zer0pm:

Imagine that in order to save the one you care about, you had to sell your soul to the devil himself.

Ardyn: “How much does this love mean to you?”

You look down into their eyes, reflected with your tears and the glimmer of fading light, a signal that time was short. Hesitation was absent from your swift answer.

You: “Everything.”

The devil smirks, satisfaction evident in his expression as he casts a hand towards you both, laying a hand upon your loved one whose eyes were closed. For a moment, there was a fear that the decision was made too late but as soon as the man’s gloved hand touched their chest, a beautiful light shined at the contact, exuding a resonating energy that soothed even you. You dared to look up at the man you bargained with, a serious and somber expression on his face as if this concentrated state was one he practiced countless times before. You couldn’t entertain that image. A man like that that demanded your everything as if you were property to possess as a selfless being? The reminder that he is anything but kept you from hoping that perhaps he would offer you mercy in the end.

Before long, the light dimmed and the air around you became dark once more, then your world brightened for just a moment when you heard your loved one take a gasp of air as if taking in the waking world for the first time before slowing to steady, calm breathing. Relieved beyond words you were, driven to tears. It was a miracle. They will live.

You: “Thank the Astrals…”

You feel a hand upon your shoulder and immediately your body tenses. It was like your core was splashed in ice cold water as the reality of this miracle came to light and the fingertips of darkness creep upon your form, waiting to ensnare you in his patient grasp.

Ardyn: “You can offer your thanks to me…and me alone.”

His voice was so close that you felt the timbre from his tone brush against your ear, sending shivers down your spine. Fear speeds your heart but there is another feeling entirely that keeps it from pounding from your chest. Anticipation? What life awaits you now that you have sold yourself to the devil? Surely whatever horrors are to come would be worth it now that the one thing that matters in your life will continue to live on and have a second chance at happiness?

You look up at him as he towers over you like darkness upon the plains, the only hint of light is from his golden eyes that seem to burn like candle fire searing into your soul. The thought was accepted before you can scold yourself for thinking it – the devil is beautiful.

The sinister grin returns to his face as he bends over to cup your cheek, forcing your eyes to meet his locking gaze, the promise of fear and anticipation and the unknown to come. He is so close to you that you can almost taste his breath as he seals the deal you made with him.

Ardyn: “You are mine now.”