A Deal with No Strings

by Fanphasegirl

Charlie discovers family in the human world, summoning her down to Hell. Hoping to get some new support in her life, her family isn't what Charlie expected. She is helpful in warning Charlie that, "Our Actions have Consequences". Plus, this new family member falls in love with the worst possible candidate- Alastor. Angel profits from everyone's roller coaster experience, kinda.

8. Chapter 8: Lucifer's Project

Author's Note: I'm going to use some new terms in this chapter. They are not official with the fandom, but they make sense for me to use since lingo and slang is a thing. The main ones you need to be explained here because there is no real room. Hell Born= demons like Charlie and Stolas. Hell Bent= demons who were once human (Angel and Alastor). Also, sorry if this doesn't seem to have a whole lot of Alastor despite being a pairing involving him but-yeah. There's a reason. Also might remedy that by making a mini series called Alastor's Alibi which tells this story from his POV Let me know if you'd read it in the comments please and thank you

Chapter 8:

Lucifer's Project

Lucifer walked leisurely in through the back V.I.P. entrance. Once inside, he dropped his apple cane to the floor. The audible tap drawing the attention of all demons who were within range. Some froze in place, while others ducked under their table before running for the door once he had walked past. He rarely went out. But nights like these were too fun to resist. Nights when he got to take sentimental visits with his sister. This time would be no different. He would take the time to spend a quality period of rest from his regular duties again. Coming here to this big business as she sings in the club. Owned by Hell's very own Mimzy. His sister confident, happy and giving a fairly energetic performance. Since she had yet to meet the infamous flapper girl. Something Lucifer expected to make her confidence quake, maybe even drop. Particularly after she found out how big the flapper's breasts were compared to Aby's.

Long story short, a lot of the angel sisters back in paradise, were built pretty shapely. Looking at it now, God certainly did have a cookie cutter mold for a large percentage of his creations. Leaving Aby, naturally, as the 'ugly duckling' of the family. Something you wouldn't think of as a problem since Aby was well shaped now. Maybe not sexy, but at least cute. And with a little makeup and hair pinning, she could pass for stunning or pretty. Complimented by the dress she currently wore on stage. An off the shoulder strap dress that squeezed her breasts tight, falling to the floor with an inch-long trail. A build in corset adding more detail to her already hourglass shape. A slit cut on both sides going up to just above her midthigh. Long arm warmers that pointed over the top of her hand. A string holding them in place by looping around her middle finger like a ring. The warms stopped about two inches above her elbow. A leafy vine pattern embroidered along them. The dress only had strings of gems draping across the sleeve. Secured at where her armpit was.

Lucifer took a seat at an occupied table at the center front of the stage. The ones sitting there, picked up their more important belongings as they scurried away. The waitress in charge of the section he was seated made quick work to clear the table and clean it with a fresh rag after tossing the plain white tablecloth away. Another girl assisting her by draping a red velvet tablecloth in its place and setting a diner candle in the middle. Looking up patiently, Lucifer waited for his sister to finish. She caught him immediately as she sang out a long note. He laughed as he discovered she had been delivering a jazz cover of The Devil You Know by X Ambassadors. Good ol' Aby. Setting everyone in the room up in a very personalized Hell. He approved.

Aby ended her song. Gaining a small applause from the remaining crowd. Responding by letting her eyes start glowing a blood red. Her fangs protruding from the top of her mouth. The devilish glare sending a message before she finished it. Her voice an animalistic, yet murderous, growl. The applause grew instantly. Whistling, clapping and cheering filled the room. Lucifer gave a mischievous laugh, knowing she had done it in good fun. Just another trait of hers being 'All show, no go'. She could 'go' when she wanted to, but she didn't flaunt her power for shits and giggles. Just when she needed to gain rep. Possibly allies.

Aby had already seen her brother off the side from the stage, dwelling in the shadows. Watching him with her side vision as he made his way up. Which was why, instead of exiting stage right, she made her way to the catwalk. Right in front, was the table her brother sat. Stepping on the table, down onto a chair, then to the ground. Careful to give the fellas in the bar a nice show of her legs and cleavage as she moved slowly.

"I'm surprised you didn't sing something by Frank or Armstrong." Lucifer made the comment, as Aby came off the stage. Helping his little darling down with a single hand.

The few demons that remained in the room, noticed the sweet gesture. Thinking that Aby was somehow on a higher pedestal than Lucifer himself. The two looked splendid together. A match made in heaven. Which was ironic given the circumstances. Lucifer ignored the stares while Aby looked at the floor uncertain. She always felt so small next to her older brother. The two took a seat at the table where Lucifer had set up upon arrival. Aby sot her brother a playfully judgmental look. Having caught on to what he did when he came in.

"You could have called. I would have met up with you anywhere." She explained to him as she flagged the nearest waitress.

"I know. But you always seem so much easier to talk to after a performance."

"That meaning you think it'll be easier to boss me around. Big brother." Aby conversed as she played with the straw in a random glass of ice water. Doing so to make the ice clink as it shifted from her actions.

Lucifer watched her with amusement. It was years of spending time together and building a relationship that brought him to this state. The state that allowed him to appreciate the little, insignificant things that made up Aby. Her faults and fumbles that did nothing for her but made her get titled by those around her as weird. She rarely spoke against him or tried to pick a fight. However, she had her moments of defiance. Her arrival in Hell seemed to be her biggest one. But that was also build from their history together. Wanting to be able to enjoy the time with her, Lucifer declared a truce by starting off small.

"You didn't answer my previous assumption."

Aby glanced at him shortly before averting her gaze back to the glass. Speaking with an audible guilt in her voice she stated, "I can't do them justice. I'm not a good singer."

"If I remember correctly- you've never been a good anything. Singer, artist, writer, etc.", Lucifer joked as the waitress for their table returned.

With her, she brought the first round of tequila shots and a tray of fries; no added salt. She placed a vanilla milkshake with a small plate of strawberries in front of Aby. Lucifer looked the table over repeatedly. He then looked at Aby who gave a small smile as she raised the shot glass. Lucifer mimicked the gesture. Bringing his glass to tap against her enough to give a cheers but not enough to spill. They both agreed to the fact they hated when drinks spilt. They took their shots without chasers, turning over their glasses on the coasters in the table before Lucifer spoke again.

"I'm surprised they offer stuff like this in this place. I hear the owner is very picking about setting."

Aby stuck a strawberry in her mouth, finishing it off with a sip of her shake. She quietly cleared her throat prior to saying, "It's something only I get here. It's part of a deal we have with one another."

"So, she likes you." It was an observation more than anything.

"Not sure", Aby clarified, "I haven't actually met her yet. She's always dealing with other business when I come. Though Alastor is supposed to be close with her. Seems like that's the reason I'm given such special treatment."

"Any idea as to why?" Lucifer picked up a small handful of fries. Placing them in his mouth one at a time.

"Not a one."

Aby continued to work on her shake while the waitress strolled over bringing two rounds of shots with her this time. The siblings simultaneously gave her a finger wave in gratitude. Not wanting to speak with their mouths full. She didn't seem to take the time to wait for their reply. Most likely due to knowing who she was serving. Lucifer sat looking at his sister questionably. Aby shot him a curious look back. Feeling there was something she was missing, and her brother was giving her a chance to give up, catch up, or shut up. Whichever was the smarter option.

"He asked if the name rang a bell for me when I first got here. Seemed- I don't know…dissatisfied… when I said no", Aby spoke with her own suspicions evident in her tone.

"Don't overthink it. People's social circles are small. Besides- you never know. Maybe you know her by a different name."

Aby stayed quiet. Taking a long sip from the shake. Tossing another strawberry in her mouth afterwards. Lucifer could hear the gears grinding. Never a good sign when Aby did this. Especially given the conditions of things. Without interruption, she spoke once more.

"She's supposed to very beautiful. Extravagantly so. Rivaled only by another friend of Alastor's. Her name is Rosie. But I've heard some very specific rumors."

"I wouldn't know what to tell you. Except put it from your mind. Alastor calls you lover. That should be enough for you."

"I suppose you're right brother." Aby sat back in her chair. Holding a strawberry in her hand. Lucifer was waiting for it to catch fire as the fallen confessed, "I just don't know how to act in these situations. I know how I want to act."

"Don't. At least-. Not before you meet them. You can decide then."

"I don't think I would ever if I did see them as someone to be jealous of. That Void is a scary place."

"How would you know? You haven't been there before."

Lucifer eyed his sibling carefully. Aby had always pressed the boundaries from time to time. Mostly to see why it was there or to understand its function. But the Void was forbidden to anyone who was not given orders to go there. An exception could be made if there purpose was simple enough. Though that was a different matter entirely. And without her full power, Aby might not be able to come back from it. See knew that, too. However, this didn't put him at ease. He knew Aby too well. Which was why he took advantage of the previous conversation topic before she could answer. Lucifer sighed sarcastically. Resting his head on the top of his hand, shifting his weight to his right side. Picking at the remaining fries from the plate.

He spoke up, "You just can't stay out of trouble. So that's why I'm going to be a nice big brother and warn you. Void or no Void, she does have a history with Alastor."

He knew it was cruel. Saying these things in exaggeration to plant an idea in her head. He wasn't lying, but how she interpreted it was not his responsibility. All he could control was his desire for the outcome. Hoping it would trigger her jealousy streak. Out of all her faults, jealousy was by far one of Aby's biggest downfalls. So strong and unhinged that, once activated, there was no stopping her from doing what she wanted to soothe it. It was why everyone back in Heaven called her the Green Graced Guardian.

