alike and identical twins, just like my brothers, but their personalities did different slightly. Phobetia, the goddess of nightmares and the eldest one, was slightly more mischievous and confident, whereas Phantasa, the goddess of sweet dreams, was more bashful and polite. Although, both of them were beyond naughty- especially together.

"There you two are!" Morpheus jogged up to us with worried eyes. My cousin nearly always looked like he was about to have anxiety attack whenever his little sisters were near. They were little demons and he was honestly the nicest guy you'd ever meet. I pitied him sometimes- they really took advantage of his good heart.

"How many times must I tell you two not to run off like that?"

"Momo!" Phobetia whined and wrapped her little arms around my bicep. "We're talking! Come back later!"

"Gods, Theia. How in the hell do you deal with your twins?" Morpheus asked and leaned down to hoist his two sisters over his shoulder. They squealed and laughed, both angry that he was taking them away to their other and also because it was so much fun when he played rough with them. They loved being thrown and tossed around like dolls. Nothing scared those two!

"I don't." I chuckled and followed my cousin to where our parents stood chatting; "I sort of just hand them each a knife and let them sort things out between the two of them."

"I'd rather not arm these two imps. The world might implode."

I laughed loudly and grabbed us each a wine glass when a servant passed me with a silver tray of drinks.

Morpheus called to his mother when we neared their little group; "Mama..."

Aunt Trita looked up from her husband's face and put her hand on her hip when she spotted her two little devils. "You found them. Good."

"Where the hell have you two been?" Uncle Hypnos asked sternly and Morpheus carefully put the girls back on the ground so they could face their punishment.

Phobetia ran right towards my father's leg and clutched on like a monkey; "Uncle Thana! Help!"

Phantasa saw the plan and quickly did the same; clutching onto the other leg. She normally followed whatever her older sister did. Phobetia was a real instigator among the little ones. "Help us!"

My father chuckled; "I don't think your pater is going to like that very much..." He shot his twin brother a sly smile and Uncle Hypnos' eye twitched. Nowadays he nearly always looked tired. The twins had him up at all hours of the night; playing games, chatting his ear off and trying their hardest to keep him up with them. In the morning, when dawn breaks, they fall into a deep slumber and he has to go to work.

Life was unfair...

"Phobetia. Phantasa." Their father said strictly and they immediately dropped their antics and diverted their full attention to him. "Come. Let's go get you some juice." He grabbed their hands and led them towards the buffet table nearby.

My father chuckled; "Let me go help." He followed close behind his brother for moral support, but honestly, I just think he enjoyed seeing his twin suffer. Especially after having Hypnos tease him for so many years when Casseus and Claudeus were born. They were the naughty ones, but then Aunt Trita gave birth to Phobetia and Phantasa and oh boy...

They're a handful.

Speaking of which...

Claudeus leaned over my mother's shoulder and wiggled her fresh glass of wine in front of her face. He was tall- nearly as tall as father. Mater smiled; he'd clearly been instructed to fetch her another drink and I knew Claudeus didn't like playing servant.

"Mama." He said and she took the glass form him, placing a kiss on his cheek. He pulled a stiff smile, but I knew he secretly loved it when my mother smiled. Like I'd said before- the twins were very protective of our mother.

"Thank you, darling."

"Look who decided to join..." My brother said teasingly as he adjusted his crown. His white toga had a black trim at the bottom and our crowns were both silver, instead of gold, like the royal family.

"Nice rings, Claw." I said with a small smile. He hated it when I called him Claw; so I did it as much as I possibly could.

"They're father's." He narrowed his eyes at me and twisted the one ring around his middle finger. It was silver and finely polished. "And they look great on you." I said with a smile and leaned in to hug my little brother. He pulled away, but I was forceful.

The rest of the group had continued with their conversations, but Morpheus moved over to my side to talk. "So this is the dress you've been keeping a secret for nearly two months? It's stunning, Tea."

"Thank you." I shot Claudeus a glare, while my arm was wrapped around his muscled bicep. "Why haven't you complimented me yet? I'm your sister."

"Why are you being so annoying tonight?" Claudeus asked, but I spotted a small smile crawling up his face. He hid it behind his beer.

