Disclaimer: Refer to Chapter 1.
WARNING: AU, OOC, SUGGESTIVE LANGUAGE.
WARNING!!! This piece CONTAINS MAJOR RELIGIOUS CONTENT. If you are offended with the sight of Christian Roman Catholicism Bible tales, DO NOT READ. SKIP THIS CHAPTER.
YOU HAD BEEN WARNED.
This is based on the "The Book of Tobit". This is a book scripture that is acknowledged by the Roman Catholic Church. It is a deuterocanonical book. The fic is loosely based on it with major changes along the way and at the end.
A/N: Fallacy, this is for you. I hope you enjoy it (OR NOT!).
Chapter 4: Asmodai
She was the last born from her sisters…They had all been married while she remained the same.
She sighed; her parents were worried.
They were a prominent family in their society; respected…wealthy…But there came a catch. Her family had borne three daughters and had planned on marrying them off to even wealthier families…Her older sisters had been given away and married.
And now, only she remained.
She had recently turned sixteen. It was a perfect age for marriage. She sighed; she didn't believe so though.
She had wanted to marry for love. But then again, such sentiments were unheard of. She sighed. But she supposed that wasn't her real problem. Her personal feelings about her arranged marriage was her own and she could deal with it on a personal basis. But when it came to problems of the family, then, it was a whole different issue.
Like now.
Many had regarded her beauty to be nothing short of extraordinary. Many men had fallen for her foolishly and had proposed marriage to her father. He had refused of course…But news of her beauty did not end there.
Men from different places had sought her out and there, proposed marriage…Her father had screened the would-be grooms and there deemed some of them worthy.
She had been set to marry an older man. He was twice her age but was a wealthy merchant. Her father had arranged it…
The marriage had come to pass but the consummation of the marriage itself had not. Her husband had died shortly after the ceremony. Sera remembered it all too well. He had died so unexpectedly. She had been afraid that night; she had been afraid of giving herself to him…both body and soul.
But suddenly, he had died. She let out a breath of relief back then…Despite the loss of the groom, her father had arranged another marriage…And it had been carried out.
Once more, she found herself within her new husband's chambers…She shuddered but again, her husband had mysteriously died.
She blinked; it was an unheard of coincidence.
She clung to her mother and father then, horror etched onto her graceful features. She had seen not one but two cadavers in less than a month.
And then, again and again, marriages to her had been arranged. But like the first and the second, all of her marriages ended within her husband's chambers.
They had all died…in a mysterious way. They had all died in the same way. They would die experiencing unfathomable anguish and grip their hearts and necks. After a moment's struggle for life, the victims all fell dead.
But after all of those deaths, Sera would feel a mixture of conflicting emotions…She felt horrified at what she had seen, yes, but felt, at the same time, soothing sensations within her gut. Back then, as she would huddle on the floor of her husbands' chambers, she would feel a comforting presence…
A presence that promised only solace and understanding.
Flashback
Sera's tears streamed down her face as she gazed at her husband's corpse. She buried her face in her hands as she wept, "Oh God…! Hast thou forsaken me…? I have done nothing…! And now my husbands are dead…"
She suddenly froze as she felt a shift in the air. She let out a staggering breath as she felt a cool and chilly air around her…
She slowly stood, hugging herself, "W-who's there…?"
No one would answer…It was just she within the room.
Suddenly, she would feel the presence right beside her…It contained no form, no substance…Only the wind played within the aforesaid chambers…
Sera could feel her eyes begin to feel heavy…
So heavy…
And thus, the maiden slept.
End Flashback
That was all how it had been…
She would faint shortly after her husbands' deaths…But not before feeling the presence within…
She could only wonder what it was…
'Or whom…' she thought with a shiver. But by morning, she would feel soothed and safe…None of the strange feeling that she had had just before she had fallen into sleep. It was as if, someone had taken care of her while she slept…giving her nothing but good dreams…
What was it…? Another presence? Another presence aside from the one that comforted her after her husbands' deaths…?
She sighed; she had time not for presences and such, but to address the problems at hand.
After seven failed marriages, all patience that her family had had for her had been gone. Now, there was only anxiety…disappointment…anger.
Her father did not wish to see her and had forbidden her from leaving her room. It had been a day now since her last husband had died.
She could hear her parents arguing about her…
She pressed her ear against the door of her chamber and heard them argue in the hallway.
"Your daughter is a witch!" she heard her father say.
Sera's heart got caught up in her throat. Her father thought that…she was a witch…? Her eyes began to brim with tears as she felt pain in her chest; pain and betrayal.
He was her father; how could he think this way about her…? Didn't he love her…? Didn't he trust her?
"She's not just my daughter! She's your daughter as well! Have you forgotten that!? She's not a witch!"
That was her mother.
Sera smiled imperceptibly; her mother had always supported her…Her mother was a lot like her. She was silent…meek and totally subservient to her father; but when it came to her children, she was ready to disregard any rule their society had about women's rights or the lack thereof and defend her children…no matter what.
Sera stiffened and had her hands fly to her mouth, muffling her scream as she heard the distinctive sound of a slap.
"I have no witch for a daughter, woman." she heard her father hiss.
And then, there was just silence…
Sera wept, sliding from the wall…Her mother was suffering because of her. She hated herself then. A witch…That was what they were all going to call her now.
If it wasn't bad enough, she had heard rumors of her being jinxed, or cursed. She looked at the floor sadly; she didn't know why all of those things were happening to her. She didn't ask for her husbands to die the way they did.
They just did. And she didn't want it either.
That was a half-truth. Before, when she first got married, she had wished and wished for God to intervene and perhaps save her from that dismal fate.
Perhaps that was a way of being saved from such a predicament.
Now though, as the deaths were becoming rampant, she was convinced now that it had been because of her that they died. The problem was…she just didn't know how she managed to do it.
"Maybe…" she sniffed sadly in the dark corner of her room, "…maybe I really am…cursed."
"No you're not."
She stiffened and immediately stood up. She ran for the window and saw that it had been her friend who was climbing up from the vines of their plants and trees to her window, "Cielo…!"
"Hello milady." he whispered, smiling sheepishly.
She giggled and made room for him to enter her room, "It's late!"
He was a childhood friend of hers. But, unlike her family, his family was poor. His father was their family's gardener.
That was how she met the cute blue-haired boy.
They had grown up together, playing together whenever they had time together. Of course, her parents disapproved but she did it anyway. Now that Cielo's father had passed on, he had taken over his late father's position as Sera's family gardener.
Having Cielo as a secret friend was the only sense of freedom that Sera had ever had…
Nothing else made her feel independent. Everything had been done for her; she felt as though her life was already being lived for her…
Cielo dusted himself off and there looked at her. Her room was dark and only the moon's pale rays illuminated it. He sighed; she had been crying again. And he had a pretty good idea why.
"Hey, you alright?" he whispered, his sapphire blue eyes shining with concern. She smiled weakly in response, "I'm fine…"
She led him further within her enshrouded room and sat on the comfortable floor cushions. He followed suit, "Hey. Don't be sad Sera…I'm sure they'll find a suitable husband for you." he said through gritted teeth.