"Thank you for the knowledge." Aby kept a cool exterior. The look in her eyes saying she was more hurt than jealous. Lucifer gritted his fangs.

Damn you, Alastor. He cursed the Radio Demon.

*#*

The two spent a couple hours in the club. Discussing many things after the topic of the girls in Alastor's life. Sticking to things like what she had done since getting here. Lucifer was sure to avoid saying too much about the lords she had already had encounters with. Keeping the conversation in direction of the youngest's frequent visits to Imp city. Having heard talk about how she had taken to shaking up with the weakest Hellborns in Hell. Because of this, Aby checked her phone to find it was getting late. She seemed bored. Lucifer went back to Aby's adjustment. Not giving her a chance to make up her mind about dismissing herself. There had been two reasons for this. The first was Aby had yet to pick a side. Usually by now, there was some team or form of one that she showed the most loyalty to. The second was, despite the first reason, she seemed happy.

Lucifer had always feared the fallen's ability to adjust to Hell's stigma. It was why he never allowed her down here. Even after her accident. So, seeing her able to make friends and learn new things about herself was nice to see. Lucifer hadn't seen her in almost a hundred years. It meant there was still some part of her that stayed true to her programming. Which meant it was a part of her now. There had been incidents in Heaven where an angel or two wouldn't adjust to the way they were created. They usually didn't live very long. In the rare case they did, they were hunted down and killed. God could be merciless if pushed too far. But, Aby was designed differently. The only one like her.

Lucifer watched his sister. She had kept rubbing at her shoulders and rolling her neck. He had pinpointed the actions at the start of their gathering but decided to ignore it. He waited to see if she would either stop or make a verbal complaint. However, it was becoming increasingly obvious that neither would be the case. Needing to confirm his suspicions, he spoke out.

"What's wrong. You're having an awfully hard time sitting still."

Aby froze. Her eyes went wide as she looked at her brother again. Apparently, not realizing she had been doing it so openly. She showed to hesitate. Thinking carefully on how to answer the eldest. She bit her lip hard. Almost drawing blood. Took a deep, slow breath. Then explained.

"I- I think I'm having a hard time getting used to this place….physically."

"I don't follow you."

"It's probably nothing. Just the mystic equivalence to- that thing humans- oh- um…jet lag. That's it. Its most likely like that."

Lucifer stayed watching her. His expression telling Aby that he was waiting for clarification to her rambling. He tilted his head at her, encouraging her to keep going.

"Please don't freak out. But…my body-. It's been in a great deal of pain lately."

"How much is a 'great deal'?"

"My wings hurt," Aby started, "The pain spreads up to my shoulders and down my back. I feel it shoot through my spine. Sometimes…I feel it causing a sharp stabbing pain in my head."

"Labyrinth-!" Lucifer stopped himself. He wanted to scold her. But he also knew using her full name would just make her shut down. He collected his thoughts.

"How long has this been going on?"

"I'm not sure. After I first pulled them out, I think. I didn't think much of it, since it was weird but small pains. I also know it can't be that long of a thing since I've only been in Hell for going on two months." Aby rubbed at her left arm nervously.

Anxious from the sudden outburst of her brother earlier. Truly, she felt like a child again. Being scolded and at the mercy of her older brother. Never a good feeling for her. When he said nothing after a couple seconds, she looked up again. Lucifer had a confused expression.

Quietly he asked, "What do you mean less than two months?"

"I got here shortly after the extermination", she explained.

"Yeah- my point exactly. The extermination is Hell's New Year's."

"Well you have a fun way of ignoring the half-er's birthday." Aby raised her glass in a toast at her little joke. Taking the twelfth shot of the evening.

Silently wishing Husk was here to read that she needed something stronger. He always knew when she needed something stronger. Not granting a second thought at how he was the first one he wished to be here when she had to face her older brother's stares of disappointment.

"Labyrinth…when did you get here? You know- from Earth's time stamp?"

"November."

"Think about it."

Lucifer never let Aby get in the habit of getting him to give her the answers. Instead encouraging to her use her own mind and figure things out for herself. Going through resources she had built up through her own power. And in cases like this, he wouldn't want to. She needed to figure it out for herself. Now, it was Aby's turn to be confused. Eyeing her brother as she froze. Her eyes wondering from different points of the room to others rapidly. It took longer than Lucifer expected as he watched her begin to look like she was zoning out. The gears were in overdrive now.

"No", she said just above a whisper.

"Yes." He answered her plainly. Ready to hold his volume for what was to come.

"No", she said louder.

"Yes."

"No. No. No. No!"

"Yes." Lucifer was fighting back the urge to laugh at this point.

Happy to see her transitions hadn't changed since she was a child. Much less since the last time he saw her. That recollection brought him down from the desire to laugh just enough to maintain his reserve. Taking the chance to figure out just how much she knew.

"Now, let me ask you another thing."

Lucifer watched Aby with her face buried in her hands. Shielding herself from his high and mighty all-knowing bullshit. However, after he began to talk, Aby looked through her fingers. Peeking with one eye as she kept her face hidden in both humiliation and anger. This was a mannerism that left a twinge of guilt in the apple king. Since she only did this because of something Gabriel had taught her back in Heaven. Something she clearly still felt the need to do when pushed to a certain extent. Lucifer shook the emotions within him. Continuing to his next point.

"How tall would you say your…," Lucifer rolled his eyes protectively as he spoke, "…lover is?"

"I don't know. 5'8"? Maybe less."

"Try 7'."

"Oh, well- wait then that means demons like Val and Angel would be-…"

"Taller", Lucifer snorted out at his sister's stunned expression.

"Well fuck me."

"Watch your mouth dear. It's not ladylike", he teased as he brought his drink to his lips.

Selling the bit as he caught Aby's face go red and pouty. Her anger evident from the way her eyes widened, and her mouth tightened in desire to protest. Though she said nothing. Normally, she would joke with her brother. But in events where she wasn't certain of his humor, she remained silent and upset. He really did enjoy their visits. It was the only thing that gave his life so much joy anymore.

*#*

Their conversation was coming to an end. Mainly because the club was starting to grow more dead. Both siblings were starting to get ready to say their goodbyes. For now. Neither wanting to say goodbye. Instead waiting for the other to crack first. Usually it was Aby. Her confidence in her ability in preventing from being a hindrance or annoyance to her older brother falling well in the negatives. It was all she could do to keep from seeming as though she nothing better to do than talk to her big brother all day. Taking the liberty of changing the topic to something she really wanted to discuss before ringing in the evening, she spoke up.

"Do you know if Charlie is trans?"

Lucifer froze. Mainly from the shock of the absurdity of the question. Absurd because Aby had no proof. Backed by how she asked it so carelessly. If not earnestly. Lucifer was intrigued by his little sister's endless curiosity. How she could come to the most random ideas from just one habit of instinct. He smiled knowingly as he made the choice to partake in the new conversation.

"And why- pray tell- would you wonder such a thing dear sister of mine?"

"It's just- She puts so much effort in avoiding her real name. She won't wear dresses unless they are gifted to her. And- well- she has her moments of being…" Aby paused, Looking for the way she wanted to describe it.

Lucifer chuckled. Offering the word, "Masculine?"

Aby perked up excitedly. Granted, it was a different kind. Like a scientist who had just been offered a number to plug into an equation they had yet to try. She snapped her fingers, allowing other hand to make a finger gun. Pointing it as Lucifer, she shouted out. The result making some of the other demons jump.

"That's it! That's the word."

The table was silent as the two looked at each other. Aby's train of thought cho-cho-chooing away with no destination in sight. Lucifer got a giggle picturing a play train on a circular track under a Christmas tree. The easily amused child of the family watching it go round and round. Waiting and watching for god knows what. That child, of course, being Aby. She could be so quick to take joy in the smallest things. He observed her now stuffing fries in her mouth in attempt to save herself the burden of talking.

"But- Don't you have a habit of acting masculine? Why would that mean anything?" Lucifer asked. Breaking the silence. Allowing his sibling a pass.

"I- I- I…was a tomboy. It's not the same thing." Aby's face gained a pink tint to her cheeks as she starred down. Clearly not proud of her younger days spent in splendor with males rather than gossiping with females. Lucifer decided he didn't want to know what kind of trouble she had gotten into because of it.

"Oh, I see", was all Lucifer offered.

Aby brought her hands to rest on the table. Her face was now one that contained sadness, determination, and longing. Lucifer felt a sense of worry come over him. It was rare for Aby to show that face. But, oh yes, he knew that face. He knew it well. It meant there was something she wanted. Something hopeless. Bringing herself to let it build within her. Like a Shonen power move in a final episode of a filler arc. Finding that small shove from the depths of her being that would give her certainty to mention it. Lucifer waited. Wanting to see if she would talk herself out of it.

"If I had it my way, I- I would either take Charlie to Earth with me or switch places with her down here."

Lucifer sighed. A relief to his mind had been given.

Why did I think it was going to be about the other thing? He questioned himself.

Deciding to deal with the matter at hand. Insistently, he explained, "The latter is not an option, sweetie."

Lucifer chuckled in response to Aby sticking her tongue out. Throwing him a raspberry for her own entertainment. He takes a minute to build his own confidence in a question he had been pondering.

