Before he was Taken (Prologue)

Promises made

Ao Lie couldn't find the energy to protest as the demon lifted him up and threw him over its shoulder. He was now a captive. His hands were free - in fact, so were his legs - so technically he could make a break for it if he wanted to.

He tried to run of course.

He tripped.

They snatched him up and pulled him into the depths of Kui Mulang's Domain, which were surprisingly serene. It didn't seem like the right moment for any kind of hostility. They simply carried him with ease - he wasn't heavy - and gently placed him in a cell. The floor was covered in soft hay, making for a comfortable landing.

He could potentially change into his transformed state and escape by flying. But what good would that do, aside from destroying this beautiful temple and undoubtedly provoking Kui Mulang to chase after him? Inevitably leading to a fight.

Ahh, if only Ao Lie could avoid such confrontations.

It wasn't his fault that Kui Mulang seemed interested in his soul. The man didn't come across as malicious or cruel. In fact, the story of his tragic love only made him seem more sympathetic. Yet, it all ended with Kui Mulang waiting desperately for his lost Sweetheart.... by using the souls and power of others to sustain himself.

...Not quite as sweet as it started.

Nevertheless, Ao Lie couldn't help but sigh in admiration at the idea of such a devoted lover. The notion of someone waiting a decade for their beloved to return seemed incredibly romantic to him. However, he was doubtful that such a thing would ever happen to him.

Banished by his own father not too long ago, Ao Lie had been aimlessly wandering. He was ignorant of the world and easily led astray by Kui Mulang's manipulations. In his opinion, it was important to observe one's actions before passing judgement on them.

Well, now he felt he could judge them a smidge. Taking the souls of others to sustain oneself was not a noble act and would never be praised. Even if it was done with the intention of being reunited with a lost love.

So, plopping himself up onto a wooden crate, he smooth down his rope. "I wonder if they'll feed me down here?" he wondered, tapping his chin, "Wouldn't want a skin and bones meal, I'm sure." he concluded, thinking it would only make sense to feed him. Perhaps some free dinner, and then he could slither out of this place? He thought for a very long time on what sort of meal they would serve, drooling at the thought.

In the midst of his thoughts, he heard the guards returning some time after. Seems they had another prisoner with them.

He gazed inquisitively as the doors slid open, revealing a man being escorted inside. Or rather, the man was walking in calmly, just like Ao Lie. There was no struggle or need for the guards to forcefully bring the prisoner in. The man willingly walked in, trying to appeal to the guards.

"Gentlemen, please," A gruff voice says, trying to keep things light. It was a burly figure, towering even over the guards by a few inches. Yet his smile was easy and his hands outstretched in a sign to show he meant no harm. "I simply wished to speak with your ruler- to seek allies and friendship~!" he says with a sparkle in his eyes. "To spark a kindred spirit into raising arms against-" The cell door was slammed in the mans face, who lowered his raised hand with a sigh, "Or... not," he concluded.

Turning, the man came fully into view. His golden hair swirled around his face in an elegant mane, lifting to a lighter blue before resting on bright pink eyes. He paused when something dazzling caught his eye.

Throughout his many visits to the Celestial realm, Azure had encountered numerous Celestial maidens, each one more stunning and graceful than the last. As he gazed at this particular maiden, he couldn't help but think he was just another breathtaking gem of the heavens. His long locks of white hair frame his delicate features and his skin is a soft pale color. His emerald green eyes are so enchanting that Azure could easily lose himself in.