Archive of Our Own

Chaos

“How the hell did you find me?”

“Hell.”

Hyunjin scoffed. Figures. He just had to get himself a powerful stalker. As if his life wasn’t complicated enough.

“Don’t you have something important to do?”

“Like you?”

He side-eyed him. He should apologise. He gets better pick-up lines from middle-aged men. 

“Like ruling Hell.”

“Hell isn’t ruled. It goes against the chaotic order there. I just need to defeat anyone that challenges me. Easy.”

Cocky. He shouldn’t find that hot but he does. There was tension between them; very ripe and decisively not sweet but Hyunjin wasn’t stupid enough to try to feed from that.

“Well, good luck with that.” And he turned to go into the classroom because he wasn’t late but he was about to be. He didn’t like being late; it was one chaotic thing he could avoid so he does.

“Wait” it wasn’t imploring because Kim Seungmin does not implore. It was commanding because that’s what he did. “I want to go clubbing tonight. Would you like to join me?” He could also be charming.

His hand was grazing Hyunjin’s arm and he suppressed shivers hard. “I’m not sure that’s a good idea.”

“Bad ideas are fun. It’s a good ground for you.”

Clubs were great grounds actually, so he hummed non-conclusively and started walking again, hoping he didn’t endanger himself by ignoring Seungmin.

—----------------------------

“Dude, was that who I think it was?”

“I don’t know. Who did you think it was?” he asked Changbin.

“The Prince of Hell.”

“Technically, I think he’s the King now.”

“How the he-, how did you manage to befriend The King Of Hell?” he gasped.

“We’re not friends. I made the mistake of sleeping with him once and he became my shadow.”

“I…only you…I thought you didn’t sleep with people to feed from them.”

Hyunjin whipped his head to stare at his actual friend. He’d manage to make it to class five minutes before it starts. Not that it would matter if he was later; they weren’t high schoolers nor University students. This was just evening community courses for demonkind or well non-human…or underworld beings; however you want to call them since they were so varied. Although whose genius idea was it to make them evening and night classes when most of them had to work or survive at that time, he didn’t know. He could not come but he’d chosen to attend and he tries to see things through as much as possible.

Contrary to what his friends thought, Hwang Hyunjin was not cut out to be a demon. In fact, he technically wasn’t a demon but a nephilim. Uncultured humans may call him an ‘angel’ but their definition and his own variably differed. Nephilim were simply beings of great power that weren’t mortal. Demons had once been angels…and all of them were Nephilim. The difference was that demons resided in Hell.

Hyunjin didn’t reside there so he can’t be called a demon but nephilim lived wherever they wanted. Even for a nephilim, he was peculiar. For one, he wasn’t very powerful. For two, he fed on sexual energy. Many nephilim feed on prayers, songs or light.

He’d made a choice early on to not hang out with nephilim that had embraced being angels; they weren’t like him. Some were kind but he’d compare himself to them even more. So he hung out with demons instead. His friends were actually nice like Changbin, a cute little imp only a little under a head shorter than him.

“I don’t have to and I don’t. I don’t have sex to feed. However, I’m not stupid enough to try to feed from Kim Seungmin.”

“He looked like he’d let you.”

Hyunjin snorted. Seungmin usually had a bored, blank face. A face which he was happy to see because the alternative, one did not want to see. Seungmin had a bit of a temper which he let out whenever anyone challenged him.

So maybe he’ll go clubbing tonight. He needed to feed anyway.

“ When did you sleep with him anyway?”

“A year ago.”

“A year! And he’s been chasing you ever since after one time ?”

“Who said it was one time? Even the first time was more.”

Seungmin seemed to want him and he was hot. He didn’t even sleep with him just to protect himself from the alternative. He didn’t date because everyone regardless of species had expectations about him. Kim Seungmin, for all his danger, was the best alternative and the best sex he’s ever had.

—----------------------------

If anyone asks, it’s because the classes clash with his feeding time and so he’s a bit desperate. There was some truth in that; the best excuses always had. He could feed at any time but in the evening and at night, things got spicier. It was a cultural thing and a global thing - he doesn’t make the rules; he just follows them. But he can snack from the tension elsewhere; in coffee shops while people were on cute dates, in sex shops where people were horny in anticipation, around sex worker hangout places and in love hotels and host clubs where clients and patrons would be so tense he could lick it from the air…he had options but the one proposed by Seungmin was the best alternative.

He can feed from the club patrons where both he and them would be safe so much that not a single hair would be out of place by the time he’s done.

And he can have sex with Seungmin, releasing his own tension and ending with his hair all over the place.

“Do you want to dance?”

“Yeah, I’ll finish this water and I’ll get on the dancefloor. There’s more energy there.”

“I meant with me.”

“You didn’t specify.”

Dancing with Seungmin would probably be useful; some surrounding them would get interested in seeing them - together or separately - move and his feeding will be more exquisite. All he needed was sexual energy in the air; the more the better. Couples here and there were a snack. He usually went for places that had groups as that was the full meal.

As succumbi went - a name that some people started calling Nephilim who fed on sexual energy - he was quite tame. There were much worse creatures than him. Which is why he wasn’t sure why Seungmin gave him the time of day. And night. If he wanted someone worse, he could easily find that. If he wanted someone better, he could just go for a human or a Nephilim goody angel. Maybe he wanted to corrupt them? Hyunjin doesn’t sleep around for feeding but he’s had a few sexual partners before him. All of them had been long-term, which was not a good thing since it created a precedent…why couldn’t he just have had a one-night stand and be done with the king of Hell? Why did he have to complicate his already messy life? To be fair, he hadn’t instigated any of their dalliances and they hadn’t been often although it seemed that now Seungmin had enrolled in his Institute and what the hell…why would the literal king of Hell need to attend classes on how to use his powers better? He wasn’t cocky for nothing; he was good.

But the point is, that if he has a corruption kink, Hyunjin was the wrong person. He only did long-term partners but he was freaky. But not so freaky as to merit a position on the king of Hell’s list of potentials. He had boundaries; lots of them.

“So let me specify. Do you want to dance with me?”

“Yes.”

Dancing with Seungmin was easy; easier than thinking about what the hell the other wanted with him. He could probably read his confusion but he wasn’t volunteering information and Hyunjin wasn’t asking. Seungmin was a chaos demon; asking for information not supplied from them was not suggested. The chaos that would ensue would not be worth any morsels they throw at you and you couldn’t even eat them, wondering if they were even real. There was a high potential they would be poisoned too.

So he’ll just tolerate his sometimes squeeze until he gets bored and turns his interests elsewhere and hopefully by then, he would still be alive.

“I have this idea…”

Not a good thing to hear from a chaos demon but he was curious and Seungmin was going to share anyway.

“ I think I know how to get a bunch of people in one area just for you.”

“How selfless…what’s your motivation?”

“Smart. I’m hunting some demons. I think this way, I may be able to find them because they are adventure seekers. Rather than finding them, they will find us.”

“And what’s this thrilling, adventurous idea?”

Seungmin explained they could organise a party which was special: anyone can attend. They were not ‘gatekeeping’ or targeting only people who can afford to pay but they needed to go on a scavenger hunt and find clues in order to find the location of the exclusive party. The demons Seungmin was hunting - enemies most probably; he didn’t want to have Sunday high tea with them, that’s for sure - were always doing the most trendy but adventures thing.

“That’s a great idea for your demons but how does it benefit me? I can’t exactly feed on excitement only.” he asked cautiously, not wanting to irritate the other. He would feed off excitement if he could. He’d go to an amusement park every day…because pure excitement was actually harder to find than sexual. The world was really sad.

“The party could be really sexy, with an opulently hot vibe. There would be some nice mixes…people would be grinding on each other. Hell, I can put on an adult video in the background if necessary but trust me, the crowd would be perfect for you.”

Not having to club or find feeding grounds every day (sometimes two if he stretched it) sounded great. A big feed could even last seven days! Nephilim weren’t like humans who needed vitamin C daily and the other vitamins and minerals regularly. The more they fed at once, the longer it lasted but it was safer to microdose so you don’t appear suspicious and also Hyunjin didn’t like violent methods. Peaceful ones just took longer and were harder to find.

“I don’t want anyone to get hurt” he emphasised. 

“I don’t want to hurt anyone but those demons.” Seungmin sounded indifferent and Hyunjin just hoped that that meant that he’d do anything to not hurt people…not that he didn’t want them to get hurt but that he wasn’t opposed to it but again, asking Seungmin was not suggested even if the backdrop was different now.

“Okay fine…keep me informed.” He agreed because he wanted to be kept in the loop and maybe he’d act as Seungmin’s consciousness. 

Seungmin dipped him with the beat, then turned him around and grinded against him. Nothing new; he’d danced with Seungmin before even if he always tried to resist it but Seungmin just had something that couldn’t be ignored. Hyunjin suspected it was an unknown power - after all how many people actually got close enough to know which powers the king of Hell possesses.

“Does anyone pique your interest?” Seungmin asked. Weird question since he fed from the air around him or did he mean in a sex way? He did sometimes look to see if anyone grabbed his interest although he usually ended up dating them, or he dated them before he developed a full interest. In the past year…he hadn’t picked up anyone else mostly because he wasn’t interested but Seungmin being his shadow didn’t help. He had a glowering aura around him regularly so for that reason, people thought he was glaring at them when it was just his normal face. He was the king of Hell, what did people expect?

“Not really. I’m feeding though.” He closed his eyes to enjoy the high amount of sexual energy, particularly around them. He wasn’t sure if the sexual energy was high because of them but he didn’t care. All he cared about was the fizzing in his mouth which meant that his body was happy, accepting the surrounding energy.

Seungmin squeezed his hips. “Grind on me. There will be more energy for you after.”

He opened his eyes and gave a deadpan look. Sure, it is probably true but he bets Seungmin was saying it purely for his own benefit. Still…he was shameless as he did just that. Seungmin was hard but that wasn’t surprising. Most demons had high sexual energy as they had less qualms about the (lack) of need to control themselves. Of course there were some sexual demons and he was friends with a bunch of them, finding them refreshing, but Seungmin was definitely not one of them. He was also friends with demons on the other end of the spectrum; those who thought sex was overrated and turned interests to hobbies instead. To each their own best life, he guesses. He himself thought that sex done badly, without exploration and discussion, was overrated but with beings like Seungmin, this was definitely not the case.

After his hips and his lips did their job, he said he’ll take a break. It wasn’t an invite for Seungmin to follow but he still did. The other got them both some water; fancy water from a glass bottle with fruit and herbs and ice that probably costs more than some of the alcoholic ones. He was glad that it was Seungmin that he was with; the other understood the need to stay in control. Other people would give him weird looks about not consuming alcohol. Of course the drink could still be spiked but Seungmin didn’t need that to control him.

Seungmin was the veritable king of Hell; if he wanted something, he got it. Hyunjin was well aware that Seungmin wanted him and while he was resisting being the flavour of the year…well he wasn’t resisting that hard. It was beneficial for him too. He just had to be careful not to piss Seungmin off because he didn’t work that hard to control his powers only to end up as mush that Seungmin’s servants had to clean off his floor.

“Oh hello there sweetheart. Want to dance?”

It took him a while to realise it was him that was spoken to. He continued playing with the straw and sucking a little bit of liquid.

“I’m taking a break now.” he replied with a smile. He didn’t have to dance with anyone he didn’t want to, though it helped looking appealing. He could taste the sexual energy coming off him and he closed his eyes and took it in. Feeding made him thirstier but luckily he had a drink at the ready. 

“Awww, he’s a pretty thing. Isn’t he a pretty thing?” the guy asked his friends. Clearly he was intoxicated and his decision to not drink was fortified.

“Fuck off.” Seungmin simply said. That tone should chill anyone to the bone but intoxicated humans were stupid and reckless.

“Ah he’s your pretty thing?”

Hyunjin sighed. He wasn’t a thing but he was an individual who was trying to avoid arguments.

“He’s your damnation.”

He sighed again. He really should apply for a job as Seungmin’s conscience because yes, even demons had those.

“Seungmin” he simply said and that resulted in said Seungmin making a dismissing gesture but it wasn’t towards him but to the human and his friends who were thankfully trying to pull him away, saying something about being humiliated in front of an adonis. While the human resisted, he was no match for his three friends because intoxicated humans were also weak. 

Shaking the back of your hands should not look so hot yet everything Seungmin did was sizzling. Well, mostly.

“I could have taken care of him.”

“Is he one of the demons you were looking for?”

“No.”

“Then you won’t be taking care of him. Remember why you’re here.”

Seungmin pouting should not be so cute but of course it was. But he wasn’t fooled; that pout could still be dangerous. It probably hid ulterior plans.

“Fine. If I had to kill all the competition, it would be a full-time call. But I will organise that scavenger hunt party for you.”

Hyunjin didn’t understand but not understanding Seungmin was probably good although he needed to partially understand him to make him act a bit more ethically.

“And for you. To find your demons, right?”

Seungmin nodded and he stopped talking all together that night. He knew the other was thinking, planning the party most probably, so he said nothing. He finished his drink then he sauntered off, flaunting his hips and leaning down a bit on the bar’s counter all the while feeding from the energy around him. When it was directed at him, it was more of a fulfilling feeding so he thanked Seungmin in his head for inviting him here. He’d need less feeding than usual because each morsel was heavier, more filling.

When he was done, he went back. Not that they had to leave together but it was only courtesy to check in with the person he’d gone out with. He found him still with his thinking face on but when Hyunjin was a few steps away, Seungmin seemed to come back to the present. “Ready to go?” he asked.

“I am. I can book a cab.”

Seungmin scoffed. “You’re coming home with me.”

Not only leaving with him but going home with him? Pretentious. “Cocky.”

“Yeah, cock will be involved. Want it?”

He did but he refused to make it so obvious.

—----------------------------

“I couldn’t help but notice that you came in with the prince-sorry, the king of Hell.”

“Yeah. I slept at his place and it seemed like a waste to come here separately.”

“Hyunjinnie, we take evening classes. Did you spend all day with him?”

People gave them a wide berth. It’s not like it was a secret who Hyunjin sometimes slept with; he didn’t make it public but they may have kissed in public a few times because Seungmin’s lips were irresistible but mostly because that way Seungmin had to shut up. Not that the king doesn’t know how to communicate telepathically…unfortunately for Hyunjin’s sanity.

“It was a very active day.” he said. Not with a smirk; it was just a matter of fact. He was sore but happy; when he combined feeding and sex on the same day, it always made him feel extra good. Probably because naturally, he was supposed to combine the two but he refused because it made him feel icky just thinking about taking advantage of someone even when, because of his powers or looks, he would be enthusiastic. Most people did not really comprehend what it would mean to get with a sexual-energy-vore nephilim. They would be out of their mind and that was taking advantage, no matter what some others said to justify their actions. It was like taking advantage of someone drunk or out of their mind because sex did that. He’d only ever fed from partners that had been longterm after discussing with them a lot and only if they were downworlders too.

“You really sleep with him a lot, huh?”

He tried not to but lately it has been happening more frequently. Probably because of vicinity…and persistence (from Seungmin’s part). “Lack of better alternatives.”

“There are alternatives? Who?”

He was startled. Seungmin sat next to them and he could see Changbin sliding a foot away on the bench but Seungmin paid him no attention. Changbin was smart; Hyunjin could learn a thing of two from him although their cases were different. If Hyunjin moved away, Seungmin would move towards him even more and maybe he’ll get angry. Or passive aggressive. ‘What? Am I contagious?’ which, to his knowledge, he wasn’t…but one never knows and poisonous, he was sure he could be.

“Just in general.”

“One of the many who hit on you.”

Hyunjin nodded. He knew he had alternatives but it was too bothersome to pursue them. Seungmin was convenient. 

“ Maybe I’ll kill them all.”

Seungmin was shrugging but he didn’t doubt that he meant it and if he chastised the other, he’d want to do it more. That’s the kind of person that Seungmin was. The only time he’d heeded ‘no’ was one time where Hyunjin had said it after Seungmin propositioned him and he’d really not been in the mood. He was just glad that he’d said it only once. He wasn’t sure what would happen if he repeated the ordeal although hopefully, if he means it, Seungmin would accept it as an answer. He was a demon - a bloodthirsty one at that - but he wasn’t a monster.

So he said nothing and gave Changbin a not so subtle look that the other could interpret perfectly when he went to open his mouth. Fortunately, his friend was smart.

“I’ve had some assistants draft the scavenger hunt clues and some others are working on the marketing graphics. The event is scheduled for next week. Make yourself available if you’re not. Lots of feeding opportunities.”

Hyunjin nodded instead of shrugging. If they roll it out now, people will eat up the short notice and they will be hyped for the mystery. Hell, maybe Hyunjin was interested to solve the clues and find the location but he’ll focus on looking good so he doesn’t have to feed for a while.

“Uhm, hey, so I don’t know if Jinnie…Hyunjin-ah told you but I’m kind of looking for a job. Would you need another assistant?”

Changbin, what are you doing? That’s what he wanted to say but didn’t dare to, in case he made it worse.

Seungmin actually looked at his friend.

“Why are you looking for a job?”

“Uhm, money? And experience. I am partial to chaos…I’m an imp.”

“I know but my assistants are not paid so it’s not for you.”

Changbin frowned. “Not paid? Is it like an unpaid short-term internship?” Bless his friend trying to understand the workings of Hell…it wasn’t going to happen. Or if he understands what, he won’t understand why because Changbin wasn’t cruel; he just liked mischief.

“All my assistants are long-term. That's why they are efficient.”

“Then, what do they get out of it?”

“They get to stay alive. I heard Bang Chan is looking for a co-teaching assistant. Not sure what he teaches because I don’t follow classes.”

Seungmin got up, not once looking at Changbin but most times he didn’t even look at him. Maybe it was a blessing; he was being courteous by not looking at them. He wondered if he even looked at his victims. “I’ll text you the location for next Saturday. If you want to hav-meet up before, you have my number.”

Hyunjin barely held on to a snort. Seungmin censoring himself? It was probably for his benefit because Seungmin really didn’t care…and he also knew that if anyone gossips, he can just set them straight. It was strange how he was considerate of Hyunjin’s reputation but everything in their world was strange. Like, they had magic and could open portals (well some of them) yet they preferred the use of mobile phones because it was convenient! Seungmin had made sure to expand 5G in the underworld! Of course they didn’t actually have to pay, there were no technicians and the internet always worked. They didn’t have to spend a single coin either; one thing about the underworld is that it wasn’t capitalistic.

“Sure” he simply answered.

“Wow, your man actually helped me!”

“He’s not my man.”

“Yeah, yeah. He just came here, is organising an event for you, helped your friend, and threatened any competition he has…that’s peak demon boyfriend behaviour.”

“No. That’s peak demon behaviour. Period. Who knows why he does anything. He probably wants to collect debts and wreak chaos. There’s many ways to do that.”

“Well, I don’t care if I’m indebted. In this economy, it was bound to happen. What does Bang Chan teach anyway?”

“Music for Magical Focus. Technically he’s only the teaching assistant but the actual professor is never here.”

“Huh. That sounds really interesting. Is he hot?”

Hyunjin opened his mouth but Changbin quickly shut him up, panicking that if he answered, Seungmin would kill Chan before Changbin even gets to be considered for the job.

That same day, Changbin did get the job and apparently, that class was really in demand so he barely got to see his friend anymore but it was for the best. Hyunjin made it a point not to feed from his friends but damn did Changbin make it hard where there was so much puppy love sexual energy around him whenever he so much as thought about Chan and no, Hyunjin couldn’t read minds (yet, possibly ever) but it was kind of obvious from the dance that his face did which matched whenever Chan was actually around.

He just had to make it hard for Hyunjin. At least with Seungmin, he could take care of hard problems but he’d have to text him for that and after being around ‘love’ so much, he didn’t want to taint those feelings even if they weren’t his own.

 —----------------------------

Saturday rolled around in a feast of dizzy spells. By the attendees who were rushing to get to the clues without their phones.

In a way, Hyunjin was glad that all this was for him to feed - and maybe as an outlet for Seungmin’s brilliant mind and primordial need for chaos - because if the aim was otherwise, these people were really easy prey.

“Like ants but less smart.” Seungmin snorted behind him.

“Maybe, but I can’t eat ants” he shuddered and hoped that no one, Seungmin included, would ever trick me so.

“Then they are more useful.”

He hummed and swayed in place. Not exactly with Seungmin but the king of Hell and chaos was dancing near him. This was the final destination. It was…

“PaRRRRRRRtyyyyyyyy! Whoohooo!” A guest shouted and whooped. He wasn’t even the first to arrive; more towards the end but the venue was lit and the booming techno made one move with abandon. Hell sure knew how to party. Like Seungmin had told him ‘bad ideas are fun’. He for sure delivered on that.

“ I can’t wai t to tell everyone!” Someone shouted but thankfully, before they had to intervene, someone else reminded them it was part of the adventure to not tell anyone. Luckily, people liked being part of something exclusive. It even trumped the need to one-up people publicly. 

Hyunjin didn’t want to give ideas to someone that may actually harm humans but he also didn’t want to be caught doing this. Sure, he wasn’t harming them but there were hunters out there who thought otherwise. For them, any use of a human was harmful as if humans themselves didn’t harm other creatures daily. Fortunately, hunters were few and far between but Hyunjin avoided them like the plague, like any downworlder that didn’t want trouble.  

The music changed to something that mandated grinding. He did it instinctively and so did others. He smiled softly, closed his eyes and inhaled not just the smoke but the energy around. The strobing lights had nothing on the intensity of how satisfied he felt soon after feeding and couldn’t help smacking his mouth to enjoy the fizziness. 

And after a great meal - one that would tide him for a few weeks at least with all the sexual energy in the room - he of course got thirsty.

“Are the drinks free here?” Because he thought that free drinks would be an incentive but maybe it would be too suspicious and he wouldn’t put it past Seungmin to still aim to make some money; not because he needed it but because it was a measure of achievement. 

“For you they are.”

Something in him rumbles in satisfaction. Maybe a small part of him that was getting bigger, liked being given preferential treatment.

“Can’t have that go to waste. Would you like something?”

“No. One of my assistants is on drinks duty. Do you want them to bring one for you?”

“I’ll walk, thanks. Be right back.”

His legs hurt a bit from dancing. He wasn’t moving all that much really; his feet remained planted in one area which stiffened them up. This way, he would ease the joints and his throat at once!

“Hey gorgeous.”

Oh great…not that he wasn’t flattered and not that he hadn’t taken such offers in the past when he was desperate for touch…but he just wanted to feed and dance today. Why can’t he go to at least one party without being bothered?

“Hey” he still answered because he wasn’t rude. But he tried to give off ‘stay away’ vibes.

Clearly, the other’s receptor was broken. It didn’t help that he was drunk. Must they all be? Why did they live in a country so depressing that alcohol was the only remedy? He must have made Seungmin a fortune in drinks over what he already had.

“ Can I buy you a drink?”

Bless cards and mobile payments…because there was no way that this man could manage to fish out enough cash with how drunk he was. Maybe even the cards and mobile payment will fail if they require a pin. Maybe that’s why they were invented.

“No thanks, my drinks are free tonight.”

Was it a flex? Maybe. He just wanted to show how taken care of he was. It was with someone who won’t remember a thing tomorrow so…he didn’t feel guilty. He may even feed from him since the guy was horny as fuck.

“Awww, someone got here before me? Of course they did! Did anyone tell you that you have dick sucking lips? I was really hoping to get a demonstration.”

Why do drunk people sometimes make sense? Hyunjin sighed. This wasn’t a first, some people had told him. One of them was Seungmin but he’d been into that since at the time he really was sucking his dick.

“I’ve been told…oh here’s my drink. Thank you. Goodbye.” He wasn’t thanking the man but the bartender of course who looked at him apprehensively. He was one of Seungmin’s assistants and they were acquainted, if only because sometimes they ran into each other while Hyunjin was doing his walk of non-shame. Though he was a bit embarrassed each time because few were foolish to continuously sleep with the king of Hell. Then again, maybe it was more dangerous to refuse? Although in that, Seungmin had always given him a choice. Again, demon does not equate to monster.

“Oh come on, I’ll pay you.” The man had the gall to put his arm around his shoulder and squeeze his biceps. It could be a familiar, friendly gesture if he didn’t rub against him. Hyunjin was familiar with hard ons but it doesn’t mean he wants to feel a stranger’s when he wasn’t into it.

“Not even if you had all the Earth’s wealth. Fuck off.”

He didn’t fuck off. Spoiler: he attached himself to him more.

“Someone like you should be appreciated. Savoured.” he hissed. What was he? Wine?

“He is appreciated, don’t worry your drunk head about that but I suggest you remove your hand, if you want to keep it.”

Classic threat but unlike many other bullshitters, Seungmin would deliver. Probably he’d send the limb by post too, as a message.

“...Who are you? You’re such a dick!”

Yeah, he wouldn’t be surprised if this man turned up dead somewhere or simply disappeared.

“ Yeah , he’s a dick” he felt safe enough to say that, mostly because of the following words “but he's a dick that I’d like in my mouth.”

“Translated for drunk people, he means, ‘unlike yours’. You’re welcome.”

Seungmin could be an ass too. One that sometimes made him laugh. Still giggling, Hyunjin left the bar counter.

“Did you get anything from him?”

“Apart from a headache? Yeah. I guess I’m a potent aphrodisiac even for the drunk.”

Tipsy, he preferred. Drunk people usually had less sexual energy for him to feed on but this one had a lot. He didn’t want to think about it more; incidents like this happened too often so he drank his drink as if it was a shot. A tasty one. Then he looked suggestively at Seungmin.

“Let’s go prove him right.”

Seungmin raised his eyebrows so he leaned in and trailed his finger on the other’s sculpted chest.

“About my dicksucking lips.”

Seungmin’s grin showed sharp teeth. Were they originally part of his physiology or did he tear apart so many of his enemies that he sharpened them? Hyunjin honestly didn’t care because it was so hot. Scorching. No wonder Seungmin lived in Hell.

“You’ll so prove him right but who cares about him. What I care about is your dicksucking lips wrapped around my dick.”

“Let’s go then!” He said, as he dragged him to the bathroom. It was spacious; Seungmin hadn’t spared money on the venue rental. Or maybe he owned it. Maybe he stole it…so many possibilities but all he cared about in that moment was getting his lips wet with Seungmin’s precum, lubed by his own spit and resulting in the salty reward of cum. He wanted it in his mouth, though his face would be more of a statement. He was a bit of a slut…but he didn’t want others to see at least if they sexualised him. Maybe he was weird, but he was himself and not a sexuality scholar, only a practitioner.

As soon as the stall was locked, he dropped to his knees and opened that tempting fly.

“Try not to choke.”

He liked a bit of dirty talk but Seungmin was insulting him. He doesn’t usually choke unless he wants to. It does add a bit to the experience when his throat convulses. Those horrible sounds made him wetter. Usually there would be a patch in his underwear from his cockhead or if he wasn’t wearing any, there would be a string of pre-cum leading to his stomach or thigh.

Let’s just say that the two of them knew how to enhance their sex lives.

It worked in Seungmin’s favour, how much effort he put into it and by extension, it worked in his.

“Fuck, you’re so good at this. At everything.”

Switching to praises already? He wanted to smirk but didn’t because all his concentration was focused on his dicksucking technique. Of course, it was mostly his passion for it that made the experience enjoyable to the both of them. He just loved dick; in his mouth especially. At least at the moment. There were times where he just wanted it in his ass, or hands, or thighs…and sometimes even in his feet because it was so erotic seeing a wet dick redden thanks to the efforts of his feet alone.

It was also a bit heady how the king of Hell was quick to praise him. He was reducing him to mush, visibly. Seungmin could take control and he did at times, thrusting in his mouth or grabbing his head to move him faster and that was hot too.

He took a very miniscule break to tell him that he could control the pace.

Seungmin smirked. “In that case, can I use a belt?”

He didn’t even bother asking ‘how’ and ‘when’ and straight up nodded.

Turns out, Seungmin meant he’ll put the middle part of his belt behind his neck while Seungmin held the two extremes so that he could bring him closer and move him with the makeshift leash.

‘Hot as hell’ was Seungmin’s motto.

He didn’t simply let Seungmin control everything though. He had the pace but Hyunjin had the technique which he prided himself with and those two things together made cum overflow from his mouth. Only a little; he managed to catch and swallow the rest and then licked the spillage.

“Show me before you swallow next time.”

