Chapter 12

"ALTHAIA, look who's here!" Henry exclaimed, gesticulating Marcus toward Althaia's throne.

Marcus gave them a hard look.

"Are you not going to greet the Queen Mother?" Henry inquired of Marcus as they stops in front of Althaia.

Marcus remained silent.

Althaia approached Henry and Marcus from her throne. "It's been a while..." She was dazed when she inhaled Marcus' scent. "You smell different..." She grinned as she forcefully yanked Marcus's t-shirt near his neck. When he saw the scar on his neck, her grin grew even wider. "I can't believe you've finally become one of us! Congratulations!"

Althaia returned to her throne and sat down, laughing. "It seems you're on your own this time; where is Hera?"

"She is too busy right now to visit," Marcus said flatly.

Althaia smiled and nodded. "Oh, really? Are you sure you guys are not planning to depose me from my throne?" She stared at Marcus, waiting for him to respond, but when she saw how serious he looked, she burst out laughing. "Marcus! Wh