Page 42 of Mortal Sins

times over the course of his life, but he had never felt as comforted as he did receiving absolution

from this vampire.

He was suddenly pulling the vampire closer, seeking more, wanting something tangible, desperate to

touch him.

The vampire offered no resistance, allowing Snod to embrace him, giggling sweetly, “Mmm, trying to

dance with me now?”

Snod snorted, saying dryly, “I don’t dance.”

“Wait, are you serious? Dancing is forbidden, too?”

“No,” Snod clarified, feeling his face get hot. “I just... can’t. So, I don’t. Music has never... moved

me.”

“Oh, you wait right here,” the vampire said, his eyes wide. “I have the perfect song! If this doesn’t

move you, nothing will. Hang on one second!”

Snod mourned the loss of the vampire in his arms, watching him flit over to an antique secretary desk.

It opened up to reveal a modern stereo hidden within.

Music began to play, a poppy guitar riff bouncing through the speakers, and a man started to sing. It

was something about being a man and waking up next to someone else. It was utter nonsense to Snod’s

ears.

“What is this?” Snod complained, frowning.

“The Proclaimers!” the vampire shouted, blinking back to grab Snod’s hands and pull him out into the

living room where they would have space to dance.

“Proclaimers of what?” Snod loudly protested, swaying slightly from the alcohol.

“Proclaimers of move your damn ass!” the vampire cackled, trying to inspire Snod to move his hips.

“This is ridiculous!” Snod let his foot tap along to the beat, but otherwise refused to cooperate.

Then the chorus hit, a triumphant declaration of walking hundreds of miles and Snod was completely

captivated. Before he knew it, he was bouncing all around, his soul filled with joy, laughing as the

vampire dragged him into a festive romp.

It was absolutely impossible to resist. The call of the music was more heavenly than morning

communion, and Snod couldn’t stop smiling.

The song played on and Snod was absolutely enchanted, though his attentions had drifted away from

the music. He was certain that no creature alive could capture the beauty or grace of the vampire’s