He nodded. They were past saying ‘if there is a next time’ because they knew there would be. If they wanted to stop it, they needed to discuss it. Technically it was ‘no strings attached’ but not so much that they didn’t need to talk it out because it’s been happening for a long time and frequently. On the other hand, they could stop it. At least Hyunjin hoped that he could while still keeping his life but Seungmin had never seriously threatened him. 

Strutting out, he spotted that man still (or once more) at the bar.

“Drinks still free for me?”

Upon receiving a nod, he made his way to the bar to order another one. He really was thirsty now but he wanted to show off more than anything. He didn’t need to look at any reflection to know just how messed up he looks and sounds even covered by the booming bass.

He smirked and felt his clammy face crack under that pull of lips. He probably had some cum on his face but he also had no shame. He was a slut but not an easy one and not because of what he was but because of who he was. That, he had accepted only recently and was still basking in that growth, happy that his skin had grown.

“Hyun, what do you want to do once you finish the course?”

He blinked, not expecting the question nor the tone. Neither the informal address either. He’d never called him that before and it looked and sounded strange. Seungmin looked hesitant as well. Maybe he was trying to be friendlier? He didn’t have many friends, if any so the person he frequently sleeps with probably has to do. Maybe he was becoming a bit more human while living in their world? Survival was adaptability and Seungmin was nothing but full-on survival (and someone’s death).

“I don’t know. Find a job?”

To be honest, he was living rent-free in a Nephilim-owned house. Many of their kind did that. The fae and other creatures acquired some land through…dubious means but then again, human means were also dubious and they were just trying to blend in. Precisely because of that, while he didn’t need money, he would get a small menial job somewhere to connect with humans while living among them. He didn’t need to eat nor drink human food but he does and while they were not free…he can always charm people into giving him free things. Without his powers even.

“I have a better offer. You want to understand more how magic works, right? Become my acolyte and you’ll have access to a lot of materials and opportunities.”

Acolyte? Like a disciple? Seungmin’s? 

“Like one of your assistants?”

“No, my assistants are my assistants because of a punishment or because they have to since they live in Hell. But you will do it voluntarily. You can live in Hell though. It’s a nice, inviting place.”

He doubted it; actually he knew it was not. He went there sometimes, back to Seungmin’s for sex.

“I…don’t know about that.” Not closing a door but not stepping in either.

But Seungmin was quick thinking of his feet: always had been. “Try it. Think of all that knowledge. Think of all the creatures you’d meet and can interview. Think of all that ripe sexual energy ready for the picking.”

Damn. Free food too? Well, it was always free but there would be so much. He felt bloated here and it was only a small picking of people compared to Hell. There were just so many people; some of which had been there so long and had so many impure thoughts…he wouldn’t even need to try to find someone.

Best of all? He knew he was untouchable there. At least by anyone that was not Seungmin. He was his guest usually and that gave him all the protection; no one even tried to touch him. As his acolyte? That demanded respect and he won’t only be protected but respected . 

“ I don’t know …” he repeated, but deep inside he was a bit less unsure.

“You’ll be venerated.”

Venerated? That was certainly a step up from respected.

In that moment, less unsure but still not completely sure, he took the age-old advice and asked for time to think about it.

“Time? Sure. We both have plenty of that.”

Grateful, he finished his drink and was about to go on the hunt again, get his fill while he can so he doesn’t make any big decisions now. His plans were thwarted by someone more annoying than a big fly when you’re trying to sleep.

“So you know, I’m not poor. I have a lot of money.”

“Good for you?”

“Which means, I can pay like I said. I wasn’t scamming you.”

This again? He did sometimes think about it: sex work. He liked sex but usually in certain conditions like he needed to know the person a bit and trust them…which at first made him confused why he was attracted to Seungmin but then he realised that as terrible as he was, he was also safe. He certainly wouldn’t do well with having to switch partners so often although he wouldn’t feel bad about feeding from someone that was also using him.

“I’m sure you can, but I don’t want your payment.”

He could see how drunk he was when his face lit up like a christmas tree and asked if it would be free then. Seriously, rich people were the stingiest.

“You know what’s free? Leaving here. It will save you a lot of hassle.” Seungmin suggested. Hyunjin bets that that hassle was his permanent death…and his eventual adaptation to Hell. That really was a hassle for most people.

“I’m sorry, but who are you? His advocate?”

Hyunjin stifled a laugh. If anything, Seungmin was his devil’s advocate…because he didn’t trust anyone so he represented himself. He’d seen Seungmin read law books for fun. Probably for him, they were like addictive fiction novels were for some people.

“We organised this event actually, the both of us together, and we can get you kicked out and banned from future events.”

That hit home. The party around them was truly fun for party-lovers because Seungmin didn’t have a normal budget.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know.” Finally, he looked like someone with their tail between their legs.

“You seem to not know many things. Maybe you should go to a few courses for that…Come on Hyune, let’s go have fun.”

They didn’t let one drunk asshole ruin their night.

Hyunjin tried to remember that this was for Seungmin too; the other was hunting some demons that would probably show up. It was hard to remember that though when the whole party seemed to be about him and his needs.

He went home very well fed.

Of course, said journey was like two days after the event after he’d had time to digest (a lot of things) but he didn’t miss his evening course. He had priorities.

 —----------------------------

“ Hey , do you happen to still have the notes from last semester about inducing hypnosis? I want to check something for our next lesson.”

“Look at you! Almost made it as a professor!”

“Look at you, almost made it as Hell’s wife.”

He frowned. That was a bit too close to the truth. Not the wife part but the hell part.

“What’s that face? What is it saying?” Changbin asked. Damn his friend for knowing him so well. The two of them had a long history; Changbin was the one who encouraged him to enroll in the course. They met, of all places, at a bus stop but maybe it was a metaphor of their upcoming journey together.

“I…got an offer.”

“Did you say yes? Can I be the best man? Or the witness?” He cackled but stopped soon after, seeing that Hyunjin was serious so he matched him.

“Not that, of course. Seungmin asked me if I wanted to become his acolyte.”

“Ah…a very good offer. Are you thinking about it?”

Somehow, he thought Changbin would dissuade him. There were Nephilim in hell, it wasn’t unprecedented and the first demon was a Nephilim and probably there had also been acolytes to demons and even the king of Hell…but it has been centuries still. Why would a Nephilim choose that? Still… this Nephilim was thinking hard about it.

“Yes. I feel like I’d learn a lot from it. I’m not sure how long it will be or if it’s indefinite but I have time.”

In a way, it was like an internship to get experience. Only more serious and required more devotion.

“ Hey Hwang!”

Damn did he hate that calling! Not because he hated his name or family name which became a necessity when their population increased but because it was a forewarning of chaos usually and not the kind that was attached to Seungmin but the kind that assholes bought. I mean, not that Seungmin wasn’t an asshole but he was a gentler kind compared to these people. In a way, it was good that he was the head of Hell. This lot would vouch war against the living just for ‘funsies’ but actually to show off as their ego was small and they needed to inflate it.

“Fuck off” he said, making it clear he wasn’t going to entertain them.

“Don’t be like that. Are you rude because you have tummy problems? Digestion may be difficult after such a big dinner. One of our targets was at your party. Quite impressive. She wasn’t going to say anything but we made her beg and tell.”

He threw up a little in his mouth even though he hadn’t eaten any human food. The people like you are sometimes the worst; although Hyunjin liked to believe that the only aspect of their identity they shared was the fact that they were all succubi Nephilim. Although this group definitely slept with people - usually together - for their gain. The fact that they thought of people as ‘targets’ and not ‘partners’ or at least ‘helpers’, spoke a lot about their mentality.

“The only tummy problems I have is digesting you.”

“Bet you wouldn’t have problems with that. You must drink cum a lot with your diet.”

He reddened and was unsure how to reply apart from broken words that meant nothing but indignation. He wasn’t ashamed; but he didn’t want them to think of him sexually. He wasn’t their food.

“Maybe he does” Changbin! It wasn’t a lie but he didn’t want them to think about it! “But the reason why is also here…”

Changbin was looking at Seungmin whose aura was darker than usual. And he could tell; he’d taken a wholeass class on it. 

“...Standing behind you…” Seungmin’s nasal voice startled them but they didn’t scram. They must have no sense of self-preservation. 

He was a Nephilim but no conventional angel. Meaning that he half hoped they would die soon. The world would be a better place really.

“Ohhhhh. Came to show off so Hyunjinnie would put out?”

He was even more offended. He didn’t need anyone to show off; if he was interested, he was interested and that’s it. Maybe it helped them to think that there was a formula for him that would give them access if they achieved it. They never would. He was also offended for Seungmin really. How were they not scared of him?

“He’s not a coin machine although if he was a gacha, he’d give the cutest things.”

Okay, maybe there was a formula to him and Seungmin had figured it out because he needed a mop to put him in a bucket or he’ll spread all over the floor.

“We can try putting something in him, see if it works.”

A disgusting smirk that made Hyunjin want to borrow that mop and wipe off their faces.

Seungmin was, as always, quick thinking on his feet and beat him to it. “The only thing you’ll manage to put in him is disgust. The equivalent reward may not be to your liking.”

Seungmin bypassed the group and sat down next to them. His hand found Hyunjin’s thigh and he didn’t mind. Not at all. In a weird way, he likes when Seungmin (and only him) is touching him and showing some possessiveness and a lot of familiarity (with his body and what he likes). It makes him feel powerful that such a powerful being chose him. Maybe it was all ego and most times he wished it was…but he had an inkling - that he was trying to hide behind the bigger picture frame - that it wasn’t.

“Oh come on. He regularly takes you and toys…why not us too? It would be great for his feeding.”

“But not so much for his appetite.”

Seungmin described it better than he would have with all the anger inside. There were a lot of assumptions made about him and while most of them were true, they still had no business in his affairs. 

“As if I would ever feed from you” he finally responded even if delayed. It made him feel better that he managed to get something out. He didn’t feed from Seungmin out of respect, a little bit of fear, and because they hadn’t discussed it. He wouldn’t feed from them because he didn’t want to get food poisoning. “You know…you’re mentioning toys but did you know that dildoes exist for a reason?”

“Oh yeah? Which one is that, beautiful?”

Hyunjin actually leaned in so he was closer to them, because he wanted the satisfaction of seeing their reactions from up close. “To not interact with people like you. ”

Of which they came cheaper by the dozen and useless.

“Ohhhhhhhh someone call the fire department. There’s a few burns there.” Changbin hollered.

“ Why you little minx!” One of them said, as if that was an insult.

“Bye bye now. I will make sure to enjoy my dildoes.”

They still were not getting it. Was one of their classes about ‘invincibility’? Otherwise, he couldn’t think of why. “Don’t you have boy toy over there?”

He sighed. “Did you forget who…he is?” He really didn’t have enough courage himself to repeat what they’d called him because he has self-preservation. “Are you sure you want to be talking like this about him ?” He could snuff them out from school and from existence in less than a second and no one would probably tell him off.

The group of four suddenly seemed to realise that they weren’t the big bad bullies (well they were bullies but not that big in the food chain and there were badder bitches out there) and that it may be tempting not fate, but destruction to tease him. Him as in Seungmin…although he seemed pissed about their treatment of him. Probably because it reflected on Seungmin indirectly. People know of their hookups and he probably didn’t want to be a cuckold although maybe Seungmin was offended that they were dissing his future acolyte. 

Greater powers protected their closest subjugates because it reflected on their power.

Finally, they were too shocked to speak but they also needed an incentive to finally move. “Boy toy suggests you disappear…or I can always make you.”

His grin was sharp. Pointy. His teeth like razors. He looked mostly human but his aura distorted certain areas at times, making them seem outworldly. Because they were.

“I have…” “We best…” They finally did the right thing for all of them and walked away although ‘walking’ was generous seeing as they really ran.

“You should start charging pay-per-view. That was quite the show.” Changbin commented. 

Only then did he realise they had garnered attention. Of course they had.

“Are you going to class?” he asked because sometimes Seungmin skipped. He probably came to classes to recruit people or out of boredom. He’d seen the extensive library (or one of them) in his domain and he’d see just how many great tutors were available on account of them living in Hell...there wasn’t much of a social life for the forced residents so they would jump to have something to do. “Would you mind if we go now then?” he asked once Seungmin nodded.

Changbin stayed back to finish his yogurt. Freak.

“Did you want to escape the spotlight? It looked like people were at the cinema.”

He hummed but shook his head which must be confusing. “I wanted to give you an answer about your offer.”

Seungmin seemed interested, which is a far cry from his usual stony face. The only time where he displays emotions that aren’t anger or frustration is when they’re flirting. Possibly when they’re having sex too but then Hyunjin is usually too overwhelmed to take it in.

“Let’s hear it.”

“I accept the opportunity.”

Seungmin…smiled? It was mild and brief but still something he hadn’t seen. Smirks? Those were cheap for Seungmin but actual smiles were really expensive. Priceless for Hyunjin too.

“What now?”

“I’ll be in touch regarding the conditions later.”

“Do I have to sell my soul?”

“Not necessary but if you want…”

Hyunjin hoped he was joking. He rather likes his soul. “Conditions? Need to speak to your lawyer?”

Seungmin snorted but didn’t deny it. There were many of those in Hell and luckily for him, he didn’t have to pay them but Seungmin would deliberate the final decision because he was his own final lawyer; the others were just consultants. 

Later was after class. When did he have time to draft a document with actual conditions? In class? Why did said conditions look good? Will it only be on paper?

“And here. Got you this.”

This was…a charm bracelet? With only one charm. A document? Or a scroll, depending on your iconography interpretation.

“What’s this?”

“It’s like certification. To attest to your achievements.” 

Hyunjin frowned. He gets why something like that would be important especially since it’s a work experience - although again, it’s more devout than any internship or job - but weren’t there more conventional and easier mediums? Did Seungmin have to complicate everything? Maybe it was more chaotic when it’s unexpected. 

“Why not paper?”

“Burns in Hell.”

He blinked. Then the bracelet was a fire hazard! “Doesn’t metal heat up?”

“Not in Hell.”

He blinked again. He gets that the laws of physics were different…but why some and not others? This was hurting his head and he hasn’t started his new role (it wouldn’t be just a ‘job’; he understands the importance) yet. “Well then, can paper be fireproof?”

Seungmin sighed so much, it was like he was trying to extinguish the fire. “Would you rather get paper over this nice bracelet?”

Hyunjin frowned and looked at the bracelet again. Although it had chunky loops to allow for the jump rings with the charms…it was also rather dainty. Apart from the scroll, he could buy some cute charms maybe from Dongdaemun craft market. Was it irony that made Seungmin choose that one since the bracelet was instead of paper? Was it even him who picked it or was it one of his assistants? Will he get new charms upon completion of certain tasks? Thinking about it, it seemed exciting. Like he was gamifying his tasks. Did Seungmin do it to make them more bearable? Would he even care to do so?

“I like it…” he muttered.

“I can see you have a lot of questions. Find me after your classes are over and we’ll go over what you’d be doing.”

“You’re not staying for class?” he asked, perhaps a bit too disappointed. For all the fear he evoked in others, Seungmin was a model student when he attends and he made class more bearable by both being fun and by shifting the focus from other students to him when he asks questions.

“I’ve got Hell to run. Later.”

So mysterious. So full of himself…will Hyunjin get to keep that actually?

 —----------------------------

Hell as an insider was more structured than he thought. Maybe precisely because it was Hell, it was bureaucratic to an extent that made Hyunjin want to cry. And he was only getting a tour of the place! Will his tears sizzle?

“Don’t worry too much about it. Our assistants will take care of things. You just need to follow my lead and support me by doing some tasks. I may ask you to meet with certain people on my behalf and in general act as my liaison but most times I will be there right by your side.”

Why did that sound so kind? How was Seungmin capable of being so gentle?

“ Right boss, got it. Where to next?”

Cringe words. He was cringing, realising he was cringe-personified but tried not to show it on his face. He can fake enough confidence to last for today at least. He’ll cry tomorrow.

Seungmin led him to a library - one Hyunjin had eyed in passing but never dared stop - and then he was cornered. “How about a break” he whispered, hot breath hitting his ear and making him shiver. Hell was hot; but Seungmin was hotter and maybe that’s why he ruled it even though he professed that ‘Hell isn’t ruled’ sometimes.

Not wanting to fall too behind the other he trailed one finger on the rise of Seungmin’s trousers and stopped at the inseam. The other didn’t shudder but it led to a charged kiss and then they were shucking their clothes off and Hyunjin could slowly trail a single finger teasingly down Seungmin’s cock without any obstacles and then up and rejoiced when he noticed his skin prickling a bit. Any sign that he was affecting the other was appreciated since his face was either stoic or Hyunjin himself was so overwhelmed that he wouldn’t take note.

Like this, he did. Seungmin looked glorious naked and aroused. It was hot how resourceful he could be. Where did he get the lube? Did he conjure it? Did a creature he couldn’t see bring it to him? Were they being observed? He didn’t freak out because he’d been here enough…they must have seen them at some point. Being with Seungmin made him feel safe because who in their right mind would tease Seungmin and anyone he was with? There must be creatures that operated on different cultural norms living here and once who still had their right mind but he couldn’t give a hoot in that moment.

“Can I ride you?”

There was a soft seat that had no business being in Hell. How did it look so comfortable? How did it absorb their bodies once they sat down?

“Why?”

Why? Because it would be hot. Also because he wanted to establish that he wasn’t just there to take it. He had to put his feet down and show his teeth a little so he’s respected around these parts.

“Because I want to.”

“In that case, ride away.”

How did a demon make him laugh so much? Was there an intersection between being a demon and a clown? Then again, tricksters were probably chaos demons but Seungmin was more like a stand up or situational comedian.

Thanks to how much they’ve been fucking, prep took little time. It helped that he was relaxed. Usually Seungmin touching him would make him tense up but that night, he was behaving himself.

Sinking down, he felt like a mixture of heaven and hell; it was hot but felt so right. The last time they’ve had sex was before he accepted the offer. It had felt weird to engage in sex with someone who you’d be serving…although he’d served Seungmin quite a few times but that had always been play. This is reality; it was in his duties to take care of Seungmin’s needs. He was his most loyal disciple or at least he should be. It got him so aroused thinking about it that way.

Fuck was it good. He may whimper but who wouldn’t on such a perfect dick? It filled him just right, pushing his limits a tiny bit but he emerges triumphant and stuffed. 

He puts his hands over Seungmin’s shoulders and squeezes. On top, they were bony and sharp but if he squeezed his biceps, there will be lean muscle there. Seungmin was deceptively tiny at first look but on second, his broad frame preceded him and at third, all his contained power strikes you.

“Doing so well.”

That’s all it took. He was so tired; his thighs burned and his breath hitched and fell short. It hurt to take a breath; everything burned. Everything but his asshole which pulsed around Seungmin’s dick. He wanted to go on but was blowing energy by the ride.

He whined, legs trembling. “Please, want it…”

“So get it.”

He pouted and tried to rise again but fell down shortly after. The impact, although miniscule, still dragged a moan out of him. It was unexpected and he clenched around Seungmin who hissed.

“I can’t. Please please please pleaseeeeeee.” He would stomp his feet but that would overwhelm him even more. He cannot concentrate on what’s important and he hates the limitations of his body but not enough to hit the gym or even workout from home. He just wants dick and hopes Seungmin would deliver. Would he do takeout? Well…I guess it would be less cleanup if he did pull out.

“Fine.” 

For a second, he thought they were finishing but then Seungmin snapped his hips up and that was it. The final word was Seungmin’s but he didn’t care.

“Fuck. Thank you. Thank you!”

“Already thanking me? Haven’t even finished yet. My most devout acolyte.”

“Your only one.”

“That’s right.”

He smirked, finding Hyunjin’s slackness cute but he’d like for him to still contribute. The demon inside him suggested that Hyunjin should be made to work and he didn’t ignore him, not when the idea was something that Hyunjin liked anyway so with an increased pull of his lips, he raised one hand and put his fingers against Hyunjin’s lips. Lips which made him get a hardon consistently. Lips which predictably opened for him, so he shoved harder. The other’s tongue against his fingertips made him shudder slightly much to both their delight. That delight intensified once he had shoved deeper, resulting in Hyunjin moaning and clenching around him.

Hyunjin’s throat constricted against his fingers but he continued for a few more squeezes. Hyunjin’s eyes became glassy but he was smiling. Only when the other slackened once more against him did he extract his fingers. Some saliva strung out of his mouth and Seungmin’s own mouth watered.

Seungmin continued fucking him until his brains were blended soup swimming in his head. His legs trembled and sometimes locked in place but he didn’t take note of the pain then, his only focus was cumming. And receiving in one way or another Seungmin’s cum. To that, he was devout.

“I got you. I’ll take care of you.”

It was the gentleness present once more combined with the hard thrusts that did it. By going hard and actually by simply moving when it had been Hyunjin’s self-proclaimed task, the other was taking care of him so well!

“Huh, ahhhh!”

“About to cum? Yeah. Me too” he grunted as he tried to hold on from cumming so soon after the announcement. Hyunjin needed to process it for the upcoming decision but perhaps he’d pushed the both of them too close to the edge with his plan. “Where do you want it?”

“In…wait…outside.”

An unusual request but he went with it. It was still hot seeing his cum marking the other’s skin. It was hotter when he finally got his hand around Hyunjin’s cock and made him shudder and release.

They had been rubbing against each other so much that when they detangled, Seungmin was shocked. Actually shocked. Certain laws of physics applied to Hell as well; in fact, some of them were worse.

“What’s wrong?”

“You put the cute in electrocuted.”

“Huh?”

Yeah. Definitely cute. “Nothing. We’ve been at it for a while.”

Hyunjin frowned, looked down at his soiled stomach and thighs but got up on wobbly legs. “I’ll clean up quickly and we can continue.”

Continue? When they’ve just finished?

Oh right. He meant the induction. He sighed in relief…he was unsure if he could go again.

“Relax. There’s an advantage to being your own boss.”

Only Hyunjin frowned and didn’t relax though he slowed down.

“I’m not my own boss; you are. Although you’re not paying me, at least not money.” He himself waived it off; they knew that Hyunjin didn’t need as much financial sustenance although Seungmin was more than ready to provide him with anything. He’ll pay him if needed so Hyunjin could earn his own wage and have that power rather than rely on his charity. Hyunjin wasn’t a charity case. “What I mean to say is, should we be doing this? Sleeping with the boss on the job? I can imagine the gossip.”

“Whose boss?” he asked, looking around and upwards for his own non-existent boss but one panicked look dissuaded him from teasing further. “Let them. They need to occupy themselves with something seeing as they got… all of eternity.”

“So, we can still do this?”

“If you want to…I want to. We can put it in your job description if you want.” He smirked to show he was joking. Hyunjin could do whatever he likes but all Seungmin wanted was…reliability and companionship. He’d never had an acolyte and he was salivating for it to be honest. 

“That won’t be necessary. I don’t need the pressure to sleep with you, so I’ll continue for now.”

For now. Hyunjin always kept him on his toes. Sometimes he was afraid that he slept with him because of who he was but then wouldn’t he want to lock him in? Seungmin knew that the other had so many potential suitors but seeing all the assholes that sniffed around him regularly, he understands why he sticks with him.

He just…doesn’t want to be chosen because he’s the lesser asshole. Not to say he wanted to be the bigger one; he was powerful and so didn’t need to actually be one.

“Very gratuitous of you.”

“Thank you…I’m going to wash up quickly. Thank you for introducing water to Hell.”

“Technically, it was already here. Just that before it was used for torture purposes only. Can I join you?”

“Please do. My boss said I should relax.”

“I’m technically not your boss.”

“Master then…since I’m your subjugate.”

Seungmin looked down, surprised he was interested so fast.

After, Hyunjin said he needed a break to feed as all that sex had made him hungry.

“Didn’t you feed?”

“Not really. I’ve been here all day, haven’t I?”

Maybe he wasn’t hungry before so he let him go to a bar while he made a list of all the things he needed to introduce Hyunjin to. He hadn’t been so organised before; this had been a spur of the moment decision and he was still assessing the implications.

But if he’d learned to rule Hell, he’d get the hang of his plan even if he was drafting it soon before making it happen.

 —----------------------------

“It makes sense. Between classes and your demanding job.”

It wasn’t like Seungmin to try to convince him of things; usually he just offered or stated and he went along with it although lately, he had persuaded him to have that scavenger hunt party.

“But stay there permanently? It’s not very…hospitable.”

“Not permanently, only for now. It will be a good place for you. No one would bother you. You can come and go as you please…not on the job of course.”

“Geez, glad to know it’s not a prison. I thought it wasn’t a job but a way of life.”

“It is…but modern terms. If you want it to become your whole life, please do. There will be no objection from me. I’m not a god but I have been feeling neglected these days. No one wants my help!”

“Wow. People have finally smartened up to making deals with the devil?”

“I’m not the…okay yeah. I see your point. Will you try to see mine?”

He sighed but nodded. All this acolyte stuff was turning out to be more demanding than expected. First he had to see how everything worked - like exoteric powers included and in much more detail than in his classes which meant that he better ace them - and then he met a bunch of people…and creatures. Hellhounds included. They seemed to love him. Maybe it was because at the end of the day, they were giant but needy doggies.

“I’ll consider it but I do like my place and I do have a dog.”

“So, bring him and keep your place. You can go when you need a break.”

That didn’t sound so bad…he was living rent-free. He can just fuck off for a few months or however long he lasts in Hell and his housemates - who came and went - would just think he was on a bender. Probably. The only thing was…

“Your dogs will eat mine alive!”

“Don’t be ridiculous. There’s not cannibals. Your dog will probably walk all over them.”

Hard to imagine but…not that unusual. The hellhounds looked like doberman and that hadn’t surprised him the first time he saw them because Seungmin could be like one, never letting an argument die.

“If I die, what will happen to my baby?”

“Why would you die? Also…if you die maybe you’ll become a permanent resident. If you receive an upgrade for upstairs, then I’ll just come and visit now that me and Jeongin-ah made up.”

“I just…” he exasperated him so much especially because there was truth in there “fine, I will grab some food now. I’ll come to yours after classes.”

It felt weird saying he’d go to Hell…but it was good that he didn’t need Seungmin to let him in because now he knew how to access. Wait. Was he going to accidentally open a portal of Hell? He just wants to get in but what if he lets things out? Ones that should stay in the closest. 

“Actually, can I meet you after? Still don’t think I have the hang of it.”

Seungmin was apparently coming to classes too so there was no issue.

The issue followed them once they sat down to eat. Again, he liked the taste of it and the routine but he didn’t need to eat ‘food’ because his food was sexual energy.

“Jeongin-ssaem?” he squinted, as if he would see better when his vision was fine but Heaven’s guardian really stood in front of him. Of course every Nephilim and non-human knew Jeongin; the other was incredibly friendly but because of his duties, he only ventured outside of Heaven sparingly. Hyunjin found it funny that the King of Hell was older than the Guardian of Heaven but it wasn’t because bad people existed first. Jeongin simply succeeded someone else like Seungmin had. 

Contrary to the past, Hyunjin was still shocked that there were people going to Heaven at all. If anything, he’d always thought that Seungmin has more work but maybe he did and Seungmin was that efficient. He’ll find out in the coming days for sure.

“In the flesh.”

“What are you-I mean not that it’s not good to see you in person, but what are you doing here? Did something happen?” Jeongin was in contact with nearly every Nephilim and non-human on Earth or at least those that wanted to speak with him but he usually contacted them with an astral projection or a call, either magical or technological because in time, even the Outerworld evolved.

“Come on, let's chat.”

He came all the way here for a chat? Was it about his new job? Maybe he was afraid he’ll make a mess of it and end up disbalancing the Outerworld? Hyunjin himself had nightmares about that.

“I’m here too…you realise?”

Seungmin sounded a bit petulant and it was very endearing but when Jeongin said that he can come too, he was more confused. Especially when he then looked deeply at Seungmin and said “No, I won't get anything from you.”

What was he hoping to get?

He sat down quickly, wanting to know what this was about. 

“So, I heard you’re moving in the basement.”

His eyes boggled out. How did he know?” “How do you…”

“I know everything.”

“You mean you’re always lurking?”

Jeongin glared at Seungmin but he didn’t defend himself. That was a bit creepy…maybe that’s how the idea that Santa Claus always knows came from! “Quiet you…so I just wanted to evaluate well if you’re ready for that and if you are…” he broke into a squeal “I am soooooooo happy and I will be visiting more often. I’ve been waiting for this day for eons…okay that’s a bit of an exaggeration but I’ve been waiting for some time.”

