Chapter Text
“I can’t believe that jerk wouldn’t listen to me! Again! What is his problem?”
Lucifer huffed as he made his way down the long, winding hallway. His robes swished softly against the smooth tile floor while his wings twitched behind him in annoyance. The outrageously large stack of papers he carried were beginning to strain the muscles in his arms, further adding to his irritation, but that wasn’t the main reason for his frustration.
No, today had been yet another terrible meeting between him and the Pride Ring’s useless ruler, Satan.
For decades now, he had been trying his hardest to convince the Sin to work with him on organizing Hell’s uppermost ring. It’s the only one in the entire domain where human souls were allowed to reside and it was an utter disaster.
It was bad enough that he had to bear witness to cruel acts like murder and stealing almost on a daily basis, powerless to do anything about it as he watched from the embassy’s high windows. Along with assault, depraved sexual activities, and so much more.
Although, the real reason he got so upset was the fact that intervention on his part was forbidden. He wasn’t even allowed to leave the building for Heaven’s sake! Something that limited him even further on what he could do to try and help.
So to put it simply, Hell was a shit show.
And nobody around him seemed to give a damn. He had tried begging Father and the other seraphim countless times to allow him to intervene, to show those sinners the mistakes they were making and how they could better themselves. After all, maybe if they were to learn that more positive actions would grant them more rights and freedom, then maybe Hell wouldn’t be as terrible of a place!
But he was shot down every time without question.
“I don’t get it. I’m just trying to help,” He grumbled to himself as he began to round a corner. His vision was partially obscured by the mountain of documents in his hands, but luckily he managed to avoid clipping his wing against the wall. That was the last thing he needed right now. Especially when he felt his anger grow further as images of Satan waving him off just a few minutes ago still played out in his mind.
The Sin had barely managed to show up on time in the first place, which to his very little credit was still better than most of their other meetings where he didn’t show up at all or came around an hour late, but still. He didn’t care at all about the new plans Lucifer had drawn up to help the sinners improve their afterlife. Instead, he was too busy staring off into space, not looking at the angel at all.
Thinking back on it didn’t help matters either. It only made his blood boil as he remembered just how the encounter went.
”Excuse me, Satan?” Lucifer let out a sheepish chuckle while rubbing the back of his head, “I really need you to focus here. This next part is incredibly important so can you pay attention please?”
Glowing orange eyes flicked up to stare him down, a cold chill passed through his body from the intense look. A heavy sigh escaped Satan as the Sin threw his head back dramatically, waving one flippant hand in the air before moving it to pinch the bridge of his nose.
“I don’t understand why you bother trying.” The demon groaned, scrubbing that same hand up and down his face before huffing loudly, “How many times do I have to tell you that I don’t give a single fuck about what the sinners do? I swear, you angels come down here with your silly ideas to try and ‘fix’ them when you don’t know a single thing about how it works down here. Why don’t you just give it up already? You’d be better off running back to your cloud instead of meddling down here.”
Lucifer narrowed his eyes at the dismissive words. He felt an indignant fire burn deep in his gut as his irritation peaked and his wings flared out, spreading far behind him to where they almost covered up the entirety of the window behind him. Normally, that was enough for any angel to get their point across without being rude but the effect of it was lost upon the large demon.
“Sorry if you’ve forgotten already, Satan, but I’m here whether you like it or not.” A cocky smirk graced his face as he tilted his head to the side. While it was made clear to him that the demon didn’t care if he was down there or not, he knew there was one being the Sin had to listen to, “I have orders from my Father to stay down here until something is done. This ring is nothing but sheer chaos and you need to get under control. You just allow these sinners to run amuck and do nothing to fix it! So, until something is put into place to establish some type of order, you’re stuck with me for now.”
He had expected the words to cut at least a little bit, to remind the demon that he took orders from Heaven and not the other way around, but what he wasn’t prepared for was for Satan to simply laugh and shake his head as he started to get up.
“Yeah, I know all about the little deal your precious daddy set up for you.” Lucifer watched as the demon stood from his chair and clicked his fingers. Within an instant, a portal opened up behind him, showing a desert on the opposite side of it, “Did you ever stop and think that maybe he was trying to get rid of you, hm? I mean why else would God send an angel down here, especially one as air-headed as you?”
Satan didn’t give him any time to process the words before stepping through the portal. Lucifer watched, shocked as the meaning behind what was said finally caught up to him, only to scream in frustration as the gateway closed behind the Sin.
“Oh, that motherfuc-“
“Oof!”
Lucifer was snapped out of his thoughts as he collided into something, or someone if the soft grunt he heard was anything to go off on. Whatever it was, it effectively knocked him on his ass and sent papers flying everywhere. His eyes wrenched shut as a groan escaped him, sharp pain bloomed throughout his backside causing it to throb slightly.
“Oh my, and where were you off to little angel?”
Cracking open an eye, Lucifer almost gasped at the person before him.
The bright lights of the hallways shone brightly behind the figure. For a moment, he thought another angel stood before him. Hope filled him briefly, perhaps his prayers had finally been answered and Father had sent someone down to help him after all!
But as his vision adjusted, he realized how incredibly wrong he was.
He had run into a demon.
An unfairly tall demon.
One of the first things Lucifer noticed was that the stranger had legs that seemed to go on forever. The lengthy limbs sported form fitting black slacks that hugged the demon in all the right places. That alone was enough for Lucifer to feel a slight pang of jealousy as he took in the sight before him, while they weren't thick by any means, he could still make out the definition of the lean muscle that rested beneath the fabric.
That little detail served as a bitter reminder to him of his own legs and how they’re far too soft in comparison to most of the other angels, despite the amount of running around he constantly did.
