Spirits of the Earth

The temple was abuzz with activity, more than the usual hustle and bustle of the lesser children of their order going about their daily chores. Outside the normally vibrant jungle had grown still. A tension hung in the air, even the creatures of the jungle waited in breathless anticipation. It was a day of celebration, of joy, and praise. They would make sacrifices to the Incarnation as he slumbered in his tomb below the temple; they would call out to him, praise his glory, and hope to gain his favor.

Once a month they performed this rite, this attempt to rose the Incarnation from his hibernation. They had been trying for twenty years now. Raven was in even greater anticipation than anyone else, as he always was. Once the sun had set and the full moon rose, they would try to rouse his father, and he as always would pray for him to remain asleep. Of course, his flock did not know this, he was to shepherd them as if he too was in great rejoice at the idea of his father's return. He did not look forward to the event.

Raven was young enough that his power was not complete, barely even begun to develop in comparison to his father's might. He could not hope to challenge Azrael, not for another thousand years, at least. However, as long as his father remained dormant, he was in command of the cult. Not to mention the crimes he had committed in the twenty years his father lay sleeping. The repercussions would be severe when Azrael learned of his misdeeds, but as long as his father slept he could remain unchallenged in his behavior.

Tonight would also be a night of rebirth. Initiates would come and be reborn into their dark family. He always looked forward to that. New recruits meant fresh blood and more servants to add to his growing power. He paced the halls, growing tension in him that would not pass until after the rituals completed and his father lay still asleep. The cultists and initiates would grovel as they passed him and dutifully he would mumble small words of encouragement.

Valery was growing more nervous with each passing moment, if she was alive her heart would be pounding, she could almost feel the phantom beats as she paced slightly. She hoped and prayed with all of her being that Azrael, her new god would awaken. She wanted, no she needed him, needed to find herself in his graces. She even let her blonde hair from its braid. Letting it fall in waves over her shoulders.

It was growing dark, and with that a smile crossed her face, it was her element. She hoped that Azrael would feel her, something about her, something about this night that he would awaken. Valery had an offering along with the hope to offer herself to him if he awoke. She took a deep unneeded breath  as she started to follow the slow current of people to where she needed to be.

If only Derek could see her now, he would be beside himself, he would probably want to kill her. She was going to join a blood cult, she was going to kill and put her life in danger, she was going to become a tool. Or at least that is how he would see it. He always fought his nature, too afraid to embrace it and that is what she needed, a Lord that embraced his nature, whether that be dark or not. She knew her nature would be dark, she was a vampire, a killer after all.

Valery closed her eyes, calling out with all of her heart and soul to this being, this god. Calling for his favor, calling for him in a way she herself didn't completely understand. She took one more deep breath before clearing her head and prepared herself for the celebration that was about to happen.

As the jungle rapidly darkened, Raven was approached by his priests. They helped him into a ceremonial robe; a sparkling ruby was centered on his chest, ornately set in gold. His brothers should have been there to try to rouse their father by his side, but Tempt had perished and Ashlar was far away. His throat constricted painfully at the thought of his younger brother. While he had not only allowed the demise of Tempt, had encouraged it even, he missed Ashlar dearly. It would have been better to have his younger brother by his side, but he would not bend. His brother had defied him and he would suffer his punishment until he was ready to beg him for forgiveness.

The masses trickled down to the lower chambers. A granite alter was situated in the center of the sacrificial chamber and as the crowd grew, Raven took his place, standing atop the alter, his silver eyes scanning over his precious little lambs. Fools, all of them, insignificant little worms wriggling at his feet. Only a very few of them would ever earn any form of favor from his father. They were so weak, so easily led. He pushed a few stray strands of long dark hair from his pale face.

Finally, as the flow of cultists stopped coming, and the din from the hushed whispers became a small roar, he raised both hands and absolute silence took over the room, all eyes fixated on him. This was as it should be, the miserable lesser beings in awe of the awesome might of the Mordeth Gods. He let his eyes lazily pass over them once more before lowering his hands and speaking in a silky purr, a seductive drawl to his words.

"My children! Tonight we gather beneath the full moon, once more we will pay homage to the Incarnation, my Father. Together we will cry out as one into the night and humble ourselves before his glory with a sacrifice! With our devotion we will beg him once more for his attendance!" The crowd broke into a glorious roar of cheers.

He allowed them to do so for almost a minute before raising his hands once more for silence, which was granted immediately. "There are initiates among you, hopefuls to join our great family. Step forward my children, step forward so that you may seek my father's blessing!"

Valery, along with the others gave Raven complete respect, listening to his words, they were the truth and the way. As he spoke a feeling in  the pit of her stomach started to grow stronger. A feeling similar to the moment before she killed someone. A mixture of emotion and the bodies reaction to the emotion. The strongest feeling though was anticipation.

She felt as if she stood on a ledge, she was tempting Azrael, for if he didn't respond how could she truly believe. If he couldn't hear her call her plea how could he be a god. He was undoubtedly a very powerful demon, yes, that couldn't be argued, but there were few test to prove a god, and here she was to tempt him so she could truly believe. She could feel her throat tighten and her stomach felt a bit uneasy, would she be let down? Her hope be crushed by doubt? She wouldn't know until she stepped forward, until after this ceremony.

She stepped forward as Raven called for the initiates. With each step she took her emotions grew stronger, the possibilities greater, the risk becoming more and more real. Again she called out for Azrael, praising him in her mind, begging for him with out words, would he hear her? Could he hear her? Could his shadows reach into the recesses of her mind and spirit to hear her pleas? She would find out sooner rather then later.

As she reach Raven doubt entered her mind, what if he didn't hear her, or worse that he did and found her unworthy and shunned her. She had been burned before, rejected, wanted someone so bad she could taste it but was turned away.

Would this happen again, if he rose would he refuse to show her her nature, refuse to take her offering? She felt her mouth grow dry as she stood before Raven, her mind and heart racing wildly.

With each passing moment Raven's anxiety grew, but outwardly he remained calm. For twenty years he had lead this same ritual once every month like clockwork. He did not fear making a mistake; his body could have gone through the motions in his sleep. No, what he truly dreaded was for their pleas to receive an answer. The moment his father awoke, his power and authority would lessen. Yes, the cultists would still obey his every command, would still hang on his every word, but it would be his father once again the center of attention and the true leader. Having a taste of power, he found himself loathe to give it up.

Obediently the initiates stepped forward, until they stood before him, at the base of the alter. Vaguely he wondered which of them would be found worth and which would perish. Not all initiates survived their initiation, the truly weak would be culled, the others would be allowed to bask in the glory of Azrael as long as they served with obedient devotion. Of course, there was a pleasant surprise for this month. Most of the initiates were humans, weak beings thirsting for a taste of true power. It was truly rare for another vampire to seek them out. For the most part they remained secluded in their own pockets and covens, but not this woman. Had she realized the true greatness of his line? Perhaps, they would find out.

Silence stretched over the room again as Raven regarded the initiates coolly. After a moment Raven began to recite the Tenants of Ash, and the cultists began to chant, crying out to the Incarnation, begging him to grace their unworthy selves with his presence. As Raven finished reciting the Tenants, the chanting grew louder and louder until it was a dull roar, fueling the tension and anticipation. He pulled a ceremonial dagger from his robes and offered it to the first initiate in line.

"Prove your devotion! Bleed for your God, spill it upon the alter and call out for his grace." Every member of the cult would spill their blood for Azrael, the more they were willing to spill, the greater their devotion was perceived. Of course, this was not the sacrifice, this was a mere offering from those wishing to gain the blessing of the Incarnation.

Each initiate would slice their flesh and let the blood trickle over the alter before passing the knife on to the next who would do the same. The more timid would spill less blood and not cut as deep, but a few sliced heavily into their arms, which caused Raven to grin, he lusted for the spilling crimson honey, but dared not touch any of them. He could not take any for himself during the ritual, this blood was all for Azrael, regardless of his father not being awake to drink it.

The knife was passed to Valery, and Raven glared at her defiantly. Let her prove now how much she wanted to serve his father. The sacrificial lamb would be chosen soon, but he knew that the vampire would not be it. No, his father would not have approved of him destroying her. While other vampires were considered lesser than Azrael and his line, they were still vampires, which made them more valuable than humans.

Valery could feel the hunger grow inside of her, a hunger any vampire could relate to. The sweet metallic smell, hearing hearts hammer in chest as a mixture of fear and longing filled the room. Still, she was old enough to ignore the hunger, to push the animalistic yearning to feed aside. At a quick glance from an unknowing eye she would almost look human, seeming unfazed by the blood being spilled on the alter. Finally it was her turn, and she happily took the knife. She wasn't afraid as she held her smooth milky arm out over the alter.

With a quick flick of her skilled hand she cut deep from the base of her hand to the bend of her elbow. She watched for a moment as her deep crimson blood flowed out onto the alter.

"My Lord, please accept this offering from an unworthy being, I beg thee, grace us with your presence," She spoke, her fangs gleaming in the light of the room, her words rolling off her tongue like honey. She spoke with the grace that only ancients could, her voice holding a slight accent giving a hint of her old age.

Slowly she passed the dagger on, holding her arm over the alter, not allowing her body to fully heal, letting more of her blood spill, letting her blood call out to him in a way that only blood could.

Blood was a powerful thing, the direct symbol of life and power. It held life with in it, even hers. Holding hopes, dreams, and knowledge, and here she was, letting her hopes, dreams, and knowledge pour out, exposed in a most vulnerable way. Soon her voice joined the others in chanting as her eyes rose back to Raven.

Raven gave a satisfied nod as Valery spilled her blood quite generously; also she maintained an admirable amount of control over her bloodlust. Focusing his attention back on the ceremony, now convinced that there would be no interruptions or outbursts, Raven watched the last few initiates spill their offering onto the alter. The last initiate in line handed the ceremonial dagger back to him, fat crimson drops dripping off the gleaming blade he held it up for all the cultists to see.

"The initiates have made their offerings, and now to cull the unworthy! Let us sacrifice those the Incarnation finds displeasing!" The crowd roared in anticipation. Now Raven would select those of the initiates he did not feel had been generous enough in their offerings, and they would be offered up completely, making themselves the ultimate offering.  He began to lower the dagger to point at the first initiate that he would kill to appease his father, but suddenly he froze, silver eyes darting about uneasily as he licked his lips.

The shadows on the wall danced to the flickering flames of the torches that dimly lit the chamber, but they had begun to move unnaturally, something that could have been easily overlooked, but a tingle went up his spine as he felt a presence; dark, foreboding, and immediately recognizable. He opened his mouth to continue the ritual, but the cultists had fallen to hushed whispers of excitement; they could feel his father too.

A moment later three of the initiates screamed as they were lifted from the ground by tendrils of shadow that had manifested into something solid. The shadows swirled around the screaming; thrashing forms, enveloping them completely in a dark embrace, muffling their screams of terror. For several long, agonizing seconds everything went quiet as all eyes were fixated on the three writhing shadows suspended above their heads.

Then the shadows exploded in a fine mist of crimson rain, leaving behind nothing of the initiates as their liquefied remains gently fell down upon the cultists. Raven raised both arms, eyes lightly closed as he felt his father all around him and he was drenched in the blood of the initiates. The cultists had begun cheering wildly again. The Incarnation had accepted their sacrifice, quite a bit more spectacularly then they could have imagined in their wildest dreams.

"A sign! My Father is most pleased with our sacrifice!" Louder cheers, Raven's ears began to hurt, but he could not have quieted them just then. The presence was still in the room, it had settled over them, but it lasted only a few minutes before the shadows once more danced only from the flames, and the presence was gone. The cultists slowly settled back down, a warm glow in the room. Once they were only exchanging hushed whispers again, Raven spoke. "A great sign indeed! My Father hears our pleas, but we must disperse now. Go back to your duties; perform them well to please our Great Lord."

Dismissed, the cultists began to file out of the chamber, some would remain behind to clean up the mess that had been made, as always, the alter and chamber must be clean and gleaming for the next ceremony. A priest came to the surviving initiates and began herding them away to settle them in. Some of them would need care for the wounds they had inflicted upon themselves, and they would need to be assigned their tasks.

Except Valery, no one tried to take her away, instead Raven looked down at her with a calculating gaze. When it had grown quieter, he finally spoke to her. "Little vampire full of doubt...do you still doubt my father?"

As the blood rained down Valery raised her head up, her eyes closed, basking in the power that surrounded them. He had let his power show in a way that was unusual, or at least that is what she gathered from the looks and actions of those around her, even Raven seemed a bit surprised. She quietly mumbled a praise to Azrael.

"To say anything else would be blasphemous, would it not?" She asked, bowing lightly to Raven.
"Your father, our god answered this unworthy beings pleas, I will have to offer him more next time and beg forgiveness for my doubt," She added, her head still bowed in respect to Raven.

If he had been any other beings son he wouldn't have gotten the same respect, he would have been lucky to receive any respect at all. She was an ancient and he was not, she could tell that. He was still a child compared to her, still, she couldn't let that show on her features, she banished the thoughts and feelings from her mind quickly.

"Is this a sign that your father is awakening?" She asked in a humble yet excited way. She was thrilled that it could have been her that he heard, she was even more excited that he could be awakening, that she might soon be able to find favor with him, maybe even become his bride.