"Where's Cas?" Morpheus asked and darted his eyes around the gardens. My cousin's toga was a deep red and his crown was silver, just like ours.

"Probably chasing after a nymph." Claudeus said confidently and smiled at Morpheus; "Why don't you try and 'find' him with your gifts, Morp?"

These 'gifts' Claudeus were talking about, were certain abilities Morpheus had developed when he was just a baby. Morpheus was the god of all dreams and prophecies- meaning, the future. Since a young age, Morpheus had these strange trance-like onsets and at first his parents were concerned that it was some sort of anxiety attacks, but later realised that Morpheus could see visions of the future.

It sounded petty grand, but it wasn't all that pretty when you considered that afterwards he had a raging migraine and the visions more often than not made absolute no sense.

Only after or while a certain event would take place, did Morpheus realise that that was what he'd seen in his vision. It was like a big jigsaw puzzle that he just couldn't figure out. And believe me, he's tried...

"Ha-ha..." Morpheus mockingly laughed at my brother; "I should be asking you to find him. Don't you two have like a twin connection or something?"

"I hope not." Claudeus muttered and drank from his beer.

"Oy!" Just then, the devil spoke. We turned to where Casseus was waving at us to join him, Triton, Narray and Rhode. "We're playing a game! Join losers!"

"Yeah, yeah..." Morpheus shouted back over the wide garden and turned to Claudeus; "Coming?"

"Oh, why not?" Claudeus took the last sip of his beer and followed his cousin towards the other group, but when the two men realised that I wasn't following them, they turned around with confused eyes. "Theia? Come on." Claudeus said and held out his hand for me to take.

"Later." I said quickly and pointed to Malreus standing a few metres away, talking to a young demi-goddess. "I'm going to fetch him."

"Suit yourself." Claudeus shot Morpheus a pointed look and they both smiled cunningly. I narrowed my eyes, but dropped my questions. I wanted to go find out who this girl was Malreus was talking to.

It wasn't uncommon for Malreus to attract interest; he was handsome and a prince, but whenever I saw him with another girl, I felt this surge of emotion. I didn't like it, to be honest.

I suppose I was jealous- he was my best friend.

I walked over to the two gods talking. The girl spotted me before Malreus did; his back was turned to me, but when he noticed that the demi-goddess was transfixed on me, he turned his head to find out what she was staring at.

A jolt of heat engulfed me when his jaw unhooked and opened.

I couldn't help but smile broadly when I noticed his attire. "So... You decided to stick with the blue one?" Malreus had been asking my advice on what to wear for tonight- his mother really wanted him to try a different coloured toga for this event, but he loved midnight blue. She, of course, suggested a bright silver one, but Malreus wasn't one for showing off.

I couldn't help but think that he should show off more. His muscles were so defined in this classical outfit- with the cloak hanging off his one shoulder and pinned together with the toga by a dark, lapis lazuli gem. His black hair was cut neatly and combed to the side and his stubble was short, but accentuated his sharp jaw line.

That jaw that was currently clenched shut.

"Theia..." He didn't answer my question, but instead, just stared at me with an odd look. His voice was raspy and his pupils dilated; the blue of his eyes were dark.

"I think I'll leave." The demi-goddess bowed and bid us both farewell. "Prince. Princess."

I nodded my head to her and politely smiled, but an awful feeling rushed up when I felt a shiver of delight as I watched her leave. "A friend?" I asked Malreus, but when I looked over to him I found his eyes travelling up my dress.

He cleared his throat and smiled; "No. She just introduced herself."

"Oh? Already having to bat away all the girls? It's been, what?" I checked around us to guess the time; "Maybe an hour?"

He chuckled and leaned in to kiss both of my cheeks, his hand on my upper arms. His warmth was electric. "Theia, you look..." He pulled back and shook his head; "Unbelievable."

I blushed, but confidently replied; "Thanks."

He was somewhat reluctant to let go of my arms, but pulled his hands back and stepped away from me. I smiled crookedly; "So have you recovered from your defeat?"

Malreus' smirk was back in full force. "I should be asking you that question. I do believe I won."

