forum The Underground (1x1 closed)

Started April 09, 2023 by @ElderGod-yellowqueen

tune

Azriel crossed his arms, watching Gabriel. He had taken his coat off and he couldn't help but oogle the man. Discretely of course. He wasn't a total barbarian. But he was an incubus and fed off of sexual activities. And well, Gabriel was a very handsome mad. He couldn't help it that he was tingling. It had been far too long since he had gotten a good, satisfying feeding and his fingers were itching to touch. He knew better, of course. He kept his hands to himself. But he wanted to. He wanted to reach out and touch him and lick-

No, stop it. Bad Azriel. The more he thought that way the more he was exciting himself. He shook his head, banishing these thoughts from his head. They would do him no good. Only make this time go by longer and a great pain to Azriel.

He grimaced as he heard the time and Gabriel's plea to leave. "Um, you can't. Not yet at least. It's a great risk to teleport as injured as you are, especially because your human. Teleporting you while your injured just might very well kill you. We have to wait until you're healed before I can take you home." Or at least drop him off in the alleyway he had found him in. "And you can't walk out my front door so dint even think about it. You'll be sniffed out the moment you cross the threshold. What you saw in that alley is only a fraction of the dangers out there. You'll be torn to shreds." Not to mention that Azriel would likely be tortured and killed for being caught harboring a human. He was putting himself at risk just bring Gabriel here. Maybe he should risk it all and just take Gabriel here. But he had such a nice face and didn't want ro risk harming him. Damn him and his kind heart for a pretty face.

Gabriel caught Azriel staring at him, a slight flush of embarrassment rising to his cheeks. Home called to him, but home was far off. This man wouldn’t let him leave, keeping him trapped in this stuffy room. He peered at his hands, noticing the small calluses forming. He did rough work outside his job. Bruises formed on Gabriel’s back. He could feel the blood pool. “Kill me? What kind of nonsense are you talking about? People can’t—” Gabriel knew better than to argue. It could end with him hurt. “You want me to wait a month for my wounds to heal?” He sighed, fidgeting with his sleeve. “Where am I supposed to stay? How do I know you won’t tear me to shreds?” It was a valid question. After all, a stranger brought Gabriel to his home, telling him to stay put. 

The blonde leaned back, resting his pounding head. “You can’t have a guest without accommodating them.” He reached for his coat, pulling it over his shivering body. A chill ran up his spine. Gabriel was out of place. It was catching up to him mental. He was an alien in this world. Would he be trapped in this house forever? Would he see his dog again? Would he see the outdoors? He did not know.

Azriel wished there was a way to show Gabriel his world without putting him in danger. There was, technically, except Azriel didn't have mind magic. He couldn't project images or scenes into other people's mind. This was going ti be difficult to try an convince Gabriel. Well, he could show him his true form. But that might be to intimidating. To shed his human form and reveal himself. It was against the law but, well, he had already broken several by taking the human to his home. What was one more? He sighed, rubbing his forehead. He never got headaches and yet this was giving him one.

"Come on, let me show you something." He couldn't believe he was about to this. He didn't like being in his true form in his home. The wings were large and often knocked things over. It was why they were leaving the bedroom and going into the sitting room. More room and less of a chance of knocking things over.

Azriel approached the door and opened, gesturing for Gabriel to come with him. "I don't expect you to stay in my room. Of course not." Unless Gabriel wanted to of course. "I have several unoccupied rooms you can take until I can take you home." Azriel was itching to take him home. If Gabriel got caught in his home, Azriel was dead. He would be so dead. He had a month. A month to prohibit anyone from coming into his home. THat was going ti be hard. He loved hosting his friends and bed partners to his home. He loved having them over. When he wasn't working of course. Which would be another problem. "You can take one of your choosing. All of them will have access to a bathroom so you don't need to worry about me. You're free to travel the house as you please. But you can't leave. Don't even try to open a window. If anyone gets just a whiff of you, it's game over."

They were in the sitting room now. He gestured for Gabriel to sit. It was the best idea so he if he fainted or got lightheaded, at least he was already sitting and on the couch.

Gabriel sat up, staring at Azriel. He groaned, pain spreading through his head. He needed to stop sitting up at a fast rate. However, it struck him as odd. Azriel beckoned him somewhere after being explicitly told not to leave. Though Gabriel supposed a house tour was in order. After all, it might be his living quarters for the next month. The blonde rose from the bed, taking a deep breath before standing. He wobbled, adjusting to his body weight. Gabriel caught himself, following Azriel. It was a like a newborn deer trying to walk.  

Gabriel followed Azriel, staring at his surroundings. It seemed like a normal house, but one could never tell. “Thank god. If I was to be confined in that room for a month, I might just go insane. Well, I’m pretty sure I already am.” He grew silent, peering into each unoccupied room. Maybe he could get some alone time. Gabriel wasn’t used to sharing a space with other people. “I suppose I’ll take one. I don’t want to impede on your space, but then again, you brought me here.” Following Azriel, Gabriel messed with his shirt, finding where it lay on his skin bothersome. “I won’t leave. I promise.” He couldn’t tell if he was sincere or lying. Even his own words confused him. He followed Azriel into the sitting room, glancing around. It was cozy. Gabriel glanced at the man, taking a seat on the couch, fiddling with his shirt.