Might as well. He reasoned. Since we're being honest.

Asking, "Why are you helping that- unique child of mine, Charlie, so persistently?"

She replied, "Yeah well- whatever…"

Aby sat taking a couple more fries for herself, following it with a question before her brother could have time to strike again.

"Why are you so hard on her, anyway?"

He shook his head stating, "She's my daughter through duty not through desire. I don't expect you to understand."

Aby looked at her brother with disappointment in her eyes. She did understand. In her own way. It stirred some old feelings in him when he saw the way she took it for what it was. Offering no judgement or protest. Giving no opinion to what must have sounded like a cruel conclusion. Having no real defense for it, he attempts to shake it off. Coming back to the same matter he always did when they met up. His desperation growing more apparent.

Lucifer, at this point, practically begs her, "Reconsider returning home. At once."

She refused. Offering no words to this. Knowing her words could never reach him. But rather than being mad or feeling anything other than grateful for her brother's constant attempts to convince her, she flashes him a sweet smile. Standing up from her chair, she gets up to leave. Not wanting to leave on an empty note, he plants an idea.

"If you really wanted to help Charlie, then you would go back to Earth. At least fulfill the duties of your creation. Surely by this time in your life you know-."

"You know why that's not possible."

A hurt tone in her voice gave Lucifer the feeling he was getting through to her.

Maybe just one more push. He dared. Just to see. She'll forgive me. She always forgives me.

In Aby's mind, was something different. A belief stronger than any prayer or contract. Truly believing she can never be the angel she once was. And although Lucifer didn't see it in her smile, the pain was evident in her eyes. The kind that gave birth to no tears. I was numbing and invisible. The kind that perfectly complemented rage. A cold, lifeless, bloodthirsty rage.

Before she can go, Lucifer asks one final question. "How are your friends? The familiars I made you. They must miss you terribly up above."

She paused. Taking a deep breath. Sighing lowly, she informs him, "The magic wore off. I'm still practicing the spell on my own. I'll let you know how it goes."

She looks back. He sits still at the table with his signature smile plastered to his face. Much like a large doll. A sarcastic joker's smile on her own as she continues.

"That is- unless the mighty Lucifer is ready to teach me."

He chuckles dryly. Making the cruel but acceptable joke, "You're nowhere near ready. You're still just a widdle baby."

He laughed harder at her reaction. Her middle fingers both up in the air, flipping him off. Though it was also as a joke. In a flash of green light, Aby was gone. Apparently teleporting herself from the spot. Leaving the older one without another word. Though he was displeased at how she so carelessly used her powers right after the discussion about the effects Hell was having on her body. If it was even being in Hell that caused it. Lucifer sat in the bar thinking back to another time. Maybe it was a better one. He liked to let himself believe so anyway.

*#*

Shortly after his exile, Lucifer began the daily visits with Aby. She missed her brother. Crying loudly from the confusion. She wiped her eyes.

"W-why did you have to go away? I don't understand. E-everyone says I did something bad. I-is it my fault?"

Lucifer would pat her head. Reaching through the tall, black bars of the gates. His hand nearly covering her whole head. He'd look at her with a wide, sad grin.

"I promise. It won't be forever. Just be patient. And don't worry. You did nothing wrong."

Aby began to cry again. This time even harder than before. Reaching up with her tiny toddler hands, trying her best to hold Lucifer's. Wanting to envelope it as he did hers. Frustrated at how she failed due to her small stature. Also, by something else. Resulting in something Lucifer hated to see from Aby. Speaking out with no regard for consequence. Bad enough powers combined with her honesty always made her say things she could almost never take back. But now her cries echoed out into the open wasteland that was the border of Hell.

"Brother! I'm scared! The others keep whispering! Gabriel had to help me when Rebecca tried to pluck some of my flight feathers! But he can't be there like you were! And no one else will come near me! Brother! Help me! I wanna be with you! I don't want the others to hurt me anymore!"

Lucifer gritted his fangs. His anger peaking. He swore to make Rebecca pay a thousand times over. She couldn't stay up there past the gates of paradise forever. Just because she was jealous of Labyrinth, gave her no right to torment the young angel. It wasn't Laby's fault.

She didn't ask for it! He cursed over and over. She didn't ask to be made this way! Father is the one! He's the one to blame! Damn him you fucking cowards!

He retracted his hand. Aby's hands dropping down to her side as she sniffled. Holding back her sobs so her brother could concentrate. Little did she know his plan had been to make her some friends out of clay. Ones who could double as bodyguards. He stood still. Hating the distance that had grown to pull them apart. Even now, wanting nothing more than to keep her with him. But he was not a heartless man. Cruel, eccentric, selfish- all those things yes. But he wasn't heartless. Aby would hate it in Hell. She was too kind. He shook the hopeless desire, followed by giving Aby her orders.

"Sister. I need some things from you."

The child, who was now rubbing her eyes once more, peaked up from her hands. The whites of her eyes now red and irritated. Her nose running with a substance that was a mix between blood and mucus. Lucifer explained the items he needed Aby to bring him. Listing them one by one. First, she would bringing him the clay. Then she would provide the items from creatures with the qualities she wanted them to possess. Claws, fangs, horns. Anything she thought these little darlings would need. Aby was quick in gathering many bones, scales, feathers, and other sorts. Leaving it to Lucifer to decide the design. The last thing he would need, was the water from the spring of tears. It was a mysterious spring said to contain the waters from the great flood God used to devastate the land above. You know when he ctrl + alt deleted everyone's ass. No one knew where it was hidden. Except one.

The failed creation. The one the angels called 'The Mother of Hell.' She had been the reason Lucifer was assigned to watch over Hell. A seductress with an insatiable hunger for the souls of man. She was the first siren of despair. Tall, slim and beautiful. You would never know just how evil she really was. The queen of the damned; Lilith.

Though it was forbidden for Aby to travel within the gates, she could communicate with the ones down below. All she had to do was pluck a feather from her wings. Which she brought inward to hug herself as she shivered. Aby hated the pain of her feathers being ripped from her. To her it was the equivalent of a small human child saying they hated shots after one doctor gave them five in the same arm in the same ten-minute span. Lucifer watched as the colors of Aby's wings glittered. She had such beautiful wings. They glowed dimly with a hue that matched the full moons. Her feathers glistened like a holographic collector's card. Each part being given a personal shimmer based on how the light hit it. Even Aby was vain in regard to it. And why wouldn't she be? As in all things- she was the only one with such wings. Though, in Heaven, only solid white was an acceptable color for a high-ranking angel. Only a hand full had white wings. Including Lucifer. The rest were of various colors and designs. Apparently, God had a sense of humor. Or poetic justice. Whatever the fuck it was- it pissed Lucifer off.

Nevertheless, Aby did as she was asked. Coming closer to the gates, she stretched out a wing. Lucifer wasted no time or effort before taking a feather with an audible 'plink.' Aby jerked her wing back. Petting a random spot to make herself feel better rather than disperse the pain. A cute little hic escaping her mouth. She was calmer now that she had something to take up the majority of her focus.

Once Lucifer handed Aby back the feather, she did her thing. Blowing on it until it fell apart. The little hairs that made up the feather traveling down to the lowest level of Hell. There, in a lush, luxurious room, sat the blonde haired, double horned, winged eyeliner wearing creature that was Lilith. Aby's spell opening the window and blowing in a breeze through the curtains. Lilith took a sip of her drink as she waited for the magic to take full effect. An astroprojection of Aby stood before the ruling queen. She squinted her eyes at the youngest angel. Standing her ground. Looking for an act of revenge. Inevitably settling for an opportunity to make Aby dig or her own grave.

*#*

Three days had passed. Aby had found the spring but was unsuccessful at retrieving the water. Apparently only non-angels could go there, due to a barrier keeping it sealed off. Which meant Aby would have to assign a human or other non-angel species clan member to get the water for her. Sadly, she knew none that would oblige her request. So, she called on the services of someone else. At a crossroads, she summoned a demon. A huge gamble on her part since these particular demons didn't like doing deals or talking if they got nothing out of it. And they almost always wanted to be let out of Hell in exchange. Luckily for Aby, there was one she could count on due to his boss's- shall we say- unusual tastes.

"I need to talk to Stolas please", Aby stated after her summoning was successful.

The demon she called had been named Abraham. He rolled his eyes. Annoyed at being called up for the little guardian's own stupid reason. Thinking it was going to be like every other time. Where she was just bored and wanted a playmate. Lonely because the humans didn't like her, and her own family couldn't stand her. Abraham vanished in a puff of smoke, taking the message to his boss. About a week later, a small squad of imps had been sent to the human world. Aby awoke to them sleeping in the branches of one of her two peach trees.

"Hey!" She cried to them. "Get down from there! Right now! That's very rude!"

The group didn't need much convincing since they jumped to the ground upon being ordered to. They stood straight as they saluted their temporary employer. Two of the three looked like they could be twins. Aby couldn't see their mouths, since their faces were so pointed. Each one had a long horn and a short horn. One had the long horn on the left while the other had it on the right. The leader, an imp with two long horns that curved lightly, made himself known first.

"Apologies madam. We were just preparing for the mission with a hit of rest and some food. The peaches are delicious, by the way. Don't worry, though. We have scouted the area you seek. We will be back with the water by nightfall. I presume you already cleared things on your end."

