Asks And Rp Open!

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“Irida! Is everything okay..? My child.. Are you hurt?.. Im sorry for not catching you-..”

Lucifer hugged tighter around Hell as his lover sobbed into the crook of his neck, claws breaking skin as xe clutched onto Lucifer like he would disappear if Hell let go. The fallen angels hands rubbed shapes and patterns into Hells back, his 2 free hands keeping them in a firm hug.

She couldn’t help but respond to Sisyphus with a tone that indicated how much the fall actually hurt her, it was clear to her that Hell was once again in distress… she couldn’t blame xer… but it hurt…

Don’t apologize for… not catching me in time… Sisyphus… everything happened so fast… it’s fine, really..! I-

She paused when a shooting pain suddenly invaded her systems, at first she thought it was another round of phantom sensations, until she saw something buried deep in her middle left wing… gripping the King of Greed with her right hand, she reached out to said wing with her left hand and removed whatever was lodged inside, blood staining her pure white feathers… she instantly recognized the object…

T-This… is one of Archangel Gabriel’s daggers..! How did it..?

*He said and then watched how she took the dagger, he instantly moved a hand to the injury, avoiding blood loss. He looked at the dagger and then at Irida.. Gabriel's daggers..? How..?*

“I-.. How..? We should-.. bandage your wing first and then look for an explanation, Irida..”

The melody was.. nice. It was enough to help calm Hells breathing down from hyperventilation to deep but quick breath. Its tears didnt stop, but Hell felt xemself grow slightly calmer as his heart rate began to slow down.

While speaking, she opened up one of the pouches on her brown leather military garter and slid the dagger inside for safe keeping, knowing full well that she had to take care of it, “sighing”, she turned her attention back to Sisyphus

I… honestly have no idea how it got here… dad… but that’s not important right now..! I can still see things shifting around us… Hell…

She “looked” down as the ends of her six wings began to glow a mix between dark blue and dark purple… she hated not being able to do anything, but she knew that Hell needed time… it wasn’t her place to approach, especially now…

Sisyphus… what do you think we should do..? I just… don’t know if going out to see Hell and Lucifer is a good idea right now… but at the same time… something feels off about this place… maybe there’s a demon nearby..?

*He said and petted Irida, trying to comfort her as soon as he saw the color shift of her wings, moving her closer so she would feel safer.*

Anyone else would have left them. Anyone else would have abandoned it right then and there, at least thats what Hell thought. Lucifer truly was too kind for his own good, sitting here and letting a monster like Hell cry into his shoulder as if it wasnt the one hurting everyone.. it couldnt help but feel her obsession with the fallen angel grow deeper.

“Thats good.” Lucifer smiles, placing a gentle kiss to Hells cheek. “You can always talk to me, okay? About anything.” He reminded, shifting to sit up slightly.

“Oh my- are you okay?!”

The figure rushes towards you upon seeing your body laying against the ground, moving to sit on his knees.

@comet-anguish

*Sphinx's vision was blurry enough for him to not notice who was talking to him.. yet when he saw the feathers.. he almost jumped, if it wasn't for how hurt he was.. He looked up at Lucifer, eyes inmediately becoming humid, starting to shake even more than before.*

“I-I-.. L-Luci..?!”

“Nononono... Please.. don't patch me up.. I want to die.. it hurts so much.. please just.. take me somewhere safe, Luci..-.. please..”

“..alright, Ill take you to a lower layer, okay? Just.. just rest a little.” Lucifer nods, looking around and saying something in an unknown language, before the layer abruptly changes.

Lucifer stands, rushing back stage.. wait, back stage? The area looked like an empty theatre, dozens of seats sitting before a stage where Sphinx was laying. The curtains were drawn open, yet no one but Sphinx and Lucifer seemed to be present.

“..Please.. no.. don't.. do it..”

“Listen, I cant let you die on me, okay? We just met after so long and..” Lucifer paused, free hand feeling his heart rate. When did he start hyperventilating? The fallen angel took a breath, lungs constricted by anxiety that made in hard to breath and impossible to calm himself.

“You arent a waste of anything, alright? Even if I cant do anything, its better to try than not.” The fallen angel speaks.

Lucifer wasnt sure how many minutes had passed until he pulled away, wiping his eyes before taking Sphinxes hands in his own.

“I.. I think I have a way to keep you alive without your holy light, even if its only for a while longer.” The fallen angels voice is small, almost hoarse from barely contained sobs. “Its.. really hard to explain, but I can later. Right now I just need you to trust me, okay?”

*He said, soon realizing there was nowhere to go. Hell was a prision, he was banished from Heaven.. but maybe.. if he talked to the council.. they could help right?..*

It was hard to make out what the fallen angel was saying and who he was speaking too, but it was clear he was talking to someone. His “love.. please.?” being the only thing able to be made out well.

It wasnt long before Lucifer came back, having only been gone for around a minute. Kneeling beside his brother, Lucifer takes Sphinxes hands again. Slowly, what felt almost like yarn began to wrap around Sphinxes legs, stopping below the knee.

“Okay, its going to feel really weird, but just stay calm.” Is all Lucifer says for now, before an energy begins to pulse from the tendrils around Sphinxes legs. They glowed a soft orange, and were warm to the touch, clearly organic in some way.

“L-Luci!-.. I-.. b-broth-er..”

“This isnt permanent, and Im not sure if it will stay when you leave hell.” The fallen angel spoke. “But at least it will keep you alive.”

Distantly, careful eyes watched the scene play out.

Hell let her tendrils snap from the ground, breaking apart into nothing but a puddle of blood across the ground.

It rarely used his strange energy, only giving it to things like husks and machines for xer own enjoyment. But after watching V1’s decent, how they were able to heal off of it, gain energy off of it, Hell finally realized its use. (“Your energy is useless, you know that right?” A voice rang out in the back of their mind as a memory replayed. “Its only a mockery of My divinity, something you will never have, remember?” Hell had fought and scratched, bit and kicked at Him, used energy to create orbs to try and get Him off of xem.. disgust crawled under Hells skin remembering His words, His touch.)

*He repeated as sobs and cries never stopped, literally crumbling into his embrace, the feeling of his wings was enough to make him purr, it reminded him of home.. and when he saw Lucifer's face again, he cried even more..*

“..Y-ou.. don't.. hate me..? I-.. failed The Counc-il..”

“What? Of course not! Sphinx, if I hated you would I try and keep you alive like this?” The fallen angel asked, head tilting slightly.

*He asked through his little sobs and whines, cuddling as much as he possibly could, wings fluttering softly, feathers were of a dark and deep blue, a sign of sadness.*

“..I hope so.”

Lucifer paused at the second question. The words hit him like a punch to the stomach, and he tensed up for a moment. If only Sphinx knew, if only he knew how Lucifer couldnt even remember their voices anymore, couldnt remember their heights anymore, could barely remember their faces.

(Lucifer fell through the layers of Hell, the same ones he had been too scared to approach, the same ones he had questioned The Father about. Fire burnt away at most of the cloth he wore, creating black marks against the once pristine metal he wore. Feathers were practically ripped from his wings as he tried to glide himself down, but couldnt find the proper air. Was the gravity heavier in Hell? Was The Father dragging him down by force?

Lucifer fell, and fell, and fell, through all 9 layers until a sickening crack was heard as he landed on his back against the ice of Treachery. Pain shot through his back and head wings, and Lucifer was almost certain his halo was cracked.

Sobs echoed out through the layer, the same cries that had been muffled by the wind around him just a minute earlier. The angel, now fallen, curled up on the ice. His now certainly broken back wings twitched and trembled as they came up to hug himself, knees reaching his chest as tears landed against the ice.

He was going to die here, wasnt he? He was going to die from his injuries, Lucifer was almost certain. Burns covered every inch of exposed skin, cuts and scrapes and deep gashes having appeared on the way down as well. When he tried to move one of his broken head wings, all Lucifer could hear was the crunching of broken bone moving against broken bone as pain shot through his skull.)

Lucifer shook the memory away, moving a few of his wings out of habit to ensure they arent broken anymore.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“Irida! Is everything okay..? My child.. Are you hurt?.. Im sorry for not catching you-..”

Lucifer hugged tighter around Hell as his lover sobbed into the crook of his neck, claws breaking skin as xe clutched onto Lucifer like he would disappear if Hell let go. The fallen angels hands rubbed shapes and patterns into Hells back, his 2 free hands keeping them in a firm hug.

She couldn’t help but respond to Sisyphus with a tone that indicated how much the fall actually hurt her, it was clear to her that Hell was once again in distress… she couldn’t blame xer… but it hurt…

Don’t apologize for… not catching me in time… Sisyphus… everything happened so fast… it’s fine, really..! I-

She paused when a shooting pain suddenly invaded her systems, at first she thought it was another round of phantom sensations, until she saw something buried deep in her middle left wing… gripping the King of Greed with her right hand, she reached out to said wing with her left hand and removed whatever was lodged inside, blood staining her pure white feathers… she instantly recognized the object…

T-This… is one of Archangel Gabriel’s daggers..! How did it..?

*He said and then watched how she took the dagger, he instantly moved a hand to the injury, avoiding blood loss. He looked at the dagger and then at Irida.. Gabriel's daggers..? How..?*

“I-.. How..? We should-.. bandage your wing first and then look for an explanation, Irida..”

The melody was.. nice. It was enough to help calm Hells breathing down from hyperventilation to deep but quick breath. Its tears didnt stop, but Hell felt xemself grow slightly calmer as his heart rate began to slow down.

Hello? Lucifer? Or Hell? Either of you? It’s Wormwood. I wish to speak to you briefly.

@facets-of-the-father

A few seconds passed before Lucifer opened the door, hair and wings messy and a blanket wrapped around himself.

(It chirped as it bowed and stepped inside.)

“Well, it certainly could be better.” Lucifer shrugged, wings drooping slightly before he picked up a mug, taking a sip of some tea that was still slightly steaming. “I cant say everything has been horrible though! We are all alive at least.” The fallen angel smiles.

I wish to check up on Verchiel. General well-being, and other things like that.

Hello? Lucifer? Or Hell? Either of you? It’s Wormwood. I wish to speak to you briefly.

@facets-of-the-father

A few seconds passed before Lucifer opened the door, hair and wings messy and a blanket wrapped around himself.

(It chirped as it bowed and stepped inside.)

“Well, it certainly could be better.” Lucifer shrugged, wings drooping slightly before he picked up a mug, taking a sip of some tea that was still slightly steaming. “I cant say everything has been horrible though! We are all alive at least.” The fallen angel smiles.

“Oh my- are you okay?!”

The figure rushes towards you upon seeing your body laying against the ground, moving to sit on his knees.

@comet-anguish

*Sphinx's vision was blurry enough for him to not notice who was talking to him.. yet when he saw the feathers.. he almost jumped, if it wasn't for how hurt he was.. He looked up at Lucifer, eyes inmediately becoming humid, starting to shake even more than before.*

“I-I-.. L-Luci..?!”

“Nononono... Please.. don't patch me up.. I want to die.. it hurts so much.. please just.. take me somewhere safe, Luci..-.. please..”

“..alright, Ill take you to a lower layer, okay? Just.. just rest a little.” Lucifer nods, looking around and saying something in an unknown language, before the layer abruptly changes.