He knew that his words were meant to serve as words of comfort but…deep in his gut, he damned such words. Like countless of men, he had fallen for her. But then, he deemed that it had been different.
He had known Sera ever since they were but children. He loved not just her beauty, the way the other men did, but he loved the whole of her. He loved everything that she was; her smile…her laugh…her spirit…everything.
But of course, he had not told her about it. And he couldn't tell her parents either. Cielo knew where he stood with her. She saw him as a friend and nothing more. His family was poor and hence, he could never hope to marry her…And so, he had to content himself with what he had with her…which was more than what he could say for most men who had fallen under her spell.
Looking at it from that perspective, Cielo considered himself to be still quite fortunate.
She sighed, breaking him from his train of thought, "Oh Cielo…I…I don't want a husband." she shut her eyes tightly and lightly sobbed. Cielo bit his lip and draped a warm hand on her shoulder, "Sera…"
She opened her eyes and let her tears flow, "He'd just die. All who marry me all die Cielo…! Haven't you heard from the towns of what they were saying about me…?"
Had he heard? Of course he had…That was one of the things that nearly broke his heart…For his beloved to be called a…
"I've been called a witch Cielo…! A witch…! If not, I've been brandished as a cursed being…" she trailed off, sobbing sadly as she buried her face in her palms.
Cielo sighed and put both hands on her shoulders, "Look at me Sera." he told her firmly.
"Huh?" She raised her eyes to meet his.
"You're not cursed Sera." he told her with strong conviction in both his eyes and voice, "You're a special girl and a good person. God doesn't abandon good people Sera. Please have faith…Your life…your life would get better."
Sera's cheeks drooped, "Cielo. I don't want to marry…I want to live my life…"
She then stood up and walked over to the window, gazing at the horizon, "If I do marry…I want it to be for love…and not for anything else…"
Cielo looked at her longingly but still controlled his feelings, "Don't worry Sera…I'm sure you'll find the man for you…"
She turned back and looked at his now standing form. She smiled at him, "Thanks for that Cielo…"
"You're welcome."
xxxxx
Sera walked excitedly towards the foyer of their mansion. Her parents had summoned for her and had told her that she was to meet a very important guest that they were to have.
Her heart beat rapidly in excitement.
Who was it?
She bowed respectfully to her parents. Her father inspected her high and low and nodded in approval. She was dressed appropriately.
She made to question her parents but her words melted in her mouth as she heard the distinct sound of a carriage arriving at the front. Her silver eyes fixed themselves up on the front.
It was a splendid-looking carriage made of the most expensive of wood with elaborate carvings. The black shiny stallions were strong and proud. She looked at the coat of arms on the carriage but did not recognize it.
She blinked as she realized what this all was…
It was another suitor.
Her heart sank. But before she could think any further of her displeasure, her suitor emerged from within the carriage.
Her heart felt caught up in her throat as she took in his handsome features. He was a tall man with long flaming hair tied in a low ponytail. His hair wasn't even though and was in layers with his fiery locks situated as bangs on his forehead, reaching just below his eyes. Other loose strands of his locks hung carelessly, up to his collarbone.
Sera's breathing had quickened as their eyes had met. His glowing red orbs pierced through her gentle and meek silver eyes that she could hardly contain herself that she looked away…
xxxxx
She remained unspeaking as her suitor, who she had known to be Heat, spoke with her parents. She closed her eyes; she had been set to marry within a week.
Once more, she was to prepare for another wedding.
It was getting tiresome though…
Weddings were supposed to feel special. But for her, it had become nothing but a routine.
"Sera." She stiffened as she heard her name being spoken. She looked up and was met with her husband-to-be's red orbs.
She gulped and noticed from the corner of her eyes that her parents had left.
She stood up, her hands clasped together in a most humble fashion, "Y-yes…?"
He looked at her eerily, making her squirm where she stood. With his eyes still unchanged, he spoke in a low tone, "A word."
She nodded, "O-of course…"
The two walked over the gardens steadily. Heat stopped as he felt eyes on him; and it wasn't from his fiancée.
He turned and looked at the shrubs and flowers, his red eyes glazing over the workers steadily. His sights rested on a blue-haired youth, diligently caring for the plants.
He looked at Sera, "Do you know that person?" he asked, motioning to the aforesaid youth.
Sera followed his gaze and saw that he was looking at Cielo. She didn't know what to say. If she said yes, then Heat might get the wrong idea…but if she said no…then, he might know that she was lying.
"No." she responded curtly, trying to mask her shaking voice.
Heat looked at her with the same pair of eerie eyes and said nothing, "Aa…"
He then resumed his walk. Sera swallowed the lump in her throat and there followed him. When he picked out a secluded spot in the garden he stopped and looked at her, "Sera."
"Y-yes…?"
He narrowed his eyes at her, "I have heard rumors of your unearthly beauty…I am pleased that they were true." he told her impassively, coldly. But despite his unfeeling countenance, she couldn't help but blush, "Thank you."
"I've also heard of your seven husbands' mysterious deaths."
Sera's face paled at that notion and she fell ever as silent.
"What do you know about it?" he asked.
She shook her head, sighing, "Only as much as you hear milord…I've done nothing. They would all…walk over to me within their chambers and then…they'd suddenly…die…"
He raised an eyebrow, "Is that all?"
She nodded, biting her lower lip as she fought back her tears, "Y-yes…That's…all…"
He nodded, "Very well then. Come, I had best take you home."
Silently, she nodded and followed him.
xxxxx
"I've seen your fiancé today…"
She nodded, "Yes…Heat."
"What?"
Sera smiled, "Heat. His name is Heat."
Cielo wrinkled his nose, "What kind of a name is that?!"
Sera giggled, "And the name Cielo is a common name for a man."
Cielo pouted, "Hey! That's mean!"
Clearing his throat and masking his bitterness, "So, um…what do you think of Heat?" he asked, drawling on Sera's fiancé's name.
Sera furrowed her eyebrows at that and pouted, "I really don't know…I've only met him today. He seems…scary…"
Cielo raised an eyebrow, "I'll say! I saw that guy! He looks like he'll eat me alive!"
Sera giggled, "Yes…! That's the word for it! He does look like that, doesn't he?" she chuckled and continued, "It just goes to show you that…at times, beauty is only skin-deep."
Cielo's heart constricted at that. He sighed, "He's handsome, huh?"
Sera nodded, "Yes. He is." she said dreamily.
Cielo's heart wanted to burst from that. Sera's past suitors were all old men…twice and even thrice her age…She would never be happy with such a man. That was why he felt a bit better. He knew that she would always need him and cling to their friendship. But…with this Heat person, it would seem that when they had married, she would forget all about him.
She would be so busy doting over her young, handsome and rich fiancé to remember a lowly gardener such as him.
If only he could tell her…
'If only I were rich…I could ask for your hand in marriage Sera…' he thought sadly.
