Drizzm Visits Ensharra - Full Story (incomplete)

demon, demon king, demon on human racism, violence, romance, polycule, death mention, magic, fanfic, obey me

When I thawed from being a statue I spend the first week or so just spending as much time with Diavolo and Lucifer as possible. They may visited me over the centuries, but it still felt like lost time. Diavolo even threw a whole festival celebrating my return. However, we couldn’t continue to just spend all of our time together, as they had work to do. But I didn’t have anything to do during the day, apart from drawing and helping Barbatos around the castle.

Then one day Barbatos sighed that he was going to have to check on Ensharra, Diavolo’s father, to check if he was still asleep. He obviously didn’t want to do it, but I was surprised that he was in the castle. Barbatos told me that Diavolo had him thrown in the dungeon to pay for his crimes against a civilian of the Devildom and violating human rights.

“I can check on him,” I offered.

His eyes widened in surprise, “Why? I wouldn’t imagine you want to talk to a demon that tried to kill you.”

“Because I’m curious about him,” I shrugged, “And I branded him with my pact mark. I’m really curious to see it.”

He sighed, debating for a second, “Are you sure?”

“Barbatos.”

“Alright,” he conceded, leading me to the dungeon and leaving me at the door to Ensharra’s cell block. He nodded, excusing himself and I opened the door.

Ensharra’s cell was the second cell in for some reason. He was hanging upside down like a bat, sleeping. His back was facing the bars so he could be faking for all I know.

“Ensharra,” I called to him. I was leaning against the far wall, arms crossed.

No answer.

I called again, but louder.

No answer.

Alrighty.

I summoned a snowball and threw it at his back, making it stick and freezing it colder. Suddenly he jolted awake, shaking his body to try and dislodge the snow. I made it dissipate and he slipped down from the ceiling, glaring at whoever was so rude as to wake him in such a way.

I smirked at him, “Morning, sleepyhead.”

He growled at me in response and huffed before standing and crossing his arms like me. Something about him seemed different. Not just the lack of red, I noticed that when I froze his powers. But something else seemed different.

“Are you shorter,” I questioned, squinting at him as I thought.

His eyes became slits as he couldn’t possibly glare at me harder.

“Wow, you really are. Were you inflating your height? Talk about self-esteem issues. It’s like owning an overly large truck.”

“Are you just here to mock me, human,” he finally retorted.

“He speaks! What a miracle,” I mocked, “You could have answered me instead of attempting to stonewall me.”

“I have nothing to say to you, human.”

“What’s your problem?”

“Excuse you?”

“You make Lucifer look humble. Do you have unresolved trauma too? Or are you just naturally an ass?”

He scoffed at me, rolling his eyes, “As if the Demon King would have trauma, human.”

“So you weren’t affected by your wife dying,” I genuinely asked.

“No, it was arranged by me for political purposes,” he explained coldly, “I should have known that with a mother that died during childbirth Diavolo would have grown up weak.”

I glared at him, “I’ll have you know that he’s stronger than you could ever be. You abandoned your son and kingdom to sleep for centuries. Which left Diavolo to pick up the pieces and go through hell and high water to secure his place as defacto ruler. That’s more strength than I think you even understand.”

He looked taken aback before glaring again, “Yet he fell for something as lowly as a human.”

“Don’t forget you have this human’s pact mark branded on you.”

“How could I forget,” he seethed, looking down at it.

“Not very weak, now am I?”

He scoffed again, not answering me.

“Actually, do you mind if I take a look at it?”

He eyed me before coming up to the bars. I approached him and when I did he grabbed me by the throat. I looked boredly at him. I used magic to form words in front of me by freezing water molecules in the air.

REALLY?

I swiped my hand to dissipate the letters.

I DON’T NEED TO BREATHE ANYMORE

Swipe.

CAN YOU LET GO PLEASE?

He scoffed yet again and roughly pushed me away, “What do you mean to don’t need to breathe, human?”

“My life candle is frozen,” I explained, rubbing my sore neck, “I don’t breathe or have a pulse anymore.”

“Intriguing," he deadpaned.

“That’s for sure. So, will you please stop trying to kill me? You won’t get very far.”

“Then leave me alone. I want nothing else from you, human.”

His stomach growled.

“Seems like you could use some food,” I smiled, amused, “How long have you been asleep?”

“I don’t have a way to keep track of time down here.”

“Well I’ve been frozen for 240 years.”

“I told you, human, I do not have a way to keep track of time.”

“Alright, well I’ll just go get you some food.”

He didn’t answer me as I left him to get some food from Barbatos. His attitude was annoying, but considering how he acted when he woke up the first time, I wasn’t really surprised. I was serious when I said he makes Lucifer look humble. I wonder if we can change who the Avatar of Pride is or if that’s like, an inherent thing to Lucifer?

“Hey, Barbatos,” I found him in the kitchen, “Ensharra’s awake and I wanna take him some food.”

“He’s awake,” Barbatos did not seem particularly happy about it, “He didn’t try anything?”

“Oh yeah he choked me out. But I can’t die so joke’s on him.”

“That does not inspire confidence.”

“I’m fine Barbatos, he’s harmless the way he is.”

He didn’t look convinced but he knows he can’t change my mind so just focused on helping me put together a meal for Ensharra. Because he was so big, there was quite a bit of food. I magically carried the food downstairs after thanking Barbatos for his help.

“Ensharra,” I called to him, opening the door to his block, “I’m back with food.”

“I can smell it, human” he replied, waiting for me at the bars of his cell.

I chuckled and slid the food through the hole for it on the bottom of the cell door, “I hope you enjoy it. I had Barbatos help.”

“You made it?”

“I didn’t poison it don’t worry. Though, Barbatos doesn’t seem particularly fond of you so he might have.”

“He wouldn’t dare.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” I leaned against the wall and gestured to his food, “Well? It’ll get cold.”

“You’re going to watch me, human” he seemed put off with his question.

“I was gonna talk to you. Or are you one of those people that don’t talk when they eat?”

He sighed, “You don’t give up do you, human?”

“Nope. I’m notoriously stubborn.”

“Fine.”

I summoned a chair made of ice and sat, smiling at him.

He scoffed but sat at his table with his tray of food, facing me. He took a bite of food and paused. I raised my eyebrows.

“Is there something wrong?”

“No.”

There was no further explanation as he continued eating. Honestly sorta ravenous. The poor guy must have been more hungry than he thought. He finished his first plate within minutes before realizing what he probably looks like and calmly putting the plate on the tray, gently wiping his face with the napkin.

“Apologies, that was unbecoming of me,” he said with trained calmness before reaching for his next plate and eating much more normally, “You said you wanted to speak, human.”

“Now I see where Sunshine gets it from,” I mused.

“Pardon?”

“Diavolo. When he’s in ‘King Mode’ or trying to be guarded in how he speaks. It’s very formal and distancing. Which is fine for political situations, but I’m just some human. No need to keep some front going on.”

He just glared at me. I guess that’s to be expected.

“You know. You caused a lot of pain to Diavolo. He holds guilt over his mother dying and he thinks you resent him for her death. And the sheltered, strict upbringing means he has a hard time really connecting with those he rules. He just doesn’t understand their culture.”

He paused before taking his next bite of food, “Human, do you plan on berating me for things Diavolo has already spoken to me about?”

“As far as I know, there wasn’t a discussion about it. You’ve stonewalled him since the incident and that’s damaging as well. Your son wants a relationship with you and you just make him feel like shit. You’re a bad father.”

“I had to raise him to be the King of the Devildom, human. You wouldn’t know what it takes to be king.”

“Except you forget that’s literally my husband? Before I froze I actively helped him in his duties.”

“You helped him,” his eyes widened, “But you’re a human?”

“And your son is trying to increase relations with the three realms. So a human perspective in many things is accounted for. I used to also go to the Celestial Realm with him for meetings. I was the ambassador for the Human World.”

“Why aren’t you doing anything now?”

“I just thawed a month ago. We’re still testing the waters on what my capabilities are with a frozen life candle. We’re also cautiously watching my candle because we don’t know what’ll happen when it thaws. Will it burn like normal? Will the flame even relight? Do I die at that point? There’s a lot of questions and we want to take things cautiously.”

“Sounds like you have quite the conundrum, human,” he grabbed his last plate of food.

“Right now the answer is doing nothing but having Thirteen keep an eye on my candle.”

“Who?”

“She a reaper I’m friends with.”

“Human, you sound like you have stories like that other immortal mage.”

“Minus being persecuted but yeah probably. But I wonder if my life candle does thaw and I die. What happens to my brand on your chest? Does the seal go away?”

He raised an eyebrow, “Now that’s an interesting question.”

“It’s only interesting because it pertains to you.”

He glared at me.

“What? Don’t be mad because I know how to cut the bullshit.”

“You’ve got quite the attitude, human.”

“Probably, but at least you know what I’m thinking and how I’m feeling.”

“Bad choices.”

I shrugged. He set his last plate down and I whisked them from his cell, “I’m gonna take these upstairs.”

“You don’t need to narrate your thoughts to me, human” he dismissed.

“I was gonna come back but with that reaction I don’t know if I will,” I half-joked. He waved his hand boredly as he stood to go to the closed door in his cell that I assumed was a bathroom. This must be the VIP cells. I trusted there were spells in place to keep anyone from breaking out without at least some magical assistance.

Barbatos was elsewhere in the castle so I washed the dishes and decided I was indeed done speaking with Ensharra for the day. He can wait till tomorrow. I spent the time until Sunshine and Starlight came back drawing. The rest of the evening was spent with dinner and hanging out with my two lights.

“I spoke with your father,” I told Diavolo.

“He woke up,” Lucifer questioned.

“No, I woke him up with a snowball,” I explained as Lucifer chuckled.

“Why,” Diavolo pensively asked.

“Because I wanted to talk to him. I’m also started to go a little stir crazy without much to do during the day.”

“He actually spoke to you?”

“Yeah, probably because he hates me so much. He lured me to him in an obvious trap and choked me. But, y’know, that doesn’t really work anymore.”

“Starshine,” Diavolo worriedly inspected my neck but there were no marks.

“Sunshine, I’m fine. Besides, that got him to sorta start talking. I didn’t really get to anything that could help you connect of course,” I didn’t have the heart to tell Diavolo how Ensharra spoke about his mother.

He sighed and I cupped his cheek, “Don’t worry, I’ll figure why he’s been such an ass to you.”

“You don’t need to do that for me Starshine.”

“Sure I do. This hurts you and if I can help, I’m going to. You know that.”

He sighed, smiling sorta sadly but lovingly at me, “If anyone can get to my father, I feel it’s you Starshine.”

After they ate breakfast the next day I told Barbatos that I’d give Ensharra his breakfast. I actually offered to be the one that gives him the meals from now on. Both to lessen Barbatos’s workload since I was the one to wake up Ensharra and so I get more chances to speak with him and hopefully break down his walls.

“Good morning,” I called as I approached his cell with his food. He was sliding from his spot hanging from the ceiling. He stretched, the fact his hands didn’t touch the ceiling was impressive. I wondered internally how he got the scars on his body. Obviously fighting, but I was curious about the stories behind them.

“Do you like what you see, human” he smirked, doing a little flex stretch to show off his muscles.

I rolled my eyes, sitting in my chair, “I’m an artist. I do that with everyone. You ain’t that special.”

He glared at me as he sat with his food, “Are you going to do this every time I eat, human?”

“Clown on you? Sure, why not. If you’re offering,” I joked.

“I am not.”

I laughed, “That was a joke. But I am going to be the one bringing your food from now on. So get used to seeing this mug.”

“You’re not a mug?”

I raised my eyebrows, “Was that not an expression back then?”

“No, human.”

“I see. Well, mug means face. Get used to seeing my face.”

He huffed, “Great. I have an annoying fly to bother me and my food.”