Lucifer stands, rushing back stage.. wait, back stage? The area looked like an empty theatre, dozens of seats sitting before a stage where Sphinx was laying. The curtains were drawn open, yet no one but Sphinx and Lucifer seemed to be present.

“..Please.. no.. don't.. do it..”

“Listen, I cant let you die on me, okay? We just met after so long and..” Lucifer paused, free hand feeling his heart rate. When did he start hyperventilating? The fallen angel took a breath, lungs constricted by anxiety that made in hard to breath and impossible to calm himself.

“You arent a waste of anything, alright? Even if I cant do anything, its better to try than not.” The fallen angel speaks.

Lucifer wasnt sure how many minutes had passed until he pulled away, wiping his eyes before taking Sphinxes hands in his own.

“I.. I think I have a way to keep you alive without your holy light, even if its only for a while longer.” The fallen angels voice is small, almost hoarse from barely contained sobs. “Its.. really hard to explain, but I can later. Right now I just need you to trust me, okay?”

*He said, soon realizing there was nowhere to go. Hell was a prision, he was banished from Heaven.. but maybe.. if he talked to the council.. they could help right?..*

It was hard to make out what the fallen angel was saying and who he was speaking too, but it was clear he was talking to someone. His “love.. please.?” being the only thing able to be made out well.

It wasnt long before Lucifer came back, having only been gone for around a minute. Kneeling beside his brother, Lucifer takes Sphinxes hands again. Slowly, what felt almost like yarn began to wrap around Sphinxes legs, stopping below the knee.

“Okay, its going to feel really weird, but just stay calm.” Is all Lucifer says for now, before an energy begins to pulse from the tendrils around Sphinxes legs. They glowed a soft orange, and were warm to the touch, clearly organic in some way.

“L-Luci!-.. I-.. b-broth-er..”

“This isnt permanent, and Im not sure if it will stay when you leave hell.” The fallen angel spoke. “But at least it will keep you alive.”

Distantly, careful eyes watched the scene play out.

Hell let her tendrils snap from the ground, breaking apart into nothing but a puddle of blood across the ground.

It rarely used his strange energy, only giving it to things like husks and machines for xer own enjoyment. But after watching V1’s decent, how they were able to heal off of it, gain energy off of it, Hell finally realized its use. (“Your energy is useless, you know that right?” A voice rang out in the back of their mind as a memory replayed. “Its only a mockery of My divinity, something you will never have, remember?” Hell had fought and scratched, bit and kicked at Him, used energy to create orbs to try and get Him off of xem.. disgust crawled under Hells skin remembering His words, His touch.)

*He repeated as sobs and cries never stopped, literally crumbling into his embrace, the feeling of his wings was enough to make him purr, it reminded him of home.. and when he saw Lucifer's face again, he cried even more..*

“..Y-ou.. don't.. hate me..? I-.. failed The Counc-il..”

“What? Of course not! Sphinx, if I hated you would I try and keep you alive like this?” The fallen angel asked, head tilting slightly.

*He asked through his little sobs and whines, cuddling as much as he possibly could, wings fluttering softly, feathers were of a dark and deep blue, a sign of sadness.*

“..I hope so.”

Lucifer paused at the second question. The words hit him like a punch to the stomach, and he tensed up for a moment. If only Sphinx knew, if only he knew how Lucifer couldnt even remember their voices anymore, couldnt remember their heights anymore, could barely remember their faces.

Hello? Lucifer? Or Hell? Either of you? It’s Wormwood. I wish to speak to you briefly.

@facets-of-the-father

A few seconds passed before Lucifer opened the door, hair and wings messy and a blanket wrapped around himself.

(It chirped as it bowed and stepped inside.)

“Well, it certainly could be better.” Lucifer shrugged, wings drooping slightly before he picked up a mug, taking a sip of some tea that was still slightly steaming. “I cant say everything has been horrible though! We are all alive at least.” The fallen angel smiles.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“Irida! Is everything okay..? My child.. Are you hurt?.. Im sorry for not catching you-..”

Lucifer hugged tighter around Hell as his lover sobbed into the crook of his neck, claws breaking skin as xe clutched onto Lucifer like he would disappear if Hell let go. The fallen angels hands rubbed shapes and patterns into Hells back, his 2 free hands keeping them in a firm hug.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition

L-Lucifer, dear..! Please tell me you see her too..! I know she’s there..! I’m not insane..!

Tears began to form in her optic as she struggled, the apparition now turning towards her, she couldn’t stay in the King of Greed’s arms any longer, she needed to go

S-Sisyphus, please..! She’s there..! V-Victoria..! I can see her clearly..! I need to go to her..! I beg of you… let me..!

*..He kept her there for a few more seconds before letting her go, he felt horrible when he noticed her struggles, he looked at his hand for some seconds after he let her go, yet he moved his gaze away as fast as he could to avoid spiraling. This wasn't a good moment. He stayed there, watching..*

After finally being released from Sisyphus’s arms, she zips over to where the apparition is, time seemed to slow for her as she floated in front of it, said apparition becoming more visible to everyone around, a red V model…

V-Victoria..! I-I..! P-Please… I’m sorry for not figuring out who actually killed you sooner..! I miss you so much..! Y-You… didn’t deserve to be killed that way..! I-I know V1 couldn’t control itself… but still..! I-

The apparition reached its right hand out and seemingly cupped the right side of her face, an attempt to soothe her… the tears fell almost immediately while the soft white glow from before became stronger, it was definitely the same as the glow from someone in the vicinity of an Idol… she raises the same hand up and placed it atop the apparition’s, trying so hard to not sob…

I-I’m… trying so hard to live without you being alive..! B-But… everything has fallen apart for me..! Please… V2, Victoria… d-don’t leave me again..! I can’t… live without you..! I-I’m so..!

“..Irida-.. please..”

So, Lucifer did nothing but sat by, watching carefully.

“Irida, I know… but you have to stay strong, for both of us… carry on my legacy in your soul, ok?”

She nearly froze upon hearing the apparition speak, but at this point it shouldn’t come as a surprise, the tears that fell from her optic didn’t stop, if anything… they fell faster

B-But… I-I can’t take… a-anymore..! E-Everything is… I-I just-

“Darling, listen… I know how strong you really are, don’t let these things hold you back… easier said than done, I know, but still. Look at how much you’ve changed, isn’t that proof enough..? Here… let this new light help drive you forwards, show you that… I’ll always be by your side.”

Before she had a chance to react, the apparition hugged her which in turn caused the soft white glow to fully envelop her body… not even a minute later did the light fade away along with the apparition, as soon as she realized this… she collapsed to her knees and completely broke down…

V-V2… V-Victoria… I-I… please come back..! Don’t go..! Please..! N-Not again..! I-I… VICTORIA!!!!!!

“...Im.. so sorry, Irida-..”

*He said in a low voice, yet loud enough for her to hear.*

“Irida?” The fallen angel didnt know what to say about what he just saw. He sat close by, hands fidgeting together.

She clutched both hands to her chest and cried more, letting out every emotion from that day… when she got the report of her body being found in Greed… it hurt so much… and now feeling her essence inside of her soul… she just didn’t know what else to do…

P-Please… c-come back..!

Tears unending, her body began to glow that soft white again until it was fully enveloped in said light, yet no Idol was nearby… she knew Sisyphus was hugging her tightly and Lucifer was close by… but her processors were a mess… how many more must she lose..? Be it to death… or her own mistakes that drive them away..?

D-Dad, Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, dear… I-I just… i-it hurts… s-so much..!

*He said and held her closer, kissing her forehead slowly, taking some seconds to move away and keep hugging her, he closed his eyes, focusing on making Irida feel better.. on letting her know that he knew how much pain she was going through.. he has felt it before.. he knew.. he understood.. he was alone when it happened, so he won't let Irida be alone now.*

“No one said grief would be easy, but you need to keep going. If not for yourself or us, for Victoria. I never knew her personally, but anyone who truly loves you would want you to be happy with or without them. It will seem impossible at first, but it gets easier with time.” Lucifers voice had a strange calming affect, almost like the scent of lavender. The fallen angel did his best to use his powers to help calm Irida, but after only beginning to use them recently, he doubted it would help much.

She wanted so badly to say more… to express how much everything hurt… she lost so much… from The Final War to V2’s death… nothing ever seemed to be a bright spot during that time… aside from V2 just being in her life… the weight of it all was becoming too much for her…

D-Dad, S-Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, d-dear…

However, Lucifer’s voice and words of comfort did resonate with her processors along with Sisyphus’s words of encouragement and his general warmth… soon her sobs died down… she… needed to be strong… for everyone she held dear… breaking down like this… wouldn’t solve anything…

*He said, keeping Irida close and safe in his embrace, making sure Lucifer was able to also comfort her.*

“Dont be sorry, I think we both understand fully.” Lucifer speaks, moving slightly closer to Irida to rest 2 of his back wings on her back. “Its okay to cry, you dont always have to be strong. Crying is a healthy way to release emotions.”

She listened to everything that was said to her and yet… were there really any tears left to shed..? How many times had she cried now..? If she didn’t know any better she’d think that her systems had sprung a leak or something…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… Lucifer, dear… I-I think… I-I’m ok now…

She tried to get up, only for her body to begin shaking again… yet through it all she still did, refusing to stay put… she was strong… a warrior… model type “Athena”… being so weak wasn’t supposed to be in her coding… even if it was healthy to cry…

W-We can… keep going… I’ll be just fine… I-I promise..!

*He said and kept her close, never wanting to use force but he had to just to keep her there.. still..*

“Just, take some breaths, okay? I have to talk to Hell about something but you can both join us when you are ready.” The fallen angel smiles, before quickly making his way over to his lover.

——

How long has he been sitting here? How long have they been just.. thinking?

Hell wasnt sure. It had felt like only a few minutes, but she knew it was likely closer to half an hour. Xe didnt move, didnt even kick its feet as they sat on the ledge while staring into the sky. Dissociation had long since taken over his mind, limbs feeling entirely detached from their body.

How long would it take until everyone left? How long until they all saw what Hell really was? How long, how long, how long. Did they really want everyone to see how horrible they were? It was practically begging to be abandoned now.. thats all she could think of. Every last thought plagued its mind, taking over her thoughts. They didnt even notice the trio walk in, didnt notice Iridas breakdown.

It was trapped in xer own mind, destines to replay trauma and torture. Thats what it deserved though, right? She did the same all the time!

(“You deserve the worst.” God had said. “You deserve nothing more than what I have given you, even that much is generous. Im shocked the angels I sent down here havent left yet, you should know they will get sick of you eventually.” Hell wasnt sure how this conversation started, why The Father had begun an entire speech about Hells worthlessness. This wasnt new to Hell anymore, she had long since learned how to tune it ou-

“Are you even listening?!” A loud, harsh slap knocked Hells current form to the ground, a wince escaping its lips. “I am speaking to you, and you will listen to me! I am your God and you do as told!” He scolded, landing another blow to its skull before picking them up by the neck.

