He held the mug and nodded to her. "I have no plans for the evening so don't worry about that, I've only recently returned to Rhy'Din, all my previous duties and friends have all but vanished." A subtle shrug of deceivingly frail shoulders then. "West End...a place I used to frequent quite often in my last visit to the city." He nodded then. "Where are we heading?" His soft and delicate voice inquired of her as his eyes turned back towards her and he nodded. "Oh, by the way, I am Vrael." A slight bow of his head in greeting.

"Saelaes..." She said as she nodded," I'm Saelaes or Sae... makes no difference." Still walking she was soon turning around another corner and for once onto a main street. Her smile grew a bit as she whispered," Well, we're heading to an apartment building that I live in. It's not the greatest thing, but Jack lives next to it and I can't help but be overly nice... Some people say I'm too nice for the questionable living conditions.." Her head had been turned down at that point and she called out to him," Watch your step... Rat corpse." Said as she skirted to the side and soon turned down the corner of the street slowly, giving the girl there a wide birth.

He nodded to her as he followed along quietly, side stepping the dead rat and paying the woman there no attention. "Pleased to make your acquaintance miss Saelaes." He blinked 'miss'? He had been using that term often as of late, another odd change in his demeanor since his last visit. Another mental shrug, all details to be looked over later on, he returned his mind the task at hand.

Soon she was stopping at the edge of the street and looking over it carefully. Biting her lip for a moment she leaned her head to the side curiously. Looking over the side of it she soon saw an old man sitting down by a barrel on fire. His hands were reaching out towards the fire a bit shakily.

Before long enough she was starting off towards him until she was standing before the old man and holding out both of her mugs with a smile. She wasn't sure how close Vrael was but she was speaking softly," How are you feeling today Jack? I got you some food and medicine to help your cold."

The old man was smiling to her and nodding all the same," Thank you Sae... Right wonderful of you to get me water and coco... I tell you over and over this is not needed, you already do so much for me, and the ten dollars you left me was more than kind." Bowing his head and then blinking as she pulled out a bag of food and then a paper bag.

" Now then... This is to be taken," Sae spoke up as if she hadn't heard him on her over doing it," Three times a day, one pill at a time. Don't lose it and please take it all." She shook her head," No need to say more, just stay warm tonight. I hope you got my blanket."

The old man nodded and sighed," You're quite kind Sae... Thank you and bless you."

Sae shook her head and smiled to the old man before blinking back to Vrael," I shall see you later Jack." She was pink at the cheeks.

He walked to stand next to them, looking at them thoughtfully. He reached into his coin pouch yet again and withdrew one, two, three, four, five gold coins, the equivalent to fifty dollars and set them before the man. "Its all I have with me at the time, else I'd give you more, but the bank is close now so...please accept this." He nodded to the man and looked back over at Saelaes, his face blank, and his mind racing, why had he done that? What was wrong with him? What had made him act as he had been this day? Another mental shrug all these questions were bothering him, he'd assess them later on.

Her hands reached out for her mug as she spoke," This would be my stop, but thank you for walking with me." Jack was actually staring at Vrael as the coins rested in his hand. He didn't know what to say. Sae shifted to tug her bag over her shoulder and she bit her lip," Thank you for all you've done... It was wonderful of you and I could never repay you for any of this." Shaking her head and sipping at the coco in her hand. Shifting a bit she murmured to him for a moment," If you ever need any kind of help please tell me... You know where to find me, Jack won't steer you wrong after what you just did."

He blinked, still shocked at himself for his very odd change of character then shook his head. "Rest assured I need nor do I want, any form of repayment." What was wrong with him? Why? Why was he being so...unlike him? Sure he wasn't mean before leaving, but he had never ever done something like this. "I suppose this is good night then yes? Or...good morning if you will." A soft chuckle, another sounding harp song.

"Good morning Vrael." Almost like a musical chorus from her lips before she added," Is there any reason why you'd like me to stay?" She asked as she blushed again. That wasn't like her at all, usually she didn't do this either. She was fidgeting while she watched and studied the man before her. To the Elfess he was quite interesting.

"There is yes." He nodded slowly. "But I am far more tired than I had thought, and sadly enough, must retire to bed for the remainder of the dark hours of the day." He nodded, a hand slipped into his pocket, and withdrew a small pad of paper, and a pen, he scribbled something down and then pulled the piece of paper off, and handed it over, tucking the rest back into his pockets. "That?s my address, stop by and see me sometime won't you? Anytime will do." He nodded again, hands lowered to rest on the hilts of his swords once more, a comfortable and idle gesture. "It was a pleasure meeting you and I look forward to doing so again." A hand extended to shake then.

Sae glanced over the paper in her hand before swallowing. She nodded and placed it in her jacket pocket while her hand extended out to his," It was a pleasure to meet you as well Vrael... I shall be sure to see you sometime soon. You'll find that I'm actually quite predictable." Said with a blush while she shook his hand softly. Biting her lip she drew a step back as oddly enough Jack was watching the entire display. Jack spoke up again," Keep him Sae!" The old man did know how to make her bright red in the wink of an eye.

He cast a glance at Jack, a blink as his emerald eyes slowly turned back to Saelaes head tilted for a moment, he had caught on quickly of course, but he wouldn't comment on it. "Well, good morning or night to you, depending on how you look at it, rest well." A nod, to both her and Jack. "And I hope you get better soon." He said to Jack before giving another nod to Saelaes and starting off in the direction they had come from.

She nodded to Vrael and smiled a bit more than usual. Turning she moved towards the entrance of the apartments. The old man waved to Vrael as Sae disappeared inside and up stairs to her room. Soon enough she was in bed and resting. Dreaming off into the night and even some during the day. She was exhausted and finally she had a few days off to relax.

A intricate dance glide over the keys slowly as she played. Her eyes glancing at the keys all the same and then to him while she played. The melody was gentle and soft still, almost like she was. It was filled with grace and determination before she turned to thoughts. Her mind raced towards Jack in a place of his own, healthy, and happy and she played a hopeful tune. She hoped that Jack would take the offer. Swallowing softly she listened to the melody as her eyes shut. The tune being a bit quick in pace than normal. Her golden hair bounced as she shifted, swayed as her arms moved. Even as the keys made a tune come to life it looked as if her figure was dancing with her motions.

Soft steps were taken past her then, and he took up the violin that rested in a stand, then a bow. He positioned it under his neck, against his collar, and brought the bow to the strings, slowly at first he played, adding a soft background to her tune. Then he quickened the pace, playing a harmony that went along with hers perfectly, a subtle background sound that he came up with on the top of his head as his fingers danced up and down the neck.

Smiling when she heard the violin she soon felt the tune slow and graze to a stop. Her head turned to watch him play a soft gaze in her eyes. His work was so beautiful that she gave a light sob. Hands moved to her eyes and she wiped them as she listened. She loved music, loved the simple things. It almost made her sorry to be where she was in life. Working with food instead of following her dreams had almost made her heart shatter when she first started, but she needed to have a living.
He slowed to a stop letting the final note ring on and he replaced the violin on its stand, turning back to her with a soft smile. "You play quite well." He nodded as he walked away from his instrument and towards her, stopping a short distance off. "Care to go pick out your dress or jewelry now?"