Azriel looked down at the man. Azriel was good with humans. He was good with flirting and charming and seducing them. This, this was different, however. He had never introduced a human to his world, much less anyone. He had never had to worry about having someone believe him or prove it to them. They were either human and he kept it a secret from them. Or they were a monster and they were born into this world. He tried to put himself into Gabriel's shoes. Tried to think of how bizarre it would all sound.

He cleared his throat. "Alright. I know you don't believe me. You're probably thinking that what happened in that alley was an imagination and something happened that caused you to wake up in a strange home with a stranger man who's spouting nonsense and is keeping you captive. I probably wouldn't believe me either if I was you. But what I'm saying is entirely true and I'll prove it to you. Just, try not to freak out. I don't like screaming." Not unless they were screaming for him, but that was not the time to bring that up.

"Here goes nothing," Azriel murmured to himself. He stepped back so there was enough space between him and Gabriel. He didn't want to threaten the man either. His eyes closed, concentrating. He was pulling his demon form forward and human form back. His height grew by a couple of inches, black wings protruded from his back and horns poked through the skin on his temple. There was a tail that formed from the back and claws replaced his nails. He looked beautiful and terrifying. That was the beauty of being an incubus.

Gabriel stared up at Azriel. Little questions fluttered around his head. Why did Azriel lead him into the sitting room? Why was he standing around? And why did he seem nervous? Was he going to get rid of Gabriel? Maybe he did end up with a deranged murderer. He shook his head, trying to keep positive. Supposedly, Azriel wanted to give him some tea. Have a chat. Explain why he was being held captive. You know — somewhat normal activities. Gabriel stilled his fidgeting hands, staring Azriel down. He tilted his head. “Prove it to me? How the hell could you prove to me there is a realm separate from Earth? For all I know, you could have drugged me.” Gabriel waved his hand. “But go on. I won’t scream.” All Gabriel could focus on was his hair. He combed his fingers through it, breaking up the gel. He tried tucking in the loose strands of blonde hair, but didn’t succeed. 

Gabriel didn’t focus on Azriel. Messing with his own hair took his attention away from the shifting demon in front of him. He combed it back, giving up after it as more strands fell into his face. Instead, he fixed the collar of his dress shirt and adjusted his suspenders. Looking up at Azriel, Gabriel paused, staring at him. He wasn’t sure what to make of Azriel. Different emotions bubbled in his chest. Butterflies populated in his stomach, his face drained of its color. Fear and awestruck did not mingle well. Gabriel stayed silent, fidgeting with his hands. He looked away from the demon, taking a few curious peeks. Finally, his words returned. “Well–” He wasn’t sure what to say. “You’re both stunning and terrifying.” He laughed nervously. In terms of beauty, Gabriel placed Azriel second to him. “But first things first, you’re not going to eat me, are you?” He crossed his legs.

Azriel tilted his head. This wasn't the response he was expecting. He had been expecting screaming and running and possibly fainting. He hadn't expected for the human to be so calm about this. Had he been in the human world and exposed his true form, it likely would have caused chaos. But this human was taking it all pretty well. He didn't know whether to be relieved or wary. "No, I'm not going to eat you." In a flash, he was back in his human form. He straightened his clothes and ran a hand through his hair, trying to tame it. "I'm an incubus, I feed off of sexual activities, not blood or flesh." While there certainly was plenty who did, Azriel was not.

With that being said, "But, outside those doors, there are plenty who would like to harm you. There is a reason only a select few of us are allowed in the human world. Because we can control ourselves and our urges. It's why you mustn't try to leave. You'll only end up dying a painful death. And then I'll end up dying a painful death. And I'm too pretty to die." That was definitely a true statement, at least to him. Azriel thought himself gorgeous and a gift to be in anyone's presence. It would be a shame for anything to happen to a pretty face such as is.

"Teleporting is a fickle thing but trust me when I say it's better to be safe than sorry. You need to wait it out until your injury is healed. It's the safest way to travel." And in that time, Azriel somehow needed to convince him to never say a single word about this place or about him. Gabriel would likely be called crazy and get locked up if he tried to blab. Azriel could use that to his advantage. He couldn't let the man say anything. Because if anything got back to his Master it would mean his death.

Gabriel held his head high. He didn’t fear much. After all, he walked home alone at two in the morning through the city. He learned to be bold and brave. Plus, he figured if Azriel wanted to kill him, he would have let him die. He would have killed him. Either way, he could be dead. So this was a better alternative. Gabriel looked down at his hands, diverting his attention from the incubus. “I didn’t figure, but better safe than sorry.” He paused, letting silence engulf him. Letting it whisper nonsense into his ears. “A-an incubus? Oh, fun—” He didn’t sound too thrilled. “Well, at least I won’t be eaten. That’s a plus.” Gabriel did his best to consider the positive. It helped ease his mind and believe he had everything under control.

Gabriel breathed in harshly, sighing loudly. He rolled his eyes. “I know. You’ve said it many times. Go outside, and you’re dead. Anything else I should know?” Irritation filled the blonde’s voice. He yawned, exhausted after such interactions and surprises. After all, he had been working all day and then got kidnapped. “I supposed you’re one of those? A man who can control himself?” Gabriel leaned into the couch, resting his head. It still stung, but the pain was manageable. Small, red circles populated under his eyes, showing the sleep-deprived state this human arrived in. However, Gabriel kept himself awake, listening to the demon’s incessant rant about death and the outside.