The display of power was unusual, mainly because Raven had not expected any reaction from his father. Normally their rituals were completely ignored while his father slept. Raven could envy him, while he lay sleeping like a baby; it was up to Raven to flounce around going through the motion of all these tedious formalities to keep the cultists happy. They thrived off of the structure of their faith.  Of course it was necessary, the more elaborate the rituals, the more eager their followers seemed to obey and please.

He didn't have time to mull it over right now. Raven still was puzzling over what exactly he should do with Valery. It was so rare for a vampire to join their ranks that he wasn't quite sure what to make of her. Raven was young, yes, but his father's blood did run in his veins, it would be interesting to see her underestimate him, as he sensed she might. He considered her words for a moment, before shaking his head slowly.

"It means only that he recognized that we were offering him a sacrifice, and that he accepted it. If my father had awakened, we would know it by now." She seemed so very eager for his father to rise from his slumber. It immediately made him suspicious. "Why do you wish to serve my father so much? Most vampires serve their own Master, the one who made them. I know that my father did not make you, so what interest does he hold for you?"

Valery was prepared for his question, for his suspicion. She of course couldn't blame him, if there rolls reversed she would have just as much if not more suspicion. She gave him a slight bow before taking an unneeded breath to gather her words precisely.

"My maker is weak, you can barely call him a vampire with the way he acts and the values and morals he holds so dear. So I seek a surrogate of sorts if you will, a new master. A master who does not fight his nature, rather, embraces it. If I were to be able to choose of seek out a master why not seek out the strongest and beg for his favor? I will try to win as much of your fathers favor as I can, while, and after he awakens, doing all I can in his honor," Valery spoke honestly, though leaving out the part about seeking to be Azrael's wife once he awoken. She didn't know if Raven would dislike that or not considering he was Azrael's son.

Valery kept her head bowed humbly, being as respectful with her tone and posture as one would expect. Still her mind wasn't completely with her words. She thought about how else she might gain Azrael's attention. She contimplated fasting and offering her blood meals to him. Though she wondered how long she could go before her nature and need to feed would take over.

Raven made a face of disgust as Valery described the one who created her. A vampire that refused to accept their true nature was a vampire not worthy of immorality. It was sometimes a problem, when a human turned, sometimes their humanity did not let go of their souls. A sickening condition, for sure, a plague of the vampire race. Better to destroy such weak individuals, to cull them forever from their ranks. Still he felt dissatisfaction with the answer he received. She was not telling him everything.

"You are no fledgling, why did you wait so long to seek out a new Master? And more importantly, what makes you think you're even worthy of my father's time? What if he were to awaken this very moment and strike you down where you stand for approaching him?" Had his father been awake it would have certainly been possible. Azrael was not one to tolerate nonsense, but it could have been equally as possible that he would agree to give Valery a chance to prove herself to him. Raven really couldn't say for sure, as his father tended to be fickle and unpredictable.

"It took me a while to break down me and my makers bond enough to feel suitable. A makers bond is incredibly strong, and almost nearly impossible to break, and extremely hard to weaken," Valery explained softly. She felt like she was being interrogated, still she kept her cool, she wouldn't allow Raven to get under her skin. If his father had felt her unfit or suspected something about her, wouldn't he have killed her during the ceremony? Still she offered Raven a humble smile, her fangs once more glimmering in the dim light.

"I suppose if he found me unworthy I would except my fate, but if you live life with out risk you are not living at all. If I just excepted what was handed to me and hid I would not deserve my immortality, I would be a complete waste, sometimes ambition is needed to survive, especially among the ancients," She spoke, explaining the best she could. Still, even as she spoke, her words carefully selected she was not thinking about Raven. No, she was thinking about Ravens father, that was who she sought after, and she would do any extreme to gain his attention and seek and hasten his awakening.

Raven was interrogating her. So far he wasn't sure if he trusted another vampire within the cult, she was not a human, like most of the followers, and she was not of Azrael's making. Perhaps she would prove to be a dangerous wild card thrown into the deck. Then again, maybe he could use her to his advantage in some way. Only time would tell. Valery was far too eager to wake his father for his tastes, but if his father remained asleep he could still turn things the way he wanted them.

"Mmm. Well perhaps you will find a place here and perhaps not. My father will decide once he's examined you more closely. If he even notices you among the masses. You have awfully high hopes, coming here expecting something for yourself, rather than wishing only to serve." Raven didn't know exactly the extent of her desires, but she obviously wished to attach herself to his father because of power. A strong motivator, for sure, and one he could even understand.

He just hoped she didn't think to try to use his father to further herself or some obscure goal she held. Azrael was no tool, and would not accept anything other than unerring devotion. That thought gave him pause; did he actually feel protective of his father, not wishing his father to be used? Or maybe it was something else, something darker. For twenty years his father had slept, and in those twenty years his father had not so much as made a peep. Tonight, he had given a great show of power, and it just so happened that it was the night Valery's initiation. Was it an omen? He shuddered slightly and stepped down from the alter.

"We are both drenched in blood from the sacrifice...I think I will go bath now and meditate on what occurred tonight. I suggest you do the same. A cultist will show you to your room, and will prepare a bath if you wish." He paused in thought a moment. "I will also send someone to your room, please clean up after yourself, bodies are quite filthy to have lying about." He wished to feed after that, and undoubtedly she would be refreshed by a good meal as well.

Valery bowed to Raven, letting him pass and walk in front of her. She could tell he was suspicious of her, or maybe didn't even like her at all. She wondered if he some how saw her as a threat. If some how his father showing himself in such a big way made him upset, and where she was new he tied the occurrence to her. Was he jealous of her or did he fear his father rising? Or did he just fear her using his father, she couldn't tell for sure, she hadn't been around him long enough to get a good read on him.

She definitely wasn't the normal cultist there, no, yes she wanted to serve but she didn't follow blindly, she had been alive long enough to think for herself, whether or not that would be a bad thing would soon be revealed she was sure. She could understand why she could be a threat though, someone who actively seeks your fathers attention. Raven had some truth to his words, she did have high hopes, to be noticed among the masses but she would do anything to be. She had somethings going for her already, she was a vampire for one, which got her noticed already by the second ranking being of the cult, trumped by none but Azrael, so with her logic she saw that she had good chances.

So she followed Raven out of the ceremony chambers, she stopped a cultist who seemed to know what was going on and had her lead her to her room. She would wait to take a bath until after someone was sent for her to feed. She decided she wouldn't feed, no, she needed to gain more of Azrael's favor, and she had always heard that self sacrifice was one of the best ways to get a gods favor. So she waited in her room, sitting in the middle of the floor, legs crossed back to the door. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath, clearing her heart and mind. She herself had never hibernated, so she didn't know how conscious Azrael would be, still if he could have had such a powerful display earlier he had to be conscious on some level. She opened herself up, opening her mind hoping to just get another feel of Azrael, he was addicting.

There were too many things for Raven to think about and consider. He didn't have time to fool around with someone that was likely insignificant. Surely he was reading way too much into things. His father had made his display because he had wanted to and for no other reason than that, but why had he wanted to? That was the question that really nagged at him. Still, he would feel better when he was clean and his thirst was sated. Without a backwards glance, he left Valery to find her own way, she wasn't his primary concern; there were thousands of cultists to preoccupy him.

The cultist had shown Valery to her room and then had promptly left her alone. There would be no further sign from Azrael; he did not reach out to her. No, deep below the earth, in the darkest vaults of the temple, the tomb of the Incarnate lay silent and still. Azrael did not so much as stir from his dark slumber, at least there were no visible signs to say he was even remotely stirring in his sleep. The event at the sacrifice had been spectacular, but was it an isolated incident? Had he unconsciously reached out? Even Raven did not know.

There was a faint knock on Valery's door, but the cultist did not wait to be invited in. He was a middle-aged man, tall and lanky with dark brown eyes and a mop of curly brown hair. With barely a glance at her he knelt on the floor. "Lord Prophet Raven has said that I am to be your evening meal. I humbly offer myself, if it will please my Lord Prophet." His voice didn't so much as waver, he obviously was not afraid to die, and that was obviously what he expected to do.

Valery was conflicted, her body craved the cultists blood, yearned for it from the most primal place with in her. Still she wondered if she should fast or not. She couldn't even feel Azrael when she meditated which let doubt leak back into her mind. She knew she would need her strength here, she knew she couldn't let her blood lust get the best of her.

Valery stood, turning to face the man, her eyes coolly looked over him, like a starving man eying a steak.
"Lets go somewhere else, I am a bit of a messy eater," She spoke, motioning with his finger for him to follow. The whole way through the twisting halls she fought with herself. An internal war of primal need and intellectual want. Would wasting such fine blood go to waste? Would it be worth it, would be even be able to tell what she was doing, he was asleep after all. Finally she decided against it, not knowing how Raven would react to her efforts to draw his father from sleep. If she knew he would hear and accept her offer, that would be one thing, still she had too much doubt, he had shown himself once, but that was just once. She couldn't feel his mind while hers was so open and searching.

She had lead the man out into the forest, a much better place to feast, no clean up required, nature would do that for her.  She motioned the man forward and he stepped forward without hesitation. Still as her fangs moved towards his neck she fought with herself, and again she allowed the primal beast within win. Her teeth sank into his flesh with out mercy, a slight smirk on her face as the first gush of blood entered her mouth, the sweet metallic nectar only pulling her inner beast out more. She twisted her head a bit, ripping the wound on his neck viciously She could feel a small dribbled of blood fall down her chin as the mans body pulled away slightly as his knees collapsed. Her strong arms pulled him close again. Her hunger demanded every last drop and she planned on appeasing it.

((OOC: Super, mega-post incoming. I may or may not have gotten carried away...Hope this is okay!))

Raven was so conflicted he couldn't stand being alone with himself. He fed quickly and without the normal amount of gusto and pleasure he would take. Supper was followed by a quick bath to scrub the blood from his flesh. His father had certainly created a big mess tonight. Typical, Azrael causing havoc and him cleaning everything up. Why did his father get to have all the fun while he was left to do all the work? Once he was clean and dressed in fresh clothes, Raven took off through the halls, racing down spiraling staircases into the depths of the temple.

He needed some answers. The thought of whether or not his father was able to hear him would drive him mad if he couldn't know for sure. When Azrael had first gone to sleep, Raven had attempted to speak to him often, but after time and time again his words fell on deaf ears he had given up. Tonight he found that he had to try again. Perhaps if he sat there in the dark and spoke to his father he would actually be heard. It seemed counter-productive. If his father had regained even a smidgeon of awareness, he should be doing his best to squash it and let his father slip peacefully back into the void.

Instead he found himself in the lowest catacombs, eyes gazing upon the extremely grand tomb. The gold was decorated with silver veins in skeletal designs, gleaming rubies were inlaid in the eyes of skulls that were carefully preserved and piled around the base. His father had insisted on the gaudiness of his resting place. Raven though it was comically "sinister", like a child trying too hard to seem impressive. Grumpily he thought the same could be thought about him in some ways.

Now that he was down here, he wished to turn and flee back up to the surface of the temple, back to where it was safer. At the same time, he was drawn towards the sarcophagus. Inside it laid his father. Despite his desire to prove himself even greater than his father, he still found himself wishing for nothing more than to make him proud and please him. So slowly he stepped forward and laid a hand on the golden lid.

Instantaneously his mind was invaded, the presence heavy, dark, crushing. He cried out in agony and fear as it felt as if red hot pokers were being driven into his brain. It took everything in his power to push back on the presence in his mind. Father! It's me! Please! It felt like an eternity, but it was probably less than five seconds, and the presence had withdrawn to a mere trickle, a tendril of connection. It was no longer dark or heavy; it was warm and even a little regretful.

Rise, my son.

Raven blinked, he had not realized that he had ended up curled up in a ball on the floor before the tomb. Gasping he dragged himself up, both hands now firmly grasping his father's tomb for support, his legs felt unsteady. Did you not recognize me? You haven't been asleep that bloody long to forget your own son.

I was not expecting you.

You were at the ceremony. Quite a show you put on. If you're awake down here, why didn't you just show yourself? That would have really given them something to cheer about.

Why were you alone? Where are your brothers? They should have been there to greet me. That is why I did not come.

Raven's breath caught in his throat. This was a moment he had not been looking forward to at all. How was his father going to react? Slowly and carefully he let his thoughts trail along the connection to his father. Ashlar left the same year you went to sleep and has not returned. He went to raise litters out in the world. Tempt...Tempt is gone. He was slain... Raven could say nothing more, the connection was immediately broken and the very earth trembled as an anguished howl reverberated through the temple.

Cringing, he clapped his hands over his ears and stumbled back. Raven had expected that his father would be upset to learn that one of his sons had perished, but he hadn't really been certain of the absolute depth of despair that seemed to radiate from the tomb. He tried to reach out with his mind to his father again, but it was like trying to penetrate an endless darkness. Finally giving up he moved away and leaned against the far wall of the crypt, giving his father time.

Things grew silent and still again, and for a long time Raven wondered if his father had slipped away again. Had the news of Tempt's death been too much for him coming out of a sleep? His eyes closed and remained that way, just listening to the growing silence, although he could feel something stirring that made his skin crawl. Finally the sound of metal and stone scrapping pierced the silence and Raven opened his eyes, watching in morbid fascination as the lid to his father's sarcophagus slid open. A roiling darkness poured out of the tomb before taking the shape of a man.

The shadows dispersed and Azrael stood in the center of the room, head bowed in grief. "When did your brother die? How did he die?"

