Sorry for the small delay, yesterday was a busy one. Here you have the intriguing chapter 7. I would love to hear your thoughts about the plot and characters. I would also advice you to check my other story (The chronicles of Sand Zone) while waiting for next chapter.
Chapter 7: Midnight surprise
Vulcanusmon continued tirelessly working in his forge. The constant clinking of hammers striking metal echoed in the spacious workshop, while flames danced in the forges, illuminating his sweaty and focused face. He had spent the entire day finishing the surprise for Venusmon, but unfortunately, time had slipped through his fingers like the molten metal he skillfully molded. Although he had promised to have it ready for that night, the coming and going of Mercurymon's orders had consumed much more time than he anticipated.
Mercurymon's orders, with their complicated specifications and demanding delivery deadlines, had absorbed much of his workday. He hadn't decided to create new weapons, but he had dedicated himself to recreating those they already had in case they needed replacement. The meticulous attention to every detail, the pursuit of perfection in every forge, had made the hours fly by unnoticed.
Now, with the sun peeking over the horizon and fatigue taking its toll on his muscles, Vulcanusmon realized he wouldn't be able to fulfill his promise to have the surprise ready on time. However, he could at least fulfill the "by night" part, even if it was in the early hours of the new day.
He had arranged to meet Venusmon in the forge at midnight, an unusual place for romantic encounters, but this time he was convinced it would be worth it. As he prepared the final details for his surprise, he wondered why his wife didn't like the workplace. The forge was an extraordinary environment, full of magic and creative energy, where flames danced and metal was skillfully shaped.
However, Venusmon always expressed a preference for cooler, more open places, an inclination that seemed to defy the logic of the warm and enclosed atmosphere of the forge. What exactly did she mean by that? Vulcanusmon was in a perpetual state of wonder at the complexity of his wife, despite being married for so long. Nevertheless, he loved her with a fiery passion, just as he did the first day he saw her.
Venusmon's mysterious personality remained an enigma to Vulcanusmon, even after years of living together. Sometimes, he wondered how two beings so different had ended up together. He, a passionate blacksmith devoted to his work and the world of the forge, and she, a goddess of love with tastes and preferences that seemed to be at odds with his own. But in that diversity, they found the spark that kept the flame of their love alive. Every day was an adventure, an opportunity to discover something new about each other, and Vulcanusmon enjoyed that constant excitement that bound them together. Despite their differences, they shared a deep bond and a complicity that transcended any discrepancies. That night, as he awaited Venusmon's arrival, he allowed himself to immerse in his thoughts, wondering how his wife would react this time.
The hours passed quickly. His work was interrupted when someone knocked on the door of his office. With a courteous gesture, the blacksmith opened the door, revealing the elegant and radiant figure of his wife. He watched attentively as she entered, instinctively searching for a place to sit. However, in his workshop, there were no furniture for receiving guests; every corner was occupied by tools, materials, and projects in various stages of development. It was a space consecrated exclusively to his work, where each forged piece came to life under his skilled hands.
Venusmon, unable to find a suitable seat, chose to remain standing, with her arms crossed over her chest and a palpable expression of impatience on her face. The stifling atmosphere and high temperatures of the forge were not to her liking, and her discomfort was evident in every gesture and movement. Despite her resistance, she struggled to maintain composure and hide her discomfort, knowing that this meeting was important to Vulcanusmon.
"I'm very sorry for not being able to fulfill my promise on time, Venusmon," apologized Vulcanusmon sincerely, his voice resonating with a hint of regret. "I didn't manage to finish your surprise for the appointed date, but I assure you it has turned out splendidly."
Vulcanusmon's words of apology had barely left his lips when Venusmon immediately understood what surprise her husband had prepared. A new piece of jewelry. Although she generally didn't consider herself a vain Digimon, the quality and beauty of the jewelry Vulcanusmon gave her had managed to change her opinion. Her large jewelry box already housed an impressive collection of fifty pieces, and this would be the fifty-first, completing a variety that included everything from delicate earrings to exquisite necklaces, dazzling bracelets, and elegant rings, each one unique and different, like a reflection of the creativity and skill of her beloved Vulcanusmon.
