Until I breathe | 18+

One - Ties in Blood

Ayren

In the search for heaven blindly, they stumble on the desires, and wonder how they get into hell.

And who'll know better than me, I fear no one, as for I'm the void. Since all sins are an attempt to fill the void, so here I'm enticing her to commit one more.... To marry me.

"How you have fallen from heaven, O Morning star, son of the dawn - Isaiah 14:12"

They say it is said for me.

I'm devil, what better than you can expect from me than enticing others into committing sins, for it's my nature, my purpose, my desire. What better can be expected from the Lord of Darkness, the Prince of The Black Dawn.

I, resplendent in fine tailored black tuxedo, sit atop on my throne, the apex of the power in the state. The authority fills the space under my presence. My gaze, pierces across the shadows, surveying the room.

People? Ha! They're nothing but pawns, in my game of power, to be manipulated, used, and discarded. Their loyalty is a commodity, bought and sold like any other. Fear is the currency I deal in, and they're all indebted to me. My gaze pierces through the shadows, seeing right through the façades. They think they have families, friends, hopes, and dreams? Ha! Those are just weaknesses, vulnerabilities to exploit. I own their souls, and they know it.

Some tremble, others cower, but all serve.

I'm the devil, but still the God of this world, not because I've created it, but because they serve me with godliness.

The lavish living room of Caffareli's mansion exudes opulence and power. The high ceiling, adorned with intricate frescoes, seems to stretch up to the heavens. Walls lined with rich, dark wood paneling and floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the meticulously manicured gardens, adorned with velvet drapes, marble floors, and priceless artwork, perfectly serving as the backdrop for a calculated union.

All the esteemed guests are seated in plush, cream-colored armchairs and sofas, arranged in a semi-circle. Senator Rossi, a close ally, converses with Giovanni, a high-ranking family associate. Governor Francesco, clasps his hands, radiating calm. Other high ranking officials are sitting next to each other, whispering among themselves. Lying is a sin, and so is killing. And this room breathes in my favorite scent... sin.

Across the room, on a polished mahogany table, lies the marriage certificate, flanked by two ornate candelabras. The document, adorned with intricate calligraphy, awaits her signature.

Soft chatter fills the room, punctuated by the ticking of the grandfather clock. The atmosphere is heavy with anticipation, as the guests await her arrival.

Suddenly, the door opens, and a hush falls over the room. All eyes turn to the entrance, expecting her. But instead, a maid enters, carrying a tray of refreshments.

The silence stretches, thick with tension.
Next to me, my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Lorenzo Caffareli, sit. My gaze lingers on the door, expecting her arrival.

My rule is absolute. I am Ayren, the one who holds the power, the one who decides who lives and dies. Their lives are mine to shape, mold, and crush. Their whispers, "The Devil of Valdoria," "Ayren the Ruthless," "The King of Shadows," music to my ears. Respect, born from terror, is the only kind worth having.

I see the desperation in their eyes. Fools. They'll learn the hard way. My patience is a luxury, and my wrath is eternal.

Across from me, Lord Dorian Carusso, a man of imposing stature and weathered charm, occupies an armchair, his silver-haired elegance a testament to his noble lineage. His eyes, a deep, piercing blue, seem to hold a mixture of curiosity and caution.