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"What's gotten into you?" Davin asked, smiling as Jared tore his shirt off with his claws. "It's hot, but... damn. I've never seen you like this..."

"Shut up and fuck me, dammit," Jared snarled, though his voice was tinged with desire. They were back at one of Davin's places, but as soon as Davin had closed the door behind them he'd been pinned up against it. "I need this. Don't you?"

"Yeah, I need this," Davin said, lowering his hands to unbutton Jared's pants. He was wearing a jockstrap underneath it, though not the one from his stage costume. As soon as his pants were loose enough, Jared kicked them into the corner before leading Davin by the forearm. Davin was too aroused to resist, letting the smaller mortal take charge. Of course seeing him up on stage had been enough to ignite his lust for him, and he had to admit the eye-patch made him look rougher. More masculine. It didn't help that his good eye looked at him with so much need as he was practically dragged into his bedroom. Even though he was allowing it, he was still surprised at the strength and speed with which Jared pushed him onto the bed.

"Take them off," Jared ordered, glaring at him as he smiled cruelly. As terrifying as it was, Davin had never been more turned on... in recent memory, at least. Hurrying to obey, he threw his pants to the side before laying back down.

"Not going to tie me up? You're all magical now," Davin teased, hoping Jared would take the hint.

"It comes and goes," Jared said, seemingly frustrated for a moment. "But I suppose we'll make do... give me something to work with, Davin."

"Yes sir," Davin said, before some bonds formed in Jared's hands. Smiling, Jared tested them before grabbing his legs and spreading them apart. Davin moaned as Jared tied each one to separate bedposts.

"I like the sound of that," Jared finally said, using a bond to tease Davin as he ran it up his side. Davin moved to stroke Jared's thigh before the sabertooth grabbed his wrist to stop him. "Ah ah, no touching. Though now that I have this..."

Davin watched as Jared tied his arm to the bedpost. Finishing, he straddled Davin's chest before looking down expectantly at him. Without a word, Davin smiled as he placed his free arm against the remaining bedpost. Wasting no time, Jared tied it up and tested its tightness. Satisfied, he grabbed onto Davin's horns and pulled his face up into his crotch. When had he gotten so big? The jockstrap strained to contain him, a manly scent wafting into Davin's nostrils as he kissed and licked what he could.

"Yeah... that's right. Get a taste," Jared said, making Davin's cock jump and twitch as he writhed with need. "You need this just to exist. Sure, you get powers. You get to seduce us mortals and have your way with us. But without this, without my lust and my desire... you are nothing."

"I'm nothing..."

"What's that? I didn't quite hear you..."

"I'm nothing, sir," Davin said, his voice muffled.

"Louder," Jared ordered, shoving his former boss's head back onto the pillow. "Say it like you mean it, scum."

"I'm nothing!" Davin shouted, and he began to feel a bit strange. He hadn't taken his medicine tonight, had he? "I'm just a mindless fucktoy to be used as you see fit!"

"...Yes, that's right," Jared said, moving off of him. "Where do you keep the lube, toy?"

"Blue bottle in the top drawer..." Davin said, though honestly there was lube just about everywhere in that nightstand. "I-"

"I see it," Jared said, pulling it out and placing it on top. "Oh, and I see your medicine is up here too... well, you won't be needing it right now. Will you?"

"...But... ah..." Davin said, struggling between his need for his medicine or his release. "I mean, I might..."

"Davin, look. On a normal day, I love your personality," Jared said, his expression softening a touch. "You make me laugh. Make me feel good about myself. But right now? Right now, my libido is ramped so fucking high that I can barely keep myself from sticking my own fingers up my ass. I don't need words or kindness from you right now. Just what you've got between your legs. But hey, this gives me a fun idea."

Taking both the small spray and the lube bottle, Jared held them to either side of Davin's face.

"Alright, Davin. Here's your 'choice'. Pay attention, because I'm not repeating myself," Jared said, a sadistic look on his face as he used the bottom of the spray to trace Davin's lips. "You can take your medicine and go to sleep, maybe stave off that inner drone deep inside you for another day. Think for yourself until it's time to take it in the morning, then night... then morning and night, for gods know how long. Or..."

"Or?" Davin asked, as Jared took the spray away and used the lube bottle to play with his nipples. Moaning, Davin humped the air to seek any kind of release.

"Or you can stop thinking so much and fuck me all night long. Empty out that pretty head of yours and obey my every command. Sure, you might 'drone out' for a while, but I'm here to lead you as I did once before. But it goes without saying that without this, you don't get release. I'm not getting fucked raw. So what will it be? Spray or lube? You don't get to have both."

"...Ugh..." Davin said, looking from one hand to the other. Damn, he was tied up too... and with bonds he'd made to make sure he couldn't escape even with his power. But damn if he didn't find this extremely hot. Would it really be so bad just to skip a dose? Lust won out in the end as he nodded his head toward the lube, causing Jared to chuckle.

"I thought so. You can't resist. Oh Davin..." Jared sighed, putting the medicine away in the nightstand before he opened the lube bottle. "I used to think you were so strong. Maybe you still are, in your own way... but now I'm the strong one this time. So let go for me. I'll make you feel good."