Sera leaned her head on his shoulder as she calmed herself, "Oh Cielo…I'm so thankful to have a best friend like you…"
Another pang of pain hit his chest as he paid attention to her words, "So am I Sera…"
xxxxx
Heat took Sera to the town that day. He had meant to get to know his fiancée a lot more before the wedding.
Sera walked beside him nervously, turning her gaze guiltily as the people looked at her with unreadable expressions. She knew what they were thinking. They all thought that she was a witch…or cursed.
"These people all look strangely at you." Heat deadpanned, "Why?"
Sera gritted her teeth, "I am sure that milord had already heard of that…"
"Because of your husbands' deaths." he spoke impassively.
She nodded. Heat did not press on with the questions and there led her back to the carriage. He assisted her in it without any words spoken in between.
Then, he had deposited her within her home, bidding her a good evening. Sera could only look on as he left. Once she was within her room, she sighed.
She had not liked what she had seen of her fiancé that day. Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted as she heard shuffling by her window.
It was just Cielo.
"Cielo!" she beamed, running to him.
He smiled sheepishly at her, "Hello. So…I heard you weren't here all day today; that you were in town."
She nodded, "I was…"
"With him?" he asked; an unreadable expression on his face. She nodded. Cielo took in her displeased facial expression and held her hand, "Alright. What has he done?"
Sera frowned, "Oh Cielo…I just…We were there in town today…We just wanted to get to know each other. But I suppose it's better that I not know him at all…"
Cielo blinked; Heat got Sera this mad? He must've done something really bad…
Inwardly, he was grinning; so she didn't like him after all.
Cielo slid his hand up and own her back, consoling her, "Come on Sera. Cheer up. Tell me what happened."
She nodded, "Alright…Well…He had been pretty much quiet the entire time. But, he did ask me…about…that issue."
He just nodded, knowing what it was she was speaking of. The death of her husbands. Of her being a witch.
"I had answered him to the best of my abilities…" she finished, whimpering a bit. Cielo's cerulean eyes softened; he knew how the deaths affected her. It must have been traumatizing for her…
He put a comforting hand on her shoulder and she nodded, smiling tightly, "I'm alright…Anyway…Well, when we were at the marketplace, there were these children…these poor children threw themselves upon our feet asking for alms…But he…" she paused, shaking her head, "He merely trampled them…stepping on them without even as much as…as a word or a look of compassion or remorse…"
"He is…he is heartless…" she said in a low whisper, "I don't want to be married to such a beast Cielo."
"…"
"But at the same time, I don't want him to die…Oh Cielo…! What if…what if the demon strikes again!?" she wailed uncontrollably.
Cielo's hand gripped her hand firmly. Sera had come under the distinct impression that a power outside of their natural world intervened in her marriages. She was convinced that it had been the work of a mystical force…or an entity that had resulted in the mysterious deaths of her husbands…
And because of that, she had steadily become distraught; not just because of her husbands' deaths, but because of her altered perception of herself.
Although she did not believe or share the townsfolk's sentiments about her being a witch or jinxed, she had come to believe that she had become…diminished…undesirable…even fallen.
She had come to think that she had, on her shoulders, a great burden; a burden that had been dropped onto her shoulders caused by even greater sin…Sin that she knew nothing about.
That was why he caught her at times, praying…while weeping, asking God as to why she had been…forsaken.
Yes; she felt that way too.
She felt that it had been because of her curse that her husbands had died. She was a woman who had fallen from the graces of God for reasons neither she nor anyone else was aware of.
"Even if he was a bad person Cielo, I…I don't want him to die…" she said as she calmed herself.
Cielo said nothing, only feeling sympathy for his friend.
xxxxx
Heat's red orbs watched the two of them as they had conversed within the garden. The sun had just risen; he had just been taking a walk when he had heard the laugh of a female. He knew that it was his fiancée's voice.
With the grace of a cat, he noiselessly followed its rhythmic tones and there, he saw with cold orbs and heard with perked ears the conversation that was transpiring between his fiancée and the blue-haired youth that she had denied knowing only a few days prior.
He slightly narrowed his eyes at that.
He looked at the boy from afar and narrowed his eyes still; he saw the mirth in his eyes as he gazed upon the maiden.
Heat wanted to laugh; it was a cliché…It was.
'It's the whole friend falling for the friend scenario…' he thought dismissively. He wasn't interested in the youth though. He knew that he wouldn't do anything.
'He is nothing. Thus, he cannot do anything.' he pompously justified. But still, his honor, both as a man and as the aforesaid maiden's fiancé, was at stake, he knew that he must interrupt their comfortable rendezvous.
He walked over to them, throwing his low and gruff voice, "Good morning Sera." he told her coldly.
She stiffened and turned to him, her palms over her mouth and bowed politely, almost apologetically, "Good morning milord…"
Heat turned his gaze and looked sharply at the young man, "Who are you?" he asked unfeelingly, coldly whilst his red orbs pierced his sapphire innocent eyes.
Heat raised an eyebrow as their eyes met. His chest tightened a bit as he felt a familiar air within the boy…
Where had he met him before…?
Heat seethed within…Aa…yes…
He was the one…
Cielo bowed to him, forcing his eyes to avert from the other man's strong and powerful gaze. He didn't want to act this way…this demeaning way but he had no choice. If he caused any trouble here, he could lose his job and worse, he could get Sera in unnecessary trouble.
He didn't want that for her. And so, allowing what little of his pride to be trampled, he humbly bowed before the arrogant bastard of a man and spoke in a low and subservient tone, "I am the family's gardener and a friend to her ladyship. My name is Cielo your lordship."
Heat raised an eyebrow and looked at Sera, "You told me you did not know him Sera. Please explain."
Sera froze as she felt cold sweat forming on her back, her heart racing. What was she supposed to say now…? She was caught lying red-handed.
"Heat I…"
Heat narrowed his eyes at her, urging her to continue when suddenly, Cielo had cut her off, "It was my fault milord. Her ladyship had taken pity upon me and had befriended me…But for the sake of her family's honor, her honor and your upcoming marriage…I had asked that she not name me as one of her friends…"
"…" Heat said nothing, quite surprised at the boy's audacity. Clearly, it was a trait that not many belonging to their social strata possessed.
But then again, if he really was who Heat thought he was, then, he supposed he shouldn't be surprised at all.
"Whatever punishment that you shall bestow, I shall take without question…" Cielo said bravely, his head still on a polite bow.
Heat was neither moved by his speech…nor was he enraged by his and Sera's talk. He was…indifferent.
"Rise Cielo and remove yourself from my sight." he told the boy impassively.
He looked at Sera again, "You must have very desirable traits in order to win his loyalty Sera."
She blinked at him, confused, "I beg your pardon milord…"
Heat blinked, unfazed, "Your friend is obviously in love with you but you do not seem to share his affections." He then narrowed his eyes and leaned towards her, "Or do you…?"
Sera froze, "W-what are you implying…?"
He shook his head, "Nothing milady…Nothing that I wish to speak of at the moment. Come; let us meet your parents. The wedding is in two days. We need to prepare…"
"Oh…" Sera let herself be led away without question. But other queries ran through her head. What did Heat mean…? What was he implying…?
xxxxx
Cielo sat within her room, waiting for her. She was downstairs, having dinner with her family and her fiancé.