Shifting, Gabriel drew into himself, resting his head on his knees. He closed his eyes for a split second before lazily opening them. “I will take your word for it, Azriel.” He rasped. “But humans need this thing called sleep. I haven’t gotten any in a few days.” He closed his eyes once more, leaning further into the couch.

Azriel scratched behind his head, his arm flexing involuntarily as he moved it. "I'm not going to try anything if that's what you're wondering." At least without consent. "I don't have magic that's going ti make you sex crazy and desire me if that what's you're afraid of. I wouldn't do that. I like my partners willing." Perhaps a little too much information. He grimaced, dropping his arm by his side. Thus was difficult.

"I just want to make sure you understand the danger of going outside. That's all. It's not just your head on the line." Literally. And Azriel quite liked where his head remained on his neck. He shuffles on his feet. He was uncomfortable. He didn't like this. He didn't like having this human in his home, no matter how handsome he was. He didn't like the danger. He was never a thrill seeker. He did as his master told him and that was enough action for him. Doing this voluntarily was so unlike him. He liked to have fun. In the sheets. He liked to have parties and have fun with his friends. This was no his idea of fun. Not even close. "Um, yes, I suppose I am. As an incubus, I'm not in danger of harming someone." He could if he wanted to but it wasn't in his nature, no matter what his true form suggested. "I'm a lover not a fighter. I'm trained because I have to be but it's not what I like. And I'm an errand boy, I need to be able to go between worlds." He shrugged his shoulders.

Azriel blinked. Of course. Of course the human needed sleep. Azriel did to. All demons did, though depending on species determined when and how much. Azriel, as an incubus, was more like humans than most demons. "Yes, yes, of course. Follow me. Let's get you settled into a room. I'll try to find you some clothes while you're sleeping." He wasn't sure if he should go to Gabriel and help him stand or not. He decided on the latter. He wasn't sure how well the man would take it if Azriel put his hands on him.

Gabriel squeezed his eyes shut, opening them to gaze at Azriel. The more he stared, the more he could see how this man could be an incubus. Even while disguised. Relief washed over his body, making his skin tingle. “That’s good to know.” He paused, his eyes drooping. A slight blush of embarrassment rose to his cheeks again. “It is just that — well, how incubi are described within myth. They’re somewhat scary. But I always thought myth as myth.” He wasn’t sure how he should feel being in the presence of such a creature. However, Azriel had said he wouldn’t hurt or come on to him.

In an attempt to stay awake, Gabriel drew himself up, attentively listening to Azriel. He didn’t think he’d actually believe the demon or stay put, but here they were. He might have been sleepy, but he actually listened. A rarity for him. “I get it, and I promise I won’t step foot out of this house if it makes you so anxious.” Rolled his eyes. Gabriel couldn’t be perfectly kind or sweet. Although, being the stubborn man he was, Gabriel was bound to forget the demon’s warning. “I don’t believe you claiming to not be a danger should be absolute. Anyone is capable of hurting someone, just in different ways. I’d say you’re less of a danger.” Gabriel shrugged. He was being snarky, his mood worsening as he grew more weary. “A lover will fight for what they love, yes?” The blonde challenged Azriel’s words. 

Leaving the conversation at that, Gabriel struggled to get on his two feet. Exhaustion took hold of his body, muscles adamantly not wanting to move. He used the arm of the couch to stabilize his body, trudging after Azriel. “I suppose I should thank you for your kindness, so thank you.” Gabriel didn’t thank someone often. Another rarity for the man.

Azriel raised an eyebrow at his words but didn't counter. The human did have a point. Except there wasn't anything that Azriel really loved. He cared for his friends, yes, but that was all. He had no love for his Master, only respect and fear. He didn't love his friends, they were using him as much as he was using them. He had no lover, just bedmates he kept in routine. But he didn't care about them. The only thing that Azriel loved was himself. He would do what was in the best interest of himself, given that he had the choice. if the Master gave him an order he was going to follow it.

Azriel walked slowly so not to rush Gabriel. It was clear he was in pain. He wished there was something he could do about it. Perhaps he would go into the human world and acquire some medicines for the man. He had seen what people took when he stayed in the human world. He could find a pharmacy and figure it out easily. As well as pick up some new clothes for the human. Gabriel was certainly larger than Azriel was. None of his clothes would fit. And while he might be able to find a pair of clothes from his previous partners, he doubted that was something Gabriel wanted to wear. Leather also probably wouldn't be the most comfortable for casual wear either.

He led Gabriel to the opposite side of the house, away from his room. That way Gabriel could have his own space without Azriel bearing down on him. "Alright, here we are." There were three doors in the corridor. Two on the right shared a Jack and Jill bathroom, and one on the left with its own personal bathroom. It was up to Gabriel to choose. Each one had a simple bed with minimal decorations. He supposed it just depended on how much room Gabriel wanted. If he wanted to claim the Jack and Jill suite for himself and have access to two bedrooms or not.

Gabriel smirked. He followed Azriel. Exhaustion took over his weak body, his eyes drooping. All he wanted to do was sleep. His head wound throbbed, making sleep call to him further. If only he’d been home by now. He could simply open his medicine cabinet and take some tylenol. Gabriel’s clothes weren’t too uncomfortable, but it would be nice to wear something… less formal. After all, wearing nice dress pants and a button up for a month would both be uncomfortable and gross. He needed other flashy outfits, but also something of comfort. Gabriel shook his head. Pain ebbed through his skull. Why did he do that?