"About sixteen years ago, I tried to tell you, but you didn't hear me. He was murdered, and before you ask, I don't know who did it, but when we find out, they will be made to pay." He felt awful lying to his father. He knew exactly who had killed Tempt, but he would never tell anyone that secret; especially not his father. Azrael remained silent so he continued. "He's entombed here, in the shrine. Just as I knew you would want it. Come."

He held out his hand and his father took it. He showed him to a very special crypt, but he stopped at the door and Azrael proceeded alone. There in the darkness lay three ornate sarcophagi. Tempt had been laid to rest next to his grandfather and great-grandfather. This was where each Incarnate would be entombed once their time had passed. Azrael didn't so much as glance at the other tombs, all he could do was gaze at the one that held his son.

For a long time he stayed still, contemplating. Finally he turned back to Raven, silver eyes hard and merciless. "I trust you have made sure my rooms were kept waiting and ready for my return. Send me a few cultists. I need to kill something." He turned to give a final look at Tempt's tomb. Raven took that as a dismissal and turned to quickly leave and carryout his father's wishes, but was paused as Azrael spoke again. "Oh, and one more thing, bring her to me."

Raven didn't have to ask who his father meant. In no time at all he was back up within the habituated levels of the temple. Many cultists stopped him to ask what was going on. They had felt the rumblings from below the temple, had heard his father's despair. He reassured them that everything was fine, more than fine, the news spread quickly that the Incarnation had woken. He sent a cultist to find Valery and summon her to his father's chambers immediately.

Valery was pleasantly relaxing in a bath that had been drawn for her. Her eyes closed as her acute sense of smell fought to pick out whether the scented oil in the bath was jasmine or rose water. It felt nice to be clean, though she had no problem sporting around blood. Everything was fine and dandy until she felt the ground shake followed by what seemed to me a cry of grief.

She jumped out of the water, at first her mind didn't register what exactly it could be, just that it could be danger, her claws and fangs quickly at the ready. After a moment though, a robe hastily half on she realized what it was. A deeper sense of fear shot through her, not one of danger that could be fought, but of impending doom. She slowly took off the outer robe she had thrown on and grabbed a silk dress to put of before once again putting the outer robe on.

When the servant came in to call her to Azrael's chambers her heart dropped, heading to his chambers at once though her pace was a bit slowed. She didn't know if it was fear of reverence but she felt funny, a feeling she wasn't used to. Was she walking towards her death, heading to her doom? Would she be punished for her once doubtful heart, now though, now her heart was anything but doubtful. There was something in the air, she could almost feel the power that danced in the shadows, like static in the air.

She was ignorant of magic, she had never possessed of been taught it, she was once of physical skill and knowledge. She stood in front of his door, hesitating. If she was to be punished, to be killed, she decided she would die with honor. She wouldn't even attempt to fight, like the man she had killed earlier she was completely submitting to Azrael's will, whatever it would be.

She closed her eyes, releasing a long breath, her hair falling in still damp curls over her shoulder as she raised her hand to knock on the door.

The temple was like a kicked anthill, preparations were being made, and many cultists were running here and there to get a great feast ready so that they could celebrate the return of their God. Those not actively getting ready for the festival that would occur were gathering in small groups to talk excitedly among themselves. Every conversation revolved around the news that the Incarnation had finally risen from his twenty year sleep. Well, almost every conversation. A few of the cultists spoke of how it was wrong for Ashlar not to be here to greet his father, and a couple spoke in hushed whispers about how poor Tempt should have been there too, but his absence was not his fault, of course.

By the time Valery had reached Azrael's chambers, things had been set into full motion within the temple. Her knock was swiftly answered by Raven, who gave her a hard look before impatiently gesturing for her to hurry up and hissed softly to her. "When my father says jump, you jump. He hates being kept waiting." Truthfully she hadn't taken that long, but still Raven felt she could have gotten there much faster if she had wanted to. He wondered what had made her drag her feet. On second thought, he really didn't care.

Azrael was lounging comfortably in a chair, there was a cultist brushing his hair, and seeming absolutely overjoyed at the opportunity to do so. He wore only a pair of black, loose trousers and a long black robe lined in red silk, which was left hanging open. The rooms allotted to Azrael were the very finest in the temple; of course, the entire room was gilded in gold and rubies; even in the low light of flickering candles it was a dazzling sight.

The moment Valery was in Azrael's presences she kneeled before him in complete humility.
"My Lord," She stated softly. She didn't even steal a glance at her risen gods face. No, she had to humble, she had to earn his favor. She could almost feel the phantom heart beats of her long dead heart as emotions surged through her. She kneeled before a man who had people who would willingly sacrifice themselves just for his amusement. She kneeled before a true man of power, a man who embraced his nature, both the good and bad facets of it.

She could feel her throat grow dry, it felt like forever had passed though she was sure it had been only a few moments. She wished she had known what his intentions for her had been before she was summoned, it would have been a lot easier on her nerves, but she wasn't the one who mattered in that moment. She wasn't the one who mattered at all in the room, she was a humble servant at the whims of the man who she kneeled in front of.

Azrael did not acknowledge Valery as she entered and knelt. Silver eyes did not even open as he continued to lounge in his chair and enjoyed the feeling of the brush running through his hair. The girl Raven had brought to tend to him was quite acceptable, he'd decided. For a moment no one said anything at all, and the only sound was the brush stroking over his hair. Finally he stirred, waving the girl behind him away. "You're dismissed; if you are needed further you will be called on."

The cultist set the brush aside and bowed low to him before hurrying from the room, eager to obey his command. His attention turned to Raven next. "I trust you'll take care of all the arrangements for the festival. The cultists are eager to celebrate my return. We wouldn't want to disappoint them. After all, their devotion should be justly rewarded. You've a lot to do, so I'll not take up anymore of your time for now, son, you are dismissed as well."

Raven bowed deeply, murmuring a soft 'as you command' before giving Valery one last glare and leaving the room, pulling the door shut behind him. Valery was now alone with him and he turned his gaze to her, examining her and drumming his fingers against the armrest of his chair. It was almost as if he was studying a puzzle and deciding how best to place the pieces.

"My son has told me a bit about you; or at least, his impressions of you. He has told me that you have abandoned your old Master, a weak and pathetic creature, and wish for me to take his place, in one way or another. Is that correct?" His voice was soft and his tone unreadable. Was he annoyed? Amused? Impossible to say.

Valery stayed bowed, her body perfectly still, not even batting an eyelash. That was one advantage of being the undead, the ability to stay perfectly still, not even your heart beating in your chest. She waited patiently for him to speak, not wanting to even allow herself a thought of growing impatient.
Still she felt a fear in the pit of her stomach, was he angry with her, was he going to kill her for his own amusement?

Slowly the others in the room were dismissed until it was just herself and Azrael, her fear began to grow worse as well as her excitement. She doubted he would want to be alone when killing her, he seemed like he would be the type to do it in public, to make examples out of people. She considered that he could possibly even be considering her, that was until he began to speak.

His lack of tone made her stomach twist, the fear of the unknowing starting to slowly sink in. She was so used to being able to read people, but here she could not, she was at this Gods mercy.

"Yes, my Lord," She answered without hesitation, her voice sounding much calmer than she felt. She considered for a moment if she should speak more, if she should offer herself up but the words to do so failed to come to her minds surface. She took a deep breath, nerves she had long since forgot she had beginning to grow frazzled.

"My Lord, I would also like to offer myself up as your bride.... If you would find me suitable."

Azrael watched Valery carefully, observing her actions and behaviors. A trickle of satisfaction touched him as she remained bowed before him. He had not given her permission to rise in his presence and she hadn't taken the initiative to do so on her own. At least she seemed willing to show him a proper amount of respect in that regard. Still, when she decided to declare her intentions of becoming his Bride, if he was willing to accept her, was met with a cool stare and a raised brow.

"Raven did not mention that, which means you must not have told him you had such an intent. Did he not ask you why you had come here and why you wished to serve? When I am asleep, Raven is in charge, he speaks for me and when he asks you a question you are to answer it as honestly as you would if I asked it to you. When you disrespect him, you disrespect me." His eyes flashed in brief irritation, but he decided to allow the slight insult to slide for the time being. She would be made to understand.

"I also wonder if you even understand what it is you ask. Most Brides were chosen, they did not volunteer. Why do you wish to be my Bride? Perhaps even more importantly, what makes you think you are worthy of being my Bride? Is there some spectacular thing you have to offer me that I have not yet seen from you?"

Valery felt the blood rush to her face, had she already ruined her chances to become his bride? If she had a beating heart it would have been pounding. She felt all moisture in her mouth disappear, as her lungs clenched, demanding for unneeded air.

"I'm so sorry my Lord," Valery spoke in a breathy whisper, "I-I didn't mean to disrespect you."

Valery bit her lip hard for a moment as she thought about aspects of herself she could offer up to him, things he would find useful. Her mind froze for a moment, pressure making it impossible for her to grasp at the answers she was looking for, but only for a moment.

"Well my Lord, I wish to be your bride because I want to bear your children, I wish to offer my body to you in hopes you will find it worthy of bringing forth your children, hoping you will find me attractive enough," She spoke, her words a bit shaky at first, but as she spoke she seemed to gain more confidence in her words.

"I am also an assassin, I have been for over seven-hundred years, I am sure you could find use in my skills, I am also a vampire my Lord also I have the ability to read mind, well mortal's minds," Valery spoke, listing out aspects she thought he might find interest in.

It was good that she showed fear, Azrael liked striking fear into people; it stroked his ego. Also, he had reason enough to punish her, so that she seemed worried about his wrath pleased him. Perhaps she truly was contrite about the misstep, as she claimed in her apology. Yes, she was new enough that he could overlook a few small blunders. Especially if she proved to be as useful as she suggested. Clear amusement was on his features and in his voice now.

"Bear my children, hm? You've already met one of my sons, so you know I already have children, but I'm curious, why do you wish me to father your offspring? Is it because of my great power?" Wanting to seize some kind of power for oneself was at least a sentiment he could understand. He had wrestled control of the cult from his own father, after all. He knew that someday in the distant future that Raven would do the same to him.

"If I have children I want them to have a strong father so they can be strong my Lord, the weak do not survive, and I want my children to survive. I do not seek power for myself, but for my children, for my line my Lord," Valery explained, her head still bowed to Azrael. She closed her eyes, trying to force her body to relax to calm down. The nervousness would do no good, it would only make it harder for her to communicate, harder for her to answer him the way she wished.

Valery hoped that her reasons were enough, her words honest. She also hoped that he wanted more children, of course he couldn't see why he wouldn't, having many sons could only make his line stronger. Of course she was at his mercy and will, and she knew this.

Azrael regarded her for several moments longer, turning her response over in his mind. The sentiment was easy to understand, his family was quite obsessed with producing stronger offspring with each generation. He had certainly been a cut above his father. Raven certainly showed potential, but only time would tell just how powerful his son would grow to be. He was certainly not against more children, Azrael loved children, especially his own. Still, for him to have powerful offspring it wasn't enough for just him to be powerful. A strong mother for his children only ensured stronger children.

So the only real question here was Valery strong enough to not only carry his child, but survive the ordeal? His own mother had not managed to do so. She had died even as he took his first breath of life. He'd had so many Brides over the years, and all of them had failed him in the end. It had been a bit disheartening, but strangely enough, it had been his tryst with his sons' mother, not a Bride, that had finally gotten him the children he had wanted.

"You can get up now. You say you wish to be my Bride, that you wish to bear my children, and I will give you an opportunity to prove to me you are worthy of such an honor. This former Master of yours, does he still live?" His silver eyes flashed deviously, he already had something in mind.

Valery rose to her feet, still keeping her head bowed in respect. She let her arms hang relaxed at her sides, yet she was not relaxed. She knew that he was about to test her, like any other man who could have any woman he wanted. She started to chew on the inside of her lip slightly as she waited in silence.

"Yes my Lord, he still lives to the best of my knowledge," She answered softly.

Azrael's eyes flashed as she told him that as far as she knew, her Master, her Maker, was alive. There were concerns, of course, that her bond with this other vampire could cause him trouble. The easiest solution would be to simply kill him and rid Azrael of the headache. If this other vampire's bonds still held Valery to him in some ways, it would simply be unacceptable to take her on as his own. Rising from his gilded chair, almost a throne, and walked over to her. She was tall, almost as tall as him, but he knew he wasn't exactly a very tall man to begin with. Height really wasn't a measure of power.

He lifted one hand to very gently put two fingers under her chin and softly urged her to lift her head. "You want to be my Bride and you won't even look upon me? Such meekness is to be admired in some cases, but in this it isn't quite necessary. I have this dilemma, my dear. You see, to take you as a Bride is certainly not an unpleasant option, but this Master of yours could be problematic for me. I need to be sure that your bond with him is broken entirely. I will not tolerate a Bride of mine to have lingering ties to another vampire. You can surely understand my problem?"

Valery let Azrael lift her chin, not resisting him at all, her eyes finally resting on Azrael's face. It wasn't an unpleasant one, and his body was more than pleasant. She took a deep but slow breath, allowing her lungs to fully expand. She listened to him, and searched within herself, would the bond they have be an issue? She knew that Derek would not come running to her, and she wasn't planning on running to him either, she hated him.

"I understand my Lord, what will you have me do?" She asked simply, making it clear she would do anything he asked even if that meant trying to go kill her maker.