The words were accompanied by clasped hands, as if the guardian of Heaven was praying. For what exactly? Hyunjin to do a good job? Did his reputation as a klutz precede him? It was a fair assessment to be worried about his role…it was an important one. Seungmin had done without an acolyte but famous ones weren’t just devoted subjects, they did tasks which helped their master.

“Ummmm are you that worried that I mess up Seungmin’s work? I will work hard to be the best acolyte.”

Although Seungmin had reassured him that all he needed to do was follow his instructions. He hopes it won’t be horrific tasks. He hadn’t actually fully read the contract but he’d skimmed enough to know he wasn’t selling his soul.

“Acolyte?”

Why was there a frown? Maybe because in Heaven they used the word ‘disciple’? Acolyte did sound archaic. 

“Jeongin-ah! What a surprise!”

Changbin stole the focus from Hyunjin; Hyunjin wanted his answers but he didn’t mind the lack of attention from the god-like being. Truthfully, he intimidated him to the same level as Seungmin only he wasn’t as appeased by the fact that he was sleeping with him because of course he wasn’t sleeping with Jeongin!

The two started jumping, so excited to see each other. Hyunjin bets that Jeongin-ssaem contacts the imp often…maybe more often than most others although not as much as Chan-hyung.

“We should probably go” he suggested, trying to be the best acolyte. Even if he was the only one…that he knew of. Maybe Seungmin had others in other parts of the world? Did he have ‘a girl in each port’?

“Did you have pudding?” Changbin randomly asked. Or maybe not so random; there was a glint in his eyes which Hyunjin recognised. 

“Pudding?”

“Yes, you said you were craving it so bad this morning. You didn’t have any? Did you forget?” Then Changbin placed his hands near Hyunjin’s and inched them to rest on top. “It’s okay to have human food, you know? A craving is a craving. Shall hyung get you some.”

Since when was Changbin so kind? He usually verged on pain in the butt. But lovingly. Not sexually. The glint though intensified when Seungmin got up suddenly and said he’ll grab him some pudding. Of course he grumbled and said that it would be quicker this way so they can be on their way but…Changbin better not let Seungmin see. Because the other had effectively manipulated him.

And suddenly he was left alone with ChangIn and it was like facing the inquisition. Perhaps even harsher than that present in Hell to determine the punishment.

“Soooo…you’re moving in already?”

He huffed. What was with the questioning? “I need to be there as much as possible.” He actually wants to give it his best shot at being a good acolyte because while he had been hesitant at first…he was attending a course of his own free will. He always wants to learn more and what better way to do that than through shadowing such a powerful being? He was grateful for the opportunity and secretly, he thought that he’d received it only because he was sleeping with Seungmin. Not as a charity case but since they had spoken about continuing having sex…he was sure that Seungmin just wanted to keep him closer for that while having help.  After seeing all that he had to do, he doesn’t blame him.

His face must have soured because the other two stopped quizzing him. This was marked by a shift in atmosphere and Seungmin’s return. With FIVE puddings. Hyunjin gave him a deadpan look.

“You have a craving.”

“I do” after Changbin mentioned it, he started to suddenly crave flabby and sugary pudding, so soft and decadent “but I’m not going to have five.”

“Well, the book I was reading said not to ignore cravings.” It was cute how such a fiery demon could whine but he wasn’t so foolish as to think he was innocuous.

“Was it a book about pregnant people? I’m not pregnant, seungmin.”

“That’s not how Hyunjin’s body works.” Changbin laughed.

“Actually…it can but I’m not. But that’s. Very…gracious of you. I’ll be busy so I will have one a day without coming here for it. Thanks” he said, to be a little shit. Technically, with divine powers, he could become pregnant but he would need to make some changes. The imp doesn’t know  that however and Hyunjin counts it as payback.

Finally, they could leave with puddings in hand. Jeongin was smiling at them and waved them goodbye with another deceptively cute eyesmile while Changbin still seemed flabbergasted.

“I know you can be, but you’re sure that you’re not?”

It took him a while to realise what the other was speaking about. “What? Pregnant? Yeah pretty sure. I would have to want it. Don’t worry, you’re not going to become a father, Seungmin. I take consent to father a child into consideration. Plus…I’m a baby myself. Why would I choose that now?”

That night, after some gruesome work (intestines were involved), Seungmin all but tried to manually put a child in there.

 —----------------------------

Despite fucking often and rigorously, he really was trying his best to be the best acolyte. He followed Seungmin in all things possible although he learned when to walk away. He didn’t like the violence and his stomach didn’t appreciate it. It was Hell, so of course there was violence but Hyunjin believed very much in reform over punishment because ultimately, punishment benefitted no one except maybe people into sado-masochism but only briefly because they had other needs in life.

Maybe he’ll write a position paper at the end of his stint. He thought about that as he played with his bracelet with its new charm: fire. Seungmin hadn’t said why but Hyunjin could guess it was related to him moving into Hell and its permanent firepits.

He may not be getting money out of it but he was getting a lot of evident social power, he was fed, and he was learning a lot more than from his classes and he can use those skills for the rest of his life but sometimes, sleeping with his boss made his quest of being the best acolyte possible very difficult. He was on a quest to prove that he didn’t get the position simply by spreading his legs! Sure…that was true but Seungmin wouldn’t have asked if he didn’t think him capable. He wanted to show that he was more than his looks and his powers; he had skills too! Or he could learn them so he had the right attitude. 

But Seungmin was making his life impossible.

“Seungminnnnnn. We have that important meeting with high level demons!” Demons who lived among humans so even more fearful for that.

Seungmin stopped his ministrations briefly although Hyunjin hoped it would extend to a ceasefire until after the meeting.

“Why thank you, we do have assistants but good to keep the schedule in mind.”

Then, disregarding said schedule, he went back to sucking. On his neck.

“Seungminnnnnn. They won’t take me seriously! They didn’t last time! Stop being a vampire.”

This was a second meeting for which he was already nervous enough! The demons had for sure looked down on him even though he hadn’t said more than ‘hello, nice to meet you’. He could see their thoughts about him being a Nephilim. About him sleeping with their boss. About him feeding from sexual energy but not sleeping with his targets. All very judgmental thoughts.

Finally Seungmin was done and he could breathe again…until he saw his reflection in what passed for a mirror around here.

Gasping, he clutched his neck. His poor, poor neck, littered with hickies. Hickies forming a circle around…almost looking like a collar.

He sighed. “They definitely won’t take me seriously now” he lamented. He tried not to make a big deal out of it; it had been pleasurable and Seungmin did what he wanted and gave no fucks so he can’t make him feel sorry.

“So what. Remember, you’re higher in the food chain than they are. They can judge all they like; one word from you and they’d be dead and they know that.”

Hyunjin blinked. His role had that much power? Not that he’ll use it. He disliked them but he wouldn’t condemn anyone to death; he’d seen enough of it in the past few weeks here.

“Aren’t acolytes supposed to follow their master’s orders and not the other way round?”

“Sure. If you want someone removed, let me know.”

Ah. He gets it. Seungmin needed an excuse to get rid of them…well, he won’t be it. He didn’t need excuses and if he was looking for one, he could create it himself. Seungmin was nothing but resourceful. He had been ruling for a short amount of time but everything looked in shape.

“I need to cover these. You should go or you’ll be late. Is it okay if I join you after?”

“Why?”

“I still want to listen in so I can support you the best way I can.”

“No, I mean, why do you want to cover them?”

“They’re…indecent?”

“Yeah. And we’re in Hell. If anything they should be jealous.”

That wasn’t that far off; he bets a lot of demons want to sleep with Seungmin. Knowing him, he didn’t want them to get an edge on him so he chose Hyunjin. Hyunjin who was available and adventurous and tolerated him but who wasn’t involved in demon politics. At least not extensively. 

“Fine. Shall we go?”

Did he say he didn’t want them to be late? They weren’t. Everyone stared but subtly yet Hyunjin was an expert at receiving looks. They made his skin prickle but he tried not to shiver, or worse: cower and hunch over. 

He was glad they said nothing or else he’ll get to test his new power but he wasn’t one to let power get to his head especially when it was power tied to his role. Anyone else will have it but he won’t make use of it.

“Are you sure they didn’t do anything while I was not looking?”

“Please, when were you not? Everyone in that room knows you’re always watching. If you want to go on another demon hunt, you don’t need to use me as an excuse.”

Seungmin…huffed? Was that a huff or a demon cough? “Fine. You don’t need me. Got it.”

He was given a sort of cold shoulder after that. Since Hyunjin had accepted his offer, the king of Hell had mellowed down and become softer at least to Hyunjin’s eyes but now they were back to short, clipped sentences and ignoring each other unless they had work or they were fucking which wasn’t as often as before but sometimes it was still convenient.

One thing remained and that was the fact that he was very well fed. He’d underestimated the oozing sexual energy in Hell. It really was amazing how so many were desperate down there. He didn’t even need to dress up and while he missed it, he wanted to stay professional. He tried not to get a big head but whenever he walked somewhere, he could feel the sexual energy go up. Maybe they were attracted to the living? Seungmin, for being the king of Hell, was also alive but who would risk even worse eternal damnation by fantasizing about him?

Sure, Hyunjin did it sometimes but he tried to get his head straight, so to speak. It was probably because of availability since Seungmin was always there these days - even with the distance - and Hyunjin knew he was good.

“Is he possessive or did he simply make you his catboy?”

Hyunjin’s face soured, not understanding the meaning but knowing it was a jibe.

“Your neck looks worse than some warzones.”

Ah that. He forgot to cover it. These days he was so used to being down there that he was forgetting how to function in the world above. For one, Hell was always dark even if lit up by mini fire torches - because Seungmin preferred the old-school vibe and thought electricity was its own Hell that he was smart enough not to get into - so light hurts his eyes. For two, he stopped putting so much effort into how he looked but he always dresses in power suits now. Nevermind that Seungmin told him he could ‘wear jeans, cargo pants, joggers or pyjamas for all I care’.

Maybe he let the corporate world influence him a bit but at least he looked good. Apart from his battle scars.

“Do you have concealer?”

“And hide his stamp on you? No chance. I like my life, thank you very much.”

Changbin may live. He gets the impression that he had slighted Seungmin but what was he supposed to do? Give him an incentive to kill? It wasn’t in his job description or among the many paragraphs of his contract…he’d checked.

“ So your job is going well?”

“Not a job…but yes.”

“Why the frown?”

Why did his best friend know him so well? It probably came with his job description.

“I think I did something to anger Seungmin but I don’t know what! I mean, I think it’s because I chastised him for trying to use me as an excuse to execute some powerful demons. Maybe he felt slighted that I even thought he’d need an excuse? I mean, he did leave in a huff about me not needing him, whatever that means.”

Was an explanation in his own thoughts? Did he hit the nail on the head?

A sigh, not his own for once. “Oh Jinnie…you see, there’s supporters and there’s providers and boy king is a provider. Maybe a supporter too, who knows because he can be bi but what I mean is that you didn’t let him provide so he felt rejected. ”

“Huh? That makes zero sense. And please don’t start calling him boy king or you won’t get to teach another class.”

He may be expelled even though they chose to be here and it was free and very flexible. He may soon be dead too. Which would be terrible because he’ll probably qualify for down there and then he’ll have to see him at work…or worship. He was supposed to be a devout acolyte so was Hell a place of worship for him or was that Seungmin?

“Boy king…” their breaths stopped at the same time but Seungmin said nothing else. Did he secretly like it or was this still the cold shoulder?

“Seungmin, I’m sorry!” He couldn’t help but say. If he’d done anything to hurt the other…well he was failing at his task. And something in him felt like it was failing, with blaring warning sounds and red lights. Was that heartache?

“You will be.”

Hyunjin opened his mouth but no sound came out.

“Is there a more cliche line?”

“It's not cliche if I plan to deliver.”

“Pretty sure it's still cliche.”

Would Changbin shut up? It was Hyunjin’s life at stake! Whether it will cease or become more uncomfortable, it would still be a downgrade.

“No, you’ve been ignoring me so I’m really sorry. If you want to kill those demons I still don’t condone it but you can do your things like I do mine.” Surely there was a reason - even if that was Seungmin’s pleasure - for the other’s wish.

“I didn’t want to just kill them, I wanted to kill them for you. They’ve been judging you, haven't they?”

His mouth opened again. What?

“Seungmin, you can’t just kill everyone that judges me!”

That would…be a long list.

“I’ll try to save your friends who do it in good faith and your food.”

“What do you mean you’ll try to save his friends? Are we not worth a guarantee?”

“Changbin-hyung…” Hyunjin sighed desperately. How many times has he had to save the other now? Maybe he should have been a cat hybrid and save himself.

“Okay fine…thank you King Seungmin. I appreciate the thought.”

Seungmin hummed and sipped casually the drink he had with him - was that coffee or the blood of his enemies?

“Hyunjin should take a page from your book, thanking me for opportunities.”

The betrayal he felt in that moment was indescribable and also exaggerated. How can Changbin have scored more points than him?

“Okay fine, thank you King Seungmin, my liege, for wanting to uphold my honour by dismantling people who judge me…can you please try not to do it though?” he ended lamely after the power boost.

“I don’t make big promises I won’t keep, only small ones.”

Very reassuring and delightful but he gave up because spending more energy on saving demons who probably should be better extinguished was not what he wanted to do with his life. He had one class on that actually; the existential crisis that came with death after death for creatures that lived in the underworld. Technically, it was titled ‘the ethics of dying for the nonliving’ but same thing.

“I will be busy with something…why don’t you go buy yourself some art supplies?  You can sleep at home. I’m sure your dog misses you.”

Hyunjin blinked. He gets a day off? He’d been working really hard and finding it difficult to concentrate on anything else that wasn’t work but he hasn’t neglected his dog. He visits every day, makes sure to take him on his walk, clean his litter, feed him, and cuddle him but that’s all the things he has time to do because he was still wary about moving him down under. He was even doing his coursework in Hell. He was sure there was a joke there but he enjoys his course. He chose to do it voluntarily.

“Oh…sure. I’ll see what I can af-what I’m interested in.”

He didn’t get money and so the things he could afford from the sketchy money that nephilim got from somewhere (it was scammed from humans but he didn’t think too hard about it) were little. He could get a sugar daddy (he’s had plenty of offers and he could even feed from them!) but it took time to maintain the relationship; time which he didn’t have. He can work his charms and get what he wants for free…but he’ll feel bad about it.

Seungmin took his wallet out; it was a red thing that was probably not even designer but custom made from an exclusive tailor that didn’t take anyone else’s orders. 

“I actually need you to do one last thing for me. There are some newcomers that absolutely hate creativity. They think it’s the devil’s work only I’m not that creative so buy anything you deem fit to scare them a little. They’re a total pain. Those kind of people that believe in simplicity as virtue…and would impose it on others. So I’ll impose creativity on them and see how they like it.”

That was evil; not because Seungmin was trying to get back to them but because who would hate creativity? He understands indifference, but hate? And who would suppress someone else’s creativity? Although wasting supplies made him sad, but at least they would learn their lesson.

“Sure. What’s the limit?”

Seungmin grinned at him and his next words were almost a scoff.

“There is no limit.”

“Not on the card. I mean what’s the limit for buying torture art supplies?”

“There is no limit. Just buy whatever you want.” he said before he casually strolled off.

“He has good dick, manners and he has money too...how did you manage that?”

Manners? Seungmin? Well, he guesses that he doesn’t usually curse and he’s not harsh so for a king of Hell, he was well-mannered. The good dick and money, his friend knew about already.

“Situational opportunity” he answered even though he’d already told Changbin how the two of them started hooking up. Soon after, he too left and whatever he wants, he buys, as per orders. For just a few minutes - hours until he delivers them - he gets to hold them and admire them, feeling their weight in his hands. It felt therapeutic though their fate made him a bit sad but it’s not like he would have afforded them anyway. He was used to not keeping things.

The next day, he woke up late, cuddled extra long with Kkam then took him on a short walk and he went into a cafe to eat. He had a coffee then absorbed the energy from couples (and one throuple) that were clearly playing hooky under the table or who were giving each other ‘looks’. Like it was early in the day and they were wondering while lost in each other’s eyes if it was too early to bail and spend some time in a love hotel.

At four, he went to the Institute early so that he could study a bit without any distractions that were common in Hell. Then he had three back to back classes and finished by nine. 

Seungmin hadn’t shown up and he wondered which poor soul he was torturing. Although if they were in Hell…maybe they deserved it? He was neutral. Indifferent on the matter (see, he understands indifference on topics that others, like Seungmin, are enthusiastic about) as he distinguished between those who still had a chance and were living and those that weren’t. Nephilim were another category. He ignored them as best as he could although their judgment irritated him but he tried not to think of them as evil because would that make him one too?

He was not expecting the hellhound waiting for him outside so of course he got a fright though not as much as Chan and Changbin. Chan started hanging out more and more with them now that him and Changbin got on…and Hyunjin had to remind himself that he doesn’t feed from friends because the tension there would be a great snack but he bets that Chan regrets their connection now as he jumps in the air and clutches a pole once he’s back on the ground. 

The hound had a letter in her mouth. Once he took it out, unafraid, Betsy crouched down and showed him her tummy to rub all while panting with her tongue out.

“That’s terrifying.”

“Yeah, how can you be friendly with a hellhound?”

“She’s just a dog…that protects Hell and eats anyone that tries to escape but they’re already dead anyway so they come back. Betsy is cute. Want to try to pet her?”

“Your idea of cute is interesting.”

He could understand why they didn’t but they were missing out. She was the friendliest of the bunch and perhaps his favourite and he often wondered if she and Kkami would get on. He was still thinking about moving his dog to Hell but what if he gets lost wondering down there? And what if he gets used to so much space and then he will eventually move out when a new stage in his life starts and he’ll be confined into a tiny house which would be all that he can afford? At least he wasn’t worried about his dog being bullied…Seungmin had been right: Kkami would be top dog.

The other Nephilim he lives with were the good bunch but he can see they were starting to get jealous of him and he wasn’t sure if he should continue living there so maybe he needs to find a tiny house now and maybe a side job he can do from Hell. They had 5G and wifi so…maybe something online he can do at his own pace.

Camming maybe? Or doing surveys? Conducting them? The last two were more appropriate for Hell really. Camming would take people upstairs.

Maybe he can craft and sell those things? He can also sell his paintings but those supplies were more expensive than knitting needles and yarn. Even though it would be slow, he can do big things that would sell for more.

He giggles as he thinks about knitting in the wolves’ den that was Hell. Or maybe it would be more accurate to describe it as a hyena’s hole…or pool…or bush…yeah they all sounded equally as bad even though that’s where hyena’s slept.

He remembered the letter and quickly opened it with one hand while he kept petting Betsy with the other, also to keep her calm and not snappy although he thinks Hellhounds don’t harm people on the ground as that was not their territory. Betsy would probably play with him if he took up knitting; unlike Kkami.

“What’s this? Oh? He wants me to bring clothes that I can paint in? Mhmmm.”

It was very kind actually how he was warned. All he could think about was the fact that he was going to help torture some residents…by painting or being otherwise creative. He’d like not to ruin his suit.

“He's decent actually.” he muttered.

“Your ideas of decent are indecent.”

Won’t they stop criticising his opinions? What was this? Bash Hyunjinnie hour? At least he had Betsy and Kkami and he can always depend on them. Right?

He did have a t-shirt or two already in Hell which were ratty but his trousers weren’t ones he’d sacrifice so he made a detour back home, actually said hi to his housemates who wouldn’t look him in the eye (eye contact has decreased since he took on his new role and he thinks it’s because they’re scared of Seungmin…certainly not him) and then he picked up Kkami and some clothes and a few essentials which he’d been meaning to grab and he went down under. Kkami needed to get used to Hell because Hyunjin was missing him more and more and…he needed to get used to his precious baby being in such a dangerous place.

The silence was strange but he got to work, cleaning the main throne room (well, picking up a few things here and there, mostly dog toys because his assistants did a great job) so Seungmin could be appropriately worshipped by his subjects. Then he listened to some demands by some demons…demon demands if you will. 

Then he went to a scheduled interview with a high ranking demon who had more eyes than Hyunjin had bones in his body.

“So what would you say makes you different from other demons?”

“I chose to answer your questions…because I have a sense of self-preservation. Hence why I'm one of the oldest.” a rumble answered him.

“So as a high ranking demon in Hell, you would say you’re one of the most powerful creatures on Earth?”

“Oldest doesn't mean the most powerful but I am Hell-wise.” was the reply.

Very interesting. So with all those strutting demons, the one that was the longest-lasting was simply still on this plane by being cautious. He had a lot to learn from him so he scheduled another appointment which he was kindly granted (or maybe the demon was being kind to himself).

Then he just waited. He was told that praying to Seungmin increases his power, so he mildly prayed to have some effect but not too much because he’d like to keep Seungmin a bit sane and he won’t be if he’s power hungry from feeling omnipotent.

“There you are.” Seungmin greeted him, as if he hadn’t known where he was when Seungmin knew everything related to Hell because the place was tied to him “Here. I have no use for them anymore”.

Hyunjin gasped. It was the entirety of what he’d bought the day before. All those luscious supplies which he thought he’d see again as a torture device and maybe he would get to touch them too, make use of them, but he didn’t think he’d get to see them sealed again.

“You didn’t use them? Change of strategy? Do you want me to do the honours?”

“Torture isn’t your thing. I have another method in mind.”

“I can return them? Get a refund?”

“I’m rich and I don’t need the money here. Keep them. I have to go and sort some demons out. How do you feel about sculpting with horns?”

“Like animals? That’s barbaric.”

“Great. They’re not animals.”

He put his confusion in one art piece which took all of the remaining…night. He would consider skipping classes but they were in the evening and he was too much of a geeky nerd (he was both!) to consider doing that.

When he next saw Seungmin, he was followed by assistants carrying jars and boxes. 

“You can use these for some mixed…when you use different materials in art. What is it called?”

Hyunjin blinked. He never thought he’d hear Seungmin try to learn about art. He had to admit that his heart fluttered a little. Seungmin was a chaos demon...his territory was mostly Hyunjin's heart as he wreaked havoc there.

“Mixed media?”

“Yes! You can use these for mixed media.” Never had he heard such enthusiasm oozing from Seungmin’s words.

They would have to be very weird, expensive, and highly praised for the materials were…scales, horns, pieces of leathery skin and jars filled with different coloured liquid which he thinks is blood, and possibly venom.

“Are they safe?” he asked. He didn’t ask ‘are they still alive?’ because it was best not to know though Seungmin still gave him the information.

“Yes. They’re safe. I had the actual poison extracted but the colours are pretty. Not sure how well they would be as paint. That’s your area not mine but finally they could be useful even if you make a lava lamp from them. The ones that begged are still alive. They’ll come to you with apologies once they can speak and not a day less. The ones that refused to apologise, are of course, permanently vanquished but you see, I exercised kindness.”

It was strange, how Seungmin looked at him; almost as if he was waiting for something. Praise? Acknowledgment? He waited and he waited while Hyunjin tried to find words that won’t shame the other but refuse the offer…it was a bit disgusting but they would make for some pretty art. Seungmin was turning out to be an unintentional aesthete because he’d chosen the best parts.

Maybe he wasn’t a chaos demon or the King of Hell. Maybe he was a hellhound or something; god knows he chased after things with the tenacity of one.

He recognised the features presented to him. They were from the demons that wouldn’t stop judging him so he felt a bit less guilty about nodding and promising to make use of them in his art whilst thanking Seungmin enough to not seem ungrateful but not enough to seem encouraging because he didn’t like it but Seungmin was the King of Hell and a chaos demon so what did he expect would happen?

Maybe not the art part but the dead part for sure was in the books already and he was even proven wrong because they weren’t all dead so Seungmin had exercised great restraint. Seungmin, who kept a kill list next to his bed. He’d checked but he’d never seen himself or his friends there and he wasn’t sure if Seungmin had wiped the data before he joined him or they had never been so irritating as to warrant it.

“ Um . Thanks?” was all he was able to come up with. They had stared at each other for long but it was probably all in his head. Time in Hell was different. He feels like he spends all his time there but when he gets out, he finds only a few hours have passed. Is that how Seungmin stayed youthful? Sometimes he went out and seeing only a mild shift in time, he’d check the date but it really would have been only a few hours. Maybe if he moves in permanently (but temporarily) he’d get used to it more or maybe he’ll go ballistic.

“Welcome. Show me what you make out of them.”

His tone was mild. There wasn’t excitement in it, yet, Hyunjin could still hear it or maybe it was the glimmer in his eyes. Was that because of the prospect of humiliating his enemies more or because of the prospect of Hyunjin’s art? He’d seen him look before the few times they crashed at his place. Usually, it would be a hotel room - a fancy one which made it hard for Hyunjin to slip out before check-out time and usually they had the extended check-out in case they wanted to go another round - or Hell. Maybe he would be a good acolyte if he takes his master’s interest and gifts him a painting? Would it be a gift if the materials were Seungmin’s?

“What do you think Kkami? Shall we get started on a mixed media project? Yeah? Great minds!”

The ingredients, despite their cruel origin, were actually inspiring. He had everything he needed there, glue included, to create a 3D mixed media textured piece on a big canvas because he thought that Seungmin was the kind of person who likes flashy things. Few – as evident but the minimalism here even in Seungmin’s personal rooms and no one would be so foolish as to steal from him there - but expensive and maybe even in-your-face.

Using ingredients that came from demons was a tiny bit disturbing but only a little bit more than using animal ones and there were a lot of those. They weren’t his species exactly but it’s not like they were extensive studies so maybe they could be much like humans thought they were different races…but it was only one.

The final outcome was surprisingly pretty; for art factually made in Hell and using demon ingredients (and expensive art ingredients that had been discarded and which he had been forced to adopt) it was more than decent.

“You think Seungmin will like it, Kkami?”

His dog whined and he immediately recognised that; his dog was hungry. Maybe time moves differently down here but Kkami’s stomach was well trained so maybe he can start telling time thanks to him. He gave him some dry food and the dog soon hoovered them and curled up to sleep in one of the Hellhounds’ big sleeping bed.

He didn’t have wrapping paper. He could ask an assistant to get it for him but it seemed like such a waste when he could turn it round and present it like that.

“Seungmin?” he asked because it felt strange calling him anything else. Maybe while they were having sex, a few other titles slipped out but here out in the darkness of a hellish night, he wasn’t going to call him ‘Sir’ or ‘Master’ though he was fine with calling him those if other creatures were around, to show how good of a subjugate he was. Mostly so that he scores a few points for Seungmin. That was his duty.

Seungmin looked up from reading a very…occult looking book. Hyunjin admired the cover but from afar; who knew what kind of curses were embedded in that artifact. Seungmin had told him to be careful with what he touches ‘in case I forgot to lift a curse for you’ and Hyunjin appreciated the warning and would be very careful with everything not only in case something slipped by Seungmin but in case the other decided he was done with him.

Of course, that day, Seungmin had told him ‘of course you can touch me all you like…I bite as you know but you enjoy it’.

Wordlessly, he handed over the painting. There wasn’t any touching but he delighted in Seungmin showing interest in the art piece which he turned around. Seungmin rarely shows interest; sometimes not even when they were having sex and he wasn’t sure if he was having it simply to have it, if he needed it like Hyunjin needed to feed, or if he had the best blank face ever. Most times he suspected the last option since Seungmin wasn’t one to go with the flow for the sake of it alone.

“Did you use your new materials? It’s beautiful. Where do you want to hang it?”

He gulped and salviated just thinking about those materials being his. The non-demon origin ones. “You can hang it wherever you want. It’s yours…a gift of my devotion.”

For a second, Seungmin’s grip slackened. The painting wasn’t that heavy but from being held up to be checked in the air, it went softly towards the ground where the edge rested.

“I’ll put it in my bedroom. Thank you. Who would have thought that those demons could serve a good purpose.”

Hyunjin nearly threw up, thinking about it and Seungmin must have realised as he soon switched the topic.

“I know you feed from here but do living humans have a different vibe to them?”

Hyunjin immediately nodded as that was something he’d been thinking about now that he was regularly feeding from demons and the dead. Living humans just had more energy; more guilty and surprisingly more kinks too. Perhaps because once death, blood didn’t flow the same? Or maybe they would have lived well? Or maybe there was something in Hell that suppressed sexual energy from the dead…certainly not for the ‘living’ down there as his sex life thrived.