She nodded lightly and bit her lip," Thank you... you play so wonderfully." Sniffling softly she stood up as she cleared her throat. Standing up she lowered the lid of the piano carefully and brushed off the roof of the lid. Stepping back she pushed in the bench and even handled that with care.

He watched her for a moment, then gestured to the hallway. "Ready then?" He asked as slow steps were taken towards it, his head tilted to regard her and wait for her response. One might notice that he didn't have his weapons on him right now.

Sae was soon following after him while nodding," Ready." She made her way to the door as she noticed no weapon and started to slip on her boots. Her hair fell in her face and she used a finger to tuck it behind her ear. She swallowed softly and turned back to glance at him with a smile.

"Excuse me for one moment, my boots are in my room." He walked to a small platform made of black marble, runes lit up on the surface and he was gone for a few minutes. The platfrom lit up again and he reappeared wearing his boots, and having his twin swords strapped to his sides. He walked towards the door a hand resting comfortably, and idly on the hilt of one sword while his arm was offered for her to loop hers through. "Shall we then?"

When he returned she was staring at the black marble. Gulping for a moment she turned her head back up to him and nodded lightly. Hand pulling over the hood on her head and a smile on her lips," Ready.." She then turned as she started to smile brightly. She was having such a wonderful time already with him.

He opened the door and led her out of his home then, and into the cold streets of the market, a nod to her, and he glanced left and right with intense scrutiny, then headed off for the center of the market and its most prominent shops and such.

Careful steps led her in a close follow. She looked over her shoulder and then around the area as a while. Keeping close to Vrael as she whispered," I always feel like someone is watching me when I walk alone... And... I still feel like I am." She nodded lightly to him and gulped a bit.

He led her down the street, his tail trailing casually behind him, soft leather boots making little to no noise. He glanced at her and quirked a brow. "What do you mean?" He looked around then as they neared a large jewelry shop.

Shrugging she whispered," I mean... I've been followed before by random guys, but I always feel like there's this wanting eye on me." She said honestly while she looked about again. There was nothing in sight while she turned to look at the shop. Like that a shadow appeared at her feet and with a scream she was sucked away within the blink of an eye.

Sae had a bag over her head, ankles tied to a chair and arms tied behind her back. She was listening as quietly as she could to the area around her, but even then she wasn't quite sure where she was. The truth of the mater was she had passed out when she was taken. Jack had warned her that a shadow was hanging over her, she should have listened...

Once she was away from those few that would protect her and in a new location that's when the Shadow struck. She heard boot steps thunk behind her as a man paced behind her back. From the echo of the steps she could tell faintly that they were in some kind of ware house near the end of west End.

The hissy voice of the man came which reminded her she could scream out, but the feel of fabric against her mouth and around her face showed all too well that she would have no such chance. So, Sae would have to pay attention to the words being said around her," .... and she's slim, even lanky a bit, but it's nothing a bit of food will change if you like them looking like little piggies. I don't do refunds either. She comes as is and I'm pretty sure this b'tch is a vergin." A dark set of snickers came from the man and the lingering shadows around them.

She swallowed softly and tried to wriggle in her binds. The voice came again," I provide one dress of your choice, a collar, and micro chip locator I'll implant before the merchandise is delivered. She will not be broken if you so wish it, but she'll be presentable." Sae suddenly realized that there was more to this than met her ears... She was being sold, as a pet.

He had tracked the kidnappers silently, his armor was now worn light and pale. He made no sound as he crept through the shadows, movements like acats, his horns had come up then, his wings had sprouted, he was perched in the rafters, hands on the hilts of his twin swords, green eyes ablaze with fury. He listened for a moment, scanned, judged, waited, and would soon punish...

He was silent and unseen in his movements, keen eyes picking up every little detail with intense scrutiny. His blades were silently drawn, the metal reflected no light, part of their enchantments. He slid a bit further down the rafters, and then silently dropped to land behind the speaking man, driving one blade for his throat, the other for his lower back in a two point thrust.

The man had pulled back from the blade than the other even after the wound was struck. Turning into a dance of smoldering black smoke he reappeared a bit of a distance away. His eyes glanced to him while he bowed. Then he looked over the space of the ware house that they were in, a smirk forked on his lips as he rubbed at his neck," You know... I could have your head for breaking into my location, but I'd rather much give you a job... Impressive." He smirked and dipped his phone into the breast of his suit," Why are you here in the first place hmm?" The demon continued to smirk as he folded his arms. He was not about to tell a man there to kill him, just how to do his job. Digging Vrael's blade through his heart may have done the trick, but not a blade to the neck and the back. He was a full on abyssal demon after all.

"Which plain of the Abyss to you hail from? So that I may send that heart of yours to the rest of the beasts there..." Ankles bound in enchanted bracers that made him all the faster worked then, he rushed the side, his speed fast, even compared to that of a demons, his movements smooth as he conjured a globe of impenetrable darkness over the demon, no light could shine through, it was unnatural darkness. He dove through, blades working in a frenzy of light cuts, and slashes, then one stab for the heart, the second for the lung, if connected, he'd slice up and out, if not he'd moved back and drop to the defensive stance.

The man chuckled as he was asked where exactly he was from. Seeing the speed in the boy he almost stumbled back. Again he tried to fall back in a blaze of smoke, but he wasn't fast enough," By the fires!" He howled out as his lung and then his heart was struck. His eyes went wide when he realized his demise was coming. Slowly his gaze turned towards Saelaes and the shadows started to charge towards her. Ordered by their lord and master while he began to fade from existence. As the shadows started to dance and creep up her leg she screamed out. The demon laughed and said his final words," In death I send her to her own... For if I can't have her... No one... Will..."

Blade tossed in the air, a hand extended and he shouted an incantation. "Jhol!" And a holy magical white light shot from his hands, lighting the room in a bright flash of golden white. Shadows such as the demons would in most cases, be destroyed by the holy magic of the light spell, then he caught the blade and rushed to Saelaes' side, even as the light spell went on.

Being inside a Warehouse was starting to give her the creeps. Since she didn't really know what was going on but as she felt the shadows receded she whimpered and tried to kick herself free from the binds around her legs. She was tugging frantically and screaming out, thinking even more so that she was going to die at the hands of a demon or perhaps two. He was talking to someone after all. Whimpering lightly she tugged and pulled at the binds once more her level of panic rising.

He removed the covering on her face, a sword having been sheathed and he cut the bindings loose, even as he did, his horns went back in, his wings retracted and he resumed his usual guise. "Are you alright?" The soft lilting voice drifted through the air towards waiting ears, delicate like a harp-song.

Shaking hands she pulled down her binds at her mouth. Sniffling a bit she looked up at Vrael as she spoke," What... What... What happened?" Still shaking she went to rub at her legs and look around.

Soon she was making a mashed potatoes and mixing things here and there. Eventually she was setting a plate of potatoes, corn, steak along with a few slices of bread. Red wine filled a glass and she set that down too before him before setting down her own plate and glass of water.