“And just like a fly I’ll be around long after the food.”

He rolled his eyes, eating in silence, obviously tired of me already. Sucks to suck dude.

“If you’re curious as to the real reason I was looking at you. It’s because I’m interested in the stories behind your scars.”

“Fights, obviously, dumb human.”

It was my turn to roll my eyes, “Yeah no shit, Sherlock. That’s why I said stories, not reason. What happened that got you to the point of getting in the fight?”

“How would I remember,” he yawned boredly as he finished his food. His breakfast was much smaller than his lunch yesterday. Maybe he had reserves to refill before? Is that a thing?

“You look like you have questions again, human” he interrupted my thoughts.

“I usually do. I’m chock-full of them.”

“Your expressions are odd.”

“You’ll learn and get used to it.”

“I hope not. Now take these plates back, human.”

“No.”

“Excuse you,” he glared at me.

“You don’t get to order me around. I don’t play that game,” I asserted, “For one, of course I’d take the dishes like I did yesterday, you dipshit. For two, now you have to ask me nicely to get those out.”

His nose flared as he huffed at me, then growled threateningly.

“Dude, you’re magic-less in a cell. You look about as threatening as a squirrel.”

Instead of answering me he just kicked the dishes out of his cell through the slit into the hallway. He’s such a child. I leaned back in my chair, arms crossed, looking at him expectantly. He copied me on the chair in his room, but he was glaring and tapping his ruby claw. We just stared at each other for a while.

“We really just gonna do this, dude,” I asked, incredulous.

“Stop being difficult, then, human.”

“That’s what I was gonna say. How hard is it for you to say ‘Take the dishes, please’?”

“I do not need to be kind to you, human. I have been more than generous already.”

“Generous of what? Your time that you’ve got plenty of? Cause I certainly don’t see you with any sort of entertainment.”

He scoffed, “Like you’re any better?”

“You must be mentally ill if you’re hearing talking from the walls.”

“I’m not talking to the walls, human.”

“That’s about all you can do in here.”

He tapped his claw faster, eyes narrowing, seemingly debating something. Finally he sighed, “Take the dishes, please, human.”

I raised my eyebrows, “To be honest I expected you to be more resistant.”

“I want you gone,” he glared at me, “And don’t expect it again, human.”

“Oh, I won’t, don’t worry. My hopes are pretty low with you. See you at lunch,” I took his dishes while he sat fuming at me. I washed the dishes and drew until it was time to make his lunch.

“Here’s lunch,” I announced, sliding him his food, “Enjoy.”

I then left him to go bring Diavolo and Lucifer lunch at RAD. I kinda expected him to say something considering how hard he stared at my back. But I got to spend a nice lunch with my lights before coming back in high spirits. Being with them always made me feel so much better. So I was light on my feet and probably had a smile on my face when I went to get the dishes from Ensharra.

“Good afternoon,” I greeted, taking the dishes immediately.

“Did you have somewhere to be for once, human,” he mocked me, tapping his ruby claw.

“Dude, you’ve been awake one day. Shut the fuck up,” I rolled my eyes, “I was having lunch with Diavolo and Lucifer if you must know, your highness.”

“You’re extra rude, human. Did you have a fight?”

“No, you’re just immediately annoying. Also, what do you care if we did have a fight?”

“You should know your place, human. You’re not his equal. You are to do what he wants.”

“We’re married dude. We are quite literally equal and he would agree with me.”

“He’s too soft.”

“And yet he’s much more popular as king than you were.”

“This whole modern generation must be soft.”

“God, you sound like a boomer. The only constant is change, you dipshit. Just because they value different things doesn’t mean they’re soft.”

“Must you insult me, human?”

“You honestly are so easy to insult it’s difficult not to.”

He scoffed, “I can’t believe either Diavolo or Lucifer deal with you.”

“Oh me and Lucifer fought quite a bit when I first arrived because I don’t take his shit. Diavolo and I have just always gotten along. He’s quite adorable, you know?”

He gave me a disgusted look, “He’s the king now, human. He is not adorable.”

“If you say so. I’m gonna go wash dishes now.”

I left him until it was time give him dinner. But Barbatos actually decided that he’d give Ensharra his dinners so I could spend as much time with Diavolo and Lucifer as I can. Barbatos is so thoughtful, we’re lucky to have him support us. So I did just that and spent time with them.

The next morning I brought Ensharra his breakfast, “Good morning, Ensharra.”

He hummed in response, taking his food, “Barbatos was the one that brought me dinner last night, human.”

“Yes. That is what happened. So, what? Did you miss me already?”

“No,” he scoffed, “I just don’t like liars.”

“I didn’t lie to you when I said that yesterday. It wasn’t until dinnertime that Barbatos said he’d give you dinners so I can spend time with Diavolo and Lucifer.”

He wordlessly continued eating, already almost done.

“Do you need more food? I noticed Barbatos gave you less food after your first meal so I sorta followed his lead.”

“Yes, human, this is not enough. I need double this.”

“Oh, well I’ll make sure to let Barbatos know. I don’t want you being hungry down here.”

“Why do you care, human?”

“Because you’re Diavolo’s father and he wants to repair your guys’ bond.”

“Is that really it?”

“Yup. If you weren’t related to Sunshine, or if he didn’t want to repair the relationship, then I’d just forget about you down here.”

“That’s fairly demonic of you, human,” he mused, sliding his dishes under the door.

“Humans are overall pretty shitty and I’m certainly one of them. I just know how to not be a dick anymore. Except to other dicks like you,” I explained, gathering his dishes.

He scoffed and rolled his eyes. I left him and grabbed him some more food, notifying Barbatos what he told me. I guess he gets hungrier without magic. Rip bozo. I returned with the extra food and seemed surprised.

“Why do you look surprised,” I questioned, sliding him the tray nonchalantly.

“I believed you would just increase my food going forward,” he told me, “I didn’t expect to be brought more now.”

“You’re hungry now. So, I brought you food.”

“Why are you being so kind to me, human?”

I sighed, sitting in my chair, “Didn’t you already ask me this? Besides, I’ve gone hungry before. While you still received food yesterday, it obviously wasn’t enough and I don’t want you going hungry.”

“But I tried to kill you. Twice now. And I can’t promise I wouldn’t do it the instant I had the chance, human.”

“You wouldn’t get very far so I’m not particularly concerned.”

He gave me a measured look.

“Yes?”

“Previously you said you were ‘one of the shit humans’. This is is not the behavior of a shit human.”

“Being kind is a choice I deliberately make,” I shrugged, “It feels a lot better than being angry and hateful all the time.”

“Yet you insult me.”

“Sorry, I thought you tried to kill me twice.”

He scoffed, “You’re soft, human.”

“And yet you have my pact mark. It takes more strength to give than to take and hoard.”

He looked at the pact mark in disgust, “Why don’t you just get rid of it already, human?”

“Just so you can try to kill me again? No, thank you. Also, I don’t know how to. I’m not sure how I even did that, to be honest.”

“Of course you don’t,” he gave me his dishes before sitting back at his table, tapping his ruby claw again. He sure does like tapping that thing. I went and did the dishes and spent the rest of my morning in the garden. When I brought Ensharra his lunch he was waiting for me at his cell door.

“Are you alright,” I questioned, keeping my distance as I used magic to give him the food.

“I’m fine, human,” he plainly told me, grabbing his food.

I sat in my chair, “If you say so.”

“No lunch date today, human?”

“Their workload doesn’t always allow for lunch dates sadly.”

He ate for a few minutes before musing, “Why do these 3 days feel so much longer than those centuries?”

“Cause you slept for one of those centuries.”

He gave me a look.

“What? That or I’m so full of entertainment you’re actually remembering the days.”

“You’re a headache, human.”

“Yet you’re the one that initiated the conversation.”

He glared at me and refused to speak for the rest of the conversation. For someone who used to be king, he was pretty immature.

For the next few weeks our conversations sort of just didn’t really go anywhere. He really seemed hesitant to open up. Which like, yeah I guess. But man it was frustrating. Anytime it appeared like we might stop insulting each other one of us says something that irritates the other and we’re back to square one. He was absolutely more frustrating to deal with than Lucifer. But it felt like I was slowly making headway.

“Good morning Ensharra,” I greeted him like normal when giving him his breakfast, still using magic to slide his food to him. He was still sleeping. Unusual, he normally got down when given his food, “Ensharra, wake up.”

No answer. I couldn’t tell what was going on since he slept with his back to the front of his cell. I threw a snowball at him. He shivered.

“You’re awake, now get up,” I scolded.

“Go away,” his hoarse voice retorted.

“Are you sick?”

“Go. Away. Human.”

“Since when have I ever. What do you need?”

“For you to give me peace for once, human” he sighed, stiffly getting down from his perch. Instead of grabbing his food he just sat tiredly at his table.

“Are you not going to eat?”

“I cannot stomach that food at the moment.”

I grabbed his food from his cell, “In that case. I’ll make you something else. What do you like when sick?”

“Peace and quiet.”

“I’ll just ask Barbatos, then.”

He sat with his head in his hands. Poor guy must really be sick. I rushed back upstairs to figure something out with Barbatos. Who then helped me make a soup and put together some medicine for Ensharra. I went back to the cell with my items just to find Ensharra looking like he passed out at the table.

“Ensharra, are you alright,” I called from the front of his cell, his breathing was even, telling me that he fell back asleep. I sighed, relieved but concerned. I wanted to actually check his condition but I wasn’t fond of the idea that he could still try something. No, he can’t kill me, but I still feel pain to some extent.

I steeled myself and walked into his cell, magically unlocking it and locking it when I was fully inside. Hope I didn’t regret this. I set his tray on the table and assessed him. A glow came from my hand as I used magic to try and figure out what his illness was.

He shuddered, “What are you doing, human?”

“Seeing what’s wrong with you,” I stated, concentrating.

“I’m ill. You do not need to heal me. This is will go away by tomorrow.”

“Well, I brought you soup and medicine, so take those at your leisure.”

“Everything is at my leisure in this cell, human” he sighed, sitting up and dragging the tray in front of him by a claw. He sorta just stared at his bowl. Without thinking I brought my hand up to his forehead to check his temperature. He jumped slightly at the coldness of my hand before leaning into it.

“Does my cold hand feel good,” I chuckled, standing more in front of him and putting my hands on his really warm cheeks. The size difference between us was very amusing, my hands barely covering most of his cheeks. He sighed and relaxed into my hands, his scales making his skin slightly rough, but not uncomfortable. I stood there for a few minutes, “I’ll get a rag that I can cool for you. I can’t stand here cupping your cheeks all day.”

He didn’t really seem to like the way that last sentence sounded and abruptly pulled away, “I would appreciate it, human.”

I looked at him amused while he awkwardly started sipping at his soup. Let’s just let that be what it will. I left to get that wet rag for him, just phasing through the bars. He may be sick but I don’t trust him to not make a break for it. I grabbed a few rags so he can put them anywhere else he felt overly warm. He barely made a dent in his food during that time and had already pushed it to the side.

“You’re really sick, huh,” I mused, phasing back into his cell, approaching him.

He sighed tiredly, “I have not been ill in centuries.”

“I don’t imagine one knows they’re sick when asleep.”

“I suppose not, human.”

I put the largest rag across his shoulders, with him sighing in relief at the cold sensation. His wings were sorta spread out and limb as he didn’t have the energy to keep them close to his body. I questioned, “Why don’t you get rid of your wings so you can lay down?”

“Because you sealed my magic,” he said, annoyed.

“I wish I knew how that brand works. I’m hoping it works like a pact, but those don’t normally seal a demon’s powers.”

“Why don’t you actually try something for once, human?”

“Because before you really didn’t seem fond of anything to do with me.”

“I still am not fond of you. But, if you’re the key to my powers then there’s nothing that can be done.”

