Aides (COMPLETED)

Seventeen

Tenderness shoots through my core as I wake up from the day before. Images of the night replayed in my head as I went to the bathroom mirror. I had never seen a creature or beast of that nature; what kind of monster was he?

I splashed water in my face and see the aftermath of the fight; only a few scratches formed on my face and cheeks while a trail of dark bruises caressed my legs.

"Good-morning goddess Kore" two demons exclaimed as they come into my room. I recognized one as the demon from before. "The king has sent us to mend any bruises and scratches you may have"

I nod silenty and let them work. They each take a ball of black tar from a jar and rub it onto my body; instantly the bruises were healed.

"Goddess Kore" a tall solider comes in, "The master said to keep all eyes on you today. You are advised to not leave the palace."

"Of course. Surely the master knows all" I scoff, sarcastically curtsying to the floor.

"Due to the events of yesterday... he deemed it necessary. We are aware that an attempt was made on your life. He is fearful you might try to escape again"

"He is stricter than my mother" I curse him and turn to the window.

"He only does it to protect you my lady."

"To protect me? Where was the same sentiment when he KIDNAPPED me from my home? I wouldn't paint him as the most protective guardian" I smirk, annoyed at his defensive tone.

The solider knew not to speak against the king and instead, shifted the conversation to one of praise. "You are alive because of the King; even a full godess could have perished under the touch of an incubus. Not only did you sneak away but foolishly stepped into the forest of darkness. That river you wished to seek is deadly; a lake of fire is concealed beneath its core leading to the depths of Tartarus."

"Well... I was deceived into thinking it was less of a danger than it was" I admit.

"Tartarus is a dangerous place. Only those with the evilest intentions may pass there; you are lucky you only have a few scratches" he warned me. I sit in silence as I finally realize the severity of the situation.

"An internal investigation was launched. The king had us question every person in town"

"I see" I whisper and stand to face him, wondering if he knew it was his mistress that led me astray. I knew by the tone in his voice, he was aware.

"I bet you won't tell him. He will never forgive himself knowing she was the cause." I cross my elbows adamantly, fuming at the idea of her maintaining her innocence.

He said nothing as he stood silent at the realization.

"I presume he was under the sheets with her when he heard the news of the barrier?" I seethe.

"Your door will remain unlocked from now on so you are free to explore the castle. Ask any guard to direct you to any place you like" he announces, quickly changing the subject.

I inspect his towering physique, taking in his distinctive features. He wasn't a demon like the other servants. He was quite handsome; his skin pale and cold.

"Helius" he introduces himself.

"Yes....thank you Helius" I dismissed him. He nods, bowing his head and left me alone in my quarters.

——

The last of the demons came into my room to prepare me for the day. Once they we're finished I stand to venture the palace. I refused to stay imprisoned in my room.