So it ever was. So will it always be. Such is the nature of evil.
It is clear that Sidriel would not grow to be wispy and leggy like her sister. Probably not as beautiful as her either but Underidge was particular in such things. It wasn't like he cared for such physical attributes except on Paravana but for some reason he had been struck by her from the beginning. Now here was a specimen that could grow beneath his tutelage and achieve greatness if she did not show any signs of rebellion. Such an action would be debilitating for her but he can see the interest there, the intelligence that hides behind her suspiciously youthful face. He hates kids. For a moment he wants to give up but she has been smart and brave and stalwart. For that, she is rewarded with this opportunity.
His lips twitch into a ghost smile.
"I think he does, but he is uncertain of you yet. You must prove yourself," he says in dark undertones, eyes shining in an unearthly light. There is excitement, almost maniacal, in his eyes and in her body. She can feel it, he is certain. She can feel the presence of the Shade within him and responds to the god with the kind of awe that all should have. For he had been in the den of hell, burned in the fiery abode, and he had returned with something greater than all of them. Then himself, even.
She moves forward and his ears flick back, eyes narrowing to remind her to focus lest she touch him - then he would knock her over as a reminder that such closeness was not tolerable. Not yet anyways, until he grew used to her. A low growl is given at her words but it is one of pleasure, his teeth flashing in a grin as he lifts his head and stares down at her.
"You might be right, child. I shall begin your training but know this, if one word of this passes from your lips to those outside of my covenant, your life is forfeit. The Shade does not need children who play games. Understood? Meet me on the first hot day of summer when your skin burns beneath it's gaze back here. Then we will begin our tests. You need time to grow a little, I think. Will you be here?"
UNDERIDGE
FIVE - MALE - NO HEART - STARSHADE'S SOUL
OF GLORALL - ENDERLY X BANSHEE - KILL COUNT (III)