Chapter 39 Lady Temptress

Words : 725 Updated : Sep 20th, 2025

Well, if I thought the day couldn't get any more interesting, the universe just had to prove me wrong. As we rode down the mountain pass toward Baron Rothgard's domain, I'll admit I was a bit distracted—and not just by the vision of feminine perfection leading our little band of warriors. No, my mind kept drifting back to a certain divine encounter the night prior. I just couldn't get over the fact that I'd been blessed—or perhaps cursed—with the attentions of the Goddess Qalena herself. One minute I'm humble (okay, maybe not so humble); the next I've got a celestial sugar mama showering me with power and smooches. Not exactly how I imagined my day going, but hey, I've always been a "go with the flow" kind of guy. Though I have to admit, the flow seemed to be getting a bit... turbulent as of late. First the Nyphorites, those ancient bogeymen supposedly come to life, and now this business with the baron's missing son. Throw in the marching orders from a literal goddess to "prepare for war," and you've got a recipe for one very confused (and admittedly slightly overwhelmed) young warrior. Still, at least the view was nice. I may have been a bit distracted, but I still managed to sneak plenty of glances at Lady Maena as she rode at the head of our column. She moved with such effortless grace, her armour accentuating every curve in a way that made my mouth go dry. I half-expected Mr. Serious (who really needed to learn to lighten up, by the way) to catch me drooling and give me a stern lecture on "proper knight conduct" or something. Speaking of Mr. Serious, he was busy briefing me on the mission details as we made our way through the winding mountain passes. The bandit problem of the baron. Sounded simple enough—we'd roll in, crack some skulls, and be home in time for supper. Though, if the baron's son was also part of the mission, I had a feeling things were about to get a lot more complicated. "So, this baron guy," I interrupted, "he just lost his son, huh? No ransom demands or anything?" "Welcome, welcome!" the baron boomed, his voice echoing off the stone walls. "We are honoured by your presence, Lady Maena." He bowed deeply, his eyes flicking toward her with obvious reverence. "Baron Rothgard." Lady Maena tone was cool and measured, betraying none of the baron's transparent eagerness. "We've come to assist you with the... bandit problem, as requested." "Ah, yes, of course." The baron straightened, though his smile seemed a bit too wide, a bit too eager. "Please allow my men to see to your horses and gear. You must be weary from your journey. I've had the finest suite in the manor prepared for your comfort." As the baron's men scurried to attend to our mounts, I couldn't help but notice the subtle shift in the Lady Baroness's demeanour. Gone was the meek, demure beauty; in its place was a predatory grace that sent a shiver down my spine. Her gaze swept over our little band, appraising each of us with a hunger that made my skin crawl. "And who might this strapping young knight be?" She purred, her eyes locking onto mine. "I don't believe I've had the pleasure of making his acquaintance." "Jolthar," I replied simply, resisting the urge to squirm under her intense scrutiny. There was something about this woman that set my instincts on edge—a coiled tension, like a snake waiting to strike. "Jolthar," she repeated, rolling the name off her tongue in a way that made my heart skip a beat. "How... intriguing." Before I could respond, Lady Maena cut in, her voice brooking no argument. "The young warrior is here to assist in our duties, my lady. I'm sure he's eager to begin." The baroness pouted but yielded to the implied authority in the Lady Maena tone. As we were led toward the manor, I couldn't help but steal one last glance at the baroness, only to find her eyes still locked on me, a predatory smile curving her crimson lips. Gods above, what had I gotten myself into?

Chapter 39 Lady Temptress

Comments (0)