The thought had occurred to Azrael to have Valery kill this other vampire. Or to bring him to Azrael so that he could watch him die, just to be sure. Still, it was a risk, one he wasn't sure he was willing to take. Certainly he could overpower this former Master of hers, but it might get Valery killed, which wasn't what he wanted. To test her, yes, but not to put her into a potentially fatal encounter. So how else could he ensure her loyalty was to him and him alone? His silver eyes flashed as he let his fingers move from her chin to slowly stroke her throat.

"This bond with your 'Maker' as you call him, if you have truly tried to break it, would you be willing to forge a new bond, this one to me?" He had not gone to the extreme of bonding any of his Brides to himself, but none of them had been vampires and he had been unwilling to turn them. Valery was already a vampire, it did not matter if he wished to turn her or not.

Valery's eyes didn't waver, she didn't look away, there was no sign of doubt or deception as she opened her mouth to answer and leaned into his touch ever so slightly.

"I would be more than willing to forge a bond with you my lord," She spoke, her eyes seeming to light up as if the idea excited her. A soft smile formed on her face, showing the tips of her fangs. She was happy, nearly over joyed, it seemed Azrael was going to make her his bride, had she already accomplished the first step to her goal? She was almost in disbelief, nothing had come this easily to her. She was relieved he wasn't asking her to go kill Derek, knowing there was a real danger in that request but she didn't let her mind linger on that note. No. Her mind was focused on the fact it seemed that she would soon be bonded with Azrael.

Azrael smirked as Valery leaned slightly into his touch. He could tell her desire for him was genuine. Her reasoning was sound enough, and he didn't detect any deception in her words or actions. Still, there were other things he should consider, or make her consider. Yes, it would hardly be fair to drag her into his clutches without at least giving some forewarning of what hardships she might face as his Bride. Being a Bride wasn't a task for the faint of heart. If she embarrassed him he would be most displeased.

"Before I do make you mine, there is something I wish to show you. There are things you must be aware of before I can allow you to make a final decision."  He stepped back from her and waved his hand to the side. With a ripple, the shadows seemed to shimmer as the formed into a pitch-black gateway. It was impossible to see what was on the other side of that doorway. Azrael could have sent her anywhere, to her death, if he wished it.

Those silver eyes turned on her, they were cold and cruel and without mercy now, for what he would show her was not merciful in the least. No, he would not tell her happy lies to lure her beyond the point of escape. Perhaps she would run screaming from him when she learned the truth. On the other side was the tomb of every Bride that had tried and failed to please him. If she failed him he would not be any more forgiving then he had with the others. She had to know and understand this before committing herself to him.

This was another test, of course, there was no way for her to know what she was about to walk into. Would she obey without question, even if it meant walking into unknown danger? With a morbid grin, he could only watch and wait.

"Enter the door, Valery. Your God commands."

Valery watched Azrael, her smile only broadening as a smirk formed on his face, was he pleased with her? She almost desperately hoped so, he was all she could ever hope for in a master, someone to share a bond with. He would be someone who would demand she fight her nature, someone who would be able to show her how to embrace it, or at least that is how he seemed.

Her smiled faded slightly as he began to speak, as her mind began to wonder what things she would have to know. She nodded slightly at him as she watched him step back, as she watched the door form. Even her eyes could not see beyond the veil of darkness that encompassed it, something she wasn't used to. She felt a lurch of fear in the pit of her stomach still refused to permit the feeling on her face.

This would not be the first time she had stared danger in the face. There had been plenty of times that the chances that death stood waiting were much greater. She had done many risky, ignorant things with rewards that were nothing compared to what this could possibly give her. She felt her mouth go dry as she looked from the door to Azrael, hearing his words.

"As you wish, my lord," She spoke, taking the few steps that separated herself and the door.

There would be a few moments of complete darkness, as if she had been swallowed by an endless void, but then she would find herself on the other side of the gate. The tomb was dim, as all of the deepest levels of the temple were. Gold-plated sarcophagi were lined up in rows, names and dates etched into each. There were dozens of them. The flickering flames of torches caused the gilded coffins to glitter beautifully. A moment later Azrael stepped through the door after her and it closed behind him. His silver eyes moved over each dazzling resting place.

"Behold, my dear. The fate of all my previous Brides. Each one of them was beautiful, truly, treasures to be had. Each of them tried and failed to please me. If I make you mine, you will be treasured as each of my Brides was, but fail me, disappoint me, or displease me and you would share their fate. I will not, cannot show mercy. You must understand the weight of what you ask." He moved along the rows, occasionally letting his fingers glide over the engravings of women he had been particularly fond of during their time.

"I will say that I did not want any of these beautiful women to fail their duties. It greatly saddened me when they did. I hand-picked each of these Brides. All of them were virgins, and mortal, quite unlike yourself. Perhaps that is what I did wrong. After all, it was only when I took a demon for a mate that I finally got my sons. I have my heir, I need no further children, but I will be very pleased to have more." He turned to look at her again, regarding her with curiosity, gauging how she had taken what he had said.

"Do you still wish to be bonded to me? Do you dare attempt to birth my offspring?"

The darkness that engulfed her was breathtaking, and for that brief moment she had wondered if she had died, or if that was what death felt like, a cold nothingness. Finally though, when the end of the blackness came and she was in the tomb she took a deep breath. The dim tomb was no problem for her, she was a vampire and darkness was her element after all, though not so much as Azraels.

Valery turned as she heard Azrael's voice. She let her eyes follow him as he spoke, letting his words sink in. She wasn't afraid of death, she had lived a long time, longer than any of his previous mortal brides. She saw death as something that was natural, some people were just meant to live longer than others for different purposes.

Valery's eyes lowered slightly as she thought about his words, letting them sink in, letting them register, thinking about them, thinking about what might be asked of her as his bride, what would her responsibilities be, what would he ask of her.

"What would you ask of me, what would my responsibilities be, if it is alright for me to ask that my lord," She asked, her voice and eyes humble.

Azrael regarded Valery as she asked her question, he could sense something, doubt, perhaps? Maybe indecision? Was it fear? Did this new reality frighten her? Perhaps it should, or perhaps she should have more confidence in herself and her ability not to fail or displease him. He vanished in a fine mist of shadow, only to reappear behind her. One arm wrapped around her waist, gently pulling her back against him, the other hand reached up to lightly pull her hair back, exposing her neck to him, his voice whispering softly to her.

"You would be my Bride, my mate, my student. I would give you everything you could ever desire, and I would ask you for one simple thing in return: Obedience. Absolute obedience, Valery. Do everything I ask of you. Be the mother of my children, please me physically, mentally, emotionally, be my companion in the long and lonely dark of eternity. I would ask so little in return for so much." He had his heir, there was less at stake than before, the other Brides had such a short window of opportunity to give him what he wished, a son, and none had been able to do it.

Now he did not need one, but he would not object to more sons or even daughters. What he really needed in a Bride had fundamentally changed, and another immortal being would make a much finer companion than a mortal with such a short time to serve him. Yes, perhaps that was why he was willing to take Valery, his loneliness demanded that he take someone to amuse him and fight off the isolation his fate had given him.

"Will you commit yourself to me, body, mind, and soul? I give you only this one chance to flee."

Azrael knew what she had to offer yet it seemed even then he wanted her but would she forever be able to live under one's thumb. She couldn't do such with Derek but he refused her, if one loved her would she be able to subject herself to their every will. She closed her eyes, her body naturally leaning against Azrael.

As Azrael moved her hair she felt a chill run up her spine, causing her back to arch slightly against him. If he could give her everything she desired, the love, the acceptance, she decided she would be able to subject herself to his will. He seemed kind enough, he wasn't forcing her into this, even when she offered herself up he was warning her, giving her a chance to turn, to back out of it.

Valery felt her breath catch slightly as she opened her mouth, her head tilting slightly, her body relaxed against Azrael. Her body seemed to already trust him, bend to his will without her minds permission.

"I-I commit myself to you my lord," She spoke, her voice, barely over a whisper.

Time was next to meaningless for a god, and so Azrael could wait patiently as Valery turned her thoughts over in her mind. His lips pressed softly against the tender flesh of her neck as he held her against him. Her body seemed to be reacting to his touch, if the way her back had arched was any indication. That was very pleasing to know, she certainly was an attractive woman; he could only hope she found him as pleasing to look upon.

Azrael particularly liked how their closeness in height allowed her body to seemingly fit perfectly against his. Already he could imagine their bodies melting together and moving as one in a passionate embrace. His silver eyes closed languidly as her voice gave consent in a soft whisper. There was almost a rush of emotion coursing through him. He pressed another soft kiss to her neck, lower this time, where her neck and shoulder met.

"Forgive me." His voice was a husky whisper. Without explaining the apology he sank his fangs into her flesh, rather than drink from her, she would feel cold venom seeping into her. Once he was satisfied that enough of his venom had been delivered, he withdrew from the bite, which had only lasted a few seconds. His venom would spread through her entire body over the next several hours, bonding her to him quite intimately. It was a painful process, he knew, but it was necessary. It would feel like ice running through her veins, freezing and burning at the same time.

His arms held her tenderly as he waited for her to succumb to the effects of the toxin. It pained him to know he would bring her agony, but when it was over they would share an unbreakable connection. He eagerly felt the tingles running through his own body as he began to feel her faintly. The connection would grow much stronger before the process was over.  Actually he was quite curious, he had never envenomed a vampire before, he wondered just how much it would affect her next to a human victim.

Azrael's lips made Valery's skin tingle, making her smile broaden as she answered him. When he bit her she gasped, feeling her flesh yield to his fangs. The pain that started though, that she was not expecting. Her body tensed as the pain slowly started to spread, her knees begin to buckle and her mind blurred as she started to lean more heavily against Azrael.

Slowly she started to shiver as her body resisted the pain, the cold, the burn that his bite induced. She felt her breath catch in her throat as the pain slowly started to grow worse than she had thought possible. If she could think clearly she would be able to feel Derek's bond fading into shadow, being replaced with something just as strong if not stronger.

"I'm... C-cold," She spoke, her words soft and forced. Even with the pain she resisted the urge to let her body completely crumble, to let it fall. She fought to stay on her feet even with Azrael holding her.

Azrael could feel her body tense in his arms and lean heavily upon him, which only caused his arms to wrap more firmly about her. Valery's knees could buckle; he would not have allowed her to fall. His lips kissed the bite he had inflicted in apology. It really was unfortunate that he had to cause her pain to forge her to him. Hopefully she would not be too angry with him; after all, he had given no warning to this part of it.

Her shivers thrilled him, he only wished that it was pleasure that caused them rather than pain. Azrael could tell she was resisting, her words struck a chord with him, and gently he swept her up into his arms, cradling her. He spoke softly to her, his tone trying to be comforting. "Shh, don't resist. Just let it wash over you, it will be over soon enough. Fighting it only makes it hurt more."

The shadow gate reformed and he carried her through. He had brought them back to his chambers, a shadow swept up to the bed, pulling the blankets away and delicately he laid her upon the silky sheets. Smoothing her hair back, Azrael pulled the covers up, tucking her in as his lips brushed her forehead. "Try to relax and rest. " He murmured softly to her.

Valery's mind and senses began to become patchy at best, seeming to come and go in unpredictable waves. It seemed one minute she was standing, the next he was holding her and then she was in a bed, but each action in her mind didn't connect. Still, even with the choppiness of her memory she heard his word, their forming bond carrying them to her mind.

Once in the soft bed she tried to follow his advice, to just relax but that was much easier das than done. It took all of her effort to move her hand, reaching out for his. Her mind and sight began to tunnel as she moved to reach for his hand. She soon passed out, the blackness fringing on the corners of her mind rushing in and dragging her into unconsciousness.

The first thing she noticed her mouth was dry. Valery's mind was foggy she had to fight just to hold onto her thought. It took time for the fogginess to move, for her senses to return, for her to wake up fully with the ability to talk. They were something else though, something new in her mind, something there yet not herself. 

Azrael noticed her reaching out for him, and so he crawled into the bed beside her and held her hand as she drifted into unconsciousness. He truly hoped she drew comfort from the gesture, he wondered if she felt fear, but as of yet the bond was not formed enough to sense any emotion from her, and in her unconscious state it would be hard to discern any emotion at all even as their bond slowly grew. Hours would pass.

They remained undisturbed, save a single cultist coming to check to see if the Incarnation needed anything, but they were quietly dismissed and ordered not to disturb them again. Valery needed her rest. Despite having just awoken from a long sleep, Azrael did not feel restless as he lay quietly by Valery. Their fingers remained intertwined as she slept through the effects of the venom. Much sooner than expected, he could feel her stirring. Apparently there had been some difference to the process; perhaps it had been accelerated because she was a vampire.

The first thing that hit him was the dusty feeling in his throat. Ah, was she thirsty? Smirking, he moved his hand to softly stroke her cheek with the fingertips of his free hand; the other still held hers loosely. He also reached out across the new bond with his mind, lightly caressing her consciousness with his presence in a reassuring manner. "How do you feel?"

A soft smile spread across her face as she started to feel Azrael, she could feel him lying beside her, his hand on her cheek, his hand in her own, and most of all his mind. It was a feeling nearly completely foreign to her, so new it was almost scary, she was too weak for fear though. She took a deep breath, swallowing slightly hoping that would help her dry mouth.