Pushing the thought away, his gaze continued to trail upwards. Noticing that the demon wore a slim, blood red button up. There wasn’t even a trace of a wrinkle on it from where he had collided with the stranger. It still looked freshly pressed and incredibly sharp as he saw that its color was broken up into quadrants by a stark black leather chest harness.
Which brought him to his next question…
’What is with these demons and their strange bondage gear fashion?’.
A small twinkle under the fluorescents drug his eyes further up still, the little flash of light led him to a sparkling gemstone tucked neatly into the collar of the shirt by its bolo tie setting. Now that was a unique fashion choice. It’s one that not many could pull off without looking utterly ridiculous but this demon appeared to manage just fine. Perhaps he had been used to dressing this way, Lucifer knew that humans have had questionable fashion choices throughout the ages. This could’ve been one of them.
He had to stop himself from wincing when the demon motioned his body with a tilt of one slim hip and crossing of his arms. Body language leaving very little to the imagination of his current ire. But Lucifer couldn't bring himself to notice or care at that moment, not with the way the stranger’s broad chest stretched the leather harness almost to the point of breaking. Which led him to finally noticing that the demon wore an oversized coat over his shoulders. One that seamlessly matched the varied shades of red in his ensemble.
’Well, gotta give him points for style I guess.’
However, that’s not what truly took his breath away.
The demon was handsome, almost to a point where it felt both unfair and ridiculous. A thousand watt smile was painted on that beautiful face, causing Lucifer's own to heat up against his will. Although, the grin itself looked painful, almost like it would tear through the demon’s cheeks at any moment, but it just fit his expression so well that the angel couldn’t help but gawk at it.
When his eyes finally reached the demon's own, he almost gasped in awe. They were jewel-like, ruby red in color, with amusement that clearly shone in them. A monocle sat in front of the demon’s right eye, despite it being such a small detail, it managed to tie in the well put together look that the man was clearly trying to go for.
As Lucifer gazed into those glowing depths, he couldn’t help but feel something foreign stir deep within his gut. It was strange, uncomfortable, and nothing that he had never experienced before. The sensation only intensified when the demon shamelessly looked him up and down, seeming to care little for the giant mess he had made that was currently floating down around them.
“My my, you are a small thing aren’t you?” A sultry voice purred out, effortlessly establishing the demon’s presence in the hall despite that demon’s volume being at a relatively normal level.
Lucifer felt his wings twitch in irritation behind him. No one in their right mind would ever so casually condescend an angel of his rank. What, did this demon have no sense of self preservation? Who does he think he is?! Wait…who didthis demon think he was? Under no circumstance was anyone permitted to enter the embassy without a sanctioned summoning and this guy just shows up unattended?
“And just who are you? How the hell did you get up here?” Normally, he wouldn’t allow his voice to hold such a sharp edge to it, but his focus wasn’t on pleasantries at the moment.
He needed answers, now.
“Oh, where are my manners?” The filtered voice sounded ridiculously smug as the stranger slowly bowed before Lucifer. He noticed that on top of that demon's head, there were two pitch black antlers nestled in the crimson hair, along with a set of large, fluffy ears. The fur that covered them was the same shade of red as the rest of mystery man’s hair, they even had the same black tipped ends as the rest of the sinner’s hair.
Although, the stranger had most of it pulled back. Two thick sections framed that smug face, along with two matching braids, one on each side that seamlessly blended into the demon’s ponytail.
He would’ve been a liar if he said the look didn’t appeal to him.
The condescending words pulled him out of his daze, scoffing at the gesture, Lucifer turned his nose up in the air at the asinine sight, “I don’t know. Maybe you’ve misplaced them somewhere? After all, don’t you know it’s rude to knock into someone, and not even offer to help them up?”
That smug smile grew impossibly wider as the demon offered one hand to Lucifer. Not even a second later, the angel found himself hoisted up. A yelp threatened to tear its way out of his throat when he collided with that firm chest he had just been staring at. With a huff, he pushed himself away from the man, taking a few much needed steps back.
“Wow, color me surprised, you are a lot lighter than you look! Even with those large wings dangling behind you.” The demon titled his head to the side slightly, red eyes narrowed slightly as they seemed to roam over every inch of Lucifer’s body, “Although, I’m having trouble placing exactly which one you might be. I don’t remember any description of someone so small being in the Bible. So tell me, little angel. Just who are you?”
“Who am I?” Lucifer felt indignation flare up inside of him. He’s been around almost since the beginning of time and this jerk had never once heard of him?
He felt his own smirk light up his face. Perhaps if this sinner didn’t know exactly who he was, then he’d be able to play that to his advantage.
“You’re in the presence of Lucifer Morningstar, sinner. Bringer of Light and one of the High Seraphim sent from Heaven” His wings flared out as he gave his introduction, hoping to spark some form of response from the demon. He noticed that the man lifted a single brow at the sight, but otherwise the effect was lost on him. Just like it had been with Satan. ’Dammit.’
“Oh, so you’re a ‘high’ seraphim you say?” Amusement twinkled in the sinner’s eyes as he glanced over Lucifer’s body again. An unpleasant feeling stirred in his gut as he was opening gawked at, however, it didn’t last that long before that staticky voice all but laughed out, “I couldn't tell, what with you being so far down. I almost mistook you for a cherub instead.”
Oh that tacky piece of…
Lucifer felt his eye twitch slightly as he drew his wings back in and crossed his arms with a huff. It’s not the first time in his existence that someone has had the gaul to comment on his height, but that doesn’t mean he enjoyed having his stature be the butt of some jerks joke.
He was made in his Father’s image. That’s all that mattered to him.