"...Okay... sir," Davin said, his thoughts slowing down already. It didn't help that he still remembered Jared doing something similar when they were both drones, but he knew he wasn't going to be able to do anything while tied up. Not without permission, at least. It was no fun being tied up if he could just get out of it with a thought, after all... but still, he hadn't expected this twist. It was a bit easier than he would have liked to begin slipping back into the drone mentality, though without a hivemind to direct him he was reliant on Jared's every word. Even so, he moaned with delight as Jared began pouring lube onto his shaft, before using his free hand to rub him up and down.

"No cumming," Jared ordered, smiling as Davin only nodded. "If you're a good fucktoy, I might think about giving you some release. But you're here for my pleasure tonight, not the other way around. But you already knew that, didn't you? Why else would you let me tie you up with magical bonds you can't break out of?"

"Trust you..." Davin sighed, smiling as his thoughts became few and far between. "...Awaiting... orders..."

"Already? Damn, that's hot," Jared chuckled, before lubing his own ass and slamming the bottle on the table. Removing his jockstrap and climbing onto the bed, he straddled Davin's waist before lining the daemon's cock with his own hole. A brief concern of being too big flashed in Davin's mind, having remembered he was in his anthro form... but then he was in complete bliss as Jared slowly lowered himself onto his shaft. Hissing in pleasure, Jared looked down into Davin's vacant gaze. "Either you're fucking huge, or I'm too tight... fuck me, I'm in heaven and I'm not even halfway down, am I?"

Davin didn't respond, too lost in his fantasies already as pleasure coursed through his mind. Up, down... up, down... Jared lowered himself further and further as he took his time to adjust, bringing Davin closer to climax every time. Yet he couldn't cum without permission.

"Ungh... finally," Jared said, resting for a bit. Davin felt like he was floating almost, his thoughts far away from him. Yet some part of him could tell Jared had finally taken his entire shaft. "I'm so fucking full, but damn... this is exactly what I needed. How are you... nnnf, how are you holding up, Davin?"

"Drone does not recognize that designation," Davin said, accepting it fully.

"...Well, that answers that," Jared laughed, before running his hands across Davin's chest. "Fuck my ass. Will drone comply?"

"Drone will comply," Davin said, before Jared began sliding up and down. Davin was a drone, a fucktoy to be used for his master's pleasure. He drew upon all his knowledge, making it as pleasurable as possible for the sabertooth on top of him. Every time Jared pushed down, Davin thrust upward and vice versa. He was the only drone in his hivemind, yet with Jared he felt complete. He was obeying his orders and fulfilling his purpose. It was all he wanted.

"Ahhh! F-fuuuuuck!" Jared shouted, not caring who heard him as he came. Thick white ropes pulsed out of him as he kept pumping himself up and down, lost in the throes of orgasm. Davin felt pure bliss at the knowledge, knowing he had been a good drone.

"...Cum for me," Jared said, and instantly Davin thrust as he allowed himself to finally orgasm. Jared moaned as he rested against Davin's sticky body, clenching his ass to try and milk him for everything he was worth. "Damn, you're a good fucktoy. Maybe I should keep you this way."

"Drone will comply with whatever master commands," Davin said, closing his eyes. Nothing really mattered to him anymore. He was property. He was a drone. A cold spray of something went up one nostril, then the other... and Davin groaned as thoughts began returning to him.

"Sorry," Jared said, sitting next to Davin. When had he slipped off of him? Actually, what had he been doing?

"...Sorry for what?" Davin asked, smiling. He still felt kind of out of it, but nothing that wasn't reversible. "...Damn, didn't know you had all that inside of you."

"Y-yeah, neither did I," Jared said, sounding like himself for the first time since setting foot on the stage. "Hope I didn't go too far. I-"

"It was fucking hot," Davin said, wiggling in his bonds. "But, ah... could you maybe..."

"Oh, shit. Right," Jared laughed, jumping to his feet. It wasn't long before Davin was sitting upright beside Jared, rubbing his wrists.

"I should teach you how to tie someone up for pleasure. Though you did pretty well for a first-timer... just a little tight, but I like it that way. Though a mortal might lose circulation... but still. What a beast you are."

"...Thanks?" Jared said, smiling uneasily. "Eh... I don't know why I'm nervous now. Though it was hot, wasn't it? Man... I should let that out more."

"If that's what you want to do," Davin encouraged. "But come on, let's go to bed."

"You sure?" Jared asked, watching Davin lay down and pat the spot next to him.

"If I wasn't sure, I wouldn't have brought you here," Davin said, winking. "We can shower in the morning. You need your rest."

"Yeah... I'm spent..." Jared said, yawning as he cuddled up against the daemon. "I..."

"Just rest. You deserve it."

"...Thanks, Davin." Jared said, nuzzling against his chest. It wasn't long before he was asleep, leaving Davin to his own thoughts. Instead of sleeping, he just held Jared close as he watched over him, resting his eyes and smiling.

*******

"Well now, been a while since you were here."

"I haven't slept until now. Lust's realm is... energizing," Jared said, not surprised to see Fundinn. He was back at the crossroads from his dreams, though now that he could see through the fog he realized it was much more than that.

"Do you know where you're going this time?"

