𝓜𝔂 𝓛𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓕𝓸𝓻 𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓘𝓼 𝓐𝓶𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓷𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓮

𝒯𝒽𝑒 𝒜𝓁𝑒𝓍𝒶𝓃𝒹𝓇𝒶 𝐹𝒶𝓂𝒾𝓁𝓎

"As much as I would think discussing the anatomy of flowers would make for an interesting topic, I don't believe it would be the best one to discuss with your future in-laws." Vivi says as she dresses me in an emerald-green gown. Its off-the-shoulder neckline and fitted bodice feature intricate lace and gold diamond-shaped embellishments. The layered skirt flows gracefully, lined with gold embroidery and revealing a luminous golden undertone. The dress is complemented by a matching choker, diadem, and ornate jewelry, with nature-inspired motifs and opulent details.

I let out a frustrated sigh as I ponder on more mundane and simple topics that would be suitable for my future in-laws that I would have to meet this morning for breakfast. "What would be the best way to impress them without feeling like I'm putting on a show?" I ask Vivi, hoping for some guidance on navigating this new and unfamiliar territory.

I watch as she lets out a thoughtful hum while tying the blindfold around my eyes before tying it around hers. "Maybe try to focus on genuine conversation and showing interest in their lives," Vivi suggests, her voice calm and reassuring. "Just be yourself, they'll appreciate your authenticity." I take a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief at her words as we both step into the unknown together.

I nod in understanding. I have no idea what to talk about. Once the final touch-ups to my hair have been made, I take in a deep breath to steady my heart. The doors to my bedroom open, allowing me to pass through and make my way through the halls. The guards in their highly reflective armor standing tall and proud with their spears as we pass through. I try to maintain a confident posture, reminding myself that I am prepared for whatever may come my way. As we approach the grand hall, I remind myself to stay true to who I am and let my authenticity shine through in every interaction. Which will be difficult.

With a deep breath in, I shudder as the doors to the dining room open. Large windows, plants, and bright with gold. That was the entire interior of the dining room. The opulence of the room takes my breath away once again. There sits the King at the head of the table. The Queen to his right, and the second prince sits next to her. The chair to the left of the King sits empty, plate and utensils absent, just like its occupant.

"Ah, Ophelia, I'm so happy you could join us for breakfast. Come, sit here beside this empty seat. My son Helios, your fiancé, would be here, but he had matters to tend to and so left shortly before you arrived." He warmly gestures as he smiles brightly at my arrival.

The King's warm welcome puts me at ease, despite the absence of Helios. "Thank you for such a warm welcome, your majesty. I truly feel so honored to be here dining with you all."

He bellows a warm laugh as he gestures for me to take a seat, making me feel like part of the family. I take a seat at the seat he gestures to me and watch as the servants serve the food. The aroma of the delicious dishes fills the room, making my stomach growl in anticipation, which causes a subtle flush to grow on my cheeks at the sound of such embarrassing noises.

"This looks delicious... May I ask what this is?" I ask as a few flaky pastry rolls baked with layers of what I believe to be spiced nectar are set on my plate. The aroma sweet like honey.

The King chuckles as he takes some for himself. "Those are Golden Nectar Rolls. They are actually my favorite pastry. The pastry is infused with a blend of rich, golden honey, fragrant cinnamon, and a hint of cardamom, creating a sweetly spiced nectar that permeates every layer." He explains as he takes a bite. Some of the nectar drips onto his chin as he savors the flavors. "They are a specialty here in the kingdom, made only with the finest ingredients," he adds with a smile.