“How pragmatic,” I half-complimented, half-mocked, “Let me see what I can do.”

I closed my eyes as I concentrated. There wasn’t really the same feeling as with a normal pact but there was an extra energy I could feel connected to me. I furrowed my brows while I focused on the energy. It felt like it was being held by a dam, and I was the dam. I tried releasing a bit of the energy, but it was really difficult to control such an amount of power that wasn’t mine.

Ensharra grabbing my throat broke my concentration, blocking the dam back up. The mark on his chest had the last bits of blue glow fading when I opened my eyes to look at him. He seemed completely better but got frustrated when his small amount of magic power went away and he shoved me away.

“Seriously,” I was exacerbated, grabbing my throat, “I thought we were past this.”

He glared at me, “I will never tire of choking you, human.”

“Kinky,” I joked, “But now I don’t know if I wanna tell you what I learned.”

He sunk on his chair and tapped his ruby claw, frustrated.

“You seem better though. Did that heal you?”

“I recover significantly faster with even a small amount of magic.”

“I see. At least that’s fixed. Your habit of trying to kill me still needs work though.”

He scoffed, “I told you not to trust me, human.”

“I didn’t know you’d be healed when I released some of your magic.”

“That explains why the mark glowed.”

“It feels sorta like a pact. But instead of just openly connecting to and amplifying your power, I am like a dam. I have to consciously release your power and I can control the flow. It’s just difficult because there’s a lot of power to control.”

“Of course it’d be difficult to control my power, little human,” he boasted.

I rolled my eyes, “At least we learned that I have control over you. So we can go forward with that.”

“I do not like that fact.”

“Too bad. That’s the world you live in now. You’re pacted with me, whether you like it or not. The least you could is work with me on it. Since, y’know, you’re sorta reliant on me now.”

He made a noise of annoyance, looking away from me.

“Whatever, dude,” I sighed, “I’m gonna go do something else since you’re feeling better.”

“Like mooch off my son,” he retorted.

“Being married isn’t a mooch. I’d say his dead-beat dad being a closed-off ass eating his food is the mooch.”

He huffed, his nostrils flaring with anger, eyes becoming slits.

“Aw,” I mocked, “did I hurt your feewings? Fucking cry me a river. God, you’re frustrating as fuck. No wonder Sunshine has such heavy clouds.”

“Don’t be so dramatic, human,” he dismissed, “If you hate me that much, then just leave me to sleep.”

“So you don’t have to pay for your actions? I don’t think so. Sunshine gave up after, what, 150ish years? Well, I’ll try twice that if I have to. I have all the time in the world, and so do you.”

He turned away from me, sliding his tray close to him to finish eating his food. I sighed, giving up for the day and going to do something else. Later that night I was complaining about him to Diavolo and Lucifer. They were not happy that I put myself in such a dangerous situation but they know they can’t stop me so they they just let me complain.

“You know you can stop if it upsets you,” Diavolo gently said.

“I know,” I sighed, “But I’m gonna keep trying. He at least speaks to me. It’s just such a shame that he makes Lucifer seem humble. He should be the Avatar of Pride, honestly.”

“Why are you forcing yourself,” Lucifer asked, mindlessly playing with my hair with my head in his lap. Diavolo’s thighs were too big to be a comfy pillow.

“Because I wanna figure out what his fucking problem is. He’s probably just a narcissist but there’s something there. I just know it.”

“Take a break when you need to. You won’t be useful if you’re too frustrated.”

“Yeah, you’re right. Is there time in your guys’s schedule for a vacation anytime soon?”

“Actually, yes,” Diavolo announced, “I booked us a cruise in the Human World next month. I know you’ve felt bored without much to do. Except talk to my annoying father of course. I wanted to surprise you.”

“Well consider me surprised,” I got up from Lucifer’s lap to hug and kiss Diavolo, “I can’t wait to spend a vacation with you two again.”

Lucifer hugged me from the other side, sandwiching me between the two. I sighed with happiness, snuggling closer into them. It’s incredible how no matter how frustrated I get with Ensharra, I can just be hugged by these two and it doesn’t matter anymore.

I excitedly counted the days until our vacation and it was finally the last time I’d be giving food to Ensharra before then. I know I said that I was okay with talking with Ensharra so much, but it’ll be nice to get away from him for a while. It’ll also just be nice to spend a week with Sunshine and Starlight.

“Hey, Ensharra,” I greeted, sliding him his food and sitting in my chair.

“Hello, human,” he returned, taking his usual seat with his tray.

“I wanted to remind you that I won’t be here for the next week.”

“That vacation you’re so excited about?”

“Yup,” I nodded happily, “I can’t wait to spend so much time with them again.”

He just hummed in response, basically ignoring what I said.

“Wow, I sorta expected to say something like ‘You should know you’re not worthy and I wanna kill you’.”

He rolled his eyes, continuing to eat in silence. I just sat there watching him for a few minutes.

“So. Have you decided to work with me?”

He glared at me for a minute before answering, “No, human. In fact, I’m happy you’re leaving for a week.”

“Aw, and here I thought we were becoming friends after all this time.”

“It’s been two months and we are not friends, human.”

“If you say so. You’ve done more talking with me than I imagine you’ve ever done with Sunshine.”

“Do not flatter yourself.”

“So, it’s true? We talk more than you and Dia have ever really talked?”

“We have more casual speech than I did with Diavolo yes.”

“Wow,” I was impressed that he keeps surprising me with how shitty he is, “Do you even know food Dia likes?”

“He will eat what is good for him.”

“Whew, you sound exhausting as a father.”

“And you sound like an infuriating child, human.”

“I’m sure I was. I was a biter.”

He raised his eyebrow at me as I smiled and took his plates.

“See you in a week. Don’t miss me too much.”

He just scoffed and I spent the rest of the day making sure we had everything together for our vacation.

The next week was spent having a wonderful time on the cruise with Diavolo and Lucifer. We were all able to just relax and have fun without worrying about anything. It did suck that I wasn't able to try the food, considering I can't eat anymore. If I try then I just throw it back up shortly later. We explained away at restaurants by saying that I had a strict diet. It was a great vacation either way.

But, too soon, we had to go back to our normal days and I had to go back to attempting to break down Ensharra's walls. It was my first day back and I brought him his breakfast.

“Good morning, Ensharra,” I greeted like usual.

“Morning, human,” he sat in his normal seat as he ate.

“Did you enjoy your peace while I was away?”

“Yes. However, now you're back to annoy me.”

“Our talks have to be more entertaining than doing nothing or sleeping. I mean, you keep talking to me.”

He rolled his eyes, “Don't consider yourself special, human, because you're marginally better than this cell.”

“Oh, I'm plenty special. It's how you have my pact mark.”

He glared at me.

“Dude, will you please just work with me on this? If you do, I can try to see what I can do to get you out of the cell for a while.”

He gave me a measured look as he kept debating.

“As long as you stop trying to kill me I’ll help you. I kinda have this habit of trying to help people.”

“Even those that try to kill you?”

“I've literally been attacked by almost every brother, and even killed by Belphie. I still helped them all become a family again.”

“Fine,” he sighed, “I do not like this, human. Remember that. But you have my word that I will not attempt to kill you again.”

I smiled, “Would you rather we spend the mornings or afternoons practicing?”

“The mornings so I can get you out of my hair earlier.”

“Alrighty, if you're done eating, then why don't we get started?”

He nodded and I reached for his power, trying to release just a small amount. I was looking to just make the pact mark and his usually red areas glow. But he has so much power that it's like trying to pour just a drop of water from a large bucket.

What would happen is I'd start carefully releasing his power but it'd heavily tip in balance and a large amount will suddenly flow through, causing me to sorta panic and shut the dam again. So Ensharra would randomly have bursts of power that were suddenly taken away with a second.

“Enough,” Ensharra commanded, sighing, “The fluctuations are giving me a headache.”

“Oh, I'm sorry,” I also sighed, “I'm honestly also feeling quite tired. Controlling your powers is very difficult to do.”

“It's hard to believe that you're that immortal mage's apprentice.”

“Well, I haven't actually done any training with him since I thawed. He's been too busy with affairs in the Human World.”

“No wonder.”

“First, you were proud of how difficult your powers are to control. And now you're shaming me for having a hard time. Can you decide on something?”

He just hummed in response and left for the bathroom, ending our conversation. I sighed and took his dishes, as well as get his lunch put together. After giving him his lunch we sat in silence as I focused on manipulating my magic powers for more personal practice.

I was hoping that it would make it easier to control Ensharra's powers. It was also just good for me to get into the habit of practicing again.

The next few days went by with us, well mostly me, practicing in the morning and recovering over the afternoon. Controlling his powers caused a lot of physical exhaustion. It feels like my magic is the dam and, while it's totally stable when blocking all of his, as soon as I start letting some magic through it becomes significantly harder to keep the dam steady.

“I think I'm gonna take a break from this for a few days,” I sighed after one of the training sessions, “I'm feeling really drained.”

“How weak,” Ensharra taunted, “You've barely made progress.”

“But I have made progress.”

He scoffed.

“It's not like we both don't have plenty of time. We'll get there.”

“There is no we, human.”

“Why don't you just call me by my name already?”

“You do not deserve the respect, so I never bothered to remember it.”

“It's Drizzm.”

“You still do not deserve the respect.”

“What? Do I have to be of sufficient service to you or something?”

“You will never have my respect, human. Your kind is below us in every way.”

I sighed, “I just need to remember this is all for Sunshine.”

“Just leave us be. He is not worth my time.”

“That's such a shitty way to think about your son.”

“I do not care what you think.”

“I'm not the only one that thinks so. He does too. Can you just stop being an ass and actually listen to us?”

“What does it matter? Our relationship is far beyond your ability, or anyone's ability, to fix.”

“It would be. If you just wanted to.”

“I said he is not worth my time.”

The exhaustion was getting to me and I got angry, fuming like he often does. Suddenly the pact mark glowed as my magic swelled in an odd way and he jolted. The surprise made me calm down and insanely curious. I emulated the way I moved my magic and he jolted again, along with the pact mark glowing.

“Stop that,” he ordered, glaring at me.

“Ohohoho,” I laughed with mischievous glee, “Seems I've found your shock collar.”

“Do not do that again, human.”

“And how do you plan to stop me?”

He fumed as I left to make his lunch, laughing the whole time. I continued having a smug attitude all day and I excitedly told Diavolo and Lucifer.

“I think I have a foolproof way to discipline Ensharra,” I announced, “I accidentally found a way to essentially shock him through my pact mark.”

“Accidentally,” Lucifer raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

“He was being really mean and it got to me. But because I'm tired from practicing, my magic moved in a weird way and it shocked him.”

“What did he say to upset you so,” Diavolo cupped my cheek.

“He was actually being mean about you,” I said, but I didn't really want to say what he told me.

Diavolo looked sadly at me.

“Don't look like that Sunshine. I'll use this new power of mine to great use.”

“Can you do it consistently,” Lucifer asked.

“I'm not sure. I don't really plan on just shocking him for nothing. Even if it was sorta cathartic.”

“How exactly do you plan on using it,” Diavolo nervously asked.

“To make him stop being a dick mostly. It's hard to ignore us if he gets shocked everytime he does or says something rude.”

“Do you think that will work? What if it makes him angrier?”

“He probably will be for a while. But he needs a really strong hand to correct this behavior.”

“Why does it sound like you’re talking about a dog?”

“Because unfortunately he’s acting like one.”

“He’s my father.”

“And he’s an asshat. But I should be able to fix that, even a little bit, with this new power and maybe you guys will actually be able to have a conversation.”

Diavolo still looked nervous.

“Don’t worry Sunshine. This will work out. It’s not my first rodeo dealing with someone like him.”

