Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

Tightening his robe he was off to the kitchen.

Pax saw it. He witnessed them scamper into the fridge and start playing with the lights with their sandwich.

Eyes met, silence. Pax was fighting for his life not to laugh at the scene before him. A deep breath through his nose at it slowly opening.

Hi love. Having fun?

Sandwich.

That sure was!

Oh, and they were messing with the fridge lights again. Just playing with the tiny button before they grew bored of it, now deciding that they should really take the cucumber out of the vegetable drawer and toss it onto the floor.

Blink.

Next was a pepper apparently. A red bell pepper, if you want to be specific. Fuck them as well, apparently.

Slowly looking back up at Pax, Xinalith stared at him for a little longer just to take another bite of their sandwich.

No. Bored.

He was a very supportive man.

Boared? Oh no, love. What ever will you do?

Yes he was supportive, even as he watched them hold it in their teeth and move only for a slice of meat to fall out and slap on the ground. They weren't going to be happy when they realised their sandwich was de-meated.

Oh and he was being used as a jungle gym. Shockingly a not uncommon occurrence. Helping Xinalith in their adventure a small chuckle left him.

Okay, okay, please don't drop sandwich bits on me. Where do you want to go? Living room? Imp's play room? the roof? Basement? I can make you a room of mirrors?

No they wouldn't, they were being dramatic.

Making themselves at home so they were sitting on his shoulders, Xinalith took a bite of their sandwich. As they swallowed, their brows furrowed at the lack of meat, now making them look down at their snack. Treacherous days, their meat was gone! How dare it even think about entering their mouth?

Deeply offended by the outcome, Xinalith growled and threw the rest of the sandwich onto the floor. Now glaring at it, they let out another growl before clicking their tongue. Terrible sandwich.

Now, the options given to them? No, they didn't like any of them. You know what they were craving though?

Earth. I want to go to Earth.

That was right; they wanted to go and torment humans. Because nothing was better for them right now then slipping into a portal, showing up in a ritual circle and scaring the living shit out of mortals.

Yeah so Pax was playing dirty, sue him. He needed the advantages he could.

Watching the sandwich get thrown he blinked. Oh he made that for them. Actually it didn't matter this was the last of his problems. Also he didn't care. Xinalith was on his shoulders, things were going well.

Thinking for a moment he hummed, a flash fire to put clothing on them both. No tormenting people in silk PJ's.

With another hum he was walking them through a portal. To where exactly? Ferrara Italy. Look if Xinalith was going crazy and tormenting people they could at least go on a gondola ride after.

Alright love, the world is yours to torment.

Pause.

Leaning down, they decided to bite his ear. Excellent way of showing affection.

Once they were through the portal, the world around them would be dark aside from a few streetlamps. The soft humming from the bulbs made their ears twitch, whilst the streets were bare as many folks were fast asleep. Though, that wasn't to say the world was completely silent. You had a few people wandering around, either alone, as a couple or in groups.

Letting their scarlets roam around the area, Xinalith's attention soon landed on an alleyway. Slowly, they pointed towards it.

I want to go there.

However now in Italy he was very content. The infrastructure, the smells, the sounds, now this was lovely. Why didn't they come to places like this more?

Looking to where Xinalith was directing he nodded, not before turning to press a kiss to whatever part of Xinalith was closest to him.

Your wish is my command, love.

So off he went to the dark alley. Ooh what if someone tried to mug him and Xinalith swooped in to save him?

Now, Pax might not get his dream to come true, but Xinalith was about to have some fun. Already, a wicked grin was forming on their face, leaning a bit more forward until their chest was basically resting against Pax's head. Sorry, Pax.

With twitching ears, focusing on the wandering presences of mortals close by, they were somehow able to pick up on a wandering male. Alone, tall, undoubtedly a University student. Tired, weary, perhaps just on his way back from late night studying.

Perfect. Oh, they were so excited, their hands were now squeezing Pax's shoulders.

Quietly clearing their throat, joined with swirling their hand, an echoing voice started to call out. Luring the student in, of course in Italian. This shouldn't come as too much of a surprise; Xinalith knew many, many languages to communicate with mortals.

Then, they listened again. Footsteps. He was coming.

Now Xinalith was really vibrating, quietly snickering in Pax's ear.

I'm going to make this human shit himself.

Now this was one of those circumstances where Pax wasn't going to participate but just be there. Sit pretty if one will. The morally grey area of his pacifism.

A small, adoration filled chuckle left him.

Go get em tiger.

Pax...well he just stood there. He was merely a vehicle for his love right now. Plus aside from being a giant in the shadows what could be really do?

Calling out with a simple yet questionable ‘hello’, the student waited for a little bit. For this poor mortal, that would be his mistake.

Xinalith had already managed to slip off of Pax’s shoulders just to sneak off behind the mortal, that wicked smirk still on their face as they waited for him to slowly turn around. Once the human did? Oh, he jumped. Just simple, nothing too impactful yet.

Until he froze. Xinalith’s eyes were softly glowing as they stared into the mortal’s, who almost seemed like he was under some sort of hypnotic control.

One… two… three…

That poor student started panicking, beads of sweat running down his face as he started to take Xinalith in. Then looked over the demon’s shoulder. Then back to Xinalith, whose smirk had only gotten wider and wider.

All they really needed to do was just… SNAP their own neck to the side, making the mortal apparently freak the fuck out and stumble back. This horror-stylised endeavour continued until that poor student was running off, making Xinalith follow him with their eyes before straightening themselves out.