Aby took a second to listen to his voice as he spoke. His voice was commanding, short, to-the-point and the result of a higher male voice purposely deepening it for the position. She liked it. Thinking it meant he had a less serious side to him. She happily responded to the question.

"Yes. My brother says he'll divide the artifacts amongst the demon nobles once he establishes some ground rules and concludes who should have what item. I, of course, recommended Stolas for the book of Lost Spells." Aby announced the terms with high, pristine, confidence. Happy to have been able to meet such a random request.

"Excellent."

The imps were about to leave when Aby tapped the leader on the shoulder. He looked back with a quick swish and flick of his long, arrow pointed tail.

"What's your name?"

"Why do you care?" He asked. His voice dropped into a deeper, more unimpressed tone. He had no time to amuse a child. Much less an angel toddler.

"I like you. I might name one of my new friends after you."

The imp thought for a minute. Glancing at Aby from the side. She could hear him making some kind of purring noise. She didn't know imps could make such a sound. The new discovery its own little reward for Aby.

"Tell you what. Instead- you can name my first born. It's a boy. Deal?"

Aby cocked her head. Disappointed that the imp hadn't given her his name. Now she had to think up three names instead of two. Thinking that was gonna be hard. She bit her lip. Looking at the imp who seemed to not care either way if Aby was willing to take the deal or not. She smiled as she brought her hand up to pet him on the head. He pushed back against her hand, meeting her touch. She kissed one of his horns at the base where is grew from the skull of his head. The holiness of her power leaving a white spot on the area.

"Okie dokie."

The imp touched the spot she kissed. A grumpy blush on his face. He spat at the ground dramatically. Before looking at the guardian again.

"Just for that…I'll add a bonus. My kid's gonna know your name. And someday- he's gonna serve you. My entire bloodline will."

Aby was given no chance to respond to that promise. Before she ever got any form of an idea in her mind for one, the imps were gone. She looked around from where she stood unable to find any sign of them. Once she was certain she was alone she giggled and spun around the way happy children do when they go off into their own little world. Sure, she had to think up three names. But now she would have friends for years to come.

"Now I won't ever have to be alone." Her eyes glowed with the same radiance of green jade. Her magic seeped through her, slowly increasing in flow. She was so thrilled she could hardly contain it.

*#*

"They look like dragons", Aby exclaimed with her childlike wonder.

"Try gargoyles", Lucifer advised his sister.

Words could not describe the look that would pop up on his face whenever he had to correct his sister's observations. Mainly her incorrect ones. Anyone who grew up with an older sibling would recognize the expression. Even so, he didn't hold the face for very long as the gargoyle minions, er- companions- went in circles around Aby. Sniffing her, tugging her dress and thwacking her with their tails as they wagged them in pure joy. Aby picked them both up in her arms. Struggling to hold them due to their large size and heavy bodies.

Lucifer watched. Making mental notes in silence. In the future he would need to adjust the materials used. The bodies would need to be made of something lighter. Aby swayed back and forth while her companions used their tails to brace their balance. Keeping Aby as close to upright as they could. Now seemed like as good a time as any for the eldest to speak.

"Now remember- these little guys are your friends. That being said, you must be nice to them. They will also respond to your emotions and your conscience. Whatever you feel is right, they feel is right. So verbal communication isn't always essential. That being said, they can't go into Heaven with you."

This was where Aby's attention span perked the most. She cocked her head, placing her new friends down. They each took a seat on either side of her. Their posture straight with their heads held high. Lucifer caught the change in their behavior. Had he not seen them jumping around earlier, no one would be the wiser about their sentience.

"Why not, Luci?"

Lucifer gave a deep sigh just past the gates. Reaching through to take Aby's hand. She took it in turn. Watching with a curious, but disappointed, look about her.

"There are many types of magic, Laby. Only God's creations may go to Heaven. Your too young to understand, but this is my specialty. Remember the deal you made with Lilith?"

Aby nodded solemnly.

"Good girl", he patted her head with his free hand as he continued, "And a good deal maker…-".

"Always keeps their word", Aby stated triumphantly. Her chest pushed out in pride. Something she was nothing but when it came to her newly earned title.

"Which means…?"

Aby's chest deflated rapidly. Her face falling into a pout. Now it was her turn to give a deep sigh. Giving a singsong tone as she answered, "I can't take Brain and Brawn into Heaven."

"Good girl", Lucifer singsonged back teasingly. Trying not to comment on the names.

Instead, he split a peach with her. Giving her the half with the cod. Aby had managed to grow the trees in the world of the living. A rare sight since the conditions of plants in Hell would result in them almost never surviving anywhere but Hell.

Let this one sprout another for your hard work little sister.

*#*

Years later, after her accident, Aby was summoned by Lucifer. Taking the time to meet him earlier than their usual time, she found her curiosity getting the best of her.

What a twist. She joked with herself.

She now looked more like she was around six or five. Appearing around four about the time Lucifer was banished. However, after spending enough time in the human world, she had developed some distinct quirks. Ones that only Lucifer seemed to notice. At least, he could say she was getting better at adapting to the way humans did things.

As she approached the gates, she could make out the white suit he took to wearing these days. After catching her in his line of sight, she witnessed him perking up. She closed the gap by placing her hands in Lucifer's hands. He intertwined their fingers, bouncing their locked hands in a playful way. Aby raised an eyebrow, suspiciously looking her brother over. He rarely acted this way. Which meant one thing; he wanted something.

"Laby!"

"Brother," Aby said in a warning tone.

"Oh- right. Aby."

Aby gave a shake of her head. Her smile said she was glad to take the time to have this sort of moment. But Lucifer saw something else bothering her. Not wanting to take it for granted, he went to the next part of the introductions.

"I'm sure you're anxious to know why I called you here."

"I'm sure you're about to tell me."

"Well- I have a favor."

"Uh-oh."

Lucifer shined his most innocent smile. Letting go of Aby's hands, using them to hold the bars of the gate. Leaning into it, he waited for Aby to mentally prepare herself. She crossed her arms, bushing her weight to her left as she nodded.

"Relax. It's not a hard thing. In fact, it's a request. All you have to do, is make two dolls."

Lucifer held up the number two on one hand. Smiling so wide, he closed his eyes. Because of this, he wasn't able to watch Aby process the information he gave her. Which was a shame since Aby was now fully confused. She glanced around. Mainly waiting for the part that would sell her on the request. Lucifer's face dropped. He opened his eyes back up since she had yet to respond in any way. He gave it a couple more minutes. When nothing happened except for her scratching her nose he added in the surprise detail.

"The designs would be of your choosing."

"Okay. I'm listening", Aby stated. Dropping to sit cross legged on her butt.

It was here, their discussion was allowed to really take off. Lucifer doing most of the talking, naturally. Aby only taking his explanation in major points.

Number one: He plans to have a daughter.

Number two: He wants her to have a piece of the only family he would ever care to have her know. (This being Aby)

It sounded simple enough. But, Aby was still reluctant to help since the mother was going to be Lilith. By now their relationship was well established. Lucifer had advised Aby she was too young to understand. Something that, as time went on, she was growing increasingly used -if not completely, utterly, sick and tired- of hearing. Something that the girl would reject by stating she understand enough. The only reason it didn't lead to a fight, was because Lucifer couldn't make Aby give up her opinion. He endured many things about his sister. Including her small, more or less harmless, moments of defiance. When she made up her mind, however rare that was, she never changed it. That also never stopped Luci from trying, though.

Lucifer took the time to ask a vital question. "Are you truly willing to deny your niece the chance to have a keepsake? Even if she is birthed by Lilith- she's my daughter too. Can't you care for her just for that reason alone."

The last part hadn't been a question. It was really more of a challenge. One Aby wasn't willing to being baited into taking head on. Lucifer and Lilith had been a thing almost the day Lucifer had been banished. She was the reason her was sent there. Aby also knew her brother would take advantage of how she had never been human. The first wife of Adam- yes. Human- not even for a second. Aby tried to put her foot down. She tried her darndest to see only her view as the correct one. Too bad for the fallen. She just wasted designed that way. Needing to make something clear, she gave a question of her own.

"Just- tell me the reason behind this little project. I grow ill of your secrets brother."

Lucifer, once more, patted his sister's head. "You grow ill-, yet you keep every secret that is entrusted to you. Such a good little guardian." Aby pouted.

Her face was one of increasing irritation. Lucifer took this as a sign not to press his luck. Aby was still healing from the accident. Her moods remaining more on the fuel and unforgiving side as a result. She would only make him regret his words if pushed too far. So, he spoke again. This time much more courteous in his choice of words.

"I assure you. It has more to do with the future Charlette will grow into."

Lucifer went to move his head from Aby's head. Only to have it caught in her grasp. She closed her eyes. Wrapping her hand around his. When she failed to envelope it, she brought her other hand to join it. Using both, she tried again. Hissing in frustration when her goal remained unreached. Lucifer caught her change in demeanor immediately. Reaching into his pocket with his free hand, he pulled the lucky peach of the day. Placing it under Aby's nose, who opened her eyes as the recognizable scent. He was relieved to see her chipper attitude come back in the blink of an eye. It made it easier when he approached the choice to unveil yet another secret to her. Feeling his precious little sister deserve a reward for her efforts.