Despite his rugged appearance and his work in the forge, Vulcanusmon constantly surprised Venusmon with his sensitivity and delicacy. It was a fascinating contrast with his rough appearance and his ability to handle fire and metal with mastery. Often, Venusmon marveled at how her husband could create works of art with his skillful hands and, at the same time, have such a tender and compassionate heart. Every gesture and every word of affection from Vulcanusmon resonated in Venusmon's soul, reminding her how fortunate she was to have him by her side. However, it was something the goddess easily forgot.
As Vulcanusmon knelt before her, Venusmon admired how the carefully crafted golden ring sparkled in the light of the forge. Every detail of the ring seemed to have been meticulously designed to enhance the beauty of the central diamond. As she took the ring between her fingers, Venusmon could feel the delicacy of the cut and the perfection of the setting that held the brilliant diamond. Although the ring seemed imposing at first glance, its surprisingly light weight made it even more special. As she held it up before her, Venusmon could see her clear reflection in the polished surface of the diamond, capturing a gleam of excitement in her own eyes as she admired the gift from her beloved husband.
"Do you like it?" Vulcanusmon asked, eager to hear his wife's opinion on his latest creation.
"How could I not like it? It's an extraordinary piece. Every day you surpass yourself more, darling," Venusmon replied, using a term she rarely employed to address him.
Vulcanusmon felt relieved to hear Venusmon's words of praise. He had worked diligently on the ring, hoping it would be perfect for her. The tenderness in her words and the use of the term "darling" made him feel a comforting warmth in his chest.
"I'm glad you liked it," Vulcanusmon responded with a sincere smile, feeling reassured by Venusmon's appreciation. "I wanted it to be something special for you."
Venusmon nodded, delicately holding the ring between her fingers. Despite her usual reserve, she was moved by her husband's gesture. "It truly is. It's a unique piece, just like you."
Venusmon's words filled Vulcanusmon with gratitude and affection. He often wondered if he could live up to his wife's expectations, but at that moment, his heart swelled with pride and satisfaction as he watched her admire the gift.
As Vulcanusmon enveloped Venusmon in a warm embrace, expressing with gestures what sometimes words couldn't convey, his multiple arms surrounded her firmly but with an unexpected tenderness. It was as if those strong limbs were the pillars that supported their shared world, but also the chains that bound her to a reality that sometimes felt suffocating.
For him, every moment with his wife was invaluable, and he wanted her to feel how important she was to him. Seeing the subtle smile on Venusmon's face, Vulcanusmon felt relieved and filled with joy. However, for Venusmon, the contact with her husband was a constant reminder of the complicated web of lies they were trapped in.
Although his arms conveyed a sense of protection and security, for Venusmon they also represented the invisible bonds of their marriage. It was as if those same arms that embraced her with love also kept her imprisoned in a world of deceit and falsehoods. Despite the comfort she found in Vulcanusmon's embrace, she couldn't help but feel the weight of the truth threatening to crush her.
The word "husband" echoed in her mind like an unpleasant echo, reminding her of the lack of sincerity in their relationship. Although Vulcanusmon seemed oblivious to the reality of their marriage, for Venusmon it was a burden she silently carried, hidden beneath layers of diplomacy and false smiles. It was a contradiction that left her confused and torn between the desire to escape and the need to make the blacksmith feel loved.
After the exchange of affectionate words and gestures, Venusmon decided to leave, arguing that it was late and too hot in the forge. Vulcanusmon understood her desire to leave and let her go with a look full of understanding. Although his arms still longed to hold her, he knew he had to let her go, at least for tonight.
"Alright, my love," Vulcanusmon said softly, watching Venusmon prepare to leave. "I understand. I wouldn't want you to fall ill from staying here too long."
Venusmon offered him a grateful smile before turning to leave through the door. However, before crossing the threshold, she paused for a moment and looked back, meeting Vulcanusmon's gaze.
"Thank you for understanding, darling," Venusmon replied with a glint of gratitude in her eyes. "I promise I'll be back tomorrow before you know it."
"No need, I'll be back home tomorrow morning," Vulcanusmon assured with a comforting smile. "Have a good rest, my love."
