Nimue felt her heart would burst as Maric’s hands worked diabolical magic on her flesh. She could still feel the effects of his tongue and teeth on her white skin. At his words of intent to know the goddess and to marry her, she pulled him closer to her and wrapped her legs around him. For a while, they explored each other, tender and teasing, ragged breath and gasping hands. His kisses were hot and sweet, making Nimue want to give herself fully to him, yet wanting to savor this moment too.<br/><br/>She felt something hard against her side and realized in her fogged brain that this was not the same steeliness against her inner thighs. Reaching down to ease the gouging, her hand gripped the hilt of his dagger. Nimue had an idea, a thought and still a driving need to keep Maric from foreswearing himself. With a tug, she freed the blade and sliced his arm and then her own hand. She clasped her hand over his arm and said,<br/><br/>I AM  Blood of YOUR Blood, and Bone of YOUR Bone.<br/>I give ye my Body, that we Two might be One.<br/>I give ye my Spirit, 'til our Life shall be Done.'<br/><br/>“Now Maric, my vows are made.I can give you no greater than this blood vow.  Take me out into the grass. The moon is full tonight. We will make love with the blessing of the Mother under the kiss of the stars. You will know the sacredness of the Earth.”