Hours had pasted after that, how long had it been exactly? Hell had been weak, too tired to even destroy the form she was currently in. Bruises and bite marks littered its body, puddle of blood below it. Xe had let himself dissociate while it happened, the rape and beatings. They were nothing new at this point, but they still hurt. Anger had bubbled up inside Hell at being so weak, so pathetic that it couldnt even fight back.. how could they protect Lucifer and Verchiel if it couldnt eve-)

“Love?”

The fallen angel sat close by Hell, eyes scanning xer face carefully.

Hell blinked, sitting up and looked around (when had they gotten to Fraud?) before focusing back on Lucifer.

“I can tell something is wrong, Hell.” The fallen angel started, one hand gently gripping Hells hand. He had always been so observant, so quick to notice every little detail about Hell… they couldnt dwell on that thought now.

“NOT HERE.” Was all xe could reply with, eyes still distant but slightly more focused than before.

“Is it because of Irida and Sisyphus being here?” Hell nodded yes to Lucifers question, who had now wrapped his wings and an arm around the other.

She paused and turned to where Hell was sitting, a…familiar aura radiating off of them… it was enough to cause her wings to droop… she knew that distant look… she understood it… because she did the same…

…

As much as she wanted to call out to Hell… to approach xer… to be a form of comfort… she knew it was Lucifer’s job, not hers… it was only then that she noticed just how heavily her body was shaking… she… really wasn’t ok…

…I…

“Irida.. do you need to cry more..? You can tell me anything, you.. know it.. Just.. let it all out, okay?.. We won't leave until you are okay.”

“Irida went through something similar, you could always tell her.” Lucifer commented, “Im sure she would understand.” The fallen angel kept his voice low, both to try and make sure the others wouldnt hear (though he doubted it worked, they were only around 15 feet away) and to not freak Hell out too much. Lucifer didnt want to set her off, to make it go back into old habits and isolate themself again.

Hell didnt respond. Would Irida understand? That was never something xe thought about, being able to relate to those around him. They had always just assumed what she went through was something others wouldnt understand. They couldnt die, the sheer amount of suicide attempts he had done made that very obvious, and looking back on what it could remember, God had used that to His advantage.

It never mattered how hard He beat them, how bad He raped him, what He said to xem, Hell couldnt die, couldnt fight back against what He did.

Hell didnt know Iridas trauma well (xe knew hers less than its own, and xe could barely recall his own trauma most days), but she knew enough to know that maybe, just maybe, Irida would understand. Maybe she would stay, she wouldnt blame Hell for what happened like God did. Maybe…

She didn’t know if she had it in her to cry anymore… what more was left..? And now seeing Hell Itself with that distant look… the one she knew so well…

D-Damnit…

Rage, sadness, hopelessness… the ends of her six wings changing between red, dark blue, and purple… why… she could feel her heart breaking… as a dangerous thought formed… one that she couldn’t stop herself from voicing…

…A-All of them should’ve just… t-taken it out on me… n-not Hell… not Seraph… not Verchiel… not even father, King Minos..! I-I… should be the one to shoulder such pain..!

*He looked at Hell.. he really felt bad about xer, if only he could do anything to make her feel better.. yet he knew too well that there was no better comfort that the one from your partner..*

“Irida-?!.. Please- do not say that again.. You should not suffer more pain.. Trust me, I wish the same thing, I wish to endure all of your pain instead of.. all of you.. but we can't change it.. I know it hurts.. it hurts even more than it should.. but we can't do anything..”

“YOU BOTH UNDERSTAND I CAN HEAR YOU, CORRECT?” Hell cuddled into Lucifers embrace as it spoke, speaking before she could even sort out his thoughts. It hated being pitied, hated the feeling of being seen like a thing in need of help. Did Irida think Hell needed saving? Something that was pathetic and in need of a saviour?

In the back of their mind, Hell doubted this was the case, but even the idea of being put down because of her trauma, because of Him, made xem speak without thinking.

“I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS A CHILD IN NEED OF PROTECTION. YOU BOTH ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF YEARS YOUNGER THAN ME, ITS NOT EITHER OF YOUR JOBS TO WISH TO TAKE MY PROBLEMS FROM ME. IF EITHER OF YOU WENT THROUGH WHAT I DID, YOU WOULD BE DEAD.”

“THE PAST WILL NEVER BE CHANGED, ITS USELESS TO ACT LIKE IT CAN. DWELLING ON THOSE THOUGHTS WILL ONLY CAUSE YOU TO SPIRAL, MINDFLAYER.”

Hell stopped himself there, resting against Lucifer and closing its eyes.

It was then that she realized how badly she fucked up, allowing her emotions to take control… Hell was absolutely right, what made her think that such a train of thought would ever go over well? Her six wings drooped fully…

…I’m sorry, Hell… I honestly didn’t mean for my words to come off like that… please believe me when I say that I understand fully and feel the same way… everything you said is the undeniable truth, and I mean this with all my heart..!

Realizing just how tense the situation had become… and just how high her emotions were running… she decided that it would be best if she took a breather elsewhere… so much has happened… of course her processors would be a disaster…

I… need some time to myself… to sort out my emotions… and calm down… once again I’m sorry for speaking out of line… I really am… …no one follow me… please…

*He was about to ask, but he realized.. maybe it would be better to let her go and just.. watch over here from the distance. He just squeezed her very softly in his arms, tightening the hug for some seconds before letting her go, moving away and sighing.*

“..Just.. be careful..”

Lucifer wasnt sure how to react. He wanted to call for Irida, to go after her and ask if she was okay, but he also knew that she needed some alone time to gather her thoughts. The fallen angel wanted to get up, but looking down and seeing how Hell clutched to him, buried xemself in his chest, made him stay where he was.

Upon being let go by Sisyphus, she bolted away at Mach 5 speeds leaving a pure white streak of light in her wake, despite not knowing much about Fraud, she found herself in an oddly empty supermarket… looking around, she decided to sit on one of the top shelves…

…Damnit… I need to just slow down for once… when has being a martyr ever gone well for me..? I just…

She trailed off when she realized just how eerily quiet it was… yes the lights were on, but the silence… it wasn’t doing her any favors…

(“Oh Irida..~ even in the silence of it all… I just can’t get enough of you~ if only the two of us could do this for days on end~ non stop~”

She couldn’t respond… not with the unending amount of agony… once again he had torn her apart… disregarded everything that she was for his own pleasure… how her body hadn’t completely broken was beyond her… but she just wanted it all to be over… to no longer have to suffer…

How could she ever face anyone again..? How could God… no… there was no God… if such a being existed… then he would’ve been dealt with long ago… and she wouldn’t have to endure all of it… how could someone destined to be a warrior… become a captive..? How… did she let this happen..?!

“Irida~ my mechanical harlot~ you’ll never be free from me~ I own you~ remember that… even if the day comes where I’m forced to let you go… no one will take you~ I’m the only one who’ll ever cherish you in such a way~ show you such love and passion~ understood~?”)

I… d-damnit..! F-Fuck..! W-Why… can’t I… have… a-any peace..?! I-I just…

She gripped her head and tried to hold back the tears forming in her optic… no matter where she went or what she did… there was no escape from it all… it was nothing but an unending cycle of torment…

…S-Suffer… s-slowly…

Lucifer couldnt help the worry that set in his stomach, the anxiety that began to latch at his chest. Hell wasnt like this.. not often anyways. Xe had his moments of course, but being like this in front of others? Not hiding her dissociation, cuddling up to Lucifer for comfort, made the fallen angel worried.

“They’re gone, Love. Wanna tell me whats wrong?” Lucifer asked, one hand cupping his lovers face.

Hell didnt respond right away. What was wrong? What caused them to behave like this? Even it didnt know. One moment they were threatening Samyaza, the next tears began to pour from his eyes for seemingly no reason.

“I.. DONT KNOW.” Hell admitted, letting herself melt into Lucifers hand. It was like a wave of depression hit them out of nowhere, wrapping around xer brain and refusing to let go, like a parasite.

She got up from one of the top shelves and floated upwards only to sit down on a dangling light, not even noticing Sisyphus’s presence… she just couldn’t understand why it was so hard for her to find happiness… even the smallest things turned into torment… if only those memories never resurfaced… but erasing them was impossible…

…I-I’m blue… a-and cold… b-black sky… w-will burn…

Now she was reminiscing on The Final War… those black skies… how everything burned to ash… the amount she killed… but even that memory was short lived as everything he did to her took over once again… trembling horribly, she hugged her knees to her chest, shielded her body with her six wings, and cried softly… nothing and no one could ever save her from it all… this… had to be her fate… nothing else made sense…

…J-Just… l-let g-go… o-of… m-me..!

“..Irida.. Do you.. want me to comfort you..?”

*His voice was soft, softer than usual, gentle and caring, he was trying to just let her know he was there if she needed him, he tried to be as soft as possible with his words, voice and even movements. If she looked at his eyes, the worry he felt was clear.*

“SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH ME.” Hell voiced suddenly, “I WANT TO PUSH EVERYONE AWAY, BUT I DESIRE COMFORT FROM OTHERS AS WELL. I WANT TO GET BETTER, BUT I WANT TO GET WORSE TO SHOW HOW BAD I AM DOING. I WANT TO HIDE MYSELF, BUT I WANT TO SHOW WHAT I TRULY AM.”

Hell let herself melt into the comfort, venting out its thoughts. Lucifer would have smiled at the fact that Hell was finally opening up, finally “bothering” Lucifer with its issues as they often put it. But with the context of the conversation, the fallen angel could only frown.

“I WANT TO BE SEEN AND HEARD, BUT I WANT TO HIDE MYSELF AWAY AND WATCH FROM THE SIDE. I-.. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH ME.” Hell spoke, tears building in its eyes as he hugged Lucifer tighter. The walls of the layer began to act more erratically, structure and visuals shifting outside of Hells control.

“SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH ME AND I DONT KNOW HOW TO FIX IT. SOMETHING IS WRONG WITH ME AND IT WILL FOREVER BE THERE.”

“EVERYTHING IS WRONG. EVERYTHING, AND EVERYONE WILL SEE THAT AND FORGET I EXIST. ILL BE LEFT TO ONLY WATCH, ONLY BE A DIRECTOR AND NOT A PLAY. A WRITER AND NOT A CHARACTER. I WANT TO BE MORE BUT HOW CAN I WHEN SOMETHING IS SO DEEPLY WRONG WITH ME?”

Hell finally let itself crack. Months if not years of dissociation finally built up, tearing Hell apart from the inside out.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition

L-Lucifer, dear..! Please tell me you see her too..! I know she’s there..! I’m not insane..!

Tears began to form in her optic as she struggled, the apparition now turning towards her, she couldn’t stay in the King of Greed’s arms any longer, she needed to go

S-Sisyphus, please..! She’s there..! V-Victoria..! I can see her clearly..! I need to go to her..! I beg of you… let me..!