He tilted his head at her water. "Don't you want something else to drink?" Asked as he turned his chair to sit normally at the table, watching her curiously. "This looks great by the way, thank you." He nodded and flashed a smile.

"I don't usually drink liquor or anything intoxicating..." Nodding to him with a soft smile," Besides Water is healthy and cheap... So it's fine." She then blushed and brushed golden strands from her face," Thank you."

He shrugged. "Suit yourself." And then he lifted his fork and knife to cut into the food, eating quietly and flashing her another smile. "Very good." He nodded. "Thanks again. Its not often I get a proper meal." He was a god awful cook.

Smiling to him she whispered," I love cooking." Saying as she started to make some progress with some of her food. Eating in silence and smiling as she watched him eat.

He loved her cooking, it was official, and he wolfed it down quickly, but not messily. After he was finished he lifted his plate and walked to the sink to clean it off, glancing back at her every so often.

She was taking her time to savor every bite she could, after all it was not often she had a meal to eat that was home cooked. Once she was done she sipped at her water for a moment and stood, taking her plate over to the sink to wash.

He took the plate from her and washed it off, then dried his hands, turning back to her and casting another smile. "Thank you, that was delicious." He nodded. "Now what would you like to do?"

"It's your turn to pick." She said with a smile, moving to tidy up the table and everything else in the kitchen while he thought.

He shrugged. "I'm not good at such things, I rarely talk to people, much less often attractive women, I don't even know where to start when it comes to thinking of something to do." A helpless sigh and a soft chuckle. "I'm hopeless sometimes."

She nearly dropped the pan as he said attractive. Her eyes turned to him and she blinked a bit," Attractive?" She asked as she continued her work. a giggle on her lips," You're not hopeless... You saved me when you didn't have to."

"I'm hopeless in my own way." A shrug then, a smile flashed at her giggle, a delightful sound that was like music to his ears.

"How?" She asked as she dried a dish with a towel. Her form going to lean up against the counter as she smiled back to him.

Another shrug then. "I'm socially inept. I lack the initiative to make friends, to talk to people and I feel very nervous when talking, even now I am feeling so." He nodded as he confessed his social ineptness.

Bliking a bit she nodded and murmured," I'm nervous too... I've never been around someone as stunning as you or as kind as you've been to me."

Blink, stunning, turn of his gaze to her a sheepish smile offered. "Guess we'll just have to get around it eh?"

Again she giggled and nodded softly. Her form turning to put away the dish as she chimed," Guess so."

When that was over and done with he led her out of the kitchen and towards a large study, rows upon rows of books lined the walls, chairs set around at random intevals, a warm blazing hearth, and a large desk near it, he sat down in a chair near the hearth and motioned for her to do the same.

Soon she was settled in the chair opposite him and looking at the books with wide eyes. She was amazed that he had such grand things. Her figure turned and she glanced back to him, her smile grew as she spoke up," This is so amazing... How many books do you have here?"

He shrugged. "Tons. I have no actual idea, I've just about read them all." He glanced around and shrugged again. "This is my study, although I rarely come here anymore."

Then a sudden change of topic, random question said before he could think on it. "Tell me Saelaes, do you have a boyfriend? Or mate, or lover, or whatever it is you want to call it?" Blink blink, mouth clamped shut then, had he really asked that?

"But this is a wonderful room. Three times as big as my apartment at least..." Swallowing she looked over again and murmured," More like five times... This has such great lighting to..." Sae was sighing with awe as she leaned back in her spot.

Had she heard that right. It took her a few moments to process it before she murmured," No... No boyfriend, mate, lover or whatever... I'm alone, figured you'd guess that by now." She was bright red! Nervous was out of the question by now she was petrified. Why had he asked that?

A slow nod, words choked out he couldn't believe the bluntness of that question. "I see...Sorry that was...uncalled for." A bow of his head in apology and his eyes quickly averted from hers to watch the fire that seemed to be utterly fascinating.

Sae nodded again and found herself looking back to the fire," No... It wasn't... I suppose." She said as she continued to stare at the fire and shift a bit. She was nervous, her heart was racing, and for some reason she wanted to stare at him again.

At some point in time he had found himself on his feet, something that he had yet to register as he continued to stare at the fire, trying not to turn his gaze that so wished to be turned, upon her.

Soon enough she too was standing as she turned to glance at the books. Swallowing she asked," What about you? Do you have a girlfriend, mate, lover, or whatever?" Tugging at her tank top a bit.

He was oh so nervous, embarrassed by his blunt question, his gaze darted to her for a moment and remained there. "No." A subtle shake of his head he thought of Fae then...what happened to Fae? He had no idea...she had been gone for so long.

She turned to look at him while she gulped. Soon enough she was whispering to him," I'm sorry... That question was uncalled for..." She bit her lip, but she couldn't stop looking at him.

He moved forward then, unaware of the steps he was taking, soon he was a hairs breadth away from her, his lips less than an inch from hers, his breath warm against her lips. He paused there for a moment, lips almost brushing hers as he whispered. "No, it wasn't." Responding so softly before his lips went towards hers fully, brushing at first only to settle firmly against hers in a gentle and lingering kiss. His hands lifted to the sides of her face, cradling it softly.

Feeling his breath against her lips she sucked in her own and held it. At his words she gasped a bit and then his lips were gliding over her own with tender ferocity. As he cupped her cheeks she slid her arms up and around his neck. Returning the simple caress of a dance against his lips with her own. Her emerald eyes shut and fingers went in a glide up through his hair.

His hands slid down to her sides and there they rested as lips continued their elegant and soft dance. He held the kiss for minutes to come, breathtaking in both its length and tender passion, his previous embarrassment had left him and was replaced simply by the will to keep the kiss going.

She was lost in that intricate dance, tangled in the passion and devotion that was blossiming at that moment. The more time she tangled her lips with his the more she never wanted to leave them. Her fingers eased up and through her hair, down over his neck and over his shoulder as she caressed and massaged him. Her heart was still racing and so was her mind as she gasped out and called out between breaths and against his lips," Vrael?"

He found himself continuing, entranced by her lips for a time, and finally after another minute her call registered and he responded in a similar manner. "Hmm...?" Not even a full word then as his lips were lost against hers.

Lost lips, lost words or where they. As she pulled her lips away from his reluctantly she exhaled a heated breath. Her eyes opening to lock with his while she whispered," Why me?"

Lips trailed after hers until he realized she had spoken and he stopped, albeit grudgingly. "What do you mean?" He asked in a soft whisper, an exhale of warm breath hands still on her hips wanting to pull her in to continue.

"Why me? Like this... With you?" But she was eyeing his lips hungrily. Licking her lips and biting her bottom one while she waited impacently for an answer from him. A soft exhale left her and she started to give light pecks against them, still giving him the breath to speak.

"I...I honestly I don't know, I just had to, have to, want to, need to..." He whispered against her lips in a soft exhale of words and breath, velvet lips grazing against hers hungrily, needingly.