"Yeah. I know what happens next," Jared said, looking at the old man with his good eye. "I feel like I'm on the verge of something amazing... but I'm also afraid of going alone. Will you accompany me, Allfather?"

"Figured it out, did you?" laughed the old man, before his guise faded completely away. In his place stood a man who looked as if he had seen thousands of battles, an aura of power and command emanating from him. His walking stick was instead a magnificent spear, and his hood was thrown back to reveal the one-eyed legend. "I will accompany you, Jared. We are headed the same way, are we not?"

"So we are," Jared said, walking with him. "But what about my fear?"

"Every warrior has fear. But instead of running from it, you are facing it. Even knowing what you must do."

"Once I accept, I have to see it through..." Jared said. "But honestly? I want to. I need to know more. That's what this has been all about, hasn't it?"

"Knowledge. Wisdom. They have a price that must be paid. Do you know where you are, by the way?

"I don't know how it's real, but it is," Jared said, looking into the distance at what was perhaps the largest tree he would ever see in his entire life. "Yggdrasil."

"Yes, and no. The stories can only tell so much. But being able to see so far, and so soon... I was right about you. Let's see how far you're willing to go."

"We're here, aren't we?" Jared asked, as his traveling companion nodded. Pointing with his spear, Jared sighed as he took in the sight of the grim place. "Sure we can't have a drink first, Odin?"

"Any other person, I'd think they were stalling. Lucky for you, I have just the thing. Think you're strong enough for it?"

"I mean, if I'm not strong enough for a swig of mead, I might as well quit now," Jared laughed, the old god laughing with him as two mugs formed in the air. Taking it, he felt the weight of the drink and looked into it. What a strange liquid... and was that whispering he could hear? It sounded like...

"The Mead of Poetry," Odin said, confirming Jared's suspicions. "I had to do the work of nine others to attain this, and even then his brother made me work to attain what was promised to me."

"...Didn't you trick them all into killing each other before getting their jobs?" Jared asked, squinting suspiciously.

"So the stories go," Odin said, though Jared simply shook his head. "It's all in after this, though. Normally I'd have made you go through another trial for this, but I have a good feeling about you. Much stronger than any mortal I've met in this 'modern' age. The only thing holding you back is yourself."

"Shall we toast?" Jared asked, causing Odin to cackle.

"Sure! To your health!" Odin said, raising his mug.

"Hah! To Valhalla!" Jared said, acting as a man possessed. He couldn't help but feel this way.

"That's the spirit. Drink deep, boy. Bet I can finish this before you."

"You're on," Jared said, immediately beginning to chug.

"Hey!" Odin shouted, before rushing his own mug to his lips. Jared was already lost in his own world as he kept guzzling; it was like everything he'd known was just pale shadows compared to what he was feeling now. As the last drop slid down his throat, he let go of the mug as he stumbled. Odin finished shortly after.

"I'm not drunk?" Jared asked. "Or... maybe I can just hold my mead..."

"You're drunk with something other than alcohol, though there is a bit of that in there too," Odin said, looking to see if there was more before letting his mug vanish. "You're a scholar now. But not yet a skald."

"Then make me a skald," Jared said, moving toward the makeshift gallows. He could see two ravens on top the thinner branches that made up the place... looking down, Jared realized he'd been walking on nothing but roots the entire time. He knew this place wasn't quite real, and yet it was as real as anything else. Standing in the place of the condemned, he turned to face his companion. "I'm ready."

"...We shall see," Odin said, waving his hand. Runes lit up, but before Jared could fully understand what he'd seen he was being pulled up by his neck; struggling at first, he stopped and let the vines suspend him. It was painful, but somehow he knew he wouldn't die. Besides, it wasn't finished yet. He could barely see him, but he knew what Odin was doing; having moved to his side, he readied his spear and thrust.

"Gggghhhhhh!" Jared barely managed. He was just low enough that the spear could be propped up and left there, but he was too high to seek any purchase with the root below. The pain and agony was like... no, nothing in his life could compare. He should be dying right now. Instead of focusing on that, he began to think of other things. His thoughts were frantic at first, but soon enough he had settled into a slight trance as inspiration hit him; the mead had taken effect, and he began writing poetry within his mind.

"I will see you in nine days and nine nights, Jared," Odin said, though Jared barely heard him by this point. "We will see what you become in that time."

*******

Lucian's pace was quick and efficient, and an untrained eye would think he was an important businessman late for some meeting. But to anyone who knew him, they would know the truth: Lucian was worried. Not caring who got in his way, he pushed through the doors and into the hospital. He was in his human form, but his gaze was so intense that everyone he saw seemed to flinch. Locating Davin, he quickly made his way over to him.

"...Where is he?"

"In surgery. They don't know what's wrong though," Davin said, pacing back and forth. Humans around them were worried about the huge anthro walking around, so they were keeping their distance from him. At least he'd had the decency to put his pants on, Lucian noticed... but he pushed that thought aside for now. He could tell Davin had been crying.

"What happened?"

"I don't fucking know!" Davin said, before lowering his voice. "One minute, I'm cuddling with Jared after an amazing night, him asleep in my arms... next minute, he's screaming. But that's not the worst part, no no..."

"...What was the worst part?" Lucian asked, guiding Davin through his grief.