“And do you mind telling me who you are?” Resisting the urge to snarl the words out, he settled for simply waving a dismissive hand at the sinner’s taunting words, “Last time I checked, demons weren’t allowed inside the embassy unless an angel sent for them, and I don’t recall anyone asking for your presence.”
That thousand-watt smile grew even more. For a moment, it looked like it was almost stitched into that handsome face. It was an uncomfortable sight to see. One that Lucifer knew he wouldn’t be forgetting anytime soon. Along with knowledge of how the demon’s sharp yellow teeth gleamed in the light as well. He could tell right away that all it would take was one bite and he could potentially lose a finger if not something worse.
Harsh radio feedback filled the air as the demon laughed. The lights in the hallway flickered for just a moment, causing Lucifer to jump slightly. He felt his heart almost leap into his throat when suddenly, the sinner was mere inches away from him, proudly declaring, “Why I’m Alastor, pleasure to be meeting you!”
He drew back in shock when one large hand practically swallowed his own. The sinner, Alastor, tightened his grip on Lucifer as he eagerly shook the angel’s hand. The force of it alone was enough to make him dizzy as his arm was rapidly jerked up and down. For a brief moment, he was afraid his halo would fall from its spot above his head as it bounced wildly along with him.
“And I’m here on a bit of a personal errand.” Lucifer was finally released from that iron grip as Alastor, thankfully, took a much needed step back. The sinner folded his arms behind him, that smug grin never once falling from his face as he happily stated, “I heard a rumor that Satan was supposed to be part of a meeting here today. There are some things I wished to discuss with him that are rather important.”
Lucifer swallowed hard at Alastor’s words. How was he supposed to be able to trust what this demon was actually saying? One of the first things he was taught before coming to Hell was to never believe a single thing that spilled from a sinner’s lips. They’re liars, deceivers, willing to say or do anything just to gain the upper hand. And here this demon was, wanting an audience with Hell's highest power. And for what? To simply have a chat with him?
He wasn’t buying it.
“Sorry to say you’re a bit too late. He left a while ago.” He shifted awkwardly on his feet when those crimson eyes narrowed at him. The last thing he wanted to do was upset the demon, but if there’s one thing that had been clear to him, it’s that he has no control over what Satan does, “He’s back in Wrath already and I know sinners aren’t allowed to travel between the rings like he can.”
Alastor’s right eye began to twitch, for a moment, Lucifer wondered if the sinner would lose his monocle with how rapid the spasms were happening. A little seed of worry began to fester in his head, if Alastor turned violent, he would be able to defend himself without an issue. But then that would cause all sorts of problems between the already fragile balance angels and demons had with one another.
The seconds seemed to stretch on for hours as Lucifer waited for a reply. His heart rate began to speed up, the little seed now blossoming into a full blown plant as Alastor just stood there and stared at him.
Then, without warning, it seemed like a switch flipped for the sinner. Lucifer flinched when loud laughter spilled from the demon’s lips. It was different from any other laugh he had heard before, this one sounded like it had come from one of those human television shows that he watched on occasion, like an entire audience had filled the building just to laugh with the demon.
“Oh that would just be my luck it seems, to come all the way over here and be met with nothing!” Alastor finally managed to calm down, taking a deep breath as he wiped a tear away from his eye. Another small chuckle escaped him as he slowly shook his head before looking Lucifer once more, “That’s just one of the endless joys of being a demon down here. Nothing ever seems to go our way, does it now?”
Shit.
The sight of Alastor looking so put out tugged at Lucifer’s heart strings. That smile was still fixed in place, but the smallest hint of sadness tinged those jewel-like eyes as he stared back at the sinner.
He pondered for a moment if Alastor might be different from the demons he’s seen before. After all, from what little he’s observed from his window and heard from Satan, most of them would have tried to cause some form of harm to him by now. However, even though it’s only been a handful of minutes, Alastor has barely done anything but taunt him. Hell, he even helped Lucifer off of the floor. That’s got to count for something.
Right?
Sparing a glance to the nearby clock on the wall, Lucifer realized that they didn’t have as much time as he had hoped to discuss this, and the longer Alastor stayed here, the greatest risk there was of Heaven finding out a demon was sniffing around where he didn’t belong. The punishment could be severe, he didn’t want to see a soul suffer when they hadn’t actually done anything wrong, yet. He couldn’t have that happening, not if he could help. That’s why he was here after all. To help these wayward souls to the right path!
“I’m sorry to hear that, but there’s not much I can really do. And you really don’t need to be here. If they find out you’re lurking around then we’ll both be in trouble,” Lucifer looked at all of the scattered papers that littered across the floor. He really didn’t want to leave a mess like this, but he also knew that they didn’t need to linger around much longer.
Alastor seemed to notice his disdain for the clutter and let out another chuckle, “Apologies once again for causing such a mess. Here, allow me to help you clean up.”
The sinner snapped his fingers and within an instant, all of the documents were off of the floor and placed into Lucifer’s hands. He looked up just in time to see a figure appear before him. The creature was almost a perfect copy of Alastor, except it was solid black with glowing green eyes. It wore a smile eerily similar to Alastor’s and hissed softly, a haunting sound that sent a chill down Lucifer’s spine.
“W-What’s this?” He flinched slightly as one transparent hand gently brushed against his own. The apparition trilled high in the back of its throat before slowly moving around him. The faintest hint of something caressing his wings made him jerk his shoulder back and glare at the creature. The look was completely lost, though, as the figure cackled softly before fleeing back to Alastor.
“Handy little creature isn’t it?” Lucifer turned to face Alastor once more, noting that the smug look had returned once more, “My shadow has been with me since I manifested in this realm. He’s proved to have several different uses. Some of which I’m certain someone like you would enjoy.”
