Page 37 of Damsel to the Demon

I grin, showing my fangs. "You'll see. For now, rest. You're safe here."

I kiss her deeply, savoring her taste one last time before I go. As I pull away, I see her eyelids growing heavy. The events of the day and our passionate encounter have taken their toll.

"Sleep," I whisper. "I'll be back before you know it."

She mumbles something incoherent, already drifting off. I watch her for a moment, marveling at how peaceful she looks in slumber. Then, with a heavy heart, I force myself to leave her side.

I have an oath to fulfill, after all. And the sooner I complete it, the sooner I can return to her.

19

MERCEDES

Ijolt awake, disoriented. Soft sheets caress my skin, a far cry from the dungeon floor.

"My lady, it's time to prepare."

I blink, focusing on the unfamiliar faces hovering nearby. Servants? For me?

They usher me to a steaming bath, scented with exotic oils. Gentle hands wash away the remnants of blood and grime. It feels surreal after everything I've been through.

Wrapped in silken robes, they dress me in clothes finer than anything I've ever worn. My fingers trace the delicate embroidery, marveling at its intricacy.

"This way, my lady."

They guide me through winding corridors, each more opulent than the last. My heart races.

What awaits me?

Massive doors swing open, revealing a cavernous throne room. And there he is. Azaruk.

He rises, a predatory grace in his movements. "Mercedes."

My name on his lips sends a shiver down my spine. I approach, unsure of the protocol.

He takes my hand, leading me to a balcony. "Look," he says, gesturing to the sprawling landscape below.

My breath catches. An endless sea of white, punctuated by jagged mountains and glittering ice formations. It's beautiful and terrifying all at once.

"This is our fief in the Glacies," he explains. "Everything you see belongs to us."

Us. The word echoes in my mind.I'm no longer just a human slave, but... what exactly?

I turn to him, questions bubbling up. But before I can speak, his lips claim mine in a searing kiss.

After a minute his lips leave mine, and I'm left breathless. His eyes gleam with mischief.

"I have a surprise for you, my dear."

My heart skips. After everything that's happened, I'm not sure what to expect.

He takes my hand, leading me away from the balcony. We descend deeper into the fortress, the opulent corridors giving way to rougher stone. The air grows colder, damper.

"Where are we going?" I ask, a shiver running down my spine.

"Patience," he purrs, squeezing my hand.

We reach a heavy iron door. He waves his hand, and it creaks open. The stench of decay and despair hits me like a physical force.

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