With one last goodbye in the form of a gaze filled with affection, Venusmon left the forge, leaving Vulcanusmon immersed once again in his work. Despite the late hour, his dedication to the projects for Mercurymon burned with the same intensity as the fire in his forge.
When Venusmon arrived at her island, approximately an hour after leaving the forge, she delighted in the sight of her home illuminated by the light of the full moon. The night breeze played with her hair as she walked towards the terrace, feeling the soft creak of the wood beneath her feet. After a long and tedious day, she longed for this moment of peace and tranquility.
She reclined on a comfortable wicker divan, wrapped in a soft blanket, and let her eyes wander to the silver glow reflected on the sea. The night was serene, with only the whisper of the waves breaking the silence of the night. However, her moment of tranquility was interrupted by footsteps approaching her. Venusmon couldn't help but feel a slight startle, but she decided to keep her composure and continue gazing at the sea, pretending to be distracted.
The steps halted behind her, and then sturdy arms enveloped her from behind, wrapping her in a warm and comforting embrace. Although she felt surprised at first, she soon recognized the presence and familiar strength emanating from those arms.
"I didn't expect you," Venusmon said, turning her head slightly to meet Marsmon's gaze.
"You didn't have to expect me," Marsmon replied with a confident tone, but with a glint of complicity in his golden eyes.
Venusmon knew it could only be him. Marsmon always appeared to her at the most unexpected hours, defying the danger of being discovered by Vulcanusmon. It was risky, but that only heightened the excitement of their encounter.
"I knew it could only be you. Who else would dare to present themselves before me at this late hour, risking encountering my husband?" Venusmon let out a slight laugh, although she knew the situation was far from funny. Marsmon's presence always stirred a whirlwind of emotions within her: excitement, danger, and a touch of anticipation.
"Touché," Marsmon replied with a mischievous smile, making it clear that he enjoyed the cat-and-mouse game they shared. It was as if they were both dancing on a tightrope, with the risk ever present but the thrill of adventure making them feel alive.
"Marsmon, what do you want?" Venusmon asked, with a hint of impatience she could barely disguise. Her eyes, both amused and captivating, locked onto Marsmon's, awaiting a response she already knew but enjoyed hearing from his own lips.
"You know perfectly well," Marsmon replied suggestively, his intense gaze sparkling with a hint of complicity. He knew how to play the game, how to keep her on edge, and he loved every moment of it.
"Don't play games with me," Venusmon warned with a mischievous smile dancing on her lips, although deep down she knew Marsmon was enjoying the situation as much as she was. There was something thrilling in the dance of seduction between them, a dance of words and glances that kept them captive in a dangerous yet irresistible game.
"This isn't a game. Vulcanusmon won't come until tomorrow morning, right?" Marsmon asked, suddenly changing the tone of the conversation. His expression turned more serious, his golden eyes shining with intensity as they searched Venusmon's for confirmation.
"Indeed," confirmed Venusmon, feeling the tension in the air as she maintained eye contact with Marsmon. There was something in the way Marsmon looked at her, something that made her desire more than she knew she should. But in that moment, amidst the shadows of the night and the whisper of the wind, she couldn't help but succumb to the magnetism of his presence.
Marsmon loved always feeling one step ahead of Venusmon, and she enjoyed indulging his ego. When they met, she adopted an innocent and naive attitude, qualities that were not natural to her, to make Marsmon feel imposing, important, and proud. It was a dance of roles they both knew well and that fueled the tension between them.
Upon hearing his question about the night, Venusmon turned her head and rested it on Marsmon's sturdy shoulder. The softness of her gesture contrasted with the hardness of Marsmon's muscles, but together they created an image of harmony that never ceased to fascinate Venusmon.
Like Apollomon, Marsmon was a strong and muscular Digimon, and that was one of the things that attracted Venusmon to him. His imposing presence awakened in her a mixture of admiration and desire, an attraction she couldn't ignore.
"Can I spend this night with you?" Marsmon asked, his tone firm and powerful had changed, revealing his hesitation. There was a hint of vulnerability in his voice that did not go unnoticed by Venusmon.