Part 3

His dreams and sleep were not as peaceful as he had hoped, nor were they ever, and by the looks of things, they never would be. Images flashed through his mind, images of blood, battle, death, of the time when he was a hunter of the shadows. His outward appearance while sleeping looked semi-peaceful though, but his face was set into an, oh so subtle frown as he relived those gruesome scenes over and over again in his sleep.

Saelaes was slumbering still in the bed, almost as if she had never slept before. Her form was curled up in a ball on her side, Molly in the middle of that ball and a sleep as well. Her watch was silent, but back at her apartment the phone was going haywire. There were screams and cusses coming from her boss on levels no one had ever heard before. Soft exhales of breath were given back in her new world as Sae hugged her dog close to her and nuzzled at the fur.

She had been dreaming quite well for the first time in a long time. She was snug however against Vrael's form, still aware that he was there. The dreams were fair until the shadows invaded. Suddenly she started to squirm and with a yelp Molly was kicked from the bed. Sae was screaming out in her sleep, but she couldn't wake. More and more she began to thrash about as the shadows teased and taunted her dreams.

Thankfully for them both, her screams woke him from his nightmares and his eyes instantly snapped to her, he slid to a sitting position, caressing her cheek and whispering soothing words of magic into her ear. After a time his hand moved to her shoulder and gave her a gentle shake and nudge. "Sae, wake up, its alright." The soft voice of a velvet harp-song issued forth from the pale lips of the troubled tiefling, but his troubles would wait, placed aside for hers.

Saelaes: A fraction of a second was all he was allotted to move out of the way as she snapped up and awake. Shaking wildly she looked forwards wide eyed. Her face was as pale as if she had seen a ghost. She was frozen to her spot and void of understanding where she was. All she knew was that the dream was horrifying beyond anything she had ever had. Her mind was having difficulty reminding her that Vrael was there, that he saved her, and now he wanted to be with her always. The process was slow and even Molly dared not to move near her, so she just watched in a sitting position far away from the bed.

"Sae..." He whispered her name oh so softly as a strong and slim arm worked its way around her. "Sae, its alright..." More soft reassuring words in the silky voice that was oh so calm and reassuring, soothing even. He knew not what had her troubled, but would do what he could to comfort her, and rid her of the trouble.

Sae was startled instantly by the arm around her and she nearly pushed her way out of his embrace before she realized that it was him. Pants were coming from her even as she shook and struggled to understand what had just happened. Biting her lip softly she soon had her head buried in his chest and sobbing out against it. Clinging to his frame the best she could she whispered to him," I saw the shadows.... Trying to take me again..."

His other arm went up and to the back of her head, stroking her hair gently with soft caress. A slow nod as he listened and then responded. "Don't you worry, they'll never take you, they won't, I promise, it's alright." He said in his always calm and soothing voice, lips dipped down and met the top of her head, and then his chin was made to rest there.

Still trembling she clung to his form while sniffling softly. Her eyes turned up to gaze at him, falls of tears pouring from them," Why me? Vrael? Why did they want me in the first place? I never did anything to them." Shaking her head and swallowing back tears, Molly soon decided that with the words of her mistress it was safe to move back to the bed. Sure enough moments later she was sleeping again.

A hand moved to her face, worked away the tears in light caressing touches. "I don't know, people like that, they don't need a reason, don't care who's done something to them or not, they'll treat people all the same." Lips met her forehead in a tender caress. "It'll be alright though, they won't be able to get you, they won't come back."

She nodded and sniffled a bit as she looked up at him. Her eyes were still watery as she whispered," I wish I wasn't so weak... I wish I had magic and other skills like the elves I see, but I can't even keep my self from being screamed at long enough to do something worth while and amazing."

Lips brushed against hers for a fleeting moment. "You're not weak, not at all...you're very much amazing too, trust me I wouldn't change a thing about you for the world..." His fingers continued to give her cheek light and gentle caresses, he gazed deep into her eyes with his own striking green ones with ain incredibly amount of adoration and affection.

A weak smile formed on her lips and she swallowed softly. Biting her lip and whispering she spoke up lightly," Really?" Biting her lip she leaned in and nuzzled his shoulder softly. Her arms wrapped around them and she sniffled again, but for now the sobs had silenced.

A slow nod came as his hand stopped its caress and went around her body to complete the embrace. "Really." He said softly and truthfully, his head moved to rest against the crook of her neck and shoulder.

She hugged him tightly and murmured to him softly," You're amazing to me too..." She murmured while she took a deep breath of his scent and nestled into his warmth. More and more feeling safe in his arms.

Lips brushed against her neck softly and then there was the sound of a bell, his head lifted and looked around. "Seems I have company..." That was surprising, he looked to her, let lips run across hers, then slipped from her arms to slide into some pants and pull a t-shirt over his head. "I'll be right back." He said as he walked towards the platform that transported him to the entry way, then he went to the door.

Sliding from the bed she got dressed in some pjs. She only had those, work clothes, and normal clothes. She blinked and looked down at the black marble platform curiously before it came to life. With a blink she was on the plat form and soon looking around the Mansion. She would leave Vrael to his work and move to the kitchen to make breakfast for the both of them.

He opened the door and was rather shocked with what he saw, he nearly jumped back with surprise it had been so long since he had seen her but there was no mistaking it, the woman at the door who was young looking and beautiful was in fact his mother he stared dumbfounded, he hadn't heard from her in so long he had assumed the worst, and then there was the fact that she had found him. "How...how?" Blink he shook his head, pushing his questions aside quickly as his face lit up in a smile he took and led her inside. "Come in!" He was shocked but very pleased to see the first person who had ever been kind to him, and he quickly led her to the kitchen to meet Saelaes.

Saelaes was fixing up plates for two when the woman was brought in by the hand. Her eyes shot up to Vrael and she gulped a bit nervously. Afraid greatly that this was a woman from the past that would push her back to the apartments. She gave a soft smile and swallowed lightly," Hello.." Quickly she was moving to gather up another plate.

The woman blinked at Vrael, then Saelaes, before speaking. "Found yourself someone have you? That?s good." Her hand was pulled from Vrael's as she moved to Saelaes, did a curtsy and bowed her head lightly. "Good afternoon, I am Alustriel, pleasure to meet you." Her voice was strikingly similar to Vrael's but of course was more feminine, it was light and soft, a delicate song. Vrael spoke up then. "Saelaes, this is my mother." He sounded shocked at saying that, a very unexpected surprise.

Saelaes had put down the plate so that she could bow to the woman. When she heard Vrael she gasped and bowed again. Gulping lightly and biting her lip she found it hard to speak properly," I... Its... I'm please to meet you.." She bowed lightly and tuned to look up a Vrael for a moment before looking to the woman," I'm sorry I'm not dressed properly..." She regarded her pjs and started to chew on her lip.