“Yeah. They taste different. More tasty.”

“Your next task is organising another scavenger hunt party then or treasure hunt, make it whatever you want. I want to see which demons show up and what their alliances are. You can feed well and if it works out, we can make it a regular thing. Maybe I’ll invest in a company too. How about that? Ever wanted to work for a human-facing company?”

He never thought of it but if it was just a shell for Seungmin’s operations, then sure.

Seungmin hung the painting himself because he didn’t want an assistant to go into his rooms. In fact, he’d never seen guards or anyone else inside. It was only him that was allowed to visit. Maybe Seungmin didn’t want to take him in a public area.

The painting must have something in it; maybe he’d accidentally imbued it with sexual energy when he worked on it because Seungmin was on him seconds after the chore was settled.

“Want to have sex right now?” he asked, seconds away from kissing him.

“Yes” he answered quickly and locked them in a kiss.

It was the usual ‘great, take your clothes off’ and ‘I don’t need that much lube! Do you have a wet fetish?’ until they made it naked in bed. Seungmin’s bed would be in the Guiness Book of Records if only it was above ground.

Seungmin manhandled him so he was sitting in his lap, back to front. He had to bite down ‘what am I? A cowgirl in reverse?’ to question the position because he wanted to see what Seungmin’s sometimes brilliant mind cooked up.

Soon, Seungmin was pushing in and it wasn’t soft or slow. He placed his hands behind him, one on each of Seungmin’s hip bones for purchase.

But after a few fast thrusts, Seungmin slowed down. Torturously slow. 

And suddenly another torture was added. The vibrating kind. He looked down but couldn’t see well. His own cock, tights, and buttocks prevented him from seeing anything because Seungmin was under him. It was definitely a vibrator though. Seungmin had a lot of toys, although not as many as him. He didn’t wonder what colour it was because fuck that as long as it was fucking him good. 

Everything was slow and so intense. He had to grip those hips currently trusting in him at a snail’s pace and when his hands slipped, he placed them on top of the bedsheets. His heels had been raised but his stomach burned and so he put his heels down too.

And he just felt. So much. Seungmin’s head snagged on his rim and he tragically slipped out even though that split second on stretch had felt so good! He sobbed; couldn’t help himself but then Seungmin shushed him and put himself back in where he belonged.

A kiss on his shoulder made him shudder and then shudder again since that angle was really good.

Sometimes Seungmin slipped out but he was quick to get back in. He suspected it was on purpose. It really was good when the widest part of his head opened him and the viberator made them both shudder. Because it wasn’t just for Hyunjin, Seungmin was enjoying the perk too since it was placed right outside his rim and massaging them both. Hyunjin loved that Seungmin enjoyed himself. That he wasn’t too much into the rhetoric of toys being only for the recipient.

“I think… I think I’m going to cum!” he shouted.

“You think?”

Hyunjin used his nails to send a light warning, confident that there won’t be any bad repercussions. His hips may be boney but Seungmin was probably used to being clawed by demons and his hellhounds so one lowly Nephilim isn’t going to make him change his conduct. “Do you think you’ll make a mess?”

Obviously! He hoped that didn’t mean Seungmin was going to follow with a command to not cum so he won’t! He wasn’t in the right state for teasing so he whined, high-pitched and dragged.

“Fine, I guess you’ll be making a mess. Well? What are you waiting for? I don't have all night.”

Meanly, but also helpfully, Seungmin increased the vibrations and thrust in him with a little bit more force so it didn’t take long for him to cum his brains out. This led to his muscles giving out and he flopped back against Seungmin’s chest. There were worse places to be although annoying, Seungmin slipped out. Sure, he was overstimulated and all he wanted to do was curl on himself and bask in the feeling while getting his energy back, but still he wanted him back inside because as cliche as it sounded (and he wasn’t going to say it out loud) he felt complete with the other inside. Not for some sexist perspective that life wasn’t complete without a man or because of amatonormativty hinting that he needed a single, sexual partner in life for it to be fulfilling but because he liked it.

Of course, someone else that took offense was Seungmin who wasn’t yet finished. It was his turn to whine and dare Hyunjin think (but again, not saying it out loud) that he sounded cute. And because he was more gratuitous than Seungmin, he took pity on him and offered him his hand.

“How about your mouth? It’s heavenly.”

“Greedy” he teased but he was already moving sluggishly - more like rolling on his side and supporting himself on his elbow then ungracefully shuffling down - to take the other in his mouth, partially due to the praise since he liked that and partially because he liked the act itself. He took him in and decided that being a good acolyte, in his case only, meant that he should show how devout he was with his mouth and so he worshipped him.

 —----------------------------

“So I’m thinking, rather than asking them, to keep their phones at home this time and give the first clue in the QR code in the poster, we can encourage them to wear their best attire for prizes and that way I won’t have to employ dancers or project sensual video to get the mood up. Attractive people will generate interest and you can feed even from there then as they go and search for other clues and arrive at the final destination, there will be prizes and party games which are meant to generate sexual interest and…I feel like I’ve given a whole presentation to an empty room” Seungmin huffed and knocked lightly on Hyunjin’s forehead with his knuckles, asking him if he ‘was there’.

“Sorry, that sounds like a great idea” he muttered.

Inside, he felt disappointment. In himself! Here was Seungmin, detailing a plan meant to feed him. A plan, that with everything he had to do, he hadn’t thought about at all. The bare minimum would have been to think ‘okay, we’ll do it like last time’ but he hadn’t even reached that so Seungmin had clearly taken it upon himself to plan it with all he had to do but it wasn’t even for him! It was for Hyunjin!

Last time, they had given the first clue as part of posters - actual printed ones and not on social media so that it was more exclusive but also so that they were harder to find for hunters - which led the adventure seekers to find ‘a building where you can see many stars but none of them alive’ which technically could be both the wax figures museum or the observatory so they had put a poster outside both to maximise joiners. Then they were asked to go to the nearest ‘place that is haunted by the past’ which of course was a cemetery, and they put two posters in the two nearest. Well, Seungmin’s assistants. From there, they had to collect letters stuck on tombstones to decode the anagram which was a name of an actual club with a unique name, so easy to find even if perhaps sacriligeous. Fun but easy and Seungmin was now thinking of making it easier.

“Sorry” he said, wanting to pout but he had a deeper need to be professional and seen as collected so he didn’t. “It sounds like a good idea. I’ll get started on the posters, the clues, and setting up the event. I’ll give your assistants tasks to organise the hunt.”

“Speaking of, I’ll make sure there won’t be hunters. I’ll pass on the word that it will be a very peaceful party and that we won’t even interact with the humans. I’ll make sure the service staff is non-humans. Got any friends that need some money?”

It felt excessive, spending all this money on a party for him to feed and all that diplomacy to boost; Seungmin shouldn’t be scared of hunters though all of them were wary. Technically, Seungmin would interact with the demons and make sure he retained their allegiance but that could happen anywhere. If Seungmin summons them, they come.

“What if someone speaks to us?”

“Tell them you have a boyfriend and move on after feeding.”

Hyunjin’s mouth opened in shock. “That’s not the only reason people speak to me! And I said ‘us’!”

“Yes, you also called the assistants mine when they’re also yours now, so, I thought we were playing loose with words.”

He’d been told in his induction that Seungmin’s assistants would obey him too since he was there to promote Seungmin’s best interests but it had felt weird then and even more now, after he saw how blindly they followed what he said and not even just commands which he always minded but even the wishes that he uttered more liberally and less consciously. Somehow, ‘oh that front tie blouse looks good’ translated into one showing in his wardrobe in Hell.

“They obey me because they know it’s things which are approved by you. Anyway, I’ll try not to speak to humans if it would give us another peaceful event.”

Hyunjin kind of missed partying. Sometimes he loved it; other times he was there to fill someone’s box with him but he was always glad to leave and weirdly enough, the latter was usually when Seungmin wasn’t there to entertain him so he always sought him out himself at the end of the night.

“It won’t be peaceful with the kind of energy you need.”

Hyunjin snorted. Sexual energy doesn’t always have to be turbulent. If one accepts it and is calm about it, it can be very peaceful but from all of his observations, this was very difficult for humans to achieve. It’s also why he preferred non-human sex partners. They just get it. Of course, it comes with the bonus that he doesn’t have to hide. Not that there wasn’t prejudice; there was plenty of that especially when they got to know that he doesn’t sleep with the people he feeds from usually.

He got a lot of experience in being weird which helped him mildly when it came to interacting with Seungmin. Seungmin was really weird and definitely memorable.

So said his friends as well, who weren’t expecting to be paid so well to bartend or wait on club goers and act as their makeshift security.

“This is like, more money then I get in a month of breaking my back and wreaking my mind to teach.”

“You’d think you carry the institute on your shoulders, with the way you speak.”

“I don’t! Chan-hyung does.”

Sometimes, Hyunjin felt like intervening but he wasn’t a Cupid. Maybe he’ll take the ‘how to matchmake’ class that Cupid Felix offers next semester and then he’ll take his hyungs as his pet project, but until then, he keeps his mouth shut for the sake of his head.

“Anyway, how is Kkami doing in Hell? How are you doing?”

“We’re both doing great. Kkami is about to be promoted as head dog as all the Hellhounds bow to his will. He got the biggest dog bed because he cozied up in the middle and the other dogs didn’t want to squish him so they huddled in smaller beds and on the floor.”

Thinking about his dog being top dog made him smile. He’d finally related and relocated him in Hell, at least for now. When he’d come to fetch him to take him home, he’d been napping on Betsy’s stomach and then he refused to move. He’d adapted well in Hell, maybe more than him, so he didn’t feel guilty leaving him to Seungmin’s assistants’ care while he wasn’t in Hell.

It had been hilarious to see how well the other dogs took to him and how much the assistants fussed (finally having something cute to do) but then worry set in, always just behind happiness. What if this disturbed Seungmin? What if his dog would be made to leave…or way worse? But while cruel, the politics of Hell weren’t that cruel and Seungmin had simply laughed at it and patted Kkami’s head as he praised him for doing a good job at showing everyone who’s the boss. He’d called him an inspiration for the other dogs, who pulled their ears back at being chastised. Hyunjin would have done the same if it was possible for him to do so. Astonishingly, he was jealous of his dog. He couldn’t get lower than that really.

“The real MVP! Anything else you want to share? For example, I can’t help but notice some new marks on your neck. Are you really sleeping with the hand that feeds you…although not really?”

“He doesn’t pay me; he’ll pay you” though technically, he did feed him. The party was for him and sometimes he bought human food as a treat. Not needed but definitely appreciated especially if it came in pudding packaging… he blamed Changbin. “A good acolyte doesn’t share.”

“Bitch, since when!”

“To be fair…we didn’t even know they were involved before the king stalked him here.”

“...yeah actually. You’ve kept mum over this whole, very juicy thing. It’s like…” a dramatic gasp “you want to protect it by not speaking about it!”

He needed better, less dramatic friends but they would be boring. He just told them they were ridiculous. He hadn’t told them because it was none of their business and also because he didn’t want to be judged. He wasn’t a gold or power digger!

The day of the second scavenger hunt party arrived and this time, he was less anxious than last time. He’d tried to monitor if anyone was coming then, more worried about it failing than about people not being in the mood and so not good for feeding. Seungmin had dissuaded him from checking, arguing that it would seem creepy and he just had to wait.

He didn’t try to control the process this time, knowing that people wanted to have fun. At least until it was trendy…and then they could hit another demographic or market. Look at him, the businessman! As if this would keep amusing Seungmin for that long.

“Here Jin! Try this Gin! It’s not cannibalism hehehehe.”

Jisung could be so annoying but the drink looked good and surprisingly tasted even better for it being Jisung’s first one. It wasn’t the only one for long and maybe his friend had found his calling because he was smiling brightly as he followed reputable recipes and created new ones after a while. The people trickling in seemed happy with the drinks too.

“Should we slip some aphrodisiac in the drinks? Would be a guaranteed meal for you, no?” Changbin - who was working security and delivering drinks, suggested.

“What!? No! I’m not endangering anyone that way!”

“Only in the non-alcoholic drinks! I know not to mix and match!”

“Still! Someone can take advantage and it’s not really consent if someone is drugged unknowingly, isn’t it?”

Changbin relented immediately. He had been thinking with his imp brain but once the consequences were explained to him, he wanted nothing to do with that.

“Jinnie doesn’t need that anyway. With the way that he’s dressed, people would be fawning over him. Are you going to chat some up?”

He shook his head. He’d promised and besides, no one seemed worth it. Anything he could get from them, he can get from Seungmin for now. Except feeding but he didn’t need to get that close to do that.

“Not even that guy over there with the guns as arms? He’s hot.”

Yeah , Changbin definitely went to the gym because he liked gym rats and ended up becoming ripped along the way.

When shrugging made Changbin even more confused, he told him that ‘Seungmin was fine’. He didn’t mention that he wasn’t supposed to interact with humans in case hunters misunderstood. Hyunjin was a ‘Hell resident’ for all intents and purposes; the others were not and even though they were downworlders they were treated better and with less suspicion compared to those that actually lived down.

“But he can’t be that fine to turn you away from anyone else? Unless it’s in your contract or something. Did no one ever teach you to not make a deal with the devil?”

“It’s not in the contract.”

“Then what is it? What makes Seungmin so special?”

He was a few drinks in and his tongue was therefore looser. Changbin was also a bit drunk though not that much as he was actually working and he has a good work ethic (well, not by human standards but by theirs).

“I can’t help but think that this is your way of asking details about his dick. His dick is great.”

“I…did not consent to hearing about this. What the fuck man! Now I’ll be imagining the king of Hell’s dick! In my sleep! I only wanted an easy job!” Jisung whined while Changbin’s mouth opened and stayed that way “I didn’t want to be privy to how easy you are.”

“Hey!”

He wasn’t really offended. Jisung and him slagged each other off for fun. The other didn’t go to their Institute because in his words ‘I don’t have the attention span for it and then I’ll feel like a failure’ but after they met him in a music store of all places (they all like music so it wasn’t that far fetched), he started to hang out with them and quiz them about their lessons so he could learn too. That was beneficial for Changbin and him, who had to make sure they understood the subjects themselves in order to be able to explain the information to him. Jisung was actually a yeongno but one who didn’t exercise his powers unless needed because he ‘didn’t want to go to Heaven’ as he ‘wants to stay where the wi-fi is’. Hyunjin had told him that Heaven now had extended even to 5G but the other had ignored him. It would be so easy for Jisung to find a greedy rich person to devour but instead, he focused on pudding and pastries.

Secretly, he admired the other for knowing what he wants and going for it.

“What about ‘a good acolyte doesn’t share’ huh? Where did that go?”

“Well you wanted to know! I know you did! His dick is special, like better than any other I’ve experienced. It’s th-”

“Let's go before you tell them all about our sex life.”

Hyunjin frowned and looked to his side where Seungmin had just materialised. Or maybe not just but he hadn’t been paying attention. Did that make him a bad acolyte and most importantly, was the other embarrassed? 

He didn’t seem irritated though; actually he looked a bit amused and…pleased? Was getting his dick praised a mood booster?

“It's too long to do in one sitting.” Hyunjin had no shame and he made sure that everyone realised five seconds after knowing him at the latest. He may keep his life private but it wasn’t because he was ashamed.

“Sitting…now that's an idea.”

Hyunjin perked up. They had done that three nights ago but he wouldn’t mind a repeat. Especially one where they both used their mouths on the other at the same time.

“Hey boss man, sorry to interrupt…but would you like a drink? It’s what I’m paid for.”

Seungmin nodded even though he had a slight frown on his handsome face. He had been the one that sat down with his friends - insisted on it really - so he could outline the job descriptions and probably wanted to see if it was a good investment. By his slight lip upturn, they would be seeing more of Jisung…and more of Changbin as he got a nod when his friend broke up a potential fight before it started. 

“Changbin” Seungmin demanded attention…he always did “make sure that that guy over there is escorted out immediately.”

Hyunjin whipped around and spotted the man who had tried - and failed - to hit on him the last time. “Wait…if you do that, people may talk and the mood will definitely be affected.” Unless someone was into actually getting the trouble but while most people had fantasies, most were also able to differentiate between that and reality and actual trouble at a party was not desired. He leaned in closer to Seungmin “We’re supposed to keep the peace” he reminded him, not wanting to draw attention. In that moment, he felt like an actual Hell dweller, different from those that lived above ground. They tended to keep to themselves. 

Seungmin didn’t sigh or frown but he turned to Changbin once more with stiffer muscles. “Fine. Just keep a really sharp eye on him. He bothered Hyunjin last time.”

Changbin was, of course, very on it. He admired how Seungmin was calm and collected but didn’t let anything slide.

“And would you look who’s here…” Seungmin’s voice had taken on an interested note. That never bode well for anyone involved. 

Hyunjin, curious, turned to look and wished he hadn’t. It was a Nephilim, one just like him that fed on sexual energy. And one who had bothered and made fun of him before and he was currently cornering a young woman and touching her in places that she was enthusiastically consenting to but which had no place in such a public space. And of course he was feeding from her.

A low irritated growl escaped him. He hadn’t even fed and sure, he didn’t want to make this all about him but Seungmin had partially set this party up for him!

“Maybe I can escort him out?”

It wouldn’t be an issue. Changbin was strong but Seungmin’s power was even more omnipresent.

But surprisingly - or maybe not - Seungmin told them to leave it unless he created problems. There was a twisted smile on his face. Seungmin guards secrets so he can sow even more chaos later so he found solace in the fact that it probably won’t end well for that asshole who teased him so much for not taking the opportunity of sleeping with his targets.

He’s slept with boyfriends who he’d also fed from before but that was his cut off point and only when they really consented when not under the influence and they needed to know he was doing it each time after.

Thankfully, he was a private person or he’d be teased about not feeding from the powerful source that was sitting next to him. And his energy had turned slightly sexual.

“I’m going out dancing” he said, having had enough of problems all around. They will still remain there but at least he’d have a full stomach and be happy as he loves dancing.

It was hot, so he pushed down the fake fur jacket underneath his armpits but didn’t remove it because he felt good in it. Once on the dance floor, he was immediately surrounded by people, almost eaten up but it was him who ate lightly from the people grinding against and around him. A little bit from each so it wasn’t invasive but it wasn’t enough for him to experience a fizzy mouth.

“Great party. Thanks for organising.”

Oh. Changbin would hopefully be alert and on the way. Hyunjin simply nodded. It was best that people didn’t know who the organisers were in case they got rowdy and demanded things but the smirk on the other succubus' lips let him know that he was pleased about stirring shit up.

“Oh, you’re the organiser? That’s great!” A man who was almost grinding against him said. He was about to put a stop to it too.

“Great, isn’t it? How about you dance with me, Hyunjinnie?”

“I don’t thin-”

“Oh come on. Or have your standards gone up since you moved to H-”

“Okay fine. Let’s dance.”

He got out of the uncomfortable back hug which resulted in the human nearly falling and grabbed the other by his shirt - because he wasn’t about to touch him - and dragged him to an area in the center that didn’t have people around. Of course people will flock to them but he’ll have enough time to tell him off. He can’t be exposing downworlder things like that! It would endanger everyone!

“Wow, strong. Didn’t expect that. Then again, you have to be to regularly take demon co-”

“What do you want?” he hissed. They were regularly interrupting each other and he was sure it would drive them to do worse. 

“To feed. Thanks for this great idea. There was a bimbo who was a great snack but I’m feeling like someone up to my standards now. What do you say?”

As if he’s ever said ‘yes’ all the other times he’s been asked. He’d been with a few Nephilim and succumbi and incubi and he felt better about that than others since they can feed off each other but they had all been ones that were closer in philosophy to him. This one, called Arin, wasn’t even up there with his standards, only substandard.

“No thanks.”

“The king of Hell keeping you all to himself? Did you sign a contract? Can’t he share? I can show you a good time, you’ll see.” 

Hyunjin drew one step back. “Oh I see but I’m not one of those animals that only see red. So I don’t interact with red flags. Bye.”

He was of course stopped from leaving with a classic hand on his wrist. He shrugged it off with force fairly quickly but Changbin was at his side and asking if there was a problem.

“He’s bothering me and not taking no for an answer.”

“That’s a problem. It’s a valid one. Come on, you’ve overstayed your welcome and if you’re thinking of doing anything, stop to think for a second who you’d be going up against.”

“You?” Arin scoffed. There was nothing to scoff about; his best friend was one strong imp.

“Not just me. Think really hard about who it is and all the resources he has. One day you’re going to permanently visit him if you don’t cut it out. Imagine when death isn’t restful…for eternity.”

That would scare any hardcore demon much less a macho, faking it till he made it who of course legged it.

“You’re a magnet.”

“Are you victim blaming me?”

“No, just stating facts. You need an escort twenty-four seven.”

“No thanks. I like my freedom.”

“And yet…”

“Shut up. No digs at my life choices.”

At least he had fed although not as well as he could have.

“You know…if you were thinking of bulls, they actually see movements not the colour red.”

Of course Seungmin had been listening in. He probably wanted to make sure that Arin didn’t blab about the underworld or indeed the whole downworld and superhuman beings and if he did, just how much for the punishment to fit. It could be greater than the charge but not less.

“There’s other animals that see red. Ugh” he complained “he was so slimy. Yuck. I wanted to punch him in the nuts.”

That drew a laugh from his two friends.

“You don’t have a mean bone in your body.” Seungmin told him in a rather fond tone. Or maybe he was projecting softness when he needed it.

“I will search hard and deep, find one and beat them with it.”

“Before you resort to that…how about a dance? Yours was cut short. Do me the honour?”

He loved assertive Seungmin but when he was charming too? It made him melt. He was a great dancer too, attentive to him and the rhythm and moving just right with him. It allowed him to feed, being so close to sources of food and they were for sure helping, being a source of pleasure for them. Eyes never left them but his eyes never left Seungmin.

“Hyune?” 

His heart skipped an offbeat. He loved when Seungmin called him that which had been happening regularly recently and it felt special. It didn't happen often and not many people called him that.

The whisper near his ear had him shiver too, more visible than his heart skipping around. He simply hummed, hoping that the other could hear him with the vibrations.

“About that dildo thing…”

That sounded like an interesting conversation starter and a promising follow up.

“What dildo thing?”

“The fact that they were invented so you don't have to be desperate for assholes.”

His mind was blank for a few seconds and then he recalled what he had told that man - the human who was here still - at the first party. Seungmin’s memory was something else but not unexpected since he retained information for prime chaos.

“Oh…yeah. It’s a fact, no?”

“I’m more interested in practice. I have an idea for tomorrow.”

Tomorrow was Sunday. He was free; not because it was Sunday - Hell technically didn’t have days off but he had agreed with Seungmin to work four days a week according to his course classes and research assignments, life schedule, and mood - but because it was the day after the party and allowed for something crazy to happen. Maybe it won’t happen tonight but tomorrow morning. Whoever thinks the best sex happens at night, is wrong.

Then again, people were wrong most of the time. Like, most would be shocked that he was an 'angel' and needed sexual energy. Those people were not connoisseurs of classical baroque paintings. Did they see that shit? Angels were the OG deviants.

“I’m interested.”

“Good. We can discuss it tomorrow.”

“Tonight. Or I won’t be able to sleep.”

He may be plagued by erotic dreams but at least curiosity won’t eat him; only impatience and excitement. 

“Greedy…I like that.”

So much that he mauled his neck right then and there on the dance floor. Hyunjin almost forgot to eat even if they were feeding their audience. It was a circular feed loop and tasted even sweeter when people were horny because of him. Because of the way that he moved and contorted, and moaned and shamelessly enjoyed it. Took what Seungmin gave him.

At 3AM, Jisung started serving only non-alcoholic drinks, mostly water. It had been on Hyunjin’s insistence for people still around to sober up and make it home safely and Seungmin had agreed, mostly so that people could fuck off. The party served its purpose and it had been fun but they all got tired of so many people around.

“Most humans are so stupid.” Seungmin sighed.

“And most Nephilim are so vile.” Jisung slumped on the stool once the music was cut and the last person staggered out. Changbin had been about to phone the police to encourage people to leave. Hyunjin looked at his friend with compassion; Arin’s friends, who they didn’t kick out to not escalate things, had been very demanding, almost like they had tried to get something from this party through drinks. Hyunjin made a note to look out for Gabriel, Estelle, and Lud because he was sure they would give him more trouble than usual.

—----------------------------

“Ugggggg” his throat made a sound between gargling and gagging and it was the most erotic thing he’s ever experienced.

“That’s it, good boy but I know you can take more. Open up.”

He did his best to relax further his throat, just in time as a hand pushed him further, taking more of the cock.

Unfortunately, it was a silicone one but it made him hornier how he was just used. How maybe he didn’t deserve the real thing. How his tear streaked, ugly face reflected back at him in the mirror that the dildo was stuck on. He saw the cock in his throat, neck bulging.

They had discussed this and Hyunjin had barely slept in anticipation.

The hand left him but not for long. Seungmin turned round and came to stand in front of him, the free standing mirror in between them. The mirror ended around thirty centimeters from the ground, where the frame continued and that gap was where Seungmin squatted on the floor. One would think that was undignifying, but that was the sound he made when Seungmin grabbed the D-ring on his new, pale pink collar, and grabbed him from it, dragging him further in on the dildo, this time using front purchase. 

At one point, he thought he’d lose balance and his arms ached with the wish to stabilise him but he couldn’t exactly do that because they were cuffed behind his back.

His breath seemed too loud and it came in quick successive hiccups.

“What a messy boy. Maybe I should make you lick the floor clean afterwards. I’m sure there will be cum too apart from saliva. You’d enjoy that, won’t you?”

Seungmin liked to push him to his limits but never too extremely. He never was embarrassed about his kinks thanks to his upbringing although he was sometimes embarrassed of his eagerness especially the first time he spread his legs for Seungmin. Back then, he hadn’t known who he was and later realised and he’d felt so cheap until he made peace with the fact that he just liked sex with him. It was convenient and he wasn’t trying to climb any ladders; he’s just been initially shocked about how powerful his sex partner was.

“If you moan so much, everyone will know what you’re doing. Tone it down or shall I…”

Another mean pull on his D-ring made him choke more. If anything, it created more noise but Hyunjin didn’t want everyone in Hell to hear him; he wanted to remain professional and respected at least to a certain degree so he closed his eyes tightly in hopes it would make him concentrate more on making less sounds.

Seungmin didn’t like that. “Look at me” he demanded. What was he going to look at? His shoes? Still, he obeyed.

“Damn, usually I’m focusing on you choking on my dick but seeing you choke like this is less distracting. Less satisfying too but we’re testing a theory here.”

Hyunjin mumbled something which was definitely not clear with something big blocking his airway.

“What was that?” Seungmin asked. He must be curious because he removed his finger from the D-ring and told him to ease off and speak.

“I can choke on your dick later.”

Seungmin smirked. “I’m not one to deprive myself of what I want long-term so yes, if you’re offering, I’m accepting. Now back to choking on silicone baby. It’s not as satisfactory right? But know it’s a delight to watch you.”

Hyunjin preened and took the dildo back into his mouth eagerly. He showed off by sucking which made noise but he didn’t care then. So what if demons took him less seriously? It would be their problem as they’d underestimate him and he’ll show them what he was made of. Sure, he was still learning but he was a quick study. Maybe he’ll become as good in his duties as he is sucking dick. Seungmin was telling him that he was great and ‘doing so well’.

But there was a part he couldn’t take. The last bit was  too thick. He whined because he couldn’t get to the end goal at least not by himself but luckily, he had Seungmin to push him just the last bit he needed. The corners of his mouth hurt from the stretch but the achievement he felt made him so happy that he thought he’d be able to and excited. He shuddered at his success and hummed then got disappointed when there wasn’t a looping twitch. Had it been a real dick, he would feel the heat and all the miniscule movements as the blood flowed but knowing that Seungmin was pleased and hearing that praise had him roll his own hips.

What they were doing could very well be classified as a punishment under other circumstances but it felt like a victory every time Seungmin pulled and he choked which is something that doesn’t happen often and Seungmin had to plan to make that happen with: the thick toy, the low angle, and his tied hands. Every time his throat constricted, his asshole did the same even if unfortunately, it was empty. He wished something would occupy it but this way he can actually focus on the task that he’d been given.

“Huh. I just realised I had such a hindsight. Why use silicone when I could have used a demon. A mindless one of course, don’t want them to get any ideas…but then again, you wouldn’t be able to see yourself in the mirror so comfortably. Are you watching? Do you see how pretty you are?”