Alastor shot him a wink and Lucifer felt his face heat up slightly at the implication, but brushed it off for the time being. With a snap of his own, he teleported the stack of papers back into his office, something he should’ve done in the first place but had been too upset earlier to even think about doing.
“While I’m glad you find this all entertaining, I don’t think you understand that now is not the time for silly little jokes or pranks.” He took a few steps towards the sinner, grabbing him by the arm and leading him towards the elevator, “You really don’t want to get on either mine or Heaven’s bad side. Trust me, it ends well for no one.”
A buzz of static was his only answer as they stopped in front of the golden doors, pressing the down button, he turned his gaze back to the tall demon, “I’ll take you down to the lobby, but I’ll need you to keep this quiet. Can’t have other sinners knowing that they can just sneak in here without consequence.”
The demon snorted at him but said nothing more as the doors finally opened up. Alastor stepped inside first while Lucifer followed him. After pressing the button for the ground floor, Lucifer leaned back against the wall, sighing softly.
It took a moment to notice that Alastor was completely silent. Sparing a glance over, Lucifer noticed that Alastor appeared to be lost in thought, those crimson eyes fixed on the door, unblinking as they continued their descent down to the lobby.
“I suppose I shouldn’t be too shocked” Lucifer jumped at the sudden words, he was too caught up in staring at the sinner that he hadn’t even realized Alastor had turned to face him, head cocked to the side as he regarded Lucifer with an almost sad looking smile, “All I’m needing is for someone to hear me out on an idea I have. As you've no doubt seen the state of things, I think we can both agree this place could use a bit more stability around here-“
Alastor hesitated for just a moment, looking almost torn up from his own speech. The soft, stuttery inhale of his breath caught Lucifer’s attention especially. He wasn’t expecting to hear such passionate words spill from the demon’s lips like that.
The pause was over almost as soon as it began, harsh static almost drowned out the demon’s words as he continued on, “Without order there is no law and we cannot continue on the spiral of self destruction. I for one would like to have a chance to enjoy my afterlife. Wherever it may be that I spend it."
Feedback screeched at Alastor’s last word, causing Lucifer to flinch slightly. He managed to recover just in time to see the demon staring down at him once more with almost a look of disdain on his face, “Though I guess I’m just wasting my breath here. You don’t seem like that type that would want to help a lowly sinner like me.”
“Excuse me?”
The words slipped free before Lucifer could stop them. The sudden urge to lash out at Alastor grew exponentially in that moment. If only the demon knew how much he busted his ass every single day trying to help the sinners down here and bring some damn order to this hellhole the sinner called a home. It wasn’t his fault that no one ever listened to him and that it just so happened that the one time when a single demon does come to the embassy looking to support his cause, no one is there to witness it!
All of those harsh words were on the tip of his tongue, but regarding Alastor once more immediately made them vanish. Sincerity shone bright in Alastor’s eyes, it was so blatant that it almost made Lucifer’s heart hurt just from looking at it.
But rules were rules, and the demon wasn’t supposed to be there.
“Listen, if I could I would,” A heavy sigh slipped out as he folded his arms across his chest, wings fluttering behind him as he tried to regain his composure, “But it was made very apparent to me today that I don’t know a damn thing about this place. Hell, I’m not even supposed to leave the building! Don’t see what I could possibly do to assist you.”
He gave Alastor a small smile, one that he hoped conveyed at least some of the pity he currently felt for the sinner, “I really wish I could help you. Maybe if you had shown up a little bit earlier things would’ve been different. Satan never listens to what I have to say, but maybe if someone who actually lives in this ring came and talked to him, things might actually get better down here”
Alastor didn’t reply to him, instead they lapsed back into a rather uncomfortable silence as the elevator finally came to a halt. A soft chime rang out, letting the pair know that they had arrived at the lobby as the doors opened up.
Lucifer was the first one to step out, he briefly looked back over his shoulder to ensure Alastor followed him. A ruminating look painted the sinner’s face as he trailed behind Lucifer. The urge to say more and to try and comfort the demon welled up in him at the sight, but his words were failing him at the moment.
What else could he possibly say anyways? Especially now when the roles are flipped and he’s the one ignoring someone’s request for help and kicking them out of the building anyways. Barely, he managed to resist releasing the exasperated sigh that threatened to slip out as they made their ways to the front doors.
Several thoughts flooded his mind for what he could try and do to salvage this shitty situation. But with each idea that passed through being worse than the last, hopelessness began to fill him, almost as fast as the approaching doors and-
“You know. It doesn’t have to be this way.” A static laced voice suddenly interjected, tearing Lucifer out of his spiraling thoughts.
Stopping dead in his tracks, Lucifer turned around to fully face Alastor. The sinner looked more cheerful this time, with that smile back at full strength and something unknown twinkling in his eyes. Lucifer cocked his head to the side and raised a brow in confusion at the sudden change of mood, “What do you mean?”
“All I’m saying is,” He watched as Alastor closed the gap between them. His breath hitched slightly when the sinner leaned down, that handsome face a few inches from his own, “If you’re wanting to learn more about this cesspool, I’d be more than glad to give you a tour. Consider it an exchange. You get to learn about what exactly it is that you’re trying to fix down here and I get to leave here without any form of consequence. Sounds like a pretty fair deal if you ask me.”
Oh…
Oh!
Lucifer couldn’t help but feel a little bit giddy at the prospect. This was the first time anyone has offered to give him a look around at the Pride ring. He had asked Satan to once before, but the Sin merely told him that it wasn’t worth the time or the energy to try and show Lucifer around. Something that still grates his nerves to that very day. But this? This could easily work out in his favor.
There’s just the issue of how.