He’s going to have nightmares when he goes to sleep~.

Xinalith said in a sing-song melody, turning to Pax with a beaming smile. Demonism… uh, demoned?

He saw things I made him see. It was fun.

But I’m bored again. Let me go back on your shoulders.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

Tightening his robe he was off to the kitchen.

Pax saw it. He witnessed them scamper into the fridge and start playing with the lights with their sandwich.

Eyes met, silence. Pax was fighting for his life not to laugh at the scene before him. A deep breath through his nose at it slowly opening.

Hi love. Having fun?

Sandwich.

That sure was!

Oh, and they were messing with the fridge lights again. Just playing with the tiny button before they grew bored of it, now deciding that they should really take the cucumber out of the vegetable drawer and toss it onto the floor.

Blink.

Next was a pepper apparently. A red bell pepper, if you want to be specific. Fuck them as well, apparently.

Slowly looking back up at Pax, Xinalith stared at him for a little longer just to take another bite of their sandwich.

No. Bored.

He was a very supportive man.

Boared? Oh no, love. What ever will you do?

Yes he was supportive, even as he watched them hold it in their teeth and move only for a slice of meat to fall out and slap on the ground. They weren't going to be happy when they realised their sandwich was de-meated.

Oh and he was being used as a jungle gym. Shockingly a not uncommon occurrence. Helping Xinalith in their adventure a small chuckle left him.

Okay, okay, please don't drop sandwich bits on me. Where do you want to go? Living room? Imp's play room? the roof? Basement? I can make you a room of mirrors?

No they wouldn't, they were being dramatic.

Making themselves at home so they were sitting on his shoulders, Xinalith took a bite of their sandwich. As they swallowed, their brows furrowed at the lack of meat, now making them look down at their snack. Treacherous days, their meat was gone! How dare it even think about entering their mouth?

Deeply offended by the outcome, Xinalith growled and threw the rest of the sandwich onto the floor. Now glaring at it, they let out another growl before clicking their tongue. Terrible sandwich.

Now, the options given to them? No, they didn't like any of them. You know what they were craving though?

Earth. I want to go to Earth.

That was right; they wanted to go and torment humans. Because nothing was better for them right now then slipping into a portal, showing up in a ritual circle and scaring the living shit out of mortals.

Yeah so Pax was playing dirty, sue him. He needed the advantages he could.

Watching the sandwich get thrown he blinked. Oh he made that for them. Actually it didn't matter this was the last of his problems. Also he didn't care. Xinalith was on his shoulders, things were going well.

Thinking for a moment he hummed, a flash fire to put clothing on them both. No tormenting people in silk PJ's.

With another hum he was walking them through a portal. To where exactly? Ferrara Italy. Look if Xinalith was going crazy and tormenting people they could at least go on a gondola ride after.

Alright love, the world is yours to torment.

Pause.

Leaning down, they decided to bite his ear. Excellent way of showing affection.

Once they were through the portal, the world around them would be dark aside from a few streetlamps. The soft humming from the bulbs made their ears twitch, whilst the streets were bare as many folks were fast asleep. Though, that wasn't to say the world was completely silent. You had a few people wandering around, either alone, as a couple or in groups.

Letting their scarlets roam around the area, Xinalith's attention soon landed on an alleyway. Slowly, they pointed towards it.

I want to go there.

However now in Italy he was very content. The infrastructure, the smells, the sounds, now this was lovely. Why didn't they come to places like this more?

Looking to where Xinalith was directing he nodded, not before turning to press a kiss to whatever part of Xinalith was closest to him.

Your wish is my command, love.

So off he went to the dark alley. Ooh what if someone tried to mug him and Xinalith swooped in to save him?

Now, Pax might not get his dream to come true, but Xinalith was about to have some fun. Already, a wicked grin was forming on their face, leaning a bit more forward until their chest was basically resting against Pax's head. Sorry, Pax.

With twitching ears, focusing on the wandering presences of mortals close by, they were somehow able to pick up on a wandering male. Alone, tall, undoubtedly a University student. Tired, weary, perhaps just on his way back from late night studying.

Perfect. Oh, they were so excited, their hands were now squeezing Pax's shoulders.

Quietly clearing their throat, joined with swirling their hand, an echoing voice started to call out. Luring the student in, of course in Italian. This shouldn't come as too much of a surprise; Xinalith knew many, many languages to communicate with mortals.

Then, they listened again. Footsteps. He was coming.

Now Xinalith was really vibrating, quietly snickering in Pax's ear.

I'm going to make this human shit himself.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

Tightening his robe he was off to the kitchen.

Pax saw it. He witnessed them scamper into the fridge and start playing with the lights with their sandwich.

Eyes met, silence. Pax was fighting for his life not to laugh at the scene before him. A deep breath through his nose at it slowly opening.

Hi love. Having fun?

Sandwich.

That sure was!

Oh, and they were messing with the fridge lights again. Just playing with the tiny button before they grew bored of it, now deciding that they should really take the cucumber out of the vegetable drawer and toss it onto the floor.

Blink.

Next was a pepper apparently. A red bell pepper, if you want to be specific. Fuck them as well, apparently.

Slowly looking back up at Pax, Xinalith stared at him for a little longer just to take another bite of their sandwich.

No. Bored.

He was a very supportive man.

Boared? Oh no, love. What ever will you do?