The blonde followed Azriel into the small hall, staring at the individual doors. Gabriel was used to living in small spaces. He couldn’t maintain a large one, not even if it was a temporary stay. So, Gabriel leaned towards the left door. The only thing he wanted was to pass out. Opening the door, he looked around the room. It was plain, but Gabriel wasn’t concerned with decorations. He was concerned with the bed. As soon as Gabriel laid his eyes on the bed, he moved over to it. The blond plopped onto it, passing out soon after and curled in on himself. Sleep deprivation was a beast.

Azriel shut the door as soon as Gabriel had fallen into bed. A part of him wanted to go and take care of him. Help him undress and take his shoes off, tuck him into the covers. But that was more his incubus instincts speaking there. He really did need to feed soon or else he would be at a risk for jumping his new roommate. Something he didn't think either of them really wanted. At least not now.

But finding a bed partner would have to wait. He had things to take care of first. Trudging to his own bathroom, he washed the blood and dirt off of himself and changed into something a little more practical. Then he was teleporting back to the human world. It was easy enough to find a Walmart. They were everywhere. They were also the only thing open this late. He went in, grabbed an ungodly amount of medicines and first aid supplies. Pain relief, allergy relief, flu relief, and some sleeping medications. Then he went to the clothing section and started grabbing clothes. He was pretty good at guessing sizes so he hoped this would work. He only grabbed a couple of pairs. He could go shopping for more when Gabriel was awake and going him his actual sizes and preferences. So for not some sports short and sweats and plain t-shirts would have to work. It wasn't like Gabriel would be going anywhere for the next month or so, so there was no need for jeans or outdoor wear of that matter.

He checked out, paid, and found a quiet place to teleport back home. The jump had him wheezing. Too much energy. That had taken up too much. He was nearly drained. He needed a good sleep and a good rump in bed. The latter would have to wait it seemed. He put the new clothes in the wash and placed the medicines in front of Gabriel's door before walking to his own room and collapsing into bed.

Gabriel twitched in his sleep, curling on himself until he was in the fetal position. He didn’t normally sleep like this, but within an unfamiliar place, it felt safest. His dreams were not dreams, but rather nightmares. A lot happened during the day, twisting and shifting into unpleasant dreams. It started peacefully. Gabriel was walking home along the sidewalk. Emissions filled the air, getting into his lungs. He coughed, grimacing at the harsh dislodge of particles. Shaking his head, he continued on his way. The surroundings shifted, twisting into dark shapes. The dark consumed all light, leaving him to stumble around in a void. In his world shifted, glowing eyes appearing in the dark. A vicious smile appeared and clawed hands appeared from the dark. Panic rose in the blonde’s chest, and he backed away before a creature lunged at him.

Outside the dream, in reality, Gabriel whimpered. His body twitching. He wasn’t used to nightmares. He didn’t whimper in his sleep. Gabriel didn’t twitch in his sleep. He didn’t get night terrors. With a sweat, Gabriel jolted away, his breathing coming quick. His head stung. A whimper came from Gabriel. God, this was horrible. He desired nothing but to go home. He laid still in the bed; the pain making it hard to think. What did he do in his sleep? He couldn’t have irritated the wound further. Gabriel’s mouth was dry. He slipped out of the bed to explore the house. He definitely wasn’t going back to sleep.

Slipping out of the bed, his body hurt from the restrictions of his clothes. He slipped his suspenders off his shoulders, letting them fall to his hips. Gabriel stumbled through the room before reaching the door. His hair fell into his face, and he figured he looked awful. He would need to pamper himself soon. Gabriel turned the doorknob, opening the door, only to find a line of medicine boxes by his door. Odd. He squatted down to pick up the boxes, but ended up sitting on the floor. Leaning against the doorway, he checked the label of each box. Pain relief, allergy relief, flu relief, and sleeping medications. Gabriel giggled to himself, rolling his eyes. This demon really didn’t know what humans needed, did he? Any of the pain relief would work to absolve the pain throbbing through his head. He placed the boxes and bottles by his side, taking a breather against the frame.

Azriel had a dreamless sleep, his mind even too exhausted to create dreams in his head. He needed to feed. Sleeping would only help so much. Food would only do so much. Feeding was the only way to truly energize himself. It had been too long. He had been working twenty-four/seven it felt like. He hadn't had a chance to take time to himself, feed, rest, replenish his energy. Even now, he was shirking his duties by not returning to the palace right away after the incident with Braxton. He would come up with some excuse and hopefully not get punished for it.

He didn't wake until the sun shone through the curtains and onto his face, giving him a wake-up call. Despite popular belief, they did have a sun. Being connected to the Human world, they still had a sun and moon and seasons. Time worked the same. It was almost like a parallel universe. There were just different species. Many things remained the same between the two worlds. Azriel forced himself out of bed, not feeling much rested and it wasn't due to his lack of sleep. His feet dragged as he pulled himself into the kitchen. He started a pot of coffee, hoping the caffeine would help wake him up. He needed to look presentable before he returned to the palace to give the bad news and hopefully not get punished. Then he needed to seek out one of his bed partners he had and feed. But first, coffer and breakfast. He still did need to eat and drink like humans, it just wasn't his main source of energy. But he still needed it to survive. And he quite enjoyed it.

