Chapter Thirty-Seven

Under a bright midday sun, Poppy walks to Casteel for a swift Atlantian wedding. Jasper officiates as Poppy and Casteel kneel, overlap their rings in reclaimed soil, and sprinkle dirt. Jasper slices their palms; they mingle blood over the rings, which flare gold. A shimmering gold imprint appears in each palm as they exchange rings, and Jasper declares them wed.

Immediately, day turns to midnight across the sky. Jasper calls it a powerful, favorable omen from Nyktos, noting he last witnessed something similar at Casteel’s parents’ marriage. The clouds part and sunlight returns, reinforcing the divine approval.

In their chamber, Poppy marvels at the enduring gold imprint and the rings’ magic. Casteel explains the gods’ magic behind the marriage mark and that it remains until death or decree. They discuss belief, the ring finger custom, and the imprint’s link to the heart. Conversation turns to the rare legend of heartmates: deity-mortal bonds that forged Atlantian lines, trials given by the gods, and how Malec’s desperate, unsanctioned act created the first vampry when the gods slept and could not intervene.

Casteel proposes a traditional, optional sharing of blood to symbolize trust. Poppy fully consents. They undress, exchange tender words, and consummate the marriage while sharing blood—Casteel drinks from Poppy’s throat, and Poppy drinks from a cut on Casteel’s chest. The act deepens intimacy and leaves Casteel finally able to sleep.

Hours later, after nightfall, they awaken together to the sharp trill-and-answer of a songbird signal from outside the terrace. Casteel kisses Poppy’s shoulder and confirms the grim meaning: the Ascended have arrived.