"She would need someone to protect her and teach her when I couldn't. Not that I would even consider doing so forever. Just as I would have eventually done with you. Had fate been a little more kind to both of us."

It wasn't a lie. Not exactly. And despite making such a claim with the certainty of a king, Lucifer felt he had instead sounded like a brother who had given up on the only one who ever listened to him. In a perfect, shapeless world. It had been Aby who demanded there be at least one thing that made it all worth it. Lucifer supposed, if nothing else, it was like a prisoner being sent letters every day without fail. His circumstance didn't change but the letter would be an event of mystery. Something to look forward to. Maybe grow with. It was the one songbird who chirped their life away just so such a beast could hear something beyond the terrors of a mind gone mad.

What must that be like?

Though he asked it in his own astray mind, Lucifer never dared question it further. He didn't even think about it too hard. This was Hell. It was eternal. It was a torture. And it was his to command. He would break the neck of every songbird. Rip every letter. At the end of the day, nothing would take him from the vision that was him sitting tall on his throne.

"Brother. I have something to ask. Something selfish. If I do this. If I help you by helping the spawn. Will you finally let me cut off my wings and stay with you?"

Hell could be very lonely to those who succumb to its grasp. But Lucifer would bare it. For the sake of his sister. His innocent, undamaged, wrongfully charged sister. He would kill even his own songbird. By any means necessary. That's why Labyrinth would hate here. If she ever came, she would hate the things Lucifer had become. She would hate Lucifer.

*#*

Back in Hell during the present, Aby whistled to the music playing off her phone. Taking the long way for an extended walk home. Using it for some personal time. It was here she came into view of a giant glass window. Passing by a wall made of small TVs that displayed a disruption to the current news broadcast. Aby stopped to watch. The possible disruption of nightly programming going ignored by an announcement from the 666 news was always a treat. But something made Aby raise an eyebrow. By the looks of things, it hadn't been an announcement that stopped the nightly programming. Katie Killjoy and Tom Trench both sitting in their respective seats. Katie taking the lead, making Aby want to hurl in her mouth. Maybe in Katie's. It was tempting.

I reaaaally can't stand that bitch. She thought. Picturing all the ways she'd like to torture her. Distracted while the two went about their business. Not caring until the part that concerned her came up.

"This just in", Katie declared, "A new video feed that shows the progress of Hell's very own Porn Actor Angel Dust and his new manager. The Famously Fallen Labyrinth."

Aby shuddered. She was hardly famous. Even as a fallen. Much less Angel's manager.

How did they even come up with that crap? She inwardly demanded.

It was here things took a turn for the scandalous. The screen changed to the start of a video that Aby recognized. That was because, it was the same one she recorded on a camcorder just a couple nights ago when Angel had 'purchased' her services. Aby subconsciously raised her hand to her mouth as the sex tape played. Tom Trench was shown sitting on Angel Dust's lap in Katie Killjoy's chair. His pants had been long discarded along with his suit jacket. His shirt was open more than halfway from the neckline down, his hair disheveled, and the noises from his mouth were of pure wanton lust. The camera was still. Making Aby happy when Angel complimented her lack of rookie-shaky-cam-itis later. You could make out Angel penetrating him. Fucking him slow and sensual, letting his pleasure build. Angel bringing one hand around to pump his erection a couple times. Just getting him close to the edge before pulling it away again. Tom's hands kept reaching over his head to feel at whatever part of Angel he could. Spreading his legs as he bucked hard back against the soft pink hips rolling up into him.

God damn he wants it so bad. Aby joked.

Disappointed they hadn't started earlier on where Tom had been bouncing himself sporadically on the desk where Katie's hands sat folded. Angel angling his hips up, making his back arch in a very tempting way. Aby snapped back knowing right here was were the audience was getting into it. But things were about to get a bigger reaction since that wasn't all you saw.

The video showed a zoom out effect. Revealing bits and pieces of Cherri being her chaotic self as Aby's hand is seen massaging her large breasts. Her moans loud and high pitched as she rocked herself into the touches. One arm holding her hair off to the side, so it didn't block the view. Aby recalled that being only part of the reason for her movement. Since they had placed a bullet in her underwear to vibrate against her clit. She had been using Aby's thigh to hold it in place. Occasionally circulating her hips and pushing her ass back on Aby. Though it hadn't reached where Cherri had wanted it to on Aby, it was very effective for her own arousal.

Bold girl that one.

Aby's other hand tugging her underwear up to make the bullet press against her harder. Cherri's other hand keeping her lower set of lip spread as she straddled Aby's waist. With her ankles. The girls had been in a reverse cowgirl position. Leaving Aby to focus on Tom's reactions to Angel as he was left watching Cherri getting herself off. Aby adding to the sight by rubbing her most sensitive areas, like her neck or her back. Aby, at the time, very neutral on the matter. Neutral meaning not giving a flying fuck what her reputation would come to. Since she had been involved in the four way for the sake of getting back at Killjoy. Something that Cherri was more than happy to help with.

Having told the street duo, "That bitch cut my screen time during the territory shit storm. Fuck yeah I want to get even!"

Aby had been nervous when the other two told her what they wanted to do with Tom. Aby's original plan just being to have him fuck himself on Katie's chair and the other three be a little chaotic film crew. Either way she wanted Cherri to take a shit on Katie's chair before they left. Needless to say, she had to really think about how to approach Cheri's body in that way. Not knowing what to do to get Cherri off, but apparently very good at it anyway. That or Cherri was good at faking it. Best shown in the second to last part of the video. Since everyone in the group, with the exception of Aby, was growing increasingly louder as the simultaneous orgasm approached. Their thrusting and hip rocking speeding up franticly.

Aby watched with anticipation wanting to see how the cum shot came out. Only to end up laughing out loudly the moment the video was cut short. Katie seen with the most bizarre expression on her face. One that showed absolute shock, disbelief, and silent rage. All of which did not look good on the newscaster. But oh god, Aby loved the way her reporter's smile had been long gone by the cutback. All due to the wide-eyed bitch's current absorption of what she had seen; making it all worth it. Aby can hear the distinct noise of static. Looking up long enough to find the news screen stuck on the 'Off- Air' display.

Aby gave a last chuckle as she snapped her fingers. She had made a promise to Tom that he wouldn't suffer Katie's wrath if he gave in to her and Angel's plan. And after seeing that display in full screen HD, she had no intention of breaking it. That and she really wasn't that kind of deal maker.

At the studio, the news crew was on standby with a fire extinguisher and Katie's favorite drink in preparation to calm her. The head of the network getting ready to send a listing out for a replacement after Tom was murdered. Imagine everyone's inability to comprehend their situation when they realized they didn't need any of it. Proven when Katie's demon form returned to her usual self. Tom being the only one to not catch on, since he was curled up in a corner ready for his death at the hands of the Anchor. When nothing happened, he brought his arms down enough to look for the reason. Seeing Katie back at her chair. Her neck snapping in its standardized unpleasant way. The rest of the crew didn't keep her waiting as they resumed the broadcast. Even so, no one took their eyes off her. Trying to figure out why she had been so quick to get over the event so easily. Though it wasn't certain if anyone actually cared since it meant none of them died. Evident by how not a single demon asked the forbidden question out loud. Tom was struck with both fear and joy. Feeling some sort of light may have shown itself at the end of his never-ending tunnel. Until he was screamed at only a minute later to get his ass back to his post. Taking his position, they carried on. Tom had the nagging feeling that Katie wouldn't bother him about what just happened. As long as he didn't bring it up. Which he never would. But he did consider requesting Angel's services in the future.

Fuck. He thought. Maybe I'll ask the entire trio for another round. It would be cheaper than my normal way.

From her spot in front of the wall of screens, Aby was pleased to see the broadcast continue. Giving an approving nod of her head. Aby turned and continued on her way back to the hotel. Taking her phone out of her pocket, she sent a text the Angel.

"Just saw the news. Don't know who you called to get the video up but I gotta ask… Was it as good for you as it was for me?"

*#*

Later that night Aby was drinking at Husker's bar, Frank Sinatra playing off the record behind him. Currently, the song that rang up through the room was 'That's Life'. Aby sat listening carefully to the lyrics. The back of her mind reminding her of a quote from the human world she had read within the last five years.

'When you're needing to hear the music, you listen to the tune. When you're needing to hear the emotion, you listen to the lyrics.'

Aby had never realized until just now how much truth the ridiculous phrase had. That or it had been too long a day. Ending up so that, in this moment, she was willing to accept anything. Either way, she took a minute to be grateful to Husker in person. He had set it all up for her after they played a round of blackjack. They made a deal at the start and she won the friendly bet. This, naturally, brought a thought to her mind. One she had to run by the old feline to see where he stood on the matter.

"This time around it's my music. Next time you lose, you have to play me something on the Sax." She observed him sitting against the counter, booze in one hand.

He turned his head, looked her up and down briefly, then smirked. With a quick raise and fall of his eyebrows in a 'Well okay' manner. He got ready to drink again, saying, e H"Doll, I'd play for you if all you did was ask."

Aby gave him the first full smile that night since she got back. Replying back in a curiously mischievous tone. One that almost sounded flirty to Husk.

"What would you play for me, cool cat?"