Yes he was supportive, even as he watched them hold it in their teeth and move only for a slice of meat to fall out and slap on the ground. They weren't going to be happy when they realised their sandwich was de-meated.

Oh and he was being used as a jungle gym. Shockingly a not uncommon occurrence. Helping Xinalith in their adventure a small chuckle left him.

Okay, okay, please don't drop sandwich bits on me. Where do you want to go? Living room? Imp's play room? the roof? Basement? I can make you a room of mirrors?

No they wouldn't, they were being dramatic.

Making themselves at home so they were sitting on his shoulders, Xinalith took a bite of their sandwich. As they swallowed, their brows furrowed at the lack of meat, now making them look down at their snack. Treacherous days, their meat was gone! How dare it even think about entering their mouth?

Deeply offended by the outcome, Xinalith growled and threw the rest of the sandwich onto the floor. Now glaring at it, they let out another growl before clicking their tongue. Terrible sandwich.

Now, the options given to them? No, they didn't like any of them. You know what they were craving though?

Earth. I want to go to Earth.

That was right; they wanted to go and torment humans. Because nothing was better for them right now then slipping into a portal, showing up in a ritual circle and scaring the living shit out of mortals.

Yeah so Pax was playing dirty, sue him. He needed the advantages he could.

Watching the sandwich get thrown he blinked. Oh he made that for them. Actually it didn't matter this was the last of his problems. Also he didn't care. Xinalith was on his shoulders, things were going well.

Thinking for a moment he hummed, a flash fire to put clothing on them both. No tormenting people in silk PJ's.

With another hum he was walking them through a portal. To where exactly? Ferrara Italy. Look if Xinalith was going crazy and tormenting people they could at least go on a gondola ride after.

Alright love, the world is yours to torment.

Pause.

Leaning down, they decided to bite his ear. Excellent way of showing affection.

Once they were through the portal, the world around them would be dark aside from a few streetlamps. The soft humming from the bulbs made their ears twitch, whilst the streets were bare as many folks were fast asleep. Though, that wasn't to say the world was completely silent. You had a few people wandering around, either alone, as a couple or in groups.

Letting their scarlets roam around the area, Xinalith's attention soon landed on an alleyway. Slowly, they pointed towards it.

I want to go there.

...and now there was a very large demon trying to fit into the space on a bookshelf. Except, they were large. Very large. Their head was out, one of their back legs were hanging out as well as both of their tails, and their wings were crooked. But this demon was blind, so they obviously got in just fine.

Excellent. This is very good.

No sooner had the mothman's ass hit his favorite seat- a strong cup of coffee in hand- than did the usual chaos resume.

Moon had only JUST left. The moment he felt her overpowering presence leave the Reliquary, he'd returned, hair braided thanks to Pax's instruction, and he'd spent the last two hours putting everything back where it belonged.

A deep breath. A sip of coffee.

He heard the noise, sure. But thanks to that clever little ritual Moon performed all those years ago now, he already knew who it was.

Io, meanwhile, was taking a stroll through the shelves, pondering the many questions rolling around in his mind and listing the sections out loud as he went.

Oral histories...genealogies and bloodlines...first contact accounts...Xinalith....census records-

Oh! Xinalith!

Yeah. He knew Io was up there too. Another sip of coffee as he counted down. 3...2...1...

Oberon, you'll never believe this!

Never, huh?

We have another visitor! What a splendid day this has turned out to be!

Because you know. Demon things. Was that a twitch in the neck coming from Xinalith? Oh, yes, they were twitching now.

But you know what? They could be helpful. Maybe... if they just gave Io a book... he would go away...

Xinalith had succeeded in spooking them, at least.

Io watched for a moment as the demon adjusted themself and then- wouldn't you know it?

Ah! "Love in the Mud". A definitive field guide to the courtship rituals of no less than seventeen different species of marsh beetle!

Thank you, dear, this was exactly what I was looking for-

Crashing. So much crashing. As Xinalith slipped from the shelf, the whole thing toppled over backward creating a domino effect that soon took out the entire east wing.

Somewhere in the cave, a little mothen man had dropped his second mug of coffee for the day.

He was already opening a portal elsewhere.

Xinalith's back hit the ground first, ripping out a huff from them, only for their head to perk up when the rest of the crashing came. Oh. Well. Shucks.

Scrambling onto their claws, Xinalith stared in the direction of where all the noise was coming from, both tails gently swaying behind them.

Not their problem.

Another twitch in the neck, making their head snap to the side before their legs spread out a little. Oh boy, oh boy, they could feel it... they could feel it... charging... they were charging up... tails snapping up... annnddd they were off, now climbing up the cavernous walls.

You see, species nine prefers elevated perches from which they can observe-

Io looked up to see the mess and the falling demon.

Are you alright, dear?

Io's head tilted slightly as he watched the demon charge up, eyes glowing a bit with curious excitement.

And off they went! Up the wall of the cave, the sound of teeth on rock echoing through the Reliquary.

....I didn't know they could do that.

Kalaren had attempted to eat the fridge (which was still smashed and on its side in the kitchen, by the way). Now Xinalith was trying to eat the cave itself. Perhaps they really did need to get better snacks.

That's an excellent trick! If you enjoy climbing, Obie maintains a rather curious arrangement of wooden pillars outside.

Rows of narrow posts protruding from the ground, each a different height, intended to be leapt between. An obstacle course of sorts.