“Love,” Lucifer playfully stressed, “Are you talking about me?”

“I would never,” I joked.

The next day I gave Ensharra his food by actually setting it down physically and sat tiredly in my chair. Not being able to sleep made my magic harder to recover, which left me weirdly stiff and physically exhausted. I leaned my head back against the stone wall and lounged in my chair with my eyes closed.

“Are you going to sleep there, human” Ensharra questioned.

“I can’t sleep,” I plainly answered, “It’s making it harder to recover my magic. It’s also making me feel very stiff for some reason.”

“Is that why you didn’t use magic to slide my tray in?”

“Yeah, even that seems like too much right now.”

He scoffed, “Weak.”

“Yeah, yeah,” I yawned, “Weak human who can’t do anything right, I get it.”

He finished his food in silence and I stiffly reached for his tray when he scratched me with one of his claws.

“Ow, dude,” I pulled my hand back, “What the fuck was that for?”

“Look at the cut,” he ordered.

I glared at him but did so. Instead of blood flowing from the cut, there was ice.

“When you overexert yourself you freeze,” he explained.

“You couldn’t have just said that?”

“Would you have believed me?”

“Probably,” I stood up, glaring at him again, “Or at least I could have done it myself, instead of you just hurting me randomly.”

“It was as cathartic as shocking me was, I’m sure.”

I fazed through the bars, the cut on my hand growing a bit larger, “You know I’m getting real sick of this attitude. I just wanna help you and you just keep being a dick. As fun shocking you is I really just wanna…”

Instead of finishing my sentence I just hit him with the side of my fist on his abs. I know it didn’t hurt him at all. I wasn’t really intending on hurting him, that badly at least, I was just venting my frustrations.

“You wasted your magic just to give me a tap, human,” he chuckled, genuinely amused for probably the first time ever since we’ve started talking.

“I can give you a few more if you want,” I threatened, sorta light-hearted, but also I did just wanna hit him again.

“Why not? It was amusing.”

“Wait, what?”

“What?”

“Why’d you agree?”

“Because your anger is,” he paused, like he caught himself from saying something, “amusing.”

“What was that pause?”

“Nothing.”

“I don’t think so.”

“You will not get an answer.”

“So, there is an answer?”

“No.”

I exhaled sharply through my nose, irritated. I decided to take him up on his offer though and started hitting him. It was pretty half-hearted at first, as this was kinda weird. But after a few swings my anger and frustrations bubbled up again and I began really hitting him. Not that it did much more damage. A few minutes later I calmed, breathing a tad heavy.

“Do you feel better,” Ensharra asked.

“Why do you care,” I squinted suspiciously at him.

“I don’t.”

“Then why did you ask?”

“I was being polite.”

“You? Polite?”

He glared at me, “Next time I won’t let you vent.”

“But why let me in the first place?”

“I am no longer answering your questions, human.”

I sighed as he walked away from me, the gold arrow on his tail almost hitting me. I fazed back through the bars, my wound growing more and I took his dishes. While I waited for it to be lunch I wrapped my hand. I knew Lucifer and Diavolo would ask about it but I was tired of looking at it. I didn’t enjoy the implications.

When lunchtime came I sat at my chair again as he ate in silence. I didn’t mind as I was too tired to make conversation. I needed to save that energy for the talk I’ll be having with Lucifer and Diavolo later. Which was not a fun one let me tell you what. You’d think they’d learn by now that I won’t be quitting just because he hurts me. He’s already tried to kill me multiple times. Getting scratched is pretty light stuff considering.

It took a few days for me to recover and then it was back to training. Though that also didn’t last for longer than a week. Longer than last time, but I was still getting overexerted so I took another break. Ensharra didn’t insult me too much this time, or maybe I’m getting used to it. I dunno.

One night during my rest period I was particularly restless. I normally spent the night laying in bed with Diavolo and Lucifer, meditating and trying to recover my magic while they slept. But tonight I just couldn’t rest my mind so I got up and began wandering the castle aimlessly. I don’t know if it’s just because I’m so used to going to the dungeon to feed Ensharra but I found myself down there.

While down there I started hearing a noise, like a rumble, echo through the hallway leading to Ensharra’s cell block. I made my way closer and as I approached the door to his block I realized that it was singing. He was singing in an old Devildom tongue and his voice was honestly beautiful.

His voice is very deep because of his size but the deep rumbles were comforting to my bass voice loving ears. I stood outside the door for a few minutes, just relaxing into his voice. Then I got too relaxed and fell against the door, opening it, and causing Ensharra to stop singing.

“How long have you been there, human,” he seethed.

“Not long I swear,” I defended myself, “But you’re voice is incredible. It’s so soothing that I was drawn to it while wandering the castle. I wish I could sing as deep and melodic as you.”

He was taken aback.

“I’m not kidding,” I continued, “It puts me in a meditative state. I don’t know what is it about it but the deep rumble would probably send me right to sleep if I could. I know you’ll probably say no but would you sing to me?”

He was even more taken aback, “You want me to sing for you?”

“Yeah, hearing you outside the door is probably the closest I’ve gotten to sleeping.”

“That will not be happening,” he closed himself up again, “I have never sang in front of another being.”

“But you just did. Even if you didn’t know it.”

“I cannot bring myself to sing in front of others. Do not think you will be any different, human.”

“I won’t push it,” I relented, “But I would greatly enjoy being able to hear you sing again. I could listen for hours.”

He looked away. He almost seemed bashful.

“Are you maybe self-conscious about singing?”

“I thought you wouldn’t push it, human.”

“Well, you know I love your voice. So if you ever become more comfortable, it would make me very happy.”

He gave me an odd look, I wasn’t really sure what it meant. But he didn’t answer me so I took my leave, hoping that he’d sing to me one day. But the next couple weeks went by with the usual on and off training and rest. I was honestly making really good progress. I could give him enough power to hide his wings and hold it there. And since it was such a small amount of power, it didn’t cause the pact mark to glow. I do also wonder if I get better if I can hide the glow, like with my eyes.

I handed Ensharra his lunch on day and sat on my chair, trying to do some meditation while he ate. Thankfully I’d also gotten better at taking breaks before I overexerted myself so the recover process was quicker between sessions. It felt like he was taking longer than normal to eat and I was about to open my eyes when I heard a quiet deep voice.

Ensharra began singing, although it wasn’t as confident as when I overheard him. I relaxed into my chair as he softly sang. The way his voice rumbled almost seemed to help soothe my magical aches. I guess that’s the power of true relaxation and meditation.

After a while he stopped singing and I slowly opened my eyes, stretching, “That was beautiful. Thank you. I’m glad you feel comfortable enough with me to sing.”

“It,” he paused, “it’s nothing.”

“Ensharra, you know you can open up to me. I’ve been a hardass I know, but you’re really stubborn. But I promise you that I won’t judge you.”

“You have in the past.”

“Yes, but right now. I promise, I will not judge you. Will you open up to me, please?”

He fidgeted. I’ve never seen him nervous like this before. He sighed, “Singing was something I wasn’t allowed to do growing up. That time was better spent learning to rule. So, my father told me that I was making a terrible racket and I never sang in front of someone again. It feels unbecoming of a king now.”

“That’s really terrible of your parents to not allow you an outlet you enjoyed.”

He gave me a weird, conflicted look, “They wanted what was best for me.”

“Maybe. But that doesn’t mean they were right. I’m glad to be a safe person for you to sing around and I’m honored to be the first.”

He shifted uncomfortably, “This is very awkward for me.”

“You’ve never been so open with someone before, have you?”

“No. That would have been unbecoming.”

“Then. Do you mind telling me why you’re okay with opening up to me?”

“I honestly do not know. You irritate me immensely with your attitude. But at the same time, you are kind and accommodating. It makes me very confused.”

“Yeah, I can be a hardass, I know. It’s sorta just how I get through to people sometimes. But I want to be kind to you. I just won’t let you walk over me if I am. Like I keep saying. I want to help you. You just need to trust me.”

“I’ve already entrusted you with my powers.”

“Not willingly though. But you willingly trusted me to hear you sing. That’s a very different level of trust.”

“I suppose you are right.”

“I also noticed that you rarely call me human now.”

He looked away again, “I thought you didn’t like it?”

“But, you never cared before? Have I started to gain your respect?”

“You make it difficult not to slip back.”

“Oh, come on. I’m being genuine here,” I stood at the entrance to his cell. He faced away from me, “Do you mind if I come in?”

“Why would you do that?”

“Because you kinda seem like you need a hug.”

“I do not need a hug, human.”

“Don’t be like that, Ensharra. I know you’re calling me that because you’re anxious.”

“I am not.”

I sighed, “Did I overstep your boundaries? If so, I’m sorry.”

“Will you stop it?”

“Pardon?”

“Your kindness. It makes me feel weird.”

“Sorry, but no can do. I’m going to be kind to you. What’s so wrong with that?”

“Didn’t you hear me? It makes me feel weird.”

I sighed, “Alright. I won’t push it. I’m sorry. But, I will listen to you whenever you feel comfortable.”

He didn’t answer me and I left for the day. That night I was cuddling with Diavolo and Lucifer like usual. I told them about what Ensharra had opened up to me about.

“He sings,” Diavolo questioned.

“Yes, and he’s honestly got a really nice voice. But it’s a super touchy subject,” I explained, “He was shamed for singing as a kid.”

“Oh. So my grandparents weren’t good to him either?”

“Seems like it. They thought that energy is better used learning to rule.”

Dia sighed, “I don’t like how he treated me but I can see that he didn’t know any better.”

“You’re really strong Sunshine. I promise I’m getting somewhere. Before long you’ll have a real father.”

“But, I’m not a kid anymore.”

“No, but it’s healing your inner kid. Like when we do childish things like a onesie sleepover.”

He hugged me, “Thank you, Drizzm.”

I hugged him back and Lucifer joined in on the hug. It was nice feeling like I was finally making headway on repairing their relationship. And, to be honest, I enjoyed the way our relationship was going. The way he’s been so uncharacteristically anxious and bashful has been kinda cute. He really has never had a friend before and has no idea what he’s doing.

The next couple weeks passed by as normal. Well, with the addition of Ensharra singing to me as I meditate. I actually pulled my chair to the bars of his cell to feel the vibrations stronger. It felt like I recovered faster. I don’t know if it’s true but the meditative state was very deep and only got deeper as I got closer to him.

“You know,” I interrupted him for once, as I explained to how it felt.

“Really,” he inquired, “You recover faster?”

“I think so. And it feels stronger the closer I am.”

He paused, “Are you implying that you want to come into the cell while I sing?”

“If that’s alright with you.”

He paused again, “Alright.”

I smiled gently and walked into his cell. I was about to create another chair to sit in but he grabbed me and sat me in his lap. He awkwardly cleared his throat before softly pushing my head into his chest as he began singing again. I was confused but immediately relaxed as he sang, melting into him and sighing in content. He sang for a while longer before stopping.

“My voice is tired,” he said quietly.

“Aw, alright,” I looked up at him, “I don’t want you hurting your voice.”

The way he looked at me was probably the softest I’ve seen from him. It reminded me of the way Sunshine and Starlight looks at me. And I’m not sure what came over me but I spoke aloud.

“I really enjoy this. Between your voice, warmth, and the weight of your arms. It’s really nice and it makes me not wanna get up.”

He looked away for a second before making eye contact again, seemingly debating something, “Why do you do this to me?”

“Do what?”

“Make me feel like this. We’ve not known each other but for a handful of months and I feel so strangely about you.”

Oh, oh no. Why didn’t I see this coming? And why do I seem to not entirely hate the idea? I looked away from him, suddenly conflicted myself. I panicked, “Uhm. I think I need to take some time.”

“What,” he was surprised as I ran out of his cell. That night I had a discussion with Dia and Lucifer like usual.

