AETERNUM

Chapter Two

"You found me."
"Yes, my master. Sorry for the delay but it took some time to reach you."
"No worries, my loyal servant. I wish to be free from that wretched priest's curse on me!"
"I know, my lord. I have sought the Vampire Lore to free you. I will loose you from your bonds."
*deep breath* "Ai motum ai karie itiam thuz momakaky zai."
*a mighty rush of wind and the master ascended from tatarus and into the physical realm*
*heavy sigh* "I am free."
"Yes, my master. Now you will have your revenge."

*****

I and Broderick were dining in the lavish banquet hall, seated adjacently to each other, enjoying the hot broth of a meat and vegetable stew prepared by our mortal servant, a well-mannered and exquisitely handsome gentleman who earned our utmost respect and compensation. At times he supped with us or on us, depending on our mood or his desire for intimate male companionship.
I gazed longingly at my mate, enjoying his taste for a simple white button-down long-sleeved shirt and faded jeans with Timbaland boots, sporting a lustrous medium-sized diamond cross necklace that contrasted sexily against his beautiful bronze skin exposed by a few unfastened buttons.
He caught me without even a side glance. "Do you ever tire of looking at me?" He emitted the question with a knowing grin.
"Yes. All of the time." I smiled back.
He raised his eyes to me. After a moment, his voice sounded serious. "Blake."
I politely set my spoon down, gulped a quick swing of wine and gave him my full attention. "Yes, Broderick? What is it?"
He struggled for his voice, his eyes watering which then gave way to tears. He averted his gaze from mine.
I stood, making my way behind him and gently wrapping my arms around his strong shoulders. "Baby, I'm here. Don't cry."
"I...I had a dream," he managed, his body shaking with heavy sobs. "You...y--oh my god!"
I waited patiently although my heart anticipated bad news with trembling palpitations.
My beloved Broderick attempted to calm himself, his bulky frame shivering maddeningly.
Our loyal servant Danny hurriedly made his way into the hall, his face heavy with concern. "Is he okay?"
"He'll be fine. Could you being a glass of water please?"
"Yes." He quickly returned to the kitchen.
"Blake," Broderick whispered.
I held my ear close.
"In my dream, you died." More tears ran down his cheeks. "My darling... No--" He squeezed my arms.
The young man returned with the glass of water, ice cubes prominently floating at the surface. "The water, my lord."
"Thank you, my friend." I smiled appreciatively and nodded toward him, bidding him leave of our presence. He nodded in return and began walking towards the kitchen after another glance of concern at Broderick.
"Here, love." I brought the glass to his lips. "Calm yourself."
Broderick managed a drink, downing half the glass before setting it back down on the table.
I returned to my seat and used my napkin to dry Broderick's eyes and wipe his face. He resorted to sniffles, his eyes never leaving my own. I then gently brought his head close and delicately kissed his forehead, holding his hand in mine. "We must remember that these dreams, the gift of sight that you possess, are merely warnings."
"I know but it was so damn real, Blake. It scared the hell out of me!"
I considered his protest with a smile. "I will consult Marla. She holds the power of the Tarot, as you know. I will get to the bottom of this. I promise you." I playfully poked his nose. "I promise you," I sincerely repeated.
He nodded, his trust in me never wavering. "I'm not hungry anymore."
I telepathically called Danny who immediately answered with his presence. "Yes?"
"Please clear the table, young man," I respectfully ordered. "I need to step out briefly as I have some urgent business to attend to. Please see to it also that Broderick is provided a nice bath to calm his nerves. I suggest some scented candles and incense for an added touch."
"Yes, my lord," he obeyed. He placed an arm carefully around Broderick's waist and led him toward the stairs. Broderick turned his head to look at me and mouthed the words "I love you."
"I love you, too," I mouthed back and watched as the two of them slowly ascended the stairs.
I inhaled longingly then exhaled in a huff. I then turned and headed for the front doors, my thoughts pondering on Broderick's revelation to me. Marla would have the answers.
Although having faith in that affirmation, I couldn't fight the sensation that I was headed toward a fight of my life.

©2017 Robert Sticek