"Hmm." I crossed my arms and watched as a few demi-gods and nymphs passed us. They all bowed in respect and smiled at us. I smiled back courteously, but Malreus ignored them. "I think you bumped your head."

"Right..." He chuckled and my attention raced back when I felt his large hand swallow mine and pull me towards him. Malreus led us towards the dance floor. "Come on. Let's dance."

"Dance?" I laughed; half surprised at his words. "You really hit your head hard!" Malreus hated dancing.

"You always complain that I don't have fun at parties, so..." He twirled me around and gathered me in his arms. I tried hard not to blush, but it was a feeble attempt. He smirked and it was blinding. "Relax and let me lead."

"Fine by me." I shook my head with a smile and followed his steps as he started to sway to the smooth rhythm.

Malreus' one hand held me close and tightly pressed to his body. His other hand wrapped around mine and placed it on his bare shoulder. He leaned his face over my shoulder and moved his hips along the silky tempo of the song, pressuring mine to follow.

I was surprised, to say the least. We'd danced before, but he'd never really shown such confidence. Our previous dances were mostly for the purpose of playfulness and teasing- swinging around and trying to trip the other. This time, however, he was really hell-bent on impressing. I couldn't tell if he wanted to impress me or the crowd, but he was certainly managing both easily.

"Have you been practising?" I asked with a shocked laugh and leaned in to his embrace. He swung me around the dance floor as easily as if I'd weighted nothing.

"Perhaps."

"Well, it definitely paid off." I said jokingly and giggled when he twirled me around with one hand and forcefully grabbed me back to enclose me in his embrace again. He was strong.

I knew that's- it just... This was a different kind of strength than when we were sparring. This was...

I blushed.

"Are you getting hot? Do you want to take a break?" Malreus noticed my red cheeks and I quickly shook my head; "No, no! I just... Um, thought about how embarrassing it would be if I fell while all these people were watching."

Malreus laughed and in turn, held me closer, pressing me against his chest and whispered; "Don't worry; I've got you."

"Thanks."

The next song started up quickly, the band barely finishing off the previous one, before switching to a slower and more passionate sonata. Malreus slowed down his feet and pressed his cheek against mine. He whispered; "How much do you want to bet that either Triton or Casseus is going to set something on fire by accident?"

"Ooh, you're on." I glanced over at my brother and the prince of the sea. They were standing talking to a group of young Dryads. Dryads were women of the forest and often described as the spirits of trees in the shape of beautiful women.

"My money's on your brother." Malreus chuckled and swung me around so he could get a look at the two subjects.

I smirked; "Nah, I think Triton's going to mess up. He's already drinking nectar and the opening ceremony hasn't even begun."

"Damn. You might be right..." Malreus cursed, but smiled to himself.

I looked up at him, pulling my face back to stare into his eyes. "What are we betting this time?"

He looked down at me and I realised that our faces were a bit too close. "The loser gets to shine my sword."

I rolled my eyes. "That's no fun for me if I win. You shine your sword anyway, vlaka."

"Then don't win." He shrugged, as if it were the most simple and obvious solution.

"No; how about the winner chooses where we go hunting next?"

Malreus thought about it for a second and then his eyes lit up- clearly he'd just thought of a plan. He grinned down at me; "Alright; I'm in."

"Excellent. I already have our trip planned."

He scoffed; "Ah-huh. Well, you'll have to save it for another time. I'm going to win." Malreus pushed me back and swung me around in a circle. I yelped in surprise at the sudden change. He pulled me back and I slammed into his hard chest.

Malreus smirked down at me; "Whoops."

"Whoops my ass." I muttered and pinched his side. He jumped back with a giggle and his eyes lit up with mischief.

Before he could retaliate, a booming voice spoke over the gardens. The emperor stood on his stage, his hand high and his smile wide; "God, goddesses and guests..." Apollo clasped his hands together. "Welcome to the annual King's Ball!"

A loud, happy cheer erupted from all across the royal gardens- from the farthest corner to the large group of nymphs and centaurs standing beside Malreus and I. Everyone seemed to be in the best of moods. Even our parents, who stood close to the stage, lifted their drinks and saluted the emperor with wide grins.

