Disclaimer: Don't own X-Men, but I own Azriel yada yada yada.

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Return of the Shadow Chapter 8: Epilogue

Revels could be heard over all the countryside as vampires toasted to their new King, Azriel Dracul.

"I've known Azriel for a few months now. Hell, he's the one that bit me. Always struck me as the kinky sort..." Laughter followed Kyrina's words as Azriel blushed as crimson as his eyes. "But seriously, he's a great guy and I know he will make a fantastic King. All hail Lord Azriel!"

"Hail Lord Azriel! Hail Lord Azriel! Hail Lord Azriel!" Loud cheers and hoots echoed through the now pristine halls of Dracula's former castle. The party continued through the night. Even the X-Men found themselves having a great time, dancing with some of the younger vampires. Jean spotted Azriel and shouldered her way through the crowd to him.

"Hey. Can I have a second?" Azriel excused himself from some of the guests and led her to a large balcony at the opposite end of the ballroom.

"What's up?" Jean stared at the floor and shuffled her feet a bit.

"Well, the thing is...I've been doing a lot of thinking and....well...I think we should break up." A small frown appeared on Azriel's face.

"Care to explain this sudden change of heart?" Jean flushed an even deeper shade of red. She steeled herself and stared straight into Azriel's crimson eyes. You can do this, she thought to herself. You have to.

"It's not you; you've been wonderful to me. It's me." Azriel quizzically quirked an eyebrow. "But, to be completely honest, I'm afraid of you. Of what you become when you...you know..." Tears streaked down Jean's cheeks. "I can't even look into your eyes without getting scared. Whenever I try to kiss you, I see your demon side, covered in blood. It's the same thing when we make love. I can't love that side of you." Her shoulders heaved as more and more tears spilled down her face. Azriel gently enfolded her in his arms, his covering both their bodies and shielding them from the suddenly chilling wind. "I'm so sorry!"

"Shh. I understand. Believe me, I do. I don't hold anything against you. I understand and respect your decision. Carry no heavy feelings within your heart." He slowly let go of her and backed away. "Don't worry about it, Jean." He turned his head and listened to the party noises for a moment. "My apologies. I must take my leave of you. Until next we meet, Jean." He gave a short bow and strode away from her.

"Blade?" Azriel kept walking, not bothering to stop.

"Azriel..." Azriel turned and looked over his shoulder.

"Yes?"

"Thanks. For everything." Azriel favored her with a quick grin, smiling genuinely at her.

"Anytime."

The End

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That's it. End of this story. I'm definitely going to write at least one more fic, so don't worry VanyD. But it'll definitely be at least a little while before I even start so I beg for you patience. *Don't kill me, VanyD.* Thanks to everyone who reviewed and hopefully you'll remain faithful readers of this little chronicle. Thanks again.

Sayonara (for a bit longer than usual)