"I feel... Rather weak right now... I am hazy," Valery spoke in her mind. She opened her eyes which were bloodshot, a reaction to his venom or maybe to the pain his venom had caused. She blinked a few times, it taking a few moments for her vision to focus. Even then her senses felt dull, of course this would all pass, her body was still adjusting.

She lightly squeezed his hand, as if making sure that was what she felt in her own.
"May I have something to drink my lord?" She asked through their mental bond.

Azrael grinned, his fangs gleaming as Valery spoke to him through their bond. It had gone very smoothly, all things considered, which he was thankful for. She didn't seem to have suffered any extreme ill effects from the bonding. He let his voice purr softly into her mind. That is to be expected. You went through quite an ordeal just now, but it's over and done. You'll feel as good a new, no, you'll feel better in no time.

He returned the light squeeze to his hand, the hand that stroked her cheek moved to lightly brush a few stray strands of hair from her face. Azrael hummed with pleasure, both because he was generally happy with things as they were going, and because he highly approved of her request. Of course. I will summon a cultist for you to feast, you'll need to recover your strength for the celebrations.

With a mischievous glint in his silver eyes, his arms wrapped around her and pulled Valery close. Tilting his head, he exposed his neck to her. While you wait for that cultist, go ahead, take a taste. You might find my divine blood quite...appetizing. Being half demonic, the blood that flowed through him would be quite nourishing, even empowering.

Valery smiled faintly, she was trusted his reassurance and just hoped that her recovery would be quick, she didn't like to feel weak, she didn't like feeling like she couldn't defend herself if that call came. Plus there was a growing throbbing her her head, one that she didn't like very much. The throbbing seemed to radiate from the top of her head, making it even harder for her eyes to focus.

Valery liked the feel of Azrael's cool hand in her own, it made the remaining pain easier to deal with, easier to ignore. Thank you my lord. Maybe she could be happy now, maybe things would go her way and the fates would give her a bit of a break. Her mind began to race with the possibilities of the future, the things that could be. The first thing on her mind was the possibility of children. By the rule in the cult she knew that Azrael adored them, she knew he would be a good father if that were to happen.

Her mind quickly snapped back to reality as he pulled her close, watching him tilt his head, offer himself up. She leaned forward, first pressing her lips to his neck in a gentle kiss, a soft bit of affection before she opened her mouth, biting into his neck gently. She didn't want to cause Azrael pain. She drank slow though that was a hard task. His blood was like nothing she had tasted before, finer than any mortal blood she had tasted, like aged wine.

Azrael's own thoughts were swimming with infinite possibilities as he held her close, hands running soothingly over her back as Valery kiss his exposed neck. He did not fear pain, and as her fangs gently pierced his flesh a soft groan was emitted, followed by a slight shudder. Silver eyes flickered closed in contentment as she drank slowly.

The very act of allowing her to feed from him was just another way to bond with her. No one had ever been freely given access to his blood, not a single one of the vampires he had made had ever tasted what he had to offer. Then again, none of them had been his Bride, either. With a wry grin he allowed his thoughts to spill over the connection as flashing images. Brief snippets of things he had hopes of in their future.

And brief image of them in the throes of passion, a small image of his arms around a Valery with a heavily rounded stomach, a flash of him holding a small fair-haired baby, the images poured through the link they shared, and then he slowly retracted them, not wishing to overwhelm her with the flood of thoughts and emotions that roiled through him like a raging river.

We will be happy. The thought would flow over her consciousness and surround it warmly.

Valery slowly stopped herself, she wouldn't let herself be greedy, plus his blood was like liquid fire, something like she had never had before. She could feel herself almost immediately regaining strength, her senses beginning to resharpen with each passing moment.

Then the images started, images she knew were from Azrael, she could feel it. She felt herself tense with excitement, if she had a pulse it would  be racing. His blood had her feeling much better, much better than she had expected. With just the bit she had took from Azrael she knew she wouldn't have to feed from the human, but she wanted to, she wanted to quench the thirst that only quantity could fill.

Valery removed her fangs from Azrael's flesh with ease and care before placing a gentle kiss there, then another. She then moved her mouth before his, kissing him gently, softly, a hint of hesitation, as if she was scared of his rejection to the kiss, and that is not what she wanted. She hoped he would kiss her back, she was his bride though so she felt he would. His lips were soft against her, softer than she had expected them to be but she wasn't complaining, she liked their feel against her own.

Azrael felt Valery slowly stop her feeding, a smile smirk flitting across his lips. She had taken but a tiny taste, he would have let her take so much more, but perhaps it was best that she start slowly. His blood might be a shock to her system, but perhaps later she would be willing to indulge herself again. Having her feed from him actually put a certain thrill through him. Not only did it make him feel as if they made a deeper connection, but it felt good.

Through the bond he could feel her strength and senses returning. She would need that strength, especially when she became pregnant with his child. That was something he looked forward to greatly, he loved having children. Idly he wondered how long it might take before they were successful in conceiving, but he knew they had all the time in the world. With Raven for a secure heir he did not feel the urgency he once had.

As her fangs withdrew from his neck, Azrael gave a soft sigh, eyes blinking slowly as his silver eyes observed her appreciatively. She really was quite beautiful; he would have been hard pressed to find a more attractive woman to make his own. The soft kisses to his neck sent a shiver of delight through him, he enjoyed the affectionate gestures. He may be a god, but that didn't stop him from desiring an affectionate and loving mate. Valery was appeasing him quite nicely.

In fact he adored the way she kissed his lips so softly, with such a hint of hesitation. Surely she had been with men before, she must be knowledgeable and confident in her own desirability, but still she seemed so shy about him. Smiling as he moved his lips against hers, confident but tender, he reached a hand up to run his fingers gently through her hair. It was such a lovely shade, so soft and silky as it flowed between his fingers.

You don't have to be shy if you desire me, Valery. You are mine, and I will be yours. His hand moved down to cup her cheek softly as he pressed more firmly into the kiss. Lack of desire certainly didn't seem to be a problem for him.

Valery pressed her body against him slightly, liking the feel of his form against hers, the way he moved, the way her body moved in reaction to his, like the way her head tilted slightly as he ran his fingers through her hair. Her skin tingled slightly as she heard his words, a soft smile spreading across her face as they kissed.

Slowly she became more confident in her kiss, her lips growing passionate, growing hungry for his. Gently her tongue slide across his lower lip, asking for entrance into his mouth while her hands moved to shrug off her outer robe so she would just have her silk dress on before her hands returned to him, pulling them deeper into the kiss that they were sharing.

Her mind was easily lost in the moment, the sensations, their bond making every touch that much more powerful, and this was just kissing, she could only imagine how much more pleasurable everything else would become.

The next few hours became a blur of sensations and pleasure for Azrael. There were gentle waves as the intensity of their passion would ebb and wan, becoming feverish, then more tender, and then frenzied again. Because she was immortal he did not fear breaking her so easily as he had his mortal Brides, and to her he was able to give a degree of himself he had always felt the need to hold back. It was not until they were both thoroughly sated in their hunger for each other that Azrael finally sank to the sheets beside Valery.

A content sigh was given as his arms pulled her close against him again, wanting to feel her body against his. He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead as his hands lightly moved over her cool skin. The gestures were not at all sexual now. Azrael was wildly satisfied for the time being. Twenty years of solitude in his willing exile had left him craving something that Valery had given him so eagerly. Not just the very enjoyable and passionate love-making, but the devotion and affection that he thrived on.

That was extremely...satisfactory. The feelings coming through the connection from him would be warm, content, and quite pleased.

Valery was a bit winded but completely satisfied, she had never had an experience like that, something that went beyond just skin deep, something that was beyond just physical pleasure. She was not sleepy, but relaxed, her body satisfied like never before, she could definitely get used to this.

With a soft grin and a happy sigh Valery curled up against Azrael's side, her head laying gently on his shoulder, one seemingly delicate hand rested on his chest. She was thrilled he was as satisfied as her, she was never one that liked to be selfish in bed. Her fingers lightly traced against his chest as she simply enjoyed the moment, his cool flesh against her own, his light touches of his hand. She was happy she hadn't feared the unknown that she dove in head first and took a risk that could have easily killed her before this point, and still possibly could.

Valery hadn't expected this, to be this happy this soon, it was almost surreal.
Thank you my lord. He would easily be able to feel she too was very much pleased and content laying in his arms. Then her mind wandered to the celebration, she wondered if she had missed it when she was asleep. She moved her head to look up at Azrael.
"Has the celebration happened? Did I sleep through it?"

Azrael was content to lie there a little while, silver eyes closed peacefully as he enjoyed the feel of Valery's head on his shoulder, the feel of her hand lightly resting on his chest. It had been a long time since he had taken a Bride to enjoy moments like this with. His lips held the soft curve of a smile as he sighed. Perhaps he seemed rather different than Valery had expected, that thought made him grin more as he wondered just how he had or hadn't lived up to her expectations.

One silver eye slid open, gazing down at her as she looked up to him. No, you were only asleep a few hours. The festival will begin at the next dusk, and continue for three days. There will be feasts, music, dancing, and drinking, it is more a celebration for them than for me, even. A reward for their devotion.

His other eye opened and he stretched languidly as he sat up, running his long fingers through his hair. "I believe I promised you a cultist to feed from. I think I also should answer any questions you might have about being my Bride, what other things it might entail, mostly in regards to your standing within the cult." Azrael's voice was soft and rich as he switched back to speaking out loud. Twenty years with only his own thoughts and it kind of felt nice to hear voices again.

Valery smiled, she was glad she hadn't missed the celebration, she was never one to miss a party, even if she was sitting and watching. Of course sometimes watching people was more fun than the actual participating. Closing her eyes for a moment, Valery used her senses to get a feel for what time it was, a nifty sense she had, making it easier to avoid the sun. They had a good bit of time before the celebration would begin.

As Azrael raise to sit up Valery propped herself up on one elbow, looking up at him. She wondered if they were to have a child what would he want, a daughter or a son. She herself wondered what she would want because she herself did know. Azrael didn't have a daughter and he already had two older sons that were living, so that could be nice. A son though, a man could never have too many sons to carry on his strength.

Azrael's voice snapped her out of her thoughts.
"Yes, what is my standing within the cult my lord?" She asked softly, not trust her voice not to break or crack. Valery moved to set up, her back popping as she did so. She leaned over leaning her head lightly against his shoulder after gently placing a kiss there.

Azrael could sense Valery's pleasure at not missing the festivities. He supposed he could understand that. He certainly enjoyed having a good time. He smiled at her, taking pleasure in her pleasure. There were bonuses for him in this bond, but there were also downsides. While there was twice the pleasure to be had, there was also twice the pain, and all other negative emotions.

He could sense her wondering about what he would prefer with their child. He grinned as he thought about it himself. With the bond still so fresh it was hard for him not to think about the same things as were rolling about in her consciousness. Honestly, he had his heir, Valery could give him sons or daughters or both, it matter little to him what gender his future children were. He would love them just the same either way. The kiss to his shoulder made him grin and he let his head fall to the side to rest lightly against hers.

"As my Bride your largest responsibilities to me I have already told you. Your duties to the cultists are different entirely, obviously. No one can demand things of you, except me, of course. The cultists will shower you with care, as they should, and you are to be an example to them of the love and devotion owed to me. Just as no one but I can demand things of you, you cannot demand things of any of the cultists. They are not obligated to obey your commands. The lesser cultists will happily fulfill your every request, but they are not your slaves. They are mine."

Valery was enjoying their new bond, it was like nothing she had ever experienced before, she had never felt so close to anyone ever, not even Derek.

She wasn't surprised by his answers, Valery had never been one to demand things, she preferred to do things herself, that was how you knew things would get done correctly.
"Of course my lord," She spoke in a near purr. She moved behind Azrael, starting to gently massage his shoulders. Being an assassin with her background had an advantage. To know how to hurt someone in specific area's you also knew how to alleviate pain or stiffness as well as even create pleasure, like an herbologist knowing how to create both poisons and antidotes.

Valery took joy in knowing she could bring pleasure to Azrael. She had a slight fear that she might fail him, of course when anybody wanted something as bad as she did there was always fear of failure. She did not linger on the thoughts though, she kept her mind on the gentle massage she was giving Azrael, kissing his shoulder here and there as her fingers gently massaged his muscles.

Azrael nodded, pleased with her answer. She didn't seem upset at all that she had no real authority; perhaps she really did just want him for a lover so that her offspring would have a strong father. Of course, his doubts about that had been mostly dispelled before he even bonded to her, and with the bond he was quite sure that Valery's motives were exactly as she had confessed. What pleased him more was how very affectionate she was being. He did love to be lavished with attention, that it was from his Bride made it all the better.

His eyes would slide closed as she moved behind him to begin massaging his shoulders. Now what had he done to deserve that? Oh he would not complain, he practically melted at her touch, it felt wonderful. Yes, he could definitely get used to this; hopefully this would not wear off when the novelty of the situation did! He hummed softly as her massage was littered with soft kisses.

"After being so eager to wake me up, are you trying to put me back to sleep?" He teased, although he was half serious too. He was so relaxed he thought he just might drift off to sleep, but there was much too much to do for sleeping now. Even if the celebration was for the cultists, they would expect for him to make an appearance, to give them words of praise, and to ensure they had not forgotten, even in the smallest measure, just why it was they worshipped him.

"Ah, I also believe I promised you a cultist to satisfy your thirst with."