His blue eyes narrowed at that. Even now, her marriage to the redhead drew nearer. Cielo ran a hand through his blue hair. He didn't have much time.
He needed to tell her.
There was no other time; no other chance. This was their last chance together…
He straightened up as he heard footsteps. He pressed himself against the wall and blended with the shadows. The door creaked open and there entered Sera. But he noticed something else.
It was her fiancé. He had escorted her there. Cielo's blood boiled at that as jealousy began to seep within his body.
"Cielo…?"
He blinked and walked out of the shadows with a sheepish smile on his child-like face, "Err…how did you know that I was here?"
Sera sweat-dropped, "I always know when you're near Cielo…" she giggled.
Cielo bit his lip; did she now…? Then, how come she didn't feel him when he-
"Cielo…?"
He snapped out of his daze, "What is it Sera?"
"I marry in two days…"
"I know."
"Heat would take me to a faraway place from here…"
"I know."
"I…I might never see you again…" she said in a low whisper.
"I know."
Sera said nothing and neither did Cielo. He ran his slender fingers through his hair once more and let out a trembling breath, "Sera I…" he faltered.
Sera blinked, "What is it…?"
Cielo suddenly gripped her shoulders firmly and let their gazes lock, "Sera, you told me once that you wouldn't want to marry for reasons other than love…right?"
She nodded, "Yes. That's right…Why…?"
Cielo's heartbeat became erratic as he formed the words within his head to tell her, "Sera…don't you see…?"
"What?" she asked, still not following him. He shook his head, "Doesn't it seem strange to you that all of your seven husbands had died mysteriously…? So suddenly…? Without probable cause? Sera…did you love them?"
"No." she answered without hesitation. Cielo let out a breath, "Don't you see that perhaps it is your curse that killed them…?"
"W-what…?" she asked, her voice quivering. What was he saying? Was he saying that it was her fault that those men had died…?
"Sera…marry for love." he told her boldly, "When you do, your husband would live. Don't you see that it was their impure thoughts and feelings about you that killed them…? But with love…you could beat it." he told her with a profound sense of resolve.
Sera's mouth hung agape. His statements…made sense…But still, marry for love…?
How…? Who…? When…? Where…?
"Cielo…" she faltered, shaking her head, her eyes worried.
Cielo's eyes hardened as he pulled her closer to him, "Sera, marry me."
Sera's world stopped, "C-cielo…? Why, why are you saying that…?" she asked in utter shock.
Cielo looked at her sadly, "Sera, I love you. I've loved you ever since we were kids…I've always wanted to marry you. That's why…that's why I worked and worked until I saved up enough money to earn your hand in marriage…" He cast his head down and let his hands fall from her shoulders.
He turned away from her, "But now that we're older…I'm beginning to think that no matter how much I save…no matter how much I work…that I'd never get the chance to have your hand in marriage…" he said painfully, almost bitterly at the unfairness that was his life…and the lives of those born on his social strata…
He bit his lip and continued, "I've wanted to tell you how I felt…but I was afraid that you'd reject me. But now, I see no other options…I just have a gut feeling Sera. I know that love is the answer…Your husbands dying is not your fault…God…merely want you to be with the man who deserves you. That's all."
Sera's hand was over her mouth the whole time, her eyes saddened as she listened to Cielo's confession…His words made perfect sense. But the question was, was she ready to take the plunge of another marriage…?
That wasn't even the real question.
The question was, did she love Cielo…? What did she feel about him…?
Cielo felt his heart break as he received no response from her. Not that he expected her to respond to him anyway…
He looked back at her and smiled ruefully, "Take care of yourself Sera…And…please think about what I've said…"
With that, he left her room, leaving Sera to her thoughts.
"Cielo…"
xxxxx
Heat narrowed his eyes still. He had heard the conversation between the two. He blinked. Well, he really couldn't do much at the moment; he would have to wait until after his wedding with Sera.
He wanted to know what Sera knew about those deaths. Sera said she knew nothing. He believed her; although not entirely.
He could only imagine how horrible and wretched she must've felt…He may be unfeeling but he wasn't completely devoid of emotion.
He knew what it felt to feel love…
And in his case…unrequited love…
He shook his head.
No; it would all change when he married Sera.
'Sera…' he thought, entranced. She was the most enchanting woman he had ever seen. She was the very epitome of the word purity.
He smirked within; how fulfilling it would be when he finally claimed her after the ceremony…To be where most men could only dream of. To be where her previous husbands had died to get to…
Ah…
He then frowned; he hadn't forgotten about the young man. He had been right. He had been in love with Sera.
'He always had been.' he thought knowingly. He blinked and looked onward impassively; the young man's state was pitiful. There was no way that he could ever hope to marry a woman such as Sera…
And there he was still clinging to the notion of love…The notion of "love conquers all" probably still lingers foolishly within the foolish boy's hollow head.
'Imbecile…' Heat thought indifferently.
However, that wasn't the most pressing issue about the blue-haired boy. Heat narrowed his eyes in displeasure. It had been him whom Heat had been seeking. He didn't realize that he was that close to Sera…
Oh well. All would be resolved after the marriage ceremony.
His thoughts meandered back to Sera…and Sera's feelings. Heat brought his slender fingers to his chin. There was a hint within her silver eyes that she too had felt affection for the boy…
He chuckled within; but she was weak…
She would never really follow the dictation of her heart. No. But when he married her, it would change. She would come to love him; her heart would scream for him. And then, he would teach her to follow her heart…which now led to him and not the azure-haired man.
He suddenly felt a presence. It was getting closer…
He smiled within. He already knew who it was.
"Milord…?" a meek voice spoke.
"…You should be asleep Sera…" he said solemnly, without turning to face her. His wandering thoughts had led him to the gardens…He had been standing there for the last hour, just looking at the grim and almost eerie horizon.
He didn't look at her and just continued to look on.
He heard her sigh, "I know milord…But…I cannot seem to sleep…"
"You are afraid…"
"I beg your pardon…?" Sera spoke in surprise.
Heat finally turned his gaze unto her and let their eyes meet. Red bore into silver and Sera immediately shrunk in her robes. He was doing it again…She would feel that way, totally uncomfortable, whenever he would gaze at her with those eyes…at that degree…at that intensity…
She felt as though he was melting her.
His red orbs flowed within her silver pools, tainting her innocent eyes…melding them together, "You are afraid of the sun rising. That is why you are here."
Sera said nothing but was amazed at her fiancé's foresight. Had she really been that obvious…?
Sera, feeling overwhelmed by his gaze, turned away, hugging herself. Heat appraised her from head to toe still captivated by her beauty…
But with his ever stoic composure, he would never let her know it…
"You are afraid of the sun rising because it would bring you closer to inevitable; the inevitable marriage. That is…because you do not want to marry me." he said bluntly.
Sera immediately turned to look at him, gasping, "N-no! O-of course not milord…!" she then blushed as she beheld his handsome face and turned away, closing her eyes, having her curled index finger by her lips, as if to muffle her voice and whispered, "I…I am…most honored to have you as my fiancé…"
"…" He said nothing and turned away once more.