He gave her a solemn look. They shared it soon enough. Starring at one another for a long silent, tranquil moment. It was so surreal to him, it could have been a painting in a museum. Or even a scene in the cinema. And he would have never thought it to be more than a dream either way. Aby said nothing more. Giving him the peace to think. Just then, he straightening up. Taking a long, fulfilling swig from his bottle. He followed it with a dramatic exhale of breath. The kind only a heavy drinker could make look acceptable in public affairs. Aby shook her head as she smiled at him. Settling on his answer, he spoke at last.

"Any-damn-thing you want doll. Anything-damn-thing at all." The tone in his voice was a strong, confident one that expressed pure devotion to the cause.

A sense of readiness could also be made out in his answer. It took Aby back to days long since past. When a fella would say the dumbest shit in the sincerest ways just to show his metal. But Aby knew Husk wasn't doing it for that reason. He did it because he meant it. Doubting there was anything she couldn't ask of him. On that thought, Aby brought her glass up. The two tapped their glass containers together as a cheers to another night in pleasant company. Aby looked down at her sketch pad. She grabbed her pencil and began to sketch the lovely bartender in all his charm and glory. Husk watch in silence as the song on the record shifted over to play the next song. This one was one he knew called 'Witchcraft'. Aby began speaking about an idea she had for a TV commercial. She wanted to run it by Alastor but was in doubt about it since it was Alastor. Apparently wanting to do a musical skit to old Blue eye's 'New York, New York'.

Husk was listening to her partly knowing she would just explain it and maybe ask for a yes or no response. He used the time to clean more glasses used from earlier in the night. Watching and starring at the lovely bird in front of him. Though she never looked up at him, she could feel his eyes on her. She took that as a sign that he was listening. But that wasn't entirely the case. Had she looked up she would have seen it. That look in his eyes that only a man could give when he saw the only thing that ever mattered to him more than the bottle he had come to put above all others for so long. Though he knew he was doing it, he didn't resist it. He told himself as long as he never put a name on it, if he never tried to call it by what it was, it was fine. He could stay this close and never have to call it anything more than what she called it. Sooner or later he would want more. But Husk was old. And he was old for a reason. There were many things he learned in his days. So, he would settle for the music filled, card game playing, magic trick showing, liquor licking shots at the bar. He would drink until the pain in his chest numbed. Until the shaking in his knees, causing the inability to stand, was passed off as the result of too many drinks. And the dryness in his throat was most from the dehydration his body endured. Another tally for the booze that poured down his throat like the flood rapids in a thunderstorm. That was when he was flung from the place in his mind, hearing Aby say his name.

"What about you, Husker? Would you do it if we got enough people for it?"

Husk didn't need to know what it was. He just answered in his grumbly way, "If you want me to. I trust you, doll."

Then he saw that giddy smile grace her face. He took another drink. Her smile became bigger as she continued. Then another drink. Her fingers running over the paper as her hair fell in her face in just the right way. And another drink after that. It was all he needed. This right here. Its all he wanted.

*#*

"Hu-ah-Husker!"

"Do it for me baby", he encouraged. The dark haired fallen under him. Her hips meeting his thrusts.

"Hus-ker. Slow down. I-I'm close."

"A little longer, doll. Then- I- hm…I'll pull it out."

He took the warning in kind. Not wanting to hurt her, he quickened his pace. If he timed it right, she would finish before the barbs on his shaft would extend. She loved it when he pulled out to rub against that spot to make her finish. After assaulting that spot deep inside her, it was the perfect change. She moaned. Switching off between high squeaks and low groans. Husk pushed harder, trying to get her to say something naughty to him. Maybe call him a pet name. Something to let him know this was everything she wanted. Aby's back was arching up higher, making him adjust the angle. Her hips rolling as her legs spread wider. She was squeezing so tight around him. This was it. Husk couldn't hold it anymore.

"Say my name", he grunted out into her ear. Pulling back just in time.

"Huh-Husker!" Aby's body shook.

Her legs locking up behind his lower back. Extending her arms to grab at Husk's shoulders, dropping her shoulders in the process. She threw her head back. Husk moaned hard, letting her pull him forward. Both his hands bracing his weight. His cock twitched angrily upon climax. String after string of cum covering Aby's torso. His wings flapping with a small patter while his feathers ruffled. Just then- it happened.

Husk awoke from his slumber crying out as his body tensed in a very familiar way. His panting making his mouth run dry. Not surprised to find that one of his pillows was tucked under his body. His shaft rubbing against it whorishly. It was the third orgasm he had had that night. His eyes went wide at the realization. The heat had made him wake up in orgasm. He hissed impatiently. His heat cycle was really working him this go around. Nothing he did would make his body calm down enough to allow him to rest. That was a lie. It was the lewd dreams he was having of Aby that had been causing it. And, if he was honest, he wasn't doing much to stop them.

"F-fuck! Damn it!" He cried in frustration and shame.

He chucked a pillow at the wall at the foot of his bed as hard as he could. Husk sat collecting his thoughts. He grabbed a pack of wipes from the nightstand, cleaning himself off. Once he was satisfied, he changed his bedding for what he hoped would be the last time that night. Sighing frustratedly, he looked over his work. Deciding he wasn't going to get any sleep for the rest of the night, he made his way to his bathroom. Running a lukewarm bath, he jerked himself hard. To the point he was almost raw. Drinking the harder liquor, he kept on reserve for his heat cycle between beats.

Don't know how. He thought to himself. But I'll make it through this one if it kills me.

The next morning, he stumbled around his room. Ignoring the clock on the nightstand telling him it was the morning with that annoying ticking sound. He was about to smash it, when his common sense told him to take out the batteries. Almost on cue he heard footsteps and chattering outside the door. There was a knock that followed. Just a little loud for his tastes. He was already in a foul mood.

Which was probably why he yelled so rudely at whoever to, "GO THE FUCK AWAY!"

It was a couple seconds, but he could make out the sound of whispers followed by a loud 'smack'. The door slowly opened. Aby entered with a bed tray full of the breakfast from the morning. Behind her was Alastor, rubbing at the back of his head lightly. His smile just the same as it always was when Aby 'leashed' his ass; angry- but shocked. Closing the door, giving Husk a knowing stare. Husk felt his body tense. Aby, on the other hand, making her way over to his bed.

Setting the tray down on the comforter as she commented, "Missed you at breakfast. You're not sick, are you?"

Husk says nothing. Backing away to keep from smelling her. His breathing hitching and rapidly becoming distorted. Aby caught it. Fearing he might have been having a panic attack. Mainly because she was far too used to her imp friend Moxxie. So, she did what she thought was best. She approached him slowly. Keeping her hands low but extended outward from her waistline.

"Husker. I'm worried. You don't look well. Please rest." She reached up to touch him.

Husk felt the panic. On instinct his hand swiped up to smack hers away. However, his claws accidently nicked her wrist. Aby pulled her hand back fast, grabbing the spot he caught with his claws. Alastor said nothing as he stood near the door with his hands behind his back. His smiled growing more menacing and devious. Husk still said nothing. But the look on his face was all the apology Aby needed to hear. She backed away carefully.

Informing the cat demon, "It's okay. I know you're just in a mood. I'll leave you alone. Just- call me… if you need me."

Aby turned to leave, still holding her wrist. Husk reached out for Aby. A pitiful squeak from his mouth escaping. It was as though he wanted to talk but couldn't. Aby turned around. The concern hidden behind a soft smile. Husk had to ask himself who she was wearing it for. Not able to verbally ask, since Husk still had trouble controlling his breathing. But this was different. He needed to say it. So, he mustered up his strength.

"I-I want you…to stay."

Aby turned to face Husk entirely. Studying him. Trying to find out what could possibly have him this way. At this point, Husk could no longer hold his weight. Touching her, smelling her- it all made it want to pounce. Falling to his knees instead. Aby lunged forward to catch him, holding him in her arms. She looked back at Alastor, who only gave a small wave of his hand. She carried Husk back to his bed, laying him down. Alastor, taking it upon himself to move the tray for her. Noticing it, she passes him a thankful nod, graced with her best wifely smile. Turning back to the cat, it instantly fell. Aby not concerned since Alastor couldn't see her face. He could, however, see her petting and pampering Husk. Her panicked expression needing to be the least of her worries from where the Radio Demon stood.

Husk took her hand in his. Reaching up to pull her closer to him. Almost entirely forgetting Alastor was in the room. If he did recall the fact, he ignored it. Aby complied thinking he was going to try to tell her something. Surprised as he flipped them over, so he was atop of her. Frantically, he began rubbing his body over hers. Holding her close to him as his wings extended and curled in over them on the bed. His tail wrapping around her left leg tightly. Husk continued not responding to Aby's small protests for him to calm down and talk to her. Her face a tinted pinked as his soft fur tickled her. The result leaving her with a weird smile. Alastor watched in silence as he knew Husk to already be in heat. Desperate to cover the girl's scent with his own. And failing by the looks of him. Aby blushed when she noticed the bizarre look on the Radio Demon's face. She had never seen it before. She reached out to him, expecting him to help her get the drunk off her. Instead Alastor advised her to do as she pleased since Husk needed her right now. Aby called for him to wait, but Alastor was beyond reasoning with. Alastor turned on his heel and left the room. Leaving Aby there to work with Husk in the condition he was in.