It would be completely naive to ignore the possibility of him facing punishment for leaving the building. After all, he made a big deal about it to Alastor how ‘Heaven is always watching’, but are they really? Surely if they were, then maybe Sera or Michael would’ve come down by now to try and help him reason with Satan. Out of all the angels in Paradise, they were the most sympathetic to his cause.
Even if they have their own unique way of showing it.
Considering the pros and cons of the proposition had him nervously biting his lower lip while contemplation turned to anxious deliberation. Alastor not so subtlety cleared his throat and a brief bout of feedback filled the air around them, “I’m waiting, Lucifer.”
Shit.
“Promise no harm will come my way?” He flicked his gaze up to reach Alastor’s own. The mischief was no longer there in the sinner’s eyes. Currently, annoyance seemed to dance in them as Lucifer fumbled out, “If Heaven finds out I left without permission there could be consequences for us both. Yours would be worse than mine too, they’re liable to send an Exorcist down here to exterminate you, especially if any demon were to bring harm to me while I was under your protection. Is that a risk you’re willing to take?”
Instead of backing down at the suggestion, Alastor’s smile grew impossibly wider at the warning. A loud laugh spilled from those lips as the sinner straightened up. Lucifer jumped slightly when one large hand clasped him on the shoulder and pulled him so close that he could practically feel the demon’s body heat radiating off of him, “Oh I can do more than promise that. Not a single hair on your head will be harmed. Not while I’m around that is.”
Damn.
Those words, purred with such threatening certainty, had no right to send a shiver down his spine. And yet the subtle ruffle of his wings could not be ignored. Regardless of how pleasant it felt to be guaranteed protection, he couldn’t let these demon’s honey coated words sway him so easily. He had a job to do and he would see it through, Dad-damn it!
Steeling his resolve, he gently pushed himself away from Alastor. For a moment the demon almost looked disappointed until Lucifer held his hand out. He allowed himself to flash the sinner a smile, unable to keep the utter excitement out of his voice as he said,
“Then you got yourself a deal, Alastor…”
0o0o0o0o0
Lucifer was pleasantly surprised with how easy it was for him to leave the embassy. He had been a little nervous at first, during his time spent down in Hell, he had never so much as gone past the front desk that sat in the lobby. The idea of leaving the building was scary, especially when he half expected some kind of alarm to blare the moment they stepped out the door, announcing to all of Hell and Heaven that the angel had left the sanctuary.
But to his shock not a damn thing happened. The only sound that he heard was the squeaky hinge of the door opening and closing as they slipped out. A disbelieving laugh had spilled from his lips and Alastor had shot him a questioning look before taking him by the arm and leading him towards an area of the city called Cannibal Town.
As they ventured on towards the aforementioned district, Alastor advised him that he may want to conceal some of his more angelic attributes, as they would draw demons to him like flies to a carcass if they were to be seen. Considering the situation at present it seemed sound advice to follow. It took more concentration then he’d like to admit but after a beat he was able to withdraw his wings into his body and dim his halo to a faint glow.
As they traversed the busy streets of pentagram city, Lucifer couldn’t help the almost stupid grin that plastered itself on his face as he drank in the sights around them. Dozens of demons wandered the street they were on, but none seemed to come near them as they headed to their destination.
An iron gateway signaled their entrance into the aforementioned “Cannibal Town”, twisted through the wrought iron bars in a cursive scrawl. Lucifer was completely charmed by how quaint the area was. Everyone seemed incredibly friendly sporting big toothy smiles reminiscent of Alastor's own wide grin, from the passing conversations he heard, they sounded polite and pleasant. At first glance, it appeared like a good place to start learning more about Hell along with serving as proof that not all sinners are bad.
That thought was quickly dashed almost as fast as it formed as Alastor had stopped them and encouraged Lucifer to watch and learn what the citizens of Hell were truly like.
His previous optimism was replaced with a very important lesson firmly planted in Lucifer’s mind.
Hell was shit show. And its residents very much reflected the reason why it’s one.
In the town center a scene was unfolding, a lone demon began to cause a raucous for some slight or other. His angry shouts, spewing abuse and insult to everyone around drawing attention from the previously cheerful residents. In an instant the mood changed as the true violence of hell made itself apparent.
Bile had risen up in his throat when he watched a group of four demons attack the troublemaker, tearing flesh off and devouring it in almost a frenzy. Lucifer actually had to reach out and grasp Alastor’s arm to stop himself from fainting as blood painted the street and bits of skin flew into the air.
But his guide didn’t even bat an eyelash at the sight. He simply kept marching on and pointed out several shops to Lucifer.
When they passed a little store called ‘Rosie’s Emporium’, Alastor had grabbed Lucifer by the shoulder and turned him to face the shop, proudly exclaiming that his dearest friend Rosie owned the shop and how she was the leader of Cannibal Town. Excitement colored the demon’s voice as he went on to explain how Rosie was quite the spitfire, and even offered to introduce them if Lucifer would like.
The tone Alastor’s voice had taken on sent a wave of uneasiness throughout Lucifer’s body. He felt rude to decline the offer, but part of him was worried what Rosie, or any of the other cannibals would do to him if they had found out that an angel had been lurking among them. So instead, he politely asked if they could move onto a different area. After all, he needed to see more than just one little corner of the city to formulate a proper plan.
He noticed that Alastor almost looked disappointed, but nevertheless, the sinner kept his word and they continued on the city tour.
As the day pressed on they stopped through several districts. The Doomdsday district stood out the most clearly in Lucifer’s mind. He knew that Hell was supposed to be a fiery pit of despair, but that area took the notion quite literally with just how many buildings, cars, and demons were on fire.
