Angelus Ardens - Burning Angel

by Cullenboyz

Born as a Roman slave, Eduardus serves a depraved mistress and learns that he is nothing. Stolen into a world of violence, Eduardus slakes his thirst without remorse, and learns that he is a monster. Fleeing to a world of asceticism, Edward finds relief in oblivion and learns that life is pain. But in rescuing his Singer, Edward learns that he must live.

38. Chapter 38 Conlocutio

CHAPTER 38 - Conlocutio

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Eduardus: This really is underhanded. I wouldn't have thought it of you.

Cullenboyz: *blushes* You're right, but I know so many people d-don't read author's notes (I'm looking at you, Mo). I thought this was the only way. I mean, it has been ten months. B-but I'm sorry I have disappointed you.

Eduardus: On the contrary, I'm impressed with your willingness to do what is necessary in order to achieve a worthy end.

Cullenboyz: *blushes* Th-thank you. Please excuse me—This is our first direct conversation, and I confess to being dazzled.

Eduardus: *shakes head* I have never understood this reaction in humans. Please, be at ease.

Cullenboyz: *blushes* S-sorry. Th-thank you. *rolls eyes* So...would you mind doing it, please?

Eduardus: Are you certain? It more appropriately should come from the author.

Cullenboyz: Believe me—it will be more effective coming from you.

Eduardus: As you wish. *turns to reader* The author believes, and I concur, that in order to fully appreciate the following chapter, the reader must first begin with Chapter 36, which is the proper beginning to the scene. Otherwise, the newest chapter will read, in the author's words, as "just any old lemon." Please forgive my lack of familiarity with your modern idioms; clearly, there is meaning here which eludes me, but I trust the phrase has meaning for the reader. *turns to Cullenboyz* Will that suffice?

Cullenboyz: *blushes* That was p-perfect. Thank you.

Eduardus: The pleasure was mine. I had, until this time, been unaware of the readers' presence. This has been an enlightening experience.

Cullenboyz: Well, I'm sorry to say that when this chapter concludes, you will return to your former state of ignorance. I'm sure you can see that it has to be that way.

Eduardus: *inclines head* Quite so. It would be disturbing, to say the least, to be aware that so many were privy to my private affairs as they were playing out.

Cullenboyz: Th-thank you again for your help. It's been an honor to meet you. I admire you so much, you have no idea. Not in a creepy way—well, okay, it is a little bit creepy, but you're just so…

Eduardus: *interrupts gently* Perhaps it is time to let our readers go, so that they can enjoy your continued telling of my life story—beginning, of course, with Chapter 36.

Cullenboyz: *blushes* Perhaps it is.

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Conlocutio = Conversation