"Tonight I just feel like contemplating the sea..." Venusmon responded, hinting that she was not interested in having company that night. There were moments when she preferred to be alone, lost in her own thoughts and in the serenity of the nocturnal landscape.
Upon hearing this, Marsmon abruptly let her go and began to walk away towards the exit, as if accepting Venusmon's refusal. However, before he could take another step, Venusmon stopped him with an intense look and a soft but determined voice.
"However..." Venusmon added, her voice soft and seductive, "...you can stay." The invitation was clear, and Marsmon couldn't help but feel a spark of excitement inside at the possibility of spending more time with Venusmon, even if it was just to contemplate the sea in silence.
A smile spread across Marsmon's face as he approached Venusmon again and embraced her. He reached out for her hand, but she hesitated momentarily. With her other hand, Venusmon removed the ring Vulcanusmon had given her and tucked it away in the folds of her tunic before taking Marsmon's hand.
"I hate that we have to keep this a secret," Marsmon said, letting out a sigh laden with frustration. His eyes reflected a mix of desire and sorrow for the situation they were in.
"But it has to be this way," Venusmon responded with determination, her voice resonating with a firm but melancholic tone. "We can't allow my husband to find out." There was a note of resignation in her words, as if she accepted the inevitability of their situation, though she longed for a change.
The simple term "husband" cooled the atmosphere between them, creating an invisible yet palpable barrier that separated them. It was an uncomfortable reminder of the truth they shared but neither wanted to openly confront: their loveless marriage, based on lies and deceit.
Despite their situation, Venusmon sought seriousness in her extramarital affairs, a semblance of authenticity in a world of falsehoods and appearances. However, all her lovers thought they were the only ones, trapped in the illusion of being special to her.
Marsmon was no exception; he was drawn to Venusmon's rough, powerful, and proud character, but she didn't make it easy for him. There was a complexity in their relationship that neither could ignore, a dance of repressed desires and emotions that kept them trapped in an endless cycle of desire and disillusionment.
"Perhaps it's time to go inside. It's starting to get cold out here," Marsmon suggested, his voice resonating with a mixture of impatience and a desire to control the situation, as he looked up at the starry sky with an indecisive expression.
"No," Venusmon firmly refused, a mischievous spark gleaming in her eyes. "I plan to stay out here all night. It's a perfect night," she added with determination, savouring the moment and wishing to prolong it a little longer before yielding to Marsmon's wishes.
Venusmon's response puzzled Marsmon, who felt a mix of frustration and admiration at his lover's stubbornness. He knew he couldn't hold her back if she was determined to stay, but that didn't prevent him from feeling vexed by the situation.
"I'll stay a while longer and then I'll leave," Marsmon declared finally, trying to maintain composure in the face of Venusmon's resistance. "We have the big event tomorrow," he added, reminding her of the importance of their commitment, though his tone betrayed a hint of discontent at not being able to convince her to leave with him.
"You're right. I forgot. Good luck," Venusmon responded with a sweet and enigmatic smile, bidding farewell with a gesture that hinted at her mysterious nature.
As Venusmon observed Marsmon's expression, she couldn't help but remember how he had volunteered to participate in the ambush on Ophanimon along with Apollomon, Mercurymon, and Minervamon. She recalled how Mercurymon had insisted on the need to keep the group small to avoid drawing attention, yet Marsmon hadn't hesitated for a second to participate in that conflict. She admired Marsmon's bravery and determination, but she also knew that his impetuosity could lead him into dangerous situations. Despite it all, she couldn't help but feel intrigued by his bold and resolute character, a quality that made him even more attractive in her eyes.
After a while of silence contemplating the sea, Venusmon and Marsmon finally decided to retreat inside the goddess's abode to spend the night together, enveloped in the warmth of their secret complicity.
With the first light of dawn, Marsmon bid farewell. As he walked away, Venusmon blew him a sweet kiss, knowing they would soon reunite in the secrecy of their forbidden romance. She watched as the sun began to filter through the horizon, filling the air with a sense of anticipation and mystery. For her, tomorrow was just another day. For him, it was a challenge: they were finally going to confront Ophanimon.