“How was my father today,” Sunshine asked.

“I think we may have ran into a small hiccup,” I pensively started.

“I feel like I recognize this look,” Lucifer squinted at me.

I laughed nervously, “So I told Ensharra that being closer when he sings makes my magic recover faster for some reason and asked to sit in his cell with him.”

“That’s dangerous,” Diavolo scolded, “Did he do something?”

“Yeah, but not what you think. He grabbed me and sat me on his lap to lay against his chest as he sang. Then said that I make him feel strangely.”

“And what do you think he meant by that,” Lucifer questioned, knowing the answer.

“I think he might be catching feelings.”

“I see.”

Diavolo leaned forward in his seat, resting his head in his hands.

“Then I did recognize that look earlier,” Lucifer continued.

“Pardon,” I asked.

“You are catching feelings as well,” he said it so matter-of-factly it was frustrating.

“Starshine,” Diavolo looked at me questioningly, “Is that true?”

I didn’t like this at all. But if felt like Lucifer was right, but at the same time, “I don’t know to be honest. He’s still very infuriating… but the way he looked at me made me feel strangely too.”

“You’d think you’d have learned to recognize when you’re catching feelings,” Lucifer somewhat scolded, “You feel so strongly.”

I sighed and rubbed my face, “It’s not like I feel good about this. I didn’t want to start catching feelings. But he also makes me wanna drop kick him a lot still so do I really like him?”

Diavolo came up to me and cupped my face, forcing me to look at him, “Starshine. As weird as it is that my father opened up to you so much. Lucifer did not keep us apart, and if you and him end up wanting to take that step. I will not stop you.”

I started crying from the stress of it all and they comforted me, having dealt with this once before. I really didn’t think I’d start liking someone like Ensharra. But now that I’ve realized it, I’m gonna have a hard time facing him tomorrow.

The next morning I gave him his food like usual but didn’t make eye contact and immediately ran away.

“Wait,” he called after me, “Did I speak too freely yesterday?”

I stopped but didn’t turn around, “No. I just. It’s a me problem.”

“You ask me to open up, and yet here you are shutting me out.”

I turned to him, “That’s not fair.”

“It’s perfectly fair.”

“It’s just… What you said yesterday.”

“So I did speak too freely,” he looked away.

“No, it’s what I asked for. You just made me think is all.”

“Of?”

I sighed, “This never gets easier.”

He looked at me expectantly as I approached his cell and walked in.

“Okay, I’m taking a risk here,” I said mostly to myself, “But I think. I think I’m catching feelings for you. You made me realize yesterday that I also felt quite strangely about you.”

“Is… is that what this feeling is?”

“Yeah, you’d think I’d learn to recognize it earlier.”

“Have you told Diavolo?”

“Yes, and he said he will not get in our way. If that’s something you’d even want to do with something as lowly as a human,” I specifically recited what he told me many times. Which caused him to look guilty for the first time ever.

“Through these months you’ve shown me genuine kindness and you are the first to have done so with such earnest. Never have I felt so comfortable with someone.”

“I’m worthy of being a someone now,” I questioned with a smile.

“Do not tease me. This is hard enough.”

“But. I still don’t really know if you like me, well, romantically. I’m plenty comfortable with people I don’t like romantically.”

“You can be very dense sometimes,” he picked me up and sat me on the table so he could better look at me. I expected him to kiss me but he hesitated, “I’ve always just taken what I wanted. But, for the first time, I want you to ask for it. I want to know that you also wish to kiss me.”

The vulnerability just solidified that I was in it for the long haul, “Please kiss me.”

In sharp contrast to all the other times his hand touched my neck, he didn’t choke me, but gently rested it on the back of my next to pull me into a kiss. It was so soft, like he was scared that he was going to accidentally break me, the weaker human. I put my hands on his jaw and pulled him closer. He pulled me into his lap and began singing to me again.

Until his stomach growled and we remembered that he hadn’t eaten yet. I created a floating chair, because making one with tall legs made me feel like a child. He grabbed his food and began eating.

“For someone who doesn’t eat anymore, you cook well,” he complimented for the first time ever.

“Thank you. I have to be more conscious since I can’t taste while I go, so I’m glad you like it. But if there’s anything you’d like me to change, let me know. I used to be pretty good at baking too.”

“Can you make poison strawberry muffins?”

“They’re actually in season right now. I’ll bring you some for breakfast tomorrow.”

He paused thoughtfully, “This feels odd.”

I smiled and chuckled.

“Don’t laugh at me,” he pouted.

“I’m not laughing at you,” I assured, putting my hand on his cheek, “I just find you cute is all.”

“Never would I think someone would find a Demon King that looks like me cute,” he pushed his empty tray away and pulled me into his lap again.

“You’re rough around the corners, but you got a cute side to your personality,” I leaned into him and I got rid of his wings so he could lean back, “Are you normally very physical like this?”

“Is it a bad thing?”

“No, just something I noticed.”

“I have never wanted to hold someone before.”

“It’s nice, right?”

He pulled me closer, “You are so small that it feels as though you’ll slip out of my arms.”

“Maybe we can use magic to make you smaller? Like how the others are shorter in their human form.”

“Are you saying I should have a human form?”

“Is it beneath you or something?”

“I do not feel comfortable with it.”

“Alright well, we won’t make you human. But you do need to be smaller if you want to go around in the Devildom. You’re a giant by modern standards and you won’t fit in many places.”

“Did you get permission for me to leave the cell?”

“You won’t be leaving permanently. But you will have time outside the cell supervised by me.”

He made a noise of disappointment.

“You still need to face the consequences of almost killing me.”

He sighed, “I know but isn’t two and half centuries enough time?”

“Maybe if you show good behavior during our outings we can talk.”

“Why does it sound like you’re in control of my sentence?”

“I am.”

“What,” he sat up, making me look at him.

“I am the one who determines if you’ve reformed enough to be let out. We can’t just let you out if you’re gonna go around and cause problems.”

“You still think I’m a problem?”

“Of course I do. You may be getting nice with me. But if a demon on the street bumped into you, what would you do?”

“Force him to apologize, with violence if I have to.”

“Yeah, exactly. You’re supposed to ignore it.”

“But I am royalty and meant to be treated with respect.”

“Right now, you’re a felon.”

He glared at me.

“Do not look at me like that. You know that you’re the cause of these problems. I’m not saying it to be a dick. But so you actually think about your actions.”

He looked away from me, angry but not doing anything further.

I shifted in his lap to face him and wrap my arms around his neck, “I didn’t mean to make you so upset. Would like a kiss as an apology?”

He answered by kissing me.

“I like this reaction to anger a lot more than hurting me,” I teased.

“Will you not bring that up,” he asked quietly.

“Right now I’ll stop. But I’ll tease you about almost killing me for forever.”

He playfully glared at me and kissed me again.

“Maybe you’ll just kill me with affection now.”

He gave me a look and I laughed, patting his cheek. I sat back down in his lap and started our usual morning practice. I don’t know if it was because I was more comfortable or if it was our closer bond. But it seemed easier after today. The flow didn’t seem like it was being ripped through the dam. Instead, it was a more gentle pull. Much more like the flow of water through a brook, rather than rapids.

“Your hold is steadier today,” Ensharra noted.

“So you noticed as well,” I questioned, looking up at him.

He nodded and hummed, “Why do you think that is?”

“Maybe because our bond is closer? The tension between us is alleviated and it doesn’t feel like you’re ripping your magic from me anymore.”

“I also no longer wish to get away from you, and my magic is possibly acting accordingly?”

“Possibly. Kinda hard to tell exactly though. I guess it doesn’t really matter, right?”

“I suppose not. Does it make it easier on you magically?”

“Yeah,” I nodded, “I’m not nearly as tired and we could probably make a lot of progress pretty quickly now. I also don’t think I’ll need to take nearly as many rest periods.”

“Does that mean you no longer need me to sing to you,” he joked.

“Absolutely not,” I leaned into him, smiling, “I always want you to sing to me.”

“I believe that happens after lunch.”

“Is it lunchtime already,” I checked the time on my D.D.D, “I’ll go make you some food.”

“What exactly is that?”

“My D.D.D.?”

“What?”

“I’ll explain when I bring your food down.”

He looked like he didn’t want to let me go but allowed me to climb out of his arms either way. I gave him a kiss on the cheek before I hopped down and left to make his food. When I gave him his food he put his hand on my back until I moved to sit in my floating chair.

“Did you make your chair float to show off,” Ensharra teased, smirking.

“Actually making a chair with tall enough legs to reach up here would make me feel like a child,” I explained, leaning my head on my fist, “Even by human standards I’m short.”

“You are quite small.”

“And you’re quite big. Like I said, you’re considered a giant by today’s standards. Dia is already considered larger than normal and you have a whole foot on his demon form.”

“A… foot?”

“Sorry, that’s the measurement system from my area of the Human World. A foot is 12 inches.”

“But why is called a ‘foot’?”

“I’unno,” I shrugged, “Just how it be I guess.”

He looked weirded out. Seems like he wasn’t a fan of feet for measuring. He changed the subject, “You said you would tell me about your… what is it called, again?”

“My D.D.D., which stands for Diavolo’s Devildom Device.”

“He named it after himself?”

“He’s not very creative with names, to be honest.”

“I see. What does it do?”

“Hm,” I thought for a second, “It’s kinda hard to explain to someone who doesn’t know modern technology. But it allows me to communicate with anyone at any time and search the world for information.”

His eyebrows raised, “How does it manage that?”

“Now that’s really hard to explain because I don’t really have a deep knowledgebase either. You’ll probably end up pretty confused. Let’s take it one step at a time.”

“Then why don’t we start with how it allows one to communicate.”

I started showing him around on the phone, removing his claws so he doesn’t damage the screen. It was pretty small in his hands so he had a hard time being accurate with it. But he seemed interested in it so maybe I can bring him a tablet sized version. When it was time for me to leave for dinner and spend the evening with my lights Ensharra didn’t want to let me go.

“You have to let me go,” I tried to get off his lap but he held me closer.

“You can just stay here,” he negotiated.

“No. As much as I like sitting in your lap, I do have 2 husbands I want to see.”

He scowled, eyebrows furrowing.

“Don’t be so envious. You knew that.”

His chest vibrated as he made a noise of discontent.

“You cannot monopolize me from the other two. Now let me go.”

“Fine,” he somewhat angrily let me go.

“Please don’t be like that. I spend all day with you, it’s only fair if I spend the evenings with them.”

He continued to pout.

“Can I get a kiss goodbye,” I looked at him expectantly.

His pout intensified for a few seconds before he turned and gave me one last kiss, “Good night.”

“Good night. I’ll see you in the morning.”

That weekend I decided to bring Ensharra out to the garden with me in the morning. Dia and Lucifer had a meeting that morning so they wouldn’t be back until the afternoon. I went down to his cell.

“Good morning, Ensharra,” I walked into his cell with his food and set it on the table.

“Good morning,” he kissed the top of my head and sat down to eat.

“So I have some good news.”

“What is it?”

“Would you like to join me in the garden this morning?”

“Really?”

“There are rules of course.”

“Of course,” he pouted.

“It’s nothing major, stop with the puppy dog face.”

“I’m not a dog.”

I gave him a look, “The first rule is for you to be on your best behavior of course. The second rule is you are to stay by my side. You aren’t allowed to fly off. In fact, you won’t even have your wings. No tail or claws either.”

“Why no tail or claws?”

“Because they can be used as weapons. You don’t use your horns for combat so you aren’t likely to use them.”

“Do I really need to get rid of them?”

“Yes. You don’t have a choice if you want to go outside.”

“Fine,” he sighed, “I agree to your rules.”

“Good,” I realized, “Oh, and when I take you out of your cell I will shock you for bad behavior.”

“What?!”

