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.