Now they were just sort of hanging on the walls, really trying to take their revenge out on the rock. Parts of it were crumbling. That should be fine, right?

You know what wasn't fine? The sudden flashfire that ran over them, forcing them to transform back into their regular form. Blinking a couple of times, because they now had no claws to grip onto the walls with, the demon fell once again.

Ah. So this was how they were going to die. Falling from a great heigh- oh, wait, they could teleport.

Vanishing in mid-air just to reappear behind Io, Xinalith blinked a few more times before their shimmering scarlets looked down at the book Io was holding.

Bliink. Blink blink.

Yoink.

Mine.

His eyes widened a bit as the flashfire took over and demon zoomie Xinalith ceased to be. At least in that form. And yet he still turned with a cheerful smile as the ruler appeared behind him and the book was unceremoniously yoinked.

Ah! Excellent! I do hope you enjoy it. I'd love to hear your thoughts on chapter 17. We could discuss it over tea sometime!

Oh Io...

They looked back down at the book. Okay, so maybe curiosity got the better of them, for they were now flicking the book to that specific chapter to glance over it. Hm, interesting. There were diagrams detailing both male and female beetle anatomy... and...

Staring at Io, they closed the book and threw it back at him. They didn't want that anymore.

Oberon is not a beetle. Did you know this?

A few more blinks.

No.

I want food. Where is your food. Meat. I want meat. Do you have raw meat? I want deer. Deer meat. I want to eat deer. Where's your deer meat.

Xinalith's eyes then moved over to one of the candles lighting up the place, just to narrow their gaze and... burn that out, apparently. Offensive.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

Tightening his robe he was off to the kitchen.

Pax saw it. He witnessed them scamper into the fridge and start playing with the lights with their sandwich.

Eyes met, silence. Pax was fighting for his life not to laugh at the scene before him. A deep breath through his nose at it slowly opening.

Hi love. Having fun?

Sandwich.

That sure was!

Oh, and they were messing with the fridge lights again. Just playing with the tiny button before they grew bored of it, now deciding that they should really take the cucumber out of the vegetable drawer and toss it onto the floor.

Blink.

Next was a pepper apparently. A red bell pepper, if you want to be specific. Fuck them as well, apparently.

Slowly looking back up at Pax, Xinalith stared at him for a little longer just to take another bite of their sandwich.

No. Bored.

He was a very supportive man.

Boared? Oh no, love. What ever will you do?

Yes he was supportive, even as he watched them hold it in their teeth and move only for a slice of meat to fall out and slap on the ground. They weren't going to be happy when they realised their sandwich was de-meated.

Oh and he was being used as a jungle gym. Shockingly a not uncommon occurrence. Helping Xinalith in their adventure a small chuckle left him.

Okay, okay, please don't drop sandwich bits on me. Where do you want to go? Living room? Imp's play room? the roof? Basement? I can make you a room of mirrors?

No they wouldn't, they were being dramatic.

Making themselves at home so they were sitting on his shoulders, Xinalith took a bite of their sandwich. As they swallowed, their brows furrowed at the lack of meat, now making them look down at their snack. Treacherous days, their meat was gone! How dare it even think about entering their mouth?

Deeply offended by the outcome, Xinalith growled and threw the rest of the sandwich onto the floor. Now glaring at it, they let out another growl before clicking their tongue. Terrible sandwich.

Now, the options given to them? No, they didn't like any of them. You know what they were craving though?

Earth. I want to go to Earth.

That was right; they wanted to go and torment humans. Because nothing was better for them right now then slipping into a portal, showing up in a ritual circle and scaring the living shit out of mortals.

...and now there was a very large demon trying to fit into the space on a bookshelf. Except, they were large. Very large. Their head was out, one of their back legs were hanging out as well as both of their tails, and their wings were crooked. But this demon was blind, so they obviously got in just fine.

Excellent. This is very good.

No sooner had the mothman's ass hit his favorite seat- a strong cup of coffee in hand- than did the usual chaos resume.

Moon had only JUST left. The moment he felt her overpowering presence leave the Reliquary, he'd returned, hair braided thanks to Pax's instruction, and he'd spent the last two hours putting everything back where it belonged.

A deep breath. A sip of coffee.

He heard the noise, sure. But thanks to that clever little ritual Moon performed all those years ago now, he already knew who it was.

Io, meanwhile, was taking a stroll through the shelves, pondering the many questions rolling around in his mind and listing the sections out loud as he went.

Oral histories...genealogies and bloodlines...first contact accounts...Xinalith....census records-

Oh! Xinalith!

Yeah. He knew Io was up there too. Another sip of coffee as he counted down. 3...2...1...

Oberon, you'll never believe this!

Never, huh?

We have another visitor! What a splendid day this has turned out to be!

Because you know. Demon things. Was that a twitch in the neck coming from Xinalith? Oh, yes, they were twitching now.

But you know what? They could be helpful. Maybe... if they just gave Io a book... he would go away...

Xinalith had succeeded in spooking them, at least.

Io watched for a moment as the demon adjusted themself and then- wouldn't you know it?

Ah! "Love in the Mud". A definitive field guide to the courtship rituals of no less than seventeen different species of marsh beetle!

Thank you, dear, this was exactly what I was looking for-

Crashing. So much crashing. As Xinalith slipped from the shelf, the whole thing toppled over backward creating a domino effect that soon took out the entire east wing.

Somewhere in the cave, a little mothen man had dropped his second mug of coffee for the day.