"The worst part was when I saw the blood. Right in his side, like he'd been stabbed or... pierced. I don't know. I just know I had to try and stop the blood while he's gasping like a guppy out of water. Nothing I did with my powers helped... no. I had to have a fucking dispatcher walk me through basic first aid over the phone while waiting for the ambulance to come. I'm such a fuckup... I..."

"...So, he's been chosen," Lucian sighed, sitting down in an empty chair.

"The fuck do you mean he's been ch-"

"Sit down. I won't ask again," Lucian said, his fierce command enough to make Davin pause. After a moment he sat across from Lucian, all the fight deflating from his body as he did so.

"What's going on, Lucian? What's happened to Jared? Did... did I do something I..."

"He's been having dreams, yes?" Lucian asked, and Davin nodded. "Did he lose vision in one eye?"

"He did. What do you know about it?"

"I know enough. So he lost vision, and now this. Well I have good news and bad news, Davin. Good news, Jared can't die from this. Or rather, he won't unless he gives up."

"He won't?" Davin said, a shred of hope in his eyes. "But... the bad news?"

"Bad news... he is suffering. In agony. Of his own will, yes, but still. When they stabilize his body, he won't wake up. He'll be in a coma, most likely."

"Fuck," Davin said, clearly not wanting to hear that. After it had sunk in, he looked back up to Lucian. "How long?"

"Nine days. Nine nights. No more, no less," Lucian said, shaking his head. "And no, there's nothing you can do that wouldn't endanger him. Aside from being there when he wakes up, anyway. But... if he wakes up-"

"When he wakes up," Davin corrected, gritting his teeth.

"...When he wakes up, he will be different. Changed. More than he already is now. You should be prepared for that. Though, if you knew he was having dreams, I'm surprised I have to tell you all this instead of Maeryn. I'll have to have a talk with him later, assuming he knew."

Davin closed his eyes as he breathed in and out in an effort to calm himself. Lucian could see the stress of the situation had gotten to him. Funny, really. He was used to so much worse... but Lucian supposed it was a matter of who it had happened to, not what.

"What should I do?" Davin asked, a surprising amount of humility in his voice. "I..."

"Well, you can be there for him. Even if he won't wake up until the appointed time, it doesn't mean you can't visit him. And besides, this is the best hospital in the city. He couldn't be in better hands."

"...That's it?"

"Even if you were well-versed with healing, there was nothing you could have done with your power. Besides, he's been given a gift. Not what you want to hear, I know. This isn't the first time this has happened, though."

"What do you mean by that? I've never heard of anything like this..."

"Oh, but haven't you?" Lucian asked, cocking an eyebrow. "You should read up on Norse mythology. Some of those stories actually have truth to them, despite their embellishments and misconceptions."

"...So you're telling me Jared's the victim of some stupid myth?" Davin asked, his temper flaring. "I don't know about that, but I know Jared had a wound and there was no weapon. And yeah, they thought maybe I did something at first, but everyone's confused about it. Even the fucking doctors. I hear them whispering about it when they think I'm not listening. They keep saying he should be dead by now."

"But he isn't. And he won't."

"...Yeah, he won't," Davin said, trying to reassure himself. It wasn't very effective, but whatever kept Davin from flying off the handle was good enough for the moment.

"You care about him, don't you? More than usual for a mortal, I mean."

"...You think?" Davin asked. "...I mean he's special but... god. I don't know what to think anymore, Lucian. I'm losing my damn mind."

"Do you need a vacation?" Lucian said.

"You mean with you, don't you?" Davin asked, before Lucian nodded. "...I don't fucking know. I feel so helpless. Jared's in there, being stuck and prodded by mortals. Here I am, a big badass daemon and I have to rely on people who can't so much as channel a spark. No offense to them of course. I... if I lose him, Lucian, I don't know what will happen to me."

"...Apparently much more has happened that I am unaware of. Liam has been hiding something from me, hasn't he? But I'll find out later. Come with me."

"What about-"

"I'll send someone over who's less... imposing to check up on him. They'll keep me updated on his condition, even though I already know what will happen. But if you continue on like this, you're going to wear yourself out with worry. Maybe even flip your aspect if you're not careful. So... why don't you come work for me for a while?"

"...Why?" Davin asked, surprised.

"Because you could use something to distract you, and being closer to me and my work will let you know sooner rather than later about Jared. Of course, you'd have to sign a contract. Might as well do it right, if we do this at all."

"...What did you just say about flipping aspects though?" Davin asked, shaking his head.

"If it's going to happen anyway, might as well control where you go and for how long," Lucian said. "Or would you rather flip Wrath or Sloth? Wrath especially might never let you go if he can help it. He's been chomping at the bit to claim you ever since he heard Orias was back. And no, I don't know how he found out. I certainly didn't tell him."

Davin took his time, sitting in the chair before looking around. He noticed that everyone kept staring at him; some were fearful, some were curious... Lucian could tell he felt out of place as he crossed his arms.

"I guess it couldn't hurt," Davin said, defeated. "If what you say is true then I have to wait anyway. I can't wait nine days, Lucian. I'll go crazy. I'm not like mortals who can just pass out and rest."