Such a cocktail of emotions. Arousal, embarrassment, mortification, humiliation, desire, happiness, validation, elation…they were all helping him climb his high; so high he thinks he may end up in Jeongin’s territory. 

“Mhm…need a hand? Sorry. Don’t have one free at the moment. I’m too busy taking photos of you but…”

A foot barely grazed him and he resisted until Seungmin told him to ‘go ahead’ and then it was maybe a minute even in Hell’s weird time for him to reach his peak.

He didn’t slump back because Seungmin still held his collar; the same one he’d been gifted before the scene. Seungmin said it was as a thank you for agreeing to scene an idea that had been stuck in his mind since Hyunjin’s ‘inspiring words’. Truthfully, he didn’t need the incentive because once Seungmin put the idea in his head, he was sold but the pale pink leather collar had sparkles and a shiny D-ring which gave them both ideas so it wasn’t a hardship to accept it. No matter how much money it had cost, Seungmin would have given it to any sex partner. It would be disrespectful though for Seungmin to keep it and rotate who wears it so it made sense that Hyunjin kept it.

“That was great” he rasped out.

“Mhm…I didn’t actually take any photos.”

Hyunjin knew, not because he’d seen Seungmin’s empty hands because powers exist, but because they hadn’t discussed that before. Seungmin may be indifferent, but he never did anything creepy while they had sex which is why he kept having it with him even when otherwise, Seungmin was a bit creepy with his stalking and all-knowing presence.

“I wouldn’t have minded. Lots of people have seen me naked and in compromising positions.” 

“Yeah, but you didn’t have sex with most of them.”

That made him smile because the other did know him more than most beings. That was one thing he did for money…but everyone who knew him and what he was, always made assumptions.

“Thanks cutie…” he ignored having called the king of Hell ‘cutie’ right after but it spontaneously had wanted to come out. He was going to offer something wanted, so he had courage to continue “but you haven’t cum and I remember making a promise. So how about you come here and destroy my throat yourself? Or you think you can’t compete with silicone?”

“I won’t be competing because it was still me but your throat…”

“Will be fine with some rest. I can take it…so come and take it.”

Once he wasn’t hesitant anymore, he was merciless.

“Open your mouth. Pull your tongue and stiffen it. Keep your mouth open. If you want to stop, tap three times on my thigh, otherwise, you’re not allowed to touch me.”

He kept his just freed hands on his lap but when the thrusting started, it was too hard and he was afraid of snapping a bone or something so he put them behind himself and held his palms together, supporting his back and shoulders.

His hair hurt from where Seungmin held it; his neck even more so from the brunt of the movements. Seungmin moved his head like it wasn’t attached to a bigger body. It was so easy for him to manhandle him although it helped that he didn’t resist because he didn’t want to. Hyunjin may have sucked a toy just before but now he felt like a toy. A fleshlight just for Seungmin’s pleasure although he found pleasure in it too. He made sure to swallow only once told; a toy doesn’t take initiative, only stays put and slack.

It had been quick and hard but once he was done, Seungming told him to remove his clothes and take a shower and when he was back scrubbed clean, he found hot water with honey waiting for him. Honey wasn’t the only thing sweet. Hyunjin gave the other eyes but he wasn’t taken up on his offer. They both could go more than once but it seems like Seungmin was pacing himself.

“Thanks for tonight.”

“No, thank you for bringing light to my idea. The collar suits you. You should wear it with some outfits.”

And get teased about belonging to the other? It did look good though, maybe he’ll wear it in the human world out and about when and if he had time to go explore again. The human world was so vast and always everchanging that it fascinated him and for decades now, he’d taken exploring it as a hobby. He’ll take photos, sketch, write notes and try to memorise every single detail not just with appreciation but also with a critical outlook.

—----------------------------

The chance to explore finally comes the following week. Seungmin insisted on some meetings on his own, he was caught up with his course work and with nothing to do in the early afternoon, he set off to explore knowing he’d be on time for his classes.

He was window shopping jewelry that he’d never be able to afford even if it was really high quality no matter how many art modelling gigs he took. Apart from the ‘free Nephilim money’ that was questionable and so he tried not to use, he had found that the best way for him to earn money was to model for artists. Yes, he’d earn more money from sex work but he wasn’t comfortable sharing his body that way. That was more vulnerable even though he did often pose nude. That he had no problem with. At first, he’d thought that he’d even get to feed but artists were usually so  focused, they didn’t perceive him as sexual even when his pose was.

That was how he had started his journey as an artist. He’d gotten curious and followed some free classes and now that the artists knew he was one of them, they were more chatty. Among all the benefits were the money and the lack of need for a fiscal receipt since it would be a problem for him to register. He’d have to fake it and he doesn’t like fake things; whether orgasms or jewelry.

“If it isn’t the one and only Hyunjin.”

Arin; followed but the three musketeers that included the holier than thou attitude.

“I’m sure there are other Hyunjins around, especially in this part of the world.”

“Ah, but none of the other Hyunjins managed to bag the king of Hell. Wouldn’t want them to take credit for your admirable achievement.”

Can’t any individual enjoy some peaceful and wishful window shopping? He’d been eyeing a nice ring that would sparkle so well but it would have to stay in the shop because he couldn’t afford it anyway but Hyunjin was big on aesthetics and he’d been fine with just admiring it especially because recently he’d been acquiring nice things in the forms of a collar and a charm bracelet so he had a lot of consolation. Now, that was ruined too.

“He’s not shopping. I can’t bag him.”

“Who needs shopping when he can give you whatever you want? Truly an achievement really. I have to admit that I was angry at first but then I realised just how much power Seungmin has and I was impressed.”

That Seungmin was powerful was without question. He questioned someone that didn’t realise it at first glance. Even a whiff of that aura should have clued in any non-human…and some sensitive humans too.

“That’s not how it works. I am his acolyte. I work for him by supporting him.”

“Annnddddddd you’re his lover. Everyone knows.”

A burst of hot embarrassment took over. Everyone? He didn’t mind that they knew, he was just aware that he had no control over their interpretation of it. Did they think he was trying to climb ladders? A golddigger? Worse, a powerdigger? 

“They’re two different things.” he settles on. He tried to make his voice sound harder but it was soft with embarrassment. 

“Come come now…no need to be embarrassed.” Arin placated him which embarrassed him further.

“Come…that’s what he said.” Gabriel snickered. Centuries old and their sense of humour was stuck at middle school level.

At least none of the other three laughed. Maybe there was hope for their sense of humour.

“So, we were wondering if you’d like to join us clubbing next Friday.”

Nevermind, their sense of humour was lacking. Such jokes were so basic that he wondered if it would be a slight to his intellect to laugh.

“What? Why? Isn’t your little group exclusive?”

Some poor, unsuspecting non-humans had thought them cool and asked if they could hang out, only to be publicly laughed at and shamed which hadn’t given them any points in Hyunjin’s book. He really worried that people would categorise Nephilim, especially succubi ones with those four. He really hopes that they are not grouped together. He’d be a deviant more than usual not to be in the same group.

“Usually. But we’ll make an exception for you, baby.”

Was this the same one who had cursed him last week?

“No thanks” he concluded, ready to move. He didn’t even thank them for the offer because he didn’t feel like it.

“Oh come on. We’re powerful; you’re powerful because of your association. We can be an even more powerful group together.”

Ah yes, the ultimate Nephilim drug: power.

“Because of my association? Is that all my value?” he asked, knowing full well this unwanted suggestion was because of Seungmin who would, knowing him just a little, tell him to ditch them. Actually, that was the polite version of what he’d say.

“There are two currencies in the world: money and beauty. He has one and you the other.”

“I thought this was about power?”

“Well yes. Money is power” Estelle spoke for the first time, talking to him like he’s a child. He wasn’t simple minded or growing. He knew full well that money was power in this world but to equate Seungmin’s power to just money was foolish . Very foolish. That man could bring the world down on a whim and no one would be able to stop him. He’d seen him wield so much power without trying too hard. Sometimes he’s thankful that all he dismantles are a few demons and not whole power systems. He’s sure that if he applies himself to that though, it would be harmful ones, not chosen ones although…there were few of those really so maybe Seungmin should hurry up and do it. Hyunjin had been around for centuries and he’d seen a few things in his time though he suspects that Seungmin is older but they never discussed age because there wasn’t any need for that. They both acknowledge that the other has their own kind of wisdom regardless of age.

Unlike these fools who think him simple.

“You can have all the money in the world and still be at the mercy of those powerful and crafty enough.”

“That’s all theory. We’re interested in practice. So? Will you join us clubbing, beautiful?” Lud always used terms of endearment before he slept with someone. It was a false sense of security because once he was done with them, he never spoke to them. Nephilim took ‘ghosting’ to a whole new level; in fact Hyunjin suspects that the term was invented because of them. Hyunjin only avoided people who turned out to be toxic, otherwise he always gave reasons and warning that they were done.

“Best not. I’m busy and I don’t think we’d be a match” he turned them down. He didn’t even wish them to have fun because that would be at the expense of others. Sure, they needed to feed but they didn’t need to toy with them.

“Ohhhhhhhh. He thinks he’s better than us now that he’s landed himself a cushy job.”

Cushy? Hadly! He broke his back at work sometimes and when Seungmin let him have a light day - because there never actually was a light day in Hell, you just had to ignore things - his mind was still thinking about it so it wasn’t relaxing at all. Also, it wasn’t a job! It was more of a lifestyle at this point. Definitely not something you do for experience or exposure though he was learning a lot.

“I didn’t say that but I think we look for different things in friends.”

“And who says we want to be friends?”

Arin had the gall to touch his arm lightly…but with well known intentions. The way he trailed his fingers was impossible to miss, even if Hyunjin wouldn’t see the sexual aura around him.

“You can feed from me, beautiful. I know you want to.”

Never. Even if he’d starve. So he shook his head in hopes of the other letting him go but instead he only got more insistent and his friends surrounded him and did the same, putting hands on him. Nothing too outrageous but even the fact that they simply touched him, made him feel dirty and nauseated. 

“Come on, I’m giving you a freebie. You can feed off me. Where else would you find someone like me?”

The garbage pile perhaps.

He didn’t want to. With people like him, he’d owe them and he’ll find out only after. Also, he bets they were not tasty. Simply because it’s food, it doesn’t mean that he has to like it much less eat it but they won’t leave him alone unless he shocks them so he channeled his inner Seungmin. Even Nephilim had demon sides…they all came from the same root anyway.

“There's enough trash in South Korea. I don't need you for that.”

Four gasps and retreating hands. Thankfully. But Arin’s hand came back and squeezed his shoulder painfully. He was always the ring leader.

“You should be more mature than a high school bully. Let me go.” he hissed.

“Are you seriously turning us down? Turning me down?”

“Not the first time, is it?”

“So what? You have a better offer and so decide to turn me down?”

Wow. He really couldn’t wrap his head around that, could he? That was a rhetorical question because unlike Arin, he knows about those.

“I think you answered your own question…”

There was a tense moment where he wasn’t sure where it would go, then it was interrupted by the very much human shop owner, stepping out and asking him if he was okay and if he needed to call the police.

“They were just leaving, weren’t they?”

And that shocked him more than the four’s offer because that was Minho, Seungmin’s sort of bodyguard. Sort of, because he wasn’t there most times but when he was, you still didn’t notice until you did something that demanded his attention and then you better start praying so maybe upstairs can help you although with Hyunjin, he tended to tease him…but it still scared him.

“Hyung came to rescue Jinnie-yah…I really want to enjoy my time on top. How about you leave voluntarily.” 

He could be really menacing even with a confused human witness going over his terminology. It wasn’t often that Minho went into the human world. In fact, the first time Hyunjin had met him had been the first time he hooked up with Seungmin in Hell - which was their second time - and he’d had such a fright when Minho had been in the living room but the other simply glanced at him and asked him if he had a good time and if he knew the way out. He’d answered ‘yes, thanks and no…’. He’d expected Minho to show him out or call an assistant or a Hellhound to show him the way or illuminate a path like on a plane instead…he’d shouted ‘Seungmin-ah, your lover doesn’t know the way out! Come and show him the way like you’ve shown him pleasure!”. That had been mortifying and it had sealed in his mind to always be cautious of the other, even though he’d always been friendly with him, especially after he became Seungmin’s acolyte. In fact, he’d come up to him with an honest to above gift basket and told him ‘thank you for the burden sharing’ and left. To this day, Hyunjin was still confused. But better confused than threatened as those were the two modes that Minho activated.

“Fine. I hope you’re happy with your weird lover.”

It took a while for it to sink in that they weren’t calling Minho weird. They didn’t think they too were lovers. They were still speaking about Seungmin since they didn’t even have the guts to look at Minho, yet they had enough to diss his master in his presence.

“Hey! Seungmin isn’t weird!”

He's a creep, he's a weirdo...but only so he can imagine him while listening to Radiohead. Otherwise, he's not.

Seungmin was a lot of things. Strange perhaps and unnerving and sometimes he wasn’t creepy but did creepy things but weird? He wasn’t that. He was pretty well adjusted to human life considering he was ruling Hell (or not exactly ruling but managing the chaos…and sometimes instigating it but Seungmin had explained that Hell needed chaos…or maybe that was his excuse although did he really need it?).

“Sure, you keep thinking that.”

“He’s not! He’s many things but he’s not weird. You lot are weird with the things you do. Ever thought of that?”

They enjoyed having power over people too much and dangled them in front of other Nephilim who, despite being eons older, didn’t want to have their peace broken by mean spirits so they ignored things they should help regulate. Maybe up above needed the regime rule from Hell. 

Seungmin simply knew he had power and demanded it but he was never forceful, at least not with anyone who wasn’t his enemy. He doesn’t agree with that exactly but he gets it. Hell was…hell. If he showed weakness, he’d be pushed aside with someone else taking over and maybe he’d get to keep his life (though he doubts it) but not his reputation or honour. To Hyunjin, those things didn’t mean much at least not when it came to his ethics but to others, that was all they had. Beings like these four knock-offs were the reason Seungmin was so forceful.

Apart from the fact that he enjoyed being a little shit but he could be a smaller shit (like Changbin) and still enjoy it. Hyunjin saw the potential to be good in him. They were all made from the same stock so if people like him existed - he’d like to think that he was good though not the best - then Seungmin can be like him too.

“He chose you. He’s definitely weird.”

“Weren’t you just hitting on me? Didn’t you offer me to join your little cult?”

“Please. Did you seriously believe that? You’re so stupid.”

Hyunjin was so done. He unconsciously rolled his eyes so much that they hurt. “Go back to the playground. That’s where such low-level power play belongs.”

“Ohhhh you’d know a lot about power play huh?”

“As a matter of fact, I’ve been observing a lot of politics in…” he remembered the shop owner who was cautiously still looking at them, checking if he needs to call the police “...at work. So yes, I know enough to know that this is low-level.”

“What are you still doing here?” Minho’s voice sounded deceptively calm, he even had a smile painted on his lips but the four heads whipped towards him. “I really don’t want to have to make a call on my exploration day.”

A call, not to the police or his boss but a call, a judgment on what to do with them. They were old - older than Hyunjin - but they weren’t eternal. One call from Minho and their life - this one at least - would come to an end. Painfully or not.

Although it was quite ironic how Hell had days off…at least for Minho and him. Others weren’t as privileged. 

“Fine, he’s not worth it. Not sure what your boss sees in him.”

They graduated from the playground and middle school comebacks to enter high school. He was just glad to be rid of them.

“Do they bother you often, Hyunjinnie-yah?”

Minho could be sweet but Hyunjin knew he had sharp teeth - possibly in reality - so he won’t be snappy with him. 

“They bother me enough but they’re not dangerous. They’re just assholes…the world is full of them. Don’t go hunting for them.” he begged. It had to be a whisper because the shop keeper was still staring at them and Hyunjin nodded at him after which he finally went back inside.

“Fine. For now. They weren’t being nice.”

He shrugged his shoulders. “The world isn’t nice.”

“Let’s find something that is then. What were you looking at?”

“How do you…” how long had Minho been watching? Maybe it was just an assumption since he was standing in front of a shop window “that one is nice” he pointed at the ring that had grabbed and retained his attention the longest “and that brooch” he concluded. It sparkled prettily and just now took hold of his interest. Hyunjin was one to go with the flow.

“Great! Let’s buy them then!”

“WHAT? No no! I can’t afford them. Did you see their price?”

“You don’t need to afford them, I can…”

“No. They’re nice to look at but that’s it. Like you like exploring, so do I. I explore shop windows! You don’t need to buy it for me.”

“Well, I won’t. I can put it on Seungmin’s c-”

Hyunjin shook his head so much that his hair flicked messily from one side to the other. Sometimes he forgets that it had grown back because it didn’t take that long, especially compared to his life span.

“That’s ok. I see your kindness but I like window shopping without actually shopping.”

“But I was instructed to…nevermind. Thank you for seeing my kindness. Not many do. Want to grab some food? I know neither of us needs it but it’s nice, no?”

He wasn’t sure what Minho fed on but he knew not to ask such questions. It’s how he’s stayed alive for so long; well that and charm.

“Sure. If you’re offering.”

Who was he to say no when the other was making an effort even during his free day. Maybe he can make friends with his co-worker. Of sorts. He was an acolyte bound to Seungmin and working for his wellbeing while worshipping him and Minho was probably bound with his life to protect Seungmin but such were superhuman connections.

“Great! I’m paying with Seungmin’s card.”

“Should you do that?”

“Of course. He gave it to me when he asked me to…”

So many loose ends and trails but he wasn’t stupid. Of all places, Minho happened to be here?

“Does he not trust me?” he asked, very hurt. Sure their relationship was mostly sexual and professional but he thought he’d worked hard and so earned Seungmin’s trust. Then again, Seungmin probably trusted no one.

“What does trust have to do with it? You clearly need protection. You’re like a magnet for trouble.”

“Protection? What are you, my bodyguard now?”

“Not exclusively…but yes.”

Huh? He had climbed the ranks so much that he’d gotten a bodyguard? He didn’t think he’d even climbed one bar, much less several. And a bodyguard that took him to the best garlic and green onion bread place? Heaven, not Hell. He didn’t even feel guilty buying serval - including as leftovers so he has food to snack on when he’s bored later - considering how cheap they were. Surely Seungmin won’t mind? Especially since he brought him one! The good thing is that Hell doesn’t need ovens or microwaves and human food just tastes better; a bit smokey and barbequed. 

—----------------------------

Seungmin was chaos demonified.

First, he demanded they go back to the bread place recommended by Minho because apparently plans needed human food to be executed.

Then, Hyunjin had to stop an actual execution.

“I know he called you weird but we just had words and they’re hardly going to start a riot in Hell. They don’t even live there!”

“That’s not why. I know I’m weird. Nice of them to point it out but he called my acolyte stupid. No one gets away with it.”

“My friends call me stupid all the time.”

“Your friends are your friends…and they are probably right in that context. But they were hitting on you, trying to poach you from me and then they insulted you and your intelligence. They won’t get away with it, mark my words.”

Hyunjin had been annoyed and maybe a little bit scared but he didn't want them to die for that. He’d feel too guilty but Seungmin’s mind was made up. He just needed to redirect it. First, he tried playing footsie but then he felt foolish.

“How about…a punishment that’s less deadly?”

“Oh…sure. Those are my favourite. I get to see them suffer and I don’t even have to take care of them down there.”

And so, Seungmin did something truly devious that left him shaking in horror. He really admired his power and hoped that it would never be him on the receiving end. He was quite happy with sucking dildos as punishment or getting gagged or corner time or something.

Because Seungmin made the succubi unappealing. 

Truly devious. The stuff of horror for the characters in horror franchises.

No one was giving them attention. They turned them down when any of the four tried to approach, scoffing at their audacity. No kisses and definitely no sex. They were starving and so desperate that they started to do like Hyunjin, not out of choice but out of necessity.

“Are you going to keep it indefinitely?” he asked, looking down at the others. They were in a club which unbeknown to them was actually owned by Seungmin - one of many - and so they had the VIP lounge to themselves.

“Who knows.”

“What if they assault someone?”

“Weren’t they already by not disclosing their full intentions and by using their powers?”

Fair enough. The few times he’d fed from partners, he’d always told them because mixing sex with anything was a receipt for potential disaster. Sex was emotional, even with one night stands and he fully acknowledged that. Even sex with Seungmin was emotional although not romantic.

“What if they get worse?”

“I have plans for them, don’t worry.”

Saying that, he worried more but two weeks later, after a strongly penned letter that sucked the life out of them, their powers were back and maybe punishments worked because they were being careful with how they used their charm!

“What did you tell them?”

“Just their fate if they ever step out of line again.”

“That’s…hot.”

Dictatorship could be hot.

“Oh yes? How hot?”

‘Hot as hell’ was too cliche, so he went for the mildly cliche ‘let me show you’.

Seungmin was a Harbinger of Chaos (that should be one of his titles) but he also brought Hyunjin to regular orgasms.

At the moment, Hyunjin was on his back with Seungmin between his legs which didn’t sound so creative, only Seungmin wasn’t focused on his cock. He was always ambitious and sometimes mean, which in bed translated into him eating him out while Hyunjin was made to hold his cock out of the way. Really mean but really good too because Seungmin had a human-looking tongue but what he did with it was something that belonged in heaven but so sinful that it took a ride downstairs.

Seungmin had even promised him a ride and he was trying - vainly - not to cum too soon. It would be easier if he was on his front both because he wouldn’t have to see Seungmin as sin personified but also because he’d get better reach that way. Evidently, Seungmin thought so too because he stopped with a huff like he was disappointed in himself. He really needn’t be; his technique was well honed yet passionate: technical with spice.

He grabbed a pillow like it had personally offended him. Then he pushed it insistently against his side so Hyunjin knew to raise his hips so that he could slip the pillow underneath.

“Okay, let’s try it this way. Push your head down and get ready to open that lovely mouth of yours…if you want to.”

“To speak?” he teased knowing fully well what he meant.

“Shut up.”

“I thought you wanted me to open my ‘lovely mouth’.”

“Yes, open doesn’t mean speaking. Now…any objections?”

“No. Carry on.” he said with a smile painted on. One that exasperated the other who told him just how infuriating he was but it wasn’t true; he’d seen a furious Seungmin and this was fond in comparison.

Seungmin distracted him by kissing him or maybe he just wanted to do it but either way, one second he was melting and the next he was boiling. Seungmin had unbuttoned and unzipped his trousers and reached in to grab hold of his member - all one handed - then he’d calmly but hotly finished kissing him and then he was telling him to push his head down as he turned and straddled his head. 

Fuck. He almost didn’t care what Seungmin did to him as long as he could get his mouth on him because in his humble opinion, his cock was the greatest.

Of course he changed his mind once Seungmin’s hands touched the inside of his thighs again and once that mouth sucked a hickey that stung.

But a huff wasn’t what he was expecting. Having a sign of disappointment next to his private parts wasn’t…encouraging.

“I can’t reach, even with the stupid pillow.”

Ah. Seungmin was now the reverse direction of where he’d been and his asshole wasn’t exactly close to his front. Maybe he can just blow him and then turn on his front or…he can make use of his acquired flexibility. He’d gone through some phases in his life…which gave him interesting skills.

If Seungmin’s wonderful tongue couldn’t reach him, he’ll make sure to reach out himself.

Firstly, he removed the other’s dick from his mouth with regret - but he’ll regret it more if he’d accidentally hurt him - then he mumbled a hasty ‘watch out’ and then he put energy in his hips and raised his feet all the way up to his face. Thankfully his soles didn’t stink or that would have been a downer.

“What…”

“Is it enough? Can you reach?”

It was, as without warning, Seungmin licked him. It was a core workout but he’ll shape his body while having fun. While they have fun because Seungmin was too enthusiastic about it so Hyunjin joined him by sucking him off.

He still used one hand to hold himself out of the way; he didn’t want to slap his lover’s neck with precum. It would just be rude without discussing it before but Seungmin was too focused on another part of him. He knew he could cum without jerking off but since his hand was already holding it…he squeezed a few times and then some more all while moaning around Seungmin’s cock.

All in all, a bout of spontaneous, enthusiastic and contortionist sex. 10/10.

—----------------------------

“Excuse me, is Seungmin…oh hello there. New secretary?”

Hyunjin blinked. Seungmin didn’t have secretaries; only assistants that appeared and disappeared and him who was like fixed furniture half the time. The other half he actually had a life; humans could only dream of his work/life balance.

“No, I’m his acolyte and you are…?”

“Acolyte? How old fashioned! Back to when paganism was more common. I’m his brother of course. Where is he anyway?”

While it was a fact that having acolytes was something heavenly beings did when paganism was more popular, it wasn’t unheard of today. Even Jeongin had a few acolytes with his known favourite being Cupid Felix. Of course, demons too had them especially with satanism still being practiced but so was paganism. Simply because they weren’t that popular…it’s like this person - Seungmin’s brother - was looking down at them while hiding behind a cheerful persona but Hyunjin could see right through such individuals.

“He’s at a very important meeting up above.”

“Oh and he left you all on your lonesome? Tragic. I’ll keep you company until he’s back.”

Hyunjin had actually done all his paperwork - because even Hell had meetings and maybe even more than humans did…which made sense because most meetings were hell - and had even prepared documents and ideas to bring forward in the coming meetings because Seungmin had entrusted him with them. Paper doesn't burn in Hell actually but sometimes he feels like lighting a bonfire and only doesn’t because Seungmin has shown him appreciation countless times for helping him.

With all his work finished, he was going over his course notes as he was trying to go for a ‘supernatural nerd’ title.

With this fake positive demon in front of him - he must be one; a powerful demon if his senses served him right - he faked having a lot of work. He started to list all that he had to do for the coming month as if he had to do everything that day since it helped him bluff better. 

“Oh my, you’re overworked. Is it a punishment? What did you do?”

That nerve grating tone was still present. 

“Nope. I’m learning a lot by doing all this.”

“A cute little nerd? You don’t belong in Hell.”

Hyunjin grated his teeth. Usually he liked being called and perceived as cute but not this time. He wasn’t little! Also he was a big nerd; unstereotypical for how he looked but still true although Changbin’s look vs nerdiness ratio was higher than his.

“I know I don’t; I’m from upstairs but I’m enjoying my stay here.”

It wasn’t even like a vacation; he felt like he belonged despite his statement. Even though he wasn’t from here, people moved all the time! He was treated well here and felt safer than in the human world because he knew he had protection. Of course that may change but he wasn’t trapped here and he can move.

“That’s the first time I’ve ever heard someone say they like Hell…well apart from Seungmin.”

“It helps that I’m free to come and go.”

“Ah, the sweet taste of freedom. Careful. Lots of people here would be jealous of that. Careful they don’t hurt you. We hardly ever have sweetlings like you.”

His eye twitched, hopefully not too noticeably since this was Seungmin’s brother. Again, he usually liked being called sweet but something about this demon irritated him.

“I’d like to see them try. They know what they’ll lose if they do.” Seungmin’s words spoke of regret…but not his.

Hyunjin turned around fast - but tried to look measured - to see Seungmin coming in. He really should consider wearing a bell. Maybe he’d get him a matching set with his hounds as a thank you gift for the collar he received.

“Oh brother! I was waiting for you. How did the meeting go?”

“Fine. Since when are you interested and do you call flirting with Hyunjin ‘waiting for me’?”

“Hyunjin? That’s your name? A really sweet one. He definitely needs to be careful around demons and residents here.”

“They know the consequences of not respecting Hyunjin.”

After Hyunjin made art with parts from powerful demons, it got everyone else in line. Maybe it had been a strategic move from Seungmin’s part although it had felt emotional too.

“ You hardly respect anyone yourself.”

“I only respect those who deserve it.”

“Oh and Hyunjin here deserves it?”

Seungmin looked at him and simply said ‘obviously’. Such a simple statement yet it was unequivocal in respect and that made him blush slightly in pleasure, mindblown or maybe simply blown away.

“Oh…he’s the lover I’ve been hearing about?” he asked, like he was finally illuminated. Did he feel threatened since he’d been hitting on him? Probably Seungmin won’t hurt his brother…probably. “

“You're sleeping with him? Didn't you have better offers?”

For sure he must be very secure to say that so maybe they had a good relationship.

He leaned in on his elbows and looked at him. “Best offers don’t matter; I’m not an auction.”