Gabriel had spaced out while slumped against the door frame. He lightly shook his head, grabbing a pill bottle beside him. Using the door frame as leverage, he hoisted himself up. The morning wasn’t very forgiving to his sleepless eyes. The sun struck him, burning his eyes. He squeezed them shut. This place was odd. The nightmare echoed in his mind, and he whimpered. Nothing was going to hurt him. Not if he didn’t step out of the house. With a yawn, Gabriel wandered down the hall, the medicine bottle shaking in his hand. The dream really shook him up, but he painted a tough persona on the outside.

 Gabriel trudged into the sitting room, looking around the room. He ran his hand through his hair, trying to slick it back. It had devolved into a tousled mess. He looked had devolved into a tousled mess. He didn’t like that. Gabriel poked his head through another doorway, spotting the kitchen with the incubus. Curious. The blonde wandered into the kitchen, staring at the demon. Due to his suspenders lying down at his hips than over his shoulders, he looked more like a hot detective than a bartender. Oh, well. Oh, wait — he had a job! What was going to do? Once he returned home, he wouldn’t have a job. Gabriel sighed and placed the medicine bottle on a table. “Morning.” He rasped. He was not a morning person. In fact, his shift didn’t start until late in the afternoon. His body was still trembling, and he rubbed his face. Yesterday was something. After all, it gave him strange dreams. And then, a thought pops into his mind. "I left my coat on your bed yesterday. Do you think I could retrieve it?" He pondered.

Azriel's curly hair was a mop on his head, just a true reflection of how tired he was. He had pride in his curls and worked hard to keep them perfectly coiled and bouncing on his head. Today they were just a tangled mess on his head. His blue eyes had lost some of their colors. They weren't as bright or sparkling as they had been before. He had bothered getting dressed. Instead, he had decided to undress. He normally slept naked but had been too tired to take his clothes off the night before. All he wore now was a pair of sweats hanging low on his hips. He needed to feed, but unfortunately, there were other things to do first before he could do that.

He was leaning against the counter, drinking his coffee when Gabriel appeared. He paused mid-sip and took in the other man. He was filled with lust and had to turn to face the counter in order to discreetly readjust himself. He looked like a sexy detective that had been up all night working on a case. This was not good for Azriel, especially when he was so hungry. He cleared his throat, trying to clear his head of the images popping up in it. "Would you like some coffee? I've got creamer and sugar if you like them. I don't expect you to drink it black." Azriel didn't drink it black. He hated it like that. It needed to have something to add a bit of flavor to it, make it sweeter. He turned back around when he was sure he had gotten his body under control and certain things tucked away from view. He cleared his throat once more. "Oh, um, yeah, of course. Let me go get it for you."

He was thankful for the excuse to leave the room. It would give him more time to compose himself again. He found the coat rather easily, splashed his face with some water and gave himself a small pep talk before returning to the kitchen. He handed it out to Gabriel without looking directly at him. That had been his first mistake, looking straight at him. "Would you like some breakfast? I don't have a lot, I need to go shopping. But i can make some eggs or toast or something." He scratched his head. He wasn't used to having people here in the morning. All of his bedmates left as soon as they were done. He would always leave as soon as he was done. This was new to him. "Oh, um, there's some clothes for you in the dryer. I just kind of guessed your size. I hope everything fits alright."

Gabriel stared at Azriel. Well, something was off with the demon. He wasn’t in the state of mind to figure out why. He noticed how dull and frail Azriel looked, but didn’t acknowledge it at the present moment. Gabriel himself had fallen asleep in his clothes. He had woken from his nightmare with marks all over his body. “Some coffee? Oh, yeah.” He seemed distracted. Taking a deep breath, he sighed. Sleep still called to him, but he needed to be active. “I actually prefer to drink it black. I like the bitter taste. It wakes me up. I need it more than ever.” Gabriel huffed. He seemed irritable in the mornings. The man was in a kerfuffle. Pushing back his hair, messing with his clothes, and trying to look decent for the day. He would need to spend time in the bathroom after talking to Azriel. “Thanks.” Gabriel leaned against the table.

Gabriel grabbed the pill bottle he’d left on the table, popping it open. Two would be enough for his throbbing head, right? Whatever. He fished out two pills and popped them into his mouth, swallowing them dry. Once the pain dissipated, maybe he’d be in a better mood. Screwing the pill bottle closed, he placed it on the table, waiting for Azriel to return. He yawned, trying to get his mind and body to wake. 

Luckily, Azriel returned with his coat. Gabriel took it from Azriel, slinging it over his arm. It was a black overcoat containing his wallet, keys, and dagger. Plus, he had some nice drink recipes. He nodded in thanks. “I forgot I needed food to function. I’m not starving at the moment, but you can make some if you wish. I wouldn’t oppose it.” Gabriel noted the indirect eye contact, turning away from him, and the dullness Azriel held. Something was off. He sat down in a chair, taking his knife out of his overcoat. He also pulled out a cloth and a small bottle of spray. “Are you feeling alright?” Gabriel’s voice was plain. He sprayed whatever was in the bottle onto the blade, and he started to clean the dagger.