*..He kept her there for a few more seconds before letting her go, he felt horrible when he noticed her struggles, he looked at his hand for some seconds after he let her go, yet he moved his gaze away as fast as he could to avoid spiraling. This wasn't a good moment. He stayed there, watching..*

After finally being released from Sisyphus’s arms, she zips over to where the apparition is, time seemed to slow for her as she floated in front of it, said apparition becoming more visible to everyone around, a red V model…

V-Victoria..! I-I..! P-Please… I’m sorry for not figuring out who actually killed you sooner..! I miss you so much..! Y-You… didn’t deserve to be killed that way..! I-I know V1 couldn’t control itself… but still..! I-

The apparition reached its right hand out and seemingly cupped the right side of her face, an attempt to soothe her… the tears fell almost immediately while the soft white glow from before became stronger, it was definitely the same as the glow from someone in the vicinity of an Idol… she raises the same hand up and placed it atop the apparition’s, trying so hard to not sob…

I-I’m… trying so hard to live without you being alive..! B-But… everything has fallen apart for me..! Please… V2, Victoria… d-don’t leave me again..! I can’t… live without you..! I-I’m so..!

“..Irida-.. please..”

So, Lucifer did nothing but sat by, watching carefully.

“Irida, I know… but you have to stay strong, for both of us… carry on my legacy in your soul, ok?”

She nearly froze upon hearing the apparition speak, but at this point it shouldn’t come as a surprise, the tears that fell from her optic didn’t stop, if anything… they fell faster

B-But… I-I can’t take… a-anymore..! E-Everything is… I-I just-

“Darling, listen… I know how strong you really are, don’t let these things hold you back… easier said than done, I know, but still. Look at how much you’ve changed, isn’t that proof enough..? Here… let this new light help drive you forwards, show you that… I’ll always be by your side.”

Before she had a chance to react, the apparition hugged her which in turn caused the soft white glow to fully envelop her body… not even a minute later did the light fade away along with the apparition, as soon as she realized this… she collapsed to her knees and completely broke down…

V-V2… V-Victoria… I-I… please come back..! Don’t go..! Please..! N-Not again..! I-I… VICTORIA!!!!!!

“...Im.. so sorry, Irida-..”

*He said in a low voice, yet loud enough for her to hear.*

“Irida?” The fallen angel didnt know what to say about what he just saw. He sat close by, hands fidgeting together.

She clutched both hands to her chest and cried more, letting out every emotion from that day… when she got the report of her body being found in Greed… it hurt so much… and now feeling her essence inside of her soul… she just didn’t know what else to do…

P-Please… c-come back..!

Tears unending, her body began to glow that soft white again until it was fully enveloped in said light, yet no Idol was nearby… she knew Sisyphus was hugging her tightly and Lucifer was close by… but her processors were a mess… how many more must she lose..? Be it to death… or her own mistakes that drive them away..?

D-Dad, Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, dear… I-I just… i-it hurts… s-so much..!

*He said and held her closer, kissing her forehead slowly, taking some seconds to move away and keep hugging her, he closed his eyes, focusing on making Irida feel better.. on letting her know that he knew how much pain she was going through.. he has felt it before.. he knew.. he understood.. he was alone when it happened, so he won't let Irida be alone now.*

“No one said grief would be easy, but you need to keep going. If not for yourself or us, for Victoria. I never knew her personally, but anyone who truly loves you would want you to be happy with or without them. It will seem impossible at first, but it gets easier with time.” Lucifers voice had a strange calming affect, almost like the scent of lavender. The fallen angel did his best to use his powers to help calm Irida, but after only beginning to use them recently, he doubted it would help much.

She wanted so badly to say more… to express how much everything hurt… she lost so much… from The Final War to V2’s death… nothing ever seemed to be a bright spot during that time… aside from V2 just being in her life… the weight of it all was becoming too much for her…

D-Dad, S-Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, d-dear…

However, Lucifer’s voice and words of comfort did resonate with her processors along with Sisyphus’s words of encouragement and his general warmth… soon her sobs died down… she… needed to be strong… for everyone she held dear… breaking down like this… wouldn’t solve anything…

*He said, keeping Irida close and safe in his embrace, making sure Lucifer was able to also comfort her.*

“Dont be sorry, I think we both understand fully.” Lucifer speaks, moving slightly closer to Irida to rest 2 of his back wings on her back. “Its okay to cry, you dont always have to be strong. Crying is a healthy way to release emotions.”

She listened to everything that was said to her and yet… were there really any tears left to shed..? How many times had she cried now..? If she didn’t know any better she’d think that her systems had sprung a leak or something…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… Lucifer, dear… I-I think… I-I’m ok now…

She tried to get up, only for her body to begin shaking again… yet through it all she still did, refusing to stay put… she was strong… a warrior… model type “Athena”… being so weak wasn’t supposed to be in her coding… even if it was healthy to cry…

W-We can… keep going… I’ll be just fine… I-I promise..!

*He said and kept her close, never wanting to use force but he had to just to keep her there.. still..*

“Just, take some breaths, okay? I have to talk to Hell about something but you can both join us when you are ready.” The fallen angel smiles, before quickly making his way over to his lover.

——

How long has he been sitting here? How long have they been just.. thinking?

Hell wasnt sure. It had felt like only a few minutes, but she knew it was likely closer to half an hour. Xe didnt move, didnt even kick its feet as they sat on the ledge while staring into the sky. Dissociation had long since taken over his mind, limbs feeling entirely detached from their body.

How long would it take until everyone left? How long until they all saw what Hell really was? How long, how long, how long. Did they really want everyone to see how horrible they were? It was practically begging to be abandoned now.. thats all she could think of. Every last thought plagued its mind, taking over her thoughts. They didnt even notice the trio walk in, didnt notice Iridas breakdown.

It was trapped in xer own mind, destines to replay trauma and torture. Thats what it deserved though, right? She did the same all the time!

(“You deserve the worst.” God had said. “You deserve nothing more than what I have given you, even that much is generous. Im shocked the angels I sent down here havent left yet, you should know they will get sick of you eventually.” Hell wasnt sure how this conversation started, why The Father had begun an entire speech about Hells worthlessness. This wasnt new to Hell anymore, she had long since learned how to tune it ou-

“Are you even listening?!” A loud, harsh slap knocked Hells current form to the ground, a wince escaping its lips. “I am speaking to you, and you will listen to me! I am your God and you do as told!” He scolded, landing another blow to its skull before picking them up by the neck.

Hours had pasted after that, how long had it been exactly? Hell had been weak, too tired to even destroy the form she was currently in. Bruises and bite marks littered its body, puddle of blood below it. Xe had let himself dissociate while it happened, the rape and beatings. They were nothing new at this point, but they still hurt. Anger had bubbled up inside Hell at being so weak, so pathetic that it couldnt even fight back.. how could they protect Lucifer and Verchiel if it couldnt eve-)

“Love?”

The fallen angel sat close by Hell, eyes scanning xer face carefully.

Hell blinked, sitting up and looked around (when had they gotten to Fraud?) before focusing back on Lucifer.

“I can tell something is wrong, Hell.” The fallen angel started, one hand gently gripping Hells hand. He had always been so observant, so quick to notice every little detail about Hell… they couldnt dwell on that thought now.

“NOT HERE.” Was all xe could reply with, eyes still distant but slightly more focused than before.

“Is it because of Irida and Sisyphus being here?” Hell nodded yes to Lucifers question, who had now wrapped his wings and an arm around the other.

She paused and turned to where Hell was sitting, a…familiar aura radiating off of them… it was enough to cause her wings to droop… she knew that distant look… she understood it… because she did the same…

…

As much as she wanted to call out to Hell… to approach xer… to be a form of comfort… she knew it was Lucifer’s job, not hers… it was only then that she noticed just how heavily her body was shaking… she… really wasn’t ok…

…I…

“Irida.. do you need to cry more..? You can tell me anything, you.. know it.. Just.. let it all out, okay?.. We won't leave until you are okay.”

“Irida went through something similar, you could always tell her.” Lucifer commented, “Im sure she would understand.” The fallen angel kept his voice low, both to try and make sure the others wouldnt hear (though he doubted it worked, they were only around 15 feet away) and to not freak Hell out too much. Lucifer didnt want to set her off, to make it go back into old habits and isolate themself again.

Hell didnt respond. Would Irida understand? That was never something xe thought about, being able to relate to those around him. They had always just assumed what she went through was something others wouldnt understand. They couldnt die, the sheer amount of suicide attempts he had done made that very obvious, and looking back on what it could remember, God had used that to His advantage.

It never mattered how hard He beat them, how bad He raped him, what He said to xem, Hell couldnt die, couldnt fight back against what He did.

Hell didnt know Iridas trauma well (xe knew hers less than its own, and xe could barely recall his own trauma most days), but she knew enough to know that maybe, just maybe, Irida would understand. Maybe she would stay, she wouldnt blame Hell for what happened like God did. Maybe…

She didn’t know if she had it in her to cry anymore… what more was left..? And now seeing Hell Itself with that distant look… the one she knew so well…

D-Damnit…

Rage, sadness, hopelessness… the ends of her six wings changing between red, dark blue, and purple… why… she could feel her heart breaking… as a dangerous thought formed… one that she couldn’t stop herself from voicing…

…A-All of them should’ve just… t-taken it out on me… n-not Hell… not Seraph… not Verchiel… not even father, King Minos..! I-I… should be the one to shoulder such pain..!

*He looked at Hell.. he really felt bad about xer, if only he could do anything to make her feel better.. yet he knew too well that there was no better comfort that the one from your partner..*

“Irida-?!.. Please- do not say that again.. You should not suffer more pain.. Trust me, I wish the same thing, I wish to endure all of your pain instead of.. all of you.. but we can't change it.. I know it hurts.. it hurts even more than it should.. but we can't do anything..”

“YOU BOTH UNDERSTAND I CAN HEAR YOU, CORRECT?” Hell cuddled into Lucifers embrace as it spoke, speaking before she could even sort out his thoughts. It hated being pitied, hated the feeling of being seen like a thing in need of help. Did Irida think Hell needed saving? Something that was pathetic and in need of a saviour?

In the back of their mind, Hell doubted this was the case, but even the idea of being put down because of her trauma, because of Him, made xem speak without thinking.

“I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS A CHILD IN NEED OF PROTECTION. YOU BOTH ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF YEARS YOUNGER THAN ME, ITS NOT EITHER OF YOUR JOBS TO WISH TO TAKE MY PROBLEMS FROM ME. IF EITHER OF YOU WENT THROUGH WHAT I DID, YOU WOULD BE DEAD.”

“THE PAST WILL NEVER BE CHANGED, ITS USELESS TO ACT LIKE IT CAN. DWELLING ON THOSE THOUGHTS WILL ONLY CAUSE YOU TO SPIRAL, MINDFLAYER.”

Hell stopped himself there, resting against Lucifer and closing its eyes.

It was then that she realized how badly she fucked up, allowing her emotions to take control… Hell was absolutely right, what made her think that such a train of thought would ever go over well? Her six wings drooped fully…

…I’m sorry, Hell… I honestly didn’t mean for my words to come off like that… please believe me when I say that I understand fully and feel the same way… everything you said is the undeniable truth, and I mean this with all my heart..!

Realizing just how tense the situation had become… and just how high her emotions were running… she decided that it would be best if she took a breather elsewhere… so much has happened… of course her processors would be a disaster…

I… need some time to myself… to sort out my emotions… and calm down… once again I’m sorry for speaking out of line… I really am… …no one follow me… please…

*He was about to ask, but he realized.. maybe it would be better to let her go and just.. watch over here from the distance. He just squeezed her very softly in his arms, tightening the hug for some seconds before letting her go, moving away and sighing.*

“..Just.. be careful..”