Sera felt the familiar air of aloofness between them and fought with all of her strength to not fidget with the edge of her robe. She didn't know if he believed her last sentence or not. Well, whatever it was he thought, was his own business…At least, she had said her piece. That was all there was to it.
She sighed closed her eyes, inhaling the cool air around them…She often walked out on nights like that…She liked the soothing winds blowing on her face…She liked to appreciate the beauty of the moon…and appreciate the fact that no one was around…
Not a soul was awake…
It was the time, the only time, that she could ever have for herself…But it would seem that it too, now, had been invaded by someone else…It couldn't have been any worse since it had been her fiancé of all people.
Oh well. She supposed she would be found out sooner or later. After all, it wasn't considered proper for a lady to be wandering about at night the way she did…Oh well.
She turned to leave and return to her chambers when his grave voice stopped her in her tracks, "I shall escort you Sera…It isn't proper for you to be alone…"
She could only nod.
The walk to her chambers was silent. No one made a noise…Sera was sweating within. She just felt so uncomfortable with him…But at the same time, she felt…just right. It was as if his aura, though elusive, mysterious and stoic, felt…comforting at the same time as it felt…familiar.
Yes. That was the word.
Familiar.
She felt as though she had met him before…But from where, she didn't know…It was impossible, she reckoned, realistically. She had never before seen him until a few days prior.
Oh well…
Finally, they reached her room. Heat turned to her and suddenly held her hand. Sera's stomach began to churn as she felt nervous…The typical example of the butterflies in the stomach cliché.
How…mundane.
She blushed harder as she felt his lips upon the back of her hand. She was amazed at that feel of them…His lips were soft, moist and gentle…She had not expected that from him.
He then straightened up and released her petite hand. His red eyes bore into hers once more and spoke, "I'm not as heartless as you think me to be Sera…"
Sera froze. Had it been a mere coincidence that Heat had used the term "heartless" as his self description? Or was there something else…?
It had been the same word that she had used when she had conversed with Cielo that night…a few nights ago…
'Of course it's a coincidence! Nothing more!'
"Milord…I…" she trailed off, faltering in both mind and speech as his hypnotic eyes continued to drown her conscious mind…enslaving it.
"Speak not Sera…" he sultrily spoke, almost lulling her to sleep with its gentleness she never knew he possessed…
"Pleasant dreams…"
Without another word, he turned and walked away…
Sera could only look at him as he got farther away. Perhaps he wasn't as heartless she first thought him to be.
xxxxx
Another night had passed and there once more, Sera found herself faced with Cielo. Cielo held out a hand for her to take, "Sera…Come with me…"
Sera blinked; she knew what he meant. He was asking her to leave with him…Start over somewhere else.
"Cielo I…" she said, her voice hesitating while her hand was aching to take his…
Yes. Aching…
'Why…?' she asked herself.
'I'm not…sure…' she answered mentally.
"I can't…"
Cielo closed his eyes and sighed. Sera bit her lip, her hands clasped together by her chin, "I can't come with you…"
He looked at her with a most pained expression, "Why not…?"
Sera closed her eyes, "Cielo…I don't know if I love you like that. And if what you say is true, then, if we marry, you'd die…!"
Cielo came to her and kneeled, taking her hands in his, looking up at her, "Sera no…! I won't die…I won't let it kill me…Sera please…"
She closed her eyes, "And if you die Cielo…would you rather have me live the remainder of my days knowing that it had been because of me that my best friend had died…? Cielo…" she whispered, "Please don't do that to me…"
Cielo slowly rose from his position and stood with his eyes closed. He opened them a moment later, "I…I understand Sera. But…You should also understand that…by tomorrow, you would have a dead husband…"
Without waiting for her to respond, he left her room. Sera's heart felt heavy as he left; why did he do that…? Why did he say that…? Didn't he know that she was already swimming in her own guilt…drowning in her own guilt…?
An hour later, once more, Sera found herself by the gardens, thinking deeply of what Cielo had said.
He had offered her his heart, not once but twice…And again, she had rejected him, not once but twice.
She closed her eyes and pondered deeply. Why did she reject him? Because she was unsure…Because…she didn't want him to die.
"Sera."
She stiffened and spun around, meeting her fiancé's flaring red orbs. She bowed meekly, "We meet again…"
"Aa…"
No more words were exchanged but Sera didn't complain. Once more, she felt that feeling…That feeling of comfort and familiarity.
She wanted to smile then…but…she still felt terribly awkward with him.
But at the same time, she felt…right with him. She had only met him a few days ago…but she nonetheless felt it.
She wondered for a moment, if he felt that way about her as well…
"Do you believe in love?"
Sera's heart stopped. Did he just ask her that question? She looked at him and watched as he turned and faced her, "Do you?" he asked in a low tone.
Sera immediately found herself blushing, "Why…of course milord…"
"Explain." he instructed curtly.
She nodded, "Love…is what keeps a family together. It is what I feel when I look upon my parents' faces…or when I see children playing without a care in the world." No longer being concerned that she was faced with her cold fiancé, she smiled and breathed in the cool air evenly, "It is a wondrous feeling milord…It is…utter salvation…"
"Aa…"
She nodded and smiled tightly; she no longer knew what to say. Why did he ask her that anyway?
Heat turned his gaze to the horizon once more and crossed his arms, "Love is…confusing; isn't it milady?"
"…?"
He turned to her again, "You think you have it…that you feel it…only to discover that it is false…or wrong."
"Wrong…?" she asked incredulously; her silver eyes begging his red orbs for an explanation.
He nodded and leaned over slightly, "Not all forms of love are righteous." he told her cryptically. His gaze then intensified and his eyes pierced through hers almost menacingly, "Would you brave to defy the laws of even God for love…?"
Sera blinked; how was she to answer such a question…?
He shook his head, "It is not for you to answer. Come, I shall take you to your room Sera."
With a meek nod, she followed him. Again, the walk was pervaded with deafening silence and now they reached her room. Sera, knowing him, bowed curtly and turned to enter her room when a force on her waist and hand spun her around, making her gasp.
Her eyes widened as she suddenly found herself pressed up against the wall, with her fiancé's lips sealed against her own. She whimpered in his mouth but he did not release her and instead, kissed her thoroughly.
Her petite hands went to his shoulders and pushed him away but he only pressed himself closer against her, bypassing all of her weak defenses.
Her sight became blurred as she felt only pleasure and drunken intoxication within his kiss…This was the first time that she had ever been kissed; and although it was improper…she felt right.
His lips and tongue explored her wet cavern expertly, leaving no stone unturned until it found its reluctant partner…His tongue then found hers and asked it for a dance…Sera knew she should refuse and she did…but her resistance could only last for so long…
A moment later, she had become completely submissive to him…looking to him, clinging to him for salvation. His hands that were around her waist, now gripped her hips tightly, pressing his whole body against her, giving her no room for movement.