The terror filled screams he heard as they passed through the area made his skin crawl. He turned to Alastor asking how anyone could bear to live in these conditions. the demon merely shrugged and stated that it had always been like this even since before he manifested in Hell. It was lost to him why anyone would choose to reside in this particular area of town, but apparently it has its charm for some people.
Lucifer couldn’t help but take that answer as a challenge, mentally making multiple notes on new safety procedures to bring up to Satan during their next meeting. The Sin may not care for the citizens of the Pride ring, but perhaps he would want to minimize the property damage that occurred.
His mental list continued to grow longer as they continued on their journey. By the time they got to Pentagram City center, Lucifer was ready to call Satan up and fully scream at him.
Just how could the Sin let it get this bad? The sheer amount of senseless and wanton violence alone was enough to have Lucifer on edge, and that wasn’t even taking into consideration any of the other depraved acts he had the displeasure of witnessing. He knew Hell was supposed to be a place of punishment, but even if a soul deserved a more extreme form of discipline, what about the ones that didn’t? There was no type of enforcement or rule preventing those who were sent down for more petty sins from receiving the same treatment as the ones who’s crimes far outweighed the sinners around them.
It wasn’t fair, why didn’t anyone see this, why didn’t anyone care…? His morose mood only weighed heavier and heavier on his shoulders. Showing clearly on his face and body language. Alastor ever observing, seemed to notice this darkening change,
“You seem troubled little star, Perhaps something more mundane would ease your mind, hm?”
His voice jerked Lucifer out of his own thoughts back to the cracked sidewalk corner they now stood.
“Uh… sure. Yea that sounds nice- fine, that sounds fine..”
Alastor merely smiled and began to gesture him down a busier street full of shiny shoppes and window displays.
The new sights and sounds of the shopping district
were able to snap him out of the small funk he had gotten himself into.
Only to replace said funk with a new concernerning amount of questions…
“So you’re telling me there’s a store in the city for almost every kind of indulgence a demon would like?” Lucifer felt his eyes go wide as he looked at all the different buildings that lined the street they were on. Several of them were painted in bright neon colors, advertising a variety of goods and services that sent a cold chill down his spine.
’Who in their right mind would join a community bukkake class?’
It wasn’t like he didn’t know what humans and therefore sinners got up to. But seeing it being so blatantly out in the open made him feel so…uncomfortable. Especially when he noticed that the next store front had overtly sexual looking angel costumes hanging up in the window.
Alastor took notice of the uncomfortable look on his face. Canned laughter emanated from the demon as one large hand was placed on the small of Lucifer’s back, gently leading him away from the shop, “Well I supposed there is. There’s very few places I frequent in this area. I’ll have you know, though, there’s a wonderful tailor about two blocks from here. Can’t recommend them enough, if you’re ever needing someone to hem your robes.”
Lucifer made a noncommittal sound in the back of his throat as he paused in front of one building. He surveyed the concerning amounts of what appeared to be shrunken heads and dried up body parts in the store's window. The shopkeeper caught him staring and gave him a slightly questioning look, but thankfully didn’t come outside to say anything to him.
‘Although they look friendly enough.’ The thought passed quickly through his head, maybe he should actually go inside one of these stores and attempt to talk to some of the staff there. Who knows, maybe he’ll get lucky and be able to connect with them, then that’ll just be one more demon he has on his side to better this ring!
He turned to inform Alastor of his new idea, but the taller demon had actually gotten quite a bit ahead of him. Apparently, he assumed Lucifer was still following along behind him as he continued to walk down the street without hesitation.
“Hey, Al! Wait up!” Lucifer called out to his guide, bare feet pattered against the sidewalk as he jogged to catch up. A few demons brushed past him as he made his way back to Alastor. He was nearly caught up when suddenly, a firm hand grasped his arm and jerked him backwards.
“Well well, look at this!” Lucifer felt his blood run cold as the slick sound of someone licking their lips reached his ears. A startle cry escaped him as he found his robes being lifted high in the air, exposing his lower half for everyone to see, “What’s someone so tempting like you doing here?”
In his mind, Lucifer was screaming at this creep to back the fuck off and let him go, but outside of it? The words never left his mouth. He was frozen in place, all he could do was watch in horror as the demon leaned forward to touch him, wrenching his eyes shut as he braced himself for something to happen.
But nothing did…
Instead of the violating feeling of groping hands, he felt his robes released and a protective arm wrapping around his waist. “Wha-” he slowly opened his eyes, looking up towards his savior. The meek thanks he was prepared to whisper vanished on his tongue as the sight above him rendered him near breathless.
Alastor had come back for him. The demon’s handsome face looked down right murderous, or at least his eyes did. A cold chill ran through Lucifer when he noticed that Alastor’s smile was still firmly in place, stretched wide and almost menacing while his eyes were narrowed into slits. When the strong arm around him tightened, Lucifer flinched as the harsh sound of feedback rang out, followed by the faint sounds of someone screaming in the distance.
“Apologies for my inattentiveness, it seems like I was slacking on my duties to you,” Lucifer took in a stuttering breath as Alastor trailed his gaze up and down his body, checking him for any injury, “Did he hurt you?”
“N-No. Just lifted up my robe. That’s all” His face heated up under the intense stare, both from embarrassment and shame that he allowed something like this to happen. A sinking feeling came over him when he took in Alastor’s upset expression, he could’ve gotten so many people in trouble from being careless like that. And for what? To tell Alastor some half-baked idea that he had?
Maybe Satan was right about him…
Sighing softly to himself, he put on his best face and gave Alastor a soft smile, “Although I think I’ve seen enough for today, and I’m feeling rather tired. Can we go back to the embassy now?”