"No, my lord, not to put you back to sleep, but to relax you," Valery practically purred against his skin. She most definitely didn't want to put him back to sleep, and she was sure if he got too relaxed she had her ways to get his blood flowing so to speak. She did need to eat, though she felt fine she was still recovering, she could feel it, and she needed to be in full health for the celebration and for Azrael.

Valery let her hands run down Azrael's bare back, resting her head against his shoulder lightly. She knew he had things to do to prepare and that they had a long time to spend with each other but there was nothing like the rush of young love. She had never been shown such affection that he had shown her, the affection she had craved for as long as she could remember.

"What should I wear to the celebration my lord?" Valery asked after a moment, knowing that he would be busy and wanted to get her final question before the ceremony out of the way, or at least the last question she had thought of thus far.

"Mm, it's working." Azrael was quite relaxed, between making love to his beautiful new Bride and the lovely massage she was giving him, it would be hard not to be relaxed. Sure, he had things on his mind, but they seemed less important. He practically purred as her hands ran down his back and her head rested against his shoulder. It would have been nice to have just lay back down and felt her curled up against him, but he knew that he really should do something more productive. Even a god had duties to fulfill.

He grinned as she asked about what she should wear. Vaguely Azrael wondered just how many and what types of clothing she even had with her. Valery was an assassin; he doubted she possessed very many fancy dresses. Well, that was something that could be easily fixed.  He had quite a collection of lovely gowns that had belonged to his previous Brides. Surely one was bound to fit her, and they could have clothing tailored for her as well. "A dress fit for a queen, of course, what else?"

With a sigh, the god rose from the bed and began pulling his loose black pants and robe on again. He would dress for the ceremonies later, for now this was more than enough. Turning silver eyes to Valery his lips curled in a faint smile. "I need to speak with Raven and the High Priest about the coming celebrations, and about announcing you as my Bride. I will send a cultist for you, if you wish, they can draw you another bath, and they will help you find appropriate attire."

Valery smiled, she was glad it was working. It felt nice to show such affection to someone who would return them, to someone who was going to be there when she woke up in the morning, or more likely in their case, at dusk. She kissed his shoulder before he stood before leaning back in the bed, watching him pull his pants on, not seeming at all embarrassed by her nudeness in front of Azrael.

"Well I was hoping I could wear something that would match whatever you decided to wear my lord, of course I would have to know what colors you will be wearing to do that, or at least that is my hope," Valery spoke with a bright smile, it being very clear through both their bond and her body language that she was very happy. She hoped that there would be a dress that would fit her. She was rather tall and she knew this, hopefully they would be able to work something out in the hours they had before the celebration.

"My body could use some blood to finish recuperating, if that wouldn't be too much to ask," She spoke, looking up at him from the bed. The bath sounded good as well, she loved soaking in warm scented water, a luxury she couldn't always afford herself. When on missions she couldn't use scented water, especially when hunting beings that weren't human, but for at least now she could, and Valery found this rather exciting.

One would hope Valery would not be embarrassed about being nude in front of Azrael, it was a little late for being modest, now wasn't it? His lips had curved into a grin while he dressed, thinking of how thoroughly he had enjoyed her only minutes before. He was fairly confident she had shared an equal amount of enjoyment. Her happiness pleased him as he let his own contentment flow across their bond.

"I traditionally wear red and black. I'm sure they can find a gown of such colors among my collection. How quaint that you wish to match my attire, what a handsome couple we shall make at the festivities." It did please him, though. They would look spectacular, and the cultists would give her due respect. Azrael already had a feeling that Raven would give him fits over the decision to take Valery for a Bride, but he would get over it.

"Of course, my dear. As much blood as you wish. I will send several cultists to pamper you before the opening presentation, and you may choose from them a suitable meal. Do you have any preferences I should consider? Men? Women? Younger? Older? I do wish to give you the most enjoyable experience in your supper."

Valery slowly stood, the floor a bit cold on her bare feet, but not so much that she minded. She had thoroughly enjoyed the god that stood in front of her and she was excited about later rounds of enjoyment after the ceremony was over. She planned on keeping Azrael as pleased and content as possible.

Valery blushed very slightly, she had been called many things, but she had never been called quaint. She liked it though, it was good. She was growing more and more excited with each moment, her body nearly hummed with it. If her heart could still beat it would be fluttering in her chest as she thought about how spectacular it all would be.

She thought about it for a moment, she wasn't used to being able to be picky about her meals, but it was something she could definitely grow used to.
"I've always liked the taste of women, their blood, always seems a bit sweeter," She spoke, half thought, half request.

Azrael laughed softly as she said that women were sweeter to the taste. It was hard to argue with that sentiment, though. He preferred feasting on women himself, as he recalled, each of his brides had tasted exquisite. "Whatever you wish, my dear, whatever you wish. I will send a scrumptious group of young women to draw your bath, help you select a suitable garment, and once they are finished you may have your way with them."

With one last look at his lovely new bride, Azrael vanished in a swirling mist to hunt down the people he needed to speak with. It would not take long for the promised women to show up to cater to Valery's every whim, just as her new God had promised.

The group of women showed up as promised, a smiling giggling bunch they were, it made the time pass pleasantly, and Valery enjoyed their company. This place would be a home like no other. She knew the woman knew that they each could be her dinner after her bath and once she was clothed, but none of them cared. It was refreshing.
The bath was amazing, lavender oil with rose petals and pleasant company. While she soaked in the tub the ladies brushed her hair placing it in a delicate bun as she relaxed.

She slowly stood, they placed a robe on her as they went and started going through the gowns until they came upon one that she fell in love with. It took some adjusting, some squeezing, but finally she fit into a red and black ball gown. The top was a deep crimson and the bottom slightly puffy tool. She hoped Azrael would like it as much as she did.

She turned to the woman.
"How do I look?" She asked before receiving cheers from the different women. She spent the rest of her time gently, and neatly feeding on the women, not bothering to kill any of them, she decided it would be unfair to not let them join in the festivities.



_______________________
OOC: This is how I imagine the dress:
http://image.dhgate.com/albu_275184677_00-1.0x0/new-style-flower-ball-gown-black-and-red.jpg

After Valery was finished with them, the women praised her for her merciful tact, all of them had been given the honor of feeding her, and they would all be able to continue to serve the Incarnation. Once they had given their thanks for allowing them to serve, they excused themselves respectfully to return to preparing for the celebrations.

Azrael remained gone for a long time. Deep in the heart of the tempt he spent almost an hour arguing with Raven and the High Priest. Although really the High Priest said little and merely watched the father and son as they exchanged words that seemed to be both heated and ice cold at the same time.

By the time the god returned, a turmoil of annoyance and frustration would be flowing freely through their bond. Although he had used her calm and relaxed feelings to keep his own temper from running too hotly. Silver eyes moved over his room, restlessly. "That boy is going to be put back in his place, how dare he argue with me."

Valery was sitting in front of the mirror. She was still having difficulty telling the difference between her emotions and his, and with being by herself it was harder to stay calm with his building anger. She started to grow worried as she continued to feel his anger, She couldn't understand why he would be getting so angry, he was the incarnation.

She moved to her feet as he walked in, moving behind him. She placed her hands on his shoulders, starting to massage them gently.
"Maybe he is just worried about you?" She spoke softly, kissing his neck gently, hoping her words wouldn't upset him.

Azrael felt a little of the tension melt out of him as his voluptuous new bride began massaging his shoulders, a small shiver was given at the kiss to his neck. Silver eyes peered at her over his shoulder, a small smile crossing his lips as he took in the sight of her. She was a lovely creature and he was once again confident in his decision to take her for his own. "You're a vision of dark beauty, my dear."

Sighing he shrugged off her hands and glided over to the bed where he collapsed. There were still hints of annoyance streaking through him, but not so badly as before. "He's not worried about me, he's worried about you. He thinks I've made a mistake taking you as a bride. I would watch out for him, he's no friend of yours, but I don't think he would be so bold as to do you harm...yet."

"Thank you my lord," She said with a smile, clearly liking the compliment.
Valery walked to the side of the bed, sitting down slowly.
"I don't think I have anything to fear with you as a protector," She said looking at him with a dazzling white smile before looking down in her lap.
"I had a feeling he would react this way though, that is why I didn't come out with my intention to seek to be your bride when he asked my intentions," She added after a moment, moving her hand to his.
"I have a way of getting myself out of sticky situations, the only thing I worry, is if, no when I come with child how he would react, if he would try to do something," Valery said, worry soaking her words and slipping through the bond they shared.
She sat silent for a moment before pushing the worry away so she could relax a little. She would worry when she was pregnant.
"If you would like I would help you relieve some more of your tension," She said, her eyes sparkling naughtily.

Azrael lay sprawled on the bed, silent with his thoughts for several long moments as he listened to Valery. He entwined his fingers around hers when she moved her hand near his, bringing her hand to his lips he gently kissed each of her fingers in turn as he closed his eyes. "I can't protect you all of the time. Raven feels bold enough to question me, though I don't think he is foolish enough to think he can challenge my power. In the coming years that will change. Eventually he is going to overthrow me, and when he does..."

The deity let his voice trail off, his brows furrowing slightly as he remembered his own climb to power. He didn't begrudge his son for wanting to become greater than him. It was in his blood. Still, it was not something he looked forward to anytime in the foreseeable future. Smiling suddenly he let power flow through their bond, his essence now filled with pleasure and confidence. "Don't worry, our children will be safe. I would never allow any harm to come to our babies, Valery, of that you can be very certain."

He was grinning deviously now, as she offered to help relieve his tension. "Is that so? I think I have a lot of built up tension. You're going to have to be very dedicated to the cause of easing my burden if you ever hope to get it all worked out."

Valery looked down with his words, unlike any mortal bride he had ever chosen, she could live to see Azrael's downfall, and with the amount of discontent Raven had for her she knew she would not be far behind. She could only hope that her children would be strong enough to survive, to live on. Valery had heard rumors about Raven, before she made it to the blood cult, she wasn't so sure that he adored children as much as his father, of course, they were rumors. Though, if he feared her children ever over power him he would kill them, like most kings in power. She shook her head, pushing the thoughts far away, she didn't need the worry or the stress of those thoughts.
She found herself, thinking herself silly, worrying about the children she had yet to produce, she didn't even know if she could.
She took a deep breath, turning to look at him with a devilish smile.

Valery's delicate hands made quick work of her corset, and added with her vampiric speed she was near nude in all but a flash, the dress and undergarments laying in a pile on the floor as she crawled towards him on the bed.
"Good think I am very, very dedicated," She said, pulling her hair over one shoulder before moving over top of him, placing a delicate kiss on his neck before moving her lips to his, "Very, dedicated".

Silver eyes watched her hungrily as she quickly undressed herself, they roamed over her form - which was exquisite - as she crawled over him. His hands slid over the cool flesh of her hips, moving up her sides until they stopped to give her breasts a soft squeeze with a lusty grin. Her lips were right there, and he couldn't resist the urge to claim them in a passionate kiss.

Lust and pleasure were the only thing racing through the bond now, Azrael was consumed by those two things in his entirety. His arms moved to wrap around her, pulling her gently down to be pressed against his body as his tongue flickered across her lips, begging her to allow him access. He longed to taste her again, although they had made love only a short hour or so ago, he wanted her as fiercely as ever.

Valery did not dare refuse Azrael access to her mouth as his tongue begged for entrance. His own lust and pleasure mixing with her own through their bond in an all but mind numbing way for her. She let the passion carry her until they had both, once more, both been completely sated.

She once more laid her head on his chest, her eyes closed as she enjoyed just being with Azrael, just feeling his skin against her own. Her once intricate bun wrecked from their time of passion. Valery didn't care though, her hair could be redone.

"How long do you think it will take for me to be with child?" She asked softly, snuggling closer.

Azrael lay with his arms around Valery, enjoying the weight of her head upon his chest. One hand lightly rubbed her back as they simply cuddled after their love-making. It was nice, it was normal. It had nothing to do with gods or power or death. Just something pleasant and all for him.

He hummed softly as he pondered her question, but after a few moments he simply shook his head. That wasn't something he had the answer to at this time. "Who can say? You will bear my child when you do and not before. Don't worry with it, just let it happen, my sweet."

Valery propped herself up on her elbow looking at Azrael, a bright smile on her face. She looked over Azrael's form as she traced her fingers on his chest.
"Well, its hard to not think about it when I am so excited about it, I cannot wait, I've never had a child, just the though of holding something so small, something that I made with you," She said leaning in an d kissing his chest.

Azrael couldn't help but smile when she smiled at him. He could tell she was excited and eager to have his child. It was different for him, yes, he wished to have children with Valery, but he already had three. This would be her first and he knew the longing that had plagued him before he'd found out his sons were on the way. Her excitement was infectious, though.

"You will be the mother of my children, Valery. I know you don't want to wait, but we'll just have to try a lot." He smirked with a playful glint in his eyes. "Although we should get ready for the big party. Won't be a party without us." He laughed softly.

Valery littered Azrael's chest and neck with gentle kisses.
"Well I have no objections to that, none at all," She spoke with a smirk on her face. She sat up slowly, stretching, her back arching as she reached up. Her joints popped slightly before she sighed with a content smile.