Sera's heartbeat quickened as she felt the stench of lust reeking from her fiancé. But as she continued to stand there, limply against him, feeling only pleasure, she relaxed and let him do as he pleased…
His lips left hers and trailed over the skin on her neck, nibbling on her flesh gently…seductively. She moaned then, shutting her eyes tightly as she felt him bite her sensitive flesh while his hands now explored within her robes…caressing her heated skin within. She found herself powerless…
She couldn't move…She couldn't think of anything else aside from his alluring eyes and his inflamed touch.
Suddenly, it was all over. Sera opened her eyes and looked at his blood red eyes. He was frowning. She trembled slightly as she looked at him; what had just happened…? She was…She was never like that before…She had never given to any man what she gave to Heat.
Her chest heaved up and down in dripping anticipation of his words. Would they save her…or damn her…?
"Not all forms of love are righteous…" he said cryptically, his voice husky. He had said it in an enigmatic tone…and almost…bitter and regretful. Why was that so…?
"Milord…"
He shook his head, "My name is Heat Sera…Heat…"
"Heat…" she whispered, nodding a bit. He shook his head again, "I have sinned…all of my life Sera. When I met you, I wanted to make it right…But now, you seduce me into sin once more." he told her cryptically, ambiguously, rousing her curiosity.
What did he mean? What was he saying…?
She looked into his eyes and recognized the look of want and need within…His eyes were telling her, asking her, commanding her to be his…
Sera didn't understand. She was to be his anyway the next day. Couldn't he wait any longer…? Did he want to possess her that badly…?
It would seem so…
Heat straightened up and again donned on his cold façade, "I must bid you a good night milady. I shall see you in the morning. Pleasant dreams…"
With that, he left her.
'He had…sinned all of his life…? What did he mean…?'
xxxxx
'The wedding is nigh…'
'He shall be there…'
'It is time to put an end to all of this…' it paused, thinking and then, continued, 'It will all end there…He shall meet his end there.'
xxxxx
The wedding day had finally arrived. The household's members watched with anxious eyes as the ceremony progressed.
Heat held Sera's hand tightly, firmly as he said his vows…and squeezed her hands when she said hers.
She felt right at that moment. She didn't know how to explain it but within her chest, she felt soothed.
She worried not about the demon striking her husband. She wanted to believe that he would be alright.
And call it intuition, she believed that Heat would not suffer the same fate as her late husbands.
An hour later, the festivities had begun…
Heat led Sera away from the people. Again, Sera felt nervous. This was the night…This was a test…
Was Cielo right?
Would she be a widow again before the sun rose…? Her heart ached at that thought. She didn't want him to die. She didn't. She may not know him fully, but she felt something for him and had grown fond of him.
No.
It wouldn't be fair if he died.
She blinked in confusion as she saw Heat lead her away from the house and into the gardens…Where were they going…?
"Heat…?" she asked, uncertain.
He stopped and looked at her. She stiffened in surprise as she saw the emotions that swam within his red pools, "Sera. Do you trust me…?" he asked in a low voice.
She nodded, "Yes…But…"
He shook his head, closing his eyes, "There are no buts. Do you trust me?"
She nodded, her heartbeat racing, "Yes."
"Aa…" he said before resuming his walk.
A few minutes later, they had reached a secluded spot within the garden. Heat had Sera sit upon the marble bench and walked away from her. He wanted her to see. He wanted her to know that he would do anything for her…There was no more hiding that part of the truth…
That part of the truth needed to be exposed…
"He" would be there. There was no doubt. "He" would interfere; again. That was why he needed Sera with him as he dealt with "him". If they consummated their marriage, "he" would interfere. If he left Sera alone, "he" would have her.
No.
It would all end, there.
Sera looked at him, intrigued but at the same time, worried. What were they doing there? Why weren't they with the others…?
Heat narrowed his eyes as looked from left to right. It was almost sundown…
"The game is over. Come out." he spoke.
Sera stiffened and blinked her eyes rapidly; what was he talking about…? Who was he talking to?
No one responded.
Heat shook his head, "I know of your plan demon…"
'Demon…?' Sera thought, slightly frightened.
"Enough of this foolishness…I know that you are here…Cielo."
Sera froze as her husband mentioned her best friend's name. Cielo…? What did that mean…? What did Heat mean…? What did Cielo have to do with anything?
A rustle from behind Sera roused the two's interests and there, walked out Cielo with an indifferent facial expression.
Sera stood and made to walk over to him when Heat's voice stopped her, "Halt Sera. Come to me."
"No!" Cielo pointed out, "Come here Sera…!"
Sera looked from left to right; whom would she go to…? Cielo…? Or Heat…?
"What…what's going on…?" she asked with a shaky voice.
Heat narrowed his eyes at her, "Come wife." he instructed, holding out his hand.
"No don't Sera…! He means you harm! Don't believe him!" Cielo said, his eyes penetrating hers.
Heat growled, and turned to Cielo, "Do not confuse her demon. It was you…wasn't it?"
Sera began to feel the onset of tears, "Enough…! What is going on!?"
"Sera…the murderer of your husbands is he." Heat denounced, pointing at Cielo.
Sera followed her husband's accusing finger and looked at Cielo with widened eyes, "Is…is this true…?"
Cielo shook his head, closing his eyes, "Sera…How could I ever do such a thing…?" he asked pathetically, "Do not be swayed by what this demon says!"
Heat's eyes narrowed, "Deceiver…! You had been in love with her for a long time…haven't you…? You had even killed an innocent boy to have her!"
Sera began back away from them, "W-what are you saying Heat…? But this is my best friend…! This is Cielo…!"
Heat shook his head, "No…It had been Cielo, yes…but he had been killed by this foul beast ever since…you had become eligible for marriage. Since your sixteenth birthday."
"No! That's not true Sera!" Cielo exclaimed, "He's lying! I've always been your friend…!"
Sera said nothing now…doubts running freely within her head. No! Heat was lying! She turned to Heat and glared, "And you! How do you know this?!" she paused as she closed her eyes and shook her head, "I…I don't know what to think anymore!"
Without further words, she ran from the two.
"Sera wait!" Cielo yelled, running after her, but was forced to stop when he saw Heat blocking his path.
Heat narrowed his eyes. The entity he faced had changed.
"I've finally met thee." Heat said, narrowing his eyes at the blue-haired boy.
Cielo glared at him, returning his sentiments with equal passion, "The same could be said about thee…" he spoke in a low and dangerous tone, his cerulean eyes shining with deep emotions, "Why hast thou decided to show thyself…? After all this time…?"
Heat looked at him blankly, "I merely wanted to meet my wife-to-be…in person." he told the younger man.
Cielo threw him a dirty look, "She's not an object. She's a human being."
Heat laughed, "I am quite aware of that. However, that is no longer of concern to thee as I had taken her to be mine wife…But with all things aside, I wanted to meet, face to face that elusive presence…that keep thwarting my plans…"
xxxxx
Sera didn't know how long she had been running when she suddenly lost her footing, making her stumble onto the muddy ground.
She didn't bother to get up and instead buried her face in her folded arms beneath her.