How does one define ‘best’ anyway? He was content with their arrangement. It was hot but respectful and only slightly creepy and that factor had receded. It was probably Seungmin not knowing how to flirt so he’d stalked instead. There were plenty of demon stories like that.

“Right, right and you’re okay with my brother’s weird sense of flirting?”

Was he a mind reader? And what was with the interrogation? What was with the ‘weird’ comments in Seungmin’s regard? He simply nodded but the unnamed brother asked ‘how’.

“Exposure therapy.”

“Oh, you’re an exhibitionist? Looking forward to seeing that then.”

“What? No...I just meant I got used to him.” Although he was a bit…but he wanted to leave a respectable impression. Also, this unnamed brother gave him a bit the creeps. Maybe being creepy was a learned family trait.

“Wow…that’s the biggest compliment your lover can give you? You must be lacking Seungminnie.”

Hyunjin went red for him. How dare he? Seungmin was wonderful at times and terrible at others but he wasn’t lacking nor weird.

“Private business is private business but know that you’re wrong” he said, concise but precise.

“Oh, so it’s business? ”

That is what he got out of that? Hyunjin huffed, feeling like speaking to him was impossible.

“Hyunjin became my acolyte because he’s got a curious mind and he’s a bit of a nerd and a good diplomat.”

“And probably knows how to follow blindly?”

Hyunjin’s mouth opened and remained resembling a fish. Seungmin’s brother was a terrible diplomat if he could say that to his face.

“Far from it but I feel that this is way beyond why you came here. Why are you here?” Seungmin asked cooly; he could see his brother was trying to bait him but Seungmin was certainly not a fish - neither small nor big. He was his own category. 

“Ohhh you have feelings?”

“Jeongyup.”

So that was his name? Seungmin’s tense tone cut all joking and suddenly his brother was telling him that he’d heard about a possible rebellion. So the now named brother could be serious.

“Thank you. We’ll look into it.”

“We?”

“Thank you.”

No ‘thank you’ before has ever felt so tense but finally, Jeongyup said he was going. He totally gave Hyunjin a once over but Hyunjin returned it with an eye roll. Sure, he was Seungmin’s brother but it was clear there was no love lost between them.

“Are you worried about the rebellion? Do you want me to research it?”

Hyunjin was quite good at research and inquiry. He’d helped a lot with that here or at least Seungmin made him believe so.

“No. Knowing my brother he either fabricated that or was ready to throw innocent demons under the rubble to distract me from one of his schemes.”

‘Innocent demons’ should sound like a contradiction but he’d met quite a few meek demons and even some altruistic ones. They couldn’t help how they were born (or came to be) just like he can’t avoid being a Nephilim succubus.

“You must care for him, if he's still alive then.”

“Only because he's my brother from both sides and I remember him growing up. Hell will be a strange place without him here but trust me, I've thought about doing it a million times because he's not exactly the greatest person. Neither am I but I hate the hold he has on me.”

Hyunjin could understand although not fully because he was an only child but there were several Nephilim that he kept in his life simply because of an early - or simply long - connection in his life. Life would be way easier if he ignored them…but he couldn’t because they had a hold on him too but somehow, it felt like he didn’t have a hold (or power) over them.

“Does your brother obey your rule or?”

“Let’s say he obeys enough to not be overtly insolent but I know he doesn’t always agree with me…which is fine. What’s not fine is that he tries to put a stick in my steering wheel, making it more difficult for me than it should be.”

One thing that Hyunjin admired about Seungmin is that he ruled - despite his proclamation on the contrary -  but he didn’t expect everyone to agree with him and they could voice it…as long as they didn’t take contradictory actions. To hear that his own brother did made him admire Seungmin even more, even though he doesn’t always agree with his choices himself.

“But enough about him…I was invited to a party tonight by a rich human who had pledged alliance to my ancestors long ago…which explains why he’s a dinosaur but still alive.”

Hyunjin burst out giggling even though he shouldn’t; humans had a relatively short lifespan - at least compared to them, turtles, and parrots - for a reason. They tended to become corrupt with time and their soul would be almost unsalvageable for anything else.

“Would you like to come? Great feeding source.”

“Sure. Sounds like fun. Old money always has good stuff.”

Although unfortunately, sometimes that included humans. Hyunjin had seen way too much in his life; there was a time once where he’d been desperate and those kind of people and parties kept him afloat financially at a time where he’d fought with the other Nephilim who he lived with, and unfortunately while he’d been willing to hang off someone’s arm - but drawing the line at kissing and sex and ready to fight about it -  he’d seen others who were exploited and even more desperate than him. Fortunately, someone had taken care of the scum that took advantage but unfortunately he was sure there were many others.

“If they bother you, we can leave and if it’s one of my pledges, I can take care of them.”

He should be so reassuring but somehow he always knew when Hyunjin went to a dark place.

To remedy that, he wore something white, almost shiny along with something fluffy. It wasn’t exactly pure or appropriate, but Hyunjin was comfortable in his own skin by himself with the added protection from being Seungmin’s date. Even if the guests didn’t know who he was, there was a certain powerful aura around him that spoke of how foolish it would be to go against him.

“You look g-glamerous.”

He beamed, probably made more prominent by all that white. “Thank you! I tried! All that time down under has made me sensitive to brighter colours but it’s also why I wanted to try and shine.”

“You don’t need to do that, you pull it off naturally.”

Aish. Seungmin could be so flirty now that he’d learned how to be . How was he still single? Oh right, he probably wanted to explore all the options and even polycules weren’t that open. The whole world was his oyster really and that included below…and above since he often visited there. He really was the flirt of the three worlds.

Before Hyunjin found the right words to thank him, Seungmin surprised him once more.

“There’s a box for you on your vanity.”

Curiously, he looked immediately and found a velvet box…with a mirror charm. He sighed; it was hot in Hell but rarely did the feel warm. A mirror…looking at Seungmin he knew he got the right idea by his smirk. It was to celebrate and commemorate the fun they’ve had in front of one for sure. He was starting to hope there would be other charms now…

The box was from the place he’d recently stopped to window shop. He’d stared so long and hard that he’d memorised the shop logo. Was it Minho who had sneaked in and bought something or did Seungmin go by himself? Did he send an assistant? Picking it up and opening the jump ring only to close it securely around the chain, he discarded the how and why to focus on the what.

Which was fun about to be had at the dinner.

“Excuse me, have you been to Australia?”

They turned around simultaneously to find an almost middle-aged man (or so he looked like but with their features and his rustiness in most things human, it was difficult to tell) who was in turn beaming at them.

“No, why?” Hyunjin gently asked. This one didn’t seem to be the corrupted kind at least not yet, so he reserved gentleness for him.

“Oh, I thought I heard you say that you’ve been Down Under. It’s where I’m from and I must miss it so much that I misheard.”

Hyunjin blinked. Down Under? Oh right…that wasn’t just Hell and for most humans, it never will be.

“Oh…I haven’t been but is it nice?”

And then they got a half-hour presentation about all its glory, with pictures pulled from the internet and his gallery.

“Do you want a drink? I can’t believe he spoke for so long.” Seungmin sighed and he seemed tired but actually Hyunjin was energised without feeding. That had been interesting. Despite all the creatures which the man called ‘animals’ but which Hyunjin seriously doubted (they must be demon spawns for sure).

“That would be nice but I wouldn’t have minded a longer chat. Australia seems fascinating.”

“Oh. Maybe we can-nevermind.”

Hyunjin frowned. What was up with Seungmin and all those pauses and subject changes that he’s been doing lately? Was he so tired? Was taking care of Hyunjin one of his problems?

“Are you okay?” he felt compelled to ask but of course Seungmin didn’t open up to him and said he was ‘fine’. An obvious lie but one which Hyunjin couldn’t confront. 

And he cannot even distract him because they had to network and after that, they had to plan how to revise the humans that had made pacts with Seungmin’s ancestors but not Seungmin himself aka ‘very important work’ as it was about the fragile demon-human relations so they had agreed not to have sex that night so they would be rested for tomorrow’s all-day plan. They would be fresh from this interaction which would hopefully inspire them to work hard and fast…and unfortunately that meant they cannot do something else that way.

“ Seungmin-ssi , Madam, so lovely to have you here.”

Hyunjin blinked but he was sort of expecting it. He was wearing a white a-line dress that was on the short side but still appropriate along with a slightly off-white fuzzy jacket. Most humans would associate that kind of dress with females although there were still cultures and subcultures that thought otherwise. He usually doesn’t ask permission but this time he’d asked Seungmin since he was his guest. Seungmin had shrugged, told him to wear whatever he likes because he knew who he was inviting. When he’d come out, Seungmin had given him a once over and then a small smile appeared. ‘You look good. More than good. Not sure about that promise now…’

Honestly, seeing Seungmin in a sharp, tailored suit made him feel the same.

“Hyunjin is not a ma-”

“Thank you, kind Sir.”

Perhaps he shouldn’t interrupt Seungmin but they started speaking at the same time. He didn’t mind being thought of as a madam and now, among humans, was not the time to cause a ruckus especially for something meant to be a compliment. He took it as a sign of change - progress - that someone with a small but visible adam’s apple wasn’t thought of immediately as male.

“Enjoy your evening. Let me know if you need anything and thank you for joining us today.”

“I’m guessing that was the man of the hour?” Hyunjin whispered after he’d left.

“The one but not the only. I may not renew his contract…”

“Because he misgendered me?”

“And because he appears to have invited my brother. And I just don’t like him.”

“Is that a prerequisite?”

“Not usually but maybe I’ll start from now.”

“You do realise that if you don’t renew, you’re going to see him sooner rather than later, right?”

“Assistants would get that pleasure. I can avoid him for eternity. ”

Oh joy. Hyunjin would probably get that ‘pleasure’ along with Seungmin’s assistants - currently all very competent and nice because Seungmin knew how to pick them though recently Hyunjin was given that task - and he’ll probably be reprimanded in the way that older men tended to do as a powerplay for letting him think he was a woman.

“Who do you want to avoid? Certainly not me.”

Seungmin didn’t seem surprised by Jeongyup’s suddenly appearing next to them rather than across the room.

“I wasn’t speaking about you exactly.”

Wow, Seungmin really had it out for him. He hated not having control of the situation much less his own feelings. That was probably why he’d never allow himself to be in love.

“My my Hyunjin. You’re the star of the evening. I’m sure you’ll make someone’s night at least.”

“That’s not why he’s here.”

“Come now brother…or maybe later” a snicker “isn’t that why he’s here? Eye candy for everyone.”

Hyunjin’s eye twitched, decisively in a non-eye candy way.

“Absolutely not. He’s here as my guest and that’s it.”

“Gatekeeping a succubus? You know that that’s cruel right? Sex is what they’re made for. Sharing is caring, dear brother.”

Seungmin became so red he looked like the stereotypical western idea of a devil. Probably some cultures too, like Ravana was sometimes depicted red. And there was Hellboy too…

“I’m not a sexual token. Sexual energy is just my food and that’s it.”

“Ah, so you’re for the highest bidder? I guess that’s my brother.”

He wasn’t even angry; just exasperated. He’d heard similar comments or seen them on the faces of those who were too scared to say it to his face. Mostly because of Seungmin, not him.

“How dare you!” 

Seungmin looked ready to throw punches. Who would stop him? Even those who don’t know who he is had enough self preservation to not get in the middle of an angry lover and his sharp-tongued brother. Honestly, Hyunjin didn’t see the family resemblance at all.

“It’s a compliment! You got the hottest person…in the whole country probably. One who dresses like that. Kudos really.”

Jeongyup gave him a very dirty-minded once over. One that he was sure the owner was thinking about what was under his clothes and what he would do to him.

“Mind your eyes and your words.”

“I can’t help it! He looks really good. If he didn’t want people looking, he should have dressed differently.”

People looked even if he wore indoor clothes. He sometimes wanted people to look and not to simply feed from them but today wasn’t it. He’d taken inspiration from elegant females in politics and mixed it with some fun element from celebrities so he isn’t bored yet he was here in a professional capacity. 

“He shouldn't have to regulate how he dresses for you to regulate your eyes.”

“Or you’ll gauge them out?”

“You’re the one that said it, not me.”

“Our parents would be so disappointed in how you’re treating your older brother over some flavour of the month.”

Hyunjin’s eyebrows rose up. He’s been the main flavour of the year for years, at least that he knows of. With how often Seungmin sought him out and how busy he is, he mustn't be seeing a lot of others.”

“Who cares what they would have thought. They’re dead.”

“And whose fault is that?”

“Mine but you benefited from it. You’re forgetting that I let you live in comfort.”

The threat was definitely there and Jeongyup at least cared enough for his life to ‘apologise’ to Hyunjin, bow to Seungmin and leave, fakely differing to his brother’s authority. It must be hard for him to have to do as his younger brother says. Hyunjin was also considering just how smart and ruthless Seungmin could be if he got his older siblings in his hold. At the same time, he felt sad for him, wondering if he had anyone that he was close to. Sure, he may not want to but even if he wasn’t human, he still needed connections.

“What if this is what it takes for him to fully rebel?”

“Let him. It would give me an excuse to clean house, finally.”

He was so glad to be an only child and to have had a good relationship with his parents but it seemed that Seungmin didn’t care about good relationships with his family members.

“Thank you?”

“For what?”

“Defending my honour.”

“You don’t need to thank me. He was in the wrong. You do look good though…”

To the detriment of sounding like a broken record - or like those annoying, youtube adverts which everyone knew by heart - Seungmin was hot. And he was even more so leading him confidently around the room, doing things they wanted. Not everything or they would be having sex in the opulent bathroom if not the foyer but at least they could choose fun stuff and ignore political power play.

It reminded him of their first meeting but he ignored it; he was trying not to get too emotional for once.

He wasn’t only emotional though; he was horny. With Seungmin’s warm hand on the small of his back, he can be excused, in more ways than one because not only can he hold impure thoughts close to mind but also whenever they were part of a group conversation that made him uncomfortable or even simply bored, Seungmin would excuse them. So hot. Scalding. 

It always surprised him when Seungmin showed that he wanted him. Well, sex with him, that he was as desperate and needy and that his stony face simply hid but did not bury his desire.

Seungmin wasn’t stony faced now; he was giving him eyes that belonged to a private setting. Not necessarily a bedroom in their case, a closed bathroom stall would do.

“We can always ditch.”

Hyunjin tried to be the bigger person, at least the one that prioritised work. “We agreed today and tomorrow we need to focus too much to have sex.”

“Good that today is almost over.” Seungmin replied with a smirk.

Hyunjin however, sighed. There were still two hours till the official end of the day but the bigger problem was… “But tomorrow we still have-” “We’ll postpone” was Seungmin’s prompt answer that interrupted his statement.

He shook his head. “No. We’re not postponing something important for sex.”

“Fucking is important.”

“Don’t be so crude.”

“Sex is important.”

“I agree but we’re prioritising.”

Seungmin sighed and his shoulders slumped but he paradoxically smiled. “This is why I need you by my side. You’re right, we shouldn’t…but we’ll celebrate well after we’re done.”

“Oh, we definitely are. Got any plans?”

His smirk let him know he’ll be done appropriately well. 

“I’m glad I chose you.”

He got whiplash from the sweet comment after the eyefucking they’ve been doing.

“Yeah? You know, when you asked, I thought it was with ulterior motives or that you took pity on me. I thought I would be useless but I’m quite proud of how far I’ve managed to understand and navigate Hell politics. You did well in choosing me as your acolyte…were there other contenders? Just out of curiosity.”

“...Acolyte...no, only you.”

Seungmin doesn’t trust easily; it was very evident but after meeting the creatures he deals with every day, chief of which are his council and his brother - or one of them - he understands why so it made sense that there was only one person on Seungmin’s list. And it was flattering that it was him. As he’d thought, it was unlikely that Seungmin would trust his family.

“Shall we go?” Seungmin asked. Some more time had passed and they shmoozed with more people, meaning that they were shmoozed because Seungmin (and him by following expample) didn’t see the point of making nice with people they had power over. They had shown face and been sufficiently buttered (and probably Seungmin had made a plan or two which they will discuss tomorrow and Hyunjin may have an inkling of an idea which needs to be further developed about letting people with old contracts take a test - which was wicked) so they could finally leave.

Those were famous words coming from Seungmin’s mouth; he’d said them the first time they met.

It was dark, but dark was good. It got people in the mood. Not him actually, he made use of a night lamp but he wasn’t here for sex. He was here for the people who were there for sex so he could feed off them and finally get rid of his persistent hunger pains. Maybe because he’d left it for so long but he was doing an online Sociology course in hopes of categorising better social issues he sees in the human world but actually he was re-discovering the Underworld - well Down World because it wasn’t all Under but it was all on the downlow although he became more interested in Under as time passed - through it and he’d been too absorbed these past few days and he’d unintentionally gone on a diet.

He was c onsidering his potentials - of which thankfully there were many - when a man entered. He commanded attention and thanks to him, Hyunjin knew he could feed well as all eyes turned on him…including Hyunjin’s. He’s just his type at least physically since he doesn’t know him: he’s tall but a bit shorter, enough for Hyunjin to feel like a runaway model next to him; he’s handsome with smooth cheekbones and chin, mildly soft cheeks and incredibly nice lips; he moves with purpose…until their gazes meet and then he stops for a second and seemingly making a spontaneous decision and striding towards him.

The man stopped in front of him and for a few minutes, he just…looked. It was weird, like he was being assessed. 

“Are you looking for company?”

Very direct but polite. The intention was clear - at least for flirting - but he was asking for consent and not assuming. He looked like a person who wouldn’t get angry if he said no which made him want to respond positively. 

“Sure. Let’s see if we…get on.”

The man grunted and sat down in front of him. Their knees touched and he shouldn’t feel horny from that but he was. Trying to distract himself, he looked around briefly and encountered several stares. They seemed hungry and he could just feel his stomach growl.

“If you need to eat, eat. No need to deprive yourself on my behalf. I don’t mind.”

Hyunjin blinked and turned to look at the man who was looking at the drinks chalkboard.

“There’s a lot of food for you here. That’s why you’re here, right? But you’re not flirting with them to have sex so I’m assuming you don’t need that. All you need is yourself and then everyone will give you attention and food. Pretty handy.”

He should have realised that someone with that aura wasn’t human but the down world was vast; yet it was rude to ask someone ‘what are you?’. Even ‘who are you?’ would be prying.

“...Thanks. I’m famished.”

“Eat then. I’m Seungmin.”

“Thanks Seungmin. I’m Hyunjin and for your information, I think everyone was looking at you, not me.”

Seungmin snorted and then picked up a light argument about that. It wasn’t heated but rather teasing and Hyunjin felt it intensely.

He knew he’d be going home - or somewhere - with this man. He also knew not to feed from him; mostly he fed from humans and only lightly each time. Seungmin seemed powerful and if he can tell what he is, maybe he can tell when he’s feeding too and it would be rude to do it from him though he did snack a bunch from each person who was looking their way. It was more than usual, probably thanks to Seungmin. He bets they looked good with each other.

“Would you like to come with me then?”

“Yes.” That was an absolute after an hour and a half of flirting.

“Shall we go?”

“Lead the way?”

The way apparently led to the fanciest hotel Hyunjin has ever seen much less been inside of and they got the most premium suite with an incredible view and nice amenities that left little lacking. The sex was great; he felt taken care of and understood and for a minute, he thought Seungmin was also a sex related being. He must be rich too - not that uncommon for beings who had accumulated wealth through a naturally long life or unlife - to afford all this unless he had persuasion or tricks as powers. 

“What are you into?”

“You.”

A few minutes later, he was. It was quick work but so deliciously good that it left his stomach feeling like a self-stirring potion.

He didn’t ask to see what Seungmin was because he still felt it would be rude even after all they did (each other mainly though Seungmin had involved a toy or two) but after one day and one night rolling around and laughing and after discussing more about what they liked without shame, he left only for Seungmin to find him at the same bar they had met in only two days later. Hyunjin rarely has one-night stands and even rarer does he have two-night stands since if there’s more, usually it leads to a relationship but with Seungmin, he followed again because the sex had been good and there had been unexpected gentle care even though their second time was rougher.

The second road led to Hell. “I’ve never been inside this part.” he told the other. He’d only been like five times in all his quite long life. The first time, he’d been curious and was surprised he was allowed entry. The other times were all to meet people - only two were hookups, the rest were friends although he doesn’t speak to them anymore.

“I know.”

“What? How?”

Did he find a creep by accident? One that slipped past his honed senses…unfortunately from experience. He’s really thought Seungmin was nice (if a bit insufferable once he got speaking; just like a lawyer who doesn’t let any point go).

“I would have known if you had. I’m in charge of this section.”

Oh, so he was about to hook up with a powerful demon. A baron or something.

“Cool. Hope it’s not a lot of work. Now…what do you feel like doing?”

“You.”

He laughed at the call back from their first time. He shouldn’t find such comebacks funny especially if repeated or rehashed but the deadpan delivery was impeccable. 

“Well hopefully you will be soon. That’s what I’m into…but if you want, we can do a test or something.” he offered because discussing was one thing but…their minds had been occupied with other things to think of everything. Sex could be simple but sex could also be so broad, so vast…just like Seungmin’s shoulders and his eyes.

“School isn’t my passion but I think our likes match. Last time was…quite something.”

He smiled, hoping that was the case. They already had a good sample; they had done it like seven times because seven times is the charm. They discussed some more and his wishes were coming true. He had no shame in speaking of his kinks; he didn’t let humans or non-humans put guilt and shame in him. His mistakes, he acknowledges but what he likes isn’t a mistake.

The position they found themselves in was interesting and he has to admit that he’d never tried it because it someone was sitting on top of his chest, he’d be sucking them or if he was on their chest, he’d either be facing them or with his back to them getting eaten but someone on top of him, sitting down with his partner’s back to his face was new. And his back was bent since Seungmin was fingering him. It wasn’t the best position but what he lacked in depth, he made up in hotness.

Hyunjin wanted to return the favour. First he massaged Seungmin’s back but his hands weren’t that long to reach the top of his shoulders. Still, he pressed the pads of his fingers along the muscles and heard his partner for the night grunt. Then he wanted to hear more of that…so his hand went seeking. Seungmin’s member was hot in his hands. It fit well and he wanted it inside him badly but exploring with his hand was good too. Unfortunately, he couldn’t see him but he could feel him, which in his books was more important.

Fingering by itself can be pleasurable and the main idea this time it seemed but he was glad when after, it led to more. Neither of them had cum and they were pent up…so they didn’t last long…the first time.

By the third time, he was exhausted. He was hungry from the energy-consuming workout yet he was happy and knowing that Seungmin was powerful enough to be in charge of a section of Hell, he wasn’t foolish enough to try to snack.

The third time, he rode him. Damn that dick was good to sit on. He may be tired but he was also a show off especially because he doesn’t get to do this often and his skills were honed. More from imagination than actual practice; for being a succubus he wasn’t a sex worker. Usually he liked the simple things even if they fell in the BDSM category but somehow, this encounter made him want to be wilder.

 He bounced, curved his back and tightened his hold on those nice shoulders and together - because Seungmin was trusting in him with measured but hard thrusts - they reached their final peak.

He flopped down on the mattress, feeling petulant. He didn’t want to get up.

“Clean up duty now.” he demanded with a small whine and was surprised when Seungmin smiled softly and told him ‘of course’.

They rested for a few hours, snoozing here and there which is why it ended up being so long, then he’d sneaked out - but without any shame, he just didn’t want the awkwardness since they didn’t agree on anything more - and met Minho. The rest had been history. Once he realised who he’d slept with, he tried to stay clear of him. Of course, he didn’t know how exactly since he only knew to avoid that bar they had met at and Hell but in his mind ‘avoid Seungmin’ was very present.

Which turned out to be difficult when Seungmin turned up at each social event he went to. Maybe the other was lonely…and he felt he needed to give Seungmin his time, if only so he doesn’t unleash a beast. Although in reality, he liked how chill Seungmin was. He understood ‘no strings attached’ perfectly. He doesn’t think the Prince of Hell who became the King of Hell soon after they met would actually do strings.

Hyunjin liked strings…but they were sharp and cut so he does without them but why should he do without sex when it was presented to him in such a well-made and tailor-made package? The first two times they met, they had sex ten times. Ten! And all were good and felt fresh. Who would turn that down? Not Hyunjin. 

“Of course. Lead the way.” Hyunjin answered cheerfully.

The cheerfulness didn’t last because then it was heat…and then it was work but they needed to do work first before they do each other and Hyunjin was learning now that that was guaranteed if delayed. It’s all good because he likes delayed orgasms anyway.

—----------------------------

“I am so disappointed. You totally failed that test but worst of all, you gave up your dignity. ‘ Professor Park, are you sure I can’t tempt you into giving me another chance?’ Like you had one in the first place! And you stupidly didn’t even use your powers!”

“I didn’t want to do that!”

“So you resorted to batting your eyelashes?”

“Shut up. I panicked.”

So yes, he failed a test because he’d been too spaced out from the night of sex after the party and then the negotiations and planning the following day and he was still mulling over the results and political speech since he’d been too busy right after. And he also had a tiny crush on Professor Park because he was so cool and mysterious. Nothing substantial but he becomes a bit of an idiot in front of him. Worse of all, Professor Park had given him another chance because he was usually a good student. Which is when he’d blurted out that ‘ I can be bad too if you’d like’.

And that’s when Seungmin had knocked and came in without waiting for a reply and dropped his test on the desk and left without saying any word. Technically, he wasn’t supposed to take the test anywhere but class but technicalities did not apply to Kim Seungmin. He was surprised that he’d even done it in the first place and that this test didn’t come already graded like some past ones. Maybe Hyunjin’s nagging had served a purpose but he really wished it didn’t as now Seungmin was witness to his bad flirting.

At least he knows first hand that he can be good at it. And bad too…

He groaned. “Why did I have to do that? Why did I get a crush on a professor? Isn’t it illegal?”

“We’re all illegal. Most of us don’t have birth certificates and those that are, have them in the wrong century. Anyway, you’re an adult and this is a voluntary course.”

He groaned again, more pained. “Yes it is! Why does the King of Hell attend actually?”

“What does Seungmin-ah have to do with it?” Jisung asked, still licking his fingers from the food he’d been previously too occupied with to open his mouth.

“Everything! Well, something! He’s not answering my texts about work!”

“Most people would be happy about that. I know I would.”

“Jisung, you don’t have fixed work. Anyway, I only texted about work to gauge how embarrassed he was of me after he walked in on me attempting to flirt with Professor Park.”

“He’s probably jealous.”

“But my flirting was really bad. Why is he jealous? His game is really strong. Wait, does Seungmin also like Professor Park?” Maybe that’s why he attended and not Hyunjin’s nagging and he didn’t grade his own test - or most likely get an assistant to do it - because he wanted a personal connection with him.

His two friends stared at him. Why? It was a legitimate question! Did Seungmin like Professor Park? They both had a soothing voice and were sexy as hell…for one more factually than figuratively although Seungmin was honestly sexier so he shouldn’t worry. In case he didn't have a crush on Professor Park but was just jealous that someone else was considered handsome, then he needn’t be because he was the handsomest.

Changbin and Jisung simply continued to stare at him and then they turned to each other with flabbergasted looks.

“Is he stupid?”

“Hey!”

A while later, they switched the conversation to another class. One that wasn’t preceded by Professor Park.

“Hey guyssssssss, don’t ignore me!”

“You’re too old to say ‘guys’.”

“Don’t be ageist.”

“Don’t be an idiot.”

He’d been called that many times but this time, he doesn’t know why, which annoyed him. At least it helped him forget his embarrassment. 

—----------------------------

He made it to work…although he didn’t have a start time anyway because Seungmin never replied to him so he just eyeballed it.

The big boss was not around…so all the assistants came crawling to him for tasks. It felt like a punishment when he had to figure out what to give them. Finding tasks for others was hard especially when he hadn’t discussed it with Seungmin.

“Where is he anyway?”

Perhaps he should be a bit more formal but like this was Hell, not a Mega Corporation…oh wait.

Still, the assistants answered while trembling not because of him but just in case Seungmin heard. Apparently he was boxing?

Can he do one thing that wasn’t hot?

“Ah. Maybe he’s stressed? Anything we can do that would help him relax?” he asked the four assistants. Seungmin had insisted that three was not a magical number and that four wasn’t unlucky but if it was, then Hell was the perfect place to have four assistants. Four were better than three in Hyunjin’s opinion because it means more things can get done quicker but…he also has to find enough tasks for four. Sometimes he wishes for a conflict or something, to have work cut out for him.