Azriel watched as the human pulled out a dagger and started to polish it. He stiffened a little. He should be worried Gabriel had a knife. If he was smart, he would take it away from him. But then again, there were plenty of things that could be used as a weapon. Any of the kitchen knives, a chair, the room that held all of his weapons. Those definitely could be used as weapons, because they were. If Gabriel wanted to kill him, it would be easy. Well, not easy, Azriel would put up a hell of a fight. But let's say he snuck in while he was sleeping, there was little that could be done about that. He only had to have faith the Gabriel wouldn't kill the one person that could take him home.

"I'll make something up for you real quick. I have somewhere to be so I need to leave soon. I'll likely be gone most of the day. Try not to destroy my house while I'm gone." Azriel began rummaging around in his cabinets until he pulled out a toaster, bread, and some eggs. He put a few pieces of bread in the toaster and put a skillet on the stove. "How do you like your eggs?" As he began to cook, he prattled on. "There's toiletries in the bathroom if you want to shower. You can give me a list later of things to buy for you. There's a tv in the living room. I've got cable." Azriel enjoyed many human things. "I've also got an Xbox hooked up to it if you want to play anything. Just don't ruin my progress on anything. Feel free to help yourself to anything in the house. I'll pick up some more food while I'm out."

He buttered the toast as it finished up and placed two pieces on a plate. He put the eggs on the plate as they finished and set it in front of Gabriel before continuing to work on his own breakfast. Three eggs scrambled and buttered toast. He didn't have any jelly on him. He used the last of it on a peanut butter and jelly sandwich the day before. "You'll find we have a lot of human things here. If anything, we're a little more technologically advanced. And we're still connected to the human world. Just obviously not many of us can go to and from." And humans weren't even supposed to know about this but that had been said already.

Gabriel continued polishing his dagger. It got dirtied when knocked out of his hand, so now he made sure it was sparkly. It was merely for protection. When he brought it home, he hung it on the wall as a decoration piece. He peered up at Azriel, smiling slightly. “I’m not going to hurt you. I’m just taking care of it. I do take care of the things I like.” Gabriel glanced down at the knife, seeing his face in it. He looked rough. A few scars populated his jaw and left cheek, dark circles populated under his eyes, and his lips started to crack. “Why didn’t you tell me I had a few scars on my face?” He was trying to make light of it. Placing the dagger on the table, he placed the supplies back into his coat. The blade had been sharpened recently. It cut anything efficiently.

Gabriel placed his coat over the dagger, crossing his legs as he sunk into the chair. “I don’t have an interest in destroying your house. But neither do I have an interest in being alone in some stranger’s house. But I guess I don’t get a choice.” He closed his eyes, crossing his arms across his chest. All he had to do was entertain himself. It wasn’t hard. “I eat them, however. I don’t have a preference.” Gabriel didn’t preference many things. He was both complicated and simple. “Will do. I need to fix this messy hair of mine. I think a good shower might tame it.” He sat up in the chair, a smirk crossing his face. So, some demons indulged in human things. Curious. Or maybe it was just this one. “I am an amiable man to please. I will most likely sleep or read most of the day. As long as you actually own books and those books aren’t in cryptic language, I will read.” When he woke up, Gabriel would eat “breakfast” and then read a book with a glass of whiskey in hand. Nothing like a little afternoon reading with a drink.

Gabriel sat up when Azriel brought him some food. He stared at his plate. This demon was awfully generous. He picked up a piece of toast, biting into it. He hadn’t eaten toast in a few years. Gabriel usually ate bagels for “breakfast”, but the toast was a delightful change. It brought him back to childhood. Swallowing, a thought came to him. “Before I forget, thanks for the medicine and the aforementioned clothes. Oh, and the food. You are being quite generous to a man you’ve never met before yesterday.” Well, he supposed most were generous to their guests. Gabriel didn’t invite many guests to his home. It was only him and his dog. He had no partner or love interests. Just a few friends and a dog.

Gods damnit. Azriel had been doing so well keeping himself under his control but those few words had him rock hard. I do take care of the things I like. Gods, he wanted to be taken care of. he wanted Gabriel to take good care of him. His cheeks flushed red and he had to look away. He needed to get laid and fast. He wouldn't be able to handle feeling this way around Gabriel any longer. He wouldn't be able to control himself any longer than today. Even now his hands were shaking. It's going to be fine, you're going to be fine, he told himself. It wasn't really working but he was pretending it was.

"Trust me, this isn't my preference either. I don't like having people stay here either." Other than the occasional too-drunk friend to find their way home or one that just needed to get away from their own, no one stayed at his house. Not overnight at least. That was just the way it was. It was easier that way, not to have any real connections. His friends used him for the partying and the sex. He used them for similar matters. They didn't really care that much about each other than the benefits. It was better that way, safer. Less of a chance of his Master killing everyone he loved if he didn't love anyone. "This is a first for me. But I have to go to work, the longer I don't the- well, let's not get into that. Besides, we need things to eat and whatnot so I'll go get them. Any clothing preference or sizes while I'm out?" He might as well pick up everything all in one go. This was going to be expensive. Good thing he made a decent wage.

Azriel blushed once more, hiding his face by turning it away. He shifted in his seat, scooting it closer to the table. "You don't need to thank me. I'm why you're here anyways." To be fair, Gabriel would be dead if he hadn't stepped in. The only way this could have been avoided was if Gabriel hadn't walked into that alley. And, well, he didn't have a time machine so they were stuck there. "I promise to take you home as soon as you're healed enough. I know you might not trust that and all because, well, I am a demon and I did kidnap you technically, but I do mean well. I don't want you here anymore than you want to be." He grimaced. "That came out wrong. You know what I mean right?"