Her blush deepened as he started purring loudly. The vibration coming off his body and sinking into hers. With no idea what else she could do, Aby sang him a song as she held him tight by the neck. Waiting for him to come back to her from whatever corner of his mind he was trapped in. She sang softly to him the only song that ever gave her hope in her worst moments through her life. Fighting back tears as she tried her best to understand what was happening to her sweet friend. Worry taking her as she remembered Alastor just giving a smile with a hidden meaning in his eyes and Husk's strange physical behaviors. She felt in the dark. And she really hated not knowing shit. Focusing instead on the matter at hand.

"We'll meet again. Don't know where. Don't know when. But I know we'll meet again some sunny day. Keep smiling through. Just like you always do. 'Till the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away."

*#*

Later that night, Aby blinked her eyes open. Having fallen asleep to Husk in her arms. Happy to see he was still there. Realizing they had both fallen asleep and managed to stay that way the entire day. At least, based on the lack of light from under the door, that seemed to be the case. A knock on the door stirred Aby fully awake. Her heart raced. Wondering who it could be. She was relieved to see Angel enter the room. With him, he brought her dinner. Letting her inner child show by reaching up with both hands flexing her fingers in a 'Gimme, gimme' motion. Angel resisted the urge to laugh when the drool practically flooded down her chin. Her eyes wide in hunger. He was tempted to mess with her by keeping the tray of food from her. Quick to dismiss it on the account that he enjoyed living more than a twisted joke against the fallen angel. Especially when food was involved. That was how you lost your hands.

He set the tray down on the floor, helping Aby sit up enough to eat. Angel helped get Husk down to Aby's waist. Getting hit by his wing in the process. Angel caught his balance fast thanks to Aby snatching him by the foot the flew up past her. His upper set of hands on either side of off the tray for dear life. If he had to go get another tray cuz he mucked up this one, he'd be in deep shit with Aby and Nifty. Not a good place to stand. He made it back to his upright slutty self in no time. Taking in a deep breath an exhaling delightfully.

Complimenting, "Great Satan, I love that smell!"

Aby paused her actions of reaching for the bread roll while Angel was distracted. Looking at the porn star.

"What are you talking about?" Aby held her arms close to her sides.

Smelling the collar of her dress. She knew she showered. But her smell was something that always made her self-conscious. Alastor and Nifty were such neat freaks. If she did so much as wore the wrong perfume, all they would do is bitch and moan about it until she took it off. A mistake she only made once. Angel watched with an amused expression. Brining the tray to Aby's reach. Sitting on the bed he explained.

"The smell of the overwhelming desire to fuck like crazy, of course. Husk is in heat. Ca-."

Angel stopped. He kept an eye on Aby, who was snacking on a piece of meat. Blushing as she poked at Husk's ear. Making it twitch when it was tickled. That's when Angel had to ask.

"Why can't you tell?"

Aby shrugged.

"Never did have the best sense of smell", she confessed.

It wasn't an exaggeration. Years of blood, sweat, decay and animal shit made her sense of smell dull. Angel made the conclusion in his mind that that may have very well been the reason she could be with someone like Alastor. Who reeked of death and…something else. Meanwhile, Husk nuzzled closer to Aby. Who let the next question slip out.

"Why isn't Husk trying to fuck me?"

Angel clarified, "That's cuz everyone has heat differently in Hell. Some days all they wanna do is fuck. Other days they just want to cuddle and then fuck."

Aby saw Angel shiver in anticipation. Wondering if he had a heat cycle.

What is that like? She scolded herself for not knowing more about spiders. Snorting lightly. Giggling at the whirlpool of emotions inside her. Angel joined her soon after.

Husk woke up. Finding Aby and Angel laughing and talking as she ate the food offered to her. Aby caught him. Offering Husk some to regain his strength but he refused. His body shaking. Aby asked the only thing she knew to ask.

"Please, Huck. Tell me what I can do to help."

His response was an unexpected one. Replying with, "Pay the whore for me until I can return the favor."

Aby didn't have much time to process his statement. Instead, stuck where she was observing Husk's actions. Without warning, he reached up and grabbed Angel by the wrists, throwing him further down on the bed. Angel could see the pure lust in his eyes. Getting excited Angel stopped Aby when she tried to intervein.

Telling her, "Don't worry. It will be a good learning experience for you."

He faced the smaller one. Letting Husk take the lead. Husk knew it would go this way. He just couldn't believe he was this desperate. But he was a fair man…sometimes. So, he gave the slut fair warning.

"Just so you don't bitch about it later", he explained, "The reason I doesn't allow sex to be a major thing for me is because my shaft is barbed. That's not gonna be a problem is it?"

Angel responds by wiggling his ass against Husk's cock. Which was now exposed and leaking. Aby blushing.

When the fuck did it-? She couldn't finish the thought.

Before they fuck, Angel was ordered by Husk to keep as quiet as he could. Pulling over the foot of the bed, leaning him over the edge. Angel was then told to keep his hands to himself. Throwing a blanket over Angel as he spoke so he didn't have too much reminding him who he was fucking. Aby watched as Husk got wild. Going straight for the full in penetration. Easing in fast but controlled, until the base met Angel's hips. He was breathing hard, his mouth hanging open to accommodate the need for air. Giving Angel the time he needed to adjust since the only lube he used was his pre-cum. Aby was in awe of him. Angel just sitting there, keeping his hips in the proper position. Doing as he was told since doing anything else would mean he wouldn't get fucked by Husk. Just as he was getting ready to fidget against the black furred kitty, Husk pull out so just the tip of his length was stretching Angel's hole. Quickly pushing back in and repeating the process. He found his desired angle fast. Knowing it was the right one based on how Angel hugged his dick with his body. Aby couldn't look away. Admiring Husk's speed and stamina. He watched her back, looking her in the eye as he took Angel full force. His stare intense, focused, and wanting. Something that Aby chalked up to being part of the heat cycle.

He's so different when he's passionate. She envied.

Husk was getting closer to his first climax. Taking the blanket in his mouth between his teeth. Arching his back up just like am alley cat. His tail swishing angrily searching for something to loop around. He felt the pressure building, deepening his thrusts. He lost speed but the rough push, currently making the bed hit the wall, was a great way to make up for it in Angel's mind. By now, he had to bite down on his glove to keep from making a sound. He learned to hold his sounds long ago but- shit. He wanted to scream as the underside of his cock was stroked by the bed. Forced hard against his body since Husk wasn't letting him up off the bed. It was so condensed, he could hardly move. Husk came first, his barbs extending. Embedding themselves in Angel's walls just as warned. Angel was next to cum.

Aby finished her diner. Letting the boys do their thing. Not doing much else besides sitting on the bed. Which was more than enough to make Husk keep going. They did this for what was about ninety minutes. When he finished with Angel for the last time. Both having climaxed over five times, least by Aby's count. Aby had stopped counting after five. Taking the opportunity to stop their act. She didn't have to shoo Husk off Angel too harshly. He pulled out, crawling onto of his bed. Dropping his weight onto his stomach. Aby patted Angel's back. Soothing him long enough to ease him from his high. His legs giving out under him once he unlocked his knees.

Telling Angel from her spot on the bed, "Go wash up and rehydrate."

He didn't give her too much fuss at the order. Only complaining a little bit as his knees buckled after he stood up from the floor. Regaining his footing. Fixing his hair and chest floof in his naturally way. Aby felt a smile crawl on her face. He walked as though all that didn't just happen.

Fuck. It's been a great week. Angel thinks to himself.

Once he left the room, he closed the door behind him. Husk was breathing hard. Aby checked on him next. Snorting at how his tongue stuck out of his mouth. Aby pet it, liking the texture. Expecting him to tuck it back in his mouth. Instead, he suckled her finger. It was here she knew he really wasn't in the best shape. She got him the glass of water from the tray and offered it to him. Happy to see him take it. He drank it fast, hating every sip of it. Aby patted his fur, grooming him and watching for any indicators of his well-being taking a hit.

Husk nuzzled into her touch, moving closer. Closer and closer until he can burry his face in the crook of her neck. Aby blushed as she felt embarrassed for some reason. Husk's feathers ruffle excitedly. Just before she can do anything, he speaks.

"Prep me."

"W-what?"

"When Angel gets back, I- I think I'm gonna try…bottoming. Toppings' just not enough right now."

Aby said nothing. Instead just taking the glass from the drunk forced sober.

"You know how right." It wasn't a question. He wanted her to touch him that way. It was no secret she had been getting lessons from Angel before Alastor slapped her with that 'lovers' title.

Aby said nothing as she started petting Husk's ears. His purring as loud and encouraging as it had been before. Aby pulled back enough to lick his nose. She didn't know why. She just read somewhere that wetting the nose of dogs and cats was good for them. Husk seemed to like it. He propped the pillows, sitting back on them. Aby questioned in her mind if he had ever done this before. Thinking it best to make him get on his hands and knees in a doggy-style position. Husk interrupts her thoughts.

"Its fine. This way would be easier since I can't control the flapping of my wings when I get overexcited."

Aby thinks hard but couldn't recall how she failed to notice that fact when he was taking Angel. Regardless, she moved closer to him. Sitting herself between his widespread legs. She blushed deeper at how easily he opened them to her. The look on his face so trusting but so naughty. She searched the nightstand, finding the gel with no problems. Pouring some on her hand, she worked on him. Stretching and prepping him. His expressions and noises telling her he was responding positively to the attention. Aby stroked his tail as it wagged, hitting her in the thigh. This seemed to be equally effective as he started rocking his hips in time with her strokes. Laying his head back. Fighting to keep his eyes opened to watch her fingers disappearing inside him. Aby was careful to go at a rate the cat demon could handle. Little did she know, he was more experienced than she gave him credit for. Shown as he started to stroke his penis while her hands kept busy. Moving his hips faster, Aby obliged him. Going faster. Hitting his prostate harder. He didn't last long.