“Oh, I know how I would like to make him relax.” Evie said with a drawl in her voice. She was part tigress or something, very appropriately Korean but also not human. How she ended up as Seungmin’s assistant, he doesn’t know. Maybe they’d made a crossroads deal or something. 

Was Seungmin sleeping with her? She was definitely interested in him but it wasn’t professional…but then again Seungmin was sleeping with him so…

“Oh. Are you and him…?”

Four sets - not only pairs as Junie has three - of eyes turned to look at him as if he was dense.

“The question should be, are you and him…because everyone knows you are.”

He reddened a bit but he kind of knew it was obvious anyway. Before he even became his acolyte (sometimes he wondered if he was the second-in-command since that spot wasn’t filled by anyone) Hell residents and regulars had seen him do the after-sex walk countless times. It has been years so he got used to it.

“I mean, yes, we are. It doesn’t affect my work! And you?”

“Me what?”

“Are you also sleeping with him?” he asked directly.

“I mean…I would like to but he’s sleeping with you.”

“What has that got to do with it? He’s the King of Hell and Chaos but even he doesn’t want to pass around STDs. He gets tested.”

That was something they discussed the first time before they even discussed anything else. They were horny stupid but not stupid stupid.

“Oh honey…” Muriel said in that voice of hers that reminded him of his grandma even though she was his age “Master Seungmin is pan, so we all stand a chance but really we stand no chance because…”

What was with all this suspense? Why does no one tell him anything clearly, damn it!

“I’m pretty sure he’s monogamous. I know right, you’d expect the King of Hell to take advantage of his power but no, he took a classical page from Hades.” Wonhyun threw out there.

Hyunjin blinked. Sure, he’d assumed it was just him that Seungmin slept with until today which made him feel something weird that he cannot identify - but it was more out of convenience than principle. He’d formed a connection with Hell and something in him rattled at having it jeopardised…and presuming that Seungmin slept only with him made it strangely happy. Or maybe not so strange but he refrained from unpicking that thought. Maybe it was safer to sleep with one person? But if Hyunjin slept with someone else, it would still put him at risk although he hasn’t. Maybe it was that he doesn’t have time although Seungmin being principled and intentional was actually kind of hot.

“ And what pray tell did I take a page out of Hades’ book for?”

Seungmin appeared as if he was a spirit but he was definitely made of flesh. Hyunjin had checked. Several times and in various ways.

If they pray, maybe Jeongin would have mercy on them. Or maybe he’ll come and laugh at them. For being supposedly the bigger good (but Seungmin wasn’t the lesser evil so were they really true opposites?) the being up Above had a cheeky sense of humour.

“The book of being a great leader, of course!” Hyunjin bluffed.

“And a great, attentive lover!” Evie made things harder. Maybe good assistants were hard to replace so she had some surety but Seungmin can just dispose of her and get a new one. The fear would make them work harder to become the best assistant. That was a chaotic thing that Seungmin would do.

“I’m not denying it but how would you know?”

“Hyunjin was telling us!” Junie burst out.

Liars. Liars and betrayers. 

“What? No I wasn’t!”

Seungmin turned to him and for a moment he thought he would be reprimanded but instead, Seungmin furrowed his brows and asked him if they were giving him grief.

“See. He’s doing it again.” Junie said, as if proving a point.

“Okay you four, you clearly have no work so let me find you some…”

That got them in line as they quieted down while Seungmin narrated a whole novel of tasks.

He would feel bad for them but they had mouthed off. At least if he mouths off, he’ll probably get a ‘fun’ punishment. One that’s cock shaped. Or will he? Would he also get unfun but professional punishments? Well, he doesn’t want to find out because he’s actually good at his job which isn’t even a job. When ‘acolyte’ is such an archaic word…who even knows how to use it in the contemporary world and its language?

“What are you contemplating?”

He shook his head and noticed that the others were gone. All but Seungmin. 

“Just that acolyte is an antiquated word. I find it hard to describe what I do because technically it’s not a job.”

“We can use another word if you’d like…such as lover.”

Seungmin’s hands found their way around his waist in the blink of an eye. “Whhattt? Seungmin! This is unprofessional!”

“You just said it’s not a job. The rules here are as we make them. This is Hell, you realise?”

“Still! I don’t want people to think I got this opportunity because I was sleeping with you!”

“You didn’t…that was a bonus. I thought you’d be a great support for me here.”

“Oh.”

That was the sweetest thing ever but also it put a lot of pressure on him. What if he fails? That was kind of a big deal. “I hope…to manage that. But even if I do, what will you do once I leave?”

And suddenly, a big gust of wind blew in his face and Seungmin groaned and whined. He’d never seen him act so petulantly.

“And why do you have to leave?”

Dread settled in. “Am I…did I sign an eternal binding contract?”

“What? No. You read your contract.”

“Was there anything in invisible ink? Tiny print?”

“Hyunjin” a sigh “you can leave whenever you want. This is an experience for you. I was just hoping you’d want to stay.”

He blinked. Was he that invaluable? 

“I mean…I will consider it. I don’t have anything interesting beyond the course really.”

Another sigh. Why does it feel like he’d failed?

“Okay.”

He wanted to cheer him up and usually he doesn’t use his body like that but he knew it would work.

“How about a workplace blowie?” he waggled his eyebrows and felt ridiculous for it but finally, Seungmin smiled.

—----------------------------

That night, Seungmin was quite…something. Not exactly brutal but verging on a hard dom. It’s not like it displeased him; actually he was quite satisfied so when Seungmin told him to warm him, he did.

Getting his lips around that cock…well there was a reason why he called it glorious. And it filled his mouth so well and allowed him to space out, with his head encased by Seungmin’s thighs as the other read…or something. He wasn’t sure and he wasn’t looking. 

Suddenly, a hand pulled the member out of his mouth.

“Oh stop whining. I’m done here.”

For a horrible second, he thought he was done with him or with what they were doing.

“Drop your pants.”

Oh. So they were done with this but not with sex. He could get on board with that and hopefully on top of that. With shaking fingers, he unbuttoned, unzipped, and tried to shove his pants down. It was difficult with Seungmin staring at him. Usually, he would help him to be on him quicker and it was a bit humiliating and a lot hot when he just kept looking this time.

“Since you still don’t get it, I’m going to paddle you. Are you game?”

What was he not getting? Well, if he hasn’t got it until now, the likelihood that he does with his mushy brain is low but getting a paddling sounded fun.

“Yeah, sure. Not too hard please.”

Not because he cannot take it but because he has to work and attend classes this evening.

“Great , thank you for your cooperation” the hot thing was that Seungmin actually meant it and not sarcastically; he could be so polite! “Now, could you spread your ass for me? I regrettably can’t hold it myself.”

Seungmin loved his ass. Sometimes he groped him just for the sake of it but he’d told him a million times not to do it when they had to be professional. Seungmin had pouted the first time but followed through. Of course, any time they were working but alone was fair game and since he restrained himself when there were others around, Hyunjiin allowed it.

There was a gust of air, blown thanks to Seungmin which made his skin more sensitive and then…a thwack . And another. He could feel indents forming on his ass. The supple parts took the brunt of it but the boney, less fleshy parts hurt more.

He got around - well he knew it was exactly so because he’s a good boy who counts - eighteen before Seungmin sighed in relief and stopped. It was like he could finally relax.

The paddling wasn’t the only thing on the menu; Seungmin clearly wanted to see him breathless. Pinching his nose would do that. He gasped and expected to have something shoved there or muffling him but it didn’t. Wiggling resulted in another spank…so he did it again, teasingly until finally, no more hits came.

“Cute” Seungmin commented. Most people would be offended to have someone stare at their ass and mutter ‘cute’ but not Hyunjin. ‘Cute’ and ‘Hot’ and ‘Beautiful’ were all desired adjectives in his vocabulary; as were ‘Kind’ and ‘Helpful’.

“Thanks…now help me up, please” he requested as he could almost feel his knees buckling under him. He’d relaxed at first but then tensed up. A natural reaction which he didn’t fight nor feel guilty about but he didn’t want to buckle like a newborn filly either while trying to get up.

“Of course.”

Seungmin gently put a hand on his hips and supported him as he straightened his back.

“Good. Now you can fuck me.” he said, clearly surprising Seungmin which he delighted in because usually it was him getting surprised by things the other said or did. 

They settled on Seungmin’s bed and after one prominent wince, he was turned on his stomach again. Manhandled…or demonhandled but he appreciated the technique and strength needed - pure hotness - although his knees ended up getting friction burns from how hard Seungmin thrusted in him.

He needed to oint his ass anyway so he got up on shaky legs, holding against the blessingly cold walls (only in Seungmin’s rooms; other occupants had to suffer although Hyunjin stayed in his wing so it extended to him as well and more than for him, he was glad for Kkami) and he gasped once he saw his reflection or rather, that on his ass.

Because there were heart-shaped imprints on it. Not the anatomical heart but the famous shape which he often found himself doodling.

“Seungmin! What?” he hoped the other didn’t hear his gasp as it was more of a squeak but he heard the other cackle anyway.

He was a chaos demon; what did he expect from him? He was having a laugh at his expense. Or was he? Did Seungmin maybe want to tell him something? Probably. But what? Why can’t he just say it?

He sighed and went to rest for a bit with a still cackling Seungmin giving him an amused expression.

“I’m getting a bit hungry” he said after a while “Maybe I’ll go patrol the corridors and planes.” Newcomers tended to be the best; both residents and demons who could technically leave. They tended to not know who he was and ogled more. The ones who know who he is generally suppress their sexual feelings towards him. Usually they would have tried to cop a feel and regret it as some disaster or another usually befell them. Seungmin said something about ‘respect’ whenever it happens - at least the first few times, then he simply stopped asking - so probably someone of his station should not be touched here. He was only here to serve, he guesses. 

Maybe he’ll be lucky and he finds some who are horny but not for him. They usually made the less guilty meals because he doesn’t feel like he has to give them something for the food. If they were high in sexual energy already, he can harvest what he doesn’t sow.

“Do you think I would taste horrible? I know I’ve done a lot of not so nice things but does that carry onto how I taste?”

Huh? Where did that comment come from? And was Seungmin insecure?

“I’m sure you’ll taste great, don’t worry.”

“You’re sure?”

“Well, I never tasted you, but yeah. You’ll taste…tasty.”

“You can at least have a taste, if you’re hungry.”

He was offering? Maybe he doesn’t trust that he won’t cause a chain disaster if he goes out in the corridors? The different planes were also confusing though he got used to time in Hell now.

“Oh…I’m not so hungry now.” he lied because he wasn’t sure what to say.

“You just said you were…it’s okay if you think I won’t taste great. No need to lie.”

Was Seungmin…sad? He was the King of Hell but he wasn’t infallible. He had feelings of insecurity too and Hyunjin would be a horrible acolyte if he doesn’t curb those feelings.

“I am hungry. I wasn’t sure if I should feed from you. Are you even sexually aroused?”

Seungmin grinned slowly; he could see every step of the stretch. 

“I could be if you’ll help me. Very quickly too. Sooo?”

“Okay.”

“Come here then.”

It took no time at all for Seungmin to get aroused (and he was along for the journey too). When Seungmin actually stopped kissing him and looked at him intensely and intently, he wasn’t coherent enough to make the connection.

“Well? Are you going to feed?”

Oh. He wasn’t sure. It really felt rude to use Seungmin like that. Seungmin; the powerful chaos demon, the King of Hell, and his boss. Or rather… master. Because their relationship wasn’t just professional; it was one based on servitude and trust and intimacy and growth. He was learning so much; it really felt debasing to eat from him.

“Maybe later. How about we…”

“Feed Hyunjin. Why the resistance? You don’t want to experience how I taste?” a sigh “You said I probably won’t taste horrible…”

“And I meant it! I just don’t want to use you that way.”

“Am I using you since you’re a succubus and I’m having sex with you?”

“What? No! You’re not having sex with me only because I’m a succubus…I hope.” He wanted to be hot; usually he didn’t mind it but with Seungmin, he strived to be hot. He just wanted the other to think of him in that way. Evidently, with his position now, the other respected him and his opinions. Seungmin got rid of everyone who he thought was a liability so…he wasn’t that. And he strived to not be in the future either because he can be hot all he wants but if he ends up permanently in Hell or perishes from existence, it would be a problem. Probably. At least the permanent residency thing. If he didn’t exist, he couldn’t miss his life.

“Great. So you won’t be using me if you feed off me especially when I’m telling you to. Now…rate me in Michelin stars.”

He sighed. “Out of three, right?”

Seungmin nodded with a smile and finally, he allowed himself to feel the energy between them. He was taken in by the sexual energy pulsing around them and it took him a while to realise that it wasn’t just his groin. Usually when he feeds lately, he’s not actually aroused himself too and he’s forgotten how incredible it can feel maybe on purpose, so he doesn’t miss it as much.

It was exquisite. There was no other adjective for the experience of feeding from Seungmin’s sexual energy. He got so horny, he was moaning just from the taste and found himself grinding in Seungmin’s lap. It was such an energy-boost but it was like eating food that wasn’t just rich but tasty and that complimented his palate. His mouth more than fizzed; it felt like an explosion of ‘ great’ and ‘ambrosia’ and ‘ichor’ and he didn’t know what to do or how to do it. He didn’t even know how to simply feel; he was the recipient of the experience, getting filled with Seungmin. 

“Three stars.” he gasped and then he couldn’t contain himself. There was just something in him; maybe he was drugged on the arousal feedback loop but it took him no time to lube up and bounce on Seungmin’s dick which felt hotter than usual.

—----------------------------

He felt like a thief in his own temporary home but he needed to pull this off. It was a matter of state affairs!

“Do you need help brainstorming or…?”

“I’m good, thanks.”

He wasn’t but he wasn’t about to take advice from Jisung  when he hadn’t taken any advice from Seungmin’s assistants either.

They all assumed it would be a sex thing…and it would be but he had to make it special while keeping it private. Tomorrow was the equinox; a very powerful day for all of the down world but most importantly for him for it was Seungmin’s birthday. It doesn’t matter that it was many eons ago; he still gets to celebrate. Of course the king of Hell was born on such a prominent and magical day.

“So what do you want for your birthday?” he blurted out as they stood facing each other, working on paperwork. There was surprisingly a lot of it…maybe because it was hell.

Seungmin glanced at him, told him he’d look cute in a cat headband and glanced back to his work, soon becoming absorbed. He’d hoped for more help but Seungmin could be simple at times, wishing only for small things so…he’d consider his wish but also go bigger and give him something he would remember at least until his next birthday and he was quite proud of himself for pulling it off. A party at the Institute to celebrate just Seungmin; the equinox was a powerful day but after celebrating it for centuries, many got bored of it.

The human world had a lot of nice things; a lot of darkness too - even more than the Underworld and skinning demons for art projects - but thanks to their need to make money and perhaps some creativity, he had a lot of options. No one bats an eyelid when he checks out a wire cat ear headband. It has glitter! There were ones with flowers but he thinks that would make him look too innocent. He may be an angel, a Nephilim…but he wasn’t innocent. When humans thought of angels, they tended to assimilate the two but technically, angels were just supernatural beings that had a lot of power and knowledge. Indeed, the oldest angels were depicted with many, many eyes. He did see a lot of things though not as much as he wanted. He couldn’t see the future and check whether Seungmin likes his idea so it’s a risk but one he’s confident about.

He knows that Seungmin keeps some distance between him and his subjects but it means that he shouldn’t invite them to Seungmin’s party. Luckily, while influential, he only influenced Hell directly and there were many other groups in the downworld. So he invited those he knew from life - several decades and centuries of it - and from his course (and Seungmin’s though sometimes he doubted they attended the same classes because he rarely showed up even though he got better at attending recently).

People were of course surprised to receive the invite but he wanted it to be low key, chill even and he knew to many’s surprise that Seungmin could be chill. 

“I didn’t know that Seungmin had any chill.” Jisung commented.

“Of course he does! Our whole arrangement is about that. Not work though.”

“Are you sure about that?”

“What? Of course we can be professional. Work is very important.”

“Not what I meant, stupid.”

“Who are you calling stupid?”

“You, obviously…thank you for proving my point.”

Ugh. His friends could be infuriating and when he asked what he meant, all he got was another question. 

“What is your arrangement exactly? How chill is it?”

“Very chill.”

“So you’re seeing other people? Is he?”

“No, we’re not…as far as I know though maybe he is.”

g“So you also can? Who will you date?”

Date? The only dates he’s had this century were bad ones and calendar ones. 

And surely Seungmin didn’t have the time to date, right? He’d seen how busy he was though he wouldn’t put it past him to try anyway. He was chaotic like that.

He opened his mouth to reply that he won’t date anyone ‘thank you very much’. He wasn’t interested but he wasn’t given the opportunity.

“You’re dating someone?”

“He’s not!” his surprising saviours said “But he probably will. We were asking him who he would date.”

They were traitors. They shouldn’t make this about him on Seungmin’s day! It was disrespectful. Also, if not for him, then for them because if Seungmin felt slighted, he can just smite them.

“Oh really? Who would you date?”

“No one! They were just kidding!” he defended himself.

Seungmin was frowning; subtly but Hyunjin had learned to read him. That was the face he pulled before someone died. Was he going to get new art supplies…or was he the one that would end up as a painting? 

“I see…”

“Really! This changes nothing but even if I was, I swear I would be professional and dedicated.”

He wanted to cover all his bases. He didn’t plan to date because honestly, his prospects weren’t usually stellar but if he does by some miracle get a good option (more than one was too far-fetched), he would still serve Seungmin. He was learning so much and honestly…maybe the power was getting a bit to his head because wherever he goes, people cower even above land. He wouldn’t have that without Seungmin. Of course he was trying to reign it in and remain humble but he does secretly like it.

“I’m sure you will. Well…hope he’s worth it.”

“There’s no him!”

“Her? They? Zie? Whatever.”

Seungmin just turned around and left. It had been a while since he’s been dismissed like that and it kind of hurt.

“Dude…he was so totally jealous.”

“Would you two stop it!”

“Hey, what did I do?” Changbin complained but Hyunjin had a lot of experience in ignoring him.

“I don’t want him to be stressed today of all days! He should be having fun. Why is he worrying about any hypothetical dates I have?”

“Oh…I don’t know…maybe because he likes you?”

He burst out laughing. Sure, Seungmin liked him enough but liked him liked him? Preposterous. “Don’t joke now. I need to make sure that the birthday king is happy. See you later.”

His departure was a bit less abrupt than Seungmin’s but only because he tried.

His arrival was delayed by someone from the institute. A professor or one who volunteered to teach knowledgeable minds to help them learn. Hyunjin always thought he was a bit ego-centric but seeing as he himself started liking power, he couldn’t really judge.

Although he doesn’t remember inviting him. Was he gate crashing?

Sure, the party was actually being held at the Institute because he wanted Seungmin to have a break from Hell but Seungmin donated enough to keep the Institute afloat so it was free. He didn’t even offer to rent it, just went to the principal and let him know that he’d like the premises after hours for Seungmin’s birthday party and the principal wasn’t a fool so he said yes.

“Hyunjin-ah, what a great party. You must be learning a lot about organising events.”

He actually was; before he’d never organised a party that wasn’t a few people stuck in one of their places of residence but now he’s done several and found it easier.

“I am.”

“You have matured so much recently. I cannot help but admire that. Nephilim rarely get involved in Hell business anymore. Yes, you have everything under control and it shows. It’s very hot how you have a king wrapped around your finger. Would you like to get a drink some time?”

He blinked. Being hit on wasn’t a strange concept for him and technically, professors at the Institute weren’t really professors and he had a feeling he was actually older between them. He didn’t know how to control his powers fully hence why he took classes but he wasn’t helpless either. He just wanted to make full use of the potential he had. If he’d allow one Professor some liberties though, it wouldn’t be this one.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea, Professor.” he shut it down before it continued.

“Are you sure?” he asked, accompanied by caressing his arm softly. “I must admit that you are very charming and I’ve become ensnared by you. Anything you want, I can offer it.”

Maybe he was older but seems like he was getting sugar daddy offers. Not the first time. In Hell, it was pretty safe from him but at the Institute? It had stopped for a while, maybe because they thought he was dating Seungmin or something but now he was getting hit on once more. For sure, being involved with the King of Hell had its perks but seems like they weren’t enough or long-lasting. Maybe people were realising that it was a very chill arrangement and they could get in between their strings. Because there were strings between them; any engagement that lasted long-term had them, but they weren’t strings of fate or anything. Beautiful and chaotically populated but organised like piano strings.

“It wouldn’t work out.”

He sighed but took a step back, nodded at him and turned around with his tail behind his legs. His actual tail; he was a minor devil but nowhere near as chaotic as Seungmin or even Changbin even if the two of them were different types of supernatural beings.

With his way cleared, he continued his search for the birthday King.

“Seungmin!” he whispered. He usually called him by his name but he didn’t want attendees to think he wasn’t being respectful of his ‘master’. There were a lot of expectations from acolytes and he knew all about that…because he’d read firstly all the memoirs he could find and then other books that weren’t written by acolytes but about them. He gave more importance to own voice but it was important to see expectations about him from others too.

“Yes?”

“Are you okay? Are you having fun? Sorry about the weird interaction before. My friends don’t know when to stop.”

“It’s a nice party. Thank you for organising. Professor Kwan was leaning in so much…did he want anything important?”

“Ah he just..erm…no…nothing important.” he blabbered. It was embarrassing saying that someone hit on him because somehow, people made it seem like it was something he should expect. Others went beyond and turned it into his fault and he hated it. Seungmin wouldn’t do that but he wasn’t sure how he’d react so he’ll avoid it. Besides, it was his birthday and he should be focusing on other things.

Which reminded him that he had a great conversation turner. 

“Nothing important? He has a whole sector in Hell that he manages. I’m sure that a drink with him would be a…learning opportunity.”

Was his hearing that good or was it a skill he’d learned? Can Hyunjin learn it? He wants to know what goes on in Hell; it would be useful if he stays…if he has the opportunity to stay.

“Not interested but you know what I am interested in? Giving you your birthday present.”

“Oh really? Not interested.”

He turned around…but he wasn’t doing anything just staring in the distance and smirking.

He was toying with him; quite in character but for a second his heart had stopped thinking that he’d lost Seungmin’s interest. For some reason, it was important that he kept it. He kind of…liked his attention and him.

“Don’t be like that. You’d like it. Promise.”

“You were just flirting with another man.”

“I wasn’t! I was rejecting his advances politely…” he could turn that around even though he doesn’t understand why Seungmin seems to be so prissy “but if you want to punish me for being a slut, guess what? My gift is perfect.”

Maybe Seungmin was faking being jealous and angry; maybe it was his angle of play with his angel. It worked because Seungmin showed his interest by turning to him and placing a hand on his waist. 

“Oh really? Let’s enjoy the party then and you’ll be just mine after, yes?”

He grinned; he wanted nothing less. He had prepared a great deal, both for this party and for his surprise and thankfully they didn’t skip the party even though he was tempted to but he got Seungmin a great DJ and an even greater acapella singing group which he knew the other liked and not so secretly. When you’re the King of Hell and powerful, you don't care about maintaining an image. You could be as geeky and uncool as you’d like and people still respected you.

They danced, they grinded, and they stood in silence next to each other admiring the wonderful voices. They had some great party food; not the cheap frozen ones but made by chefs because Seungmin could be poncy…and Hyunjin acquired the taste. 

Then people started leaving before the clock hit midnight, almost as if they knew that the pair had a birthday to celebrate.

Then they were thanking everyone with promises of seeing them soon (they had classes the next week) and they stepped into a portal that took them home. Seungmin petted his hounds and told his guards - hounds included - to take a break. No one wiggled eyebrows but the dog’s tails did the job.

“So what have you prepared?”

He wasted no time in taking all of his clothes off, putting on the wire cat ears headband and turning and pushing apart his ass cheeks while bending a little. It wasn’t anything that great in itself…but it was a tool. A toy that can be used in many ways if only they had creativity and incentive.

“Happy Birthday Seungminnie.”

“Happy birthday to me. You don’t even need prep. That’s so slutty.”

“Mhm. So slutty and all for you. What do you plan to do with that?”

“Make use of it, of course.” Seungmin said as he caressed the headband almost like they were Hyunjin’s ears (and Hyunjin was a puppy).

Hyunjin couldn’t see him but he could feel him. He felt him harden, then felt him better as layers were shed and discarded.

Seungmin’s cock felt burning; a true one forged in Hell. Hyunjin wasn’t faring much better as the member between his legs extended and filled.

“Ahhh mhmmm” he moaned as he felt Seungmin thrusting against him. In him, by proximity. Seungmin started to rub then, measured and clearly intending movements not simply thrusts in the heat of the moment. He was using his hand to direct everything and his poor puffy hole felt both stuffed and lonely. The plug inside him moved with each push but it wasn’t Seungmin’s dick and that was a tragedy. “You can take it out” he encouraged.

“I don’t want to. This is your gift, no? I’m not wasting it.”

“What are you-” his words were cut with another whimper, released after another thrust.

“I’ll do what I like” Seungmin replied with the smirk carrying on in his words.

He continued thrusting and it was pleasurable but the frustrating thing was that it was not enough. He was only getting ghost sensations of actual penetration; the plug itself was not enough. It was static and silicone and it didn’t move and it wasn’t warm by itself like an actual cock which would twitch inside and fill him so good. 

“Oh stop with the whining or I can make it worse for you” Seungmin warned but he didn’t hear in his desperation. He really wanted more and right now. Instead of the more he wanted, he got something else. “Right, I’m going to gag you.”

He didn’t draw the connection when Seungmin suddenly removed the plug. He thought he was about to get what he wanted and instead…he got the gag in his mouth. Filthy. Pure filth that stopped his protests but not Seungmin’s very creative words.

“There, all quiet. You could make as much noise as you want now. Of course, you could have done that before too because everyone knows what we’re doing here and they better not interrupt but we deserve some privacy, don’t we? There there, don’t worry, I’ll give it good, more for me.”

But Seungmin was a liar because giving it to him involved thrusting but not inside. It was even more maddening than when he’d had a plug in because now he felt extremely empty and each graze against his hole as Seungmin thrust in between his cheeks felt like fuel added to an already big bonfire. It was a pyre really. 

And the buttplug shaped gag in his mouth was filthy; filthier still was that it was an actual buttplug and where it had been. Seungmin’s words were on another level of filth. They could employ cleaners that left everything spotless 24/7 and Seungmin’s mouth would still be a dirty den.

“I know…” two quick thrusts “I said” more thrusts “that you could” really fast thrusts that hit his balls “make as much” a hand that tugged his hair “noise as you’d” one insistent pull “like but…” an exhale and release…of his hair that is resulting in his head bouncing a bit forward “you’re whining too much. Be quiet.”

He swallowed another whine; only because Seungmin asked. Well, demanded.

“Good boy.”

Words that could lift him up and give him wings. He doesn’t have them and they would be cumbersome but they would make him soar, although less than the words alone do.

“Going to paint your thighs white, as they should be.”

No, his insides should be white but he couldn’t whine based on Seungmin’s orders so he tried to tighten his thigh muscles. Usually he would clench his hole but Seungmin was tragically not inside for that.

Seungmin’s cumming wasn’t accompanied by the same sense of elation and triumph like usual because he didn’t cum himself but it still made him feel accomplished. His body had done that; he was still desired.

“Uhm…I’ll choose to be generous.”

His throat was freed and he thought that was all the generosity but Seungmin surprised him by placing the plug back inside…and fucking him with it until he shouted and came. His lips were bitten as he’d tried to maintain the command but in the end, he had been unable to.

Sighing, he relaxed his muscles and did some light stretching to release the tension.

“You know, I’m starting to see a pattern of me gagging on toys.” he teased and Seungmin simply waggled his eyebrows and lifted his chin. Confidently hot and mischievous. 

“Let me help you wash since I rudely made you all dirty” Seungmin offered which made him giggle and ask if there will be a second round but Seungmin shook his head and told him he simply wanted to help.

“That’s kind of you but I’ll manage…if you do want a second round though, feel free to join.”

“Do you need to feed?”

“Oh, that’s not why I offered.”

“I know but are you hungry?”

“...A little.”

“Then we’ll make it a second round.”

It sounded utilitarian but it was anything but. It was light but passionate. Deep in a way that he had forgotten how in the past few decades.