Lucifer wasnt sure how to react. He wanted to call for Irida, to go after her and ask if she was okay, but he also knew that she needed some alone time to gather her thoughts. The fallen angel wanted to get up, but looking down and seeing how Hell clutched to him, buried xemself in his chest, made him stay where he was.

Upon being let go by Sisyphus, she bolted away at Mach 5 speeds leaving a pure white streak of light in her wake, despite not knowing much about Fraud, she found herself in an oddly empty supermarket… looking around, she decided to sit on one of the top shelves…

…Damnit… I need to just slow down for once… when has being a martyr ever gone well for me..? I just…

She trailed off when she realized just how eerily quiet it was… yes the lights were on, but the silence… it wasn’t doing her any favors…

(“Oh Irida..~ even in the silence of it all… I just can’t get enough of you~ if only the two of us could do this for days on end~ non stop~”

She couldn’t respond… not with the unending amount of agony… once again he had torn her apart… disregarded everything that she was for his own pleasure… how her body hadn’t completely broken was beyond her… but she just wanted it all to be over… to no longer have to suffer…

How could she ever face anyone again..? How could God… no… there was no God… if such a being existed… then he would’ve been dealt with long ago… and she wouldn’t have to endure all of it… how could someone destined to be a warrior… become a captive..? How… did she let this happen..?!

“Irida~ my mechanical harlot~ you’ll never be free from me~ I own you~ remember that… even if the day comes where I’m forced to let you go… no one will take you~ I’m the only one who’ll ever cherish you in such a way~ show you such love and passion~ understood~?”)

I… d-damnit..! F-Fuck..! W-Why… can’t I… have… a-any peace..?! I-I just…

She gripped her head and tried to hold back the tears forming in her optic… no matter where she went or what she did… there was no escape from it all… it was nothing but an unending cycle of torment…

…S-Suffer… s-slowly…

Lucifer couldnt help the worry that set in his stomach, the anxiety that began to latch at his chest. Hell wasnt like this.. not often anyways. Xe had his moments of course, but being like this in front of others? Not hiding her dissociation, cuddling up to Lucifer for comfort, made the fallen angel worried.

“They’re gone, Love. Wanna tell me whats wrong?” Lucifer asked, one hand cupping his lovers face.

Hell didnt respond right away. What was wrong? What caused them to behave like this? Even it didnt know. One moment they were threatening Samyaza, the next tears began to pour from his eyes for seemingly no reason.

“I.. DONT KNOW.” Hell admitted, letting herself melt into Lucifers hand. It was like a wave of depression hit them out of nowhere, wrapping around xer brain and refusing to let go, like a parasite.

“Oh my- are you okay?!”

The figure rushes towards you upon seeing your body laying against the ground, moving to sit on his knees.

@comet-anguish

*Sphinx's vision was blurry enough for him to not notice who was talking to him.. yet when he saw the feathers.. he almost jumped, if it wasn't for how hurt he was.. He looked up at Lucifer, eyes inmediately becoming humid, starting to shake even more than before.*

“I-I-.. L-Luci..?!”

“Nononono... Please.. don't patch me up.. I want to die.. it hurts so much.. please just.. take me somewhere safe, Luci..-.. please..”

“..alright, Ill take you to a lower layer, okay? Just.. just rest a little.” Lucifer nods, looking around and saying something in an unknown language, before the layer abruptly changes.

Lucifer stands, rushing back stage.. wait, back stage? The area looked like an empty theatre, dozens of seats sitting before a stage where Sphinx was laying. The curtains were drawn open, yet no one but Sphinx and Lucifer seemed to be present.

“..Please.. no.. don't.. do it..”

“Listen, I cant let you die on me, okay? We just met after so long and..” Lucifer paused, free hand feeling his heart rate. When did he start hyperventilating? The fallen angel took a breath, lungs constricted by anxiety that made in hard to breath and impossible to calm himself.

“You arent a waste of anything, alright? Even if I cant do anything, its better to try than not.” The fallen angel speaks.

Lucifer wasnt sure how many minutes had passed until he pulled away, wiping his eyes before taking Sphinxes hands in his own.

“I.. I think I have a way to keep you alive without your holy light, even if its only for a while longer.” The fallen angels voice is small, almost hoarse from barely contained sobs. “Its.. really hard to explain, but I can later. Right now I just need you to trust me, okay?”

*He said, soon realizing there was nowhere to go. Hell was a prision, he was banished from Heaven.. but maybe.. if he talked to the council.. they could help right?..*

It was hard to make out what the fallen angel was saying and who he was speaking too, but it was clear he was talking to someone. His “love.. please.?” being the only thing able to be made out well.

It wasnt long before Lucifer came back, having only been gone for around a minute. Kneeling beside his brother, Lucifer takes Sphinxes hands again. Slowly, what felt almost like yarn began to wrap around Sphinxes legs, stopping below the knee.

“Okay, its going to feel really weird, but just stay calm.” Is all Lucifer says for now, before an energy begins to pulse from the tendrils around Sphinxes legs. They glowed a soft orange, and were warm to the touch, clearly organic in some way.

“L-Luci!-.. I-.. b-broth-er..”

“This isnt permanent, and Im not sure if it will stay when you leave hell.” The fallen angel spoke. “But at least it will keep you alive.”

Distantly, careful eyes watched the scene play out.

Hell let her tendrils snap from the ground, breaking apart into nothing but a puddle of blood across the ground.

It rarely used his strange energy, only giving it to things like husks and machines for xer own enjoyment. But after watching V1’s decent, how they were able to heal off of it, gain energy off of it, Hell finally realized its use. (“Your energy is useless, you know that right?” A voice rang out in the back of their mind as a memory replayed. “Its only a mockery of My divinity, something you will never have, remember?” Hell had fought and scratched, bit and kicked at Him, used energy to create orbs to try and get Him off of xem.. disgust crawled under Hells skin remembering His words, His touch.)

*He repeated as sobs and cries never stopped, literally crumbling into his embrace, the feeling of his wings was enough to make him purr, it reminded him of home.. and when he saw Lucifer's face again, he cried even more..*

“..Y-ou.. don't.. hate me..? I-.. failed The Counc-il..”

“What? Of course not! Sphinx, if I hated you would I try and keep you alive like this?” The fallen angel asked, head tilting slightly.

*He asked through his little sobs and whines, cuddling as much as he possibly could, wings fluttering softly, feathers were of a dark and deep blue, a sign of sadness.*

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition

L-Lucifer, dear..! Please tell me you see her too..! I know she’s there..! I’m not insane..!

Tears began to form in her optic as she struggled, the apparition now turning towards her, she couldn’t stay in the King of Greed’s arms any longer, she needed to go

S-Sisyphus, please..! She’s there..! V-Victoria..! I can see her clearly..! I need to go to her..! I beg of you… let me..!

*..He kept her there for a few more seconds before letting her go, he felt horrible when he noticed her struggles, he looked at his hand for some seconds after he let her go, yet he moved his gaze away as fast as he could to avoid spiraling. This wasn't a good moment. He stayed there, watching..*

After finally being released from Sisyphus’s arms, she zips over to where the apparition is, time seemed to slow for her as she floated in front of it, said apparition becoming more visible to everyone around, a red V model…

V-Victoria..! I-I..! P-Please… I’m sorry for not figuring out who actually killed you sooner..! I miss you so much..! Y-You… didn’t deserve to be killed that way..! I-I know V1 couldn’t control itself… but still..! I-

The apparition reached its right hand out and seemingly cupped the right side of her face, an attempt to soothe her… the tears fell almost immediately while the soft white glow from before became stronger, it was definitely the same as the glow from someone in the vicinity of an Idol… she raises the same hand up and placed it atop the apparition’s, trying so hard to not sob…

I-I’m… trying so hard to live without you being alive..! B-But… everything has fallen apart for me..! Please… V2, Victoria… d-don’t leave me again..! I can’t… live without you..! I-I’m so..!

“..Irida-.. please..”

So, Lucifer did nothing but sat by, watching carefully.

“Irida, I know… but you have to stay strong, for both of us… carry on my legacy in your soul, ok?”

She nearly froze upon hearing the apparition speak, but at this point it shouldn’t come as a surprise, the tears that fell from her optic didn’t stop, if anything… they fell faster

B-But… I-I can’t take… a-anymore..! E-Everything is… I-I just-

“Darling, listen… I know how strong you really are, don’t let these things hold you back… easier said than done, I know, but still. Look at how much you’ve changed, isn’t that proof enough..? Here… let this new light help drive you forwards, show you that… I’ll always be by your side.”

Before she had a chance to react, the apparition hugged her which in turn caused the soft white glow to fully envelop her body… not even a minute later did the light fade away along with the apparition, as soon as she realized this… she collapsed to her knees and completely broke down…

V-V2… V-Victoria… I-I… please come back..! Don’t go..! Please..! N-Not again..! I-I… VICTORIA!!!!!!

“...Im.. so sorry, Irida-..”

*He said in a low voice, yet loud enough for her to hear.*

“Irida?” The fallen angel didnt know what to say about what he just saw. He sat close by, hands fidgeting together.

She clutched both hands to her chest and cried more, letting out every emotion from that day… when she got the report of her body being found in Greed… it hurt so much… and now feeling her essence inside of her soul… she just didn’t know what else to do…

P-Please… c-come back..!

Tears unending, her body began to glow that soft white again until it was fully enveloped in said light, yet no Idol was nearby… she knew Sisyphus was hugging her tightly and Lucifer was close by… but her processors were a mess… how many more must she lose..? Be it to death… or her own mistakes that drive them away..?

D-Dad, Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, dear… I-I just… i-it hurts… s-so much..!

*He said and held her closer, kissing her forehead slowly, taking some seconds to move away and keep hugging her, he closed his eyes, focusing on making Irida feel better.. on letting her know that he knew how much pain she was going through.. he has felt it before.. he knew.. he understood.. he was alone when it happened, so he won't let Irida be alone now.*

“No one said grief would be easy, but you need to keep going. If not for yourself or us, for Victoria. I never knew her personally, but anyone who truly loves you would want you to be happy with or without them. It will seem impossible at first, but it gets easier with time.” Lucifers voice had a strange calming affect, almost like the scent of lavender. The fallen angel did his best to use his powers to help calm Irida, but after only beginning to use them recently, he doubted it would help much.

She wanted so badly to say more… to express how much everything hurt… she lost so much… from The Final War to V2’s death… nothing ever seemed to be a bright spot during that time… aside from V2 just being in her life… the weight of it all was becoming too much for her…

D-Dad, S-Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, d-dear…

However, Lucifer’s voice and words of comfort did resonate with her processors along with Sisyphus’s words of encouragement and his general warmth… soon her sobs died down… she… needed to be strong… for everyone she held dear… breaking down like this… wouldn’t solve anything…

*He said, keeping Irida close and safe in his embrace, making sure Lucifer was able to also comfort her.*

“Dont be sorry, I think we both understand fully.” Lucifer speaks, moving slightly closer to Irida to rest 2 of his back wings on her back. “Its okay to cry, you dont always have to be strong. Crying is a healthy way to release emotions.”