“I won’t use it willy-nilly. But if you’re starting to become an ass I’m going to give a tiny shock. It won’t hurt you, just surprise you.”

“No. I do not like that.”

“Then you get to stay in the cell forever. This is the first step to reforming. If you won’t even do this then you’re a lost cause.”

“That is harsh.”

“I don’t care. Just because I like you doesn’t mean I’m gonna let you have bad behaviors.”

“I wish I hated you.”

“Too bad, now you’re stuck with me. So, do you want to go outside?”

“Yes,” he gave up, sighing.

When he finished breakfast I took away the features that I deemed dangerous. I took his tray and led him out of the dungeon to the kitchen. Barbatos appeared to be elsewhere in the castle so I took the opportunity to do the dishes immediately.

“You do housework,” Ensharra questioned, looking around the kitchen.

“Yes,” I questioned back, “Is that surprising?”

“Is that not the job of Barbatos?”

“He has enough to do. I can wash a few dishes.”

He puttered around the kitchen waiting for me to finish and off we went to the garden. When we stepped outside he stretched and exhaled contently, “The fresh air is nice.”

“Isn’t it,” I agreed, leading him to some flowers, “I know this probably isn’t the best choice for your first outing but I have a stop to make.”

“At the flowers?”

“No.”

I didn’t elaborate as I picked 2 bundles of flowers and quietly walked to a more remote part of the garden. A very small cemetery with 2 small cat statues as headstones. I walked in and set a bouquet in front of each statue.

“These are the graves of my cats that passed while I was frozen,” I explained, sitting in front of their graves, “I’d like to spend a few minutes here if that’s okay?”

“Of course. Would you like me to give you some privacy,” he gently rubbed my head.

“No, I’d appreciate it if you were here with me.”

He wordlessly sat down next to me. We lingered in the silence for a few minutes.

“You know,” I quietly started, “I have no friends or family left from my life as human? They all died thinking I went missing or died.”

Ensharra didn’t say anything. I didn’t know what his expression was because I was staring at my cats.

“But I think the worst is that my cats passed away without the person who had them their whole lives. When they were hurting and needing me the most, I was stuck frozen inside a statue. My human relations had a support system to help them. But cats? What do they have or understand? Other than that their person, who they are familiars too, just disappeared? That mental connection, just. Gone.”

I didn’t really realize, but I started crying, the guilt getting to me. I hugged my knees to my chest as I rested my head on them. Ensharra was quiet for a moment, “I have the ability to resurrect them.”

“No,” my voice broke, “let them have their peace. Even if it’s without me.”

He gently laid his hand on the upper part of my back, “... Would you like a hug?”

I nodded and climbed into his lap as he wrapped his arms around me. He rubbed my back soothingly. We stayed like that for a few moments before he started humming. I relaxed into him and calmed down. I let him hum for a couple of minutes before sighing and straightening, causing him to stop.

“I’m sorry,” I looked at him, “I didn’t think I’d start crying.”

“You do not need to apologize,” he comforted, “They meant a lot to you.”

I sighed sadly and paused before looking at the graves, “By the way, I don’t need you to resurrect them. I have the ability to do so myself.”

“What did you resurrect?”

“There was a curse that turned Dia back into a child temporarily and he was holding a rabbit. It suddenly tried to hop down, startling him and he accidentally gripped it too hard, killing it. He began crying so I comforted him and resurrected the rabbit. I told him that he was kind and to not hold the rabbit. Just in case it got jumpy again.”

“You are soft.”

“Are you insulting me?”

“Not necessarily.”

“What do you mean not necessarily,” I lightly glared at him.

“I’m just saying that you are softer in your approach. It’s just different than when I handled the same situation.”

“I can’t imagine you were kind.”

“I told him to stop his senseless crying because he is above something like a rabbit. No need to care for something like that.”

I was not amused, remembering how he talked about me at first, “Something lowly?”

“What are you getting at?”

“Just remembering how you treated me at first. The lowly human being and how you are above something like that?”

He looked away, kinda pouting, “But I don’t think of you like that anymore.”

“Me, sure, but other things have feelings and feel pain too.”

“But they aren’t of the same intelligence as us.”

“That’s not the point,” I sighed, exacerbated, “The point is not doing undue harm to things, even those that you deem ‘lesser’.”

“What does it matter?”

“Because when you have strength you should use it to help those that don’t. Isn’t that what being a king is about? Being the strength of your people?”

He looked at me, taken aback.

“Do no harm, take no shit.”

“What?”

“Do no harm to others, unless others try to harm you or those you care about.”

“I see. Is that your guiding value?”

“Generally, yes.”

“That makes sense for you.”

“You could do with taking some of that to heart.”

He made a noise of complaint. I rolled my eyes.

“Alright, let’s get a move on. We’ve yapped my cats’s ears off enough for one day.”

I got up and Ensharra followed me through the garden. Even before freezing I spent a lot of time in the garden so I sorta yapped about the different plants as we walked. He did as he was supposed to and kept close to me, keeping a hand around my shoulder. We made our way to the lake and sat down near it.

“You have a lot of knowledge of plants,” Ensharra commented.

“Sorry, did I talk too much,” I apologized, rubbing the back of my head.

“No, I’m impressed you know so much about Devildom flora.”

“I actually have more knowledge about Human World plants. I taught a class at RAD about growing Human World plants in the Devildom.”

“Is that so?”

“Is that hard to believe?”

“Starshine,” came a voice from one of the back doors, “Are you still out here?”

“Sunshine,” I exclaimed happily, getting up and running up to him, hugging him, “Welcome home! How was the meeting?”

“I’m glad it’s over let’s just say that,” Lucifer approached us. I kissed Dia before moving to Lucifer.

“Bad or just annoying,” I gave him a kiss as well.

“Annoying,” Dia sighed, “The current head of the Magical Society isn’t as tactful as their predecessor.”

“Or as good at leading,” Lucifer scoffed.

“Aw, well, at least it’s over, right,” I put a hand on both of their cheeks, caressing them with my thumbs.

Diavolo’s eyes flicked behind me and he remembered that his father was here. He stood tall and met Ensharra’s gaze, “Hello, Father.”

Ensharra nodded in greeting but still didn’t speak. He looked at me and I glared at him, causing him to sigh, “Greetings, Diavolo.”

“How has your time with Starshine been?”

He didn’t want to answer at first but the glowing of my eyes told him that wasn’t a choice. He clenched his jaw in frustration but spoke, “The fresh air has been enjoyable.”

“I see,” Dia stepped towards his father, “Who knew you just needed some fresh air to get you to speak to me?”

Ensharra glared at him.

“Are you going to continue to dodge my questions, Father?”

“No,” he sighed in defeat as the glow faded from my eyes, “I will speak with you now. I do not wish to be shocked.”

“Then tell me honestly. How has Starshine changed you so in less than a year? Don’t forget I have the ability to discern whether or not you’re telling the truth.”

He hesitated for a moment as he thought, “I wish I knew exactly myself. He still irritates me often but something about his forcefully kind nature and dedication in the face of a very stubborn demon for the sake of his loved one wore me down. Outside of your vacation, he has not missed a single meal for me. No matter how frustrated he was when he ended our conversation.”

The genuine praise made me blush. He had given me small compliments before, but hearing him lay out why he started liking me made me happy. Diavolo turned to me, a bittersweet smile on his face.

“I knew if there was someone who could get to him,” he cupped my cheeks, “It would be you, Starshine.”

“Yes,” I smiled and put my hands on his jaws, “I believe you’ve said that before.”

He put our foreheads together and sighed, “I wish this could have happened sooner.”

“Do not think I like you because I enjoy Snowflake’s company.”

“Ensharra,” I scolded, eyes glowing. He ruined our moment.

“What did you call them,” Diavolo looked to him again, “Snowflake?”

He recoiled, obviously not intending to call me that, “I thought of it earlier. He is small and fragile like a snowflake. However, at the same time, when he rages he’s like a blizzard, which is made of snowflakes.”

“Did you just explain a blizzard to us,” I asked.

He pouted at me, “I did not expect to have to explain myself.”

“Are you going to start calling me that regularly?”

“Is that an issue?”

“No, I think it’s cute.”

He looked away, feeling uncomfortable with this sort of attention while Dia and Lucifer were here to see him be cute.

“I have never seen Father like this,” Dia mused.

“Yeah, he’s still new to the whole ‘love’ thing,” I explained with a smile, amused.

“I can hear you,” he glared at us.

“Good,” I proudly said, then suggested, “Since it’s lunchtime. Why not have lunch with Dia and Lucifer, Ensharra?”

His eyebrows furrowed in thought, “Would they willing to have that arrangement?”

I looked at Dia, then Lucifer. They both nodded. I turned back to Ensharra, “Well, that settles that. Come on, En.”

“En,” he questioned and approached me, “Is that what you are going to refer to me as?”

“Since we’re giving nicknames, I thought I’d spare myself some syllables.”

“How very you.”

I linked arms with Diavolo and Lucifer and we walked through the castle, En following behind us. I could feel the envy radiating into my back. Too bad for him, he needs to learn to share.

Barbatos had lunch for everyone set out already. Except for my seat which was empty of course. It seemed En was to sit next to me to my right, Diavolo sat to my left at the head of the table, and Lucifer sat across from me. We all sat in our seats and I sorta expected En to make a fuss about not sitting at the head of the table, but he didn’t.

“Are there still figure skating classes,” I asked, leaning my head on my fist.

“Of course,” Diavolo answered, “Are you itching to skate again?”

“Yeah, I’m starting to get antsy. I need something to do with my energy.”

“You figure skate,” Ensharra interrupted with a question.

I nodded, “Diavolo was my skate partner sometimes. But I would have exhibitions every now and then. It’s mostly for fun but I do love performing too.”

“You really are a snowflake.”

“That’s a very amusing sentence. But not for reasons you’d understand.”

He raised an eyebrow at me.

“I don’t really wanna do evening classes because it’ll cut into my time with you two,” I leaned back in my chair, crossing my arms, thinking.

“Why not in the afternoon,” Lucifer suggested.

“That’s when I recover from morning practice.”

“Then don’t practice on those days.”

“It’d probably be good to get out of the house regularly and take a break,” I agreed, “I think I’ll start with twice a week practice and see how I feel.”

“Don’t wear yourself out Starshine,” Diavolo told me.

“But I’m so excited,”I lightly tapped the end of my feet a few times in anticipation before turning to En, “Do you mind if start in three days?”

“Why are you asking me,” he scoffed.

“Don’t be like that. What’s wrong?”

“Why do you think something is wrong?”

“You scoffed at me.”

He glared at me.

“Are you sad you’ll lose time with me?”

He looked away.

“I’m right.”

“Stop that,” he scolded.

“Alright, I’m sorry,” I put my hand on his back apologetically, “But maybe one day you’ll be able to accompany me to my practices.”

“One day?”

“This is your first time out. You’ll be confined to the castle grounds as your outings until I’m sure I can control you.”

He scowled.

“Don’t look at me like that. I know exactly how you treat others you don’t like.”

He looked away again, taking a bite of his food.

I rubbed his back before leaning back on that fist, looking to talk to Diavolo and Lucifer again. We chatted until they were all finished eating and I brought En back to his cell in the dungeon. As soon as we were in his cell he grabbed and put me on his lap at the table.

“Feeling jealous are we,” I teased with a smile.

“I did not enjoy being left out,” he admitted, “I have never had to share before.”

“It’s a great time to learn then. Besides, you knew I’ve been with them. Kinda the whole reason I don’t bring you dinner.”

He pouted, “Yes, I know. However, it is still hard to share you when I have not had to share anything.”

“Aw, well, I’m glad you were able to make it through such a tough experience.”

“Why do I feel like you’re mocking me?”

“Just a little bit,” I smiled cheekily. He looked like he wanted to say something, “What’s up?”