He was already opening a portal elsewhere.

Xinalith's back hit the ground first, ripping out a huff from them, only for their head to perk up when the rest of the crashing came. Oh. Well. Shucks.

Scrambling onto their claws, Xinalith stared in the direction of where all the noise was coming from, both tails gently swaying behind them.

Not their problem.

Another twitch in the neck, making their head snap to the side before their legs spread out a little. Oh boy, oh boy, they could feel it... they could feel it... charging... they were charging up... tails snapping up... annnddd they were off, now climbing up the cavernous walls.

You see, species nine prefers elevated perches from which they can observe-

Io looked up to see the mess and the falling demon.

Are you alright, dear?

Io's head tilted slightly as he watched the demon charge up, eyes glowing a bit with curious excitement.

And off they went! Up the wall of the cave, the sound of teeth on rock echoing through the Reliquary.

....I didn't know they could do that.

Kalaren had attempted to eat the fridge (which was still smashed and on its side in the kitchen, by the way). Now Xinalith was trying to eat the cave itself. Perhaps they really did need to get better snacks.

That's an excellent trick! If you enjoy climbing, Obie maintains a rather curious arrangement of wooden pillars outside.

Rows of narrow posts protruding from the ground, each a different height, intended to be leapt between. An obstacle course of sorts.

Now they were just sort of hanging on the walls, really trying to take their revenge out on the rock. Parts of it were crumbling. That should be fine, right?

You know what wasn't fine? The sudden flashfire that ran over them, forcing them to transform back into their regular form. Blinking a couple of times, because they now had no claws to grip onto the walls with, the demon fell once again.

Ah. So this was how they were going to die. Falling from a great heigh- oh, wait, they could teleport.

Vanishing in mid-air just to reappear behind Io, Xinalith blinked a few more times before their shimmering scarlets looked down at the book Io was holding.

Bliink. Blink blink.

Yoink.

Mine.

...A big hole in the front yard? Oh, it's getting bigger, with dirt being kicked up... and two sets of horns poking out. Fantastic.

Now to just get out so they could start burying The Prize.

Oh what a time for a certain demon to show up. Now Kalaren heard the heavy steps from far, far away due to his current situation. Sneaking outside while staying low and super sneaky.

Hey. What the hells? Huffing in annoyance, Xinalith's eyeless expression moved towards the direction of where the dirt was coming from. How rude! They spent a lot of time working on that!

Shuffling so they could come face to face with the donari, the demon snorted in his face before headbutting him away. None of that, this was their hole. They needed this.

Waiting until their head came back up like a game of whack-a-mole he headbutted them back. A huff of his own before pushing more dirt back in. He even grabbed some grass to throw at them for added offense.

Shame on Xinalith, their book collection, their chickens he doesn't know yet, their whole family! Ignore he was apart of that.

When their head did come back up, again with the purpose of getting out, they growled when they were headbutted. And then more dirt! Grass too?! What a moron!

Another growl left them before they decided enough was enough. This was their hole, they needed it, and they were not going to let Kalaren ruin this for them. So, scrambling back out of the hole, the first thing they did?

Push Kalaren over. Fuck you.

Sticking his tongue out he blew a raspberry at the demon. He really thought he won and Xinalith had given up because clearly he was better at burying than they were digging. That was until he was pushed over.

Oi fucking cock sucker jack ass!

All hissed out words before he hopped up to his feet. Then he flipped them off.

Oh I'm Xinalith.

But no, they had something much more important to deal with.

It took them a few minutes to come back, now carrying something in their mouth. The Prize. The peculiar little thing that they had found. Nobody could get this. It needed to be hidden away. It might be dangerous, too... really, they were doing a good thing here.

That was right. It was a snake with a suspicious clicking sound. A dead snake with a strange, large head. A unique discovery, something they prided themselves with finding.

Except it wasn't that at all, this demon was blind and dumb as shit, and it was actually the mouse Pax used for his computer. How they were able to get it, I don't know, but it was dangling from their mouth now.

Now, emphasis on them being blind. Because with the full intention of going back to their hole to drop it in and cover it back up, Xinalith instead fell into their own hole they made. Just splooted out at the bottom, a dazed groan falling from them.

Kalaren couldn't care less what Xinalith had at the moment. No, instead, he was kicking dirt on them and into the hole again.

Clearly Kalaren was the new peak of strength and being big and scary around here. As it should be. Luxian always told him how strong he was and this proved it.

But as the dirt kept coming, the demon was lowly growling. Can he stop? The fuck did Xinalith do to him? (Aside from dig a hole in his garden, headbutt him and also pushed him over).

Soon enough, they scrambled up onto their feet, shaking off the dirt and that pesky worm, just to jump back up. Look, they even used their wings to help! Incredible, they remembered they had them!

The bastard.

A low growl left him, eyes locked onto the demon now.

Kalaren launched himself out of the hole and tackled Xinalith. Another growl as he swept a leg to lay them out flat. Sadly he wasn't about to let it go yet so he was now trying to drag Xinalith to the ocean.

No not deep, not to harm, just to see them freak the fuck out about the water. Clearly that was matched revenge for a hole.

Yes, actually. He heard the growling. He heard the cursing. He poked his head out through the window and saw what was going on and… nope. The most he did was snap a picture and send it off to Pax. No way was he going to step out there with a demon and a donari under sorkrai, who were currently fighting with one another. Over a hole.