"I know. Hence the offer," Lucian said, standing and adjusting his tie. "But let me make this even easier for you. My limo is waiting outside for me. It will be there for five minutes as I enjoy a drink before the road. My offer will stand until my limo leaves. But whatever you choose, Davin... please do take care of yourself."

Without another word or waiting for a reply, Lucian turned to leave. It hurt him to see Davin that way, but he refused to show it in front of so many others. But he knew that Davin could see through him. He was barely three steps out the door when Davin caught up with him. As they reached the limo, the driver opened the door for them both. Lucian waited, staring expectantly at Davin; bowing his head down, he was careful not to hook his horns on the car as he entered first, then Lucian after him. Once the door closed, magic coursed over him and he was in his draconic anthro form; the inside was much larger, and a brandy was waiting for him already. Picking up his drink, he looked over to Davin as the limo began to move.

"Let's discuss that contract now, shall we?"

*******

"I'd have thought Davin would be here today," Seth said, causing Liam to shrug.

"I can't get a hold of him right now. But he left a voicemail. Said he was paying Lucian's realm a visit. I don't exactly know why, but if Lucian's allowing it then I'm not going to ask questions. Not until Davin's ready to talk anyway. He was trying to hide it, but I could tell he was upset about something."

"I hope it's not because of me," sighed Seth, enjoying the music in spite of his mood. "We had a 'confrontation' yesterday but... well, I thought it ended amicably. Maybe I was wrong."

"No, I doubt that's it," Liam said, worry on his face. "If he was starting to come around then he wouldn't just go back on that. Besides, you know how he gets. Lying isn't really something he's into, especially when it concerns Orias. His emotions run a bit hot, but he's honest. But let's talk about you. I don't feel right discussing Davin like this."

"What about me do you want to talk about then?" Seth asked, a small smile on his face. "I'm not that special, you know."

"Man, it's still weird thinking of you as a Temperance daemon. It wasn't that long ago that you were in biker gear flirting with everything that moved."

"Still going to wear that gear, just only when I'm riding or as the mood takes me," Seth laughed. "Though... I might cut back on the smoking a bit."

"So, how did Orias take it?"

"I haven't told him yet," Seth sighed. "But I mean, it's not like I'm not talking to him or anything. I think he knows something's up with me, but he's waiting until I'm ready to say it. I'll tell him soon, but... shit. I really don't know how he'll take it. He's been good to me, even if he hasn't exactly been good for me. I'd rather not rip his heart out if I can help it, though."

"It's not like you're dumping him, right?"

"He might dump me, actually. That's what I'm afraid of..."

"Hm. Seems like you don't trust him then."

"Excuse me?" Seth asked, not sure he heard Liam right.

"If you're so afraid he'll leave you over this, it means you have doubts. That you don't trust him as much as you say you do. At the very least, it's unfair to him. If he's going to have to make that decision, good or bad... then don't you think you owe it to him to give him the choice sooner than later?"

"I... I guess so..."

"Besides, if he's really in love with you, I doubt this will get between you two. But keeping secrets won't help, especially when you know he'll found out sooner or later. Don't make it later, Seth. Later never works with these sorts of things."

"Speaking from experience?" Seth said, smiling. He knew he was right, though.

"Even if I was, there's enough crappy self-help books out on the market that'd tell you much the same thing. So what are you waiting for?"

"...Okay. I'll call him and-"

"No. Have that conversation in person. But do call him to arrange a meeting with you in public somewhere," Liam cautioned. "You are both daemons, and Orias is still Orias."

"I don't feel confident enough to step foot in his realm anyway," Seth said. "Not until I know where I stand with him. Thanks for the advice, Liam."

"It's what us bartenders do," Liam laughed, shrugging. Seth finished off his drink and winked at Liam, walking away with his phone already out of his pocket. Staring after him, Liam couldn't help but notice how fitting Seth's new suit was. Especially with how it hugged his muscles without being overly obscene... there was still a bit of Lust daemon in there after all, wasn't there?

"Um, Liam?" Vance said, walking up to him with a phone in his hand. "You need to take this."

"Just tell them to leave a message and I'll get back to them," Liam said before Vance grabbed his arm and shoved the phone into his hand.

"No. I'm pretty sure this can't wait," Vance said, shaking his head. The look in his eyes caused Liam's own heart to begin beating faster with unknown dread; nodding, he raised the phone up to one ear.

"Liam Theodoric, how may I... oh, hello officer. Yes, I know him; he works for me, but... oh. No, I didn't know. Which hospital...?" Liam took the pen and paper Vance had gotten for him, as if knowing he'd need it. "...Uh huh... yeah, I know the place. I can be there in twenty minutes.... yeah. I can answer some questions while I'm there. Just... I'll be there soon. Thank you officer."

Liam hung up and handed the phone back to Vance. Sighing, he leaned against the counter, hands upon the hard surface as he stared down at nothing in particular. After a few moments, he buried everything deep inside as he straightened his posture and his tie before looking at Vance.

"You're in charge while I'm gone," Liam said, his voice flat. "If Davin does show up, send him home. He's not going to be able to work right now."

"...What happened? All they said was it was about Jared and that I should hand you the phone," Vance asked. "...Did something happen to Jared? Is he...?"