What Heat said about Cielo…was frightening. His words were a complete denouncement of her loyal friend…
She was so confused…
Heat confused her with his words. He knew things about Cielo that no one else knew…
'H-how…?'
'If you keep running away, you'll never know anything!' a voice within her said.
'W-what…?'
'The truth is by your feet and yet you had run away from it…!'
Sera felt a painful prick at her chest; the voice was right. When her husbands had died, she had been merely a spectator. She did nothing to help them. She did nothing to aid the capture of the culprit…if there was any.
She had been too busy caring for her own psychological wounds to even wonder about what had happened…
She was too preoccupied with portraying the visage of a "woman" as specified by their customs to actually know anything!
Weak…and useless.
She narrowed her eyes.
'And now you've abandoned your friend…All because of what some man had said!' her inner voice said.
'But he's my husband…!'
'Whom you've only known for a few days! You've known Cielo since forever…And this is how you repay his loyalty…'
Gritting her teeth, she picked herself up from the ground, removing the plops of mud from her wedding robes as much as she could, "Cielo…I'm coming…!"
She had to know the truth!
She froze though as she heard blood-curdling scream. She froze, completely petrified. It didn't sound human…whatever it was…It sounded vile; too inhuman. Yes; whatever made that scream wasn't human.
Her blood ran cold, "Cielo…! Heat!!"
xxxxx
"Thou hast kept her from me." Heat told the young man with blazing red eyes.
"So hast thee." Cielo replied nonchalantly.
"I've known her for a long time." Heat deadpanned.
"So have I."
Heat shook his head, "Thou hast intervened…Too many times…"
Cielo gritted his teeth, "It was only so to protect her."
"She is not in need of your protection. She has me…" Heat trailed off assertively, "Thou hast spoken so yourself. Love is the key…" he told the azure-haired man.
"Love from the right man."
Heat narrowed his eyes into slits, "Dost thou thinkest that that man could be thee? Why…if I weren't mistaken, I could've sworn that she hath rejected thee…"
"Shift not the notice upon me. The man to maketh her his wife hath already been preordained. Cease this at once…For thou hast gone too far." the younger man spoke stoically.
"Dost thou thinkest that because thou hast arrived here in all of thine materialistic glory and bravado and because thou hast managed to seduce her parents that thou could do the same with her…?" Cielo asked sternly.
He shook his head, "Thou art sadly mistaken…"
"She is bound unto me now in the holy sacrament of marriage…Thine intervention is meaningless and powerless here." Heat spoke boldly.
"Thou hast had intervened yourself…I had merely observed from afar. But no longer…It is time that I took matters into mine own hands…" the younger man spoke with a tone of finality.
Heat had had enough, "Thou shalt perish here Raphael."
The younger man's azure eyes glowed, "No…It is thou who shalt meet thy end Asmodeus…"
xxxxx
Sera ran into the clearing and there saw Cielo standing, over the fallen body of her husband. She ran to them.
"Heat…!!!" she screamed, tears running down her face. She knelt before him and held him to her bosom, crying, "Heat…Please don't die…Oh God…!"
He smiled at her, his red orbs penetrating hers still, "I love you…Sera…" he told her gently, his hand stroking her cheek affectionately. Sera stiffened, her tears still flowing down her cheeks uncaringly.
Heat…loved her…?
How…? When…? When did it happen…?
He smiled weakly, "You…you weep for me…?"
Sera said nothing, letting her tears speak for her. He continued to smile, touching her face still, "You pray for me…That…that is the first time anyone had ever prayed for someone…like me…"
"Heat…Why do you keep saying things like that…?" Sera asked, confused. He always talked as if he had fallen from God's graces…that he had been expelled from God's love…Why?
"I've always loved you…Everything I did…was for you…" he said cryptically.
Everything…that he had done…?
What had he done…? She had only met him…a few days ago… She suddenly stiffened as she felt the all too familiar presence…
It had been the same when her husbands had died. Now, the same presence lingered about her…She suddenly felt…comforted.
"I told you…that I've always sinned…" he told her through ragged breath as he continued to cling to the very fiber of life, "I've wanted to make it right…when I met you…But…you…"
Sera held his hand tighter, telling him to continue, "You were never mine…to love…" he paused as his breath became labored, "I had…braved and defied His laws…for you…" he told her ambiguously. "I had done everything…to have you…For you…" he trailed off weakly.
"Heat…? What are you saying…?!" she asked desperately, her eyes searching his.
Sera's heartbeat came to a halt as her husband lost his life altogether. She wept beside him, burying her face in her hands. She could hear the crackle in the sky…and she knew that it was going to rain…
She didn't care…
All she knew now was that she had lost another husband…
And because of whom…?
At that thought, she ceased her wailing and there turned to her supposed friend, who was unscathed.
She stood from the body, shaking a bit, "C-cielo…Did…did you kill him too…?"
He nodded, "Yes."
"W-why…!?" she yelled angrily.
She froze though as his eyes shone brightly. The sun had long set and night had rolled in. And now, amidst the darkness, his azure eyes shone brightly. Sera could feel her heart quicken its pace as she beheld her friend's appearance.
His eyes were no longer blue but had now turned completely white and from within, poured out a blinding light.
"Do not be frightened…Sera, daughter of Raguel…" the deep but gentle male voice spoke from within Cielo's lips. Sera gasped as she recognized it to be a different voice from her friend's.
It was…another man…
"I am the Archangel Raphael, sent to protect thee." the man within said. Sera let out a quivering breath, "W-what has happened here…?"
The man inhabiting her best friend, now bathed in light, smiled at her, his shining white eyes penetrating hers, "Thou hast attracted many Sera. Many men had fallen for thine unearthly beauty. And few of them, hast fallen for thine pure and loving soul…Among them is the man that I know reside… in thine friend. But thine beauty and soul hast not only caught the attention of mere mortals…but those from beyond as well."
He motioned for the man who now lay dead behind her and she turned, wide-eyed at her fallen husband.
She turned back to the entity and blinked confusedly, "What do you mean…?"
"From within the bowels of the underworld, a forbidden love hath been forged. Asmodeus the evil spirit hast laid eyes upon thee and hast fallen where many mortal men hast; upon thy dainty feet."
Sera found that her heart had stopped as the Archangel narrated the events.
"He hath departed from the realm of angels and demons and hath hovered over the land of the living…It hath been he who hath slain thine husbands before they hath lain with thee. Thou dost not know that he hath strangled thine husbands. Thou hast had already seven husbands Sera. However, thou was not named after any of them."
"I had intervened time and time again, thwarting Asmodeus' plans from laying with thee whist thou slept…And whist thou wept…"
Sera froze, "While…I wept…?"
The Archangel nodded and continued, "Asmodeus had comforted thee while thou wept by thine husbands' bodies, willing thy heart and mind to relinquish its control…"
"So…that presence was…"
The Archangel nodded once more. Sera understood now…It had been Heat…who had comforted her all those times after killing her husbands.
"The evil spirit hath desired thee for too long and hath slain thy husbands in order to lay with thee whilst thou wept and then, slept."