Speaking of those two…

A gurgling yelp was torn out from Xinalith’s throat when they were suddenly tackled, now flat on the ground thanks to his kick. This stupid oaf… he was much stronger than the other two donari, and now he was dragging them away?! Nuh uh.

At first it was easy, Xinalith while heavy wasn't that bad for Kalaren. Now that the claws and tails adding resistance made it a lot less easy. Xinalith was going in that water one way or another.

A snarl left Kalaren when Xinalith's tail started hitting him, so he bit it. Chomped it. Held it in his teeth as his arms moved around Xinalith's boney torso, attempting to completely lift them from the ground.

But alas, Kalaren would get his victory. The demon was soon going into the water… except they made sure to bring Kalaren in with them. Latching onto him as they went tumbling in, bubbles surfacing from when they took a dip.

…and immediately, that same demon was shooting themselves out of the water, now drenched, and ramming themselves into the wall.

Dazed, stars practically whirling around their head, down the demon went. Kalaren was victorious! He defended his land!

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

Tightening his robe he was off to the kitchen.

Pax saw it. He witnessed them scamper into the fridge and start playing with the lights with their sandwich.

Eyes met, silence. Pax was fighting for his life not to laugh at the scene before him. A deep breath through his nose at it slowly opening.

Hi love. Having fun?

Sandwich.

That sure was!

Oh, and they were messing with the fridge lights again. Just playing with the tiny button before they grew bored of it, now deciding that they should really take the cucumber out of the vegetable drawer and toss it onto the floor.

Blink.

Next was a pepper apparently. A red bell pepper, if you want to be specific. Fuck them as well, apparently.

Slowly looking back up at Pax, Xinalith stared at him for a little longer just to take another bite of their sandwich.

No. Bored.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

Pax was not a fan of horror anything. He needed someone around to play games or watch movies and even then struggled. His only saving grace to this horror house was that he knew it was Xinalith and nothing worse than a bite and jump scare would happen.

Unluckily for Pax (?), there was now crashing coming from the kitchen. Looks like someone got their food.

And that’s exactly what they were doing. Instead of just happily eating by the counter though, they decided the sandwich was obviously much better enjoyed by knocking off everything on the countertops just so they could squeeze themselves into the top of the fridge. At the same time? They kept opening the fridge, messing with the lights inside, just to close it again. Repeat.

...A big hole in the front yard? Oh, it's getting bigger, with dirt being kicked up... and two sets of horns poking out. Fantastic.

Now to just get out so they could start burying The Prize.

Oh what a time for a certain demon to show up. Now Kalaren heard the heavy steps from far, far away due to his current situation. Sneaking outside while staying low and super sneaky.

Hey. What the hells? Huffing in annoyance, Xinalith's eyeless expression moved towards the direction of where the dirt was coming from. How rude! They spent a lot of time working on that!

Shuffling so they could come face to face with the donari, the demon snorted in his face before headbutting him away. None of that, this was their hole. They needed this.

Waiting until their head came back up like a game of whack-a-mole he headbutted them back. A huff of his own before pushing more dirt back in. He even grabbed some grass to throw at them for added offense.

Shame on Xinalith, their book collection, their chickens he doesn't know yet, their whole family! Ignore he was apart of that.

When their head did come back up, again with the purpose of getting out, they growled when they were headbutted. And then more dirt! Grass too?! What a moron!

Another growl left them before they decided enough was enough. This was their hole, they needed it, and they were not going to let Kalaren ruin this for them. So, scrambling back out of the hole, the first thing they did?

Push Kalaren over. Fuck you.

Sticking his tongue out he blew a raspberry at the demon. He really thought he won and Xinalith had given up because clearly he was better at burying than they were digging. That was until he was pushed over.

Oi fucking cock sucker jack ass!

All hissed out words before he hopped up to his feet. Then he flipped them off.

Oh I'm Xinalith.

But no, they had something much more important to deal with.

It took them a few minutes to come back, now carrying something in their mouth. The Prize. The peculiar little thing that they had found. Nobody could get this. It needed to be hidden away. It might be dangerous, too... really, they were doing a good thing here.

That was right. It was a snake with a suspicious clicking sound. A dead snake with a strange, large head. A unique discovery, something they prided themselves with finding.

Except it wasn't that at all, this demon was blind and dumb as shit, and it was actually the mouse Pax used for his computer. How they were able to get it, I don't know, but it was dangling from their mouth now.

Now, emphasis on them being blind. Because with the full intention of going back to their hole to drop it in and cover it back up, Xinalith instead fell into their own hole they made. Just splooted out at the bottom, a dazed groan falling from them.

Kalaren couldn't care less what Xinalith had at the moment. No, instead, he was kicking dirt on them and into the hole again.

Clearly Kalaren was the new peak of strength and being big and scary around here. As it should be. Luxian always told him how strong he was and this proved it.

But as the dirt kept coming, the demon was lowly growling. Can he stop? The fuck did Xinalith do to him? (Aside from dig a hole in his garden, headbutt him and also pushed him over).

Soon enough, they scrambled up onto their feet, shaking off the dirt and that pesky worm, just to jump back up. Look, they even used their wings to help! Incredible, they remembered they had them!

The bastard.

A low growl left him, eyes locked onto the demon now.

Kalaren launched himself out of the hole and tackled Xinalith. Another growl as he swept a leg to lay them out flat. Sadly he wasn't about to let it go yet so he was now trying to drag Xinalith to the ocean.