She listened to everything that was said to her and yet… were there really any tears left to shed..? How many times had she cried now..? If she didn’t know any better she’d think that her systems had sprung a leak or something…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… Lucifer, dear… I-I think… I-I’m ok now…

She tried to get up, only for her body to begin shaking again… yet through it all she still did, refusing to stay put… she was strong… a warrior… model type “Athena”… being so weak wasn’t supposed to be in her coding… even if it was healthy to cry…

W-We can… keep going… I’ll be just fine… I-I promise..!

*He said and kept her close, never wanting to use force but he had to just to keep her there.. still..*

“Just, take some breaths, okay? I have to talk to Hell about something but you can both join us when you are ready.” The fallen angel smiles, before quickly making his way over to his lover.

——

How long has he been sitting here? How long have they been just.. thinking?

Hell wasnt sure. It had felt like only a few minutes, but she knew it was likely closer to half an hour. Xe didnt move, didnt even kick its feet as they sat on the ledge while staring into the sky. Dissociation had long since taken over his mind, limbs feeling entirely detached from their body.

How long would it take until everyone left? How long until they all saw what Hell really was? How long, how long, how long. Did they really want everyone to see how horrible they were? It was practically begging to be abandoned now.. thats all she could think of. Every last thought plagued its mind, taking over her thoughts. They didnt even notice the trio walk in, didnt notice Iridas breakdown.

It was trapped in xer own mind, destines to replay trauma and torture. Thats what it deserved though, right? She did the same all the time!

(“You deserve the worst.” God had said. “You deserve nothing more than what I have given you, even that much is generous. Im shocked the angels I sent down here havent left yet, you should know they will get sick of you eventually.” Hell wasnt sure how this conversation started, why The Father had begun an entire speech about Hells worthlessness. This wasnt new to Hell anymore, she had long since learned how to tune it ou-

“Are you even listening?!” A loud, harsh slap knocked Hells current form to the ground, a wince escaping its lips. “I am speaking to you, and you will listen to me! I am your God and you do as told!” He scolded, landing another blow to its skull before picking them up by the neck.

Hours had pasted after that, how long had it been exactly? Hell had been weak, too tired to even destroy the form she was currently in. Bruises and bite marks littered its body, puddle of blood below it. Xe had let himself dissociate while it happened, the rape and beatings. They were nothing new at this point, but they still hurt. Anger had bubbled up inside Hell at being so weak, so pathetic that it couldnt even fight back.. how could they protect Lucifer and Verchiel if it couldnt eve-)

“Love?”

The fallen angel sat close by Hell, eyes scanning xer face carefully.

Hell blinked, sitting up and looked around (when had they gotten to Fraud?) before focusing back on Lucifer.

“I can tell something is wrong, Hell.” The fallen angel started, one hand gently gripping Hells hand. He had always been so observant, so quick to notice every little detail about Hell… they couldnt dwell on that thought now.

“NOT HERE.” Was all xe could reply with, eyes still distant but slightly more focused than before.

“Is it because of Irida and Sisyphus being here?” Hell nodded yes to Lucifers question, who had now wrapped his wings and an arm around the other.

She paused and turned to where Hell was sitting, a…familiar aura radiating off of them… it was enough to cause her wings to droop… she knew that distant look… she understood it… because she did the same…

…

As much as she wanted to call out to Hell… to approach xer… to be a form of comfort… she knew it was Lucifer’s job, not hers… it was only then that she noticed just how heavily her body was shaking… she… really wasn’t ok…

…I…

“Irida.. do you need to cry more..? You can tell me anything, you.. know it.. Just.. let it all out, okay?.. We won't leave until you are okay.”

“Irida went through something similar, you could always tell her.” Lucifer commented, “Im sure she would understand.” The fallen angel kept his voice low, both to try and make sure the others wouldnt hear (though he doubted it worked, they were only around 15 feet away) and to not freak Hell out too much. Lucifer didnt want to set her off, to make it go back into old habits and isolate themself again.

Hell didnt respond. Would Irida understand? That was never something xe thought about, being able to relate to those around him. They had always just assumed what she went through was something others wouldnt understand. They couldnt die, the sheer amount of suicide attempts he had done made that very obvious, and looking back on what it could remember, God had used that to His advantage.

It never mattered how hard He beat them, how bad He raped him, what He said to xem, Hell couldnt die, couldnt fight back against what He did.

Hell didnt know Iridas trauma well (xe knew hers less than its own, and xe could barely recall his own trauma most days), but she knew enough to know that maybe, just maybe, Irida would understand. Maybe she would stay, she wouldnt blame Hell for what happened like God did. Maybe…

She didn’t know if she had it in her to cry anymore… what more was left..? And now seeing Hell Itself with that distant look… the one she knew so well…

D-Damnit…

Rage, sadness, hopelessness… the ends of her six wings changing between red, dark blue, and purple… why… she could feel her heart breaking… as a dangerous thought formed… one that she couldn’t stop herself from voicing…

…A-All of them should’ve just… t-taken it out on me… n-not Hell… not Seraph… not Verchiel… not even father, King Minos..! I-I… should be the one to shoulder such pain..!

*He looked at Hell.. he really felt bad about xer, if only he could do anything to make her feel better.. yet he knew too well that there was no better comfort that the one from your partner..*

“Irida-?!.. Please- do not say that again.. You should not suffer more pain.. Trust me, I wish the same thing, I wish to endure all of your pain instead of.. all of you.. but we can't change it.. I know it hurts.. it hurts even more than it should.. but we can't do anything..”

“YOU BOTH UNDERSTAND I CAN HEAR YOU, CORRECT?” Hell cuddled into Lucifers embrace as it spoke, speaking before she could even sort out his thoughts. It hated being pitied, hated the feeling of being seen like a thing in need of help. Did Irida think Hell needed saving? Something that was pathetic and in need of a saviour?

In the back of their mind, Hell doubted this was the case, but even the idea of being put down because of her trauma, because of Him, made xem speak without thinking.

“I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS A CHILD IN NEED OF PROTECTION. YOU BOTH ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF YEARS YOUNGER THAN ME, ITS NOT EITHER OF YOUR JOBS TO WISH TO TAKE MY PROBLEMS FROM ME. IF EITHER OF YOU WENT THROUGH WHAT I DID, YOU WOULD BE DEAD.”

“THE PAST WILL NEVER BE CHANGED, ITS USELESS TO ACT LIKE IT CAN. DWELLING ON THOSE THOUGHTS WILL ONLY CAUSE YOU TO SPIRAL, MINDFLAYER.”

Hell stopped himself there, resting against Lucifer and closing its eyes.

It was then that she realized how badly she fucked up, allowing her emotions to take control… Hell was absolutely right, what made her think that such a train of thought would ever go over well? Her six wings drooped fully…

…I’m sorry, Hell… I honestly didn’t mean for my words to come off like that… please believe me when I say that I understand fully and feel the same way… everything you said is the undeniable truth, and I mean this with all my heart..!

Realizing just how tense the situation had become… and just how high her emotions were running… she decided that it would be best if she took a breather elsewhere… so much has happened… of course her processors would be a disaster…

I… need some time to myself… to sort out my emotions… and calm down… once again I’m sorry for speaking out of line… I really am… …no one follow me… please…

*He was about to ask, but he realized.. maybe it would be better to let her go and just.. watch over here from the distance. He just squeezed her very softly in his arms, tightening the hug for some seconds before letting her go, moving away and sighing.*

“..Just.. be careful..”

Lucifer wasnt sure how to react. He wanted to call for Irida, to go after her and ask if she was okay, but he also knew that she needed some alone time to gather her thoughts. The fallen angel wanted to get up, but looking down and seeing how Hell clutched to him, buried xemself in his chest, made him stay where he was.

“Oh my- are you okay?!”

The figure rushes towards you upon seeing your body laying against the ground, moving to sit on his knees.

@comet-anguish

*Sphinx's vision was blurry enough for him to not notice who was talking to him.. yet when he saw the feathers.. he almost jumped, if it wasn't for how hurt he was.. He looked up at Lucifer, eyes inmediately becoming humid, starting to shake even more than before.*

“I-I-.. L-Luci..?!”

“Nononono... Please.. don't patch me up.. I want to die.. it hurts so much.. please just.. take me somewhere safe, Luci..-.. please..”

“..alright, Ill take you to a lower layer, okay? Just.. just rest a little.” Lucifer nods, looking around and saying something in an unknown language, before the layer abruptly changes.

Lucifer stands, rushing back stage.. wait, back stage? The area looked like an empty theatre, dozens of seats sitting before a stage where Sphinx was laying. The curtains were drawn open, yet no one but Sphinx and Lucifer seemed to be present.

“..Please.. no.. don't.. do it..”

“Listen, I cant let you die on me, okay? We just met after so long and..” Lucifer paused, free hand feeling his heart rate. When did he start hyperventilating? The fallen angel took a breath, lungs constricted by anxiety that made in hard to breath and impossible to calm himself.

“You arent a waste of anything, alright? Even if I cant do anything, its better to try than not.” The fallen angel speaks.

Lucifer wasnt sure how many minutes had passed until he pulled away, wiping his eyes before taking Sphinxes hands in his own.

“I.. I think I have a way to keep you alive without your holy light, even if its only for a while longer.” The fallen angels voice is small, almost hoarse from barely contained sobs. “Its.. really hard to explain, but I can later. Right now I just need you to trust me, okay?”

*He said, soon realizing there was nowhere to go. Hell was a prision, he was banished from Heaven.. but maybe.. if he talked to the council.. they could help right?..*

It was hard to make out what the fallen angel was saying and who he was speaking too, but it was clear he was talking to someone. His “love.. please.?” being the only thing able to be made out well.

It wasnt long before Lucifer came back, having only been gone for around a minute. Kneeling beside his brother, Lucifer takes Sphinxes hands again. Slowly, what felt almost like yarn began to wrap around Sphinxes legs, stopping below the knee.

“Okay, its going to feel really weird, but just stay calm.” Is all Lucifer says for now, before an energy begins to pulse from the tendrils around Sphinxes legs. They glowed a soft orange, and were warm to the touch, clearly organic in some way.

“L-Luci!-.. I-.. b-broth-er..”

“This isnt permanent, and Im not sure if it will stay when you leave hell.” The fallen angel spoke. “But at least it will keep you alive.”

Distantly, careful eyes watched the scene play out.

Hell let her tendrils snap from the ground, breaking apart into nothing but a puddle of blood across the ground.

It rarely used his strange energy, only giving it to things like husks and machines for xer own enjoyment. But after watching V1’s decent, how they were able to heal off of it, gain energy off of it, Hell finally realized its use. (“Your energy is useless, you know that right?” A voice rang out in the back of their mind as a memory replayed. “Its only a mockery of My divinity, something you will never have, remember?” Hell had fought and scratched, bit and kicked at Him, used energy to create orbs to try and get Him off of xem.. disgust crawled under Hells skin remembering His words, His touch.)

*He repeated as sobs and cries never stopped, literally crumbling into his embrace, the feeling of his wings was enough to make him purr, it reminded him of home.. and when he saw Lucifer's face again, he cried even more..*

“..Y-ou.. don't.. hate me..? I-.. failed The Counc-il..”