—----------------------------

They have this grand connection but Hyunjin doesn’t know how to trust so it’s always off key. Seungmin really is trying not to project or put too much pressure. He doesn’t want to paint Hyunjin like one of those saintly religious icons. He makes him a better person but Seungmin knows that’s a lot to ask from one person so he tries to be better by himself…by asking ‘what would Hyunjin do?’. Anyone else, he doesn’t have the interest to learn what they would do, much less act like that.

He’s far from a saint himself so a few minor demons end up bursting in flames in his sulky anger. First, the birthday party, nicely organised by Hyunjin but one where his friends were quizzing him about dates and wealthy professors were making advances on him. Then, Hyunjin wouldn’t let him wash him and help him clean even though they had gone for a second round. Sure, it was a small thing but he was trying and getting rejected at each turn. 

It was only by some miracle that he’d convinced Hyunjin to feed from him a few times but seeing the scene in front of him, he feels that effervescent satisfaction already evaporate. 

Now that his birthday was over and his asshole brother (well, one of them who was the biggest thorn in his side) had the indecency to trudge to his domain (all of it was his but this was the main hub) claiming to have belated birthday wishes but really, it was to flirt with Hyunjin.

Does his brother care so little for his own life? Seungmin would be more than happy to help with that.

They had grown up together, but together doesn’t always mean amicable.

“Jeongyup, you’ve given me my congratulations. I don’t think regaling Hyunjin-ah with a sermon will influence my decision to forgive you for not doing it sooner.”

Actually it would because if he continued, he was going to snap his neck. The only reason he hasn’t so far, is because he doesn’t want to traumatise Hyunjin who has seen his fair share of death but never got used to it. Never got a taste of it like he has. There’s a reason why he is the King of Hell but there’s also a reason why he wanted Hyunjin in his capacity.

“Oh come on brother, I was just chit-chatting. You know how boring it gets down here and someone so bright like Hyunjin is a beacon.”

“Go upstairs if it’s boring. Humans have invented several forms of entertainment.”

Jeongyup sighed. “Okay, okay. I can tell when I’m not wanted…Hyunjin-ah, remember my offer, yeah? Anytime you want, just shout my name and I’ll come immediately.”

“Uhm…thanks” poor Hyunjin awkwardly said, clearly out of his element.

“Why don’t you give him your famous berries as thanks?” Seungmin suggested, giving nothing away with his voice or face. In fact, he tried not to even think gleeful thoughts at the deception. Not because his brother had better psychic powers than him but because he could end up unintentionally letting it slip by seeping through his attitude. Seungmin didn’t make it this far without being careful. Sure, he was the embodiment of chaos but chaos wasn’t always unhinged. Sometimes, planning slowly works best.

“Berries?”

“Yes, he put a bowl of cranberries over there for the assistants. I personally don’t like cranberries but maybe you will.”

“Oh! That is such a thoughtful thing. Let me take some.”

He looked at his brother without interest but right after Jeongyup touched the bowl, Hyunjin diplomatically intercepted it.

“Ah…that’s for the assistants as a reward when they do a difficult task. I’m afraid that they’ll sulk if I hand them out to anyone for anything because otherwise, where is the challenge? But here, have these if you want. They’re my favourite biscuits.”

“Oh, humans really know how to make snacks. I’ll take one. Think about my offer.” He left with an obnoxious wink and a trail of crumbs. How dare he waste Hyunjin’s favourite biscuits and why did Hyunjin have to share them with him?

“That bowl wasn’t there before.” Hyunjin spoke with suspicion because he wasn’t stupid and to prove him even more so, he asked if there were baneberries. With a smirk, Seungmin silently confirmed Hyunjin’s suspicions. His acolyte simply sighed and got rid of the berries really well by sealing them in an airtight bag and putting them in his bag. “I’ll throw them out in the human world. Incinerating them would release the poison.”

His chosen really knew plants well but he couldn’t risk harm coming to Hyunjin so with a snap of his fingers, he made them disappear. They were disposed of with more flair than that he used to make them appear.

And his mind kept circling around the same topic.

Offer. Offers. Like the ones that Hyunjin must get all the time. “How many do you get?” he found himself asking without thinking.

“Get what?”

“Offers.”

“Offers? For jobs?”

“No. Whatever my brother said, what he intended was to court you.”

Courting was an old concept but demons still did it. If someone caught your attention, you went for it but also made them feel valued. Nothing beats value amongst downworlders.

“That’s…yeah okay, without sounding conceited, I could tell.”

“So how many offers do you get?”

“Ah. Most aren’t serious. It’s only because of how I look and they’re looking for a one-night stand. I guess, someone shows their interest around once a week? But only if I’m out and about. It rarely happens at the institute and here anymore.”

The fact that it happens at all displeased him. Don’t his subjects know? Well, time to just go for it. He doesn’t have any more patience left. When he started, he had lots of it but each time someone else gets involved, they chip a little bit of it each time. He would care about them winning through Seungmin changing because of them but honestly, he cares more about keeping Hyunjin close than winning mind games.

“Whatever offers others have made, I can beat them. Hyunjin, marry me.”

It was safe to say that Hyunjin was shocked. It was cute how his eyes bugged out and his cheeks puffed with air.

“WHAT? Where is this coming from?”

Had Seungmin not been obvious? The articles…well actually he’d found a lot of contradictory information but he’d tried all of them like getting close to Hyunjin. What was closer than working together? He’d also met his friends and been patient. Not to mention that he’d pushed for Hyunjin to realise his own importance and power.

He’d hoped that…well it was useless what he’d hoped before. Seungmin was nothing if not proactive.

“I think that you would make a balanced partner. You’ve shown that by how much you’ve learned and how much you managed to take on in the past two months.” 

“Me? A balanced partner? Have you met me?”

Why did Hyunjin think badly of himself? Why, when he can think badly of others instead?

“Yes. You’re stable.”

“ Stable? Like, you know my history! Which of that screams stable?”

“You identified your shortcomings and need for improvement and actively worked towards it. That’s very stable and you balance my style. It takes certain characters to rule Hell but I think we’ll work wonderfully. So? What do you say?”

“I…I’m honestly still shocked. What do you mean marriage like…why would you want to marry me? What can I offer?”

“Do you need me to repeat my previous statements?”

Maybe he was in shock? If it was not an expected outcome, then it was a common reaction and he needed to be patient. Something which he’d learned thanks to Hyunjin; not only because he’d taught him that along with some empathy but because he needed that attitude in order to pursue him.

“Right, right …no the offer was clear. Wait, was it an offer or like…”

“It’s an offer. You are free to not take it. I’m not ordering you to marry me.”

He wasn’t offended that Hyunjin thought it; he was who he was. He was actually proud that Hyunjin was covering all the bases; he’d need to do that when negotiating with most creatures. 

“No, I didn’t think it was an order but maybe it’s part of my duties and I never realised?”

“It’s not but…I have to admit that I was hoping that after seeing how well you can be treated in Hell and how needed you are, that you’d want to permanently stay.”

“I…that doesn’t sound bad but can I think a bit about it?”

“Take all the time you need. I won’t bring it up before you do. Will you still be my acolyte?”

“Of course! I gave you my word. What would you do without my help?” 

He was relieved to see Hyunjin joking and smiling. He wasn’t sure what he’d do now that he got used to having help and he let him know but without putting too much pressure on Hyunjin to decide now. He’d asked for time and luckily, he had all the time in the world…and beyond.

—----------------------------

It was the best and most expected time of the year for most of the underworld: Halloween. Which was close enough to Seungmin’s birthday (and the equinox) also welcomed by their kind since time immortal. They did have longer lifespans…which included death. So did humans but that was different; downworlders had more freedom. Hyunjin used to be impatient when he was younger but now he's learned that you don’t rush especially for good things. The anticipation before things happen could be just as delicious as getting what you want. You can prolong the feeling that way; the happiness.

He wondered if Seungmin thought the same way. Or was he impatient? Was five weeks too much? Or did he expect him to take more time so that his decision is solid? Marrying was a big decision to most and marriage that came with so many responsibilities? At least he wasn’t like Persephone; there was no alleged sexual assault involved as in some of the retellings. Maybe he was more like Xochiquetzal not because he was beautiful seeing as she was one goddess of beauty but because she and bad boy Tezcatlipoca were getting it on in the Underworld…although it was ruled by Mictlantecuhtli and Mictecacíhuatl not by Seungmin so if he accepts, they will be like them!

“I’ve never seen you so conflicted. Come on. Today is supposed to be the funnest of nights and you literally have an invite to a party in Hell, for once open to everyone! Pity they can’t let the residents out…that would be way too chaotic even for my tastes but cheer up!”

He sighed “Changbinnie, I literally organised this party. It doesn’t remain that fun anymore.”

“It should be more so! You get to enjoy the hard efforts of your labour!”

“Okay but…Seungmin asked me to marry him. Should I?” He finally asked the important question that had been plaquing his mind since the opportunity was uttered. He wasn’t close to an answer because it was such an unexpected prospect, how does he even wrap his head around that? Especially since life went on and as busy as even these past five weeks.

“Please, as if I would fall for such a prank. You need to be more creative.”

“Yeah bro, we weren’t born yesterday.” Jisung said as he was shaking another cocktail…he’d discovered an aptitude for being behind the bar while Changbin skipped being security this time, so he could enjoy the party. Also because there was enough security in Hell. The dogs lay by Hyunjin’s feet - chief of which was Kkami whose ‘Kkami is Hell’ adventure turned out to be very fruitful and enjoyable by his tiny top dog - and he had no qualms about petting them. As time passed, Changbin was forgoing his own reservations and eventually he was on the floor petting the loved-up hellhounds but not Kkami who turned his back to him and curled around Hyunjin’s feet instead. Betsy took quite a liking to the imp. 

“I’m not joking. He said I'm a great help and asked me to marry him on his birthday but the choice is mine now and I don’t know…” his hand grabbed short but soft hair and the hounds’ tails thumped in happiness. Looking around, Hell felt like home already. He has a good, powerful position. His voice is heard and he can keep peace even among demons and when Seungmin’s thirst for blood is high, he can bring it down slightly and let nature - but not disaster - run its course. He doesn’t mind as much when Seungmin brings him new ‘art supplies’ in the forms of hides and blood and horns.

Seungmin wants to change his status from acolyte to consort, or maybe a partner. He would be a fool to refuse that when he has it so good. Seungmin’s plan of making him see his worth by offering him his role had worked. And sometimes, he feels downright venerated even if he has a pale pink collar around his neck. There’s the bracelet - still wrapped around his wrist - to remind him of important stages of his life in Hell and it made him wonder just how many more would be added in the form of charms.

“You know what, I’m going to say yes.”

“Wait hold on…what colour do my clothes have to be for weddings in Hell?”

Was Jisung sipping the drinks behind the bar? He seemed so chill while Changbin had an anxiety attack about Hyunjin’s safety and he only calmed down once Hyunjin admitted to feeling safer down here than out and about above.

That same night he went to look for Seungmin. In fact it was barely fifteen minutes later according to his phone’s clock since time travelled differently here and while he got used to it, he still calculated with ‘above time’.

“Seungmin-ah?” he needn’t shout or vie for attention; once Seungmin saw him, he left the group dance he was part of. He didn’t need to ask to move the conversation elsewhere either as with a warm hand on his back, he was guided to Seungmin’s private room.

“I think I have an answer for your proposition.”

Seungmin visibly perked up; he wasn’t that different from his hellhounds! They did say that dogs and owners had similar characteristics and he saw it now.

It wouldn’t be a hardship to spend eternity (or until divorce did them apart) with this man. Marriage and divorce were both hard but Seungmin would make it seem natural and effortless, he was sure. Encouraged, he opened his mouth and let the other know he accepted.

“You’ve thought about what it would mean? That you’ll be my consort and have to help me rule Hell? You’re good at it but being good doesn’t mean you’d want it.”

Seungmin was very practical. Theirs would be a good match. “I have. I already do it anyway and if I want a break…I’ll ask. Will that be okay?”

“With two of us, it allows for breaks and holidays.”

“You’ll also be able to take a holiday?” he asked, worried that Seungmin will take the brunt of the work even if they should split it.

“I can always nominate a proxy…and if they mess up…well…”

A sinister smile should not be so hot. He gulped, hoping that he won’t mess up.

“And if I mess up?”

“For you, I give allowances but there’s always fun punishments too…and it goes both ways. I will probably mess up too. If there’s something in my leadership you really don’t like, feel free to let me know.”

“And punish you?” he wiggled his eyebrows. Usually it’s him on the receiving end but it would be fun to, for example, edge him until he’s desperate. Or cuff him and not allow him to touch. And it seems like Seungmin thinks the same as his eyes sparkle and the sexual energy around him goes haywire.

“And…on a more personal note…are we exclusive?”

Seungmin frowned and hesitantly said yes. He simply nodded; having the consort sleep around would be a bad political move. He’d read the books and seen the movies; recently more than previously.

“Okay, no problem. Exclusive then. It goes both ways right?”

The idea of being put in a position where everyone looks up at him only to be abandoned when Seungmin finds someone more interesting does not appeal to him at all.

“Of course it does.”

“You won’t find someone else that’s more interesting?” he asked, needing to know before he fully goes for it.

“More interesting when I have you? You’re the most interesting individual I know and you’re beautiful, smart, and headstrong in addition.”

To say that he was floored was an understatement. 

“You think I’m beautiful?”

“Me and half the world. The others haven’t seen you yet.”

He wasn’t flattered by the number; he was flattered that Seungmin thought so. “I’m more interested in what you think.”

“Then yes, put simply, you’re beautiful.”

“And you think I am smart?”

“You navigate difficult situations strategically and you are emotionally smart too.”

He nodded and didn’t ask about ‘headstrong’ because that he knew he was though he would call it ‘stubborn’. “Thank you for saying that. You’re striking yourself and really intelligent. You can read everyone. Let’s get married then.”

“You made me wait for a while…”

What were a few weeks for their lifespan? He whined. “You said to take all the time I need. That I should…”

“I know, but you made me wait. I think that garners…a punishment.”

Oh. It was about that huh? Celebration was needed.

“Oh yes, I’ve been so bad. But first, let me plead my case.”

“You may plead and beg…there’s some demons milling around.”

Hyunjin shrugged. He wanted to be respected but now he realised that he was. And these were demons. They didn’t think that sex should be synonymous with guilt especially when they didn’t do anything wrong. There were some lust demons that would beg to see them. 

“I don’t mind if they see something…but not everything. That’s only for us.”

“Agreed. I don’t want anyone else to see you at your most vulnerable and hottest. That’s for me only now.”

“Mhm. We haven’t sealed the deal yet.”

“Do we have to? Do you want to have sex with someone else before we get married?”

“Nah. Just make sure to give it to me good…but now let me lead a little. I have a plan.”

“Sure…and then I’ll punish you because I also have a plan.”

Two men with plans; a match made in Hell. Everything sounded really promising. It got even more so when he approached the other, closing the little bit of distance between them and cutting the chase but not the tension by putting his hand on Seungmin’s fly. Slowly, looking at his face, he pulled down the zipper by sensation alone.

“I’m going to wrap my hand around you and get you hard.”

“Probably won’t take long.”

“Shhhh” he shushed him. He just wanted them to enjoy it and they both clearly were. Seungmin wasn’t holding his gasps in and his gaze was burning, eliciting heat inside Hyunjin. It was the kind of burn that settled in his gut and spread in other directions while also intensifying.

Seungmin was right but he himself didn’t think it would take long anyway. By now he knew exactly how and where to touch, what level of wetness and grip Seungmin liked. He removed his hand and with the other, he pushed on Seungmin’s shoulder until he sat down on a chair. Then he licked his hand because he wanted it to be clean…yeah right. He enjoyed the tangy taste.

Quickly, he removed his own trousers - maybe he should have worn a skirt; it would have made things quicker - followed by his underwear which was tossed on the closest table. Now, he could get lube but it was too far. Sure, he can summon it with magic he learned at the institute but he wasn’t sure if he could concentrate enough to not blotch it up. As a succubus he could relax and it would be okay; only mildly discomforting until it gets pleasurable. It helps that he’s lived long enough to have figured his body out.

Luckily, he was avoided the discomfort because Seungmin could telekinesis a bottle of lube just fine and by the time Hyunjin straddled him, the other presented him with it. Smiling, he made quick work of opening himself just enough to get on with the programme. Fingering could be its own thing; the process was usually also just as good as the final outcome but today he really wanted Seungmin inside, to seal the deal and celebrate in their own way. He bit his lip and moaned, giving the other a sincere show. 

The moment he sat on that dick, he sighed because no matter how many times they did it; it was always good. 

Some noise outside let him know that the party was still on going.

“I think we’re getting visitors.”

So Hyunjin got up but not off (at least not yet) and sat down facing the door because he would probably throw a tantrum if they separate now . He adjusted his shirt to give him some privacy and it was good that he did because Seungmin’s brother (at least the one he knows) and two high ranking officials entered without knocking.

It was only on that day that this was permitted; Hell had an open door policy but only one way. To go out, everyone needed permission in case someone that couldn’t tried to sneak out.

“Happy Halloween! Oh Hyunjin-ah, you wore a costume like humans do! Are you by any chance, the guy from the movie ‘Risky Business’?” Jeongyup joked.

Hyunjin couldn’t be him because he wasn’t wearing underwear but he couldn’t say that. Thinking about it was useless because any thought evaporated when Seungmin’s arms wrapped around his midriff as he started to gently thrust into him.

It wouldn’t be super obvious but they weren’t born yesterday either.

“Thank you for the well wishes. As you can see, we are busy.”

“Oh we can…can we keep watching?”

“Get out.”

No one dared to contradict such a direct and aggressive growl ; Hyunjin himself nearly got up to leave instinctively but Seungmin held him down and then he bit his shoulder. It was more of a nibble especially with one layer of fabric protecting him but the nibbles moved slowly up to his neck and that was sensitive.

“Everyone will know you’re mine” Seungmin whispered. “Sorry, you’re not leading anymore. That okay?”

“Ye-ah” he replied. His words broke because of a thrust.

He was shoved off Seungmin’s dick. Rude. But at least only to be turned round because Seungmin ‘wanted to see his face’. Funny, because his face was then pushed back, hard, neck aching a bit deliciously.

It eased and a caress replaced it. Then, fingers migrated from a gentle hold on his neck to enquiring on his lips and only when he opened his mouth, giving permission, were they shoved inside. With the force of it, his head was pushed back once more. He didn’t choke but his throat did spasm a little.

Then he was pounded. He would say mercilessly but it was actually merciful because he wanted it. He came without control right before Seungmin released inside him but he didn’t have enough time to catch his breath before he was shoved up. Seungmin came with him; a necessity because his own muscles trembled and buckled.

“Against the table now. Going to punish you.”

While he knew that Seungmin wasn’t really mad but that this was play, an excuse to have some more different fun…it was hot and got him bothered in the right way.

“Lean down a bit more” Seungmin instructed “I was to see your hole leaking.”

It wasn’t often that he blushed but the mental visual of what he must look like resulted in that.

He heard a particular noise which he was familiar with though usually not for the purpose he guessed (but sometimes yes). Metal jingling which usually meant fun; this time it meant both fun and pain. 

“Spread your cheeks, come on.”

Seungmin sounded impatient so he rushed to obey.

Leather hit him on a very sensitive area on the inside of his thigh but it was clear that that was not where Seungmin was aiming when all the subsequent hits were on his asshole. Usually it was sensitive, now it was a bit painful but again, so fun too. It pulled a moan each time even though sometimes he gasped first.

“How many was that?”

Fuck, he should know better than not to count even though he hadn’t been asked.

“Six?” he guessed just in case.

“Nice try. It was five. You’re getting ten more. Best start counting.”

Fuck, he’d been wrong by one? That stung more than the next hits, which he didn’t forget to count. Finally, he reached the end of ten and held his breath. He wouldn’t put it past Seungmin to decree the need for more spanking (he’d done it once before and Hyunjin had ended up crying but he’d honestly needed it that day) but it seems like this time, they were done.

“Good. You were so good and took it well. Well done.”

Slowly, he straightened his back and turned round. Seungmin was smiling slightly and in his hand was his belt, folded in half. At least he hadn’t used the metal part…he wouldn’t put it past his sadistic tendencies. 

It’s not like it was dangerous for him; he usually heals quickly and while the residents didn’t have access to remedies (some may call it ‘magic’ but it wasn’t exactly magic just their abilities and accumulated knowledge for best usage) they existed and the…he guesses the ruling party and their associates can make use of them.

“You know that was me humouring you, right? I didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Shhh, humour me some more.”

Hyunjin smiled wider than Seungmin because in his head, he imagined the trump card.

“Oh, I definitely can do that.”

Seungmin squinted, like he knew he was going to pull something; and he did. Specifically, he pulled forward the belt with both hands. He didn’t encounter any resistance but Seungmin’s gaze was still inquisitive. That ended when he opened his mouth and pulled out his tongue, then proceeded to lick Seungmin’s cum from his leather belt.

The kitten licks served to set both of them on fire, though Seungmin still insisted that that ‘was nasty’. Nasty enough to lead to round two that was slower and calmer than the first. Dare he call it ‘comforting’ too although he wasn’t sure what elements of what they did gave him that sensation but at least they didn’t pull any muscles.

“Come on, feed from me. It’s free food.” Seungmin encouraged and for once, he had no qualms about that and no split second hesitation which always came out whenever Seungmin offered because he was agreeing to marry him and also he wasn’t scared of Seungmin anymore though he will always be wary of someone so chaotic and powerful.

Afterwards, he was calmer and less hassled about the party since it was clear that everyone was enjoying it as festivities could still be heard from Seungmin’s room. That night in particular was the longest for most of the underworld inhabitants, including them, which was why they had gone for two rounds immediately without any breaks and probably had more in them.

“Hey Seungmin? Would you want anyone to ever watch us have sex?” he asked point blank. He was curious; they’ve discussed doing things in public but watching them for the whole duration? That was not clearly on the table but he was checking if it was. For him personally, it would depend on who. He preferred humans because he didn’t care about their respect. His friends would be weird. Maybe Jeongin…only because he was always watching everything anyway.

“Depends who” Seungmin answered, in line with his thoughts “as long as it’s not my brother, then it’s up to you.”

Ah, not exactly the same thoughts but similar. Perhaps it would be awkward for Seungmin as well? “Awkward?” 

“Something like that.”

“Come on. You want to seem mysterious to me as well?”

“On the contrary…I want you to know me which is why I did all this…” a sigh “I don’t like how he speaks to and about you and I don’t like how he’s always trying to touch you and feel you up.”

Truthfully, Hyunjin didn’t like it but he could tolerate it for peace. Also because Jeongyup, as Seungmin’s brother, was higher on the food chain than him. But maybe it wasn’t the case if Seungmin was almost…

“Are you jealous? ” he couldn’t help but ask and was surprised when he simply admitted it point blank.

“Although, it’s more irritating. I know you don’t like him but I don’t like how he has the audacity to be so blatant, especially because he knows that I love you, so…”

And that’s the point where everything stopped spinning and nothing made sense. His blood froze and time stopped until gravity pulled him down. “What? What do you mean you love me? What sort of love are we speaking about here?” 

He moved slightly away so he could see Seungmin better and also so he could hyperventilate farther away from him. 

“What did I say that’s so shocking?” Seungmin asked, confused.

Why was he confused? That was Hyunjin’s role at the moment!

“All of it! I agreed to be your lover, acolyte, and consort but not like, your romantic partner!”

“Isn’t that part of lover? I thought it was obvious…do you not want to be my partner?”

The tiny voice he used made his breath hitch. “I do like you” he said in an equally tiny voice “but you really shouldn’t assume that things are clear.”

“You are right. I thought that marriage is inherently about love these days…but maybe I shouldn’t use modern human media to inform myself on that.”

He burst out laughing. Just the idea of Seungmin watching romance to inform his action plan was hilarious.

“So you really love me?” he asked.

“Yes. Like I said, I wanted to show you how important you are here. I thought you understood.”

“Seungmin-ah, you never actually told me you loved me before. Mind reading isn’t an ability that I’ve learned.”

“Oh. I can teach you.”

“Not the point though that would be cool…wait, have you ever done that on me?”

“I respect you too much for that…but I had a peek into your friends’ minds to see what they think. Needless to say that was a fruitless exercise and I regret it. I worry about your friends really. Changbin was thinking explicitly about Chan and Jisung was thinking about what to eat…for the whole month.”

Giggling, he kindly let him know that if he worried about them then they were his friends too.

“Give me a few minutes to take it in.”

“You can spend another six weeks thinking about it if you want.”

His brows were surely furrowed in concentration. He thought hard but not long; he didn’t need to. In the end, the solution was very simple and clear.

“We should toast or have another celebratory round…we’re doing this” he cheered as he gave his answer with a smile and relief that made him question whether he was an empath before he realised that it was purely his emotion. It felt good not fighting his feelings and having a clear vision of their future, together. Seungmin wanted him in a non-utilitarian way!

Seungmin smiled. It wasn’t a foreign sight these days but realising that Seungmin had been smiling at him regularly floored him even more. “To ruling Hell together!” Seungmin cheered.

“I thought Hell isn't ruled?” he teased.

“Yeah...I may have been too cocky but I'm used to not showing weakness.”

But Seungmin had slowly shown him his weaknesses: the irritation and jealousy of others, the frustration before and after meetings, the worry about being sidelined and someone else taking his place…all moments which Hyunjin realised he should treat as precious because only he had been shown such vulnerability. 

“Thank you for showing me your weaknesses, I promise to not take advantage of that.”

“Already giving your vows? I think we need at least some witnesses. Maybe Jeongin-ah can be one but we need another.” It was not Seungmin’s turn to tease and it made wings - he wasn’t sure which kind - brush against his ribcage.

“Are you sure about getting married? It sounds like a bad idea so soon.”

“You should know by now…bad ideas are fun.”

Bad ideas are what got him here so maybe what looked like bad ideas at first, were actually good ones. Hyunjin couldn’t wait to put his smarts more in use to help Seungmin…and stand right next to him and become the balancing weight that Hell needed all while looking like a runaway model beside him! Minho had thanked him for the burden-sharing too early but rightfully so...maybe the other was really a Seer.

Now that he knows the power he holds…Hell was going to be a bit more ethical.

“They are though you becoming the King of Hell so early in life must have been burdensome. Why did you do it? Was it actually for fun? To mess with the order?”

He wanted to understand his soon-to-be husband more. Just to know him more and for no other reason though of course knowing him more would result in better help.

“Actually, once I met you, I could see you’d be a great balancing act with me and I knew to become king. My parents had ruled for too long and became sloppy. The king of chaos that was dangerous for up above. I had been wanting change for a while. Hell may be chaotic at first glance but it also thrives on balance because without it, Heaven wouldn’t have such a high status.”

All this philosophy hurt his head but he still took time to discuss the intricacies that made up Hell: the place he would soon help manage. 

Without his consent, his thoughts drifted away to simpler and happier thoughts until he gasped.

“Wait hold on, I take it back. I’m not marrying you now. If you love me, we’re going on a date first!” he prompted.

Seungmin sulked about that; clearly he had been looking ward to the marriage but with honey-coated words and a few comforting touches, Hyunjin let him know that he was here, that Seungmin needn’t contain all this chaos on his own and that, in the end, they would still get married after they’ve had their fun.

Seungmin’s mood changed then. “That’s true. I can imagine all the chaos we can wreak together. Your stance about public sex will be very useful.”

He will, very soon, marry a chaotic top demon. They needn’t go on many dates before they get married because married people can enjoy dates too.

And then they will go down under…he’d insist on the human tradition of a honeymoon in Australia with the excuse of avoiding his non-Hell chaotic friends who he could already see opening their mouths for the classic ‘I told you so’.

No matter what anyone would have told him, he wouldn’t have believed that Seungmin actually loves him. But Seungmin had done well in showing him. Once he’d said it, Hyunjin didn’t even doubt him even as flabbergasted as he was. Even if he was marrying a Chaos Demon, not even once did he think this was a prank because by now, he knew Seungmin.

Which is why he told him that they were not using baneberries as their wedding confections to get rid of undesirable demons. Their wedding may take place in Hell - venue was still up for debate - but it would be pure.

What happens after the wedding…as proven by evidence, he wasn’t opposed to let Seungmin have his fun. He knew who he was marrying and that was a big source of comfort. Comfort and Hell should be opposed but if Hell had Seungmin, then it wasn’t so strange.