The Black Citadel - After the Ice Thaws

Asmodeus remained quiet, the soft body in his arms shifting as he realised that his father had passed away. Such a thought carried more force and effect on him than he realised, with a sense of loneliness, he closed his eyes with a deep, deep breath.

'You taught me how to protect mother, and helped me overcome my impulses if even a little.'

'I didn't think knowing you were gone forever, would feel this way...'

A cold chill spread through his bones...

Even though the blizzard ended and the brilliant sun now scorched his slightly tanned skin. 

"My dear?" 

A concerned, quivering voice called him, "Are you alright?" 

He couldn't help but curl his lips, a forlorn smile, yet this was enough for now.

The many women he loved could always sense when he wavered or became lost and needed them.

"Vinea..." 

Vinea's eyes widened, still red and swollen from the tears she tried to hide.