“What? Of course not! Sphinx, if I hated you would I try and keep you alive like this?” The fallen angel asked, head tilting slightly.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition

L-Lucifer, dear..! Please tell me you see her too..! I know she’s there..! I’m not insane..!

Tears began to form in her optic as she struggled, the apparition now turning towards her, she couldn’t stay in the King of Greed’s arms any longer, she needed to go

S-Sisyphus, please..! She’s there..! V-Victoria..! I can see her clearly..! I need to go to her..! I beg of you… let me..!

*..He kept her there for a few more seconds before letting her go, he felt horrible when he noticed her struggles, he looked at his hand for some seconds after he let her go, yet he moved his gaze away as fast as he could to avoid spiraling. This wasn't a good moment. He stayed there, watching..*

After finally being released from Sisyphus’s arms, she zips over to where the apparition is, time seemed to slow for her as she floated in front of it, said apparition becoming more visible to everyone around, a red V model…

V-Victoria..! I-I..! P-Please… I’m sorry for not figuring out who actually killed you sooner..! I miss you so much..! Y-You… didn’t deserve to be killed that way..! I-I know V1 couldn’t control itself… but still..! I-

The apparition reached its right hand out and seemingly cupped the right side of her face, an attempt to soothe her… the tears fell almost immediately while the soft white glow from before became stronger, it was definitely the same as the glow from someone in the vicinity of an Idol… she raises the same hand up and placed it atop the apparition’s, trying so hard to not sob…

I-I’m… trying so hard to live without you being alive..! B-But… everything has fallen apart for me..! Please… V2, Victoria… d-don’t leave me again..! I can’t… live without you..! I-I’m so..!

“..Irida-.. please..”

So, Lucifer did nothing but sat by, watching carefully.

“Irida, I know… but you have to stay strong, for both of us… carry on my legacy in your soul, ok?”

She nearly froze upon hearing the apparition speak, but at this point it shouldn’t come as a surprise, the tears that fell from her optic didn’t stop, if anything… they fell faster

B-But… I-I can’t take… a-anymore..! E-Everything is… I-I just-

“Darling, listen… I know how strong you really are, don’t let these things hold you back… easier said than done, I know, but still. Look at how much you’ve changed, isn’t that proof enough..? Here… let this new light help drive you forwards, show you that… I’ll always be by your side.”

Before she had a chance to react, the apparition hugged her which in turn caused the soft white glow to fully envelop her body… not even a minute later did the light fade away along with the apparition, as soon as she realized this… she collapsed to her knees and completely broke down…

V-V2… V-Victoria… I-I… please come back..! Don’t go..! Please..! N-Not again..! I-I… VICTORIA!!!!!!

“...Im.. so sorry, Irida-..”

*He said in a low voice, yet loud enough for her to hear.*

“Irida?” The fallen angel didnt know what to say about what he just saw. He sat close by, hands fidgeting together.

She clutched both hands to her chest and cried more, letting out every emotion from that day… when she got the report of her body being found in Greed… it hurt so much… and now feeling her essence inside of her soul… she just didn’t know what else to do…

P-Please… c-come back..!

Tears unending, her body began to glow that soft white again until it was fully enveloped in said light, yet no Idol was nearby… she knew Sisyphus was hugging her tightly and Lucifer was close by… but her processors were a mess… how many more must she lose..? Be it to death… or her own mistakes that drive them away..?

D-Dad, Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, dear… I-I just… i-it hurts… s-so much..!

*He said and held her closer, kissing her forehead slowly, taking some seconds to move away and keep hugging her, he closed his eyes, focusing on making Irida feel better.. on letting her know that he knew how much pain she was going through.. he has felt it before.. he knew.. he understood.. he was alone when it happened, so he won't let Irida be alone now.*

“No one said grief would be easy, but you need to keep going. If not for yourself or us, for Victoria. I never knew her personally, but anyone who truly loves you would want you to be happy with or without them. It will seem impossible at first, but it gets easier with time.” Lucifers voice had a strange calming affect, almost like the scent of lavender. The fallen angel did his best to use his powers to help calm Irida, but after only beginning to use them recently, he doubted it would help much.

She wanted so badly to say more… to express how much everything hurt… she lost so much… from The Final War to V2’s death… nothing ever seemed to be a bright spot during that time… aside from V2 just being in her life… the weight of it all was becoming too much for her…

D-Dad, S-Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, d-dear…

However, Lucifer’s voice and words of comfort did resonate with her processors along with Sisyphus’s words of encouragement and his general warmth… soon her sobs died down… she… needed to be strong… for everyone she held dear… breaking down like this… wouldn’t solve anything…

*He said, keeping Irida close and safe in his embrace, making sure Lucifer was able to also comfort her.*

“Dont be sorry, I think we both understand fully.” Lucifer speaks, moving slightly closer to Irida to rest 2 of his back wings on her back. “Its okay to cry, you dont always have to be strong. Crying is a healthy way to release emotions.”

She listened to everything that was said to her and yet… were there really any tears left to shed..? How many times had she cried now..? If she didn’t know any better she’d think that her systems had sprung a leak or something…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… Lucifer, dear… I-I think… I-I’m ok now…

She tried to get up, only for her body to begin shaking again… yet through it all she still did, refusing to stay put… she was strong… a warrior… model type “Athena”… being so weak wasn’t supposed to be in her coding… even if it was healthy to cry…

W-We can… keep going… I’ll be just fine… I-I promise..!

*He said and kept her close, never wanting to use force but he had to just to keep her there.. still..*

“Just, take some breaths, okay? I have to talk to Hell about something but you can both join us when you are ready.” The fallen angel smiles, before quickly making his way over to his lover.

——

How long has he been sitting here? How long have they been just.. thinking?

Hell wasnt sure. It had felt like only a few minutes, but she knew it was likely closer to half an hour. Xe didnt move, didnt even kick its feet as they sat on the ledge while staring into the sky. Dissociation had long since taken over his mind, limbs feeling entirely detached from their body.

How long would it take until everyone left? How long until they all saw what Hell really was? How long, how long, how long. Did they really want everyone to see how horrible they were? It was practically begging to be abandoned now.. thats all she could think of. Every last thought plagued its mind, taking over her thoughts. They didnt even notice the trio walk in, didnt notice Iridas breakdown.

It was trapped in xer own mind, destines to replay trauma and torture. Thats what it deserved though, right? She did the same all the time!

(“You deserve the worst.” God had said. “You deserve nothing more than what I have given you, even that much is generous. Im shocked the angels I sent down here havent left yet, you should know they will get sick of you eventually.” Hell wasnt sure how this conversation started, why The Father had begun an entire speech about Hells worthlessness. This wasnt new to Hell anymore, she had long since learned how to tune it ou-

“Are you even listening?!” A loud, harsh slap knocked Hells current form to the ground, a wince escaping its lips. “I am speaking to you, and you will listen to me! I am your God and you do as told!” He scolded, landing another blow to its skull before picking them up by the neck.

Hours had pasted after that, how long had it been exactly? Hell had been weak, too tired to even destroy the form she was currently in. Bruises and bite marks littered its body, puddle of blood below it. Xe had let himself dissociate while it happened, the rape and beatings. They were nothing new at this point, but they still hurt. Anger had bubbled up inside Hell at being so weak, so pathetic that it couldnt even fight back.. how could they protect Lucifer and Verchiel if it couldnt eve-)

“Love?”

The fallen angel sat close by Hell, eyes scanning xer face carefully.

Hell blinked, sitting up and looked around (when had they gotten to Fraud?) before focusing back on Lucifer.

“I can tell something is wrong, Hell.” The fallen angel started, one hand gently gripping Hells hand. He had always been so observant, so quick to notice every little detail about Hell… they couldnt dwell on that thought now.

“NOT HERE.” Was all xe could reply with, eyes still distant but slightly more focused than before.

“Is it because of Irida and Sisyphus being here?” Hell nodded yes to Lucifers question, who had now wrapped his wings and an arm around the other.

She paused and turned to where Hell was sitting, a…familiar aura radiating off of them… it was enough to cause her wings to droop… she knew that distant look… she understood it… because she did the same…

…

As much as she wanted to call out to Hell… to approach xer… to be a form of comfort… she knew it was Lucifer’s job, not hers… it was only then that she noticed just how heavily her body was shaking… she… really wasn’t ok…

…I…

“Irida.. do you need to cry more..? You can tell me anything, you.. know it.. Just.. let it all out, okay?.. We won't leave until you are okay.”

“Irida went through something similar, you could always tell her.” Lucifer commented, “Im sure she would understand.” The fallen angel kept his voice low, both to try and make sure the others wouldnt hear (though he doubted it worked, they were only around 15 feet away) and to not freak Hell out too much. Lucifer didnt want to set her off, to make it go back into old habits and isolate themself again.

Hell didnt respond. Would Irida understand? That was never something xe thought about, being able to relate to those around him. They had always just assumed what she went through was something others wouldnt understand. They couldnt die, the sheer amount of suicide attempts he had done made that very obvious, and looking back on what it could remember, God had used that to His advantage.

It never mattered how hard He beat them, how bad He raped him, what He said to xem, Hell couldnt die, couldnt fight back against what He did.

Hell didnt know Iridas trauma well (xe knew hers less than its own, and xe could barely recall his own trauma most days), but she knew enough to know that maybe, just maybe, Irida would understand. Maybe she would stay, she wouldnt blame Hell for what happened like God did. Maybe…

She didn’t know if she had it in her to cry anymore… what more was left..? And now seeing Hell Itself with that distant look… the one she knew so well…

D-Damnit…

Rage, sadness, hopelessness… the ends of her six wings changing between red, dark blue, and purple… why… she could feel her heart breaking… as a dangerous thought formed… one that she couldn’t stop herself from voicing…

…A-All of them should’ve just… t-taken it out on me… n-not Hell… not Seraph… not Verchiel… not even father, King Minos..! I-I… should be the one to shoulder such pain..!

*He looked at Hell.. he really felt bad about xer, if only he could do anything to make her feel better.. yet he knew too well that there was no better comfort that the one from your partner..*

“Irida-?!.. Please- do not say that again.. You should not suffer more pain.. Trust me, I wish the same thing, I wish to endure all of your pain instead of.. all of you.. but we can't change it.. I know it hurts.. it hurts even more than it should.. but we can't do anything..”

“YOU BOTH UNDERSTAND I CAN HEAR YOU, CORRECT?” Hell cuddled into Lucifers embrace as it spoke, speaking before she could even sort out his thoughts. It hated being pitied, hated the feeling of being seen like a thing in need of help. Did Irida think Hell needed saving? Something that was pathetic and in need of a saviour?

In the back of their mind, Hell doubted this was the case, but even the idea of being put down because of her trauma, because of Him, made xem speak without thinking.

“I DO NOT NEED TO BE TREATED AS A CHILD IN NEED OF PROTECTION. YOU BOTH ARE HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF YEARS YOUNGER THAN ME, ITS NOT EITHER OF YOUR JOBS TO WISH TO TAKE MY PROBLEMS FROM ME. IF EITHER OF YOU WENT THROUGH WHAT I DID, YOU WOULD BE DEAD.”