"Well, it wouldn't be a party without you my lord, I am sure it would go on just fine without me," She said smiling before moving to get out of the bed. She moved in front of a mirror, quickly pulling the pins and black ribbon from her hair before grabbing a brush and gently running a brush through it. She turned, looking over her shoulder at Azrael as she continued to brush her hair over her shoulder. Nothing but happiness and excitement flowing through their bond.

A soft hum of pleasure was given in response to the gentle kisses along his chest and throat. Azrael was finding a degree of contentment he had not expected to find when he had first awoken. The happiness that flowed through his side of the bond was softly tinted with disquiet and sorrow, even as he watched her brushing her hair.

"Ah, but you see, you make me happy, and it isn't a party unless I am happy. So you see, not a party without us." Yes, Valery certainly was a pleasant distraction from the pain he still felt at the news that his oldest son had been murdered while he slept. If he hadn't decided to sleep, Tempt would still be alive.

Valery turned to Azrael as she pulled her hair up, pinning it up in a simple but elegant bun. She walked over to him sitting on the bed. She gently ran her hand through Azrael's hair.
"I wish whatever was bothering you wasn't," She looked down. She could feel both the happiness and the sorrow. Her heart hurt along with his. It was the oddest feeling, feeling someones emotions as as if they were your own. She continued to gently play with his hair for a moment in silence before standing, silently slipping back on her clothes for the party.

Azrael closed his eyes, just enjoying the feel of her fingers teasing through his hair. It had always felt like such an intimate and affectionate gesture to him, playing with someone's hair. As she pulled away to dress he found himself sighing heavily. Of course she could feel his pain, but she didn't understand, how could she?

Getting up he moved to a large closet and began pulling out what he would wear. Normally he'd have cultists do all this for him, but with Valery there, he could just have her help him if he wanted, not that he needed someone to dress him. "When I woke up I found out that one of my sons is dead and another is missing. I feel that I've failed my children with my idleness. Even Raven seems to have suffered for my absence."

Valery froze for a moment, her stomach twisting into a knot. She almost felt sick, no wonder he felt suck pain. Not to mention her constant talk of children. She didn't know what to say. She knew he had to really be strong, be the god he said he was. If she had lost a child she would have lost it, she would have turned instantly into a bitter blood seeking monster. He didn't though, this made her admire him more, he had the strength to carry on.

She then turned to him, walking towards him as she finished tightening the back laces of the dress.
"If you would want my lord, I could try to find your missing son. I am very good at finding people," She spoke, she felt a need to do something, anything to try to ease his pain.

Azrael had a fairly good notion of what was going through her mind at that moment. He could sense the twisting in her stomach. Immediately he shut out his own pain, withdrawing it from the bond, though with some effort. It was not his new bride's fault that he was hurting on the inside, it was unfair that she had to share his pain, but then again, that was why he had bonded her. To share himself with her - fully. Sighing he let the pain ebb back through.

"It is sweet of you to offer - but no. You are my bride, you belong at my side. For better or worse, Ashlar is on his own for now. He will come back, I know he will. Though why he hasn't tried to contact me...surely he must realize that I am awake. I wish I could sense him."

Valery nodded, "Yes, my Lord," She spoke softly, letting out a soft sigh.
"Hopefully he will find his way home sooner than later, I want nothing more than your happiness," she spoke softly, her usually hard sapphire eyes soft, almost molten looking as she looked at her Lord.
She took another step closer, "Is there anything I can do to help you?" She asked, trying to push her own mind from the throbbing pain she felt as Azrael's lost.
She wouldn't want him to take that away from her, she had learned a long time ago that pain is as much a part of love as pleasure and happiness. Plus the bond they shared made her feel so close to him, something she had that none of the other cultist had. For once in her life, with Azrael, she felt special.

Azrael didn't say anything as she spoke, instead he focused on dressing. His attire was a fine black suit, crimson drops embroidered along the seems to match the crimson silk shirt. When she asked if there was anything she could do to help he had just shrugged into his suit vest, a smile crossed his lips as silver eyes gazed at her with a hint of adoration.

"But you are doing something to help me, Valery. Why do you think I agreed to take you for my Bride? It wasn't just your beauty, or your power as a vampire. Everyone seems to have this illusion that because I am a God it means that I don't have the same needs as any mortal man. Until you came here to me I had no one to stand by my side and support me the way only a queen can support her king."

He stepped forward, closing what little distance there was between them, his arms wrapped around her, holding her against him. Azrael placed a soft kiss on her jaw, just below her ear before whispering softly, "Just having you by my side will be a comfort, all I need is your love and obedience. There is no greater help you could possibly offer me than that."

Valery leaned into Azrael's embrace, her head leaning on his shoulder, her arms gently draping around his waist. It would be clear through the bond that the two shared that she was enjoying the embrace. This was what she had always wanted, to be wanted, to have someone care for her, about her.

"You will always have my love and Obedience my lord," She spoke softly against his shoulder, wishing to stay there longer, so she could just enjoy his company, to enjoy his affection. She knew there would be time for that though, they had the rest of eternity for it, plus they had the party to go to.

She pulled back slightly, her eyes playfully sparkling, "You look rather striking," she said, a smile spreading across her face.

The bond made it so easy to know what his Bride was feeling, not that Valery's body language didn't also let him know what her thoughts were towards him. Azrael let warmth and affection surge through the bond. If to feel loved and wanted was what she wanted, then he would do his best to sweep up and consume her in those emotions.

Azrael would have been perfectly content to hold her in his arms like that all night, what was time to the immortal? Pleasure coursed through him at her assurance of love and obedience. Those were the two things he needed and wanted most in a Bride and Valery seemed to be fitting her role nicely.

Silver eyes gleamed as she pulled back and told him that he was striking. "Mm, well I do come from a long line of handsome devils. With you for their mother, our children together will be rather stunning, don't you think?"

Valery laughed, reaching forward, brushing a straying hair of Azrael's back into place.
"I'm sure they will be nothing but ravishing. I'm also sure they will be able to at least for me, melt my heart with a simple flutter of their lashes," She spoke, her hands moving to rest lightly against his chest as they stood so close.

Valery could feel butterflies in her stomach fluttering around, she was growing nervous. She knew that the cultist would accept her, she was just nervous about Raven. She simply hoped she grew on him, she didn't need, nor want an enemy, especially one so close to Azrael.

Azrael smiled softly at his new Bride, unable to push aside the thought of just how adorable she was in some ways when she brushed his hair from his face and spoke of their future children. Just thinking about having more children was enough to excite him, talking about them with Valery nearly made him giddy. "Have no doubt that they'll have their father wrapped around their adorable little fingers."

He leaned down to press a soft kiss to her lips, and as he did so, bells began to toll. They rang through the entire temple as the sun sank below the horizon. Humming softly he smiled and stepped back enough to button his vest and smooth down the fabric. "The festivities will be starting, we should make our appearance."

Valery's eyes danced with excitement. She adjusted her skirt quickly before wrapping her arm around Azrael's. She caught a reflection of herself and Azrael, they looked rather dashing. She knew then that she couldn't have sought after someone better. Azrael made her feel what she always wanting to feel, filling the void she had had for as long as she could remember.

She filled her lungs with air, holding it there for a moment before slowly releasing it. She was both excited and nervous, feelings she wasn't exactly used to.

Azrael grinned as Valery fixed her skirts, they made a very attractive couple. The cultists would be delighted that their Incarnation had chosen a new Bride, anything that made him happy was something to celebrate in their adoring eyes. And why not? Was he not a good and merciful god to the faithful?

Laughing softly at his own thoughts, he looked down at his Bride and the shadows swirled around them. Within moments they went from the quiet solitude of their chambers to an dull roar of excited noise. Two large thrones were set up in the center of a large dais, with smaller thrones set on lower steps. They had transported in front of the large, ornament thrones over-looking a cleared space outside the temple.

Raven was already seated in one of the smaller thrones, while a man in elaborate and obviously religious robes stood in front of the second. He noticed them and rushed over, kneeling subserviently. "Your Greatness, the cultists are eager to begin and they anxiously await to meet your new Bride. Already rumors circulate like wildfire. It--"

A small gesture from Azrael silenced the High Priest abruptly. The cultists had silenced while the man had spoken and watched them with reverence. Keeping a gentle hold on Valery, Azrael straightened, silver eyes looking out over his subjects, an easy smile on his lips, though annoyance flowed through the bond.

"For twenty years I slept, twenty years too long. My people, you have been through much loss and sorrow while I turned my eyes away. My son, Tempt, who was much beloved by all was murdered, and Ashlar, my gentlest of heart, has vanished. All through this you have remained dedicated, your faith unwavering in the face of adversary. How proud you make me.

This awakening festival is more important than any before, you have earned this great reward, and I have decided that the sorrow you have witnessed must be countered with some joy. I know that you have heard that I have taken a new Bride, and I am happy to say that these rumors are quite true."

Smiling he looked from the cultists to Valery, a sparkle in his eyes. "This is Valery, the new divine Bride and heart of my heart. I know you will love her and welcome her as she deserves. Let the festival begin!"

The roar of cheers that followed was deafening, though two people quite openly did not cheer. Raven who had not moved from his throne, and the High Priest who swiftly retreated from them to disappeared into the crowd. He would be too busy for levity.

It would take a bit for Valery to get use to the teleporting, it made her stomach feel weird, almost like she was falling. She found herself in front of grand thrones. She turned her head slightly, looking at Azrael before looking over the cultist in their masses.
Valery felt the annoyance, she tried to counter it, trying to send soothing, calm, pleasant feelings through the bond, like how much she loved him.

Then, before she knew it Azrael was introducing her to the crowd, she felt butterflies as the crowd began to roar, feeling the excitement from all of the cultist. She felt a smile on her face, even a slight blush on her face from Azrael's words. The butterflies died though, as she turned, looking at Raven, just his body language told her he didn't like her. She guessed that it was better that at least he made it clear, it was better than if he played face with her.

Azrael was so used to transporting himself through the shadows that he didn't even notice it, but he would try to remember that his Bride wasn't and that it probably have strange sensations for her. The counter to his annoyance helped some, instead pushing that feeling into an underlying current rather than the focus of his mind, but his displeasure did not go away completely, and as she looked to Raven it might be obvious as to the cause of his irritation.

The cheering went on for a few moments more, then died down as music began to play, there were tables overflowing with food off to one side. A few cultists went to eat, but most began to dance and sing. Azrael wasn't looking at them, though, his eyes rested on the woman beside him a faint smile on his pale lips.

"Nothing to worry about, they're going to love you. Just look at me, I've only had you a very short while and already I adore you." He gestured to one of the thrones behind them as the High Priest reappeared struggling with a large, ornamental box. The priest rested it on Azrael's throne and stepped back bowing.

Grinning, the God turned away from Valery and opened it, inside rested two black circlets set with rubies. One was a little thinner than the other, with slightly smaller rubies. This one he picked up and admired a moment before turning and carefully placing it on his Bride's head. Kneeling and bowing his head playfully to her he gestured at the larger circlet. "Would you do the honors?"

"It is not them that I worry about my Lord," Valery spoke with a smile, forcing her attention away from Raven and back to Azrael and the cultist who all seemed to be having a ball.
She was thankful when the noise died down a bit, her sensitive ears ringing from the roar of the people. She did enjoy seeing them dancing, some people were greatly amusing in their attempts.

As the box was brought up she turned, her mouth gaping for a moment when Azrael opened it. She had money and jewels stored all over the world, even a few magical items she had acquired as payment for her work. She would have to conjure the things up one day, maybe she had something that would be useful for Azrael in finding his lost son. She quickly pulled her mind back as Azrael placed the crown on her head, a warm smiled spread across her face.

Valery turned slightly, picking up the larger circlet, admiring the fine craftsmanship of the piece, was was absolutely stunning. She delicately placed it on top of Azrael's head before curtsying deeply. 

"Is it Raven? Ignore him, he is a sulking child." The Incarnation was losing patience with his son and heir. While he loved all his children dearly, he held Raven to a higher standard and did so hate to be disappointed. His son was behaving poorly, and the lack of respect was about to rile the God into more than mere annoyance. That Raven's bad manners were upsetting his new Bride only stoked his irritation. Still, he pushed that down. This was a time for celebration and joy, not anger.

Azrael smiled as he felt the weight of his crown settled gently atop his head. Looking up his silver eyes sparkled softly as he saw her deep curtsy to him. It was good to see her show such a high degree of respect. That pleased him. Pulling himself upright again he leans forward, a hand raising to lightly caress her cheek before placing a soft, chaste kiss on her lips.

Azrael's light, quick kiss left Valery's lips tingling and craving more. She knew there would be time for that later though so she turned to look at the thrones. Both were beautiful and looked more like a piece of art to her than furniture. She looked back towards Azrael, her hand reaching towards his as she waited for him to sit.

The High Priest had darted in to take the box away once Valery had placed the larger circlet on Azrael's head, and then the man disappeared again. The God noticed him about as much he would an ant crawling through the grass. Smiling down at his Bride, he watched her examine the thrones. They were rather extravagant. Special occasions were really the only time they were even used. Just like the crowns.

When her hand reached for his, he took it and brought it up to place a soft kiss on her cool flesh. Silver eyes gleamed mischievously. Ah, if only they didn't have to be at the celebration. Azrael could have kept her locked away with him in their rooms for days, maybe even weeks, and been perfectly content. There would be time for that later, after the festival.

He took his seat, smiling slyly as he gestured to the other throne. "Sit a moment, let them see us together and looking nice and regal. It makes them happy. Maybe you would do me the honor of dancing with me later."