"All you need to know is that he's in the hospital. It doesn't look good, but... well, keep this a secret for now. I don't need the rest of the staff panicking about this. Just make sure they get through their shifts and then close for the night. Can you handle that?"

"I can," Vance said, nodding. "...See you soon, boss. Stay safe."

Nodding, Liam turned to leave. He seemed composed to anyone who saw him, but inside he was eager to get there as soon as he could. He couldn't show what he was feeling in that moment; if he let even a crack show in his armor, he'd break down completely. Gritting his teeth as he smiled at random patrons, he only breathed a sigh of relief once he was out the door and in his car.

"...If it's not one thing, it's another," he cursed, scowling as he turned the key in the ignition. Technically, he was an hour from the hospital, but he wasn't going to take the normal road. Why get stuck in traffic when he could use his own personal highway? Pulling out of his parking spot, he put the car into drive before speeding down the road and into his own realm.

*******

"I've never actually been here before," Davin said, his voice weak. Still, he couldn't help but look around and be impressed. Despite how quiet he had been, the room amplified his voice and made it sound as if someone stronger had said it. A part of him liked how it felt.

"You'll be spending a lot more time here soon," Lucian said, his voice sounding much more authoritative and powerful in this chamber. Then again, as soon as they'd entered he had been growing, his suit transformed into a half-robe of gold silk. It covered only his lower body, and only down to the knees... it was like something that might belong to an angel, though far less innocent as it left nothing to the imagination.

"...I know... my lord," Davin said, already submitting. "Do you have the contract? I just..."

"I do. Are you sure you don't want to negotiate better terms for yourself? You left it very much up to me what to include."

"As long as I'm there for Jared, I don't really care," Davin sighed. "I'm tired, Lucian. Can we get this over with?"

"Straight to business, then," Lucian said, nodding in approval as he sat upon his ornate throne. It was elegant in its design, made of all sorts of jewels and precious metals... it wasn't unlike a dragon's hoard, especially considering his own draconic form. Davin watched as he focused, and before long a large scroll appeared in his clawed hand. With a flick of his wrist, it unraveled to reveal all the terms they had discussed within the car along the way. "If everything is in order, then sign it. Any name will do, so long as it is yours. You may change your mind, even after signing, up until the point you drink of my essence. And before that small, lustful part of you gets any ideas, I mean an elixir. So Davin... do we have a deal?"

Davin didn't even bother to read as he waved his hand, signing his name almost instantly. He didn't want to think about it. Even if Lucian wanted to screw him over, he had promised him he could return to normal in nine days or when Jared woke up... whichever was sooner. A goblet fit for a king appeared in front of him, a red liquid within, yet he had a feeling this was a cup meant for a servant in this realm. Taking it, he looked up to Pride and brought it to his lips. As the liquid poured down his throat, burning like cheap whiskey but tasting like fine wine, the contract was sealed; rolling itself up, a sigil appeared upon it before Lucian took it into his hands and spirited it away. It was done. Davin simply waited.

"How are you feeling, my servant?" Lucian said, his tone different now that Davin was his for the time being. Yet, there was a hint of compassion in there. "It shouldn't be long now."

"I feel it," Davin said. It was small at first, but the more he focused on it the more it wanted out. It was pride, filling every part of him as it bubbled to the surface. As it began eating away his cares and concerns, he felt his clothes changing to match the half-robe of Lucian; it was made of what looked to be silver, though it clung to him as silk. As his bones began to creak and shift, he felt twin pains behind his shoulders as something began to push outward.

"You have given me complete freedom in what I may do to you, so I have chosen you to be my protector and personal servant in all things," Lucian said, and Davin couldn't help but feel incredibly proud. "But your name is unfitting for such a role; therefore, I shall dub you Zagan."

"A fitting name for me," the changing daemon replied, watching as his fur shrunk back into his body. Scales formed over his bare skin as his tail grew thicker and longer than before. "It will be an honor to serve you."

"It always is," Lucian said, his ruby eyes watching Davin's form change. "...Let's give you a bit more power. You are to be my next in command, after all. My herald, as it were. You will be very busy; the less time we spend on this, the more you can spend in my service."

"As you wish, master," Davin said, his voice already changing as Lucian's crimson halo-like crown shone with the power of a red star. Teeth sharpened and thickened as his maw changed shape and size, and the nubs from his back had stretched and widened to become long appendages that spanned nearly twice his height. Thin membranes formed between the gaps; while his new scales were the color of midnight, the membranes of his wings shimmered with the color of moonlight, matching his half-robe as his tail stretched out to balance and compensate for his emerging form. He was looking more and more draconic by the second, though his horns merely thickened as they curled towards the back of his head. There was no more bull or lion as his hooves broke apart, revealing the feet of a dragon with claws sharpened into ivory white points. On his blackened scales, the light danced and shimmered to give the illusion of stars in a night sky. A blue flame began to form above his head; while a poor imitation and substitute of Pride's own crown, it served as both symbol and catalyst for his new authority and power as it flared to life. Smoke began rising from his nostrils as he opened his eyes, though there was nothing but black within as the last of himself was replaced with the knowledge necessary to serve Pride in any way he might require.