“I also do not like that you will not be here for 2 days a week.”

“I’m not gone the whole day. I’ll still spend the mornings with you,” I smirked at him, “Besides, like I said, maybe one day I’ll let you come observe my practices.”

“Really?”

“If you are good then I’ll consider it. I don’t want to make the other skaters nervous.”

He scoffed, “So much consideration for others.”

“That’s part of what you like about me.”

“Hush,” he forced me quiet with a kiss. We chatted for a while longer before I left to spend the rest of the day with Diavolo and Lucifer. The former of which was quite pleased with the fact En was talking with him again, and that it went seemingly well. Which, all things considering, it did.

The next few days went by pretty normally and the day of my first skate session arrived. I was very excited as I brought En his breakfast. He greeted me with a kiss and we sat at the table and chatted as he ate.

“I’m so excited to skate again,” I smiled and swung my feet in anticipation.

“Can you not skate here at the castle,” Ensharra questioned, taking a sip of his coffee.

“Oh, I do. Sometimes I’ll skate on the lake, especially at night when feeling restless.”

“That sounds beautiful to watch.”

“You don’t even know what I look like when skating.”

“Will you show me?”

“One day. Look forward to it.”

He scowled.

“Aw, don’t look like that En. I really mean one day I’ll show you. I just want to have some real practice first.”

“Are you wanting to impress me,” his scowl turned to a playful smirk.

“Well, you’re the Demon King Ensharra,” I leaned towards him, “Of course I’d want to impress someone of such high caliber.”

He pushed his tray of empty dishes to the side and grabbed me, setting me on the table in front of him instead of his lap. His hand ran up my body and cupped my cheek. Though because of our size difference it covered basically the whole half of my face. I put my hand on his and my other hand on his arm and leaned into his hand, sighing happily.

“I love you,” I smiled.

“What,” he was surprised.

“What?”

“What did you say?”

“I love you?”

“Why did you say that?”

Now I was confused, “What do you mean? I love you. So I said it.”

“You love me?”

I swung my head in confusion, “Yes??? Why are you so surprised?”

“You haven’t said that before. I thought you were just infatuated with me.”

“I wouldn’t have disrupted my stable polycule for simple infatuation,” I got nervous, scratching at his scales with my index finger and looking away, “Do you not love me? Are you just infatuated with me?”

“Snowflake,” he straightened my head, signaling to look at him, which I did, “I know I have spoken very negatively about humans, and I still think very negatively about them as a whole. But, you have shown me exceptional kindness and perseverance through all of that. You are special to me and I have never felt this with someone before. I love you, Drizzm.”

“You said my name,” was apparently what I took from all of that.

“Don’t expect it often. That was odd to say.”

“It still makes me happy,” I wrapped my arms around his neck and he pulled me into his lap, “I’m so happy to hear you say you love me too.”

I kissed him and we chatted until it was after lunch time. Then I took his lunch dishes and left to go to practice. En didn’t really want to let me go but I wasn’t gonna let him stop me. I excitedly made my way to the rink.

Thankfully, since demons live for so long, my coach was still active. They were so excited to see that I was coming back to the rink and we worked on refreshing my basics. It’s not the most fun but it’s important to make sure I’m doing things correctly so I don’t fall and injure myself too bad. Diavolo and Lucifer picked me up after practice because their last meeting got canceled. We walked arm-in-arm, with me in the center like usual, to Ristorante Six for dinner. The staff know about my no eating or drinking thing so they know I won’t be ordering.

“How was practice? Are you as rusty as you thought,” Diavolo asked.

“I felt pretty rusty,” I told him, “but I should be able to bounce back fairly quickly. I wish I could skate with you again Sunshine, but you’re even more busy now.”

“I’m sorry Starshine. I wish I wasn’t so busy either.”

“It’s not your fault. It’s a lot of work being king. If I wasn’t busy rehabilitating your dad’s behavior I’d help.”

“It’s alright. I’m happy that you’ve been able to change Father so much in less than a year.”

“Speaking of, he used my name earlier.”

Diavolo paused mid-bite, “Really?”

“Yeah. I guess I’d never said ‘I love you’ to him before today.”

“That’s surprising,” Lucifer interrupted.

I nodded, “He apparently thought I was just infatuated with him.”

They both gave me a confused look and I shrugged before continuing.

“I reassured him that it was definitely not infatuation. Then asked if he was just infatuated with me and he said ‘I love you, Drizzm’.”

“It is still weird to hear you and Father be so affectionate,” Diavolo sighed.

“I’m sorry.”

“I’ll be fine Starshine. Don’t worry your cute little head about it.”

I smiled at him and we continued chatting as they finished dinner.

A few days later was my next practice session and Ensharra complained again that I would be gone. In fact, he ate his lunch much slower than usual to try and keep me here longer.

“En,” I stressed, “Just because you eat slower doesn’t mean I won’t just leave for practice.”

He pouted as he took another bite.

“Stop looking like that. We still see each other literally every day.”

“I still don’t have to like it.”

“True,” I sighed and thought for a second, “How about this? On days that I have practice we will spend the morning outside on castle grounds?”

He lit up, “Really?”

“Yes, really,” I smiled, “Is that alright with you?”

He nodded.

“Good. Now finish your food so I can head to practice.”

Now that we came to a nice agreement he didn’t complain about me leaving anymore. He was still sad but he didn’t try to keep me from going. It was also nice spending the mornings outside with him. I would info dump at him about the different plants in the garden and he would even know some of them and give me information about what the meaning used to be for some flowers or what medicinal uses others may have. We’d also chat about whatever came to mind or just spent time in a comfortable silence together.

“I’ve really been enjoying our time outside,” I told him one day while we were walking in the forest, “You’ve also been very good when are out.”

“Where else would I go,” he questioned, “I wanted away from you all but now I don’t want to leave your side. No reason to run away at this point.”

“Aw, that’s so cute.”

“You like when people are honest, correct,” he stopped and looked intently to our left.

“En? What’s up?”

“I sense something in that direction. I believe it needs help.”

“Your ability is much better than mine so I believe you. Where should we go?”

“It’s at Mt. Imminent Death.”

“Ah,” I faced the direction he was looking, “Yeah I can imagine there are things in distress there. Let me increase your magic so you can hopefully tell what’s making the call.”

I did just that, his mark glowing the same blue as my eyes. His eyes widened in surprise, “It’s a dragon.”

“But I thought there weren’t anymore dragons,” I looked at him.

“It’s very faint but there is a dragon there.”

“Well we better get going then,” I pulled out my D.D.D. and sent a message in my group chat with Dia and Lucifer telling them what was happening. I also sent a message to my coach, who was very used to me getting into random situations so they were understanding.

“It would be fastest if I could fly us there at my full size.”

“Real 9’ size or fake 10’ size,” I teased.

He pouted, “My wingspan at 10’ would get us there faster.”

“I’m just poking fun,” I laughed and gave him back his wings and other features. It is possible that we would get into fights and I wanted to be prepared for that.

This was the first time I saw him at 10’ without him trying to murder me and I felt very small. He leaned down and scooped me up. I was so small that he was able to carry me in a single arm. This wasn’t my first time being held during flight, considering both Diavolo and Lucifer also have wings, so I wasn’t that nervous.

But boy oh boy was he fast. I know when I would take flights with Dia and Lucifer that they were going cruising speed but En is so much faster than I’ve ever seen either of them move. I almost forgot that he greatly outpaced all of us those centuries ago. Makes me wonder what he was like at his peak.

Even at this great speed it took us until fairly late to get to the base of the mountain. Holding him at the expanded size for so many hours took a lot out of me and he landed so I could rest.

“Good thing I don’t sleep anymore,” I mused, “You can sleep all through the night while I keep watch.”

“I won’t be sleeping for a while,” he told me as he sat on the ground, back against the mountain, “I could stay up for days if I need to. But you are magically exhausted and this mountain is dangerous.”

He motioned for me to come sit on his lap and I did so, “I’m sorry. That was just a long time to hold that form.”

“I know this was an unusual amount of magic used. You do not need to apologize.”

“You’ve really come far. Before you would have called me weak.”

“Must you remind me?”

“I’m giving you a compliment,” I put my hand on his jaw, “The fact that you feel shame about how you treated me means that you’ve grown by that much. Isn’t it beautiful that a relationship, even when platonic, can make you grow as an individual like that?”

He looked caught off-guard then his expression softened, “You say very poetic things sometimes.”

I tilted my head questioningly.

“Never mind. You are correct,” he kissed my forehead and pulled my head to his chest as he started quietly singing. I relaxed into him and we spent the next several hours waiting for me to recover. He only sang for the first hour or so and I just meditated until I felt better while he took a little nap. I felt bad holding us up like this but I wouldn’t be of much help if I couldn’t control our magic.

“Alright,” I sat up, patting his chest to wake him up, “I feel better now.”

He slowly opened his eyes and looked down at me. I kissed him before moving to get up. But he gripped me tighter and nuzzled his face into the top of my head. I hooked my arms under his and hugged him back.

“I love you and this is nice but we should get going,” I told him.

“I enjoy waking up to you,” he plainly said.

“Aw, that’s so sweet. I wish I could wake up like that.”

He pulled back to look me in the eyes, “I still find it incredible that you chose to love me after everything I’ve done to you.”

I shrugged, “I’ve always felt like there was a front going on. I mean, I clocked Diavolo’s royal front right away, so I know what I’m looking for.”

“But this has always been me,” he seemed somewhat offended.

“Yes, but it’s been heavily molded by your father and the expectations others had of you in regards to your status as Demon King. I know there’s a lot more to you yet, we just need to uncover parts you’ve shoved aside.”

He kinda scowled, but mostly looked unsure.

“We can worry about that later. We have a dragon to find remember?”

“Yes, that is right,” he slowly let me go and we turned to look up the mountain, his hand resting on my shoulder, “The magic is fainter although we are closer to it. The dragon must be very young and tired.”

“How long will it take to reach it?”

“I do not know. I can tell where it is but finding the path to it will be the difficult part.”

I looked down as I thought. We were out of signal range for my D.D.D. so I couldn’t ask Solomon. But I was pretty sure that there was a spell that would give me possible paths to something I am searching for. I sat and closed my eyes, opening my mental spell book and began looking for the spell.

“I knew it,” I announced, getting up and looking at En, “I learned a spell that would give us two possible paths. One will just take longer than the other or lead us to dead ends occasionally.”

“Is that what you were doing?”

“Yup, I have a mental spell book I was searching through.”

My eyes glowed as I recited the spell. Normally I wouldn’t verbally recite the spell but I wanted to make sure it worked properly. Two small balls of blue light formed in front of me, the glow gently pulsing. They began floating away in the same direction, but stopping before they went too far away, waiting for us.

“Ready to go,” I looked at En and he nodded. We followed the lights up the mountain, keeping alert in case an animal gets feisty. There was also the possibility of running into traps set by predators. Things definitely big enough to eat at the very least me.

After a while the lights brought us to a fork in the path. The one on the left was less worn and probably only used by a handful of animals. The one on the right was probably used by apothecary demons in search of the herbs that grow here.

“So, which way,” I asked En.

“I was going to ask you that,” he looked at me.

“Well if we go right, then we will be less likely to run into the larger animals. But, at the same time, if there is a baby dragon unfound, it would probably be on the path less used.”

“Unless one loops around further than the other or there is a shortcut unknown to apothecaries to the right.”

“That is true.”

“Which hand is your dominant one?”

“My right. You?”

“My left.”

“I thought so.”

“What does that mean?”

“You only have a ruby claw on your left hand and you tend to use that one to do things with.”

“I see. I forget how observant you are sometimes.”

“Well, that isn’t really helping us pick a path unfortunately,” I put my hand on my hips, “I guess we go with some good ole human wisdom.”