No not deep, not to harm, just to see them freak the fuck out about the water. Clearly that was matched revenge for a hole.

Yes, actually. He heard the growling. He heard the cursing. He poked his head out through the window and saw what was going on and… nope. The most he did was snap a picture and send it off to Pax. No way was he going to step out there with a demon and a donari under sorkrai, who were currently fighting with one another. Over a hole.

Speaking of those two…

A gurgling yelp was torn out from Xinalith’s throat when they were suddenly tackled, now flat on the ground thanks to his kick. This stupid oaf… he was much stronger than the other two donari, and now he was dragging them away?! Nuh uh.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

They could be so silly at times.

He knew for once the look to the bed had nothing to do with being on it. A small but playful narrowing of his eyes before they spoke once more.

Alright love, come I'll make you something.

Pax wasn't really thinking when he went out first, just headed to the kitchen to make then a snack. They probably wanted meat right now so maybe a sandwich?

Love, do you want a-

But when he looked over his shoulder Xinalith was gone. Well shit.

Now, they were definitely in the castle. Their presence would be felt, but that’s about it. Their castle was huge, and it was late in the evening; they could literally be anywhere!

Those creaking sounds definitely weren’t helping either. Yes, that was Xinalith’s doing. They were fabricating those sounds. But that didn’t mean they were walking about.

...A big hole in the front yard? Oh, it's getting bigger, with dirt being kicked up... and two sets of horns poking out. Fantastic.

Now to just get out so they could start burying The Prize.

Oh what a time for a certain demon to show up. Now Kalaren heard the heavy steps from far, far away due to his current situation. Sneaking outside while staying low and super sneaky.

Hey. What the hells? Huffing in annoyance, Xinalith's eyeless expression moved towards the direction of where the dirt was coming from. How rude! They spent a lot of time working on that!

Shuffling so they could come face to face with the donari, the demon snorted in his face before headbutting him away. None of that, this was their hole. They needed this.

Waiting until their head came back up like a game of whack-a-mole he headbutted them back. A huff of his own before pushing more dirt back in. He even grabbed some grass to throw at them for added offense.

Shame on Xinalith, their book collection, their chickens he doesn't know yet, their whole family! Ignore he was apart of that.

When their head did come back up, again with the purpose of getting out, they growled when they were headbutted. And then more dirt! Grass too?! What a moron!

Another growl left them before they decided enough was enough. This was their hole, they needed it, and they were not going to let Kalaren ruin this for them. So, scrambling back out of the hole, the first thing they did?

Push Kalaren over. Fuck you.

Sticking his tongue out he blew a raspberry at the demon. He really thought he won and Xinalith had given up because clearly he was better at burying than they were digging. That was until he was pushed over.

Oi fucking cock sucker jack ass!

All hissed out words before he hopped up to his feet. Then he flipped them off.

Oh I'm Xinalith.

But no, they had something much more important to deal with.

It took them a few minutes to come back, now carrying something in their mouth. The Prize. The peculiar little thing that they had found. Nobody could get this. It needed to be hidden away. It might be dangerous, too... really, they were doing a good thing here.

That was right. It was a snake with a suspicious clicking sound. A dead snake with a strange, large head. A unique discovery, something they prided themselves with finding.

Except it wasn't that at all, this demon was blind and dumb as shit, and it was actually the mouse Pax used for his computer. How they were able to get it, I don't know, but it was dangling from their mouth now.

Now, emphasis on them being blind. Because with the full intention of going back to their hole to drop it in and cover it back up, Xinalith instead fell into their own hole they made. Just splooted out at the bottom, a dazed groan falling from them.

Kalaren couldn't care less what Xinalith had at the moment. No, instead, he was kicking dirt on them and into the hole again.

Clearly Kalaren was the new peak of strength and being big and scary around here. As it should be. Luxian always told him how strong he was and this proved it.

But as the dirt kept coming, the demon was lowly growling. Can he stop? The fuck did Xinalith do to him? (Aside from dig a hole in his garden, headbutt him and also pushed him over).

Soon enough, they scrambled up onto their feet, shaking off the dirt and that pesky worm, just to jump back up. Look, they even used their wings to help! Incredible, they remembered they had them!

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

Looking in the closet he blinked a few times, brows furrowing more. Lucky he didn't get wrinkles. Just as he was turning, Xinalith appeared and spoke.

Fuck! How do you- Yes you do what what I am talking about.

My poor little heart.

No he wasn't scared of Xinalith it was just the jump scare of them appearing like this. A hand on his chest as he took a deep breath.

Okay so what do you feel like doing right now?

Then a chuckle, like they had done something mischievous. Except, they hadn't done anything other than spook Pax.

Okay, maybe I do.

Another twitch. And more shaking.

Oh, you know. Things. Lots of... things. Thingy things. The things. Many things. Things.

Xinalith's eyes darted around for a moment, before their scarlets landed on their bed. Quickly, they moved to Pax. Then back to the bed. Then back to Pax. Then, you guessed it, back to the bed.

Bliink.

I... want food.

...A big hole in the front yard? Oh, it's getting bigger, with dirt being kicked up... and two sets of horns poking out. Fantastic.

Now to just get out so they could start burying The Prize.

Oh what a time for a certain demon to show up. Now Kalaren heard the heavy steps from far, far away due to his current situation. Sneaking outside while staying low and super sneaky.

Hey. What the hells? Huffing in annoyance, Xinalith's eyeless expression moved towards the direction of where the dirt was coming from. How rude! They spent a lot of time working on that!