After he finished, Aby tried to leave to find him something to eat. And maybe get Angel. Husk stopped her. More gently than before. Pulling her down with him. Cuddling more tenderly than before he asks her to wait. She complies since there seems to be another tone to his voice than she would have thought his usual gruff, grumpy self would care for. Something kept nagging her. She couldn't pinpoint it. Much less understand what it meant. It frustrated her. Regardless she held him back. Tighter than before since she knew that that might help him in. He asked her something. Muffled by his face in her bosom.

"Hm? What was that?" She asked back.

"Sing to me again." He managed. Snuggling the space between her breasts. Pulling her closer to him.

"What would you like me to sing?"

"The song you sang before."

Aby stroked the back of Husk's head. Flipping them over so she was now on her back and Husk was on top of her. Using her nails to rack down his back in long, straight, slow strokes. Humming the melody to warm up her voice a bit. Moving into the song slowly. As she sings, she feels Husk relax. His breathing calm. His feathers flat. Even his tail had gone back to curling around her ankle plainly instead of feeling like a shackle. That did a lot to relax her, but it didn't completely put her at ease. Husk used his rough cat tongue to lick at Aby's neck. She wanted to enjoy it, but instead, felt herself tense. Stopping her song as a result.

"It's okay. Turn around." He cooed so- well, huskily.

She complied, letting the cat spoon her as he moved her hair out of the way. Doing this to run that sandpaper texture over the back of her neck. Aby eased into his affections quickly. They stayed like this until they became drowsy. Once Husk could hear Aby start to hum instead of sing again, he combed his claws through her hair until she fell asleep. Excusing himself with a lick to her temple. Moving to go to the bathroom to finish what his body had started.

*#*

Alastor sat at his desk. Writing a letter. Things had taken an unexpected turn. He wasn't worried. Aby would remain loyal to him even if her body wasn't. However, he thought long and hard about the pros and cons. In a relationship, both parties have to compromise. If Aby didn't remain satisfied, she might not remain with Alastor. He brought the quill up to his lips as he cursed her youth. The physicality of a relationship was difficult enough. Now he really had to ask himself how much it meant to allow Aby just the smallest amount of physical pleasure by his own hand. Thinking back to the face she made when Husk forced her down. Adding his body heat to hers. Alastor's smile twitch violently as it threatened to drop. Something that hadn't happened to him for decades. Many decades.

He then thought about the conversational agreement they reached in regard to Aby's physical endeavors. After Alastor had called her his lover, she became more fidgety. Clingier. Because of this Alastor had an 'intervention' of sorts. During this time, Aby confessed to wanting to advance their relationship to the point where she could stop two feet away from him instead of five as she awaited his permission to touch him. Alastor, naturally, had to allow for this change. Lest it lead to a very unhappy girl. Aby was also very good about not pressing boundaries he had set for her. Which was proving to be the source of her sexual frustration. Though he doubted she noticed, she would become more easily agitated and difficult to speak with when this became the case. During their little talk, Alastor listened to the list of things Aby eventually wanted to do with him. Like being able to hold his hand if she wanted to. Or touching his hair when he was busy hard at work to satisfy her needs long enough to let him finish. Kissing his cheek, maybe.

Alastor had responded to these naïve, childish requests by taking her face in his hands. He starred at her long, letting her gaze peak in its emotional reveal. The blush on her face growing as she silently beckoned Alastor closer to her. She wanted to kiss him even then. He saw it in her eyes. That undeniable honesty shinning through every fiber that shimmered as she starred back waiting. A powerful tool, her gazes. Very dangerous if one didn't have the control to keep from letting her in the depts of your soul. It was one of the many things he craved from her. Failing in that moment, he leaned down and took her lips in his. Opening his mouth, he encouraged her to do the same. He hated this sort of thing. It was dirty, given the amount of bacteria one could accumulate. But he swirled his tongue around hers anyway. Sucking and biting on it until he drew blood. He ravished that taste, taking as much at it as he could before the cut could heal. Aby powerless to do anything but return it to him. Moving her tongue up into his fangs and drawing it back to make a long slit that would spill the red liquid that would satisfy him. Alastor's smile grew at the girl's willingness to please him. Whatever it meant she had to do. When he finally pulled away, Aby was breathing hard. Her pupils dilated but predatorial in their focus. Meaning she was horny as well as aware.

"As long as I am the only one who can do this to you, I don't care what you do to nullify those carnal desires, darling."

He looked down at her panting self. Her eyes had gone half closed, a trail of blood falling down the right side of her mouth. Even now, she wouldn't resist him. Which was how he knew her to be stuck on the conditions of the deal. Using one hand, he traced down the front of her body. His claws threatening to tare at the fabric of her dress as it made that delicious sound. Aby thought if was like shears running over silk curtains. It made her shudder to picture Alastor that way. Knowing it to be a wet dream fantasy, she gained some control of her senses back. Disappointment overtaking her mind. Even when she felt Alastor bring his hand up the skirt of her dress. Touching the front of her panties. Using one claw to twist the edge, tightening them. Making her wince when she felt the moister that had built up there from the actions before. He spoke again. Deeper, rougher, more threatening. But still holding that sweet charm of a man who wanted you close to him. Hanging onto his every word. It was a strange sensation. Being spoken to that way. At least, that's what Aby thought. Deep deeeeeep in her mind. Where she vowed to never go.

"The minute I see anyone else effect you this way. The very second, I feel you may leave me for anyone else. I'll make you kill them and then I'll fuck you over the bleeding corpse until you can't walk- even stand- for a week. Healing powers be damned. I won't surrender you to anyone. Not for power. Not for sex. You are mine. Forever. Am I clear?"

Aby swallowed. Her throat drenched in the blood from her own mouth as she said nothing. She didn't have to. Her face said it all. Alastor looked at it delightedly as it told him, 'Only you. No one else. I could never. Only you.' It was a wonderous look. One that he rewarded the girl by pulling her on his lap as he took a seat on the love chair in his room. She straddled his hips, doing nothing until he placed her hands on his chest. He guided them up to his bowtie. She undid it as she watched his face. He clawed into her hips, digging so harshly there, it started to bleed. Aby threw her head back in pain and pleasure as she gripped his suit coat tight. He fondled her ass, scratched at her back, let her touch his bare shoulders and neck. He kissed her deeper and deeper as he reached up her dress to play with her breasts. Her small noises of approval being all he needed to know she was ready.

"So- do we have a deal then?" He was ready for her to submit to him entirely. Surprised when she spoke. Getting off his lap and straightening his appearance. Fixing his clothes and tie.

"I make the deals around here Demon lord. No offense, but I have a much longer track record." She then proceeded to fix herself up. Struggling once she got to her hair.

Alastor got up taking the lead for her. Licking his finger due to the one stubborn strand that refused to stay tucked behind her ear. Checking it to make sure nothing was out of place. He kissed her quick on the lips once he was satisfied. She was trying to get something specific from their bargain. That's why she was being so quick to refuse his offer. That and because she knew the trade to be balanced in Alastor's favor this time around. She deduced it to him not knowing how to read his partner as well as he thought he did. So, she overlooked it easily as him needing to be taught. And she was just the one to do it. She was a well-established dealmaker. Had been since the day she was created. She figured Alastor had to be appreciative of her point of view since he hugged her from behind. Bringing his hand to squeeze at her shoulder. She smiled. Giggled. Then leaned into the touch.

At the completion of the memory, Alastor jumped from his seat. His smile returned to its place as he laughed out. Loudly and, to anyone but Aby's ears, disturbingly. He brought the action down to a chuckle before taking a deep breath. Drumming his claws against the desk where his papers laid undisturbed. Organized by his own method; the way he fucking liked it! He took a quick, uncaring, look at the letter on the desk. Instead telling himself the conclusion to his new plan forged from old results.

"It's settled then. Before the week is out. I will swoon her in my own bed. That way, she can't say I'm not meeting her halfway. Especially since all I have to do is go all in. HAHAHA. Not very hard at all."

*#*

During all this, back in his room, Angel Dust throws a handful of wipes in the trash can. Examining the damage, the barbs did by digging into the walls of his asshole. Biting his lip excitedly as he thought back to the way Husk rode him. He was so passionate. So powerful. Even his cum shots had been without mercy. Angel silently joked that he would spit up cum later if he tried hard enough. Neither here nor there about the whole thing. It was such an experience. The likes of which Angel was extra familiar with. Chuckling to himself he laid down on his plush bed. Careful to lie on his stomach. Hugging a pillow against his chest, digging his face in another.

"I wonder if he even knows how much he loves her."

Angel thought for a moment. He thought quietly, and sympathetically. At all the passing glances. All the jealous glares. The way he would laugh when she told a joke. How he stopped everything he was doing when she put on a magic trick for him. If he could only see the way he gave into her touch. Would he say anything in defense? If someone made him see the way he looked at her. Or made him stop and see the way he gave in and just put up a happy face to her when he watched her dance with the red clad wearing Radio Demon. The deep, far gone, lost stare in his eyes.

"I wonder", he stated, "What must that be like."