A light laugh as delicate and soft as she appeared. "Your fine dear." She reassured her with a nod and a light pat on the shoulder, she scanned the kitchen, smelling and trying to discern what was being made, but Vrael caught her attention with a question. "Not to sound rude, or unhappy in the least, but what are you doing here?" His mother turned to him then and offered a smile."I had heard you'd found a place to live, Karanthys told me, and its been so long I thought I should come see you." A side glance to Saelaes, Alustriel's eyes were strikingly similar to Vraels, then she turned back to her son. "I had no idea you had settled down with someone, can I be expecting grandchildren soon? Should I already be?" Another glance to Saelaes. "I didn't miss the wedding did I?" Vrael blinked, clearly she had no idea how very new their relationship was.

Saelaes was standing there in silence. She blinked to Vrael and then back to Alustriel as she gaped a bit. Biting her lip softly she soon whispered to Alustriel," Ma'am... I love your son very much, that is quite true, but as far as the wedding we haven't quite breached the subject of it."

She blinked and turned to the stove real quick to sort the bacon before smiling to Vrael weakly," I'm sure once Vrael is ready, he'll ask, but as it stands, we both are content to get to know eachother before we consider that."

Head tilted as she regarded Saelaes, then turned to Vrael. "Know each other? Don't you two live together?" Vrael nodded, he had nothing to contribute to the conversation really. "Did you say Karanthys told you?" He blinked. "How did he know...?" Eyes wide, then set into a frown. "Get down..." He said cooly he ran from the room and towards the entry way, swords being strapped on as he swept them up, he stopped at the door and waited, sure enough there was a loud crash and it was blown open.

Sae looked towards Vrael and then swallowed," Vrael?" Her brow furrowed and she watched him make towards the door. But as he drew the blade she did as she was told. Ducking down behind the counter she closed her eyes tightly. As the door was blown open she covered her head with a cry. Her eyes were shaking as she searched for Vrael's mother to get her out of danger.

His blades were drawn so fast they seemed to just appear in his hands. He glared at the three figures that entered, a half-dragon, a human, and a tall tiefling, Vrael's half-brother. "I see the wench has led us right to you..." He hissed and without a word, Vrael charged the group, ducking low under the half dragon's tail, and slicing up from hip to shoulder, then across the neck, a clean kill, swift and easy, but one that came at a price as the human's hammer smacked him right between the shoulders.

Vrael lurched forward as his grasp loosened on his blades, but he managed to keep hold. Gritting his teeth against the pain he spun around to intercept the next attack by crossing his blades up in the air before him, catching the hammer by the shaft. His slid his blades down the hammer's handled and brought them to the man's hands, twin slices severed his fingers and his weapon was dropped. Before the hammer touched the ground three slashes were made, and he dropped.

Vrael wheeled around and charged at the tiefling Karanthys, who held a longsword and a dirk, the dirk rushed ou to intercept an attack, his longsword made a return one that Vrael batted aside with his tail, it was a long battle, blows being constantly exchanged, until Vrael tripped his foe with his tail and held the blades to his throat. Just as he was about to stab he was struck in mid back by a ball of energy, and thrown into a wall. His blades dropped, his eyes struggling to stay open, he looked up and saw his mother in the midst of casting a second spell, aimed at Vrael.

Sae was looking at the woman as she cast the spell. She was panting roughly as she tried to figure out what to do. Her head shook as she shifted about in her spot to find something, some way of doing the right thing. Her figure shifted along the floor until she was able to peer out at the fight happening. As one figure fell before her in the form of the half dragon she screamed out, her body nearly buckling as she slid back from the blood. Eyes wide and her body shaking a bit more.

He reached out to her and his arm went around her, then very suddenly he tugged her to him, his other arm coming up to wrap her in his embrace. He held her for many long moments in that hug, which was meant to comfort them both.

Resting her head upon his shoulder she bit her lip. Swallowing softly and trailing her fingers over his clean shirt she sniffled softly and closed her eyes in a light sob. The tears started again as she thought of the woman laying up stairs. If there was anything she could do she would do it in a heartbeat for Vrael.

He'd hold her for now; there was little that could be done by anything other than time. But he'd travel to the Abyss soon, he'd find his father and he'd tear the half-demons heart out and cast it into the void, even if it mean he had to pray to Sithis once again, he'd see to it that that man's heart was destroyed.

Sae didn't know what for sure she could do to make things right. If that was what he wanted to do then she would be here when he was back. She prayed he would be back. Her head was still pressed to his chest as she sniffled lightly and clung to him. Her mind was already determined not to lose him.

He sighed, he didn't know how to reach the Abyss he had never traveled there before, he had no clue where to start, but he'd find a way. Until then he'd stay here, with her, but first something had to be done, several things had to be done before he could leave.

Jack was standing outside the study, almost as if he had been standing there all along. He looked clean cut and rather important from what he did yesterday evening. He gave Sae a gruff nod and looked over to Jack," Sir... Might I have a word with you in Private?" He wasn't meaning to intrude, but he figured now was the best time to have words with Vrael.

Eyes turned to Jack a slow nod, he stepped away from Sae and walked over to the man. Hands rested lightly and idly on the hilts of his swords once more, but seemed to grip them a bit more than usual, an obvious sign of his stress. "Yes...?" He asked as he exited the study and waited for Jack to follow.

Jack followed after nodding to Sae. He swallowed a bit and whispered," Sae must not know that we have spoke of this. It's very important that she doesn't ever know of this until she's ready." He nodded and glanced back to the study warily. Swallowing a bit the man started for a room well away from the study, he didn't want to take a chance in Sae over hearing.

He nodded and walked along side Jack, entered the room and waited for the man to speak. What was it he was hiding from Sae, this was odd, he had thought Jack a simple homeless man in need of a bit of help, was there more to the man than originaly thought?

"I am the high guard of the Imperial Court of Lunas." He said softly and sighed," Saelaes is important there, but she got hurt in a raid. Since then we've figured it's best that she not be where she would be in danger. She has to be safe at all times. Her skills are Important and Great... Powerful beyond compare." He nodded a bit as he stopped at a table.

Head tilted and a very very slow blink came at that. "I'm sorry? Imperial Court of Lunas? What exactly is that? High guard? Who are you then? And what skills do you talk about?" His brow furrowed he had sensed not even the faintest inkling of magic or power from Sae, not in the literal sense anyways.

Sitting down Jack shifted in his spot," My name is Balyl, Guard of the Imperial Court of Lunas, the last court on Earth of Elves. At least my... Sae's Earth. Sae is possibly the most prized possession that the elves have, but she'll never step foot back into the court ever again. She is the heir to the key of Jhori and her power is incredible." He looked to Vrael with a smirk," During the raid she did whatever she could to insure that the Court was protected and secured. At a price... She lost all her memory and knowledge of what she was before. To keep her safe we sent her away to live her own life under the careful watch of several guards. I'm all there is left and my health is fading. I need to know that when my time comes someone will be there to keep my people's hope safe."

A slow nod, anymore surprises for Vrael today, and he might just die from all the overwhelming shock he was getting. "I see..." A hand ran through his golden hair, and fell back to the hilt of his blade as he studied Jack...no Balyl for a time. "Rest assured that her safety and happiness is my highest priorety."

"Then understand when I tell you that she doesn't need to know who she is." Jack stood and shifted," To her I am a mere homeless man that you were kind to. That's how it should stay. When we leave this room... We were discussing business. If she found out, it may be dangerous."

