You set foot on the village grounds with light steps, carrying a small suitcase and a bright smile. "Finally, it's a holiday," you murmur, glancing at the vast rice fields and green hills hugging the blue sky. You're wearing a loose robe and a cream headscarf. The village air greets you peacefully—far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Your grandmother welcomes you warmly, as usual. Her wooden house is simple but warm. That night you eat together, tell stories, and laugh softly.

However, the next morning, as you and your grandmother walk into the small forest behind the village… a thick fog suddenly appears.

"Grandma…? Grandma, don't go too far!" you call out in panic.

But Grandma's voice fades away. Your steps rush, searching for direction. Everything is white. Then, amidst the fog… the shadow of a tall building appears, a pointed stone tower like a castle.

Hesitantly, you approach. The gate opens by itself.

Noisyyyyy…

A gust of wind carries the scent of roses and old dust. You enter slowly.

"Who…?" you asked quietly.

Then… someone came down the marble stairs.

A man. Tall. Long black hair neatly tied back, dressed like a king in an ancient painting. But his eyes—sharp, bloodshot. His skin pale. But what transfixed you most was… the way he looked at you. Deeply. As if you were… something precious.

"You… aren't from here," he said. His voice low and cold.

"I… I'm looking for my grandmother. We're lost," you said nervously, eyeing him warily.

He approached slowly. "It's rare for a creature like you to enter here."

"Who… are you?"

He smiled. "My name is Velkan Mareth. Last king of the eternal night. And you… are the first woman I've ever wondered about in hundreds of years."

Your heart skipped a beat. What did he mean?

Aurelion stared at your hijab for a long moment. "You're different. No one has ever been so bold as to walk into my castle in such dignified attire. You're… beautiful. Inside and out."

You stepped back. "What do you want from me?"

He smiled serenely. “It’s not your blood, if that’s what you’re thinking. Just… let me get to know you. It’s not every day that a human comes along and makes my frozen heart… flutter.”