There was a pause, Lucifer had to fight another shiver as Alastor gave him an unreadable look. Red eyes bore into Lucifer’s own for a few moments before the sinner finally nodded in agreement.
Lucifer sighed in relief as the sinner turned on his heel and began to lead him back towards the embassy. When they had gotten a good distance away from where that other demon had grabbed Lucifer, Alastor loudly snapped his fingers. A moment later, Lucifer watched as the sinner’s hissing shadow came flying back to its master, seamlessly phasing into Alastor’s body.
He spared a glance over his shoulder and felt his heart sink when he spotted fresh droplets of blood painted along the sidewalk behind them, right where the apparition had passed by. A wave of nausea rolled over Lucifer as it dawned on him just where that blood probably came from.
Did Alastor hurt that demon, over him no less?
Or possibly do something even worse?
Guilt washed over Lucifer like icy water. There was no knowledge of what happens to a soul if they were to be killed again in the afterlife, there were theories sure, but there wasn’t anything concrete to support any of those ideas. And while that demon from earlier had no right to touch him, that didn’t mean Lucifer wanted the poor, misguided soul erased over it.
Tears pricked at his eyes and he quickly wiped them away before Alastor could see them. Glancing up, he noticed the sinner was looking straight ahead. His gaze was focused on the looming embassy building in the distance, but Lucifer noticed that Alastor only stayed a few paces ahead of him now, pausing more frequently so that he would be able to catch up with ease.
‘Damn tall demon… long legs… ‘
An uneasy silence followed them as they journeyed back. Lucifer couldn’t help the overwhelming feeling festering in his chest with each passing step. The reality of how truly fucked this ring was beginning to fully set in.
Dwelling on this realization, it consumed his thoughts. As each one passed through his mine, he felt himself slipping deeper and deeper into his metaphorical pit. How was someone like him supposed to fix all of this? And by himself no less.
It didn’t take long for them to reach the embassy, maybe ten minutes or so, but it felt like forever as they walked in silence. Once they reached the base of the building’s staircase, Lucifer felt the urge to say something, anything to maybe try and see what Alastor thought of the situation.
“I can’t believe there’s so much that goes on down here that I wasn’t even aware of.” Lucifer lamented softly as they trudged their way up the steps of the embassy, “How can anyone bear to live amongst so much pain and suffering, Alastor? This is…terrible”
A brief hum of static answered him. He glanced over towards the sinner, noticing those crimson eyes appeared lost in thought, looking straight ahead without sparing Lucifer so much as a glimpse.
Which hurt him more than he was expecting it to.
What must Alastor think of him now? That he’s nothing but another worthless angel meddling where he doesn't belong? Especially one like him that was oh so certain he knew how to fix Hell and make it work.
How could he be so stup-
“Well, there are some things down here that make it more tolerable.” That static laced voice snapped him out of his thoughts as they reached the Embassy’s front doors. Turning towards the demon, the low light of the pentagram bathed Alastor in soft red light, causing him to almost glow before the angel’s eyes. The luminous effect made him look gentler somehow, more caring as those jewel-like eyes stared into Lucifer’s own.
Almost ethereal.
“What do you mean?” Lucifer cocked his head to the side and raised a brow in confusion. What could there possibly be in this pit of misery and despair that made demons feel better?
He flinched as Alastor raised a hand and cupped his cheek. His breath stuttered for a second as Alastor all but purred out, “Well for starters you’re here, aren’t you?”
Lucifer didn’t have enough time to properly digest the words before the demon started to lean down. He was frozen, his feet planted firmly in place as he watched that handsome face grow closer to his own.
It wasn’t until their lips barely brushed together that he was finally able to move. It felt like lightning struck his body, a startled yelp escaped him. His arms moved on their own as he shoved Alastor away with all his strength, effectively knocking the demon flat on his backside.
Shit.
“Oh! Um, sorry there.” He took in the stunned look Alastor wore while bending down to help the sinner up. The last thing he had meant to do was cause any kind of harm, luckily, Alastor seemed pretty unaffected by the sudden push. Although, that still didn’t stop a flare of embarrassment from flooding Lucifer as he pulled the taller man up, “I don’t know if that’s a demon tradition or not, but that’s not needed here, ha ha…”
His face was practically on fire as the awkward words tumbled from his lips. Mentally, he was kicking himself as Alastor brushed the dirt from his coat. He wasn’t quite sure what to expect next, perhaps a form of dismemberment for daring to shove the demon? Or maybe Alastor would turn on his heel and leave, never to see or speak to him again.
Several options racing through his mind all at once, but Alastor throwing his head back and laughing was not at the top of that list, not even top 5 really...
“You’ll have to forgive me there!” Alastor’s cackles slowly died down as he smoothed out the new wrinkles on his coat, “I was simply trying to show my appreciation to you! It’s been far too long since I’ve been on an outing like this, and despite the bumps in the road, I found myself having quite a pleasant time with you”
That wicked grin grew almost painfully tight, Lucifer swore he could catch the faintest hint of glowing green stitches lightning up around the seams of the chilling sight.
A looming sense of danger hung around them, a threatening aura manifested. However, he wasn’t given a moment to defend himself as Alastor simply shook his head and sighed out, “Of course I should’ve known that an angel like yourself wouldn’t want something like that from me.”
A retort danced on the tip of Lucifer’s tongue, but it quickly died off when Alastor took a step back from him. A cane appeared in one large hand; the sinner twirled it with a flourish and caught Lucifer’s eye as it reflected the slowly dimming light around them.
“I’ll take that as my cue to leave. Do try to have a good evening, Lucifer.” The words snapped him back to reality as Alastor began to walk away. A simple tune filled the air, nothing but a low hum that emanated from both Alastor and his cane as the demon began his descent down the stairs.