Gabriel looked up at Azriel, staring at the incubus curiously. Surely Gabriel hadn’t said anything embarrassing or would strike the demon to be self-conscious. It was odd. Two and two hadn’t clicked in Gabriel’s mind quite yet. After all, he was human. Such correlation wouldn’t connect unless told. At least for a few minutes. Gabriel didn’t react or comment on the blushing. He only looked up at Azriel, slightly confused, before returning to his breakfast. He would learn sooner or later. Instead, he focused on other things. The pocket watch in his pocket ticket incessantly, and his shoes were becoming uncomfortable. 

Azriel’s voice broke into his mind and snapped out of his slight daze. Gabriel swallowed, clearing his throat. “I can see that. I guess we both prefer to live alone. Don’t we?” He lived in a flat. It was a small space with only one bedroom, a living room, and a kitchen area. But in a big city, it was the best he could afford. Even if Gabriel wanted to have visitors stay the night, he couldn’t. So the only creature to share his space was a Yorkie. “Go to work. I’m not stopping you if it’s going to kill you.” He took a few more bites out of the toast. When Azriel asked about clothing preference, he smirked. “Oh, my preferences would murder your budget. But let’s start simple. I prefer to wear button-ups or T-shirts. Pant-wise, joggers or sweats work. And I am a large.” Gabriel went back to eating, finishing the rest of the plant up in five minutes. With food in his stomach, the blonde looked lively.

Gabriel pushed the plate away from him, staring Azriel down. Anything set the demon off easily. “I supposed I do. Even if you brought me here, you could still neglect me. Leave me to rot in a room for a month. I guess you do take care of the things you like.” He smirked at his words. He was provoking the demon, running a small experiment. It could end horribly, but Gabriel was willing to test his luck. “Well, I guess you saved me from certain death, but I don’t think you’re equipped to house a human for a month.” He raised an eyebrow, sighing. “Yes. I do understand what you mean. Don’t worry.” He rolled his eyes.

Work could most certainly kill him but Azriel liked to believe that his face was too pretty to kill outright. He had some sway with his Master but as of late, with rising stress and the rebellions, that sway had seemed to diminish. And carrying and news, well, it was going to be a rough morning. But he just needed to get through it, go feed, and then he could run his errands. He prayed that he would get at least a couple of days off, though it likely wasn't going to happen. Azriel was an errand boy. The king's personal and most trusted errand boy, but still an errand boy. He would deliver messages, objects, and threats, remove certain threats and take care of problems that needed to be dealt with. Only the consequences could be severe if he couldn't complete any of his tasks.

He wrote down on a piece of paper as Gabriel talked about the clothing and sizing. So he had done alright with what he had gotten earlier. He folded the paper and put it in his sweatpants pocket. He finished his food and gathered both of the empty plates, setting them in the dishwasher. He had no plans to leave Gabriel alone in a room to rot. Firstly, the smell would be horrendous. Secondly, he felt like he owed Gabriel. He had ruined his life. He had kidnapped him. For a month at least. He wasn't sure what was going to happen to his job or his home. He hoped he wouldn't get evicted. He chewed on the inside of his cheek for a moment as he was lost in thought.

I guess you do take care of the things you like.

Azriel's cheeks went red and he turned away from Gabriel, preoccupying himself with washing out his coffee mug. He had still been drinking that but he needed an excuse to be facing the sink and not the human. "Just um-" he cleared his throat, "just write down anything you need and I can get it. Don't worry about the money. I've got it." Seeing as he did live in a five bedroom house. He had his room, the master of course. He had one bedroom turned into his weapons room. The other three were just because. If he had a family he would invite them over but they died a long time ago. It was just Azriel. Azriel with too much space and nothing to fill it with. It made him lonely but he knew it was the safest option.

Gabriel smiled. He liked watching the demon turn red. Obviously, something was provoking him, but he wasn’t sure what. Well, he did say he was an incubus and–. He shook his head. No, that couldn’t be it. Gabriel grabbed his coat off the tables, uncrossing his legs. He wanted to clean himself up. Get rid of all the sticky blood. But he could wait until Azriel went to work. It might be better. With a shrug, he leaned back in the chair. “I have nothing else of importance. I’ll make do with anything you get. I am adaptable.” It was true. He could conform with anyway of life. Even if he preferred to look his best and be the center of attention, survival came first. You needed to survive to look pretty. Well, he survived, but now needs to look pretty. “Is there anything you would like me to do while you’re gone?” Gabriel sat up, carefully standing up. Each time he stood, his head throbbed, and his vision would gray. He would get light-headed for a time. Gabriel stared at Azriel while the demon did the dished. He started to form opinions on him. He knew how to provoke the demon now, and he wanted to see he far we could go. But at the same time, he feared to. Death lurked in any corner. Even if Azriel was an incubus, he had mentioned he was trained. To Gabriel, if Azriel wanted to dispose of his annoying ass, he could. 

Gabriel glanced away, opening the entrance to the sitting room. Maybe he could crash there for a few hours after his shower. It seemed like a nice place to relax. Apparently, Gabriel provoked the demon too much, for he grew redder and washed a half full coffee mug. “You know. I think I will go get cleaned up. I’ll make do with whatever clothes you bought last night for the time being. Have fun at work, I supposed.” The blonde left the kitchen through which he came, coat in hand. He didn’t know where the laundry room in this house was, but he’d find it. 