The three kings under the emperor's governance stood closest to him- my father, Malreus' father and King Poseidon. The three queens stood nearby, their faces lit up with delight. My mother laughed as Aunt Persephone leaned in and whispered something to her and Aunt Amphitrite. They were all in such a relaxed mood.

The empress joined her husband on the stage and in her arms, she held my youngest cousin, Orpheus. Little Orpheus was the youngest child among all of us here. To be honest, Orpheus had been a bit of a slip-up- Aunt Hemera and Uncle Apollo never planned for him, but they were elated when he was born nearly two years ago. Orpheus was only eighteen months and at first, Asclepius didn't like the fact that he wasn't the only heir anymore, but he soon grew used to the little bull. Now, he loved his little brother more than anything and it was slightly odd to see Asclepius pay attention to someone other than his own reflection.

Asclepius joined his parents and little brother on stage and I waved at him from the crowd. He winked at us.

The emperor continued; "I'll keep the speeches to a minimum tonight, but in return, I ask that you extend the cheers and toasts!"

I loud and joyous applause rang up all round us and it carried on a bit longer than usual, in accordance with the emperor's wishes. Everyone was clearly ready to party.

Apollo continued with his short speech; thanking those who made a great effort for tonight and introducing the opening ceremony- a fire show with traditional dancers and snake-charmers. The night sky exploded with fireworks and a large gun exploded with fire, signalling the start of the ball. The cheers were deafening.

I grabbed two tumblers filled with a rich, bronze-coloured whiskey and handed one glass to Malreus. "Cheers!"

We clinked our glasses and swung back the contents until our tumblers were empty. He whistled in approval; "Perhaps it'll be you and I who set something alight tonight?"

A servant came to take our empty glasses and provided us with fresh ones. We toasted again. "I don't think that would be too bad, do you?"

"Hmm, why leave all the fun to the others?" He smirked and drank deeply.

Although, by the end of the night, something did catch fire, but it wasn't our fault in the slightest.

Triton had accidentally bumped against a servant, who in turn had dropped a pitcher of bourbon onto one of the fire mages, which lead to a whole patch of the empress' Jacaranda trees to burn down.

She didn't seem to mind too much, although, she might later, when the Nectar had worn off.

All in all, the festival was a roaring success; mainly because I'd won my little bet with Malreus, but before the celebrations were over, a servant had beckoned Narray and I to the side, his sombre voice cutting through our lively giggling.

"Princess." He addressed me; "My lady." He shifted his eyes to Narray; "The king would like a word."

There were technically three kings now, but from the pale look on the servant's face, I had the feeling I knew which one he was referring to...

"Pater, what's the matter?" I crossed my arms over my chest and shot Narray a curious, side-long look. She parted some of her blonde hair from her face and pulled nervously at her gold dress.

My father's toga was more adorned and a bit longer than the other men's. His, Hades and Poseidon's were very similar in style- fit for kings. It was black and pinned to his right shoulder with a bright, garnet gemstone. It was the same shade as his eyes- those eyes watching us so closely; "We've received some news. There's been a fire in Leibysos."

"Oh. That's..." I shook my head and tried to find the right word. This horrid news was so reversed and strange in the midst of all the fun. "...awful."

"Was it an accident?" Narray asked quickly. She seldom had time for open sympathy. She was very different from her parents in that respect, but only in appearance. Narray cared deeply- she just hated others seeing it.

"It was, or so the reports say." Thanatos, the god of death, muttered. My father didn't sound convinced.

"You believe otherwise?" I posed the question and he nodded. "About thirty mortals died, but the estimate could be misconstrued. I want you both to head out to Leibysos tomorrow and figure out what caused this 'accident'. Take Malreus too."

"Alright, uncle." Narray nodded quickly, but I could see the reservation on her face. We'd be missing the festivities- the king's ball usually lasted a week and on the second day there were large banquets held in every room of the great palace. But duty called...

"Papa..." I spoke up just as he turned to leave, satisfied that we knew what to do. "Do you think this could all be connected somehow?"

My father looked down for a moment and back up into my red eyes with his own ruby gaze. His voice was recognisably apathetic. "I can't say..."

Theia's Dress...