Valery sat down as he gestured towards the other throne, her flesh still tingling, still craving more of Azrael's kisses. Valery sat down as he gestured towards the other throne, her flesh still tingling, still craving more of Azrael's kisses. Her eyes seemed to gleam as he asked if she would like to dance later, she was all but willing, it had been ages since she had last danced with someone.

"But of course my Lord," She spoke, her smile never leaving her face.

Her mind, for those moments, were free from worry, free from thoughts of Raven, or anything that would lessen her mood. She was truly content, truly happy.

Azrael settled into his throne, looking perfectly at ease. It was obvious that he belonged there, and that he knew it. One leg was thrown over the other, as he watched the cultists dance, listening to their music and song. The sang of the night, of darkness, of blood, and of sacrifice. It was beautiful and glorious. She would be able to feel his contentment, their bond flowed thick with it. He was happy as a kitten with cream.

Raven on the other hand, practically radiated negativity as he sat haughtily on his lesser throne. He too appeared as if confident that he belonged on a throne, but seemed dissatisfied at the same time. His silver eyes flashed in irritation at every movement, every chorus of louder notes. There was cunning and malice hidden in his gaze, though he forced smiles the few times he was approached before politely dismissing cultists that wished to speak with him.

Goblets of blood were offered, first to Azrael and Valery. Azrael took one and sipped from it. The blood was still hot and fresh, obviously just harvested. Pleased, the cultist offered Valery a goblet before stepping down to Raven's level and bringing one to him as well.  The Prophet waved the girl away, making gentle excuses.

It took Valery a moment to get comfortable in her throne, it wasn't something she was used to. To be put upon a pillar for all to see, she was much more comfortable in the shadows, that was what she had always known, at least that was all she could remember.

She took the goblet with a smile and a slight nod. She sipped from the goblet, letting the metallic liquid flow down her throat. Her delicate pallet could tell several things about the blood. Other than the fact that the blood was fresh, it was also from a man, and that is was a type of blood she preferred, but, it was blood, and it was delicious either way.

With a smile she turned, looking at Azrael, feeling his contentment flowing through the bond. She was pleased that he was happy and continent, it was all she could hope for.

Azrael was keeping his attention split between Valery and Raven, only watching either out of the corner of his eye. Outwardly he was all smiles, observing his followers, and drinking from his goblet. He thought that his bride seemed uncomfortable at first. The Incarnation hadn't considered if his beautiful new lover would enjoy being the center of so many people's attention. It was just something she was going to have to get used to. No Bride of his was going to be tucked away in a dark corner. Certainly not one so lovely to look at.

The God turned his silvery eyes to his son as a cultist came and whispered in Raven's ear. The Lord Prophet wordlessly rose and vanished in a soft curtain of shadow. No one batted and eye at it, of course, they were used to the way the divine family teleported around the temple. Except Azrael, who found himself extremely curious as to what his son was up to. With a slight crook of his finger, a priestess appeared by his side. Most were enjoying themselves, a few of the clergy were soundlessly standing by, just in case their Lord should need them.

"It is rude and unbecoming of the Lord Prophet to disappear from the party so soon. As my heir he should be as visible and present for these functions as I am. Find him. Fetch him. If he tries to tell you that he is busy, inform him that if he does not return with you, I will be the next one coming to retrieve him."

Valery turned, looking at Azrael and following his gaze to the empty throne that Raven had been occupying moments earlier. She gently rubbed his hand with her thumb as she brought her gaze back to Azrael.
"Where do you think he has gone?" She asked after Azrael had sent the priestess after Raven.

She was growing much more comfortable. She knew she had no reason to be insecure being put up on a pedestal, an now that she was put upon one, she was growing used to it. She leaned her head back slightly against the throne.

"Do you think he left because of me?"

With a smile, Azrael turned to her, squeezing Valery's hand lightly. Raven had been more vehemently against Valery than he'd expected earlier when he had informed his son and High Priest of his decision, but the blatant disrespect being shown was more than he was going to tolerate. Though he didn't outwardly show any sign of being anything but perfectly happy.

The bond would indicate a cold angry simmering blow the surface.  "Don't trouble yourself with it, dear. He's just being defiant, purposely trying to annoy me. After a few days of this childishness he'll come to his senses and accept you, I'm sure." He didn't want to directly say that it was Valery's fault for his son's indiscretion, but she was the core of the problem.

Valery could clearly feel the underlying anger that Azrael felt, and it made a chill run up her spine. She was glad that the anger wasn't directed at her, in the moment, she knew for sure she would never want to be on the receiving end of the cold anger that she felt flow through the bond.

She turned to Azrael with a soothing smile, "Would you like to dance?" She asked softly. 

A distraction was precisely what Azrael needed, something to take his mind off the brooding anger he felt at his son. Valery was, blessedly, just the distraction that he needed. Turning silvery eyes on her, a soft smile crossed his lips as she asked him to dance.

Rising, hand still lightly holding hers, he drew her gently to her feet. The music was a steady rhythm, upbeat and joyous, reflecting the jubilation that coursed through the dancers on the green below. Grinning, the God drew her down the steps, obviously planning on dancing there among the cultists, to their reverent delight.

"I apologize if you were expecting a waltz, but this is far more fun and energetic, don't you think?" the cultists were in pairs, dancing and singing and swirling round and round each other, sometimes linking arms, sometimes not. All made room for the pair of crowned beings, though.

Valery's face lit up as she was led to the dance floor. She was happy, practically glowing. She was refusing to let Raven's actions or Azrael's annoyance at Raven's action put a damper on her mood.
"As long as it is with you I don't care what type of dancing we are doing my Lord," she spoke softly, as she batted her lashes lightly.

Azrael threw his head back and laughed as she batted her eyes at him. Amusement and adoration flowed through his heart to hers. Let Raven sulk and be unhappy with his decisions, the Incarnation had a beautiful new Bride to warm his heart and ease the loss of his beloved Tempt. If his son couldn't accept that this was just what the God needed and wanted right now, then so be it.

Grinning he looked into Valery's eyes for a moment, silver irises sparkling with delight, and then with another laugh he starting dancing in circles with his Bride, letting the music guide them.

Valery let the music guide her body as she danced with Azrael, her body moving fluidly with the pulse of the music, her grace making her mesmerizing, almost dream like. Her blue eyes sparkled and her face beamed as she giggled and laughed feeling in those moments care free and weightless.

The Incarnation was taken-in by Valery's grace and beauty. Even in a quick, circular dance, she moved like a sleek cat stalking a mouse. She was exquisite. A predator, like him. This was always how his Bride should have been, humans had always been a mistake, he could see that now. How could he have ever thought that the rabbit could ever have satisfied the wolf?

Grinning Azrael spun Valery around, before pulling her in close to him. His fangs flashed as he leaned forward and softly sank his teeth into her lovely throat. The moment her blood touched his tongue, the God's body shuddered softly. Only a few seconds passed before he released her, a few sweet droplets of blood on his lips as he grinned deviously at her. "You are irresistible, perhaps you'll have to be more careful around than I thought..."

Valery let her body be pulled in, melting against Azrael's. A soft gasp leaving her lips as she felt the sharp stick of his fangs, goose bumps raising along her skin. His soft lips drinking her in, she quickly found she enjoyed him feeding from her. Before she knew it, and before she wanted him to he pulled away, her eyes looking up to see the few droplets of blood still remaining on his lips. Her neck visibly healing as he spoke.

"Now why would I ever want to do that my lord?" She asked with a wicked grin.

Oh how precious she was. Azrael couldn't help but smirk at his lovely little Bride as he held her there in his arms, surrounded by dancing couples. It was so adorable that she didn't realize what she should be careful around him for!

Leaning down he put his lips next to her ear to whisper softly to her. "Because if you're not careful I will get carried away and drain you until there is nothing left to take and toss you aside like an empty sack." His voice had begun softly, but was a cruel hiss by the end.

Valery felt a chill run up her spine. She was use to being the powerful one, she was use to being the wolf, not the sheep. She had drained so many people, lost control on so many people, would her fate end up the same. 
Still she didn't pull away, she knew he would feel her fear, the slight ping of gripping panic that made her heart flutter for a moment.
"Of course my Lord," She spoke, her voice soft, submissive, she knew she was disposable and weak compared to him.

Every little jolt of fear or panic was transmitted to Azrael through their bond and he grinned, savoring those emotions. He loved the way she spoke to him, she was such a good girl, he'd known she would be. Valery may have been a lioness, powerful and fierce, but he was the lion and it was important she remembered that.

"Your fear feels so sweet, your love is sweeter still." He raised a hand to lightly cup the side of her face as he held her close, relishing the moment. "Love me, fear me, obey me...not so much to ask of my Bride..." His eyes had closed, his voice trailing off as he lightly rested his head against her shoulder.

Valery closed her eyes, leaning gently into his touch, his touch only making her skin tingle that much more.
"You will always have those things from me my Lord," she spoke softly, so softly that her words barely transferred from her lips to the air.

She found this new feeling she was feeling odd. Though her heart and mind were raising she felt calm, completely at peace. It was like suffocating and breathing at the same time.

Azrael's eyes remained closed as he held her there against him, feeling her, not just physically, but emotionally through the bond. The Incarnation relished the feelings passing from her to him, and in return he passed back a tenderness and affection. Whatever darkness that had crossed over him was obviously passing.

He turned his head to place a soft kiss to her neck, then her cheek, before finally claiming her lips in a soft kiss, letting her taste her own blood on his lips. The actions were almost...apologetic. Silver eyes opened as he pulled from the kiss, gazing down at her with a faint smile before voicing a soft request. "Bite me?"

Valery basked in the tender emotions that flowed through their bond. It was nice, like warm rays from the sun on her face in the spring. She was glad when the darkness passed, or at least when it was aimed at her. She tried to be as perfect for him as she could, she knew he could kill her in a moment, she just hoped he wouldn't because he was at least fond of her.

She opened her eyes as she felt his lips on hers, the taste of her blood linger on her lips. She looked up at him, looking from his silver eyes to his lips, and from his lips to his neck.
"If you wish my Lord," She spoke, her voice soft, delicate.
She leaned forward her lips gently placing a gentle kiss on his neck before delicately sinking her fangs into his flesh.

As Valery's fangs gently pierced the skin of his neck, Azrael closed his eyes, pulling his Bride more tightly against his chest, relishing the feeling of her body pressed against his. The feel of her feeding from him caused little shivers to course through him. None of his Brides had been vampires before, so Valery was the first to taste his blood, and the god found that he enjoyed the sensation.

Not only did he derive pleasure from it, but he was sharing part of himself very intimately with Valery, something no one else could have. Also, there was power in his blood, and she would need that strength to carry his offspring.

Valery felt her soft body melt against Azrael's body as his flesh yielded to her fangs. Goose bumps rose on her skin as his blood enters her. It was like pure power flowing through her, she was shivering herself. It felt like forever, put it would have only been a few minutes before she pulled away. She felt like she could leap mountains, she felt indestructible.

She looked up at Azrael, a smile on her face.

The minutes ticked by as Azrael let her feed from him, and when she finally pulled her fangs away from his neck, the God looked near asleep. Though his silver eyes slowly opened to look down at her with a smile.

"You look so lovely, but that smile just makes you light up, more beautiful than a sunset." He murmured softly, before pressing a gentle, chaste kiss to her lips. It took a moment for him to remember that they were in the middle of a mass of cultists, who had not paused in their dancing, though they gave them plenty of room. A wide circle of space was open around them, isolating them from those who were beneath their kind.

"Oh yes, weren't we dancing? I had forgotten." He laughed softly, "Would you like another dance? Or was there something else you had in mind?"

Valery's smile only brightened more with Azrael's compliment.
"Thank you my lord," Valery replied, clearly enjoying the Azrael's affection.

Valery thought about his question. He had told her she had to be careful, she didn't know how to be though. She was his bride, she could cower, she couldn't fear him to the point that she couldn't show her affection or keep him pleased.

"I have a question my lord, how do you suggest me be careful, am I not to be affectionate?" She asked, her eyes casted upon the ground.

It was truly a problem without a solution. There really wasn't a way for Valery to "be careful" around Azrael without angering or upsetting him. The God was the one that would have to check himself. He'd had to be even more careful around the much more fragile human Brides he'd taken, so in comparison to them, she was relatively safe as long as she kept him pleased.

Azrael gently gripped her chin and lifted her face to look up at him. "I want you to be affectionate, my dear. What point in having a Bride if she doesn't make me feel loved? Your job is to keep me happy, so just do your job, my lovely darling. I don't think it will be too hard for you. So far you've done wonderfully."

There had been that brief moment of darkness, but honestly, it had passed so quickly! Nothing for her to fret about.

Valery smiled softly, her hands resting gently against his chest.
"It is not hard at all my lord, I love pleasing you, showing my affection," She spoke softly, the soft smile on her face growing.

"How about another dance? Would hate to disappoint everyone here," She added softly.

Azrael grinned, leaning down to give her a soft kiss on the cheek. "If a dance is what my Bride wants, then a dance she will have."

He took a step back, gently seizing one of her hands as he grinned and tilting his head slightly, catching the music with his mind.

Valery was relieved that it seemed that the dark moment that had passed over Azrael had seemed to have ended. She didn't let her mind linger on it any longer, she wouldn't give herself time to even contemplate regret or second thoughts.