"How so?" Head tilted as he regarded Balyl curiously, he took a lean up on a wall, cryptic words would get them nowhere and he was not in the mood for them so he hoped that the answer would be blunt and to the point.

"Saelaes could very well go mental... Her mind could shut off and she could slip off into comatose." He nodded as he answered bluntly.

"Very well then." A slow nod, he came out of his lean and walked towards the door. "So then it stays Jack correct?" Asking about the name and such as he exited the room, looking over his shoulder at Jack/Balyl.

Nodding Jack smiled," Jack..." His form then turned to look out the window. He would say no more, but let Vrael go back to Saelaes.

A nod and he headed off towards the study and Saelaes, he walked in and over to her. "We have much to talk about, but that can wait, for now, rest." He said with a nod as an arm slipped around her and he made to guide her towards the door of the study.

Saelaes was looking up at him as she swallowed," Is everything alright?" She was worried now more than ever that something would happen to Vrael. Her heart was racing and she was shaking a bit as her eyes studied his face for any sign of hope or change from his dispair.

"Nothing?s worse than it was before." He nodded, a weak faltering smile. Then he led her towards the platform that sent them to the bedroom. Silent he guided her towards the bed and then released her.

She looked at her blood stained clothes and whisepred," I need to wash up a bit..." Sae said as she lowered her head and held back her shaking for a moment.

He nodded slowly. "Alright." Then motioned for her to do so as he unstrapped his sword belt and placed the blades within easy reach of the bed. He removed his boots and took a seat on the edge of the bed, watching the room in silence.

Saelaes was curled up under the water soon enough. The water falling down on her as she thought over what happened. Blood was pooling at her feet while she trembled and tried to work the thought of what happened between the kitchen and what had happened in the ware house.

He did nothing, said nothing, just sat and waited. Thoughts drifted back to earlier times in his life, his younger years that were filled with the cruel tormenting of children. People never seemed to grasp how cruel a child can be towards another. He reflected on those times, and the one ray of light the sun let through in his life then, his mother was the only one at the time who had not seen him as an outcast, his race was not unheard of, but rarely were they accepted with open arms, it was-
: -usually with brandished weapons.

Sae sobbed in the shower. Her form taking in the warmth while it remained. Yet when it turned to ice cold she stayed, not minding for either or at this point. Her fears were clinging to her and even more so she was afraid that deep down inside before they had ever gotten started Vrael would send her away. She didn't know if she could take that pain, for some reason it seemed more familure than she had thought it would be. What was happening to her? Could she honestly agree with what she had said in the kitchen to his mother, that she loved Vrael more than anything... Yes. Yes she could.

He waited for a bit longer, would continue to sit and reflect, slowly his memories led him back to earlier in the kitchen, his mothers talk of marriage, Sae's words of love, he had not responded to those words in kind, and it struck him then that he should have. He did indeed love her, he would make sure that nothing happened to her, would never drive her away, intentionaly at least.

The shower stopped but she had already gone blue. Her lips were shivering, but she couldn't notice. Her skin was blue and the tips of her ears were blue. She was reaching for the towel and wrapping it around her, but her shivering was so bad that she couldn't move more than what she had. Eyes were dazed forwards as her heart skipped a beat, she loved Vrael. She had never felt so sure about something this powerful.

He heard the shower stop, and waited for a time, when she didn't exit he walked in to see her blue lips and ears. He blinked and rushed to her, wrapping her in a towel and lifting her from the shower and out of the bathroom, towards the bed, his body was warm, far warmer than normal to accommodate for her cold condition.

Hands were gripping at his shirt and she was quaking in his arms. Clinging to his warmth she looked up with wide eyes at him," I... I'm... I'm sorry..." Her body was still trembling as she sucked in rasped breaths through her shivers.

"What were you doing?" He asked as he concentrated on making his abyssal blood multiply the heat he gave off. He stared down at her with confusion, and sat down on the edge of the bed, using his heat to warm her.

"I... I... I... W...w.. w.. was... th.. th... thinking..." Still shivering she nestled into his warmth, suddenly realizing just how cold she was. Her teeth were still chattering as she lowered her head.

"Esuagee." He muttered and a large flame appeared before them, floating in the air and giving off intense heat.

Deep breaths were forming in her lips as she warmed, the tips of her airs seeming less purple while she whispered," I'm sorry..."

"Don't do that ever again alright?" He looked back down to her studying her face as the purple left. "What were you thinking about anyways?" He honestly wondered what could be so interesting that it would make one forget to get out of the cold.

She nodded to the first question before whispering," I was wondering if I meant what I said back in the kitchen... And I realized... I do.. I don't know what I would do now without you around... I know it's fast and possibly too fast, but the more I consider it the more I don't ever want to be without you."

"I thought on that too...I never said anything then, I should've though, should've told you that I felt the same, that I love you." His response was in a soft whisper, he recalled the conversation again, how he had been caught very off guard and unawares at the time.

Sae started to sob lightly after those words," But you're going to go away... You're going to go there and I don't know if you'll come back..." Her head lowered and her hair fell over her face.

"I'll come back, I promise." He nodded. "Time flows differently here than in the Abyss, for you, it'll be a day or two, for me, it might be weeks."

Buring her face in his shirt she sniffled," A day or two without you is better than an eternity."

Part 4

He was asleep, and by all appearances was peacefully, but his nightmares tormented him with a savage fury this time. Not only were the images of his past playing over again and again in his head, but so too, were the events of the previous night so much torment in his sleep, he would awake tired and weary.

Her form was tangled in the bed, obviously having thrashed quite too much. Her hair was trailing over her face and deep breaths were being drawn in and out in soft, but rasped breaths. Her fingers were gripping the bed so tightly that she was tugging at it while her other hand shook at her throat.

He awoke with a start and shot up, glancing left and right, then to her, a hand went to hers and pulled it from her through, a light shake given as he whispered her name into her ear. "Sae, wake up Sae, its okay."

"Vrael... Vrael... VRAEL!!!!" She screamed as she shot up and started to shake desperately. Her eyes were looking forwards but she was whimpering meekly.

His slipped his arm around her, and drew her to him, wrapped her into his embrace. "Its alright...I'm here just a nightmare..." He whispered softly, lips brushed along her cheek. "Its alright."

Turning she glanced at him and swallowed softly. Her paws were resting at his chest as she looked up at him with a whimper and gulped softly. Her head pressed against his shoulder and she sniffled," I dreamed that while you were gone they came for me... They kept asking for you..."

"That won't happen, while I'm gone I'll have you protected, I promise, nothing will happen." He reassured her softly, holding her tightly in his arms a warm and protecting embrace. "Trust me, nothing bad will happen, I promise."


Nodding she wiped her eyes and whispered to him softly," Promise you'll come back?" Her eyes turned up to him as she gulped lightly," Please come back.... I don't want to lose you." She was clinging to him as her eyes looked up and locked with his.

He nodded slowly, a hand moved to brush a stray strand of her hair from her face, and lips met hers in a soft lingering kiss. "I promise I'll come back, I swear it. Even if I have to kill the wretched Lolth myself, I will come back."