He then shook his head, "But now, he had transgressed and had decided to remain amongst mortals. As commanded by God, I too had gained flesh and blood…but not my own, but had resided instead within a pure and loving soul, kindred to thee…"
Sera stood there, stupefied, "Then…you had…" The Archangel nodded. He had resided…within her friend.
So, if Heat had been the presence within the room that put her to sleep… But what of…the other…? She smiled within…It had been him; the Archangel and Cielo…They had intervened every time that Asmodeus would lull her to sleep; Cielo and Archangel Raphael would protect her.
"The flesh is weak…I had vanquished and bound Asmodeus…but he shalt returneth should thy soul be weak…"
Sera let out a strangled breath, "But…! Cielo had told me…about marrying for love…He had told me that love would conquer evil!"
The man smiled gently, "Thy friend was correct, daughter of Raguel. Love did vanquish evil. It had been he who hath gaveth unto me the power to vanquish and seal Asmodeus…Should thou hast bound thyself unto him, all would have been forgiven; all tragedies all but forgotten…But, alas, thou as well hast fallen victim to Asmodeus' efforts and almost beyond the abyss of lust, under the pretext of love…"
The angel shook his head, "He loveth thee…But he hath committed murder and would kill more if not stopped. Love is difficult Sera. It is…at times, unfathomable…Not all forms of love are righteous…"
Sera froze as she heard the Archangel's last sentence…It had been what Heat had been telling her…Not all forms of love were righteous…She then nodded, "I understand…"
The Archangel had told her that Asmodeus really did love her. How and why, that, she would never know. But all things aside, he loved her…And a small part of her, loved him too…But like the Archangel had said, not all forms of love led to the path of God and righteousness…
No…
Loving Asmodeus would lead only to carnage and misery. He had been judged by God and condemned.
"Thou hast already been joined with thine friend Sera. He is thy kindred. According to the law of God, thy father cannot marry thee to any other man. If that hath happened, he shall be guilty of death. The right of inheritance to thine heart and marriage appertain to thine own kindred Sera…and not to any other…"
"My kindred…" she repeated.
The Archangel spoke once more, breaking Sera from her reverie, "I prithee that thou never abandon thy faith in God for it shall be He and He alone who would be thy salvation…Strengthen thine heart Sera. The devil is seductive and swift; he will confuse thee with phrases of love and affection while imbedding lies within absolute truth…"
Sera nodded, understanding. Heat had called Cielo demon only moments before…Imbedding lies with truth. It had been made to confuse her…Forcing her to choose between husband and friend. But then again, if Heat really did love her, then she was to understand that he did it…for love.
The Archangel smiled, "And now, I shall depart. Fare thee well…"
Once more, Sera was met with a blinding light…
A moment later, there was only darkness. She blinked and rubbed her eyes and looked back at Heat…
"Heat…"
She shook her head. It wasn't even his real name…No; he was Asmodeus. The Archangel had told her that he had been evil…But then, she was confused. How was it that something so evil…so cruel, be capable of love…?
It was true…that she had felt something for him. All of those days that they had spent together. What did it all mean? Why did Asmodeus acquire a body in order to woo her…?
"You were…trying to free yourself…weren't you?" Sera asked the fallen demon, knowing that he would never really answer her back.
Yes; that would be one explanation. The demon sought love…and had braved the world of man in order to achieve it.
That was what he meant when he asked her that question…nights ago…
"Would you brave to defy the laws of even God for love…?"
It was because he had braved to defy the laws of God…for her. He knew that he and she weren't meant to be…but even still, he had persevered and had done everything to be with her…
"Not all forms of love are righteous…"
That was what he had said…She understood now…
She felt her heart constrict at that.
Love really was…unfathomable…
But then again, who was to say what he really felt…? Did demons really love…? Or was it the call of common lust…? So then, what did she feel for him…? Was it really love…or lust disguised as love…?
Another question was…
Did she really feel it…? Or was it a part of his spell…?
She didn't know.
But one thing was for sure, she felt pity for him. He had done all of that…for love…It was, she deemed, worthy of her pity. And now, he was gone. She prayed now, that wherever he might be, that he might find peace.
She sighed; and then turned to her best friend. Cielo! She had almost forgotten about him! She ran over to where his body slumped. The rain poured now and she was wet, cold and dirty…but she didn't care.
"Cielo…! Cielo!!" she screamed, pulling his body on her lap.
She looked at him with hopeful eyes; eyes that were praying that he might wake up. She wasn't disappointed as she heard a slight groan emanating from his lips.
"Sera…?" he asked groggily.
She felt her heart skip a beat and she let out a breath of relief and there, embraced him tightly, leaning down on his body, "Cielo!! You're…you're alright…!"
This was the man who had remained faithfully by her side, never abandoning her. He had always been a friend to her…He had been the one to free her from her spell from Heat…from Asmodeus. His love for her…had been the fire that had fueled Raphael's strength to defeat Asmodeus.
Now…the demon was gone and her life would be restored…with Cielo by her side…
He lay there, on her, with his head on her lap and he gazed up at her with happy eyes…and an even happier smile, "Of course I am…I told you I wouldn't die…"
Her eyes watered, "But I didn't marry you Cielo!" she said jokingly. He chuckled, "Well…we could always rectify that milady…"
Again, her heart skipped a beat, leaping up and down within her chest. She was sure now. She was sure of what she wanted…She had been afraid before. She would always dismiss that feeling as foolish or brotherly love…But now, she was sure.
This wasn't a spell…or a form of enchantment. When her silver eyes met his azure pools…She knew… It had been a divine revelation.
She needn't hide it any longer. He had been born for her as she had been born for him…
"Cielo…I told you that I would like to marry for love…" she trailed off, unflinching even as the drops of rain trailed over her pearly-white porcelain face.
He nodded and closed her eyes, "I know…"
"Take me away from here Cielo…Take me away…" Sera whispered.
Cielo rose from her and knelt beside her, taking her hands in his, "I would take you where you want me to Sera…"
And then, they had remembered the Archangel's words. Pray unto God so that they might be saved.
Cielo closed his eyes, and prayed and so did she…They had said their vows, having the angels and God Himself as witnesses. Love was pure and untainted. Submit not to the call of lust, but take thy partner, thy wife uprightly…
That was what the angel had said. Love would conquer evil.
As they finished and looked within each other's eyes, they knew the Archangel's words to be absolute. There, within the other's orbs lain salvation and truth.
They then leaned towards one another…and let their lips meet. It was a chaste kiss; pure and unadulterated.
They had been appointed to one another…even before their births. They really were made for one another. It was the will of God.
xxxxx
FIN
A/N:
Asmodeus: The demon of Lust. One of the Kings of Hell, to which Lucifer is Emperor. "Asmodai" is a spelling variation of Asmodeus.
Raguel: One of the seven Archangels of God mainly within the Judaic and Islamic traditions. His name literally means "Friend of God." His name was not mentioned within the Bible but was present in the Book of Enoch.
Raphael: One of the seven Archangels of God in Christian and Hebrew faiths. His name means "God has Healed". He is also not named in the Bible but is mentioned in the Book of Enoch.