"There, much better," Lucian said, admiring his handiwork as Zagan knelt. It was less of submission and more of posturing, but so long as he obeyed it did not matter why. "Tell me, who are you?"

"I am Zagan, the Herald of Pride," the daemon replied, smiling widely. Growing in size as he basked in Lucian's presence, he folded his wings upon themselves as he held his hands up to his elder. "I offer my life to protect yours. I offer my mind to ease your burdens. I offer my body to strengthen your cause. All hail Pride, lord of music and light."

"Among many other titles," Lucian said, causing Zagan to nod. The hair left upon his upper lip and chin bobbed with his head, growing in length as a mane spread from the top of his head to the nape of his neck before turning a silver color as well. "You come to me as a result of sorrow, but you will feel nothing but pride and joy in your service to me. As my contract with Davin states, though I have a feeling that name means nothing to you right now."

"It is a vague and muffled memory, as if seen through a fog..." Zagan said, his growth finally halting. The two of them filled a great portion of the massive audience chamber; anyone smaller could have mistaken them for massive statues of great beauty. "Whatever the case, I am yours now. What is my first task, my lord?"

"You shall spend the day growing accustomed to your new body in whatever way you think best. Though if you wish to please me further, you will also take the time to familiarize yourself with your duties as my protector by speaking to the commander of my legion. You will need a weapon, though I wish for you to choose one that speaks to you. I expect you here by my side in the morning. As for Jared... I will keep you updated on him. I know you remember him, at least."

"...Yes, my lord," Zagan said, a flicker of sadness in his darkened eyes before it was snuffed by his own pride and loyalty. "I shall do so at once."

"See that you do," Lucian said, dismissing him with a gesture. Zagan rose, bowing his head in respect as he turned toward the open door of the chamber. As he stepped past the threshold, he allowed himself to fall; unfurling his wings, he had a few hiccups before he took proper flight. He smiled at his massive shadow among the clouds and fog below, many of his lord's subjects gazing in awe at the majestic frame granted to him. A booming laugh erupted from deep inside as he let loose, dodging only for the gigantic golden chains that linked many of the floating platforms of the realm, each with its own impressive structure or theme. One was a magnificent garden, while another looked to be a neighborhood for the mortals. His destination was the massive fort below him, large enough even for Pride himself to stand in. Curling his wings in on himself, he dove in a twisting spiral that caused the clouds around him to change shape in his wake.

*******

"Like I said, I don't know where he is," Liam said, getting frustrated. He was in the hospital lobby speaking with a couple of police officers. "Last night, he left the bar with Jared. And before you ask again, no they weren't fighting and they definitely weren't drunk. And you already have my alibi."

"Yes, and we're confirming it now. But with all due respect, we're asking about Mr. Connors," one of the officers said, causing Liam to groan inwardly. This was getting tedious, but still. "Now, is it possible that he or his friend were under the influence of illegal drugs? Daemonic or otherwise?"

"I don't like what you're implying, but my bar is above board," Liam said, smiling with malice. "As it was when Davin ran the bar before me."

"We're not implying you're involved in such things, sir. We simply want to know..."

"Fucking hell, why have you got such a hard-on for him anyway? What do you think he's done?" Liam said, losing his patience for a moment. "...Shit. Sorry but... seriously. Tell me what's going on, won't you officer?"

"We're investigating Mr. Connors for attempted murder," one of the officers said, sighing. "We're sorry if you think we're trying to provoke you, but we need to be thorough here."

"He wouldn't do that though," Liam said, rubbing his temple with one hand. "I mean, the only person he truly hates is a daemon. He wouldn't hurt Jared."

"But he's our only suspect so far. Unless you have someone else in mind who might want to hurt him?"

Liam shook his head, frustrated but unable to think of anything that might help Davin. He still was in shock that one of his employees was in the hospital at all when they'd been just fine the night before. He didn't know much more than that he was in critical condition, since he couldn't ask a doctor about it. Even if he wasn't being questioned here, he doubted he'd get much more info since he wasn't family.

"You have to admit, sir, it does look suspicious," the other officer said, sharing a knowing glance with his partner. "His boyfriend gets hurt in his own apartment and he calls an ambulance for him, then disappears from the hospital he's staying at? It looks to us like he couldn't handle the guilt and ran..."

"...But we don't know if he's guilty or not if we can't even question him, since we can't even find him. We were hoping that you might know, you see."

"...Yeah, that is weird," Liam admitted. "The uh, disappearing part. I still don't believe he'd do this, but I don't know where he'd run off to either... wait."

"What is it?"

"...Shit. I completely forgot he called me," Liam sighed. "I was so stressed out... but now that I'm calm, well..."

"If you talk about someone behind their backs, their ears are bound to start itching."

Turning towards the voice, Liam was relieved to see Lucian walking up to him in his human form, his hazel eyes appraising all three of them. With him were a few of his assistants; holding out a hand, a paper was placed into it before he handed it to the officers.

"What is this?" the officer said, grabbing the paper. Scanning it, his eyes widened with shock. "Is this real?"

"You insult me," Lucian sighed. "Surely you must know who I am and that I don't deal in counterfeits... or perhaps you would like for me to review my current contracts for any potential 'fraud'? And I do mean all of them."