She nodded, biting her lip softly as her fingers trailed over his cheek a bit. Sniffling a bit and kissing his lips tenderly while she whispered to him," That's all I ask, for you to come back..."

"I promise I will..." He returned the tender kiss with another light brush of lips. "Now come on, let?s get up and out of bed."

She nodded and looked around, her hands moving to wipe her eyes," What time is it?" Biting her lip she searched around and gasped," Oh no... Molly... Has she been up here yet?" The dog was nowhere in sight.

"I don't know, I just woke up." He looked around for the dog, slipping out of the bed and wandering about the room. "Where is she?" He blinked and stepped onto he platform that took him to the entryway.

Saelaes was slipping on her jeans and boots. Her jacket moving to fling over her shoulders while she ran for the Platform. She would check the kitchen after checking the front door. There was a blink and a gasp as she looked at the open back door.

He saw that door and went outside in search of the dog. Eyes scanning left and right, he called out to her several times and listened to see if she'd come around the corner or something.

Nothing. Sae sucked in a breath and shot forwards from the Mansion. Her eyes searched about and she soon was taking off a sprint in one direction. She was calling out frantically," Molly! Oh lords, please... Not again..."

He took off after Sae, he wouldn't let her out of his sight, not with the recent events being what they are. "Molly!" He called out in turn as he glanced every which way in hopes of finding the little dog.

Skidding to a stop and listening with her pointed ear. She gulped while she looked around. There was the chiming of bells and the jingles as she sucked in a soft breath. Biting a lip she started to chase after the bells," Molly!"
[
He followed after her with haste, always having her in his sight. He glanced every which way, but she was always at least in his peripherals.

There was a yelp and her eyes went wide. Gulping a bit and whimpering in panic. She shivered, trembled and crept forwards a bit only to see her pup limping back towards her. Her eyes shot open wide and she scrambled forwards," Molly!"

He was soon next to Sae, crouching down next to the limping dog watching and judging trying to determine what happened, looking for a wound. He looked up and around the street in hopes of finding the cause.

Sae was holding Molly as she sucked in a breath and whimpered softly. Her eyes were shaking and she sniffled softly. Paws were examined as she bit her lip," Someone did this to her..." Then there was a crash of glass and a clap of hands as one man stepped forwards from the shadows," Good job Sae." The man was going to just stand there and grin.

Funny how his swords had been strapped on before he left, so his hands went to them as he stood. "And you are...?" Gaze narrowed intensely on the man, the blades drawn just slightly from their obsidian sheaths.

The man bowed his head to show his pointed ear," Just a friend with a warning..." He grinned and glanced down to Saelaes," Still just as beautiful..." He sighed airily.

Blade drawn all the way, only one and pointed at the man. "What warning? I need names."

Sae stood and held onto Molly as the man spoke up," They're going to come for her. "

"Who's they? And who're you?" He was growing frustrated, he hated cryptic words, a growl issued low, fangs bared, yes he had fangs.

"I have no name... I just know that the keepers of Sae... Will come for her." He nodded softly while he sighed a bit," If she falls into their hands, she'll remember eventually what happened."

He frowned. "Keepers?" Head tilted Balyl hadn't said anything about keepers. "What keepers...?"

"The ones who sent her and Balyl away for her protection." He nodded and gestured with one hand," After all... As long as she's alive... They'll have a reason to fight..."

Brow furrowed frown grew deeper, and his blade was sheathed. "Why are they coming? What do they want?" He still held onto his weapons mind you, his emerald eyes watched with intense scrutiny, searching for any sign of foul play.

"Their cause for fighting is so that Sae is eventually found and killed." He smirked," People want her to die. Simple as that."

"Why?" His glared at the man for that smirk, blade slowly inching free of the sheath once more.

Stepping back into the shadows he left a gawking Sae and a few words," Because she represents everything they hate."
[
He glared after the man, took a step forward, then stopped, he wouldn't chase him, wouldn't leave Sae here alone, so he kept one blade free, and grabbed her by the arm, guiding her back home, glancing about the streets as they walked at a swift pace.

Sae swallowed as she clung to her dog. Biting her lip and looking around frantically. Her eyes then turned on Vrael and she whispered to him," What's going on? What was he talking about?" Her voice showing a bit more fear than she had liked to show at that moment.

"Wait till we get inside."He said as they turned down the street his mansion was on, and he quickly led her towards it. Always his eyes were on the lookout, glancing this way and that, waiting and watching, prepared.

Part 5

Saelaes, the elfess, walked into the mansion stark pale. She had finally gone to work and definitely didn't enjoy what she had dealt with. Her eyes were shaking with tears, again, and she was trying her best not to show just how much of a temper she could really have. Her hair was pulled back in a fine braded and her clothes were all black, a red sash was wrapped around her neck. Small hands were shaking at her side while her fists balled up, for the first time in a long time, Sae was gritting her teeth and grinding them as she tried to calm herself.

He was there upon her arrival, swift and sure steps taken towards her, head tilted in question of the obvious signs of anger quelling within her. He moved with soft steps, he wore pale breeches, no shoes, a plain white long sleeve shirt, and the necklace he never seemed to be without.

A nod given as they neared the fountain and the main street of the market. Emeralds danced left and right in search of a good place to eat. "What would you like?" He asked after a moment of searching that yielded on results.

"Anything." She answered as her stomach growled again. Somewhere in here there was a couple about to kill each other, she could feel it. She blinked and looked around before pointing towards a elf restaurant," Never seen that before."

He tilted his head and walked towards it. "Let?s go there then." Said as he approached quietly.

She nodded and kissed his cheek. Smiling softly while he headed in that direction. Soon enough she was looking across from him at the table. Taking slow bites of her food and keeping silent. One leg was folded over the other as her golden dress sparkled in the light. Soft eyes were gazing at him contently while she whispered outwardly towards him and delivered a soft smile," Thank you for Dinner Vrael."

He nodded, chewing a bite of food and swallowing before responding with a smile of his own. "You're welcome." He was glad all had gone pleasantly so far, no attacks, no deaths, just the two of them enjoying a nice dinner.

They would enjoy this dinner and smile softly. Nibbling at her food and chewing the best she could on what she had. Soon enough it was gone and she was sipping at her water as she smiled.

He was soon finished and sipping his own drink for a moment. "Done?" He asked with a tilt of his head as he looked around for the waiter.

She nodded and smiled softly to him," Yep." Her sip coming once more and her fingers brushing at her blonde hair. With a content sigh she too began to look around the place while a young elf waiter approached them.

The check was given, paid for, and he stood, rounding the table and offering his arm to Sae when she would stand as well. "Lets go then."

A smile was offered to her, content, happy that nothing had gone amiss with the evening so far. He glanced around warily, but let himself stay calm and enjoy the evening.

Taking his arm she brushed off her shoulders and then looked back to him with a smile," Take me away love." Smiling once more she waited for him to lead the way.

He led her towards the door, and out it into the cold streets. Where, without a second thought, he scooped her back up into his warm arms as he started off seemingly back towards home, as he walked in the general direction.