No.
Lucifer couldn’t let the sinner walk away like this. The demon was the only one down here that even remotely heard him out on his ideas. And who knows if there’ll be anyone else that’ll have an open mind to try and see his vision.
Feeling desperate, Lucifer took a single step forward, steeling his nerves, he swallowed hard as he watched Alastor reach the bottom of the stairs before calling out, “Wait!”
Alastor stopped dead in his tracks and turned around to face him, crimson eyes narrowed at him, some unknown emotion danced in them as Alastor purred out, “Yes?”
“C-Can we do this again?” Lucifer could practically feel the blush on his face grow as he mumbled the words out. Unable to look at Alastor further, he turned his gaze to the ground as he shuffled on his feet, “It’s my duty to try and help down here. Maybe these little outings will help me do a better job. If you’re still willing to be my tour guide, that is?”
His request was met with silence. For a moment, he was worried the demon was about to wave him off and dismiss the idea.
As the tense moments passed, he finally got the courage to look up. A silent gasp passed his lips as he was met by Alastor’s intense stare. The demon's eyes shamelessly raked up and down his body, that tacky smile never once faltering.
“Hm, I wouldn’t be opposed to that. Maybe next time you’ll be brave enough to meet my friend Rosie too. I have a feeling she may be willing to help you, if you’re polite when you ask her at least.”
Lucifer almost couldn’t believe it when those staticky words reached his ears. Alastor didn’t bother saying anything else, turning to walk away once more.
He advanced ten feet from the steps before pausing to cast a look over his shoulder. A wink
was shot at Lucifer before Alastor called out, “I look forward to seeing you soon, little angel.”
With that, he was gone. A cloud of black tendrilled smoke swallowed him, spiriting him away to an unknown location. The display shocked Lucifer as he watched Alastor practically blink out of existence. He knew some high powered demons had the ability to teleport, but the only one he’d seen perform such a feat firsthand had been Satan.
Just who was this Alastor?
Shaking his head, Lucifer turned back and headed towards the embassy doors. Too many thoughts raced through his mind and none of them were helping him at that moment.
The pathetic feeling was the most prominent inside of him, welling up almost to the point of overflowing as he slowly walked to the elevator. Once inside, he pressed the button for his living quarters and leaned against the wall with a sigh.
What a fucking day.
He knew that it was wrong to think with such foul language involved, but he couldn’t help it. He got a more than up close glance as to how terribly wrong he had been about demons in general, how unruly and crass they were, how they seemed to be nothing but selfish and self serving, not caring for anything outside themselves and their urges. For Heaven’s sake one even tried to lift up his robe and he almost let them!
How was someone as pathetic as him supposed to change Hell when he could barely stop one lost soul from touching him like that? The only reason it didn’t escalate was because Alastor had been there and-
And that right there was the true source of his mixed emotions.
What had he been thinking allowing the sinner to get that close to him!?
Another heavy sigh heralded his arrival to his floor. When he stepped out of the elevator, a soft hiss caught his attention, followed by the faintest flick of a tongue on his cheek.
Looking down, he saw his snake had finally slithered out from underneath his collar. The little reptile almost looked annoyed by Lucifer’s huffing and puffing.
A pink tongue flicked in the air as the snake hissed once more, nudging its snout into the side of Lucifer’s face.
“I know, I know, Monty. Calm down.” He gently stroked his pet’s head as he walked towards his bedroom door, “You don’t have to tell me that it shouldn’t have happened. Believe me, I won’t allow him to get that close again.”
Another hiss answered him, but Monty seemed content for the moment. If anyone else had seen them, they would’ve thought Lucifer insane for talking to his snake like that, but the little serpent had been with him since his creation. Given to him by Father as a delicate egg that hatched in the palm of Lucifer’s hands. Monty was his best friend, and the only other living thing that the angel was allowed to bring down to Hell with him.
Walking into his room he gently removed Monty off of his neck and placed his little golden body on the pillow resting on the nightstand. Come morning, his pet would no doubt be coiled in his hair, acting as a halo even while he slept, but for now the little creature seemed happy to be on its cushion as it curled into a contented ball.
Lucifer smiled at the sight before he quickly changed out of his formal robes and into a silk nightgown. The smooth material caressing his skin was pleasant, relaxing his body as he slowly climbed into the bed.
Today had been absolutely draining. Flashes of this afternoon’s events flashed through his mind, from Satan blowing him off, to meeting Alastor, to witnessing horrible crimes being committed up close.
And of course, he couldn’t forget about that damn kiss.
Gently tracing his fingers across his own lips, he could still feel where Alastors own had brushed them not half an hour ago … the feeling wasn’t unpleasant but it was something he couldn’t quite comprehend.
The only time kisses were exchanged in Heaven was if your mentor tried to comfort you for any number of reasons. But they were never kisses like that. Usually, they were mere brushes to the forehead, followed by a soothing whisper or a pat to the top of one’s head. It was never something so…intimate
He knew that kisses had a variety of different meanings amongst humans and demons. After all, he’s been around far too long and seen too much to not know that.
But why him? And why now?
And why would Alastor want to kiss him?
Shaking the thought away, Lucifer scrubbed a hand over his face before turning over to face away from his bedroom door. He knew that he was being ridiculous. That sinner wouldn’t want anything to do with him in that regards. He’s a failure of an angel that can’t even do his job right without enlisting the help of a sinner demon.
A deep inhale and an even deeper sigh left his lips as he settled in for the night. He quickly wished Monty to have pleasant dreams over his shoulder before snapping his fingers and cutting all the lights in the bedroom.
As his eyes slipped shut and he fell into a deep slumber, his dreams haunted by a certain pair of eyes staring down at him…