Maria's heart was pounding so hard it felt like it might burst out of her chest. Fear surged through her veins with every beat ..cold, uncontrollable. She had no idea what Razeal was going to do next, but the possibilities running through her head weren't pleasant. Bad thoughts.. dark, intrusive ones swirled endlessly. She didn't even want to look at him. Instead, she turned her face to the side, refusing to meet his gaze, her entire body tense as if any sudden move might seal her fate.
Razeal stood silently above her for a moment. His upper clothes were already stripped away, his body a map of scars. He looked down at her, quiet and unreadable, his expression a strange mixture of focus and something almost... human. Then, finally, he spoke
"Look," he said calmly, "this is going to be scary for you. Painful, too. But you'll have to endure it. Trust me.. I'm not trying to kill you. And yes…" his eyes flickered briefly, "you won't die."