“And what is that?”

“If you’re lost, keep your hand on the left wall, and eventually you’ll make it out. Magic wasn’t really a thing most humans did so we didn’t have to worry about traps or illusions.”

“Left it is, then. How are you feeling? Tired?”

“Magically? No.”

“Physically?”

“I don’t really get tired remember? I only get magical exhaustion. Are you getting tired or hungry?”

“Not yet. I will let you know when I need to rest.”

I nodded and we followed the light on the left. With the one on the right dissipating as we walked too far away. The terrain became significantly rougher and my small limbs were having a hard time maneuvering. En had no problem with his longer limb reach. After the third or so time he had to wait for me he just picked me up.

“I’m tired of waiting for you,” he explained as he continued up the mountain.

“I’m sorry I’m so small. I can’t help it and I have to conserve my magic,” I defended myself, pouting.

“Do not give me that look. I’m not upset at you. I should have done this earlier quite honestly. We will be much faster this way.”

“I thought you weren’t holding me in case we were attacked.”

“I can protect us well enough while holding you.”

“Good to know I won’t be a burden.”

“Considering you are integral to me accessing my powers, you can never be a burden,” he continued before I could be sappy, “I also do not think that we will be attacked. Most fauna keep far away from me.”

“I see. Then I hope we can get to the dragon sooner rather than later.”

He didn’t continue the conversation and kept following the light. Eventually it led us to the mouth of a cave. We continued in without hesitation. It made sense for a dragon in distress to be hiding within a cave for protection. But this was a system of tunnels, and we weren’t sure how deep we would be going in.

Thankfully the light was, well, a light, and illuminated our way. Not that Ensharra needed it. He could see in the dark just fine. I was the lame one that needed a bright light to see. Considering neither of us needed to rest it was hard to gauge how long we were moving through the tunnels.

It did start becoming rather warm as we went deeper, though. At some point it was becoming kinda unbearable and I magicked away my outfit into something cooler. But that still didn’t hold up for long and I was becoming distressed with how hot it was for me.

“En,” I tapped him, “I need to do something about this heat. It’s way too much.”

He scowled, “Unfortunately you may have to waste magic cooling the air around you.”

“Will that be uncomfortable for you?”

“How much greater will the strain be if you expanded the range to include all of me?”

“Not much. I should be able to hold it for a whole day if I need to.”

“Let’s hope it doesn’t take that long then.”

My eyes glowed as I cooled the air around us to the point where I no longer felt like dying. As we continued I had to slowly increase the magic as the heat continued to climb. Which also meant that the time I could hold this temperature was decreasing. I wasn’t sure if we went the fast or slow way but it’s the way we have to go.

Finally, we saw a glow coming through the tunnels, and we were led to a large cavern. There was a river of magma that flowed through it, illuminating the cavern and the cause of the intense heat I was feeling. There was a large skeleton near the left back of the room. It appeared to be from a very large dragon that died quite some time ago.

“Is this it,” I asked, looking around for anything else.

“This is the area,” he affirmed, walking towards the skeleton. The ball of light dissipated as it had finished it’s job. Amongst the gigantic bones lay an oddly shaped rock that En seemed drawn to.

“It kinda looks like an egg,” I remarked as he picked it up. It was very large, about the size of my torso, but he only needed one hand to hold it aloft.

“This egg is the source of the magical cry for help.”

“The skeleton must have been one of the parents then.”

“Most likely.”

“Shall we take it and see if we can get it to hatch? I’d love to be able to help the seemingly not extinct dragons.”

“It is asking for help, so help it we shall,” was En’s decision as he tucked it close to him, “Can you teleport us out of the cave?”

“I think so. I’ll need to rest afterwards though.”

“That is fine. I can fly without magic and you can rest during flight.”

I nodded and took a deep breath, already tired. The glow in my eyes intensified as I used a significant amount of my energy to teleport us outside the cave. We had traveled quite far deep it seemed. As soon as I was finished teleporting us I leaned into him in exhaustion. I could feel the stiffness starting already.

“Just rest and leave it to me. I’ll bring us home,” Ensharra reassured as he spread his wings and took off. We held each other in a sort of hug, with me looking at the sky, so I had my eyes closed. Until an odd shadow passed. I opened my eyes to see one of the headless dragons speeding at us, claws outstretched.

I panicked and put my hands out in front of me. A large, thick ice shield appeared and blocked the attack, though it got some serious cracks from the damage. The dragon thrashed for a few seconds as I struggled to keep the shield from breaking. Then, it suddenly stopped chasing us and went back towards the mountain.

The exhaustion immediately set in and I struggled to bring my very stiff arms back around En’s neck. With the loss of my magic the shield broke apart, ice shards glittering as the fell through the air. It was soothing.

“What was that,” En questioned.

“A headless dragon,” I barely managed, falling into meditation.

“But we are nowhere near the summit.”

“It kinda… looked the same size… as the skeleton.”

“Are you alright?”

“Tired.”

“Rest. If it has left us alone, then we are safe now.”

I hummed, “Love you.”

“I love you, too.”

He concentrated on getting us back as fast as possible while I meditated. I was so worn out that I was still stiff when we got back several hours later. It even took longer to return because En wasn’t at his inflated size. Diavolo and Lucifer were waiting for us in the garden. They rushed to me as soon as he landed.

“Starshine,” Diavolo put a hand on my cheek, “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine,” I reassured, leaning into his palm, “We didn’t really run into danger. I’m just magically tired.”

“You need to be more careful,” Lucifer scolded.

“I told you I’m fine. I just need some rest.”

“Father,” Diavolo looked at En, “Why are you still holding him?”

“Because I do not wish to put him down when he is so tired,” he said matter-of-factly.

“I see,” he looked down to the egg En had, “Is that a dragon egg?”

“Yes. It was sending a magical distress signal.”

“Aren’t dragons extinct?”

“Apparently not.”

“Will you be taking care of it Starshine,” Dia looked at me again, thumb rubbing my cheek.

“Actually, it’ll stay with Ensharra,” I announced, “He’s the one that insisted we go, as he’s the one that was able to sense it. So, the responsibility will be on him.”

“I see. That makes sense.”

“You really think having him take care of the egg is a good idea,” Lucifer intervened, arms crossed.

“He wants to help it,” I defended him, “Give him a chance to prove he’s able to be kind to a being other than me.”

He scowled, still obviously unhappy with the situation.

“Stop that. It’s not like I won’t be around to mediate and we have to give him opportunities.”

“Yes, you are right,” he sighed, “I’m just worried is all.”

“I understand but that was unproductive.”

He looked sad that I reprimanded him so I gently cupped his cheek and pulled him forward to kiss his forehead.

“Okay,” I interrupted the moment, “as cute as all this huddle and cuddle is. I’m very tired and would like to rest. How long were we gone anyways?”

“This is the morning of the third day,” Lucifer responded.

“At least it didn’t take too long I guess.”

“I would also like to rest,” En spoke up, “Shall we go, Snowflake?”

“You’re taking him,” Diavolo inquired, obviously wanting to spend time with me.

“Don’t you have work to do? The both of us need to rest and the daytime is my time with Snowflake.”

Diavolo gave him a defiant look but calmed down, “Fine. But I will be picking up Drizzm as soon as my work is done. You’ve spent two full days with him so far.”

“I agree to your stipulation,” En said with finalization and left the conversation with me still in his arms.

“I love you both,” I called to them over En’s shoulder, giving them heart hands, “I hope you don’t have too much work today.”

They gave me the heart hands back and watched us until Ensharra entered the castle. Without me telling him to, he made his way back to his cell. I opened the door and he set the egg on the table then walked us straight to the bed. He laid us down, with me on top of him. His chest rumbled as he quietly sang for a short while before falling asleep. I fell into my meditative state, recovering and stabilizing my magic power.

The sound of a camera shutter and a quiet panicked voice brought me out of my meditative state. I turned to look at the door to cell to see a blushing Diavolo standing there with his D.D.D. in his hands. To be honest, when I hear the camera shutter I knew it was him. He loves taking photos. And I guess he’s gotten used to me and En being together enough to want photos of us together.

“Hi, Sunshine,” I greeted, putting up a peace sign for him to take another photo. He smiled and took a few more.

“How are you feeling,” he asked as he took the photos.

“Still pretty tired to be honest. But much better than earlier. I’m guessing you’re done with work?”

“For today,” he sighed.

“A king’s work is never done, huh?”

“Unfortunately that seems to be the one thing that never changes between kings,” En spoke up, eyes still closed, “How long do you plan on speaking while I rest?”

“Aw, don’t be so grumpy,” I teased, giving him a kiss on the jaw before moving to get up. But, just like at the mountain, he gripped harder, “Oh not this again. First, you complain about me speaking and then, you try to keep me here.”

“Just don’t speak and rest with me.”

“That wasn’t the agreement you made with Sunshine. You are a demon of your word, right?”

He opened his eyes just to scowl at me. I looked at him expectantly. When I felt his grip loosen I smiled and patted his cheek as I got up. I leaned down to give him another kiss, on the forehead this time and he gently brushed his knuckles on my cheek.

“Sleep well, En,” I smiled and went with Diavolo upstairs to spend the rest of the evening and night with him and Lucifer like usual.

“Will you finally explain everything that’s happened,” interrogated Lucifer during dinner.

“Yes, yes,” I sighed, “I didn’t mean to keep you in the dark. I couldn’t use my D.D.D. on the mountain.”

“Well?”

“I was in the garden with En in the morning when he sensed a magical SOS signal. He has a very good grasp on sensing energy and who they belong to. So, he was able to tell it was a dragon needing help.”

“Even though dragons haven’t been around since before even Father,” Diavolo spoke up, “What if it was a trap?

“Honestly, I think En would have noticed. And the laser focus on doing something made me believe that there really was at the very least, a being in danger.”

“So you went to save it,” Lucifer deadpanned then sighed, “How very like you.”

“Though very unlike Father,” Diavolo pointed out.

I nodded, “Yeah I was surprised that he was so into helping the dragon. I think it’s the innate connection you both have with dragons. Considering your both dragon demons. Also, there’s the curiosity of how the dragon kept itself secret for centuries and if it actually exists at all.”

“Curiosity killed the cat,” Lucifer stated.

“And satisfaction brought it back,” I finished.

He sighed.

“Nothing even happened while we were on the mountain. It was totally calm the whole way up and only at the end did something happen.”

“And what was that?”

“One of the headless dragons attacked us as En was flying away. It looked the same size as the skeleton we found in the cavern with the egg within the ribcage. Like the dragon was wrapped around it and somehow the egg moved as the dragon decomposed.”

“Do you think the headless dragon was the parent,” Diavolo questioned.

“I think so. But there’s no way to know for sure.”

“And your plan is to have Ensharra of all demons raise it,” Lucifer was still not pleased.

“Yes,” I double-downed, “I think this is a great way for En to practice empathy on creatures other than me. In fact, in the Human World, some of the most successful reformation of criminals is done by giving them a pet cat to form a bond with.”

“You’d think he would have learned with Diavolo.”

I shrugged, “Everyone’s timeline is different and, quite honestly, you guys live so long that he’s probably only like 5% done with his life.”

“You may very well live longer than any of us.”

“We can worry about that in a millenia,” I dismissed that uncomfortable thought, “Point is, Ensharra is raising the dragon. We don’t even know if it’ll hatch or when but either way, it’s in his care for the time being. If he shows good reason to take the egg then I will.”

The look on Lucifer’s face told me he still didn’t like the idea but honestly he can deal. Although, it would be nice to be able to communicate with En when I’m out in case something happens. I looked to Dia.

“Can we get En a D.D.D.,” I asked.

“What for,” he took a drink.

“In case something happens with the egg.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Thank you. But if you do decide to give him one, it should probably be bigger than the normal one.”

He just nodded.