CANDLELIGHT SUCCUBUS
CHAPTER ONE
ELIAS
“Repeat after me,” Master Gabriel’s voice cut through the incense-heavy air of the ancient library.
“I vow discipline,” Elias whispered. His hands were tight on the wooden rail before him.
“Say it louder,” the old master demanded.
Elias swallowed hard. “I vow discipline. My body will not betray me. My thoughts will not stray. My will belongs to the Order.”
Gabriel’s dark eyes narrowed. “You are bound now, Elias. Your flesh is not yours. Your thoughts must be chained. Your heart belongs only to the Path.”
“Yes, Master.” Elias lowered his gaze. His chest was tight, as though the vow had wrapped ropes around his lungs.
The older man leaned closer, his tone colder. “And it is time you face your first trial.”
Elias blinked. “Trial?”
“There is… s