“THE PAST WILL NEVER BE CHANGED, ITS USELESS TO ACT LIKE IT CAN. DWELLING ON THOSE THOUGHTS WILL ONLY CAUSE YOU TO SPIRAL, MINDFLAYER.”

Hell stopped himself there, resting against Lucifer and closing its eyes.

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition

L-Lucifer, dear..! Please tell me you see her too..! I know she’s there..! I’m not insane..!

Tears began to form in her optic as she struggled, the apparition now turning towards her, she couldn’t stay in the King of Greed’s arms any longer, she needed to go

S-Sisyphus, please..! She’s there..! V-Victoria..! I can see her clearly..! I need to go to her..! I beg of you… let me..!

*..He kept her there for a few more seconds before letting her go, he felt horrible when he noticed her struggles, he looked at his hand for some seconds after he let her go, yet he moved his gaze away as fast as he could to avoid spiraling. This wasn't a good moment. He stayed there, watching..*

After finally being released from Sisyphus’s arms, she zips over to where the apparition is, time seemed to slow for her as she floated in front of it, said apparition becoming more visible to everyone around, a red V model…

V-Victoria..! I-I..! P-Please… I’m sorry for not figuring out who actually killed you sooner..! I miss you so much..! Y-You… didn’t deserve to be killed that way..! I-I know V1 couldn’t control itself… but still..! I-

The apparition reached its right hand out and seemingly cupped the right side of her face, an attempt to soothe her… the tears fell almost immediately while the soft white glow from before became stronger, it was definitely the same as the glow from someone in the vicinity of an Idol… she raises the same hand up and placed it atop the apparition’s, trying so hard to not sob…

I-I’m… trying so hard to live without you being alive..! B-But… everything has fallen apart for me..! Please… V2, Victoria… d-don’t leave me again..! I can’t… live without you..! I-I’m so..!

“..Irida-.. please..”

So, Lucifer did nothing but sat by, watching carefully.

“Irida, I know… but you have to stay strong, for both of us… carry on my legacy in your soul, ok?”

She nearly froze upon hearing the apparition speak, but at this point it shouldn’t come as a surprise, the tears that fell from her optic didn’t stop, if anything… they fell faster

B-But… I-I can’t take… a-anymore..! E-Everything is… I-I just-

“Darling, listen… I know how strong you really are, don’t let these things hold you back… easier said than done, I know, but still. Look at how much you’ve changed, isn’t that proof enough..? Here… let this new light help drive you forwards, show you that… I’ll always be by your side.”

Before she had a chance to react, the apparition hugged her which in turn caused the soft white glow to fully envelop her body… not even a minute later did the light fade away along with the apparition, as soon as she realized this… she collapsed to her knees and completely broke down…

V-V2… V-Victoria… I-I… please come back..! Don’t go..! Please..! N-Not again..! I-I… VICTORIA!!!!!!

“...Im.. so sorry, Irida-..”

*He said in a low voice, yet loud enough for her to hear.*

“Irida?” The fallen angel didnt know what to say about what he just saw. He sat close by, hands fidgeting together.

She clutched both hands to her chest and cried more, letting out every emotion from that day… when she got the report of her body being found in Greed… it hurt so much… and now feeling her essence inside of her soul… she just didn’t know what else to do…

P-Please… c-come back..!

Tears unending, her body began to glow that soft white again until it was fully enveloped in said light, yet no Idol was nearby… she knew Sisyphus was hugging her tightly and Lucifer was close by… but her processors were a mess… how many more must she lose..? Be it to death… or her own mistakes that drive them away..?

D-Dad, Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, dear… I-I just… i-it hurts… s-so much..!

*He said and held her closer, kissing her forehead slowly, taking some seconds to move away and keep hugging her, he closed his eyes, focusing on making Irida feel better.. on letting her know that he knew how much pain she was going through.. he has felt it before.. he knew.. he understood.. he was alone when it happened, so he won't let Irida be alone now.*

“No one said grief would be easy, but you need to keep going. If not for yourself or us, for Victoria. I never knew her personally, but anyone who truly loves you would want you to be happy with or without them. It will seem impossible at first, but it gets easier with time.” Lucifers voice had a strange calming affect, almost like the scent of lavender. The fallen angel did his best to use his powers to help calm Irida, but after only beginning to use them recently, he doubted it would help much.

She wanted so badly to say more… to express how much everything hurt… she lost so much… from The Final War to V2’s death… nothing ever seemed to be a bright spot during that time… aside from V2 just being in her life… the weight of it all was becoming too much for her…

D-Dad, S-Sisyphus… L-Lucifer, d-dear…

However, Lucifer’s voice and words of comfort did resonate with her processors along with Sisyphus’s words of encouragement and his general warmth… soon her sobs died down… she… needed to be strong… for everyone she held dear… breaking down like this… wouldn’t solve anything…

*He said, keeping Irida close and safe in his embrace, making sure Lucifer was able to also comfort her.*

“Dont be sorry, I think we both understand fully.” Lucifer speaks, moving slightly closer to Irida to rest 2 of his back wings on her back. “Its okay to cry, you dont always have to be strong. Crying is a healthy way to release emotions.”

She listened to everything that was said to her and yet… were there really any tears left to shed..? How many times had she cried now..? If she didn’t know any better she’d think that her systems had sprung a leak or something…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… Lucifer, dear… I-I think… I-I’m ok now…

She tried to get up, only for her body to begin shaking again… yet through it all she still did, refusing to stay put… she was strong… a warrior… model type “Athena”… being so weak wasn’t supposed to be in her coding… even if it was healthy to cry…

W-We can… keep going… I’ll be just fine… I-I promise..!

*He said and kept her close, never wanting to use force but he had to just to keep her there.. still..*

“Just, take some breaths, okay? I have to talk to Hell about something but you can both join us when you are ready.” The fallen angel smiles, before quickly making his way over to his lover.

——

How long has he been sitting here? How long have they been just.. thinking?

Hell wasnt sure. It had felt like only a few minutes, but she knew it was likely closer to half an hour. Xe didnt move, didnt even kick its feet as they sat on the ledge while staring into the sky. Dissociation had long since taken over his mind, limbs feeling entirely detached from their body.

How long would it take until everyone left? How long until they all saw what Hell really was? How long, how long, how long. Did they really want everyone to see how horrible they were? It was practically begging to be abandoned now.. thats all she could think of. Every last thought plagued its mind, taking over her thoughts. They didnt even notice the trio walk in, didnt notice Iridas breakdown.

It was trapped in xer own mind, destines to replay trauma and torture. Thats what it deserved though, right? She did the same all the time!

(“You deserve the worst.” God had said. “You deserve nothing more than what I have given you, even that much is generous. Im shocked the angels I sent down here havent left yet, you should know they will get sick of you eventually.” Hell wasnt sure how this conversation started, why The Father had begun an entire speech about Hells worthlessness. This wasnt new to Hell anymore, she had long since learned how to tune it ou-

“Are you even listening?!” A loud, harsh slap knocked Hells current form to the ground, a wince escaping its lips. “I am speaking to you, and you will listen to me! I am your God and you do as told!” He scolded, landing another blow to its skull before picking them up by the neck.

Hours had pasted after that, how long had it been exactly? Hell had been weak, too tired to even destroy the form she was currently in. Bruises and bite marks littered its body, puddle of blood below it. Xe had let himself dissociate while it happened, the rape and beatings. They were nothing new at this point, but they still hurt. Anger had bubbled up inside Hell at being so weak, so pathetic that it couldnt even fight back.. how could they protect Lucifer and Verchiel if it couldnt eve-)

“Love?”

The fallen angel sat close by Hell, eyes scanning xer face carefully.

Hell blinked, sitting up and looked around (when had they gotten to Fraud?) before focusing back on Lucifer.

“I can tell something is wrong, Hell.” The fallen angel started, one hand gently gripping Hells hand. He had always been so observant, so quick to notice every little detail about Hell… they couldnt dwell on that thought now.

“NOT HERE.” Was all xe could reply with, eyes still distant but slightly more focused than before.

“Is it because of Irida and Sisyphus being here?” Hell nodded yes to Lucifers question, who had now wrapped his wings and an arm around the other.

She paused and turned to where Hell was sitting, a…familiar aura radiating off of them… it was enough to cause her wings to droop… she knew that distant look… she understood it… because she did the same…

…

As much as she wanted to call out to Hell… to approach xer… to be a form of comfort… she knew it was Lucifer’s job, not hers… it was only then that she noticed just how heavily her body was shaking… she… really wasn’t ok…

…I…

“Irida.. do you need to cry more..? You can tell me anything, you.. know it.. Just.. let it all out, okay?.. We won't leave until you are okay.”

“Irida went through something similar, you could always tell her.” Lucifer commented, “Im sure she would understand.” The fallen angel kept his voice low, both to try and make sure the others wouldnt hear (though he doubted it worked, they were only around 15 feet away) and to not freak Hell out too much. Lucifer didnt want to set her off, to make it go back into old habits and isolate themself again.

Hell didnt respond. Would Irida understand? That was never something xe thought about, being able to relate to those around him. They had always just assumed what she went through was something others wouldnt understand. They couldnt die, the sheer amount of suicide attempts he had done made that very obvious, and looking back on what it could remember, God had used that to His advantage.

It never mattered how hard He beat them, how bad He raped him, what He said to xem, Hell couldnt die, couldnt fight back against what He did.

Hell didnt know Iridas trauma well (xe knew hers less than its own, and xe could barely recall his own trauma most days), but she knew enough to know that maybe, just maybe, Irida would understand. Maybe she would stay, she wouldnt blame Hell for what happened like God did. Maybe…

*Sisyphus says from behind the door before opening it and sitting on the chair that was near her bed.*

“..Sorry for not visiting you more often, little cheetah. How's everything?..”

[ - @helios-pleonexia ]

…

She doesn’t say a word, if anything, she’s completely curled up in her wings, shuddering uncontrollably, the ends of said wings glowing a mix between black, purple, and red

…*hic*…

Yet as she stayed curled up, an odd sound could be heard, it was almost akin to actual crying, not her usual mechanical “sobs”, something had definitely gone wrong in your absence…

“..I-.. Irida are you okay?..”

*He said as soon as he noticed what was happening to her. He also saw Hell in the distance, but decided to focus on Irida right now.*

“Is everything okay? Talk to us, please, what do you feel..?”

“This area is pretty peaceful, I like the theatre a little more though.” Lucifer comments, pressing his face into Hells neck and placing small kisses.

She wasn’t paying attention to what Lucifer was saying anymore, if anything… she was trying to figure out if what she was seeing was… real and not just a cruel trick…

D-Dad, Sisyphus… do you see that figure over there..?! I-

She began to struggle in the arms of the King of Greed, she… needed to go over right away, not caring if what she’s seeing is real or an apparition, she… was so desperate

I-I need to- please..! She’s there..! I can see her..!

*He said and cradled her in his arms again, keeping her close, using some of his force just to keep her there, he didn't know where she was meaning to go and it scared him a lot. He didn't want to let her go.*

“Irida? Is everything okay?” The fallen angel asks, still cuddled up to Hell, who seems to be spaces out.

When she felt Sisyphus hold her with more force, she struggled more, her six cabled wings fluttering in desperation, she needed to go towards the apparition