Gabriel found it quickly, taking out the clothes Azriel had randomly grabbed. Not bad, Gabriel could make do, but would never wear the shorts. Once he acquired the clothes, he trudged back to his room, throwing them on his bed. He entered the bathroom, looking at himself in the mirror. Gabriel was in rough shape. Faint scars populated his face and blood stained his hair. He’d need to wash it out the best he could. His clothes were grimy. Gabriel turned around and lifted his shirt to look at his back. It was heavily bruised. No wonder it hurt to sit.

Azriel was scrubbing at the mug in his hand after it had long been cleaned. But Gabriel just kept looking at him and it was making everything so much worse. He couldn't control himself with that gaze. This human was provoking him and if he kept it up, he would see just how unhinged Azriel could get, especially when he was so hungry. "Nope, there's nothing you need to do. You're a guest in my home. Relax, focus on healing, enjoy yourself." He didn't know how much the human could really enjoy himself being stuck in a different world but if felt like the right thing to say.

It was only when Gabriel left the kitchen that he finally relaxed. His shoulders slumped over and he put the coffee mug on the dish rack to dry. He dried his hands on a dish rag and leaned against the counter, trying to collect his thoughts. Work. He needed to go to work. He pushed himself away from the counter and moved to his room. He took a quick shower to clean up and dressed in simple black clothes. Black jeans, black boots, black long sleeve shirt. He strapped a dagger to his waist. He never went anywhere without a weapon.

He called out to Gabriel when he was leaving, hoping the man would hear him. "Alright I'm off to work." That sounded more like a husband telling his wife goodbye. He grimaced. "I'll be back later." He wasn't sure how late was later. It depended on how everything went while he was gone. How well work went, which likely wouldn't be well, and how much he truly needed to feed. He might have to go through more than one partner to fully satisfy himself. He needed to be full if he was going to be around Gabriel. That man was tempting him and they had only just met. He was far, far too dangerous.

Gabriel drew his finger across his eye bags. How much sleep had he really gotten? It didn’t matter to him. Instead, he went to turn on the shower before returning to the mirror. He took in his feature, noting each thing he’d have to take care of. It wasn’t much, but Gabriel still wanted to seem like a presentable roommate. Gabriel hopped into the shower, washing the dried blood out of his hair. Once finished, he dressed in gray sweatpants and a white T-shirt. He wandered back into the bathroom. Gabriel was looking for pomade. He found it in a medicine cabinet. Opening the pomade, he scooped some on his finger and combed it through his hair. He slicked it back, a few strands refusing to stay put. It would have to do.

Exiting the bathroom and bedroom, Gabriel heard Azriel call out he was leaving. He was going to be left in a strange home by himself. “Have fun.” He called out. Gabriel wasn’t sure what to do with himself. He wandered out of his room and into the sitting room. A few hours of rest wouldn’t hurt. After all, he needed to heal. Gabriel lay on the couch, grimacing at the pressure on his bruises. He wasn’t a fan of TV or games, but he could try it to pass the time. However, it was time to rest. Rest first, play late. He closed his eyes, the silence encompassing him. It buzzed in his ears. It was too much. Gabriel sat up, his head throbbing. Great. He did it again. What was he going to do?

Time seemed to go by rather slowly for Azriel. After stepping out of his front door, hos wings emerged from his back and he took flight. Just the wings. He was able to half transform, a trait thay was very nice. He beat his wings, racing to the palace even though he was dreading every minute of it. He tried to calm himself. He tried to tell himself everything was alright. Master could be reasonable. He wasn't going to punish Azriel over something that wasn't his fault. He had been wrong. He most certainly had been punished for something that wasn't his fault. He had knelt in front of the king and gave the bad news. The Master had burst out, yelling and screaming at Azriel. Fists had flown and legs were kicked. He was just angry, that was all. Once he got it out everything would be fine.

Hands were suddenly touching him, soft and gentle but he didn't raise his head quite yet. He knew those hands. Those had been the same hands beating down on hik only a moment ago. He was being lifted up and whispers of how sorry and he knew how he got, were whispered in his ear. Let me take care of you. Let me feed you. And Azriel was instantly a puddle in his arms. This was why Azriel had no true friends, no lover nothing. Because the king favored him and the king didn't like sharing his toys. Sure, he let Azriel sleep around. The incubus needed to to survive, but he never let Azriel fork any real attachments. He was always in his ear, whispering things. The king wouldn't loose Azriel.

Over half the day had gone by the time Azriel had emerged from the palace. He had a black eye and several bruised ribs but he had been and he was feeling better. The wounds would heal I'm a few days. It was alright. Master was sorry and didn't mean it and that was all that mattered. His Master wasn't mad at him, he was back in his good graces. Azriel was fed and happy, despite the damage on his body. He stopped by the grocery store to pick uo some food, zapping the paid groceries to his home where they would be waiting in the counter for him. He did the same thing at the department store before spreading his wings and flying home. The sun had already begun to set by the time he made it back. He had spent way too much time at the store buying clothes. Thankfully the frozen food was enchanted not to get warm. As he entered the house, he let out a small "I'm home" before making his way ti the kitchen where his purchases were.