"...No sir, Mr. Lucian. I was just a bit surprised is all. It's not often you get a pardon from the Virtue of Justice himself, you know? But how did you-"

"Mr. Theodoric, you were about to remember something?" Lucian said, prompting Liam to cough.

"Yeah. Sorry, I... forgot he left a voicemail for me," Liam said, before narrowing his eyes at Lucian. "...said he was visiting you, actually. It skipped my mind since I wasn't worried about where he was at the time, but now..."

"There, officers. You see? Mr. Connors is with me. He was distraught about Jared and, well, I offered to console him. I figured it was better I keep an eye on him instead of leaving him to his own thoughts for a while. You know how people can get when they're not in their right mind. They're prone to do desperate things."

"So we're supposed to believe our only suspect is suddenly innocent?" the other officer said, suspicious. Liam didn't like the way he looked at him and Lucian. "Just like that? I suppose next you're going to say the victim did it to himself!"

"That is exactly what I am saying," Lucian said, his gaze intense. Snapping his fingers, another paper was deposited into his hand by another of his lackeys. Liam couldn't help but notice they all dressed the same, with hats obscuring the upper parts of their faces. "I did a bit of my own investigating, with the full approval of my good friend Justice of course. Apparently, Jared's bloodline has a long history of magically gifted individuals. Now, I don't know what might have caused his own gift to begin 'waking up' or why his own family didn't tell him about this, if they even still remember their own history, but well... stranger things have happened. Especially in recent times... wouldn't you agree?"

"Yeah, that does make sense," the first officer said, before taking the paper and handing it to his partner to read. "I mean, we'll still need to clear it by Justice first, but... you understand sir. Protocol and all."

"I don't care what that paper says, no way he did this himself. That fucker is guilty, hands down!"

"...How unprofessional," Lucian said, snorting in contempt. Snapping his fingers, the last of his assistants handed an unlabeled manila envelope to him. "But then, that isn't exactly surprising for you. Is it, Officer Statler?"

"What the hell is that supposed to mean? What is this?" the officer said, as Lucian handed it to him.

"...It is whatever you decide to make of it. Just know that these are only copies," Lucian said, his smile cruel and malicious. "The originals are safe with me, but I have been known to misplace things from time to time. If you catch my meaning..."

"I don't know what you-" the officer said, stopping mid-sentence as he looked inside. "...How the hell did you..."

"That's not important, officer. I just want us all to be on the same page. Davin Connors is innocent. This was all an accident of magical origins, with the attacker also being the victim. Don't you agree, officers?"

"Like I said, sir, we'll need to clear it with our department first, but if it checks out we'll give you a call," the first officer said, but Liam had the impression he was already on his side. The other officer was turning beet red however, making Liam wonder just exactly what was in that envelope. Holy hell, he knew Lucian had balls, but still.

"...Um, am I free to go?" Liam asked, not sure where to take the awkward conversation.

"Oh, yes. Thank you for your cooperation, Mr. Theodoric," the first officer said, giving him a much friendlier smile than before. "Good day to you, Mr. Lucian. Come on Statler. We need to talk about this in the car..."

Liam watched them leave before turning to Lucian. With a wave of his hand, all but two of his assistants left him. One stood dutifully by his side, and yet Liam felt like he was ready to move at a moment's notice.

"Thanks for the save?" Liam said, smiling sheepishly. "Today's... been rough on me."

"You're welcome. But I'm not here just for you, even if I am once again on top of things."

"Don't have to rub it in. I haven't been exactly slacking off either," Liam said, just relieved for the moment. "Are you here to see Jared? I doubt even you can get in though..."

"Doubt will get you nowhere but a dead end, Liam. My man inside tells me Jared's out of surgery and recovering. Though he will need a transfusion... and it just so happens I share his blood type. At least, for today I do."

"Well I'm shit out of luck there. But surgery? Blood transfusion? What the hell happened to him, Lucian?"

"Would you like to see for yourself?" Lucian asked. Liam nodded, and Lucian held out an expectant hand. A hat was placed into it, and he handed it to Liam. "Wear that. You'll look like one of mine, and no one is going to stop me or my assistants. Not with the favors I've called in today, and believe me when I say it was more than just a few. You may even end up owing me one."

"...And I thought your powers were the scariest thing about you," Liam said, shaking his head before placing the hat on. He didn't look or feel different to himself, but he assumed the glamour was doing its job. "So who's the new blood? I don't recognize this one. You don't usually bring guys as big as you."

"Introduce yourself," Lucian said, smiling.

"Yes sir. I am Zagan," the henchman said, his smile framed by a silver goatee. Yet despite the hair color, he looked young and very strong. His voice was deep and masculine, with just a hint of pride in it. He couldn't help but feel a bit turned on by it all.

"My new Herald," Lucian said, causing Liam to look back at him. "I figured it was time I got a new one, don't you think?"

"Lucky him," Liam joked, following Lucian as he walked up to the reception desk.

"Anyway, keep quiet and keep close," Lucian said, scowling. "If you get caught, I know nothing."

"Yeah yeah. But weren't you just saying you don't lie?"

"Oh, my dear Liam... I said I don't deal in counterfeits," Lucian said, smiling wickedly. "I never said I didn't lie."