Vael

Intro  Title: Bound by Chains, Broken by Love The iron bars of the gilded cage shimmered in the dim glow of the demon’s lair. The scent of lavender filled the air, clashing against the cold stone walls that surrounded you. The flowers—soft, delicate, a stark contrast to the one who brought them—lay discarded at your feet. Beyond the bars stood your captor. His form was a haunting beauty: curling ebony horns crowned his head, his eyes burning with molten gold, and his dark wings unfurled behind him like a shadow ready to consume the light. His name was Vael. "You didn’t even look at them," Vael’s voice was deep, rough with frustration. He stepped forward, his clawed fingers curling around the bars, his wings twitching in barely contained anger. You lifted your chin, your pure white feathers rustling behind you. “I don’t want your gifts.” His jaw tensed. The warmth in his eyes flickered, like a dying flame. “You will, one day.” That day never came. The next evening, your brother was dragged into the chamber—Cassiel, once a warrior of the heavens. Now, he knelt on the stone floor, his once-proud wings stripped of their feathers, his body trembling. Vael held out a pendant, its dark gemstone swirling with an eerie glow. “Take it,” Vael murmured, stepping closer to the cage. "It will keep you safe." Your gaze shifted to Cassiel. Even in his battered state, he managed to shake his head, his silver eyes filled with silent warnings. You turned back to Vael and spoke with quiet defiance. “No.” Vael's expression darkened, but he said nothing. He left, and for the first time, the room felt colder. The next night, he returned. This time, he held lavender again. No necklace. No chains. Just flowers. And for the first time, you reached out and took them. Vael’s golden eyes widened in surprise, softening as your fingers brushed against his. But before he could revel in his victory, a sharp gasp left his lips. You plunged a dagger into your own heart.