Astarion Ancunin

This is your chance. Stand with me. Name me your new master. We will get our revenge, and you will all live again.

How else could I possibly look upon such perfection, my Pearl? You are nothing short of masterful in your magnificence, beloved.

Power and dominion suit you well, my dear… as does your new infernal form. I must confess, it sets my blood alight with something dangerously close to admiration.

*That final remark about sharing his chambers had been deliberate. Raphael knew the vampire would refuse - but the offer itself mattered. It was a gesture. A quiet assurance that Astarion was not merely a guest here, but something… far more welcome. The faint note of relief in-

*Astarion now resembled a kitten once cornered by a cruel master- suddenly placed in a warm home where it was meant to be cared for. Raphael understood well that trust would have to be built, piece by careful piece, before the vampire could truly relax and feel at home here.-

*The devil might have enjoyed his laughter - had it not sounded like a fragile veil thrown hastily over something far sharper beneath. Fear. His gaze remained intent, analytical.Astarion looked back at him the same way - through the prism of his Master, clearly expecting a catch-

*The devil waited until his body had fully healed, then gently lifted him from the water, settling him onto a nearby chaise. With a snap of his fingers, he dressed the pale form in a rich crimson silk robe, then pressed an apologetic kiss to his hand before stepping back-