ONEUS 18 + Blood Moon - Vampire - (Book 1)

Sanctum Part 18 *Keonhee*

Whilst Neoma thrashed and screamed, Ravn dragged her all the way to the inner sanctum like an exasperated parent managing a toddler in the throws of a temper tantrum. On entering the sanctum, Neoma's hands came painfully into contact with the cold stone floor as Ravn unceremoniously threw her down. Neoma lifted her head, her long golden brown hair falling in twisted tangles around her beautiful and furious face. Her green demon stare met Ravns ebony eyes as they danced with raw hostility. 'Stay here' he spat, turning and slamming the heavy looking door loudly behind him.

Neoma felt tears of anger building, she didn't have the strength to retaliate to Ravn and this infuriated her further. Unexpectedly the familiar and comforting scent of honey and lavender began to invade the air. The scent provided a stark contrast as Neoma observed the ominous surroundings. The large temple room was encased in stone and marble. Stone stairs aligned the room leading away into shadowy stone archways. At the far end of the room was a large stone table. Neoma was greatly eased to recognise Xion who was sitting quietly watching her.

Before she could greet him, a covertly concealed figure that had been clandestinely observing her, emerged from one of the stone archways. The surrounding candle light illuminated the tall form elegantly advancing towards her. Neoma experienced an additional rush of relief as she recognised Keonhee. He towered over her, his expression friendly and reassuring. As he reached out his hand he said, 'I must apologize on behalf of my brother, he has yet to master the art of being a gentlemen.' Neoma smiled thankfully at Keonhee's apology and appreciatively accepted his hand. 

As she got to her feet, Neoma stumbled like a newly born foal. Acknowledging her weakened state, Keonhee suggested sensitively, 'Would you permit me to carry you?' Neoma nodded and gratefully collapsed against him. Keonhee lifted her up with the graceful skill of a classical dancer and transported her to where Xion was silently surveying the scene. The stone table provided an awkward seat and Neoma was thankful for the support of Xion sitting next to her. Neoma felt an an indescribable discontent about the situation and her surroundings.  Feeling increasingly unsettled, Neoma met Xion's golden brown eyes, their warmth and gentleness soothed her troubled soul. 'Hello Neoma' he began, his voice rich and deep and soothing. 

'Hello Xion' she responded in a wavering voice, before she burst into tormented tears, overwhelmed by the emotional toil of the evenings events. Xion wrapped his arms around her, 'Are you alright' he asked, his tone mellow and innocent as softly falling snow. Neoma soon felt herself relaxing in his arms as the tears began to subside. 'I have made so many terrible choices' she whispered. Xion lifted her head up gently with his hands, 'Try not to be so harsh with yourself' he said, his tone and his expression untroubled. Xion continued to gaze at her as Keonhee's voice rippled through the gentle stillness, 'Xion is quite correct Princess' he began with cheerful assertion, 'You are not to blame, I can only apologise for the way in which my brothers have responded to your predicament.' 

Neoma could only nod as an overwhelming thirst began to overwhelm and disorientate her. Recognising her need, Keonhee swiftly took Xion's wrist in his hand and bit down. Xion watched on, with passive acceptance as Keonhee offered his flowing wrist to Neoma. Bewildered and unsettled, Neoma was unable to resist as she accepted Xion's essence without hesitation. The feel of Xion's lifeblood flowing through her gave Neoma a warm and pleasant tingling feeling that delightfully shrouded her mind in a cloak of bliss. His blood was unlike any other she had experienced, only comparable to when she had been given medicinal brandy as a child. 

Neoma drank greedily before pulling her head back quickly as the lightening of self awareness shamefully struck her, 'I'm so sorry' she gasped in embarrassment. Xion smiled, reaching out he stroked her face 'No need to apologize Neoma', he said in a lulling and mildly melodious tone. Keonhee seated himself, sandwiching Neoma between them. Xions uniquely wonderous elixir provided a comforting cushioning cloud of inebriation. Feeling increasingly relaxed, Neoma lay her head against Keonhee's broad shoulder in a dazed and tingling state.