I reached the top of the winding staircase, taking my time as I admired all of portraits hanging on the walls when suddenly my mark began burning and I stopped for a moment, waiting for it to disappear. When instead it began growing in intensity, I knew something was horribly wrong.
I raced down the hallway, trying to ignore the pain and bite my cheek to stop from crying out. As soon as I reached the door, it swung open before I could grab the handle and I found myself immediately smothered in kisses. The smell of floral perfume was strong in the air around me as my mother pulled back and said, "It's so good to have you home, Darling."
Her golden hair was wrapped up into an elegant bun on top of her head and she smiled sweetly as she smoothed out her white gown. It was amazing how different Gods and Goddesses appeared in person compared to their spirit form; she looked almost human standing in front of me.