Shuffling so they could come face to face with the donari, the demon snorted in his face before headbutting him away. None of that, this was their hole. They needed this.

Waiting until their head came back up like a game of whack-a-mole he headbutted them back. A huff of his own before pushing more dirt back in. He even grabbed some grass to throw at them for added offense.

Shame on Xinalith, their book collection, their chickens he doesn't know yet, their whole family! Ignore he was apart of that.

When their head did come back up, again with the purpose of getting out, they growled when they were headbutted. And then more dirt! Grass too?! What a moron!

Another growl left them before they decided enough was enough. This was their hole, they needed it, and they were not going to let Kalaren ruin this for them. So, scrambling back out of the hole, the first thing they did?

Push Kalaren over. Fuck you.

Sticking his tongue out he blew a raspberry at the demon. He really thought he won and Xinalith had given up because clearly he was better at burying than they were digging. That was until he was pushed over.

Oi fucking cock sucker jack ass!

All hissed out words before he hopped up to his feet. Then he flipped them off.

Oh I'm Xinalith.

But no, they had something much more important to deal with.

It took them a few minutes to come back, now carrying something in their mouth. The Prize. The peculiar little thing that they had found. Nobody could get this. It needed to be hidden away. It might be dangerous, too... really, they were doing a good thing here.

That was right. It was a snake with a suspicious clicking sound. A dead snake with a strange, large head. A unique discovery, something they prided themselves with finding.

Except it wasn't that at all, this demon was blind and dumb as shit, and it was actually the mouse Pax used for his computer. How they were able to get it, I don't know, but it was dangling from their mouth now.

Now, emphasis on them being blind. Because with the full intention of going back to their hole to drop it in and cover it back up, Xinalith instead fell into their own hole they made. Just splooted out at the bottom, a dazed groan falling from them.

Once they were all asleep, they had dinner and even spent some time sorting out some photos. Though, they didn't get too far, for these two? They ended up getting too emotional over fond memories and cuddled it out in bed. All was well.

But then it got later in the evening. Very late. And unfortunately for these two? Xinalith woke up because of it.

So yes. The demon did fall out of bed. And yes... yes they were on a mission. For what? I don't know. But apparently, whatever they wanted, it was in the closet.

That they were now trying to get into. Very much taking whatever items were in there, and trying to jump up into the space. That'll show... that.

Pax was having the most wonderful dream. Xinalith and him were baking and playing with the flour and icing, just being all cute.

See when Xinalith was in his arms he slept like a log, the moment they scampered off though? The cake fell, a fire started and he was waking up. Groggy eyes looking to the space in his arms where a demon should be.

Before he could blink the sleep away his gaze whipped to the closet. One blink. Another. Grabbing his robe to slip on as his brows furrowed.

Love? What are you doing? It's far too late...or early to be going back into the closet.

Ha! Gay joke.

Hello. Don't mind me.

And they were now jumping into the closet. This demon and their flexibility... they were actually able to squeeze themselves into the small cubby space at the top, and even closed the door. In they went, back in the closet.

All was quiet again.

...

For about ten seconds, when suddenly, banging came from within, followed by a whole lot of muffled cursing. A really colourful selection, actually. Ah, demons.

Get me out of here. I don't want to be in here.

Don't mind them? How was he meant to not mind- and they were closing themself in the closet.

Pax was flabbergasted. Stood in place just blinking. They chose the closet over cuddling him? Any questions of betrayal would be gone when he heard the banging, everything dawning on him.

Zoomies.

Not having fun anymore?

Remember, this was a demon. Demons, especially at night or in darker spaces, have the upper hand of using it to their advantage. Their whole thing is to strike terror into other beings, and they used darkness as a way to manipulate that. It's also what allowed them to travel through reflective surfaces. Demons were such bizarre creatures.

But this also meant that during these 'zoomie' hours, more recognised as the 'witching hour' amongst many mortals, this need to do 'demon' things increased. Which included causing trouble. And scaring people. And harming them. And... just about anything, really.

So, it also shouldn't be a surprise when Xinalith suddenly showed up behind Pax, their head tilted, eyes slightly shimmering.

I don't know what you're talking about.

...A big hole in the front yard? Oh, it's getting bigger, with dirt being kicked up... and two sets of horns poking out. Fantastic.

Now to just get out so they could start burying The Prize.

Oh what a time for a certain demon to show up. Now Kalaren heard the heavy steps from far, far away due to his current situation. Sneaking outside while staying low and super sneaky.

Hey. What the hells? Huffing in annoyance, Xinalith's eyeless expression moved towards the direction of where the dirt was coming from. How rude! They spent a lot of time working on that!

Shuffling so they could come face to face with the donari, the demon snorted in his face before headbutting him away. None of that, this was their hole. They needed this.

Waiting until their head came back up like a game of whack-a-mole he headbutted them back. A huff of his own before pushing more dirt back in. He even grabbed some grass to throw at them for added offense.

Shame on Xinalith, their book collection, their chickens he doesn't know yet, their whole family! Ignore he was apart of that.

When their head did come back up, again with the purpose of getting out, they growled when they were headbutted. And then more dirt! Grass too?! What a moron!

Another growl left them before they decided enough was enough. This was their hole, they needed it, and they were not going to let Kalaren ruin this for them. So, scrambling back out of the hole, the first thing they did?

Push Kalaren over. Fuck you.