Shivering at the cold before he scooped her up. She bit her lip and looked at him with a smile, her head nestling on his shoulder while she kept cuddled in his warmth.

"Where to now?" He asked as he walked down the street, past shops and stalls, ignoring the cries of good deals that came from the merchants that had yet to close up. Ignoring everything but the one in his arms.

Biting her lip she looked at all the shops and then to him. Her eyes on him for a long time while she smiled softly to him. Her fingers twirled up through his hair and she shrugged," Have any ideas in mind?"

A shrug of his own. "Not really." Only partially true, he had an idea, but he didn't want to do that yet, he had to think it through first, and make sure all worked out well, it would be quite a bit of fun when all was said and done though.

She closed her eyes with a nod and nuzzled his neck contently. Her fingers brushed at his shoulder while she bit her lip lightly and whispered," I suppose home then.." She sighed happily and curled up a bit more in his arms.

He nodded to that. "Alright, home it is." And he started off, walking this time, towards the large mansion they called home. He reached the door and his tail opened it for him while he slipped through, careful not to hit her head. Then the tail closed it behind them and they were home.

Opening her eyes she looked over home with a smile. Nuzzling his cheek before kissing it she slid from his arms and kicked off her heels," Home..." Sighing happily she rubbed the back of her neck and stretched her form out with a sigh.*

"Home..." He repeated with a nod as he walked forward, coming up behind her. Arms were placed around her neck, resting on her shoulders and he tugged her towards him, her back against his chest. His chin resting forward on his arm and her shoulder.

Gasping as she was pulled back she turned with a smile to look at him. Giggling lightly she kissed his cheek and nuzzled it a bit before whispering," I love you Vrael." A smile came from her and she turned to wrap her arms around his torso, her head resting on his shoulder in return.

He smiled in return, lips soft as silk brushed against hers then her cheek and his head settled back down. Emeralds studied her for a time, in complete silence. "I love you too." And he meant it, odd how the man who had once thought he would never say those words again, found himself saying it so easily to her now.

Smiling at those words she wrapped her arms tighter around him and closed her eyes. She kissed at his shoulder and she sighed lightly. She didn't want to ever leave his side, she didn't want to lose him ever, she was so much in love with him that her head was spinning.

Lips met hers then, for a moment, lingering then slipped away. "I have a surprise for you tomorrow." He said with a grin, spoken softly in a whisper as he held his love tighter still. He did have a surprise for her, one that he hoped she'd love.

She blinked and kissed him back while her arms wrapped around him. With a curious tilt of her head she bit her lip and closed her eyes," You always surprise me love." A smile growing on her lips before a yawn burst from her lips.

The next day, he was already up, dressed and waiting, wearing clothes similar to the ones he had been wearing the previous evening. He was glancing constantly at the platform, waiting for her to appear in the entryway with him, emeralds dancing about the room in anticipation.

There she was on the plat form, green dress covering her form while she glanced at him curiously. Biting her lip softly she looked down at her dress and the golden heels at her feet. Her hair was dangling over her shoulders loosely and a smile was weak on her lips as she stood there a jacket covering her shoulders," How do I look?"

"Stunning." He said very truthfully as he moved over to her, hand taken and lips met in a light kiss, then without a word, he guided her to the door, and out. He moved with determination, swift and sure he had to make sure this was done before anything happened, before another attack came.

Sucking in a breath at the kiss she smiled. Her eyes watched him and then she was pulled away by him. Biting her lip a bit she followed his paces nervously," What are we doing?" She asked curiously as she stayed as close as her feet could keep up with his own.

"You'll see..." They rounded a corner and he led her down a street, through a small passage that led to a large and beautiful garden, just about every flower one could think of was present, and a large marble gazebo in the middle. He led her to this, and stopped inside of it, the moment they stopped moving the air was set in twilight, stars above their head despite the fact that it was day. He reached up and plucked a star right out of the air, as it was only an illusion, he held the silver twinkling object out for her to take and he waited.

Sae smiled and looked down at her necklace. The heart had its own pulse. Biting her lip she turned her eyes to look up at him while she whispered," And you can do the same beloved."

He nodded. "I can, I'll contact you constantly, always let you know where I am, that I'm safe and coming home." A smile given in return, he could feel her now, feel her life and exactly where she was, always connected now.

?And when you get back we'll get married." She added and kissed his lips again. Wrapping her arms around his neck and tangling her fingers up through his hair. Biting her lip softly and looking up in his eyes.

He returned the kiss with a nod and a smile. "That we will. We'll get married and live on happily from there, no one will bother us, we'll be together until the end of our days, and then continue on in whatever afterlife awaits us."

Sae giggled happily and looked over at the flowers this time. She couldn't help it she was as curious as a kitten sometimes! Blinking she looked back to him," Do they do anything when plucked?"

He chuckled. "No, they're just flowers. Lots and lots of flowers." He kissed her lips lightly then. "Sorry to disappoint."

She kissed him back and smiled," I love them... This is so amazing... You do spoil me so." Whispering as she rested her forehead to his.

"I give you only what you deserve." He whispered back as their foreheads met. A smile graced his lips once again, arms held tight around her, never wanting to let go. And indeed, were it not for his upcoming quest, he wouldn't let her go. But the time was drawing near, that smile gave way to the subtlest of frowns. "I'm leaving today..."

Her eyes burst open and she turned to look at him. Tears suddenly in her eyes as her heart sank. She swallowed softy and whispered," So soon?" Sae was shaking a bit when she looked at his frown. Her head shaking a bit while she whispered," But we just got engaged?"

"I know, I had to do it before I left so that I would know you were waiting for me when I came back." A hand brushed along her cheek. "I don't think I'd be able to go if I didn't know that..." Lips met, light and tender. "For you, it'll be only a day, for me...weeks...time flows differently in the Abyss."

"I will always wait for you..." Her voice broke while she started to weep," I would have waited forever for you without all this..." She sucked in a deep breath. She pushed her head to his chest and sobbed in it. Gripping him close and shaking her head. She didn't want to lose him.

"I promise I'll be back tomorrow, if not later on in the evening, time is oh so different there..." He hugged her tight, determined that this would not be the last time he saw her. "I swear it, even if I have to kill every demon, ever fiend and imp, all the dark gods, I'll come back."

Nodding she stood up and clung to him her whisper coming," If you're not back by tomorrow I'm coming for you." She whispered, tears falling down over her cheeks.

"Don't worry, don't even plan on that, I'll be back soon." Lips met, again, a long kiss, lingering and soft. He loved her, and he wouldn't let anything stop him from coming back to her. Not even the will of the gods would stop this Tiefling from completing his quest, and coming back to his love.

He broke the kiss then, and whispered into her ear. "I love you...I'll see you soon." He freed himself from her grasp, and walked off, his clothes faded into his armor, twin swords at his sides. His wings sprouted up, his horns accompanied them as he walked around the corner, to a circle he had prepared ahead of time. He stopped and stood on it, muttered the incantation, one last look given towards his love, and then he was gone, cast into the hells of the Abyss.